Blog Update...

Hello all, just wanted to give everyone a little update. The blog has been on hiatus the last few days & unfortunately will be until Saturday. Life has become VERY hectic this week.

I have about 7 custom orders right now (no I'm not kidding), family coming in, cleaning to do, baking to accomplish, gifts yet to be completed, and work.... Not too mention that my 84 yr. old grandmother took a spill on a concrete sidewalk last night! We took her to the ER & she has a HUGE lump on her head, a banged up wrist (no fracture thankfully), & a dislocated left knee prosthetic (she has had her right knee replaced twice & her left already done once). She is a trooper though!

I will be back on schedule with the Featured Seller blog on Saturday...with a vengeance! ;) I am going to (hopefully) featuring around 10 Etsy sellers. Showing my favorite item from each of their shops...in hopes that this will make up for my absence.

Well, it is WAY past my bedtime & their are doctors visits in the early morning & holiday mailings that go out as well. Time to catch some zzzz's. Thanks again to everyone who has been so supportive!

Holiday Greetings

Hello all! I have been working away like one of Santa's elves. Lots of orders coming in, still many more to complete. I have been so busy with the shop, orders, and posting feature blogs...that I realized I haven't updated our own info! ;)

We are still chuggin away towards the holiday season, and I'm excited to say that it will be the first time in 8 years that all of my family will be together! YEAH! Watch out people, all three of the Potts girls in one town! HA! It's exciting that my oldest sister will actually be home for Christmas, instead of just a phone call from New Mexico.

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I am working on some ideas for this spring. I will be rolling out my paper line (scrapbooking, cards, etc), and I am in the works for some jewelry design. I have been really inspired by 'Alice in Wonderland' lately & the jewelry will have a surreal flavor to it.

Here is a sneak peek of our embellishments: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36848439

More where that came from! ;)

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We will also be rolling out in full force our 'Pantry' section. I have had several comments in the forums about needing to fill this section in, because people are very intrigued by it!

Pantry selections to come Spring 2010: homemade granola, breads, other baked goods, & plenty more. Our granola has gotten a lot of great reviews locally, and I think it is time to unleash it on the rest of the world. ;) I have been working on some new flavor combinations the last few months.

I will also be bringing out a new line in 2010 with quilts, as well as handmade mobiles. I have lots of ideas brewing, and I can't wait to get started!

Well, there are orders to finish...cleaning to do...decorating to be completed...baking to be done. Enjoy your holidays!

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM NUTSHELL FARMS!!

For the Younger Crowd!

I am still running around like a chicken with my head cut off! Still searching for some last minute gifts for people! Still trying to fill orders! The 3 hours of sleep a night every night is starting to catch up with me...hopefully tonight I will make it to bed before midnight.

While I was looking around Etsy for some gifts for my nephew, here is what I stumbled upon.

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LastLeafDesign has some adorable onesies left (limited sizes available). The Cloud Monster is by far my favorite, and at $10 plus FREE SHIPPING....how can you pass this one up?

Direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33496525

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How about a cute little plushie? Divababy's adorable little scottie dog will be a new favorite for any kiddie to toddle around with. At $8, this is our STEAL OF THE DAY!

Direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35196886

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I was browsing the Felt Food Section, and here are some of my faves:

PickleThings's attention to detail is what caught my eye, check out this sandwich.

Ham & Cheese Sandwich ($18)

Direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36550550

Who could resist jdensing's Sushi Rolls?

Sushi Rolls & Chopsticks ($9)

Direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36739314

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There are always great stocking stuffers @ Nutshell Farms ;)

Here is our favorite:

Jack Frost Button Booties ($7)

FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE!

Direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36132376

While I Was Doing My Christmas Shopping

I have been doing a lot of online browsing on Etsy this weekend, as I am still in search of the perfect Christmas presents (of course I am STILL stumped on my dad). I thought I would share a few random favorites of mine from the past few days...

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I have been on the hunt for some great artwork or photography for Susan (my older sis) and Todd (her husband). While I chose a different print, this one caught my eye.

'Turning Leaves and Streetlight' by PrintsByMRB is a refreshing block print. This piece would go great in any living room or office!

Turning Leaves and Streetlight Block Print ($20)

Print direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35306359

* PrintsByMRB also specializes in block printed cards, gift tags, & bookplates.

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I am a crocheter by nature. I have tried knitting, & I just couldn't pick up the swing of it. While I love my work ;) I also enjoy the patterns that can come out of knitting. Here is one that I stumbled upon while doing some promoting this weekend.

Tessacotton has some great neck warmers ranging from Victorian to modern, and in lots of great color variations! The coal cowl will keep your neck & your face snuggly warm, plus charcoal is a very "in" color this season!

Hand knit Coal Cowl ($19)

Cowl direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36664497

*Tessacotton has many more great neck warmers in stock!

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One recurring trend that I absolutely LOVE is the clutch. So classy...so elegant...so vintage...so black & white movie! Unfortunately for me, you can't carry very much in these little lovelys. My bags (yes BAGS) are usually huge & stuffed to the gills with absolutely everything that I will need for my day...snacks, over sized wallet, phone, keys, planner, notebook, pens, etc!

Katazyna has several hand felted purses, but her milk chocolate ruffle clutch is gorgeous!

Perfect for any holiday party!

Felted Ruffle Clutch ($30)

Clutch direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36737934

*Katazyna carries hats, purses, & headbands.

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On the hunt for some clippies & hair pins for my nieces I stumbled across these colorful numbers.

Emariecreations has come up with some great bobby pins in fun stripe colors!

Fun Stripe Bobby Pins ($4.50)

Bobby pins direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36342370

*Emariecreations carries a full line of polymer clay ornaments, charms, magnets, and jewelry.

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December Blog Giveaway:

Baby Gift Set Giveaway

Drawing December 31st, 2009

Shop Announcements:

If you are a follower of the blog & make a purchase by December 20th, 2009...

you will receive 10% off your purchase (minus shipping)!

Just enter "Blogger-riffic Deal" in the message to seller box.

I will refund you via paypal.

Happy Holidays From

NUTSHELL FARMS!

Sunday Jewelry Extravaganza!!! ;)

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Here at the Farm we are working away to get things ready for the holidays. There just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day to get everything done...time is flying by. This year we are doing something a little different with our gifts. We are making almost all of them, and what we don't create ourselves...we are purchasing from fellow Etsy sellers.

Looking for a lovely lady in your life (or yourself!)? Jewelry is the way to go this holiday season! Here are a few of our favorites from our fellow Etsyians...

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Is someone in your life a jewelry fanatic? Always wearing knockout bold items? Safiya Alyse has some amazing statement pieces for anyone in your life @ VERY reasonable prices!

They also have a BOGO 1/2 off sale until December 25th!!

This sweet asymetrical necklace features a handmade yo-yo flower and black satin ribbon.

At $9.50 this necklace is the perfect accessory for the little holiday black dress.

Here is the direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35408497

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SerendipityLicious has lots of pieces in their shop. The best part is you can pick up a whole collection for around $35!

We matched up three pieces for you! These three pieces are from the Luminous Collection.

Koi Pond Lariat Necklace ($15.99)

Deep Blue Ocean Earrings ($6.99)

Orange Crush Ring ($9.00)

Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28786717

Earrrings: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28256424

Ring: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28352124

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Element4You caught our eye with this necklace/earring set. The olive green of the freshwater pearls drew us in, and the price made us take a second look! The pricetag on this elegant set makes this THE STEAL OF THE DAY...at $18 you can't pass this one up!

Here is the direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35938710

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If you are looking for some chunky; yet elegant, jewelry...then HeavenForBead has got what you are looking for! 'Love Bullets' is a gorgeous arrangement of 5 layers of chain. This piece can be dressed up or down! This necklace will get lots of turned heads, but at only $26 you won't go broke!

Here is the direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35621619

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December Blog Giveaway:

Don't forget to become a follower of our blog!! All followers

will be entered each month in our giveaways!

For December, we are doing a baby gift set giveaway.

Winner will be drawn on December 31st!

Shop Announcements:

FREE SHIPPING on all orders $20 & up!

FREE GIFT with every purchase!

If you are a follower of our blog, and you purchase by December

20th, 2009 you will receive 10% off your purchase (minus shipping)! Just

put "Blogger-riffic Deal" in the message to seller box

& we will refund you via Paypal!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM NUTSHELL FARMS!

Stocking Stuffers Delight!

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There are only 13 shopping days left til Christmas is here!!! YIKES! ;) If you are like me this year, then you are trying to NOT step foot into any stores. I would rather stay out of the bitter chill, and in my jammies while I'm shopping. I'm also not into the madness that is the malls this time of year.

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Today's featured CJSCraftCorner has some great gift ideas (that are right on budget for this time of year). They are also offering FREE SHIPPING until December 14th!

Is there someone at work or in your family that is tea fanatic (I am-hint hint)? This Tea Wallet is the perfect gift for any tea lover! The vintage inspired fabric and beautifully creamy button, will hold enough tea bags to get you through your hectic day. This lovely tea wallet will fit nicely in your purse, or even a pocket! At $5.50; this is a perfectly priced gift for an office gift exchange, or even a stocking stuffer.

Here is the direct link to this lovely Tea Wallet: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35576529


*You should check out Teaman @ http://www.etsy.com/shop/teaman for some great tea! They are also giving away free tea! You heard me right...FREE TEA!

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Another gem from CJSCraftCorner is this Coffee Cozy, handcrafted from colorful mitten fabric. How cute is this little guy? This eco-friendly, insulated cozy would fit nicely in any coffee lovers stocking! And at $4.50, you still have plenty of money leftover to get the recipient (or yourself) some great hot cocoa mix to go with it!

Here is the direct link to this Coffee Cozy: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35690619

*For great hot chocolate mixes, in delicious flavors...check out TetonCocoaCompany on Etsy.com!

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Are you a mom on the go and need to keep your little ones entertained? Tired of finding random broken crayons in the bottom of your purse? Stress no more, this Mini Crayon Holder is the answer to all those problems! It's fun colors, compact design, and ability to hold 10 crayons neatly tucked away; are todays STEAL OF THE DAY! At $4 this little guy would be perfect for any busy mommy!

Here is the direct link to this Floral Mini Crayon Holder: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28378914

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December Blog Giveaway:

Don't forget to become a follower of our blog!! This month we are giving away a Baby Gift Set! The winner will be drawn on December 31st. The winner will be notified on January 1st of their victory;) All blog followers are automatically entered into all of our drawings.

Shop Announcements:

FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $20 & up!

FREE GIFT WITH ALL PURCHASES!

If you are a follower of our blog, and you purchase by December 20th, 2009 you will receive 10% off your purchase! Just put "Blogger-riffic Deal" in the message to seller box & we will refund you via paypal.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM NUTSHELL FARMS!

December 11th Featured Etsy Seller

Starting today (until Christmas Day) we will be featuring one Etsy seller each day!

Our first Etsian is Paper Yo Yo. If you are on the search for some original Prints, or cut paper artwork...this is the place! They feature great artwork for a child's bedroom/playroom, or even for the child-at-heart's office!

This first piece is a spectacular hand-cut greeting card. For $5, 'Silent Night Cut Paper Nativity Card' is a REAL STEAL! This special card would be perfect for those who just love nativity scenes (my mom is a FANATIC!).

Here is the direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35565820

The second listing is for 'Flower Back Print'. This whimsical print would blend beautifully in any nursery...no matter the gender! This 6" x 6" print is quite a deal at $12!

Here is the direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35854137

Our third featured item is the 'Hank Plays the Banjo Original Cut Paper Artwork'. While this one comes with a larger price tag ($200), this piece is large on entertainment! This will definitely be a conversation piece!

Here is the direct link: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34804737

Update-FINALLY!

So I have been a busy little bee! I have neglected the blog, oops! Things have been in warp speed lately though. Our first Craft Show was a big success. I have recently gotten a Facebook fanpage up and running, as well as a Twitter page.

Trying to keep up with the custom orders, and I STILL haven't decorated the house for Christmas or put up the tree. I am thinking that the decorating will have to wait til this weekend.

Lots of new items in the shop right now! Adding some pics to show you a little of what is new! :)

Lots more items to come before I hibernate this spring. Cheers!

CYBER MONDAY SALES

CYBER MONDAY SALES:

* Cyber Monday Sale runs from One a.m. Monday morning until midnight.

* Free Shipping on ALL orders over $20.

* 10% off all Neckwarmers.

* 10% off all Gloves.

* New Holiday Lines will debut.

* Other items will be on sale, you just have to check out the shop to find out! ;)
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BLOG GIVEAWAY:

December Blog Giveaway begins November 30th until December 30th.
To enter: Log on to your Etsy account, convo me with "December Giveaway" in the subject box, and type your Name & Etsy member name (that I can reach you @) in the text body. I will then enter you into the drawing. There is no purchase necessary, but if you do make a purchase, you will be entered twice! ;)
This months giveaway is a baby gift basket: one pair of warm winter boots & matching hat (your choice of boy, girl, or gender neutral). Winner will be drawn on December 30th & I will notify the winner on December 31st. The gift basket will then be shipped on the next available USPS shipping day.
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UPCOMING EVENTS:

** DECEMBER 5TH: CRAFT SHOW IN WEST UNITY, OHIO 9 AM TO 4 PM

** All custom orders will be put on hold until Dec. 6th, at that time I will work on customs in the order of purchase. You may still convo me about custom work, order custom work, and even purchase custom work before the 6th. Please be advised though that the items will not ship out til after Dec. 6th. I will do my best to accomodate all orders. All items will be shipped out in time to make it to you by Christmas (if needed for that date). If a later delivery date is needed, even better! ;)
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There will be a coupon posted this Monday as well for the Craft Show, check back Monday! All you will have to do is print it off, and bring it with you to the craft show...how easy is that?!?
Hope to see you all on Cyber Monday, or the December 5th Craft Show!!

Cheers,
Jess

Thanksgiving Frenzy!!

So I feel as if my head is about to spin off into the corner of the room...bouncing off the walls. I REALLY need a cup of regular coffee...this decaf junk isn't cutting it this morning! :) I am a bit behind due to playing catch up from earlier this week. Did I mention that I am holding the Thanksgiving dinner this year & the house is a wreck...EEK! Thank goodness it will just be Jeff, me, & my mom! Unfortunately dad is on the road again this year...poor guy, I think it has been years since he has participated in a family Thanksgiving meal.

There is still a lot of cleaning/cooking/picking up the house to do...so this one will be short & sweet! :) I will write an update later about the "going on's" of Cyber Monday. I already have 4 custom orders to complete of multiple items, after the 5th of December...the show is soon approaching (NOT READY YET!!!) on the 5th! YIKES! My head is spinning a little more right now. I will post a blog about the deals I have going on this weekend/monday after I have cleaned up tonight & am sitting down with a beer/wine/some sort of alcoholic beverage! ;) I don't think the dinner Sangria is going to be enough for me today. Yes, I said Sangria ppl...my infamous berry Sangria is making it's appearance again...can I help it if it is just SO DARN DELICIOUS??

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU ALL!!!

Cheers,
Jess

Upcoming Events!!

The holidays are right around the corner!! I even have a countdown going on my calender until craft shows...just to keep me motivated & on track. I am definately going to have to be productive as I have had a completely blah morning!

So on the holiday front: new items coming soon to the shop!!! :) YEAH! With Christmas just around the corner I am going to be putting up a limited amount of x-mas inspired items. I will also be participating in the "Cyber Monday" craziness. I have yet to decide if I want to do the madness that is Black Friday...I'm leaning towards no, unless my mother talks me into in again this year. I really don't have anything that I HAVE to get that I am willing to put up with the nuts-ness for.

On Cyber Monday I will be offering discounts (yet to be determined). I need to look at inventory and then a few days before I will advertise the items and the discounts that will be available for this one day only sale. I'm really excited as this is my very first holiday in an open store! :) YEAH again!

I am also working out the details of the craft show, and piecing things together to make sure I have enough items. I'm excited for this as well. It will be in the Kissel Building in West Unity, Ohio on Dec. 5th. I will also send out details in a couple weeks about this event, and then post again as a reminder the week of the show. Hope to see you there, or on-line Cyber Monday!

Cheers,
Jess

New Booties

Well, just thought I would write up a quick post to show off some booties (which have already been shipped out). I will be posting more on my site today, just thought I would show off my handy work on here as well.

Also, next week I am setting aside my time to put together some blankets, quilts, bibs, burb clothes, and a couple other items. YEAH! I have been so preoccupied with other things, that I haven't had time to devote to my sewing. I am in desperate need of some down time, but I don't think I will be getting any until after the craft shows.

I definately need to get back to work! :) Cheers.

In Slow Motion

Things have been really doing well with the shop. I have sold out of baby booties (one of my newest items). I just can't keep them in stock. Jeff believes it is because I have them priced too low. I think it is because they are super cute, at a wonderful price. I know some people are trying to sell theirs for $20 or so/pair...that to me is just COMPLETELY ridiculous for baby booties! :) I'm a frugle person though! I also know how quickly little ones feet grow...so there is just no way spending that much on booties is feasible. I will be offering some organic cotton booties sometime soon, which will be more expensive (due to the price of yarn).

Other than that, I have just been working away at creating new products, trying to study for school, and falling a bit behind on my cleaning...yikes! :) I am also trying to get everything in order for craft shows for this December, as well as figuring out packaging for the items I am selling as well. SO MUCH!!! AHHHH! I think I am running myself a little thin lately as I have come down with a cold, AND have been yucky sick the last two days. It doesn't help any that my immune system is a litte down right now, but then to run myself ragged isn't helping any either! :)

Well, I should be off...no time to waste! Cheers!

The Swing of Things...

I can't believe it is October already! :) Ohio autumn has been surprising this year so far. Unlike last year (when it was 80 most days) it has been cold, rainy, and delightful! :) I LOVE AUTUMN! It is definately my favorite time of year.

So far, the shop has been slow...but I must admit that I have been slacking a bit and not really pushing it much. The last few weeks have been super hecitc, and I just haven't had time to really push it forward. I am going to be doing a couple craft fairs before Christmas, and I'm really excited for that! :) I just want to get my name out there, and really show people what I can do!

I just made 20 lbs worth of blueberry-lime jam. I also have been working like mad on some cowls/gloves/scarves. I am going to be working on some more crochet baby blankets, and I am ready to try out some new baby bootie crochet patterns that I have. They are super cute, and I'm ready to put them together! :)

I also have some AMAZING fabric, and will be pumping out some crib quilts as well! I am so excited to get started on these, as the fabric is super cute!

Well, enough of this nonsense...it's time to get back to work! :)

On a busted afternoon...

I haven't blogged since I first started up my shoppe, so here goes! :) Things have been hectic in my schedule the last several weeks to say the least!

It's FINALLY autumn in Northwest Ohio...and I LOVE it!!! Harvest/autumn is my favorite time of year. Its a cold and very windy day out...although I could do without the spitting of rain every now and again.

So far I have a handful of items listed in the shoppe, all of which are crochet. Soon I will put up some canned goodies, crib mobiles, quilts, and some other items. I just need to get in gear! :) Definately easier said than done!

I am in the process right now of completing my very first custom order!! I am stoked! It is a pair of charcoal grey wristlets. I am also working on a present for my youngest nieces birthday (which is Wednesday), and my mothers birthday present (Oct. 4th). I am also working on some cowl designs to put up on the site.

I can't believe it is almost October. I'm afraid that the next couple weeks are going to be slightly grumbly, and I really don't want to find myself in a funk again. The last six months have gone by quickly, and I have finally pulled myself out of my funk coma. I think the shoppe has really helped with keeping me busy, along with school..work...life in general.

Well, enough of this blog stuff...I've got to get back to work if I want to get dinner made, projects completed, homework done, etc....lol!

Cheers!

Open For Business!!!

Well, I am proud to say that Nutshell Farms is officially open for business on Etsy.com!! One more thing accomplished (mostly) on my ever expanding to-do list! :) I'm really excited about this new venture in my life right now, as I have been wishing/planning to open my own shop for some time! As I sit here typing this blog; I am thinking (and stressing) about all the other items on my to-do list, watching a Lifetime movie about my favorite artist Georgia O'Keefe, and basically basking in the excitement of FINALLY putting my shop together.
There will be many more items to come, I'm sure the next few weeks will be a frenzy for me as I'm trying to juggle work, school, homework, house stuff, and life in general.

I am going to try to keep my blog updated, as it will be tied into my shop. If you have never checked out Etsy before, you should (not just because my shop is on there lol)! There are so many cool things on there just to look at. I must get going...life is calling! Thanks everyone for your support! :)

I almost forgot to post the link to my shop! :)

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7276517

Motivation

So I have been working away on some new products...in between working, tending the garden/chickens, and sneaking in a vacation to Key West. I will hopefully have my Etsy shoppe up and running soon (I am striving for August). I will be pushing myself for the next couple weeks, and hopefully I will soon have a shoppe description, updates, and a grand opening blog! YEAH! :) Several people have asked me when it was going to be opening...and I keep dodging the question, well I can dodge no more! Soon...very soon!

Oliver & his helpful epiphany

The other day I was flitting around the house doing my spring cleaning (STILL not done), when my Ipod battery died. I took my earbuds out and plugged it into my laptop to charge...when I heard Oliver whining. So I went to the bay window in Jeff's office; sure enough he was crying about going outside. It doesn't matter if it's rain or shine, he ALWAYS wants to be outside...digging in the mulch, laying to the sunny spots, exploring the overgrown bushes by the chicken coop. I realized then; watching him cry about going outside, that I understood how he felt. Cooped up in the house, feeling like there is so much more the smell, explore, roll around in...well for him maybe, but you get the idea! :) I have been living in this angry, cloudy little funk the last 6 weeks...and I don't want to be like that anymore.
I still have my ideas about what is acceptable behavior and not...but why be so angry anymore. I have a second chance to live my life the way I want!
I've got plenty of things that I want to accomplish before I "settle down"...I just need to focus on those goals! Life will work itself out!

People never cease to amaze me...

Note to the reader: This probably will be offensive to you...if you take things to heart! I don't mean it that way...I'm just venting.

So, it seems that news of a miscarriage spreads MUCH slower than news of a pregnancy! I know people mean well by telling me how sorry they are, (well that's nice and all) but after a month...I'M SICK OF TALKING ABOUT IT WITH STRANGERS! I don't even like to talk about it with close friends! I'm not a "sharer" when it comes to personal (deeply personal) issues.
When does common sense click on in an average humans brain? Well, I'm learning that the majority of the town of Archbold seems to be lacking that gene.

I guess that's not really true...not for everyone. I am grateful to those people who knew about the miscarriage, and right away gave their sympathies...then we moved right along onto our regular lives.

I now have people coming up to me congratulating me on a pregnancy that is not anymore. Other people seem to not get the idea that when I mention drinking, or they see me drinking; that I'm not pregant anymore. I'm not ignorant...I do know that drinking harms a fetus...do you REALLY think I would drink if I WAS pregnant??? Like I said...common sense!

I just want people to understand that I'm drowning in this little town, with people who don't seem to understand/respect boundaries, living a life that's not completely my own, in my own self pity...just trying to claw my way out of my own personal cloudy hell. If I want to talk to people about my personal life...I would bring it up.
Well...that's enough venting for one lifetime on that subject! :)

Indulging my passion...

I am going to be starting my own profile on Etsy.com It is about time that I started getting paid for my crafts, art, and treats! :) I am excited because not only is this something that I have wanted to do for a LONG time, but it is also something on my 101 list.

I have started some of the other things on the list...I have already lost 4 pounds!!! YEAH! I am working out almost everyday, I had to take off yesterday because I was so sore from chopping firewood...yes you read me correctly! :)
We put in a wood burning stove this last winter, and I would recommend it to ANY homeowner. It saved us a bundle on our gas heat bill this year already! So now we have a huge pile of wood for next winter that still needs to be chopped into more manageable pieces for the stove...then stacked. As soon as all that gets finished, then I can start to clean up the yard.

I am going to be a busy bee for a while. Not to mention that I am "applying" for a babysitting gig for a couple in town. They have a 2 1/2 year old boy, and a newborn. One more thing on my plate for this summer, but I think it will be nice to be at home at night for a change during the summer! :) Well....this will definitely be a busy year I am guessing...GREAT! HA!

Our Garden of Eden

For the last several years, Jeff and I have been gardening. We found two existing fruit trees (one pear-one apple) on the property when we bought the house, and about a year after we moved in we started a garden. We have grown tomatoes, potatoes, corn, green beans, carrots, hot peppers (Thai-tiny fireball peppers!), watermelons, zucchinis....several other trial and error veggies also.

The fruit trees definitely produce enough that I have learned to make my own applesauce/apple butter/apple-cranberry sauce (an adult fave), and can all those items. I also did pear butter last year, which turned out pretty good. We canned/froze quite a bit of our crops last year also. Needless to say...we won't be growing green beans this year...possibly not even next!

Any who, this year we are growing: carrots, corn (we will conquer this elusive veggie!), potatoes, jalapenos, tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, cantaloupe, asparagus, garlic, and strawberries. I am also going to get my hands on some raspberry, gooseberry, and rhubarb plants this year! REALLY excited! HA! With that being said...we are expanding our garden by over 100%! We are going to be busy little bees this summer when it comes to pulling weeds, watering, etc! I'm glad I have some cheap labor (in the form of nieces & a nephew)!

Did I mention that for the last year we have been raising chickens? HA! Yes, we are your average little farm...in the middle of Archbold! We only have hens, so no noise for the neighbors. I can't complain too much about the stinky little birds...we get one egg from each hen a day!

We have our seed order in, and soon we will be able to get the sod cutter rented...and start planting! I just wish everyone had the great opportunity that we have (and the yard space!) to be as self sufficient. It is a really good boost to the self-esteem to know that I can provide for myself.
I think it might just be the idea of a fresh start to life, spring always brings a sprouting of fresh foliage...just showing you that life will renew itself, heal itself, grow again...exactly what I need right now!

The times they are a changin'

I realized today (not that I didn't know how old I was getting) that I am going to be 27 this year...in a few weeks to be exact! Jeff will be turning 30 on Thursday of this week...I remember when we first met...we were just KIDS! lol...well, maybe not kids. Time sure does fly by, and I'm actually looking forward to the next couple of years. I think this is going to be a very adventurous time for us, and I can't wait. I am in better spirits for today, never know what the rest of the day will bring. I'm still feeling quite anti-social, and leaving the house has been limited to things that I HAVE to do. I return to work tomorrow, and I'm fairly anxious. I think I'm just not ready to have to deal with people, and their questions. I'm a really private person when it comes to the really intimate details of my life, I'm not a "sharer".
It's a very sunny Monday, and I think that it is time to get my day started and do something of importance...you know...laundry, chopping wood, cleaning house, etc....BLAH! :) It has to get done though!

So I must say, I wish I would have never spilled the beans. There have been some complications, and it seems as if we will no longer be parents. I am really sorry, but no I don't want to talk about it. Our lives are going on a different path right now, and my 101 list will have a few deleted; although I am still excited to complete what is left. I want to thank all our family and friends, you have been very supportive. I am taking a couple mental health days, and will be gearing myself up for the 101 list to commence upon my return.
Thanks again, and much love.

My 101 in 1001 days list

So I was browsing around at other peoples blog lists, and I came across the Day Zero project. I looked through the website, and I decided to start my own list. I'm hoping this will keep me motivated and on track with things that I want to accomplish. Sort of like a HUGE to-do list. I am a perpetual list maker...maybe if I can finish even 90% of the things on this list...it will make a dent in my life-long goals! :) HA! I have just realized that in the last few years I have stopped pursuing some things that were once an important goal of mine...kind of getting lost in the shuffle of "real life". I am planning on printing off a master copy, and posting it somewhere that I will look at it everyday in order to keep on track with this thing. Well, I will keep updates on here about my progress in this little endeavour. Wish me luck!

spilling the beans

Hello there! This is just a quick post...just to have something in here for right now. Jeff & I have been together going on 7 years, which seems like a lifetime some days. We live in Archbold...bought a house about 5 years ago. My life basically consists of work and school...with a little fun mixed in. We are currently expecting our first (possibley only) child; due in October. It was a surprise, as we were doing everything (or so we thought) to NOT have children right now...but obviously things did not work in our favor. I am still getting used to the idea, and being that I'm 10 weeks and have not been sick once, it feels like nothing is different. I am quite lucky because the only problem I have had is just a consistent tired feeling, and a headache that has just been a dull constant pain most days. I consider myself extremely lucky to not be hugging the toilet! :)
We go in 3 weeks to hear the heartbeat...hopefully that will make this whole situation a little more "real" for us.