RoseCreekCottage

~Gratitude~

2012-01-16T09:05:00.003-05:00

On Christmas Day I found myself sitting on the floor with my 7-year-old grand-daughter, Ella, coloring huge pictures of Disney princesses. Tears came to my eyes when I realized that 40-some years ago, I couldn’t have imagined doing something so beautifully simple on a Christmas Day, that brought me SO much joy. It made me remember that in the coming years, I want to take time to savor the moments. The blessings. The good times.

We live in such a ‘hurried’ world, that it’s easy to be swept-away into the mad frenzy of everyday life. Everyone’s so busy….caught up in their own world. We often overlook the treasured ‘kodak’ moments in our lives... concentrating instead on just getting through to the next day.

So for this coming year, I promise myself I’ll savor the blessings. I’ll take the time to spend ‘in the moment’ when I talk with my children, visit with friends, chat with my husband. It’s these moments today that will become those times in the future that we will look back on, and cherish.

For today:

~I’ll be grateful for the stack of orders on my studio workbench…instead of feeling overwhelmed and over-worked.

~I’ll be grateful that as difficult as it is to visit Mom in the nursing home, at least I still have her here on earth.

~I’ll be grateful for the fatigue that comes at the end of a work-filled day…. so much better than the end-of-the-day feeling that would come after one of boredom.

~I’ll remember that each second of each day is a gift. I can choose to squander it…or spend it wisely.

Rosie and I are 'gratefully' off to the studio…..along with a delicious cup of Pumpkin Spice coffee. May your day be one of gratitude…..of treasured moments….and may you have the feeling of joyous fatigue as it comes to an end~

~Welcome 2012~

2011-12-31T16:16:00.003-05:00

Happy Happy New Year to all our friends and customers from all of us here at RoseCreekCottage Studios~

Thank you for your patronage through this past year. We truly appreciate your business. It is because of each of you that RoseCreekCottage has grown to be the huge success that it is today~

We will be back in the studio on Tuesday, January 3rd.

~Merry Christmas From Our House to Yours~

2011-12-24T10:35:00.004-05:00

May the magic of Christmas fill your hearts and your homes with the love of Baby Jesus~

Have a Blessed Christmas~

Jim, Carol, Rosie...and the staff at RoseCreekcottage Studios~

~Monday Blessings: It Snowed! Yayyyyy God!~

2011-12-18T13:27:00.004-05:00

We finally have snow here in Ohio....just in time for Christmas. If you're a regular reader of my blog...you know I LOVE snow!! It looks like a Christmas card here, and brings back all kinds of wonderful childhood memories of sled riding, caroling, and Christmas lights at Nela Park on Sunday nites after leaving our Nonna's house! We're nestled in five acres of woods here in Geauga County....and if you look out any window, you see white! I'm in heaven~

To all of you in warm parts of the world: I don't envy you one bit. It's Christmastime, and to me...that means snow!!!

Have a Blessed Pre-Christmas Week wherever you are in God's big beautiful world~

~It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas~

2011-12-12T07:42:00.009-05:00

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas around here…finally. NE Ohio is usually under lots of snow by this time…and although it’s been very nice not to have to maneuver our cars through icy streets…I really miss it. I LOVE snow. Always have. Always will. So, God……where is it??? We need snow for Christmas. Have the angels up there crank up the snow machines. My grandbabies are gonna be disappointed to come to Grandma’s house and not have it. So, please? It’s my number one Christmas Wish.

But for now….we’ll just enjoy the dusting we have. It IS truly beautiful!!

Katie and Fanny and I spent an afternoon of Marathan-Cookie-Baking to finish up cookies to give for gifts. The house smelled wonderful...the tree is up....it's looking a lot like Christmas.

Rosie and I are working lots of long hours finishing up the Christmas Orders for 2011...and already have a folder full of ordes for January! So...we're off to the studio to finish up some more before the mailman rings the door to pick up more bins of goodies. Have a beautiful Monday, wherever you are in the world~

~Monday Blessings: Christmas Elves~

2011-12-05T06:52:00.007-05:00

Today's blessings start with the Christmas Elves in my life these days: Katie and her sister, Fannie.

I saw a commercial the other day that said, "Santa has elves....YOU have Target". With all due respect.....you can keep Target. I'll take my elves!! These two amish girls are helping me more than Target ever could!!

Katie is here 3 days-a-week doing all the polishing, packaging and shipping of orders. She keeps the studio (and me!) organized and running smoothly...which is no small task. Fannie comes with her on Saturdays and cleans and bakes. I feel like I died and went to heaven!! The house looks amazing, and the cookies....well....can you say, "Perfection"? I never realized how cookies could truly look perfectly uniform as well as tasting delicious!!

So....Rosie and I have been in the studio since 4:30. One pot of coffee down.....several to go. We're off to pick up Katie. Have a gloriously productive, blessed day wherever you are in world....and don't forget to thank God for the Christmas Elves in YOUR life!

ps. That my sweet Jim is also up there on my 'Blessings' list goes without saying. He does everything from keeping the coffee coming, to rubbing my sore back and shoulders, bringing me sweet treats and dinner, etc. etc. He is the greatest blessing I have~ xoxoxoxoxoxoxox

~Candy Cane Bark~

2011-12-02T04:59:00.009-05:00

One of my favorite Christmas traditions is baking cookies. It was something my mom always did as soon as Thanksgiving was over. She had her traditional ones which my sister and I still bake, but I have added my own 'traditions' over my many years of marriage.

One of our favorites is Candy Cane Bark. It not only tastes 'Christmasy', but looks beautiful on cookie trays, too. And...it's easy!

Candy Cane Bark

1 lb. dark chocolate (I used 1/2 semisweet and 1/2 bittersweet)
1 lb. white chocolate
6 oz. (1 regular package) candy canes, crushed

1. Melt dark chocolate over a double boiler until smooth. Spread in an even layer on a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Place in freezer to harden, approx. 30 minutes.

2. Melt white chocolate over a double boiler until smooth. Spread (with an offset spatula) on top of the dark chocolate layer. Working quickly before white chocolate sets, sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top and gently press into the chocolate. Refrigerate until complete hard and set, at least 2 hours.

3. Break into pieces by inserting tip of knife to crack into pieces. Enjoy!

Rosie and I are off to the studio extra early this morning (the orders are stacked to the ceiling) with Peppermint Mocha Coffee and, of course, some Candy Cane Bark. I know I know...it's breakfast time, but hey: Tis the Season!

~Rosie Says....It's Cyber Monday~

2011-11-27T19:28:00.005-05:00

It's me, Rosie! Don't tell my Mama, but I read it's Cyber Monday, and I'm offering FREE SHIPPING on Mama's website today!! Use Coupon Code CyberFreeShip. Don't miss out! Shipping costs lots of dog bones. So save your pennies to spend on those!!

Uh-oh.....here comes Mama. Gotta go....bye.....

~Black Friday Sale At RoseCreekCottage~

2011-11-24T19:45:00.009-05:00

Mommy and I are shopping at RoseCreekCottage website Friday for their Black Friday Sale. All ya have to do is use the code BLACKFRIDAY10 at checkout for 10% off on your order. Don't forget....BLACK FRIDAY ONLY...at www.rosecreekcottage.com. Don't miss it! They have some neat stuff!

(the photographer apologizes for the blurry top photo. camera settings got mixed up. it was just too cute not to use)

~Now I'M The Grandma~

2011-11-23T21:01:00.005-05:00

I love the song, "Over the River and Through the Woods". It brings back so many dear childhood memories of going to my Grandmother's' house for Thanksgiving and holidays. She was always there....standing in the kitchen. Red-cheeked. Old-fashioned house dress under her apron. The house always smelled SO good. And we all gathered around her huge dining room table. All of us.

Then, my Mom became the grandma. And we would pack up the boys and head to "Grandmother's House" on holidays. She was always there....standing in the kitchen. Red-cheeked. Slacks and a sweater under her apron. The house always smelled SO good. And we all gathered around her huge dining room table. All of us.

And now....I'M the Grandma!! They get to come to MY house. I'll be here.....standing in the kitchen. Red-cheeked. Slacks and sweater. No apron! The house will smell SO good. And we will gather around our huge kitchen table. All of us. And we will remember. All the childhood holidays spent at OUR Grandmother's House. We'll be making those same memories for our grandchildren. And my grandbabies will look back, long after I'm gone....and remember~

A Happy Blessed Thanksgiving to all my blogger friends, all my dear customers, and all my 'real' world family and friends. May the Lord continue to bless you and keep you for many more Thanksgivings to come~

***Watch this space for Black Friday Specials on my Website tomorrow***

~ Pumpkin Pie Martinis....Oh My~

2011-11-23T09:07:00.008-05:00

Turkey time! My favorite holiday meal-of-the-year tomorrow, AND my grandbabies and whole family will be here!! How lucky can a very tired lady get??

Katie came yesterday and we worked into the evening. Lots of orders to go to the PO today.

Pumpkin pies are in the oven.....the tables are ready to set......all the prep for potatoes, stuffing, appetizers will be completed this evening. Jim gets off today at 3 pm which is a huge help AND he loves to cook! Again.....I'm a lucky gal.

For now....I have promised myself to spend the next 6 hours in the studio working on orders since I'll be taking the rest of the day and tomorrow off. Katie and Fannie will come back and spend the day Saturday in the studio with me.

We'll be saving these to make tomorrow. They're DELICIOUS!

Pumpkin Pie Martinis

This recipe only serves one, so you need to double, triple it etc. for your guests~

1/2 cup ice
1 ounce of vanilla vodka
1.5 ounces Bailey’s Irish Cream
1/3 cup half & half
3 tablespoons of pumpkin puree (from a can is fine)
1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice
cinnamon and sugar

1. In a shaker combine the ice, vodka, Bailey’s, half & half, pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice. Shake vigorously until chilled.
2. Use a napkin to wet the rim of a martini glass. Combine equal parts cinnamon and sugar on a plate. Roll the rim in the mixture.
3. Pour the martini in to the prepared martini glass and sprinkle with more pumpkin pie spice (if desired).

Rosie and I have lots to do. We were both up at 3 am sneaking around the kitchen and dreaming about tomorrow....so I best gather her up and head to the studio. Have a beautiful, thankful Day-Before-the-Turkey wherever you are in this world~

~Dawn~

2011-11-21T07:23:00.008-05:00

Good Morning! It's dawn here in Ohio. The sun hasn't come up yet. The orders are stacked and ready to be filled....a brand new day is on the horizon!

Lots got done this weekend because Katie and her sister Fannie spent the day with us on Saturday. They arrived here early.....surprising us with a warm-from-the-oven apple pie and just-made apple sauce! They were up way before dawn to accomplish all that in their Amish kitchen! You haven't lived til you've tasted home-made Amish baked goods! I think I'll invite the girls to join me for baking Christmas cookies this year! What fun!!

Tom surprised his dad by arriving after lunch to help him with the remainder of the leaves in the yard. Five acres of trees make for a whole lotta raking!! Bless you, Tom~xoxoxoxoxox You have no idea how much your dad and I appreciated it. We know you have your OWN huge yard to care for!!

It took Fannie 7 hours to clean the house. Yup. It was dusty and really needed attention. And Katie and I worked on orders. I have 2 overflowing bins to take to the PO this morning. My new stack is piled and ready with labels already on envelopes, thank you notes written.....just waiting for me.

The family will be here Thursday for Thanksgiving. I'm hoping elves arrive on Wednesday to help start the pies, sweet potatoes, etc, or I fear they'll never get done!

Coffee in hand.....Rosie and I are ready to start the day. It will be a long one. But....we're used to it....saying prayers of thanksgiving to the Lord who has bestowed all this on us...for us. Thank you, Lord.

Have a beautiful Thanksgiving Week Monday wherever you are in this world. Remember to say prayers of thanksgiving for all the blessings in your life~

~Just A Shower Later.....~

2011-11-18T12:16:00.004-05:00

I've been up all nite. With a migraine. I finally gave up trying to sleep and stumbled downstairs around 5am.....Rosie in tow....and headed out the front door with her. It had snowed. She looked at me as if to say, "Hey! I'm a 4 lb. little poodle. You really expect me to walk around in this stuff. Without boots or a coat? Really?". I was in no mood for those cute looks. She tinkled, I picked her up...and headed to the kitchen. Oh no. No coffee made. Jim is in NJ on business....so made a cup of instant coffee, took 2 Excedrin Migraine...again...and headed to the computer. This wasn't a day to have a hundred new emails and orders. sigh. The 'good news, bad news' of the Christmas Rush!

I printed off the orders that came in overnite...and headed to the shower, figuring I'd get dressed and ready for the day...fully intending to go feed mom lunch at the nursing home. Well...that's what I THOUGHT I'd do. One shower's-worth-of-time later: 55 more email orders! Looks like Mom, the PO and my stop at Starbucks is going to have to wait. For now....it's time for 2 more Excedrin! And some of Santa's Elves!

~In The Oven~

2011-11-17T06:56:00.005-05:00

Apple season is always one of our favorites here in Geauga County. We happen to live nearby a wonderful apple orchard. Just to walk into their store is sheer heaven! The smell of apple dumplings and pies is worth the trip. We buy bushels of 'seconds', which are a great buy. Since we use them for baking, bruises don't matter! We peel, slice, toss with sugar and cinnamon, and freeze them in 'pie' amounts in freezer bags. Jim just brought in the last bag of last season's stash, so it's time to make more.

In the oven this morning is one of my favorite recipes: Apple Dumplings. These may sound strange....but they're delicious!

Apple Dumplings

2 sticks butter
1 tsp. vanilla
3/4 cups sugar
2 tubes crescent rolls
4 granny smith apples
6 ounces of Mountain Dew (or Sprite!)
Cinnamon
Vanilla ice cream

Directions: Peel and slice your apples. Wrap two slices in a crescent dough triangle and place in sprayed (greased) pan. In a bowl, melt your butter and stir in sugar and vanilla. Pour over top of the wrapped apples....or spread on top with a spoon. Pour the Mt. Dew all around and sprinkle with Cinnamon. Place in 350 degree oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Serve hot with ice cream! Enjoy!

Rosie and I are off to the studio. She spent yesterday at the groomer's and is pooped...so she'll spend the day snoozing, curled in her furry bed in her special spot in the studio while I drink many pots of coffee and stamp away to make a dent it the stacks of orders. Katie and her sister are coming Saturday to help. I can't wait! Happy Thursday~

~Monday Blessings~

2011-11-14T09:52:00.012-05:00

Goooood Morning. Monday again....and BOY do I have lots of Blessings to be thankful for:

~For my husband. I've known him forever....but learn new things about him every day. He's selfless, giving, loving, and just the BEST human being I know!

~For my life. It's very full. Very busy. And very very blessed.

~For my business. What other job could I possibly have where I not only do what I LOVE, but can do it at 5 am, midnite, or 3 am.....all in my cuddly 'jamas?

~For my kids and grandkids. They're all the best....and I get to see them all in 10 days!!

~For Mom's caretakers at GV: They're all angels. Every single one of them.

~For Rosie, who's with me in the studio no matter what time it is. It's her favorite place to be!

~For coffee. And Excedrin Migraine!!

Off to the studio. Don't forget we're still offering FREE SHIPPING on our WEBSITE....NOT on Etsy..... using code FSN at checkout til the end of the month~

Happy Monday, wherever you are in this great big beautiful world~

~Uh Oh: Friday Already?~

2011-11-11T08:21:00.005-05:00

You know you're really busy when you wake up and think, "Uh Oh! It's Friday already?". Seems like my customers started their Christmas shopping early this year! I'm looking at never-ending orders....lots of coffee.....and not a whole lot of sleep for the next couple of weeks. Now I'm not complaining. Orders are blessings, and I LOVE to be busy, but sometimes it comes with hurricane-force winds!! How do I keep up with it all?

1. Start the day with prayer and thanksgiving to God for all His blessings.

2. Surround myself with talented helpers.

3. I have fabulous family and friends who understand why I'm not as available during this busy season.

4. Plan healthy meals to avoid having to call Jim to pick up take-out food. This week: Meat Loaf and Mashed Potatoes, Lentil Soup, and on the stove right now: Mom's Italian Wedding Soup. yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.

4. I keep taking my vitamins....and praying that they work!

5. Got my flu shot AND a pneumonia shot after getting so sick last winter.

6. I've made sure I'm very stocked up on silver sheets, birthstones, charms, etc. so I don't run out mid-season.

7. I cuddle with Rosie. She is SUCH good company in the studio, makes me very happy, and calms me down whenever I feel overwhelmed.

Rosie just reminded me that Christmas is only 43 days away, and we need to get off the computer and back to the studio. Ciao....and Happy Friday~

~Monday Blessings, Pumpkin Scones and Free Shipping~

2011-11-07T09:59:00.004-05:00

Happy Monday! Do you know there's only 17 days til Thanksgiving??? Woo Hoo!! I can't wait. We'll be hosting 20 family members for dinner here. It's one of my favorite (and easiest) meals to prepare, and marks the beginning of the 2011 Holiday Season!! I love it~

Lots of Blessings this fine November Autumn....actually too many to list...so I'll move on to: FREE SHIPPING on my website this week by using Coupon Code FSN at checkout!!

I tried a new recipe yesterday that I am going to share here for all you pumpkin-lovers out there. It's absolutely delicious!!

PUMPKIN SCONES

For the Scones:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup and 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
6 tablespoons cold butter, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
3 tablespoons half-and-half
1 large egg

For the Powdered Sugar Glaze:

1 cup plus 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
2 Tablespoons milk

For the Spiced Glaze:

1 cup plus 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 pinch ground ginger
1 pinch ground cloves

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with fit the paddle attachment, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger. Add the butter and toss with a fork to coat with the flour mixture. Mix on medium-low speed until the texture resembles coarse cornmeal, with the butter pieces no larger than small peas.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, half-and-half and egg. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients, and form the dough into a ball. Pat out dough onto a lightly floured surface and form into a 1-inch thick rectangle about 4 inches by 12 inches. Use a large knife to slice the dough making three equal portions. Cut each of the portions in an X pattern (four pieces) so you end up with 12 triangular slices of dough. Place on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until light brown. Place on wire rack to cool.
While the scones are cooling, make the powdered sugar glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and milk together until smooth. When scones are cool, use a pastry brush to spread plain glaze over the top of each scone. Allow to firm.
While the powdered sugar glaze is firming, combine all of the ingredients for the spiced glaze. Drizzle over each scone and allow the icing to dry before serving (about an hour).

Yield: 12 scones

Note: you can freeze unbaked scones and enjoy hot from the oven scones any day of the week. Just freeze on a baking sheet until firm, tightly wrap in plastic wrap and place in a ziploc freezer bag. When ready to bake just pop into the oven straight from the freezer, no need to thaw. Just add a few more minutes to the baking time.

Enjoy....and Happy Monday wherever you are in the world~

~Happy Haunting~

2011-10-31T09:25:00.008-04:00

Happy Haunting to all of you from all of us here at RoseCreekCottage Studios~

Trick or Treating was last nite here in our little rural town....but I'm sure more ghosts and goblins will be at our door tonite!

The following Halloween Candy Sales list surprised me! See if your favorites are here:

Top 10 Halloween Candies:
2010 sales

#1. Snickers
#2. Nerds
#3. Tootsie Rolls
#4. Life Savers
#5. M&Ms
#6. Reese's
#7. Twizzlers
#8. Butterfinger
#9. Skittles
#10. Candy corn

Happy Haunting to you and your families, wherever you are in the world~

~End-Of-October Blessings and Free Shipping~

2011-10-24T09:18:00.005-04:00

I cannot believe we're heading into the end of October already! The studio is humming away filling Christmas orders. The days are shorter and cooler. Fall will be coming to an end all-too-quickly. Many blessings still on the horizon here at RoseCreekCottage Studios:

~deck and porch furniture are stowed away for the winter

~the gardens are cut down and turned under for a long sleep

~the kitchen continues to fill with all our favorite aromas of fall baking and comfort food meals

~heavier quilts are on the beds

~the birds are filling up at the feeders

~squirrels are busy scurrying through the woods hiding nuts for the winter

I think these call for a Free Shipping Coupon to be used on our website until Friday: Use coupon code FRO at checkout~

Have a Blessed End-of-October wherever you are in the world~

~Monday Blessings~

2011-10-17T11:22:00.013-04:00

It's fall here in Ohio, which brings lots of Autumn Blessings:

~the crunch of the leaves underfoot

~the smell of burning leaves

~caramel apples

~the aroma of 'anything' apple baking in the oven

~getting out the sweaters and afghans

~piling winter quilts on the beds

~hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks

~Starbucks "Pumpkin Spice Latte"(yum.....)

~Candy corn

~Pumpkins on the front steps

~Cornstalks on the mailbox and lamp posts

~Pumpkin Spice candles burning in the studio

~Shorter days

~A bit of a chill in the air that simply smells like "fall"

We watched Ella's soccer game last weekend. It was so nostalgic to see my 7-year-old
granddaughter playing, while her daddy coached her team. sigh. I got tears in my eyes as I looked at him standing there, coffee cup in hand, coaching his daughter: MY long-ago 7-year-old coaching HIS 7-year-old. Life....full circle once again~

Happy Fall~

Carol

~Free Shipping~

2011-10-14T08:48:00.003-04:00

It's the middle of October!! We're offering FREE SHIPPING on our website today thru Sunday. Use Coupon Code FRO when checking out! Don't miss out~ Christmas is just 71 days away~

~Friday Blessings and A Recipe to Share~

2011-10-07T07:24:00.010-04:00

Many many things to be thankful for this beautiful October day:

~Celebrating Jackson's 4th birthday this weekend!

~My sweet customers have started their Christmas shopping early...which helps them AND me!

~Amish Katie comes whenever she can now!

~4 more days to join in on RoseCreekCottage's current Give-Away on Jeannette's blog. Over 1200
people signed up already. Don't miss out!!

~Lots of studio time this month for filling orders and new designs!!

~Heading to the kitchen to make Mock Cheesecake to take to the grandbabies~recipe below~hmmmmm

~Have a beautiful Fall Day wherever you are in this world~

Mock CheeseCake

2 cans pillsbury butter crescent rolls

-2 (8oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
-1 cup sugar
-1 teaspoon vanilla
-1/4 cup butter (melted)
-Cinnamon & sugar

Unroll and spread 1 & 1/2 can crescent rolls on bottom of un-greased 13 x 9 pan.

Combine softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Spread mixture over crescent rolls.

Unroll and spread remaining crescent rolls over mixture.

Spread melted butter over the top and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes.

Cut into squares when cool. Serve and Wait for the rave reviews!!

~Missing Yankee Peddler...and A Give-Away Winner~

2011-09-16T07:18:00.009-04:00

Our Monday Give-Away Winner this week is Heather! Check back next week for another Give-Away~

As much as I hate to admit it, I miss that we're not doing Yankee Peddler this year. We participated in the YP Festival for so many years, that it became a part of our life. For those of you who don't know, I was so bombarded with shows/orders last fall that I became very ill. Yup, this A-type personality-Workaholic overdid it and then couldn't recuperate. The good thing that came out of all this is that with all the tests I had done, they found a splenal-aneurysm that could have been fatal. God was with me though, and everything turned out okay. Nonetheless....we decided not to do any art shows this year.

When I mentioned this about Missing Yankee on Facebook:

Missing Yankee Peddler...missing making my dolls....sigh. I chose this. I must be crazy~

To which my sister, who helped us do this show and many others over the years commented:

"Let me remind you.... rain, cold, mud, soggy feet, 'lookers', sunburn, frozen toes, heatstroke, running out of change, mud, "does this come in ?, and "I want the doll that was right HERE about four hours ago---did you move it?", oh, and the cold, the mud, the heatstroke, and clever thieves----let's not forget them! But then again.... the smell of woodsmoke and fall leaves, the swishing of skirts, the crunch of dry leaves underfoot, the hot apple dumplings.....the aproned dresses and long woolen capes mom made for us....Yeah.... guess I miss it, too."

So...we have the wonderful memories of many many Septembers standing in the woods, meeting over 100,000 people each year. sigh. Yes....we are missing it. We will miss our dear customers who have become friends over the years. We watched their children grow up....and they watched ours, too.

We wish all our artist friends there a wonderful September 2011 show. To next year........

~Monday Monday Give-Away~

2011-09-12T09:26:00.005-04:00

The Mamas and the Papas song keeps rollin' through my head this morning:

Every other day, every other day,
Every other day of the week is fine, yeah
But whenever Monday comes, but whenever Monday comes
You can find me cryin' all of the time

I don't want anyone cryin' this September Monday.....so how about another RoseCreekCottage Give-Away!

To Enter: Follow this blog and 'friend' us on Facebook. Leave a comment on what piece you would like to win in a comment below. Simple!!

Good luck! This Give-Away closes Wednesday at midnite~

But Monday or not....here we come!!

Make it a beautiful Monday wherever YOU are in the world~

~A Beautiful Blog~

2011-09-10T12:18:00.004-04:00

Blogland has so many hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. I've made so many friends through the years through my blog. I just don't ever seem to have enough time to visit all of them!

I had the chance of 'meeting' a sweet blogger: Jamie Esposito. Her blog, The Simple Things, is delightful! Jamie is a SAHM, and the mother of a 2 1/2 year old daughter, Lila Grace. Lila has started gymnastics, which is how Jamie found my shop, and my blog! She loves taking pictures, and also loves my beloved Diet Coke. (you all know I'm addicted!) She's relatively new to blogging but loves it....as you'll see from her writings~

Stop by her blog and say 'hello'. You'll be glad you did~

~Perpetual Motion~

2011-09-09T10:06:00.006-04:00

When we watched Ella, Jackson and Emilia last weekend, we did SO many things with the kids. It's so nice to get one-on-one time with them.

Emilia is always smiling. I know this photo is a bit blurred...but this was the clearest of the dozens I took. She's always all smiles, and in perpetual motion! Adorable....'course this grandma is a bit prejudiced!

~Thursday Blessings Give-Away~

2011-09-08T09:01:00.002-04:00

We're having a $50 Gift Certificate Give-Away! Stop over at The Wiegand's Family blog to sign up. Comment here and on our FB page for more entries! Don't miss out on this one. You can use it for anything on my website! Free stuff is always good, right? LOL~

Have a beautiful, blessed Thursday, wherever you are in the world~

~Gummy Vitamins...Not Just For Kids~

2011-09-03T12:09:00.006-04:00

I dislike taking lots of pills, and discovered that VitaFusion makes all kinds of gummy vitamins for adults! They taste JUST like gummy candies...and I actually look forward to taking them. They have multi-vitamins, vit. C, Calcium, B Complex, Vit. D, etc. I found them at Target...and cheaper still at Costco. I've been taking extras this week because we're watching our three grandbabies this weekend. There'll be lots of movies, coloring, computer games, swimming and just plain FUN!

Hope you are enjoying your Labor Day Weekend, wherever you are in the world~

~Wednesday Blessings~

2011-08-31T08:56:00.003-04:00

I can't think of a better Wednesday blessing. Can you?? Happy Wednesday, wherever you are in this world~

~To Ella on her Seventh Birthday~

2011-08-28T18:03:00.008-04:00

My Dear Sweet Granddaughter....

If God had tapped me on the shoulder some 7+ years ago, and told me to describe what I thought would be a perfect granddaughter.....I would have described YOU. Just the way you are. Perfect from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. From your daddy's green eyes and long lashes, to your mama's beautiful zest for life.

You know, this Grandma waited a long time for a little girl. I loved your Daddy and your Uncle Tom....but, well....they sure aren't girls!!!! Then God sent YOU, sweet doll. When your mommy told us they were expecting a baby, she said she hoped it would be a girl. For me. She's so sweet. And OH did God send us a little girl. A perfect little girl who loves everything pink, sparkly and girly. Certainly everything that THIS Grandma could have dreamt of!

And so, sweet Ella, my wish for you this year is that you always stay as sweet and innocent as you are now. Always.

With All My Love To the Moon and Back.....

Grandma

xoxoxoxox

~Thursday Blessings~

2011-08-25T11:05:00.011-04:00

You don't have to look very far to see that the summer harvest is one of God's greatest gifts.

Our Farmer's Markets are overflowing with colorful summer produce. Not only are they good for you, they're plentiful and economical. In between studio time, I'm dreaming of new ways to use them in my meal planning. I'll be posting some of our favorite recipes in the days and weeks ahead.

~Hello Monday and A Give-Away Winner~

2011-08-22T06:43:00.010-04:00

Hello Monday~

It's early here in the midwest. Skies are still dark, Rosie's asleep on my lap as I type. There's peace in the stillness. After prayers, coffee and computer work, we're off to the studio to tackle orders~

The winner of our first giveaway is: Re-Fabulous. Congratulations!! Please email me so we can finalize details on your custom piece!!

Watch for future Give-Aways from RoseCreekCottage right here!

Have a beautiful, blessed day~

Carol and Rosie xcxcxcxcxcxcxc (those are coffee kisses)

Rosie Says......

2011-08-18T12:26:00.007-04:00

Hi. It's me, Rosie. You still have time to join in the fun Give Away and win one of my momma's hand stamped necklaces. They are really really nice. Really. I know, 'cause I sit in my bed right next to her in the studio while she's stampin'. Really. I have my own special bed in there 'cause momma says I'm REALLY important.

Don't miss out. You'll be sorry. They're nice. I gotta go now and take momma for a walk. It's my job. Really. See you later. This is fun. I bet I can sneak in a blog post every now-and-then when momma's workin. She won't notice. I'm quiet. Really. Bye now.

~Tuesday Jewelry Give-Away~

2011-08-16T08:17:00.007-04:00

This is RoseCreekCottage's very first Give-Away! To win our beautiful PRIDE AND JOY hand stamped necklace, just 1)'Like' us on Facebook, and 2) leave a comment here on our blog! We will draw names on Sunday and announce the winner on Monday right here! Good Luck!
GIVE AWAY IS NOW CLOSED~

~Thursday Blessings ~

2011-08-11T09:21:00.009-04:00

Life here at RoseCreekCottage Studios is hectic, busy, and filled with blessings:

~A new website

~Sunshine and cooler temperatures

~A Friday "lunch date" with my old friend, Sherry

~Planning a birthday party for my hubby

~Finally starting to understand SEO (thank you Jen and Jen!!)

~Creating new hand stamped jewelry designs for RoseCreekCottage website

~Starting to read "Discovery at RoseHill" by my friend, Kathryn

~Picking flowers from the garden....LOTS of Black-Eyed Susans

Life is good!

~Fried Eggplant Means Summertime at RoseCreekCottage~

2011-08-10T11:33:00.013-04:00

I love summers at RoseCreekCottage. I can't wait until the tomatoes, eggplant and zucchini are ripe. I guess you can blame my Italian roots for that!! These vegetables were staples in my Mom's Italian summer kitchen when we were growing up, and I'm lucky that my German husband fell in love with them the first time he tasted the Italian dishes in my Mom's while we were dating!

Begin by slicing the zucchini into 1/4" thick slices. Then salt both sides, and let them sit for about 1 hour. This enables the zucchini to 'weep'. Then using a paper towel, pat both sides dry.

Beat 2-3 eggs in a shallow dish. Dip each slice in the eggs. Coat slices in Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs. You can buy these in any grocery store. Heat 1" of canola oil in hot frying pan, and fry each slice until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve plain, or with Sour Cream Garlic Dip recipe attached.

FRIED EGGPLANT

1 eggplant, about 1 1/4 pounds
1 ¼ c. Italian Seasoned Bread Crumbs
2 eggs, beaten
Oil, for frying

Slice eggplant into ¼” slices. Lightly salt each slice on both sides and let sit for 1 hour. Pat slices dry.

Break the eggs into shallow plate and beat well with a fork. Start with 2 eggs and add a third one if needed.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Dip each slice of eggplant in egg, then lightly coat them with breadcrumbs. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm....although we love them cold, too!

Makes 6 servings

SOUR CREAM GARLIC DIP

5 tbsp sour cream
4 cloves garlic, crushed
½ tsp salt

Combine all ingredients together.

Enjoy! I'm serving these tonite with Ziti pasta tossed with butter and parmesan cheese and a big garden salad and crusty Italian bread. Yum.

I'm off to the studio to finish up orders. Stop by my new RoseCreekCottage website and take a look around at all the beautiful custom hand stamped heirloom pieces we have to offer. You won't be disappointed!

~Art Shows~

2011-08-08T09:05:00.008-04:00

We went to an art show yesterday. It was one we used to do. It was great fun to see some of our old artist friends. Fun seeing all their ‘new’ wares. Fun sampling the food. But this year….we won’t be participating in any of the Art Show Circuit ‘fun’.

Will we miss it? Yes. Are we happy to be ‘sitting out’ this year? Oh yeah!

What I’ll Miss:

~the comaraderie of the other artists

~the shared laughter, joys and complaints

~the interaction with the customers

~their feedback

~counting the $$$

What I Won’t Miss:

~the pressure of making sure to have enough product

~the hauling of all the ‘stuff’ praying we didn’t forget anything

~the putting up of the booth

~taking down of said booth

~unpacking at home

~starting all over again!!

Thanks to the internet and our new website, we will be doing business strictly online this year. Hop on over to RoseCreekcottage.com and see what we have to offer~

~Say Cheese~

2011-08-06T14:48:00.007-04:00

Our camera necklace is featured in another Etsy Treasury called, "Say Cheese".

~Tennis Anyone?~

2011-08-04T13:22:00.006-04:00

My Tennis Bum Hand Stamped Necklace was featured today in an Etsy Treasury! Check it out:

Tennis Anyone?

~Sunflower Days at RoseCreekCottage Studios~

2011-08-01T14:46:00.013-04:00

August brings Sunflower Days to RoseCreekCottage here in Ohio. I'm busy working on my new website: RoseCreekCottage Hand Stamped Jewelry. I'm so happy at the way it has turned out. The wonderful designers at Pure E-Commerce did a fabulous job of turning my ideas into reality. Their designs are not only beautiful, but their professionalism, expertise, and patience working with someone like me who has limited computer knowledge is amazing. I recommend them to anyone who needs a website designed. One of my dear friends 'found' them, and I cannot thank her enough for sharing them with me. (thank you, Jen~)

Speaking of Jen....stop over at her shop, Urban Baby Stylish Moms for everything you could possibly dream of purchasing for babies or toddlers. You will not be disappointed!!

~I Know It's Been A While...~

2011-07-28T12:53:00.014-04:00

It's been way too long since I've posted here, but have been WAY busy with:

~A visit from the grandbabies

~Finally launching my new website: www.rosecreekcottage.com

I'm slowly adding more-and-more product between filling orders! I'm learning more and more about SEO and adding new bells-and-whistles!! It's definitely keeping me out-of-trouble! LOL!!

Drop me a comment and let me know what you think of it!!

(Can you tell who was a 'little' apprehensive about the hammock AND doesn't like to have his picture taken????!!! These were the best of Jackson, in all the pics I snapped! Gotta love little boys~)

~Waitin' Again~

2011-07-08T10:32:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite posts, written in 2008. Now, three years later, again I'm 'waitin', but this time, for three precious grandbabies instead of two! They'll arrive tomorrow. I can't wait!!!~ So here it is, as it was written back then.......

They’re comin'! Ella and Jackson are comin' back to RoseCreekCottage this weekend! We can hardly wait. I put on my favorite hat with the big crimson rose. And my red-patent-leather shoes. They don’t call me “Mercedes With the Red Shoes” for nothin’!

Ol’Bear put on his favorite “sweater with the pearl buttons”. That’s what he calls it. He’s quite fond of it. He even wears it in the summertime. Silly bear. It belonged to Ella and Jackson’s daddy when he was just a lil fella. And pearls. I don’t think he knows that boys are not ‘sposed to wear pearls. There’s just no talkin’ to him. Sigh. I do try. Often. I fear his ears don't work no more. He’s old, ya know. He belonged to Grandma when she was little. Can’t imagine her being little. But I hear she was. Just a little girl. Like Ella. Bear collects hats. Always with flowers. Old ones. The hat he's wearin' was Grandma’s. That ol’ bear is just too fond of all Grandma’s stuff. I have to watch him. Sometimes, in the morning when I wake up, he's dressed himself in a whole new outfit. Yup. Stuff of Grandma’s. Sigh. She just laughs at him.

Then there’s Ol’ Hare. He’s itchy. Made of mohair. I don’t think he bathes enuff. And he has what Grandma calls 'an attitude'. Thinks he’s related to the Easter B. Silly ol’ rabbit. He wears hats, too. Just like Ol’ Bear. And me. He’s jealous cause I can wear bigger hats. And shoes. Red ones. Patent leather.

Me? I’m a serious soul. I follow Grandma from room-to-room, overseeing all the scuttlebutt that’s going on at RoseCreekCottage. And ya know….I’m worried 'bout her. She’s gettin’ up earlier-and-earlier these days. Workin' in the studio. ‘Cept she calls it 'playin'. You should see the ‘stuff’ she’s ‘playin’ with: dolls with painted faces, St. Nicks with wool beards 'n knickers, long rabbits with glass eyes. They scare me. Too big. And there’s the jewelry! Some with diamonds. I keep beggin’ her to let me wear some. Just some. I’d be VERY careful and only wear 'em to tea parties. With my red patent-leather shoes. And for special times. Like this weekend. When Ella and Jackson come.

I have the teapot ready. I washed the teacups. Twice. Really. Ella likes sweet tea. With lots of sugar. Silly girl. Anyway….we’re waitin'. It's hard.

Oh….and if you see any elves around….would you please send 'em to RoseCreekCottage ASAP? Grandma’s been mumblin’ about them not showin’ up here again. I fear they’re lost. I promise cross-my-heart I’ll pay their travelin’ ‘spences. Grandma needs help.

In the meantime….we're just waitin’ for Ella and Jackson. Sigh. Hurry, Saturday. Hurry.

Verry Sincerelee,

Mercedes With the Red Shoes

~Sea, Sand and Memories~

2011-07-01T16:11:00.024-04:00

We're back from the ocean. Many precious memories etched in our minds and hearts:

~ early mornings

~sweet hugs and kisses

~juice boxes.......

~little outstretched arms......

~sandy toes......

~ wet towels.....

~ocean breezes.....

~baby sunscreen......

~margaritas.....

~sand pails......

~floats......

~sandcastles.....

~bike rides.....

~buckets of cold Coronas and limes.....

~crabcakes......

~riding the waves....

~pretty shells......

~beautiful grandbabies....

~Priceless Family.......

~BLESSINGS FROM ABOVE~

Thank you, Lord~xoxoxoxoxox

~Wednesday Blessings~

2011-05-25T08:06:00.009-04:00

~My sister, Kathy, and Mom~

It's been an unreal state of pandemonium here at RoseCreekCottage lately!! Summer is trying desperately to surface amid the winds and rains. Many many blessings here:

~Mom turned 91. quietly. sleepingly. lovingly.

~a whirlwind 'Girls' Weekend' to Washington DC with much laughter, a few drinks, good food and much comraderie~

~lots of new books that finally made it from my Wish List to an actual 'stack' that are ready for Summer Reading~

~looking forward to seeing family in FL for some over-due visiting~

~Hilton Head Island with our grandbabies for some R&R and many hugs and kisses in between Banana Pancakes and oodles of cupcake baking~

~Amish Katie and 6 of her friends are at our villa in Hilton Head. She called to say they're having a ball!

~Happy Wednesday Blessings to you wherever you are in this world~

~Lilacs in the Studio~

2011-05-18T10:25:00.009-04:00

The lilacs are blooming here in Ohio...and that can only mean that spring has finally arrived. Rosie and I have been working away at revamping out jewelry studio so we can hire more help.

Amish Katie spent the day yesterday helping out. She's SO very good at organizing and re-organizing space. She has a real 'eye' for it. We went over every inch of the studio. She'll be helping me several days a week from here on. I treasure my time with her. She truly invigorates my soul. You can read about how she 'danced' into our lives here. I'm so blessed that she is still here after all these years~~Thank you, Lord~

Looking forward:

~a 91st Birthday Celebration for Mom

~ a new website on the horizon

~a trip with my 'oldest' girlfriends this weekend

~an upcoming trip to Florida to see family

~a Hilton Head vacation with the kids and grandkids

~lots of new designs of sentimental hand stamped jewelry for moms, dads, (think Father's Day) grandmas, sisters, friends, etc, from RoseCreekCottage Studios

~Continued blessings everywhere. God is SO good~

Blessings to you wherever you are in this world~

~Wednesday Blessings~

2011-05-11T06:17:00.006-04:00

There are so so many blessings this morning here at RoseCreekCottage:

~Our littlest grandbaby, Emilia, turned one. She's the happiest baby. You can't help but smile when you look at her. Truly God's miracle!!

~My little Amish friend, Katie, is here. I always enjoy my time with her. Her sense of humor and positive outlook on everything is so contagious. She and Jim kid each other endlessly. It is something to watch. And Rosie has declared Katie as one of her very favorite people!! Too cute!

~RoseCreekCottage will soon have a website! I never appreciated all that goes into setting one up!!

~The birds are chirping early in the morning once again!

~My lilacs are blooming and the air just 'smells' like spring!

~Rosie was spayed and gets her staples out tomorrow!!

~Life is so sweet!

May you have a 'sweet' spring day wherever you are in the world~

~Mother's Day 2011~

2011-05-07T17:55:00.019-04:00

Dear God,

I thank you for giving me my dear mother (she turns 91 this month) and for my Mother-in-Law....who I learned to love and cherish deeply. We had our ups-and-downs.....but we loved each other very much before she entered Your Kindgdom 9 years ago.

My Mother taught me so many things: how to sew, to clean, to cook....heck, I can even defrost a refrigerator with pans of boiling water and use liquid starch on dampened, rolled white shirts you store in the frig til their ready!! (thank you God for frost-free refrigerators and permanent press shirts!!) She taught me the value of an education, the importance of family, and how to love unconditionally.

She taught me to never give up...no matter how hard the task-at-hand. She taught me to work hard.....that nothing worth anything comes easily. I have the work-ethic I do because of my Mother.

Although she has suffered these past years with alzheimer's, Lord, I know You are on that tough path with her. As much as I pray that You take her home so she doesn't suffer any more, I know that that is not Your plan....but mine.

Thank you for blessing me with the great honor of being the mother of the two most amazing sons ever. I know you just lent them to me for a short while....let me hold their hands for a bit ....but oh the wonderful joy they bring. I am SO very proud of both of them, for the great young men they've become, and the life-partners they were so wise to choose.

You made me wait a very long time for 'daughters'....but oh were they worth the wait!! Jackie is not only one of my sweetest gifts....but she is a beautiful mother to our three precious grandbabies!!

And Amy. Sigh. Amy makes me realize....without even knowing it....that you can never be close enough to Our Lord. She is the perfect addition to our ever-growing family~

Thank you, God, for all the blessings You continually bestow on me. I am ever-grateful~

Your Loving Daughter,

Carol

p.s. Please let all the Mothers in the world have a beautiful Mother's Day

~Easter 2011~

2011-04-24T08:18:00.008-04:00

~Easter Blessings from all of us here at RoseCreekCottage~

Yay for the Easter Bunny!!

~Easter Week: Italian Easter Braids~

2011-04-20T14:36:00.006-04:00

I can't believe it's Easter Week again. Seems like it was just this time last year!! We're busy filling Mother's Day orders in the studio, starting very early in the morning, and stamping away til late at nite. Amish Katie came yesterday to clean. Everything looks sparkly again!

Today I spent some time in the kitchen making the Italian Easter Braids that my grandmother(Nonna), and then my mother, baked at Eastertime. My poor mom, who many of you know has alzheimer's and has been in an assisted living facility for the past 4 years, cannot bake any more. So, it's up to me to keep these traditions alive for my family! Here is the recipe I use.....but please note, you can also use Rhodes Frozen Bread Dough...or their Sweet Bread Dough and get similar results~

Nonna's Italian Easter Braids

1 package Rapid Rise (instant) yeast (about 2-1/4 teaspoons)

1.25 cups milk

pinch of salt
1/3 cup butter
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup sugar

3.5 cups flour (approximate)
1 egg, beaten with 1 teaspoon of water
6 dyed Easter eggs
sprinkles or pearlized sugar

tip: the Easter eggs do not need to be hard boiled. They cook when the bread bakes. I usually just dye the eggs raw without hardboiling them. Saves time. Just be careful they don't crack!

In a small saucepan, warm the milk and butter together, just till butter melts. In a large mixer bowl, combine yeast, salt, eggs and sugar. Add the warm (not hot - it will kill the yeast) milk and butter. Add about half the flour and beat until smooth with dough hook. Slowly add the remaining flour to form a stiff dough. Don't worry about how much flour it ends up being, just keep adding until the dough is not sticky anymore. Knead until smooth with either dough hook attachment or turn out on floured board and knead. Place in a greased bowl, cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about an hour.

Punch dough down, divide into 12 pieces. Roll each piece to form a 1 inch thick rope about 14 inches long and, taking two pieces, twist to form a "braid", pinching the ends, and loop into a circle.

Place on two baking sheets sprayed with Pam. Cover and let rise until double, about an hour again. Brush each bread with beaten egg wash. Put on the sprinkles. In the middle of each bread ring, gently place an Easter egg, making an indentation with the egg.

Bake at 350 degrees until golden - about 20 minutes. Cool on rack.

You can eat the eggs, but remember to refrigerate the breads to keep the eggs safe to eat~

Enjoy~

~Monday Blessings~

2011-04-04T08:51:00.004-04:00

~It's finally Spring here in the midwest! New little shoots of spring flowers are poking their heads through the cold ground.

~The snow has melted.

~Birds are singing...and the robins are back.

~I had the snowtires taken off my car on Saturday!!!

~I'm working on Mother's Day orders in the studio.

~It's 'almost' warm enough for capris and sandals!

~Amish Katie comes tomorrow to help in the studio.

~The Spring air smells so good......like God is right there ready to turn all the gray, empty trees to lush shades of green.

~Life is good!

I'm off to the studio this morning...then Rosie and I are off to visit Mom for lunch.
Have a beautiful April Week wherever you are in this world~

~Meet Rosie: Our New Blog Dog~

2011-03-27T18:45:00.005-04:00

I didn't last long without a dog. Nope. It was way too quiet here at RoseCreekCottage. As much as I love my work...it just wasn't as much fun with no little furry 4-pawed companions following me around. So......last Friday, Jim surprised me with Rosie: the best birthday present I can ever remember getting! She melted my heart as soon as I picked her up, and she nuzzled into my neck. I absolutely love her....and I can tell you that the feeling is mutual!!

She's 3 years old.....and belonged to our dog groomer. She bred Rosie twice, but says that Rosie is very 'needy': she craves attention and affection 24/7. She has a very busy grooming business, and couldn't give her the attention she needs. She knew that since I work at home, Rosie and I would be a match-made-in-heaven. She's a smart lady!

Rosie is a tiny toy poodle: she weighs 4 lbs. She had me wrapped around her little paw from the get-go...and now she's working on Jim! She sleeps right next to me with her little face on the edge of my pillow. She stays there all nite. Doesn't move. If I open my eyes in the middle of the nite....there she is with her brown puppy-dog eyes staring back at me. I'm in heaven!!

Rosie was trained to sit in her little round doggy bed on counters, etc....so she has a spot on the table right next to my workbench in the studio. The pounding and drilling doesn't bother her one bit: she snores away!!

She's a good 'traveler'. We've visited every pet store in town...the bank....nursing home.....she rides in a little doggy carrier tote I found on Amazon. It looks just like a purse, and if I say, "Rosie, hide"...she burrows down inside it....peaking out its mesh sides. She's an absolute doll!

Both residents and staff at the mom's nursing home are in love with her. They marvel at her teeny size. She curls up on my lap when I feed mom lunch. Mom smiles at her and told Uncle Joe, "She's so so small".

So......life goes on here at RoseCreekCottage. And it's finally starting to feel like normal again!!

2011-03-27T18:44:00.001-04:00

2011-03-27T18:43:00.001-04:00

~Happy St. Patrick's Day 2011~

2011-03-17T09:56:00.004-04:00

Hoping you have a very Lucky St. Patrick's Day from everyone here at RoseCreekCottage Studios~Take Free Shipping on anything in my shop today and tomorrow by mentioning my Lucky St. Patrick's Day offer when you order~

~Monday Blessings~

2011-03-14T09:10:00.012-04:00

The weekend-before-last, we went from this.....

To this........

It was wonderful spending my birthday by the sea….but oh so different this time: no kids, grand-kids, puppies. It’s very different without little puppy or baby faces greeting you whenever you come home! Sigh.

But….on to the Blessings:

~A birthday by the sea

~Sandy toes

~Walks by the ocean

~Winter Martinis at BoneFish in Hilton Head

~Flowering trees

~Daffodils and pansies everywhere

~Lunch at Truffles with John and Joyce. And seeing their place on the ocean at Harbor Town (I’m still dreaming about that décor, Joyce!)

~Being gone…and coming home. I love them both!

~Dinner in Wytheville at The Log House.... One of the most romantic places we’ve ever been to….ghosts and all!

~Reconnecting with a dear friend I’ve known since we each had our first sons ‘way back when'

~Planning some trips before bringing a new puppy into our lives

~~Being back in my studio on this Monday morning…..typing this blogpost and drinking coffee while looking out at this:

May you be blessed with lots of Monday Blessings, wherever you are in the world on this Monday in March~

~All My Children~

2011-03-04T07:15:00.012-05:00

Lots of hustle-and-bustle around RoseCreekCottage Studios these days. New designs are on the workbench. Snow is still on the ground....but Spring is in our hearts~

One of my recent favorites is "All My Children": a hammered 3 disc necklace with room for up to 7 names and birthstones. I remember my mother's sewing machine humming along when I got home from school each day, and in the background on the television was the still popular soap opera, All My Children! I swear there are some of the same actors/actresses on there today!

Our own family is growing by leaps-and-bounds, so I understand why I've had many requests for a design that would hold children as well as grandchildren, so here's one that will hold lots of names and birthstones. Need even MORE room? Watch for new creations coming soon!!

Another favorite is a new rendition of one of our most popular pieces: the Four-Sided Swivel Pendant. On this one, the customer requested initials instead of names, which were too long for this particular design. It can also be customized with dates, words, ie. last name, Blessings, Love, etc. It's a beautiful keepsake~

And if you want something totally 'funky' and eclectic....try designing your very own version of our Mixed Metals necklace. I've had fun working with my customers creating these. This one was designed by a customer who is a mom and runner. She included the dates of the events she ran, along with a few phrases that meant something special to her: Sole sisters, and Hell on Heels! As with all our designs....the sky's the limit~

We're on our way to escape these snowy days....somewhere warm....a place we love....our home by the sea~

May you each find warmth and sunshine wherever you are in this world~

~Happy St. Valentine's Day 2011~

2011-02-14T17:48:00.009-05:00

~From all of us here at RoseCreekCottage Studios: May your life be filled with God's Richest Blessings~

~Farewell, Fawnie...Til We Meet Again~

2011-02-10T10:44:00.010-05:00

Dear Dad, Take good care of my puppies. You now have both of them with you in heaven. Fawnie was so sick. I know that now, he is running through the green fields, ears flying in the wind, with Coconut.

Remember when Tommy saved his birthday money to buy him?? He loved that puppy. sigh.

We are taking time to mourn his loss. He was such good company to me this last year without Coconut. He was always right by my side while I worked. He hated the 'pounding' when I hammered the silver jewelry, though! Maybe Jim will come home from work one nite and meet a new puppy. We'll see!

Katie came yesterday and spent the afternoon with me. It helped a lot. She's a smart cookie for a little Amish girl!!!

For now, I will spend more time with Mom, and take some time to do some traveling. It's the first time in 36 years that I'm not responsible for anyone else: first the boys, then the dogs, then you and mom, then just mom, then one dog....now? I don't like this feeling.

Mom's alzheimer's is still the same: she knows who we are, feeds herself with a little help, can't walk or stand, and still only speaks an occasional word or two. But I know you already know that.
Aunt Grace is there with her, too. She's not doing well, either. They eat all their meals together. It's heartwarming to watch. Who knew they'd both end up there together!

I bet you're golfing everyday. And still rooting for the Browns, and as you used to say, "How 'bout them Indians?"!!!

I miss you horribly, Dad.

xoxoxoxoxox To Heaven and Back~

Your Loving Daughter~xoxoxoxox

~February Blessings~

2011-02-08T06:50:00.012-05:00

It was such a blessing to be able to take January for some much-needed R&R. Sleeping in.....reading books and magazines I've longingly gazed at over the past few months....weekends in the kitchen cooking and baking with Jim.....cozy nites by the fire......watching movies......time with our children and grandchildren. All blessings I cherish more and more as the years fly by.

Among those blessings are my appreciation of the strides modern medicine's taken over the past few decades. My doctor sent me for a CAT scan to try and determine why I had such a hard time fighting off the pneumonia and bronchitis that invaded my body from October to the end of December. (couldn't have had anything to do with working 16 hr. days filling orders, now, could it??) Everything was normal there. However....they saw a mass near my pancreas. An MRI and several ultra-sounds later, it was determined I have a splenal aneurysm that my body miraculously calcified. It re-routed the blood to different arteries, in essence, saving my life! You can imagine how many prayers and rosaries I said over the past 6 weeks. I want to thank everyone who was said some 'heavy duty' prayers for a good outcome. As I've said many times before....prayers DO work!

And now it's back to life as I know it. RoseCreekCottage Studio is humming away. I'm busy filling Valentine's Day orders, re-organizing studio space, and creating new designs for 2011. My Heirloom Collection of hand stamped sterling jewelry has grown much faster than I had imagined, and I'm busy trying to figure out how to continue its growth this year, along with freeing some of my personal time so I can spend it by the sea...and with my grandbabies!!

With coffee in hand.....I'm off to the studio...which is one of my favorite places on earth~
Have a beautiful day, wherever you are in the world~

~Happy New Year~

2011-01-01T09:42:00.001-05:00

~Happy New Year from all of us here at RoseCreekCottage~

~Merry Christmas~

2010-12-25T22:03:00.008-05:00

~Christmas Blessings to all our dear friends near and far from all of us here at RoseCreekCottage~

Photos: Our newest grand-daughter, Emilia Bay 8 mos.

~Filling Orders and Dreaming of A White Christmas~

2010-12-14T23:36:00.008-05:00

Well....I finally had to cut off orders for hand stamped jewelry for Christmas delivery as of tonite! I'll be busy the next few days, and much to my husband's chagrin....he requested that I stop. Now. So that we can concentrate on Christmas. He's usually right. Well...he's always right. This time, for sure. So....I hope to be finished with these 14-hour-days by Friday....shipping the last of the orders on Saturday. And then....let the Christmas Rumpus begin~

~RoseCreekCottage Etsy Shop on Hold Temporarily~

2010-12-12T15:01:00.006-05:00

My Etsy shop is temporarily closed while we catch up on orders so there are no disappointed customers this Christmas~

We're expecting quite a winter storm this evening and into tomorrow. We're out in the country, and if we lose power, there will be no electricity, ie. no water, internet, printer. I just printed out over 70 labels for the next batch of orders to go out. I'm praying that doesn't happen~

~It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas...and Be Careful What You Pray For~

2010-12-09T14:31:00.009-05:00

I know I know....I've neglected my blog lately. I have lots of friends and customers who have reminded me of that. Update: We're deluged with orders and working 12-14 hour days to fill them all. AND I have pneumonia again. My dr. tells me when I had it back in October I didn't rest enough and never totally got rid of it. He tried to make me promise I'd rest. I couldn't do that. Or I would have had to lie.

I prayed for this 'deluge'. Yup. All my fault. God listened. And now....I'm praying for elves. For about the tenth year-in-a-row. They haven't shown up yet....but 3 earthbound spirit ghosts did. In my studio. Not only did I hear them....but so did my son....in two unrelated incidents. They have now been 'crossed over' into the light by the ghostbuster lady who was the consultant for the infamous "Ghost Whisperer" series that starred Jennifer Love Hewitt. I know they are now where they should be...hopefully in heaven with Our Lord. Thank you, Mary Ann.

Whether or not you believe in them, I found out WAY too much that could NOT have been found on the internet.....or in records. I have the entire courthouse in my county believing, too.

The story, in its entirety, will be for a later date~

I hope you are having a blessed Christmas month. I know we are, here at RoseCreekCottage~

p.s. Thank you, too, my blogger friend, Crystal, who lives in a haunted farmhouse in Northumberland, UK, for reaffirming what I already knew~xoxoxoxoxox

~A Blessed Thanksgiving~

2010-11-25T12:36:00.011-05:00

Bountiful Thanksgiving Blessings to all my family...both near and far....and to all the friends God has blessed me with. Thank you, Lord, for all the gifts you've bestowed on all of us~To You goes all the glory~Amen.

~Waitin' For the Postman~

2010-11-17T13:46:00.010-05:00

The bears are waiting patiently by the front door for the postman to pick up the morning's packages. The last of the Ohio Mart and Nutcracker Sweets orders are on their way. I'm keeping on top of all the Etsy orders........not a small task~

RoseCreekCottage has been humming away into the wee hours of the morning these past few weeks. Between cups of Mocha Peppermint Dunkin' Donuts Coffee, (you can buy it at Target) my feet don't have time to hit the ground. My next show, Gifts From the Heart, is Sunday November 21st at Landerhaven Country Club, 10-5. See you there~

~Wednesday Blessings~

2010-11-10T07:42:00.009-05:00

It was SO nice to be back at Mrs. Claus' Closet last week in Westlake, OH. Even after 8 years of absence, my customers are STILL buying my creations!! Several women stood in my booth, teary-eyed....telling about the 'long-ago' Ragamuffin doll that someone had bought for them. And now...they're buying them for THEIR nieces, grand-daughters, etc. Heartwarming!! The photo shows Monica, whose nieces gave her an 'Aunt' Ragamuffin
doll about 15 years ago. She said it has dark curly hair just like hers! She's holding the 3 Cheeky Monkeys that her friend purchased. The Monkeys will be traveling to her 3 grandbabies in CA for Christmas!!

My next show is Gifts From the Heart at Landerhaven Country Club,Sunday, November 21st. It benefits the Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital.

Other blessings this week:

~Tis the Season....and I'm working to keep on top of orders! Even though I put in 12 hours yesterday....I was able to leave for 2 hours and go visit Mom!

~I don't even have to leave to go to the PO. The mailman picks up all the packages every day.....(big smile here!)

~Though my 'boss' is a driven, A-Type personality slave-driver and admitted workaholic, I'd rather work for her than anyone else I know!!

~I can work in my jammies sipping coffee all day if I want!

~Amish Katie is coming once-a-week again!

~Got to spend one-on-one time with my oldest son who came into town last weekend to go to the Browns Game with his dad and Uncle Chuck! (and yes....even at 35 yrs, I love to watch him sleep.....just like I did when he was a baby~)

~Mom is having an 'awake' week and is actually responding with one word answers!!!!

~Got to spend fun time with my SIL and BIL, Bob and Kathee, who were in town from Destin, FL. They experienced one heck of a snowstorm Saturday!!!

~It's beginning to 'smell' like winter outside and I LOVE it!~

~I absolutely LOVE what I do!!!!

Enjoy whatever this day holds for you. It's a present you can NEVER get back~Ciao.....Carol~

~Emilia Bay: Child of God~

2010-10-19T17:23:00.012-04:00

Once again, the Lord has bestowed another blessing on us. On Sunday we had the honor of attending our 3rd grandchild's Christening. Sweet little Emilia Bay, born the end of April, was officially welcomed into the church. She was SO attentively good throughout the hour Mass that preceded the sacrament....that she fell SOUND asleep during the actual ceremony. She didn't even budge when the cold water was poured on her forehead. Yup....that is a TRUE Child of God!!!

Congratulations to our son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Amy, who are Emilia's Godparents. I cannot think of any couple on this earth who could do a better job!!

~Fall ~

2010-10-14T10:42:00.015-04:00

The leaves on the trees in our yard are bursting with breathtaking color. Only God could create such beauty~

The apple orchards and fields here in the midwest are overflowing with this year's harvest of fruits and vegetables. I brought home a bushel of apples, as I do every fall, intending to peel, season and freeze dozens of bags of apples for winter pies and crisps. After fighting off pneumonia this past week....Jim took it upon himself to do it himself while I was coughing my way through the weekend. I can't thank God enough for this man! Not only is he my soulmate....but he LOVES to cook!! How lucky can a girl get?!

I'm off to a beautiful premier show, The Nutcracker Sweets, in quaint Aurora, OH. It is located at the Church in Aurora, and runs Friday 10-8 and Saturday 10-4. If you're in the area, this is a show you don't want to miss~

~Tuesday Blessings~

2010-10-05T07:37:00.013-04:00

Two successful shows down….four to go. Gate numbers for both shows were up from last year.....as were sales!!

Such a successful Heirloom Collection launch that I’m now shipping into November!

A dear, loving husband who proclaimed at the end of each show day: “I LOVE spending time with you at these shows”. My business wouldn’t be the success it is without him. He is my manager in charge of everything and anything I hate….which includes organizing the set-up and dismantling of the booths, handling the money, the master charges, the phone calls, supplies, the business ‘stuffs’. He sat last nite for many hours submitting master cards for me. I love you, Jim. Xoxoxoxoxoxox

Sarah….my little ‘Dog-Sitter Extraordinaire’ who gives Fawn the attention he needs while we’re at shows. Hugs to you, Sarah~

Little Amish Katie….who’s back in our lives again on a full-time basis….dancing and singing hymns as she works! Katie…..what can I say? It’s been 18 years since you ‘danced’ into our lives. She calms me down and has an incredible ability to keep me organized…which is no small feat!!

My artist ‘show’ friends who have kept us laughing through 20+ years of shows, lunches, and emails. Shows just wouldn’t be the same without them....especially to Paul and Jen….for keeping Jim on his toes....and to Pat for all the lunches, the laughter and the tears for the past 30 (!!) years.

My sweet customers who follow from show-to-show, always stopping to chat (and buy!).

Mom.....Who actually looked up at me yesterday, said my name aloud and SMILED!!! Small miracles.

My Sister....who at 55 years of age, retired from her 'first' career, and started her second career yesterday as a Reading Specialist. You GO Toots!!!

Last, but most important: God….who has blessed me with so many gifts, and continually guides me on this journey. To Him goes all the Glory~

I’m off to the studio, coffee cup in hand, to make more Cheeky Monkeys, Witchy Women, Vintage Hares, and charm bracelets for my next show: The Nutcracker Sweets, in Aurora, OH, Oct. 15-16.

~Wonderful World of Ohio Mart at Stan Hywet Hall~

2010-09-29T11:14:00.009-04:00

We finished a third delightful weekend at Yankee Peddler last Sunday.....emptied the booth contents in our garage, and repacked things to set up in Akron at Stan Hywet yesterday. I'm in the studio creating Vintage Rabbits today in anticipation of Ohio Mart's 4-day show which runs from Sept. 30 to Oct. 3. If you're in the area...stop by and say hello. We're in booth 34 in the Birch Boulevard Tent~

~Yankee Peddler 2010: Two Weekends Down...One to Go~

2010-09-21T09:01:00.016-04:00

We were blessed with a second beautiful weekend at Yankee Peddler Festival 2010. The weather was once again just perfect. The crowds were never-ending, and we sold non-stop....arriving home Sunday nite pooped but grateful. These are some photos from the weekend. I'm off to the studio. We are literally sold out of everything....including the inventory I had set aside for the last weekend. I'm still praying for those 'elves' to show up! Have a happy week. Stop by booth #214 in The Glen and say hello~

~Yankee Peddler 2010: One Weekend Down...Two to Go~

2010-09-15T13:30:00.009-04:00

What a beautiful first weekend at Yankee Peddler Festival! The weather was perfect: not too hot, not too cold. As Goldilocks says, "It was JUST right"! The crowds were non-stop. We had fun greeting new customers.....and many many 'old' ones. It warms my heart whenever someone stands in front of me and proclaims, "I have lots of your dolls. Some from 20 years ago...you know, the ones with the twine hair? I'm buying THIS one for MY daughter!" Full circle. First their moms bought them for them....now they are buying them for THEIR children. It doesn't get much better than that!!

These two little sisters each picked out their favorite TuTu Cheeky Monkey. Even at these young ages, they know what they like! They are just TOO-TOO cute!

My new sterling silver Heirloom Collection Jewelry sold too well! I'm busy filling orders. I was happy to see it was so well-received.

My web-designer is working hard on my web site. I know I'm holding her up, but hope to have it up-and-running sometime next week. I'm very excited about the way it's coming out. (thank you, Ashley!!)

Stop by and say hello....we're there the next two weekends in Booth #214. I'm off to the studio to make more Tutus, Cheeky Monkeys, Vintage Rabbits....and more~

One of my youngest "fans". Her momma bought her a second Cheeky Monkey because she's so attached to the one she's holding that was purchased at YP last year, that her momma fears if they lose it, they'll be in BIG trouble!! Here she is pointing to the one she wants~

~We're Off to Yankee Peddler~

2010-09-09T09:16:00.006-04:00

We're headed to Yankee Peddler Festival at Clay's park in Canal Fulton OH. It is 3 weekends, Sept. 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 from 10:30 to 6 pm. Our booth is up....in a new "SHADY" spot!! The sun last year was brutal. We're still in The Glen...Booth #214. Stop by and say hello.

This year we have Cheeky Tutu Monkeys that are totally adorable, Witchy Women, Ragamuffin dolls with hearts and poems, Vintage Hares, altered art Charm Bracelets, Truffle Necklaces for kids, Initial Hand Stamped "Create-Your-Own" necklaces for the kids, tweens and teens, Sweet Sterling Silver Hand Stamped Initial Necklaces with Pearls, and introducing our Custom Personalized Hand Stamped Heirloom Collection of fine Sterling Silver keepsakes.....just to mention a few of the creations I've been working on these past few months.

I think there is truly something for everyone!! See you at Yankee Peddler Festival at Clay's Park in Canal Fulton, OH. (come hungry....the food is AMAZING!)

~Monday Blessings~First Grade....Eegads~

2010-08-29T19:25:00.004-04:00

I can't believe Ella started First Grade on Friday. At a Catholic school, no less. Be still my heart!! I'm so happy that Jackie and Jeff made the decision to send her to Immaculate Conception. She joins many of her friends....and one in particular who has been her 'best friend' since she was 3: Taylor! And they're in the same class. My little grand-daughter is in seventh heaven!! She's so beautiful, inside and out. I hope God keeps her this way for a VERY long time~

Happy Monday, wherever you are in the world~

~I Know I Know....I Haven't Posted In A While~

2010-08-18T07:49:00.004-04:00

Thank you all for your dear emails. Things are fine here at RoseCreekCottage. Just extremely busy.

I'm sorry to say we had to bow out of Shaker Woods Festival this year. Way too many things on our plates here. It's a super 3-weekend show in Colombiana, Ohio. It runs 2 more weekends: Aug. 21-22, and Aug. 28-29. I believe the wonderful promoters, Sue and Sam Ferguson....and Lana...were able to find someone to rent our booth...so it won't be empty....but you won't find us there!

We will see you at Yankee Peddler Festival located in Canal Fulton, Ohio, 3 weekends in September, beginning Sept. 11th.

Please keep my Mom in your prayers. Hospice is still with her~

Blessings to you, wherever you are in this world~Carol

~Monday Blessings.....Too Many To List~

2010-07-26T10:41:00.009-04:00

This morning, I find myself full of thanksgiving and praise. My life is so full of the Lord's blessings.

Jim surprised me with an armful of the most beautiful roses I've ever seen. 40 of them!! I have had fun giving them away: some to Mom at the nursing home, some to Aunt Grace, some to Amy for her 2 week anniversary, etc. We agreed that we're happier now than we've ever been!!

We dined outside on the water at Pickle Bill's with Tom and Amy and received a beautiful collage frame that says, "Live, Laugh, Love" with photos of all of us from the wedding. It's beautiful.

Saturday nite, our kids joined forces with the Murphys and combined with their annual Pig Roast, had a surprise 40th Anniversay Party for us. We were shocked, touched, and very grateful that there were so many people there to celebrate with us. God has been SO good to us.

My Heirloom Jewelry Collection is keeping me busier than I could ever have imagined! New designs are posted daily. I'm in the process of working on a website...so stay tuned!!

Monday Blessings to all of you this beautiful July morning~

~Fingerprint Friday: New Beginnings and A Celebration of 40 Years~

2010-07-16T07:22:00.006-04:00

There's a song by Stephen Curtis Chapman that goes:

I can see the fingerprints of God

When I look at you.

I can see the fingerprints of God

And I know it's true.

You're a masterpiece

That all creation quietly applauds

And you're covered with the fingerprints of God.

A beautiful day....a new chapter for both my son and new 'daughter'. A new chapter for us. As we celebrate 40 years of marriage....our two children begin the first year of their first 40 years together. Truly God's Fingerprints on these young newlyweds....and on us. None of it could have happened without Him. God is good~

Stop over at Beki's blog to read more Fingerprints~

~Monday Blessings: Married At Last and A New Daughter~

2010-07-12T09:19:00.010-04:00

Ahhhhhh.....I waited a long time for my first 'daughter'. Jackie and Jeff have now been married 8 years and have blessed us with 3 grand-babies. And now....a second 'daughter'!!! Amy and Tom were married last weekend. They planned the entire weekend....from the Open House at their new home Friday nite....to the beautiful marriage ceremony con-celebrated by three priests....to the magical reception. Everyone said is was "the most fun wedding we've ever been to". I know I will remember every detail all the days of my life. Amy looked beautiful....Tom, so very handsome....both of them so totally in love. They have their whole lives ahead of them right now.....and Jim and I not only get to 'watch' it unfold....but we get to be a part of it. Talk about blessings!!!!

More wedding photos to come~

~Weddings and Tutus and Monkeys, Oh My~

2010-06-22T09:13:00.007-04:00

The wedding is now only 11 days away. I'm working on finishing up Amy's veil today. Along with shipping out 8 jewelry orders. And seeing Mom. And my Aunt Grace, who we moved into the same place Mom is at this past weekend. And making more Cheeky Tutu Monkeys and Tutus for little girls, as my first 3-weekend show begins in August~

The nightmare of all nightmares happened last week: I shipped the wrong necklace which was meant to be given at a shower on Saturday. This is the second time in 8 years that I've done this. I feel awful about it, and am waiting to hear back from the customer....and the OTHER customer, too. sigh.

So....I'm off to the nursing home.....and then the studio this morning....waiting for the gray clouds to clear and let the sun shine. May it be sunny wherever YOU are in the world today~

~Monday Blessings~

2010-06-14T07:30:00.014-04:00

June is "busting out all over", and so are the blessings here at RoseCreekCottage:

~Amy's bridal shower was a huge success. She and Tom received many beautiful gifts to help them set up housekeeping in this 'almost' new chapter of their lives.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Amy and her Flower Girl~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~Mom turned 90...quietly. She continues to sleep much of the time. During her 2 hour party, she was awake about 4 minutes~

~Amy's sister, Allison, is here to for the month to help Amy and Tom with final wedding preparations. I've threatened to hire her full-time and not let her go back to college in August. She's getting so much done!!

~My new hand stamped jewelry line, The Heirloom Collection, has taken off!! I'm struggling to keep up with the orders in addition to working on product for my upcoming fall shows.

~We're looking forward to all the friends and family who will be flying in to join us in celebrating Tom and Amy's wedding over the Fourth-of-July Weekend.

~I'm on my 3rd cup of coffee and need to head to the studio, and then to visit Mom. Have a glorious week wherever you are in this beautiful world~ Carol

~Monday Blessings~

2010-05-17T11:02:00.010-04:00

Ahhhh....Monday again, and lots to be thankful for again~

Mama and Emilia are doing well. Jackie can 'officially' drive this week, which makes everything easier!

Tom and Amy's wedding plans are going along well. We tasted the wedding cake yesterday and it was delicious. Now the happy couple just needs to make the final design selections.

We went to John Carroll with them yesterday to see the layout of the reception area. It's just beautiful....outdoor balconies, staircases....an absolutely beautiful venue for a wedding reception!

Shower plans are being finalized. It will be held at a beautiful inn.

I've finally launched my new Heirloom Collection of hand stamped sterling silver jewelry. I love it!! Sentimental memory-makers, each piece is personalized and is sure to be treasured forever. All pieces are sterling silver. Birthstones are Swarovski crystal....and each letter or design is hand stamped one-letter-at-a-time. Beautifully unique. Take a peak at my Etsy Shop. I'll be adding new designs daily~

Have a wonderfully Blessed Monday. Remember to count your blessings~

~Introducing A New Grand-Daughter~

2010-05-09T13:30:00.013-04:00

Introducing our latest grandchild: Emilia Bay. She's beautiful and looks exactly like her big sister, Ella, looked at birth.....except that she has dark dark hair. Her eyes are light blue...even lighter than Ella's were. She was welcomed home by her big sister and big brother, who jumped at the chance to hold her whenever they can: Jackson, at 2, for short little spurts....but Ella, at 5, for sometimes an hour-at-a-time.

Jackie is on her way to recovering from her c-section. Emilia nurses quite a bit more often than her mama would like at this point. She was smaller than her sister and brother, and is already gaining weight since her birth 10 days ago.

I was so honored to go down and spend time helping out. I drove Ella to and from the bus stop each morning and afternoon....and will miss watching her climb down the stairs to the bus at the end of each kindergarten day with her headband askew, socks sagging, hair flying, with a huge smile on that sweet little face! We made paper doll dresses out of pressed flowers, 'danced' princess stickers down the ballroom steps time-and-time again......polished nails, and spent time swinging on the swings and picking flowers for her mom and her teacher.

She took me by surprise, when while tucking her into bed the first nite I was there, she asked, "Grandma....how did Emilia get into my Mom's tummy?". Oh boy....I quickly explained to her that God put her there. He's like "magic". She quickly looked skyward and whispered, "Thank you, God". And then added, "Will He put a baby in MY tummy?". Oh my. I could tell it worried her. "NO.....I answered....you must be married to someone you love first". "Oh", she answered....and with that I kissed her good nite, shut the door, and leaned against it in the hallway before skipping down the steps. She's a smart little cookie!!

Jackson is into all the "I Spy" books....and I can tell you we read them each at LEAST a hundred times!!! He even carries them up to bed with him. His favorite phrase, "No way" when he doesn't want to do something. He looks exactly like a Hummel figurine!

And Emilia? An angel here on earth. No crying. Just long periods of sleep...and then wide-open blue eyes looking around at her new 'home'. I just couldn't get enough of holding her...or that sweet baby 'smell'. I couldn't help but wonder if she remembers heaven. I am sure they are missing her!!

I am so blessed to have a daughter-in-law who has made sure that both Jim and I have had a chance to 'bond' with each of our grandbabies soon after their births. I cannot thank her...or love her....enough for that!

I will drive down there again. Often. 2 1/2 hours is not at all far for this Grandma to go to spend precious time with these three little angels. And in between....I will be missing all their smiles...and oh......those sweet hugs and kisses that only they can give so unconditionally~

Happy Mother's Day to all my blogger friends out there....from one happy but 'pooped-out' Grandma~

P.S. Does anyone know if they still make Geritol??!!!!

~To the Sea....Just the Two Of Us~

2010-04-23T06:43:00.017-04:00

There's a song by Steven Curtis Chapman called "Fingerprints", that goes:

"I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know it's true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God."

God's fingerprints continue to show themselves throughout our lives. For Jim and I, we started out "just the two of us", and after raising two boys, it's "just the two of us" again.

Some people think this 'empty nesting' is sad. There are parts that are. But now, it's time for us again....just the way God had us start out. Here we are again like we were in the beginning.....full circle.

Today we head to our place at the ocean....no kids, no 'friends' of kids, no moms, no grandchildren. Will we miss them? You bet! We'll miss the sandcastles, the banana pancakes, eating chinese food around the coffee table, board games, piles of wet beach towels, little sandy toes and bottoms. Yes....we'll miss them. Will we still enjoy ourselves?? OH yeah!!

We've been taking these trips to the island for 18 years. And whenever we were about to cross the bridge to the island, we listened to Carly Simon's "Never Been Gone":

The wind is coming up strong and fast
And the moon is smiling on me
Miles from nowhere so small at last
In between the sky and the sea

I'm bound for the island
The tide is with me
I think I can make it before dawn
It's night on the ocean
I'm going home
And it feels like I've never
I've never been gone

Seagulls cry and the hills are green
And my friends are waiting for me
Great ambition is all a dream
Let me drown my pride in the sea -

I'm bound for the ocean
The tide is with me
I think I can make it by dawn
It's night on the ocean
I'm going home
And it feels like I've never
I've never been gone
Oh it feels like I've never
I've never been gone

And that is just the way it always feels: like we’ve never been gone.

After watching the sun rise and set over the ocean, long walks on the beach, lots of talking, bike rides, shopping, lots of fresh lobster and crab.....many margaritas and pina coladas later……just the two of us....we’ll be ready to ‘rejoin’ the hustle-bustle of life back home once again.

After leaving our island retreat, we’re headed to meet our new grand-daughter, who is due to arrive (via caesarean section) on April 29th. Talk about Fingerprints!! Life doesn’t get much better than this~

Have a beautiful week….wherever you are in this world~

Stop over to Beki’s blog to read more Fingerprints.

~Monday Blessings~

2010-04-19T16:00:00.008-04:00

Our Ella Layne at 20 mos.....she's now 5, and will soon be a Big Sister not only to her 2-year-old brother, Jackson, but to her new sister.

~Spring has finally arrived here in Ohio. Daffodils, tulips and flowering trees are everywhere.

~Our 3rd Grandbaby is scheduled to arrive on April 3oth. We can't wait to welcome this new little girl to our family.

~Putting the final touches on my new line of jewelry.

~Working on lots of TuTu Cute Cheeky Monkeys for my fall shows.

~Just had the outside of the house painted....it looks 'new' again.

~Making final arrangements for Amy's Bridal Shower.

~Listening to all the exciting plans Tom and Amy are making for their upcoming July wedding.

~Adjusting to the new medication (Victoza) for my insulin resistance. My stomach hurts terribly. I can't eat. ugh.

~Can hardly wait to stick my toes into the ocean come Saturday~

~Hoping that each of you are counting the many Monday Blessings in your lives~

~FingerPrint Friday: My Sweet Daughter-In-Law~

2010-04-15T17:24:00.010-04:00

There's a song by Steven Curtis Chapman called "Fingerprints", that goes:

This FingerPrint Friday is dedicated to my sweet Daughter-In-Law, Jackie. I first met Jackie when she was just 14. She was dating my son, 2 years her senior. I thought her parents were nuts....after all, I never had a daughter, but was certain that I would have her tethered to the bedpost at 14.....til at least 30! (probably one of the reasons why God sent me boys!)

So....I invited Jackie's parents over for coffee. I was going to get to the bottom of this. Jackie's mother assured me that her daughter had a crush on a different boy every week. I replied: "When my son makes up his mind about something....that's it. I suggest you start planning the wedding".

I then hired Jackie to work for me. Through summers and vacations during her high school and college years, we worked side-by-side. By the end of her 'career' with Ragamuffins, she was single-handedly designing my wholesale jewelry line.

She has been my 'daughter' now for eight years. Not only does she make my son smile like no one on this earth....but she has given us two beautiful grand-children. The third baby is due the end of this month.

And Jackie....there aren't words to express all she means to me. We've shared tears and lots and lots of joy and laughter over the past 18 years. She is beautiful inside-and-out, straight-forward, honest, dependable. She's a phenomenal mother, and an intelligent, caring young woman. With Jackie...what you see is what you get. No games. No nonsense. Those are just some of the reasons I love her so much.

So....Jackie....you ARE covered with the Fingerprints of God. We are so blessed to have you in our family~

Stop over at Beki's blog to read about more Fingerprints~

~Some Things Are Worth Repeating~

2010-04-12T08:20:00.010-04:00

I know it's not Fingerprint Friday. And I know this post is a "Repeat"....but it's a post that can't be written too many times. Sorry if I am boring some of my blog readers. I know all the mothers out there will understand that there are some things in your heart that you can't "repeat" too many times. It was first posted February 2009. C.

There's a song by Steven Curtis Chapman called "Fingerprints", that goes:

From the first moment you feel a little life growing inside you, you love him. Deeply. You raise him as best you can. You nurture him physically. You teach him the necessary tools he will need to travel life's paths. You give him a strong foundation of values. And hopefully, you place him on the right spiritual path. And then.....you give him wings to fly on his own....much like a mother bird gently, encouragingly, pushing her little ones out of the nest. And then.....you pray that what you did was enough.

Tom.....I couldn't be more proud of you. You have been our rock these past few weeks. Always there. Steadfast. Through the tears. The fears. You reversed the role of child/parent so fearlessly. With great strength. I love you for that. You are the perfect example of the Fingerprints of God in action.

I thank God each day of my life for making me your Mom. I am so very blessed.

xoxoxoxox

Your Mom

~FingerPrint Friday~

2010-04-09T08:12:00.004-04:00

There's a song by Stephen Curtis Chapman that goes:

I can see the fingerprints of God

When I look at you.

I can see the fingerprints of God

And I know it's true.

You're a masterpiece

That all creation quietly applauds

And you're covered with the fingerprints of God.

I see God's fingerprints on many signs of spring. Two of my favorite are in this photo: pussywillows and birds. When I was a little girl, the first time I saw pussywillows in the yard of our childhood home.....I was smitten. I was fascinated by their look....their feel....and of course, their name!!

According to an old Polish legend, many springtimes ago a mother cat was crying at the bank of the river in which her kittens were drowning. The willows at the river's edge longed to help her, so they swept their long graceful branches into the waters to rescue the tiny kittens who had fallen into the river while chasing butterflies. The kittens gripped on tightly to their branches and were safely brought to shore. Each springtime since, in Spring, the willow-without-a-flower decks itself out in gentle velvet buds that feel to the fingers like the silky coat of a small cat. These buds are known today as catkins and remarkably, in every country, these soft willow trees are named after cats.

No one but God could make these tiny little puffs of the softest gray come out of teeny buds. Miraculous!!!

Stop by Beki's blog for more fingerprints.

Then take a peak here for some great blogs!

~Easter Blessings~

2010-04-03T20:42:00.008-04:00

Matthew 28:6 He is not here; for he is risen, even as he said.

~Holy Saturday~

2010-04-02T16:59:00.008-04:00

Holy Saturday is a traditional day of baking at RoseCreekCottage.
This year, one of the desserts we're working on is Carrot Cake. Here is the recipe:

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
2-1/2 c. grated carrots
2 c. granulated sugar
1-1/2 c. oil
4 eggs
2 c. all-purpose flour
2 t. baking soda
3 t. ground cinnamon
1/2 t. ground cloves
1/2 c. finely chopped walnuts
1-8 oz.- can crushed pineapple

Frosting:
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
4 c. powdered sugar
1 stick of butter, room temp
2 t. vanilla

Grease and flour two 9" round cake pans. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar and oil. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating until well blended.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon and cloves.

Slowly beat the flour into the liquid mixture until combined, scraping the sides. Add your grated carrots.

Next, drain the pineapple well. With your hands, pick up the pineapple mush and give it a good squeeze. You want the extra juice, but not too much because you're getting quite a bit from the carrots as well. Add in the pineapple and walnuts.

Pour into the greased pans and bake for about an hour, or until knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool for 30 minutes in the pan. Carefully remove from pan and onto wire racks to cool completely.

For the frosting, beat together the butter and cream cheese until creamy and well combined. Add in the vanilla. Slowly beat in the powdered sugar, until smooth and creamy. Frost your cake rounds and enjoy! (* I added grated orange rind to the icing this year*)

~Good Friday~

2010-04-02T10:42:00.011-04:00

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

John 3:16

Good Friday is the day that Christians focus especially on the cross and Jesus' sacrifice for the sins of the world. The cross is a central symbol of the Christian faith. Christians believe that Jesus, son of God, died to save all believers from sin, all that separates human beings from God. The cross reminds Christians of Jesus' death and their salvation, how Jesus saved them from death by dying in their place.

Jesus' crucifixion, death on the cross, is the source of eternal life for all who believe according to Christian teaching. Jesus put himself in the place of every believer's sins as he suffered for the whole world by sacrificing his own life.

Atonement, Jesus giving himself for the sins of Christians, saves all Christians from hell and suffering. Good Friday is a time for Christians to remember Jesus' sacrifice and reflect on how the cross has saved them from their sins.

On Good Friday, Christians attend a church service where believers will focus on the cross and Jesus' suffering there with prayers, reflection, and ritual.

In some denominations, believers will focus on the last words that the Bible, or Holy Scripture, records Jesus to have said.

In others, particularly the Roman Catholic Church, believers will revere the cross, a ritual called the Adoration of the Cross, where believers literally kiss and bow before a cross, in honor of Jesus. It is truly one of the Catholic rituals that touches me to the core, always bringing me to tears.

Dear Jesus...Thank you for your sacrifice. Heaven can be ours because of it.

Mary.....My heart breaks for you each Easter. I cannot imagine the grief you felt for the Son you bore. (see "A Mother's Grief")

Stop by Sew Gracious to hear, "Worthy Is the Lamb", by Hillsong.

May this day be one of reflection and thanksgiving for all christians throughout the world.

Stop by Beki's blog to read more FingerPrints of God.

~What A Difference A Year Makes~

2010-04-01T08:36:00.007-04:00

One year later, and Mom is unable to come to our house to celebrate Easter. Last year, she really wanted to help make the Lemon Meringue Pies and Bunny Cakes....and help she did. Read about it here.

This year....she is unable to stand and walk. She's totally wheel-chair bound. It's hard for her to move. She is unable to do anything for herself. It's heartbreaking to watch. She no longer has the ability to make choices for herself.

So this year, I'll make the lemon pies myself....and take her some. And this year, I'll get on my knees and thank the Lord that at this point in my life, I am still able to do so. We take SO much for granted.

This Easter Weekend, thank our Lord for the blessings in your life. And thank Him for dying on the cross for us.

~FingerPrint Friday......Traditions~

2010-03-19T08:24:00.006-04:00

There's a song by Stephen Curtis Chapman that goes:

I can see the fingerprints of God

When I look at you.

I can see the fingerprints of God

And I know it's true.

You're a masterpiece

That all creation quietly applauds

And you're covered with the fingerprints of God.

I see God's Fingerprints in Traditions....those time-honored customs passed down from generation to generation.

Jim and I made Fried Dough last night to take to our grandchildren tomorrow. God's Fingerprints will be evident as we watch those little smiles and "Hmmmmmm"s when they bite into them. God's blessings at their best~

I'm reprinting last year's photos and column, as I'm busy in the studio today. Enjoy!

St. Joseph, the husband of Mary and the earthly father of Jesus, is said to be the patron saint of home, family and laborers. His Feast Day is celebrated on his birthday: March 19th. It's a Sicilian tradition to make Fritelles or Fried Dough on that day. Depending on the region of Italy you are from, they may be called zeppole, or sfinges instead. For an interesting picture collage of fried doughs from all over the world, click here.

My Nonna always used her homemade raised bread dough to make Fritelles, as did my Mom, but I've found that the frozen Rhodes bread dough works quite well....and is way easier!

All you do is tear off about 2 inch pieces of the raised, raw dough, and fry them quickly in about a 1/2 inch of hot canola oil. Drain them on paper towels, then roll them in granulated sugar. My Mom often tucked raisins into the raw dough before frying. I make one batch with raisins for the kids, and one plain batch for Jim. One bite into the sugary, doughy delicacy will have you hooked. They rarely have time to cool before they've all disappeared...no matter how many I make!

Whenever I fry them up, I'm transported back into time......standing in my Nonna's or my Mother's kitchen, swinging my tanned legs back-and-forth, long curls flying, licking every last bit of the sugary coating off each of my fingers, begging for "just one more".

I continued the tradition by frying up batches of Fritelles for the boys on Sunday mornings in March before mass all the years they were growing up. It's a tradition that we continue to this day.....whether it's just Jim and I, or the boys, Jackie, and the grandchildren. Fried Memories at their finest~

Buon Giorno di San Giuseppe – Happy St. Joseph’s Day!

Stop over at Beki's Blog to read more FingerPrints and join in the fun~

Click on the link to go to more blogs celebrating New Friends Friday~

~Fingerprint Friday....Snow Days~

2010-03-12T07:31:00.005-05:00

There's a song by Stephen Curtis Chapman that goes:

I can see the fingerprints of God

When I look at you.

I can see the fingerprints of God

And I know it's true.

You're a masterpiece

That all creation quietly applauds

And you're covered with the fingerprints of God.

I see God's Fingerprints in my grandchildren playing in the snow! They love it. You can tell by their faces that it mesmerizes them just like it did to me and my siblings when we were their ages! Snow.......gotta love it. Thank you, God~

So look around you. What do YOU see that are the Fingerprints of God???

Stop over at Beki's Blog to read more FingerPrints and join in the fun~

~FingerPrint Friday~

2010-03-05T09:17:00.009-05:00

There's a song by Stephen Curtis Chapman that goes:

I can see the fingerprints of God

When I look at you.

I can see the fingerprints of God

And I know it's true.

You're a masterpiece

That all creation quietly applauds

And you're covered with the fingerprints of God.

I see God’s Fingerprints whenever I look at my Mom. All over her. He’s with her on this horrific journey through alzheimer’s. It’s comforting to know she’s not alone.

Today, for my birthday, I’m taking her roses, with this letter:

It’s my birthday, Mom. Thank you for giving birth to me. Thank you for being such a good mother. You taught me so well. I am proud of the kind of mother I am to my boys. And it’s all because of you.

Thank you for all the sacrifices you made. For all the late nights you stayed up sewing ‘special’ outfits for me to wear to school the next day. Thank you for doing people’s alterations late into the night to pay for Girl Scout fees, skating lessons, piano lessons. Your ‘sewing lessons’ helped me create and sell my Ragamuffin dolls. They helped put two boys through college. Thank you for that, Mom. Thank you for teaching me that all things are possible with hard work and determination.

Thank you for teaching me the importance of family.

I pray that you know how much it all means to me.

I love you, Mom.

Carol

xoxoxoxox

Pop on over to Beki's blog to read more Fingerprint Fridays~

~Monday Blessings~

2010-03-01T08:02:00.007-05:00

Mom started eating again after refusing food for 3 days last week.

Aunt Fran came through her 1st week of chemo (lymphoma of the brain) with flying colors.

Jim's LOVING his new job. It's the blessing of his career!!!

Tom and Amy's wedding plans are coming together beautifully. They're happily redecorating their new home.

All the kids will be in town this coming weekend to celebrate my birthday.

Fawnie has adjusted to being the only puppy, and is LOVING all the attention.

36 inches of Snow!!

A brand new month~

I'm well and back in the studio again.

Life is good.

What are YOUR Monday Blessings?

~Under the Weather.....~

2010-02-23T15:18:00.006-05:00

Thank you all for the notes wondering where I've been. I caught the flu and have not been able to bounce back. I was sad to have to cancel a beautiful show for this week. See you soon~

~Getting Grounded~

2010-02-07T08:57:00.009-05:00

As many of my blog readers know, I was looking forward to 'sleeping' my way through January. After a heavy show schedule and Christmas with our family....I was exhausted. Isn't it funny that sometimes the things you WANT, really aren't the things you need! As soon as January began, it gained a frenzied momentum that my life usually takes on: the pace I've come to realize is my 'normal'. I thrive on it. I may complain about it, but it's my life....and I love it~

I began rereading Julia Cameron's Walking in this World. She's the author of The Artist's Way, The Vein of Gold, and The Right to Write. I highly recommend them all. One of the questions she asks the reader is: What makes you grounded? You're to write down 10 things that do. Hmmmmmmm. I thought this would be difficult. It wasn't!! Right there at the top of my list was: an organized house and studio. I was in trouble. So I set off to organize everything....kitchen cupboards, drawers, closets....and finally: my two studios. Not a job for the faint-hearted. But oh....the results are SO worth the pain!! I am now the proud owner of beautifully organized spaces to live and work.

Next on the list: redecorating and updating parts of the home we built 25 years ago! Pictures to follow~

Have a glorious week....even if it's as cold and snowy as it is here in Ohio~

2010-02-07T08:57:00.003-05:00

2010-02-07T08:57:00.001-05:00