CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RECIPE WINNER!

Some awesome recipes were submitted for our contest last month. Thank you to everyone who participated. Our winner was selected courtesy of the random number generator at random.org. The winning number is 2 for the submission of Granny's Easy Homemade Chili by Lillian Hilton of Shabby Denim Rose.

You can enjoy this and more by visiting my site at The Odd Sparrow and clicking on the recipes tab. I am adding recipes as time goes on, so be sure to check back often!

Please also remember that this week is our big "We are Thankful for YOU" sale at Shabby Lane Shops. The Odd Sparrow is participating in this event by offering discounted prices SITE WIDE! Please shop from this Wednesday at midnight through Cyber Monday and enjoy the special savings of the season. I can't wait to shop in my jammies!

BUT...even better, you can enter to win a $50 gift certificate to shop our sales during these days! Please click the link on the graphic you see here, and follow the directions to enter the drawing.

I will be sharing some pictures soon of the wonderful family visit we enjoyed with my niece, her husband, and the three little ones. You MUST see these adorable blue-eyed boys. They will melt your heart!

AWESOME NEWS!!!

I have. I know you are thinking about what you want to get each and every person in your life to show them that you appreciate them. I also know how tight funds are in this economy. So The Odd Sparrow has provided a way for you to make your Christmas a very special day for the very special people in your life.

BUT...before I tell you all about that, how about if I ask a teensy tinsy favor from you. Would you pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease take the time right now to click on the vote for me button on the side bar and cast your vote for The Odd Sparrow in the site decorating contest? It would mean so very much to me to know that I have your vote today. Thank you so much!

So I promised you a way to enhance your Christmas shopping...and here it is: I have set up a special Christmas section on my website. In this section you will find stocking stuffers, decorations/ornaments, and best of all (I think) gift ideas! All you have to do is go to The Odd Sparrow at http://www.theoddsparrow.com/ and click on the "Christmas" button. All of the items are separated out by category for your shopping convenience, so if you are done your decorating, for instance, you don't have to look though all of the decor items while shopping for gifts!

Now I have not disclosed everything yet...there is more great news!!! Thanksgiving is next week and most of you are thinking of those Black Friday sales...and all of the crowds and long lines. No need to stress over that. Starting Wednesday at midnight and continuing through Cyber Monday, I will be joining the shops at Shabby Lane for a sale like no other! EVERYTHING at The Odd Sparrow will be on sale! NO LINES, NO CROWDS, OPEN 24/7...and best of all, YOU CAN SHOP IN YOUR JAMMIES!!!

I know that is awesome news...it really, really is! But there is MORE!!! (Can you believe it?!) If you go to Shabby Lane THIS WEEKEND and sign up, you will be entered in a drawing for a $50 gift certificate to help you kick start your shopping. This is an amazing opportunity, so please be sure to get your name entered and do your shopping this week with The Odd Sparrow.

NOVEMBER!!!

Wow...I can hardly believe how fast time is flying by! Seems like just yesterday we were in the midst of summer and now we are heading straight for Thanksgiving. I won't complain, though. It is truly my favorite time of the year.

This week I have a favor to ask. It's not a big one...but it's big to me! Would you kindly go to my website at TheOddSparrow.com and click on the "Vote for Me" box? It will take you to a page where you can vote for me in a Christmas decorating contest for my site. You will have to scroll down that page to find The Odd Sparrow, but I am there and will definitely appreciate your efforts. If it is easier, you can just click on the link here to vote, but I am sure you will want to see the beautiful graphics that you are voting for. They were expertly created by my sweet son who does all of my graphics for me and to whom I owe a great deal of thanks.

Secondly, I need to remind you of our Tuesday Treasures themed shopping at Shabby Lane Shops. Of course, The Odd Sparrow participates in this event each Tuesday! If you click on my Tuesday Treasures category, you will find an array of sweet gifts that I am offering at a discount this Tuesday only. Our theme this week is "Cherished Holiday Gifts." Just use the coupon code I have put at the top of the page when you check out and you will receive an additional 15% off this week! How easy does that make your holiday shopping?!!! If you are in my immediate area and want to save on shipping, email me at OddSparrow@msn.com and I will work that out with you.

Next on the agenda...the recipe contest. The submission deadline for recipes for the contest was 10/31/2009. We have only had a total of eleven submissions!!! Now, that is NOT a lot...so the odds are great for one lucky winner. Wish you had submitted your favorite cookie recipe? Do you want to share your twist on a soup or stew? OK...want a little grace on this? I will give you a few more days just in case you missed the original deadline. YOU NOW HAVE UNTIL SATURDAY 11/7/09 AT MIDNIGHT! Any recipe will do...and you can submit as many as you like! Each submission will give you one entry and a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to TheOddSparrow.com. All you need to do is submit your recipe to me at OddSparrow@msn.com. That's it! And in the meantime, I would like to share with you another easy peasy recipe that was submitted to me for this contest and one that I think you will enjoy.

This one comes to you courtesy of Heidi in Michigan:

Spinach/cheese pie

1 small package of chopped frozen spinach, thawed, drained and squeezed dry
1 small jar of roasted red peppers, drained, lightly rinsed, and chopped
4 large eggs
1 16 oz. container of cottage cheese
2 cups shredded Italian blend cheese
1/4 cup of parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix all ingredients together in mixing bowl. Pour into greased glass pie pan. Sprinkle top with a bit more parmesan. Bake 45 minutes to 1 hour until pie is solid and browned on top. Enjoy!

Now...I have not tried this one yet, but I think I am going to make it Tuesday evening. It just sounds so yummy. I think it would go great with a cup of tomato soup....oooooooh...I am getting hungry! You will soon find these recipes and many others on my site under the recipes category. And remember...I will be sharing that awesome chicken dish I promised...real soon!

ONE MORE THING: Keep an eye out...the trees you see on the first page of my site will be available from me later this week!!! You will want to hurry to get yours as supplies are limited! Also coming this week: Christmas tags...and boy! are they ever beautiful! Keep an eye on us...we are adding new things and working hard to make this your premier shopping site this Christmas!

Well, stuff mah peppahs!

Good Monday morning, everyone! I am just wondering....have you entered the recipe contest yet? You have til October 31st to submit your favorite dish...and enter for a $25 gift certificate to The Odd Sparrow, so what do you have to lose?

Remember that tomorrow is Tuesday Treasures at Shabby Lane Shops. You will love the selection from our shops offered this week for our special Warm & Cozy Holiday Home theme. I don't know about you, but I think this is going to be the best Tuesday Treasures theme ever! When I think of the Christmas season, I get warm fuzzies thinking about the coziness of home. Please join The Odd Sparrow at this awesome shopping event and don't forget, there is a discount code at the top of the Tuesday Treasures page especially for you!!!

Here's another awesome recipe I wanted to share from my contest! Once again it is brought to you by Francie of The Scented Cottage. I tried this last week and it was awesome....a perfect dish for your cool fall days. The green peppers are loaded with vitamin C to help keep away colds too!


Stuffed Bell Peppers

4 or 5 bell peppers
1 lb ground beef
1 sm. can corn
1 sm. onion, diced
1 sm. can diced tomatoes
1 1/2 cup tomato sauce (Ragu works great)
salt and pepper to taste

Cut tops off pepper, clean out and wash. You can dice pepper tops and add to mixture or freeze them to use later.Combine diced tomatoes and tomato sauce together with 1/4 cup water.Lightly brown ground meat. Add corn, diced tomatoes, diced onion ( diced peppers if desired). Add 1/2 cup of tomato sauce mixture to ingredients and stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste.In bottom of crock pot add rest of tomato sauce. Fill peppers with ground meat mixture, any left over mixture place in crock pot with tomato sauce then place filled peppers on top, cover and cook on low approx 6 hours. Baste peppers occasionally with tomato sauce .


You can add a little rice with the meat mixture if you like...that's what I did. Also, I served this will buttered noodles and a tossed salad. It will warm you from the inside out on a chilly fall day, so give it a try.

Next time I hope to share with you a great recipe I just tried for chicken. I think you are going to love this one too!!!

Have a great Monday, and I'll see you over at The Odd Sparrow!

Are you ready to do the Texas Two Step?

Ok, folks...no pics yet of this! I am making this recipe tonight for dinner. Think I might just use the crock pot since I will be going out for a bit... I'll let you know how it turns out, but it is sure to be yummy! This wonderful recipe was submitted to our recipe contest by my dear friend, Francie Thornton of The Scented Cottage.

Texas Two Step Chicken

MAKES 8 SERVINGS
3 cups salsa
6 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
6 cups hot cooked rice
1 sm can crushed pineapple or chunks (if you like pineapple and your preference)

In a medium mixing bowl, combine salsa, sugar and mustard. Place chicken in a 2-quart, shallow glass baking dish. Pour sauce mixture over chicken, turning to coat all sides.Cover and let marinate 4 to 6 hours.Preheat oven to 400 degrees.Remove cover from chicken; bake for 20 minutes or until juices run clear when chicken is pierced with a fork.

Serve with rice and pineapple.

FOR DETAILS OF THE RECIPE CONTEST, SEE THE POST BELOW. THERE IS STILL TIME TO ENTER!!!

ALSO...TOMORROW IS TUESDAY TREASURES AT The Odd Sparrow and Shabby Lane Shops. Our theme this week is Around the Holiday Table. Please join us and shop, shop, shop as we prepare for a great holiday season.

Time to Nest...and WIN!!!

It is that time of year again and we are celebrating with a Fall recipe contest! Don't you just love to cook and bake during the cooler weather? It just has a way of making a house a home.

This is how it works:

Please submit your favorite fall recipe to my email address at: OddSparrow@msn.com. You will be entered in a contest to receive a gift certificate to TheOddSparrow.com in the amount of $25.00!!! Recipes must be submitted to my email on or before 10/31/2009. Winner will be announced the week of Thanksgiving. Recipes will be featured each week between now and Thanksgiving right here.

Now isn't that worth submitting a recipe for? I can't wait to see what you all send in...and I'll be trying them out too!

So very long....my apologies!

It has been a long few months and I have not been updating my blog. I apologize to those of you who have visited only to find that there is no news being posted. I have been lax...I admit. Somehow when you plan for out of town company, vacation, and get sick, your time just flies away from your grasp. But now I am happy to say that I am back and getting on track with my blogging activities and newsletters.

This is just a little heads up for you. I am going to send out my newsletter on October 1 and I wanted to let you all know in advance. If you are not on the email list, please sign up now...not only will you receive the newsletter, but I will also send you a $5.00 coupon just for joining.

I have lots of great stuff coming up...one is the Fall Recipe contest. Details are in the newsletter and there is a fabulous prize for one lucky winner. Please be sure to participate.

In addition, I am featuring some products from the online store. Please hop on over and check them out at TheOddSparrow.com.

Before I go, I wanted to share a few photos from our long vacation with you...first is a pic of my sis and me. It's a pretty bad pic of me, but my sis looks pretty good!

Next up, from our visit to Tennessee, my son's silly birthday party. This is him on the couch with three of his five second cousins. Aren't they adorable???

After our visit to Tennessee, we headed to Florida and none other than Disney World. This is a pretty cool pic my hubby took of the geodesic dome in Epcot one evening.

Hope you enjoyed a little of our trip. I'll be posting really soon with some of the awesome news that I cannot wait to share. Til then...enjoy your days.

Blessings...

He hath made everything beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. - Ecclesiastes 3:11

We do get so enamoured with the world around us that we forget to appreciate the simple things that God has done for us, don't we? My mind just goes from one thing to the next throughout the day, barely taking in what is going on around me. When I lay down to sleep, I pretty much crash, having never taken a moment to thank the Lord for His precious gifts: loved ones and the beauty of His creation alike. I like to think I am the grateful sort, but sadly I do not take the time within my spirit to settle into the blessings.

Today I am thanking my Heavenly Father for my blessings. I thank Him for the beauty of His creation surrounding me.

I am grateful for those He has put into my life, from the very young...

...to the more mature...

.

and everyone in between.

O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. - Psalm 105:1

So please...leave a comment and share what God has blessed you with today.

I'm late again...but I have a Sneak Peek!

Not only am I late posting my Monday blog, but I am also late in showing off the marvelous gift I receive for my birthday. This gorgeous faux birthday cake was made specially for me and it matches my living room! It is a one of a kind, but you too can have an awesome faux cake from my dear friend Francie at The Scented Cottage. She is sure to whip you up a delectable treat for your home. Her eye candy is on her site, including some amazing cakes she just finished this week. Be sure to check it out! TheScentedCottage.com

Ok...now for some show and tell. I am in the process of listing some of my most recent finds on my site. Now, so far, none of them are up as I took a break just to post this little peek. But if you keep checking back, you will find the following items and a WHOLE lot more. Oh...and lest you think I have not been busy creating...here is just one little peek at a frame that I hand painted which will also be listed this week. So there you have it. I have been very busy behind the scenes and will continue to work hard to bring you some amazing home decor and gifts for your country cottage. Please leave a note and let me know you are out there reading! It is always a pleasure to hear from my readers! And don't forget to hop on over to The Odd Sparrow to enjoy some one of a kind shopping!

My Rollercoaster Life

Isn't it funny the way life sorta carves its way and you are just going along for the ride? Back in May of this year my mom started having trouble with her hip dislocating. The several nights that we spent in the Emergency Room back then were just the beginning of a crazy rollercoaster ride.


Mom had surgery on that hip in early June. There were days spent running back and forth to the hospital, trying to keep up with the business, taking care of my family, my home, and the dogs. After mom came home and settled in came the business of healing. It was a crazy few weeks around here, but it was a good time. On the heels of that, my sister came up for a visit. Now THAT was a good time, because as many of you know, when we girls get together we end up laughing until we cry! It was so good to see her again and spend those few days together.


But as quickly as that visit was upon us, it was over and my dear sister made her way back to Tennessee. Fortunately she stayed long enough to celebrate my birthday with me, which was extra special. Fast forward 3 days. It's Father's Day and another celebration. But soon we settled back into a routine that would not last long because on June 29 my niece and her hubby came for a visit with their two boys, ages five and one. What a special time that was! By the way, these are my sister's oldest and second youngest grandsons.


Little children are such a blessing...but they sure do know how to exhaust an old gal like me. Now, before you get the wrong idea, I was merely WATCHING them. That's all it took for me to get tired. I do not know where they get such energy. But you know, you just don't mind it when they are good kids and these are two very good kids!


Well, my company left here on Thursday morning for the next leg of their trip. Meantime we are getting down to some serious Independence Day activities....NOT! This weekend was filled with activity alright...but not that kind. We have been catching up. My dear hubby spent a lot of time working around the house. My son spent his weekend working and doing schoolwork for his online college classes. Me? Well, I have been working on getting some special products on my site for your shopping pleasure! Of course, I have more coming! I am in the midst of creating two more pillow and plaque sets which will be coming shortly. And continue to stay tuned. I have lots more product that will be making its way to the pages of my site in the coming weeks.

So, you see...the roller coaster is finally slowing down this week and I will be enjoying a the slightly less wild ride of concentrating on my creative excursions and updating my website. But as I prepare for the fall and winter seasons, I know that it is only a matter of time before the rollercoaster begins to build up speed and I will be along there for the ride once again!

********************************************************************************

This is a big time for this little Sparrow. As the company grows, I am advertising in some major publications such as Cottages and Bungalows and Romantic Homes among others. Please be sure to keep your eye on my blog, our website, and follow me on Twitter @TheOddSparrow and on Facebook as well.

Americana BLOWOUT!!!

In honor of the 4th of July holiday, I am celebrating our independence with a super sale on Americiana merchandise. Hurry on over to The Odd Sparrow and check it out in the "Specials" section. Hurry, though...selection is limited! Remember...the early bird gets the worm!

Hippo Birdie to ME!

Many of you know that last week was my birthday. It was an awesome day from the moment I woke in the morning to the moment I closed my eyes that evening. My sister was up visiting from her home in Tennessee, and we had such a fun day...almost wish I could go back and do it over. But lest I lose all that I have accomplished over the last few days, I will settle for an enjoyable memory.

Now you may be wondering why I have entitled my post with the words Hippo and Birdie, other than the obvious conclusion: I am a silly, silly woman. There is truly a bigger reason believe it or not! The reason I used the word hippo is actually a little known fact: I used to collect hippos when I was much younger. I had a LOT of little hippo figurines and statues all over my

bedroom. Quirky, I know, but after a trip to the zoo and a purchase of a very cute little hippo bank, I decided that would be the beginning of a collection. Little did I know that it would take on a life of its own once my very sweet uncle got wind of it.

But what of the word birdie and the picture? Well, many of you already know of my little escapade with a house finch fledgling I dubbed "Peep". Last evening this sweet little bird had tried to fly out of the nest on his own but couldn't go very far. In an effort to protect him from Ginny, our coonhound, I had to pick him up. Well, I couldn't resist and we cuddled for a while and he sat on my shoulder most of the evening. I returned him to his nest in the hopes that his mom would show up soon.

This morning I watched carefully and finally his bird momma came and fed him. She is a good mom, spending a lot of time at the nest. To my surprise, when I went out to take a picture of my little pal before he leaves for good), I saw that he has at least 3 more brothers and sisters in the nest with him. Here he is on the top of the shutter with his siblings in the nest behind it. Isn't he the sweetest???!!!!!

As I mentioned previously, I have accomplished much the past few days. I wanted also to share with you the newest items that I just added to my shop this evening. This great little set is being offered at the same price as the pillow alone would be. That means that you are getting the matching plaque for FREE!!!! Isn't that awesome? It is available at: The Odd Sparrow. I am so excited that I am able to offer this set at such a great price. There will be more coming...so stay tuned!

Oh...and a little post script here for you: I have joined Shabby Lane Shops as well. You can find me there on the front page! Please be sure to sign up for the newsletters on both Shabby Lane and also on Nashville Boutiques so that you can stay up to date on all of the latest information! Thanks for reading!

Just a quick one...

Just wanted to let y'all know that I am taking preorders on the Christmas pinecone sachets and on the fall pillow collection until the end of the month. The pinecones will be available in sets of 3 for $17.97 in either red (sugarplum), white (fresh winter pine), or green (pine/cranberry). The pillows retail for $18.97 each and the pictures of the fall ones are right here ...under my 2/15/09 post.

Please email me at oddsparrow@msn.com or send me a dm or twitter or a message on facebook and I will put you on the list. Remember, with the magazine ads coming up, there will be a glut of ordering coming up. I want you all to be sure you get yours first, as you are my customer base. So please get yours preordered now. They make great gifts or will spruce up your own holiday decor. These items are 100% handmade by me, right here in the USA.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Lots of Awesome News!

It has been an amazing week or so for The Odd Sparrow. I have some great news to share with you.

First of all, you may have noticed the icon to the right. That is just one more place you will find The Odd Sparrow online. Nashville Boutiques is a new little online shopping mall that will tickle you pink! You will find the most wonderful shops there and will enjoy every minute you spend there. Please join us at NashvilleBoutiques.com and shop your little heart out!

Secondly, I really must share some of the ads we have coming out. It has taken a very long time for me to get to the point where I can step out and advertise in national magazines. But the time has come, and I am jumping with joy at the possibilities! I will be included in the Nashville Boutiques debut ad, coming out July 26. This particular ad will be in the August/September issue of Cottages and Bungalows. Make sure you get your copy! For this ad, I have chosen the painted bee pillow. I hope you like it.

The next ad I have planned is one where I am again joining up with the owner of Nashville Boutiques and Shabby Lane Shops. This ad will be in the September issue of Romantic Homes. Be sure to check that one out as well. I have not yet decided what product to put into this ad. I think I will set up a poll. You can let me know what you think...just see the poll to the right of this post.

One other ad I have on the books is for a venue I am very excited about. I have placed an ad in the Christmas issue of Country Sampler magazine. I believe this issue will come out in September. Since this is the Christmas issue, I need to be getting the product I am advertising ready this summer, so it is ready to ship by then. As a result, I will be super busy for the next few months on that project alone. Guess I won't have too much time for trouble making...heehee! So what is the product? It is my Christmas scented pinecones. If you think you might be interested in purchasing these, contact me at OddSparrow@msn.com early...I want you to be on the top of the list!

Well...time for me to get busy here. I will check back soon for your opinions on what to submit for the RH ad...and I will announce the results next week. Stay tuned!!!

Introducing ...Andie! from Brown Bee Studios

Ok everyone...it's time for me to introduce to you one of my dear friends, Andie. She makes the most awesome li'l pinkeeps and has put together a sweet li'l deal for you. Please be sure to check out her blog and get ahold of some of her precious 'mater pinkeeps for yourself and those you love.
Blowout Sale!
'Sup kats and kittehs? Check it...I'm havin' a buy 2 get 1 free sale on all in stock tomatoes! Gotta make room for new crop, and this is my way of givin' y'all a lil' sumthin' sumthin' for helpin' a girl out on this. Just pop me a note with your selections and I'll get 'em right off to ya' lickety split...Thank y'all for shoppin' with me! xoxo Andi

YOU CAN FIND ANDIE AT: BROWN BEE STUDIOS

Such Amazing Blessings!

This Mother's Day I want to take time to share with you just a few of the many blessings in my life. I was born and raised in the city and lived there until just about 7 years ago. I am so grateful for the wonderful homes that we had there, both growing up and then later when my husband and I married. Now that I live in the country, I enjoy lots of greenery. This is a little picture I took from my deck, looking out at a portion of my backyard.

These are the seedlings we have started for the veggie garden we will have this summer. I hope it produces a great harvest. Need to get them in THIS WEEK as the rainy weather has delayed me far too long from planting. Those are tomatoes on the left, then peppers, then zucchini, and on the far right are spaghetti squash!

Below is a picture of our wonderful home. I am so grateful that my dear, sweet husband works so hard to give us such a beautiful life.

This is Bambi. She is one of our four dogs. She is 14 years old and still going strong, despite a heart condition and hearing impairment. I am so thankful for all of God's creatures. He has blessed us abundantly, hasn't He?

This last picture is of my garden in the front of my home. I am so thankful for the beautiful blooms on my irises. I am also enjoying the creativity the Lord has given me. My placement of the chair there is new and I just love how it looks.

Enjoy your creativity today and be blessed!

A Blessed Day

May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Psalm 115:15, NIV

The Wacky Wednesday Winners are....

The winner of my thank you gift is Shell...(DW)...YAY! You deserve it, sweetie. It is a little surprise, so hang in there til you get it. Please email me your address so i can get it on its way.


Now...for the drawing of the $10 gift certificate to my store, The Odd Sparrow. I am please to announce that the random number generator at random.org has selected #6...that is Janet of Beloved Creations! YAY! I will send you an email about how to redeem your gift certificate.

Congratulations, ladies, and thank you for playing Wacky Wednesday on my blog. We had a load of fun.

Pink Friday, May 1

Please join us for shopping with a twist on Friday May 1, 2009 as we present "Romantic Delights"

Remember when you realized that your mom was the most beautiful of all? And every Mother's Day since then, you've wished for a way to say thank you for all the gifts she's given you. Romantic delights - exquisite creations that inspire remembrance of times past - also inspire gifts for Mom this Mother's Day.


Nostalgic gifts such as a vintage-inspired hankie, reminiscent of one that her mom may have carried in her purse. A needlepoint pillow whose design speaks to Mom's heart and reminds her of evenings spent stitching while the children slept. Quilt kits to fill her quiet time with the fabric of reminiscence; journals almost too beautiful to write in to set down her most secret hopes.


Totes decorated with embroidered hankies and floral handbags crafted from romantic fabrics carry spring and remembrances when she walks to the nearby park or her favorite store. Heirloom jewelry made from the finest crystal beads; broken china charms, engraved with a special memory. Antique copper pendants, vintage silver charms. Cameo-inspired jewelry and accessories. Recollections of a daughter asking, "When will I be old enough to wear that?"


Perfectly placed touches - floral decals and stitchery, lace trim, satin ribbons, paper roses - bring romance and recollection to Mom's every day. Sparkling lights as delectable as the sugar-coated candy she used to buy from the five and dime. Whimsical treats - Cinderella slippers decorated with glitter and jewels, pillows shaped like lovely ladies, faux cakes iced with ribbons and lace - satisfy romantic whims. Scrapbooked memories sprinkled with flowers and stamps. You'll find romantic treats to delight any mother at The Odd Sparrow and Make Mine Pink.

Wacky Wednesday the FINAL WEEK!

This week, I have compiled a list of great decor tips from my blog readers that I would love to share with you. Please post a comment below telling me which tip is your absolute favorite and why. Of all of the comments, I will choose the most THOUGHTFUL comment and send that person a $10 gift certificate to my online shop at The Odd Sparrow. The author of the tip that receives the most votes will receive a small thank you gift from me. Below are the tips...enjoy!



1. I always had a problem with the suction cups we put on windows to display things. So this year at Christmas I found some really cool Christmas themed shower curtain hooks and the light bulb went on! Now I have all kinds of decorative shower hooks that match the rooms decor hooked onto my curtain rods to hang suncatchers etc. These are not the snap~tight hooks but the ones that are like the letter 'C' that sit over the top. And they look great too!

Huggs,
Nancy
http://www.coeurdalenegifts.com/
www.coeurdalenegifts.com/blog



2. As you know I make bags, even bags you can decorate with! I have a very popular tote called a "porch pouch" and I see them all the time in magazines as decor! Check them out here: mamaspocketbook.com

3. Slip a Potpourri Pillowette or Pillow among your other occasional pillows, when people sit down they will be surrounded by a subtle fragrance. Use a bowl of lemon potpourri in the living room, always smells "just dusted".

PatPatricia Rose - A Potpourri of Fabric, Fragrance and Findings
http://www.patriciarose-apotpourri.com/
http://www.patriciarose-apotpourriof.blogspot.com/


4. My favorite tip~ Use what you love!~S

5. After many years of designing and decorating for people as I have built their dream homes, my best piece of advice it so always stay true to yourself. The best home is one that reflects your personality and style and looks like a lived in and well loved home, not the taste of the designer. "One truly lives in a home that they love." My saying and belief.

blissfully,
shell

6. I have a few but one that links to my site is to find a great vintage piece of furniture with good lines and structurally sound. Give it a face lift with paint, any color to match your decor. And for the shabby chic style, lightly sand the edges to distress when you are done. I have several pieces on my site if you need a photo:http://www.cottageflair.com/catalog.htm?category=7

7. Second, for we shabby chic lovers with boys who really can't have a white denim slipcover ( some dirt just doesn't come out, even with bleach). Throw a pretty patterned quilt over your couch for comfort and style. It won't need to be washed as much and won't show the dirt. I can supply a photo if you would like.

OK...those are your tips this week...Please vote for your favorite by indicating the tip #1-7.
Again...I will draw from among those that vote for a prize, and whoever gets the most votes among the tips will receive a thank you gift from me.

Thanks for playing Wacky Wednesday!

An assignment for each of my friends

I would love to make up a blog posting filled with your best decor tips. Now, for those of you who have shops, please do not hesitate to include your weblink and something about one of your products...BUT...do NOT forget to make it into a DECOR TIP...which is the point of this assignment. Please just make a sentence or two and that way I will try to fit all of it in.

Please comment below if you are interested, but please send your tips to my email address at oddsparrow@msn.com and i will be compiling them for WEDNESDAY. that's right. this will be part of our wacky wednesday, the final week. i want to get everyone reading our great tips and suggestions, so i want to post this on a big traffic day. please, please join me and make this the best wednesday ever on the blogosphere!

Pink Friday ~ April 24

Please join us for shopping with a twist on Friday, April 24, 2009 as we present "Lavender and Lace"

A lavender field in full bloom creates a purple and green landscape and infuses a sweet fragrance into the air. A field of flowers brought to life with the buzzing of bees, decorated with birds and butterflies drawn to its fragrant aroma. The lavender fragrance wafts gently through the air, carrying the memories of flowers, happiness, and sunny days.
Far away, a summer porch, framed by windows with white lace, is surrounded with the scent of lavender. Lavender blooming in window boxes and flower pots, or decorating a flower garden with their purple blossoms. Whether along a country road or on a city street, the lavender scent embraces all indiscriminately.
Too beautiful to remain outdoors, the fragrance of lavender easily enters our homes and daily lives. From a carefully tended flowerbed we pick a tiny bunch and place it in a hand-cut crystal bud vase, where it can brighten a corner as it sits upon a vintage lace doily. Tuck a sprig of the tiny flowers into the lace band of a broad-brimmed summer hat, carrying the beautiful fragrance with us wherever we go. Or perhaps lay it inside a dresser drawer. Tie it with a tiny scrap of lace and hang it upon a wall, set it upon a shelf. In a drawer or as a lavender bouquet tied with apple-green organdy ribbon, edged with a dainty row of lace, the loveliness of lavender is impossible to contain. An elegant centerpiece set upon an antique table draped with a vintage lace table cloth, it's a feast for more than the eyes as the fragrant aroma declares its presence. Sunlight shining through the lacy curtains warms the room and casts delicate shadows upon the wall. Suddenly, the room seems draped in a lavender landscape and fields of lace.

Joyce Lucas,Founder
http://www.MakeMinePink.com/pink-friday

Photos provided by istock photo

Wacky Wednesday winners this week

Pat Morello wins the boutique tissue box cover. Congratulations to Pat of Patricia Rose Potpourri

Also, winning the $10 gift certificate to my shop at The Odd Sparrow is Charlotte Blackwell.

Thank you to all who played. Be sure to come back next week for our last week of Wacky Wednesday! It is sure to be a load of fun!

Wacky Wednesday fun!

Today is Wacky Wednesday, the day when we go a little crazy with a lot of fun on my website The Odd Sparrow. Your challenge today is simple. You need to find ONE item in my web shop that is hand sewn with navy homespun fabric done in a very tiny checked print with an item ON it that can be found on a barn.

When you have located this item, you must do the following:

Email me at oddsparrow@msn.com
Indicate the item by item number.

On THURSDAY morning, I will pick a winner from all of the submissions. This winner will receive the item for which you are all searching.

B-U-T W-A-I-T !!!!!

That isn't all that wacky is it????

Nope...that it is not! That's why there will be a second drawing for a $10.00 gift certificate to my site (not including shipping). That's right...two chances to win!!! SOOOOO...get hunting...time is a-tickin'!

NEWS...NEWS...NEWS...

Our first bit of news is for those who participated in Wacky Wednesday last week. The random number generator at random.org chose #3...Georgia Mallory! Georgia, I will email you with details.

And in other news...(I have always wanted to say that!)...there are lots and lots of great things going on these days at The Odd Sparrow. One great way to stay in touch with that news is to follow me on Twitter or on Facebook . I know some may be skeptical about these social networking sites, but I promise you that if you make yourself an account on each one, you will soon find that it is a great way to keep in touch. In each instance, YOU decide who sees the information you post...no one else. So, if you want to follow me on Twitter, I am @TheOddSparrow and on Facebook, as I continue to work on my site there, I am The Odd Sparrow...become a fan!

Now that you know WHERE to find the latest news, besides my blog, you need to know what some of that news is. Well first, on these sites we will be exploring your decor issues, particularly for those who are decorating in country, cottage, or even prim style. Feel free to ask questions and post issues and we will try to get them resolved. Thus far we have tackled issues regarding window treatments, floor coverings, and even bookshelf refinishing. What will be next? Visit us to find out!

More news...well, The Odd Sparrow is hosting Wacky Wednesday again this week. This time we will have a special giveaway...so be sure to visit THIS WEDNESDAY!!!

The Odd Sparrow is still considering a physical location. Please pray that I will have wisdom regarding this. I am also considering some special product offerings, so please keep that in mind as well.

Ok...that is the latest news from here. Remember that my whole purpose at The Odd Sparrow is to BLESS you with unique items for your home and gift giving needs and to BLESS you with the knowledge that YOU are as important as the odd sparrow in God's eyes. Have a blessed day and I"ll see you on Wednesday!

GREEN Pink Friday

Just a quick little post to remind you that we are celebrating a very green Pink Friday this week. The theme is reuse, recycle, reclaim, repurpose, and basically keep things clean and green! To celebrate this event, I have some wonderful special pricing on several items and have placed them in the Pink Friday category on my site.

Please check out the wonderful Pink Friday shopping for April 17 at www.TheOddSparrow.com and at www.MakeMinePink.com and have lots of fun shopping and staying green!!!

WACKY WEDNESDAY...WEEK 1!!!

Wacky Wednesday...now what exactly is that? Well, it's a day when we get a little crazy around here. I will run Wacky Wednesday for the next few weeks, and if it's a success, well, we will just continue it thereafter. Are you ready to get a little crazy???

This week's Wacky Wednesday involves a little challenge...it's a scavenger hunt!

1. Go to my site at www.theoddsparrow.com
2. one pink item, one burgundy item, one green item, one multicolored item, and YOUR FAVORITE ITEM.
3. list these 5 items along with their price and email the list to me at oddsparrow@msn.com
4. on MONDAY i will pick a winner from the submissions, at random. if your name is selected you will receive a special offer on your favorite item.
5. ONE submission per person, please.

Remember...you have til Sunday night to submit your list. Enjoy! and best wishes!

Musings of a Mid-life Shop Owner

"It's the economy, stupid." ...an infamous quote from a former election. Hmmmm...is anyone saying that now? Of course! We all are, but no one is listening. Ahhhh...so much more reason to bury one's head in the sand. I, personally, do not understand it all. In fact, I do not want to understand it all because somehow it seems that if I did, I would personally be held responsible for all that is happening on the economic front. Oh, I know that's silly...you don't have to tell me. But don't you honestly agree? After all, if you alone had a grip on what is going on in the world, would YOU not feel responsible? This IS the United States of America, after all...we are supposed to KNOW how to run our economy!

Well, truth is, I am of late trying to live in blissful ignorance. And to be honest...it works for me. I am enjoying turning OFF the news. Oh, don't get me wrong...I KNOW what is going on around me. I am just on some level IGNORING it. And THAT, my friends, is the secret to a stress-free, happy-go-lucky life. IGNORING the crappola. Yeppers! I understand that you may be thinking that this poor old gal has lost her last marble...and you may be right on some level. But what you are not acknowledging is that I have never had that many marbles to begin with and therefore, have learned to live without said marbles. It is a wonderful life!

So now, back to the economy. I plug away. I ignore it. I KNOW it is there...believe me...I hear the reports, and turn them off after a while. Blissful ignorance. But I press on. Onward and upward. I am plowing right through it and I hope you are too. First of all, I am STILL keeping a watchful eye out for a new brick and mortar location for my shop. Haven't found the "perfect" place yet...there may never be one of those (that's a whole other post)...but there will be one that is optimal and I will find that sooner or later.

Secondly, I continue to provide a wide selection of most excellent and unique products for you. I know that pricing is sometimes an issue for you. That is why I offer discounts and specials on our already well-priced merchandise. The Odd Sparrow is one place where you can find the most creative and one of a kind items for your home and gift-giving needs at great prices.

Thirdly, despite my lack-of-physical-presence (i.e. a brick and mortar location), I am here 24/7 with awesome shopping specials, unique products, and lots of fun. You get the best of shopping without leaving home. Best of all, if you are like me, you can do it in your jammies!

So, while I am plugging happily away at my business, won't you join me in some of the greatest shopping there is online? Please log in to http://www.theoddsparrow.com/ and treat yourself to some great spring decor today...and let me know if you find any marbles. I might be needing them later. Oh...and by the way...the coupon code below on my April 1st post is good til the end of the month,...no foolin'... so enjoy!

Wacky Wednesday!

Guess what? I have decided that we need some FUN around here!!! Every WEDNESDAY I will be providing a little fun and excitement. Here's the deal....

1. You must come to my blog right here for your instructions.
2. There may involve something on my site, so be prepared to hop on over there.
3. There will be prizes on a MONTHLY basis, or even MORE FREQUENTLY...depending on the event/game.

SOOOOOOOOOO...you don't want to miss this...no way, no how! MARK YOUR CALENDAR!!! We start next week, April 15. I am SURE you need a little fun on tax day, now don't you???

Happy Spring!

Here is your spring coupon code that I promised in the newsletter:

BLOGREADER

Just type in this code at checkout and you will receive $5.00 off your purchase of $25.00 or more! It is my spring celebration for all of you blog readers out there. This code is good til the end of April, but you might just want to get started now...before your favorites disappear!

Hungry?

Last time I shared with you a little bit of what my ds has been involved in with his youth group. Today, I would like to share a bit more because I am so proud of these kids.

Once a year, our youth group of approximately 140 kids, does the 30 hour Famine benefiting World Vision. During this time the kids go without any food from lunchtime on Friday through 6 pm on Saturday, when they break their fast during the worship service with communion. This is actually a fund raiser for hungry kids around the globe. As a matter of fact, our church is the second highest fundraiser in the nation for this particular outreach. This is a real testimony of the love of God displayed in our children. This is the link for the project. You will find it touching to see what kids all over the country are doing:

http://www.30hourfamine.org/

The purpose of the fast is to raise money, as I previously mentioned, but also to raise awareness. During this time they are usually visited by someone from World Vision who will talk about the needs of hungry children throughout the world. They have some time of reflection and worship on Friday evening and then they will end the evening with glow bowling. At this point they head off to various homes to sleep for a while.

In the morning, the kids meet back at church to receive their service project assignments. They spend Saturday meeting needs in their local community, doing everything from cleaning and yardwork to cooking for hungry people in the area (all while they are not eating). This year, my son had a wonderful assignment where he was able to use one of his many talents. He and some friends were sent to a nursing home where their band played for the residents. They took their accoustic instruments (a bit easier for the elderly to handle) and played and sang to them. Last year his service project included cleaning at a nursing home, where he found himself climbing a ladder to dust a chandelier. But these kids do not just spend their times at nursing homes. Some were assigned to homes for unwed mothers where they cleaned and played with the children.

Saturday afternoon the kids meet back at church for some games. My son was not able to participate in these games as he had to practice with the band for the worship service that they ended the event with at 6 pm. Such a wonderful and moving experience this service was. It was a blessing to be a part of it.

This event as thus far raised a total of over $23,400.00. Now, the goal is $34,000.00, so these kids have a way to go, but they do not stop bringing in donations for another month. This is where they are able to see a big boost in giving. As testimony of this event gets around, hearts are touched and lives are blessed.

It is my prayer that these kids would meet and exceed their goal. All of our youth events are paid for by the kids so that the entirety of monies raised will go straight to World Vision to feed hungry children. World Vision has a very low administrative cost and thus is able to send 87% of all donations straight to those who need it most. BUT...in addition to this, all donations this year will be multiplied 5x by federal grants, so your donation will go a very, very long way.

If you are blessed with a full pantry and a meal on your table this evening, I would ask that you consider donating to this wonderful cause. It will bless you abundantly to know that you are helping to put food in the belly of a starving child. You can make your donation through this link:

http://www.30hourfamine.org/portal/onlinegiving/donate/46909340-009

Please know that this is a worthy cause and excellent organization, which I have personally worked with for many, many years. Know that you are blessing others through this donation. And above all, pray that we might make a difference in the lives of these children through this effort.

Do you know what today is?

OH...I ALMOST FORGOT! I AM SO SORRY...I WROTE THE POST BELOW, BUT NEGLECTED ONE VERY IMPORTANT THING. SO, I AM ADDING IT HERE AT THE TOP SO THAT NO ONE WILL MISS IT.

MY 16 YEAR OLD SON IS GOING TO BE DOING THE 30 HOUR FAMINE THIS WEEKEND ALONG WITH OUR YOUTH GROUP. 140 TEENS WILL BE GOING WITHOUT FOOD FROM NOON ON FRIDAY UNTIL SATURDAY EVENING AROUND 6 PM. DURING THIS TIME THEY WILL BE DOING VARIOUS FUN ACTIVITIES AS WELL AS SERVICE PROJECTS IN THE COMMUNITY. THIS EVENT BENEFITS WORLD VISION IN FEEDING HUNGRY CHILDREN ALL OVER THE WORLD. OUR CHURCH IS THE SECOND HIGHEST CONTRIBUTOR TO WORLD VISION THROUGH THIS EVENT IN THE COUNTRY. LAST YEAR, OUR TEENS RAISED OVER $38,000 WHICH WAS MULTIPLIED FOURFOLD BY GRANTS. THIS YEAR THEIR GOAL IS $34,000 WHICH WILL BE MULTIPLIED FIVE TIMES BY GRANTS. PLEASE HELP THEM REACH THEIR GOAL BY DONATING ON BEHALF OF MY SON AT:

http://www.30hourfamine.org/portal/onlinegiving/donate/46909340-009

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR HELPING US TO HELP WORLD VISION FEED CHILDREN AROUND THE WORLD. THANK YOU FOR HELPING MY SON MEET AND EXCEED HIS FUND RAISING GOALS.

MARCH FIRST! I know....no big deal. Especially not to those of us who are expecting SNOW. BUT as are now only 3 weeks out from the official start of spring, the countdown begins. So, what better way to countdown the days til spring than with the beginning of National Craft Month? Seriously. I learned today that March is National Craft Month. During this otherwise windy month, I will be needing my craft projects to keep me entertained, if nothing else. So I emailed the lady at church and asked her to deliver some crochet patterns to my hubby's mailbox. You see, the ladies at church make prayer shawls for the sick, linus blankets for infants in need, guideposts sweaters for the needy, and little baby blankets for the babies that are baptized, among other things. Yes, I shall be a busy beaver!

Now, in case you did not know that I can and do crochet quite a bit, I have been doing so since I was a little kid. I don't remember exactly how old I was when I learned, but I do remember it being in grade school. I know this because in 4th grade I had a purple and white poncho that my mom made for me. The day that I learned how to crochet was the day that my mom went (with my grandmother) to a friend's house to learn how to make ponchos. I happened to be along for the ride and the lady gave me some yarn and a needle and started me on a practice piece. Well, I practiced and practiced and eventually I got to the point where I could crochet without even looking at my hands. I would sit outside with my dolls and my yarn and needle and crochet. Ok...so it was probably at least 39 years ago. I don't want to show my age, but you need to know...it was a loooooooooooooooooong time ago.

Well, I am still crocheting. You will see some of my favorites on my site: http://www.theoddsparrow.com/ . What am I talking about? The boa scarves, of course! They are so luxurious to wear as they are made of sueded yarn and so very soft. You will feel so feminine when you surround yourself in their curly softness!

So....what crafty projects will YOU be involved in this month?

A Few New Items...for SPRING...

...if spring EVER gets here! First up are two new items to my site. These will both carry you right through to the warm summer months. The basket of stars is always a favorite. This spring green wire basket is filled with 8 beautiful stars, 5 green and 3 blue. The green stars are scented with Garden Breeze, a fresh, clean scent that you are going to just love as it transports you to memories of beautiful days in the sun. The blue stars carry the awesome scent of Spring Rain...what could be more exhilerating? These stars will look great on a little candle dish but look stunning floating in a bowl of water, pond, or pool. They can be found at a special introductory price on my website: http://www.TheOddSparrow.com

Next up are the Scented Pinecone Sachets, found exclusively at my webshop:http://www.TheOddSparrow.com. These beauties are each a minimum of 4 inches long and are hand dipped in wax scented with Lavender-Vanilla. They come three per pack and are offered in this trio of beautiful colors. They make a great gift!

And now for a little preview of what is coming next. I will be listing these items this week. The grubby jar set is perfect indoors or out and will come with a tealight for each jar to get you started. Imagine how adorable your table will look with these little buggies to decorate it!

Another item that I will be listing this week (as I play catch up with my site) are these adorable little Painted Ladybug Pillows. The little painted patch is stitched onto a pillow made with this colorful Waverly brand fabric. This cheerful pillow always reminds me of a picnic...how about you?

Oh...I have soooooo much more to show you, but remember...this is JUST a preview! You will have to keep checking my blog and site for all of the other new items I am currently listing. You will NOT be sorry as you ready your home for spring!

Hope everyone has a grrrrrrrrrrrrrreat week and gets their spring cleaning done...or at least started!

It's about time...for a PREVIEW!

It is so good to be back after all of the trade show craziness. I promised a few of you a little peek at my fall pillow designs. Hope you like them!