Small Home In The Country

http://lbratina.blogspot.com/

Who says you have to get married to get new dish towels ?

2011-03-02T18:35:00.001-08:00

How come the last time I got a mess

of dish towels, it was when I got married (1984) ?

My dish towel drawer (I am so embarrassed to show you) looks like this …

I gave myself permission to retire all dish ~~rags~~ – towels

to Hubby’s rag drawer (located in the garage).

I went to Wal-Mart and purchased a

whole drawer full for about twenty five bucks.

I really really wonder, why I never thought of this before…

Now, I give you permission to look at your dish ~~rags~~ – towels

and give them the boot.

(aren’t I sooo nice ??)

Go ahead, go buy some new ones….

Blame me..

Hugs,

Kammy

p.s. I believe that I will be doing this to the bath towels next….

they are scarrrrrrry !

Happy Valentines Day !

2011-02-14T04:26:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines Day, Friends !

May your day be Sweet !

Hugs,

Kammy

p.s. Did you have a great weekend ?

I did, I bought 3 pieces of French provincial furniture….

From my man Craig (Ooooo, I lava that man !)

Valentine Cupcakes–Thrifty Style

2011-02-07T20:21:00.001-08:00

Feel free to drool…

The calories are zero…(if you look only!)

$3.99 – brand new in the box at the thrift store

$5.00 Swirly cupcake stand at Walmart

Priceless mess – notice the empty wrappers ?

I had a couple of helpers…

Linking to the following party !

Hugs,

Kammy

p.s. no cupcakes were harmed (just inhaled) during this photo shoot

It’s so Icy out–school has been cancelled !

2011-01-31T18:24:00.001-08:00

Yes, you heard it right..

School is cancelled tomorrow because of the icy cold weather.

Is work cancelled – NO

My daughter gets to sleep in tomorrow .

My daughter gets to watch TV all day tomorrow.

My daughter gets to play on the computer all day tomorrow.

Am I bitter ?

Do you see me pouting ?

Was that sound heard , a grown-up (me) stomping my feet ?

Grown ups do not have temper tantrums.

All kidding aside, I am glad the kiddos will be safe and warm at home.

Maybe I could leave a list of things for my daughter to do (if she gets bored).

Hugs and Stay warm where you are planted !

Kammy

p.s. Shhhh this picture is my currently 16 year old , when she was about 10 (she is going to kill me….)

Magazine Holders for Met Monday–from Blah to Waaaaa Laaaaa !

2011-01-30T11:59:00.001-08:00

I think it has been forever that I have done a MET Monday..

I purchased these wood magazine units on clearance some time ago.

I of course, sprayed them with black paint.

Then I got out the scrapbook papers and some Modge Podge – Waaaa Laaaaa !

Linkin up with Susan’s party at:

http://astrollthrulife.blogspot.com/

Hugs,

Kammy

Frugalicious Prescription Glasses

2011-01-30T07:02:00.001-08:00

I would love to share my frugalicious find,

on prescription glasses

What do you need ?

moola , aka a debit or credit card.
chocolate – for patience, as it will take about 2 1/2 to 3 weeks to receive
a current prescription
a ruler with c/m measurements -

My hints – to be used if you are a fraddy cat ~

use the c/m part of the ruler to measure glasses that you currently own or ones that you like
if you are going out on a ledge and trying something new, go try some on a a local place for a “test drive”
download a picture of you to the website, so that you can virtually try glasses on

Testimonial

I have ordered about 7 pairs of glasses in the last year for me and my daughter
I claim not to be a millionaire and I am not being paid by this company for any type of advertisement
I like to coordinate my glasses with my outfit – pure Vanity
My glasses range in price from eight bucks up to about twenty bucks !! Pure insanity..

~~Wishes~~ Why I am thankful

~~I wish I didn’t have to wear glasses,~~ I am very thankful that glasses protect my eyes.
~~I wish I could wear contacts,~~ I am thankful that more then one honest eye doctor has told me that if I wore contacts and I got an infection, I could lose all of my sight. Very important fact when you only have one eyeball that is working.
~~I wish I could see out of two eyes~~, I am so overjoyed that I can see out of one eye – thank you Lord ! (I do sometimes wonder what it would be like to see out of them 3-D glasses, sigh..)

How to

go the the website www.zennioptical.com
look and shop for glasses
compare measurements to glasses you currently own (this helped me out a ton !)
double click on pictures to get all the details – like the size
then fill out the form, it will ask you the type – I ordered single vision
PD-Pupillary Distance – this is the distance between your pupils. You can ask your eye doctor for the measurement or measure yourself. To do this, use the ruler on the c/m side and look in a mirror. Next, take the ruler and find the middle of one of your pupils and measure to the middle of the left over eyeball. Make sure to measure 3 times and cut once..hee hee. I also marked with my finger where(on my current glasses) my pupil was and took my glasses off and measured again. If I have you completely and utterly confused , there is a great question mark with a professional description/tutorial.
Choose your lens – I just got the free no upgrade one. There is many to choose from and I even ordered the darkening type for my last vacation.
Anti reflect coating is $4.95 – I would definitely recommend.
Lens color – if you want rose colored glasses, blue, yellow – I ordered nada color , as I just am plain Jane and I don’t need to tint my world.
Next fill in your prescription for your left and right eye. Remember to triple check your entries….
Then add it to your shopping cart
The whole order has one shipping price, so go ahead and order a couple of different pairs. If you order something you don’t love – you can always wear them around the house.
Sit back and wait – this is where the chocolate comes in handy. It takes about 2 1/2 to 3 weeks, but worth the wait. They come shipped in a hard case in a plastic bubble wrapped envelope. Mine came out of California but, were made somewhere like Japan, China - somewhere exotic !

Hugs and Have Fun ~ Kammy

My Frugalicious Find–a Teaser

2011-01-24T20:40:00.001-08:00

I always get corrected when I say

cheap

I mean cheap or aka thrifty

I thought that I need a better word..

Frugalicious

Is Frugalicious a word ?

Why yes,( even if it currently is being rejected by spellcheck )

I even looked it up on

Urban Dictionary

Frugalicious – to be frugal and fabulous at the same time. Someone who looks for a deal

instead of just spending recklessly. AKA – Kammy at Small Home In The Country.

Is there an Urban Check vs Spell Check ?

The red squiggly line is underlining every word I write …

I will not Obey the red squiggly lines….

Now back to the post..

Do you wear glasses ?

Perhaps not (you must be under 40..)

I am a penny pincher.

I want a deal.

I want to be Frugalicious.

And I am.

Coming soon, I will post a tutorial on how I bought prescription

glasses on-line for about

twelve bucks

yes, read that again…

I really said $12 bucks.

Hugs,

Kammy

p.s. this is not advertisement and I am not associated with any companies, I am not a millionaire -

I just want you to also be Frugaicious !

Blogger having blurry issues on headers…

2011-01-23T11:08:00.001-08:00

I finally come up with a new header

and Blogger is having issues with blurry pictures….

I will keep trying in the next few days – grrrrrrrr

Hugs - Kammy

What has Otis been up to ??

2011-01-22T14:30:00.001-08:00

First Otis brought in the New Year… (who made me wear a sissy tiara ??)

During goose season….Otis helps ~~keep Dad warm~~ hunt gooses….

Otis likes to supervise Dad while he is working on cars….

Otis says “Mom, can’t you tell we are a busy ??”

Otis loves to hang out on the kitchen floor

Otis really loves laying in bed and NOT the dog bed, LOL !

Hugs, Kammy

I love thee Live Writer !

2011-01-15T07:27:00.000-08:00

O happy happy

Joy Joy

I love Live Writer and realize that I miss it so…

Maybe this is the reason why I haven’t blogged lately…

Yes, this is the very reason….I will blame it on my computer crash

that happened months ago and lost all my favorite things…

I am sorry..

I still love you all !

Hugs,

Kammy

P.S. I hate, yes I hate my current blog layout…

Where in the world does a girl find a plain layout without all the fluff ?

I need a layout where I can stretch my photos out – grrrrrrrrr !

Templates are not fun !

2011-01-14T21:15:00.000-08:00

Under Construction !!

As soon as I get smart enough to get a template I like, I will return -

Grrrrrrrrrrr

Hugs,
Kammy

Teenagers do not sleep at sleepovers….

2010-09-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

First – Add a Happy Birthday

greeting to the chalkboard.

Order a cake in Hot Pink.

Bring in a cloche, with a

monogrammed glass.

Sing Happy Birthday !

Chill with friends.

Mom makes everyone

pose for pictures.

Mom makes everyone

JUMP for pictures.

Otis is tired from the party.

Teenagers do not sleep

and neither does Mom.

Mom is ready for a

relaxed, upcoming weekend.

Hugs ~ Kammy

This week was busy….Picking tomatoes, catching frogs and Sweet Sixteen..

2010-09-15T20:47:00.001-07:00

Picked a bunch of different kinds of tomatoes from my garden….

Our frog is still hanging out in the backyard…

Otis was putting his paw on top of the frog and saying “Hey, stop hopping…so we can play”

(sorry, I couldn’t get a clearer picture….but, you get the idea”

Don’t worry , the frog did not get hurt !

Lastly…..Megan turned Sweet Sixteen.

We are hosting a sleep over, this Saturday.

We will have about 10 teenagers…

Pray for me….

I will post about that experience later…..

Hugs, Kammy

Where in the world has Kammy been ???

2010-09-08T20:37:00.001-07:00

See what happens in one summer ??

The pup grows up…

I worked overtime all summer long (and it has not stopped).. working 40 hours, commuting and overtime – kicks ones behind !

I have spent just about every weekend cleaning and purging stuff. Do any of you watch – Hoarders – on TV ? No, I am not a hoarder – but, I had a shed and studio that looked like I was. I

also watched a bunch of episodes where these women just shop and shop…..sound familiar to anyone ? Kinda scary how it can get out of control.

I joined a gym (because I have all this time on my hands, LOL !) I can do 300 ab crunches !

The only decorating I have done, has been on Farmville (which I soon will be giving up to blog again). Such a big time waster. I do have such a pretty farm…..

I haven’t spent much time with my camera or blog – which makes me sad – cause I miss you guys.

My Grandma reads my blog…..My Grandma is 88 years old and Ultra Kool ! Hi Grandma !!

Hugs - Kammy

No Otis, you are not allowed in the house !

2010-07-18T16:30:00.001-07:00

Every tree in the backyard got watered and Otis discovered MUD !

He promptly jumped in the horse trough after romping in the mud.

Nope, not allowed in the house until you have a bath…..

Hope everyone has a MUD FREE week…

Hugs ~ Kammy

My garden and Their garden….

2010-07-13T18:53:00.001-07:00

The first four pictures are of my garden.

As you may or may not know, I live across the road from an organic farm……

They grow tons of different kinds of vegetables and plant all summer long.

I thought you might enjoy seeing some of their garden…..

I love a field of wildflowers…this one is just down the road from our home….

I am loving my raised beds. I have had to pick maybe 3-5 weeds total each week.

Next year Hubby will be building me more !

Linking to Outdoor Wednesday http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/

Hugs ~ Kammy

Summer time decorating with thrifty finds….

2010-07-12T04:57:00.001-07:00

Almost everything came from the thrift store, except the flowers (50 cents each clearance at Joanns and the plates – 5 bucks each at Hobby Lobby)

Linking up to :http://southernhospitalityblog.com/

and

Hugs ~ Kammy

Look who came to visit me today !

2010-07-11T15:01:00.001-07:00

This guy just quietly sat , as I snapped a dozen pictures…..

Do you like him like me (enough to get down to his eye level and take pictures ?)

or would you scream and run ??

Hugs ~ Kammy

I forgot that I got this last year……

2010-07-09T04:49:00.001-07:00

I almost forgot that I bought this Ice Cream Freezer at the thrift store last fall for twenty bucks.

Brand new ! It has the hand crank and an electric motor…..

I googled the price on my smart phone while at the store (do you ever do this ?) to find the retail price and they are at least sixty bucks.

Do you have a great easy recipe to share ? Other then the freeze aisle at the grocery store ??

Hugs ~ Kammy

I haven’t killed my garden.

2010-07-07T20:41:00.001-07:00

I do not have a green thumb……I like faux plants – because I can’t kill them.

My garden has been extremely easy to grow , here are a few pictures. It is a

miracle…..LOL

We put the beds in an old dog run. It is all fenced in and perfect to keep dogs out.

I do let my little itty bitty dogs in because, they don’t leave footprints….

Otis McGee is banned from the garden as it does leave footprints…..

Poor little dude…

Life just isn’t fair…

I hope your summer is going great !

Mine has been B.U.S.Y. !

Hugs ~ Kammy

p.s. I still haven’t won the lottery…..should I buy a ticket to better my chances ??

I did my first Engagement Photo Shoot !

2010-06-07T19:24:00.001-07:00

I used my all my Canon lenses and took about 500 pictures in one hour and 45 minutes.

I am Crazy with the camera.. thank goodness for the digital age !

Let me know what you think !

Hugs ~ Kammy

Still Tweaking the new computer ….

2010-06-03T19:19:00.001-07:00

Drats… My fonts are gone, my Windows Live Writer doesn’t look the same, I have to download my pictures completely different ( I am not whining….LOL….)

Getting use to a new computer takes time..

I am going on vacation in 2 weeks and have loads to do !

Summer is my favorite season.

I had to slip in a picture of Otis – look how big he is getting…did I mention that he loves water ?

Hugs ~ Kammy

Building raised garden beds on the cheap..

2010-05-24T18:27:00.001-07:00

Building raised garden beds on the cheap …

My hubby and I came up with a reasonable way to make a raised garden bed. Here is what you will need:

9 landscape timbers ( we bought ours at Home Depot ) on sale for 2 bucks each.

Large nails

Miter saw

1. Cut three of the timbers in half – they are eight feet long.

2. Miter cut the corners and nail two shorts to two longs – you will have planters measuring 8x4 approx.

3. Nail the first rectangle to the second rectangle, to the third rectangle.

4. Add dirt ( a rusty ol tractor makes this real quick !)

5. Plant away !

My hubby used some pc tubes to make a sprinkler system.

Hugs ~ Kammy

Thrift store finds and planting a garden !

2010-05-23T16:25:00.001-07:00

I found these items at the thrift store last weekend.

Frames – 50 cents each

Candle holders – these will be great for tassels two bucks

Little square mirror – two bucks

I have painted the frames (the pictures are just for illustration..)

I did not thrift this weekend as I planted a garden ! I have been showing my hubby all the great blogs on raised gardens and we put our heads together. It cost $ 18.00 for each 4 X 8 bed. Come visit my blog in a couple of days for the details !

Hugs ~ Kammy

Apple tree blossoms at sunset…

2010-05-19T03:56:00.001-07:00

Here is a short peek at the apple blossoms..just before we lost the sunlight.

Hugs ~ Kammy

Red bird cage – fancy’d up….

2010-05-18T05:54:00.001-07:00

Painted this $ 2.99 thirft store find with ORB , added my moss cup I made (on an earlier post) and Whaaaa Laaaa…

Hugs ~ Kammy

Garage sale time, look what I found…..

2010-05-16T13:34:00.001-07:00

I found a few things at garage sales this weekend and spent a whole $ 13.50. I can hardly wait to re-do them !

Mirrors seem to call out to me…this one is heavy and it was only five bucks !

I love these oval frames and I thought the lady wanted fifty cents for one and she said…it’s for all – so I had to take them.

I spotted this room divider screen…Whoo Hoo - the price tag was ten bucks and I offered six and she took eight !

What color should I paint it ? Where shall I put it ??

Hugs, Kammy

As Otis grows..

2010-05-10T05:42:00.001-07:00

As you can see, Otis is adjusting well….

Hugs ~ Kammy

We have a free loader – living in our barn !

2010-05-10T04:35:00.001-07:00

Yes, we have a free loader- living in our barn….

He actually got right in my face……LOL !

Guess he won’t eat much and our horse Rio doesn’t mind…

Posted as a part of :

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/

Hugs ~ Kammy

Our newest little critter…..

2010-04-25T17:06:00.001-07:00

Today we brought home to the family Otis McGee. I took both my daughters with me , I told my fifteen year old we were going to look at a piece of furniture from Craigs List….can you believe that she believed me ?? I am such a teaser, sorry can’t help it.

I of course took a few pictures… I see some photo shoots in his future -

We brought him home just hours ago and he already LOVES the couch ! I know, I know – he will get BIG. He is 9 weeks old and a Golden Retriever.

I had to share !

Hugs ~ Kammy

Sunday Favorites – Celebrating 1 year and one of my favorite posts….

2010-04-24T19:18:00.001-07:00

I posted this “story” last year and I had a lot of fun !

Small Home in the Country locked down after local PRISON BREAK !!!

**** Warning – pictures may be graphic – ****

This news report is part of Outdoor Wednesday with your hostess- Susan at

http://happytodesign.blogspot.com/

A prison escape happened just before sunset Tuesday September 29,2009. It happened at the Owl Canyon Penit-HEN-tuary. The escaped convicts should not be approached as they could be armed and dangerous. Some may call them “ JAIL BIRDS “ but, we don’t want to give them a label….you decide. This is the picture that was captured at the local watering hole…..

The JAIL BIRDS are known as :

Left Fingered OSCAR

Mack – AKA The Godfather

Two Timing Peggy

How did they escape out of the high security prison you may be asking yourself. This next image was captured on film – judge for yourself *** Warning the next image may be graphic ***

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This prisoner happens to be “ON DEATH ROW” , yes, he is counting his days and seems to be making the best of them. He wears a bright red coat and lately his name has been Satin. If you follow this blog you may have seen this same criminal breaking out of jail in the spring and making a ruckus. Officials aren’t sure yet how Satin broke down the high security fences (and gate) to break out the JAIL BIRDS –it is under investigation.

Meanwhile, Prison Guard Officer Grady Tucker is gathering up the JAIL BIRDS……

Wait, we seem to catch Officer Grady Tucker off guard….

Much better –

Get a load of the unruly hair style on Left Fingered Oscar. Remember what prison does to these people.

Meanwhile back at the Penit-HEN-tuary – his days are numbered and he isn’t budging…. Here stands Satin – as if nothing happened…… We are checking the freezer space at this moment…..

DISCLOSURE – THIS IS NOT A POST FOR THE FAINT OF HEART OR FOR VEGGANS.

The following prisoners DID NOT ESCAPE….

Gunner

Vader ( side note and an Advertisement – Vader is sporting a collar made by Suzanne with Crazy for Collars – at

http://spt2.blogspot.com/

this is not a paid announcement and no money exchanged hands) End of commercial.

Until the prison is built again – the JAIL BIRDS will have to live in the large compound aka the barn.

We leave you with these images…

Sorry – I got allot of imagination.

Hugs ~ Kammy

Please visit Chari at Happy to Design for her 1 Year Anniversary !

p.s. wondering what happened to Satin ?? He was executed a few months later and he has been laid to rest in a frozen white coffin… as for the prisoners….they did escape and were never seen again.

My heart went pitter patter for those red dishes, great sized mirror and those legs !

2010-04-18T10:21:00.001-07:00

A set for 8 red dishes for $ 19.99 – I know a bit high - but the 8 bowls are great as are the plates… I love the red !

This mirror was $ 4.99 (love half price day) it measures 12” x 12” – it is heavy and wonderful. It will be so pertty with a new paint job..

My heart went pitter patter when I saw these legs ! I almost missed it as I walked through the furniture area…it was hidden behind other items and had things up on the top….My first thought as I was uncovering this beauty was - How in the world can I get it home ? I was driving our little Honda….Drats… This table is as tall as a dining room table but, small in diameter. If I had a huge foyer (which I do not) it would look great in the middle.

Then, I noticed the whole top was loose ! This is some kind of portable table – Yeah me, it will fit in my car ! The price was $12.99 , because the top was in such terrible shape….The bottom is pure wood and I could marry it..(don’t tell the hubby, LOL) The top is wood – I think with some heavy varnish – I will see what I can save or at least make pretty. I have NO EARTHLY IDEA where it will go…as I am pretty much wall to wall furniture….I need, yes I need to be gifted a huge mansion…LOL !

I spotted this cake plate for $ 4.99.

Kinda pretty…wasn’t sure if I liked it but, now it is wearing on me..

Linking up to the following party:

http://southernhospitalityblog.com/

Hugs ~ Kammy

Frenchy things – can’t get enough….

2010-04-18T10:01:00.001-07:00

Get a load of this HUGE HUNK OF GAUDY GOLD !!!

Found it at the thrift store a few weeks back for $ 5.99

Had no idea where it was going to go….

Is it a crown or a shelf ?

As it sat awaiting for the Fairy Godmother to turn it into something wonderful – a corner was chipped off.

I stuffed it with newspaper and painted it ORB and you can’t tell – unless you look reaaaaaal close !

Anyway, I sat it on top of my Frenchy desk until I decided what to do with it….

After looking at it , I liked the crown on the shelf…what do you think ?

The ORB crown perfectly matches the handles on the desk , which happen to be ORB too !

Here is my $ 2.99 find from a week ago…I had already started painting it when Krista popped over from http://thegatheringplacedesign.blogspot.com and told me she had the sister to my find ! Well she had already made hers over and I loved it ! She glazed hers and added a sparkly knob on top. Mine is very similar – but, I painted everything on top ORB and I used sandpaper to make it a bit rustic. I think Krista and I had the same creative eye on this one :o)

The first picture is before I sanded and the finished one on the bottom.

note- was told this is an ice bucket !

Linking up to:

http://astrollthrulife.blogspot.com/

Hugs ~ Kammy

Why did I invest $800 in a KitchenAid Dishwasher ?

2010-04-13T03:49:00.001-07:00

I had to have the best dishwasher – and it is when I let it do the job……

I can save a lot of electricity and water this way….LOL !

Hugs ~ Kammy

Two reasons why I haven’t blogged…but I did find some time to thrift this weekend….

2010-04-11T17:18:00.001-07:00

Here are my two reasons for not blogging much lately:

1. Facebook – I opened up an account and found a dear childhood friend and connected with siblings and lots of others – it has been a blast ! Also I am doing Farmville – the game and it is addicting.. Also I have discovered that most people on Facebook could care less about blogs…they just don’t know how much fun we are :o)

2. Carpet cleaning – being frugal like I am , I rented a carpet cleaner and did all my carpets and sofa set and 2 vehicles….I just finished – Yeah Me !

When I returned the carpet cleaner today , I went to two thrift stores and here is what I found. Now I don’t normally show pictures of undid things but, I am missing all of you and had to post something :o) !!

Chippy table for $ 12.99 – I am thinking about leaving it chippy – it is really neat ! Such a cute size too – taller then a night stand – more of an occasional table of sorts..

Metal cake holder..I have been looking for one that is not dented because I have seen beautiful ones painted white with roses…what do you think ?

This little table was $ 4.99 and missing the drawer..I will paint this one and maybe add a basket for a drawer….

A bundle of blue fringe – three types for $ 3.99 – perfect for tassels.

Silver jewelry box for $ 5.99 it is real silver !

Framed mirror – I will paint this one too….

Gallon sized jar – I love these and want more !! It was $ 4.99

I know, I know…you are thinking Kammy -what do you see in this ? Well you will have to wait and see – It was $2.99.

The next item was sitting upside down in the furniture section and of course I had to pull it down and see what it was. It can be used for so many things …my mind is going crazy on the best use, for this sweet baby….take a look-see !

I will be posting soon with makeovers !

Hugs ~ Kammy

linking to http://southernhospitalityblog.com/ for a Thrifty party !

Tabletop Tuesday – First time….

2010-03-29T18:20:00.001-07:00

I am joining Marty and the girls to show you my tabletops …

Happy Easter, Happy Spring !

Now go visit Marty and the girls:

Hugs ~ Kammy

Even the dogs don’t like the color….

2010-03-28T11:37:00.001-07:00

Shopping and remaking..

I found this dog dish holder at Marshall’s (yesterday) on clearance for twenty bucks…I know it was way over priced but…I loved it , well most of it.

“Hmmmmm. Mom I don’t like the color” said Cruizer…

O dear ! What was I to do ?…maybe paint it..gee I don’t know what color I should try…maybe BLACK ????

See how much prettier it is now ? Who said shabby has to be pastel blue or white ???

I NEEDED another mirror for my living room and I found this one at the thrift store on 1/2 price day – I paid $12.50 and it is really a nice heavy mirror. ……Except, except, the GAUDY GOLD – you know what I am going to do..Warning, Warning… to ladies that love this GAUDY GOLD – you may want to skip to the next post ….LOL ! I used ORB on this beauty !

It is so yummy now…

Please join Susan at http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/ to view other talented ladies !

Hugs ~ Kammy

Three Thrifty Projects

2010-03-21T13:58:00.001-07:00

Three birdhouses I have picked up over the last few months ….I only got to two of them done….

Before:

This first one , I tore out the pink flowers and old moss..I added some ivy and some new green with flowers.

This one – I tore out all the dusty ugly moss and painted it black, added it to a candle stand and some ivy…for now .

Two urns -

Stuff with old batting or Styrofoam ball and add fresh green moss.

Don’t forget to paint the urns first…I used WHITE (SHOCK) !

Each urn and birdhouse was under three bucks each from the thrift store and cost under a buck each to transform.

Please join Susan at http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/ to join up with others !

Hugs ~ Kammy

Following the green with Cuisine Kathleen !!

2010-03-16T04:24:00.001-07:00

Following the green with Cuisine Kathleen – Don’t cha love how that rhymes ?? Kathleen is full of green and there are many more out in Blogland who is joining in with her fun party ! Here is the link – make sure to visit !

http://www.cuisinekathleen.com/

This is my lone Leprechaun ..

A Bordalo Pinneiro plate purchased at TJ Maxx for five bucks. I know , I know it isn’t clovers but, it is green !

The white plate is a Southern Living plate that I scored at the thrift store for $2.99 - still in the box and the person who owned it had taped pictures of how to decorate it ! First I found the box but, no plate….Well I know from thrifting that all you have to do is dig and look and dig some more and I found it ! I had the black ribbon and I can change it out for the seasons.

The clover box is from the dollar store a couple of years ago. The other things I already had.

Lucky you – I mean Lucky Me - basket I found a couple of months ago at the thrift store for a buck !

I need to add on to my St Patty’s Day decor ….

Hugs ~ Kammy

P.S. I remember St Patty’s day as a little girl because our school had a contest each year on who wore the most green….Yep, I won in my classroom (I even wore green unddies ! LOL ) I got to be in the school parade……..

Spring is almost here and the Easter Bunny is coming……

2010-03-16T03:59:00.001-07:00

Spring time is almost here and I can just hardly wait ! I am so excited for the Easter Bunny and so are a few of my critters…

I couldn’t resist…Mr. Grady Tucker is the best “model”- I can put anything on him and he will let me snap away to my hearts content !

Cruizer donned this cute pink bunny outfit…

Vader would not be caught dead in bunny ears, so he opted for a spring time Prince Frog outfit.

I got all three accessories at Target in the dollar bin !

All the pictures were taken outside so…I think this counts for Outdoor Wednesday. This event is hosted by Susan at :http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/ . Please pay her blog a visit to link up with others – it’s a whole bunch of fun !

Hugs ~ Kammy

I’ve flipped my lid…………

2010-03-14T10:42:00.001-07:00

Yes, I’ve flipped my lid…rather flipped a tea pot with no lid for another use.

I am a sucker for a tea pot…this little one was so cute but, it was missing the lid. It was 1/2 price day at the thrift store and the price was 50 cents !

I cut a Styrofoam ball in half and then did some more cutting to get it to fit in the teapot. Then I got some fabric and attached it over and underneath with straight pins. I hot glued the new “lid” in place.

These flat decorative pins are a great base to glue on cute buttons .

Ta Da !

Look at the neat storage underneath in the cup ! I think this would be a great gift…or I might just keep this one !

Please join Susan at http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/ to join up with others !

Hugs ~ Kammy

I have a secret “Chippy Love” !

2010-03-07T12:52:00.001-08:00

I do have a secret “Chippy Love” –

I love this piece – chips and all…I bought it last summer and thought it would be a great spring/summer decorating item. I left the price tags on them for you to see – FIVE BUCKS – I thought that was a great deal. Now, I just have to figure out what to put inside….a plant or some flowers…What would you do with it ?

The weather is overcast and I have a boat load of projects to finish and or begin…If only I didn’t have to work fulltime and could play all the time…..I need to win the Lotto !

Hugs ~ Kammy

Sending Kisses to all my Bloggy Friends !!!

2010-02-28T10:29:00.001-08:00

Spring time is coming ! I had to get in the mood with some spring time Kisses…..only…. I have about 4 left – yep, over the last few days I have eaten them all !! – I kept them hid from the kids (pleeze tell me that I am not the only one who has done this, LOL !) Sorry I have been M.I.A – I have been Spring cleaning !

Hugs ~ Kammy

p.s. I don’t think the last little four will last the whole day…..

Thrift store frames used for decorating

2010-02-07T10:58:00.001-08:00

I bought these two frames for less then 5 bucks each. I took off the canvas and the yucky pictures…they didn’t come with glass. I thought they might be nice painted and used for decorating accents. Do you have any frames lying around ? Think of the endless possibilities – colors, textures, sizes you can use to add a punch to any space and at a thrifty price.

Linking up to Susan for Met Monday:

Hugs ~ Kammy

Scrolly thing for a buck ninety nine….

2010-01-31T14:27:00.001-08:00

Love my find at the Goodwill for $1.99 ! I had previously just visited Hobby Lobby and looked at other wood –not plastic -scrolly things which were around $35.00 bucks ! I found this one (and it is wood – Yeah Me !) – my favorite gaudy gold – why O why is everything this color ?!?!?! ( I will apologize in advance to Dawn- who loves gaudy gold and thinks I am a geek for changing it !") In less then 24 hours , I had it done and hung. Ooo laa laa it looks so fancy schmancy…

Linking up with Susan at for Met Monday:

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/

Hugs ~ Kammy

Photo fun with a fifteen year old….

2010-01-24T18:28:00.001-08:00

Yes, there was snow still on the ground – my daughter has shorts on – silly girl – we had fun. I have been experimenting with winter – the colors aren’t too great…can hardly wait till spring !

Hugs ~ Kammy

“Oh, give me a home where the buffalo roam and the deer and the antelope play…”

2010-01-19T05:54:00.001-08:00

“Oh give me a home where the buffalo roam and the deer and the antelope play….” I feel a bit like Sheila (be a sweetie !) at Notesongs blog……I did play the violin for 10 years-maybe we could do a duet… I STINK at singing….LOL ! Anyway, back to our subject…I am not showing you buffalo…but – there is a ranch north of me that has a large herd – another time… and no deer today - just a super large herd of antelope. Antelope is not in season (other wise you would not see such a large herd). I have seen antelope allot in the last few weeks but, I never have my camera ! My hubby called me the other day and told me where they were and I quick jumped in the car and headed out – just about 5 minutes away….anyway I got there and they were super close and I took a ton of pictures – I then looked to see what they looked like, etc… and I DID NOT HAVE MY MEMORY CARD IN THE CAMERA – arrrrrggghhhhhhh. So I went back home and got it and then of course the deers – I mean antelope had walked further from the road – I think they didn’t like me :o( I told them I wasn’t going to shoot them – only by picture – jeeeeeeeshhhh !

Enjoy !

I wish I would have had that blasted memory card the first time, as I would have gotten lots of pictures showing there fluffy butts – they are really cool !

Linking to with Susan at Outdoor Wednesday

Hugs ~ Kammy

Atta Girl Award …Thank you Lori …

2010-01-18T19:12:00.001-08:00

I am honored to receive a very special award called the “Atta Girl” Award – read about it here on Lori’s blog….

http://www.familytreesmaycontainnuts.com/

Lori is a wonderful writer and has a great sense of humor – wacky sometimes , which is kinda like me – that’s probably why I like her so much ! I love when she comments because it is she who makes me smile :o) Thank you, Lori !!!!!

Hugs ~ Kammy

If the “Other Lady” could see what I did…..

2010-01-17T13:23:00.001-08:00

You all know about my love affair with Craig ….sometimes I have to confront the “Other Lady” !

I have been looking for a mirror and I of course will not spend the money on a new one….I have been looking at Craig for months…I finally found this lovely and Oooooooo my favorite Gaudy Gold….for twenty bucks. I called and made arrangements to meet the “Other Lady”….The “Other Lady” said it just didn’t fit in her new home and oh how she spent so much money on it, when she bought it……Well, if she could see it now…….she may be wishing she never sold this beauty…..

I used my favorite Krylon oil rubbed bronze spray paint aka ORB.

If you are wanting to add ORB to your spray paint collection - I have only been able to buy it at Wally World.

I am linking up with Susan at

http://southernhospitalityblog.com/

Stop by Susan’s to get some great ideas on how to spruce up something -maybe it’s the “Other Ladies'” or maybe its something you already own !

Hugs ~ Kammy

A Sweet Tweet Re-tweet

2010-01-16T11:00:00.001-08:00

If I were a bird, I would love to have this Sweet Tweet Re-tweet !

I saw this little birdhouse at the dollar store and instantly thought of a tassel.

Here is what I used:

Dollar wood bird house

Various paints – practiced my roses…

Yarn – left over from my daughters short crochet lesson

Ribbon

Fray tack – a must to seal those edges from fraying

Hot glue gun

Spice lid

Total cost – One dollar – as I had all the supplies….

From this:

To this:

My son said “Mom, the birds are NOT going to use that house !”

Well, duhhhhhhhh it is just another dust collector – perfect for Valentines Day !

Hugs ~ Kammy

2009 Before and Afters

2010-01-05T17:14:00.001-08:00

Here is how I often look during my “photo shoots” see my assistants – they work for cheap.

You will notice a lot of my “GAUDY GOLD” went to black – but, once in a while I do branch out and use another color – Yes, Everyone teases me about my “black” – in Blogland , my kids friends , relatives, etc.

GOSH !

Did I do allll these projects……

YES

…and I didn’t post everything….

Do I have anything left for 2010 –

YES, do not worry !

I would have posted BIGGER pictures….but, I didn’t want to tie up too much of your time. I would have posted links but, I am lazy – People, I have a full time job….I have many an excuse……

Hugs ~ Kammy

I am linking up to the following party …..

2009 Year in Review at Small Home in The Country

2010-01-03T07:26:00.001-08:00

Wow, 2009 flew ! I really enjoyed my year - although it wasn’t quite a year as I started to blog in March 2009. I have learned so much about myself – I never thought I would say that ! I have “met” so many great bloggy buddies and YOU have inspired me to keep it going !

Here is my first photo submission – old camera and small picture – I posted it WACKY – and I am still learning – months later..

Here is when I got a REAL camera and I got my love for photography back…..

I really loved tablescapes….but needed more dishes…. don’t worry I bought and bought – mostly at the thrift store and now am on a Dish Diet !

Finding things and re-painting them became one of my traits….I first started with some Brand New stuff…then found that thrift store stuff was better !

I did a few Outdoor Wednesdays – and had a few adventures…..

I did a few tutorials on some thrifty craft projects like my Spicy Tassel !

I showed you my complete kitchen remodel – just in time to decorate for fall..

This is picture of the napkin with jingle napkin ring is one of my favorite pictures….I bet you didn’t know that…..

So here is a recap of 2009 and what I discovered :

I like dishes

I like to paint stuff

I like to share my critters

I love to take pictures

I love all my fellow bloggers, Thank you , you inspire me !

Hugs & Smooches ~ Kammy

p.s. I also know I am not fancy schmancy – I still have a SPRING header and lame sidebars….I am of little words and BIG pictures –shhhhh don’t tell the Blog Police !

Thank You, Cuisine Kathleen !!!!

2009-12-20T13:10:00.001-08:00

I was so lucky to win Cuisine Kathleen’s First Anniversary Blog – Give Away !

I was ever so excited when I found the box (it was not a baby box, either !) on my front step, coming home from work.

I carefully opened the box and I was greeted by so many lovely things. I wanted to take pictures as I opened things up….but, I couldn’t wait – I was like a little kid on Christmas morning !

Look at the sweet glittery Christmas card…I thought it looked a lot like where Kathleen lives…we don’t have lighthouses in Colorado !

Inside the card , Kathleen wrote the sweetest things….. Did you know that we have the same initials ?? Kathleen said that she will leave her monogrammed items in her will for me, LOL ! Doesn’t she have the prettiest handwriting ??

Pottery Barn Mushroom Place Card holders…set of eight and they came with little cards too !

I was spoiled with Pottery Barn, Williams-Sonoma and Lenox – to name a few……Kathleen has wonderful taste !

Hand crafted glass ornament……so pretty !

Rooster napkins – Oh, I didn’t get a couple or even four – I got 8 yes – EIGHT ! Kathleen is no cheapskate…. Also napkin rings from Pottery Barn – to keep those roosters under control !

Sweet little candle holder…is so warm looking and fitting for a country home.

Williams – Sonoma Stack and Fill Pancake Molds – these look like fun ! I can hardly wait to try them !

Pottery Barn - Star cookie cutters – don’t you think I can use these for napkins holders too ??

Fun soaps – I just never buy soap – I mean fancy soap – this is such a luxury !

Here is my Lenox Santa’s Toy Bag – I love him and looky he is giving me another present…. Pardon the dust on the shelf – my camera does capture EVERYTHING ! LOL !

Last but not least – this beautiful Lenox Cross Charm…. Again the my camera even captured the little “handcrafted by Lenox” sticker on the bottom that I forgot to remove !

Who you may ask yourself, is Cuisine Kathleen ?

I don’t know if I want to share her with those who might not know her…LOL !

Here is a link to Kathleen’s place….

http://www.cuisinekathleen.com/

I am warning you now…….

DO NOT VISIT KATHLEEN’S BLOG WHILE HUNGRY !!!!!

No, seriously – Kathleen posts the most beautiful and yummy food….I swear I gain about 5 pounds each time I visit ! Kathleen also has a fantastic collection of dishes – I haven’t asked her yet…where does she keep it all ?????? Kathleen also has a great sense of humor and she is a fun read ! Please give her a visit, if you haven’t already !

Thank you so much Kathleen for this grand giveaway and Congrats on your 1 year Blog Anniversary !

I am am privileged to call you one of my bloggy friends !

Hugs ~ Kammy

Multiple parties, crazy season, maybe last posting…

2009-12-14T04:32:00.001-08:00

Multiple parties in one ! – It is getting too close to Christmas and I am crazy busy – this will probably be one of my last postings for December.

This poor Christmas tree was at the thrift store yesterday…until I rescued it for 1/2 price at $ 1.99. It was missing some sparkles – so I stopped off at Hobby Lobby and bought a pack for $1.79 – I have loads left over for other projects. I set the tree on a silver tray , on top of a small glass cake server. I filled the tree with ornaments from the thrift store. I really wanted some soft aqua ones but, couldn’t find any….I used dusty pink & soft blue and it looks o.k. but, not my first choice. When you shop at the thrift store you have to deal with the cards you get. Don’t worry, I will keep going back until I find those aqua colored ornaments…

Here are some pictures of the tree with missing sparkles ……

See I left the tag on the tree so you can see the price ( I paid 1/2 )

Homer Laughlin Romance china – from the thrift store a couple of weeks ago….

Happy Holidays to you and your family !

Hugs ~ Kammy

http://www.lbratina.blogspot.com/

http://thoughtsfromovertherainbow.blogspot.com/

Linking to these parties….enjoy !

Gingerbread Man – some are just Ornery….

2009-12-09T04:32:00.001-08:00

“Run, run as fast as you can, you can’t catch me I’m the Gingerbread Man !!”

Do you remember this story ? I thought that little Gingerbread man was ornery as you can get….teasing everyone ….but, remember the end of the story ? He did all that teasing and got what he deserved….ate by the alligator !! LOL !

Do you have gingerbread men ? If so , you may want to keep an eye on them….some aren’t so well behaved…..don’t worry , the ones I am showing today, are well behaved….

This was such a fun “photo shoot” I love all the bright and warm colors…

Here is the low down on the items I used :

Peppermint plates from JC Pennys – last year after X-mas I bought a 16 piece place setting under $20.00 – so I bought 2 and have enough for 8 people. The plates are nice and heavy and not cheap – Yeah Me !

Gingerbread tea light metal holder from Kohl's – last year after x-mas – I think it was around $5

Gingerbread candles from the thrift store , still in the wrappers $1 each.

Silver chargers from Wally World – last year after X-mas sale for cheap.

All ornaments and cake tin from the thrift store all for $4

Table linens from Jc Pennys after X-mas last year – cheap

Glass water goblets from the thrift store – a buck each

Hope you enjoyed my pictures !

Hugs ~ Kammy

I am linking to Leah for Thrifty Thursday and Susan for Tablescape Thursday , here are the links:

http://www.lbratina.blogspot.com/

http://thoughtsfromovertherainbow.blogspot.com/

Deck the Halls – Inside and Outside of this Small Home in The Country……………….

2009-12-06T19:09:00.001-08:00

I have never taken a picture of this ornament , we use it every year. It is a Hallmark ornament and my Grandma gave it to hubby and I the first year we were married – see the date – 1984.

Notice all the Gaudy Gold – It looks fine in Christmas ornaments and on dishes…..LOL ! Drats – I don’t paint EVERYTHING !!!!!

I love this tree and I really want to start a bird ornament collection for it….I just plugged this and that on it for now…

I bought these nutcrackers at Joann’s last year for $3 each

Nature Decorated

our Small Home in The Country this weekend

I braved the snow to get some pictures (and visit my Dish Dive aka outbuilding to get silver chargers for Tablescape Thursday) the things I do for you………………………LOL !

See my boots………….

This was early in the day – we since then got mounds and mounds more. It has been snowing for over 24 hours !

This next picture when I was in the barn and you can see the back of our small home . See that building to the right ? That is where I keep my my dish stash. The building to the left is a 6 car garage – Yep, about the same size as the home…

Mr. Grady Tucker would like some grain……I gave him a huge scoop – look at those eyes…..He is all shaggy with his warm winter coat. See all the little flakes of snow ?

Here is little Vader romping in the snow – I do say, he needs some boots and a coat….maybe Santa will get him some. Can you see a little bit of Zorro the kitty in the dog house ?

Here is Gunner – now that dog knows how to have fun !

Susan at Thoughts from over the rainbow

is hosting a Deck the Halls party….. Please make sure to check out the other bloggers for some really pretty treats !

I am also linking to Outdoor Wednesday with Susan at

http://www.lbratina.blogspot.com/

Hugs ~ Kammy

Can you believe the things people donate ? #1

2009-12-06T14:55:00.001-08:00

I love to show everyone the things that people donate and do not want any longer…that’s o.k. I will take it home for cheap and give it a “photo shoot” and the love it deserves.

Fitz and Floyd , Snack Therapy – chip and dip – still in the original box - $15 , this is a huge piece and oh so cute !

Country Crock – flatware, 40 pieces for 8 – 2 different original boxes for $4 each !

Hand painted glass gingerbread ornaments - $1.50

Plastic green ball ornaments - $1.50

Victoria , cream colored glass ornaments - $1.00 for twelve

Metal baking pan - $2.50

Hugs ~ Kammy

Snowmen melt my heart…………………….

2009-12-02T05:56:00.001-08:00

Details…

Plates – Onieda from Kohls – clearance after X-mas sale 2008

Mittens and salt and pepper shakers – Pennys after X-mas sale 2008

Glasses – GW a couple of weeks ago – 50 cents each

Linen – Pennys after X-mas sale 2008

Thrift Store Dishes……Dang that Dish Fairy !!

That Dang Dish Fairy !!! I do not need any dishes – as is I am really out of room…..She made me buy the Home Laughlin Romance (made around 1950) a set of 8 – minus 1 teacup for $25 bucks and the everyday Better Homes and Gardens (yes, I know they sell it at Wally World..) for about $10 bucks.

I am linking to Leah for Thrifty Thursday and Susan for Tablescape Thursday , here are the links:

Hugs ~ Kammy

Whoa there – Stop a bit and wait……

2009-12-01T04:47:00.001-08:00

Whoa There – Stop a bit and wait…….

My hubby and son went waaaaaay up in the mountains a couple of weeks ago for their annual hunting trip (don’t worry, I won’t be posting any dead stuff or maybe just a little –)

Sometimes they spot Rocky Mountain Bighorn sheep and they got lucky on this trip. I have trained them well … remember that camera I bought for hubby for Fathers Day ??– Well when driving up the canyon they came across these guys – really - they were on the road – I asked hubby – what the heck were they in the road for ?? He said they were licking the salt on the road ,the salt is used to melt the dangerous icy curves ! They stopped to capture some pictures – because both, hubby and son knew it would make me happy ! Hubby said he was helping me with my blogging…..

Males (the ones with the big horns) weigh about 160-250 pounds! They can live from 9-12 years. I just think they are cool.

I would have taken about a hundred more pictures – but, remember these are men taking photos – so I am pleased to get a few decent ones….LOL !

I love the last one – they said “ Mmmmmm – you are a little too close – lets scram !”

Here are just a couple of pictures looking down the canyon – this is the Poudre Canyon in the North part of the State of Colorado – just a hop and skip from my Small Home in the Country !

Here are the “dead things” They had no luck with the elk or deer but, got super lucky with the fishes !

Hope you enjoyed this Outdoor

Wednesday !

Linking up with Susan :

Hugs ~ Kammy

Tree Plate Holder – I don’t heart you anymore….

2009-11-29T16:03:00.001-08:00

Tree Star Plate Holder….I don’t heart you anymore….

I have owned this gaudy gold tree plate holder for years…it came with gold rimmed plates…. It felt so good to get the ORB spray paint out and give it an update….

I added some of my peppermint plates that I bought last year on clearance and added my thrift find Santa I bought this summer.

I just began decorating this weekend and my house is a wreck – I had to add on about 5 new containers for my fall decorations. I found 2 boxes of Halloween that I didn’t even use this year. I also figured out that I don’t have alot of Christmas things…..you know what that means – Drats – I have to do more shopping !

Hugs ~ Kammy

I am linking to Susan at http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/ for other great changes super bloggers have made !

I WAS BEING FOLLOWED ! Sure glad I keep a cell phone with me !

2009-11-10T05:36:00.001-08:00

Such a beautiful day , a great day to go on a quick walk. I always carry a cell phone for emergencies. I am working on getting my two little pups to do better on a leash so out we went. We are all the way down the road and Cruizer keeps on turning his head back to the house….What the heck is he looking at ? I turn around - Oh my gosh !!! Quick whip out the cell phone to call – my daughter ! Quick get the camera the pups and I are being followed by….

Our cat Zorro ! (please don’t look closely at me – I wear sweat pants about 3 times a year and wear a ponytail – today was one of those days…)

So, we walk back to the house and he is like a bee on honey – he loves to purrrrr and cuddle on Cruizer and Vader.

So, we try again to walk down the road……. Can we lose this character ??

Go a little further…… Nope, still following….

No way, we can’t lose him.

I have to put him inside even in the mornings when my daughter catches the school bus – because he tries to follow her right up on to the bus ! That dang cat ! I swear he thinks he is a dog …

Hugs ~ Kammy

Linking up to Outdoor Wednesday with Susan :