I wanted to start the year off with a bang, instead I'm starting it off with a cough.  I've been in bed since Sunday, and just found out today that I have pheumonia.  That's not easy for me, since I'm used to running around, multi-tasking every day.  But maybe that's why I'm in this position now.  I guess this year I need to start taking better care of me.  I am spending some wonderful down time with my cats.  My big boy, Clarence, hasn't left my side. 

Right now at the shop, we are having a huge sale.  I wanted to really clear out all the old stuff and start fresh for the spring.  One of the trends that I'm seeing, is tent and barn shows that are springing up all over the country.  In the recent issue of  Romantic Country, there was a section about this trend.  The girls at the shop and I have been talking about trying something new.  There is a core group of girls at the shop that are always coming up with new and exciting ideas.  I love being around them, they always inspire me to be better. 

So in the next few weeks my core group of shop girls and myself will be discussing the possibility of having a tent show.  We already have a name for it, "At Home with White".  This is very exciting for all of us.  Now we will be on the hunt for things just for the show.  So stay tune for more info on this upcoming show.

Happy New Year to Everyone

It's hard to believe that another year has come and gone.  It seems the older we get, the quicker time goes by.  I'm so looking forward to this coming year.  There are many exciting plans for the shop.  During the holidays, while you're shopping for family and friends, getting the house decorated, baking and still working at two full time jobs, it is hard to find time to go on buying trips for the shop.  I know it's far away, but I am always thinking about Brimfield, and how exciting and fun it is to be there.  I can't wait to start visiting my favorite shops again and going to the auction and seeing all my old friends.  

I hope this year is filled with much happiness and good health for everyone.  I send all my love and gratitude to everyone who helped to make this past year one to remember, and for a exciting year to come.  Mary Ellen

 

I love Christmas, getting together with family and friends, the baking and yes, even the hustle and bustle of shopping.  But this year it seemed that time just flew and I didn't have enough time to do the things that I love.  So this year we did not even put up our normal tree (for the first time since I can remember).  So my decorating is at best minimal.  I did put up a small aluminum tree, that I placed in an old wood and wire measure.

These skates on a white shutter are on my front door.

These are old cream bottles with fresh greens and antique glass Christmas balls on an ironstone plate.

This sweet angel sits in my foyer.

This is one of a pair of antique wood stocking dryers.  One is on my side door and this one hangs in my living room.  I decorated it with fresh greens, twigs and twine. 

This is an antique wood shovel, that is decorated with fresh greens and sits on my front porch.

This centerpiece sits on my farm table in the kitchen.  I love old silver plate, wire and a touch of glitter.

Most of these pieces I bought at the shop this year.  I'm really getting into this french farmhouse look.   That is what I am going to concentrate on this coming year.  We have some big plans for this coming year at the shop, starting in the spring.  It's very exciting, and we hope that all our loyal customers will enjoy what we are planning.   

I hope that everyone has a Wonderful Christmas and a Healthy and Inspiring New Year.

Love,

Mary Ellen