New Year, New Decade, New Beginnings

It is difficult to believe that our year is coming to a close and a new decade beginning. I do believe that in looking back, one should always look at the good, remember the lessons of the not so good...and walk forward with a smile in one's heart. My little business has survived where many have not. I have work, and many do not. I am thankful, so very thankful and I want to share some goode things. Drumroll please....


First, I would like to formally announce that I am now able to take credit cards for your purchases! (suddenly my little business seems so big) and also, I believe we need a pattern sale to celebrate!


The sale will end at noon (EST) on Jan. 10th. My Etsy Shop will also close then until February 1st. I will be mailing out patterns until January 12th, and will mail any remaining orders upon my return from the Heritage Show.

Sorry, This sale has now ended.

Payment:

• Credit card: please email me at: thegoodewife.folkart@yahoo.com with your phone number and I will call you and get your information.
• PayPal: use the same email address above and make sure that you put the names of the patterns in the message area.
• Check or Money Order: * They must be postmarked by the 10th. Send me a list and make payable to Stacey Mead. PO Box 165, Granville, NY 12832

Finally, this will be my last post until February. I am getting ready for my annual wholesale show and I'm already fast at work making new friends and old for my buyers. I will not be putting up anything on Simply Primitives or TDIPT until my return in February.

An Empty Chair

There is an empty chair at our table this year. My father's place. It has been empty many a Christmas, but never with the finality of this one. You see, he was a man of Service. I remember as a young girl, praying for his safety as he fought for our Country...and then as a teen waiting for his shift to end as he protected our County. I realize more than ever that there are many families just like ours this year. They have lost a loved one or someone beloved to them is serving their Country, their Community. Their hopes and wishes are not for toys or gadgets, but for someone they love. For Hope, safety and strength to carry on. There are also many families that are trying to celebrate this holiday knowing that someone they love will soon be deploying. Some will be working in our communities and giving their time caring for our elders, our sick, homeless, and travelers. The list is long, their deeds no less important.

I ask of you to take a moment or perhaps a bit more time. Say a prayer, stop and visit or even pick up the phone. Let those with an empty chair know you are thinking of them this holiday.

An Orange for Christmas

Looking back over the years, I still hold one Christmas in particular as my most favorite. I was six and our family was stationed at Goose Bay, in Labrador. I was hoping that I would get a new front tooth to grow in faster for Christmas, but as the day grew closer, I realized that these things can take more time than I would have thought. Life in Goose Bay was very different to the winters I had seen in New York, Maine and New Jersey. We had lived there for nine months when December came around. When we came to live there, daylight ruled and we kept blinds and heavy curtains over our windows to sleep at night. Now the days held very little light and we had to call for the wind-chill every morning before going out.




Everything we needed had to be flown in. There were very little selections besides basic needs. Care packages from family or friends back in the States were treasures. There were no cows and so our milk was mixed from powdered form in huge vats. Cardboard cartons were dipped in wax so there was a nearby and constant supply. We learned to keep a small strainer close at hand and pour our milk through, avoiding clumps of unmixed milk or chunks of wax.



I was intrigued with the Eskimos that lived near by in a town called Happy Valley. I had a Parka and Mukluks made by a dear Eskimo woman, named Voisy. Her son had fashioned her sewing machine on the arm of an old cushioned chair. Her home was tiny and the floors were dirt, but the oil lamps made it very cozy. I remember her answering the door, chewing on a piece of seal leather to make it soft for Mukluks. She didn't talk very much, but her eyes were happy as she went about her business measuring everyone and making sure that our Parka's would be special to each of us.



One evening, right before Christmas eve, my parents made sure we were all dressed in our Sunday best, Down the road we went to one of the big plane hangers for a party. There were two big tables mounded with presents, one for boys, and the other for girls. Beyond that was a table heaped with the biggest and most beautiful apples and oranges I had ever seen. Santa was there also. After picking a wrapped gift, we were able to pick out an apple or an orange each. It had been so long since I had fruit like this! Especially the orange! (The apple was beautiful, but with a tooth missing, I knew more difficult to chomp into!).



It took me several days to eat my precious orange. I treasured it and spent a few days just smelling it. Those days in Labrador are still wrapped close in my memory. We had few things, but mostly we had each other. Military families are one big, close knit family The simple gift of an orange, may be taken for granted by some, but very appreciated by others.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

Like most of you, it is a time of reflection for me as the year is coming to a close. I've weathered a difficult year for business and have had a major loss in my life. I am finding that it can take a very long time to settle an estate, realize that someone won't be coming home and understand that there are many more changes than I could have ever thought. My wee folk are the balance to difficult days. I am most honored with emails and calls that tell me that they make you smile also

As I look back at the body of what I have created this year, I am thinking as I do every year... just how am I going to go beyond this???? Somehow, something sparks my interest or grabs my attention and I am right back in front of the drawing board, working out an idea. I am always amazed at what I come up with; happy to inspire and be inspired. This is my passion and what I was born to do. There isn't a button to push and stop this crazy carousel of creating. I have been making art for as long as I can remember and realize that it won't just end at a given year when I am supposed to retire. It is a drive... a calling.

I am fortunate to be able to embrace kindred brothers and sisters. I'm ever humbled to think that so much of my work is a treasure for someone. A Santa or perhaps a Pumpkin witch, carefully packed away in some one's holiday boxes to decorate their homes and their lives. My heart smiles when I receive a photo of these wee folk, so that I can see them living happily and cherished in their home. There is no greater gift than to see a love connection in some one's eyes as they are drawn heart and soul to these little ones. Over 100 of my friends have been adopted this year...in a most difficult financial year for so many of us. I am stunned.

The New Year brings so much anticipation for all of us. We will look ahead with all goode things in mind. I know I am excited for the journey I am headed on. I know that there will not be great happiness without tears. I also know that I have goode friends and family ready to link arms and move forward. My work will continue and on a broader scale. You may see my designs in a gift store or at a friend's home. It may not shout out, "designed by Stacey"... but you will know. You will see the same spirit in the drawing or recognise a few of my friends in a different media. I am happy to grow and to share what gives me the greatest pleasure with all of you. I am most of all, thankful to have the opportunities to do this.

Tis the Season

November seems to have gone by me with great haste! My days are filled with caring for my Mom still and enjoying time with my daughters, who are adjusting well to living with Grandma and Poppa up at the big Farmhouse. I see them most days and there is so much laughter between all of us. It does my heart good to know that this decision made together was the right one and they will enjoy their school years here. We are all so much closer and appreciative of each other. I look back now and see how my parents had to make the same difficult decision with me. The best decisions are not selfish ones.

I decided to try doing a local show this past weekend. It is the first one since my Father took so ill and passed away. I wasn't sure just how much I could do to fill a booth with such busy days, but with some help, I managed to fill a small space. I went back to Weston this year and it was wonderful! A bit of winter fell softly upon us as we made our way down the mountain the first night and greeted us on our way back up the next morning. I enjoyed seeing old friends and meeting new. It is a tough year for all of us and one can't go into a show without being mindful of the loss of jobs. I did just fine, even with the move from my regular show. Now I begin my work for the January show that will be upon me in a blink.

Above are some pictures of the show, along with my Pickwick Toad on Simply Primitives. Enjoy the Season~

Let The Holidays Begin!!!

Thanksgiving is almost upon us and I am deep in my work. I can't imagine NOT working at this frenzied pace this time of year. So many of my wee folk are springing to life before my eyes and I know as they come together that this is exactly what I was born to do.

This is the perfect time to share with you exactly where the Goode Wife will be this week. I remember those beginning years when Pam and I would do 4 plus shows just during November and December. It was a very crazy work time, mixed with so many fond memories. I decided that it was time for this gal to go back home a bit.

Weston Holiday Bazaar

Weston Playhouse, Weston Vermont

Friday and Saturday,Nov. 27th &28th

10-4 pm

One of the best things about this show is that it is a quick stroll to The Vermont Country Store. If you've never had the pleasure, you will walk into an old country store and see much of your childhood. If you've been there before, I know there is a smile on your face as you read this... it is most certainly like coming home. What better place to spend Black Friday and Saturday ? Leaving the big box stores and rush behind and enjoying instead , a quaint Holiday Show with a piece of home for dessert. Do stop in and say hello, I'd love to see you.

A Love Connection

Our art is most certainly a journey and such a labor of love. We put ourselves and our heart out in a most public way and you see our visions. I am not sure how I am going to part with these two ladies when they are adopted. I have had the same thought for many of my friends, but these two show my journey, not just in the friend I have chosen, but the construction for which I have no training for. I cannot follow a clothing pattern if my life depended on it. I have found that with much patience, I can construct these small dresses and surprise myself in the process. My key has actually been the show, Project Runway. So many of my colleagues were talking about it and I thought to myself that I am no fashionista...heck, I don't think I own a shirt without coffee or paint on it somewhere. I decided to see just what my friends were talking about and I must say I am hooked. I love watching these designers as they manipulate fabric on mannequins and the enjoyment of working in a group studio. It has given me the inspiration to work on my own little models and work the vision.

Enjoy a cup of something hot and browse my fellow artists and I on TDIPT Mercantile where it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas~

Goode Worke Zone

This Goode Wife is still forging ahead with projects and new friends to be made. It has been three months since my Father went home. He is missed terribly, but embraced in our days with so many joyful memories. I am working as I can, remembering his wishes that I share with the world, what I love. My New Pattern Website is dedicated to him. It's been on hold since May, but finally it is really on it's way! A click on the picture will take you to a new beginning. In the weeks ahead I will be adding patterns as I can and I'll be a learning the process to maintain it on my own. A special Thank you to Jan of Big Brown Dog Graphics for her enduring patience and artistry in bringing my vision forth.

Tomorrow evening, I will be uploading two offerings on TDIPT Mercantile and will be fast at work, creating for my final show of the season as well as my biggest show of the year in January. The new year ahead holds much excitement for me as my little friends will hold a bigger presence. You will see some in stores and others in magazines. Eventually, I hope that you will see them as stamps and note cards. A special Thank You to Sandra Evertson for encouraging me!

A Trip of Treasures

I'd love to share with you, my special friends Robert and Millie Huckabay. A click on the picture will bring you to their site and back in time. Millie Huckabay's American Country store is sure to delight any lover of old. Millie herself is very beloved by me.


I met her several years ago at Fort Washington as Netty and I were setting up for the Gallery of Craftsmen Show. Now, setting up is never a pretty sight and we can get lost in the vision of the booth or rattled as time counts down time til opening. Millie came and sat beside us as we were madly pulling out our wares and setting them up. She has joined me every set up since. Millie has such a wonderful sense of humor and a twinkle in her eye, that you can not help but enjoy the gift that she is. She has reminded me of just how much I miss the South. Business isn't cold with Millie, but rather a handshake, a hug, a family. We catch up every year in Pennsylvania; our families, the smiles and sorrows. She is my favorite Aunt, I just know it! If we lived closer, she told me once... it would be deadly between the friends that I create and her keen insight to extreme primitives.


American Country will be holding their holiday open house this weekend. If you are in the area, please stop by and give them my best. I was able to send some Jakes for the show to set in among the time worn pieces and treasures from my colleagues. I know they will be happy to help you out so that you too can be Caretakers of Olde.

Millie and Robert~ Tim and I love you both lots and miss you VERY much. We can't wait to see you in January. As life settles ahead, it is our wish to set with you on the porch, in the cabin, on Crowe Road.

November Arrives

The sun is peeking through the clouds this morning. Most of the leaves have fallen and the mountains have taken on their blue gray coats for winter. I love listening to the leaves rustle under my feet as I walk, their smell is absolutely wonderful. When blended from the smoke of a wood stove, I just have to stop and close my eyes a moment, taking in the best smell in the world to me. Oh the memories of childhood come rushing in and I am in my own little world!

It shows in two of my offerings on Simply Primitives today. The season of Scrooge and Chimney Sweeps is upon us. Can see that I just never quite grew up, when you saw Mrs. DiNucci? I just crack myself up sometimes! Mrs. DiNucci is a sweet childhood memory. Not that she was a fish-heavens, no! She would chuckle at me naming this one after her though. One never saw Mrs. DiNucci out and about, that she wasn't dressed properly with handbag, dress shoes and her hair in a scarf, so that it wouldn't get mussed. She adored everyone and everyone adored her. Cheers Amelia and thank you for the memories that keep you here with us.

There is a new announcement in the next day or so. I'm very excited about it, but I need to read the instructions before I start. Most of you know that I am a very visual person, so this will be my biggest challenge. I will share, I promise...but know that it won't come without a few "Duh" and "Aha!" moments. I tend to do everything the Lucille Ball method. It's never boring and always entertaining!

Enjoy along with me!

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It's almost time for new offerings for November first. Here's a goode song from one of my favorite musicians, Sting. It's new, and it is about the origin of what we know as Trick or Treating. These cakes or Souls as they were called, were given to the poor and children on All Souls night. When eaten, each cake would release a soul from purgetory. Turn off my Playlist music for a moment and enjoy along with me~

Relieving Pressure

Some days my head is just so full with ideas that I think I just may burst. Of course, that is always when I'm at my busiest and may not have the time to get it all out. Last night was just such a night. I worked all day, detail stitching a store order and a few things for my next show. It was midnight and I was ready to turn in. With sore fingers and tired eyes....I drew for another hour and a half. From one idea to another, I filled several pages. Sometimes a design would multiply into several more. Oh! The excitement! Finally, after a couple false starts, I made my way into bed, trying to claim a bit of it from two stretched out pups. Lying in bed, more ideas came out to play and I was caught between wanting sleep to come and trying to keep my brain from forgetting those ideas until morning.. well, a more normal morning time at least. I did bolt out of bed and begin where I left off. I feel better now and excited for these new friends to take shape. The agony however, is knowing that as I head back to the sewing machine, my deadlines come first. Oy! the pressure mounts as I struggle with what I need to do and what I want to do. Back to work......

Waiting....

With my Candy Corn-peanut mix in hand and plenty of fresh cider, my evenings are spent fast at work stuffing and sewing as I watch any show on TV that will satisfy this girl's love for Halloween. Even as I stuff Jake the turkey, my mind is still on Pumpkin headed people and witches of all sorts. My pattern customers are just as reluctant, it seems. In a sea of Santa and turkey orders, there are still almost as many Halloween patterns to be shipped as I speak. The orders are stacked and envelopes await for morning.


It is always a bit sad to see the last of the beautiful colored leaves fall from the trees. Each season holds it's own magic, but for me, the one who dislikes shoes.... I can't wait for leaves to come in and socks to go out. As I get ready to pack away those sandals and cover my toes, I will be fast at work as this is my busiest sewing time. Patiently I wait, not just for the Great Pumpkin and all goode things Halloween, but for the shows and Holidays ahead and then finally for green grass to wriggle my toes in, once again.

Of Pilgrims and Promises

There is a chill here in the North Country as leaves are gently falling and snowflakes are dancing in the air. I have been snuggled in my little work area, which for most of you would be considered the kitchen table. There has been a flurry of activity for weeks as I prepare for next year. Applications and samples have mixed into my daily work and there is excitement in my heart as I look ahead and keep the promise to my Father to continue not just with my little friends here, but in my drawing, sculpting and painting.


I have had the most fun with my new friends on TDIPT today. I loved making the Puritan dress and the wee little mice. It's still full steam ahead with a different show this November and Heritage Market in January. Oh, what fun I'm having! It's time to light a candle, put on some Celtic music and start some new friends. What could be better on a cold afternoon?

Simply Goode

It's a chilly Fall night here in the North Country this evening. I've just come in from taking my furry kids out for the night. They are all curled up behind me now, and so with a mug of hot chocolate to take off the chill, it's time to share goode things with you.

First,I'd like to introduce to you some very goode friends of mine. Serafina, a Harvest Angel. The Soul Keeper and Mrs. Mezzanotte (Mrs. Midnight, in Italian). They are residing at Simply Primitives, my new home for first of the month offerings! If you've never visited before, click on the link and take pop in. You'll meet some wonderful artisans and see some amazing work.

It has been a very goode busy here as another bunch of applications made their way out today for local shows. I will be trying out a show or two that I haven't done since I started doing the big shows in PA. It will be so fun to meet with old friends and make new. I will let you know as they approach, so that if you are in the area, you can stop in and say hello! It looks to be an exciting time here for this Goode Wife and gears change at the end of this week as I start for the upcoming Holiday Season.

Time Marches On

I just love my friend here, The Undertaker. He was one of my first Halloween pieces that I made for the September Brimfield Show 2001. I came across quite a few of my friends as I have been sorting and filing my designs. The Undertaker has been redone now to my liking... all I needed was time and experience to really take him to the level that I had pictured. It's really interesting to look back that way, to see how far you have come. Beginnings are always just that, in everything we do. I have some new beginnings ahead in my personal life as well as my dear wee friends here. There is one new beginning ahead for me to share. But that, I'm saving for the next post.

Road Trip

I'm looking in my rear view window as I drive ahead on this artful journey. I've watched and been a part of Primitive Folk Art for twelve years now. It was difficult to find at first. I remember coveting one of the last issues of Country Folk Art magazine. Found in dog-eared pages, were a few "Prim" dolls in all of their tea dyed glory and old looking wood pieces with paint taken off the edges and corners. I would scour the local LARAC show for these works every Spring with friends. I was hooked the moment I stepped into Netty's home and spent many an hour paging over every detail of Hollyberry Hill Catalogs. There, the hand drawn artwork captured so many of us and we were introduced to Nicole Sayre, Deerfield Farmhouse, Folk and Whimsy and the Ragged Edge to name a few. Little did I know back then, that I would later meet and get to know some of these talented women whose work nestled into the hand drawn pages and came alive in my mind's eye.

I would yearn for a stolen day or two to explore Market Square Shows and catch the Hilton Show at Valley Forge in the cold winter days before Spring. Brimfield was a magical land filled with antique dreams. With two young daughters, it was a world and years away... but l reached for that star above that holds our dreams, I grabbed it and I'm still holding on to the ride.

I sit proudly beside so many of you. Not of the very beginnings, but still new. We have done good shows and bad, Port-A-Potty and school gyms. Drenched in rain or sweat from the sun. Sold everything or nothing and have many, many wonderful memories and chuckles. Some of us became friends at shows and some through the Internet. We have enjoyed the heyday of Crow Soup and Folk-of-Art. We've cheered each other on for auctions on Ebay before their rules changed. We've seen our work and each others in magazines.

Over the past couple of years. we've watched new venues and new artists come aboard with welcoming smiles for their journey ahead. We know that there is room for all of us on the journey. The ones to watch will have to put time in, pay their dues and let their own style define them... they will set trends because they aren't afraid to take a chance. They will inspire us all. The ones in it for the art and spirit will let their work pave the way just as ours has. The journey still has miles to go...for all of us.

The Devil Is In The Details

I can't tell you just how much I love what I do. I've always been drawn to textiles and have enjoyed using them to showcase my ideas. Now, trust me, I could never sit through my Mom trying to show me how to sew a skirt and failed miserably at my V neck shirt for Home Economics....but give me a piece of muslin and a pencil and I'm off. When my girls were little, I did attempt to make mittens for all of my nieces, thinking how difficult could it be? I found a pattern marked in big red letters...EASY. Perfect. Little mittens with a fitted thumb and a simple hat. A migraine and two weeks later, I was talking to a friend who made many of her own clothes for years. I showed her the pattern sheepishly and thought to myself.. I'm gonna feel like an idiot after she shows me what I was doing wrong. Hallelujah.. I was not an idiot after all! The pattern was not as easy as it proclaimed and my seasoned sewing friend wrote them a letter a couple weeks earlier, letting them know just how badly they messed up.



Now I look at some of the things I make and wonder, just how would I explain how to do THAT? Thankfully, in the years that I have been writing patterns, I haven't messed up too badly. I want my patterns to be above all, fun. I like putting in some little detail that not only makes the piece, but gives someone a little something different to try. Tonight on TDIPT, I have three offerings and all three have something in common. The use of wire for the details. Will I make any of these patterns? I'd certainly like to, but you can bet that as I write up everything step by step...that fitted thumb issue will nag me to keep it simple!

My Hero

The Season of The Witch

At least it is around here! And not just regular witches, but pumpkin witches and rat witches. I am having fun with old friends and new. I've even been sculpting again. My sculpting has always been in ceramic clay and without armatures. I decided to take a class and revisit Paper Clay to start. I had tried it about nine years ago, but but my primitive fabric friends took the lead. Now, as a promise kept, I am moving forward in all that I do and embracing my gift beyond my dear wee friends here, to share with you what others have seen for many years. The gift that I was given in other areas, such as pen and ink and now the sculpting. This is a very happy time for me not only in the work I do, but in embracing my very favorite time of year. With my trusty mug of..."caw-fee" and the cool, crisp air of morning gently saying hello, I'm off to see what new friends await.

Meet Some New Friends!

It's official, I'm back to creating! It's still mostly part time, but today was 100% wrapped in bringing some new friends to life as offerings on Lemon Poppyseeds. Meet two of my wee friends. First is my beloved Igor...I just love Young Frankenstein and there is no question as to my favorite character! This house has been full of giggles today since he got his hair and face. Next is Eleanor Higgins. She's changed a wee bit from the original, but has still kept her charm. She always brings a smile and I get many requests for her.

What could be better than being back on Lemon Poppyseeds with my new friends??? How about new PATTERNS?? I am happy to say that Igor and Eleanor are now a part of the Raven's Haven Pattern line!

All Goode Things Come With Time

Life is changing for me. I'm slowly able to pick up where I left off with pattern orders and wee friends going to new homes. Sadly I do have to cancel some orders and shows, but on the flip side there is great excitement as I go forward and prepare my continued future as an Artist. I am very much a creative spirit, and so when my outlet is taken away, I am unbalanced. Creating is like an addiction for me, I can't imagine my life without it. Yes, it does rule me, but that is part of my soul. With so many things needing my attention now, I would be mush without creating somehow. And so... the fruit of my creative outlet is my beloved ink drawings. Perhaps a stolen hour or so in the evenings, but cherished none the less. Meet Eliza, inspired from "My Fair Lady" with her dress. A friend suggested that she would be great on Invitation cards...the possibilities are many! I hope that as everything settles down, I will be able to share with you more of my joys in other media. Here's to goode things ahead for all of us!

The Power of Forgiveness

Several years ago, Pam (of Soft in the Head) and I met and became fast friends. We enjoyed each other very much....but we were younger then, both artists shaky and insecure with our individual gift. There was a rift because of it and it was huge; both spirits badly bruised.

It has taken several years and my Father's ill health that began our healing and new journey ahead. My Father was sooo very pleased that Pam and I had put the past behind and started going forward, doing what we did best with each other... being friends. Today, the door flew open and a voice exclaimed... "The bitch is back!" We have both changed in appearance a bit and are quite different than the two friends of long ago. Time has been our gift.. we both recognize the special part that makes each of us unique in what we do and who we are. We both have worked hard and earned our style of creativity over the years. We babbled on enjoying the funny stories of our adventures that both have held so dear in our hearts. Pam's friend, Rennie is wonderful and holds the title of Official BFF! There wasn't near enough time, but there IS next time and we do look forward to giggles and adventures shared. The really cool thing is that we are enjoy not just the friendship with each other, but in our mutual friends. I hope that Pam and Rennie's trip is just the beginning of all of us coming together. Safe journey you two!

Joys

In the next couple days, our family will be sending my Dad along to his next journey. It's not goodbye for us...if you knew my Dad, you know that he will be beside and letting us know it. As we gather there are many, many stories shared. It seems that everyone has a funny story to that starts as, "I remember the time when Jack....". The above picture is the last time photos were taken with him, along with son, Steve...retired from the Air Force. Steve is now considered to be a "Dirt Bag" with his haircut and received quite a bit of ribbing. I am packing a bag of Cheerios to send with my Dad. Not as a snack as one would imagine, but for the Gin Rummy games to be played with John C. who was notorious for eating them. There are still many tears and much laughter to be had, especially in the next few days. It is a new journey for us all.

The Next Journey

It is with great sadness that I share with you the passing of my Father this morning. In talking with family today, I told them that he did it all....he had an amazing life. He served in every branch of the Armed Forces, fought in 2 wars. Not only did he serve his country, but he served his community as a Sheriff and a Volunteer Fireman. He traveled the world, jumped from airplanes and gave his children an amazing childhood...perhaps different to many, but amazing none the less. He wanted a degree from college and earned one. My Father and I both earned our degree together making for a wonderful and memorable time (I had double duty rewriting all of his Term Papers too!). We were brought up Military style and with Military values. We rebelled of course, but to no avail. He could be the grumpiest guy but he was always on your side. A couple of months ago, when he was home from the hospital, he had a chance to read this blog. He sat and talked with me on how very proud he was of my writing and what I have shared with everyone. I will miss our talks but I know he'll still be listening to me.

August

August here is usually hot and muggy, but this year has been cool and rainy. The back deck for my parents is nearly complete and looks over a tiny gazebo and a grape arbor, that is on a growing rampage with all this rain. The two little tumbleweeds can't wait to go out and play around on the deck and tease when someone walks by the back door.

I am looking forward to completing my move downstate. Held up right now as my brothers are in charge of this part. I told them that I needed to settle in by September first, so now the heat is on them to pull things together for their parents.Okay Kevin and Steve... the world is watching!

This is such an exciting adventure for me. One of Tim's sisters asked if I would be working or anything outside of the home to get to know this new area. It is great food for thought as is the opportunity to continue my education as there are quite a few colleges to choose from there. I may be leaving my beloved little village, but the world is my oyster on this new adventure. I don't know exactly what I want to do, but I do know that my art will continue and perhaps the opportunity to share and give back to my new community. I'm so excited!

The Climb

Gosh, the past two months have vanished in a blink of an eye and here I am wondering just where time went to. We just received word that my Father will be back in Granville and in rehab very soon. Well, geez, you say.... where was he? He has been in the hospital since June 10th. It was a dash for me back and forth to the hospital any chance I could for 3 weeks. As a Caretaker for my Mom, you can imagine how difficult it can be to get away, but I was able to visit him between tests, surgery, biopsies and even more tests. Every June for the past twenty years I have visited the LARAC Arts and Crafts Festival any chance I could. I kept faith that if it was possible I would go. This year it was by glimpses driving by on my way back and forth to the hospital. The hospital transferred him to Mount Sinai, NYC so that his transplant team could check his liver. Right before he was scheduled to go, he fell and broke his hip very badly. He was not strong enough to go through a hip replacement but they were able to put a plate in and after he was stabilized, sent him downstate. He was scheduled to return about a week ago but suffered a heart attack. He now needs valve surgery but has to regain strength first and will be coming back here for that. He is, without a doubt the biggest fighter I know and my hero. On days that he has struggled and been so far away, we have all been cheering him on and telling him to keep the faith. This whole year has been an uphill climb for him and he has amazed all that know him with his fight and will to live.

It has been little steps for me in getting back into my Folk Art groove online. Behind the scenes though I have been fast at work filling patterns orders that come in nearly every day. I've finished some commercial contracts and awaiting final decisions on a magazine and illustration contract. There is more work available than there is me at the moment, but certainly no complaints, just very thankful to have such opportunities!

Above is one of my side profile witches. I've done a new one every year for four years now and love it. She's just "Goody" right now but by mid August, when I return to my online venues, her spirit will clearly show through and she will whisper her name to me. Somethings never change.

All Goode Things Come in Time

I have started back to work on my beloved friends this past week and loving it. I am still in transition and stalled with the move, but I am cocooned in the bliss that is creating and loving everything all over again. I am working ahead of the season, but as long as I can fit a pumpkin or witch in, I'm happy and don't mind the snowmen as much. There are still never enough hours to balance what everyone needs and work full time, but I will gladly take what time I can get with my wee friends! The phone has been ringing with customers and orders, it was as if nothing ever stopped for me. I know that this is still a very close family time, but it doesn't mean that this Good Wife is slowing down down or hanging it up... no, no way! This Good Wife has plenty of goode creating ahead!

Step by Step

The fourth was a working day for me, but we did get to make it a bit special. Ours has always been a family of Service. My Dad and brother served in the military over twenty years each and have fought to keep us free. My father went on to serve his community as a Sheriff for another twenty years. My Mom and I worked retail in our communities and spent many a holiday outside of the home and volunteered our time and hands to help earn money for our community. Phone calls keep us all connected these days, with so many miles between us. Both brothers have been able to visit over the past two months and that was certainly our time to enjoy family coming together. My Father is far away from us right now, but he is on the road to recovery. Slow, but progressive. Yesterday was nice and quiet with a little barbecue dinner for Tim, my Mom and I. We watched part of the John Adams series to set the mood.

Today shines bright and the cobalt sky is a treasure, after so many rainy days of late. There is a gentle breeze, nice and cool with no sticky humidity. The guide that I set forth for this Good Wife a couple weeks ago is certainly on it's course. Yesterday I received word that my work has been accepted by a company that was just a hopeful wisp weeks ago. Now, I will need commercial samples very soon. I have a list to go by and drawings today that will turn into sewing today or tomorrow. There are also store orders to complete along with pattern orders to fill. I am so blessed that in such delicate times, my little friends will continue to bring smiles near and far.

The Road Back

It is a slow road I am traveling right now, but it is a good one and the days are cherished. They are busy and full. I have been wrapping myself up in family as one would wrap up in an old quilt that Grandma made. I have been reflecting on so much that has been my life here in Granville and especially these wee friends I adore creating.

I remember the day I came racing in to share my great epiphany in knowing just what I wanted to focus on as an artist. "A doll maker!", I told my father. He instantly put on his best, "You can't be serious" look. He reminded me that I did not know how to sew and I had such a wonderful training; a dream come true at Lake Placid's School of Art. In all these years since, he's still not understood, or seen that special moment when a doll's spirit connects with who they are meant to belong to. No, he hasn't understood at all. Not the kitchen table covered with fabric and doll parts in nearly every room, but he's proud of my choice and the places that my wee friends have taken me. Mostly he is proud that I have always followed my heart, no matter what anyone thinks.

Planting My Garden

Life is a garden~ we sow seeds, give plenty of water and sunshine, hoping to reap a great harvest. It takes constant work and loving care ...and we do it all without a second thought. After one harvest, we prepare for another, and another.

I am not able to tend to the garden at the Comforte Cottage this year, but I am tending my life garden. Getting ready for life and changes ahead. I may not be able to do all that I'd like right now, but I'm doing what I need and keeping all that I can normal. I think of how many times my Mom and Dad moved all of us here and there from one military base to another. You pack things wrapping them in memories of the past, knowing that they will be a part of your future as they are unwrapped again. There is a scale in front of you as excitement and sorrow are placed gently on opposite plates. Sometimes it dips over too much on one side, but in the end its quite balanced.

I've moved forward on what this Goode Wife needs to do for the next six months and even farther ahead. My heart still holds pumpkins and witches tight...not to mention a skeleton or two. I do miss working on my little friends as much as I'd like, but they never complain and patiently wait for me. I enjoy life's unseen gifts and take the chances that I may not have done in the past. Like new seeds, they grow as I nourish them and anticipate their bloom in the months ahead.

The Gift

It's official, Molly has been with us for a year now, and boy does she make our lives complete here! Molly is a Sato (Puerto Rican Stray) and makes her home here with two other local rescues, Murphy and Rylie. Right now, Miss Molly is in her glory, searching out all the wild strawberries on the lawn. She has become my constant companion and so meant to be here! My days are very full right now and even though I can't create as much as I'd like, I am drawing and writing notes so that when the time comes and I am not so needed, I can continue doing what I love, full force. I want to thank everyone for all of their well wishes and warm emails. I miss all of you!

Looking Ahead

Stacey's Grande Adventure has begun~ there has been gardening time, family time and yes, creative time. It is still very much The Busy House with a constant liveliness to it. Raven's Haven has been very busy as well as the paperwork dealings for my parents. I've been enjoying connections with colleagues and customers that have become the dearest of friends. There is a gift within each of these hearts; the gift of who they are, all wrapped uniquely as their own spirits. There are events to plan for and ideas to be shared... you see, it's time again to write a business plan.I am an Artist that also has an Art Business. That can be difficult, not because I am doing what I was meant to and what I love. Rather because to succeed, I need to balance with what you enjoy and love and not be selfish with the gift I was given. My business plan involves much more than the business of dolls or patterns. It is the spirit that each wee friend I make wraps around, as well as all of you. Without any of you, I could not be all that I am, all that I do.


I'm not sure where this economy is going but that is why a 6 month business plan in good times and bad is a necessity. I will be moving downstate which will afford me the chance for different shows, but I will also continue some up here. I'm even thinking of expanding my show venues if I can. I will be scouting out some of these local events. The beauty of living here right on the border is that I have the best of both worlds with shows and have plenty to choose from in New York and Vermont. Here is where I can enlist some help from many of you as well. So many of you visit my blog and live nearby. Where would all of you like to see the Good Wife? I will be scoping out LARAC this weekend to start. What are some of your Good Wife favorites? Skeletons, witches? The new Homestead series? More St. Jigs? Let me know~ a wonderful chance for goode friends here to share ideas and events!

Taking Some Time Off

As much as I would like to keep my life simplified, it's going to be awhile. There is a lot going on here at The Busy House and it will continue through most of the summer. I've decided, with great reluctance of course, to take a little time off from my online selling with the exception of patterns. I'm hoping that this will afford me time for many things, but the priority being my family. There are changes ahead for all of us here and in it all, I will be moving...closer to the city.. a Burbs girl. This will be a slow process and will take most of the Summer, but it is a very goode thing and I'm looking forward to it.

I will also be working on orders for stores and some more commercial ventures. (The dolls above are at Waterside Antiques~ Ginny is so much fun, I've enjoyed her from those early Brimfield days!) I'm hoping to sneak out some patterns for all of you too. I will let you know how all of this goes of course. This Summer is Stacey's Grande Adventure!