My inspired life: Sharing...the love...the kisses...the $$$

My inspired life: Sharing...the love...the kisses...the $$$: Makenna, our granddaughter, spent the night one evening recently and, as always, she found the change that I leave out on the counter for th...

Sharing...the love...the kisses...the $$$

Makenna, our granddaughter, spent the night one evening recently and, as always, she found the change that I leave out on the counter for the grands to find for their piggy banks at Grammie and Grampie's.  

She squealed with delight and asked if she could put it in her piggy bank.  I said sure and was not concerned about Lincoln, our grandson, not getting any.  He's gotten to put money in when Makenna was not at our house.

She went to the piggy banks and started putting the money in.  I was just busying around the kitchen, but overheard her say, "I'm going to put some in Lincoln's too".  How sweet and thoughtful.  I didn't say anything and let her do what she felt was right for her.  

We are blessed with some pretty awesome grandchildren.  Not a sentiment exclusive to us.  It's the moments in life like these that are what life is all about.  The photo above was taken when both got to go camping with us earlier this summer.  I come from a family of lots of aunts, uncles and cousins...1st, 2nd, 3rd...just doesn't matter.  I've always treasured this part of my life and look forward to my grandchildren being close and having each other through life's twists and turns, ups and downs, happy and sad times.  Such joy to my heart!

Impromptu get-togethers can be the best get-togethers.

It started with a phone call on the eve of the 4th of July and within minutes, a gathering was coming together.  "Pack the kids, bring some food, and head on down" for an impromptu overnight stay and celebration...country style. 

Sometimes, things just come together, and for me, that's when I know "it's just meant to be".  No fussing, deliberating, second-guessing.  That's how it was for this plan.

Our youngest, Mackenzy, and her fiance, Eric, had already reserved their room and were coming down for a pre-4th party in town.  And so it goes.
Since I've been doing a lot of deep cleaning, not all rooms were available in the "inn" so my three nephews took to the camper to sleep.  Sutton, after hearing a coyote, was somewhat concerned about his safety, but he quickly put it aside and got a good night's sleep.  

The guys, my hubs and brother-in-law, left early to go fishing.  I thought I'd have a bit of quiet time before everyone was up and going.  That was not to be.

Bright and early, I found the cutest little guy coming in the door for a visit.  "Hello Mimaw"  What???  Courtney, my oldest, was out of bed and maneuvering on a day off?  Sure enough and there was my precious Lincoln.  Could the day get any better?

We missed our annual parade watching, choosing to stay home and relax.  A hearty breakfast of bacon and eggs got us started.  The guys came back just in time, and one by one, the boys made their way in from the camper.  It wasn't

long and we were headed out the door for some fun and sun at the pond.  The day was filled with swimming, boating, 4-wheeling and more.  A bonfire closed the night down...and of course, smores.  A perfect 4th.

This past weekend was more of the same...a call here and another there turned out a sweet little gathering of friends and family.  It was New Virginia's annual Old Settler's Celebration and they always have a nice display of fireworks on Saturday night. 

We have a perfect view from our farm and the pond was just the place to be. The coming together was "just meant to be".  Only a few people weren't able to make it.  As the sun set, we chatted over food and drinks.  Jokes and stories, questions and "getting to know each other" for those who were just meeting made for a wonderful evening.  This is the view over the horizon.  Picture perfect don't you think?

Granddaughter, Makenna front left, grandson, Lincoln, back left and Minna Lickiss on the right enjoy getting to know each other.  They sure had fun together.

 

The group gathers for a final photo.  Son, Tanner's classmate, Scott and his family joined us just in time for fireworks.  All was well with my world.  

Back left:  Dan and Uly Gift, hubs, Steve, Maria and Steve.

Front:  Scott, Ashley and Morgan, Tanner, Abbie and Makenna.  Left to early:  Chad and grandson, Lincoln; Kurt, Denette and Minna Lickiss. 

Father's Day

Well, I've decided one of the best parts of being a parent comes way after the kids are grown and they start families of their own...making me and my hubs, of course, grandparents. 

Father's Day left us full to overflowing with happiness.  Our exchange student, from 20 years ago, Helena, and her fiance, Mikko, are visiting.  Courtney, our oldest came over to visit, bringing her almost two year old in tow. 

I can not express how it moves me almost to tears to see him smile ear to ear when he sees Grammie and Grampie...a.k.a. Pipaw and Mimaw to him.  He can't get to us fast enough; his short little legs in the tall grass does not help.  And, we can't wait to have him in our arms.  Precious in every way.

Then, over the hill we see Abbie and Makenna making their way down the lane to come and visit for a bit, too. We are as excited to see our sweet little Makenna as she is to see us.  We have to be her favorites for sure ; ).  Does not get much better than this...oh, but it did!

It was a beautiful day to enjoy the sights and sounds of live music at Summerset Winery.  Blue skies with powder puff clouds, a gentle breeze, a pitcher of their yummy sangria and our daughter, Mackenzy and her fiance, Eric, joined us for the afternoon. 

It was a lovely Father's Day.

Who doesn't love Red.White.Blue.

Summer is here and so is the color scheme of Red.White.Blue.  What screams summer more than this?

From ripe tomatoes to proud daisies to flag bearers carrying them, the colors of summer are here? 

It starts with the beginning-of-summer Memorial Day Holiday thru the end-of-summer Labor Day Holiday.  We wear it, magazine covers feature it and our tables are set with it...red.white.blue.                                      

What conjurs up more reminders and reminiscing than the colors of summer?  Firstly, our flag.  What a beauty it is.  We carry it, drape it, fly it on homes, our businesses and vehicles.                                                      

                                     

I think of camping and boating, fishing and fun.  Family and friend time, picnics and ice cream.  Bike rides, parades and celebrations galore.                                                     

Summer is here and so is the color scheme.

Happier Bride...

I had the opportunity to review this book, Happier Bride, and since my youngest is in the throngs of planning her wedding, I thought it was very timely. 

Delightful...the colors, the font, photos and simple format.  Easy to read and follow.  Great ideas and gentle reminders; with the intention of having a Happier Bride and a beautiful wedding. 

Shop online with Burlap & Roses at our Oddity Store

Of course, we hope you shop 'locally' first and foremost, but if you can't find it at your local favorite shop, then try Burlap & Roses Oddity shop.  We carry this line, but not all of it...or we may be out.  Just order, pay for it all online and it'll be shipped to you directly.  

 

Click HERE and you'll be directed to our catalog.

Inauguration Day 2013

Got in the house just in time for the Inauguration.  So glad I was able to see it.  James Taylor and Kelly Clarkson's songs were beautifully done.  Proud to be an American...to stand beside those who see things the way I do, to be challenged and awakened by those who view things a bit differently.  All for the greater good...all so we can be and do and want and have.  We are a very fortunate people.  Blessed so that we may be a blessing to the world...my world, your world, their world...OUR world.  Beth Cort-Voltmer 2013

The end always starts with a beginning.

The end always starts with a beginning, and January 1, 2013 was the day for I, and my hubs, to get back on track with sensible eating.  A lifestyle update.  Not a diet really, just eating the right things for more energy, strong bones, and overall better health. 

In the end, as in the beginning, I hope to take off the pounds that have crept on over the years.  They didn't sneak up on me...no, I kept a keen eye on the scale, but lacked the motivation and determination to do anything about it.

Last spring, though, something different happened to me.  My outlook, my desire, my mindset.  I felt 'ready' to make the changes that were required, to commit and move forward with this lifestyle change. I give allot of credit to one of my best friends, Jeanne, who has lost over 140 pounds, in just a little over a year.  It is her success and determination, as well as, her informative guidance that has help me start and stay in the game. 

I must admit, my determination fell off after just a few short months, and after I lost 20 pounds.  I've kept those 20 off until just recently, when I could feel my energy waning, my midriff thickening and my overall feeling was one of dread and disappointment.  I let myself down.  And, when I looked back, I realized I could have had another 20-30 pounds off, had I just stuck with it.  Darn it, Beth! 

I have put four pounds back on.  I knew I had.  I could sense it...both in how I looked and my energy.  It's just that quick!  It's just that obvious!  One thing for sure, having changed my eating habits, being cognizant of how I looked and felt, and being more in-tune with what my mind and body were telling me, I was able to recognize these things before they got out of hand.

Most of the junk food is out of the house.  It really is not a temptation for me on a regular basis, anyway. My mind is ready to mentally plan and make healthy food choices.  I know I have to add more activity into my daily schedule.  I have a better handle on what I like and WILL DO, will make time for.  I know that I have a tendency to get on a roll with just a few dishes, eat it over and over again...then, I get bored.  So, maybe this is just how I'm going to operate.  Rather than beat myself up over it, I recognize how I am and can deal with it.  

So, back to the end, which allows for a new beginning.  In this case, the new year.  In 2012, I lost 20 pounds, started eating better, maintained the weight loss, learned allot about myself, my eating patterns and habits.  I journal and keep track of my calorie intake online with My Fitness Pal.  I have also found that taking a daily vitamin and Vitamin D with calcium do wonders.  I will also do a 'natural' cleanse with a vinegar and honey tea one week a month.  

I recognize when I've eaten too much of the wrong thing...I get sluggish.  I know that I feel best with a low carb high protein diet.  I know that if I prepare my food so that it is 'grab and go' I do better.  I know that I have to make myself eat earlier in the day and make those food choices ones that give me energy right away.  Pasta, bread and other carbs are not my friends, although I LOVE them.  I know I enjoy coffee with cream and sugar too much to let it go, so I've altered how much of the cream and sugar I use.  I've dramatically reduced those additions.  The other thing I found out is...if I don't make my coffee strong, I need less of the cream and sugar to make it just right.
 
So, January 1, 2013, I made my hubs and I a delicious high protein, low carb brunch of scrambled eggs and ham in tortilla's, topped with cheese, baked in the oven and served with a glass of orange juice.  

Later in the day, we hiked our farm, up and down hills, through the snow.  It was exhilarating.  It was fun.  I need to do this more!   

So, as 2012 came to an end, I want 2013 to be the beginning of this journey.  My continued journey to me. More energy, strong bones and overall better health...with some weight loss along the way.  

Have fun with packaging

While at the shop yesterday, I had a bit of fun with packaging.  It's all in the presentation sometimes.  And, oft times, the recipient will get two gifts in one.

Metal boxes are all the rage for the vintage~repurposing follower.  Once used as cash boxes, for tools, fishing paraphernalia, and more, they are now found stacked, as art, holding supplies: paint brushes, glitter, buttons, and more.  Here is a red, a bit rusty and crusty metal box that I tied an animal print sash on.  I had some filler in the back room, filled the box, then added some 'gifty' items for a nice gift that keeps on giving.

 I gathered up all the vintage coffee tins and jars, put together the dry ingredients for coffee cake and put it inside the container.  I then tied the directions to complete the cake on and walla...another great gift that keeps on giving. Perfect for the coffee cconnoisseur in your life.  These are ready made and available at Burlap & Roses.
 
Vintage gift boxes make sweet packaging for anyone.  We offer many nice things at Burlap & Roses that will fit perfectly in these colorful and fun boxes.  

Our wine selection from Summerset Winery is a huge hit.  Paired with our Monk's Meadow dip and dessert mixes, any hostess or person on your gift list will be delighted when they open their package.

Lastly, the paperwhite bulbs have been planted in various containers and make lovely, lovely gifts.  They are sprouting and should bloom at the end of December.  They will last for a couple of weeks and will rebloom year after year.  The containers can be used throughout the year for other things.  Another great gift.

We look forward to assisting you with your holiday gift giving.
 

OPEN BLACK FRIDAY...SMALL BIZ SATURDAY

and~SUNDAYS 1-4 Thru Dec. 16th

Living your life...your way.

Today, Jane Pauley did a segment on the Today show about 'reinventing' your life after 50.  

Yesterday, at Burlap & Roses, a customer came in, a very attractive woman, I'd say in her upper 50's to low 60's.  She has the kind of silver/white hair that is silky, thick and gorgeous...the color and style that is in vogue these days.  She was telling me that her dream is to have a museum show-casing vintage hats.  They just purchased an acreage with a building that her husband told her she could now have her 'dream' museum.  She walked out the door saying, "it's just 25 years too late; I hope I live long enough".  A hint of bitterness in her voice.  I say, GET ON WITH IT AND DO IT!  She's most definitely not too old and a true picture of health.

Her final comment to me, paired with Jane Pauley's segment today, brings me to this blog post today.  Don't let it become too late to follow your dream...make your own path, live your life...your way.

Later today I will head to a show, Junk Jubilee Jingles, where I will be a vendor.  I will be joined by other 'like-minded' souls who I've come to know through this venue and other similar ones.  As I've been pondering this subject, I've come to realize that most of us are in our mid to late 40's to mid 50's.  Most, I imagine started living their life~their way, after the kids were raised and on their own.  If I questioned them, they'd most likely tell me, "wish I would have done it sooner".  Me, being one of them, totally agree!!!

We go through life getting done what needs to be done for everyone around us.  Most of us happily raised our family, worked at a career that paid the bills, had some benefits, and paid vacation.  It's what we do, it's what we did.  However, the first chance I had to try this gig...with nothing else to get in the way...I took it and have not looked back.  

Had I done it back then it might not have worked so well.  Family obligations came first, as they should.  But, I'm so glad I'm getting a second chance at living a life that is inspiring and creative and fulfills me...my person.  

Here's to my Junking friends.  Those who's hearts sing and burst with love for all things old, chippy, scrappy, shabby and glittered.  To those of us determined to bring life and beauty back to something most would throw away.  We're the ones that keep the past alive, we're keepers of memories, we're living our dream!  Living our life...our way!

Closing early

Burlap & Roses will be closing early Thursday, November 15th at 2:00 p.m.  We will be open regular hours Friday and Saturday, the 16th and 17th.  Sunday, November 18th, will be the start of our 

Sunday Holiday Hours  1:00-4:00 thru December 15th.  

Book Signing with Karen Weir-Jimerson, 

Sunday, November 18th from 1:00-4:00.

You have two opportunities to shop with Burlap & Roses this weekend.

at our Indianola location and at

Junk Jubilee Jingles

at the 4-H Building at the Iowa State Fairgrounds 

a pile of photos...

There is just something so very special about holding a pile of photos in your hand; a history. memories. longevity.

I've been thinking about this allot lately and then my mom called and asked for some photos of my grandchildren; her greats.  I don't have any 'in hand'.  They are all on the computer.  
 

I, alone, have sat for countless hours looking through family photos.  My grandmother's photo album of choice was a top drawer in a built in cabinet in her hallway.  My mom's...a drawer in a dresser.  My own photos have been relegated to a light blue plastic tote.  Not many in photo albums for any of us.  

We have family gatherings a few times a year and family photos always show up for memory making.  I love to hear the stories that one simple black and white or faded photo conjure up.   Passed from hand to hand, we all look at the photo, recollect our own memories or sit and listen as the story is told.  Who's who?  How are they related?  Where are they now?  

So, here is what my concern is:  will sitting around a computer, looking at photos, hold the same charm?  I don't think so...not for me anyway.  And, I want for my family, the wonderful feeling of holding a black and white or faded photo in their hand; passing it from one person to the other.  One generation to another.  I want them to be able to enjoy the hours spent, going through family photos;  to be able to enjoy a story as a photo is being passed from person to person.  

So, every now and then, I will pick out photos in my online albums and send away for prints.  Forgetting that I ordered them, a couple days later, I'm pleasantly surprised when I find a Kodak package in my mailbox.  I stop, right then and there, and flip through the photos.  a history. memories. longevity.

Can you help us out...we've entered Burlap & Roses into a contest for a grant sponsored by myentre.net, the State of Iowa and DMACC.

Just click on this link and press the VOTE button.  http://www.myentre.net/busProfile/tabid/95/Default.aspx?entry=541

Thanks for your help!

Beth and Denette

Note upcoming closed days at B&R

In preparation of our holiday open house, A Festive Affair, Burlap & Roses will be closed Tuesday, Oct. 30th thru Thurs., Nov. 1st AND re-opening in all our holiday glitz on Friday, November 2nd. Please make plans to attend our holiday open houses.

my morning went like this...

I woke up bright and early, got the coffee started and waited for the hubs to get ready for work.  Every other Friday he's either off or goes in an hour later.  I was looking forward to sharing a cup of Joe with him on our porch.  The weather has been so mild these past few days, so getting to do this, on a cool morning at 6:30, was a lovely thought.

view towards town

We live in the middle of 400 acres of crop, pasture and CRP ground.  Not all of it is ours, but it did belong to Steve's family at one time.  Literally, the house was built right in the middle.  With no homes or buildings to cloud our view for 1/2 miles in any direction, it's just us and the wildlife.  And, we savor that...a whole lot.

This morning, our dog, Callie was digging in and under our porch...for what, who knows.  But something was keeping her attention.  It wasn't long and a bunny hopped past.  It brought a smile to our faces.  Callie could care less about the rabbits that roam here, but, the rabbit doesn't know that.  It was cautious, would hop, hop, hop.  Stop. Look over it's shoulder then start the process again.

Out of the corner of Steve's eye he saw the bunny playing in the grass at the spot where our yard joins the hay field.  It was joined by another one. I turned to watch.  They were so cute.  I've never seen bunnies play like they were.  They literally were 'playing'.  I can't even begin to describe what they were doing, but it consisted of hops, side jumps, one over the other.  It made for a pleasant chuckle.

Steve left and I continued my morning on the porch, my 'just right' coffee on the table beside me,  magazine in my hand.  Callie continued her pursuit of whatever, and a movement near the corn field caught my eye.  A coyote.  It visits quite often.  A lone 'wolf' so to speak.  Callie had not caught site or scent of it.  Again, the coyote didn't know this and was very apprehensive.  A few quiet steps, a look, a few steps more.  Finally, he was far enough away to be safe and trotted off.

the winning hummer

One of the most joyous of joys are the birds the flit here and there around the house.  We have three hummingbirds that keep us entertained.  This morning was no exception.  They are quite territorial I've decided and fight over the sweetened water at the feeder we provide.  Now, there are six spigots for these little darlings, but they just don't get along.  Did you know they make a noise?  Not the buzz of their wings, another sound.  News to me!

and rain came down...flowers danced

In the distance, the thunder clapped, the clouds rolled in and the scent of rain filled the air.  THAT~is a great scent.  Believe me, we need the rain.  Then the wind picked up and I came inside.  The rains came down and it was beautiful...and my morning went like this!

even the wildflowers...

Even the weeds, or wildflowers, if you prefer, seem

to be breathing a sigh of relief today.

 The weeds grow in the dead of the heat.

 Queen Anne's Lace is just that...regal and delicate.  So pretty billowing in the breeze.

In the midwest, we are enthralled with muchmilder temps today.  We need rain badly.   Things seem to be drying up in front of our eyes.  But, the flowers, weeds or wild, are delightful and are thriving.  Giving us a pleasant view to while away the hours.

Enjoy!

taking some much needed time away

We left home early Thursday morning.  Destination:  St. Joe, Mo.  

A wedding on Saturday in Maryville, Mo., gave us an opportunity to take a couple days ahead of the event to take some time off.  I have met some of the most delightful, creative and energetic women through  

Burlap & Roses, as well as, Junk Bonanza, Junk Jubilee and FACEBOOK.  Several of them have shops/studios in the St. Joe area, so we headed that direction to camp and get away.  First stop, Kum & Go for gas and a diet Pepsi...of course!

 On the road again, we headed down I-35 to Hwy. 2.  Mt. Ayr and Peggy Sue's diner was planned for brunch.  It did not disappoint.  The town itself is pretty darn nice and the preservation of it's architectural and historical attributes is awesome.  Enjoy these photos of just a few of the stand-outs.

On the road again, we traveled south commenting on the crops (they're looking poorly) the heat and cattle in the ponds, the kids, the grands and various other topics.  I usually read, read and read some more on our travels, but not this time.  I guess we needed this.  Steve told me later he wanted to tell me to be quiet for awhile...but, he, being himself, did not and just let me talk.  

We stayed at a pretty nice little camp ground on the outskirts of St. Joe.  AOK Campground.  Just a simple little place, with a nice pond...catch -n- release only and a super nice pool.  It was sooo terribly hot, that we didn't enjoy the 'camping' like we enjoy (fires in the evening, relaxing outdoors, etc).

Thursday evening took us to Claudia G's home...one of the most gracious and kind people I've met in a long time, Claudia G. of Just Claudia Vintage Design. 

and her hubs Rick, treated to an awesome meal and tour of their lovely home and Claudia's inspiring studio.  She lives and decorates in her artistic style...she once told me she describes it as 'barn glam'.  Enjoy these photos.

 

Friday took us to Leavenworth, Kansas and Weston, Mo., where we visited in the shops of a few more of my junkin' gal pals, Stacy McGowen of Candle Queen Candles, Artistic Works by Lu (she's orig. from Iowa) and Fancy with Cactus Creek.  Lots of energy, excitement and enthusiasm for their own success, as well as, others.  Enjoy these photos.

 

If you find yourself in the area, please check these shops out.  Claudia sets up at a monthly market in K.C.  Follow her on FB for dates and times.  

Thanks, to my hubs who lets me indulge in all of this.  He enjoyed his time at a couple of farm stores, bought a couple of cigars in a cool smoke shop and just did his thing...he's great that way!  Love him!

Oh, and if you're hungry, Luigi's in Leavenworth is a real treat.

 

The weekend ended on a high note with a beautiful bride and the pleasure of being with family at the hotel...it was great!

A cup is worth a thousand memories and more.

it's just a simply striped cup, but the memories it holds will be cherished for a lifetime.  it's funny what a little cup can do for the memory.  

my hubs and i enjoy sipping our coffee from a variety of cups we've picked up on our travels.  when picking one out, i first look for the one that 'strikes my fancy' because of color, the artwork or a saying.  then, it has to feel 'just right' in my hand.  the feel good weight and grip.  the hubs, well, he doesn't really care about all of that and just goes with whatever i've picked out for him.  but, we have reminisced about a special time or place that a particular cup has evoked...much like a song would do, many times.


today, over coffee and readying my mind for the day, i'm enjoying my cup of joe in the cup pictured above.  a gift from my aunt loretta.  she gave these out as party favors at a recent birthday lunch for her sis, and my aunt, mary.  the cup couldn't fit my hand and fulfill the just right 'good weight and grip' in my hand any better.  and, the memories it evokes, with each soothing sip, is worth a thousand memories and more...