Rabbit Hill Primitives

so true

2012-01-24T15:50:00.000-05:00

Source: ullam.typepad.com via Jenn on Pinterest

We take so much for granted, it's important to stop and take a moment to be grateful every day. How saying thank you for the small things, we find they are really big things. How little it takes to make someone else's day better. It brings back faith in other people and in your life.

There is so much good out there and I am grateful.

Thank you.

I've been bad...

2012-01-20T15:40:00.000-05:00

at blogging these last few weeks. I'm trying but finding it difficult to figure out what to write about.

I think it must be January blahs. Day's seem to come and go fast but the month does not get any shorter.

And somehow my camera is lost.

I'm happy to let it figure itself out and make the best of it. What will be will be.

Life is good.

Hugs ~ Jenn :)

I'm back!

2012-01-10T16:12:00.000-05:00

Finally after a LONG break.

Here's a few pictures from our holiday vacation. We had some good times. Hope you did too.


a treasured surprise from a faraway friend (thanks sweet Susan!)

Gingerbread house where the angry snowman lives!


I wrapped all the night before, hurried and cleaned up the "evidence" and went to bed around 3 a.m. Next day, Christmas Eve 6 p.m., everyone is here a little early. I'm looking for my new sweater dress that I wanted to wear and can't find it. Realized that I must have thrown it away with all the paper (by this time lots of garbage has been taken out from all the cooking.) Dino went through every bit of trash we had with no luck. Threw this on, tied my hair up and drank a lot of punch! ....oh and I did find my dress the next day hung up right where it should have been, in my closet.


Coconuts on her Christmas list.....she's a little coconut! My nephew photo bombing her!

yeah snow!

yeah, a lot of snow!!

"Relaxing" ....knitting, talking on the phone, and watching tv. (please don't judge me by the bottom of my girl's socks)


Quickie room re-do....don't have a before picture but trust me we de-cluttered and got rid of ALOT. We are all grown up now.

"Louise" you never know where she's going to be. Thought she looked lovely with all my jewels!

Well that's it. Thank you for all the Christmas and New Year's wishes. If you haven't heard back from me yet, you will very soon...how can someone feel so tired after a break?

I am feeling inspired for the next season though and after finishing up a few orders, I'll be posting some new things on my website.

Thank you for your friendship, kind words, and big hearts. Wishing you all the best in 2012!

Love and hugs ~
Jenn

Wishing you great joy!

2011-12-23T19:09:00.000-05:00

What’s really important this Christmas is that we don’t confuse happiness and joy.

Happiness is impacted by external circumstances. Joy, on the other hand, is an internal state of heart.

It’s an approach to life or an attitude. We can choose to act like the Grinch and rob ourselves and others of pleasure or we can allow our hearts to grow three sizes and join the celebration.

Life’s problems temporarily may rob you of happiness. But a person with a truly joyful nature will not surrender it because of circumstances.

The words above really resonated with me. (you can read the entire article here.) It made me think about how lucky I am that I have both happiness and joy this Christmas. All and all, it's been a pretty good year.

As always, I'm running last minute. Having a ball though, wrapping, baking, shopping, and enjoying family and friends. Lots of family are here in town now and it's been great! Tomorrow will be our feast of seven fishes at home (it's an Italian thing). And on Christmas it will be here, there and everywhere!

I hope that you'll be doing some wonderful things this holiday with your family and friends.

Remember Christmas is a time for hope and to celebrate salvation.

Love and gratitude to you ALL for sharing the joy of the season with me. It's been wonderful!!!!

Wishing you a holiday with many blessings and so much love.

Merry Christmas.

Jenn xo

~top photo that I love is from http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/blog/

Christmas Website Update Tonight 8pm est

2011-12-08T12:58:00.000-05:00

Please kindly stop by if you have a moment.

I've been listing things all day...vintage and handmades. You will be able to see them all at 8:00 p.m eastern time.

a little teaser....

I will be sending out a reminder email once it's opened. If your not on my mailing list you can sign up on the left.

Thanks and enjoy this lovely day!

Hugs ~ Jenn

Christmas PIN~spiration

2011-12-06T19:18:00.000-05:00

Source: junkwildnc.blogspot.com via Jenn on Pinterest

With the Christmas update coming on Thursday (be there or be square!) I haven't much time to blog.

......or decorate.

Source: Uploaded by user via Jenn on Pinterest

Every morning with my tea I've been allowing myself 15 minutes of pinning. (Visit this post if you want to know what what pinterest is)

Source: bhg.com via Jenn on Pinterest

It makes me dream and hope and think about how I want to do things.

Source: Uploaded by user via Jenn on Pinterest

Somehow if I've pinned it then I almost feel like I can do it.

Source: vitaverandan-anna.blogspot.com via Jenn on Pinterest

These are just a few Christmas inspirations on my holiday board.

Source: pallensmith.com via Jenn on Pinterest

So much fun!

Source: maynardgreenhouse.blogspot.com via Jenn on Pinterest

Music

2011-12-02T00:00:00.006-05:00

Christmas music or not playing on a blog?

What do you prefer???

I am torn.

December on Early Work Mercantile

2011-12-01T08:59:00.000-05:00

I have three offerings this month if you'd like to take a peek.

www.earlyworkmercantile.com

Thankful

2011-11-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful. I am thankful for a husband that loves me more than I could ever imagine. I am thankful that we have one sweet and healthy daughter. I am thankful that we have very loving and supportive family and friends. I am thankful for my long distant friends whom I will never meet in person but share so many interests with and enjoy so much.

I am thankful. I am grateful. And I am blessed.

Happy Thanksgiving!

My favorite Pumpkin Pie

2011-11-16T07:36:00.004-05:00

I have fallen in love with this pie.

This recipe is adapted from one included in a favorite cookbook "The New Best Recipes". I adjusted the spices a little because I don't like a too spicy pumpkin pie.

First you need to make a pie crust. This is my most current favorite pie crust lately. You make it in the food processor, it's so easy and the best I've tasted in a long time. It also makes great pie scrap cookies. I think it's in the lard. Yes I said lard. Sounds gross but makes the best crust.

Anyway.....

Make that first OR your favorite crust OR use a store bought crust if your not into making pie crust. I won't judge you.

Your will need to partially prebake your crust.

After you fit it to the pie pan, put pie in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Prebake shell for about 20 minutes until very lightly golden brown. You can use pie weights but I don't have them and always keep my fingers crossed that my pie won't fall in. I've been lucky so far!

Start preparing the filling when you put the pie shell in the oven. The filling should be ready when the pie shell has partially baked.

Pumpkin Filling:
2 cups plain canned pumpkin puree
1 cup packed dark brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp grated nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
2/3 cup heavy cream
2/3 cup milk
4 eggs

Process the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, spices, and salt in a food processor for 1 minute until combined. Transfer mixture to a heavy-bottom saucepan; bring to a a sputtering simmer over medium-high heat. Cook the pumpkin, stirring constantly, until thick and shiny, about 5 minutes.

When pie shell comes out of oven, increase oven temperature to 400 degrees.

Whisk the heavy cream and milk into the pumpkin mixture and bring to a bare simmer.

Process the eggs about 5 seconds in food processor until yolk and whites are combined. With motor running, slowly pour about half the hot pumpkin mixture through the feed tube. Stop the machine and add remaining pumpkin mixture. Process 30 seconds longer.

Pour the warm filling into the hot pie shell. (Ladle any excess filling into the pie after it has baked for 5 minutes, by this time the filling will have settled.)

Bake the pie until the filling is puffed, dry-looking, and lightly cracked around edges, and the center wiggles like gelatin when the pie is gently shaken, about 25 minutes.

Cool on wire rack for at least 1 hour.

Served warm, chilled, or at room temperature ~ it all taste good!!

Rain rain turn to snow!

2011-11-15T09:54:00.001-05:00

Okay, I'm ready for a little of the white fluffy stuff now.

These lovely ladies are on the Primitive Gatherings this month. Hop on over there for more info.

I've also added a few Christmasy things on my website. I'm working on a big Christmas update coming soon.

Today I'll be making pumpkin pie for tomorrow....for you! Sorry, we get to eat it though. I found a new recipe a while ago and made it for Dino's birthday, his favorite is pumpkin. It was fantastic!!!

Thought you might want to try it for Thanksgiving.

Have a lovely day my friends.

Jenn xo

Simple Goods Show

2011-11-09T08:57:00.001-05:00

Saturday was Simple Goods.

So many amazing booths.

The way they were set up, the creativity was overwhelming and inspiring.

I met one of my favorite artist/craftsman James Cramer, who was there signing his delightful new book "'Tis the Season".

You may know him from the Country Living book "Seasons at Seven Gates Farms". It was such a pleasure.

Horse drawn carriage rides from the main building

to a second building this year.

More antiques and primitives!

Hard to find Pilgrim Corn

Audrey & David, our good friends from 1824 Antiques

My mom & me

A few things I brought to the show.

Now I'm home getting caught up. Lydia has been sick since last week. We visited the doctors yesterday. She has a slight walking pneumonia with an ear infection, poor thing.

I have a few things left from the show that I'll be posting hopefully later today on my website.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!
Jenn

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T13:03:00.001-04:00

Last day of October ~ what????

It's been a beautiful autumn so far. Did you have snow on Saturday? We were lucky and had about an inch here in Western Pennsylvania. Some were really hit bad....so sad about all the pretty trees that were damaged. It's crazy for it to snow this early. Where is Indian Summer?

I've been busy as a bee working on holiday primitives for the Simple Goods show. Just checking in and wishing you all a spooky happy Halloween.

See you next week with pictures from the show!

Love and hugs,
~ Jenn

Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting ~ Yum!

2011-10-19T17:38:00.001-04:00

I've been sewing my brains out trying to get ready for Simple Goods. I don't know how much I'll have but it will have to be enough.

soon to be Christmas mice

Today is my girls birthday. Every year she requests to go to our favorite Chinese restaurant. Happy Birthday Lydia! .......Happy day mom - no cooking!

Now baking is a different story. I need to bake. It keeps makes me and my sweet tooth happy to bake.

The following recipe is adapted from Betty Crocker I think? I added the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. It needed frosting.

The recipe is simple. It took me about 35 minutes for the first batch to be finished with frosting. I love that.

Hugs and kisses!!
Jenn

Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

1 box Spice Cake mix

1 15 oz can Pure Pumpkin

1 Egg, beaten

1/2 stick of Butter, softened

1/2 c Walnuts, chopped (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Grease and flour cookie sheet or use parchment paper.

Add the cake mix, pumpkin puree, egg and soft butter into a bowl and mix it all just until combined. (I used my hand mixer but a spoon would work just as well.

Drop spoonfuls of dough about two inches apart on the cookie sheet

Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes.

Cinnamon Frosting

3/4 stick Butter, softened

1/2 cup Cream Cheese, softened

2 cups Confectioners Sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 tbsp sour cream (...add a little milk if you don't have it about the same amount)

almost 1 tsp cinnamon (i started with a 1/2 and add to taste)

dash of Salt

First cream butter and cream cheese. Then mix in rest with a hand mixer. Let cookies cool before frosting....I never can wait!

Makes about 2 1/2 - 3 dozen

Sunshiny Day

2011-10-11T16:05:00.001-04:00

I hope your day is sunny and bright. We've had the prettiest days lately.

All the rain we had last week has sprouted some pretty mushrooms throughout the garden. I'm sure there is a little fairy living under this one!

Despite the warmer weather and the blue skies I'd say yes, autumn is definitely here. The mockingbird is singing again ~ constantly. Wild blue asters are blooming everywhere. The leaves have begun to change and some are even falling past my window as I type. The smell is delightful! Definitely autumn knocking on our door.

Right at this moment I'm working on the update for Primitive Gatherings on the 15th and will post pictures soon.

I've also been asked to do the Simple Goods show again with my friend Audrey from 1824 Antiques. It's only a few weeks away....lots of work to be done and haven't even started!!

Is anyone going?

What would you like to see????

I will not panic, I will not panic, I will not......

Have the best day my friends.

~Jenn :)

Early Work Mercantile Offerings for October

2011-10-01T05:00:00.005-04:00

Here we are again...yes it is October and it's now FREEZING in Pennsylvania. Last Saturday 85 degrees, today 47 degrees! How does this happen so fast?

Tan Bird Set is Sold

I've got these little sewing box sets available on Early Work Mercantile this month. Stop on over for further information. And please send sunshine to PA. Thank you

www.earlyworkmercantile.com

Happy hugs ~ Jenn :)

Suddenly Autumn

2011-09-28T12:31:00.000-04:00

"The breezes taste Of apple peel. The air is full Of smells to feel- Ripe fruit, old footballs, Burning brush, New books, erasers, Chalk, and such. The bee, his hive, Well-honeyed hum, And Mother cuts Chrysanthemums. "

~ John Updike

It did seem to sneak up on me this year. When did those leaves start changing? Just last week they were green.

It's Wednesday and cooking time again. Not that I don't cook in the summer, I just don't post much in the summer. Lazybones!! For those of you that are new here, my other passion is to try new recipes ...and unfortunately eat new recipes.

This recipe I brought to my sister-in-law's birthday party (we'll never be 30 Anne!). Everyone loved it and I don't mean just the girls. It's not a "chick" recipe. My husband, who doesn't like eggplant, and the kids....the ones who eat veggies, ate it. They didn't even know eggplant was involved. That's great.

Roasted Eggplant Dip

1 Medium Eggplant, peeled
2 Red Peppers seeded

1 Red Onion peeled

2 Garlic Cloves, minced

Extra Virgin Olive Oil, about 3 tbsp

Kosher salt, to taste, I used 1 tsp and added a little more after processing

Pepper, about 1/2 tsp

1 tbsp Tomato Paste

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Cut the eggplant, bell pepper, and onion into 1-inch cubes. Toss them in a large bowl with the garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes, until the vegetables are lightly browned and soft, tossing once during cooking.

Cool slightly.

Place the vegetables in a food processor, add the tomato paste, and pulse 3 or 4 times to blend. Taste for salt and pepper.

I served mine with pita chips....see how fancy it looks with one stuck right in the middle, I'm brilliant I tell you! Cubed bread or tortilla chips would be good also.

Sweet Autumn....

2011-09-21T13:00:00.000-04:00

Sweet Autumn Clematis is blooming it's heart out right now.

It smells heavenly.

My mom and I dug this old bird house out of the ground, which was behind my studio before I had a studio.

Everything was there...the post plus 2 feet of cement. It even had old chicken wire still attached for what might have been climbing on it back then.

I completely forgot about it.

We placed it where the tree fell in our yard a few years ago.

~Before~

~After~

Instant age and gratification.

The vine was just a piddly little thing that seeded itself there. You can see how small it was blooming on top of that old tree stump above.

Once that bird house went up, that vine took off. It's very happy now.

and so are the bumble bees!!

Wishing you a lovely day.

Thursday Updates

2011-09-15T11:46:00.001-04:00

It's drizzly and cool today....feeling like autumn overnight. A pumpkin candle is burning, I'm baking some muffins and sewing orders. I do enjoy these changing season days and the snuggly feeling it gives.

she is sold ~ thank you!

Today I wanted to share with you my offerings for the Primitive Gatherings. A delight to make ...especially the tiny mouse! For more information click here.

Thanks so very much and have a lovely day.

Pretty Bunting

2011-09-06T11:59:00.000-04:00

It seems that bunting is like totally in these days. (oh the 80's, they are always with me)

I love to see it used in so many different ways.

vintage quilt scraps are just calling me to make one!

A DIY chalkboard bunting tutorial by The Scrap Shoppe

Halfpenny Home made theirs from old shirts...I love that button!

A pretty idea for a country wedding using vintage handkerchiefs.

No not that kind of bunting...

This one's for my knitting girl Jessica. She's a knitting fool!!

Pretty bunting in the garden by Primitive Angel Country Store

Sweet whimsy ~ "A Sort Of Fairytale's" tutorial for mini-bunting waiting to decorate a birthday cake.

This was the simplest tutorial I found from The Pleated Poppy

For a more primitive look before assembling soak your triangles and string in strong instant coffee, shake or rub on lots of cinnamon and let dry. Assemble and hang.

So easy!

So festive!

Hugs & smiles,

Hello September

2011-09-01T11:12:00.001-04:00

Schools back in session and so am I. Oh my it's been a long time! We've done so much this summer and just about completed the list. I sure did miss blogging and it's good to be back.

Many new ideas and things to share this season. I've done lots of collecting this past summer for my new little etsy shop: Rabbit Hill Vintage. I'll be working on uploading those next week after Labor Day. Don't worry, I've got a few primitives for my next website update also!

Check out Early Works Mercantile for some fine new offerings from many talented artists. I found a stash of vintage brown velvet this past summer and made some pretty acorn pincushion for this month.

{Sale Pending}

Plus there is this fellow.

I forgot there was a theme this time "Settler's Harvest" ....I guess if your a squirrel, acorns are your harvest!

Now I've gotta go because I just realized it's 11:00 and I haven't eaten breakfast yet!! Then I'm off to working on some more pumpkins for the next Rabbit Hill update. I will be posting that date next week.

Happy September hugs,

Summer Loves

2011-07-15T00:01:00.024-04:00

I love the winter but my true love is really summer.

It builds a nest right in my heart starting with those first little blossoms of spring, twig by twig.

Lake Erie's gorgeous lighthouse dated 1872

We have been enjoying these long summer days that go by so quickly. Taking mini-vacations or "daycations" as we've been calling them.

Last week we visited Erie, PA. Presque Isle is a lovely park with bike trails, beaches, and bird watching. The lake was so clear and everything was a beautiful blue.

Dino & Lydia exploring the shore.

I will be writing from time to time just not as often as I usually do. Once school starts again, It will all be back to normal.

I have been sewing and promise there is a pumpkin patch growing in my studio with an update coming soon.

You can find a few new listings on the Primitive Gatherings today.

I felt like Cinderella working on these little mice!

Pumpkin Lady has been sold ~ thank you!

Both mice are sold ~ thank you!

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I'm trying to squeeze it all in here, since I don't know when I'll be back on the puker (as our friends little girl calls it).

Thought I'd share a very simple recipe for blueberry tart.

Being the season, I've been making a lot of these.

They can be made as fast as the oven takes to heat ~ love it!

Fresh Blueberry Tart

Crust:

1 Cup Flour

3 Tbsp Sugar

Pinch of Salt

1/2 Cup (1 stick) Butter, cubed

1 Tbsp Vinegar (I use apple cider)

Filling:

5 Cups Fresh Blueberries

1/2 Cup Sugar

3 Tbsp Flour

Juice from half Fresh Lemon (approx. 3 Tbsp)

Pinch of Salt

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

In food processor, combine flour, sugar, salt, and butter. Process until crumbly, like corn meal. Stir in the vinegar. Pour into tart pan and press evenly into bottom and up sides. Place in refrigerator.

In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and blueberries. Squeeze lemon juice over berries and mix.

Remove tart shell from fridge and spoon in berry mixture.

Bake on cookie sheet for 50 minutes to an hour. Mine always takes an hour.

Let cool before serving.

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farmer's market

swimming

breakfast on the back porch

fresh picked berries

reading by the pool

(i just finished Donna Bell's Ladybug books!)

tag sales

campfires & roasted marshmallows
the beach

summer concerts

daylilies

picnics & bbq's

lightening bugs
warm evenings

garden tomatoes

drive-in movies

My summer loves...what are yours?

lazy daisy

2011-06-15T14:40:00.000-04:00

It's been fun this past week with Lydia home.

We were even inspired to make a summer to-do list like she saw (somewhere??) online.

I hope we are able to get it all in! Something tells me I'll be stuffing mice at the pool again this year.

I've been feeling a little burned-out from everything lately and decided to extend my time off for just a bit longer.

I'm not updating this month on either The Primitive Gatherings or Early Work Mercantile. Back for those in July for sure.

I'll be catching up on everyone's blog soon also! I know I've missed so much but I just need to be away from the computer right now.

Weird??.... 'cause I'm really am addicted to this thing.

See you soon!!!
love ~ Jenn

taking a break to garden

2011-06-01T09:31:00.000-04:00

I'm taking a week off to get my house and garden finished. Not that those things ever get finished but you know what I mean.

It's also my birthday week and I thought I deserved a week of weeding for a nice present. Those darn gardeners just aren't coming!!

I am so pleased with my cottage garden this year. (you know how we like to show off our babies.) It really has taken off and is looking more like its been there for a while all rambley and wild.

Now if only I could get a pretty little thatched roof cottage....

KEEP ON DREAMING Jenn.....

Have a great week.....until we meet again my friends.

I'll miss ya!

Sunny hugs,
Jenn

p.s. Petunia did have babies! We've had these two hopping around for the last week. So tiny they could fit in your hand. And yes I know that is poison ivy up there. It's been a good year for that also!

Frogs in the Garden

2011-05-26T09:44:00.000-04:00

really he's a toad but i thought frog sounded better in the title.

Going through my baskets to replant , I found this little guy under an old pot of dirt still stuck in there from last year...highly organized gardener that I am.

I don't know how long or how he even got in there but he gave me such a start, I screamed - loud!!!

He looks angry

"get outta my house!"

He now lives in here. A highly secretive place so the kids won't find him and want to keep him as a hostage in their bedrooms.

He's been in and out of there for the last 3 days so maybe after 6 years of vacancy the frog house will have it's first boarder.

Sunny hugs,
Jenn :)

Great Summer Salad to Impress Your Friends With....EASY!

2011-05-25T08:41:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone! I hope all is well in your neck of the woods. Wishing for summer with no more of these bad crazy weather days. We've been lucky so far with just tornado warnings. My thoughts and prayers are on the rest of the country that's been affected. It is so very sad. Normal ordinary days are just fine with me.

My friend served this salad at a Mary Kay party a few weeks back. We loved it!! So much so that last night at dinner I only remembered to take a picture for you when there was just bits left in the bottom of the bowl. It's that good. Simple and pretty, perfect for a picnic. Can you believe Memorial Day is upon us already??

Happy Wednesday ~ Jenn xo

Sweet Summer Salad
Salad:
1/2 cup (cut small) Strawberries
1/2 cup chopped Mangos
1 cup Candied Pecans chopped (or Walnuts*)
Baby Spinach
Baby Romaine or any kind of Spring Mix
(I did big handfuls of both the spinach and romaine)
2 Green Onions chopped
Gorgonzola Cheese ~ to you liking

Toss all together in bowl and set aside.

Dressing:
1/8 cup Red Wine Vinegar
1/8 cup Pure Maple Syrup
1/4 cup Canola Oil
1 TBSP Dijon Mustard
Salt and Pepper

Put all in a cruet or sealed jar and shake.

Mix together with salad right before serving.

*If you can't find candied pecans or walnuts, add a little sugar and the nuts to a skillet and stir until sugar becomes melty. Let cool.

waiting for the rain to stop

2011-05-19T10:22:00.000-04:00

Good morning everyone! Hopefully where ever you are the sun is shining. (and if so please send it this way.)

Isn't this the prettiest rose ever? That is truly it's color...no fancy stuff added. I just bought it last weekend and I'm dying to get out in my garden to plant it....or just do anything!

We've only had 13 sunny days since March 1st ~ what the heck??

I snuck outside yesterday when it slowed to a drizzle and snaped a few pictures.

I was very selective because there is so much weeding that someone has to do...

Ever notice how things bloom in colors?

Do I say that every year??

Purple is blooming right now.

Today's forecast appears to be a little better. I sure hope so. Tonight is Lydia's dance recital and tomorrow is her class picnic.

Looking forward to the weekend. Things are suppose to brighten up, then we can get our gardener's out there to get that weeding done! (I can dream if I want.)

Have a wonderful day and weekend!

Jenn xoxo

Primitive Gathering Offerings ~ Vintage Velvet

2011-05-17T07:39:00.000-04:00

Strawberries made from old velvet with vintage felted wool for caps.

Pretty little velvet pincushions has always tugged at my heart. Whenever I find any little piece of velvet something I snatch it up. Recently I got lucky and found a nice little stash of old velvet at an antique store in Lancaster County. I felt like I hit the lottery. Making these little strawberries pin cushions out of this wonderful velvet has been such a pleasure. They are being offered on the Primitive Gatherings this month. If you have a moment, please stop on by and take a look.

Wishing you a happy Tuesday :)
Jenn

what's going on....

2011-05-10T10:55:00.001-04:00

Yes, we are still working on our house.

before

before ~ lots of dust from sanding!

It is taking so long because we did not like the way the floors turned out the first time it was finished so we did it on ourselves. (not as hard as you would think.)

during

morning nap break

We are now finished with the floors but....

finished floors

We had some water damage in one wall and took that down to the studs. Dino patched and mudded it this weekend and now we are about to paint! woo hoo!! My goal is to have it finished before my birthday in June (wishing on a star ~ please, please, please!)

The dogwood branch above is my color inspirations for the living room. I'll post more on that soon.

Happy Tuesday!
Jenn xo

BIG Thank You's

2011-05-02T11:38:00.001-04:00

Thanks everyone who wrote comments to my daughter's post last Thursday. She stayed home with me on "take your kids to work" day. I had her pick something she wanted to create and then blog about it. She was thrilled and so excited about all the feedback. She wanted me to let you all know that she has decided not to sell her mouse but keep it since it was her first :)

On another note...

Thank you to the brave U.S. Navy Seals team and all the men and women of the military serving around the world doing your part to make it a better place to live. Remembering the 9/11 victims today and hoping their family members feel some closure and a little peace.

Early Work Mercantile Offerings for May

2011-05-01T00:08:00.004-04:00

Oh this has been a crazy evening. I realized at 9:00 p.m. that tomorrow (well now today) is May 1st! I thought I had one more day to finish up my offerings for this month. Instead I realized I had 3 hours!! I don't know what happened with my brain but I just made it with one minute to spare ~ whew!!!!

Here they are....


Sweet Little Mouse ~ sold ~ thank you!

Violet Sewing Keep ~ this has been sold, thank you!

A few Olde-style Sock Kitties ~ both kitties are sold thanks!!

For more info please visit Early Work Mercantile and while there take a look at all the other great offerings this month.

Happy May Day everyone!!
xoxo Jenn

Guest Blogger....Lydia Tavoletti

2011-04-28T15:34:00.000-04:00

Hi everybody this is Jenn's daughter Lydia and this is a picture of me making a mouse because today is bring your kids to work day.

It was hard but easy because I haven't sewn anything since I was little. It was really fun and I'm going to help her more by stuffing animals & dolls if she lets me. [she better pay me]

I took this picture of the mouse I made. The dandelion was a good touch right?

Hope you have a great day, from Lydia.

Have a Beautiful Easter

2011-04-22T15:54:00.000-04:00

So far on Easter break Lydia and I:

1. shopped for Easter presents and both found the cutest spring sandals!

2. bought a giant Easter ham, recipe here.

3. dyed pretty eggs

4. dyed yucky roots. I'll spare you a picture
"....gonna wash that gray right outta my hair"

5. saw Hop the movie (our cuz Jason Petrocelli was a lead animator)

6. decorated the porch (pics later....I'm still working on a tablecloth!)

7. planted pretty pink flowers everywhere.

Look who else was visiting us while I was taking pictures. The Easter bunny? No only Petunia bunny! She's been around here since last year. Think she might be getting fatter hmmmm.

And it's only Friday.

What are you working on this holiday weekend?

lovely spring table by "Raised in Cotton"

I wanted to wish you a Happy Easter. Bigs hugs to you all and thank you for visiting me, I really appreciate it.

Have a lovely holiday weekend. I'm hoping for joyful family time and (please) some sunshine! See you next week :)

Jenn

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead..."

-Peter 1:3

beautiful centerpiece created by blomsterverkstad

addicted

2011-04-19T23:03:00.001-04:00

Hello!!

I have been totally obsessed with this new app that I joined a few weeks ago. I'm always the latecomer in these things so I'm sure you've heard of it.....pinterest

I have folders and folders of inspiration from the web just taking up space on my hard drive. With pinterest you don't need to talk up all that space. It's wonderful!! Anything you find on the internet that inspires you....cooking, decorating, gardens.... you bookmark them aka "pin" them onto your own board.

It is SO organized and so pretty to see all your things right there.

I really have been trying to control myself because I do need to get dressed and eat sometime. Not mentioning my family that wants a little attention every now and then

So if you'd like to join me...I'd love it. Beware of pinning for hours on end and don't say I didn't warn ya!

Have a great night!!

April Offerings for the Primitive Gathering Group

2011-04-15T09:22:00.002-04:00

Mouse is sold ~ thank you!

Here we are at the 15th of the month again.

Rabbit is sold ~ thank you!

Time for a new update on the Primitive Gatherings.

I've got three new offerings this month. A few little wee creatures on pincushion made from vintage quilts. If you have a moment, click on over and check them out. The Primitive Gatherings Update for April

Sheep is Sold ~ Thank you!

Have a happy weekend my friends!

Can't believe it's been a week!

2011-04-13T14:41:00.000-04:00

Where did the last week go? Seems like it was just yesterday that I posted that granola recipe. I've been catching up on orders and knitting here. I finished my scarf....woo hoo! I'm now working on a summer shawl, which I'm sure I'll get to wear sometime neeexxt summer!

If you have a few minutes go check out my knitting groups blog....Dyed in the Wool. My friend Jess posted a story for them about a GORGEOUS skirt she knitted. You've gotta go, even just to look at the pictures....it's beautiful!!! She's beautiful!!!

We had such a miserable day yesterday with bone-chilling cold rain ~yuck! The only hope was looking out my kitchen door at all the spring bulbs and flowering trees blooming away. I gave up trying to work and ended up cooking and baking the day away....a few muffins for the old muffin top!

Mr. & Mrs. Chickadee kept me company by cleaning out the feeder all day long.

This was the first time I made this soup. It's from one of my favorite cook books "The New Best Recipe". I had the ingredients so I went for it. This stock makes so much delicious beef that I was able to freeze some for next time. Loved this recipe. Served with crusty bread, it was perfect for cheering up the day!

Beef Noodle Soup

part 1
Rich Beef Stock
1-2 TBSP Canola Oil
6 pounds beef shanks, meat cut from the bones
1 large onion, halved
1/2 cup dry red wine
2 quarts boiling water
1/2 tsp salt

Heat oil in dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high; brown the meat, bones and onion halves on all sides in batches. Add extra oil if needed. Set aside all contents.

Add red wine to empty pot; cook until reduced to a syrup, 1-2 minutes.

Return all meat, bones and onions to the pot. Reduce heat to low, then cover and sweat the meat and onion until they release about 3/4 cup dark, very intensely flavored liquid, about 20 minutes.

Increase heat to medium-high and add the water and salt; bring to a simmer, reduce the heat to very low, partially covered, and barely simmer until the meat is tender, 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

Strain the stock, discarding the bones and onion, set meat aside, reserving half of the meat for another use.

Let stock stand until fat rises to the top; skim and discard. When meat is cool, shred into bite-size pieces for use in soup.

part 2
The Soup
1 tbsp canola oil
1 medium onion, chopped medium
2 medium carrots, chopped medium
1 celery rib, chopped medium
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 cup drained canned diced tomatoes
2 quarts beef stock, plus 2 cups shredded beef (from above)
2 cups home-style egg noodles (uncooked)
1/4 minced fresh parsley
Salt and Pepper

Heat oil in stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Saute until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the thyme, tomatoes, stock, and meat. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld, 15 minutes.

Stir in the noodles and cook until just tender, about 8 minutes. Stir in the parsley and salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Simple Delicious Homemade Granola

2011-04-06T12:33:00.000-04:00

This has always been a favorite for us. We mostly snack on it instead of having it for breakfast. It's also great on yogurt! The taste is so much better than store bought plus I think its much cheaper. The ingredients are always in the pantry and I like knowing exactly what is going into it.

One thing, make sure you use the old-fashioned oats. Quick oats make the texture powdery, not crisp, and it tastes like raw starch (blah)

Please send sunshine soon hugs ~

Homemade Granola

4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup nuts chopped coarse (I use slivered raw almonds.)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup dried fruits (I use dried cherries)

Preheat oven to 300° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or spray lightly with oil instead)

In a large bowl combine the oats, coconut, nuts of choice, and salt.

In a small saucepan set over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup, honey, and vanilla. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and toss together, making sure all the dry ingredients are coated with the butter mixture.

Spread onto the baking sheet and bake on center rack for 25 minutes. Stir and then bake about 10 minutes more until golden brown.

Do not stir and let cool. The granola will still be a little sticky when you remove it from the oven but it becomes crisp as it cools and if you don't stir it until it cools you will get some nice little yummy chunks.

Once the granola has completely cooled stir in your choice of dried fruits if desired.

Store in an airtight container or plastic bag. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.

Website Updated This Evening

2011-04-04T23:34:00.001-04:00

All day I have been wanting to write this post...better late than never! If you have a moment stop by and check out my website, I've added lots of new spring time items tonight.

Also, I wanted to do a little "spring cleaning" on my site to make things a bit easier. All items are now listed on one tab called "New Updates for April". In that tab you will see thumbnail pictures and prices. Almost every price listed has shipping already included in it. Only a few made to order pieces don't. If you are an international friend, I will adjust the price so that it is the actual shipping cost you are paying overseas. When you click on the picture, you will find more pics and the description inside. Hope this is a little bit simpler to view....let me know what you think.

Happy Monday ~ Happy week!

Friday Treats

2011-04-01T05:30:00.013-04:00

A little bit of this and a little bit of that...

The date says it's Spring but Mother Nature is sure saying it ain't so. Let's go already!!

My new offerings for Earlywork Mercantile this April are a "Spring~Thyme Sewing Keep Box" and "Basil the Bunny". Visit them here for more. (Both sold ~ thank you!!)

Remember that healthy muffin recipe I told you about? The one I was suppose to post on Wednesday?? Here it is, better late than never. I wasn't feeling so hot on Wednesday but am fine now. Perhaps I over-indulged a bit on the muffins...I only had 3 left for the picture!

Addicting and delightful recipe from my friend Rita at knitting class ~ enjoy!!

Rita's Cinnamon Flax Mini Muffins

1 cup organic flour (I used regular unbleached flour)

¼ cup organic whole grain graham flour (I didn't have this and used regular flour)

¼ ground flaxseed meal

¼ c. sugar

¼ c. brown sugar

¼ tsp. salt

2 tsp. baking powder

1 TBSP. cinnamon (I only used 1/2 Tbsp cinnamon)

1 egg, beaten

½ cup skim milk

½ cup canola oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, and then combine.

Coat a mini muffin tin with nonstick spray.

Bake 9-11 minutes. (Mine bake in 9)

Makes 24 mini muffins.

A Morning Off

2011-03-29T16:53:00.000-04:00

You just gotta do that every once in a while.

I read somewhere recently that if you want to succeed in blogging you must post in list format. Why?? Don't know but I'm giving it a shot today....what do you think??

On my morning off I.....

Made mini-muffins. Healthy ones with flax and everything :) And they even tasted good, all 12 of them....well they are healthy. I'll share that recipe with you tomorrow!!!!!

While they were baking I made a pot of tea. My life begins with tea. It's like another food group. Usually I don't drink a whole pot and that is special. Especially since I got to visit that one room in my house that is not being worked on a lot today!

Read the new "Gardens of Bliss" by Victoria Magazine. My garden to-do list is going strong. Here's a little sneak peek inside the mag!

Actually knitted a little. This scarf was started way back in January. Hope to have it finished by next winter :)

Enjoyed catching up with some of you....my favorite bloggers. I noticed that nobody else had a list and I was still captivated.

That's it! Had to hurry after that to get myself together and run to the bank and see my tax lady on time.

Thanks for taking time to stop by. Wishing you all a happy Tuesday!!

Inspiration Friday ~ Happy Yellow!

2011-03-25T12:48:00.002-04:00

I don't know what it is about this color. I am not normally attracted to yellow. I have never decorated with it or worn it.

But lately somethings changed....

I have accumulated a whole folder filled with this color.

Not only those pale yellows, but I am loving the cheerful look of the sunny yellow in this bathroom by Restyled Home.

Maybe it's the Swede in me.

My decorating tends to be more towards the cottage look...

but I don't want to forget about my primitive friends and it seems even yellowware is making a comeback.

Even though yellow looks TERRIBLE on me, I really want to buy a few accessories.

For example..this lovely little wristlet clutch from the Pleated Poppy.

How about a pretty scarf or ruffled flower to go with it??

And every time I'm in Target, I try these shoes on. And they have the nerve to keep lowering their price.

What the heck is going on?

The yellow marketing people are working hard this season.

Or maybe it's just all these pretties blooming right now.

Either way, I see something yellow is certainly in my future.

Happy spring!

Photo credits: Pleated Poppy, Restyled Home, Target, Country Living, Veranda & Rabbit Hill Primitives

Lemon-Blueberry Scones

2011-03-23T13:14:00.001-04:00

Finally the scone recipe. No, the house is not finished but we have made some progress and I'm able to get back to baking!!

A favorite recipe of mine. Everyone seems to like them except my Mom and she's not the picky one. Even my Dad enjoyed a few...he is the picky one. If he knew there was lemon rind in this he would probably pass out! We won't tell him.

Make these today and be happy!

Lemon-Blueberry Scones
2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
3 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
5 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp grated lemon zest
1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. Place flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl and whisk together with fork.

3. Add lemon zest to butter slices. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, quickly cut in the butter mixture until it resembles coarse meal with a few slightly larger butter lumps.

4. Fold in the blueberries. Stir in the heavy cream with a fork until dough begins to form, about 30 seconds. You don't want to over mix. It's a scone not a stone :)

5. Transfer dough and all dry flour bits to a countertop and knead dough by hand just until it comes together into a rough, slightly sticky ball, 5 - 10 seconds.

6. Pat out into a 3/4 inch thick circle. Either cut into pie shaped wedges or use a biscuit cutter and punch dough out. Push together remaining pieces and punch out several more rounds. I prefer the wedge because 1. its easier and 2. you can only punch out the dough twice before it's overworked and the rest needs to be tossed...who wants to waste that delightful goodness?

7. Place on an ungreased cold baking sheet. Bake until the tops are light brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes. Serve warm or room temperature. Makes 8 Scones.

Happy St. Patrick's Day/Irish Soda Bread Recipe

2011-03-17T00:00:00.005-04:00

“May flowers always line your path and sunshine light your day.

May songbirds serenade you every step along the way.

May a rainbow run beside you in a sky that's always blue.

And may happiness fill your heart each day your whole life through.”

~old Irish Blessing

Today I'm making an easy Irish meal in honor of St. Patrick's Day. I am a quarter Irish you know ;) I've got to throw in a little other ethnicity for my daughter since mostly its all about being Italian!

A very simple meal tonight of Corn Beef Brisket, Cabbage & Noodles....the only cabbage the girl will eat, and Irish Soda Bread.

Below is the recipe for the bread. It mixes up very fast and really is the best because it has a little sweetness to it. I've tried adding raisins but we all preferred it without them. They were too strong tasting and took away the yummy taste of the bread.

Also I never buy buttermilk. I just add 2 tablespoons vinegar, any kind except balsamic, and then top off with your regular milk to the 2 cup line. Basically 1 TBSP Vinegar/cup of Milk. Let it sit for a few minutes to let it get sour.

Irish Soda Bread
3 cups flour1 tablespoon baking powder
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup butter, melted
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

Combine flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and baking soda. Blend egg and buttermilk together, and add all at once to the flour mixture. Mix just until moistened. (The batter should be a bit lumpy and will come together and be more smooth after adding butter)

Stir in butter.(The mixture should be smooth after blending the butter.) Pour into prepared pan.

Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the bread comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Wrap in foil for several hours, or overnight, for best flavor. We can never wait that long. Mine only sits for about 2 hours or so.

Wishing you many Irish blessings today,

Jenn O'Tavoletti

*Photo's by: Martha Stewart Living; Vella's Garden; Blomsterverkstad and Rabbit Hill Primitives

Primitive Gatherings for March

2011-03-15T00:00:00.004-04:00

Goodness it's the 15th already! I've got a few spring goodies listed on the Primitive Gatherings. Stop by and take a little look.......here's a little peek

Please forgive my pictures this month. I've got nowhere to take them right now with the house turned upside down in painting madness. It was snowing lots on this day and couldn't go outside. I had to settle for poor lighting in my studio/shed :) Thanks!!

Have a wonderful day and hugs to you!!

It's coming....hang in there!

2011-03-10T13:09:00.001-05:00

Even though the rain is going to change to snow this evening, I found a little hope that nothing can stop Mother Nature. Spring is coming and only 10 more days to go....hang in there!

Happy hugs,

Snowdrops are popping up everywhere!

The first hellebore's flower....an under-appreciated beauty.

A little treat for my garden shed (studio)....Witch Hazel! Blooms early and smells heavenly.

My Addiction Lately....

2011-03-08T11:24:00.000-05:00

"Where I Live" videos by Pottery Barn on youtube. I can't get enough of them! Real homes they use for photo shoots for their catalog.

Don't you just love looking inside other peoples homes and hearing their stories? This is what I do while stuffing and sewing up little bunny ears and mouse tails...what a tough life I have ~ lol!

I've been blessed to be so busy lately but wanted to stop in and say hi. I'll be posting some pictures later this week of my floors....still not finished yet (smiles)

Keep on dreaming and have a great week.

Happy hugs ~

I still can't get to my scone recipe....

2011-03-02T12:12:00.001-05:00

so I will share this spicy buffalo chicken recipe instead. Not the same as blueberry-lemon scones (fingers crossed ~ next week) but good and easy (imagine that?)

While all my furniture has been jammed into the kitchen I haven't felt like cooking and I really miss baking. Home-baked cookies, muffins, breads, pie, and those darn scones! Can't stop thinking about them. After this past winter and Christmas I need to be on this forced diet. Summer is coming and so is bathing suit season ~ ugghh!

Moving on.....

The crock pot has been a lifesaver. I'm finding lots of new recipes to try and this one's a keeper for sure. Courtesy of Everyday Food, it's good, it's lean and it's got a bit of a kick. I changed it just slightly by adding in brown sugar. There's that sweet tooth talking again! Very versatile, it may be used in many ways....a wrap, tacos or in a salad if you don't want the bread (blue cheese dressing ~ yum!)

What are you cookin' this week?

Happy Wednesday!!

If you really want it to be leaner, don't make macaroni salad as your side :)

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
Salt and pepper
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, diced small
3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and diced small
1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup hot-pepper sauce, I used Frank's
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon molasses
hamburger buns or thick Italian bread

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken thighs, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring once, until meat is golden brown, 5 minutes. With a slotted spoon, transfer to a slow cooker, leaving as much oil behind as possible. Repeat with chicken breasts.
To skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook over medium, stirring constantly, until onion is translucent, 6 minutes. Add 1/4 cup water and cook, stirring and scraping up browned bits from skillet, 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and transfer to slow cooker.
To slow cooker, add crushed tomatoes, hot-pepper sauce, brown sugar, worcestershire, mustard, and molasses; stir to combine. Cover and cook on high until chicken is very tender, 4 hours. Shred chicken and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve on buns.

Early Work Mercantile for March

2011-03-01T00:00:00.008-05:00

A few Spring Rabbits available on Early Work Mercantile. Pop on over here for more info. Wish I could have taken better pictures but my usual places to take them are off limits due to the floor issues.

Update on those....we resanded and restained the entire floor and are now happy with it. Polyurethane will be applied this week sometime.

Of course we still have to paint!!

Have a great week!

Happy hugs ~~

Patience

2011-02-17T15:52:00.004-05:00


"Adopt the pace of nature, her secret is patience." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

With a little patience we will soon be enjoying the warmth of spring everyday!

A little bit of a frustrating day AND working on taxes ~ who could ask for more fun?

I had hoped to post a nice recipe for you all yesterday....blueberry lemon scones "delightful" (you have to sing it when you say it...deeeeliiightfulllll). I had pictures ready and the post written when I remembered the recipe was in my pantry cupboard.....which has two tables, a sofa and a daybed stacked in front of it. Our floors are still being refinished and now we have decided, since all the furniture is out of the room, to repaint the walls and trim. (I keep thinking of you Janet!!!) Next week is a new week and I'll share all with you then.

During my frustration this morning. I received an email from a sweet friend that cheered me. Then I decided to go poking around the yard and found one little snow drop blooming (there she is above)! It made me think about how the little things like friends and flowers bring us the greatest happiness. I am always amazed at how God is always there, showing me the way.

So no more frustration...I'm going to have a "Cake" Party!

Have a deeeeliiightfulllll day.
Jenn:)

Primitive Gatherings for February

2011-02-15T09:39:00.000-05:00

A sunny bright Tuesday we have today. I noticed that the birds were singing this morning and the snow is disappearing. It must mean spring is on its way!

Two new spring creations listed on The Primitive Gatherings site today.

Wishing you a happy Tuesday.

Hugs ~ Jenn

Happy Valentine!

2011-02-14T11:18:00.001-05:00

Wishing you a Valentine's Day filled with love and happiness.

Valentine hugs ♥

Jenn

Friday Inspirations...Spare Time

2011-02-11T12:56:00.004-05:00

"The bad news is time flies....
the good news is you're the pilot."

Here we go again...

Friday comes fast, Monday even faster. Why does winter go by so slow???

We will be moving ALL the furniture out of our living room and dining room this weekend so that our floors can be refinished ~ FINALLY. (a big woohoo!)

Any new decorating projects on your list??

Wishing you all a happy weekend.

Images courtesy of: COUNTRY LIVING, VITA RANUNKLER, ETSY: BIRDIE1, MY HOME IDEAS

Love One Pot Meals!

2011-02-09T13:30:00.003-05:00

Anytime I can make dinner easy it's always a happy day.

This is my simple version of Chicken and Rice. It's perfect for a cold day when you don't have much time for making dinner. Get your Wednesday cookin' on and have a great day!

Chicken and Rice with Tomatoes
2 pounds Chicken Breast, cut into 6 pieces

Kosher Salt & Pepper
2 TBSP Olive Oil, Extra Virgin if you have it
1 Medium Sweet Onion, chopped fine
3 Cloves of Garlic, minced
1 1/2 Cups Long-grain White Rice
1 (14.5 ounce) Can Diced Tomatoes, drained, reserve 1/2 Cup of the liquid
1/2 Cup Dry White Wine
2 Cups Water
1/3 Cup Chopped Fresh Parsley

Sprinkle chicken liberally on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat oil until shimmering in a dutch oven over high heat. Add chicken, skin side down, and cook until browned. Turn chicken over and cook again another 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Pour all but 2 tablespoons of the fat from the pan, return to burner, and reduce the heat to medium. Add onion and saute, stirring frequently, until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and saute about 1 minute. Stir in the tomatoes with the reserve liquid, the wine, and the water, scraping the browned bits off the pot bottom with a wooden spoon. Bring to a boil. Add rice and reduce the heat to low. Simmer 10 minutes. Add the chicken breast pieces back into the pot and stir gently until rice is thoroughly mixed. Cover and simmer until both the rice and chicken are tender, about 15 - 20 minutes longer. Stir in the parsley, salt & pepper to taste, cover and allow to rest 5 minutes. Serve immediately.

Right Now

2011-02-08T11:34:00.000-05:00

more of this:

@midnight....snow looking like twinkle lights in the sky.

dreaming about this:

there's a reason they call them forget-me-nots.

can't wait for this:

coming in March...preorder here

I'm craving a little spring today....how about you??

Sending hopeful hugs :)

Little Somethings

2011-02-04T23:03:00.000-05:00

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.

~Confucius

I've got a few pretty Valentine inspirations for you today. This time of year is usually when spring fever starts kicking in for me. We get some teasingly warm days...38 degrees and sunny today! The snow melts and I start peeking under the leaves for any tiny sign of life.

Valentines day is a special day for me. 11 years ago on Valentine's day I found out I was pregnant with my daughter after 6 long years of waiting for her. I was so sick but didn't care. It was the best day ever. Do you have any special Valentine's day memories?

Thanks also for all your kind comments about baby rabbit valentine that was sold on Early Work Mercantile. I REALLY love rabbits...just in case you didn't know ;)

Wishing you all a happy weekend.

Jenn xo

catnip valentines for kitty

forced branches into blooms

pretty primroses in cut-out paper bags

photos courtesy Martha Stewart Living and Country Living

Valentine Offerings at Early Work Mercantile

2011-02-01T12:00:00.003-05:00

Valentine Bunny is Sold

Since I've had to cancel my Valentine update because of crazy things in January, I've posted the pieces that I did finish on Early Work Mercantile this month.

If anything catches your eye, stop on by for more information. Everything ships within 24 hours of payment.

www.earlyworkmercantile.com

Happy hugs ~ Jenn :)

Goodbye January

2011-01-31T19:39:00.000-05:00

January has been a long month, a cold month, a sleepy month. It's a January state of mind I've been in.

As I look back on January, I realize this surely has been a month to count my blessings.

Keep positive....

Keep smiling...

Remember the good moments...

   ice skating; knitting, hiking in the snowy woods;
       happy birthday's to Alice Jane, Lily, and Jeannie too.

   mom slowly recovering;
       and dad slowly recovering because mom is slowly recovering.

   learning to crochet flowers;
       saturday morning breakfast club;
           football parties (go Steelers!).

   time spent with family and friends;
      time spent with God.

"Bare branches of each tree
on this chilly January morn
look so cold so forlorn.
Gray skies dip ever so low
left from yesterday's dusting of snow.

Yet in the heart of each tree
waiting for each who wait to see
new life as warm sun and breeze will blow,
like magic, unlock springs sap to flow,
buds, new leaves, then blooms will grow."

~Nelda Hartmann, January Morn

RIP Nonna and Beth, you will be missed. Now it will always be spring.

Winter

2011-01-25T13:02:00.000-05:00

"There's one good thing about snow, it makes your lawn look just as nice as your neighbors"

~ Clyde Moore

Don't you love that quote?

A friend from fb posted it the other day. It gave me a new outlook on winter.

You see my neighbors have the prettiest WEED FREE yards. I'm more of the wild type (bet you didn't know that). I buy what I like, plant in the wrong spots, and weed ~ never! Well almost never.

Maybe my garden isn't as bad as I thought....at least not in the winter.

Just checking in with you all. Have a great day!!

Happy hugs ~ Jenn

p.s. I'm feeling those small inklings of spring fever coming on. Going excitedly to the grocery store hoping to find a small touch of spring for my windowsill. The smell of those forced hyacinth bulbs does it to me every year. Can you feel it too??

Cooking this Wednesday....PW Meatballs with Peppers & Pineapples

2011-01-19T21:46:00.002-05:00

Life is unpredictable. Just when you think you've got it all figured out, it changes.

I'll be back in a few days to say hello and see what you all have been doing.

In the meantime,

make this...

It's a Pioneer Woman recipe. We loved it. You can find it here or I posted it below.

Have a good one. Hugs ~ Jenn

PW Meatballs with Peppers and Pineapples

1-¼ pound Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey is good)
½ whole Onion, Diced Very Finely
1 whole Egg
½ cups Panko Bread Crumbs
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
Freshly Ground Black Pepper, To Taste
½ teaspoons Crushed Red Pepper, More To Taste
¼ cups All-purpose Flour
Canola Oil, For Frying
2 whole Green Bell Peppers, Seeded And Diced Roughly
1-½ cup Fresh Pineapple Chunks
2 cups Beef Stock Or Broth (I used Chicken Broth)
2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
½ cups Sherry Or White Wine Vinegar
⅓ cups Sugar
1 Tablespoon Cornstarch
Salt To Taste
Crushed Red Pepper, To Taste
Extra Beef Stock If Needed

Combine ground beef, diced onion, egg, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and crushed red pepper. Mix with hands until combined. Roll meat mixture into small balls and place on a cookie sheet. Freeze on the pan for 15 minutes to firm.

Mix together beef stock, soy sauce, sherry (or vinegar), sugar, and cornstarch.

Heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Roll meatballs in flour, then fry in two batches until nice and brown, about two minutes per batch. Remove meatballs and set aside on a separate plate.

Pour off oil from pan and return pan to medium high heat. When pan is hot, throw in the chopped green peppers and cook for one minute. Add pineapple to pan and cook for one minute, stirring gently. Pour in stock/soy sauce mixture, then add meatballs. Stir gently to combine and allow to cook and bubble for a few minutes, or until sauce is thickened. Add salt and crushed red peppers to taste. (Hint: this dish is yummy if it’s a little spicy.)

Serve over cooked brown or white rice.

A dusting of snow and Ironstone Inspirations

2011-01-07T13:17:00.003-05:00

"Brrrr....chilly"

What a beautiful morning. I love waking up to snow. It's been too warm here. It hasn't felt like winter and it's too early to be getting spring fever. ALTHOUGH...I am thinking about a new garden. Just a little something I'm tossing around in the back of my mind for now.

courtesy of Country Living

The white stuff inspired me to go through my files and post a few of my favorite pieces ironstone. If you know me, then you know how much I LOVE white ironstone. So country looking and old. I can't pass a piece without admiring it....and usually buying it (if it's with my budget).

a pudding mold with bird motif....my newest piece

Wish I had all those ~ gorgeous!!

courtesy of Country Living

love the lily of the valley or maybe bluebells on this handle-less cup... a nice find.

courtesy of Country Living

a favorite platter

How happy I felt the day I found this teeny little pitcher with a bunny on it....that's two birds one stone there (smiles).

What favorite collections inspire you??

Happy weekend hugs ~

Wednesday Cookin' ~ Chicken & Dumplings

2011-01-05T15:22:00.000-05:00

No not squirrel and dumplings ~ Chicken!

I've been out walking and feeding the birds. It's cold today but sunny. I love seeing all the little animals in the winter. This is Steve. He has been visiting us every day since last June. He's been to all our family functions since then....thinks he's one of us.

For the last month he's been following me from feeder to feeder until he gets a treat. Everyday he gets a few pieces of dried fruit and nuts on a deal that he won't invite friends and stays out of the feeders!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Now the Chicken and Dumplings....this meal is so satisfying on a cold day. A great version and definitely keeper! I'll be making it again and again, it was so easy and made a lot. This recipe is courtesy of Lucinda Scala Quinn from her Mad Hungry cookbook. You can find it here or down below. Delightful!!

FOR THE CHICKEN

1 3- to 4-pound chicken
1 onion, halved but root end left intact
1 large carrot, coarsely chopped
1 celery stalk, coarsely chopped
4 sprigs of fresh parsley
1 turnip, trimmed and chopped (I didn't have this)
2 parsnips, coarsely chopped
8 to 10 cups water
1 tablespoon coarse salt

FOR THE DUMPLINGS

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
3/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill or parsley

Directions

To make the chicken, place the chicken into a large pot with a tight-fitting lid. Add the onion, carrot, celery, parsley, turnip, and parsnips to the pot and barely cover with the water.
Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat to a simmer, partially cover, and simmer for 50 minutes. Lift out the chicken and vegetables. Discard the onion halves and parsley sprigs. Continue to simmer the broth for 15 to 20 minutes. Add the salt. When the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and shred into large pieces. You'll have 4 cups of shredded chicken. Use 2 to 4 cups as desired.
To make dumplings, in a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and dill or parsley to combine.
Drop the dough, 1 tablespoon at a time onto the simmering broth. Cover and cook until the dumplings have cooked through 3 to 4 minutes. Carefully return the shredded chicken and the vegetables to the pot. Reheat for 1 minute. Serve in wide bowls with big spoons.

Warm hugs to you on this chilly day :)

Getting back on track

2011-01-03T12:36:00.001-05:00

Took down most of the decorations which was kind of sad. It's quiet with the family gone :( , but the house is clean and Lydia is back on her routine (almost). Glad I don't have to go back to school but always feel bad for the kids. Poor Lydia looked so sleepy when I woke her this morning. I am happily but sleepily wrapping up pre-Christmas orders and then back to creating some fun new things.

With getting back to normal that means eating normal again. No more sugar, no more bad carbs....I so want a bagel! I want CARBS!

We had a great holiday!!

....maybe a tiny Christmas cookie.

~Happy Monday hugs ~

Felice Anno Nuovo! Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T19:12:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. It's been nice taking some much needed time off and just enjoy the holidays with my family and friends. I'll be back to regular blogging next week and am thinking about a Valentine's Day update. We are having a party tomorrow evening so I'm sending my wishes early.

Does anyone have any New Year's Resolutions? I'm working on a very small list. Small because I don't want to break too many resolutions! On the top and one of the most important ones will be to organize and de-clutter my house! I'll be doing a little at a time not to be overwhelmed.....baby steps.

May the year 2011 bring you all joy, peace and good health. Thank you for visiting my little blog and leaving your sweet comments throughout the year. It is such a delight! Looking forward to next year.

Happy New Year hugs,
Jenn :)

Icicle Tutorial

2010-12-20T13:18:00.000-05:00

I never get to do a tutorial!!

Seems like everything I do everyone already knows how to. When I received quite a few questions on how to make these I thought I would post it here for you all.

This is how I make my icicles. There is still time for you to make some too!!

Supplies
~Cotton Batting ~ must be cotton not polyester...just doesn't work well.
~Thicker Gauge Wire
~Glue
~Instant coffee or walnut stain
~water
~mica or anything for sparkle

Instructions

Cut the batting into strips about 1 1/2" wide as long as you want your icicle to be. I cut mine about 9" long but if you are putting them on a small tree you probably would cut them 4 -5" long. The length depends on the size of tree you are going to put these on.

Next cut the wire about 3" longer than your fabric strips. Make a hook on each with the extra 3 inches.

Mix the glue and water together to make a thin runny mixture. Add a little instant coffee or walnut stain. Don't make it too dark because they will darken a little as they dry.

Place a large sheet of foil on an old cookie sheet.

Dip the fabric strips into the grubby mix making sure to coat it well and then squeeze out the excess.

Starting about 1/2" below your hook, wrap the fabric around the wire. I wrap it around once and then go back and tighten it so that it is snug on the wire.

Lay them on the foil as you go not letting them touch.

When you have as many as you want, (cover and save your leftover glue mixture, you'll need this later) either air dry them or place them in a warm 170 degrees oven until dry. I turn them once or twice while drying.

When dry, bring out your excess glue mixture. Using a brush, I use a foam brush, lightly dip in glue and run up one side and down the other of the icicle and then sprinkle with mica. Let dry and you are done.

To make 50 of these it takes about 2 1/2 hours with drying time in the oven.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas week!

Warm winter hugs ~ Jenn xo

icicles, wassail and the christmas suit

2010-12-17T10:35:00.002-05:00

Lots of icicles being made today....hopefully only inside not out. We are too close now not to have a White Christmas!

Then I need to clean my house. It's almost like living in a gingerbread house, everything is coated with spices. Speaking of which, I found this lovely recipe for wassail that I need to try. It's from The Pleated Poppy. There is TEA in this Wassail! I think I'm gonna love it.

Pleated Poppy Wassail

4 cups tea – she used earl grey tea, but says any plain tea would be fine, and brews it in her coffee maker. I'll probably make it on the stove.

4 cups apple juice

4 cups cranberry juice

1 cup orange juice

1/2 cup sugar

a handful of cloves

a few cinnamon sticks

Pour all this into a big pot on the stove and leave it on low all day long. Makes 13 cups.

Lastly, what I'm watching today.... another favorite Christmas special. What's your favorite to watch this season? I'd love to know, maybe I haven't seen it. I LOVE Christmas movies!

This is the Christmas episode of Keeping Up Appearances. It's a wonderful British comedy about the queen of snobs, Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced Bouquet by her). She's obsessed by perfection, image, etiquette and breeding and drives her family and friends crazy with her quest to climb the social ladder. Enjoy!

Happy Weekend ~ Jenn xo

Pretty Christmas Inspirations

2010-12-14T16:49:00.001-05:00

Vintage Santas

Love how natural this is.

You all know how I like my white and blues!

This room just speaks for itself.

A wonderful thing ~ Pomanders....learn how to make them here

A cold snowy day. Chili for dinner and making homemade cookies tonight. Curling up in front of the fire to watch a nice Christmas movie after that. A cozy evening. Hope yours is also.

Sending Warm Hugs ~ Jenn

All photo's courtesy Country Living

The whole package...

2010-12-13T13:20:00.000-05:00

that's what I have. 18 years....really?? I still feel like I'm 18 years old. How thankful I am to be married to him for 18 years.

We met when we were both 16 and dating other people.....just friends. Then something happened and our friendship grew. My girlfriend Rhonda was the only one who knew the secret and with a little help from her....we started dating. And that's how it began.

We have the romance but 18 years later it's that friendship that carries us through all those crazy times that life brings.

I'm so glad I married him....my best friend.

Christmas is upon us

2010-12-09T12:01:00.001-05:00

When did that happen?? My Christmas decorating so far has been pitiful! I've got pumpkins mixed with Christmas lights outside! (please don't judge me) Tomorrow is decorating day and for now I'm pretending THIS is my front door...

We've had our open house and will post some pictures from that later this week. It was a joy!!

Last night was the Christmas online update at Rabbit Hill Primitives website. I've added lots of little holiday treasures. If you have a chance, stop by and take a look. www.rabbithillprimitives.com

I've got Christmas carols playing, lots of shipping to do and then a birthday dinner with a special friend. A nice day indeed!! Wishing you all a wonderful happy day also.

Sending warm hugs ~ Jenn

Early Work Mercantile Update ~ Log Cabin Christmas

2010-12-01T14:02:00.003-05:00

"I suppose it all started with the snow. You see, it was a very special kind of snow. A snow that made the happy happier, and the giddy even giddier. A snow that'd make a homecoming homier, and natural enemies, friends, natural. For it was the first snow of the season. And as any child can tell you, there's a certain magic that comes with the very first snow, especially when it falls on the day before Christmas. For when the first snow is also a Christmas snow..."

~Frosty the Snowman

Olde Shepherd is Sold

Yes that's right we've got snow! How appropriate for the first day of December!!

I didn't even realize the date until this morning when I heard Matt Lauer on tv "Good Morning everyone, today is the first day of December" I actually thought "No Matt Lauer, you better check your dates." Of course I was wrong (imagine that).

I thought tomorrow was the first day of December and that is why I am a little late in posting my update on Early Work Mercantile this month....a big month too! It's updated now with a few new offerings....a Primitive Shepherd and a Christmas Pillow. For more info click the link above.

Sorry Pillow is Sold

I'll be back on track with bloging next week. I'm getting ready for a Country Christmas Gathering this Friday and Saturday. We are located in Western Pennsylvania, email me if you'd like to visit, I'll send you directions.

Hope everyone had a lovely and blessed Thanksgiving. Onward now into Christmastime. Happy decorating!!

Hugs ~ Jenn :)

Inspiration Friday.....Cinnamon Bird Ornaments

2010-11-19T11:40:00.001-05:00

I'm sure you all have a cinnamon recipe or two for making ornaments but these little birds just captured my heart. Lydia and I are planning on making a little bird tree this year and these will be perfect. I may decorate them a little more primitive but aren't they beautiful????

2 medium bowls

1 cup ground cinnamon

1/4 cup applesauce

Craft glue

Rolling pin

Bird templates

Utility knife, or bird-shaped cookie cutters

One straw

Wire rack

Paper towels

Baking sheet

Glitter and beads

Bottle with applicator tip

Length of thin ribbon for each ornament

Tissue paper, for storing

In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup ground cinnamon and 1/4 cup applesauce using a rubber spatula.

Stir in 1/2 cup craft glue. Stir the dough until consistency is smooth and dry. Let stand 1 hour. Applesauce gives the dough pliability, glue makes it firm, and cinnamon imparts a lovely fragrance and a gingerbread color.

Turn out one-quarter of dough onto a cool, flat surface; flatten with your hands.

Flatten with a rolling pin to 1/4 inch thick (I like to roll between 2 sheets of wax paper ~ easy plus clean-up is easier). If dough becomes too dry, spritz with water. If it sticks to rolling pin or work surface, sprinkle with additional cinnamon.

Photocopy bird templates onto card stock (these are enlarged roughly 150 percent); cut them out, punching holes where indicated. Lay a template over dough; cut out shape with a utility knife (or use bird-shaped cookie cutters). Repeat with each of three remaining quarters of dough.

With a straw, poke a hole in dough as indicated on template (for hanging). Air-dry ornaments on a wire rack lined with paper towels for 24 hours, turning them over every 6 hours or so to keep them flat. Alternatively, preheat oven to 200 degrees. Transfer ornaments to a baking sheet; bake, flipping once, until dry, about 2 hours.

Once the dough has dried completely, adorn the birds with markings inspired by nature or your imagination. As you decorate, proceed from the finest embellishment to the coarsest, adding glitter, then beads in order of size.

Using a bottle with an applicator tip, spread craft glue over the area you wish to decorate. While glue is still wet, sprinkle with glitter or beads, holding ornament over a bowl as you work; tap off excess.

Wait for the first area to dry completely (at least 30 minutes) before repeating steps 7 and 8 on another section. Thread a length of ribbon through ornament's hole, trim the ends to prevent fraying, and knot.

Once you take the ornaments off the tree, store them, wrapped individually in tissue paper, in a cool, dry place.

You can also find these instruction with step-by-step pictures from Martha Stewart Living here

Have a happy weekend!
Hugs ~ Jenn

Working and Watching

2010-11-09T10:39:00.000-05:00

Just a little hello! I've been so busy with holiday orders I haven't had much time to keep up with my blog or blogger friends.

While I work the day away I watch (or listen to) lots of movies. 'Tis the season ~ for me that is! It keeps me in the holiday spirit while sewing Santas, angels, snowmen and other Christmasy things.

This is what I'm watching today....

"The Homecoming" has always been a favorite with my family since I was a little girl. This is part one. The rest of the movie is available on youtube.

Have a lovely happy day!

Hugs ~ Jenn

A Busy Day

2010-10-29T15:23:00.002-04:00

A little sneak peek.

I didn't realize when I posted the day (November 1st) for my update that Lydia would be home from school today, Monday AND Tuesday. Plus toss Halloween and a party into the mix and you have a little craziness.

We are both having a fun day creating though.....even Hannah

(I think)

Happy Friday! Hugs ~ Jenn xoxo

You are the "Apple" of my eye

2010-10-27T10:25:00.001-04:00

“You wouldn't believe On All Hallow Eve

What lots of fun we can make,

With apples to bob,

And nuts on the hob,

And a ring-and-thimble cake.”

~Carolyn Wells

Can't you just smell them? Apple season is here!! My mom brought over a giant piece of apple pie yesterday that I HAD to share with my family. Don't tell them but I'm hiding a half a piece waaaay in the back on the bottom shelf in the fridge. It's my treat for later. Just thinking about it makes me happy.

I've been digging through my recipes and here's a bunch of my favorites to get you going. They are either linked back to my blog or to what I've found to match the recipes in my book.

Now if I could just find a little time to get to the apple orchard before it's too late!

~photo's courtesy to Country Living Magazine

Update Coming and Banana Roll Recipe

2010-10-20T15:53:00.006-04:00

I am STILL working on that website update that I keep talking about. I'm setting the date. It will be on Monday, November 1st 8 p.m. sharp. I'll be offering anytime primitives and a few early Christmas primitives. Be there or be square! (I think I just had an 1980's flashback from middle school.)

Can you believe we are coming to that time again? Christmastime! As in "deck them halls and all that stuff. Santa Claus and ho-ho-ho, and mistletoe and presents to pretty girls."

Hang in there I am going somewhere with this.

This morning I was planning on making my usual banana muffins with the sorry looking brown bananas I always have left over. Then I got the mail. And I received this. A postcard for Windles Log Cabin Antiques Christmas Open House. A wonderful open house with lots of goodies. Thank you Connie for passing along this lovely little gem a few years back."

Every time I visit Windles my friend Audrey asks me to bring her back some of their delightful banana rolls. That got me thinking. I can make a banana roll!

So I did.

Although I think theirs is better.

But mine still taste pretty yummy.

Doesn't it always seem better if someone else makes it?

This is what I did....

Banana Roll

Cake:
Powdered sugar
3/4 C. all-purpose flour
1/2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. baking soda
1/4 t. salt
3 eggs
1 C sugar
2/3 C. mashed banana (2 medium bananas)

Filling:
1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
1 C. powdered sugar, sifted
6 T. butter, softened
1 t. vanilla extract
1/3 Cup Walnuts chopped fine (optional)
1/4 C. powdered sugar (optional)

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease 15×10 inch jelly-roll pan and line it with foil, parchment or waxed paper. Grease and flour that and set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda.

In a large bowl combine eggs and sugar; beat until thickened. Add banana; beat until well mixed.

Stir in flour mixture into egg mixture. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan, easing it carefully to the corners.

Bake for 10 - 13 minutes or until center springs back when lightly touched.

Immediately loosen cake from edges of pan. I inverted the cake onto a kitchen towel lightly sprinkled with powdered sugar. But you can lift off and invert onto another piece of wax paper.

Carefully peel off paper. Roll up cake if using a towel while hot, starting with 10-inch side. Cool completely on wire rack....about 1/2 hour - hour.

When cake is almost completely cooled, make the filling: beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter and vanilla extract in small mixer bowl until smooth.

When cake has cooled completely, (unroll cake if your rolled) and spread with filling. I then sprinkled chop walnuts (anytime I can add nuts I do since they are so healthy for you but this is entirely optional). Roll cake. Wrap rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least one hour.

When ready to serve, unwrap cake and place on a platter. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired (sift the sugar through a small mesh strainer for a nice presentation). Cut into slices.

Pumpkin Days & Blackberry Nights

2010-10-13T10:21:00.003-04:00

This past weekend we went to our most favorite pumpkin place in Ohio.

"Pumpkin Farm" is located between Columbiana and New Middletown, Ohio.

We discovered it last year after leaving the "Christmas in the Woods" festival and now it's part of the tradition.

They have so many different kinds of squash (or is it squashes?)

It's hard to pick a favorite...just like penny candy only better!!!

I brought home that dark blackish green one down there with the really long skinny stem.

Stems are so important in the pumpkin picking process and you DON'T hold a pumpkin by it's stem! (My momma raised me right.)

But if you happen to have kids or grandkids, like the 4 that were there....

Who seemed to enjoy ripping off the stems... (the cracking just breaks my heart).

You could stack them to make pumpkin mushrooms or carve faces into them for pumpkin people.

Just trying to keep it positive here.

Speaking about positive...

I know today is Wednesday and I keep forgetting to take pictures for Wednesday Cooking so last night I broke down and made this!!!!!

And I plan on making this again and again and again, for the rest of my life. Amen.

I finally made it Doreen. It is fantastic!!!

The recipe is from Vermont Harvest Folk Art's blog.

I have been wanting to make this since Doreen posted the recipe back in the middle of August! (Her pictures are much more prettier than mine.)

I bought the blackberries freshly picked from an Amish farm and everything. Well....school started (math homework uggh!) and fall shows and orders. Needless to say the blackberries went into the freezer until last night. I'm sure glad I bought enough to make another 3 crisps! I'm also sure that this would be just as tasty using frozen berries in the off season months. I did double the crust just like Doreen said. It is wonderful. Go out and buy some berries, it will make you so happy!

Well that's it for me today. I'm outta here! Have a good one.

Jenn xoxo

Nesting Days.....

2010-10-01T11:31:00.000-04:00

I love the gray muddy skies and the crisp autumn air on cool mornings. It gets me inspired and the nesting urges begin.

Already this morning I have the crock pot stewing with Ham and Scalloped Potatoes (easy easy) and a few pumpkin head dolls have been made that need to be dressed but.....

this afternoon I'm going on a search for frosty green pumpkins. I just need them. I do.

What are you doing on these lovely autumn mornings??

Early Work Mercantile Update Tonight

2010-09-30T21:29:00.000-04:00

I have two offering this month for Early Work Mercantile Group.

Esther...a pumpkin angel. And a happy field mouse with a great find!

More pictures and info will be available at midnight tonight.

Please stop by and take a peak at all the talented artist on EWM.

Night night :)

Roasted Chicken and Butternut Soup & Giveaway Winner

2010-09-29T09:19:00.000-04:00

My family loved it. So much so that we had NO leftovers. Love at first bite...slurp.

This was adapted from a recipe I found in Everyday Food magazine. A perfect fall recipe especially for busy weekends. You all know I'm all about easy dinners! This one fits the bill and uses little ingredients. I served it with a nice crusty bread.

Here's the recipe...

Roasted Chicken and Butternut Soup
Ingredients:
4 - 5 Chicken Thighs, bone-in skin-on
1 Medium Butternut Squash, peeled, seeded and diced medium
1 Small Yellow Onion, diced medium
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Coarse Salt
Pepper
4 Cups Chicken Broth
1/4 tsp Ground Cumin
1/4 tsp Ground Coriander
1/4 tsp Ground Red Pepper (optional)
1 Tbsp Lemon Juice

Preheat oven 425 degrees. In a rimmed baking sheet, toss together the chicken thighs, butternut squash, onion with 2 -3 Tbsp Olive Oil. Season with salt and pepper. Arrange in single layer and roast until squash and chicken are cooked through, about 30 - 40 minutes.

Transfer chicken to a plate and let cool. Transfer squash and onions to a medium pot and add chicken broth and spices. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. With a fork or the back of a wooden spoon, mash most of the vegetables until soup is thick and chunky. Discard skin from chicken; cut meat into small pieces and add to soup. Add the bones back to soup and simmer for 30 minutes and then remove them. I think this give it a little extra homemade taste. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

AND now the winner of the autumn giveaway is....

CONNIE from Log Cabin Primitives!!

Congratulations! Thank you to all who entered and left such kind comments. I feel like we are kindred spirits here sharing our friendship, lives and projects. This blog brings me such joy and happiness.

See you all on Friday with a few more inspirations for fall....unless I think of something else to write about before then :)

Hugs ~ Jenn

Happy Autumn Giveaway

2010-09-27T13:09:00.000-04:00

I'm having such a delicious day. The cooler weather came, I've got on flannels and I'm making a roasted chicken and squash soup...more on that on Wednesday if we like it :).

Since my post on Friday I found that I'm NOT the only one that hasn't decorated yet. In celebration of that I'm having a giveaway to inspire anyone who needs a little inspiration. It's just a "little" giveaway since I didn't really plan this. Included is a jack-o-lantern that I stitched up this morning and a special edition of Country Home featuring homes decorated for Fall.

All you need to do is be a follower of my blog and leave a comment. Contest starts now and ends Tuesday at midnight. I'll announce the winner Wednesday!

See the signature?? I was excited when I found this at Lowe's....my sister-in-law Anne's design!

Fall Decorating ~ I need inspiration today!

2010-09-24T09:21:00.002-04:00

Am I the only one who hasn't started decorating for fall yet? Everyone seems to be done already!

I bought a few pumpkins yesterday and I've had some mums planted but darn it it's so hot here...it may hit 90 degrees today and that's just weird.

I'm forcing myself to get things out today, hoping once I start I'll be in the mood. Cooler weather is coming tomorrow (it better!)

HAPPY AUTUMN EVERYONE!

Photos: top and bottom,Country Living Magazine; center, Martha Stewart Living

Turtles....a secret recipe

2010-09-22T20:05:00.002-04:00

Not these turtles.

Definitely not these turtles!

A few weeks ago I was in my favorite fabric shop in Berlin, Ohio, the Country Craft Cupboard. As I'm getting all my pretty pieces of homespun and calico's cut I noticed a lovely dessert beside the cutting table. Everything I crave was sitting right there....chocolate, caramel, nuts. After asking around I found the kind lady who made it and begged for her recipe. She gave it to me freely plus a nice big sample to taste! What more could you ask for....fabric and sweets!!

I called it a secret because they are so simple to make. Don't want to get the word out that I didn't slave over something this tasty to eat! xo Jenn

Turtle Dessert

Turtles
1-12oz. pkg. Nilla wafers
1 stick butter melted
1- 12oz. pkg. semi-sweet chocolate morsels
1 c. chopped pecans
1-12oz. jar caramel topping ~ microwave 15 seconds

Place vanilla wafers in a ziploc bag; crush with rolling pin to fine crumbs. Stir together vanilla wafer crumbs and butter; press into bottom of a greased or sprayed 19 x 9 in. baking dish.

Sprinkle with morsels and pecans. Drizzle with caramel topping.

Bake at 350 for 12 - 15 min. Cool in pan on a wire rack. chill for 30 minutes. Cut in squares and serve.

New on Primitive Gatherings

2010-09-16T00:09:00.002-04:00

I'm getting ready for a Fall Festival this Saturday. I'll be back on track next week. Email me if your in the Western Pennsylvania area and would like to come. We've got lots of early antiques, primitives and beeswax goodes. Also rug hooking demonstrations.

Below are new items on the Primitive Gatherings this month. Visit the Primitive Gatherings Group for more info. Hugs! Jenn


A New Doll "Maggie"

Jack and Kitty

Delight of Delights ~ Baked Spaghetti and Mozzarella!

2010-09-08T13:08:00.000-04:00

Last night while we were eating dinner I realized tomorrow is What's Cookin' Wednesday, boy do the weeks fly by. I had everyone stop eating so that I could take a quick picture.

This recipe comes from Martha Stewart Everyday Food. It was everything we want in a recipe....home cooked, easy and fast, and tasted delightful. Remember I was working on that website update and I still had time to cook dinner! That doesn't usually happen. So here it is. Hope you enjoy!!

This is what it looked like in her magazine. She didn't have the set designer I did!

Baked Spaghetti and Mozzarella

coarse salt
2 cans (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes (I used Dei Fratelli's)
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
3/4 pound spaghetti
2 cups packed basil leaves ~ torn
3/4 pound fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (2 1/2 cups)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Set a large pot of salted water to boil. In a food processor, pulse tomatoes until coarsely chopped. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add tomatoes and bring to a boil. (I add a little coarse salt also) Cook at a rapid simmer until sauce thickens, about 12 minutes. Meanwhile, cook pasta 5 minutes (it will still be crunchy). Drain pasta and return to pot. Add tomato sauce, basil, and half the mozzarella and toss to combine. Transfer mixture to a 3-quart baking dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake until cheese is golden and edges are bubbling ,about 25 minutes.

Website Now Updated

2010-09-07T19:19:00.000-04:00

Please stop by and take a peek. And FYI ~ I'm having email issues again and can't send out more than 100 email per hour so most of my mailing list is not receiving their email. I have a ticket in with my new host and hopefully this will be resolved soon. Just wanted to keep you all informed. Thanks and have a great evening ~ Jenn :)

New Things Coming....

2010-09-07T13:12:00.002-04:00

Just in case you didn't know I'll be updating my website tonight. Here's a sneak peek....

I'm trying to have it ready for 6:00 p.m. eastern time but since I have a new web host it may be a little later....I'm still learning.

I will be sending out an email as soon as it's updated. If you'd like to be notified please send me your email address to jenn@rabbithillprimitives.com and I'll be sure to put you on the list.

Gotta get back to work now. Have a great day!!