The Faries Family

Getting Busy Again!

2011-02-27T18:55:00.002-06:00

Just completed these 2 birthday banners to be sent to Houston tomorrow!

I painted this canvas for little Carter's bathroom. It is patterned after a shower curtain from Target. Love the squirrel!

Thanks to Robin, one of my methods students from Sam, for getting some orders from her friends!

Nashville, Names, and sNOw School!

2011-02-07T18:52:00.005-06:00

Last month, Todd had a mechanical class near Nashville for a week. The girls and I flew up there and spent some time in the Country Music Hall of Fame and a tour of RCA Studio B. What a Thrill to sit at the piano Elvis played at Studio B!

I think I got the biggest kick out of standing in front of the Hee Haw cornfield next to clothes worn by Grandpa Jones, Archie Campbell, Stringbean, and LuLu Roman!!!
You may think I am wierd, but I still watch HeeHaw on RFD! SAAAALUUUTE!

I found the gold record of one my most remembered and favorite songs: Harper Valley PTA!

Yes, Nashville was covered in snow! It was a balmy 21 degrees when we got there!

Who could not go to Nashville and not see the Grand Ole Opry? We were in luck because Charley Pride was performing!

The last month or so has not just been all play. I have been able to squeeze in some painting too.
It's that time of year again when wedding showers are in the air!

This is my latest painting. I created one of these to put above my fireplace over the Christmas holidays and I love it! This one is for Todd's secretary, Amanda.

Even though it had begun to melt in this picture, our yard and pasture was a winter wonderland Friday morning when we woke up! So sNOw SCHOOL!(Lindsey had been out of school 3 days prior to this in Stephenville!) She did manage to come home Friday. Ashley came home too, Todd cook steaks, and we played Just Dance 2! It was a great end to a day off!

Christmas Time!

2011-01-05T18:48:00.002-06:00

I know this is a little late, but here are some pictures from our Christmas Eve at home. We went to the Christmas Eve service at church, ate some good food, then opened presents. We snapped the picture below of Todd checking his facebook! He is just as bad as we are with Facebook!

OOOOOOHHH! Viva La Juicy!

Ashley is really happy with her 31 bag!

Putting together a vacuum can be hard work!

Aggie Ring Day

2010-11-14T20:27:00.002-06:00

Ashley got her Aggie ring this past Friday along with 2000 other excited Aggies! It was a great day.

Todd presented her with her ring!

Christmas is Coming!

2010-11-02T20:17:00.002-05:00

These ornaments are 4" wooden disks (no glass breaking!) and painted on both sides. They can be personalized, mongrammed, dated, or have a message put on front and back! $7 each. I have 4" square ones I am currently working on. Pictures to come!

Just finished this wooden chest for Mrs. Park. It will be in the court house for letters to soldiers, I believe.

A Touch of Fall

2010-10-01T21:15:00.002-05:00

I have been "oooohing" and "ahhhhhing" at all the subway art on the web lately, so I decided to paint one. I used an old cabinet door I had. With the use of the overhead projector, I had this done in a couple of evenings.

These dish towels were "web inspired" as well. I found them on "Just a Girl" blog a few weeks ago. After a trip to Walmart to get a few supplies, I had Halloween dishtowels for about $5!

Bedroom Furniture

2010-09-13T21:59:00.004-05:00

Here is the before picture of the bookcase and nightstand. And the after................

The pillow and box shown is what the bedding looks like. The little girl's room is lime green, and the brown will look good against the walls. I was able to work outside in the garage this weekend because my fantastic husband bought me a portable air conditioner for my birthday! Who needs diamonds when you can have a cool garage to work in???

Girly table set and teacher name signs

2010-09-09T06:36:00.003-05:00

Finished Lesa's girls' table and chair set this weekend. These girls like pinks, purples, flowers, and hearts. Mom likes western, so I added a bandana print on the side.

The above and below signs were ordered by one of my former student teachers. She is teaching in Victoria this year. Hope you have a great year Jessica!

Ready for School!

2010-08-22T21:35:00.002-05:00

The Cat in the Hat says, "Come on in let's learn and do alot. We can't go outside since it is so very hot!"

This is Courtney's backsplash for her BUNKO party.

Lindsey's dorm accessories! She is going leopard, red, and black.

AAAAGGGHHH! School is about to start!

2010-08-11T19:14:00.005-05:00

School is about to start and I still have SOOOO much to do! I am doing my classroom in Dr. Seuss theme this year. This sign will be outside on my bulletin board or maybe in my room! I can't decide.

My fabulous mother-in-law found this chair at a garage sale and just in time too. Heather wanted a chair for her classroom. I will deliver it to her tomorrow!

Heather likes giraffe print, flowers, and red is her favorite color. Me, too, Heather!

These teacher name signs are web inspired! I saw this cute pencil on Laurie Cole's website and knew I had to have one. Mine aren't exactly like hers, but she has some really cute ones. Oh, and Mrs. Stanton gets one too!

This is Jake's desk to match his room and bedding. I put chalkboard paint on the top so that he could write ON the desk too! Hope he and Jenna are enjoying their new rooms in their new home.

Eleven TALENTED ladies came for the last paint party of the summer. (Alex and Ashley are not in this picture!) They had so many ideas I never would have thought of. The creativity was definitely flowing. Missed you girls that couldn't make it!

Paint party fun!

2010-08-01T13:19:00.002-05:00

I painted a new backsplash the other day. I wanted something old and retro looking. I found the saying on a vinyl wall lettering website, and designed it with fonts I downloaded from the internet.

We had a good time Friday night, and everyone did a great job on their picture frame holder. No two were alike! Some had so much fun, they are coming back next Friday! Woo Hoo!

Michelle and and her sister, Jennifer, did a wonderful job with the paisley pattern. I am so glad Jennifer came. Can't wait to see them again.

Don't they look great? Amanda and her painting is missing because she wasn't quite finished! She is coming back next week to finish and do another one! (with alot more confidence this time!)

2010-07-26T21:20:00.003-05:00

This high chair got a major re-do! Do you think they like the Aggies? Whoop! That burgundy paint made me want to "saw varsity's horns off"!

This is a back splash I painted for Courtney. She will attached it to the wall with industrial strength velcro. Then, she can change them out!

Mrs. Hunter's stool to match the chair I did for her a few weeks ago.

These are the samples we will be using at the painting party THIS Friday at 6:30pm. I have some openings available if you would like to come. I have 5 who want to have a party the following week. If I get 10 we will PARTAY!

SEW it's Wednesday!

2010-07-07T20:21:00.006-05:00

I started out the summer thinking that I would sew some. Well I thought each Wednesday would be a good day to do that. Well this is my second Wednesday to sew this summer. I started off making a couple of skirts. I learned after the first skirt I made (pictured above) that you cannot go by the pattern sizes. It was a little on the SNUG side! So, on the second skirt, I cut it bigger, and it fit okay. Below is the second attempt and the end of my first Wednesday sewing!

Today I got the sewing machine out, and tried skirt number 3. I finally just cut my own pattern from an old newspaper! I am working on some for Ashley but she needs to come home for a fitting!
Onto some applique projects. I bought Lindsey some towels to take with her to college. Now she won't have to worry about someone taking her towels! (unless their initials are the same!)

The towel above is just a plain white dishtowel I bought at Walmart. This will go in Ashley's new kitchen!

Below is Karlee's pillowcase. I did one for Grace not too long ago, so I thought I'd better make one for little sister!

This is a very OLD chair Linda brought me to paint to go in her kitchen/dining room. With some cleaning, sanding, gluing, and puttying, this chair is ready to be in use! Of course it will get a new chair pad first!

AND last but not least, the Lord has blessed us with much needed rain this summer, and we got a double treat this evening with two rainbows!

2010-06-24T14:37:00.003-05:00

Summer has been BUSY! Here is Jenna's table. Her bedding matches the table top.

The Bailey's other two chairs! I will add the years they finished A&M on the back!

Below are metal signs from Hobby Lobby mounted on painted wood. I think it adds so much more to the signs.

Just finished adding the ribbon to the four tiles pictured. I took the pictures before the ribbon hangers were added. The above tile will go in Mrs. Cannon's music room at the Junior High! The next two tiles are for two girls who have a farm theme in their room, and Rylee's tile goes to Jana.

Below is a ballet canvas. McKenzie's room is brown and pink. I added rhinestones and glitter to the flower.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD!!

2010-06-20T20:49:00.003-05:00

24 years ago today my parents tied the knot!!

We have watched them build a home filled with nothing but love and the spirit of Christ.

We have the PERFECT example to follow as we raise our own families.

We love you so much and truly, truly grateful for all that you do!!
HAPPY 24 YEARS!!!

Graduation

2010-06-09T15:16:00.004-05:00

Lindsey, Jake, and Will relive memories at Lynn's Preschool. Lindsey said it has the same smell, but everything is so small!

Here is most of the crew from Lynn's.

Lindsey getting her diploma from Dad!!

MCISD staff got to sit on the floor, so I was really close!

Just look at that smile!

Jake and Lindsey are cheesing it big time now that they have their diplomas!

Proud parents!

Lindsey's graduation cake was sooooo good. If you want a cake for a special occasion check out cakesbyclaire.net. She is out of Huntsville.

Project Graduation was fun. I have to say that the adults outlasted the kids. Just take a look at Jake below!

2010-05-31T18:19:00.005-05:00

Whew! I can finally see the light at the end of the painting project tunnel! This has been a very productive weekend. The first picture is a desk caddy from Hobby Lobby jazzed up for a graduation gift. I finished the above table and chairs Saturday. I am disappointed in my camera. The colors of the table are pink, green, white, and brown.

I wasn't sure about this glass pane until I found my pattern sheet for painting poppies! This will go inside an old window frame.

I added some bluebonnets to this soap dispenser. Almost finished with your goodies, Kristie!

Janelle purchased this window at a garage sale. It was just plain wood and she wanted it a little wild lookingt. I couldn't get the camera to take a good picture because, it looks so much better in person.

Hope Isabella likes her tile!

Okay, I am finally able to post this chair! Ms. Connie received this chair last week from some moms with children at her daycare. The paisleys on the seat have the kids' names around them on the inside, so she will always remember them! Again the picture doesn't do the colors justice.

2010-05-20T20:34:00.003-05:00

This is Pam's desk I painted for her retirement gift. She wants to use it for a time out chair for her grandkids. We had a really nice reception for her today. She will be missed after 34 years at MCISD.

For some reason, this picture will not upload the right way!

One of the Bailey's Aggie chairs! WHOOP!

This clipboard turned out so cute! Probably because it is red (my favorite color) and has zebra stripes on it!

Added a few zebra stripes to this Mustang tile! Be looking for more projects soon! I am working on a table and chair set, window pane, flower pots, name signs, a side table, glass pane, soap bottle, and more!!! It's going to be a busy summer! I can't wait!

Winding Down Senior Year

2010-05-12T11:22:00.005-05:00

Here are some more pictures of Lindsey and her friends at prom.

Getting ready to leave in the Ford Flex!

Jake and Lindsey

It's a party in the USA!

Some very nice and generous ladies hosted a dinner at Los Ranchos for the seniors. Lindsey had a great time.

I am so glad Jake's hair is starting to grow back!

Last night was the scholarship ceremony. Lindsey won $1800 in scholarships. Thanks Farm Bureau and the Madison County Fair Association! The students also got their NHS and Beta clubs stoles and collars.

Catching up

2010-05-06T21:13:00.006-05:00

It's been almost a month since my last post, man, time has flown! My nephew, Kasey, was baptized on the 18th. What a thrill! It is amazing to know that we will be together in heaven someday!
The following week was prom. For a girl, this day is an all day affair. They were all ready by 4 and off to the Woodlands for dinner. Lindsey wanted Todd and me to go to prom, and since Todd was an invited school board member I took her up on it!

We celebrated Everyone Reads Day at school and Todd came and did his annual reading of Green Eggs and Ham!

Jill brought me a table to paint for her son, Jake's room. I painted the table to match his cowboy bedding. I have another one to do for daughter, Jenna.

I finally broke down and bought a new sewing machine. Sewing Lindsey's senior overalls did my old one in. I had to do a practice run on my applique skills, so Grace got a new pillow case! Karlee is next.

Mother's Day is a month away!

2010-04-08T20:43:00.003-05:00

Just finished these pieces for Mother's Day. The above pic has "mother" inside the heart. The picture below is my mom's Mother's Day gift. I can paint as many as 20 leaves on the tree. Both pieces are $25 each. If you would like one, please let me know.

The next two pictures were paintings I worked on over spring break. Kaley just finished re-doing her room, so this is Lindsey' late Christmas gift to her. The cowboy poem is for a baby's nursery.

A Good Finish!

2010-03-26T21:59:00.002-05:00

Lindsey showed her steer yesterday for the last time as a participant in the Madison County Fair. She won first in her class and third overall! Woo Hoo! The auction was tonight, and we can add a little extra change to the college fund!

Lindsey at work in the show ring with Dad looking on!

Uncle Tracy looks on as Lindsey competes for the Grand and Reserve Champion.

FUTURE Brides!

2010-03-21T20:39:00.003-05:00

The girls modeled bridal dresses yesterday at the Lonestar Convention Center in Conroe. Don't they look gorgeous? They each modeled 2 dresses for The Eclectic Frog in Conroe. The dresses are new and some on consignment. They also did a photo shoot last week in which one of Ashley's pics will be used for their promotions! Lindsey has a "hair" shot that the salon will use as well.

Birthday Banners

2010-03-14T20:59:00.001-05:00

I had fun doing these birthday banners this weekend. I hope the mommies will like them!

Projects

2010-03-11T20:28:00.004-06:00

April brought some furniture for her step daughter's room to be painted. The before and afters are pictured.

The nightstand had a faux wood laminate on it. (pretty 70's looking) Now it is pretty in pink and zebra!

I've sold 2 of these paintings so far. It has a bronzy gold metallic that the picture doesn't show too well. I can't wait for Canton weekend to buy more boards.

2010-02-23T16:44:00.002-06:00

It started snowing today around 12:30 and the kids just could not control themselves! SO, we went outside and had a snowball fight. I made a mistake of chunking one at one of my students. Then the fight was on! Needless to say, they ganged up on me and I was soaked including snowballs down my back!

This is the house after school. I am sure there is more now!

Just beautiful!

Pre-K Easel

2010-02-22T20:01:00.002-06:00

Jill was so patient with me, because I have had this easel since Christmas break. When I saw this adorable owl on Endless Possibilities, I knew how I wanted to paint it.

Chalkboard paint was put on the other side so the kids or Mrs. Yeager could draw or write!

2010-02-17T19:55:00.004-06:00

I know I haven't posted in forever, but I have not given up my love of painting! We have been out of town for a couple of weekends, so that put me a little behind. And, I have been reading the Twilight series! Oh my goodness! I told myself, along with others, that I would not read that vampire mess, but after the girls filled me in about the movie that was on the other day, I decided to give it a go. I am getting closer to the end of the first book, and looking forward to the next one!
The below pics are of a desk Mary Lindsey asked me to paint. I always get into the project before I realize that I did not take a "before" picture. I had already sanded the desk down and was about to start painting when I remembered I needed pictures. The desk was a peach color before the transformation.

Mary wanted blue, brown, and leopard print. She provided the brown and a pillow with the blue color on it. I tried to match the blue the best I could. I always forget that when the sealer goes on, it darkens the color a bit.

I think it turned out pretty good!

Bailey's chair is a baby shower gift painted to match the bedding with an added zebra pattern!

Jaymasen's chair is also a shower gift. Her chair is painted to match her bedding. I so hope the colors match the fabric. I only had pictures of swatches from the website to look at. Both chairs match bedding from modpeapod.com. If you are looking for baby bedding, check out that website. Cute, Cute stuff!

Finally, I love this saying from Dr. Seuss! I believe it is going to hang in a teacher's room. The colors look much better in person! Hope you like it, Rachel!

Family Vacation

2010-01-21T19:46:00.002-06:00

We had a fabulous time in Puerto Vallarta last week. Because Todd is busier in the summer, we take our vacations in the winter. The weather there was great. No teenagers or college kids partying, just alot of "snowbirds"! They couldn't understand us, and we couldn't understand them! All I had to say was "Texas" and they chuckled. I got a kicked out of them saying their "o's"! "When we get home we have to shovel the snow", they would say! Although the water wasn't as clear or the sand as white like in the Carribean, Todd and I decided that we like the Pacific side much better. We stayed outside all day Sunday and did not break a sweat! The mornings were cool, but by 10am everyone was out in there bathing suits.

The girls stayed in the sun all day and of course, got burned! Lindsey's forehead is peeling now! We stayed at the Riu Vallarta. It was so beautiful and so clean.

The sunsets were priceless. We had our pictures taken on the beach at sunset by a local photographer.

Playin' Around

2010-01-10T21:00:00.003-06:00

Now since the Christmas season is over, I finally got to play around with some canvases that I have had laying around for a few years! You can't tell from the picture, but I used metallic paints, and I textured the canvas before painting it. Maybe you can double click the picture to see what I am talking about! The angel was fun to paint. The canvases below are 7"x9", so I will probably do a larger angel for Christmas.

I'm also finishing up a couple of paddles for kindergarten teachers and just started a giraffe bulletin board.

Faries Christmas

2010-01-01T21:24:00.002-06:00

We played the White Elephant game. Todd had #1 and was totally happy with his travel bag!
Michelle got a candle!!! Just what a teenage girl always wants! She was so sweet saying that it would look good at her mom's! Next year I am going to pick gifts like Brian did! He did the "As seen on TV" gifts!

Poor Clay. He got stolen from twice! Lindsey took his Olive Garden gift card, and Craig stole his SHAMWOW! I think he ended up with Magic Putty and an ear/nose trimmer! Actually, I think he was pretty excited!

Alex came over Saturday wanted a strawberry cake. The cake is soaked in an Eagle Brand mixture overnight. The icing is made with cool whip and vanilla instant pudding. She took it home with her on Sunday!

Ashley's Got It!!

2010-01-01T20:57:00.002-06:00

Ashley painted her first piece of furniture last week and completed her second yesterday! She said that once she started she couldn't stop. Now she knows how I feel when I get in my painting mode! I didn't know that guys liked zebra, but Caleb wanted a zebra dresser and that is definitely what he got! Ashley did this table the 3 days I was with Mama and Daddy. I am so glad they both got some creativity!

I finished some projects this week as well. I painted Kristie's trunk and Hilary's boys' art for their rooms. The deer picture will go in the room with the toybox and compass ceiling tile. The horse and deer picture were from Pottery Barn catalogs.

Christmas Fun with the Williamsons

2009-12-23T20:51:00.004-06:00

Lee is confused. He thinks "My Little Pony" was his gift not Karlee's!

Lindsey will be mad at this pic of her, but she was sitting right next to me when she was opening her gifts and this is the best pic I could get.

Ashley got what she asked for! A thigh master! Thanks, Aunt Donna Kay!

It's not as easy as it looks! Just ask Kasey!

Karlee asks, "Just where is my present?"

My new niece, Jaci, smiles with her Lite Brite (upside down) while Grace looks on.

Finishing up orders

2009-12-23T20:34:00.003-06:00

Here's some shots of a toy box I did recently. The room has a lodge theme. I painted the ceiling tile below to match.

Janelle bought this bookshelf for $5 at a garage sale. She wanted it painted with a giraffe print for her baby's nursery.

2009-12-08T14:03:00.002-06:00

I had a WONDERFUL time with Shawn this weekend. It's almost like a home away from home!

It's Aggie Basketball season! We were all at the game recently. I hope to see as many games as I can this season! GIG'EM AGGIES!

2009-12-08T13:52:00.003-06:00

I am still busy painting for Christmas! Thanks to everyone who ordered from me this year!

Alex came and spent the weekend with Lindsey. Little did she know she would have to help clean up toilet paper from our yard!

The culprits even wrapped my Christmas decorations. AAAAARRRRRGGGHHHH!

2009-11-30T21:30:00.002-06:00

Agnes is back for the holiday season! The tree in the background is an original 1965 aluminum tree. I even have the box it came in. The new post card will read," Don't get your tinsel in a tangle. Ace can solve your heating and electrical problems whether you have a little or a latte!"

Have you ever heard of the game, Zim Zam? I don't know how many of these games Mama bought when we were kids. We would play it until the ball came off the rope. It is like tether ball but it is a tennis ball you hit with paddles. Mama and I found it on the web and ordered it. I think Lee and I played it longer than anyone else!

2009-11-25T11:32:00.003-06:00

OOOOHHH WEEEEEEE! I feel like Aunt Ruthie on Warm Pie, Happy Home! I added extra meringue on this chocolate pie. Can't wait to dig into this tomorrow!

Can you believe it? This was an old metal army desk! Now it is a fancy desk and Christmas present!

Table Transformation

2009-11-25T11:17:00.002-06:00

This table needed a little help. It was found at the old intermediate school where the new House of Hope will be located. Mrs. Park brought it to me and asked me to paint it. Here's the new table:

Getting in the Spirit!

2009-11-25T11:05:00.002-06:00

I had so much fun with all these ladies! Doesn't their talent show? Thanks for coming and let's start planning a spring party!

Paint Party:Less than a Week!

2009-11-07T08:35:00.002-06:00

Next Friday evening at 6:30, 18 ladies (so far) will be painting away on the above sign! I have 2 spots open if you are interested. I guarantee you will have fun visiting, eating, and of course, painting! There are 8 spots still open for the November 20th party. We will paint the same sign, but if you want to come and paint something on the reverse side, let me know!

I have been working on ornaments lately. Thanks to Karen's mom and Linda I have painted over 30 in the last few weeks. I won't be taking anymore Christmas orders, because I have been so busy trying to finish the orders I have. I appreciate your business!

Meet "Rock"sy!

2009-11-01T17:56:00.002-06:00

Jill brought this chair to me a few of weeks ago. Oh my, she needed LOTS of work. First we started with filling in multiple imperfections with putty, then a good exfoliation. Once her foundation was ready, she was primed.

What a difference a good facial can do for you! Just the primer looks good on "Rock"sy!

After a week of paint and detail work, "Rock"sy is ready for Mrs. Yeager! Hopefully, she will bring years of enjoyment to Jill and her students!

Painting Away!

2009-10-25T19:19:00.004-05:00

This table got a major transformation. April brought it from the junior high nurse's office and wanted it red with zebra. This poor table had a cracked drawer and must have had several layers of paint on it. I think she looks pretty good now!

I painted this stool this week for a baby shower gift.

These buckets came from Hobby Lobby. The black stripes were already on them. I just added the names, spiders, and a ghost!

I am making one more trip to Canton before Christmas. If anyone would like to order a name plaque for Christmas, please let me know this week, so I can plan how many boards to buy! Oh, the November 13th Christmas paint party is almost booked! I have about 2 more spots left. I have 8 more spots open for the November 20th party!

Some Major Happenings!

2009-10-14T20:45:00.003-05:00

Well, I failed to check the church calendar when I was setting the paint party dates. The Women of Faith Conference is that weekend! Besides the church calendar, I didn't check my dad's hunting calendar! He and my mom will be here that weekend as well. SOOOOOOOO............I have rescheduled (with the okay from my wonderful husband) the Saturday, November 14th party to Friday the 20th. The party on the 13th is halfway full. Thanks to Cheryl, Laura, Julie, Erica, Hilary, Jill, Crystal, April, Sara, and Dana for signing up!

Party Dates Set!

2009-10-12T13:42:00.004-05:00

After checking the calendar a couple of times and making sure nothing major is happening, I have set Friday, November 13th AND Saturday, November 14th for the Christmas Paint Party. Each night we will start at 6:30. So pick out the best date for you, and let me know. I can handle about 20 at a time, so call your friends and get ready for a good time. The above painting is what we will be painting. I was working on some orders this morning and James 1:17 kept coming to me: Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights. I kept thinking of all the gifts God has blessed me with. I grabbed a board and started working on this. Hope you like it!

Lacy I know this is WWAAYYYY overdue! I will have it for you tomorrow at school.

The Latest

2009-10-07T19:33:00.003-05:00

One of my students gave me this for my birthday! I got so tickled and asked the class if I was the Witch of the Classroom! They all like turning the "in" and "out" when we leave and come back in!

My WONDERFUL mother-in-law supplied me with a ton of these clear ornaments, and I have begun adding color to them. The ones below are ready to be personalized or decorated. Hopefully, Monday, I can begin painting the outside. If you would like a personalized ornament with names or monograms, let me know! Patricia, let me know what color you would like your "Texas" one!

Just finished putting the sealer on Haden's stool just in time for his birthday!

Is this sign so true or what? Be looking for it in an upcoming silent auction!

A "FaBOO" Time!

2009-09-26T14:57:00.005-05:00

This was the Crazy table! Crystal got so into it that she painted both sides of her candy corn!

I dubbed this table the "Loosin' Up!" table. Lola and Amanda were taken this thing WAY too seriously! Next time, they go to the CRAZY table!

AAHHH! The PERFECTIONIST table! These people definitely knew what they were doing. EVERYONE'S candy corn turned out so cute. No one's looked exactly alike because each has their own style. I can't wait for the Christmas one. I will welcome all ideas for the next one. Thanks for yours, Lacy!

Yes, Ashley got in on this one! I definitely see some creative talent there! Maybe I rubbed off on her a little!

This is the other end of the CRAZY table!

So glad these two beautiful, young mothers could break away for awhile. It was great to see you, Michelle and thanks for the "Boo!", Sara!

Absolutely "BOOTIFUL!"

Didn't they do great on the zebra stripes and leopard spots?

Janelle and Jill got a little crazy with theirs adding bats, spiders and even a ghost!

Great to see you again, Rishanne! Thanks for coming everybody!

The Paint Party is Full!

2009-09-20T22:09:00.001-05:00

5 more days til the paint party! I've got to get to work cutting out some candy corn! Thanks to all the ladies who signed up. Can't wait until Friday at 6:30. Come ready for some fun, food, and fellowship. Don't forget your brushes!

HaPpY bIRtHdAy, LiNdSeY!

2009-09-20T22:01:00.002-05:00

Today, Lindsey turned 18, a milestone! Will and Lindsey (above) were born a day apart, so they celebrated tonight at Will's house with friends.

Friday night was Homecoming for Madisonville. Lindsey painted Jake blue, and he was one of the spirit winners. Madisonville won 6-0, beating the Crockett Bulldogs. Project Graduation had a dance and raised $1800 dollars. Our next fundraiser is Mustang flip flops. Make sure and order your pair of flip flops from a senior for only $20!

2009-09-07T15:46:00.003-05:00

I bought this chair at Canton this weekend. Todd wanted a stool of some sort to sit on in our bedroom when he puts on his shoes in the mornings. With a coat of paint and a new seat cover, it is ready for him to use tomorrow morning!

This is the piece we will be painting at the upcoming paint party! You will get to learn how to paint zebra and leopard spots! It can be personalized anyway you want it! This one is going to be at my door at school next month.

It's Paint Party Time!

2009-09-04T20:12:00.003-05:00

Fall is just around the corner, so who would like to paint a little something to spruce your house or give as a gift? The second annual Paint Party series will kick off on Friday, Sept. 25th at 6:30. I have enough room for about 20. Email me at toddfaries@sbcglobal.net or call me if you have my number to sign up. All you need to bring is $10(covers paint and supplies) and brushes(preferably flat ones and liner brushes). We always had way too much food when you guys all brought snacks, so I will provide snacks this year, unless you have something you want to share! Hopefully, this weekend I will make a sample of what we will be painting. It's really CUTE! Stay tuned!

2009-09-03T21:19:00.003-05:00

Well, this past Monday my hard drive crashed. I was so upset that I cried. I learned a valuable lesson: Always back up! I lost all my pictures except the ones I had on my digital frame and media card. Okay enough whining, now on to my latest project. I just got new bedding and curtains for my room, so I wanted new wall art. I took this art that I bought from Kirkland's last summer, took the middle out and replace it with some plywood........

painted black,

did a little decoupage work on it, painted a couple of crosses and...................................

Voila! I have new art for my bedroom!

"Mustang Callie" and Lindsey

2009-08-30T21:07:00.003-05:00

Lindsey's friend, Callie, and her mom brought over a 1966 Mustang they have for us to take pictures with. We had a good time posing around and in this fabulous car!

This picture is Lindsey's favorite.

Here is Lindsey's "jock" picture with her Mustang jacket on.

The Past 2 Weeks

2009-08-28T21:51:00.003-05:00

For the past two weeks I have been diligently working on the above child's senior overalls. Each year the new class of senior girls don their overalls on Fridays for pep rallies and football games. I finished sewing the last rhinestone last night and they were ready to be worn today. Now, I have never appliqued before so this was a first for me. The inside seams had to be taken out for me to work on the material. I started on the back and I used the same color thread as the fabric so it would blend in! By the time I got to the front and bottom of the overalls, I was almost a pro! But, I am so ready to get back to painting!

The leg on your right says "FFA" in cow print. The S T U stands for Tarleton State University where Lindsey plans to attend. I used the cricut to make most of the letters.

The back is my favorite. The 10 above 2010 is a Jake and Connally's football number.

2009-08-19T12:02:00.003-05:00

This sign is for my mother-in-law as requested! Hope you like it!

Story behind the barstools: Since I did those barstools for Carol awhile back, I have been wanting a set for my bar. Well, I have been looking at Canton, craigslist, etc. I happened to mention it to Glynna Brown and she told me she had a couple hanging in her barn if I wanted them! I was so excited! She told me these chairs had been in her parents' house, so they have sentimental value to them. Glynna, these stools will be treasured in my house! Below is the finished product!

2009-08-17T21:26:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it has been almost 2 weeks since my last post, but we've been pretty busy around here lately! Todd finally pinned Lindsey down on a college, and we went to tour Tarleton State in Stephenville. This sign was in the welcome center when we walked in! Lindsey was embarrassed that I took the picture, but I told her one day she would appreciate it. I couldn't get her to stand beside the sign so this was the best I could do!

On our way from Stephenville, we research the internet for the best deal on cars and the "Cash for Clunkers" incentive. Well, if you know Lindsey and what she drives, it definitely qualifies as a clunker! (Todd's philosophy was that we had better get some of the money back that we will eventually be paying back in the infamous stimulus plan! ) So, Dad, the salesman (he did better than the Nissan guy!) convinced Lindsey into the Nissan Versa hatchback! He told her it look SUVish. She stood back, took a couple of pics to send to friends, and said that it looked cute. SOLD!

Ozzie, the salesman, took the time to show Lindsey what was under the hood (like she really cared!) Little did he know, Lindsey has been having to check the oil almost weekly in her old truck! All Lindsey cared about was that the car had a working CD player!

Yes, this is my oldest child! I don't know what came over her, but she showed up in my room in which the majority of second grade teachers were present to show me this "get up"! She and Lindsey were on their way to Alex's house to cheer her up because she had been sick. AAAWWWW! How Sweet!

Do you know when you get something in your head and you can't get it out until you get it or do it? Well, I had it in my head that I wanted a Juicer. They were on sale at Kohl's and I had an extra 30% coupon burning a hole in my purse. Well, I bought the thing and a plethora of fruits and vegetables! I juiced all afternoon Sunday and made the biggest mess! I bought this book called Eat This, Not That! and decided Todd and I were going to eat more healthy. With the juicer, we would drink our fruits and vegetables. I made up baggies of juice to freeze that would last awhile. That thing is a PAIN to clean! Jake, Derek, and Lindsey are trying the watermelon and carrot juice. I know you think that sounds gross, but the watermelon sweetens the carrot juice enough that it is actually tolerable!! We will see how long my juicing lasts!

The latest tiles I painted for Courtney in 2 days!!!

Just finished and delivered this teacher sign.

Summer Wind Down

2009-08-04T13:39:00.005-05:00

Agnes needed more than a bikini top for a prop this month! Todd was happy that I asked Sam to be with me on this month's postcard!

Yesterday, the girls and I went to see Ice Age in 3D, and we were the only ones in the theater! I think 3D movies are my favorite now! They have some really good ones coming out soon.

I was asked to paint some rocking chairs for a shop in Huntsville. I hope they sell quickly!

I have done a TON of these names signs this summer! Thanks to everyone who ordered one! I went to Canton last weekend, so I have plenty of boards if you would like to order one! I have already been working on Christmas orders.

This poor chair has about 20 coats of paint on it! (I am not joking, either!) I sanded and sanded, and finally just gave up and put the primer on it. Below is the finished product. There are still lots of imperfections in it because of the many of coats of paint, but now it is ready for school.

Bolivar Mission Project

2009-07-31T16:46:00.003-05:00

We traveled to Bolivar Peninsula to finish the electrical work on Mr. Sampson's house this week. Of course we had to have a little fun while we were there. If you have seen the Holiday Inn Express commercials lately, you will understand. We did stay at one in Winnie Tuesday night and it was very nice!

More Before and Afters

2009-07-24T15:56:00.003-05:00

This desk is prepped and ready for a transformation! After some primer and a few colors of paint.............TAH DAH!
This desk is ready for some coloring and learning fun!

Mom's friend, Huleen, sent me this old folding chair to paint to match colors in her room. Hope she likes it!

Whittling Away Orders....................

2009-07-20T20:59:00.001-05:00

Weekend Visit

2009-07-20T20:44:00.002-05:00

I spent some time with the Ledford's this past weekend. As always, the time flies by and Shawn and I have a blast.

Ryan, the pool boy, aggravated me most of the time. Lauren and Ryan short-sheeted my bed Friday night. I was so tired because Shawn and I didn't go to bed until 1:30am that I did not even notice the trick!!!

These pics are small because they are from my phone, but we made chocolate gravy and biscuits Friday night. It was sooooo good!

Sprucin' up the Kitchen

2009-07-11T15:59:00.005-05:00

I have been wanting to redo my kitchen backsplash for some time now. I even checked out those faux panels at Home Depot, but those were almost 20 bucks each. I thought about faux painting it, but I just couldn't decide what I was going to do until I saw this product above on Southern Hospitality. I purchased a roll of this at Home Depot for $12.97, used less than a quart of paint that I had left over from a different project, painted a piece of plywood I had in my scrap stash, and Voila!

I dry-brushed cream paint on the beadboard to make it look weathered.

I did not want this piece of formica behind the stove and even told the installers not to do it, but they did it anyway. I painted this scripture and sealed it REALLY good so I can clean up the bacon splatters!

2009-07-08T21:19:00.002-05:00

I received 3 pieces of furniture for a classroom that will be turned into a safari this school year: a bench, podium, and chair. Here are the before and afters.

It was tedious work painting leopard and giraffe spots,but I think it all turned out pretty good. Hope you like them, Tina!

Here's Mattie's board that match her step stool and rocking chair from a couple of months ago.

Yesterday we traveled to Dallas to see Lindsey get her Lone Star Degree at the FFA Convention. Jake, Lindsey, Vance, Caitlin, and Dana pose for a picture.

Latest Happenings

2009-07-03T21:25:00.002-05:00

Well, it is official. I am getting older! I found out Tuesday I need glasses. This is a horrible picture because my eyes were dilated, but these will be my new frames. Do you think they make me look smarter? Better pics to come!

It's July, so here is the new Agnes card! I finally met the people at Aggieland Printing the other day, and I sort of felt like a celebrity! They had been wanting to meet Agnes for a while now.

I haven't been able to paint as much as I would like lately, but I did manage to do this sign for my sister-in-law. She put it above her couch with family pictures around it. After my trip to Canton today and stocking up on wood, I am ready to do more name plaques!

BUNKO and BUCEES

2009-07-03T21:13:00.003-05:00

I know this is a late post, but this past Monday we played BUNKO at Jana's house, who by the way, was celebrating her birthday. Someone had this crazy idea of celebrating Jana's b-day: BUCCEE style. It could have been Carrie who is sporting her BUCCEES attire above! I snapped this picture of Jana before entering the party site!
Guess what? This was Denise's first visit to BUCEES! She couldn't leave with a bag of bodacious Beaver Nuggets!

Here we all are eating free samples of candied nuts, fudge, and Dippin' Dots! Y'all, for us girls, this is like country going to town!

Stacy and Jason

2009-06-30T22:23:00.003-05:00

Stacy and Jason got married last Friday at 9am! This was a wedding Todd said that he would have went to! It only lasted a few minutes, but that's all it takes without all the hoopla! I wasn't planning on going and didn't bring clothes to wear to a wedding, but Mama suggested that we go and she only had to mention it once!

Stacy and Jason spent their honeymoon in a cottage on a ranch in Bandera. I hope they live happily ever after!

Don't they make a great looking couple?

Relaxing on Father's Day

2009-06-22T19:56:00.002-05:00

I caught Todd and loyal friend, Sam, out relaxing in his Father's Day gift yesterday. If you have never sat in one of these anti-gravity chairs, you must! I bought this one at Sam's, but they have them at Academy too. They are so comfortable. (probably should have bought 2!)

Family Weekend

2009-06-22T19:43:00.002-05:00

The family came in this weekend to see Kasey and the Yard Dogs play baseball. They won their first game and won their second in a close game with Katy. Kasey got to pitch for a while. Those little boys know how to play ball!

Mama and Daddy pose with Lindsey after the game.

The trip would not have been complete if there wasn't a trip to Buccees! My dad is now hooked on Beaver Nuggets! He has already requested 2 more bags for when I come down this weekend!

I think this is the silliest I have ever seen Grace! These bears are outside of Buccees.

After a long, hot day, it was time for a dip in the pool. It's Grace and Grace (aka Ashley)!

Our anniversary

2009-06-20T18:18:00.001-05:00

Todd surprised me with these flowers last night! Today we celebrate our 23rd anniversary! I LOVE YOU, TODD!

The BIG 3-5!

2009-06-19T01:00:00.000-05:00

Today is my brother and sister's 35th birthday! And although they do not look alike, Tracy and Stacy are twins. I was 6 years old and my other brother, Lee, was 4 when they were born. I remember us fussing over if it was going to be a boy or girl. Mama had no idea that when she went in to have a baby she would come home with 2! Lee and I both got what we wanted! (that was what we thought then!) Mama used cloth diapers, and guess who learned real quick how to change diapers and watch the babies!!! Have a MARVELOUS day!

Tracy and Kasey working on Mama and Daddy's porch.
This Miss Priss has a lot going on! Besides a birthday, she will be getting hitched next Friday! (Has Jason seen this picture yet?) Hee Hee!

2009-06-17T21:31:00.002-05:00

Summer has gotten off to a great start! I just finished these stools and signs, and I am currently working on 3 more signs. I spent a few days cleaning house, painting rocking chairs on the front porch, and just started work on the unpainted portion of Pathway of Light.

Visit to the Gulf Coast

2009-06-11T18:53:00.002-05:00

We went to Galveston with our pastor and his wife, Bro. Troy and Paula, to finalize a prospective mission project.

We crossed the ferry over to Bolivar Peninsula and met with Mona and Shawn from Nehemiah's Vision.

In a few weeks we will work on this man's house which had 5 feet of water in it, and this house is 2 miles from the beach.

Nearly all the trees are dead because of the salt water. We were told that 4500 homes on the Bolivar Peninsula were destroyed.

It's June Already?

2009-06-02T18:40:00.003-05:00

Yep, it's June, and that means time for a new post card! I don't know how much more Agnes can take! Todd's secretary, Teresa, (yes that's my name, too and we have the same middle name!) shares the card with Agnes this time. While Agnes is not posing for post cards, her other personality is busy painting new name plaques. I thought they turned out pretty good, so I made me one! The light's not too good on these, but they are painted black, sanded, and stained with a brown to make them look old. 1 1/2 days of school left. Woo Hoo!

BUSY!

2009-05-31T18:19:00.004-05:00

This stool was painted to match the Tiddliwinks bedding from Target for one of our teachers at school. This was the first stool I have done for a girl. I have 2 more orders for girls to do this summer.

Thanks for all the orders on the name plaques! I really enjoy doing these. I've got some new ones I have painted, but I am waiting for them to be given as gifts before I post the pics!

I played with my Cricut this afternoon jazzing up some 2/$1 bags from Hobby Lobby for some graduation gifts.

I have had this planter from Canton for several years now. It was white and I painted it black. Anyway, it has been holding shoes since I've had it because I just didn't know how I could put plants in it and look attractive until now. Thanks to Blanca for letting me know that they make liners for these! I think it looks much better than shoes now!

2009-05-17T20:32:00.003-05:00

Last Thursday night was the annual FFA banquet. Todd and I had a great time serving the steaks, potatoes, and rolls! Mr. Agudelo did an awesome job with the salad too! Lindsey and Todd pose for a picture after the banquet. Lindsey got the Environmental Technology Award. I am wondering if it has something to do with her amazing use of her Blackberry!

Just finished this sign for Miss Connie's daycare as a gift from some sweet little boys.

I have been doing a few of this signs lately. They make great wedding/anniversary gifts. I am currently working on a couple more right now.

A Camera in the Cow Pen

2009-05-13T19:10:00.004-05:00

Ashley and Lindsey went out to attempt to walk the steer. While trying to persuade him to do this, they got a little CRAZY with the camera!

Ride'em cowgirl!

I said, "WALK!".

Lindsey tries her hand at it. No luck.

She even tries to sweet talk him into letting her lead him! Good thing the county fair is almost a year away! We got a lot of work to do!

Visit to Mama and Daddy's

2009-05-10T21:12:00.002-05:00

I left Friday after school and headed south east to visit Mama for Mother's Day. Daddy always makes pancakes when we visit. I love how he makes them crunchy around the edges! These pancakes were WONDERFUL!

Uncle Wendy came to help Daddy fertilize the corn. Aunt Barbara came too and we had a nice visit. Tammy came later that day. I am so proud of her and her husband, Chad. They had gastric bypass surgery in the fall. Tammy has lost 84 pounds and Chad's lost 114! Tammy looks so good! (Should've taken a pic)

They are like 2 kids with new toys!

2009-05-08T11:00:00.002-05:00

Today, our first butterfly came out of its chrysalis! The kids are absolutely amazed with this transformation from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly. Each day they observed and counted the days. Today we let Steven (don't ask me why they named it this!) free. Just this is a miracle in itself. I learned that we should slow down and see the wonders of God every day.

The kids are waiting for "Steven" to take flight! When he finally took off, the kids squealed with excitement! We had a revival at church this week and last night Bro. Troy baptized 4 people: 2 cowboys at least in their 40's and a couple who has been married for 45 years! I heard that at least 23 people were saved this week! As God can transform a caterpillar to a butterfly, He can transform man into a new creation with a heart for Him. I see that it is never too late for a person to come to know God as his/her Savior. My heart aches for some people that are very dear to me. I pray that they will accept Jesus soon!

This is a shower gift I painted this week.

Our Canton Trip

2009-05-03T21:11:00.005-05:00

FINALLY, it was time for our end of the year trip and this year we were Canton bound! We left right after school and headed due north. We were half way there, when our pastor called and said he had heard Canton was closed because of the swine flu. I thought he was just pulling my leg, but he was serious! We all pulled over in Cayuga and Sara called the chamber and it was not cancelled! Praise the Lord! The swine flu is not near as bad as telling 8 teachers who have waited all week to go shopping they had to turn around and go back home! We got settled in at the Bunny Hollow B&B, and then ate Mexican food. HOMEMADE flour tortillas with butter, YUM!

One of the rooms slept 7, so we piled in there and talked to after midnight. We tried to catch Sherry dozing off, but she woke up right when I took the picture!

Sonja's shirt says it all!

Breakfast was at 7:30. I could smell sausage cooking around 4am, and I was upstairs! The ones sleeping downstairs said Ms. Ogden was up at that time cooking breakfast. We had a wonderful breakfast casserole and cinnamon roll.

We were on the grounds at 8:00. We met up at noon to eat, see what all we purchased, and check the map to find out where we haven't been.

Just look at that smile. That must mean that Sara hasn't spent all her money yet, and she is ready to go back for more!

If you know Angela, you know that she is UNIQUELY DIFFERENT! This shop was really neat!

2009-05-03T21:04:00.002-05:00

Just completed Zoe's dresser. Her mom got a DEAL on this! It needed a little TLC, and with new drawer pulls it will be like brand new. It matches the Wild Thing bedding from JC Penney's.

Agnes is at it again! Todd said this was a little out of his comfort zone, but the printer liked it!

New Addition

2009-04-27T07:00:00.004-05:00

Well, the steer pen did not stay empty for long! This is our new addition, a six month old steer. He is definitely a big baby! We can hear him bellowing from inside the house!

Everyone Reads Day

2009-04-27T06:47:00.002-05:00

Friday was Everyone Reads Day at school. Dr. Brooks, our principal, is perched on the flag pole reading until our school reaches our goal. She finally came down around 2:00!

We had a few guests come to read to us. Emilie's mom (I forgot to take pic!), Jill, and Todd came to read to the class.

Todd read Green Eggs and Ham to the class and was impressed that they actually knew the book and could rhyme! He told the class after reading that book it made him hungry, and he asked the class if they were hungry. What kind of question is that for second graders at 11:30 when they don't eat until 12:30? He brought them a little treat and was swarmed!

Ring around the rosie, pocket full of ........................

2009-04-21T21:01:00.004-05:00

POSIES! You can find these pins all over the internet, but I whipped up a few of these watching TV and on my lunch break. They would make a great Mother's Day gift. The one above was an order from our librarian at school. The ones below are available! I have 2 of the pink ones and 3 of the multicolored ones. They are only $5 each. Just leave me a comment!

This clay pot was gift to the Stantons for purchasing Lindsey's drawing at the fair. They would make great gifts. I filled this one with candies, nuts, and a candle.

Does this remind you of a previous painting? Yep, it's for the same little baby girl who gets the rocking chair. Now she has a step stool to match.
I am really upset about the picture quality on the above pic. I made a few of these for Christmas gifts. This one is for Ashley's boss to give as a gift. Of course this is the couple's last name and the year they were married. This would be a great gift as well!

2009-04-13T12:52:00.003-05:00

Here is Allison's rocking chair for her room!

Lindsey created this rose in art class. Ashley did a yellow one when she took art and gave it to her grandma. Lindsey gave this one to her grandma as well. I know they have creativity in their bones, they just need to express it more often!

I walked in Friday evening from work, and this is what I saw! I just had to take a picture. Now to those of you who don't know Lindsey well, reading is not one of her favorite past times. One of her friends had told her how good the Twilight books were, and she started reading it and LIKING it! Todd and I would just look at each other in amazement when we would see her reading this past weekend. She is now ready for the next book!

An Eventful Easter and Week

2009-04-13T08:10:00.003-05:00

Yesterday after church we joined Cindy and James on a 6.8 mile hike through Sam Houston State Park. Since it had rained earlier that morning we did not expect some wash outs! So off went the shoes and we waded through the cold water!

Todd and Cindy sit and put their shoes back on! The second time we had to wade, Cindy and Todd did not take off their shoes!

This picture was taken of Ashley after the morphine and other narcotics kicked in last Monday! The ER visit did not stop her from texting and talking to her friends. She had severe abdominal pain which we thought was appendicitis.
This is the iodine she had to drink in order to do the cat scan. After an ultra sound and other tests, this was the last resort. Fortunately, it was not appendicitis and was ruled as a ruptured cyst. It was a very long wait. Ashley arrived around 4 pm and we left a little after 1 am!

Spring Break Projects

2009-04-07T18:40:00.003-05:00

I forgot to take a picture of this rocking chair before I primed it, but imagine just plain, stained wood as the before. And the after...............................................

Now, the chair is all ready for a little girl to rock her baby doll in! I matched the colors with a swatch of material, and the customer wanted me to incorporate ladybugs as well.

I painted each little knob on the sides of the rocking chair to look like ladybugs crawling around!

Jennifer ordered a couple of candles.

I painted a couple of step stools over spring break. The stool above was painted to match the Kasey bedding from Pottery Barn, and the stool below is matching bedding as well. That buffalo check was a first!

I have a paint graining tool that helped create the wood look on the sides of the stool.

Prom 2009 (get ready for lots of pics!)

2009-04-05T18:06:00.003-05:00

Lindsey's day began with the hair do at Trendsetters. Courtney did a great job with Lindsey. I think she had to start over 3 times!

It took Courtney a little over an hour, but Lindsey's hair looked FAB! After the hair do, it was off to the nail salon for manicure, toenails painted and eyebrows waxed! And the result.........

Wow! They clean up Good!

2009-04-05T17:43:00.005-05:00

Landon, Lindsey, Chicken (Michael), Lexi, and Chance pose before leaving for dinner at Cafe Capri.

We started the decorating process around 2 Friday afternoon. I crawled in bed at 12:15 Saturday morning!

The theme was Diamonds Are Forever with blues and silvers. The prom books did not have that theme, so we had to make LOTS of stuff!

Our entryway wasn't exactly what we invisioned but the kids were impressed.

Lindsey and Landon make the grand entry.

I surprised them on the dance floor!

I took advantage of being in the midst of them all and snapped this pic of Lindy and Mike.

Do the Stanky Leg, Do the Stanky Leg!!!!

Okay, Jake deliberately posed like this! He doesn't look that way all the time!

Need a Laugh?

2009-04-01T21:35:00.002-05:00

It's Agnes to the rescue!!

MCFA 2009

2009-03-28T11:23:00.004-05:00

Lindsey showed Red this past Thursday and got 2nd in his class! That's the best we have done at the fair so far. He was 9th in the sale order, so he made the premium sale!

Being in that ring is hard work, so Red needed a rest!

Todd is the perfect stall boy! If it weren't for Dad, the girls wouldn't know what to do!

A fierce cold wind blew in just before the auction started last night. Thank goodness there was a wall blocking it from blowing away the potential buyers! Lindsey's steer sold for $2400. Stover and Crouch Ins. bought it. Thanks, Craig! Lindsey also made $599 on her art Tuesday night. Thanks, Marvin!

Kasey, my nephew, got reserve champion with his range heifers. This is his first year to show in the fair. We bought a pig last night from a little boy that was his first year to show. He was all teary-eyed because he was losing his pig. I felt so bad for Cannon. But just like our girls, he will get over it and be back at next year!

Getting organized!

2009-03-24T21:58:00.008-05:00

I can't believe I am showing y'all this but this was my garage last week! We closed in an open section in our garage for all of my crap, I mean crafts.

Tah Dah! I have a peg board and LOTS of shelves....................................................

And still room for more! Now my garage is clean and organized.

Meagan brought me a solid black western shirt to paint for the Texas High School Rodeo Finals. She wanted zebra, pink, and a cross. Meagan and her mom will put rhinestones and crystals on it to Bling it up!

Cooking on Spring Break

2009-03-24T16:16:00.004-05:00

We eat this fruit salad weekly! I use sugar free pudding mix, fat free cool whip and fruit. Sometimes I add chopped apple or a can of mandarin orange pieces. You don't need to add milk. Just drain your pineapples and use your juice to mix the pudding in!

The mixture will be thick. Add all your fruits and nuts and then add the cool whip. You can add the whole container or just half. In this salad, I used half.

This is soooooo good and GUILT FREE! I have even made it with the sugar free pistachio, white chocolate, and cheesecake flavor pudding.

Okay, on to the not so guilt free........If you live close to Huntsville or College Station, you may have eaten Double Daves's pepperoni rolls. Well, we love them. You can get them 2 for 1 on Tuesdays, but we are hardly ever there on Tuesdays. Well, I had a craving so I decided to try them at home. I used Jiffy pizza crust mix (41 cents a box!), turkey pepperoni, and mozzerella. I chopped about a handful of pepperoni and added some basil, garlic powder, and oregano to the mix. (I used 3 boxes of Jiffy mix) Make sure and let the dough rise. I rolled out the dough about 1/8" thick and cut into rectangles. Place 4 pepperonis and cheese down the middle and roll up closing the ends.

After putting them on a sprayed cookie sheet, let them rise a little more before baking them. Bake the rolls at 425 degrees until lightly brown. The 3 boxes made 18 rolls. I used just one package of pepperoni and one bag of cheese.

Oh my goodness! I sent a phone pic to Todd after I made them telling him they were fresh out of the oven. He was home in a matter of minutes! These are really good. Not Double Dave's but they'll do!

Lindsey

2009-03-24T15:43:00.002-05:00

These are two of Lindsey's drawings. The pencil drawing below is part of an old plow. I really like this picture and she spent ALOT of time on it, but did not enter it. I will eventually frame this. The colored drawing above will be auctioned off tonight at opening ceremonies of the county fair.

Joel took some excellent shots of Lindsey at last week's match against Teague. Lindsey played two matches: doubles with Lindy and mixed doubles and won both matches. The team won third at regionals in Waco a few weeks ago.

Countdown to Spring Break

2009-03-17T06:54:00.005-05:00

It's almost SPRING BREAK and that means a week off from school and the the county fair! Lindsey and Landon entered the cake decorating division this past weekend. Landon got 3rd with his cow cake and Lindsey won reserve with her flower cake! She also won reserve with her art(pic later).

Remember this picture of Red and Lindsey conditioning his thick hair?
Well, Red got a MAJOR trim yesterday!!! He kept hiding in the barn like he was naked or something! He doesn't even look like the same steer from last week. Next Thursday is the steer show, so Red is doing some cleaning and feeding up!

I finished Ryelee's board this weekend! I'll get it to you ASAP, Cherie!

2009-03-12T21:34:00.003-05:00

I finished up some more orders this week! The sign above is for a teacher. I painted one side with chalkboard paint so she can write messages on it. The rocking chair below is a baby shower gift. The material draped over it is the valance I matched the colors with.

Lorin and Elizabeth have new tiles to adorn their room! I finished their brothers' last week. (Julian and Neythan)

The Latest

2009-03-08T19:51:00.004-05:00

Just look at this face! Red is getting ready for the upcoming fair!

Lindsey gives him medicine to keep his stomach healthy with all the eating he is doing lately.

Red gets a treatment of leave on conditioner.

Our back patio has returned! We took it up last year because the gophers were getting underneath it and the weeds were springing up between the rocks. We tried growing grass in its place, but I really wanted the patio back. Todd did it right this time by setting the stones in a concrete base. I am so ready to buy some plants!

Our prom committee has been meeting weekly for the past month. We have gotten columns made from corrugated paper, what looks like pizza boxes, and plastic folded and hot glued together for lights! These are just a few of the many glittered leaves that we will be using for decorations. Prom is April 4th, but our team is ready for the challenge. Right????

With working on prom stuff, teaching, traveling to see Lindsey play tennis, watching the Aggies defeat Mizzou, and just plain everyday stuff, I have managed to get 2 tiles finished and a rocking chair done(pic coming soon).

More Tiles

2009-02-25T20:06:00.002-06:00

I think this sports tile is the most detailed yet. When I saw the picture of what Shaunda wanted, I was a little apprehensive. But, once I got started, it wasn't bad at all. I think it turned out pretty good.

This canvas was really fun! I took the pic before adding Madison's name.

This CARS painting was a doosy!(don't know how to spell that, Carrie!)

Far out painting! I hope Mason likes it! I love the red and the yellow.

Y-M-C-A!

2009-02-21T21:54:00.002-06:00

With a suggestion from Lindsey, we joined the local gym. It's funny how I suggested itover a year ago, but when Lindsey asked her daddy, he gave in! Go figure! Todd had been wanting to try the elliptical machine, and I was starting to get a little bored with the treadmill. Notice Todd has already found the remote and has FOX NEWS on!

Ashley came home the other night, so she went with us as a guest. She had a little problem doing sit ups on the incline. That was just her first one!

Look at those calf muscles!

Ashley works on those triceps. No flabby arms for her!

This is the next picture for the mail outs. Maxine had to lose her robe and put on her teacher attire! All the guys have passed their tests (background, drug, certifications, etc) and all customers should feel safe that these guys are trustworthy and capable of doing work in their homes.

Ladies Retreat '09 "The Bloomery"

2009-02-21T21:15:00.003-06:00

Debby and Jana had all the decorations in place and they look great! The pots were sold to help pay for the decorations. We were able to make our money back plus add some to the women's ministry fund! Carrie is in deep concentration below! Thanks Cindy for helping me with the pin class!
Our speaker, Julie Woodruff, flew in from Tennessee. She was great! During the first session , she spoke about losing our first love. If we let our love for Jesus fade, then we get deeper in sin and farther away from Christ. God is right where we left Him. We have to return to him and rekindle that love with our Lord. Sometimes I get so busy that God gets pushed aside, and I realized that I need to be there with Him first and foremost. Julie also spoke about what kind of Christian woman we should be and forgiveness. She is a wonderful speaker.

Get those petals made, girls!

Bubba, Sharon, and their Conroe friends show off their flower pins.

2 more cross designs and designer paddles

2009-02-19T21:14:00.002-06:00

I finished these 2 paintings/decoupaging yesterday. The hardest part is choosing the paper designs to go on them. The possibilities are endless!

Mrs. Williams and Mrs. Marchbanks will have fancy paddles tomorrow! They have been using 2 unfinished ones until I get theirs painted! I really need to get mine painted....one day!