A Touch of Country with Natalie

We've moved!

2012-01-14T00:55:00.000-06:00

We've moved and changed our name to Little Prairie Girl.

www.littleprairiegirl.wordpress.com

Join us over at our new blog and keep up to date on our barn sales and flea markets. I plan on posting more frequently and I'd love to have you beside me at the new site.

Hugs,
Natalie

Christmas Past 2006

2011-12-11T01:42:00.000-06:00

Just found these photos from our previous Arts & Crafts Home from 2006. Sorry this is a quick post and not very orderly...but enjoy and I hope you get some inspiration!

looking for a web designer

2011-12-09T23:13:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone! I am currently looking for a website designer for my new website. I finally decided to take the plunge and RE-OPEN a gift shop...BUT this time it's gonna be in our big old barn. How exciting! I previously owned a home furnishings & gift shop for nearly 15 years, then rented boutique space for the next 5 years, then took a short break and NOW finally gonna do what my heart is pulling me to do.

It'll feature new, handmade, vintage & antiques. I will also have booth space to rent out creative artists and craftsment for the weekends that I am open....roughly every 6 weeks I'll be open for 2 or 3 days. I want the feel to resemble Barn House Boys, Queen of Tarte, and so on.

I just bought my web domain and now I need someone to make it saw WOW to potential customers & friends.

Do you have any web designer recommendations? It'll house my blog, and have links to my facebook, and pinterest accounts.

Thanks! Oh and on a cheap budget, hubs isn't very supportive right now but he will be once the moola starts rolling in from all those barn sales...lol~!

Hugs,
Natalie

Christmas ideas

2011-12-04T12:08:00.001-06:00

Today is Grundy Center’s Tour of Homes so I thought I’d share some holiday inspiration to get us all going to create wonders!

2011-12-04T11:57:00.001-06:00

Flaunt it friday!

2011-11-11T12:20:00.000-06:00

Flaunt it friday on Chic on a Shoestring Decorating! Go check out all the fabulous ideas! Be prepared to spend hours!

Hugs,
Natalie

It's Tuesday To Do day

2011-11-08T00:19:00.000-06:00

It's Tuesday To Do day The Blackberry Vine

Click here if you missed my post on my new mudroom. You won't believe the transformation!

If you want to join in on Tuesday To Do Party Click on The Blackberry Vine link above. Have fun!

Bedroom turned Mudroom Reveal

2011-11-07T12:35:00.000-06:00

Shelf area above my new washer & dryers! Lots of antique silver, milk glass, & old dust pans!

Love our new door and window. There used to be NO door here, just a wall! It allows us to head right outside to the machine shed and keeps the dirt in the mudroom and not the main entry of our house! Love this!

Ikea Baskets & green boxes. Glass jars hold laundry soap, softener & bleach.

Square glass jar and slver bowl on pedestal hold money found in pockets! Sink & tall faucet from Ikea. My milk glass vases are ready for fresh cut flowers & greenery from the garden. I can't wait to fill these with fresh Iowa pine greens.

Do you like my new mudroom?

For a refresher...this is what it used to look like....

To the right of this photo is where the headboard was...now it is my new washer/dryer area!

Window & wall before new door


Closet...stay tuned of how I turned it into a pantry!

So I ask once again, Do you like my new mudroom?

Hugs,
Natalie

2011-11-04T13:15:00.001-05:00

Oh my...this recipe is straight from Heaven...oh

wait...I guess it's really from THE PIONEER WOMAN.

It's DIVINE!

Would you believe me if I told you in my 41

years of life I have NEVER made homemade

macaroni & cheese? Yep just the old Kraft

brand and my senses have now been

AWAKENED!

Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

4 cups Dried Macaroni
1 whole Egg Beaten
¼ cups (1/2 Stick Or 4 Tablespoons) Butter
¼ cups All-purpose Flour
2-½ cups Whole Milk
2 teaspoons (heaping) Dry Mustard, More If Desired
1 pound Cheese, Grated
½ teaspoons Salt, More To Taste
½ teaspoons Seasoned Salt, More To Taste
½ teaspoons Ground Black Pepper
Optional Spices: Cayenne Pepper, Paprika, Thyme (Yes Natalie added these all buy the thyme)

Preparation Instructions

Cook macaroni until very firm. Macaroni should be too firm to eat right out of the pot. Drain.
In a small bowl, beat egg.

In a large pot, melt butter and sprinkle in flour. Whisk together over medium-low heat. Cook mixture for five minutes, whisking constantly. Don’t let it burn.

Pour in milk, add mustard, and whisk until smooth. Cook for five minutes until very thick. Reduce heat to low.

Take 1/4 cup of the sauce and slowly pour it into beaten egg, whisking constantly to avoid cooking eggs. Whisk together till smooth.

Pour egg mixture into sauce, whisking constantly. Stir until smooth.

Add in cheese and stir to melt.

Add salt and pepper. Taste sauce and add more salt and seasoned salt as needed! DO NOT UNDERSALT.

Pour in drained, cooked macaroni and stir to combine.

Serve immediately (very creamy) or pour into a buttered baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Special note from Natalie: I added dry bread crumbs on top before baking with a drizzle of butter. YUM!

Paradise in the Fall in Iowa

2011-10-27T16:40:00.000-05:00

Beautiful end of fall season shot taken at Paradise Valley Campground near Garnivillo, IA.

Old stone bride found on the site...love the intricate detail of the stone work with the beauty of fallen tree trunks and leaves surrounding it.

Little Jay playing in the stream...(my friend's son). He is so precious!

Teddy Bear Snack Mix

2011-10-25T13:15:00.000-05:00

I first made this recipe years ago for a supper swap group. We we were making snacks. I package this up in small snack size ziplock bags so it's a grab & go snack. You will be making this time and time again, so I would double it the first time!

Enjoy,

Natalie

Ingredients

2 cups ramen noodles, crushed
5 cups Golden Grahams cereal
3 cups bear shaped graham crackers
1 cup peanuts or 1 cup sliced almonds
1 cup raisins
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup honey
1 teaspoon orange juice

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Discard seasoning package from ramen noodles.
In a large bowl, mix together noodles, cereal, teddy bear cookies, nuts and raisins.
In a 4 cup glass measure, combine cinnamon, honey, butter and orange juice.
Heat in microwave until melted and well mixed.
Pour this mixture over the cereal mixture.
Toss to coat well.
Spread into a large rimmed baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, stirring once.
Remove from oven and cool.
Package in individual baggies, about 1/2 cup per baggie.

Who Are You?

2011-10-25T12:47:00.003-05:00

www.nightowlcrafting.blogspot.com
1. Do you like the season, Fall?
2. What is your favorite fall smell?
3, What is your favorite activity to do in the fall?
4. Do you dress in fall colors during the season?
5. Name 4 qualities about yourself that start with each letter in the word FALL!
(It's ok to brag yourself up)

Here are my answers!

1. Do you like the season, Fall?
My absolute favorite time of the year. The sights, the smells and the sounds.

2. What is your favorite fall smell?
cloves, cinnamon & pumpkin mixed together

3, What is your favorite activity to do in the fall?
Sitting by a bonfire towards dusk admiring God's beautiful show of colors.

www.nightowlcrafting.blogspot.com4. Do you dress in fall colors during the season?

I wear these colors year round with my skin tone..orange, red, green, chocolates

5. Name 4 qualities about yourself that start with each letter in the word FALL!

(It's ok to brag yourself up)

F~ un

A~uthentic

L~augable

L ~oveable

Now it is your turn to play along!!!! Click on the owl and come play!

Fall Kitchen Island centerpiece in 5 minutes or less!

2011-10-23T20:40:00.002-05:00

Not wanting to dig thru the attic this year dragging out all my fall decorating so I came up with this 5 minute idea.
Yes behind this grouping you get a sneak peek of my newly remodeled kitchen that I will post about soon!
First I placed a Pottery Barn rectangle cutting board. Then I set one faux pumpkin and gourd. Behind that I placed an antique amber glass and filled it with pheasant feathers the kids have collected along with my brother over the years…thanks guys!
To the left I placed my Taste of Home Entertaining Glass Hurricane and filled it with crushed up wine corks I bought at The Little Red School House in Independence, Iowa. I nestled down inside the corks a Bath & Body Works fall spiced candle.

To finish it off I scattered faux leaves from Crate & Barrel and some more of my pheasant feathers. That’s it…very easy and simple!

Hugs,
Natalie

You need to make this wreath....

2011-10-17T19:49:00.002-05:00

The Magic of Ordinary Things made this fabulous wreath using fabric scraps....yes I said fabric scraps! You need to go check her blog out for the tutorial on how to make this MUST HAVE wreath for Fall.

Enjoy!

Natalie

Fall decorating inspiration

2011-10-17T19:43:00.000-05:00

Want to see a bedroom turn into a mudroom? Stay tuned..you won’t believe your eyes!

2011-10-11T17:07:00.001-05:00

Since I am bed-ridden right now with back problems, I thought I would show you how we took this ugly, bachelor pad bedroom and turned it into a multi-functional mudroom for a family of 5.

I've been featured on Tip Junkie!

2010-05-20T09:09:00.004-05:00

Check this article out for my pound cake recipe great for Memorial Day too!

http://nataliemeester.blogspot.com/label/patriotic">This article gives you an idea for some great Patriotic Coasters.

If you'd like a daily dose of creative inspiration, please subscribe to Tip Junkie!

Fast Family Fajitas by Pampered Chef

2010-05-19T07:57:00.000-05:00

Fast Family Fajitas

1 medium green bell pepper
1 medium red bell pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 4 ounces each)
2 teaspoons vegetable oil, divided
1 garlic clove, pressed
1 envelope Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup salsa
12 (7-8 inch) flour tortillas, warmed

Optional toppings: guacamole, additional salsa, shredded Colby &
Monterey Jack cheese blend and sour cream

Cut bell peppers into 1/2-inch strips using Utility Knife. Cut
chicken crosswise into thin strips.

Heat Stir-Fry Skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of the
oil and chicken. Stir-fry 3-4 minutes or until chicken is no longer
pink. Remove from skillet; set aside. Add remaining oil, bell peppers
and garlic pressed with Garlic Press; stir-fry 1-2 minutes or until
vegetables are crisp-tender.

Add chicken, soup mix, water and salsa to bell pepper mixture. Cook
and stir 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

To serve, place chicken mixture in center of tortillas. Serve with
toppings, if desired.

Yield: 6 servings

Nutrients per serving: Calories 450, Total Fat 10 g, Saturated Fat 2 g,
Cholesterol 45 mg, Carbohydrate 61 g, Protein 27 g, Sodium 1080 mg,
Fiber 4 g

Cook's Tip: To heat tortillas in microwave oven, place tortillas in
Large Micro-Cooker(R). Microwave, covered, on HIGH 1 1/2-2 minutes or
until heated though.

To heat tortillas in conventional oven, preheat oven to 350°F. Place
tortillas, slightly overlapping, on Large Round Stone. Bake 5 minutes
or until warm.

Serving a large crowd? Create a fajita bar using Simple Additions(TM).
Place chicken and vegetable mixture in Medium Bowl. Place guacamole,
salsa, shredded cheese and sour cream in Small Bowls. Cut tortillas in
half; arrange tortillas and bowls on Large Square Platter and serve.

Bacon Ranch Potato Casserole

2010-05-17T20:00:00.003-05:00

Ranch Potato Casserole

8 large potatoes
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 stick (1/2 cup) margarine
1 small bottle ranch dressing
1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
7 or 8 slices of bacon
1/4 cup melted margarine or butter
1 cup crushed cornflakes

Peel or leave skins on potatoes. Wash and cut into chunks or wedges. Boil for 20 minutes in water or until tender. Do not overcook. Drain.

Put into a casserole with remaining ingredients, except bacon, and toss lightly.

Cook bacon until crisp. Cut into pieces and sprinkle bacon pieces on top.

Melt 1/4 cup butter or margarine and add 1 cup crushed cornflakes to melted butter. Sprinkle on top of bacon. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes.

Confetti Pasta Salad by Pampered Chef

2010-05-17T19:55:00.001-05:00

Confetti Pasta Salad
Posted by Mary Ellen

1 pkg (9 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
1 Cup EACH cauliflower and broccoli
2 medium carrots
1 tsp hot pepper sauce (optional)
1 garlic clove
4 green onions
1/2 Cup fat-free Italian salad dressing (I use regular as my kids don't
like the fat-free stuff)
1/2 cup fresh parmesan cheese (in block)

Prepare tortellini according to directions in Generation II 3-Qt Saucepan. Drain and rinse pasta under cold water using 5 3/4 Qt Colander. Place tortellini in 4 Qt bowl.

Peel carrots with vegetable peeler. Score down the sides with Lemon Zester/scorer then cut into thin slices using Ultimate slice and grate. Chop broccoli and cauliflower with Food Chopper.

Slice green onion with 8" Chef's Knife. Add vegetables to tortellini and toss with salad dressing. Press garlic into bowl using Garlic Press. Grate Parmesan over salad using Deluxe Cheese Grater.

Toss lightly to combine. Serve with 3-Way Tongs.

needing help

2010-04-10T12:10:00.002-05:00

Hello bloggers,

We are redoing our laundry room soon and a few years ago I came across a photo of a black and white vintage inspired laundry room.

She had slim cupboards built into several walls and I am guessing they were about 6" deep and lined them with pegboard and shelves inside to hold paint cans, paintbrushes, tools, dog leashes etc. They were built out of wainscotting and had large iron strap hinges I think on the outside.

The washer and dryer were an under counter model topped with a counter top and I think a ticking curtain hiding them. Vintage dog prints were on the walls and an industrial wall light on each side.

Does anyone know where to find this photo and the source? I am wanting to built something similar to this in our back entry way to hold tools, cans of paint, etc.

I've tried searching and am having no luck.

Taco Ring

2010-03-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

My husband and kids REALLY love this recipe and I serve it ever few months. It's easy to mix it up and try different toppings and meat. For example you could substitute chicken or turkey.

1 lb lean ground beef
1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 ounces) Yes I always use more...love my cheese!
2 tablespoons water
2 (8 ounce) packages refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
1 medium bell pepper
1 cup salsa
3 cups lettuce shredded
1 medium tomato
1/4 cup onion, chopped (optional)
1/2 cup pitted ripe black olives (optional)
sour cream (optional)

Cook ground beef in large skillet over medium heat 7-9 minutes or until beef is no longer pink; drain.

Remove pan from heat.

Stir in taco seasoning mix, cheese and water.

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Unroll crescent dough; separate into triangles.

Arrange triangles in a circle on a round pizza pan with wide ends overlapping in center and points toward outside. (There should be a 5 inch diameter opening in center.)

Scoop meat mixture evenly onto widest end of each triangles up over filling and tuck under wide ends of dough at center of ring. (Filling will not be completely covered).

Bake at 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Shred lettuce and chop tomato, onion, olives, and bell pepper (if desired).

If you want to do something fancy, scoop out a bell pepper and fill with salsa and put into center of ring.

Add your toppings to middle of ring and finish with more shredded cheese and sour cream.

BLT Pizza

2010-03-24T22:26:00.002-05:00

This easy recipe is getting me in the mood for fresh produce from my garden and farmer's markets....hurry up spring & summer!

Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato Pizza

Source: The Pampered Chef

1 (10 ounce) package refrigerated pizza dough
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 pound bacon cooked, drained and crumbled
1 cup shredded lettuce (Romaine is best)
1 medium tomato, chopped
1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup green onion slices

Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Place pizza dough on flat stone of your choice. Roll dough to fit stone. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven; cool completely.

Spread mayonnaise evenly onto crust. Sprinkle with bacon. Top with lettuce, tomato, cheese and onion. Cut into wedges to serve.

10 regular servings; 20 bite size servings
Blt Pizza

Have you ever been to Bachman's in Minnesota?

2010-03-21T23:36:00.000-05:00

I recently just found Bachman's from the blog post over at the Junk Camp Blog with Ki. Bachman's is a floral, gift & garden shop all in one! Thanks Ki for letting us all know where to find fabulous gardening and gifts.
To help celebrate our 125th year, they are transforming a 1920’s home, located on the site of the original Lyndale Avenue Bachman family farm, into a seasonal Ideas House. The home will open in the spring, summer, fall and over the holidays - each room to change with each season.

Bachman's Spring Ideas House will be open for tours between April 8-18 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) and May 1-2. Tickets are $5 each with 20% of all proceeds benefiting Children's Home Society & Family Services. In addition, all guests will receive a coupon for $5 off their purchase of $25 or more at Bachman's.

Also you need to check out this great article from the Homegirls blog via The Star Tribune.

Eye Candy I bought for my new kitchen

2010-03-20T22:59:00.004-05:00

From Ebay I ordered from Mexico a hand hammered deep farmhouse sink in copper and a hand hammered square sink for our prep sink.
Look at these beautiful adjustable swivel iron bar stools from Wisteria. They are called Cooper's Small Draftsman Stool and it lists the information as follows:

This faithful copy of an iron draftsman stool from France in the early 1900s makes a great stool, and in our house, is Cooper’s favorite. Made with authentic vintage engineering.

Sleek finish
Inspired by a French draftsman stool
Functional design

They will be perfect for all the various ages of children in our home. They can raise, lower, and make themselves dizzy till their heart's content!

2010-03-11T20:38:00.000-06:00

Butterfinger Coffeecake

1/4 c. margarine, softened
2 c. flour
1/2 c. sugar
1 c. brown sugar, packed
1 c. buttermilk (can use the instant mix also)
1 egg
1 tsp. Baking Soda
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
6 Butterfinger Candy bars
1/2 cup chopped nuts, optional

In a large bowl, cream margarine, flour, & sugars. Reserve half of cup for later. Beat in buttermilk, egg, baking soda, and vanilla; mix well. Pour batter into a greased 9x13 pan. Crush candy bars with the reserved crumbly mixture and optional nuts. Sprinkle mixture over batter and bake in a preheated oven at 350* for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Serves 12

Stuffed French Loaf

2010-03-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

1 loaf French Bread

10 oz. Swiss cheese

1/2 lb. shaved roast beef

1/2 lb. shaved ham or turkey

1 stick butter, melted

2 tsp. poppy seeds

2 tsp. minced onion

¾ tsp. Lawry's salt

1/2 tsp. lemon juice

1 tsp. dry mustard

Cut open French loaf and layer cheese and meats evenly over bread. Close loaf. Place on foil and carefully cut into serving size pieces being careful not to cut through tin foil. Mix butter and seasonings; pour over top crust. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes.

I like to serve this with a light pasta salad.

Spring Centerpiece

2010-03-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

A round serving tray is displayed with a white church birdhouse, a green polka dot vase is filled with mini tulips and daffodils. Use a bowl filled with water and float tealight candles for added ambience. Break the rules and light candles during the day...it's your home after all and no one else's!

A few blue hydrangea heads are placed amongst the grouping.

This centerpiece is easy to pick up and move around the home. The coffee table this week, the kitchen bar next week and maybe the dining room table for a quick Easter centerpiece. For Easter I would add a cross to the grouping.

Wanting to try this yummy recipe this week...won't you join me?

2010-03-07T20:07:00.004-06:00

Asian Lettuce Wraps

2 teaspoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (or chicken)
1 cup minced mushrooms
1 8 oz. can water chestnuts, minced
1/2 cup minced green onions
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 lemon, zested and then juiced.
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/3 cup chopped cilantro
1 head iceberg lettuce
*Dipping Sauce recipe to follow

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot add minced garlic and ginger. Saute for a minute just until fragrant and then add in the ground chicken, minced mushrooms, and salt. Cook until turkey or chicken is cooked through.

Add in the water chestnuts and green onions. Cook for a few minutes until cabbage starts to wilt. Add in the soy sauce, sesame oil, juice and zest from the lemon, and hot sauce. When everything is cooked through, remove from heat and stir in the cilantro.

To serve, carefully separate the whole leaves from the lettuce. Wash the lettuce leaves and wrap them in paper towels and put them in the refrigerator so they are cold and crisp when serving. Spoon meat filling onto the lettuce leaf and then roll it up and serve with dipping sauce below- or any other favorite Asian dipping sauce.

Lettuce Wrap Dipping Sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/8 cup seasoned rice vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger
2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Combine all ingredients and serve with lettuce wraps.

Recipe makes 6-8 servings.

2010-03-05T01:05:00.006-06:00

Fill a mason jar with some perky daffodils, tie on a burlap ribbon accented with a spring green bow. Fill jar with water and add limes or lemons for added interest.

Got this photo from Blondie. Check out her fabulous blog to get some great inspiration. She's a real sweetie too!

Cheese & Mushroom Stuffed Meatloaf

2010-03-05T00:51:00.002-06:00

Cheese and Mushroom Stuffed Meatloaf

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

8 ounces mushrooms, sliced

1 1/2 pounds ground beef

2/3 cup fresh bread crumbs

1/2 cup minced fresh parsley

1/4 cup ketchup

1 egg beaten to blend

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled

1/4 teaspoon dried sage, ground or crumbled

1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese

Heat oil in heavy skillet over medium heat. Add onion and saute until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are golden brown and liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally, about 7 minutes. Cool.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix beef and next eight ingredients in large bowl, until well blended. Turn out onto large square of plastic wrap. Pat into 9- by 12-inch rectangle. Spread mushroom filling over rectangle, leaving 1/2-inch border on all sides. Cover mushrooms evenly with cheese.

Starting at one end, roll meat up jelly-roll-fashion, using the plastic wrap as a guide. Arrange seam side down in a 9- by 5-inch loaf pan. (Can be prepared six hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate at this point).

Bake until loaf shrinks from side of pan and browns (about 1 hour). Pour off any drippings. Gently turn out loaf and let stand for 10 minutes. Cut into slices and serve.

FREEZER COOKING NOTE: You can also make this up but do not bake. Simply roll up and place in a disposal tinfoil loaf pan and freeze. Thaw in refrigerator the day before you wish to bake it.

Zuppa Tuscana Soup just like The Olive Garden

2010-01-18T16:40:00.003-06:00

1 lb bacon

1 lb Italian sausage or bulk sausage of your choice

4-6 potatoes, diced

1 onion, chopped

2 tbsp. minced garlic

6 cups chicken stock (you can easily replace some with water as you have available – I used 4 cups stock, 2 cups water)

2 cups heavy cream (whole milk can be substituted)

1 head of kale (5-6 leaves, as desired), chopped

salt and pepper, to taste

Parmesan cheese

In a small pan, cook the bacon. Cool and crumble. In a large pot, cook the sausage, onions, and garlic until the sausage has browned. Add the potatoes and stock and bring to a boil. Once it has reached a boil, turn it down to low and simmer for 20 minutes or so, just until the potatoes are tender. Add the cream, kale, and bacon and allow to cook for 5-10 minutes. Season to taste. Top with parmesan cheese for extra flavor! Enjoy! Makes 6-8 servings. Freezes well.

Beautiful winter white morning

2010-01-17T10:38:00.000-06:00

I awoke Saturday morning to the trees on our farm
covered in a winter white fuzzy wonderland.

The colors on these photos is not altered one bit. It is the colors
I saw...everything white, grey & fuzzy. Even the beautiful sky.

2010-01-14T20:45:00.000-06:00

Random cuteness of Jumbi our baby kitten that is supposed to be outside! Shadow, the black & white cat is checking him out saying "I don't believe you're supposed to be here...this is my territory!"

Jumbi in my olive jar

Fat cat, Shadow telling me I don't think this is too cool Mom!

Anna on Christmas Day

2010-01-14T20:39:00.000-06:00

I can't believe that I found this pretty dress at Goodwill this summer
for $2.95! Woo Hoo! All I added to the outfit was a white turtleneck for $3.99
from Target, her white tights and little black shoes.

Isn't she the most precious little thing?

She is always begging me to let her wear a dress. She is constantly dragging out
summer dresses and demanding she wear them to school this winter!

Lucky for me Grandma Sandy made her up a few skirts to wear. I'll post photos of those soon.

Christmas Decor Our Home

2010-01-14T20:01:00.003-06:00

Christmas Eve Our Home 2009

2010-01-14T19:45:00.005-06:00

Nell Hill's christmas inspiration

2009-12-23T12:28:00.004-06:00

I didn't get to Nell Hill's this year to see her ideas, but here are some inspiration from previous year.

Winter Blizzard

2009-12-23T11:35:00.005-06:00

On December 10, 2009 we were hit with our first snowfall and it was a BLIZZARD!

Here are some photos to show how much snow we got.

Kevin was unable to get to work for 2 days.

Trimming the tree

2009-12-23T11:29:00.001-06:00

Tjaden, Zach & Anna trimming the tree.

Making Fresh Evergreen Wreaths

2009-12-23T11:04:00.006-06:00

My sweet husband trimming the tree branches from our windbreak of trees.

I bought him a brand new chainsaw to help make the job go a little easier.

We filled a pickup box full of cedar and blue spruce pine.

Kristie gathering her greens.

Sorry this photo is turned sideways, but it shows the copper, gold and burgundy colors in this wreath I gave to our pastor and his wife to welcome in the Christmas Season.

I made this wreath with a red bow, added pinecones, and red twigs from our dogwood bush. I gave this to Kristle who has been hosting our weekly Plan N Share.

The drop swag on the right features a fun red and olive green ribbon and pinecones. My parents have this now hanging on their front door welcoming friends & family.

Kristie and I holding our completed wreaths.

These are the products I used to create these masterpieces. Simply lay a sprig of green on the wire base, wrap around the stem with paddle wire, securing it to the base. Next add another sprig of green slightly overlapping the first one. Wire with paddle wire and continue all the way around your wreath.
When finished, wire in pinecones, ornaments and finish off with a bow.

Very easy and the greens were FREE!

What can you do with colored popcorn?

2009-10-19T19:25:00.001-05:00

What can you do with colored popcorn? Put it in a curvy glass jar that's what!

If you can't find colored popcorn, twist off the kernels from indian corn. I like to sprinkle cinnamon oil on it them to give my home a pleasant scent. Insert a candle and enjoy the ambiance.

Another so simple project you can do!

Dough Bowl

2009-10-19T19:20:00.000-05:00

Here is my treasured old dough bowl which reminds my husband of a pig trough!

Anyhoo, here I have it displayed with an abundance of God's fall creations...gourds, pumpkins & fall leaves.

So simple to throw together, just pluck and plunk.

Front Door Fall Beauty

2009-10-19T19:13:00.000-05:00

This is a beautiful front doorway all decked out for Fall.

It is from an old Southern Living At HOME catalog and I think it is stunning!

Big & Juicy Apples

2009-10-19T19:10:00.001-05:00

Do you have an abundance of apples?

Well why not display them in a pretty container that has been nestled with burlap or muslin fabric. Insert a fall colored pillar candle in a warm and inviting scent like caramel apple. Tie a coordinating ribbon around pillar top that is out of the way of the flame!

Make small 3 inch tufts of ribbon and poke in randomly for added color and texture.

This might make you want to eat healthy! After all these are so gorgeous and tempting, aren't they?!

Fall Blessings,

Natalie

God's bountiful beauty

2009-10-15T15:58:00.002-05:00

Here is a photo I thought you might enjoy. It's taken from our old home that I truly do miss. It was a big old Arts & Crafts Style Home.

In the bay window in front of the kitchen sink I displayed my old goose surrounded by bittersweet vines, twigs, mini pumpkins, gourds and tiny rice lights.

So simple & easy but so beautiful at the same time. Just proves that you don't need a lot of stuff to make a beautiful display!

God provided me with everything but the lights & the goose both of which I have had for years!

Do you have something similar you'd like to share?

Do you likey?

Rise & Shine Women's Retreat with Proverbs 31 ministries speaker, Renee Swope

2009-09-28T19:42:00.006-05:00

Renee Swope with Proverbs 31 Ministries will be in IOWA!!!

Saturday, October 31
Time: 9am to 3pm
Where: Orchard Hill Church, Cedar Falls, Iowa

Designed to:
Encourage you to "rise" up to who God created you to be.
Refresh you on your walk of faith.
Renew your strength to "shine" His light.

This event is open to women of all ages, in all stages and from all places!

Click for more information: Rise & Shine Retreat

2009-09-22T13:02:00.002-05:00

Fall inspiration at my boutique

2009-09-18T22:27:00.002-05:00

1st Day of School Standing by Our Barn

2009-09-18T22:23:00.002-05:00

1st Day of School 2009

2009-09-18T22:23:00.000-05:00

Zach, age 16
Anna, age 5
Tjaden, age 9

Front entryway in our home

2009-09-18T21:44:00.004-05:00

Here are some pictures of our redesigned entry way we just completed.

I had been collecting vintage swim baskets for years and used 6 of them here on these two shelves. I lined them with burlap feed sacks to hide all my extra junk so my guests think I am organized...hee...hee!

My husband, Kevin and my oldest son, Zach did all the woodworking out of old barn lumber we had stored away. Nothing is better than FREE right?!

The top two shelves are 13 1/2 " deep and 42" wide and are supported by wooden cleats.

Below these two shelves is a picture ledge that is 4" deep. Currently it's holding black and white photography, a milk glass hobnail vase with boxwood, a bronze number 8 that I picked up at Lowe's on clearance for 25 cents. Also shown is 2 oyster shell votive glass with battery operated tea light candles for nighttime ambiance and nothing says welcome that a "burning candle" they see from the outside. A 5" architectural barn star is peeking out from behind one of the photos.

Below the picture ledge we used a 12" board. On this board we screwed in 4 coat hooks from Lowe's that are in an old rubbed bronze finish. An old wooden wheel is hanging from one hook.

I picked up this rectangular pillow from Goodwill for $1.75 that I plan on recovering in a vintage feed sack or burlap with some numbers stenciled on it.

The pillow is setting on a bench that is 22" deep. They used two boards to create this depth which is perfect for displaying seasonal items in the corner while yet plenty of room for guests to have a seat to take their shoes off.

Below the bench are two metal baskets with handles, which are perfect for all those shoes that accumulate and keeps the entryway floor nice & neat. No need to fumble over all those shoes trying to get to the front door!

I am leaving them unlined so when they have snow or rain on their shoes they can drip off onto the linoleum "wooden" floor.

Hope you enjoyed our new redesigned entry way. It is great to have everything nice & neat and well displayed.

Funky, Fun, Fresh Interior Designer

2009-07-19T21:09:00.005-05:00

John Jacob Interiors

Photo 1:
Love the round wooden architectural pieces behind the sofa.

A large coffee table with lots of room for books, shells, lion heads, and greenery.

Photo 2:

Exposed timbers and glass vases are stunning.

Photo 3:
Pitchforks hang on the back wall and old clock parts hang in rustic triple frames.

Photo 4:

Love the ironstone plates on the wall.

The transom window over the french doors give added light.

Photo 5:

I heart the old wagon wheels that take up some space in this lofty room.

Shiver me timbers....

2009-07-19T20:52:00.005-05:00

I love the timber beams and iron supports.

The arched window over the patio door mimics the arch in the fireplace opening.

This makes me drool....slurp!

Wood and iron railing. Very simple, very stunning.

Love the stonework and timber in this living room.

The timber beams have a slight arch just like the fireplace opening.

The horizontal straps on the wooden posts really give it a rustic character. Lots of wood going on, but yet it still feels open and airy with all those windows!

Beautiful Homes & Garages near Briar Cliff Village in Kansas

2009-07-13T19:08:00.002-05:00

Doing some drive by shooting...camera shooting that is!!

Here are some lovely homes near the Briar Cliff Village in Kansas.

Look at this neat walkway bridge...a flowing stream is below it. Love all the stone work.

Look at these stone arches...beautiful!

I love the architectural details in this front facade of the home.

Love the small brick arches over the windows of this garage. This garage reminds me of a carriage house. I love the brackets on the front of the garage under the roofline. The iron brackets on the garage doors make it look more carriage like.

Got a few spare windows?

2009-07-13T14:24:00.006-05:00

If you have a few spare windows lying around..why not hang them!

Here they are suspended on picture hanging wire.

One is used for the shelf with which to put all sorts of pretties on it. Love the white birdcage!

The second window is hung as the vignette's backdrop.

summer fun

2009-07-13T14:16:00.004-05:00

It's Mosiac Monday...Join us the Little Red House

It's so juicy Mom!

2009-07-13T14:10:00.002-05:00

Crystal Lake Camping Trip

2009-07-13T13:30:00.009-05:00

Crystal Lake, Iowa
World's Largest Bullhead!

Anna freezing after getting out of the water.

Photo 1: Chase, Tjaden & Anna building a pirate fort on the beach.

Photo 2: Crystal Lake at dusk...isn't it peaceful and pretty?

Photo 3: Anna getting ready to watch the fireworks.

Fruit Pizza

2009-07-13T13:08:00.004-05:00

On our recent camping trip to Crystal Lake my mom and I made fruit pizza.

It was a great refreshing treat on a hot summer day.

See recipe on bottom of post.

Here it is all dressed up with a small flag.

FRUIT PIZZA

1 roll of sugar cookie dough
8 oz. cream cheese
2 Tbsp. milk
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups Cool Whip
Assortment of fresh fruit like kiwi, grapes, strawberries, blueberries

Press cookie dough onto a round pizza pan and bake as directed. Let cool.

Next beat cream cheese, milk, sugar until creamy. Fold in Cool Whip. Spread this mixture onto cooled cookie crust and then top with fresh fruit.

Drizzle glaze over fruit to help keep it from browning and to give some added flavor.

GLAZE:

1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup lemon juice

Cook above 3 ingredients until thick. Let cool and spread over fruit topped pizza.

NOTE: any type of fresh fruit works. We also love bananas, pineapple, peaches. Mix it up or use what you have on hand.

My little boy's accident

2009-07-13T12:56:00.003-05:00

Tjaden, age 9
Tjaden suffered from heat exhaustion 2 weeks ago. He passed out on the walking across the street of all places!

Luckily my nephew was nearby and scooped him up quickly and brought him to me. Tjaden had been at the pool for 2 long HOT days and got dehydrated.

Took him to the doctor, actually carried him as he was so weak. Dr. Osgood did some blood and lab work and found out he was severely dehydrated and fighting a virus. They hooked him up to a I.V. and started fluids right there in the doctor's office...I didn't know they did that there...thought you had to go to a hospital.

After a bag of fluids and rest, he was released with strict orders to REST, DRINK & NO PLAY for a few days!

I guess now we have to watch him carefully around the heat as he can easily get it again. Once you get heat exhaustion, it easily comes back.

He had a nasty road burn on his shoulder but I didn't get photos of that. Poor little guy!

Natalie's Buttery Herbed Baked Fish

2009-07-10T11:14:00.002-05:00

Here is a recipe I love to serve my family. We even made it last weekend over the open fire grill at our campground site.

Bake in the oven, or bake over your campfire in a cast iron skillet.

1/2 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. garlic salt
1/2 tsp. dried basil
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
2/3 cup saltine crackers, crushed
1/3 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
1 lb. fish fillets (if frozen then thaw, separate and drain)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small dish, melt butter. In another dish, combine other ingredients except for fish.

Dip fish fillets into melted butter and then into crumb mixture, coating each piece of fish on both sides.

Arrange in a 9 x 13 baking dish and bake near center of oven for 25-30 minutes or until flaky. I sometimes throw the extra crumb mixture in the pan to bake as it is so good!

Serves 2-3 people.

Of course---I double this recipe!

Family mission statement

2009-07-10T09:44:00.003-05:00

I am following Tsh with Simple Mom with a series called Back to the Basics. She shared with us her family's mission statement which I posted below. We are working on ours and will post it soon. I love how Tsh's family knows precisely their mission, the steps to achieve it, and if anything comes up that may alter their paths, they can easily reread their mission statement and realign themselves.

What's your mission statement? Please share with me.

Our Family’s Mission Statement

As a family, we want to glorify God in all we say, do, and are. We will…

Put each other first.
Cultivate deep relationships with one another.
Extend love to those around us.
Live simply.
Be true to who God made us.
Take care of our health.
Be good stewards of creation.
Be lifelong learners.

Within our basic mission statement, my husband and I have created some goals for the rest of this year that reflect our pursuit of this mission. I’ve shared just a few of them below.

Our Mission Statement, with a Few of our Goals

As a family, we want to glorify God in all we say, do, and are. We will…

• Put each other first.

diligently do our chores without complaining
help each other as we see a need
take each other’s emotions seriously
be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry

• Cultivate deep relationships with one another.

eat almost every breakfast and dinner together
go on regular dates as a couple
spend one-on-one time regularly, each parent with each kid
guard our outside commitments, and do our best to keep four nights per week unscheduled

• Extend love to those around us.

keep our home tidy enough to welcome spontaneous guests
have two families, couples, or individuals over for a meal per month
regularly communicate with our friends scattered worldwide
cultivate a heart of grace, so that we do not judge others

• Live simply.

remain debt-free
finish our emergency fund by fall ‘09
provide enough time for each of us to pursue one hobby
make homemaking a priority, taking care to plan ahead for things (budgeting, meal planning, etc.)
generally pursue excellence as we steward our time, talents, and treasures

• Be true to who God made us.

regularly spend time with God through the Word and in prayer
pray for each other often
provide ample room for each other’s interests
encourage excellence in godly pursuits

• Take care of our health.

Eat food our bodies were designed to eat
Eat most of our meals at home
Move physically at least once a day
Spend time together actively
Vigorously protect the boundaries of bedtimes, for children and adults

• Be good stewards of creation.

Spend time outside as a family at least once a week
Do what we can to be good stewards of the environment
Take a vacation, and make sure that much of it involves the outdoors
Enjoy nature in everyday life with things like gardening and neighborhood walks

• Be lifelong learners.

Regularly read quality books
Learn new things together as a family
Take care to enjoy only quality books, movies, and other forms of entertainment
Understand the times in which we live, and keep abreast on what God is doing worldwide

Cheri's having a giveaway!

2009-07-06T08:50:00.001-05:00

Click on this button to take you to Cheri's blog to see all the goodies and how you can win.

Happy Summer!

I Scream You Scream We all Scream for Ice Cream

2009-06-28T21:28:00.002-05:00

Mmmm, ice cream...good till the last lick!

Sorry Mom, I just had to post this it was TOO funny that Zach captured this photo!

Is your life beautiful?

2009-06-28T14:10:00.002-05:00

I have been devouring my latest issue of Life:Beautiful magazine and encourage you to subscribe to it. It is a Christian Based magazine and I copied this information below from their website. I have treasured each and every issue and KEEP them all to refer back to. Very uplifting, informative, and educational.

Check it out for yourself! Drop me a line if you already subscribe to this and your thoughts OR let me know if you sign up I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Take time to enjoy the simple things in life and what really matters.

Life: Beautiful Magazine

Mission:

Life:Beautiful is a national, inter-denominational, Christian lifestyle magazine that celebrates an active, integrated faith. Built on a foundation of biblical teaching and encouragement for spiritual growth, Life:Beautiful offers relevant information and community for Christian women.

The pages of Life:Beautiful showcase everyday experiences and activities, such as parenting, cooking, decorating, teaching, working, volunteering, resting, traveling and offering hospitality—all of which can be used to share the joy of the Lord.

Objective:

Life:Beautiful is dedicated to delivering the uncompromised message of the Bible with excellence is journalism, photography, and editorial and art direction in order to offer a world-class faith magazine to the masses.

Availability:

Life:Beautiful is sold by subscription and on newsstands. To subscribe, go to the Home page and click on Subscribe. Newsstand copies are sold nationwide in the United States at general mass merchants and Christian bookstores.

Belief Statement:

Life:Beautiful is published on a foundation of the following beliefs:

1. We believe the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are inspired by God and inerrant in the original writings, and that they are the supreme and final authority in faith and life.

2. We believe in one God, the Creator who eternally exists in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We believe that Jesus Christ was begotten by the Holy Spirit and born of a virgin, Mary, and that He was and remains both God and man.

3. We believe that God created Adam and Eve in His own divine image; that they sinned and incurred physical and spiritual death, which is separation from God; and, as a result of Adam’s sin, all humans are now born with a sinful nature and stand guilty before God.

4. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins and that all who believe in Him and receive Him as personal Lord and Savior are born again of the Holy Spirit and become children of God.

5. We believe in the resurrection of the crucified body of our Lord, in His ascension into Heaven, and in His present life there for us as High Priest and Advocate.

6. We believe in the blessed hope of the personal and imminent return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We believe that the Holy Spirit indwells and gives spiritual life to all believers, enables them to understand biblical truth, empowers them to live godly lives, and equips them for service and witness.

7. We believe in the bodily resurrection of the just and the unjust, the everlasting blessedness of the saved, and the everlasting punishment of the unsaved.

Remembering Childhood Fun

2009-06-27T16:32:00.003-05:00

Just found a fun website that has FREE paper dolls and paper dolls clothes to print and play with.

My 5 year old daughter Anna will have have a blast with these. I think I will print them off and put them in a tin box with a handle. She can then pick them up and take them to grandma's, on long car rides, or wherever she chooses to play pretend.

Have fun and check out the site!

http://pattyreeddesigns.com/dolls/index.htm

I'm having breakfast with a rooster!

2009-06-24T20:09:00.007-05:00

Join Susan over at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday!

A rustic rooster stands guard at the table on display at Mary Carol Garrity's shop in Atchison.
Scalloped black & white rectangle placemats are topped of with a collection of red and black & white dishes. Love the tiny creamers at each place setting and the larger one sitting in the front right corner.

A galvanized tower holds a collection of plates and a pretty arrangement in a red tin container.

One tall glass jars held tiny plates which resembled butter pats and the other jar held green glass miniature vases.

I love the rustic two handled urn in the background, it would be gorgeous in my bay window.

Warm summer hugs,

Natalie

Make these Patriotic Coasters

2009-06-24T19:53:00.004-05:00

Found these on the Country Sampler website.

They look relatively easy to do. I love the red ticking napkins they show in this photo as well. Pick up some ticking at the fabric store when you get the fabric to make these adorable coasters.

Country Sampler suggests displaying them in a woven basket on the dining table, using one as padding beneath a glass vase, or feather into your decor in any spot that needs a little patriotic perk-up!

She sells seashells by the seashore

2009-06-24T12:18:00.002-05:00

Well not really by the seashore but I got this seashell planter here in Iowa of all places! I found a new consignment shop in Cedar Rapids called STUFF. They have 4 locations in the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area.

I picked this up for $2.99 and really love the texture of it.

Here it is on the side of my fireplace mantle with some of my old wicker covered bottles I have been collecting for 10 years or so.

I went out to my garden and picked some hosta, honeysuckle, and porcelain vine leaves for a fresh natural look.

I love the simplicity of the leaves, but you could add white daisies, yellow sweet peas or even blue salvia if you want an added pop of color. Tuck in a small flag for the Fourth of July.

The rope ball I picked up at Walmart of all places!

What do you put on a shelf?

2009-06-23T22:24:00.007-05:00

Here are some of my favorite photos from Ballard Design s which if you haven't heard of before you MUST check out their site and request a catalog. I've used it for years after one of my employees brought in a catalog to my store, A Touch of Country. Thanks Nancy if you are reading this!
The above photo is perfect for your own design studio, craft room, mommy escape room or whatever you may call it! They used a paper towel holder to corral pretty ribbons that are ready to be made into bows and tied on pretty packages for your friends & family. A glass jar hold paintbrushes or you could hold markers and colored pencils.

Don't have money for the fancy artwork shown above? Simply put your child's artwork in black or white frames and poof! You have one of a kind TREASURED artwork!

The above photo shows them in a kitchen. I have a sink similar to this one at the farm we are currently buying. It is sitting on an old metal base in the basement. I have been thinking of installing the sink part of it in our new laundry/mudroom.
The black shelves hold dinner plates, wine glasses and baskets of bottled beverages.
I even love the photos of silverware. Maybe I could find some old family ones and glue actual silverware to sheets of toile paper or maybe burlap fabric. Hmmm...

Here they show 2 of the same size and a small one on top. I would have never thought to do that, but I love how it looks! I really like how they left enough room to add a lamp and some topiaries. Stacks of books and more wire baskets coral odds & ends.

Here the shelves are again in the laundry room. Love the glass jar with laundry soap. I saw a jar similar at Goodwill yesterday for just a few dollars.
Jars hold clothespins and balls of jute string. Ironing spray and an iron are kept nearby and a clock to keep track of the time. Maybe time would go by fast as you iron in this pretty room!

White shelves corral office necessities...books, file folders, envelopes & journals.
So nice, neat and contained.

New England Saltbox shows its patriotism

2009-06-23T19:53:00.001-05:00

We visited the gardens at this absolutely stunning New England Saltbox home that is right here in good ol' Iowa! A grand old flag stands at attention over the doorway. The door is painted black and has a transom window above it.

Isn't she a beauty?!

A rustic bench holds a weathered red basket filled with herbs & salvia. I love the old stoneware jug nestled back in the corner of the basement cellar doors. What an unexpected treat in the corner. It's all about the details people. Another flag stands guard at the back of the house.

Grapevine is rambling along the weathered grey picket fence. Oh the seasonal possibilities of decorating this fence...bittersweet, pumpkins & pinceones for fall; evergreens in the winter with dried queen anne's lace sprayed white and sprinkled with a dose of sparkly glitter for a freshly snowflake effect. YES I know it's only June but a girl can dream can't she?!

Tropical Tablescape

2009-06-23T19:07:00.007-05:00

This fun table is done in aqua blue and greens.
Isn't it so fun & beachy?

Join me as we sit down to this fun table. Raffia placemats were placed vertically instead of the usual horizontal placement. Vintage looking wood trays with ornate detailing are used as chargers. Large oval platters are used for the dinner plates...after all we ARE having lobster ya know! Or if you are in the midwest we could have a big juicy steak.
Large oval serving bowls are used on top of the platter. These could hold an array of items like a caesar salad, dinner roll and potatoes.

Speaking of potatoes we LOVE potato packets on the grill. Simply cut up 1-2 potatoes per person into 1/2" cubes, add some chopped onion, a dash of chicken boullion, a pinch of salt & pepper & a tablespoon of butter. Place all the ingredients in a large piece of aluminum foil. Bring the top and bottom edge together, crimp & roll tightly. Pinch in both ends to seal the packet. Place each packet on the grill. They take around 35-45 minutes to bake. My kids don't like onions, but I still put them in their packets for flavor and make them pick them off...I know I am a mean mom!!

Okay, now back to the tablesetting...I like the fun polka dot glasses for water or ice tea.

Square Aqua Blue casserole dishes are filled with spanish moss and hold faux miniature pineapples, bananas, & palm trees. If you are feeling generous, give these as take home party favors to your dinner guests.

Real pineapples are place around the table for added ambiance and are can be cut open and served with dessert. How about serving grilled pineapple. The heat carmalizes the syrup and is a lovely treat to have. Serve with vanilla ice cream or a sherbert.

A metal tray table is used for the centerpiece. It is tall enough so that your guests can easily talk to each other. Tropical flowers and bamboo are surrounded with red, green & yellow bell peppers.

Dining Table Inspiration

2009-06-23T18:58:00.002-05:00

Here Mary Carol Garrity and her staff created a fun and whimsical table
in black, white & lime green.

Round quilted mini check placemats were used, and of course they were black & white!

Mini cloches on stands can be used for a special dessert or take home party favor.

Zinc frogs are dancing gleefully around the table.

Notice the oversized birdcage on the back wall...it is filled with ivy and white pottery.
I think her chargers for this table were framed pictures.

Who says silver balls are just for Christmas? No way!! Calla lillies, twigs from the garden and various silver balls are nestled
haphazardly in the zinc planter with pedestal base which adds a dramatic flair to the table.
Black serving trays with antiqued brass handles are used as chargers. Rectangle and square dinner plates are sandwiched
between lime green napkins. Creamy white soup toureens top off each placesetting.

Above the table is this chandlier with aged brass shades.
Don't be afraid to use those twigs! Here twigs are wired onto the ceiling and also the existing chandlier to give it
some added character. It looks like she had pots of ferns wired on to the chandlier as well...but I can't remember exactly for sure.
Wired onto the twigs are clear glass votive cups which resembled an upside down cloche to me. Fill these with clear glass marbles or gems
or simple votive candles in the colors of your tablescape.

Remember to use something that doesn't compete with the flavor and aroma of your cooking!
I suggest Vanilla or French Vanilla....even better would be unscented tealights in clear plastic not the metal tealights.
I sometimes will save my plastic tealight containers after they have burnt out and then reinsert a tealight that originally came in the metal packaging while discarding the metal.

Blue & White Dishes

2009-06-22T13:25:00.001-05:00

Aunt Carol's sideboard in her dining room is
gorgeous filled with silver, blue & white dishes and baskets.

I love the white urn stacked with blue & white ceramic balls.

Her hutch is filled with lovely treasures.
Lots of eye candy here!

Baby Shower Tabletop

2009-06-22T13:01:00.001-05:00

We held a baby shower for Grace and this is the tablescape.
I used Starbucks bottles and hot glued pink ticking fabric in a band
across the middle of the glass bottle. Then hot glued on a pink diaper pin.
The drink was non alocholic Strawberry Daiquiri's and topped off with a pink straw.

Sorry no close up of the diaper cake in the background. My friend Patti made it by stacking diapers, ribbons,
baby washcloths and towels.

The cupcakes were topped with pink frosting and a baby pacifier made with white lifesavers.

We had strawberries, marshmallows and pound cake on skewers ready to dip in the
chocolate fountain. Chocolate is a girl's best friend!

Poor little Gracie...her mommy wouldn't let me give her a taste of the cupcake frosting or the chocolate!

It's a Cloche Party!

2009-06-18T19:44:00.004-05:00

Join Marty over at A Stroll Thru Life for a cloche party! Tons of fabulous ideas you won't be sorry you peaked! HeeHee! Anyway, look at my photos below and then click on the cloche link to get in on the party! Have fun!

This one above is from Southern Living At HOME and features a framed photo under the cloche. The cloche is sitting atop of wood with the bark still attached. I have also see these wood circles used as chargers.

Here Southern Living At HOME place a old fashioned clock under the glass cloche. What a statement it makes!

Here in my store, I featured 2 cloches. One is sitting in a grey-green birdbath that has been filled with spanish moss, ivy and a rattan basket weaved ball. Tucked under the table, sitting on a green cake plate is the other cloche that is also covering a smaller rattan ball.

Ugly bathroom

2009-06-18T12:21:00.003-05:00

I am hoping to win a free consultation courtesy of Rare & Beautiful Treasures. The consultation I hope to win will be designed by Layla at The Lettered Cottage.

Both blogs are fabulous, if you haven't checked them out, do so now!

The above shower is NASTY! The tub surround has huge cracks in it that have been patched over with tub & shower caulk. It has leaked so much that it started coming out of the tub surround and cracked the wall on the lower right side.

Previous tenants painted over the ugly blonde cabinetry with even MORE ugly Royal Blue! The countertop is a faux marble and the sink is filled with chips, stains, and rust marks.

The extremely large glass mirror has no personality and YES that is carpet on the floor...can you say "GROSS"! Lots of little pee drips deep in that carpet.....eeewh!

Japanese Steakhouse

2009-06-17T12:38:00.007-05:00

Zach in the chef hat at his FAVORITE restaurant, TOKYO Japanese Steakhouse in Waterloo, Iowa. We took him there for his 16th Birthday.

He ordered Steak & Shrimp...yummy!

The chef making a smiley face.

Smiley face on fire! Whoa...what a scorcher!

Chopping our veggies and making an onion Volcano, which he lit on fire.

Zach enjoying his steak, shrimp, rice, noodles, veggies, lettuce salad, and delicious soup....he was STUFFED but cleaned his entire plate...savoring every last bite. Yes that's Tjaden in the background with his mouth full of food...sorry!

Cost for a meal for 4=$78.00 plus tip
Cost for such a fabulous, caring, and handsome son=PRICELESS

Tablescape Thursday 16th Birthday for Zach

2009-06-17T12:06:00.002-05:00

Zach turned 16 on the 16th! A GOLDEN birthday!
Here is a photo of the car he received...a 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix.
The bakery scanned it in and printed it on an edible overlay on the cake.

The table top was dressed in road signs, cars, trucks, and license plates.

The kids loved the soda pop in glass bottles....a novelty these days.
Root beer, Diet Root Beer, Orange Crush, and Grape Crush.
Peanuts and cashews were placed in the box of the pickup truck.

Another truck was filled with Laffy Taffy. I found this old stop sign at an antiques store.

Mary Carol's Living Room

2009-06-11T12:04:00.004-05:00

Her living room is huge and is seperated into several seating areas. When you walk in from the foyer, you see this ornate secretary desk. It's filled with photos, books, and trinket boxes.

A ornate side table is stacked wtih books and a silver compote is filled with seashells. Look at that lamp...it looks like a ram's horn. Notice she is always creating layers and layers of texture, height and color. I always say a flat table is a boring table!

Here is a close up of ONE of the many coffee tables she has in her living room. A gigantic ornate silver tray is once again stacked with books, another silver tray, tiny trinket boxes, a glass pear in setting in a glass footed dish. Then next to this is a wooden box with a decorative bowl with a raised design.
This dark stained coffee table looks like an indonesian trunk on legs...not sure what it really is though! Then she layered on another silver tray, a large gray planter filled with twig topiaries and trailing vines....so devine! The vine reminded me of baby tears.

Mary Carol's dining room

2009-06-11T11:55:00.003-05:00

I sure could use a cocktail...how about you?! Is it 5 o'clock yet? I am sure the kids are driving you crazy and after all it's 5 o'clock somewhere!

A close up of her dining room table centerpiece. Juicy pears, apples, and grapes set amongst polished silver and the ruggedness of moss, ivy and twining vines. See those candlesticks? Well she stuffs the tops with green moss before she inserts the taper candles. So unexpected!
Each placesetting had a small whitewashed garden urn with a live topiary. Those little topiaries sold like hotcakes and I couldn't get there in time to buy one...DARN!

Mary Carol's kitchen

2009-06-11T11:27:00.007-05:00

Her kitchen table is tiny but still manages to seat four. here she has it displayed with aqua blue placemats, white & aqua pottery and sparkling glasses. Whimsical frogs are dancing in the bowls they resembled zinc. Two cake plates were stacked and adorned with glass marbles to resemble sparkling water.
Here are some built ins she had going over a doorway...clever use of space. Grab a cake stand or picnic basket easily. She also has several cookbooks stored on these shelves. The white pottery was to die for!
This reminded me of a butler's pantry. Glassware and plates were sparkling and stacked to the gills.
I sell this 3 tiered stand in my shop. Here she has it displayed in her kitchen with salt & pepper, sugar, honey and the top vase has a fresh picked hydrangea. Clever use of space...you get a lot packed in for such a little space!

With a cherry on top!

2009-06-11T10:39:00.002-05:00

Look what I won from Joanna at Hostess Jo isn't it the sweetest lil apron?!

Thanks Joanna! You are so sweet and awesome to give me this apron...I have to get it off my daughter when it's time to cook...she's always twirling around the house in this pretending she's baking and serving me cupcakes!

Visit Joanna at her blog Let's Entertain and check out her website for cool gifts Hostess Jo you will LOVE what you see.

Tablescape Thursday In the Garden

2009-06-10T19:58:00.004-05:00

This table was one of the fabulous tables Mary Carol Garrity had displayed on her outdoor courtyard. I visited her home this weekend and was in awe of her talent once again....I was drooling as usual! The little plate covers were a greywashed wicker with a netting inside to keep out the bugs. The tables were all dressed in greens, browns, and whites.

I love the little cherub nestled in the rusty garden urn. He's holding a fresh wonderful smelling flower. He is surrounded with green spongy moss which brings the green out of the tablecloth.

Her courtyard is surrounded with stone walls covered with ivys, and climbing vines. Not alot of color going on, just various shades and textures of green.

The chairs were black bamboo chairs and they set on the brick patio pavers which covered the entire surface of her courtyard. (except where there were plantings)

Creamy Cheesy Taters

2009-06-10T09:29:00.001-05:00

CREAMY CHEESY POTATOES

1 Can Cream of Mushroom Soup
2 lbs. Frozen Shredded Hash Browns
½ pt. Sour Cream (1 cup)
6 oz. Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Dehydrated Onions (small amt.)

No milk or no salt or pepper-

Put in crock pot or in oven….

Great with steaks, chops etc…..

Gotta love my cherries!

2009-06-09T20:05:00.004-05:00

Microwave Cherry Crisp

1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces)
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
2/3 cup quick-cooking oats
1/3 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup butter or margarine
Vanilla ice cream, optional

Spoon pie filling into a greased 9" pie plate. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, oats and flour.

Cut in butter with fork or pastry blender until crumbly.

Sprinkle mixture over filling.

Microwave on high for 12-14 minutes; remove.

Top with ice cream.

Outdoor Wednesday Our Side Garden

2009-06-03T12:56:00.006-05:00

Join the party by clicking on the photo or link above...Have fun and enjoy!

This is a photo from last summer in our side yard. I used wrought iron stepping stones to lead you into the garden. We visited a local rock quarry to find stones to edge all of our flower beds....lots of hard work but well worth the effort!

Tablescape Thursday Dreamy Whites

2009-06-03T05:00:00.002-05:00

I know you are thinking WHAT? This is a Holiday table?*!*
BUT with a few changes you can take this table to a beachy summertime table!

I used iron stepping stones as the chargers. Next I mixed in my white dinnerware. Instead of sugared fruit you could place a tiny starfish or seashell for a party favor for your guests to take home. Instead of the green glass ornaments and faux snow, use white builder's sand and seashells.

The iron basket on the wall? Well, go out to your garden and gather ferns, hostas, and evergreens for a new look. Just insert them in a glass of water and if you don't want the glass to show, simply cover it with spanish moss.

I'm heading south next weekend!

2009-05-28T18:11:00.004-05:00

I am heading south to Atchison,Kansas!

If you have never been here before it is a MUST! I repeat a MUST!!!! She has several stores in Atchison and 1 huge store in Kansas City, Missouri. Her stores are absolutely to die for. Here is what I found on her website

http://www.nellhills.com

Nell Hill's - Atchison

The thrill of the hunt is part of the adventure at the original Nell Hill’s, where the pursuit of a great accessory at a great price is part of the excitement. Every visit here is a different indulgence, as each floor is redecorated, restocked, and reinvented to accommodate a never-ending flow of new seasonal accents and accessories. Discover why 75,000 visitors a year report that visiting this cozy, comfortable shop is like going to one big party.

Don’t miss our first summer open house ever! My historic home and garden in Atchison will be dressed up for the season, filled with wonderful displays I hope will inspire you to unlock your own creativity this season. Get loads of ideas for summer entertaining, leave with new tips for summer decorating and ask Master Gardeners Gloria and Lynda how to enhance your own garden. Visit the merchandise tent in my side yard and Nell Hill’s and Garrity’s for everything you’ll need to create a sensational look at your home this summer.

Tablescape Thursday..my peonies are blooming!

2009-05-28T10:19:00.004-05:00

This table setting is great for an afternoon soiree. A light snack of crackers, cookies, and fresh fruit like red and green grapes, blueberries, raspberries and scrumptious strawberries....can you say HEAVENLY?

We will have some champagne in these tall fluted glasses to bring out the sweetness of the summer fruit. White dinnerware is set atop bronze chargers and sandwiched between red napkins.

Small metallic bowls are filled with spongy green reindeer moss followed by a luscious pink peony bloom, all which is nestled under
a tall glass cloche.

The final touch is the gorgeous centerpiece filled with blue hydrangeas, peonies, and late blooming lilacs.

Tablescape Thursday...warm reds, yellows, and greens

2009-05-21T09:57:00.005-05:00

t
Here is a warm tablescape featuring shades of red, yellow and green.
Three mini olive jars anchor the center of the table and are filled with tropical leaves and sunflowers.

Red and yellow striped dinner plates sit atop bronze chargers. A lemon yellow bowl is ready for some juicy summer fruit while tall glass tumblers with a slice of lemon are ready for some fresh squeezed lemonade.

The table runner is made using four placemats placed side by side. These are reversible and are a burnt red on the other side with yellow stripes...just like the napkins. I love how the dark stained table grounds the tablescape.

A coffee station is waiting nearby...flavored coffee anyone?

What's your favorite coffee or tea? Please share!*!

Pheasants

2009-05-21T09:37:00.003-05:00

Sorry for blurry photo. This is a picture of inside the farrowing house where my Brian has been raising pheasants.

Zach, Anna & Tjaden getting ready to do pheasant chores. See the pretty pheasant along the wall. You have to be careful because they fly at you sometimes freaking you out!!

Tablescape Thursday

2009-05-13T20:21:00.005-05:00

Here is a dining room table with the cool beachy colors.

Bronze chargers are topped with white dinner plates, then square robin's egg blue salad plates followed by white serving bowls and light green bowls. Sheer organza is placed across the middle of the table followed by a iron wall mirror anchors the centerpiece. A brown pedestal raises the blue container of florals such as bells of ireland and hydrangea.

Wine glasses hold the napkins until they are needed. Green and blue rimmed salad plates set under the glass hurricanes which are filled with water and blue beach glass. Surround the table with wrought iron votive cups with tealight candles.

One Mantle 3 ways

2009-05-12T18:44:00.000-05:00

The four blue mirrors are actually square serving bowls with mirrors attached inside.
Add height with stacks of books.

Here are 5 rectangular white platters hung with easels. They are accented with sprigs of
fern from the garden and starfish from the beach. Seashells and moss balls round give added texture.

Surround a white berry wreath with 8 white plates for a different look above the fireplace instead
of the usual picture or mirror. Fill hurricanes with green granny smith apples..faux of course!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T06:00:00.002-05:00

My mom, Sandy on the left and me on the right.

Happy Mother's Day Mom!
I Love You!

Our Family Room

2009-05-08T06:56:00.002-05:00

This is our family room. We uncovered the brick wall, which was covered up with
paneling and corkboard...yikes! Ugh! My son, Zach made the coffee table when he was 14 and in 9th grade.

On the wall is photos of our trip to Jamaica and an old brown bottle. The sectional is chocolate brown with black, taupe & chocolate brown pillows. The rug is from Shaw and has muted taupes & brick red colors in it.

Grits and Glamour: Porch and Patio Party!!!

2009-05-05T08:55:00.002-05:00

Grits and Glamour: Porch and Patio Party!!!
http://nataliemeester.blogspot.com/2009/05/do-you-want-to-come-sit-with-me.html

Come sit with me

2009-05-05T08:50:00.000-05:00

Grits and Glamour: Porch and Patio Party!!!

Come sit with me on my porch....

Little Girl's Room

2009-05-04T19:52:00.002-05:00

Two iron bed dressed in white with a pop of lime green.
The canopies above the beds are actually pot racks with
pinch pleat drapes with hooks.

A message board surrounded by small salad plates seperate
the two spaces and gives them a spot to hang momentos. The plates
can be written on with a dry erase marker.
Imagine the words.....Dream, Inspire, Attitude, Diva!

An update on the old fashioned tv tray is the little iron bedside tray tables
at the foot of each bed. Ready for bedtime snacks or to lay out the
next day's outfit and accessories.

These hanging lights are actually flower pots turned upside
down and strung with a light kit and fabric cord scrunchie.

Every girls needs some flowers.

Love the tassel hanging from the dresser.
Platters are hung below the shelves. Yes, platters can be
used elsewhere in the home especially ones as pretty as these!

A Touch of Country with Natalie

We've moved!

Christmas Past 2006

looking for a web designer

Christmas ideas

Today is Grundy Center’s Tour of Homes so I thought I’d share some holiday inspiration to get us all going to create wonders!

Flaunt it friday!

It's Tuesday To Do day

Bedroom turned Mudroom Reveal

Oh my...this recipe is straight from Heaven...oh

wait...I guess it's really from THE PIONEER WOMAN.

It's DIVINE!

Would you believe me if I told you in my 41

years of life I have NEVER made homemade

macaroni & cheese? Yep just the old Kraft

brand and my senses have now been

AWAKENED!

Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

Preparation Instructions

Paradise in the Fall in Iowa

Teddy Bear Snack Mix

I first made this recipe years ago for a supper swap group. We we were making snacks. I package this up in small snack size ziplock bags so it's a grab & go snack. You will be making this time and time again, so I would double it the first time!

Enjoy,

Natalie

Ingredients

Directions

Who Are You?

Fall Kitchen Island centerpiece in 5 minutes or less!

You need to make this wreath....

Fall decorating inspiration

Want to see a bedroom turn into a mudroom? Stay tuned..you won’t believe your eyes!

I've been featured on Tip Junkie!

Fast Family Fajitas by Pampered Chef

Bacon Ranch Potato Casserole

Confetti Pasta Salad by Pampered Chef

needing help

Taco Ring

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Cook ground beef in large skillet over medium heat 7-9 minutes or until beef is no longer pink; drain.

Remove pan from heat.

Stir in taco seasoning mix, cheese and water.

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Unroll crescent dough; separate into triangles.

Arrange triangles in a circle on a round pizza pan with wide ends overlapping in center and points toward outside. (There should be a 5 inch diameter opening in center.)

Scoop meat mixture evenly onto widest end of each triangles up over filling and tuck under wide ends of dough at center of ring. (Filling will not be completely covered).

Bake at 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Shred lettuce and chop tomato, onion, olives, and bell pepper (if desired).

If you want to do something fancy, scoop out a bell pepper and fill with salsa and put into center of ring.

Add your toppings to middle of ring and finish with more shredded cheese and sour cream.

BLT Pizza

Have you ever been to Bachman's in Minnesota?

Eye Candy I bought for my new kitchen

Stuffed French Loaf

Spring Centerpiece

Wanting to try this yummy recipe this week...won't you join me?

Cheese & Mushroom Stuffed Meatloaf

Zuppa Tuscana Soup just like The Olive Garden

Beautiful winter white morning

Anna on Christmas Day

Christmas Decor Our Home

Christmas Eve Our Home 2009

Nell Hill's christmas inspiration

Winter Blizzard

Trimming the tree

Making Fresh Evergreen Wreaths

What can you do with colored popcorn?

Dough Bowl

Front Door Fall Beauty

Big & Juicy Apples

God's bountiful beauty

Rise & Shine Women's Retreat with Proverbs 31 ministries speaker, Renee Swope

Fall inspiration at my boutique

1st Day of School Standing by Our Barn

1st Day of School 2009

Front entryway in our home

Funky, Fun, Fresh Interior Designer

Shiver me timbers....

Beautiful Homes & Garages near Briar Cliff Village in Kansas

Got a few spare windows?