Holly Hills Primitives

BUNNIES ARE HOPPING IN...

2012-01-25T17:09:00.000-08:00

Finally! The mustard blanket crane shelf is finally hung on the wall above the mustard dry sink and looks fantastic! Dick came in today and helped hang quite a few things and LOTS of new goodies were put out as well.

Another black shelf was hung today too. Oh how I wish it was hanging in my house!

I just couldn't wait any longer, so out came some of the spring wares. A few bunnies hopped in with their carrots and eggs.

Lovin' this old wheelboro filled with grass and cinnamon eggs.

Cute black pillow with a white carrot - or is it a parsnip?

Isn't burlap just the most perfect prim material?

We have a basket of the sweetest hand-painted gourd eggs.

Our Carol brought us the neatest old "feed" basket. It looks great filled with grass!

Who doesn't love new spring towels to brighten up the kitchen?

The potting bench is covered with all kinds of spring chicks.

These reproduction pull toys are fantastic! They really look like the real thing.

We even have white bunnies for you "shabby gals".

I got Dick to hang the wall desk and it is cute as can be. The front looks like shutters and just right for organization in your kitchen.

This small black cupboard would be a perfect end table for you crafters. Great storage for scrapbooking, knitting, stitching, rug hooking...

Speaking of stitching... These cat and bird pincushions would look great left out right next to your chair.

Old prim doll is a hoot. Flax hair and a patched foot to boot.

Close-up of prim doll face and hair.
There you have it for today my friends.
Don't forget to mark your calendars for Feb 5, noon to 5 p.m. for our Women's Superbowl Party. The Funky Tennessee Artist promised to have her shipment to us before then - YIPPEE!!!!!!!!! Lots of news is brewing about our fun event and there will be updates coming soon.
For now - I'm pooped! Ready to go snuggle in and watch Idol.
Until next time...

EIGHT GRANDCHILDREN...

2012-01-23T06:54:00.000-08:00

My sentiments exactly, Rosie dog! Sunday mornings are meant to relax, take naps and drink coffee. Wish I could sit right here next to you all day!

Off to the birthdays we went and it was so great to see ALL of our grandchildren. Gan loved his guitar card that expanded and played "Happy Birthday"!

Ellie and Abbey are good buddies and had fun catching up.

Lucy and Caroline (Lucy calls her Kline) had their own little table and were quite the big shots.

Lucy and Ashley having a "moment" with no nap!

Ellie, Jack and Abbey have a lot of fun together. Jack is always the jokester!

Caroline and Sydney couldn't wait to get to the ice cream cake!

Gannon and Peyton are the youngest and the oldest of our grandchildren.
Yup, there's nothing better in the whole world than being a grandma. I think sometimes destiny takes you to the best places.
Happy Birthday to Sydney, Caroline, Ellie and Gannon! I love you all so much!
Now today it's on to creating for the shop. I've got so many ideas swirling through my head and I can't wait to get started! I've also talked to our Funky Tennessee Artist and she's down there putting things together especially for Holly Hills Primitives. Coming soon!!!
Until next time...

BEAUTIFUL NEW SHELF...

2012-01-22T10:08:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosh, I was so excited that I just had to share the pictures of our new shelf/blanket crane!

It arrived at the shop, was set on the floor and sold with 5 minutes! It is WONDERFUL! What a statement this would make. It is 4 feet wide and quite deep. Can't you just see it with a beautiful old quilt, throw or textiles hanging from the crane? I also love the little candle shelf and peg at the other end.
Never fear, another one will be at the shop by Wednesday. This should be a great week, a medium size, primitive island will also be delivered sometime before the week is over. Can't wait! Can you tell I'm excited? The island will have a wooden spoon holder on one end and pegs on the other.
This morning has been a dream come true. We were able to relax, drink coffee and watch a movie. BUT, time to get moving. We have a birthday party to go to this afternoon (really we're celebrating 4 birthdays). Our Caroline is now 3, Sydney is 4, Ellie is 6 and Gannon will be turning 14. All 8 of our grandchildren should be there, so it will be lots of fun.
The weather in Michigan has been COLD the past few days with a little snow. It is supposed to rain tonight with freezing temps. Hope everyone gets off the roads and stays safe in their cozy nest.
We'll talk again real soon.
Until next time...

MORE AND MORE AND MORE...

2012-01-19T20:38:00.000-08:00

BRRR!! It is SO cold here in Michigan tonight, the temps are supposed to dip to 0! I'm trying to ignore the cold and concentrate on all of the great new things that are arriving at the shop. How about this wonderful black shelf? It has big chunky pegs and a small blanket crane at the other end. Wait until you see the BIG blanket crane shelf that on it's way!

This shutter shelf is cute as can be, great for any room.

More handmades are arriving too. This is an old carpenter's nail bag with "Olde Rag Dolls For Sale" stitched to the front and filled with three small dolls and sweet annie.

This old gal is really unique. She is done on a big old masher, she has spools between her arms and her body and could stand any place your heart desires.

Here's a little look at the bottom of the old masher.

Need a black doll in your kitchen? How about one in an old sifter?

We haven't started putting out many bunnies yet, but I love this prim rabbit on the old wood block.

I'm crazy about this mustard candle holder wrapped in cheesecloth. Great for battery candles (by the way, the timed candles are in now too).

More and more unique stitcheries are showing up almost every day. We have them in frames, on old boards with rusty wire, in cupboard doors and windows.

Who doesn't love signs?

I wanted to share one of the other new hooked rugs. The pattern and colors are just beautiful.

I had a request for Crossroads Buttery Maple Syrup candles. We did get them and they are selling fast!
Like I said, new things are arriving daily and it's so much fun!
By the way, Holly Hills Primitives is having a Super Bowl party for all you ladies on February 5 from noon until 5. Lots of other Holly shops are jumping on board, so come into town and have some fun while your hubbies are glued to the t.v.
Are any of you having trouble with blogger? So many of you have e-mailed me and said you can't leave comments on our blog. Do you know if there's a way to fix this? HELP!!!!!!!!!
Hope you are all snuggled in and keeping warm tonight and that we see you soon.
Until next time...

PRIM SHELF AND DOLLS...

2012-01-17T08:21:00.000-08:00

Good morning friends. Wow, I got to sleep in for awhile and it felt SOOO great! I couldn't wait to share a few more goodies with you. We got the shelf that matches the dry sink and I love, love, love it! It has a little door on each end and pegs in the middle.

As you can see, it's a perfect fit for the dry sink. Wouldn't this be great anywhere? I could even see it in a bathroom with a bowl sink plumbed into the dry sink and the shelf above.

Okra for sale? This grubby black doll has dried okra around her neck and a big patch on her black homespun dress with a grubby underskirt.

She has a big toothy smile, just hoping that you'll buy some of her okra.

Her feet are a hoot. She can either sit or hang and would be a great addition to your doll collection.

"Gimme a kiss" says this other large doll. She has a grubby black flannel skirt and wool jacket.

Her lips are puckered up waiting for Prince Charming.

She is holding her prim perfume bottle, just in case she sees any takers.

And lets not forget her high-heeled, lace-up shoes. Just the ticket for your prim Valentine decorating.
I'd like to thank all of you gals that stopped in for Martin Luther King Day yesterday. It was fun to open for an extra day and see so many smiling faces.
Now on to today. Trying to get lots more handmades finished up to take into the shop tomorrow morning. We will also have a wonderful new shelf with pegs and a small blanket crane and who the heck knows what else!?
Don't forget, WONDERFUL prims by The Funky Tennessee Artist will be arriving soon.
Have a great day and I hope to see some of you this week.
Until next time...

NEW WARES...

2012-01-14T19:29:00.000-08:00

Good cold evening my friends. Guess winter has finally hit Michigan in a big way. What a difference a couple of days makes! As promised, I'm back tonight with a preview of some of the goodies that are now in the shop. There will be lots more by Monday and then Wednesday. Grab a cup of coffee for a heavy picture laden post. Hope you see some things that might be interesting to you!
Lots of stitcheries are arriving daily. I love the ones on the old boards, the best prim look.

This one is in an old cupboard door with a grubby quilt background.

There are stitcheries large and small.

More stitcheries, fun banners, candle holders and a great old tobacco basket.

Do any of you collect children's brooms? I have quite a few at our Little House in northern Michigan.

These baskets are adorable. They can hang from old boxes, on the back of chairs or from your peg racks.

This big old box is one of my favorite new things. Advertising on the front and back sides. Wish I had room to bring it home!

This grubby, burgandy, table-top dough box is wonderful. It has a lid and great storage.

We brought back a selection of signs. A lot of customers have been asking for crow things.

My favorite sign is this "Horse Keeping", bet my daughter Ashley will love it!

Who doesn't love hooked rugs? We have several to choose from. This family tree is gorgeous with beautiful colors.

Of course the swan is stunning too.

Cute, cute, cute bags made from coverlet material. Would be darling Easter bags/baskets or to leave out all year. Filled with prim grass.

Black and beige throw, lamp shade and table runners to match.

For you ladies that have been asking for bonnets, we have 'em.

These handmade gourd dippers are perfect for a prim kitchen.

As are the handmade gourd spoons.

We have now restocked our Billy Jacobs prints for all of you fans.

I'm crazy about these simple, prim candle holders.

Cute as a button light bulbs. We have hearts, teddy bears, flowers, cardinals and more.

The battery candles are restocked, along with the timer type (both tapers and pillars).

I couldn't resist this little black doll with the crazy hair and crow.
So there you have a sampling of some fun new items. Can't wait to show you some of the new dolls and other handmades.
Don't forget that the shop will be open Monday (Martin Luther King Day) in case you're out exploring.
Hope you enjoyed our little preview. Stay tuned for more-to-come goodies very soon!
Have a great evening and stay warm!
Until next time...

BACK FROM MARKETS...

2012-01-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

AHHHH! To be home again is wonderful! Dick, Gannon and I left for Ohio on Wednesday morning to go to the market and warehouses. We had a great time, but ended up coming home in a snowstorm and BAD roads. We unloaded the car at the shop and put most of the new goodies out and now we're finally home-sweet-home. Winter has finally hit in Michigan with a bang! It is SOOOOOOOOO cold outside, but I guess we've been lucky to avoid it this long.
I'll try to take more pictures tomorrow of the new goodies that are out so far, but I thought I'd share a couple of things we put in tonight. I'm in love with the new big wooden box! The hooked swan rug is beautiful and the little wheelboro is just in time for spring displays.

Have you ever used Hotwire or Priceline? What a great deal! We got a wonderful suite with a buffet breakfast, a pool and exercise room for a great price and Gannon loved all of it - especially the pool.

Yesterday we had to make a little spot for Gan to set after we went SHOPPING! Everything had to be repacked so we could fit our duffle bags in today to make it home.

The only thing Gannon was looking for was a new cowboy hat. Last night we finally found a Tractor Supply and he got just the hat (and shirt) he was looking for.

This morning the Jeep was loaded to the ceiling with quite a little planning from Dick.

Gannon and I were a little hesitant about getting in and starting out in the bad weather.

But after we got started, we had a tired little cowboy!

The roads through Ohio were TERRIBLE because of the wind. We went through several "white-outs" and were so glad when the roads finally got a little better. We were thrilled to finally see good old Holly, Michigan.
Yup, lots of great prims are in the shop and more handmades will be in by next Wednesday.
By the way, a great news flash - Holly Hills Primitives is proud to announce that we will be carrying some wonderful handmades in the very near future by The Funky Tennessee Artist - our very own Connie! She is sewing away and we will have our first shipment very soon. I'm so excited to see what she comes up with!
We will be open this Monday for Martin Luther King day for any of you gals that have a day off and are out exploring. Come on in and stay warm with us!
Time for some jammies and some relax time with my hubby.
Until next time...

HAPPY NEW YEAR...

2012-01-06T17:36:00.000-08:00

Good beautiful evening my friends. Sorry it has taken so long to wish you all a happy, happy new year. Better late than never. Right??? Has your year started out with a bang?
We had a restful weekend at the Little House then came home a little early. Gannon has been staying with us this week and helping at the shop. We've had a ball! Tonight we went shopping to get a birthday gift for his friend's party tomorrow and on the way, look what we saw. There was the most beautiful sunset! By the time we got pulled over to take a picture, it was sinking fast.

Love this "mistake" picture of the school bus passing. Gannon took the pictures while I drove. We got the gift and a couple new cd's so we could come home and listen to music.
I'm lovin' the shop right now. We did a redo, removed the Christmas (just couldn't look at it any longer) and we're ready for all of the new prims. We are going to the markets the 11th through the 13th and bringing back LOTS of stuff. New handmades will be arriving daily along with our new reproduction furniture. All of the new goodies will be out by a week from Wed, but there are still lots of items to be found. Come on in for a cup of coffee from Zanie Janie and sip while you shop.
We will be open this weekend, plus Monday and Tuesday of next week before we leave. BUT - our new winter hours will be Wed thru Sat, 10-5. Hope to see you all soon!
Have a great evening and we'll talk again soon.
Until next time...

BACK TO NORMAL...

2011-12-30T18:43:00.000-08:00

Come on in! Dick and I spent all day yesterday taking down Christmas and rearranging the shop. Want to see what we've done so far? We're trying to get things ready to bring back lots of goodies from the markets and make room for the new handmades and furniture. The fireplace is still up front waiting to warm you up when you come in the door.

I showed you a picture of our primitive "sink" yesterday, but I forgot to take pictures of the inside. What a great conversation piece this one is!

We moved the dough box up front too, it holds the old handmade towel holder.

We have lots of lighting left for your "redecorating" needs. Rice lights, dipped lights and more!

Lots of 1803 and Black Crow candles are ready to make your homes smell YUMMY!

We moved a section to showcase the mustard pieces together. The dry sink is finally in it's temporary home and is the icing on the cake! The big chimney cupboard with the old screen door has great storage and looks so prim.

The dry sink deserves a second look!

This old table desk with the original pumpkin paint is SOO great. I could just see it on the right countertop to keep bills, misc papers, etc in.

Got grandchildren? The old hired hand's bed would be just right for overnights.

We could set down at the trestle table and get a cup of coffee from Zanie Janie's.

This big laundry tub would make a great place to plant flowers this spring or fill with pumpkins in the fall.

Just got a tool box filled with little drawers. Do any of you "jewelry" gals need a place to store everything?

Who doesn't love old children's furniture? I could just see this in a country kitchen!

Another new piece is the old buggy seat. Just think what you could do on a big trestle table with this one!

Anybody into blue? I LOVE the OLD blue baby bathtub and stand, the little cupboard is an old trunk turned on end with wooden spool legs.

Any doll collectors out there? What am I thinking??? Of course there are. The mid 1800's youth bed would be a real eye catcher for a display.

And last, but not least, is the beautiful OLD tavern table with original green paint.
Are you still with me? It sure feels great to get things back to normal. New prims will be arriving daily by next week and then its time to be off to the markets the next week. I'm SOOOO excited to get the new items in and displayed for your shopping pleasure. In fact, we are going to pick up a load this weekend!
But for now, it's time to pack my bag and get ready to head up north to the Little House for the weekend. I can hear that nice, soft couch calling my name! Looking forward to rest, some movies and a little stitching. The shop will be closed tomorrow through Tuesday and we will be back first thing Wednesday morning just waiting for you.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO THE BEST BLOG BUDDIES A GAL COULD HAVE!
Until next time...

REPRODUCTIONS....

2011-12-28T17:26:00.000-08:00

WOO HOO! Time to start playing in the shop again, and play we did. I'm leaving Christmas at 50% off for the rest of the week and then it is going to GO! But, I wanted to share some of the great reproductions we are getting in right now with many more to come. I'm crazy about this tinderbox brown dough box. It has leather "hinges" on the top and would be a great end table or storage in any room.

Another really cute piece is the screened, table-top pie safe. Couldn't you just see it filled with antique tins and battery candles in a kitchen?

We got another primitive sink in that is just prim perfect! It can hang from the wall from an old leather strap. It has a rusty bucket for the "sink", a ledge with a candle holder and battery candle, mirror held on with leather straps, a soap dish with soap, an old shaving mug and brush, and a wire towel holder with towel. What a great conversation piece!

This mustard bench is also a cutie. Just right for a mud room to keep hats and mits in.

BUT, the cream of the crop should be at the shop by tomorrow or Friday. I'm SO crazy about this dry sink! The picture does not do it justice, it's lots darker and looks way more prim. A matching shelf/cupboard will be following soon. I'm hoping to have one of these in our home soon too!
We should be having LOTS of new goodies in after January 13th, but things are trickling in daily now. My friend Peggy came to visit today and got my creative juices flowing with lots of new ideas. The handmades will be flowing in now! You'll have to see some of the new stitcheries - a whole new style for the beginning of the new year.
Can you tell I'm getting excited to share?
More new news - we will be starting a selling blog very soon - so keep watching.
Hope you're all keeping warm on this cold evening. The thermometer said it was 14 degrees here in Michigan tonight. A great night to cuddle up in a blanket and stitch the evening away.
Until next time...

AND THEN IT WAS OVER...

2011-12-26T09:15:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like Christmas through the eyes of a child. What a great day we had yesterday! We started out with a relaxing morning at home and then on to son Rich's home to spend time with the next house of grandchildren. Peyton is our youngest this year and it was so fun to watch him crawl and be excited about the wrappings.

Valorie and Sydney were having a ball. Valorie made us yummy cinnamon rolls and coffee while we opened gifts.

Rich couldn't be a prouder father. Sydney is definitely his little princess.

All of the children were just what the doctor ordered for Mom this year. I think it took her mind off of Dad not being with us this year and it really helped.

Sydney LOVES pop-up books and she got a couple new ones this year.

Papa and Peyton had lots of fun with his new little toys.

And I could hardly keep my hands off of him!

Sydney was so excited when we got to her house that she could hardly wait to start opening gifts.

We came home for awhile and had a gift exchange with Mom and our Rosie dog. Rosie was so excited about her new toy that she had to snuggle with it for awhile.

Dick got lots of new goodies this year!

Mom's favorite was her new outfit and she looks so good in it too!

Then it was on to Ashley and Tony's house! Whew! Her table was set so pretty and the food was delicious. It was fun to have ham at Amanda's the night before and turkey for Christmas.

Abbey had her own special tree in the dining room decorated with all of the ribbons she won this year showing her rabbits. Adorable!

This year we were honored with a new special guest and "member of our family". Jessica has been staying with Ashley and Tony quite a bit and it was a joy to have her with us this year. I have a feeling that she will be a big new part of our family!

Abbey and Jessica got new rabbit show aprons and had to model them for us.

Jessica was happy with her cozy new bathrobe. Nice to snuggle in to watch movies and hang out at Ashley's house.

Our little Lucy was beyond excited. This is her first year to really "get it"! BUT, the poor little thing didn't get a nap with all of the excitement and was getting SO tired. We got a Cinderella dress and accessories for her very own. I'll bet she'll want to try it on today.

Our Abbey had a ball too. She got a new camera from us and a phone from her parents. Doesn't get much better than that! Can't wait to spend time with her while she's off on vacation.

It was finally time for jammies, but Lucy had to have one last look at her zoo. Ashley said she was asleep within 3 minutes after we left.

Chad and Kim were the ultimate Santa's this year! They gave me a wonderful Canon camera with a big zoom. Can't wait to learn how to use it and starting taking regular "photographs" again!
All in all, this was one of the nicest holidays we've had in a long time. I was very hesitant about not having everyone here, but it turned out so nice. We got to visit each home, spend quality time with all of the grandchildren and children - AND I DIDN'T HAVE THE MESS TO CLEAN UP!!! I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!
Now it's time to get back to business. Today and tomorrow will be spend sewing and making new goodies for the shop. Dick is busy building some fabulous new pieces and then we will be back to work on Wednesday with great sales to ready everything for new merchandise.
Until next time...

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS...

2011-12-24T21:41:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful "kick-off" to our Christmas holiday we had tonight. Dick, Mom and I went to daughter Amanda's home and celebrated with her beautiful family. This is the first time in 36 years that I haven't hosted the holiday. We had a great meal, opened gifts and had a great time. Great-grandma read a story to Caroline with her new "Abigail" talking bunny.

Ellie looked so adorable in her "sock monkey" hat!

Caroline finally got her own tea set. Now she won't have to sneak into Ellie's room to play with her's anymore.

Jack squealed when he opened his "Pirates of the Caribbean" ship!

Then it was Gannon's turn! He thought we only brought him a couple of gifts. Oops! We brought in his special gift - a new guitar. He was so happy and thankful. He was my special gift this year, I'm so happy he was home from the hospital and we were able to spend the holiday together. Nothing could have been better!

Then it was time to put the reindeer dust outside - some oatmeal for the reindeer and a little glitter so the stars can glisten and the reindeer can find their way. And of course cookies for Santa...

And is anything much more precious than children listening to the old favorite - Twas the Night Before Christmas? I could have cried.
I hope all of you out there in blogland have a magical, wonderful Christmas filled with love and happiness!
Until next time...

IT'S ALMOST HERE...

2011-12-22T21:45:00.000-08:00

AHHH! Okay, the presents are wrapped for 5 kids, 5 "in-law" kids, 8 grandchildren, my mom and Dick - and do we have presents! We're going to start taking them to everyone's house tomorrow so we have room in our car to go on Christmas Eve and Christmas. Whew! The groceries are stocked and ready for yummy dishes to be prepared. The house is cleaned and ready for any company that might pop in. Now just one more full day at the shop and part of the day on Saturday and the fun will begin.
This year is going to be a little different than most, but I'm looking forward to all of it! I always have Christmas, but with all the little ones this year, we are going to make lots of stops. Christmas Eve we are going to Amanda's home, Christmas late morning we are going to Rich's home and late Christmas afternoon we are going to Ashley's home. All of the children are so excited for "Bebe and Papa" to get there, and we are too!
So, are you ready? Time to set back, relax and enjoy what we've all worked so hard to create. Time with loved ones, good food, and peace. Most of all, give yourselves a break and just have some fun. Talk to you again soon.
Until next time...

CHRISTMAS FUN...

2011-12-21T07:40:00.000-08:00

Hi Prim Pals,
What a busy time we've been having, but lots of fun too!
Today we are going to Frankenmuth, MI to have dinner with all of Dick's brothers and sisters. It will be so much fun to walk the shop, check out Bronners, and have a fabulous dinner with great company.
Last week, Gannon started his job with me. He is coming in one day a week and it is SOOOO wonderful to have him home. He loves going next door to Zanie Janie's, so we are sharing his duties between us.

Lucy got a message from Santa on the computer and I think she watched it at least 10 times. Isn't this what it's all about with the little ones?

Last Friday I went to watch Ellie's kindergarten program at her school. It was so adorable!

Her little eyes lit up when she saw that I came to watch her!

Sunday we took Ellie shopping with us and, of course, she had to have a ride with Alvin!

She also lost her second tooth and what a big deal that was!

Monday Abbey and I went shopping for the entire day. We had such a great time. We sang carols in the car, she got a headband with a mistletoe above her head, we went to lunch and just had a ball.
The presents are finally wrapped and I just have to finish up a couple loose ends and go to the grocery store. But for today, Dick and I are going to just go have some old-fashioned Christmas fun. I'll talk to you again soon.
Until next time...

ON THE THIRD DAY OF DICKENS...

2011-12-11T17:13:00.001-08:00

And then it was over. What a great weekend we all had in Holly. The mood was festive, the customers were buying, and it really felt like Christmas! We had a choir from Ann Arbor come into the shop and sing for all of us (plus they probably wanted to get warm). It was so much fun for the customers to be able to shop and listen at the same time.
One of our little granddaughters, Sydney, did a dance with Starstruck Dance Studio our in front of the shop. (She is the one with the dark brown snowpants and hot pink tutu.) I'm so glad that Dick was there with me this year so he was able to watch her.
Ken McKaye (from McKaye's Hardware) drove the horse and buggy all weekend, but today he parked this beautiful sleigh in front of our shop for people to use for their holiday pictures. What a wonderful gesture.

A LOT of Christmas goodies sure left the shop during the weekend, so Dick and I are brainstorming new ideas for January already. When we reopen the store on Wednesday, all Christmas will be marked down by 30% except battery candles and lights. Come on in and pick up your last minute gifts and decorations.

Well friends, it is time for jammies and a pillow and blankie on the couch for this shopkeeper. We'll be talking again soon.

Until next time...

ON THE SECOND DAY OF DICKENS...

2011-12-10T17:57:00.000-08:00

All of the fun continued this morning! We got up early and opened the shop about 9 a.m. The "Run Like The Dickens" 5k and 8k race was taking place and was so much fun to watch! There were hundreds of runners and I couldn't believe the costumes that some of them had on.
There was even a guy dressed up like a Christmas tree!
The Charles Dickens "Christmas Carol" play was acted out several times during the day.
Our village had warming stations set up throughout the town so people could get warm - the temps were only in the 20's! BRRRR!!!
Some of the characters came into the shop to get warm throughout the day. It was so festive and fun.
The very best part of the day was when our Gannon walked in! He had a pass from the hospital and came to spend some time. The good news is that he is coming home on Monday and will be working in the shop with us every Wednesday afternoon.
He got right into the swing of things today. He helped decorate trees, wrap people's purchases, and even carried out packages for our customers.
Gannon, Jack, Ellie and Caroline loved the snowmen! They were so darned cute.
Amanda, Greg and Caroline all enjoyed some hot chocolate at Zanie Janie's!
The ice sculpture across the street was amazing.
This evening Ashley's family came to town and Abbey and Gannon took their annual carriage ride.
These two have done this for several years now and I'm so happy they got to do it together tonight too.

All in all, it was a wonderful day in Holly. We were SOOOO busy, sold so many great prims, and we can't wait to get back there tomorrow for the final day of the Holly Dicken's Festival. It's your last chance for this year, so we hope we get to see you!

Until next time...

SANTA CLAUS CAME TO TOWN...

2011-12-09T18:21:00.000-08:00

Good evening Prim Pals! Well, tonight was the kickoff to our annual Holly Dickens Festival and what a kickoff it was! Our little village was aglow with Christmas lights, including our shop and Zanie Janie's Simply Coffee next door. The whole day was a busy one, even though it was cold and we got snow.
The people kept coming and coming (a good thing) and we met so many nice folks. I was tickled to see Bobbi again (The Evening Stitcher blog) and meet her hubby and two grands. We also have a sweet customer named Lisa that came in and talked about redoing her house in prims.
Our village tree is now lit and as beautiful as ever.
Then it was time for the light parade. Ken McKay drove the horse and carriage with the grand marshalls.
The Baptist church had a float that really shows what this season is all about.
Even the rescue squad and firetrucks got in on the lights.
And then it was time! Santa Claus arrived just in time for our festival.
After the parade, Dan Hayes sang beautiful Christmas carols in Zanie Janie's shop - next door. I love that we can leave our French doors open and share in the fun. The customers were singing and we noticed that everyone seemed to be a lot more in the spirit than they have been in a few years.

Can't wait to get back there tomorrow morning and partake in all of the activities. We might even make the pancake breakfast at the fire hall! Come on out to Holly and have some old-fashioned fun!

Until next time...

SANTA PICTURES...

2011-12-08T18:03:00.000-08:00

HOORAY! Dick hung my shelf tonight and I finally got to get some of the old Santa pictures out, after having them in storage for two years. Oh my gosh, I spent forever pouring over those little faces of long ago and remembering each year and what we were doing. The only gift I ask for each year is a Santa picture of all of the grandchildren. After the holidays, I will carefully pack them away until the next year. Is there anything more precious than the magic of Christmas and the look on children's faces? We are so lucky to have such a "gallery", I couldn't even get them all out, but maybe someday.

We're also getting excited about the weekend. Tomorrow night is the village tree lighting and light parade. Holly Hills Primitives will be open throughout the excitement with lights twinkling and Christmas music playing softly in the background. Hope you can stop in!

Until next time...

HOLLY DICKENS FESTIVAL...

2011-12-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

YIPPEE! The weekend we all wait for is fast approaching - the annual Holly Dickens Festival is December 9-11. Friday night is the light parade and tree lighting, then Saturday morning is the "Run Like The Dickens" 5k and 8k race. The festival will run all day Saturday until 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 6 p.m. This is a great way to spend some quality family time.
It is so much fun to take a carriage ride through our quaint little village.
The carolers even come in the shops to sing (and get warm). For more information, go to hollydickensfestival.com
Our reproduction furniture is growing, growing, growing. I'm just crazy about the prim sink, complete with old bucket, shaving mug and brush, soap and candle.
It even has an old leather strap to hang it from the wall.
Our new chimney cupboard is so great! It would be perfect for a kitchen pantry. The door is actually an old screen - complete with holes.
The sides are beadboard and it's so hard to leave it at the shop.
One of my favorites is the settle bench.
Wouldn't this be great next to a fireplace or woodstove?
These little houses are so beautiful, but my favorite is the white tree.
A few new snowmen snuck in and are ready for the weekend.
This guy is on an old spindle with a pouch of candy canes.
Sorry this one is so dark, but it is a table filled with all kinds of gingerbread, including towels.
Our Sharon was busy again too. Just LOVE her painted pieces. This chair would be so cute on your front porch!
And Santa's lit chair would be so adorable next to a tree and packages. Comes complete with "milk and cookies".

The walls are brimming with new goodies just waiting for your shopping pleasure. Hope you can make it to our Dicken's Festival this weekend!

Until next time...

FIRST SNOWFALL...

2011-11-30T06:53:00.000-08:00

Hi Prim Pals! Whew, seems like it's been quite awhile since I've posted. Our Thanksgiving was very nice and quite a quiet day. Mom, Dick and I had a lovely dinner, but it was so sad that we had an empty chair where Dad should have been. After dinner, Ashley and Chad brought their families for dessert. The first thing Lucy wanted to do was go to the backyard and feed the ducks!

She LOVES to call the ducks and they come up pretty close to her - until she gets REALLY excited!

Abbey has been doing this for so many years that she "gets it". So all in all, it was a very nice Thanksgiving. Hope your's was the same.

Last night we went on quite an adventure. We went to see Gannon in the hospital and part way there our windshield wipers quit - in a rainstorm. We had a great time with Gan and then headed home. It wasn't bad enough that it was raining, oh no. It started snowing. SO...the trip that should take us a little over an hour took two hours to get home. The roads were bad! Poor Dick would pull over to try to clear the windshield and it would be covered again in about one minute. I was SOOOO glad to see our own driveway!!! Even with the adventure, I was still glad that we went and I got to spend time with our Gannon. Look how tall he is getting!

This morning I got up and look what the view was from our doorwall. Yup, the first snowfall of the season. It is really beautiful. The pine trees are covered, the water is still open and the stillness of the morning was breathtaking.

Looking down our street was also beautiful. This one isn't going to last, it's supposed to get quite sunny this afternoon and it will all melt away. Guess it's time to get the boots, hats and mittens out and ready.

There's still lots of goodies for sale in the shop and more coming in almost daily. We're hoping to have a really great chimney cupboard by this weekend. So, head on into Holly and see what we have to offer.

By the way, Dec. 9-11 is the annual Holly Dicken's Festival. You won't want to miss that. Bring your whole family for some old-fashioned fun.

Hope you are all warm and snuggly this morning.

Until next time...

HAPPY THANKSGIVING...

2011-11-23T16:27:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVE my friends. Are you all snuggled in baking pies, setting your table and preparing for your big day? Or are you going to some else's home tomorrow? Whatever the case, I wish you all a happy and safe Thanksgiving day. Dick, Mom and I are having a cozy dinner and then our children's families are all coming for dessert later in the day. We're all looking forward to a little relaxation and good food.
Dick and I have been busy preparing for our Black Friday sale and have added a lot of new goodies to the shop. Both A Primitive Place and Mercantile Gathering magazines are here. Is there anything better than to get a cup of coffee, a comfy chair and a new GOOD magazine to browse through?

Lots of new handmades have made their way into the shop. One of my favorites is this big snowman head on a burlap covered basket.

The tall snowgirl is on an old spindle and is holding a sprig of Sweet Annie.

Santa's chair is waiting to grace someone's porch or foyer. It would also look adorable next to a tree with gifts scattered underneath. Complete with rice lights, milk and homemade cookies.

This Santa is also done on an old basket with OLD quilt batting for a beard.

This Santa ended up in an old Prince Albert can with sticks and greens. Cute as can be!

These Santa hats would be a great addition to a centerpiece with candy sticking out the top!

Who doesn't love Santa suits? Perfect for your primitive peg rack.

If you hurry, we have two primitive pillow cases left. How wonderful to set out for the holidays!

You won't believe everything that we have put on sale for our special event. Time to shop local and get some Christmas shopping done. Free Zanie Janie's coffee (compliments of Holly Hills Primitives) between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Friday morning. Hope we see you all!

Until next time...

BLACK FRIDAY SALE...

2011-11-22T05:46:00.000-08:00

Come one, come all! Holly Hills Primitives is offering our first Black Friday sale from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Many items will be marked 20% off, including all reproduction furniture, Billy Jacobs prints and clocks, Black Crow Candles and more, more, more!

Why not come and save on the items you REALLY want instead of standing in huge lines at the big box stores? This is the time to add the special piece to your home for the holidays and save on unique gifts for your loved ones. We don't even care if you want to shop in your p.j.'s!

Remember we have Zanie Janie's Simply Coffee right through the French doors and you're welcome to sip and shop as long as you want. AND the fabulous Blackberry Bakery is only two doors down. Have you ever had one of their famous cinnamon rolls??? YUMMY!!!

Dick and I will be there waiting to have some Black Friday fun. Hope to see you Friday. Also, any items not sold on Friday will be available on Saturday only.

Until next time...

THE COMFORTS OF HOME...

2011-11-17T15:09:00.000-08:00

Good chilly evening my friends. Is there anything better, at the end of the day, then to come home to a cozy home, some candlelight, and soft music? The weather really changed today and we had more snow flurries, just a taste of what is yet to come. It really is starting to feel like the holidays, but I'm not quite ready to start decorating for Christmas at home quite yet - maybe next weekend (after Thanksgiving).

Our little pretend fire and a few white lights can do wonders for the soul. A nice hot cup of coffee and a pair of comfy pj's is all that the doctor ordered.

I'm so excited! My friend Debbie is coming to Michigan tomorrow from North Carolina. She will be spending most of the weekend with us and we have a lot to catch up on. She will be taking lots of goodies back for her booth at The Depot - so you should go check it out!

Feeling a little nostolgic tonight with the holidays coming. This will be the first year without Dad and he LOVED everything about every holiday, especially spending time with his family. Enjoy every moment with your loved ones, there's nothing more important.

The shop felt so great tonight when I locked the front door. The music was still playing, all of the twinkle lights were on, the candle was burning and I could have just stayed there all night. I took lots of new handmades in today, so come on in and check us out!

Well friends, not too much new to report today, I've just been missing all of you. Have a wonderful evening!

Until next time...

O Christmas Tree...

2011-11-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

Woo-Hoo - it's Saturday night and Dick and I are heading up to the Little House for some much needed rest! Thank goodness for our Sharon that will be tending the shop tomorrow. We'd like to thank everyone for helping make Ladies Nite Out such a great success.
Just wanted to let you know that we have lots of trees left for the "cutting" and you can use one of the saw signs to do just that!

We have snow-covered trees,

primitive wool trees,

pre-lit trees,

small grapevine trees,

more primitive trees,

glittered topiaries,

unglittered topiaries,

and just plain old trees. Come on in and find just the one for you!

Okay friends, time to load up the car and head north for a couple nights. We'll talk again next week. Hope you have a peaceful, restful, cozy Sunday.

Until next time...

LADIES NITE OUT - HOLLY, MI...

2011-11-10T15:42:00.000-08:00

Good evening my friends. It's been a long week and I haven't had a chance to blog for several days. I decided I was going to give myself a few minutes to catch up tonight. Right in the middle of getting the shop ready for the holidays, sewing, and helping Dick get things done, our renters decided to move out with NO NOTICE! Of course, the house is never the way you left it, so we have been cleaning, sorting, repairing and getting our great old homestead ready for new renters to look at tomorrow. I'll sure be glad when this is over so we can get back to "normal".
Tomorrow evening is Ladies Nite Out in downtown Holly. If you're in the area, be sure to not miss out on this fun event. The whole town is aglow with lights, there will be pink balloons throughout the village, a disc jockey will be in the streets, and each shop will have their own special spin on the evening. We will have treats, door prizes and Dan Hayes will be singing live in Zanie Janie's Simply Coffee - right through our French doors. We restocked the shop this week and have lots of goodies that would make wonderful gifts for the holidays.

I'm crazy over these prim candle holders and the wax candy canes.

The old crow is in a feedsack attached to a sled. All you have to do is take it home and set it on your porch!

Have you seen the Billy Jacobs clocks? They seem to fly out of the shop every time we get an order.

We are so lucky to have several pieces painted by our very own Sharon. This old tin turned bird seed container is a beauty!

The OLD wooden teddy bear wagon is very special. In fact, I could sure see it in my own house!

We have bowl racks, noodle boards, trenchers, door hangers and lots more wooden pieces to choose from. Yesterday we got a big shipment of the little rice lights, all kinds of battery candles, holiday cutting boards, picture frames, stockings and more, more, more!

I can't wait to see all of the young gals dancing in the street, smiling faces and everyone just having a great time. Hope we see some of you in the shop!

By the way, we got our first snowfall today. The shop was so cozy with the pretty lights, music and the still of the snow. I could have stayed there all evening.

Hope you're all having a comfy, cozy night!

Until next time...

IT WAS FINALLY HERE...

2011-11-05T18:14:00.000-07:00

Oh yes, the day had finally arrived that we had all been working so hard to create here at the shop. Holiday Open House Day! Both old and new friends came before we had even opened and none of this would be possible without them. Thank you one and all for your loyalty and support, it makes it all worthwhile! We had a great, successful day and hopefully it will continue tomorrow. Guess we'll have to go on another "picking" trip this week (yippee) to ready the shop for Ladies Nite Out for the whole town of Holly.

I feel so blessed to have the best husband and partner a gal could ever have. Dick has worked right along next to me, building wonderful furniture and makedos, tearing things down, moving furniture, going to pick up lunch and anything else he could do to help get the shop ready for the holidays. Thanks partner!

And what about Carol, Bonnie and Sharon (not in the picture) for their dedication to Holly Hills Primitives? We all had a ball decorating, eating pizza and laughing. Thanks good friends!

It's funny how an open house brings you the best new friends. Chris and Phil came to visit from Adrian, MI. They are the nicest people and I'm hoping we have a long friendship. Chris has been shopping at Rebecca's Thyme in Pigeon Forge for a long time, and come to find out, has bought several items made by my friend Connie! Small world! Chris even brought me the cutest, prim tree decorations today. Just adorable! Hope to see them again soon.

Another nice surprise was Bobbi (Evening Stitcher blog) and her mom, Marge. Bobbi went home with a great old buggy seat today and I can't wait to see what she does with it! I tried to talk her into teaching rug hooking at the shop - please. It was great to meet them both.

So, all in all, it was just the best darn day and we're looking forward to another one tomorrow. Now it's time to get on some warm jammies and RELAX!

Until next time...

ALMOST TIME...

2011-11-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

Woo-Hoo!!! Holiday Open House day is only one day away and the shop is almost ready. We just have to tweek a little and do our front window and we'll be anxious to open the doors to our wonderful customers. Thought I'd share a little sneak peak at what we've done so far. Come on in! Want to set by the fire and have a cup of coffee?

Or we could go to the North Pole to visit Santa and his reindeer.

Let's light some of the yummy Christmas candles and set at the table and have a visit.

The dry sink is waiting for our "clean-up".

We could stroll along our little village and enjoy the holiday lights.

The potting bench is dressed for the holidays too.

But the best of all is relaxing in the "log cabin" next to another fireplace.

Dick and I both hope to see you this weekend. The shop has never looked better and is FILLED with all of your holiday needfuls.

Holiday Open House, November 5 from 10-6 and November 6 from 10-5. Come have some treats, sign up for several door prizes and just have some plain old shopping fun. See you tomorrow!

Until next time...

HALLOWEEN FUN...

2011-11-01T07:03:00.000-07:00

What a fun night! We all headed over to daughter Amanda's house for a great evening with all of the grandchildren. Everyone was there except Abbey, she and Ashley are in Indiana for the rabbit convention. We watched everyone get their costumes on, had pizza and off we all went in every direction! Gan decided he wanted to be an old woman,

and he sure looked like one! He ended up with a whole pillowcase full of candy.

Caroline was a witch and Sydney was a ladybug. Adorable!

Our Ellie was the cutest spider I ever saw!

She even had to show us how a spider crawled on the sidewalk.

Sydney posed outside for me.

Lucy was too afraid to go until Aunt Amanda took her to the house next door. She had the cutest sock monkey costume, but was terrified of it. Uncle Chad convinced her to wear her hat. After that first house, she was off like a rocket!

Daddy had to hurry to keep up!

She walked up to every house, knocked on the door and said "Treat Treat" and "Thank you".

When they got back to Amanda's, the two-year-olds both had to dump out their candy and check it all out. Lucy can't say Caroline, so she calls her "Kline".

All in all, it was so much fun to see our grandchildren have such a great time. Don't know why I didn't get a pictures of Jack - guess he was too darn busy getting ready.

Now it's time to concentrate on our holiday open house - this weekend will be here before we know it. Hope to see you then!

Until next time...

HOLLYWEEN...

2011-10-29T15:17:00.000-07:00

I love our little village! Every year, the Saturday before Halloween, the streets are closed in town and the kids are all invited to do a children's parade and trick or treat from the merchants. It has become a tradition in our family for the grandkids to all come to "grandma's store" and make the rounds. This year we had 5 out of 8 there and it was so much fun!

Son Rich, his wife Val, Sydney and baby Peyton.

Our Sydney sure loves her baby brother!

This was Peyton's first Halloween and the poor guy slept through most of it!

Daughter Amanda with Ellie, Caroline and Jack.

Jack, Caroline and Ellie were anxious to get out there and get some candy.

Monday night we are all going to Amanda's house to trick or treat with 7 out of 8! Abbey is at a rabbit convention out of state, but we'll sure save her some candy. This will be our first Halloween without her!!!

Well, this weekend is pretty much it for fall goodies at the shop. Next week we will be moving furniture, packing away fall and transforming everything to a primitive winter wonderland. Don't forget, we will be closed Nov 3 and 4, but the holiday open house will be in full swing on Nov 5 and 6. Hope you can come join in the fun!

Have a great weekend and a Happy Halloween!!!

Until next time...

WHIRLWIND WEEKEND...

2011-10-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! What a crazy, fun weekend Dick and I just had. We took off for Ohio for our final buying trip before we CHANGE the shop over for the holidays and we had so much darn fun. We met a customer in Findley and had a bite to eat and then off to Waynesville for a little exploring. If you're ever in Waynesville, OH, be sure to stop into an adorable prim shop called Sawdust & Stitches www.sawdust-n-stitches.com and meet Tammy and George. You'll be so glad you did! George and their son both have proudly served in Afghanistan and for that we thank them both. Tammy started out in a TINY shop across the street a couple of years ago and has now moved and has gotten better and better! Can't wait to go back and visit some more.
After we left Waynesville, we stopped in to North Shore Primitives in Washington Courthouse. What a blast of prim eye candy! Just beautiful.
Then on to Columbus to buy, buy, buy. You know all those last minute goodies like MORE and MORE battery candles, rice lights, greens, and tons of surprises. The only problem is, the storeroom at the shop is FULL of Christmas and now it is taking over at home and in the garage. Can't wait for next week to start changing EVERYTHING and getting all of the new prim wares into the shop for our holiday open house on November 5 and 6 (we will be closed on November 3 and 4 to dress the shop in her best prim accessories).

The reindeer are resting against the wall, taking their last nap before it's time to help Santa.

The boxes are heeping up and sneeking into the house one by one.

Oh my gosh, can't wait to get everything out!

SOOO, today I will be sewing, sewing and more sewing to finish up the last of everything I have sewn and stuffed. Dick will be creating like mad in the garage (I think he got really inspired after our trip)! Don't forget to mark you calendars and come have some fun with us at our holiday open house.

By the way, all of our fall/Halloween is now marked down to 40% off while it lasts. Time to broom out the shop and make room for all the boxes of fun Christmas.

Until next time...

THE PRIMS JUST KEEP COMING...

2011-10-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

WOO-HOO! Dick was at it all day today and we've got lots of new goodies to take into the shop tomorrow. We are both getting so excited to make the Christmas switch and get out ALL of the great, primitive wares that have been hiding in boxes for quite awhile. Today he made this wonderful child's make-do chair. The base is an old wooden box and the seat and back are covered with feedsack in green and red - perfect for your holiday dollies to set on.

Closeup of the feedsack, but it is a lot more green in person.

I'm crazy about these candle holders made from old tin ceiling trim. You can either get one to hold one candle,

or two! I can just see them with greens for the holidays.

This one is the best ever! A floor lamp candle holder from an old masher and fur stretcher. Of course I had to keep one of these. (Excuse the background mess - we have been going crazy getting everything done.)

The top is wrapped with grubby cheesecloth. This one would be SO perfect to set next to a chair or on a fireplace hearth.

Can't wait to see what he's going to come up with next, maybe a fireplace mantle for the shop (hint, hint). I also have some great shutters and the perfect old screen door that would make a perfect cupboard!

We had another great day at the shop. Seems that new customers are discovering our cozy little corner of the world and the word is spreading. We have some of the best customers ever!

Some "new" antique pieces will also be arriving over the next couple of weeks and I can't wait to share them with all of you. But for now, guess I'll get on my p.j.'s and get some rest. Hope you're still cuddling, it was cold here today (only in the low 40's) and that bed is going to feel really great.

Until next time...

MORE NEW CREATIONS...

2011-10-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

Hi prim pals! Wow, Dick has been so busy for me. Creating, creating and more creating. Just had to show you a couple of his latest projects. I'm CRAZY about this primitive towel rack with candle, towel and soap dish.

The soap dish is made from an OLD spatula with soap included.

The towel is grubby muslin with a patch of an old sled.

The battery candle (included) is mounted on an old wooden spoon. I've got one next to my kitchen sink, but it would also be adorable in a bathroom.

I have a thing for stitcheries on old objects. This one is attached to an old kraut cutter and would be so cool with a candle attached inside the box.

I'm a little partial to this verse.

Another one of Dick's creations is this towel rack made from old shoe forms attached to an old peely paint board. I need to hang a towel on here so people can get the idea!

Today was such a great day! I was SO busy with customers, new and old. I was so excited to meet Sue and Ted, their house was featured in a fall issue of Country Sampler awhile ago and it is one of my favorites. They stayed for quite awhile and we had fun getting to know each other, just sorry I didn't get their picture!

I put all fall and Halloween on sale in the shop at 40% off until it's gone. We've GOT to get ready to start preparing for our holiday open house on Nov 5 and 6. You should stop in any time and get a deal! Also don't miss some of the new prims that arriving daily.

There is a cuddle alert in this neck of the woods tonight, cold and rain! Hope you are all snuggled in and having a wonderful evening.

Until next time...

PRIMITIVE SINK...

2011-10-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! I just had to share the latest creation that my retired hubby has come up with! This is really for you really prim pals though. It is a reproduction "sink" that can hang on the wall with a leather strap.

It has a mirror attached with an old leather piece, a batter candle and a rusty wire across the front for your towel.

Inside there is a soap dish with handmade soap.

And an old rusty bucket. This piece would be so beautiful filled with winter greens or whatever your little heart desires. Come on in and take a peek!

This has been a crazy morning. More sewing, sewing and sewing. Trying to get those handmades all ready before our change over to the holidays. The shop will be closed on November 3 and 4 and will reopen for our holiday open house on November 5 and 6.

Well, time to get back to it!

Until next time...

A HOME ON A HILL...

2011-10-15T14:38:00.000-07:00

As promised, prim pals, I'd like to share a wonderful home tour with you, courtesy of my friend Connie in Tennessee. Grab a cup of coffee and be prepared to see some beautiful eye candy. Rick and Connie built this home a few years ago, it was their retirement dream and, sadly, Connie lost Rick to cancer a couple of months ago. This is a very dear home to me, one that wraps it's arms around you as soon as you walk through the front door.

See that window at the top of the garage? That's where we spent hours and hours and hours just sewing and sewing and sewing! What fun we had though. She even let me park the bug in the garage!

I couldn't do this post without sharing Rick's favorite spot.

Come on in! It was hard to get a picture of the foyer, but I tried to get it looking out from the dining room.

The sights and smells are fabulous as soon as you walk in. There are always candles, tarts and little lights burning.

She leaves her wool trees out all year and they are so great.

This is a beautiful Hoosier in the entry to the great room. On top is an old sign (I didn't get a picture), but we both bought matching ones just before she moved to Tennessee.

Let's go peek at the dining room. It is filled with wonderful prim antiques and accessories everywhere!

I love the one-door pie safe against the wall and how about the trencher filled with old bowls?

The sunroom is just off the great room and would be the most comfy spot to curl up with the a good book or some stitching.

Come on into the living room. Where else could you feel so at ease? We both fell asleep on each end of the couch watching t.v.

The living room opens into the breakfast nook and kitchen.

What a view! From the second floor, you can look down into the living room. The ceiling are all wood and just spectacular!

Isn't the kitchen the heart of the home? It sure is here! We ate the best meals while I was there, some inside and some outside.

Love the island with the old tractor seat sitting on top of it.

Aren't the signs just the best?

The master bath is just like a spa.

Right down to the old vintage dress hanging in front of the shower.

Couldn't show you Connie's house without showing you the mustard pie safe that came all the way from Holly Hills Primitives!

One of my favorite room is the breakfast nook. It is so bright and sunny and PRIM!

This half bath off the foyer is adorable. The cutting board with the old soap dish is as cute as can be!

Those old crows are near and dear to my heart. We each bought them on some of explorations of years ago.

Is this a cozy guest room or what? Who wouldn't want to dream away the hours here? I forgot to take pictures of the other guest room and I deleted the master bedroom by mistake!

Even the laundry room is wonderful! Her mom's African violets thrive in this room.

We spent a lot of time on the deck - whe it wasn't raining. Wish I would have taken a picture when all of our doll parts were drying out there!

This old "chicken coop" was all dressed for fall.

Connie's gardens are just exquisite, even though it is getting almost past the garden season. I loved this area under the deck.

Oh yes! Just prim garden perfect! This garden is filled with the greatest "junk" (I say that with love). Just walk through the arbor and follow the stepping stones to heaven.

Wish I could have seen this when it was in full bloom, I just know it was out of this world!

This garden is all along the side of the house next to the driveway. What a treat when you drive in!

My favorite place was to set on the front porch and gaze at the mountains in the distance. As much as I miss my friend, I can understand the calling of the mountains. It is magical! So there you have it, a beautiful home filled with love from my beautiful friend. Thank you Connie for sharing with us and for a time I will never forget.

Before I leave you, I had to share a picture of another home down the road from Connie. Every time I've been there, I just yearn to see the inside of this house. It is so beautiful, right down to the last blade of grass!

Even the mailbox was dressed in all of autumn's glory.

I hope you all enjoyed the tour and you're having a restful weekend. The weather is cold, windy and rainy in Michigan. I'm looking forward to a Sunday of rest, movies and maybe a little stitchin'.

Until next time...

HOME AGAIN, HOME AGAIN...

2011-10-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Prim Pals! Well, I'm back from Tennessee and what a GREAT time I had with my friend Connie. We hadn't seen each other in over a year, so we had a blast just having so much time to catch up on everything that had happened to each of us. You'll be in for a treat on my next blog, I'll be taking you on a tour of her beautiful home. I wanted to share with you a couple great shops we visited while out exploring.
If you're ever in the Pigeon Forge area, you won't want to miss Rebecca's Thyme. It is filled with wonderful primitive eye candy! The shop is so welcoming the minute you walk through the door. Mark your calendars for her holiday open house on November 5th, 2011. The address of the shop is 1135 Wears Valley Road, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, and you can visit online at www.rebeccasthyme.com - so be sure to check it out.

I'd like you to meet my friends Connie and Rebecca. We went out for a delicious breakfast and then on to the shop for some fun and conversation. I loved it all!

The outside decorating was so much fun. Of course Connie made most of the scarecrows and they are just a hoot!

It was a beautiful day and it was so much fun to see Connie's creations (a/k/a The Funky Tennessee Artist) in Rebecca's shop.

What a welcoming "centerpiece" when you walk into the shop! Can't wait to go back and I'm hoping that Connie and Rebecca will make a trip up this way before too long. Thank you Rebecca for your hospitality!

Another great shop we visited was The Speckled Hen at 708 South Charles Seivers Blvd, Clinton, TN. Sharon and her husband also have some wonderful primitives and the shop is beautiful!

I was so glad that we got to see Sharon at the antique show in Clinton, since her hubby was "manning" the shop that day. I had met Sharon in Waynesville, OH awhile back and it was so nice to visit with her again. Sharon's Christmas Open House will be held November 4th from 10-5 and November 5th from 10-4. Hope you're in the area and can make both open houses! It will be well worth you time.

Connie and I sewed until our fingers were bleeding (not really that bad), but my car was so full of handmades that I couldn't have fit one more thing inside. The people on the highway were getting a good laugh at the reindeer in my front seat! Can't wait until I can put all of these new goodies out for our own November 5th and 6th open house.

All in all, it was a wonderful trip. I'll be posting lots of new pictures soon. I want to thank Connie for sharing her warm and inviting home - a place that feels like home to me. I miss her already, but hopefully we won't have to wait so long to see each other again.

Now don't forget! Tomorrow evening from 5-9 p.m. (October 14th) is our third annual Witch's Nite Out at Holly Hills Primitives. Wear your best witch's finery and get discounts on all fall and Halloween items. We will be having treats, best costume prize, door prize and just plain old downhome fun. Hope to see you there!!!

Until next time...

HOLLY HILLS PRIMITIVES EVENTS...

2011-10-04T17:04:00.000-07:00

Good evening Prim Pals. This is a no picture post, but full of information. Dick and I thought you might be interested in the upcoming events at Holly Hills Primitives. There will be more added a little later, but here's what's coming so far:
October 5 - Halloween Car Cruise (last cruise of the year)
October 12 - Full Hunter's Moon Walk (7 p.m.)
October 14 - Witch's Nite Out at Holly Hills Primitives (5-9 p.m.)
October 29 - Hollyween - downtown trick or treating, children's parade, and lots more
November 3-4 - Holly Hills Primitives will be closed
November 5-6 - Holly Hills Primitives Holiday Open House
November 11 - Ladies Nite Out (All of downtown Holly)
December 9-11 - Annual Holly Dicken's Festival
So be sure to come have some fun with us during this holiday season.
I'm getting so excited. I'm leaving for Tennessee on Thursday morning, but don't worry, Dick is going to "man" the shop while I'm gone. I'm going to visit my friend Connie and we are going to sew, sew, sew for Christmas at the shop. We are also going to the Clinton, TN antique show and having dinner (and shopping) with Rebecca from Rebecca's Thyme in Pigeon Forge, TN. Connie and I haven't seen each other in over a year and we're long overdue! I hope to have lots of new handmades to put our for our open house, along with all of the other stacked up boxes waiting to come out for Christmas. SO - I will talk to you again next week after my trip.
Have a great weekend, it's supposed to be beautiful. The perfect weekend to go to the cider mill, take a drive in the country and enjoy fall to the fullest extent.
Until next time...

FUN FALL WEEKEND...

2011-10-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

Good Monday morning prim pals! Just wanted to share some fun pictures with you today. Last Thursday, Gannon came to the shop and I had him try on a WWII navy uniform and it fit him perfect. Sorry the above picture is so blurry (and sideways), but he was just adorable!

Please send out lots of prayers, as Gannon went back to the hospital on Friday. Hope he's home soon and coming to help me at the shop.

Look who was our visitor on Friday! This guy is a Hyasynth McCaw (rare) and is 102 days old. Most of you don't know it, but I'm SOOO afraid of inside birds. I was so leary of going into Zanie Janie's with this guy in there.

Bill and Vickie are the owners and the bird thinks Bill is his mother!

Now, I just had to put this on for my friend Connie. She will NEVER believe that it's me petting a BIRD! He was so sweet (and even potty trained to go outside). I ALMOST held him, but I'm not quite there yet.

Our Joe had a ball.

Ashley brought Lucy, Abbey and Jessica down to see him, but Lucy only got brave enough to touch his tail feathers.

Oh yes Connie, that's me petting him again.

Even Ashley was brave enough for him to set on her arm. Thanks Bill and Vickie for sharing.

Saturday night Dick, Abbey and I went up to the Little House to put up some storm windows, fold down the kid's camper, and get the boat ready for storage. On the way home, we had to make our annual stop at this pumpkin patch.

Abbey and I four just the right ones for her house, our house and a little one to take home to Lucy so she could hold it.

Dick helped us find "just the right ones".

All loaded up and ready to head back to Holly.

I'd like to thank all of our wonderful customers that came into the shop on Saturday. The Holly Antique Show was in the street and it was SOOOO cold! Lots of people came in to get warm and we sold lots of goodies. It was fun to see our old friends and to meet lots of new ones.

This Wednesday evening is the last car cruise for the year and it's a biggie. The Halloween cruise! The people dress up, pass out candy and it is packed. We'll miss all of our summer friends.

Well, that's my weekend. Hope you had fun too!

Until next time...

ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL DAY...

2011-09-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

Good evening Prim Pals! Dick and I were driving home from work tonight and look what we saw! This rainbow went all the way across the sky and was so beautiful. Doesn't it just invite you to follow your dreams? I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to follow my dream and now to have Dick by my side is a bonus. We took 21 new handmades into the shop today and I have to say, the shop is FULL! I can hardly believe that it is time to start thinking about Christmas already.

I just had to share a picture of my Rosie dog. She loves to just hang out with us and snuggle whenever she gets the chance. Don't know what I'd do without her!

Yippee! We had blog followers come into the shop today all the way from Maryland. Meet Theresa and Holly. What great gals! It's always so much fun to meet friends from across our great country. They came to the area for the Ghoultide Gathering this weekend in Northville, MI and stopped in to look me up. What a nice surprise!

Now don't forget to mark your calendars for this Saturday. The Downtown Holly Antique Show is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The main street will be closed and the vendors will set up outside. Don't forget to come visit Holly Hills Primitives - we have some real deals! Zanie Janie will have live music, so come "sip and shop".

THEN on October 14 we will be hosting our Witch's Nite Out along with Zanie Janie's Simply Coffee and Blackberry Bakery. Wear your best witch finery and get discounts on all Halloween and fall merchandise. We will be having a best dressed contest, door prizes, treats and more. Zanie Janie will have her Witch's Brew coffee for $1.00 a cup and the Blackberry Bakery will be hosting a Witch's Tea. More on all of this a little later.

So, I hope you all had a great fall day and have been doing a little decorating, baking, creating or whatever else makes you happy.

Until next time...

GREAT FALL DAY!

2011-09-25T08:08:00.000-07:00

Good Sunday prim pals! First of all, I'd like to thank Joann and Rick from The Old Granary for hosting a wonderful Gathering On The Lawn. Their shop is a delightful prim pleasure and you should be sure to visit if you're ever in the Quincy, MI area.

The shop building is a shopkeepers dream, including porches, lawn and gardens. Love the brick pathway up through the Sweet Annie, sunflowers and more.

It was so beautiful early in the morning, just before setup time. Don't you love the Mail Pourch sign on the end of the barn???

I should have got more pictures of the show itself, but this was where Holly Hills Primitives was. We were so glad to be under the tent - just in case of rain.

This was a special weekend for Dick and I. Dick just retired and has worked like crazy, helping me get things ready for the show and shop. He is truly my new partner! We left for the show on Friday morning, Joann let us leave the trailer at the shop, and we spent the day exploring and just having fun. Dick's birthday was last Thursday and mine is tomorrow, so this turned out to be a wonderful birthday weekend. We ended up finding lots of goodies to bring back to the shop.

It was a little chilly, but at least the sun stayed out most of the day. I can't believe that this is my very last day to be in my 50's! Whew, the number 60 sounds pretty grown-up!

We took some pictures of our booth to share.

This is the outside looking in.

The little make-do chair sold right off the bat and went to a shopowner from Ohio.

The very first thing to go was the make-do sink. Guess Dick will be busy this week making another one.

The hired hand's bed made a great display area!

I'd like to share some of the handmades from the show and let you know you can find lots more in our shop! I got this idea from a fellow blogger, but (sorry) I can't remember which blog.

Jake the srarecrow was a big hit.

Several pumpking "pockets" left us right away too.

Jed the shelfsitter just screams fall!

Wanda the Witch is a "scream"! She has her pet bat sitting on her shoulder and a spider on her hat.

All in all, it was a fantastic day! We'd also like to thank our great customers Earlene and Angie for making the trip to Quincy.

Next Saturday, October 1st, is the Downtown Holly Antique Show. It is always such a fun, fun day. Hope we see lots of you in town.

So, today Dick and I are taking a much needed break. We'll be back to creating tomorrow, so lots of new things will be in the shop for this week and weekend.

Enjoy your beautiful fall Sunday.

Until next time...

GATHERING ON THE LAWN...

2011-09-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

Woo Hoo! What a few days Dick and I have had! We have spent so much time creating and getting ready for the Gathering On The Lawn at the Old Granary in Quincy, MI on Saturday. Just thought I'd share a few of the things we are taking that have never been in the shop. Above is a PRIMITIVE "sink". It would be so cool filled with fall or Christmas bowl fillers and naturals.

This little make-do chair in made from an old wooden box. The lid opens and things can be stored inside. It would be adorable with an old doll sitting on the seat.

Sorry this one is the wrong direction, but it is my very favorite. It's a floor candle holder out of an old hand "washer" and a fur stretcher. The reflector is an old spoon held on with leather straps.

Love, love, love this old barrel with the handmade lid. As you can see, it has a hook to hang the lid on the side.

Another unique candle holder from an old masher and wooden spoon.

This candle holder is made using an old sleeve ironing board. So cute hanging on a wall!

Another dark picture. This old bread drawer liner has a pumpkin guy peeking out and is filled with fall goodies. There is an old corn cob and crow attached to the front.

We made so many other things, but you'll just have to come to the show to check them out. Old decorated shutters, windows, and prim dolls. If you've never been to the Old Granary - then you're in for a treat! Joann is giving 10% off storewide, plus you will have a whole lawn to shop from full of great vendors.

Hope to see you there - September 24th from 10-5.

Until next time...

FABULOUS FALL WEEKEND...

2011-09-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

Good Sunday afternoon prim pals. What a great weekend we've just had. I've been promising pictures of our new shop items and I also wanted to share pictures of our wonderful village this weekend. SO...grab a cup of coffee and let's take a little tour.
We brought back two pieces of great reproduction pieces this time for the folks that aren't quite into the real deal of antiques. We'll see how they go and maybe we'll be adding a lot more. Love the little dry sink with the pegs along the back.

My favorite has to be this big old chair - more for the real prim fans. I could just see this in a foyer or next to a fireplace. LOVE IT!!!

The old slant top desk is filled with wonderful fall scents of potpourri.

Votive candles packaged in strawberry baskets and cake candles.

This picture is SO dark, and it's my favorite item! A wooden cubby with a spice shelf and drawer. Really grungy mustard color, but perfect for any room in your home.

This old hired hand's bed is outstanding. Couldn't you just see it on a screened in porch with lots of pillows to take an afternoon nap?

Another good oldie is this tin pie safe with old green paint. I have one at the Little House and it is a great spice cupboard.

This Salem witch is done on an old basket. What a cute addition to a porch!

Oh my gosh, I'm crazy about this old canvas apple picking basket - and behind it is the original apple orchard ladder.

Need any breadboards? Who can have enough?

The little mice snuck in the shop this week and are having a grand party. BUT - they are also all finding new homes.

Another great cubby done in old red paint.

One of these banners would just make any fall display! So there you have SOME of the new goodies we brought into the shop - but there's tons more!

Then it was on to a funfilled Saturday morning. The village of Holly celebrated the first annual Patriot's Week and Saturday was the wrap up. We lined up at 8:30 a.m. to be in the parade (which was beyond wonderful). Abbey rode with Papa and I and seemed to know everybody along the parade route. We had so many patriotic groups and so many joined in that we had to have 3 parade staging areas. Who could resist the fun???

The Holly Chamber of Commerce is having a new rebirth downtown.

Betsy Ross even came back to join us!

The flagpole and flag company in town brought new 5'x8' flags around and gave one to all of the merchants. What a wonderful donation for this event.

Jimmy (from the Downtown Party Shop) is a huge supporter of our village. He brought his grandson and daughter to join in.

The Holly High School band was in our staging area and we were so lucky to listen to them warming up with the old patriotic songs. Great job!

While we were on the parade route, I couldn't resist taking a pictures of our Ashley, friend Jessica and our little Lucy. Lucy absolutely loved the parade and has talked about it non-stop!

Okay, do you know what Patriot's Day stands for? This is Judge Warren (from Oakland County Circuit Court). He and his 12 year-old daughter Leah (10 at the time) founded this holiday. They wanted a time for our country to come together as citizens, not just veterans (although they have been the driving force) to keep America alive.

Judge Warren has written a book, which we purchased. I am so excited to start reading it and "hear" what they are saying about our great America. Above is Judge Warren and his lovely daughter Leah.

We stayed open Friday and Saturday nights until 9 p.m. We flew our flag proudly, and loved every minute of the festivities and how our community came together.

At the end of the parade, one of the firetrucks pulled a trailer that held a sacred piece of the World Trade Center that the city of Farmington Hills graciously lent to us. To actually see and touch this piece of history was undescribable. It literally brought tears to many eyes.

As the evening was slowing down, I had the pleasure of meeting two blog readers. Sue and Leah (from Ypsilanti, MI) came in to visit. What lovely gals! Hope they come back to see me soon.

So friends, this has been quite a weekend!

Also, next weekend is going to be a great one too! Mark your calendars for the Gathering On The Lawn at the Old Granary in Quincy, Michigan on September 24th. The shop is delightful, filled with prims from top to bottom and the venders will be set up all around the shop on the lawn with more great items. Dick and I are going to be there with lots of goodies that haven't been seen in the shop yet. This is well worth the drive!

Hope you all are having a restful, peaceful fall Sunday. Anybody been to the orchards yet for delicious cider and donuts???

Until next time...

WE'RE BACK...

2011-09-15T18:58:00.000-07:00

Wowee! Another flying buying trip this week, but did we ever find some great new goodies! First Dick, Carol and I went to the other side of the state to a primitive auction, but most everything went sky high. We did manage to find some great prims to bring home, but nothing like we had hoped! There were some other dealers there that we know and we all just stood and shook our heads as the prices skyrocketed. Oh well, I'm just thankful for the things we were able to pick up.

Then, it was on to Ft. Wayne to the markets and I feel so blessed to find some wonderful items to add to the shop. See the two furniture pieces that we packed around? You'll see the pictures of the real deal tomorrow!

Carol is the ultimate "packer" and we managed to get everything in before we headed back to Michigan. We managed to do a little more antiqueing on the way home and had lots of fun and laughs. Came home with a whole list of new ideas to start creating.

Today Dick and I got everything priced, moved furniture and got the shop back into order. This weekend is Patriot Weekend in Holly with lots of events and fun planned for all. We're told that our little village expects at least 2000 visitors! Holy cow! BUT we're ready and waiting. We are going to be in the parade at 10 a.m. and then on to open the shop after the parade. If you'd like to have some great fun, come out to Holly and join in. To check the schedule, go to Facebook and look up the Holly Chamber of Commerce.
More pictures to follow in my next post.

Until next time...

FAVORITE NEW FALL GOODIES...

2011-09-07T14:59:00.000-07:00

What a fun day at work! Got some new wares in the shop that I couldn't wait to share with you and there's more on the way! I love these primitive "lanterns" made out of old wooden boxes and tin.

This scarecrow is the best! He is dressed in grubby longjohns.

Black Jack is done on an old dark orange thermos jug.

This cute little dolly has funky braids and is holding her kitty.

Another cute doll holding her crow pie - in an old zinc lid.

Beautiful basket "The Olde Homestead" filled with fall "greens" and a metal crow. Would be a perfect door hanger.

A "Kenny" creation - corner spoon holder in dark mustard.

More "Kenny" creations. A storage bench, bed steps, another corner spoon holder - plus we have noodle boards and shoe flies in all shapes and sizes.

WOO-HOO! This is a wonderful, primitive, OLD slant-top desk with the original bittersweet paint.

Another great piece is this unusual blanket chest - it would be the perfect coffee table. It originally came from Vermont.

The inside has a built-in tray and two little drawers.

Two more old trunks - one a WWII ammunition box.

Lots of dipped lights.

I love this hooked mat so much that I had to get one for myself.

Another great fall hooked mat.

This make-do chair is awesome. If it doesn't sell soon, it WILL be coming home with me!

Just got this old "door chair". What a perfect addition to a foyer or mud room!

I hope some of you will come in to see what else we've added. Tonight is "sewing" night with lots of new creations on the way.

Have most of you started putting out fall yet? I did that last night and it was so much fun pulling out the old prim "friends". This is perfect weather for decorating, lighting your candles, listening to some peaceful music and cooking up a big old pot of your favorite soup. Have fun with all of it - autumn only comes once a year!

Until next time...

GREAT R&R...

2011-09-06T14:00:00.000-07:00

Good evening prim pals! Just returned from 5 nights of R&R at the Little House and it felt SOOO great! We took our Gannon up with us Thursday night - the first time all summer, went to some sales, Grandpa and Gan did some fishing, went to Morning Glory Mercantile (again) and had such a great time riding go-carts! Amanda brought Jack, Ellie and Caroline up on Saturday afternoon to spend the night and we made pizza's in the campfire with the pie makers. It was so much fun. Sunday we spent time with our friends, Debbie and Kenny, and had a wonderful dinner together. Thought you would enjoy seeing some of the great prim displays from Debbie's house.

Isn't that tiny firkin just adorable?

Good old bowl sith some fun goodies.

Old graters, cans and boxes on the back of her stove.

One of Kenny's great signs behind their sink.

Good old door turned sideways behind some cupboards.

Love old sho-flys! You'll have to come into the shop to see more of what we picked up both from Kenny and Debbie and the sales.

Gan, Dick and I all went on the go-carts and I could have ridden all day. What a blast! I forgot how much fun it is.

Old Harley is the "up north" dog that lives behind our cottage. Our Gannon and Abbey have loved him since he was a puppy. Gan just couldn't go home without taking him a treat.

We had to go to the good Ben Franklin in town and Gan picked out HERMIT CRABS! He named them Blazer and Gunner and was fascinated with them all weekend.

Those were some crazy shells!

I took Ellie and Jack to town on Sunday and Ellie picked out this t-shirt at the craft show. I think she's going to be my little hippie girl!

Jack found a container of pirates and was in his glory!

Caroline was getting ready for the trip home!

I loved our time away, but it always feels great to get home. Time to get out some of the fall goodies and start playing! So what will it be, playing or sewing? Such a decision! Hope you are all having fun getting out the boxes of fall and putzing in your homes.

Until next time...

ON THE ROAD AGAIN...

2011-09-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how everything falls in place sometimes! Friends Bonnie and Sharon agreed to watch the shop for Friday and Saturday, so tonight we are on the road back up north to The Little House. I am so excited. Gannon is going with us tonight, the rest of his family will be up on Sat. morning, and then Dick and I will have Mon and Tues to ourselves. Should be a fun weekend. We plan on doing some "picking" for the shop while we're gone - keep your fingers crossed that we find some goodies!
SO, with that being said, the holiday shop hours will be Friday from 11-4, Saturday from 10-4 and closed Sunday and Monday to enjoy the holiday.
Hope all of you have some fun plans with your friends and family. Talk to you next week!
Until next time...

HAPPY 9TH BIRTHDAY ABBEY...

2011-09-01T06:17:00.000-07:00

What a fun birthday party we went to for our Abbey on Sunday! Most of the grandchildren were there, some of our big kids, and lots of friends. Happy Birthday sweet Abbey.

Our Gannon was with us and he never tires of playing basketball!

Jack was in love with this baby bunny and wanted to take it home SO BAD!

Ellie was thrilled that Aunt Kim was there - they have really gotten to be buddies.

Lucy and Caroline (a/k/a Kline since Lucy can't say Caroline) got in on lots of the action.

Oh boy, Daddy rented a bounce house! I think the kids are wearing out.

Of course Uncle Chad had to get in on the action and give the kids some bouncy rides!

He might have eve tired himself out!

There were lots of presents - including a new fishing pole.

Guess what else?

Mommy Ashley made Abbey a 4-H cake that was delish!

Uncle Chad wanted to try his hand at decorating and came up with his own version of a pigeon!

Of course there had to be a Holland Lop bunny cake! A great time was had by all. Thank you Ashley and Tony for hosting another wonderful party.

After the party was over, we scooped up Abbey and headed up north to The Little House. We stayed until Wednesday morning, got home just in time to open the shop, and got some much needed R&R. Abbey got a jewelry making kit for her birthday, so she enjoyed sitting on the deck working away.

Friend Debbie and I went to Morning Glory Mercantile on Monday while Dick and Bbey went fishing. Found lots of goodies and was glad to visit with Sandy again - what a nice gal!

Time to come back to reality for a few days, and then back up for the Labor Day weekend. Think I'll start getting fall out at The Little House this time. Can't wait!!!

Have a great day.

Until next time...

SUCCESSFUL FALL OPEN HOUSE...

2011-08-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

Good evening prim pals. Just wanted to pop in and thank everyone that helped make our Fall Open House a success today (and throughout the week too). There's nothing like customers that have turned into friends!

Yesterday I had the pleasure of a great visit from Janet of Old Crow Primitives - all the way from Ontario, Canada. Sure wish she lived closer, she is so much fun and such a sweet gal! Today Earlene from Primitive Passion Decorating came to the open house with her sister Sharon. It is always so much fun to see other bloggers!

Carol, Dick and I had a ball waiting on everyone and chatting it up a bit too. Whew, looks like we might have to go on another buying trip!!!

Mr. Dan Hays came to sing for us again and was a real crowd pleaser! He is getting to be quite popular in our little village. Thanks again to everyone that we've had the pleasure to seeing this week.

As the open house was wrapping up, one of the gals that works in another shop (Natalie) came into town after her wedding for her photographs to be taken. One of Zanie Janie's customers brought their 1959 Ford in for a "prop". All of the bridesmaids, bride and groomsmen were dressed in vintage outfits and it was beyond adorable! Congratulations to the new couple.

Wish you could have seen them all in person!

Click on the picture and check out all of the vintage dresses. What a great idea!

Well friends, time to take a little time to relax and then tomorrow we are going to the Little House for a couple of days. Hope Dick wants to go fishing so I can just sleep, sleep, sleep. I'll be back next week to leave comments on your blogs. I've kept up reading them this week, but just haven't had time to comment. Have a great Sunday!

Until next time...

COME TAKE A LOOK...

2011-08-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

Okay Prim Pals, I promised some pictures, so here we go! We're not quite finished for the open house yet, but it sure looks better than it did two days ago. You know how it is, tweeking, tweeking and more tweeking. Ready for a two-bit tour? When you walk into the front door, you see a lot of handmades on our buggy seat and filling lots of other spots.

I love, love, love the make-do chair! We have LOTS of dipped lights, battery candles, rice lights and more.

This pumpkin bottle doll is one of my favorites too.

To the right we have a good variety of crow and sunflower goodies - including new tin crow molds.

Up on our step, yup more fall goodies and furniture.

Do we have the candles! Have you tried Black Crow candles yet? The packaging is prim perfect!

I'm also crazy about the new 1803 candles and melts - YUMMY! Can you see? We now carry Mercantile Gathering and A Primitive Place magazines.

Our Halloween tree was already a big hit today, the ornies are going fast!

There are so many great textiles to choose from. Need a shower curtain, rug or towel?

Keep walking. See the 12 original tin pie safe we got yesterday? It is stunning. Also lots of beautiful, handmade tin items.

This old gateleg table is awesome, so is the buffet behind it. You can't see them, but there is a wall of Billy Jacobs pictures.

Isn't the little witch's dress and hat adorable? We have all kinds of mousy goodies too, along with a good selection of pillows.

Come step into the log cabin section for the really primitive goodies. We have stove covers (noodle boards), table risers, more tin, and some great primitive furniture - like this old sawbuck table.

The fireplace area is loaded!

But this area is my favorite place in the shop!

Thanks for coming along on the tour, but I hope you all come by the for the open house on Saturday. There will be lots more goodies added before then!

Have a great day and we'll talk again soon.

Until next time...

GET READY, GET SET, AND ALMOST GO...

2011-08-24T06:38:00.000-07:00

WOW! Am I ever pooped! After four days of non-stop shopping, hauling, pricing, and then two 12 hours days of moving the shop around this old body has about had it! BUT, the good news is, the shop has never looked better. I think the goal has been reached and we are finally back to our prim roots. I got rid of my work area and opened the "log cabin" back up and it feels so great to have so much more space to fill. Just have to do the front window and out front and we'll be ready for the open house on Saturday (August 27th). Hope you can make it!
Our live music will be starting on Saturday at 2 p.m. and we'll have tables out front for your comfort (if we don't get rain). If you haven't heard Dan Hays sing before, then you're really in for a treat!
I hope to have lots of pictures to share by tomorrow, but for now, it's back to do some tweeking!
Until next time...

TO MARKET, TO MARKET...

2011-08-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

WHEW!!! What an amazing four days Carol and I just put in. Talk about shop until you drop!!! We took off for Ohio on Wednesday morning, made a stop in Washington Courthouse to visit North Shore Primitives and then on to our hotel to get settled in. What a great surprise, we got a suite and it was just perfect for our stay. Each day as we shopped, we brought our loot up and priced and repacked. It was so nice to have a couch and coffee table to spread out on.

Great little kitchenette! We packed lots of goodies and ate just about every meal in. We were so ready for the air conditioning and the couch by the end of the day.

Nice bedroom and comfy beds - but I wish I would have brought my own pillow!!!

Nothing like coming back, putting on your jammies and having a cup of coffee.

Yummy good food, we even found a farm market for fresh tomatoes, corn and watermelon.

Oh yes, and a little wine never hurt anybody! Here's to you Carol for all the help for four full days.

We ended up with two hotel carts to pack everything up after one day of shopping.

Time to start loading - can you see the watermelon we are bringing back?

By yesterday (our fourth day of shopping), this is how full the van was...

...and we still had to fit this inside! Do you think we can do it?

Of course, there was still room for the wine box!

Ta-da!!! It all fit, although poor Carol had some of our groceries under her feet and legs.

You won't believe your eyes when you come into the shop and see what all we brought back! I think we found some of the best prim goodies we've ever had, including candles, textiles, great handmades, handmade tin work, fall yard art and more, more, more...

I HOPE that by Wednesday, we'll have the shop moved around and lots of it put out, but I'm hoping even more that our Fall Open House on August 27th will be amazing. We have a few days of HARD work to do, but it will all be worth it in the end. I promised that we would return to our primitive roots and I think we have done just that. I hope to have some pictures later in the week.

Until next time...

MARKET DAYS...

2011-08-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to pop in and remind everyone that the shop will be closed Wed, Aug 17 and Sun, Aug 21. Dick and my friend Bonnie are going to take turns taking care of Holly Hills Primitives Thurs-Sat while Carol and I head to the markets. We should have all the new merchandise out by August 24th (I hope), but we will be open. DON'T FORGET to mark your calendars for our Fall Open House on August 27th - I promise you won't be disappointed.
Can't wait to see everything that's new out there in "prim world" and try to bring back the best we can find. Carol and I have the best time together, but Connie will be sorely missed this year as these are the shows that we've met at for the past few years.
SO - keep watching and we'll talk again as soon as we return.
Until next time...

A DAY OF SADNESS...

2011-08-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon prim pals. No pictures this time. I had a phone call from my friend Connie last night and I am still whirling in shock. She lost her wonderful husband Rick yesterday afternoon, the one that made her laugh, the one that went on adventures with her and the one that helped build dreams together. Rick had been struck with cancer a few months ago and was in the healing process after many surgeries. Please say a prayer for my dear, dear friend that this healing process will ease some pain. I plan on traveling to Tennessee in the near future to spend time together and "porch set" for as long as she needs me. I love you Connie and you know that Rick will be missed by many, many friends.
Until next time...

FOX 2 NEWS DETROIT...

2011-08-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

What a great day!!! Our little village was alive with action at 7:30 a.m. Dick went down to the shop and opened at 7:30 and I got there about 8:00 and the town was swarming with people! Fox 2 News Detroit was in town doing a "Zip Trip" about Holly. They have been featuring different Michigan towns that aren't far for people to drive to, but that have lots of activities. Can you believe they picked us??? The truck and satellite was parked one door down from me, next to Zanie Janie's!

The weather man was parked right behind him and ready to do the forecast.

There was a car cruise already started at 7:30 and it was sure a hit. "Hit The Bricks" in Flint and "The Woodward Dream Cruise" in Detroit are both coming up this month. Guess the cruisers are all getting anxious.

The station did a lot of interviews out in the street. If you didn't get a chance to be here and get on t.v., you will probably see shots of it on tonight's news.

Thank you Fox 2 for bringing so many people to our village today and for the rest of the summer. I was slammed all day long (a really good thing) and have to go pick up another load of furniture tonight! Thought I was going to coast until we go to markets next week, but I'll take all the business that comes my way.

We handed out a ton of flyers for our Fall Open House on August 27th - hope they all show up!

Well prim pals, it's time to go pick up another great load of antiques. Talk to you soon.

Until next time...

MAKING ROOM...

2011-08-11T06:10:00.000-07:00

Good morning Prim Pals! Whew, what a busy week so far. We've been trying to clean, pitch and sort at the shop to get everything ready for our return from the markets. I'm doing away with my work area at the shop to make room for more goodies. AND TODAY THE SLEIGH IS GOING! I love it, but it takes up so much room.
I wanted to share the little island we put out this week. It is so adorable and would work so well in a smaller kitchen. It has one door, one drawer and is on casters.

One of my favorites lately is this reproduction trencher. Is this cute or what???!!! I ordered two and one might just have to come home with me.

I'm crazy about these candle paddles that hook over an old cupboard door. I've never seen anything like them before.

More new lights are arriving too. This three glass lantern is really a cutie!

And we got another Santa Fe lantern in too.

If any of you local gals would like a chance to be on T.V., some on into town on Friday, April 12th at 7:30 a.m. - yup you read that right. Fox 2 Detroit will be here doing a feature on our little village and you might just get on t.v. If you come in and make a purchase between 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m., I'll buy you a cup of coffee from Zanie Janie next door.

ALSO - MARK YOUR CALENDARS for August 27th, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for our Fall Open House. Carol and I will have returned from the markets with a GIANT load and will be waiting to have some fun with you. We will be having cider and donuts and in the afternoon there will be live music with Dan Hays.

Got to get into the shop and gets LOTS done today, but we'll talk again soon.

Until next time...

SITES, SOUNDS AND TASTES OF HOLLY...

2011-08-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

I'll say it again, I love living in a small town! Last evening was the Sites, Sounds and Tastes of Holly and everyone had so much fun. Huge tents were set up down one whole block and were filled with different area restaurants. You bought a block of tickets and could go to each vendor to sample their wares. YUMMY!!! I think our new Fire and Ice and Blackberry Bakery (same owners) must have been the best there. The townspeople packed our little village and everyone seemed to have such a great time. There were bands at the other end of the street (and even a belly dancer).

But down at our end of the street we had our very own music. Dan Hays set up and did he ever draw a crowd!!! He sings a variety of music from country, to soft pop, to old songs, and even a little gospel. He ended the evening with "God Bless The USA" in honor of the latest attack on our servicemen. If you ever need someone for an event you can contact Dan at danhaysministries.com you won't be disappointed.

Our little corner kept getting bigger and bigger crowds as the evening progressed.

Our own Zanie Janie (Simply Coffee) and hubby Steve danced in the street. (They taught dancing for 9 years and they are so much fun to watch!)

If you ever get to Holly, you won't want to miss the Blackberry Bakery and sample some of Barb's DELICIOUS treats.

So, that wraps up another fun evening in the village of Holly. Wish you all could have been here to play with us!

Until next time...

TIME FLIES...

2011-08-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday night prim pals! Whew, what a busy week this has been! I've been going crazy at the shop trying to get everything ready for our return from the markets in a couple weeks. There is so much to paint, move, and sew before I go - just hope I don't run out of time. I'm going to open up my work area in the back, we need more room and I'll just paint someplace else - like Carol's house!
What do you think of our new table??!! Wouldn't this be adorable on a screened in porch?

Here's a closer look at the top. Yup, screened in porch is exactly the right place!

I'm crazy about this little island (old workbench). Just the right size for a smaller kitchen.

This little black cupboard is a cutie too, it has one door and one drawer. Great "end table" size.

The shipment of 1803 Candles arrived and they are flying out the door! YUMMY!!! We got lots of the melters too and they come highly recommended. I've already had to place a second order along with the Christmas scents that will be out in November. I love the names, such as The Weathered Crow, Olde Dough Bowl, Vintage Harvest, Pumpkin Crumbcake...

New boxes are arriving weekly and I'm getting so excited to go fill the van (and maybe a trailer too) with prim goodies at the markets. Carol and I have our lists ready to go and what booths to hit first. We booked our hotel - might even take in a swim. Woo Hoo - ready to shop til we drop!

I had the best surprise today! A mother and daughter came into the shop and we got talking. Over 40 years ago, I worked at a women's dress shop called The Helen Shop when I was in high school. Come to find out, the "mother" was Helen Packer that I had worked for way back when. She now lives in Florida and was up visiting her family. She looks so great! Who would believe that she is 95 years old!!! Yup, that made my day and I hope to see her again when she comes back to Holly.

If you're in the Holly area tomorrow evening, come on out to the Sights, Sounds and Tastes of Holly. It starts at 5 p.m. and we are selling tickets in the shop.

Well my friends, time to get dinner ready and maybe do a little sewing tonight.

Until next time...

WHAT A WEEK...

2011-07-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

Before I get into what's been going on, I wanted to tell you what a great morning I had today. The shop was torn up and in walked Janet from Olde Crow Primitives. She was on her way to judging a horse show in Michigan and had come from Ontario, Canada. We met about a year ago and it was so great to be able to have a few minutes to set and visit. We had some of Zanie Janie's great coffee and we were able to catch up a bit. She is coming back next month and I hope we get a little more time. We did a little brainstorming and wondered if anyone would be interested in coming to Michigan for some kind of blog gathering??? We could either do something for fall or the beginning of November when all the Christmas goodies are out in the shops. Please let me know if you might have an interest.
Yup, this has been one heck of a week. THANK GOODNESS FOR CAROL!!! I don't know what I'd do without her. She has been at the shop for the last two days and we have moved furniture from one end of the shop to the other, along with adding in some great new (antique) pieces. We have packed up lots of things that are going bye-bye and unpacked lots of the new merchandise that finally arrived, including our new line of 1803 candles (and they are yummy). Today we put out lots of fall and got the shop back in some kind of order!
I think I've mentioned that Holly Hills Primitives is changing back to it's original roots. Primitives, primitives, primitives! There's still so much to do (and so little time). So many pieces of primitive antiques are arriving weekly right now that rearranging is just crazy! We are going to Columbus to the markets in a couple weeks and hope to have the van loaded to the brim.
Mark you calendars for August 27th and come on in for our Fall Open House. You won't believe the changes we are going to finish making! If you like primitives - we'll have them here for you!
Well girls, time to hit the hay and rest these weary bones, but we'll talk again soon.
Until next time...

THE BOXES ARE STARTING TO ARRIVE...

2011-07-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

Whew! Seems like this week has just flown by! Trying to get lots done and doing a lot of ordering for the shop - and the boxes are starting to arrive!!! Hooray, it's just like Christmas in July. Yesterday my hubby surprised me with this great old wooden cart. Woo Hoo!! It would make the cutest darn island! Love how you can hang towels on the handle and it has a big shelp underneath. Good job!

How about this darling canister set? Each canister comes with a piece of chalk to write whatever you want on the front. I only have one set, but I just know this will go fast!

Got two of these battery candle lanterns in too. They have a big pillar candle inside and you can change the batteries on the bottom. What a cute lantern for your decks or to hang from a peg rack.

Isn't this little sewing table adorable. It has a top drawer and the bottom swings out to hold all of your supplies. When it's closed, it looks like another drawer.

This is the stitchery attached to the top of the sewing cabinet.

The new lamps are starting to arrive too. Here's two sweeties that came yesterday.

I always love the reflector lamps - one larger and one smaller.

BUT, this is my favorite! It has tin hanging shades over each "candle" and is dark red!

Yesterday I cheated a little. The temps were over 100 and my friend Debbie came to visit and spend the night from up north. We closed the shop at 3 and went to have a little fun while she was here. We went to visit my friend's shop in Howell - Simply Charming. The name just says is all, it is adorable! Then we went to TGI Fridays and stuffed ourself. On the way home, the sun was finally down far enough that we could put the top down on the "bug". Debbie had never ridden in a convertable and we had a ball. I sure miss her living so far away, but at least we can spend time together when we go to the Little House - which we are going to do tomorrow night!

Well friends, hope your weather has cooled down a little. Got to go pickup a load of furniture, we'll talk again soon.

Until next time...

MILL RACE VILLAGE...

2011-07-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

What an interesting (and HOT) day we had yesterday! We left early to go visit our Gannon in the hospital and meandered our way there. We drove into Northville, Michigan and found Mill Race Village (the home of the Ghoultide Gathering in October). What a beautiful place! We only had 10 minutes until they were closing the buildings, so we had to hurry to get in to see two of them - but you can bet we will go back. The Barr Sculpture at the entrance was designed by renowned local sculptor, David Barr, in 1992. It represents a Victorian-era boy at play with a stick and hoop.

The Cady Inn, a saltbox style structure is believed to have been a tavern and early stage coach stop. According to local legend, the building served as a stopping point for the Underground Railroad prior to the Civil War.

The J.M. Mead General Store was the last standing timber frame-constructed commercial building in downtown Northville.

The Hirsch Blacksmith Shop is a replica of one of Northville's early shops, based on a photograph of the building. It houses a working "smithy."

Wash Oak School is one of the few surviving one-room schoolhouses in Michigan and is still used as a classroom for hundreds of elementary children who visit each year as a part of a special history curriculum sponsored by the Northville Historical Society.

The New School Church was built in 1845 by a splinter group of the Prebyterian Church of Northville. It is currently used for weddings, workshops and meetings.

The Hunter House, a classic Greek Revival home with half-gabled wings, was built by Stephen and Mary Hunter in 1851. This home serves as a museum, furnished with items typical of the period in which it was built.

Beautiful Yarrow growing in The Hunter House gardens.

The Cottage House was built in the 1890's, it's exterior is typical of the era. It is used as a studio by the Mill Race Weavers' Guild.

The Yerkes House was built in 1873 by William Purdy Yerkes, son of one of the earliest settlers of this area, and his wife, Sarah (Cady) Yerkes, daughter of one of Northville's founders. W.P. Yerkes was an attorney, a probate judge, and served as the first Village present of Northville. The nine room house features traditional Carpenter Gothic style and is furnished in the elaborate style of the mid-Victorian era.

The gardens throughout the village were just gorgeous and I'd like to take more pictures when we get a chance to go back - soon I hope!

Just past the houses and buildings there was a reenactment going on and this player was out fiddling for the crowds.

Very interesting to see how these people "live the old life" for all to see.

For the life of me, I just can't imagine how hot these folks were in their period costumes! So back to the car we went for some cool a/c! I really hope to have more pictures to share the next time we visit.

Have a great week and try to keep cool - wherever you are!

Until next time...

NEW TO ME FURNITURE...

2011-07-14T16:19:00.000-07:00

WOO HOO!!! I finally got my "new" furniture home! I am so darned excited. I bought this from Earlene (Primitive Passion Decorating blog) and I finally got it home. Like a dummy, I dropped it off at the shop, then needed help getting it home. Oh well, it's finally here! Love the mustard color and the chair is a recliner to boot. Don't you just love Johnston Benchworks?

My Rosie dog loves the couch too, I think she has slept there since I brought it home! It all matches our wall color and the size is perfect. Thank you Earlene!!!

We've had this black mini print wing chair for several years and I think I'm going to tackle a slip-cover made out of old feedsacks for it. The pillow was made for me many years ago from my friend Connie and I still just love it.

I never had a chance to show you the awesome table cover that Robin (Millstone Mercantile blog) sent me a few months ago. I brought in an old table and it works perfect on it.

The printing on the side says "primitive collector". Thanks again Robin, it is perfect!

Now don't forget about "An Evening In The Country" tomorrow night. We are going to have so much darn fun! Tomorrow morning we're going to be putting your sack lunches together to eat on the go or to set out front and relax. Wren In The Willow is ready too - hope we see you then!

By the way, this has been a busy birthday week. Happy Birthday to my friend Connie in Tennessee (I miss you) and today is friend Debbie's birthday in northern Michigan. Can't wait to be able to celebrate with each of you in person!!!

Have a wonderful evening.

Until next time...

4-H FAIR...

2011-07-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was so much fun! Dick and I got up early and headed to the Oakland County 4-H Fair to watch our Abbey show her Holland Lop rabbits. Ashley went above and beyond as a parent getting barns ready, supervising and working in this horrible heat. Amanda brought Jack, Ellie and Caroline out to meet us and the fun began! The fairgrounds had a wonderful children's play area set up with "corn" boxes set up for the kids to play in.

Our two little two-year-olds had fun together. Caroline is six months older .

Little Miss Lucy had been at the fairgrounds several days and knew her way around.

What would a fair be without cotton candy??? (Just ask Jack!)

Caroline, Lucy and I had to have a ride on the pretend horse.

Then Ellie, Abbey and one of Abbey's friends had to have a turn!

Ellie loved the slide that went down into the corn.

Lucy must have filled this bucket a million times.

Ashley and Abbey were busy cleaning bunnies and getting them ready to show.

The little girls had to give each other a couple hugs throughout the day.

Then the showing began with a showmanship class.

Abbey standing in front of her bunny and cavy boards.

She got first place and a beautiful trophy for the best overall livestock notebook.

Then on to some serious showing!

What a fun class! They had costume classes for rabbits and guinea pigs.

Third place in this one - not too bad.

When Abbey was finished showing, we brought Lucy home with us to get cooled off. It was SOOO hot on the fairgrounds and these little cheeks were getting pretty red.

When Ashley and Abbey got here to pick up Lucy, we couldn't believe it. Abbey won the traveling trophy for Grand Championship high point of all rabbits and guinea pigs! She ended up winning four trophies and I forgot to count the pile of ribbons. Way to go Abbey, we're do proud of you (and your mom). Tomorrow she will be competing in the vocal contest singing "Don't Rain On My Parade". Good luck sweetheart!

Now it's on to getting the shop ready for "An Evening In The Country". Hope I'll see some of you there!

Until next time...

AN EVENING IN THE COUNTRY...

2011-07-07T16:25:00.000-07:00

Okay all you prim lovers, it's time to mark your calendars for the second annual Evening In The Country shop hop. Grab some girlfriends and come have a fun evening with us! You can either start at Holly Hills Primitives in Holly, Michigan or Wren In The Willow in Goodrich, Michigan. It is July 15th from 4-9 p.m. Grab a ticket at the first shop, have it stamped and bring it to the second shop to be put in the drawing. If you bring a non-perishable food item (to be donated to the Eastern Michigan Food Bank) you will receive a second ticket. Both shops will have lots of specials, door prize drawings, and a free dinner out! This is one summer event you won't want to miss!
Until next time...

THE GOODIES ARE ROLLING IN...

2011-07-06T17:04:00.000-07:00

What a great weekend! Lots of great times at the Little House, but more on that later. Hope you all had the best holiday!
Today it was back to work at the shop. It is so much fun to see old customers and put out lots of new goodies. I rearranged a few things to get ready to put more out tomorrow, but thought I'd share what I did today. Have you got a cup of coffee or iced tea? This might take a little while. I love the little doll above with her cat, especially her crazy hair!

This little angel is adorably prim with her dried fruit and wooden wings.

Another cutie is the little weed girl with her bag of Sweet Annie.

I moved the buggy seat onto an old prim table and loaded her up with summer items that are now on sale (20% off girls).

Isn't this new wreath just the best? I might try to "age" it up a little.

Who doesn't always have a place for an old shutter shelf? Perfect for any room.

This old box with the shovel handle would be perfect filled with sunflowers or pumpkins for fall.

This old blanket chest is in beautiful shape and on sale too!

This towel hanger is made from an old high chair tray - just right for "crow lovers".

Strawberries anyone? This pillow is so darned cute!

This blue table and chairs and cupboard would be just right for your breakfast nook.

Another stitchery in an old glass door. Love the pocket with more posies.

I bought a few of these little owls to embellish some fall dolls - can't wait to get started! My creative juices are flowing like crazy right now - there's not another season that is as much fun to work on as fall!

Last Saturday I had a great surprise! Stephanie from Harvest Moon Hollow blog and her mom came in the shop and found quite a few goodies to take with them. Stephanie just moved to our area from Houston and her mom was visiting from Colorado.

Then on to the Little House! We had so much fun! Dick got some fishing in and my friend Debbie and I went to Houghton Lake and did a little shopping. We ate great, spent time with friends and did some relaxing. Of course we had to do a few fireworks.

We went to West Branch to pick up Abbey from her other grandparents on Monday and then Debbie and Kenny came over to shoot off our fireworks.

Abbey couldn't wait to get to the beach on Tuesday!

Abbey would have stayed in the water all day.

This is the little beach at the end of our street. (Connie, it's calling our name!)

Well girls, that's it for today. I'm tired and there's lots more to do tomorrow. Carol is coming and I'm sure we're going to have lots of fun!

Enjoy your evening and we'll chat more tomorrow.

Until next time...

SATURDAY SALE AT HOLLY HILLS...

2011-07-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

WOO HOO!!! The holiday weekend is almost here - our's starts tomorrow after I close the shop. I've decided to have a one day "Red, White & Blue" sale at the shop. Anything in those colors is 20% off for Saturday, July 2nd. Come see what you can find. I'm also dealin' on some of the bigger pieces. I have SOOOO many new plans for August that I need to clear some things out and make lots of room for the new things that will be coming.
Can't wait to take off tomorrow afternoon for the Little House. I can't believe we are going to have THREE whole days up there to just relax and have fun. I might take a little stitchin' with me, but that's it. Who knows, I might not even get to any of it. That deck is calling my name. I can just see some prim books, a tall glass of iced tea and a little shade. Yup, that's what I'm looking forward to. If it stays this hot, maybe even a dip in the lake would be fun. Dick wants to do some fishing, so some fresh pan-fried blue gill would be YUMMY!
Friend Debbie is having a sale at her home and I plan on going over there to help her out for a day. We haven't seen each other for awhile and it will be fun to just sit and catch up (between customers, of course).
IF there's time, I'd love to drive over to Houghton Lake and visit Morning Glory Mercantile. Sandy has such a cute little shop and it's always fun to see what new goodies she has gotten in.
So, my friends, have a safe and happy 4th and we'll talk again next week.
Until next time...

NEW GOODIES, ADVENTURE AND CRUISING...

2011-06-29T18:45:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I've shown you anything new in the shop, guess I better get on the ball. I love the verse in this stitchery about "Grandma's Garden", it so reminds me of my own grandma of long ago. Done in an old window with a pocketful of posies.

A few "late summer" items are starting to sneak in. Love this old shovel head with the sunflower and crows for a door hanger.

A couple LONG girls dropped in for a visit. Miss Liberty has a crown, a flag and wire hair. She is all dressed up with her black Mary Jane shoes.

This old garden woman is my favorite. She has flax hair, is holding a rusty can full of flowers she picked, has garden gloves and old brown tennies.

She is sporting a flip-brim hat, and has a butterfly on her shoulder.

Her shoes got covered with moss during her walk in the woods. Either doll would be adorable hanging on your porch!

Last night Ashley, Abbey and Lucy went with me to visit Gannon. On our way back, we stopped at a market in Milford so Lucy could see the peacocks, turkeys, swans, cockatoos and parrots.

We've been telling her that parrots say "hello", so when we got there this guy came right up and said "Hello" to her! The peacocks were doing their "help, help" yell and she could hardly get enough.

Wish you could see the peacocks, they were beautiful!

Our Wednesday evening car cruises are back in full swing! I think there were way over 100 cars tonight - they were EVERYWHERE!!!

Parked double down Battle Alley, up and down Saginaw St., in a parking lot, and up and down Civic Dr. Fun to see so many people getting out to have some fun.

Remember the "Thing" by VW? This was a real cutie!

Ever been to the Woodward Dream Cruise? It should be coming up in August. If you get a chance, you should experience it at least once.

The tables, prizes and disc jockey were ready to rock! My friend Lisa (in the green shirt) has a booth at the Arcade Antiques Mall and is just a sweetie. These people work like crazy to make our car cruise nights a huge success for our little village.

My Abbey came down to the shop this evening to enjoy the festivities and music. After we left, we picked up Papa and did our own cruise with the top down on the "bug". FUN!!! Of course we had to have a sleepover when we were finished.

Got plans for the 4th? I can't wait! Dick and I are going up to the Little House from Sat night through Tues - Woo Hoo!!! I'm sure ready for a little R&R.

Until next time...

SMALL TOWN FUN!

2011-06-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

There is just something about small towns that warm my heart. Summer is finally here and a couple times a month we are going to have free movies in our own Battle Alley. Things were getting set up Saturday evening and people were arriving. A blow-up screen and large speakers are used and there was fun for all.

The Historic Holly Hotel also had tables out in the street for Hawaiian night, complete with music and leis. If you've never been to the Hotel, it's time for a wonderful night out. They even have a comedy club in the downstairs.

While I'm at it, I wanted to tell you about the movie that was being filmed in our own little Holly. During the time of Dad's passing, a Hollywood crew (the producer of "The Patriot") was filming a movie called "The Wicked". LOTS of the stuff from my shop was used for props all up and down Battle Alley. I'm not a big spooky movie fan, but I can't wait to see it when it comes out. Not sure if it will be this fall or next.

I got some business taken care of this morning with Mom and I'm going to visit Gannon late this afternoon, but now it's time to get the creative juices flowing and start SEWING! We'll talk again real soon.

Until next time...

GETTING BACK TO NORMAL...

2011-06-26T09:02:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to pop in and say good morning to blogland. No pictures this time, I've got to get it in gear and take some new ones. Holly Hills Primitives is back open for business and we had quite a bit the last couple of days. During these last couple of weeks, I've had lots of time to think about the shop. Yup, it's time for a total redo and update. My dream has always been a PRIMITIVE shop and slowly we have progressed towards more antiques (which, don't get me wrong, I LOVE), but it wasn't what I started out to do. In August, when we start putting out fall, I am also going to bring back all the prim goodies that I started out with, along with LOTS of handmades and some antiques. My focus is back. You won't want to miss what is in store for you!
Also, mark your calendars for our Second Annual Evening In The Country shop hop with Wren In The Willow (Goodrich, Michigan) on July 15 from 4-9 p.m. Come to both shops, there will be specials, surprises and lots of goodies to munch on. More on this to follow.
Well friends, hope your Sunday is filled with fun and peace. We're off to visit our Gannon and maybe cruise around a little with the top down.
Until next time...

AND THE HEALING BEGINS...

2011-06-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful thing family is! We got up yesterday morning to 10 baby ducks in the backyard and the old Blue Heron across the canal standing guard.

Daughter Amanda invited our whole family over for a Father's Day cookout and swim, but our Ashley was unable to make it. Her mother-in-law was visiting and Tony wanted to spend time with her. As you can see above, as a life ends - a new one begins with our little Peyton.

How very lucky we are to have such a wonderful group of children. As much fun as they are as little ones, they are sometimes even more fun as adults.

Jack and Ellie had so much fun having everyone to their house!

It won't be long until Caroline can swim just like her brothers and sister.

Ellie was thrilled to have some Aunt Kim and Uncle Chad time. Aunt Kim took her skiing last winter and she couldn't wait to have her over swimming.

Oh boy! Yup, Uncle Chad was the life of the party with the little ones. As soon as Jack saw Ellie flying through the air, he had to run to get his swimsuit so he could have a turn!

I'll bet Chad has some sore muscles today!

I was so tired, that it felt great to just sit and hold our little Peyton and spend some "down time" just visiting with everyone.

Can you tell that Ellie was just thrilled to have Aunt Kim there with her?

And maybe Uncle Chad too!

Sydney LOVED the big turtle and we made plans for a play date in the near future.

Mom and Greg got a chance to catch up and relax.

Daughter Tricia flew in from Oregon and was able to be with our family most of the weekend.

Daughter-in-law Valorie and Peyton spent some time under the umbrella relaxing.

Son Rich and Sydney spent a lot of time in the pool too. So, all in all, it was a great day for everyone to have a diversion from the sadness. There is nothing like a supportive family in times of sorrow.

I'd like to express a special thank-you to friend Connie for being there with me across the miles, Carol for all the support and help she provided, Bonnie for always being there, Jim and Sharon for the wonderful meal and support and many, many more...

Now it's time to take a couple days to regroup before opening the shop back up and getting back on the treadmill. Please send your prayers to our Gannon.

Until next time...

BITTERSWEET FATHER'S DAY...

2011-06-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

Where do I begin? Words can't express the thanks to all of you that have left the most heart-felt comments about the passing of my dad. Today I have a hole in my heart that I know will heal in time. The very first Father's Day in 59 years that I haven't spent with him. I know he's in a better place and that's he's here in spirit. We celebrated his life yesterday with a beautiful funeral service. The pastor gave a beautiful sermon, my son Chad did an outstanding tribute to his grandpa and we had a full military honor guard at the cemetary. Dad would have been so proud. Dad was a medic in England during WWII and worked in the operating room with the surgeons. He and my mom had a wonderful marriage of 65 years. He was the very best dad anyone could ever hope for. As for Grandpa, all you had to do was look at the faces of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren yesterday.
As most of you know, my Gannon (oldest grandson) has been my heart of hearts for 13 years. He has loved hanging around the shop, being my Santa, and worshipped his great-grandpa. He was taken back to the hospital on Friday and couldn't be with us yesterday. My mom's contribution from the funeral was for donations for his future care and I would like to thank everyone that has so generously given of their hearts.
I'd like to make a tribute to Dad with this post. First and foremost, he was a patriot. He always loved our country and proudly flew the flag in front of their home.

For as long as I can remember, Mom and Dad have had this cast iron sign out front with the three of us.

A day never went by that he didn't get up and feed the birds. They would both sit in their dining room and watch the wildlife in their backyard. Now it's our turn to take over and make sure the birdfeeders are full.

Dad built one of these birdfeeders for all of us as we each moved into a new home. All of the grandchildren have one and many others as well.

And here is his old fishing boat. Many hours were spent with my children digging worms and fishing. I'm sure my husband will continue the tradition for years to come.

I'm asking that you all keep Mom in your prayers during this difficult time. I know I've talked a lot about Dad during the past few years, but we are lucky that she is here with us and we all have to "pick ourselves up by the boot straps" and move forward and be thankful for all the blessings that God has given us.

So, with that, I would like to say Happy Father's Day to my husband, my sons, and my sons-in-law for being the fathers that will follow in Dad's footsteps. Happy Father's Day.

Until next time...

THE PASSING OF A GREAT MAN...

2011-06-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

Good evening sweet friends. It is with my deepest regret to have to tell you that I lost the long, two-year struggle with my dearest Dad last evening. Most of you know that he had a stroke two years ago and it has been a downward spiral since that time. Dad was 88 years old and the very sweetest man I have ever had the honor of knowing. My husband and I slept at the hospital the last four nights of his life and he passed in my arms. This is such a terrible loss for our whole family, but I am thankful that he has finally found peace. The nurses and aides that have been with us for so long were beyond wonderful and I thank them with my whole heart. I feel so blessed to have so many great children, grandchildren and friends. SO, with this, I am going to get some rest and I hope to have time to catch up with everyone after this weekend is over. His obituary is on-line under Dewayne Hallett.
Holly Hills Primitives will be closed until next Wednesday. Thank you for your support.
Until next time...

RESTFUL WEEKEND...

2011-06-07T07:45:00.000-07:00

Oh what a glorious weekend! Dick and I went up north to the Little House (with no kids or grandchildren) and it was just perfect. The weather was in the mid 80's and the sun was shining. We enjoyed our morning coffee on the deck, relaxed, and got a FEW chores done. Sunday afternoon we put the old boat in the water for the first time this year and spent lots of time cruising the shoreline and just having fun.

Can you believe this HUGE muskrat house? It gets bigger every year. Sure was hard to pack up and come home last night, but maybe we can go again next weekend. I'm going to lock myself in today and sew, sew, sew. My creative juices are flowing and I better capture the moment while I can!

Last Thursday night our Ellie spent the night with us. Her and I went out to dinner, put the top down on the bug and had the best time. Friday morning she got to come to work with me for a little while and she is a great helper!

My friend Bonnie stopped in while we were sitting outside and it happened to be her birthday! Happy Birthday Bonnie and thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you do.

Okay pals, don't forget! This Saturday is the downtown Holly antique show. They street will be filled with vendors from all over and we will also have some great new pieces for the pickin'!

Have a great day and we'll talk again soon. Until next time...

WHO DOESN'T LOVE A PARADE?

2011-05-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY! Our day started out with a bang! Every year the village of Holly has a parade and a ceremony at the cemetary. I decided to get in on the action and decorated up the "bug". Jack and Ellie rode with me and passed out candy.

Neither one had ever been in a parade and they thought it was the greatest!

I had fun too, saw lots of familiar faces along the parade route.

Let us never forget our veterans. They are always at the beginning of the parade.

It seems like the group gets smaller and smaller with each passing year.

My husband (also a Viet Nam vet) drove a truck for the WWII vets that are no longer able to march. I had a lump in my throat this year, as this was Dad's favorite holiday and he is no longer able to even ride in the truck. Our Gannon marched behind the truck in Great-Grandpa's honor.

A parade wouldn't be a parade without Abbey. She decorated her bike and rode behind Gannon.

What a clan!! All EIGHT grandchildren showed up to cheer their Grandpa on today. Four of them were in the parade and the other four (little ones) had fun watching. What would we do without them???

Time to do a little cookout and spend some family time. Hope you all have a wonderful holiday.

Until next time...