Shabby Miss Jenn

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Close up of new friend!

Look what came to dinner?


Fou Kitty got this bird feeder for his "christmas present" and loves to sit in the chair and watch the birds all day. Well......he had something bigger then a chickadee stop by! LOL

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

My dolls at "Steal of a Deal" prices!

http://www.ezcraftshow.com/shoppe/?sid=ThrutheAtticDoor

Primmart's Christmas in July craft show only lasts a few more days! I have dropped the price on all my dolls!!!!!!!
Once the show is over and the dolls get added to my website.....the prices go back up!
Get the gal of your dreams right now!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Chicken Caesar Fresh Stuffed Pita

Chicken Caesar Fresh Stuffed Pita

Ingredients:
1/2 cup water
1/8 teaspoon dry, unflavored gelatin
1/3 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon finely minced red bell pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
1/8 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Dash parsley
Dash oregano
Dash thyme
Dash basil
1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons egg substitute
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
SaltPepper
6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded
1/4 cup carrot, shredded
4 pita breads
4 teaspoons shredded, fresh parmesan

Directions:Make the dressing by first dissolving the gelatin in the water. Heat the mixture in the microwave on high for two minutes or until it begins to rapidly boil. Add the vinegar, then whisk while adding the oil. Add bell pepper, salt, garlic powder, worcestershire, black pepper, parsley, oregano, thyme and basil. Let dressing cool for about 15 minutes before adding cheeses and egg substitute. Whisk until slightly thicker, then chill. Overnight refrigeration makes the dressing thicker.Preheat a barbecue or indoor grill to medium heat. Salt and pepper the chicken, then grill it for five minutes per side, or until done. Remove chicken from the grill and dice it.While chicken cooks, prepare the salad by combining the romaine lettuce, red cabbage and shredded carrot in a large bowl and toss.Prepare the sandwiches by first microwaving each pita for 20 seconds.Fold each pita in half like a taco, then add 1 to 1-1/2 cups of the romaine salad into the bread.Add about 1/3-cup of diced chicken on top of the salad in the pita.Pour about a tablespoon of dressing over each sandwich.Sprinkle about a teaspoon of shredded fresh parmesan on top of each one and serve.

** I have never made this but it sounded so good!
I think I would leave the gelatin out of it though
Going to try it real soon so will let you all know how it tastes!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

YOU KNOW YOU ARE INTO PRIMITIVES WHEN.......

........when you're saving that "ugly" fabric for that "special project".

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Ready for a different Button???

We bought our groceries the other day and I took a really close look at something and it was like a lightbulb went off.

WHOLE CLOVES!

Wouldn't they make a really awesome row of "buttons" on a primitive doll?
I am so trying it!
Look around your home....what do you see that you can use in a different way?

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Even when it is not pattern perfect,

It can indeed be PRIMITIVE PERFECT!

I am seeing more and more folks wanting to try their hand at making something "primitive" but are so full of questions and so nervous. My first response when asked for help...... you can't mess up!
Seriously! It just makes it something in the more "extreme primitive" style! LOL

So you used too much coffee............
So the button eyes are crooked...........
So the nose stitched too big.........
So the dress bottom has no hem......

It's PRIM PERFECT!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Let there be Light!

LuminaryLight!
Thought this would be fun to try so I stashed it away in my files. Found it today and thought I would share:)

Empty pineapple cans (without sharp edges or whatever size can you wish to use)
Water
Old towels
Hammer and nail
Votive candle
A hot pad or trivet
Tracing paper (optional)
Rubber bands

Fill the can with water and carefully freeze it solid.
Remove the can from the freezer and place it on towels.
Use a hammer and nail to punch holes into the can. It can be messy so you can even do this outside for less mess.
Let the ice melt, dry the can and add the candle.
Set the can on a hot pad or trivet before lighting the candle.
When the candle is lit don't touch the can - it may get hot.
Option: Create a pattern on tracing paper and use rubber bands to attach it to the frozen can. Punch holes along the lines on your design.

ENJOY!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Silk Wing Close up

My Little China Doll


I wanted to create something special for Lydia's 1st birthday. I had made this dress from a vintage tablecloth. Loved the look of it. Thought it would be fun to create an angel doll for her. Used a small piece of the chinese silk that her mother Carole had brought to me.
I love the way this doll turned out!

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Friday, July 22, 2005

On the Auction block................

Which would you like to see.................?

A. My dolls
B. My Kitty dolls
C. My faceless Angels


Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Thru the Attic Door AUCTIONS.............


Make sure to keep your eye out for this banner....I am going to try my hand at some AUCTIONS in the near future! If you see this banner....something is up on the Auction block.

You'll be able to read about them here FIRST of course!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Reached into the "vault" and found this..........



WOW! have I come a LONG way or what? Was sorting thru some old files on the computer and found this picture of one of the first doll I ever made.

YIKES! LOL

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Swimming hole


This is the best spot to go swimming!
I am making sure my bathing suit is packed this weekend and hopefully we'll all head here to get cool!

Its off the main road and into the woods a bit. I have been swimming here and seen deer come down to drink from the waters edge.

Also arrived to swim once after dinner and we found a fair size beaver swimming around!!!!!!!! LOL

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Bear River......my Hometown



Thought some of you might like to see where I am from. This is Bear River Nova Scotia.

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

So hot outside you just have to SLUSH IT!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is my fave thing to drink right now! LOL

Raspberry Ice Crystal Light..... make according to instructions
Raspberry Vodka...... add whatever amount you wish :)

Mix together and freeze over night........ serve slushed.
Can mix it with 7Up as well.

Have a good weekend! LOL

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Would your skin look better on an alligater????

If you have dry skin then you have got to scoot over to Stace's website and check out her goodies! You will be amazed! I have heard nothin but rave reviews about it all.
She even has a free sample if you hurry!

http://wildbeebalms.com/

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Braids



Was fun to create a doll with braids....something a bit different from my usual style of hair. This was sheeps wool that I needle felted in place and then braided. Took some time but the effect was perfect:)

She can be found on my Thru the Attic Door page of Folk-of-Art. I just love her face!

http://www.folk-of-art.com/members/tracyd.html

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Looking so innocent! LOL
























Sleeping behind the chairs from camping! LOL
What a goofy cat!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Not feeling the need to listen.................

Fou kitty doesn't seem to feel he needs to listen right now.

We are having the hardest time with him staying in the yard.Looks like we will be getting him a harness and fastening him again. He had been doing so well :(

He found a mouse in the path to the neighbors yard and now he thinks he can go there every time and catch a mouse! When you let him out....that is right where he goes each time!

AGH!

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Custom Work.......

This has been a new adventure.....I am working on some custom dolls for folks.
Was contacted by a few ladies who liked my style of doll and had certian ideas in their minds for dolls. It has been fun to work within those boundaries. I will make sure to share pictures of the dolls soon. One is almost finished and ready to head out!

Do you do custom work?

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Covered in Clay..............

http://www.homethrownpottery.com/store/Default.asp

Well...... I bet her hands are always covered in clay! LOL
If you love the look of pottery then you have to take a moment or two to scoot over to check out Lisa's website. She makes some of the most amazing looking stuff!
I am so going to have to be getting myself her "dip chiller" set....its such an awesome idea!
We eat alot of dip! LOL
She is multi talented and offers all kinds of goodies besides her pottery too.
If you are in her area you can even go right to her pottery studio....I think that would be so awesome an idea! I'd love to see something being created!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Body Parts all over...........

Took some time today to cut and sew a bunch of "body parts" so I'd be a bit further ahead.
I like to be able to just grab the parts needed for a doll when the mood strikes. Ya never know when that mood will be or for how long it will be sticking around. Nothing worse then losing the mood half way thru cause you didn't have the parts to finish! LOL
I usually keep enough "parts" ready to make about 12-16 dolls.

Do you make each doll as she happens....... or do you have "parts" all over as well?

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Can Cake Attack?



The birthday girl, Lydia, keeping an eye on her piece of cake and scoop of ice cream like its about to attack her any second now! She was such a cutie!!!!!! heehee

Its like she knew it was going to end up right on her thighs!LOL

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Wednesday, July 20, 2005

You Could Cut it with a Knife................

The fog this morning is so thick!!!!!!! If it stays foggy today....it will cool the day off nice. Might be able to get some serious sewing done. If the sun comes out and burns this fog away....YIKES!
My sewing area is upstairs and it get so hot! I might have to break down and have the fan going in my room.......even though that causes every scarp of fabric and loose thread to whip around my room! LOL

Heavy Fog! Welcome to Nova Scotia!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Always carry a handful in your purse!!!!!!!

I had stashed a handful of business cards in my purse at the beginning on the week. You just never know when the chance to hand one or more out will happen. Nothing worse then the chance is there and you have nothing!

While at the party last night....I had created a doll for Lydia's birthday present. Folks were loving her and got talking about my business. Someone asked if I could write down the address to my website for them. I laughed and told them I could do better. I handed them a business card from my purse. Next thing I knew EVERYONE was wanting one:)

You just never know.............. go tuck some in your purse right now!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Connecting to your "inner child"............

What things do you still do NOW that you used to do as a child? What ways do you connect to that "inner child"?

Blowing bubbles! ~ I love to blow bubbles and just watch them float away in the breeze. We bought these cool bubbles that harden slightly and you can catch and stack them! SO COOL~

Swing! ~ I love to go to a kids playground area and sit on the swings. I like the feel when I tip back and can see the world upside down. I like dragging my toes thru the dirt under the swing!LOL

Water Balloons! ~ Now I'm not talking getting hit with a ballon that someone has just sent flying at me from nowhere. We have this contraption that holds a water balloon and has a timer on it.
You pass it around ....kind of like the game Hot potato......and when the timer ends...... POP!
The balloon breaks and you are soaked. OH my goodness that is so much fun on a hot day to play! You never know who it will be!
(There will be pictures of this happening soon to follow because I took the ball over to Grant and Carole's last night! We'll be playing that this weekend! LOL)

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

She turned ONE !!!!!!!!!!!

Our friends home from China....their daughter turned ONE yesterday and we went to help celebrate. Tons of family and friends were over. Eric had brought them his BarBq to use and they were putting it to good use. Hot dogs! Hamburgers! Atlantic Salmon! Scallop wrapped in bacon on skewer! Pork ribs!
I had only been told there'd be seafood so I'd brought my own chicken breast! LOL Little did I know! Eric took some pictures of Lydia the birthday girl with her cake and icecream that I will post when I get them. She is so cute!
I blew bubbles outside for the kids to chase. Eric and Grant(Lydia's dad) set up the fireworks and we had a great display of those to end the evening.

I am so glad we were able to be a part of Lydia's big day:)
XOXO

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Monday, July 18, 2005

You might be better off "Drip Drying" !!!!!!!!!!!


I don't think this first towel is going to dry anyone off too well!
Fou had been in the habit of climbing onto the towel rack and sleeping all afternoon! LOL

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

have you done all the LITTLE things?????????

You are sitting there looking at your website and wondering .......why aren't folks stopping by?
Have you done all the little things that in the end are huge and yet such simple things?

~ where is your website URL?
If your answer isn't EVERYWHERE then you have not been doing enough for your website.

* place it in every email you send out!
* place it on business cards and send them out
* have a banner created and use it to attract attention to your website
* sign guestbooks! Most guestbooks allow your name and a business....fill that out!
* exchange links/banners with as many folks as possible...... now I am not talking about spamming and getting links for crazy stuff on your site. Look for folks websites that are going to compliment your site....like a good wine to your meal!
* Join different websites/forums that you are able to let know folks about your website.
* join online craft shows
* do some auctions
* send out a monthly newsletter
* WRITE A BLOG

How many are you doing?

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

New worlds created....................

Each friend represents a world in us,
a world possibly not born until they arrive,
and it is only by this meeting
that a new world is born.
- Anais Nin

I am so very blessed to have "new worlds" being born often in my life.
I have always loved that quote.

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Think about it..................

Artistic creativity is a whirlpool of imagination that swirls in the depths of the mind.
--Robert Toth

Have you got a whirlpool happening or a drought?

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Om Mani Padme Hum Part 2




Showing the inside of my Prayer wheel.

The script is so tiny and perfect!

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Om Mani Padme Hum


Tibetan Prayer Wheel
I am so blown away by this!
I had heard about these and asked Carole if she ever had the chance, I would love to own one.


Tibetan prayer wheels (called Mani wheels by the Tibetans) are devices for spreading spiritual blessings and well being. Rolls of thin paper, imprinted with many, many copies of the mantra (prayer) Om Mani Padme Hum, printed in an ancient Indian script or in Tibetan script, are wound around an axle in a protective container, and spun around and around. Typically, larger decorative versions of the syllables of the mantra are also carved on the outside cover of the wheel.Tibetan Buddhists believe that saying this mantra, out loud or silently to oneself, invokes the powerful benevolent attention and blessings of Chenrezig, the embodiment of compassion. Viewing a written copy of the mantra is said to have the same effect -- and the mantra is carved into stones left in piles near paths where travelers will see them. Spinning the written form of the mantra around in a Mani wheel is also supposed to have the same effect; the more copies of the mantra, the more the benefit."
http://www.dharma-haven.org/tibetan/prayer-wheel.htm
Thanks for letting me share!I think its so amazing to learn about different cultures around the world.

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Thursday, July 14, 2005

I AM LISTED on FOLK of ART!!!!!!!!!!!

http://www.folk-of-art.com/members/tracyd.html

Check out the FOA corner of Thru the Attic Door!
I am so excited to be joining this website....the gals are super nice and so flippin talented!
Still pinching myself! heehee

Every 15 of the month......check me out for new dolls there!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Know the saying "too big for your britches"..........



ROFL! Fou Kitty used to be able to lay in this wooden box of mine when he was little. Loved it! But then he got bigger......he still loved the box!

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

What does a Charcoal bricket taste like?

I have no idea what they taste like but the BEAR in our yard sure wanted to find out!
Dad got up the other morning to find our BarBq tipped over and the brickets were knocked out and spread all around our yard......looked like they'd been licked!
Hope the bear liked the barBq sauce we'd used on the chops! LOL

We have a green barrel as well in our yard that our compost stuff goes in. A bear came up and stood next to it....grabbed it with his front paws and started bouncing it up and down trying to knock it over. Dad has it bungee corded to the side of the house so the bear couldn't get it.
Mom had her face placed right up against the livingroom window watching till Dad told her to step away from the window!

Anyone want to come visit?????? LOL

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Remember the Doll House I told you about?


So earlier in my blog writings I told you about my doll house that my grandmother had made for me. Thought I'd share this picture......Fou Kitty loved it too!

He'd open the front door...walk thru the doorways and then lay down for a nap!

Heehee

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

I love the new look..........so very prim!

www.folk-of-art.com

FOA got a new look to their website. I think its a really prim look!
I start selling there TOMORROW and am so excited!


Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

I like mine REALLY STIFF..................

Ya'll jump right into the gutter so quick ! LOL

I am talking about the fun it is to play with MODGE PODGE!
Being from a really small area of Nova Scotia, I had never been able to find this stuff around here. Was shopping last week and found it. I was so excited as I have seen so many of my prim friends talking about this stuff.
One pattern that I have calls for some to be used and for it to be glossy. So that is the kind I bought. I had no idea it would be so thick. I created a pumpkin and bat for one of my witches to hold. Used the modge podge stuff on it and its sooooooooo awesome!
I just love walking by the pumpkin and tapping! LOL
I can see I will be creating with this stuff quite a bit!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

I'll take mine buttered with onion salt please

Ever notice that as soon as you smell popcorn....you just have to have some?
My goodness I was all the way upstairs and I heard the microwave beep....then this waft of popcorn heaven slinked up the stairs and right under my nose!
I am an Orville popcorn kinda gal:)
Love a big ol' bowl with onion salt sprinkled. Curled up in my chair. Covered with a blanket and a good book from the library to bury my nose in.

Mmmmmmm popcorn!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

No SNOW....but its CHRISTMAS in JULY!


http://www.ezcraftshow.com/shoppe/?sid=ThrutheAtticDoor

Looking out my window....I am seeing blue skies and lots of sunshine. Not a snowflakes in the air!
Primmart is hosting their Christmas In July Craft show. Had so much fun creating some special new dolls for my booth.


This Santa was a a real treat to create. I loved the wool I used for his beard. I even gave him eyebrows with it.

You'll notice his tag....its from Whimsical Princess!

Please stop by my booth and see what goodies I have been creating and adding each day. The show runs from July 13-27. I have FREE SHIPPING on any of my creations.

I also introduced my new line of stitchery patterns:)

So many great folks have booths.Make sure to look around and find them all.......everyone has wonderful specials happening just for this show!

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

Now that is a BONNET!



Thought I would share some old pictures from my family:)

This would be a picture of my mom(left) and her cousin Mary(right) out enjoying some sun. Guess Aunt Helen didn't have to worry about sunburned cheeks on Mary!

Love this picture!

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Ever play TAG with a PRINCESS????????

http://www.ezshoppes.com/shoppe/?sid=WHIMSICALPRINCESS

I am so excited to tell folks about this wonderful new Ezshoppe! I can see me spending LOTS of money here! LOL

I have been so very lucky to be blessed with creations by Erin from swaps I have taken part in. She is also known for the odd surprise to just show up in the mailbox. This is my surprise back to her! A shout out about her new adventure.

Erin creates the most prim perfect tags for your prim projects!
She stains the tags herself and they have the best effect to them. All her designs are then hand drawn by her. The sayings she has will spark your creativity!
Many of my dolls on my website....if they come with a hang tag....its been created by Erin!

BEST OF LUCK SWEETS!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Dragging? Need to refresh your coffee cup?????

http://www.debbiesgiftshop.com/store.html

Then you should be filling your cup up with one of the goodies from debbie's site!
Can you imagine how wonderful it would be to start your day off with a cup of any of these?
Your kitchen would smell amazing!!!!!
~ Tanzanian Peaberry
~ Reggae Java Blend
~ Hawaiian Macadamia
~Turtle Sundae

Debbie has TONS of different yummy sounding coffee blends. She has Chai tea which is all the rage right now. I love this stuff! She offers cappuccino in different flavors as well.
She will have something for everyone!
This would be an amazing place to stock up on some early holiday presents. Yummy exotic gifts this year!

I think I can hear the coffee perking right now!LOL

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

It BIT her....... bit her HARD! LOL

Kendra of http://www.homespunelements.com/ has been bit by the sewing bug!
She has been creating the cutest dolls and just having so much fun. I have been loving when she shows us sneek peeks of her new creations.

On her website you can find an array of wonderful prims including wax dipped bears, raggedies, cake candles, primitive birdhouses, saltbox houses, angels, gingerbread, pip berry decor, rusty tin, and lots, lots more.

With many dolls soon to follow I am sure:)

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Dog breath kisses wake you in the morning?????

http://www.wetnosedogbakery.com/store/Default.asp

Then this is the website that you need to be checking out!
Anyone that knows me knows that kitties rule in my world but Kathy has even branched out with kitty treats! Fou and the gang here are being "testers" on the new products:)

From all the rave reviews I have read from those with dogs who have ordered from Kathy....this is the best place to pick up special treats for your pooch! She has all sorts of shapes and flavors.
Something for every dog close to your heart!
Scoot over and treat your dog to something yummy today!


Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Who has been knocking on your door?????

Most websites come with some form of "counter" so you can see how many folks have stopped by your website. I love seeing the numbers climb but was hoping to have a bit more information.
Spent an evening doing some research and found this website

http://www.statcounter.com

I am loving having this counter:)
It lets you have more then one "project" so I have my blog counted as well as my website.
It shows me in numbers and with a graph how many folks stopped by each day.
Records how many were unique visitors to my site.
How many were returning visitors.

Check it out!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

That name escape your mind????

You know how that happens. You create a doll and while doing it.....have a name all picked out.
But then when you get her all done...she doesn't quite look like the name?
Here is a list of names for just that moment.

How about one of these names?


Adelaide *Adeline * Althea *Amelia *Annabelle *Arabella *Beatrice *Bertha *Belle *Beulah Camille * Cecilia *Cecily *Celeste *Charlotte *Clara * Clarinda *Clarissa *Claudia *Clementine Cordelia *Corinne *Delia* Dolores* Dorothy *Edith *Eleanor* Elise *Eliza *Elnora *Eloise* Elsa Elspeth *Emmeline *Erma *Ernestine *Ethel *Etta *Eudora *Eugenia *Evangeline *Felicity *Francine *Frances *Genevieve *Georgia *Gladys *Hazel* Helen *Henrietta *Hester *Ida *Iris *Isadora *Jemima *Josephine *Leonora *Lila *Lisette *Louisa *Loretta *Lucia *Lucinda Lucretia Lydia *Mabel *Marion *Martha *Matilda *Mavis *Melinda * Meredith *Millicent Miriam *Myra *Nadine *Naomi *Octavia *Opal *Pearl *Phoebe *Priscilla *Regina *Roberta Rosalind *Rosemary *Ruth *Simone *Sonya *Stella *Susannah *Sylvia *Theodora *Theodosia Vada *Viola *Violet *Virginia *Vivian *Wilhelmina *Willa *Winifred *Zella

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Do you smell Sugar Cookies and Fruitcake?

So you won't actually be smelling fruitcake from my booth either! LOL
The Annual Christmas in July Craft Show from Primmart is about ready to start!

http://www.ezcraftshow.com/

July 13th - July 27th 2005 is when the show runs. So many great venders have gotten booths and so there will be lots of shopping going on. I am taking part in this show and very excited to showcase some new dolls for you all. Some really unique and special ideas formed and I think I brought them to life quite well.

There is a chatroom to stop into and talk with venders. You know that is where you'll be able to find me! LOL Feel free to stop by and chat with us all OXOX
Once the actual show starts....I will come back to my blog and give the link to my actual booth:)

Happy shopping!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Wrapped in Chinese Silk instead of Homespun!

Well..... I am not giving up homespun forever! LOL
My friends who live in Dalian China are coming home to Canada for a visit. They will be here on Saturday. We haven't seen them in a while and I am so looking forward to hanging out. They have added a daughter to the family since we last saw them. I can't wait to see gabe with his little sister:)

I can see lots of BarBq happening in the next few weeks! Looks like I can finally break open those dips I ordered from Mari and have had stashed away till now. Eric bought us a tent and we just need to get an air mattress next.

Carole has told me that she has some chinese silk she is bringing me. I have no idea what color or what the design will be but I am excited. I will make sure to take pictures and share:)
She also has prayer beads for me that a real Buddist Monk gave her. I can't wait to feel that energy!
Also was able to get me a Tibetian Prayer Wheel. A stone is missing she says but I told her that wouldn't matter to me at all. It was all so very special to me.
I will share pictures of it all:)

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Flowers from my "Zen Garden"

Wanted to share some "flowers" that have come to bloom in my Zen Garden.
Beginning to really believe that if you put forth good energy that good energy comes back to you even stronger. Negative energy blocks out the warmth of good energy!

~ The dolls that I created to be in FOA....... I showed a few to get some feedback on them.
ONE SOLD! She hasn't even been listed yet and already I got an email asking for her.
I am boxing her up today and taking her to the PO to be weighed so I can send an invoice for payment.

~ was contacted to send some doll samples to go "on tour" to some craft shows happening in the Ohio area. My dolls will help promote my own website but also represent Primmart and Mercantile Gathering magazine!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have been walking on clouds over this!

My Zen garden has so many wonderful bright flowers blooming all around me!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Weeded out my Zen Garden

So my ZEN garden had become overgrown knotted with knarled and twisted weeds.
I am talking about my "inner Zen garden". I would sit back at the end of a day and have a zillion things running thru my head. I was in a creative rut . I was carrying too much "past baggage" around with me and nothing good could break thru the garden gate :(

That all seems to be changing for me........

Many of you that already know that I was married before. I was in an abusive relationship. I got my divorce after a very hard time. For many years after that.....I have had a strained relationship with my exHusband.
I couldn't let go of the hatred and hurt from all those years.
It was playing a huge part in the knotting of my Zen garden.

Last week out of the blue, he and I had the chance to talk. There was a death in his family and she will be missed by many.( XO~FRAN) He and I ended up talking for quite a while and said things that hadn't been said before now. No yelling. No name calling. No crying. Just much needed talking took place. There was even laughter!

I will never FORGET...... but I was so very ready to FORGIVE.

The twisted weeds and old flowers pulled apart in my Zen Garden!New flowers are blooming again! Creative water is flowing.

If your inner Zen Garden is knarled and twisted..... look for a way to maybe get weeding!
XOXO

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

ORNIE's have taken over the house!

Took part in Primmart's Annual Ornie Swap for the 3rd year in a row. I can't imagine the size of the tree I am going to have to use to place all the ornies on this year! WOW!
The gals created some of the most amazing ornies I have seen since I've been doing the swap.
They were almost all different this year which was cool.
Cutter quilts seemed very popular in the fabric choice for many.
All the scents have my room and the house smelling so prim perfect!
I can't wait to get the "green light" and be able to share the ornie pics with you all:)

I was thrilled to hear from Mari that the swap would be happening again next year! She is the best to take this on each year. heehee
Looks like I best get looking thru some patterns and figuring out what I want to be creating for next time round. The number rises each year....best get started NOW! LOL

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

I think I'm going to like it bigger!

For the most part "bigger" is usually too big and overrated.
Bigger cars eat way too much gas. Bigger meals you always end up with too many leftovers that go bad in the fridge.

For those of you who are in the gutter right now with your thinking....I'll wait till you crawl out before I tell you what I was talking about! ROFL

Ok...... ya ready?
...
...
...
...
...
...
I was talking about a BIGGER ORNIE TREE!


Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

How the heck did that happen???????

How did that happen? I mean....I knew I hadn't written in a bit but I didn't think I'd lost a WHOLE WEEK! Why didn't someone pinch me and tell me to get back here! ?! LOL
Hope you already made your coffee and are comfy in your chair...... you are going to have lots to read!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Sunday, July 03, 2005

Break out the FireCrackers! I am JOINING FOA!!!!

www.folk-of-art.com

So this has got to be one of the most inspirational websites I have ever had the fun of stumbling across! The talent level is thru the roof and with my typical style...... I am jumping in with both feet! LOL Goodness I hope I am up for the challenge!

If you love the look of Primitives then this is a website that you just have to check out!
I am going to be taking part in what is known as FOA2....... my goodies will be added in the middle of each month. Busting butt here right now crafting some new gals to showcase there for the first time! heehee
(I could have opted for FOA1 which would have had to be the beginning of each month but i write too many articles that are needed around that time frame! LOL)

The gals there have opened their arms to me so wide. So many of them have inspired me and don't even know it. I had been a lurker for quite a while and just used to sit back in awe. Now I pinch myself cause I call them my friends!
They are all working on some amazing autumn creations right now!
My all time fave season of course! I am squeeling with delight!

So make sure to check me out at www.folk-of-art.com really soon!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdor.com

Beneath the Willow Tree ~ July article

Once again I am thrilled to announce that I have written another article for Beneath the Willow Tree. Sitting down each month and sharing stories from the attic has been so much fun for me.
Thank you all for the wonderful feedback:) That always inspires my writing.

Here is a small excerpt from my article.....

" Something different would draw me up those oak stairs each time. The railing worn smooth by the many hands gripping it while climbing to the attic door. The step that was third from last creaked when you stepped down. The paper was slightly peeling from the wall where years earlier, one of the cats had scratched it . Everyone in the family had something stored in that attic at some point.When you pushed open the oak door.....you were in the middle of the attic. If you looked left, you could see and hear the flies buzz in the far window that faced the backyard and old horse barn. I never went to that part of the attic. The floor boards shifted under your feet and used to scare me. The lone light bulb didn't send much light to that end of the attic. Cobwebs could easily be walked into at that end I shudder as I recall that. The right side of the attic held most of the treasures and holds most of my memories.......... ".

http://www.beneaththewillowtree.com/WhispersFromThePast.asp

Please read my full article and enjoy a wonderful newsletter brought to you by Primmart.

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com

When you just need a good belly laugh




















You just have to look towards your animals!
I was moving files around on the computer this morning and found this picture of my cat MAO.
She loves to be outside when it rains....she is a sponge I swear!
We could hear this strange sound and when I opened the door....there she was ...licking the raindrops off the door!

What a silly cat!
Hope this picture made you smile today :)

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com
http://thrutheatticdoor2.blogspot.com/

Country Marketplace........ I'm in an AD!!!!!!!



I am in the August issue and am just beyond excited! Its the first time I have ever seen my business name in print before. I am taking part in the Primitive Artisans Fall Faire. The ad in the CM is to promote the Faire. You can find the ad on page 33. I am shown on the top right hand corner of the page!!!!!

My image is shown under the word SHOPPING....think I can take that as a good omen?! LOL

Make sure to stop by www.primitiveartisansfaire.com .

The Faire runs from August 29- September 30 2005.

When you go to the website right now, you can click the Artisans Directory and click the venders names...... you will be directed to our websites until the Faire actually starts up.

BOOKMARK IT! You won't want to miss what I am creating just for the FAire. Some very unique OOAK dolls are being born!

Cedara

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

http://thrutheatticdoor2.blogspot.com/

Guestbooks........ Good or Evil ??????

Guestbooks for a website seem to cause so much talk. There are as many that think its a good idea as those that think its a bad one. In my personal experience, I LOVE my guestbook.
I have it set up with the option that I get to read and grant all the entries first before they appear in my book. Takes a bit of time but that way the spam and crazy stuff that seems to flood some books is not there.

I have met some wonderful folks from sending back a quick email thanking them for signing my guestbook. I have gathered some great insight on what folks liked on my website.
When you sign others guestbooks it also helps raise your website in the search engine rankings. The more places that those google spiders can find your business name...the higher ranked your website will be for folks to find you!

Go on....spend some time and sign some books!
Get a guestbook for folks to sign on your website!
Its going to be a simple and easy investment for your website!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com
http://thrutheatticdoor2.blogspot.com/

Roasting Marshmallows from Heaven

Roasting marshmallows!
Who doesn't love to do that.....right now in the back yard. Or down by the beach at the camp.
Or if you just have to have one.....you stick one in a fork and use the flame from a lighter!

The classic roasted marshmallow is a good one but I am going to share a special treat with you.
All my friends get together down on the shore and do them this way!

You take your marshmallow and stick the end of the roasting stick inside.Don't push all the way thru. Pull the stick back out.
Take 3 chocolate chips (we always use milk choc chips) and place inside the hole.
Take 3 blueberries (fresh picked that day from my parents 2 acres of wild berries!)

Turn so the hole is now on the top.
Carefully poke the marshmallow again with the stick...... start roasting over the coals.
When it gets goden brown......remove carefully and pop it in your mouth!
The berries are hot...the choc chips have melted and its a little piece of heaven!!!!!

ENJOY!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com
http://thrutheatticdoor2.blogspot.com/

I Smell Halloween Candy!!!!!

Ok so maybe I can't really smell candy yet.......but its close!
Autumn and halloween are my all time fave time of the year.
I love the crisp feel to the air. Cool enough you need a sweater but not a winter coat.
The maple and oak leaves are switching to their prim autumn colors and whipping around us on the winds. You can have bonfires and roast marshmallows.
Barrels of apples sit in the porch making the whole house smell like gramma's house always did.
Pumpkins wait in the field to be picked and carved with faces.

I have been so inspired the last little while just thinking ahead to this fun season.
What inspires you? What season brings out your creativity?

Look for fun and unique creations soon to my website!
BOO!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com
http://thrutheatticdoor2.blogspot.com/

HEY! Can you turn the music UP?????

I love to listen to music while I am crafting. I think to hear music helps the creative juices flow thru my fingers. Very rare for you to step into my room and not hear something playing on the radio or thru my MP3 player on my computer.
Eric can tell when I am spending time on his computer as I have the tunes cranking from his computer room! LOL

Todays tunes of choice were......

Joss Stone......am loving the gravel sound of this young lady. She blows my mind!I am a huge Joplin fan and she reminds me of her so much. I think I also like the fact Joss is always in her barefeet. You have to love that!

Rob Thomas ( MatchBox20)........ I can't help but get the funk going with him. My foot is tapping. My hand is smacking my thigh....I sing along LOUD! As a solo album....I really like it!

Had some Nelly tunes going for a bit till I figured I needed a low key kinda vibe going and switched to Joss. Maybe Nelly will get me grooving tomorrow instead.


Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com
http://thrutheatticdoor2.blogspot.com/

Prefer mine Sundried please

Sundried sheets that is!
Yet another little secret I am sharing with you folks:)

I like to take the piles of bedsheets that I have already soaked in the "witches brew".
(You have already read about that! LOL). Take the sheets outside to dry in the sun.
It sometimes takes a bit longer then if I tossed them in the dryer. I like the effect on the sheets that the sun does.

I usually toss them over the edge of the picket fence by the bluebery field. Not straight and even either. I like there to be rolls and wrinkles in the fabric as it drys. Gives a darker stained effect in the creases! Sometimes I even spray it down again in areas with leftover "witches brew" that I have placed in a bottle.

I find that if I dry things in the dryer....it evens out the stains. I like my gals to have a good streak or two in them! The sun does this!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com
http://thrutheatticdoor2.blogspot.com/

Thru the Attic Door Newsletter

www.thrutheatticdoor.com

Spent the evening tonight sending out my July issue of my newsletter.
I have sent out 11 issues now and really got to thinking tonight......I love writing it!
Connecting with folks who have found my website and liked my creations.
My mailing list is growing each month. Always makes me smile to see someone new join the list.

Anyone who cares to join....can go to my website and fill out the form.
When you get the email back...click the link inside and you'll be added!
All kinds of information and treats will be shared with you!

Thank you to those already on!

Cedara
www.thrutheatticdoor.com
http://thrutheatticdoor2.blogspot.com/