Travel inspires me to be better!

 

We've had the pleasure of getting to do some traveling this year and I have many who want to know about the trip we just took out East. I thought I'd use this platform to share most of it with you.  I'll post a few times, breaking it down in a manageable way, throwing a few photos in here and there.

Firstly, though, I hope by sharing, it encourages you to get out and travel.  A day or long weekend trip, a few miles or several thousand.  It doesn't matter.  Make the time to do it.  I find it inspiring, transformational, energizing and refreshing. And home always feels better when you get back. 

Remember this tree and 
its beautiful color. Peoria

This trip I'm going to share has been a couple of years in the "saving".  When I started planning it, after Steve and I decided which direction we would be heading, I quickly realized that it was going to need to be three weeks long.  We had two sets of family we wanted to stop and see along the way and spend a couple of days with each.  Other than that, we had no specific time frame or scheduled events until the last week.  And there was no real 'planning' to be had, as we like to start, stop and stay as the mood or area inspires us.  The only thing on the agenda, after the family visits was Iowa to the East Coast for harbor hopping or bust.

We left home on Wednesday, October 12th, stayed overnight in Peoria, Illinois (a destination in and of itself) and arrived in Amelia, Ohio on Thursday evening, at the home of my cousin, Cathy, and her hubby, Marc.  Just outside of Cincinnati, they have a lovely, comfortable home in a little area of in-town acreages. 

A meal, a sleep and then we hit the road on Friday a.m. for breakfast in Cincinnati and a little site-seeing.  We ate breakfast in a cool, upscale, but nothing frivolous, restaurant right by the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge spanning the Ohio River and connecting Ohio to Kentucky, A Taste of Belgium at The Banks. I'm all about the atmosphere of a place first and foremost.  I would not consider myself a

Beltucky

 food snob, but if I were, the food here would fit the bill, as well. Goetta Hash and authentic Belgium waffles were on the menu. We ordered Bier Cheese & Pretzels to share (YUMMO), Steve had the Goetta Hash and Cathy had the Beltucky.  I think I had my usual, scrambled eggs and fixin's and a pumpkin hard cider. It was more 'brunch' time, than breakfast, I must add. The first cider of many on this trip.  

The last time we visited, Cathy took us into a really neat area of Kentucky. We made our way back into a different area of Kentucky on Saturday...more about that later.

Who remembers WKRP in Cincinnati?  It's still a 'thing' there.  The cities claim to fame, maybe?  Oh, maybe it's the Bengals, or the Reds? I don't know.  What I do know is that they have pretty impressive sporting arenas and areas dedicated to the tourism that comes into the area.  

This is the suspension bridge that connects Kentucky   and Ohio. We'll drive over another Roebling Bridge   as we make our way, eventually, through New York   City...how do you think we did?

My cousin, Cathy and I in front of the famous sign. 
 The weather was picture perfect

Next stop, Findlay Market.  A rough and tumble area of Cincinnati, but full of character with cool eateries and shops.  A farmer's market on steroids, I guess you might call it. Fresh meat, seafood, baked goods and more. Butchers and deli's that have been there for generations. Artists, makers, creatives, etc. call this area home. Permanent entities, open on the regular with the area bursting at the seams come the weekend.  Can I just say I loved everything about it?  EVERYTHING.

The sites, the sounds, the makeup of the area...the inhabitants.  It kind of has the feel of New Orleans, only on a very miniscule level. Cathy said it's pretty rough there after dark.

A nice Mexican dinner, where I had the first of many fish taco meals that I'd try on this trip. We ended the day over conversation at Cathy and Marc's. We were pooped.  

SATURDAY, October 15th

On Saturday, we found ourselves lazing around a bit, with coffee and chit-chat. Soon, we were off to Augusta, Kentucky, the hometown of George Clooney.  His parents still live there and his Aunt Rosemary's home is now a Museum, of which we toured.  She lived there until her death a few years ago.  The drive was beautiful, as we got off the highway and took a less traveled country road.  We drove alongside the river until we came to the ferry, to which we drove onto and ferried across to Augusta.  What a delightful and charming town.  A river town.  There's just something special about a river town, don't you agree?  

We were hungry and quickly went into another trendy, hip place, Beehive Augusta Tavern.  As I said earlier, atmosphere sets the tone, and this did not disappoint.  We were seated upstairs in this 1796 Landmark.  There is so much history here.  Click on the link I shared above for the Beehive and then click on the MORE tab, then click on history. 

 After a scrumptious, yet not ordinary meal, we perused the quaint shops housed in 300-year-old buildings before heading to the Rosemary Clooney Museum. Huge fans of White Christmas, the movie, Cathy and I were enamored with the costumes and memorabilia from several of Rosemary's movies.

Cathy new that the Clooney family still resided in the area and that Mrs. Clooney, George's mom, had an antique shop.  Well, it turns out that the one shop we didn't go in was hers.  We thought it was a gallery.  So, I high tailed it back over to see what it was all about and enjoyed a delightful conversation with Nina Clooney.  A darling lady, very tiny, but a real beauty.  Heck, I didn't ask her a thing about ol' George, we talked shop. Turns out we had a bit in common😊 

Rosemary Clooney Home,
now museum

Nina Clooney

My Cousin, Cathy and I
in front of the Sisters display. We learned 
that Vera Allen passed away
at a young age from Anorexia

Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye's
costumes

Steve and I with my cousin Cathy and her hubs, Marc

Thanks for coming along on the first leg of our adventure.  There's so much more to share.  Please leave a comment and share if you would.  I like to know your thoughts, too.  Have you traveled?  What has been your favorite place so far? Where would you go back to again?  Are you inspired and energized by traveling?  Our next leg takes us to the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia and Maryland.
Beth

Doobie Brothers...sixty, inspired and freedom.

My husband, Steve turned sixty two weeks ago and I follow him in a few weeks.  I loved my 50's and look forward to what my sixties bring on.  

This past Sunday, August 22nd, we did our stint at the Iowa State Fair, where we've volunteered at the Cultural Center (CC).  We thoroughly enjoy it.  This time, everyone we spoke to had come from out of state; Texas and Colorado, or had not been to the fair since their youth.  We brought out the map, marked where they currently were, and then tipped them off to where "we" felt the highlights of the fair were.  My to go spots, after they spent time in the CC: Agricultural Building, Bill Riley Stage, Pioneer Hall, Fabrics and Threads, etc.  Steve points them in the direction of the animals and machinery.  

While in the CC, I enjoy all the exhibits and vote for my favorite miniature display.  If I know of anyone entering exhibits, I try to find their work, specifically.  Kudos to those who enter...there are a lot of creative and artistic people out there.  I've always thought I'd enter, but I never have.  I think the quilts are some of the most beautiful works of art there is. The patterns, colors, quality-superb.  

After our four hour stint, we then start off by going our separate ways, see above.  We meet up, usually at the Bill Riley stage, food in hand for a quick bite and rest.  Then, we're off again, doing our thing, saving the spots we both want to go to together.  We had several hours to kill until the concert we were going to that evening.  We took the sky glider up to the hill, visited Grandfather's Barn and the artists in residence in that location.  There were many enjoying the beautiful day, sitting at shaded bistro tables with a glass of wine.  There were jewelry makers, potters and painters doing selling their pieces.  Remarkable, each one.  We took the sky glider back down, grabbed a bite to eat, then went to the concert.

As I mentioned before, we are at the ripe old age of SIXTY!  Yes, I'm saying it loud and pointed.  How did we get here?  What does this new milestone mean and how does it feel.  One day at a time.  A new freedom comes with age but, it doesn't feel any different.  Freedom...

Leading up to the concert, I surmised it'd be an older demographic.  Hands down. I was not incorrect.  I'd say we were some of the younger ones.  Seriously!  There were quite a few walkers, wheelchairs, and canes assisting this crowd with getting around.  At 72 years old, the Doobie Brothers

have been playing and singing for 50+years.  They sounded exactly the same. It was a great concert.  

I consider myself an observationist...my spell check tells me that it's not even a word. I looked it up, it doesn't really appear to be an official word, but, remember my use of freedom...I'm using it here. Anyway, I do like to observe and people watching is one of my fave things to do at the fair.  Anywhere really, when I take the time to do it. And, people at the fair are some of the most interesting characters you'll find anywhere.  I always wonder why people would wear white shorts/pants to the fair? High heels?  Dressy clothes?  I digress.

So, back to the concert.  There was an older-than-me gentleman that I had been observing.  He was in his late seventies, early eighties, I'd guess.  He was bent at the waist a bit, used a cane and had a little wobble to his step.  He walked past us a couple of times.  The last time I observed him, he was hobbling down the stairs.  Seriously, it was difficult for him. But, he made it, stood in front of the stairs on the platform, placed his cane on the garbage cane beside him, so it was close and wouldn't fall.  Right then, right there, he was in his element.  A man of 20 again.  He was singing and playing the air guitar. His age disappeared from his face.  No one but he and the band and his memories.  

In observing this man, my whole evening was made.  Two songs, that was all he had in him...or maybe it was all he needed. Or, maybe it was the two songs that meant the most to him.  The songs he wanted to hear before they left.  He grabbed his cane, turned around and motioned for someone to come down from the seats behind him.  She came down, and they left, beating the traffic besides.  

It was a spectacular day into evening with the Doobie Brothers, sixty, inspired and freedom!

Fall BackRoads & ByWays Junkin' Tour

Fall Back-Roads and By-Ways Junkin' Tour

The shopkeepers are busy getting ready for the fall edition of the Back-Roads & By-Ways Junkin' Tour.  We've added SIX new stops to the tour this fall.  PLUS, we have added a SPONSOR Accommodation:  Hotel Pommier, a refreshed and upbeat hotel on Indianola's north side.  Plan to stay in Warren County and make a weekend of it.  No need to stress about getting to all the venues...take a leisurely drive and meander through the prettiness that is southern Warren County.  

Most all venues are out in the country, with outdoor settings.  Follow the event page to get a Google Map link...GPS/GOOGLE MAPS will be your best friend and way to get around.  Please remember, not all locations have restroom facilities.  Each community has a Caseys or Kum & Go, but you'll find food at Uncommon Grounds and The Farm-Warren County for unique eats, sweets and drinks.  

Most all venues have Facebook Pages:  LIKE their pages, as well as, the SPONSOR PAGE:  Wander Warren County Iowa, to follow along and get updates. 

Lula Belle Designs

Uncommon Grounds

Pamela's Place

Roots of Indianola and Jeff Tadsen Art

The Mosaic Rooster

The West Place

Patina of Time (Photography on FB)

The Bunkhouse Antiques

The Farm-Warren County

Kerry Johnson Works

Burlap & Roses at Crooked Hedge Farm

Lumynosity Fiber Arts

Timber View Antiques

The Little Shop of Hoarders (no FB)

Bramble Wood Acres

Hotel Pommier (accommodations sponsor) 

NEW DATES SET for the 5th Annual Backroads & ByWays Junkin Tour

New on the tour
Bochner Farms

I'm working on marketing and promo today for the upcoming 5th Annual Back-roads & By Ways Junkin Tour. The date, which usually runs the first F/S in June had been MOVED TO JULY 17/18TH due to C19. Please click on the link to go to the EVENT PAGE and mark your interest, so you'll get updates as the time gets closer. Many of the venues are outside and all but two are in Warren County, Iowa. The two that are not, are just over the line.

You'll enjoy the great rolling countryside of our area, explore new venues, and feel at home with those that have been on the tour since it started four years ago.  

The MAP will look different! But, you'll not be disappointed, I'm certain. Plan to spend the day...or better yet, the weekend in Warren County Iowa. There are several unique places to stay, too!  #wanderwarrencounty #bbjt #bbjtjuly17182020 #backroadsandbywaysjunkintour #warrencountytourism #bochnerfarms

Redbird Freedom

Wow, I have to tell you, we have been living in the craziest of times, haven’t we? The world is literally shut down. Except for essential businesses, most people are working from home and the world, literally is following a ‘shelter in place’ rule. Some areas are on complete lockdown. This has been going on since mid March here in Iowa.

Easter was yesterday.  Although I fixed a traditional meal, it was just Steve and I.  Everyone had their own meal with their own little family. My sis suggested we all video call via messenger, so we did that...and it was fun. I especially worry about my Mom, she lives alone. I guess, out of all of us, she’s the one most likely to do okay, having the independent living down pat. The other thing she has going for her...not having to adapt to having someone around 24/7, that many, if not most, are experiencing. It’s a funny thing, really!

We’ll never forget these new terms, our new reality and how our lives have changed:  shelter in place, social distancing, lockdown, quarantine, video conferencing, face shields, n95 face masks, tv shows from remote locations(basements, campers, kitchens), Covid19, hand sanitizer, toilet paper shortage, global pandemic, stay home. The list goes on and on.

We’re accustomed to seeing our grandkids most any time we want. Now, not getting to, has been the hardest. Two of them have had birthdays, and parties that have been cancelled. We’ve gotten pretty creative in our visits. Picnics at a distance, car to people chats, FaceTime, surprise Easter eggs hunts set up after dark with videos and photos so we can ‘watch’ and ‘see’.

Some gal pals, and I, have gotten together over the past couple of years for a weekly Bible Study. I texted the following to them this a.m.  I also linked them to my inbox daily devotion. I feel it was written just for me.

“Good morning...the sun’s out and truthfully...I needed it to be out today. This pandemic ‘sheltering in place’ is getting harder for me and the gray days do not help. I wonder how you all are doing?  

From Proverbs 31 Ministries 4-2020

I, honestly, have been on a couch potato, watching tv, no ambition spiral for the past four days😜. I’m tired of that and myself. One thing I have tried to do is walk a mile most days. I do find it clears my head...and works my ass!  I find sitting at my pond brings me some peace. 

The piece I’m sharing today is just what I needed and it came right to my email box. I get something everyday. I hope you find it as uplifting as I did.” 

Free bird, caged song

I hope you’re doing well.

Contemplating Over Coffee

I’m sitting at Bakers Square having coffee following a good breakfast. I’m treating myself today...prior to a day filled with Christmas shopping. In front of me sat a table full of men. 10-12 of them. I contemplate, over coffee, how they may know each other. What brings them together today; If they meet weekly, monthly, annually?  Classmates? Previous co-workers?  Men’s benevolent group?  

Retirees, no doubt. Their dress, gray or non existent hair, and character-filled faces tell the story. Some haven’t uttered a word...observers. A few carry the conversation...the outspoken “leaders”. They all chuckle. And, true to their character, the observer’s chuckles are subdued; the later, more boisterous. Then, there’s always those in the middle. Neither quiet observers, nor outspoken “leaders”. A nod in agreement. A clipped sentence. Speaking only when they have something meaningful to share. Something of substance. Not earth shattering, but not bobble-headed, either. 

I’m inspired by the ones in the middle, as I contemplate over coffee today. 

Burlap & Roses...My inspired life: Inspiration is just around the corner...BBJT Fall ...

Burlap & Roses...My inspired life: Inspiration is just around the corner...BBJT Fall ...: This is NOT my property. Sourced from a post off of Instagram.  Original source unknown FOLLOW B&R ON INSTAGRAM BURLAP & ROSES...

Inspiration is just around the corner...BBJT Fall 2019

This is NOT my property.
Sourced from a post off of
Instagram.  Original source unknown
FOLLOW B&R ON INSTAGRAM
BURLAP & ROSES

It's my absolute FAVORITE time of the year...FALL!  Is it yours, too?

Have you heard the term:  FIKA?  I stumbled across it on Instagram and thought it was special.  My great Grandma's family came to the States from Sweden, so that made it extra special.  The meaning is ME.

I'm busy getting ready for my ANNUAL Red Flannel Affair at Burlap & Roses.  It's such a beautiful time to be out in the country and gals come decked out in their red flannel, leggings and boots.  It's very fun to see all the various outfits...and the boots!  So many cool boots!

As in the past, I've invited a few vendor friends to join me on the lawn.  Also, we're just one stop on the ANNUAL Backroads & By-Ways Junkin' Tour.  This tour runs from St. Mary's to Osceola, Iowa and points in between.  B&R is in the 'in between'.  We've added two new stops to the tour, as well.  A freshly OPENED antique shop near Lacona and a fabric artists studio in New Virginia.  GRAB A MAP HERE

Over the past month, I've had a sale going on, to reduce my old inventory, to make room for some new things.  It was a success, so I'm moving in two new large pieces, lots of smaller pieces and some fresh from the wholesaler's NEW merchandise.  It's felt a bit like it used to be when I offered a lot more NEW vs. mostly vintage and upcycled selections.  It's been FUN!!!

I love every single thing in this photo.  The barn canvas...it's designed to look like a paint by numbers painting.  There are four different designs and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them all.

Grace & Gratitude.  These are really nice signs, a great size and a wonderful reminder to live our lives in Grace & Gratitude.

And, Let's Stay Home...it's an embroidered piece...another fantastic size to tuck into a shelf vignette or add to a wall grouping.  And, let's be honest...staying home is most often the BEST thing to do, especially as the days get shorter and temps get cooler.  Cozy at home is nice.

Oh, and the buffalo check Merry Christmas pillow...YEP💝

Look at this sweet velvet pillow...HARVEST.  The colors are warm and lovely.  Scream fall to me. A stand alone pillow or the highlight in a grouping.  A perfect addition to freshen your fall decor for the season.  I'm really smitten with the 'gather' sign.  Another fresh update to the hand-lettered painted signs.  Metal and wood are featured on this sign.  A more polished look if that's what you're after.

Tell me...are you a traditional decorator?  Your preference is the quintessential colors of fall:  orange, russet, golds and greens OR, are you more inclined to decorate in the more current trend of creams, whites, grays, and even the ever popular "blush".  

Honestly, I like it all...so, I've been using a lot of the creamy whites with bits and pieces of traditional, and some aqua thrown in for good measure.  Here are some photos of my own decorating at Crooked Hedge Farm.

      

I live with a GRATEFUL ♡  I always have...second nature to me, I guess.  I'm a cup half full kind of gal.  It's in my DNA. So, this pumpkin is displayed proud and center...a reminder to all. The wheatsheaf is quintessential fall to me.  It's not prevalent in Iowa, as a crop, but I really love the golden color, the texture of the seed head, don't you?

In the BBR, I pulled out the traditional black and cream ticking that I got last year.  I love the clean lines, fresh and tidy appeal.  Here, new this year, I added the very pretty pillow showcasing pumpkins in every shape and color.  It fit perfectly centered on my bed against the backdrop of stacked pillows.

For texture and a bit more modern feel, I added the geometrically appealing throw.  It's so soft and warm. The perfect topper, when reading a book at night.

Thankful, Blessed and Fall Obsessed...fun and pretty all at once.  The throw I've had for a couple years and it never gets old.  It fits in my home decor year round.  And, the lighter layer is a just right weight to keep the chill off.  I added to this vignette, a really pretty plate with a stag on the front.  It represents the wildlife we see daily on Crooked Hedge Farm...and, there's a couple of these big guys roaming our property.  The wheatsheaf ( I purchased two of varying sizes) sits proudly in this grouping, too, and adds an element of height, where it's needed.

I appreciate your stopping in and getting a bit of INSPIRATION for your home.  I'd enjoy hearing from you, so if you would kindly leave a comment here, sharing some of your decorating or even ask me a question, I'd appreciate it. Feel free to share my blog with your family and friends.  

HAPPY FALL...Y'ALL.

p.s. If you'd like, you can leave, in the COMMENTS on this blog post, your vote: 1 or 2, from the photo on the right. 
Which is your style?

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Getting the itch?

I’ve posed this question on my INSTA page, #burlapandroses. 

Are you getting the itch to decorate for fall?  What inspires you?  

Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year. The colors, the bounty of harvest, cool, crisp air. Hayrides and pumpkin patches. Rusty colors of fall leaves. 

I’m more interested in baking and homekeeping in the fall. Cooking seems simpler; crockpot soups and stews and roasts make it so. 

I have to admit, I am getting the bug...it’s just a bit too early for decorating for me, though. 

The photo is from an Insta page I follow; #kindredvintage. If this festive and inviting porch doesn’t inspire you, I don’t know what will. It’s got my creative thoughts flowing. 

Where do you find inspiration?

For me...anywhere, anytime, anything. 

Where do you find inspiration?

For me...anywhere, anytime, anything. 

It’s August 2nd and it’s a beautiful day!

Wowza!  This is a picture perfect summer day in Iowa. Low humidity makes it so. A gentle   breeze helps. The pretty blue sky with             floating clouds adds much to the beauty. It’s.  just delightful all the way around. 

I find inspiration comes in many forms. A       scent, a flower, a bird. Songs inspire.              Laughter inspires.  A memory inspires. 

But, kindness and generosity, a thoughtful    word or gesture inspire me most. Inspire me  to be better. To do better. To want better...for those I love most, my community and the     world at large.

A Facebook post today was truly an inspiration. It made me happy. It made me think about what I’d do in a similar situation. Would I have done something or nothing at all?  I’d like to think I’d have done something. I’ve gotten to be a blessing to others in different ways. As I am blessed in so many ways, I want to be a blessing to others,too. 

Did you know, or have you heard it said, that if you don’t accept another’s help, you’re keeping them from using their gift to be a blessing?

Taking help from others can be difficult. I’ve struggled with it. But, knowing how good it makes me feel when I’m able to bless someone else, and after hearing it described in this way, I’m much more accepting of help. 

Life is full of blessings. Sometimes, events and happenings cloud our perspective. I try really hard to concentrate on the blessings in life. Big ones, but mostly a series of small ones that make up this thing called life. 

I’m inspired to find, create, look for ways I can be a blessing to others. I encourage you to join me in this. 

Please feel free to use these hashtags if you hear and share a story. 

#alittlegoodnewstoday

#iammypeopleskeeper

#whatcanonepersondo

#iminspiredtobeaninspiration

#burlapandrosesmyinspiredlife

I’m all about inspiring others, especially women.

I posed a couple questions to my IG followers 

this morning and want to continue this 

conversation onto My Inspired Life. 

There’s so much beauty and goodness in our 

world. It inspires me every.single.day. to read 

positive and healthy living stories on my FB feed#goodpeopledoinggoodthings

#iammypeopleskeeper

#whatcanonepersondo

are my hashtags that I use when sharing good 

news and stories. Feel free to use them, too. 

Please share with me and my blog followers 

some ways you inspire and encourage others. 

Big ways, little ways, out loud and in private. 

If you don’t actively engage in this way, I 

“encourage” you to do so. 

Because, we can all use a “little good” today 🙌🏻

PLEASE LEAVE YOUR COMMENT HERE 

ON THE BLOG 

Homekeeping at Crooked Hedge Farm

Summer is quickly upon us and the temps here in Iowa have been excruciating, to say the least.  It's perfect for the corn (especially sweet corn) as the saying goes, "knee high by the 4th of July".  In many areas, I'd guess this is true, however, eastern Iowa experienced 100 year floods early this spring, and I'm afraid many fields have not even been planted yet, nor will be.  It's been a difficult time for our farmers.  

In amongst the heated days, I've spent much of my time the past week in my garden beds.  They were, and some still are, a disaster.  When I had the time to get in them, it was either raining or unseasonably cold.  Even though it was hot, I seemed to get quite a bit done and felt real good by days end.  There's just something about getting in a good day's work...you're tired; and I mean tired.  A very good tired. 

This week, it's all about prepping for my monthly occasional sale this weekend.  But, before that, we CELEBRATE!  The 4th of July is this week, too, and although I'm not a real big holiday decorator, I have pulled out a few things in my stache of goods.  It doesn't take much, to add a few pieces to your everyday decor to look festive and in the mood for the holiday.  

Our annual outing is to the parade in a neighboring town.  It's always a nice one and we always seem to get our same spot...nice and shady.  I do love a great parade and the 4th of July ones are my absolute fave. YOURS?

The one thing about the summer holidays; Memorial Day to Labor Day, the red, white and blue theme works all season long.  Again, a few additions here and there.  A take away, like Uncle Sam, over there, and your simple easy decorating works.

In this photo, I have a vintage, stand-alone, flower box that sits front and center on my front porch.  Filled to overflowing with annuals, I added a flag that will stay in year 'round, actually.  Uncle Sam adds to the 4th of July spirit and I have a cut-up piece of a South Dakota license plate that fit in perfectly.  Both Uncle Sam and the plate will come out after this weekend.  The rusty, crusty flower stays up all summer, too.  I've had it for several years and I never tire of it.  Made by a local gal pal who runs her own business, I've bought and sold many of her pieces through Burlap & Roses over the years.

I've found another local biz to get my own designs cut, now, so I'll be selling them at B&R starting this weekend.


This display is found in my home.  The large platter is a piece out of a set of Pfaltzgraff.  Love lives here, is a tin tray that I picked up for $5 bucks at Dollar General.  I could not pass it up and it fits perfectly behind the vintage beaded daisies, placed in vintage apothecary jars.  Their little tops sit in front.  I like how this turned out.

Let's just say it's "as fresh as a daisy" in its appeal.  Nothing fancy.  Nothing over-the-top.  Simple in design, clean and fresh.  

I'm inspired by many things.  What inspires you?  A color, flower, barn or building?  Good people doing good things?  Tell me about what INSPIRES you.

A few years ago, a gentleman in Indianola came into my shop and offered to let me and my biz partner come into a home he was going to demolish and get out what we wanted.  As I was walking around the outside, I asked him what his plans were for the surrounding landscape bushes and plants.  He said they'd be destroyed.  

I jumped on that and we saved quite a few of the Hydrangea bushes.  I'm happy to say, mine all survived and have done very well.  

I went out today and got another bunch to replace the original bouquet.  They are lush and vibrant.  I quick made this display using vintage flash cards, old "collectors' stamps and the creamy hued Hydrangeas. 

Bits and pieces come together to make great vignettes with very little time or money spent.  Shop your home...your garden, heck event the garage.  One never knows what you'll find. 

Our lighted flag is slightly swaying today in the mild breeze. It hangs in its rightful place of honor at our front steps, on the old round porch post.  

I've place a solar light in one of our planters that keeps it lit at night so we don't have to take it down daily.  

I think our flag is very pretty.  

RED.WHITE.BLUE!

What are your 4th of July plans?  How do you celebrate?  Please share with me some of your traditions or new things you're trying.  A recipe?  An outing?  Picnic?  Leave it in the comments section on this post.  It makes it fun for me and everyone who reads it. 

Happy 4th of July...and REMEMBER, 

FREEDOM IS NOT FREE 

Burlap & Roses at Crooked Hedge Farm is open this Friday and Saturday, July 5th and 6th from 10:00-5:00.  4500 G76 Hwy., New Virginia, Iowa 50210

You can always SHOP with me on my ETSY store.  Open 24/7 for your shopping convenience. Just click on the link and you'll be taken to my site.  

You can follow me on Instagram: Burlap & Roses