Polar Vortex #2

Well, we survived another polar vortex here in Chicago.

The temps have risen and now the next snowstorm is on its way...

The sub-zero temps have meant lots of ice on the Chicago River.

These pictures had to be taken quickly so I could put my gloves back on :)

I thought that I would share my January mantle before it is time to pack it away.

I have a large Rubbermaid tote of "decorations" for each month of the year.(OK, some months have more than one tote lol)

I love to celebrate each season and the "special-ness" of each month.

 

I like to keep little white lights burning throughout January to help with Christmas Light Withdrawals and also to brighten those long January nights.

You can't see them here, but I have timer tapers in each of the punched tin lanterns to help appreciate the beautiful workmanship.

I also have a battery operated candle in my antique foot warmer as well.

I love my little antique box with hand-carved hearts and cross. It stays out all year long, but next month is its "special" month :)

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This is my newest "January" addition. 

I love the winter scene painted on this vintage bellows.

Sometimes it is sad to pack away a month, it feels way to soon to put items away - not to be seen for another year. But then as I open the February bin, I find old favorites that have been forgotten over the year.

Wishing you love, comfort and contentment this weekend.

"Bring joy to your servant, Lord,

for I put my trust in you.

You, Lord, are forgiving and good,

abounding in love to all who call to you.

Hear my prayer, Lord; listen to my cry for mercy."

~Psalm 86:4-6

Blessing, Patti

A Perfectly Primitive Weekend

This weekend has been a blast!

In addition to starting a new Maggie Bonanomi design (above), I visited my parents in central Illinois and together we attend not one, but three perfectly primitive antique shows.

The first to open was Homesteaders on the Prairie in Arthur IL. They did a lovely job with the entrance and the anticipation climbed!


Once inside the entry tent, you were greeted by these wonderful flags and sweet bluegrass music...

I was thrilled to get to meet Lizzie Arakelian of Lizzie's Cabin. She writes the wonderful "A Simple Woman's Diary" in "A Simple Life" magazine. Everytime an issue arrives in my mailbox, the first thing that I do is flip to her diary and read it immediately!

I was hoping to meet Jill Peterson, who I admire so, but she was unable to attend. My mother and I each made some purchases and then it was on to our next show - Country Spirit in Arcola IL.

Here it was such a joy to meet Kristine Berg Doss, Jeremy Doss and Dan Weaver of "A Primitive Place" magazine. I felt like I knew them from their blogs and forums... How fun!

The evening was coming to a close, but I knew that there was more coming...

The next morning we attended The Gathering on the Prairie in Arthur IL

As soon as we walked in the show, a piece from across the room absolutely took my breath away:

I had to go look at it right away! Isn't this hooked rug absolutely stunning! The form and colors are out of this world! It was sold, although even if it wasn't I would not have been able to purchase it as the cost was astronomical. But I was so happy to be able to view it and the dealer was so kind to allow me to photograph it.

My absolute favorite booth was ___ (darn, of course now I have misplaced his card... As soon as I locate it I will add the name.)

Oh how I wish that I could have purchased everything in his booth!

The silhouettes, frakturs and calligraphy were simply stunning and he was so kind to allow photos.

My mom made a few purchases at the shows:

This beautiful antique basket is in beautiful shape and her new wooden bowl looks just great here.

I picked up a few coverlet pieces and my mind is whirling with ideas...

I also picked up a few baskets:

Can't wait to put the handled basket in an Easter vignette. And the tiny berry basket will be perfect for some antique strawberry emeries that I picked up...

I've collected sock darners for a while and have never seen one with printing on it before... The needles store inside the handle and can be shaken out through the tiny hole. Some day I'll have to share photos of some of my favorite sock darners...

I also couldn't resist this antique primitive wooden box and a few pieces of folk art. Two chicks and an egg from great old hemp fabric, a folk art bird and a chalkware rabbit.

Now the fun part ~ finding just the right place for each of my treasures. It snowed all the way home and the roads were pretty slick, but at least it is spring time in my heart and in my new treasures...

Things have been so hectic at home and work lately. This little getaway was just what I needed to recharge and get ready to face another hectic week.

I hope that each of you had a perfectly primitive weekend as well!

Blessings, Patti