Just Practicing Random Acts of Kindness

My Girls

2012-01-30T20:36:00.000-08:00

These pictures are all out of order. And they are the only pictures I have access to right now! There is a very good reason for all of this. I've had this brand new Mac desktop that I'm working on now for about three or four months. The reason I haven't used it is because I've always had a PC. I've meant to switch over but just never got files transferred or forced myself to "learn" the Mac. Well, this morning my crappy Dell crashed. Not completely and I am SO hoping I can get back all of my files. The first external hard drive didn't back the Dell up. I'm just hoping I can get everything off of it. So, please have patience with me as I learn how to work on my new Mac. Today I had the chance to spend time with my girls. I took Riley to school this morning and then Morgan came over to spend some time with me. I took her with me to pick up Riley at kindergarten. Riley was so surprised to see her. Below is a picture where Riley's teacher let Morgan come check out the classroom!

I had much better pictures today taken from my camera. These are just from my iphone. I"m really hoping I can retrieve my pixs from the old computer. I really LOVED today. It's been awhile since I could spend the afternoon with my girls. And speaking of girls. . .we just found out that Bryce and Justine are having another little girl! Looks like Bodhi will be the only guy for now!! I can't wait for a new baby to join our family!!

"Love Is The Music of Your Soul"

2012-01-28T19:26:00.000-08:00

The light. Many of you know Cathy Jarrell, aka "the Vintage Lady". Her and I have been in this crazy business of ours for around twenty years. You really do fall in love with this business, regardless of how crazy it can be. Cathy's store over in Tustin caught on fire right before Christmas. She was there when it burned to the ground. Owning a store, I can only imagine how she must have felt to see something she loved so much go up in flames. I was so happy to be able to have room for her at Country Roads. Actually, if I had to I would have given up my own space to get Cathy to join my CR family. The little vignette above was one of the first that Cathy put together when she started setting up. To me, each and every time I walk by "the light" it is symbolic to me. It reminds me that when you really LOVE what you do, like myself and Cathy do, you carry on. Day by day, week by week, month by month, and year by year, no matter what! Cathy comes to Country Roads and she works. She puts together these beautiful displays and vignettes, and never once to you see her discouraged, nor do you see her angry that the fire happened. Nope, she comes to Country Roads and works on her new beginnings with wonderful merchandise and a smile on her face! Here are a few of Cathy's latest!

I may have to buy this little plaque of Cathy's. Think about those words, really think about them. When you love what you do, the soul is content, it is happy, it is fulfilled! Today Cathy came up with two of her old customers from the Tustin store. One bought something small, and Cathy was carrying a birdcage and told me that she was "giving" this to the customer because the one the customer had bought prior to the fire and had left it at Cathy's store was destroyed in the fire. Here is Cathy starting over, and here is a woman, I'm guessing, that has asked Cathy to replace the one that was lost in the fire. Cathy had a big ole smile on her face, thanked the ladies for coming in and off she went back to her new "store"! Random things have always happened to me and my family. But they always turn out to be "good" random things. I learn something every, single day from random things! I'm SO grateful I was able to open a door for Cathy when hers closed, and I'm also grateful to have her be a part of my Country Roads family. It is really true, "love IS the music of the soul"! Come by and see us at Country Roads, sometimes that music of the soul just might be a bit contagious!

The Box

2012-01-27T10:49:00.000-08:00

That's my Dad in the picture above. He went to Germany during WWII as did his brother, Buford! Where did my Grandmother get that name. Anyway, while many of families had their sons overseas and fighting in the war, the Mom's that were left at home apparently started a little "hankerchief" type club!

I've had this box since I was 18! While all the soldiers were overseas during WWII the Mom's whose son's were there exchanged hankies and notes. This box holds all the hankies inside. It has moved everywhere with me and I've never put it's contents in a better box. Actually I know where the box came from. My dad's brother use to work for Mother's Cookies and would always bring my Grandmother the stale out of date cookies. It use to make me so mad because the cookies were pretty bad. Anyway, for some reason, I've never put all the hankies in anything else. Not sure why as they deserve something better.

I love the old handwriting, and the time that was put in to sit down and actually handwrite a letter. My Grandma not only saved the hankies, but saved the letters and the postmarks as well.

This is what the "cookie" box looks like when you open it. It's stuffed with old letters, hankies, a few souvenir pillow shams as well. I know this box doesn't have a lot of value as far as money goes, but it tells a lot about my own family history. Why do I like saving things, and antiques? My Grandma was the same way, as was my Dad!

Another letter with the envelope and postmark still attached. Like the hankie above, many of them still have the store sticker attached.

I am in love with the old handwriting. And I think it is so interesting that these women would share what they loved to do like above where the woman wants to save her hankies and make a quilt.

I'm really grateful that my Grandma kept not only the hankies and letters, but the postmarks as well. It was a great way to not only date her collection but to identify where it came from too.

I look at the post mark on this letter. It was written in 1943 and it looks like it could have been written yesterday except it has much better handwriting than we have today.

More postmarks, more hankies, and more letters from the past!

I thought this letter was really interesting because it is printed. You just didn't find many old letters that were printed rather than in handwriting. I print all the time but always thought it was because I'm left handed. My box of hankies! I know they deserve a place to display them, but for now, I will keep them all in the old Mothers Cookie box till I decide what I want to do with them.

Our stuff! My business, my love of "stuff" and many of you as well "really" understand the appeal of some of this stuff we hang on to! That is my Dad above on the left! Until the day he died, he was a smart ass, even in the Alzheimer's unit where he spent the last of his days. I gotta tell you, I admired his smart mouth even then!!

"Always Your Favorite, Never the Same"!

2012-01-25T19:11:00.000-08:00

So, on my last blog post at the end of it, I had a link to a slideshow that I had been working on. It included about 200 pictures, some hand picked music I liked, and more. When I glanced at it today, for some reason there was only about 10 or 11 pictures without my music. I have NO idea what happened, but to say I'm frustrated pretty much sums it up! I will try again next month when our inventory at "the store" has changed up some. Today I've got a variety of pictures that kind of shows the diversity we have here at Country Roads!

I always enjoy that quote, "always your favorite, never the same"! That truly is Country Roads. We are always changing it up for our customers. And speaking of that, "thank you" for continuing to shop with us for the past 19 years or so. It is always heartfelt and appreciated! Take care.

White Wednesday & A CR Slideshow!

2012-01-24T08:23:00.000-08:00

This morning is a "2fer"! I struggled all afternoon yesterday to get my rather lengthy slideshow of Country Roads posted. Let's just say it was one of those days. And since I'm working at CR today, I thought I would roll the slideshow and White Wednesday all into one post! The slideshow link is at the end of this post in case you might be looking for it! And now let me tell you where these incredible pictures have come from. I'm sure many of you know Debbie Watts from Blossoms! I've been in this business a very long time. Actually almost twenty years now. Throughout the years every once in awhile you see someone that just has a natural talent, a creative mind, a gift and performs magic with every little thing they touch! That would be Debbie. I hope you enjoy some of these displays she just put together. I really LOVE the old vintage white iron manicure table and stool. So unusual and so great to look at! As are the rest of the pictures below.

Do you see what I mean about the incredible talent Debbie has? You know what else she has that means just as much to me? It is just the person she is! Very kind, not all full of herself like some people tend to be in this business. As I said, every once in awhile, you see a natural talent like Debbie's! And this will have to be a separate post, but her husband Larry keeps us entertained while Debbie works away! The man should do stand up comedy, seriously! And lastly, sorry this is so long, the link below, if all goes well, should take you to the Country Roads Slideshow! And I must warn you, it too is almost as lengthy as this blog post!! Thanks to all of you that share your kind words with me. It means very much and motivates me to work even harder!! Take care and don't forget to click the link below.

*Actually, I just clicked the link and I had posted about 200 pictures, and I believe the link only has about 10 photos up. I have NO idea what happened, sorry about that *

http://smilebox.com/playBlog/4d6a6b324e6a49784d44553d0d0a&blogview=true

A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That!

2012-01-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

A rainy day Monday here in non-sunny SoCal! I know we need it, but oh how I miss my sunshine. I had a chance over the week-end to take quite a few pictures at Country Roads. I love the variety we have. I'm getting ready to put together a slideshow of CR in the next day or two. If you aren't on our "Email Express" list, just send me an email to. . . cradealers@aol.com with your email! Here are some of my favorite pictures from yesterday!!

Be sure to check back tomorrow to see my post. The picture above is one of the wonderful displays courtesy of Debbie Watts. Tomorrow I will have all the great photos of her displays posted! Take care.

Magic Performed Here!

2012-01-20T19:41:00.000-08:00

This is Sue Lennon's space! She was in yesterday and this is one space I REALLY try to avoid! Why? Because I always find something that I just have to have. Her displays, and merchandising is so original. Sue really knows how to put together eye catching, "different" displays that make you just stop and stare. Here a few pictures of what Sue has at Country Roads right now.

I have to confess something. I bought the lights above and the old vintage sign as well. I just couldn't help myself, seriously! Those big vintage duffel bag pillows are calling my name but I just try really hard to ignore them each and every time I walk by! I have two smaller duffel bag pillows at home right now that I absolutely love. This is one of the reasons that I usually just shop at Country Roads. We have so much to choose from and some a variety of great product. I know that I always say there is "ALWAYS" something for everybody, but it's true, there really is. Come on in and find out yourself!!

The Room

2012-01-19T18:28:00.001-08:00

I often post pictures from "the room" as I like to call it. As some of you know that shop with us at Country Roads, "the room" almost looks like a little house as you step into it. With the combination of Kate and Debbie's talent, there is always something to catch your eye. These displays show Katie's style of decorating.

What's nice is the two distinct styles of Kate and Debbie compliment each other, which makes "the room" a wonderful place to not only shop, but to pick up some display ideas as well! As I always tell all of you, please stop by anytime to see us. I was in CR today and there was an unbelievable amount of dealers busy working and putting together some great vignettes for all of our customers! I hope you find time to stop by soon!!

"Country Roads, Always Your Favorite, Never the Same"!

A Little This and That!

2012-01-18T14:51:00.000-08:00

I worked at CR yesterday but there just wasn't a lot of extra time for picture taking! It is good to be busy, and I so appreciate the business. Thank you. Since I only had time to take a few quick pictures, I thought I would share them today.

I will be back at CR tomorrow. Not to work (or at least I hope not) but to take pictures for my blog, and my new website that I just can't quite find the time to put our stuff up on it to sell! I'm trying, really trying, so any day now we will begin to sell from it, I promise!

Country Roads Whites

2012-01-17T08:50:00.000-08:00

I'm getting ready to run out the door to work, if you can call it that. I guess I've never quite looked at my store, Country Roads, as work! When you love something so much, somehow it never seems like work, except on those oh so very special days. Today, all these beautiful "whites" are courtesy of Debbie Watts! The girl knows how to put a display together. That is for sure!! I love the chaise that she has on her glass table. It looks much better when you get to see it up close and personal!

Please be sure to stop by and visit Kathleen from Faded Charm. Every Wednesday she puts together the most wonderful posts for many of us to participate in. I will be linking up with her tonight. I love the sign above, courtesy of Cathy Jarrell aka "The Vintage Lady". Life really can be different if you make happiness a big part of it! Take care.

Looking Good

2012-01-15T08:24:00.000-08:00

Every time I'm off for a few days, and then come back to work, I'm always so impressed with what everyone has been working on at "the store"! These are just a few of the many, many eye catching displays that are sprinkled all through Country Roads.

Come on down and see us today. There is plenty of eye candy for everyone! And tomorrow, MLK day, Country Roads will be open from 10am to 5pm. Take care.

Vintage Inspiration Friday

2012-01-13T17:44:00.000-08:00

I'm linking up today, although a bit late, with Debra for "Vintage Inspiration Friday"! Today I have some pictures of my bedroom. As you can see, outside of loving the old stuff, I could also very easily be a beach bum! I don't live far from the beach, and there is just something about the tropical designs that calls my name!

I love the old vintage bathing suits. The old ones were made of wool, can you imagine? And the life preserver looking thing actually used to be used in department stores for the Catalina brand swimsuits. On the left is one of my very favorite antique pieces. It is an early chimney cabinet, and it is in such good condition!

I love putting together little vignettes in my house. This one has a picture of my kids in Maui many years ago along with some other things I brought home with me that year. And actually, in the one photo, it was the first time Bryce ever caught a wave and could stand up and ride it into shore!

More of my treasures on top of a great yellow and green cupboard. Brande's first ballet shoes are on the right side and the "Hope" little box is a gift from my dear sweet friend Ruthie!

This is what I use for the night stand by my bed. Actually it ended up being kind of "put together" combination. Originally, the old crusty metal stand had a big piece of glass on the top. Well, I somehow managed to drop it on the iron base, and thankfully was quick enough to get out of the way. I've had stitches before from breaking glass. Let me tell you, glass is not your friend! And as you can tell, I just can't get enough of my little grandkids pictures.

I used an old vintage fireplace mantle for the headboard on my bed. I got a piece of white wainscoting, and attached it to the opening of the fire place so the piece would be solid. And above the bed I have my favorite architectural stuff and shells, which I love. I live in Southern CA, and we DO get earthquakes from time to time. So, not the best idea for the shells and stuff above my head. But, I am already prepared. I can slide my head under the mantle!

I spend a lot of time in this part of my bedroom. I am in love with my vintage glider. I have rocked all three of my grandbabies to sleep on it. I think its the creaking sound of it that puts them to sleep. And I've got all my beach painting above the glider, including my friend Christie's! Actually the one on the top left side was a gift from Christie for my last birthday. She is VERY talented as we all know!

Above is an old child's dress form. They are really hard to find, or at least I never see them. It's one of my favorite pieces. And the pie safe I've had forever. It's got great color and I got it for just $200!

Another thing I love in my bedroom is the old beauty salon chair that my talented friend Maggie redid! It is so comfortable and of course I think it has always been one of Riley's favorite chairs. She loves to spin around and around in it!!

I've got open beam ceiling in my bedroom, so I can really stack all my stuff up high. I have a thing for the old vintage bathing suits as you can tell.

The green and yellow cabinet is the bottom of a stepback cupboard, a small one. It has great color and I would have loved to have the top piece. It holds all my junk and on top all my memories. And as you've probably noticed, I also have a few vintage surfboards in my room as well. Not your usual decor for a bedroom, but I believe in decorating our spaces with what we love!!

The only reason I'm showing you a picture of my big TV is because it has a story like everything else in my life. When my Mom died, she had a small life insurance policy she had taken out for me and my sister. It wasn't a lot but I wanted something I would always remember that gesture of kindness she left me. So, I bought a big TV that I love to watch in bed! I guess it was one way to always remember my Mom!

A child's dress form above with an old rash guard Bryce use to wear in Jr. high when he went surfing. It's a nice memory and kind of worked for me on the child's dress form.

More treasures that I love! None of it has any practical use except to make me happy!!

I've got a thing for old books ad soda bottles. I especially liked this book because it has the name of my granddaughter as its title. If you look close, you can see where the upper part of the stepback cabinet use to sit on the base. It has such good color and wear. I would have loved to have the top piece!

And lastly, what fits better in my room than a memory of a trip to Maui that Brande took me on in January of 2006! I love how the orchid lieu just hangs so gently and has been preserved to always remind me how important family is, and how much they all mean to me! Be sure and stop by and see Debra, okay?

Moving Around & Changing It Up!

2012-01-12T15:08:00.000-08:00

For those of you that know Cathy from the Vintage Lady, you also may know that her store in Tustin sadly burned down right before Christmas. I am ever so thankful that I was able to offer Cathy a new home with our Country Roads family. Although she is just beginning to put her magical touches on things, here is a sneak preview of how her new "home" is coming along! Cathy is also out in our garden as well!

Right by Cathy, in our last building (which is my favorite because of the architectural detail) is Melinda Reyes from Albaster Rose. She has been at Country Roads for a few months, but was buried in the back corner of the store. I'm so happy to have gotten her out of the corner and into a great space so you can see her wonderful things!

I will have more pictures to come! Also, Ginny DeRosa just made a huge move as well. I just didn't have enough time to take some pictures! I love when everyone is kind of moving all over the store. Sure, it is chaos, but the end result is always the best of the best! I hope you get a chance to come in and see us. And Cathy, you can most likely find her here at her new home on most days ;0)

Books & Other Stuff We Decorate With

2012-01-11T16:44:00.000-08:00

I always record the Nate Berkus show. I've always been a fan of his since the Oprah days. And of course there was that summer he just randomly walked through the front door of Country Roads. And after writing up his purchases I somehow, don't ask me how, managed to ask if it would be okay if I could have my picture taken with him. I swear, I felt like I was five years old, but it was worth it! Anyway, on some of his shows he is always talking about how he likes to decorate with books. I so agree with him, and I have had so many, many books. These days they are a bit more organized than the old days. I went through them last year and thinned out quite a few and sold them at Country Roads. However, I do have six boxes of cookbooks up in the rafters in my garage from when I bought this house eleven years ago! Someday I will go through them.

In my home office, I try hard to organize all my books, and magazines so they aren't all over the place! Above was a gift from my friend Mike. He put together the past year of the Plaza Review together for me in a binder, which was not only kind but helped organize them as well.

The thing with books and working it into decorating is it tells a story about people that live in the home. I LOVE the beach, I always have. And I like to surround myself with books relating to that as well.

This old industrial bookshelf is in my office. There are all kinds of books that fill its shelf and I also like to add other special treasures along with my books.

I've got a really small area in my kitchen where I have a very small amount of my cookbooks. Believe me, as I mentioned above, there are boxes and boxes of cookbooks in the garage. I just don't have the room for them.

I'm always a sucker for old books! They just have such a great look to them and always sit well on a table that may need just a touch of something extra.

We've all got coffee table books and I rotate mine out all the time!

Many of the books above belonged to my kids when they were little. And now I've added to the collection by starting a collection for my little grandkids as well.

Recently I really thinned down the amount of books and magazines I have in my bedroom. Actually it was just last week that I gave Brande a huge stack of my old magazines. Although I will always have books and magazines on the table by my bed.

These books above are also in my bedroom. They are on the bottom shelf of an industrial cart that holds my TV. I really LOVE the old binded editions of the New York Times! And the tote on top of the book is kind of special to me because the 204 on the end of it is the address of Country Roads.

My magazines have a tendency to get out of control. So I try to recycle most of them by giving them to others. I love a lot of the Stampington publications, especially "Where Women Create". So I do hang on to those.

An old history book on the Hawaiian Islands sits on a shelf next to an old vintage typewriter. I have and will always be in love with the ocean and the beach!

The other thing you will find in my house, without fail, are fresh flowers! I always, whenever I can, have flowers in my house. The ones above were from Fresh and Easy and were really reasonably priced.

And these baby white roses in the old glass coffee jar came from Trader Joe's. Their flowers are always priced so reasonable. I never leave there without a bouquet. And these particular roses smell so good. I guess what all my ramblings are leading up to this. . . . a "house" becomes a "home" when we live with those we love and what we love! You know?

White Wednesday

2012-01-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

Happy "White Wednesday" to each of you! I spent some time over the week-end trying to take pictures of some of my favorite whites at Country Roads. It is always fun with all the different styles, looks, and displays that we have. We are slowly getting rid of the last of the holiday things, and slowly shifting over to Spring. Here are a few of my favorite things at CR! And actually the pillow below on the right went home with me over the week-end as did another one that was very similar!

The scarfs are something new from Loretta (Full Bloom Cottage) this year. She did such a great job on them. Katie was thrilled when Loretta gave her one as a belated birthday present! My Country Roads family really is the best of the best. And speaking of the best, please go on over and pay my friend Kathleen a visit on her beautiful blog Faded Charm. Thanks to Kathleen's efforts we all get to enjoy White Wednesdays. Make it a good day, okay? Take care.

Industrial Monday

2012-01-09T11:17:00.000-08:00

I've wanted to get a new blog post up for the past couple of days but I've had a couple of problems. I was tired from working and I was "really" tired from working at Country Roads! We've been SO busy lately and I am so very grateful for that! I'm really feeling it today and as I always say when the "kids" I work with, who are not really kids but a lot younger than me, feel the pain too, I'm hanging in there!! Today I wanted to share some great industrial stuff we have in "the store" right now. I love this look.

What I like about the industrial stuff, outside of it being indestructible, is that it can blend with many of the more traditional looks in your home, like in the picture above. It's funny how looks and styles spin off to other related styles. I was talking to one of my CR dealers that other day and they were talking about the new "steampunk" look that is starting to pop up. And sure enough, you are starting to see "steampunk" journals on Etsy and all over the place. I hope you all have a wonderful and happy Monday. And thank you to each and every one of my customers for the busy exhausting week-end! I do really love to be wiped out from a week-end of hard work. I know you all already know this, but I so appreciate each and every customer we have. Thank you!

Vintage Inspiration Friday

2012-01-06T12:53:00.000-08:00

Today I'm joining my friend Debra over on her blog for Vintage Inspiration Friday! It's been awhile since I've stopped by. Time. . .my biggest hurdle in life, has kept me busy. The pictures I've posted are of my family room or living room or great room or whatever you want to call it. It is just one big room that my family hangs out in. When I bought the house, it had horrid stick on tiles on the floor. Thankfully my son had the patience to take them all off. Underneath was a great cement floor! So, we went with it. This room has a lot of vintage and re-purposed furniture in it. The couch above, like most of my things, came from my store, Country Roads. That's one of the perks for me is that I can always rotate my stuff by selling it when I get tired of it. I love the couch and everyone in my family knows that NO feet are allowed on. So far so good!

The pillow above and the pillow below are made from old Army duffel bags! I love the drawings on the one above and all the wear and repair on the duffel bag below.

I abused the table above, I confess! I had my son Bryce cut the legs down so I could use it as a coffee table. It was a killer table before we took the saw to it. But still for me, it is a killer table with the great zinc top!

The legs on it are nice and heavy so it adds to the look with all the old chippy mustard paint on the legs. And with the zinc top it is perfect for my grandkids. There isn't anything they can do to damage it!

The two chairs above actually kind of match the couch although I didn't buy them all at the same time. I have two matching industrial tables like the one you see above. Although they aren't antique, there was something about them that I was really attracted to. I hate when things call my name! It happens all the time!!

The old re-purposed spotlights on old tripods are really popular right now. The one above was made by Bryce who gave it to me this past Christmas as a gift. I love it!

I love to reuse stuff in ways that your wouldn't normally use them. The old heavy door hinge above is more like an architectural piece to me with all its detail! The old elevator piece above is another favorite. It's got great architectural detail, and don't you ever wish these things could tell us their own story?

Above is another one of my hinges along with a heavy, old architectural top of a rain gutter. It is SO heavy and just has such a great look! With a hole on top, it was an easy to turn it upside down and use it to display old brushes.

I've had this old game table for years and years. It is one of those pieces that I would NEVER ever get rid of. I think, or I'm guessing at one time it was maybe a carnival game of some type. It's has great chippy blue paint on it!

And the top of this table has lots of the old zinc and metal pieces that spin. That is why I tend to think with that and the old numbers written on the front of it that it came from a carnival. Again, it truly is a one of a kind piece I could never part with. I always look at pieces like this and know they are so full of history and only if they could talk. . .the stories they could tell!! Be sure to stop by and pay my friend Debra a visit, ok?http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot

I Love Sunny SoCal !

2012-01-05T10:43:00.000-08:00

These past few days are the exact reason "why" I LOVE living in sunny southern CA! I think we have been the warmest place in the country and that sunshine feels good! I spent the past couple of afternoons sitting out by my pool and enjoying our CA sunshine. I have an old pool with no heater so the water is like ice most of the time, including in the summer. But these past few days its been so relaxing to sit out by the pool with my old girl, "Sally the Cabana Dog", a Corona or two and my Ipod! Below are some pictures I took while I was enjoying our CA sunshine!!

Everything right now is a mess, especially my bar. It is in need of a big makeover! The bamboo roof is basically in pieces, and it needs a good re-do! A lot of the "stuff" I have inside and outside of my house has meaning. The sign above, "Aloha Farmers Markets" has kind of a special meaning. After I divorced, things were kind of tough as it is for most anyone that goes through that. Somehow, Bryce managed to get this sign from a flea market in Keikea on Maui. His dad had taken all the kids on a vacation. That sign must have cost Bryce's dad a fortune to ship to me, but it is my own personal piece of Maui paradise in my own backyard! I hope many of you out here are enjoying the sunshine like I am. . . I love it! Have a wonderful day.

White Wednesday

2012-01-03T13:15:00.000-08:00

Wow, my first "White Wednesday" post of the year! My hope is that 2012 will somehow not fly by as fast as did 2011! Today I've just posted a few of my favorite "whites" from my store, Country Roads. I hope you enjoy them. I love the different shades and textures of all the "whites" pictured below!

I love the old canvas carts. I've got a really small one with old advertising on it. I have to admit it is my absolute favorite! Please be sure to stop by and pay Kathleen over at Faded Charm a visit. She has done such a fabulous job with our "White Wednesdays". I always love her posts. We are having summer like weather here in Southern CA. It's been so wonderful. Happy New Year to all and wishing you the best in 2012!

Back At It In 2012!

2012-01-02T10:19:00.000-08:00

Here I am this morning gearing up for our brand new year! A special "thank you" to each and every person that shopped our big sale yesterday. We stayed busy all day, but even more importantly, it was so nice to see so many of our regular customers and have a chance to chat with you! I didn't have a lot of time to take pictures for my blog, but I managed to take a few so here they are!

After working so hard all week-end, I finally broke down and bought "my guy" and brought him home with me last night! I've admired him from a distance for some time now, but couldn't justify buying him. But since he was on sale yesterday, he is now all mine! In the next couple of weeks we are doing a lot of moving around at Country Roads. We've got some new people coming in as well. Many of you know Cathy Jarrell from The Vintage Lady. And sadly many of you also know that her store in Tustin burned down in December. I'm very grateful that I found some space at Country Roads for Cathy to join our Country Roads family. With her, she brings a great deal of talent and a loyal customer base. Also joining us mid month is Jeff Mack from the Silverado Trading Company. Again, he too brings talent to Country Roads and a good customer base as well! And lastly, my new website with our "Online Store" is finished! I tried to get it up and running with merchandise for sale in December but between being so busy at the store and the holidays I realized it was an impossible task to complete. My goal is to have it up and running by mid month. So, with all that said, I will wrap up my ramblings here with a sincere "thanks" for the great business you all brought us last year, and I'm so looking forward to seeing you all in 2012! It's going to be a good year!!

The Dog Days Are Over!

2011-12-31T18:52:00.000-08:00

My last post of 2011. The last day of the year with only a few hours left. Am I looking back with regrets, nope! Am I looking back with disappointment, nope! Sure, there are so many things that I wish had been different, so many things I wish I had more time to do, but, nope there are no regrets!

Why do I have no regrets? Because even in the toughest of days, in the hardest of times, I learned things. I believe that is why life puts us through difficult situations so that we learn and grow as individuals! The status quo has never, ever been acceptable for me, ever! I strive, I always strive to do my best. Sometimes times I don't succeed, but if I've given it my best shot, then I know that I have learned along the journey.

What do I want for 2012 to bring to me? There is a song by Florence and the Machine that I love, and always play. It's called "The Dog Days Are Over"! So, as I begin my brand new year tomorrow morning, I refuse to have any more dog days, they are all truly over. Oh, I know very well life will continue to throw its share of dog days in my direction, but nope, I'm over them, totally over them and will deal with them differently in 2012!

I wish you all a truly "Happy New Year"! Some of us wait till midnight, and toast the New Year! Me? I've got a big sale tomorrow at Country Roads tomorrow morning. I love to start my year off by working hard. So, as I get ready to fall asleep as 2011 begins to fade away and become a distant memory, I will remind myself that my dog days are over! They are done, they are finished, and I have a brand new year ahead that I truly intend to make the best ever! Happy New Year to you all!!

You Watch Them Grow!

2011-12-30T17:31:00.000-08:00

Riley spent the day with me today. It's been a really long time since just her and I have had a day together! Riley was cold this morning and she knows I always give her the "special" blanket to warm up in. My mom made Katie this afghan when she was a baby. I haven't been able to let it go yet, so Riley uses it all the time when she comes over to my house.

We like to hang out in my bedroom. It's just comfortable and we spent the day doing nothing, but just talking and laughing. It is great to hear about life through the eyes of a five year old. Today Riley was into coloring and drawing pictures. It is amazing how much she has already learned since she started kindergarten.

She's a "lefty" like me, her Gramma! It makes me proud since not one of my three kids are left handed. And I understand the challenges that being left handed can present. Seriously, there are many! So Riley and I share the experience, the good and bad stuff about being left handed even if she doesn't quite understand.

She loves the beach and ocean and fish. And I love the smile on her little face as she proudly displays her jellyfish that she drew. The picture is now hanging in my office right by my computer. It makes me smile.

Riley's smile melts my heart in every possible way. I love her sense of humor now. Five year olds can be pretty funny actually. She convinced me to let her watch "Shake It Up" on the Disney channel but immediately told me that Mommy and Daddy don't let her watch it. But could she PLEASE watch it! So, I off course I let her watch it. I mean it was the Disney channel. And Katie if you read this you can't say anything to Riley because I promised I wouldn't tell!!

Oh, how I don't want Riley, or Morgan, or Bodhi to get any older. I wish I could freeze time, right now! But life goes on, and by summer I will have grandbaby number four joining my family. As I look at Riley in the above pictures, there is a song I love by Zach Gill that I love. He only made on album, although he is still a part of Jack Johnson's band. Here's the words to his song. . .

"You Watch Them Grow"

She's close to God, I'm sure of that

She sits him down, and they have a chat

She asks for sunshine, and he agrees

You see, for her, He'd do anything

She is a monkey, and I'm her tree

And now she's climbing all over me

Swinging on my vines dancing on my limbs

Her monkey sounds sound like an angel's hymns

You watch them grow, then you let them go

She is an angel, she is an imp

She's got my big toe, and her mothers lips

She gives fishy kisses, and great big bear hugs

42 pounds of pure love

Then one day she'll be 17, feelin' too big for her home

Seems she was just only 3, oh how children they grow

You watch them grow, then you let them go

Then one day she'll be 33, maybe with a child of her own

Seems she was just 17, oh how our children they grow

He'll ask for sunshine, and she'll agree

You see for him, she'd do anything

He is her child, the center of her world

She is the mother. . .my little girl

You watch them grow, then you let 'em go

For some reason, I don't think I'll ever let Riley, Morgan, or Bodhi go, ever!

Randomness

2011-12-29T10:58:00.000-08:00

Our customers are truly the best! We have been so busy this week, and it's still three days until our big New Year's Day sale! My intent yesterday, and all this week, was to post pictures of what is currently at Country Roads. Believe me, we have a lot of great stuff right now. I just haven't had a lot of time to share that great stuff! Here is a very small sampling of some pictures I quickly took yesterday.

I love old letters! And what I love even more than the letters is that someone took the time to save them over all of these years. And the handwriting is just beautiful! I always wonder" why" they end up for sale and no one in this person's family wanted to hang on to them. Believe me, I know why this happens, but it just makes me a bit sad that no one in the family cared enough to hang on to the letters! I hope you all have a great day. We are having some beautiful, sunny weather here in southern California. And New Year's day is supposed to be in the mid to upper 70's! The perfect day for a big sale at Country Roads!!

White Wednesday

2011-12-27T14:05:00.000-08:00

This "White Wednesday" I took some pictures around my house. I'm not sure why, but when I got up yesterday I was just over Christmas! Part of it might be because I work retail. Anyway, I took all my Christmas down including the Christmas tree!! I was over it too. I dragged it out the front door to the driveway. It was a big tree, but you know what it's like when you are just over something? So, my "White Wednesday" post is just stuff from my family room. I love all the old chippy paint and rusted stuff. It calls my name!!

The two pictures above are from my garden. My lillies are blooming and I always love to have fresh flowers in my house. I think my favorite thing I enjoy is to cut a single rose with some lavender and sit them in my bathrooms. There is just something about fresh cut flowers that make a house feel more like a home! Please join my friend Kathleen who does an amazing job hosting "White Wednesdays". I always enjoy her featured blogs as well. I wish you all a Happy New Year and may this new year of ours bring peace and joy to all!

The Morning After

2011-12-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm "feeling" Christmas today! I'm so happy I am off and have a day to recover because I'm tired! It was a wonderful Christmas for myself and my family and my hopes are all of you had a great Christmas as well! We are having a big sale on New Year's Day called, "I'd Rather Shop Than Watch Football" sale!! We host this sale every New Year's Day. We will open at 10am and close at 4pm. Seriously, there are some really good sales going on that you won't want to miss out on!! I thought this week, I could give you some previews on my blog of what we have in the store right now. Like this really cool vintage sign! It's huge and hard to get a clear picture because it is in front of a big window. But trust me, it is a one of a kind and at one time had lights all around it. There are places to screw the light bulbs in. I would love to take this home with me so someone needs to buy it soon!! Besides the sign, here are a few other great thing we currently have at CR!

Right now we have a huge variety of awesome stuff! I'll be back tomorrow with a few more pictures of the "stuff". And hopefully this week you will see something that you cannot live without! Have a great day!!

Are You Ready?

2011-12-23T19:48:00.000-08:00

Here I sit on a Friday night going through my Christmas check list to make sure I'm on schedule and have got everything done! Have I missed anything? Let me think, considering there are SO many things to think about this time of year!

The tree ended up getting decorating even though I couldn't find my ornaments! I know they are up in the loft in the garage somewhere but I HATE going up there! A quick trip last week to Target for some ornaments fixed that problem. I kind of missed the old ornaments I use every year, but hey, this was easier! I finished wrapping ALL the Christmas presents today. This is a first for me. Usually I'm up late on Christmas Eve night doing that!!

The stockings are hung on the fireplace. I did notice I forget to get Morgan a "regular" Christmas stocking this year since this isn't her first Christmas. The stockings that have Brande, Katie, and Bryce's name on them were made by my Mom. She made them for each of the kids first Christmas stocking for their first Christmas. Just looking at them still warms my heart!

I got my Christmas present from Bryce early. So it's ready to light up my family room come Christmas morning. I'm getting excited, just like my little ones are.

My old harvest table is once again ready to serve Christmas breakfast! I've had so many holiday meals around this table. I got it out in the desert someplace for $150! The blue paint is original and it is square nailed. It seats eight and thankfully the grandkids are still small enough to pull up a chair or high chair!

I doubled checked and I do believe I have all the correct syrups for our Christmas pancake breakfast. Believe me, with this many in my family, I can't cook the pancakes fast enough!! I still enjoy it though.

And my Trader Joe lillies are just now getting ready to open. Their timing should be perfect with Christmas almost here.

The Christmas cards could use a bit organizing, but every time I walk by the pictures and notes from friends and family it makes me smile and I love looking at them. Actually, I'm probably the one that messes them up the most.

I just saw these recordable books from Hallmark.. They were sitting on my bed all day to remind me to record the stories in each of the books for Bodhi, Morgan and Riley. Hallmark should have done very well this Christmas on these books at $29.99 per book!

The lights are up on the house that Brande hung. I only blew them out once, accidently. Bryce stopped by to fix them for me. I was so bummed when I blew the fuse. Happy Bryce got them working again.

Well, I guess I am really all done preparing for the big day, except for the books, until the BIG day! Oh, I just remembered, I'm working tomorrow at Country Roads. I knew I was forgetting one little thing ;0) It's okay, because I'm working with my family!

And while I've rambled on about everything I love about Christmas, I quickly want to mention something I saw on our Channel 7 Eyewitness News. It is a segment they are doing about "paying it forward". I guy from the news stands in a parking lot or on a street with a big sign that says, "Get $500 by Paying It Forward". Many people just walk on by ignoring him. The segment I watch had a young woman stop and talk to the reporter. The catch is you can have the $500 if you will "pay it forward", meaning giving it to someone that really needs it. Then the news continues to follow the girl, who knew right away, who she wanted to give the money to! It was a very touching moment as I noticed a tear or two rolling down my cheek! My parents, pictured above, many years ago, always had hearts of gold when it came to giving when they could. That was a wonderful lesson about life that they taught myself and my sister! As we are out an about the next couple of days, it only takes a smile, a couple of dollars, to make a big difference in someone's life, especially during the holidays! And hey, if you still need to do some last minute shopping, Country Roads will be open tomorrow, Christmas Eve day, from 10am to 4pm. And myself, Katie, Bryce and Matt will be there to assist you! To all of you please have a wonderful holiday week-end. And as I always say, "it's not about what's on the table to eat, but WHO is at the table. Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas. . .Enjoy the Show!

2011-12-21T15:01:00.000-08:00

As we get closer and closer to the REALLY big day, I thought I would share some of my Country Roads favorites. What I mean by that is just a little this, and a little that, of the different holiday decorations we've had here at Country Roads over the past couple of months. Hope you enjoy the show and our many different looks of Christmas here at Country Roads!

Just click HERE to watch!

And just a side note, the speakers went out on my computer so I had to "guess" at the music that is playing!!

Happy Holidays

White Christmas Wednesday

2011-12-20T17:03:00.000-08:00

The big day is almost here? Are you ready, are you prepared, are you relaxed and having the time of your life? It does get a bit hectic right before Christmas, but once the big day arrives it is all worth it!! This White Wednesday I took a few pictures of some holiday whites around my house!

Please take the time to go visit Kathleen over at Faded Cottage! She is our gracious hostess of White Wednesdays! My wish to you all is to have a wonderful holiday. And remember, its not about "what" is on the Christmas dinner table, but "who" is at that table! Take care.

The Christmas Countdown!

2011-12-19T10:03:00.000-08:00

The final shopping week prior to Christmas has arrived! I'm happy that my shopping is done. But those of you that haven't finished, I have an alternative for you. Instead of tackling the big shopping malls, try something different this year. Think outside of the box! For example, I was talking to two of my favorite customers yesterday, Phil & Maddie. They were looking for a headboard for their bed. The cool thing with vintage is it is usually one of a kind and more reasonably priced. For example, the window and two vintage locker doors pictured above would look great hanging above a bed, especially if you added an architectural shelf below the window! Country Roads is around 12,000 square feet inside. We have great gifts for Christmas, especially if you are looking for something that is "different" or special! We can be very helpful this time of year.

If you have someone that LOVES to garden, we also have Johnnye Merle Gardens and Nursery outside in the back of the store! It is filled with wonderful, unusual plants, especially Annie's Annuals and a wide selection of succulents! And of course we have gift certificates as well. I hope you find the time to stop by and see us this week. You can shop "stress free" in a fun environment. We will be open Christmas Eve day until 4pm. Have a great week!!

Family

2011-12-18T08:48:00.000-08:00

"How old is Mommy"? As you can tell, Riley and Morgan are having a great time celebrating Katie's birthday last night! It was the big 3-0 and we all met at Katie's favorite Italian restaurant for dinner. All my family was there but I somehow didn't get pictures of Brande, Justine, or Vinnie. But believe me, we were all there celebrating. Here are a few pictures of my family that I did get!

What can I say, this boy LOVES to eat! Bodhi will eat just about anything, seriously. Both Riley and Morgan were picky eaters at that time. But not my boy Bo! And he was thrilled when it was time for dessert. Sometimes when I have my entire family together, I just sit and soak it all in, you know? Not everyone is as lucky as I am when it comes to family. And I got an early Christmas present last week. I'm going to be a Gramma, again! This will be number four for me. Bryce, Justine and Morgan are adding to their family and although it will be a late Christmas present, it will arrive in July! And of course it will be a boy! Bodhi needs a little buddy!!

In The Blink of An Eye!

2011-12-17T09:09:00.000-08:00

Funny how you remember things like they were just yesterday. Katie was born 30 years ago at 1:19 am on a cold December morning. That was probably my ONLY Christmas that I was really ready for. The Women's Axillary group at Long Beach Community hospital sent all the Christmas babies home in these stockings!

And her big sister Brande was excited as you can see. It was a really a heartfelt Christmas.

Then in the blink of an eye, the time began to fly by. First birthdays. . .

Second birthdays. . .

First grade. . .

Family vacations. . .

Babies of her own celebrating 2nd birthdays at Disneyland. . .

Her two favorite guys in her life. . .

Now not only a Mom, but an Aunt as well. . .

And now all of my family has different titles since we've grown!

But you know, we work together, we argue together (come on, I know you've heard us) but we are still family that loves each other more than any words I can write. We will all gather tonight to celebrate my little Christmas baby's 30th birthday at her favorite restaurant. Happy Birthday Katie, we all love you!!

Thursday at Country Roads

2011-12-15T19:02:00.000-08:00

I had an early morning meeting in Old Towne this morning, and it was just hard to get up! It's cold here!! Yes, I know it is a lot colder in other places but it is really cold for us that live here in SoCal!! tt was tough to get up this morning and out of my warm bed. Then of course, I need gas. The gas station by my house had all the pumps closed??? I have NO idea why. So, I head out to another gas station nearby and my debit card won't swipe. Now I've got to go into the gas station, and just add more time to my already rushed morning! Anyway, after the meeting, I spent a bit of time at Country Roads before heading back home. I quickly took some pictures, and as always, I'm amazed at how much changes at "the store" in just a few days!

Believe me, there are many more changes than just the few photos above. I just didn't have time to take more pictures. There is never such a thing as just "stopping by" Country Roads. Whether you are a customer, a dealer there, you work there, or as in my case, it is your store, there is just so much good stuff to look at that it's tough to pull yourself away!! Hope to see you soon!

"Then Again"

2011-12-14T11:43:00.000-08:00

I'm always working it seems. Even when I'm home, I'm working on something. So, there are only a couple of shows during the daytime that I really like. One is the Ellen Show and the other is the Nate Berkus Show. Last night when I was watching the Ellen Show in bed, Diane Keaton was her guest. My love of Diane Keaton goes way back. I couldn't even give you a date if I tried. She use to come into Country Roads all the time. And you know, I don't really have any words to describe what a "cool" person she really is. I remember one time I saw her crossing Chapman as she headed over to our store. You wouldn't have recognized her because she was barefooted!

The best part of Diane shopping with us is that she made you feel like you have always known her! She was just so down to earth and nice and real. I remember one Saturday she had come in and I was writing her up. I got SO involved in my conversation with her that I didn't realize a sizable crowd had built behind her. I do remember hearing Katie say to someone, "yes, that is her, she comes in all the time". I think at the time she was having a house built down in Laguna Beach and had Bryce deliver chairs there for her. There was absolutely nothing whatsoever pretentious about her at all! Then there was the time after I finally had enough of the messes in our public restroom and had cleaned up such a disgusting, nasty mess that I finally closed it. I ordered a portable bathroom for the garden. Diane asked if she could use our bathroom, and I just automatically gave her the speech of having to use the portable in the garden without even thinking. Just as she had left, Katie kicked me really hard! She just looked at me, like she often does, and said, "what is wrong with you, and why did you send Diane Keaton to the nasty portable"! I went out back and offered her our restroom before she had reached the portable. She indicated it was no big deal but "thanks".

It's been several years since I have seen Diane. It is always touching for me to see her at the Academy Awards being nominated for films she starred in. So much talent and such a "real" person at the same time. I love she adopted kids in her 50's, and holds her head high and finds pride in marching to her own drummer! I've already ordered her new book, and can't wait to read it.

After Diane's Mom passed away, Diane found a huge collection of her Mom's journals, notebooks, scrapbooks which included all kinds of newspaper clippings of anything and everything Diane had ever done! Her Mom was diagonsed with Alzheimers at 66 and was worried she wouldn't remember everything, or have anything left to leave to her family! What a wonderful, heartfelt gift she did leave! I've ordered her new book and cannot wait to read it. Sometimes it is just "nice" to be reminded of the real, caring people that are still in our world, no matter how famous they are! And the bond that many of us share with those that ARE our family!

"I always say my life is this family, and that's the truth.

Dorothy Deanne Keaton Hall

White Wednesday

2011-12-13T11:48:00.000-08:00

Happy White Wednesday to you all! With Christmas getting nearer and nearer, I wanted to share some of my outside "whites" at my home, mixed with a bit of red! I came home exhausted on Sunday night from working a very busy week-end at Country Roads. And Brande had surprised me while I was working by hauling down all my outdoor Christmas stuff and lights that were stored in the garage and decorated the outside of the house!

I think it's kind of funny that the more my picket fence ages, and gets that old, crackly look, the better I like it! I hope you all are enjoying the season and remember to take time for the little things! They are more important than we realize at times! And be sure to stop by and pay Kathleen a visit on this White Wednesday! Take care.

The Christmas Countdown

2011-12-12T11:34:00.000-08:00

The good news for me is that all my Christmas shopping is done. I did most of it online which not only saves me time but money. I don't have the temptation to buy something for myself as well as others!

This is one of my favorite little people! It's Josalyn, Yesi's little girl. And Santa Claus stopped at her house early to drop off her gift! She got a puppy and I have to say, I'm not a big fan of little dogs, but this little dog, now named "Roxy" by Josalyn is the cutest puppy ever. I know Josalyn is having Roxy withdrawals at school today and will be anxious to get home to her!

Country Roads has great gift ideas. Like this vintage spotlight lamp. What a great gift it would make for some lucky person, like me! Just in case Bryce is reading my blog!! And we now have shipping available for big items if you ever see something you can't live without. Just call us at 714.532.3041

I love these Christmas stockings that Melinda made and has for sale at Country Roads. The detail on them is amazing and they are really beautiful!

This old door caught my eye yesterday. It is an awesome door in perfect condition. I try to not look at it each time I walk by!

I had dinner on the patio of the Filling Station, here in Old Towne Orange last night with my good friend Mike! It was chilly out but the patio tables have little fire rings on them which was really cool. Or at least it was cool until the fire went out and they didn't have anymore propane and then it WAS really cold. I often forget about all the awesome architectural details we have on the buildings in Old Towne which was established in the late 1800's. It's nice to see a City preserve and appreciate history! This was my view from my patio table at dinner.

I've been lagging on my Christmas decorating. I have no idea where the time goes??? I just know that I am always so damn busy. I came home last night after a "full" week-end of working at Country Roads. I'm sure you noticed the "full" moon so you can imagine my week-end. I wish I had time to share some of those oh so special moments! I pulled in my driveway last night after working a long, hard, cold week-end, and Brande put up my Christmas lights for me! What an awesome surprise!!

I haven't done much decorating inside yet. I did pull out my mom and dad's old Santa collection. There isn't really anything special about them, and I'm not all the excited by them. But they are the ones my mom and dad put out each year. With both of my folks gone, its nice at the holidays to have little things to remember them by. Even if they are goofy Santa's! And I HATE the yellow paint on my walls. It's been on my list of things to do for the past six years or so!

This is my little snowman collection. Some are old, some are new, and yes, some of them belonged to my mom and dad. I hope some day that these might find a place in one of my grandkids homes.

This old guy above is one of my favorites! He was from an Old Kentucky Bourbon display. I just love him and I smile each time I walk by him. He's got such style!!

My perfect Christmas tree. I had a crooked tree last year. This year I went back to my favorite tree lot and got this one. Actually he looks nice as is. My hopes though are to get him decorated before Christmas.

Brande also brought down all my Christmas totes from the garage. I really need to go through them. I imagine I could do some thinning out of all this stuff! Thankfully I have a store to sell the stuff I don't want anymore.

Since I shopped online this year, I have plenty of boxes to put the presents in. I also bought wrapping paper and have plenty of it. Now, if I just had plenty of time to do these things, life would be good!!

And lastly, I bought three "industrial" Christmas stockings from Debbie at the store. I call them industrial because of the metal numbers. She didn't have letters, so I chose my grandkids birthday months. As you know, Country Roads has something for everyone! Stop by and see for yourself!

A Sunday Quickie!

2011-12-11T08:50:00.000-08:00

I only have time for a quick post this morning. I've got to get ready to head back to Country Roads today! We had an over the top day yesterday thanks to all of you. Please know it's always appreciated. Shawn and Jennie were in yesterday, re-doing their new window space. They switched windows spaces with Bryce, since this one is bigger. I personally see so many things I want. How about you?

It looks REALLY good. My pictures don't do it justice. See something you want? Let me know, I would love to help get it to you. Shoot me an email at cradealers@aol.com. Have a great Sunday with our big ole full moon. I'm sure the day will be very "full" for us too here at Country Roads! Take care.

Another "Little" Makeover!

2011-12-09T17:31:00.000-08:00

I came into "the store" today to take some pictures. Some of you may know that soon you will be able to shop at Country Roads "online"! Yes, I've taken our store to the web so we can have many of you join our Country Roads family of customers, regardless of where you live! It's getting close to being open for business, I just want to post some more pictures on it before I start promoting it. Anyway, while doing my picture taking for the web, I also snapped a few of the store. I can be away for a day or two, I come back in, and things are all changed around. Tonight I just wanted to share what the talented Cyndy has done. She has a magical touch as is: she paints, sews, upholsterer's furniture, and has a regular job as well. She also has a lot of real estate here at Country Roads. This is her little porch area, on the way to the garden. It always, seriously, without fail, looks so good! Here are more pictures of her little makeover!

I had another love affair moment today while taking pictures. I am now deeply and so in love with this off white little industrial cabinet. There is just something special about it that is calling my name. Although I don't need it, we all know it's never about the "need", just about the "want"! I hope you all of a wonderful week-end, and hey, stop by and see us! Country Roads is lookin' pretty good if I don't say so myself!!

When Boys Become Men

2011-12-08T19:21:00.000-08:00

I've been really busy lately. Working on lots of things for "the store", and even though I've been busy, I've been distracted. My heart has been heavy. About two years ago, my son Bryce's bestfriend, Matt, lost his little baby girl right after her first birthday. Hannah was born with muscular dystrophy. Hannah had just celebrated her first birthday. And then sadly, two days before Christmas, she was gone. It was one of the hardest things I've ever tried to grasp. Two childhood friends grow up together, they have little girls about the same age and one lives and one dies. A tough one to say the least.

Hannah has been gone almost two years now. This past week would have been her birthday, and she would have been three years old. Matt told Katie the other day at "the store" he hated Christmas. I can only imagine how he must feel. In the same month as Christmas, it is also his Hannah's birthday and the time she lost her fight with MS. Sometimes when my heart is heavy, and I don't understand things, I write. I'm not sure how to explain it, but it makes me feel better. Below is an article I wrote after little Hannah lost her fight with MS. I'm not posting this to make all of us feel bummed and sad. I'm posting it as a reminder that in a season that is filled with rushing around to buy the perfect present, or decorate the holiday tree, just to take some time to be grateful for those you have in your life. Maybe just love 'em a little more. Life can be so fragile at times.

When Boys Become Men

I only had a sister growing up, no brothers. And when I began my family, I had two daughters and then my son, Bryce. Or as I call him these days, “My Boy Bryce”. My first introduction to “boys” was when I put Bryce down on my mom’s bed at ten days old. I mean, come on, ten days old, where is a newborn going to go? About ten minutes passed, and we heard a thud! I rushed into my mom’s room, and somehow, some way, Bryce had managed to fall off the bed! My mom was totally terrified. And my mom, being an only child growing up, had a hard enough time dealing with me and my sister. Now, she had three grandchildren and a boy for the first time! Bryce survived the fall well, and there were no injuries involved.

Growing up, Bryce did typical boy things to his sisters. A favorite being hiding rubber snakes and lizards under their pillows at night, or hiding in their closets and jumping out in the dark to scare them. He also found pleasure in torturing his sister’s friends as well. He was in his glory. Growing up, he also tortured me and made me just as crazy as his sisters. I remember one time taking him and his friend, Matt, to the beach. I settled in on the sand in my chair, headphones on, sunglasses and eyes closed. I was totally relaxed, but I kept feeling a “breeze” over me. When I opened my eyes, I discovered what felt like a hundred seagulls around me. Why? As I was relaxing, Bryce and Matt thought it would be funny to spread Fritos all around me. They put Fritos in the sand, on my towel, in front of me, behind me, everywhere! I don’t think I’ve been up close and personal with that many seagulls since that day!

As the boys began to grow-up they still did typical boy stuff. As they got older, they had their share of trouble they got into. Bryce always looked out for Matt. There was a time that Matt picked a fight with three guys, all bigger than him. And once again, Bryce went to his rescue. Those two boys put me through hell and back. But they finally grew-up, got married, and they each had baby girls. Matt’s daughter, Hannah, was three months older than Bryce’s daughter, Morgan. When Matt’s daughter was born, she had muscular dystrophy and the doctors didn’t think Hannah would live past two years old. I can only imagine how devastating that would be for anyone, especially for Matt, his wife, and Bryce knowing that he had a healthy baby girl only three months younger.

This past year, little Hannah passed away only a few days before Christmas. I remember when I received a text on my cell phone from Bryce telling me what happened. I remember the tears streaming down my cheeks, as I desperately tried to find the right words to say to my son. The funeral was held the day after Christmas. It was a beautiful and emotional service. There were pink balloons everywhere, large blown up photos of baby Hannah all over the stage. It began with a slide show of Hannah while the song by Roberta Flack played, “The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face”. As my son sat next to me holding a pink rose, and I sadly watched Matt as he sat across from me, I knew these boys’ lives had been forever changed. As the service ended, the Pastor told us “God reached out his hand, and Hannah took it, and is no longer in pain”. He then gave us directions to exit the service and if we chose to pay our respects to little Hannah we could. Me, being “me”, didn’t realize that during the entire ceremony little Hannah was there in an open casket. As I passed little Hannah, I don’t think I will ever forget what I saw . . . a tiny Christmas Angel lying there so peacefully.

That evening, I was sitting in the kitchen, talking to Justine, Bryce’s wife. I was holding Morgan in my lap and being very thankful for her. I looked up and saw the two “boys” walking up to the front door. I wasn’t sure how Matt would feel after losing his baby girl. He walked over to me, looking at Morgan with arms extended and said, “come to Uncle Matt”. And with that, he had Morgan in his arms, giving her hugs and kisses. As he left, he put Morgan back in my lap and told her that he promised she would be seeing more of her Uncle Matt. And with that, my boys walked out my front door all dressed in black. And I knew that those two boys had become men on that day and I couldn’t have been more proud. Sometimes life deals us some very difficult situations we must go through. But it gives us strength to survive and we all learn from it. My boys are now young men after going through one of the worse heartbreak anyone could go through at that age. But life’s lessons teach us to be better people because of that and to value each and every day! I know my son has grown up to be a great young man, but in my heart he will always be, “My Boy Bryce”!

During this holiday season, take the time to smile at strangers, or extend a helping hand to those in need. We never know what burden others are carrying around on the inside that may not be visable to the rest of us. And to my other son that always calls me Mom, I pray that Matt finds the comfort he needs during this month. I know how difficult it is for my boy!

I'm linking up with Lynn today on "take good care of this moment"!

The Alameda Flea Market

2011-12-07T15:09:00.000-08:00

Bryce headed up North this past Saturday night for the Alameda Flea Market that is held on the first Sunday of every month. It has been cold down here in Southern CA, so I can only imagine how cold it was up there. Especially since the flea market sits right near the water. I believe that is the San Francisco skyline in the background. It looks so pretty, and as I said, I know how cold it was, especially early in the morning! Below are a few of Bryce's displays he set up.

I believe he did pretty well, which I'm happy for him. The worse part is going to all the trouble to unload, set up, and then if you don't sell much, you've got it load it all back up again. I'd love to get up there one day. But until then, I live through the pictures!

White Wednesday

2011-12-06T13:36:00.000-08:00

It is definitely Christmas at my store, Country Roads. It's a nice feeling to be surrounded by so many beautiful things while I work. I thought I would share a few for this "White Wednesday"!

The one thing I learned this past week-end, while working at the store, was this. Don't EVER get glitter in your eye! Seriously, it really stings! I hope you will join Kathleen, the creator of our "White Wednesdays" and participate in "White Wednesday" with us! Her posts are always inspiring as are the featured blogs she shares each week. Have a great day!

Monday Morning Randomness

2011-12-05T11:11:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to start this blog post with a "thank you" to everyone that shopped with us over the week-end! We were extremely busy, and I have to confess, I'm dragging this morning. But I'm dragging in a good way if you know what I mean. It is always rewarding to be exhausted from working hard. I grew up with those ethics and still believe in them today. This morning, I just have a few random pictures from my favorite store, Country Roads!

Our variety of styles and product that we carry at Country Roads is amazing. There really is something for everyone. Again, my thanks to all of you that shopped with us. As always, we appreciate your business!

Lookin' Good, Part Two

2011-12-03T19:04:00.000-08:00

Sue Lennon was back to finish up the rest of her displays, and that she did! Everything looks so over the top good! A few days ago she had added the old sheet music to the walls, and now the sheet music is trimmed with old photo pages. It looks really good! And it appears the big old lamps have produced little versions of themselves while I was off. Again, I love this look so much. Here are a few more of my favorite things!!

My guy is back, although hiding behind the couch. The male dress form SO wants to come home with me. But for now, I chose the pallets with the cushions pictured above. The pallets are out of the same wood and metal as are two of my end tables at home. And the cushions match a couch that I have from Sue as well. Country Roads, wow, it just keeps getting better and better thanks to the talented group of people I'm blessed to work with. Thanks you guys, you ARE the best of the best!!

Work Spaces

2011-12-02T15:14:00.000-08:00

I love when I see pictures of peoples work spaces, studio's, offices, or whatever else they name them. Everything is always SO neat, organized, and put together. I always hope for that in my home office, but it just never quite happens that way. This is the first room in my house that I spend some time in the mornings after I get up, and the last place I am before going to bed. I'm always working on something. Thus, the piles of stuff stacked everywhere. But my thoughts are, I'm not the only one out there that has stuff everywhere in the room I work! I make it a point to surround myself in this room with things that I love. I still need to get burlap back over the popcorn ceiling from the previous owners, and moulding up. But hey, some day, some day I will! And if you notice two computers, I just got a Mac and I'm trying REALLY hard to ween myself off my old Dell pc which is a disaster!!

This long basket with compartments I just got and it is perfect for what I need. Katie grabbed it first at Country Roads and lucky for me it didn't work for her! It lessens my stacks of stuff! I also try to keep all the pictures and memories around me here. You may notice that my office assistants (my three cats) are no longer in this room. When Bryce and his family moved to their own place, I kicked them out. They still haven't recovered from being banned in here! It's nice as I work to be surrounded by smiling faces of my grandkids and many other things that warm my heart that I keep all over the walls in this room! Speaking of warming my heart. . .it would really warm it to finish everything I have to get done today. Oh well, it's not a neat & tidy room, but it is a room that I've surrounded myself with things that make me feel good! Have a great day!!

Lookin' Good!

2011-11-30T17:31:00.000-08:00

I have to admit that there are several dealers at Country Roads that I'm always anxious to see what they have put together when they come in. Sue Lennon is one of these dealers. Although she isn't quite finished, and I hear there is a couch coming in that matches the chairs, I thought I would post some pictures anyway. The lights on the left are made out of air filters. They definitely have a one of a kind look! Here are a few more pictures to enjoy!

I love how these three big lights make a statement of their own. Especially for me, depending on the angle I look at them. I believe the couch that matches the chairs is on its way in to Country Roads any day now! The old vintage sheet music on the wall is also a new addition. I'm liking the way it all looks!!

White Wednesday

2011-11-29T13:54:00.000-08:00

Happy "White Wednesday" to one and all! Here we are again, on the last Wednesday of November. The time has really raced by this year. We have such a variety of "whites" at Country Roads right now. I tried to pick not only a few of my favorite things, but things that were a bit different as well. Hope you like the pictures!

I am always amazed at how many different displays and styles we have going on at Country Roads. The best part is that you are bound to find something you like. It makes it tough to leave empty handed! Please join my friend Kathleen over at Faded Charm who graciously hosts "White Wednesday" every week! Thanks Kathleen, I sincerely appreciate it! I hope you all have a great week!

Monday Morning Eye Candy

2011-11-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

I'm always going on and on about how Country Roads has something for everyone. I know, you here it all the time. I didn't have much time for picture taking these past three days because we were "slammed" with so many great customers shopping our sale! I did manage to escape the counter a couple of times to take the pictures below.

I love these old country grain measures pictured above. You don't see them like you use to. Again, thank you to everyone that stopped by Country Roads to shop. And "shop" you did! So what does all that mean? Our Country Roads family will all be busy this week bringing in more great stuff!! They really are the best. I know I always say this, but I love that we have something for everyone at Country Roads! I wish you all a happy Monday! Take care.

Last Day to Shop Till You Drop!

2011-11-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of Country Roads after Thanksgiving day sale! I'm so appreciative of how busy we have been and "thank you" to each and everyone of you that have stopped by Country Roads the past couple of days. There's still a lot of great stuff available at really good prices. I only had time for a few really quick photos yesterday. I love this settee, and it is a great piece at a great price with 20 percent off of that!

Again, "thanks" to those of you that have spent some time with us over this three day week-end. We sincerely appreciate your business. Thanks!

Tis The Season!

2011-11-25T19:13:00.000-08:00

So, here I am at my computer at about 7pm and I'm ready, really ready, to go to bed! Today was the first day of our after Thanksgiving three day sale. I also just realized that it is Friday, not Saturday, which means I have too more sale days to work, not one, as I previously thought. I am very grateful for being so busy today, thank you! I also forgot a few of my own rules that I usually don't break during this time of the year. Never wear a dark sweater, which I did today. You will look like the glitter fairy dumped a big bucket of glitter all over you!! Some of the stuff customers buy may be large or an odd shape. Never, never offer to wrap it in paper because I promise they will say, "oh yes, please"! I always forget and offer! Be sure to keep the adding machine tape near so you can show some of the customers that question your math skills!. And be sure to repeatedly thank the nice, sweet, helpful customers because they make your day so much brighter! It's the holidays and I'm very happy that so many of our great, loyal customers came out to shop today. As always, it means the world to us. I only had time to take a small amount of pictures today, but here are a few.

Above is Josalyn! She is Yesi's daughter and has been hanging out with her Mom at "the store" probably since she was a toddler. Yesi actually started hanging around Country Roads with her older sister Carol when she was about nine. Then at eleven or twelve, just like my kids, Yesi started working a little bit. Josalyn is the funniest little kid you will ever met. She has a wicked sense of humor and is five years old going on fifteen!! She is always very stylish and has an opinion on everything, seriously. She loves the trade paper Vintage Today. They have a section where they show you a small part of like nine pictures, and you have to find the pictures in the issue. And Josalyn will "study" that magazine till she finds them all! She is just an awesome, smart little kid! Thanks Josalyn for helping us today. We love you! Two more days to come visit Country Roads and find some REALLY could stuff at REALLY good prices!!

A Time To Be Thankful

2011-11-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up thinking about all the things in my life that I am truly thankful for, and what I've learned in life so far. I mention, "so far", because I'm still learning and I hope all of you are too. One of the things that I will always be thankful for is the way my mom and dad brought me up, the way they raised me. My mom grew up in Temple, Texas during the Depression. She always told my sister and myself stories of poor people coming to their back door begging for food. And although my mom's family didn't have a lot, they gave what they could. This spirit of giving, caring and being thankful was instilled in me at an early age. When I was in high school and college I had the opportunity to spend a great deal of time on the Cocopah Indian reservation. It was in Somerton, Arizona, not far from Yuma. The poverty and living conditions were horrible. Especially when you consider the weather. It is so cold in the winters, and was hotter than hell in the summers. At the time, the Cocopah's were living in cardboard homes with tin roofs. The floors were dirt. I remember having dinner one night with one of the families. Everything was as spotless as could be except the walls were cardboard, some wood, and the floors were dirt. And when a big rat was on the stove, the youngest son calmly got up from the table, grabbed a big butcher knife, stabbed it, tossed the dead rat out the door, then sat back down and continued to dinner. That was their life, that was just what you dealt with.

Each Christmas, this church would collect donations to bring Christmas to the Cocopah's. That's what these picture are from. I look at myself in these pictures and I realize as I write this, I was younger than my own kids are today. At that time, this was a "poverty," a group of people, that our government ignored. I say this because right across the levy was rich, fertile farm land. It always amazed me. And I remember as I handed out presents at Christmas time, there wasn't one child that didn't forget to say "thank you". Two simple words that melted my heart each time they were spoken, "thank you"!

As I got older, and was in college, I went with two guys that had also been involved with the Cocopah Indian tribe over all these years as I had. We sent an entire summer in a cement building that was used as a farm labor camp. It was an experience, along with my mom and dad's concern for others, that I believe has made me the person that I am today. I look at the little boy above, and it's Christmas, and he's smiling. Those smiles were always the best gift I could ever receive.

The picture above is all the clothes that were collected for the families for that year. You may wonder why these women were so large if they had so little. Basically their diets consisted of beans, tortillas, and sometimes rice. And I have to tell you, those tortillas were SO good. I'm writing this today because I think we all get so caught up in every day life that sometimes we just forget that there are people, especially now, that really need help! Please, take the time to care, to give, to make eye contact with those that need a smile. And most important, just be thankful, especially today, for not only what you have in your life but "who" you have in your life! Please remember as you sit down to celebrate Thanksgiving today, it's not about what's "on" the table, but "who" is at the table! Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

"Design on a Dime"!

2011-11-23T10:51:00.000-08:00

Remember that show on HGTV, "Design On A Dime"? After Bryce, Justine, and Morgan moved out a month or so ago, I wanted to do something with Morgan's little bedroom. I wanted to do something that wouldn't cost me much. So, I decided to take all the toys out of the family room, and out of their other hiding places and make a playroom for my little grandkids. I was going to paint, but for now as busy as I always am, I skipped it. Sorry Bodhi, but the color is NOT pink, it's coral! I think the only things I bought for the kids room was the little mirror above and I ordered cheap posters online. Here's what I put together really cheaply and with lots of stuff I just "had" around the house! All the Tonka trucks below belonged to Bryce when he was a little boy. Yes, I have saved them all these years, and yes, I am sentimental! I don't even know if they still make the Tonka trucks out of metal.

The kids room still isn't done, but at least it is started and they can play in there, and it was cheap to do! The truck above, "Texas Crude" was one of the first gifts my Mom bought for Bryce after he was born. That and his little cowboy boots! Her dad use to drive an oil truck in Temple, Texas. Family. . .I know how blessed I am to have the family that I do! I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving! And remember, it's not about "what" is on the table, but "who" is sitting around the table!!

Beginning To "Feel" Like Christmas!

2011-11-21T09:12:00.000-08:00

Brande and Carol worked on the Christmas displays by the front door of Country Roads yesterday. Brande and I use to have a tradition a few years back. Every Thanksgiving morning we would go into Country Roads and put up all the Christmas displays! It is so much easier to work on displays when you are closed! I know there are many of you that know what I mean. I don't have the patience to do Christmas displays when we are open for business, I confess! And since I'm confessing, I don't have patience to decorate my Christmas tree each year either! Bryce does it, and does a much better job than I use to do!! Anyway, for the past few years Bryce, Brande, and Carol have done the holiday displays. Here's a few pictures of what we have done so far.

We have two big front windows behind our counter. They are a real pain to display in because the ledge/platform that holds them is so narrow. Brande and Carol did this window. I was going to take a picture last night of it because I know the photos come out much clearer, but it was raining really hard! I bought the vintage reindeer years ago. Take a close look at them. A couple of them look really evil! Bryce will be doing the last of our front windows today. We are aiming for an industrial Christmas! I hope you all have time to come on down and visit us this week. We will be closed on Thanksgiving! As you know, we ONLY close three days out of the year, and this is one of them!

Full Bloom Cottage

2011-11-20T08:28:00.000-08:00

Loretta, who many of you know from Full Bloom Cottage, was in last week doing a mini makeover on her space across from the counter! And as always, it looks elegant and wonderful. She has a new line of scarfs in. If you are tired of the every day knit version to wrap around you on a chilly day, check out these scarfs. I think it adds a bit of "flair" to you outfit on a cold, chilly day! Below are a few more pictures of what Loretta has here at Country Roads!

We got really busy yesterday afternoon. The picture above is not the best, trust me on that one! But what is SO cool about this coral, is that it is actually a lamp! Why I didn't take a picture of the entire lamp escapes my imagination right now. But trust me, it is awesome! Looking for something to do today since apparently rain is on the way? Loose yourself in 12,000 square feet of great stuff here at Country Roads. Hope to see you soon!

Fall

2011-11-18T09:30:00.000-08:00

There's a nip in the air, and it is actually chilly for here in sunny SoCal! I love this time of year. Above is an old martin birdhouse. The difference with martin birdhouses from others is that they have little compartments built in them so the birds can make their nests. This birdhouse of mine sits on my arbor close to my front door. If you look close, you can see the two little birds on the left checking it out. There were about five or six of them out there until I came outside with my camera! I love watching them out my front window while they busily prepare their nests. Below are some of the pumpkins I grew and the white one and little ones I bought. They are about done for the season, but I think I'll leave them there until after Thanksgiving! I'm still amazed I could actually grow pumpkins! The rest of the pictures are of my Fall gardens. Since our weather is mild here in southern CA we get to garden all year round!

This is my favorite rosebush! I love the way that the white roses not only look but the way they smell as well. See the streak in the sky in the background? Every time I see one streak, I say it's my Dad driving him and my Mom around in heaven! I was the one that had to take my Dad's car and driver's license away because of his Alzheimer's. And believe me, that was the worst thing I could have done to him, if felt horrible. He LOVED to drive. So, I find some comfort when I see these streaks in the the blue sky. And if there are two streaks? My Dad let my Mom drive on her own! Yep, lame but we all find peace in our hearts in different ways. I hope you all have a wonderful week-end and find some time to come see us at Country Roads! Take care.

Randomness

2011-11-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

It's such a beautiful morning here in Long Beach. The sun is out, and that always makes me feel good. I'm not one for the cloudy, rainy overcast days. Give me the sun and beach any day of the week! Today I posted a few random photos I took at Country Roads. The variety and styles that we have in the store really adds to my business. There is something for everyone thanks to my wonderful Country Roads family!

Speaking of randomness, I remember probably one of the most random items we've EVER had at Country Roads! Years ago when our upstairs was open, we had a dealer who was an author. Nice girl, the wandering eye always made me wonder which way I should look at her though. She wrote books, I think they were cat or dog stories, seriously, and she was published. Her space was "different" but she was upstairs and was a really nice person. She had a boyfriend that would help her from time to time. He worked at Forest Lawn Cemetery. One day I had a price check in a space that was upstairs. As I ran upstairs to check on the price check, I noticed something in this girl's space. It was a half coffin. No, not a cool, vintage type coffin. It was a sample they used at Forest Lawn to sell grieving people coffins for their loved ones. You know, a floor sample! I was a bit stunned, not knowing what exactly to say. She was in the process of moving out anyway. I was really busy one day, and she came up to the counter briefly and said she was leaving and I could just have the rest of her stuff to sell. Mind you, this was stuff that was already more than 50% off! I went upstairs to see what was left, and there it was, the floor sample half coffin! I wondered what the hell I was supposed to do with that thing. I think someone finally took it for a party or something. I always wondered in my head "why" she thought a Country Roads customer would want to buy that! I always say, some day when I have time (that is hysterical) I would love to chip away at a book about my experiences at "the store"! I already have the title, "Geeks, Freaks, and Antiques. . .The Real Country Roads Story"! God knows I have plenty of material after all these years. I hope you all have a chance to enjoy the sunshine today if it's sunny where you live!! Take care.

White Wednesday

2011-11-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful "White Wednesday" here in Southern CA. The sun is shining, the weather is perfect, and Fall leaves have covered many areas of my garden. I have to say, I think this time of year is one of my favorites! Today, I posted a variety of "whites". I'm always amazed by the different shades and textures of the vintage whites found here at Country Roads. Below are a few that caught my eye.

I hope you will take some time to go visit Kathleen's blog. Her own blog is beautiful plus she gives us all the opportunity to go visit her featured blog of the week. It is always interesting to see what others are doing. I hope you are all well and enjoying the seasons change before our eyes! Take care.

Tis The Season in "The Room"!

2011-11-14T10:44:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Debbie & Kate really brought the holidays to "the room" here at Country Roads! Seriously, you walk into this part of the store and you just stare in awe!! I'll show you what I mean.

These are just a few of the pictures that I posted today. Believe me, I had more. And what is even better is not only "the room" is decked out for the holidays, but a good part of the store is as well. I really hope you get a chance to stop by and enjoy all of our seasonal decor along with all the rest of the great stuff that we here at Country Roads are really loving!

Industrial Eye Candy!

2011-11-12T19:04:00.000-08:00

We were slammed again today. I'm not sure why, maybe people really DO like our store? Whatever it is, I'm not complaining because if feels good to go home at night knowing you worked hard and your efforts paid off! Today was a HOT day for the industrial look. Between Bryce and Shawn & Jennie's spaces in the front windows of the third building, that WAS the place to be! There were a lot of thing selling here! Below are a few pictures of what I'm talking about.

I love all of the pictures above. Having these two window spaces filled with industrial stuff really adds to how cool it all looks together. Thank you to each and every one of you that came to shop at Country Roads today. I can never, ever say this enough. Our customers are truly the best of the best! Seriously, I couldn't ask for more. Hope to see many of you again tomorrow! Take care.

There's Always Variety at Country Roads

2011-11-11T17:04:00.000-08:00

The one thing I love about Country Roads is that you can walk down any aisle and no two spaces will look alike. There are so many different looks, and those different looks? They are always changing. I can't tell you how many times I've had customers tell me that they saw something they liked and came back a day or two later and it was gone! Here are some random photos of things that caught my eye the other day.

We have been super busy this week. I know on Wednesday when I worked, I came home and went to bed shortly there after! It's nice to be so tired from something you love doing. I hope you have some time this week-end to stop by and see us. Johnnye Merle's Garden just got an order in from Annie's Annuals. And my Country Roads family has been busy re-stocking! So we are set for the week-end. Take care.

My Great Uncle Glen

2011-11-10T16:07:00.000-08:00

The above picture was taken back on July 17th, 1950. On the bottom row is my Mom & Dad on their wedding day. And directly above them is my great Uncle Glen and his wife, my great Aunt Faye. I have this picture hanging in my family room. I got a call yesterday morning from my Aunt Faye. I knew Glen hadn't been doing to well. After all he was 97. When the number first came up on my cell phone I didn't answer it. Then, thankfully, my Aunt called me back and she told me that my Uncle had passed away the night before. I knew he had been sick for awhile. He was 97 years old. My Mom's family all have deep, deep, Texas roots. My Mom's mom, Glen's sister, was one of the oldest out of, I think, 8 or 9 kids.

Above is my Mom on the left, with her Mom, "Madge" on the right. They lived in Lubbock for awhile and then settled in Temple, Texas. My Mom's Dad, Hobson, had sadly taken his own life when my Mom was only 16, and then her own Mom died of cancer two years later. So, my Uncle Glen was more like a Dad to her than an Uncle.

That's my Uncle above. All decked out in his WWII uniform. His family consisted mostly of like seven boys and only two girls, one being my Grandmother.

That's my Uncle in the center, and my Mom on the left. I'm not sure who is on the right. Like most of my Mom's family, they all moved out to CA after WWII. They all settled in or around the Long Beach area. I remember my Dad telling me wild stories of their party days down at the old Long Beach Pike! I have a feeling those two were party animals back in their day. My uncle was barber, as was one of his brothers, Elmore. They began in Long Beach, downtown, but Glen moved to a permanent location over in Bixby Knolls area of North Long Beach. He cut hair for 50 years! One of the longest lasting in barber shops in Long Beach.

Glen and my aunt, Faye, lived over in Rossmoor. I had lived there for a short five years, right before my ex husband and I divorced. My aunt and uncle just lived a block over. I would often see Glen flying down the street, too fast by the way, in his old, fully restored '67 Chevelle. As he neared the big dip, it never slowed him down, he just flew over it! I always felt bad that I never got over to there house often enough.

My aunt called me the other day. I knew Glen hadn't been in the best of health. Faye told me, in the Texas accent she never lost, that he had passed away the night before at 97 years old. I couldn't even imagine being married as long as they were. I think of all the things Glen saw in his life and what a full life he had lived. My aunt seemed to be okay with his passing. He had been sick for some time. And the last thing she said to me before she hung up was that she loved me and for me to be sure to come by and see her. I promised her I would, and I will do just that! I admire people like my Uncle Glen. Living and loving life to its fullest. What a great guy!! He will be missed.

White Wednesday

2011-11-08T14:07:00.000-08:00

Happy White Wednesday to everyone!! I have to say that on this White Wednesday our temperatures here in southern CA has finally warmed up a little bit. Not only did we get the time change, we are waking up to early morning temperatures of 46 degrees! That isn't suppose to happen here. I hate being cold, seriously!! On this White Wednesday, I thought I would feature a variety of "whites" we have here in my very favorite store, Country Roads!!

I'm in love with those awesome primitive white country pieces above. For what they are, they are really priced reasonable. I wish you all a wonderful week, and please don't forget to stop by and pay Kathleen a visit over on her blog, Faded Charm! As we all know, Kathleen is the one that put together this little White Wednesday for all of us! Take care.

Ted & Gloria's Great Stuff!

2011-11-07T09:38:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to remember as I write this post just how long Ted & Gloria have been at Country Roads. I'm thinking it is about 14 years now. It's been a long time, that I do know. They both have a "good eye" for great stuff! Most of it comes from different parts of the US when they head out on their buying trips. Here's some pictures of what their recent travels have brought to Country Roads right now.

They've got even more great stuff that isn't at the store. Why? Because we don't have room right now. Every inch of the store is packed with really incredible things. I always say how blessed I really am to have such a good group of people that make up our Country Roads family! I know many of you know what I mean!!

A Few of My Favorite CR Things!

2011-11-06T08:12:00.000-08:00

It is a chilly Sunday morning, especially for our usually warm temperatures here in southern CA! I want to thank all of our customers that shopped with us yesterday! You were the best and made sure we all slept well. We were slammed! I hope to see more of you today. The store is looking SO good right now! Here are some pictures of a few of my favorite things courtesy of Debbie and Kate!

From time to time, I just want to make sure that my Country Roads family knows how appreciative I am of all their many talents. They are the best of the best and really nice people too!! Thanks guys. Hope to see many of you today. It's a great day to shop till you drop!!

Beginning To Feel A Lot Like Christmas at CR!

2011-11-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

There is a definitely a "nip" in the air here in sunny southern CA this morning! I am not particularly a big fan of cold weather, but it does remind me that the holidays are right around the corner. Looking for something to do today? Below are just a few of the many holiday decorations that have arrived at Country Roads. You know just in case you are feeling like a little Christmas shopping!

Hope you have some time to stop by this week-end and pay us a visit. As most of you know, my Country Roads family does a great job of keeping their displays and merchandise fresh!!