G.I.Junker

HEY....REMEMBER ME?? ; )

2010-07-06T06:50:00.000-07:00

It's been a long while since I've posted something.
I think sometimes that what I have to contribute is
nothing much compared to others.
Posting pics along with my words and keeping
it all coinciding has been a chore for me since I'm
computer illiterate!! Seems that my blog is a
bit messy compared to others....but I'm still a
work in progress!! We all are a work in progress...
each day God brings something to our hearts or minds
and we realize that he's never, ever done with us!!
So....as I end my personal pity party by realizing that
I'll constantly be striving, learning and progressing....
I still have time to learn how to blog correctly! ; } and
hopefully, I'll still have some followers who have an
interest in reading my babblings!! Hope your 4th
was awesome and that you made some great memories!
Take care of yourself and one another......GIGI ; }
Thought I'd share a pic of Samsam...he's definitely
mamas boy...my constant shadow and such a snuggly
cuddler....his presence makes my life better and
more fulfilling. I just love the big ole schmooooz!!!

Sometimes, stories have even more stories to tell

2009-09-22T09:22:00.000-07:00

I've been admiring a piece of artwork for many
years now. I finally decided to stop and take a
picture to share with other "junk lovers" and as my
luck would have it....my doggone batteries died on
my camera!!!

Actually, it wasn't that bad because as I was giving
my camera a piece of my mind, out walks the lady
who lived there!! I explain that I was trying to
take a picture of her bird but my camera wasn't
cooperating and she begins to tell me the story of
how it came to be in her front yard!!

Seems that about 4 years ago, she had open heart
surgery and when she was well enough to go home,
she came to find that her brother who lived down
south had found her this unique piece and sent it
as a get well present.

If you look close enough you can see that it's made up
of old tin cans and the like. She said it was really rusty
when it first arrived and she thought it would be alot
prettier painted...so each year, she gives him a nice new
coat!

For her it resembles, a loving brother, her favorite item
to collect but moreso....her triumph in health....and what
can be better than that?! Hope you enjoy him as much as
I do!!! Have an awesome day...........................GIGI ;}

Gifts from the heart

2009-09-21T05:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked the 14th anniversary of the
Caravan of Bears, it also marked the 1st run that
my husband and youngest daughter attended. It
was special to them both because it benefitted a
hospital that she has been admitted to many
times over the last 6 years! It's sponsored by
a local Harley Davidson in cooperation with
our childrens hospital.The main idea is to
volunteer to give up a day to ride your motorcycle
and donate an entry fee, bear (or other stuffed
animal) to the hospital to benefit the kids.

It was a wonderful turnout, great atmosphere and
comaraderie. There were people from all walks of life
joining together to aid the sick kids in our communities
and it was something beautiful to be a part of.

My husband/daughter had no idea that we (my older
daughter-I) were hiding amongst the crowd to surprise
them when they arrived. We took alot of pictures as the
cycles began to arrive and I'd guess there was about 12-
1400 people there!!! The ride lasted about 1 1/2 hours
and was police escorted, along with an ambulance carrying
a Santa to hand out the bears and of course, a life-sized bear
rode up on the very first motorcycle. What a sight of
helicopters, children smiling, cycles roaring and sunny
skies above!!

My husband was a non-stop smile....ear to ear the entire
time they were dedicating the gifts and all he could say was,
we will be doing this every year from now on!!

Sometimes, what we think is a little gesture can mean the
world to its recipient...in what small way have you changed
the world around you today?? Take care............GIGI ;}

S.n.a.i.l. M.a.i.l. mailbox!!

2009-08-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

Went to a rummage sale put on by the area Boy
Scouts. It was good will offering. I found some
cute things for a friends campsite to store plates,
napkins, cups and silverware in and also a few old
mailboxes for myself.
Decided to paint one and turn it into a message
box for my front door area. While cleaning it, I
discovered it was full of old beehives!! After
removing those, I primed and painted it. Then
tried my hand at painting a snail with letter in its
mouth and titled it "Snail Mail" (it's still missing
something....but, I don't know what short of
starting over again!! HELP???)
Have an incredible evening!! ****GIGI****

Craigslist and Bambi (s)

2009-08-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

I saw a post on Craigslist and decided to try to claim
the items listed. As luck would have it, I was the first
to respond and the lady told me that I could have it
all if I liked.
We drove quite awhile until we reached their home
which was back a long drive and nestled in the woods.
As we approached their plantation style home we
kidded about needing a gun to get the "fake deer" on
the lawn. That's when the youngest daughter said.....
guys, the head moved, we were like "uh, yea sure"!!!
But...sure enough....those were real deer....a mommy and
2 babies. They strolled as if we weren't even there...it
was amazing!!
Here's some of my booty for the day.....besides some
nice up close pics of deer, I picked up an old twin-sized
blue metal head-footboard, 2 cabinets and 2
old hard-shelled suitcases. They will soon be turned
into doggie beds and garden benches and some much
needed storage in my basement!!
I love my home but after being that close to nature
it makes me long for that log cabin home in the woods!
Have a gorgeous evening.......................*GIGI*..............

Scavenger Hunt

2009-08-14T16:13:00.000-07:00

Both of my daughters are in volleyball and getting
ready to start playing matches. One is in her 4th
year of playing while the other is beginning her very
first year.
To loosen the girls up and get them more acquainted
and comfortable around their team mates, the coaches
decided to do some little fun relays and even a scavenger
hunt today.
The youngest girls team had to make and then eat peanut
butter and jelly sandwiches and drink a glass of water.
You're saying...so what? Well, they had to do so while
all of them were blind-folded and their chosen team-mate
had to do the feeding and holding of the glass!! LOL ; O
WHAT A MESS!!!!
The older girl took part in the scavenger hunt and its
directions were quite easy...told them places to go, things
to do and each situation had to show their volleyball some-
where in the photo! You're saying...so what? Well, they
were told what to look for but had to figure out places to
go that would allow them to get in all the different scenarios
within a limited amount of time!! One look at their pictures
and you'd think they had days to do it but they only had a few
short hours. They loaded the pics onto disks and each team
will show off their finds the next practice they have. After
looking at hers, I'd love to see what all the other girls chose
to do!! Looks like tons of fun!!!
Maybe we should have a junk scavenger hunt??
Take care and have a good weekend!! GIGI ; )

True junkers will appreciate this piece!!

2009-08-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

First, I must apologize for not being able to capture
this piece of art in full functioning capability!! 2 of the
4 sections were not working the day we snapped
these shots.

This beautiful artwork is sitting in the main lobby
of the hospital we frequent many times a year.
Not only has our daughter had to stay but her doctor
is in an adjacent building...so, this fun machine has been
a blessing and comfort, to us as well.

The artist who designed this took many discarded
items and positioned and tweaked them to flow so
smoothly into the next. Not only is it a visual piece of
art but also one that makes unique noises!! As each ball
hits a loop, twist, bucket, chime or prong it lets out
funny noises. You can hear it long before you ever
get to it....which brings out the curiousity seekers young
and old!!

I wish I knew exactly who made this so that I could interview
them and see what other beautiful things they've created but
for now, all I can say is that it's marked with Rhoads 1993. I
hope you enjoy looking at the parts of this awesome artwork
and maybe you can imagine the sounds it makes for all
the kids who look forward to seeing and hearing it each day.

Sometimes a small gesture, means the whole world to
its recipient!! Have an awesome day!! **GIGI** ;)

China in Bloom

2009-08-06T12:58:00.000-07:00

These flowers were made from Goodwill finds.
I'm happy with how they turned out but think
next time I'll try to score some free rebar for the
stems. The scrap wood is good for adding leaves,
raffia, bows and a bigger area to attach the plates
but it's alittle hard to put in the ground!!

I really didn't have anything to make a nice hole
in the center of the plate so I had to use a strong
glue to adhere it, also.

I love the way the holes are in the pot cover. Think
I'll eventually add some larger pip beads out of the
individual holes. I love the colors circled around the
second plate as well...so spring and summery!!

Things went well at my daughters appointment.
While she still remains higher than she should be
on the A1C test (her age goes about a 6-6.5) I'll take
a 9.2 over a 14.9 anytime!!
Take time to smell the flowers today!! **GIGI** ; )

Recycling old brown bags!!

2009-08-05T05:30:00.000-07:00

I'm not too big on decoupaging pictures of things onto
objects but found that I love to work with old grocery
bags and packing paper!! (would that make me like the
kids who would rather open the present, sit it aside and
play with the box....LOL) ; )

I dismantled an old wooden rack/shelve that I used to hold
cookbooks. I used the metal sides for angels wings, the
wooden back as accent on another shelf and it left me with
the shell that encases a drawer.

I just ripped up some old grocery bags and crinkled them
good...mixed up some glue/water to a consistency that I
liked and began slapping the pieces on. When it was totally
dry, I added 2 coats of polyurithane to seal and add some
shine and attached the star and pip berry.

I dipped the star in glue and rolled it around in some spices
that I threw together to give it a grungy appearance and
voila'........my daughter has a new jewelry box!!!! Who
knows what it will be in its next life when she tires of it!?
But....that's the great thing about recycling!!

Have a beautiful day!! (cross your fingers for us....my daughter
goes to her Endocrinologist today and we are hoping for a much
improved A1C test....that is the big test that tells how well her
diabetes has been in control for the past 3 months!!) GIGI ; )

Around the campfire!!

2009-07-31T17:07:00.000-07:00

Our youngest daughter is a Type 1 Diabetic.
Diagnosed at age 7, this is her 6th year of
dealing with it.

Every year we sign her up for a few camps
held about 1-2 hours from our home. She
LOVES to go because not only does she have
fun but everyone there is "just like her"
which is very important.

Each camp holds their own form of ceremony
to mark the end of their stay and they give
each camper a "nickname" and wouldn't you
know that the first year she was Miss Giggles
but every time after....she gets tagged as Miss
Storyteller!!!! (AND....not at one camp but
BOTH!!)

This year they did a little skit about trolls
invading the campers and getting the person
sleeping outside the tent. After she is awakened
several times by these trolls, she asks to switch
places with the girl inside the tent....and the skit
ends with the trolls then deciding to leave the
girl outside alone and this time get the one inside
the tent.....it was pretty silly and cute, too.

I'm so glad that our daughter has a place to go
and let herself be free....to enjoy playing and
making new friends....it's so important,
especially to a child who has an illness that
can set them apart on a daily basis. I also
appreciate each and every volunteer that
helps to run these camps....it takes so many
to keep it going all summer and they do it from
their hearts!!

If you have never checked out a site about
diabetes please try looking up The Juvenile
Diabetes Research Foundation....it's an eye
opener and you will be amazed at the things
they accomplish!! Wish you well....GIGI

My Inspiration

2009-07-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

Some places tend to bring out the best in us.
For me, that place would be Peninsula, Ohio.
It hosts the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Whether you like to hike, bike, picnic, fish,
eat at one their local restaurants or just sight
see. This is a place that you will definitely
enjoy!!

They have the most wonderful bike trail
called the Towpath Trail that stretches over
100 miles...(of course we've never made the
entire trip (lol...ha) but eventually we'll see
most or all of it!!) It is such a historical place
and it's very evident how things were trans-
ported years ago when you visit the many locks
along the Ohio and Erie Canalway.

Two other areas of interest are The Ledges, it's
a beautiful rock landscape that overlooks all
the gorgeous forestry and you can see the most
amazing sunsets from here!! Also, Brandywine
Falls offers such beautiful scenery. From wooden
decking you can walk through the trees and rocks
while a waterfall rushes down the side of the
cliff. Many people go there to take wedding pictures
from their lower deck....if ever you visit...it's obvious
to see why!!

My picture taking isn't the greatest to capture
all this place has to offer but hopefully it will inspire
you as well!! Have a wonderful evening.....GIGI.....

My "blinged-out stained glass window"

2009-07-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm hoping my oldest daughter (15 yrs)
will like the way this window turned out
because it's going in her bedroom!!

I not only used the window and faux stained
glass but added a piece of mirror, outlined
it with one of great grams bead necklaces,
added 2 silver pendants, 2 clip-on earrings
and a scarf tie once I removed the backs.
I then took one of great grams "far-out"
belts and fashioned it to hang the picture
on the wall. (wondering if great gram was
a wild child....after seeing that belt..ha..
Uh....anyhow!!)

Have an awesome evening and take care..*GIGI*

Just engaged for now!

2009-07-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Sometime ago, I found these pieces at the Goodwill and
a garage sale...$2 or less for both, I believe. And just
recently the girls great gram gave us a boxload of her
old jewelry (costume and tons of beads).

Fast forward to this morning, I introduced these cute
things to one another and am hoping this engagement
turns out to be an awesome marriage!! Once I get my
project done, I'll post a pic.....lets cross our fingers that
I can work some junker magic and it doesn't end up in
divorce!! lol ;O

It's raining here today but am thinking positive
thoughts of how pretty my flowers will look tomorrow!!
ta-ta ***GIGI***

MORE THAN "BARGAINED FOR" AT GOODWILL!

2009-07-23T10:11:00.000-07:00

Stopped in at Goodwill this morning to browse
for some t-shirts for my girls. They both started
volleyball practice and that means color coordinating
the team at the 2 a days, every single day. (in other
words, alot of extra laundry to do!!)

In the background I heard phrases spoken that
alarmed me and I listened more intently. A woman
saying "she's losing color", "can you hear me", then
began saying her name many times. My feet moved
in the direction when I heard her scream...."she's not
breathing"!!!

As I ran in to offer help, I saw it was a mother leaning
over her teenage daughter, as she lay sprawled on the
floor....not breathing. The mom then asks if anyone
knows CPR...of which I do but as I took a second to
respond another lady jumped in and began the breathing.

With that being covered, my instincts of being a
mother who's youngest suffers from seizures brought
on by diabetes, my first thought was to check her blood
sugar and after opening my girls testing kit and having
everything fly across the floor of Goodwill, I managed
to get it all together and get her tested, I realized
that it was in the normal range.

It was like de-ja-vu for me...and a scary reality
check for my daughter who looked on. I see the
actions/reactions by her and myself but this
was the first time our daughter was able to visually see
how she gets during a seizure and it alarmed her! The
clenched fists, unresponsiveness, becoming combative,
sweating, feverish and the terror of mom hovering over
top unsure she's doing enough to help until the ambulance
arrives.

I helped get the girl to her side as she began to throw
up when coming to. I asked someone to bring wet, cool
rags. We just slid over the racks to make the aisles more
passable and when no one had yet come with the rags, we
borrowed something off one rack and a man gave me a
bottle of water...it sufficed!!

I began asking the girl her name, where she went
to school....just anything to see if I got a normal response.
She just wanted mom and held tight...I held her other
hand and she began to calm down until the paramedics
arrived. She was terrified, moreso at the prospect of
going to the emergency room.....I can't blame her!

I did overhear her tell her mom that when she quit
breathing that "she had seen all kinds of different
things" yet she couldn't describe it to her, she just made
an unusual face as if to question if she really did see
what she thought she had... and it made me believe
she had a brief glimpse of Heaven!

I'm praying that she's fine and heading to her home,
I so badly wanted to go up to the hospital to offer her
mom help but didn't want to get in the way. I know how
troubling times like these can be for all involved and
any bit of kindness and hope can work miracles to those
waiting to hear news. I'm just glad that God put me at
that particular place and I could offer some help....be
it ever so small.....and wouldn't you know it that the
good samaritan who provided CPR vanished into thin
air as soon as she came to... mom turned to thank her
and she was not to be found!!
Am I the only one with chill bumps? "Guardian Angel"??? ^j^

Have a beautiful day and remember that God puts us
where he wants us.....sometimes we find out why, other
times we may never know. ^j^ GIGI ^j^

YES, NO, MAYBE?

2009-07-15T05:54:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's not just me? I buy stuff with great
intentions of making things and then days, wks,
months go by and it hasn't moved!
Here's just a sampling of finds that have yet
to be finished (heck, even started!!)
3 pieces of white crib-free from curb and 2
pieces of twin bed from a moving Goodwill that
I paid $3 for...both will be cute benches, huh!?
This old window, mirror, planter, and tray that
has 6 swinging wire baskets, all for like $5, maybe!
Then there's this light fixture that Goodwill had
out for $8...I envisioned it as a gazing ball and
nice wire planter once filled with things.
There's so much more laying in my garage and
basement...it's not that I can't find the time
or lack visions of what to turn it into...so, why
not be finished and onto the next project?
P.R.O.C.R.A.S.T.I.N.A.T.I.O.N., plain and simple!
I know what I want to do with them, I just don't know
how I want to do it! ;)
If you see uses for them other than the obvious,
please leave me a comment, maybe you're vision
will spark my plug and I will get busy creating!
Please tell me I'm not the only one who does this!
Have a great day, Gigi

THE "ONE: THAT STARTED IT ALL

2009-07-12T06:29:00.000-07:00

One day several years ago, my husband and I stopped in
at our local shelter with intentions of "just looking and
playing with the animals".
Husband wanted to show me a larger dog and while he
was cute and playful, would be way too large for our
home....AND we weren't there to get a dog, anyhow....
just to look!
As we were about to leave, he said...oh, hon, come and
look at this one....I saw him the other day when in here
and the poor thing looks bad! Peering in the crate, I
had no clue what type of dog I was even looking at, it
was so small, sadness and fear in its face.
I got him out and he immediately glued himself into
the crook of my neck and weakly clung as tight as
he could. I knew that second that we'd be taking him
home if only to foster him to better health.
At the desk we found out that his name was Jo-Jo and he
was a miniature dapple dachshund.....at about 4 lbs
instead of the 12 he should have been....it was hard to
tell that breed in his looks. I could see and feel every
single bone from his nose to his tail tip!! I cried nearly
every time I held him.
He was so afraid of everything, he didn't want to eat
as if he lost his will but I tried all I could and eventually
got him to eat from the floor, then my hand and last came
from a dish...he'd never had a dish before!! I think he was
raised with birds because he felt more comfortable
scrounging pieces off the floor.
The lady at the shelter told us that when he was
surrendered, the owners told them that they were
intentionally trying to starve him to death, they didn't
want him!! How can people be so mean....especially
after paying money for a breeded dog...treat him so
terribly....I have never seen any reason or action
that would cause them to harm him, he's a doll-baby,
such a beautiful, loving little spirit.
He was and still is terrified of our basement door, steps
and shakes fiercely when near any of them...as if he'd
been kicked down them before.
Slowly he came to trust me and grew in size, immediately
I knew he was to be mine and called the shelter a day later
and told them we were adopting him. He definitely needed
a name change....Jo-Jo was NOT for him, so, as I took him
out to potty...I'd catch myself saying, hey you lil Short guy
and he started to identify it with himself....so came the name
Shorty and as he grew, my husband began referring to him
as a man...."Shorty Man".
We believe he was living with an elderly man, woman or couple
because he absolutely HATES anyone with gray hair, especially
men!! He may be small but he can rip through skin like it's butter!
And he has several times when he's felt threatened...my husband
is afraid to clean his ears or clip his nails....with good reason, he
snapped him and brought blood....those little curved teeth can
do some damage! :)
We don't know his true age, we're guessing he's about 5 now,
maybe 1-2 when we got him? All I know is that he has stolen
my heart and that is all that matters to me!! We are inseparable!
He loves to snuggle between me and the cushions on the furniture
as if he's in a cave. He loves to play ball and gets obsessive-
compulsive when his toys are put up! He also loves to play hide
and seek....usually can find him in the hall-kitchen or bathroom.
He is a lover....he cannot fall asleep (me, either) unless he's licking
on my leg....it relaxes us both, I think :)
I can't imagine life without him, he is my heart and soul...such a
big and wise dog for so small of stature!!
He has issues with swelling, rashes and allergies. He gets
nervous and throws up from time to time. But, he has
been such an asset to my home...I brought him home to
save him and I think he has ended up saving me!! He has
given me a new cause to fight for.
One of his mostendearing traits is that he pulls himself
on his tummy, dragging his hind quarters as if he has a
boo-boo and as soon as you rub his back, he wiggles his
little booty from side to side. He also is a bow-legged
dachshund...but it just adds to his charm!! Unlike
Samsam, his dapple is strictly silver streaks and the rest
is black and tan. His chest is so huge, it nearly drags
the ground and it is completely smooth and free from
hair....yet, he is so very soft!
One of his many nicknames is Bubby (for baby buddy)
and yes...he was the weiney dog that started my love
affair with that breed....and brought me to find out
about the ALL AMERICAN DACHSHUND RESCUE
and many others across the United States. I don't have
any pictures of him in the early stages of his life in our
home (that may be a good thing considering how awful
he looked) but have several cutesy recent ones to share
with you. Take care and have an awesome day!! Gigi

One tough chick!!

2009-07-11T20:43:00.000-07:00

This story is about our only girl dachshund, Bindi Lou. She came
to us at around 6 mos. old, she's now going on 2!! Her story isn't
as horrible as her brothers but the home she was surrendered
from kept her caged over 14 hrs a day, then onto the night who
knows how many more?!
Her life started out as Chloe but since I had a problem keeping
that name due to a great niece being named the same...
I chose Bindi...(partly because I love the crocodile hunters
daughter and mostly because it is Australian Aboriginal
meaning "Little Girl")
She was about 5 lbs and a black and tan mini
dachshund. She's so silky and shiny and has the cutest
little marking under her chin in the shape of a triangle.
Her ears are so much more bigger in proportion to her
body and she loves to chew her toenails!! LOL no need to
worry about doing them for her! She also is a pigeon-
toed dog!! I kid you not...it's so doggone cute!
She was driven several legs from Tenn. several
people donated their free time to drive her certain legs
of the trip. I instantly melted at her presence....meanwhile
my boy mini dachshund....DIDN"T!! He wanted to throw
down the instant he laid eyes on her! He fought me the
entire trip back from nearly Kentucky!!
To lighten up her nerves, my daughter gave her a snack
about 1 hr into our trip and she didn't want to lay
anywhere but in my arms while I drove. So, miles
past by as she weighted my arms down until I could
take no more and at a light I lifted her up to give over
to my daughter when I realized that she had severely
swollen lips!! She resembled a platypus!! I immediately
pulled over and called the rescue to see if this was just
normal for her, being told no....we agreed it was the snack
that had caused it....so, no more buying that kind! ;)
Her next trick was to climb into the front passenger
seat, squat and whiz all over it...potty-training issues!
But with a face like that.....how can you get mad? :)
All in all she's been a joy to have and I couldn't imagine
ever giving her up. She's the toughest little girl, too...
hard as nails, she can put all our dogs in their place. I
nicknamed her the "Flying Ninja" because she can
come clear outta left field and knock the boys for a
loop....her dark fur and sneaky looks remind me of a
ninja and the way she jumps looks like she's flying thru
the air!! And she makes a really low growl-yell that
sounds as if she's out for blood and they know to take
off in the other direction....fast!!
She's especially fond of Samsam....he's her chew toy and
her love muffin....depends on the time of day!! He outweighs
her by at least 6 lbs yet she can drag him all over the floor!!
He loves it!!
One of her most adorable features is her ability to sit
straight up on any surface and hold it for the longest
periods of time....she's just adorable!! Whether she
wants to get leashed up to go outside, beg for a
snack, get on your lap.....it's up on the hinds and we
are jello in her hands!! ;)
My husband sings the song Crazy to her (Patsy Cline)
and it makes her go wild....she will nip on his neck and
ears until he quits singing!! Of course he doesn't
sing it the way Patsy or Leann Rimes does which is
probably the reason she uses her teeth to rebel!!!
She's such a beautiful little girl, I can't imagine
my life without her....she is so fun to have around!!
I'm so glad that God directed me to the rescues
web-site that day....I looked at her picture every
single day until she was home with us.....I fell in
love with her the second I saw those sad eyes and
those big old ears.....look for yourself at her baby
picture....could you pass her over?
Have a great night and the next time I write, it
will be about the weiney dog that started my love
affair with the breed!! Take care.....Gigi***

Such a special boy!!

2009-07-09T12:24:00.000-07:00

One of my passions, is my dogs, especially the dachshunds. They
mean alot to me not in only how I acquired them but their
personalities are so different, it amazes me.
Instead of starting with the weiney dog that began my love affair,
I'm going to work in reverse and write about each one and what
they have done for me.
Samson Davis better known as "Samsam" came to us at the age of 5.
He's a tweenie dapple which means that he's not a standard or
mini... he's the best of both those worlds and weighs in at a
whopping 16 lbs!! The dapple is his coat, he has the most beautiful
markings ever. Blacks, browns, tans, whites, dotted with small
circles of beige and streaks of silvery blue. His eyes are the deepest
brown yet if you look at him in certain light, they look very blue....
and his right pupil is nearly triple the size of the left. He's definitely a looker! :)
He was being fostered in a home in Tennessee and the lady that
brought him to me in Cinncinati was from New York and she is a
member of THE ALL AMERICAN DACHSHUND RESCUE which
headquarters in Tennessee. She had just returned from the annual
DACSHUND DERBY held in TN. and was nice enough to bring
Samsam several legs of the trip, to meet me....and begin his new
life in our home.
Samsam was originally from Ohio and no one really knows his
whole story just that his life was a nightmare up until that moment.
He was leary in meeting me, yet the first thing she said to me
about him is "this fella has a beautiful smile". I would have to wait
until the next day to get a glimpse of it though as he was so pooped
from the driving and then the additional 5 hrs to my home...he slept
the entire trip!!
Samsam was incredibly dirty and looked unkempt so the first
thing I did was give him a bath, he was loving that!! (no, really
he was!) He paraded around the room so very proud of himself.
I made a vet appt. to have him checked out more thoroughly and
that's when we found the puncture to his paw from a fight prior to
leaving his foster home, it was seeping and swollen....he was a
trooper when they worked on it, though! Then came checking
out his mouth....we found that he only had 4 teeth left and was
currently on antibiotics for having recent extractions....
the fact that his tongue hung out one side of his mouth about
80% of the time just added to his charm!! The thing that really
got to us was the severe scar on his back....it looked as if
someone had either burnt or branded him and it was so deep
that no hair grew back. He cringes when near any kind of heat
and hunkers to the floor if you go near him. I just held him and
cried!! Not a day goes by that I don't hold him and kiss his
boo-boo's and thank God I now have him. He has completed my home!
At first, I thought we may have bit off more than we could chew
with him, he was very aggressive, overly attached to any food and
his dish, that he would fight to get to it. He squared off
with the other dogs and was somewhat anti-social. Honestly,
I don't know the exact moment that I went from thinking,
oh my....what have we gotten ourselves into to the first
glimpse I got in seeing what a complete and utterly charming,
loving and friendly guy he really is. All I know is that my
husband said....honey, I think you're kind of ignoring Shorty
and spending all your time with Samsam, lately. It hit me that
I was under this guys spell, I was totally in love with him
and all his silly, quirky behaviors. He has got to be the
most comical dog that we have!!! And he is by far, the
most huggable, squeezeable, lovable snuggler I have ever
had....he absolutely loves to cuddle....his nickname is
Snuggle-Bunny ;) (don't ask where that name came from cuz
I haven't a clue!) I have a zillion names for him...he is
such a sweetie pie, so very loving and lovable. I am so blessed
to have been the one God chose to give him to!! I appreciate,
respect and love him and I only wish that I had known about
him sooner because he would have been here in a loving home
and I could have had more time with him.....I expect us to grow
old together from this point on, he is truelly a special boy,
very protective of me, he will sit with his back to me as if he's
guarding me, even when we sleep in bed, his nose is to the
bottom so he can watch for intruders!! But any chance he gets
to snuggle up and be loved on...he's all over it!! One morning
my husband had been involved in an accident and I started to
cry, Samsam hunkered up to me and whined such a low
moan as if he was crying too and stuck right with me all day!!
We have alittle thing where I can pull on his ear with my mouth
and he immediately turns around and kisses me....it's too adorable!!!
I honestly believe that even if an animal has a few weeks to live if
someone is kind and willing to open their home and give it all the
love they have...it can somewhat make up to them, the awful life
they've had until that point! I can honestly say that I do not
believe in breeding animals for sell but I will certainly spend the
money to adopt one from a shelter or rescue site. I believe the
rescues do wonderful work in saving the lives of animals and
they are very professional in their interviewing of perspective
homes and making sure the fit is a good one!
The next time that you think of getting an animal, please
take a minute to check out the ALL AMERICAN DACHSHUND
RESCUE because they have beautiful dogs of all sizes,
shapes and ages that surely one will be "just for you".
http://www.allamericandachshund.org/
It just bothers me that someone could be so mean to an
animal. That others would stand idly by and knowing that
this has occured and not tell the authorities!! I truelly feel
that if this is how they treat the defenseless than I hate to see
how they treat family, friends and it's doing no favor by not
turning them in!!!
Dachshunds are a blast to own, each has a unique
personality of their own and are such lovers!! Have a
good day and keep their site in mind!! *Gigi*

Y.U.M.M.Y. and light fare!!!!

2009-07-08T06:17:00.000-07:00

My heading is "searching for art, no matter the form"
and in my opinion....a beautiful, colorful food dish
can fall under that category, too!! ;)
This post is just a small recipe that is pretty once
pulled together, quick, easy, light, tasty and absolutely
great for hot summer days, too!!!

You can add/subtract to make it your own but I'm
kind of partial to this version.

CREAMY GRAPE SALAD

1 1/2 lb. green grapes, halved
1 1/2 lb. red grapes, halved
1 jar (red) marachino cherries, halved
1-2 cups walnuts, chopped fine
4 oz. light cream cheese
8 oz. light sour cream
2 T. sugar free maple syrup
2 tsp. vanilla
2-3 packets of sweetener
1/4-1/2 c. skim milk

Wash and halve fruit, blot with paper towel
to remove excess water. In another bowl mix
remaining ingredients, then add fruit and toss
to coat well. Chill for about 1-2 hours
before serving. Find some adorable vintage glassware
to serve them up in like custard, sundae, tea cups, wine
glasses, just let your imagination go wild!! Toss on
extra walnut pieces just before serving and wait for all
the compliments to come your way!! LOL ;)

Hope you enjoy this as much as my family does!! Have
an awesome day!! Gigi ;)

HAPPY AND SAFE JULY 4TH WEEKEND

2009-07-03T18:53:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a project with you.
Years ago, I saw a sign that resembled the
saying on mine....LOVED IT, so I kinda copied
it. Instead of using a crackle from the store,
I mixed my own glue/water and went from there.
I think it turned out pretty cute and the piece
below it was just leftover from a wreath and other
projects....a few twists and add-ons and I have a
cute accent to the sign!! :)

Another item I'm sharing was picked up alittle while
ago at a thrift store. My husband actually spotted
it and brought it to my attention. I love it!! It's
a cast iron eagle that bears the logo of a company in
my state that makes heavy industrial pieces and been
in business over 100+ years!! After writing to the
company headquarters, I found out that there was only
200 of these made and they were given out to certain
individuals at a celebration they had back in 1981.
Soooo....I'm pretty happy about that....limited supply
as well as a piece of my states history!! Too cool!!
I think it was $5 well spent!!
I absolutely love Independence Day...the red, white
and blue are one of my favorite decorating themes...
my kitchen and dining room are proof of that!! Here's
a small display I set out...old insulators, bottles,
mini lamp, tied off with old flag remnants and a
flag..of course! ohh and couldn't forget my "chubby
little Uncle Sam"....he's just too darned cute!!
I hope everyone enjoys their fireworks display and has
a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!! Gigi ;)

A BELATED THANK YOU TO CHICCOTTAGEJUNK!

2009-07-02T15:28:00.000-07:00

Just before my computer went hay-wire...
I was bestowed with an award from another
junk lover "ChicCottageJunk" it's called the
Kreative Blogger and has some stipulations
that go with it....like:

*Naming 7 things that you love
*Link back to the blogger who named you
*Pick 7 other bloggers to pass it on to
*Leave a comment on their blogs about awarding them

First of all I'd like to thank you so very much
for thinking of my blog, I appreciate it!
Secondly, the rules sound pretty easy, huh? Well, it's not....
trust me :) lol I am just starting out in the blog world..so,
everything/everyone is pretty much new to me and waiting
to be found....so, I hope that I can come up with 7 to forward
this on to.

7 THINGS I LOVE

1...God for creating me and the world
2...My family for being unconditional
3...My dogs for their sheer beauty and humor
4...Freedom to do as I choose each day
5...Creativity to change things into a new personality
6...Volunteering my time and energy
7...Living in a slower paced environment allowing me to see
all the little beautiful things around me

To give props to the lady who gave me this award....stop in
and check out her blog before you get off the computer, folks!

http://www.chiccottagejunk.blogspot.com/

And now....the hardest part is passing it on.....hmmmm
let me think.....maybe I can give it to a few and later on
down the line, a few more until I reach 7? I know, I'm being
pretty sad right now but my mind cannot think :)

www.junkerrandi.blogspot.com

www.adayinthelifeofahillbilly.blogspot.com

www.vanessacovington.blogspot.com

www.talkingwhitetrash.blogspot.com

www.sweetpeahome.blogspot.com

www.simplymeart.blogspot.com

www.kattzcottage.blogspot.com

Well....now that wasn't so bad after all!! I'd
like to take a minute to acknowledge 2 others who
have made an impression on me and stretched my
creativity and imagination to another level.......

Margo the Robolady......her site gives me great
ideas and I love her sense of junking style and the
wonderful things she finds!! I also enjoy all the
projects that others turn in to her.

Ki Naussaur......for starting up the Junk Revolution
site that gives me and others who love junk, a place to
go to share, learn, ask questions, get answers and feel
completely at home!!

Happy Junking......Gigi!!!

YESTERDAY SHE HAD A DREAM.....

2009-07-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

It began about 20 some years ago. A vision that
was once seemingly far-reaching and un-obtainable,
just became a reality for one.

My only niece, now age 28...has always loved photo-
graphy...she was rarely seen without a camera in her
hands growing up. Totes atop totes full of images
she's snapped over the years...fill her spare room.
Anyone and everything is her subject.

Last August, she gave up her job in order to pursue
that dream. She relocated to Massachusetts to
enroll in The Hallmark Institute of Photography,
a ten month course that is believed to be the best
in the country.

During that time, she got to meet one of her all-time
favorite photographers and has learned so much more
about her craft. I don't think I've seen her more
happier with her life. She just graduated with the
class of 2009 and has recently posted her website. I
could not be more proud of her and her accomplishments.
I wish to share her unique talent with all of you.

Please visit her at http://www.kristaderrickson.com/

She does wonderful work but I am especially fond of
her architecturals and black and whites. She has a
style all her own, a great personality that is
carefree yet committed, she tunes into peoples
personalities and can draw out the real, the
humorous and the unseen to the eye.

Sometimes it takes a lifetime to reach your vision
but for this little girl....it took alot of guts and
10 months :)

What dream do you have that you have forgotten or
put aside? Life is short, life is scary but sometimes
we have to take that leap of faith into the unknown
to acquire what we've always wanted to know.

And by the way...it's good to be back on a working
computer and to share this story with you.
Have a good day and don't forget to "smile" you
never know where Krista may be hiding....Gigi :)

Spoiled or not spoiled...that's the question!

2009-06-04T12:07:00.000-07:00

I've been without my computer for nearly 3 weeks and even though I'm a "self-proclaimed computer illiterate" I sure am finding myself missing the old thing!

It really got me thinking about how quick and convenient our society has become. So much has changed even since I was a kid in the 60's and 70's....it's sometimes unreal!

We are one spoiled bunch whether we admit it or not. When we travel, do we hitch up the horses...take a bath, carry in water from the stream a half mile away or how about a quick dinner, ok...go kill it, dress it and we'll get it on hot coals!!

We sure are blessed, regardless our own personal situations. We have it so easy to past generations. I really look at the hardships my mother went through and I can now see why and how she did things the way she did...and now realize that I'm better off for it!

2009-05-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

Traveled about 1/2 hr from home to an auction today. I spent a whopping $2 on box lots of towels and another of bedding. Gotta be the cheapest bill I've ever had!!! Actually spent more at the yard sale across the street ($3) lol

It was miserably hot and I tried to squeeze myself into every crack and crevice that had shade but still managed to sweat like crazy!!

I posted about another auction that I went to last week and how it was a chore to get people to bid on things...well, this one not as bad but there were plenty of things being left due to no bids...this batch of luggage didn't even go for 25 cents!!!!! (I'm not into that type of junk or it would have been a steal.....think of all the dog beds you could make outta those!!)

One thing they were trying auction off was this cutie-patootie auctioneer....lol....if I wasn't married....I mighta had to put a bid in on him!!! ; ) This team of auctioneers are my absolute favorite around this area....they're just too funny and keep the day moving along swiftly!!

TIMES TO TREASURE....

2009-05-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

I'm sure nearly everyone remembers their 6th grade school trip!?!?
This week my oldest daughter and I are home alone while my husband is off with the youngest and her class to big old Washington, D.C.

I could have gone but that just isn't my cup of tea...on the other hand...dear husband lives for that stuff!! I was teasing with him about calling home every 2 seconds and low and behold...I've had to text them about 10 times and they probably weren't even an hour out!!

This daughter is Type 1 diabetic amongst other issues....and I am usually the one who provides about 99% of her care...so, it's actually a little vacation for me that it's on my husbands shoulders for awhile. But, worry wart me....came home and saw, she didn't finish her milk...then didn't eat all her toast, then forgot some clothes, then personal items like brushes, soap-etc....so, I had to let him know to be on the lookout for her blood sugar levels....and that he may need to purchase some items upon arrival.

Being home alone also gives me time to be with the oldest who's getting too big to spend time in the same room with us...or have more than a one word conversations or admit we're her parents, etc. I spent the day making her an entire batch of great grandma's custard (I say yuck!) but she LOVES it!! She'll be thrilled to know she doesn't have to share a bite of it with her sister or dad!!

I think we'll spend time taking walks-talks....going to see a movie or shop for something especially for her...it's hard being a teen....hard being the middle child but really hard being the sibling of someone who needs so much of their parents attention as her sister does and she never complains about it at all. I feel this week is just going to be about her.....100% total attention from mom....no distractions, no sharing! Maybe we'll make a special project together this week and I can share it with you?

What is your most favorite memory of childhood or of a time you spent with your own kids? I'd love to hear them all!!! It's a beautiful Tuesday....life is good!! Take care *Gigi*

FOR THE CLOCK LOVERS!!

2009-05-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

Made a trip to Goodwill and came away with a nice little cabinet to showcase my treasures at garage sales. It has a glass front, hinges to open and a latch to safeguard, nice wood!

I didn't take a picture of it because what was inside, was much more interesting!! Someone hand stitched this clock, added actual movements to it and put it in the box as a nice mantle clock!!

Now, this may be something old to fellow collectors, sewing enthusiasts, etc....but it's the first time I have seen this design....I thought it was adorable.....I'm sure clock lovers will agree!!

I will eventually put it for sale on my on-line garage sales and will include the battery box and hands, etc that came with it. (first I have to figure out how to work the shipping costs...etc to give everyone a good deal) lol :)

If you're interested, just drop me a line and I'll gladly send it your way!! $7 plus shipping.

The sun is shining, birds are singing, flowers are in bloom...what more can we ask?!?! *GIGI*

BOTH SIDES OF A FENCE.....

2009-05-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

Most times, I am thrilled to find and get a bargain. If it's free...hey all the better. But have to admit that yesterday I actually felt badly for the family that chose to auction their relatives things off.

I'm sure they chose that route believing it would be profitable and I've been to many auctions that have without a doubt seen high profits. But, as I looked into their faces, I was kind of upset for them myself.

You could tell that they were regretting their decision. The auctioneer also made comments and gestures to the fact that he felt he was not doing them justice.

Usually it gets into a bidding war or you're up against people who just want and will bid to get, regardless if a deal or not. But this auction was different, it was as if they were begging people to give a bid, even doubling up the offer with other items seemed to fall flat. Many things were left sitting.

I watched a 5 piece furniture set go for $25!!!! Beautiful Tiffany lamps for mere pennies!!! Unique and authentic pieces of turqouise jewelry....an entire boxload went for like $10.50!!!

I did make off with 2 adorable tables which I have plans to use on the back deck when finished...3 nice sturdy pieces of old gardening tools that will be finding their way into birdhouses and I also got 2 office chairs that I really didn't need and about 7-8 pictures that I couldn't pass up for a $1-all.

As I checked out, I commented that I would love to go to the local antique auction and bid against the same type people as were there today...the lady looked at me as if she had no clue things weren't going well outside. I let her know that it was going for little...if at all....she seemed uninterested and unconcerned. It bothered me, I guess...they may have done the same or better just having a garage sale!!

I have never seen such a ho-hum, no action auction....ever!!! While I enjoy the pieces I did win...I kind of cannot forget the relatives faces...the sadness, the surprise at how little they were getting for their beloveds things...or maybe it was shock and disbelief.

I don't know...maybe I'm too sentimental or aware of my surroundings. Maybe I should just take my winning bids and run....but I know that I will not look at the items I bought without remembering their faces....I know this may be a sign of the times...frugality at it's best or maybe worst?

Todays question is this.......Have you ever felt badly for getting something so cheaply? I guess that I finally saw what both sides of that fence looks like......sometimes it is joyful....others not as good.
Have a good weekend.....*Gigi*

SPRING CLEAN UP TIME!!

2009-05-12T03:23:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping everyone had a lovely Mothers Day!! We went out to dinner and I had a yummy salad loaded full of strawberries, oranges, grapes, candied pecans, grilled chicken, onions, tons of greens tossed in a raspberry vineagrette and of course, if you know me at all....I added ranch dressing, too!!! lol :)

In my neck of the woods (as with many others across the U.S.) it's spring clean-up for the community. I'm also trying to coordinate my first big garage sale, too....so, I didn't have much to offer the curb this year!! I did see some chairs down the road that I really wanted to take home but as luck would have it and my pokey old husband...they are now in someone elses home....I'm still mad at him!! :)

And if that wasn't enough pain....lol....I was trying to get my gigungus sheperds pole down off the garage wall and it decided to not come down alone....it brought our weedeater with it and yes....you guessed it...it fell right on my foot....my foot that was in flip-flops and about 8 or 9 feet below!! After a few unmentionable words, I applied ice the rest of the night and while I don't think it's broke, it sure is very swollen, bruised and hard to walk on!!

I was just wondering to myself....if we are of the junking tendency and like to make things out of others cast-offs....exactly what is it that we are willing to part with or consider "un-useable" and put out for our own spring clean-up pile?? I'd love to hear from you on this subject....it has my curiosity peaked!!

Have a good day......Gigi ; }

Early Mothers Day Present

2009-05-04T08:05:00.000-07:00

Our youngest daughter made the most adorable
candy dish. She was busting at the seams the afternoon
I picked her up from school! Clutching a huge cardboard
box under her arm she said this is for you but it can't be
opened until Mothers Day-remember not before!!

Well, it's about a 10 minute drive from the school to home
and she made it inside and to her room and back before it
got the best of her. She handed me the box and said, ok...open
it. I told her that I could wait and she was persistant...no, now!

I opened it to find this adorable candy dish that to me resembles
a bubble gum machine. She made it all by herself without help!!
She was so proud of her efforts and so am I....it turned out beautifully!

Our daughter just turned 13 and she struggles with learning and
attention, so any stride she makes is a big one to us! She's also a
Type 1 diabetic on a pump and we don't like to tempt her anymore
than possible....so, I think the dish will remain a faux bubblegum
machine that houses some colorful marbles, stones and such!!

If you have some kids with moms/grams/aunts/sisters/friends
to gift, this craft is pretty easy to pull together and not too costly.

The following is a list of what she used:

*medium sized clay pot with dish
*round wooden ball (or, use your imagination for a handle!)
*medium sized fish bowl
*premade bow or do-it-yourself-wire lined ribbon
*acrylic paint (your choice-go wild!)
*hot glue (with adult supervision) or glue dots

Paint the pot/dish/wooden ball, let dry
glue the wooden ball to the bottom of the pot dish
connect the glass bowl to the clay pot (bottom to bottom)
tie bow/ribbon around the center of the dish/pot
add some candy and sentiments and gift away!!!!

Generations from now.......

2009-05-02T07:51:00.000-07:00

Sometimes people affect us in many ways, even when we
never knew or met them.

Take for instance this beautiful mirror that now sits on my
mantle. It is from a beautiful dresser that was handed down
to my husband when his great uncle passed on.

We've had it in the garage for a long while, I never
actually saw it when it was placed there....so, to come upon
it left me in awe. The beauty of its design, the curves, shapes
and artwork are incredible! I knew it had to come inside and
take a place of honor....it may sit alittle high to peer into....but
it's reflection is much deeper.

Each time I pass by it, I think of my husbands great uncle. I am
so appreciative of this man that I have never known not only
for this mirror and dresser but also for the fact that he had so
much to do with why we now have our home. In a roundabout
way, we inherited it directly from him.....if not for him, we may
not have a place to call our own. I have much love for his memory.

Sometimes we will never know who is affected by us or the things
we do and say. Whos life have you touched today, if even in the smallest way?

**Have a good weekend.....Gigi**

2009-05-01T06:10:00.000-07:00

May 1, 2009

Today I begin my journey into blogging. I hope
you have patience with me as I find my way
through posting pictures, videos, making my blog
inviting and interesting by eventually adding
character. I'm not too computer savvy, so this
may be a slow process. Fasten seat belts,
please...this could be a very bumpy ride!! : )

My main purpose for this blog is to showcase those
in my area of Ohio, that I feel have a unique talent,
special gift or display a form of art. It could
be a brief story on just about anyone/anything from
the local schools, a neighbor, business owner, local
events, etc. Basically, anything that appeals to me as
art....will be presented to you.

I enjoy taking items that would otherwise be thrown
away and making it into something useful, beautiful or
resaleable. I enjoy the world of junking and see it as one
of lifes best forms of art. If you share this love and want to
send in anything that you may have created or seen in your
travels, feel free to do so.

I also would like to be a part of the growing on-line garage
sales and maybe post a few times a month and see how
that goes. I love a good auction, fleamarket, estate, garage
or yard sale... so, I'll try my hand at on-line!!

My purpose is not to post on a daily basis. (maybe not even
weekly) but to write as the mood, desire and moment present
themselves to me. I hope you see my visions and share yours
with me.

**Good day, Gigi**