THE KEEPINGROOM

the Freedom Settlement faire

2012-01-25T12:44:00.004-06:00

Saturday June 9, 2012

10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Admission $3.00

Clink link for more info.
New vendors welcome. Contact Linda at Tkeepingroom@aol.com for applications.

Before Christmas Sale!

2011-11-17T18:31:00.005-06:00

50% off all Christmas merchandise Sunday November 20th 11-4.

The Keepingroom inside Hidden Den Primitives

2011-08-30T07:15:00.007-05:00

Make - Do

2011-08-20T19:40:00.002-05:00

Just finished and for sale in my shop The Keepingroom Open Sunday's 11-4.

TheFreedomSettlement: Welcome to The Show's Blog...

2011-08-13T05:43:00.000-05:00

TheFreedomSettlement: Welcome to The Show's Blog...: "A gathering of wonderful Early primitive Antiques and exceptional Folk Art!!!"

It's been a while since I've shared...

2011-03-27T13:09:00.008-05:00

So, I thought I'd snap few shots. Hope you enjoy looking.

the FREEDOM SETTLEMENT faire

2011-03-25T14:38:00.003-05:00

We are currently looking for quality vendors for our up coming show

the FREEDOM SETTLEMENT faire

June 18, 2011

The show will be early antiques and hand mades

and will take place on the grounds outside of Hidden Den Primitives

in Salem, Ohio

For more info please contact me at:

Tkeepingroom@aol.com

2010-11-12T10:33:00.002-06:00

The Keepingroom has expanded.

We can now be found at two locations,

in Waynesburg as always

and now at Hidden Den Primitives!

If you are in the area please join us for

Hidden Den Primitives

" Christmas in the Barn"

Shop Video

2010-08-24T12:42:00.003-05:00

My friend Debbie Miller stopped by my shop on Saturday.

She made a little video showcasing

The Keepingroom.

If you'd like to take a look click on the link below

http://www.snippetsfromtheonionpatch.blogspot.com/

Thank You Debbie!

I Survived.....

2010-08-16T17:13:00.005-05:00

I told Stacy of Tattered n Torn Prims who was my neighbor at Piney Creeks A Humble Past show that I was going write a post about the close call I had with a large piece of fence we use as a back drop.....it just about took me out!

I'm pretty sure my husband was trying to do away with me!

What I'm actually going to tell everyone about is this adorably prim snowman I bought from Stacy.

I arrived at the show Saturday dreading the thought of the heat that had been forecasted for the day.

When I first saw Stacy I didn't even realize who she was .

She introduced herself and said " Hi I'm Stacy I comment on your blog",

I said hi not much else...I'm sure I came across like a snob!

I'm sorry.

God didn't give me the gift of gab....I blog better than I make conversation.

Back to the snowman. I spotted him right away and knew I wanted him.

I messed around in my booth for a while when out of the corner of my eye I saw another vendor heading straight for him.

I rushed over and said" I'm buying him" and whipped out my money as fast as I could.

He's all mine!

( By the way the photo doesn't do him justice and he also smells wonderful! )

" A Humble Past"

2010-08-11T07:26:00.003-05:00

Waiting to be loaded....

and heading to......

Piney Creek Primitives " A Humble Past" show
Aug.14,2010 10am-4pm 600 E. Pine Lake Rd. North Lima,Oh.

I hope you will join us!

2010-07-25T08:29:00.003-05:00

Notice: New Hours

at The Keepingroom

We will now be open Fri. Sat. Sun. 11-4

Stop in and see what's new!

The time has come....

2010-07-11T10:00:00.013-05:00

......to announce the winner of my first giveaway.

I want to thank all those who took the time to enter.

Without any further ado the winner is.....

Jennifer

taylors* farmhouse*attic

Congratulations Jen!

I hope you like the gifts I've chosen for you.

I'll be mailing Jennifer's package on Monday.

You'll have to keep an eye on her blog to see if she posts photos of her primitive goodies.

A little change

2010-07-10T18:50:00.004-05:00

Before After

I like this so much better.

What do you think?

Just a remider...

2010-07-10T05:45:00.003-05:00

I'll be drawing the name of the winner for my first giveaway this evening.

The winner will be announced and notified tomorrow.

Good Luck To All!!!

Linda*

More of Carol's Primitive Home

2010-06-23T07:36:00.012-05:00

I've been asked if Carol has a picture trail,blog or if perhaps her home

is in or will be in a any magazines.

No, Carol has no web sites and her home isn't in any publications.

Carol's home was also discovered by C.S.

through the photo gallery on my web site at the

same time as me.

Unfortunately Carol declined the

offer to have her home featured in Country Sampler.

She says she has no interest in having her home in any magazine or book.

But,You can see more photos of Carol's home at

http://www.thekeepingrooom.me/

in the photo gallery.

This primitive nook was created after Carol removed her dishwasher.

A Little Eye Candy

2010-06-22T13:11:00.000-05:00

I just returned from a visit with my dear friend Carol .

Her home is amazing and always a source of inspiration for me.

Here are a few photos I took while I was there.

I hope her home will inspire you too.

I think it's time....

2010-06-19T07:03:00.001-05:00

for the first giveaway from the Keepingroom!

I promise it will be something wonderfully Prim!

Here are my simple rules for entering.

1. You must be a follower of my blog.

2. Leave a comment on this post.

3. Do not link this giveaway to your blog.

That's it!

The winner will be announced Sunday July 11th.

Good Luck!

New Followers Welcome...;)

I have a confession

2010-06-18T07:36:00.000-05:00

I'm a bit embarrassed to admit....

I love realty TV!

I'm hooked!

Be it...

The Real Housewife's of,

New York

New Jersey

Atlanta

Orange County.

I love them all.

Then there's the Kardashins...

Keeping Up With

and

Take Miami

I watch them both!

Other's include,but not limited to

Dog The Bounty Hunter

Ice Road Truckers

Deadliest Catch

American Pickers

Pawn Stars

18 Kids and Counting

Little People,Big World....

the list could go on!

There you have it, my dirty little secret.

I've been living a lie.

Pretending my life revolved around

antiques and decorating,

when all the while I've been spending

most of my time peering into the lives of others.

I'm not sure what that says about me.

Perhaps I need an Intervention!

Intervention.

Hey, that's another great reality show!

Ever what it?

More little....

2010-06-05T06:27:00.000-05:00

Treasures I left out of my earlier post,

"Innocence Remembered"Amish child's bonnet
Little boys pantaloons ( not sure if pantaloons is right term for boys)

Little rocker and chamber gown

old school books, Giant coloring book( dated 1920) and toy elephant

Brown wool dress

One of my favorites, a early 1800's rocking horse

2010-05-26T17:15:00.000-05:00

Click here

to see photos from last weekends show in Elton Maryland.

Innocence Remembered

2010-05-25T07:19:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!

I haven't been posting or commenting as much as would like.

I'm trying to keep up with all your posts.

I have been extremely busy with business, family, and yard work!

There just aren't enough hours in the day!

Today's post was inspired by the always inspirational

~Dan~ Yesterday Once More

Dan did a post titled "Child's Play" sharing his collection of childlike treasures.

I have always been drawn to children's things.

After doing the From the Farmhouse show where there was wonderful primitives offerings to be had my affliction was confirmed.

My big (or should I say small) purchase from all the wonderful primitive offerings was a pair of

little worn leather mittens.

They're just so sweet!

Here are a few pictures of some of my treasures that take you back to

a more Innocent time.

early baby socks

A early hand carved toy gun I love this old high chair with it's worn foot rest

from all the tiny feet that once rested there

child's chair

collection of christening gowns

1800's cradle,old bear, and toy rocking horse

Antique chalkboard and early wagon bisque doll

Donkey pull toy

Little side button shoestoddlers dress, bonnet, and pantaloons

bisque doll

old story books

a collection of children's sock dryers

baby socks and chair

side button baby shoes

Early cradle and doll

early baby shoes

child chair

I hope you've enjoyed a sampling of my collection of early children's treasures as much as I have sharing them with you all.

Have a blessed day!

Linda*

Domestic

2010-05-19T12:02:00.000-05:00

Definition:

1.Remaining much at home; devoted to home duties or pleasures; as, a domestic man or woman.

2. of or involving the home or family
3. enjoying or accustomed to home or family life

Today as I was cleaning and fussing over my house

a phone call I received years ago came to mind.

Phone rings,old friend I haven't spoke to in years on other end.

Found my phone number after much searching.

I was happy to hear from her, she was one of my best friends during our teen years.

After the usual chit chat of catching up and reliving days gone by,

she said to me

" you always were the domestic type".

At the time I felt a bit insulted.

She was independent and well traveled.

Out spreading her wings.

I was a young stay at home Mother with two little ones.

Today, I'm very happy to have been and to be very

DOMESTIC!

Veronica Hileman I hope your still flying high

and this domestic goddess would love to talk to you again one day!

2010-05-19T07:13:00.000-05:00

My husband and I spent the past weekend at

The Springfield Antique Show Extravaganza

located at the Clark Co. Fairgrounds

in Springfield, Ohio

Wow, what a weekend!

We left home Thursday morning, feeling a bit hesitant,

wondering if we had made the right decision to do the show.

We would be setting up outdoors and the weather forecast said rain!

To our delight the rain held off and the weather was wonderful!!!!

There were over 2,200 vendors with wonderful antiques.

Great fair food as well. I had the best elephant ear ever. After cooking the elephant ear they brushed it with melted butter then added the sugar and cinnamon....Yummy!

There was also a food vendor selling Bourbon Chicken....so good!

If you are in the area or want to plan a weekend antiquing trip be sure to remember this show.

The next on will be in July.

July 9-11, 2010

I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Here's a few pictures.

Here's our booth.
( that's my hubby on the left)

Thanks for stopping by and have a great week,

Linda*

2010-05-13T05:45:00.000-05:00

"Thin is in, and fat is ugly." That is what some women believe to be true.

Many of these women starve themselves, do countless hours of vigorous exercising, or even purge after excessive eating.

News Flash!

Men like women with curves. Why do you think so many men love ladies like

Kim Kardashian...it's not for their fashion sense.

You ever notice how mean those super thin ladies look?

Well, that's because they're hungry.

Life's to short to count every calorie and

worry about the number on the label of the clothes I wear.

Skinniest is not prettiest.

So, let's eat!

I know all this typing has made me hungry.

Springfield Ohio Antique Show

2010-05-06T18:47:00.000-05:00

Have any of you done or plan to do The Springfield Antique Show and Flea Market that is held at the Clark County Ohio Fairgrounds?

The show runs Friday May 14th through Sunday May 16th and I noticed that have line shopping on Thursday( which would be set up day) and early bird shopping from 7am to noon on Friday before regular shopping hours which are noon - 6pm.

That sounds like a very long day to me.

We are considering doing the show and would appreciate any info.

Pet Peeves

2010-05-01T17:24:00.000-05:00

Here's a few....

People who pretend to like you.

Remarks made in effort to gain a reaction.

Indirect insults.

To those who feel the need to do these things. Do you really think you're that clever?

I see through you, refuse to react, and hear the insults.

No truer words...

2010-04-23T07:18:00.000-05:00

I just read a post that I want to share.

It's by ~Dan ~

Yesterday Once More

(click above)

His post today are words to live by.

Definitely my philosophy for life!

It's good to be busy...

2010-04-21T09:06:00.000-05:00

... that's what I always say and life sure has been

" GOOD "!

Last week was spent preparing for the Gathered Treasures show.

Friday we left home bright and early heading for Mansfield, Ohio.

After getting our booth set up we just hung around

catching up with old friends and making news ones as well.

My dear friend Lynn Ann Davis was there and she

introduced me to Fay Stanfield the owner of

Mercantile Gatherings.

I don't think there is anyone who is anyone that Lynn doesn't know in the world of Prim.

It was a pleasure meeting Fay she was so nice and I look forward to seeing her again.

I also got to meet Cecilia Taylor/Hen House Primitives.

Another sweet kindred spirit.

She loved our booth and invited us to do her show,

From The Farmhouse

May 22,2010

at the Fair Hill Maryland Fairgrounds.

We haven't decided if we do the show.

I'll keep you posted.

Saturday was show day. It was cold , but that didn't stop the shoppers from coming out.

The show was a good one and a lot of fun as well.

When I get home from Gathered Treasures and checked my e-mail.

I had an e-mail from Twigs, editor for Mercantile Gatherings.

They want to feature my home and business in their magazine.

I was told to take tons of summer photos because they plan to feature me in the summer of 2011.

To my surprise there was also a e-mail from

Bill Mathews, photographer for Country Sampler.

He wanted to know if would like to have my home photographed for

Country Sampler.

I had to chuckle. I guess he's to busy taking pictures to look at the magazine!

I'll let them photograph my house again if they want....;)

So, what else have I been up to?

Well, flea market season has started up and we have been setting up there selling our wears.

I have come to the conclusion that peddling is in my blood.

I think it comes from my Dad,who was always looking for a way to make a buck.

Be it selling cars, to Christmas trees( we had a lot next to our home)....you name it he always seemed to have something for sell.

I'm also in the process of making a few changes around the house and I will post pictures once I'm done.

I want all of my blogging buddies to know I've been keeping

up with your post as much as possible.

Below are photos of booth from the Gathered Treasures Show.

Blessings to all,

Linda*

Hope you can make it to.....

2010-04-15T07:22:00.000-05:00

Gathered Treasures
This Saturday April 17th 10-4
at the...
Richland Co. Fargrounds
750 North Home Rd.
Mansfield,Ohio

For a vendor list go to:

blackcatprimitivesgatheredtreasures.blogspot.com

Rejected

2010-03-16T10:13:00.000-05:00

I thought I would share this photo with everyone.
It is one of two photos from my CS shoot that wasn't used in the magazine.
I love it.
It's one of my favorites.
I wish Country Sampler could get past the
over decorated homes,
large floral arrangements,
fancy table settings,
and see the beauty of simplicity.

What's your sign?

2010-03-15T17:36:00.001-05:00

Lets101 Quizzes - blog quizzes

click on link, then post your results to share with all your blogging friends!

You gotta have friends !

2010-03-15T13:23:00.000-05:00

Friends, what would we do without them?

If someone asked me, who's your best friend?

I'd have to answer I have three,

my Mother, my Daughter,

and

my dear friend Carol.

Let me tell you a little about Carol.

She's 70ish, one heck of a decorator who

loves primitives, flea markets, and chocolate ice cream.

Last Christmas I gave her a poem I wrote and framed

and a pint of chocolate ice cream.

Here's the poem.

Carol's Poem

The flea markets are still,

for in the wind there's a chill.

Snow beneath my feet.

I'm in need of a treat.

Ice cream I say,

And ice cream I'll eat.

Till the snow melts away

on a warm sunny day.

And the flea markets fill,

Oh, what a thrill.

Hot aching feet.

I'm in need of a treat.

Ice cream I say.

And ice cream I'll eat !

A few pictures from Carol's home.

Back at it....

2010-03-08T12:56:00.000-06:00

After being closed for two months our shop re-opened March 4th.

It was a great week. I didn't realize how much I missed working the shop

and seeing my customers.....

or should I say my friends.

I got to meet one of my blogging buddies too!

Mary from Gettysburg Homestead came in and it was a joy meeting her,

and I look forward to seeing her again.

I spent the morning out looking for some new treasures for the shop.

It was slim pickens', but I did find a cute red and tan quilt.

Until next time...

Blessings,

Linda*

Our Spread....

2010-02-26T14:43:00.000-06:00

In country Sampler.
After reading a post from Jen @ Taylor's*Farmhouse*Attic I removed the pictures I took of my Country Sampler article.
She said she was told she couldn't post pictures from her article due to copy right infringements.
I didn't want to delete the entire post, because I love all your comments. They make me feel good!
Linda*

It's the climb....

2010-02-20T23:06:00.000-06:00

I've finally received my long awaited copy of

Country Samplers 2010 Home Tour.

Why have I been so anxious?

Well, as many of you know my home is in the issue and my friend Sandy's home is too.

Sandy got her copy first. After checking my mail and not finding my copy I high tailed it to Sandy's house to take a gander.

Aw, the surreal life!

How strange, seeing ones home in print in a magazine I've been ogling for years.

I must say it is pretty....um...well....awsome!

I'm getting off title.

Why the climb?

Isn't that what life is about?

I know it is for me.

To quote a line or two from Billy Ray's baby Miley's big hit...

" Ain't about how fast I get there"

" Ain't about what's waiting on the other side "

" It's the climb"

Below is a post some of you may have already read. It was posted on my web site back in June of 2009, the day after my Country Sampler shoot.

I thought I would re-post it here on blogger,

it's about the climb....

my favorite part of my Country Sampler experience!

****************************************************

Well, all the lights and cameras that for a brief time filled the rooms of my home along with all the worries and frazzled nerves, are but a memory.
The photographers arrived in Waynesburg early Monday morning, Sandy's house was first.
I had to go meet them, put faces to the voices I had heard on the phone over the course of several months.
I had no idea what to expect. .....
Would I see a fancy car sporting a Country Sampler logo on it's side parked in Sandy's drive filled with props?
I headed east on Lisbon Street.
As Sandy's drive comes in to view I see a simple red SUV, Virginia plates,random letters...letters I later learn are the first initials of each of the Schmidt's pets.
No logo. Props, only a few.
I go inside and meet Esther and Franklin Schmidt, two of the sweetest, down to earth, humble, and the most intelligent people I have met to date.
I hung around to watch one room be shot.
To get an idea of what my future would hold and how much "staging'' would be done.
I quickly learned it wasn't about "staging" but about making a room work in order to get the shot.
Getting just one shot right could take almost an hour.
I wish I could have stayed and watched the Reynolds entire shoot, but I had to head home and....
CLEAN!
I woke early the morning of my shot and decided to make nuts rolls and a pot of coffee for the Schmidt's.
I had told myself and others that I wasn't cooking.
To much work.
How do you pick a food everyone likes?
So much for talk.
Anyway, time to get myself ready.
Let's back up a minute,back to my arrival at Sandy's house and seeing her dressed in.....
Gray top, white capri's.
You see, that is exactly what I had picked out and set aside to wear the day of my shoot.
So, there I stand in front of my closet, with that age old question , what to wear? Nothing would do, but.....
Gray top, white capri's!
The Schmidt's arrived at my house around 9:30 am, unloaded, and went right to work.
My kitchen was first. the only props used in my home were a
a few simple flowers, some of those coming from my flower beds, and the rolls I made. Props first, snack later!
I was right there watching, helping and commenting on each shot being taken. Control freak? Yeah.
The photographs that Franklin captured were breathtaking. Shot from angles with lighting casting beautiful shadows that created a calm stillness.
Work of a true artist.
There was only one shot that I wasn't completely happy with; it was my bed room. Yet, it is still a wonderful shot.
There was a sampler I had hanging over my bed that looked wrong through the cameras eye. We had to find a replacement.
The day had been long and we were all tried, so we settled on a wreath.
I could have found something more primitive.
The shoot had come to an end, time to pack away all the equipment, and say our good byes.
As I sit here and reflect on this journey that started with a simple e-mail from a sweet lady introducing herself,telling me she had discovered photos of my home while web surfing and asking if she could send photos of my home to the editor of Country Sampler and ending with hugs, kind words, tears and new friendships. I wouldn't change a thing...............
Even that darn wreath!

Say it's over !

2010-02-11T15:09:00.001-06:00

I know it's February and that means winter for the most part is over...right ?
I mean how long can this crappy weather hang on?
I'm trying to remember the last time we had a winter like this.
I can't recall.
Could it be menopause blurring my memory or is it that we just have a way of forgetting the bad ?
Once something good happens all the crap seems a little less crappy.....gees, I never knew I had such a way with words.
I put things so eloquently at times ( sigh).
A few 70 degree days will make this winter all but a vague memory.
Until then I guess we can do even more indoors.
Like....
Dust...I think I saw a speck.
Bake... My jeans aren't tight enough just yet!
Pop more popcorn and play a couple more games of 500...
that's about the only card game I know except War.
We could clean the closets...AGAIN!! There will be no excuses for a dirty closed this spring!
I need to try to make it to the mall between snow storms to purchase some new sweats and fuzzy slippers, mine are about worn out because I've spent so much time in them.
Oh, why bother trying to go out, I can just order them on line.
Well , I guess I should get up and walk around for a few minutes to get my exercise in for the day.....
then have a cookie for all my hard work ! They're heart shaped with pink icing.
Think Spring!

Ya'll Knew...Make- Do

2010-02-06T11:28:00.000-06:00

Here's what I made with my two ladder back chairs and curtains.

I guess you could call it a make-do settee.

I've made a number of make-do chairs and have been wanting to try a settee.

I'm pretty happy with the results.

I did cut the fabric a little to

short on the seat cushion and I didn't have another curtain to cut up,

so I'll just have to live with my mistake.

I filled the cushion with down for an early look.

I know the fabric looks black and white,

but, it's black and dark cream.

Many of you ask if I would post photos and instructions of my project.

I'm sorry to say that I got so engrossed in the project it's self I didn't take time to take

photos of my work in progress.

Now don't fret!

My dear sweet blogging buddy Lisa of Primitives From Above did a tutorial recently

explaining how she made her make-do chair and she was kind enough to let me add

a link to her tutorial.

http://primsfromabove.blogspot.com/2010/01/make-do-chair-tutorial.html

My settee was made using the same basic process Lisa used.

For the settee two chairs are placed side by side and held together by placing

one piece of plywood across the back and front, just like Lisa did with her chair.

Make sure the chairs seat form a straight line in front.

The front legs will be together, but there will be a gap between the back legs.

In the past I tacked the fabric on the chair.

This time I measured and sewed

the fabric, almost like making slip covers.

Thanks to everyone who commented on my " What Do You Get" post

it was fun reading your comments,

and a special thanks to Lisa for sharing!

What do you get ...

2010-02-03T14:15:00.000-06:00

When you take a nail gun,
a jig saw,

plywood,

some quilt batting,

a couple pairs of black and cream buffalo check

curtains no longer being used,

2 old ladder back chairs,

and an amateur seamstress ( namely me)?

Give me a couple days and I'll show ya.

I'll bet you have a pretty good idea!

2010-02-03T09:04:00.000-06:00

Our shop is currently being featured on,

http://blackcatprimitivesgatheredtreasures.blogspot.com/

Click link to see complete list of vendors and show info.

It's sure to be a great show!

Just added..

2010-02-03T08:50:00.000-06:00

New items listed on my selling blog " Offerings from the Keepingroom"

Just for laughs

2010-01-31T14:12:00.000-06:00

At lunch time, sit in your parked car w/ sunglasses on and point a hair dryer at passing cars. See if they slow down.
Page yourself over the intercom. Don't disguise your voice
Every time someone ask you to do something, ask if they want fries with that.
Encourage your colleagues to join you in a little synchronized chair dancing.
Put your garbage can on your desk and label it" IN '.
Develop an unnatural fear of staplers.
Put decaf in the coffee maker for three weeks. Once everyone has gotten over their caffeine addiction, switch to espresso.
Reply to everything someone says with, " That's what you think".
Adjust the tint on your monitor so that the brightness level lights the entire work area. Insist to others that you like it that way.
Don't use any punctuation.
Specify that your drive-through order is " to go ".
Sing along at the opera.
Go to a poetry recital and ask why the poems don't rhyme.
Find out where your boss shops and buy exactly the same outfits. Wear them one day after your boss does.
Send an e-mail to the rest of the company to tell them what you are doing. For example, If anyone needs me, I'll be in the bathroom, in stall #3.
When your money comes out of the ATM, scream " I Won! I Won,! 3rd time"!

I think I found the solution to...

2010-01-29T13:05:00.000-06:00

Over or Under

Ta- Da

From The Lips ...

2010-01-28T12:26:00.000-06:00

To The Hips!The temps are in the teens...the oven warms up the house...

can't do much outside... I was bored!

I think that's excuse enough to bake and then eat way too many chocolate chip cookies.

Bon Appetit !

Less Colonial....

2010-01-26T15:51:00.000-06:00

... More Prim.

I knew I wanted to give this room a more primitive look,

and the early hired-man bed I got at a recent auction

was the inspiration I needed.

I couldn't wait to get the painting done, so I could get the decorating started. I'm happy with the results.

On to another project!

I said I wouldn't....

2010-01-21T17:26:00.000-06:00

... but I did.

Paint that is.

Remember this room?

Here it is now.

A darker shade of pale.

I'm going to make a few other changes in this room,

so stay tuned!

( sorry about the blurry photo )

I'm Getting Excited !

2010-01-21T12:14:00.000-06:00

I just got the March issue of Country Sampler

and on page four just below the " Editor's Letter"

is an ad announcing Country Sampler's 2010 Home Tour Edition .

It hits the news stands the first week of March!

I'm so excited, I can't wait!

Sometimes it seems like only yesterday and other days like a lifetime

since that day in June 2009, the day

Country Sampler sent Franklin and Esther Schmidt to photograph my home.

I remember asking " what issue will my home be in ? "....

" Most likely in the spring of 2010, around March, the home tour issue, but subject to change"...

Being the impatient sort that I am, they might as well have told me the spring of 2020!

I thought the day would never come but,

it's almost here and it is such an honor to

share my home with the world ,

a home that I hope reflects my passion for decorating.

New Offerings

2010-01-19T09:27:00.001-06:00

I just added these sweet bunnies

to my selling blog...

stop by and take a look!

What was I thinking!

2010-01-10T10:57:00.000-06:00

As you may recall in an earlier post I mentioned I was thinking of painting.

I wanted to go dark, something in the gray/brown family.
Well, I do want to paint but, I also want to sell our house.
There lies the problem!
After some thought and an episode of HGTV's Designed To Sell,
I remembered the ole' neutral wall rule for selling a home.
Now, I know gray/brown is a neutral...just not as buyer friendly as
my Cafe latte whitish walls!
So, no painting for me....
I guess I'll have to come up with something else to keep me busy!

A good day....

2010-01-06T08:03:00.000-06:00

.... to stay in side and bake!

I had two of my grandchildren( my daughters babies)

for the day, after a big breakfast of pancakes and bacon we

decided to make a patch of

peanut butter cookies.

Ethan is adding the eggs. . .
Katie is mixing . . .

How's it look Grandma?

Shaping the dough...

Note: Big brothers watchful eye!

Here, let me show you how it's done.

We used Kisses and Mini Peanut Butter Cups.....

They did a great job....

Yummy!

A Fresh Start....

2010-01-05T13:03:00.000-06:00

...to a new year

and a few changes.

The mild start we had to the

winter is is over and Old Man Winter has finally reared his ugly head.

I'm not a big fan of winter weather. The snow is beautiful , but I hate driving in it.

So, I spend a lot of time indoors once the snow flies and that gives me lots of time to

work on the house. I've been thinking of painting.

Right now all the walls in the house are a color called Cafe Latte.

(I know they look white in pictures)

I'm thinking of going dark! Maybe something in the gray/brown family.

What do you think?

Here are a few shots of some of the changes I've made.

Offerings from The Keepingroom...

2010-01-03T20:04:00.000-06:00

Is my new selling blog.

I will be offering items from my shop.

Please stop by and take a look.

http://offeringsfromthekeepingroom.blogspot.com/

Baby...

2010-01-03T07:59:00.001-06:00

It's cold outside! The current temperature is a whopping 5 degrees....BURRRR!

I'm wearing three pairs of socks, my boot slippers,long john bottoms, sweat pants,

a long sleeve T, and a fleece hoodie.....Yeah, I can still move.... :)

It's a good day for nesting, and that's just what I plan to do.

I'm going to take a hot bath, dress in attire similar to the above mentioned,

dot on a bit of make up, throw my hair up in a clip and feather the nest!

2010-01-01T13:29:00.000-06:00

I've spend the last few days slowing taking down the Christmas decorations and making festive piles here and there. I'm happy to report that my last pile has made it safely to the attic.

As for the mess pictured below, well that's the stuff I had the put back in place of the Christmas decorations.
Now, you know it just wouldn't be right to put everything back like it was before...boring!!

So, I popped my favorite Elvis cassette tape into my old stereo......
Yes... Elvis ! ... I love Elvis !... His black leather years were the best....
Suspicious Minds, Kentucky Rain and Memories played while I rearranged, tweaked, vacuumed, mopped, dusted, and sang along.

Right now, the pork is cooking, candles are burning, the washer and dryer are going, I'm blogging and I feel content.

Happy New Year!

Linda*

Christmas Home Tour

2009-12-12T16:53:00.000-06:00

http://www.thekeepingroom.me/

I have just completed a new album on our web site.

It's our 2009 Christmas Home Tour,

just click on the above link and go to photo gallery.

I hope you all enjoy our photos.

Merry Christmas!

Linda*

A Few More.....

2009-12-06T06:29:00.000-06:00

Photos, cause we all like to look!

Hello Blogging Buddies....

2009-12-05T15:13:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone is enjoying the start of the holiday season. I know I am!

The past month was a hectic one, getting ready for our Christmas Open House here at The Keepingroom,and as a member of our towns parade committee I was ask to" do a craft show", so I gathered some talented vendors for what became the " A Gathering In The Hall " show....it was a lot of stress, but worth it ! I had a great time with all the other vendors....folks I consider friends as well.

My husband and I, along with other committee members decorated the town square and then gathered with friends and neighbors for the tree lighting ceremony, that included hot chocolate and Christmas carols.

Now, that all the towns festivities are over, I can focus on my own.

Our home has been decorated inside and out, but I'm sure I will be tweaking things until it's time to take the decorations down.

I've been know to decorate, then re-decorate....:)

I'm ready to shop and shop and shop some more!!

I've added a number of Christmas photos to my side bar, I hope you enjoy them.

Blessings to you all,

Linda*

My Booth...

2009-11-27T16:53:00.001-06:00

At " A Gathering In The Hall "

I wish I could share more photos, but I forgot my camera.

My friend Debbie Miller " In The Onion Patch " sent me this photo.

I'll have to see if she has others, if so I'll be sure to post them.

Cuz we need a little Christmas ....

2009-11-10T16:24:00.000-06:00

... Right this very minute!

Twas over a month before Christmas

when I said to my spouse,

Oh how I feel like decorating this house!

So, decorating I did and decorating I've done,

Heck, even the stockings are hung.

Come on my friends and I'll show ya some.

There's still more to do,

I have a month,

almost two.

And I'll show ya some more,

once I'm all through!

They're a little blurry too....;)

51 Today...Oh My!

2009-11-07T17:47:00.000-06:00

On this date in 1958 Josephine and Orville Starr

became proud parents to their one and only child,

Me!

Our family had a Birthday party tonight.

No, not just for me.

As I have mentioned in past blogs November is BD month,

we have four in one week.

So, tonight we had a big party for all of us.

I haven't felt well for a couple days and didn't really want to go.

I pulled myself together and went anyway,and I'm glad I did,

being with family is good medicine.

I want to thank my dear friend Carol G. for the voice mail

she left me wishing me a Happy Birthday and reminding me I was

" well on my way to becoming a primitive"

I would like to share with you a birthday message from the writings of

Emily Matthews

that my parents gave me today...

Words I can only aspire to.

If you can value truth

above approval,

and friendship over beauty, wealth or fame,

If you can share your gifts

and talents wisely,

leaving someone better off

than when you came,

If you find happiness

in simple pleasures and see the rainbow and not the rain,

If you have faith to keep right on believing

in miracles that no one can explain,

If you look until you see the good in others

and keep your spirit honest,true, and free,

Then you'll be, not just happy and successful,

but the woman only you

were meant to be.

Thank You, Mom and Dad

I Love You Both!

2009-10-31T06:28:00.000-05:00

Have A Happy Halloween!

Linda*

There was a package in the mail....

2009-10-29T11:38:00.000-05:00

It's my prize from the TDIPT's Blog Giveaway.

I couldn't wait to get home and open it!

My prize is from

The Blackberry Briar The box smelled heavenly, and the stuff inside even better!

I won a candle, room spray and tarts.

The scent is Pumpkin Cheesecake.

I have the candle burning right now and it smells so yummy!

Thank you TDIPT's Group

and

Blackberry Briar

And just one more...

2009-10-28T12:32:00.000-05:00

to our list of great vendors!

Kari Schuler of Honey Suckle Prims

" A Gathering In The Hall "

Is now filled to the brim !

2009-10-28T08:59:00.000-05:00

" A Gathering In The Hall" I'm happy to announce we have added another great vendor to our list.

Olde Mill Primitives

If you're in the area please join us,

Saturday November 21,2009

166 E. Lisbon St.

Waynesburg,Oh.

For a complete list go to:

http://www.thekeepingroom.me/

The Dinning Room Flip...

2009-10-26T13:06:00.000-05:00

I flipped....

2009-10-24T14:22:00.000-05:00

Rooms that is.

The room pictured was my dinning room,

now it's my keeping room.

I was in the mood for change....

I'll post pictures of my new dinning room later.

Have fun looking.

Linda*

Cinnamon Berry Lane Primitives.....

2009-10-22T12:56:00.000-05:00

Santa Blog Give Away....

Be sure to check out Cinnamon Berry Lane Primitives new

selling blog,

just leave a comment on her blog

be entered to win this wonderful Santa.

Add a post and a link on your site to be entered twice.

Good Luck!

I Won....

2009-10-21T23:10:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness! I'm one of the winners in the TDIPT Birthday Give Away.

I can't believe it. I've never won anything. I have no luck at all.

There could be an entire crate of eggs and I'd pick the carton with the broken egg.

I can't even get what I order at Mc Donalds...it's true.

I live by Murphy's Law.

Looks like my luck has changed!

Adios, Murphy

Thanks so much TDIPT group!

Random Ramblings

2009-10-16T14:52:00.000-05:00

I have been trying to come up with an idea for a post, but I seem to be having a brain freeze today or perhaps I can blame it on menopause. That seems like a good excuse to me.
I can't think of anything particularly interesting to blog about.

It's been a rather slow day at the shop,mainly my regulars. I don't see them as customers anymore, but as friends. I look froward to their visits.

I thought I'd do some crafting, things were going great till my sewing machine decided to throw a fit....I wasn't in the mood to fight. We'll work out our differences later!

I rearranged my computer room AGAIN. I rearrange that room more than any room in the house. It just never feels right to me. I like it for now!

Our new kitty, Rodger is a piece of work. He is into and on everything. We plan to have him declawed as soon as he is old enough. There is a new method where they use laser, much more humane. Our daughter, Jennifer had her cat Emma done and there were no bandages and Emma was walking like nothing had ever happened.

I sure hope it warms up a bit for the little Ghost and Goblins. It's no fun wearing a coat over your costume!
I'll post some photos of our little Goblins later.

Are any of you Jon and Kate fans? I love the show. I'm sad to hear it has been canceled. I know Kate could be a bit of a nag, but I think Jon lost his mind! Kate always makes me laugh or cry, I'll miss the show.
Speaking of shows that I love, what ever happened to Paranormal State? I like the other ghost hunter shows, but that was my fave! I'd watch that then have to sleep with the light on...:)

October through December is party time in our family. We have eight birthdays during those months, five being in November.
Birthdays, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas= lots of good food!

So much for brain freeze, more like brain clutter!

2009-10-15T08:19:00.000-05:00

Good morning blogging buddies!

It's a wet raw day here in Ohio,temps are in the upper 30's

this morning.

I snapped the picture below this morning, as you can see it's rather dark and dreary around here.

I'm going to freeze when I get to the shop to open.
The heats been off all week!
I wish I would have gotten up earlier and walked over and turned it on.
My shops only a few feet from my home, I guess I'm feeling lazy today.
Well buds I need to get motivated.
Hope you all have blessed day!
Linda*

Oh Christmas Tree....

2009-10-07T14:04:00.001-05:00

As I sit here in my cozy sweats and my fuzzy slippers

with my new kitty Rodger curled up on my lap and purring softy,

I can barely resist the urge to go up to my attic and bring down one of my

Christmas Trees . Yes, I said one of...

There's a small Forest up there,

different shapes, styles and sizes.

I usually have a tree in every room

of the house.

Has anyone else been

feeling like this?

Maybe it's been the mild summer we've had.

It felt like fall for most of the summer and though fall

is my favorite season I think I've had my fill.

Don't be surprise if you see Christmas come early

around my house.

Jingle bells....Chestnuts roasting.....la la la

Fall is in the air and a busy week ahead...

2009-09-26T15:28:00.000-05:00

Fall is in the air this weekend here in Ohio.

It's time to pull out the sweats and

curl up with a cup of something warm.

Crazy as it may sound, I love a cloudy warm fall day.

There's just something cozy about that type of day.

I'm in the mood to decorate outdoors.

I hope I can get a little more decorating done outside, but....

I have such a busy week ahead...

Appointments...Appointments

There's a trip to Cleveland Clinic...

I have to take my Father for his check up...

I'm taking my Mother for a consolation with an attorney,

she contemplating a lawsuit...

There's a trip to the dermatologist....

A meeting with the parade committee....

I'm getting tired just thinking about all that running!

I'm not sure I'll get much decorating accomplished.

A Primitive Fall.....

2009-09-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

It all started in 1971....

2009-09-23T08:37:00.000-05:00

That's when I met my neighbors nephew,

the boy who would one day become my husband.

We married on this day, 33 years ago.

I still wear the thirty dollar wedding band he bought me,

it's a ring no diamond can replace.

Here we are at 15...look at the 70's hair!

Here we are today, at the ripe old age of 50
( Photo courtesy of Franklin Schmidt,Country Sampler)

We've been through a lot and our love has only grown stronger.

" What God has joined together,
let no man put asunder."

Happy Anniversary Kenny, I love you

Our first show...

2009-09-21T09:50:00.000-05:00

Well,we did our first show.

The "In The Spirit Of Friends "show was

Saturday, and what a beautiful day it was.
The above picture is of our booth.
As you can see from the picture below you couldn't ask for a better setting,
Malabar Farm is beautiful.
We had a great time, met a lot of wonderful people
and we're looking forward to
next year which promises to be an even better show!

Be It Ever So Humble....

2009-09-04T07:21:00.000-05:00

During recent interviews with Leslie Mann for Country Sampler

and Juday Condon, I was ask about my childhood home.

They both questioned me as to the type of house I grew up in.

Well, I spent most of my childhood living in a Salt Box style home.

Thing is it was never appreciated for it's beauty.

We had no idea the homes style even had a name, nor did we care .

It was the old house in the neighborhood.

An area that was once thrived.

Everything you needed within a block or two.

Grocery stores, dry cleaners, plant nursery, auto parts, furniture stores,

schools ,candy and ice cream manufactures, beauty salons ....

I could go on.

Homes and apartments everywhere, filled with my friends.

Yesterday, I along with my parents took a drive to the old neighborhood,

I wanted to take a picture of our old house.

Oh, so many memories

Built in 1875 this is how the home looks today.

It's one of the last homes still standing.

All the businesses long gone, schools closed.

It made me so sad, to see how everything had changed.

My family lived in the house from the late 60's through the early 90's.

When we lived in the home, it sill had it's original slate roof,

and the old fashioned shake style siding.

My Dad tells me there are logs under that siding,

and I don't doubt it.

There was no attic and it had a stone foundation and the basement

floors were dirt.

You enter the basement through a trap door in the kitchen floor.

I remember as a child always trying to avoid the area for fear that

trap door might cave in.

There was no furnace, only three small free standing gas heaters.

Only about two feet of counter space, how my Mother made do

for all those years I'll never know.

One small bathroom, just big enough for the necessities.

Now that I'm aware of what a treasure the house is I wish I could rescue it...

move it to a final resting place,restore it to it's original glory,

before it too becomes a causality of changing times.

There's No Place Like Home....

even when it's no longer yours!

No time to bake?

2009-09-01T09:46:00.000-05:00

Butter N' Flour is now taking orders for...

school bake sales...school birthday parties...you name it!

check web site for pricing.

http://www.butternflour.blogspot.com/

2009-09-01T08:48:00.000-05:00

My Grandson Ethan arriving for his first of second grade...

to say he's not fond of school would be an understatement...

in his own words...

" I'd rather go to The Cleveland Clinic and have my other leg operated

on then go to school'....

He's as bright as they come....has always gotten good grades....

but hates school!

Can you tell from the look on his face he's not exactly happy to be there?
I hope it gets better.
I never liked school.... Well, art class was ok....
I hope he's not a chip off the old block !

Starting School....

2009-09-01T08:20:00.000-05:00

Granddaughter Katie's ready for her first day of kindergarten.... filled with nervous anticipation.....
she patiently waits for the bus...that never came....

just dropped off at home...after long bus ride.....

judging by the look on her face I'd venture to say she's not looking forward to day two!

Fall Has Arrived At The Keepingroom!

2009-09-01T06:46:00.000-05:00

Boo! This Jack-o-lantern is craved from a real gourd.

Cute little pumpkin men

Goat cart filled with white pumpkins and berry vine

Primitive Halloween Cat in bucket

Joy...new babies...crafting...and yummies

2009-08-28T07:45:00.001-05:00

Good morning blogging buddies. It's a cool rainy morning in my neck of the woods, but I'm in a sunny mood. I went to bed with a smile on my face and woke up feeling great!
Don't you just love it when things fall into place, just like you planned. Oh, joy!!
Life is good! Maybe I'll wear my " life is good " hat today.... I love to wear baseball caps, and the bonus is you can't see my roots....lol

I would also like to say, congratulations to my friend Linda C. on the birth of her first grandchild...a bouncing baby boy! Grandkids a the best...let the bragging begin !!!

I spent most of my day yesterday crafting....I'm not big on crafting. I'm more of a decorator, but in the fall I get a little crafty. I need some softs to add to my hards at the Malabar Show( In The Spirit Of Friends ), which is fast approaching. I'll probably do more today, business should be slow, due to rain and thunder.

If your in the area be sure to stop in for some baked treats, from ButterN'Flour....yummy!!!!!!

I hope you all have a wonderful blessed day.....Linda*

2009-08-25T12:43:00.000-05:00

http://www.butternflour.blogspot.com/

Please be sure to remember Jennifer at;

Butter-N- Flour next time you need some bakin' done!

Redo...

2009-08-25T10:19:00.000-05:00

Going neutral....

Over the past sevral years I've found myself

leaning toward a more netural pallet.

I didn't plan it, it just seemed to evolve on it's own.
The room pictured is my computer room.
I just redid the room , I love how calm it is now.
It was one of two rooms in my home that still sported my old color pallet
of dark reds, greens, and blue.
Don't get me wrong, I still love those colors.
As a matter of fact,they still live happily in our TV room.
The only room in the house that is still colorful.

There are still touches of blue gray here and there in quilts and a few antique pieces....other than that it's neutral!

Whatya Workin On Wednesday

2009-08-12T17:40:00.001-05:00

My husband,Kenny

is making a check out counter for

us to use at the upcoming

In The Spirit Of Friends Show

Sept. 19th at Malabar Farm

In Lucas,Oh.

The show is just around the corner and we still have a lot to do.

It turned out great.

I think I'll paint it black and distress it.

Yeah, I know....He really should stop smoking!

I tried Photobucket....

2009-08-12T12:17:00.000-05:00

I decided to try Photobucket.

I added my name to my photos, then posted to Blogger

and they were way to big, so I resized.

Now, they are to small and I can't get them to resize again.

Dang thing anyway!

I thought I'd show you what I did to hide my sink and range yesterday before Judy came.

The above pictue is my sink area, and the bottom my stove top.....my favorite.

Sorry the pictures are so small.

I'll figure out this whole Photobucket thing sooner or later!

I almost forgot....

2009-08-11T14:50:00.000-05:00

I did take two photos of Judy Condon as she was taking her last couple

shots.

She was almost done and suddenly I thought....

Oh no! I didn't take any pictures.

What an air head!

Luckily Judy's batteries had gone dead in her

camera and she had to go out to her car for batteries.

That gave me time to run and grab my camera.

These are shots of Judy in the upstairs hall way,
she's taking pictures looking into the spare bedrooms.
Sorry I didn't get more pictures to share.
Judy was so sweet. She came in and went straight to work.
Snapping one picture after another.
Click, Click, Click!
She photographed every room in my house in just over an hour.
She even took some pictures in my shop for the book,
and made a purchase.
Thank you, Judy!
Well,this has been another wonderful experience.
Life is good!

How sweet....

2009-08-10T10:37:00.000-05:00

Look what my friend Lorrie Baldwin brought me yesterday when she stopped by my shop.

This lovely bouquet of flowers in a little brown crock and a book.

No reason, no agenda, just out of the goodness of her heart!

I've had my share of bad fiends, the ones that stab you in the back every chance they get.

I was starting to lose faith in others, till I met a few lovely ladies that changed all that.

They know the true meaning of friendship.

Thanks Lorrie you're a sweet heart!

Just wanted to share....

2009-08-07T17:23:00.000-05:00

I have some exciting news ....

I'm sure most if not all of you have heard of Judy Condon,if not you've more than likely drooled over pictures in one of her books. I know, I have.

Well, she's coming to my home next week to take some photos.

She's shooting pictures for 2011 and my home will be featured in one of her books.

I spoke to her yesterday and she said she'd call me this coming Monday and let me know when I could expect her.

I"m not feeling the same nerves I had before my Country Sampler shoot, and I'm glad of that.

This time I hope to take some photos of the days events to share with you all.

I was so stressed when I had my C.S. shoot I completely forgot to take pictures and I have deep regrets that I didn't capture those memories. So, stay tuned my bloggn' buddies.....

Technology....

2009-08-05T10:13:00.000-05:00

Being a child of the 70's I've seen a lot of changes, not nearly as many as my parents,but still a lot has changed.
Computers and cell phones were luxuries. Blackberries were great with milk and sugar, now it's a gadget even our President can't live without.
And, when someone said big brother is watching, we all assumed Mom and Dad were out and the eldest was in charge.
These days big bother is everywhere, cameras mounted inside and out, every move we make captured.
Pay phones were on every corner and most of us used them.
These days, you might find four in a five mile radius.
Now, we just reach in our pocket, flip and dial.
So, Next time you stop at a pay phone smile pretty big brothers watching!

My new baby...

2009-08-04T13:18:00.001-05:00

There's a new addtion to our home....

Look what I found at the flea market!

This wonderful little cupboard.

Aged to prim perfection.

Oh Happy Day!

2009-08-04T13:10:00.000-05:00

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood...
Ain't life grand!

All The Little Buckets....

2009-08-01T13:22:00.000-05:00

Fall is in the air !

2009-08-01T11:56:00.000-05:00

Wow, I can't believe it's August.

Summer seems to be flying by, and fall is just around the corner.

There's been a touch of fall in the air all summer long here in north eastern Ohio.

Cool days and crisp nights have made this summer quite delightful!

Since fall is my favorite season, I've enjoyed ever minute of it.

I went to my local flea market this morning and saw these beautiful fresh cut sun flowers.

I had to buy a bouquet....

The Ole' Front Porch

2009-07-31T07:43:00.000-05:00

Three lanterns all in a row.

My husbands favorite spot to sit and watch the world go by.

I love this old chair...great paint!

Spinning wheel and jugs

Perfect place to relax with a good book,preferably full of primitive homes.

Just a side note....

2009-07-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

I would like to say that I do not believe that when my photos were copied and used that the poster did so with ill intent.
In fairness to the poster, she did say she loved the room in general. I just wouldn't use anther's photo's with out permission, and I most definitely wouldn't add a negative comment...but, that's just me!

Not Sure I Like It .....

2009-07-28T06:21:00.000-05:00

A friend told me that she saw a couple pictures from my web site on some one's blog spot.
I went there, and sure enough there they were. Somebody had copied a picture of my keeping room and my friend Carol's dinning room.
Crazy as it may sound I feel a bit violated. Comments made on my keeping room were some what critical.
Seems they don't like my" bench", it's actually a church pew from the early 1800's.
I guess when I post a photo I don't consider the fact it can be copied, used by other's and dissected!

I Think I Found My Niche

2009-07-25T11:48:00.000-05:00

I love taking pictures. I've always had an artistic/creative side. An eye for detail. I remember as a preteen one of my favorite things to do was clean and rearrange my friend's bedrooms.
My posters of Donny Osmond always had to be perfectly arranged...Yes, I loved Donny!
I'm getting off track here!
When I take pictures, it's more about capturing a mood, especially with indoor shots.
I love the way the sunshine's through the window creating shadows and a clam stillness.
So, since I have discovered this new passion of mine I'm sure I'll be posting lots of photos.
Hope you like them as much as I enjoy taking them.

Simplicity

2009-07-25T09:02:00.000-05:00

My Painted Pony...dated 1863

Make -Do Wing Chair

Kitchen Mantel

Plantation Desk

Dinning Room

Cookies and Cake...Oh My !!

2009-07-23T13:58:00.000-05:00

Look what's coming to The Keepingroom tomorrow,

Yummy!

Peanut Butter Cookies dipped in Chocolate

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

and more!

All I Want ......

2009-07-23T13:06:00.001-05:00

I guess we know what's on my Grandson Ethan's Christmas list!