Bittersweet and the little soap company

how lovely

Last Thursday night Lennis and I were invited over for a get together hosted by our neighbors children. You may recall me talking about Mrs. P before. That's a picture I took several years ago of the lovely estate. I remember when the image was captured. It was early morning and the snow had fallen overnight. The snow was sticking to the trees like icing and the overcast lighting was perfect. I had copies of the picture made and gave it to Mrs. P. She in turn shared the picture with her children. 

Last Thursday night while visiting with one of Mrs. P's daughters she began telling me how there used to be a peony and daffodil farm adjacent to Mrs. P's property. I'm guessing the flower farms were there during the 1930's or 40's. Back then my neighborhood would have been filled with layers of walnut trees and hack-berries and woods. It was considered rural land. The area also housed a boy scout camp. The woodsy land had not been built up yet. Our home was built in 1921 so it might have possibly been before that time. I plan to visit our archives to find out simply because I'm quite interested. Visiting the archives is like rummaging through an old photo album. The place is stuffed with plenty of rich history at your fingertips. The flower farm would have been directly across the street from our home. Oh how happy I would be to open my shutters each spring morning and see layers of golden yellow blooms from my dining room windows!

Can you imagine? I can! Then after the daffodils bloomed in early spring by the end of May the colorful peonies would fill the landscape. Spring beauty at its best! Skip the intermission. The blooms would have received a curtain call.  I haven't even mentioned the many red bud trees that flourish throughout our neighborhood in the spring.  

Even though winter just began, I'm dreaming of spring already. 

Enjoy caring and sharing winter days. 

Warmly,

Jill 00

 

 

Friends of Bittersweet

I'd like to introduce you to a Heather. She owns the cutest little boutique this side of the Missouri river! Heather's shop is located downtown historic Liberty. It's more than a joy to drop by Heather's shop and browse her unique collections. Some of which Heather makes herself! If you ever find yourself on my side of the pond I would highly recommend you dropping by this darling one of a kind boutique. After your visit to Heather's shop don't  forget to check out Aggieal's Attic , Ginger Sue's and of course Bittersweet. 

My sweet friend from high school dropped by this week and we dined at Ginger Sue's and then treated ourselves to some much deserved shopping at Catfish & Tater Boutique, Heather's shop.  Great minds have the same taste! Nita and I picked out the same top! 

I was honored to have the company of this little sweetie that came with her Nana for our girls day out. Don't you just want to melt? She is the cutest little thing. 

Summers end is moving fast around here! Both the studio and the home sweet home are untidy and messy due to the manufacturing, production and making of soap and sundries. 

It was nice to take a day break away from my work. 

Our tree house porch is oh so nice! I can't wait to share some pictures of the finished space. 

We picked out some new wicker furniture and cushions and I am painting my moms vintage garden gliders with a really cool paint. I'll share later, promise. 

Studio open tomorrow and it's suppose to RAIN! Yippee Kangaroo!

Enjoy caring and sharing end of summer days. 

Jill 00

 

 

Friends that have shops...

Holiday parties, family get- togethers, mingling by the fire or just hanging out around town at Christmas. I know you're pondering thoughts of what to get your best friend for Christmas!.Well, Bittersweet has you covered on skin care products, but how about some really cute new duds?

I'd like to introduce you to my friend Heathers chic boutique, Catfish & Tater. If ever I'm in need of something stylish and special I head downtown to Heathers. Here's a little peek of whats inside Heathers unique shop.

Heather's shop is unique in the fact that she hand-makes a lot of her merchandise. While I was in her shop yesterday a lady came in to order one of Heathers handmade hats.  Yes, she does custom orders too! Her leather purses are so divine and quality made. I have a "Heather Hat!" 

The bags are tattooed. I love the concept and it's simplicity and out of the ordinary.

Have I got you interested?

If your a Bittersweet peep that resides in the Kansas City area then head north to Catfish & Taters to check out Miss Heathers boutique!

Here's a link to her web site.

Heather will soon be moving her darling boutique a few doors down from where she is now to the hippest space on the square. Her new location will be next to the Crepes on the Square.

Aren't the "peace hats" cute? They would definitely be on my Christmas list to Santa!

Enjoy caring and sharing holidays.

Warmly,

Jill 00 (two hugs are better than one) 

 

 

 

Autumn Festival Chit Chat...

My friend Julie offered Bittersweet a spot in front of their shop during the Autumn Festival this weekend. My first thought was to decline the offer simply too busy I thought, then I pondered the idea more and  decided a change of pace would be nice. 

If you're familiar with my posts you know how I'm not a show kind of girl, but given the opportunity to do my own thing, especially the part about being able to come and go as I please, appeals to me at all angles.

I picked the last cockscomb blossoms yesterday and placed them in an old enamel pitcher. I think I'll take the large bouquet with me to the festival fro a touch of early Autumn on my table.

I whipped up some petite brochures to hand out during the two day event

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I don't like big bulky pamphlets. This one fits in your hand and can easily be tucked away in your backpack for future reading. It will be folded and the info inside. Incorporating the new slogan into all my designs.

Soap making still happening. Now that the studio is well stocked with fresh bars of soap that can mean only one thing! A lot of wrapping!

Enjoy caring and sharing days.

Happily,

Jill 00

Two hugs are better than one

 

 

 

  

Small town inspiration...

My small suburban town begins to celebrate autumn this weekend. The celebrations include a homecoming parade and a festival on the downtown square.

Not very many downtown squares around nowadays especially ones with historic names such as LIBERTY.

Liberty Square offers unique boutique shopping as well as good eats like Ginger Sues and Crepes on the Square.

If you were a fan of "Gilmore Girls" then you would surely be equally attracted to the ambiance of downtown Liberty and its towns people.

It's the kind of place where strangers greet you with a friendly hello and "the regulars" can always be found sitting at the round table conversing about the hot topics of the day. The mailman knows you by name and if you're short on cash, your credit is always good!

I've lived here for 23 years! My great grandparents resided in the surrounding rural areas. I have a great grandfather that fought in a battle outside of town during the civil war. He along with 4 other soldiers were killed during the attack and are buried in Wm. Jewell College cemetery. Yes, Liberty is also a college town!

This is my favorite season in Liberty. The huge old oak trees put on quite a showing and the historic landscapes are a treat to one's eye.

During the holidays the old downtown buildings lights up with Christmas lights and a parade circles the square with a special guest, Santa. Most town folks know who the Santa is!

 

I'll never forget the very first lighting several years back. Patrick mc'd it and then when he finished talking ran over to his portable key board and played a Christmas song. There were only about 10 of us there including the mayor. Some of the lights didn't come on when they  pulled the switch, but it was no big deal because it was dreadfully cold as I remember and everyone was eager to get warm. We headed up to the bookstore and indulged in hot coffee and cocoa.

So yo see what I mean, right? I believe the producers of Gilmore Girls were inspired by my small town of Liberty. 

Enjoy caring and sharing days.

Happily,

Jill 00

Two hugs are better than one

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday Market, a sweet friend, and departing the USA

Every Saturday morning, I rise early and co-pilot the ride over the hill and through some neighborhoods, and arrive downtown so that Patrick can start his job. He seems to be conversing right along with the farmers. I left and came back to sneak a few camera shots this past Saturday.

 

 

I took a few shots of Patrick talking with a new vendor.

The camera guy came from the news channel to finish their story. I didn't hang around after taking the pictures, didn't want to be a wondering pesky Mom. I'm excited to watch the segment. If you live in Kansas City, it airs on either Tuesday or Wednesday, on the 10 o'clock news.

After I drop Patrick off, I usually come home and get the Saturday Studio prepared to open.

This Saturday an old friend stopped by I hadn't seen in a very long time, my friend Doug. He used to be my boss when I worked for the city of Liberty. He was without a doubt the best boss I've ever had! His mellow personality, and kind considerate not boss at all ways, helped me to balance out my high maintenance job as Code Enforcement Officer. We also became friends during that time, and I really think highly of him, as he has a sweet soul.

Doug left the city sometime after I did. He now owns his own business, importing beer. What a great idea! A happy job too!

Doug, if you're reading this, you're a great guy! Lennis said to tell you HI! Oh, and I seriously want to have you over this Summer, OK?

Monday morning, and I'm going to be heading to the airport later to drop off Patrick for his European journey. I requested a post card from every place he stops.

Mom will be home alone for almost two weeks! I've already got an itinerary planned , and I'm hoping to get lot's of work completed. That's the plan anyway..

I'm taking my camera to the airport so that I can take a few shots of the crew leaving. Do you remember when you were fifteen, and being embarrassed by your parents acting goofy? I'll try to not stand out, and blend in while taking the precious shots of memories.

Enjoy caring and sharing days.

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one Patrick, as you are leaving for a long fun exciting journey.

   

Ho Ho Ho!

Last nights open house was delightful! This year's attendees were indeed a joy, as they filled the shop with laughter and Christmas spirit.  I didn't get too many pictures, was so busy talking with everyone.

My good, good friends Debbie, Debbie's son Zach, and Margaret, Debbie's Mom. This is a picture of Margaret and I. Isn't Margaret stunning! She ballroom dances, and was getting ready to dance last night after popping in at the open house.

Lennis lit luminaries in front of the boutique and the shop looked warm and festive.

Simple Saturday today again, although it will be simple, the downtown square will be filled with little children anxiously awaiting the arrival of one big jolly elf, Santa Claus. He arrives this morning, reindeer permitting, at around eleven on his shiny red sleigh. Santa will be escorted by beautiful horses, for the reindeer are resting from their long journey from the North Pole.

The Christmas parade begins at eleven. Even though the parade is small  in scale, it's grand in Jolly Christmas Spirit!

HO, HO, HO, MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Enjoy A Caring And Sharing Day!

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

Sparkly & Bright

I am preparing the invitations for my 10th Bittersweet Open House. I had to drop by the shop early this morning to pick up my guest book so that I can update my mailing list. I am sending out over six-hundred invitations this year for the event.

I shot this picture early this morning  across from Bittersweet. Aren't the lights pretty? Can you see Bittersweet? It's the shop with the two white trees in front.

Monday's.. Always seems to take awhile to get going. Why is that? Even my typing fingers seem to be affected by the Monday Morning Indecisiveness. No time for that either, busy, busy!

Hopefully a productive Monday, although so far I'm a little unsure. More coffee please!

I have ran out of so many things at the shop over the weekend. Lip balm almost gone again, and holiday soap right up there too. Making more soap this morning, but not the holiday soap. Instead it will be Lavender Mint. I won't be making any more holiday soap this season. I hopefully have made enough to get me through until my open house. Then I would imagine it will be gone until next year. WOW!

Internet orders are setting on my front stoop ready to be picked up and mailed. For those of you that check the blog, they're on their way darlings!

Yesterday I made Ina's chocolate cake. It had a cup of coffee in the cake batter which made it sooo rich and yummy, and chocolate too. I took some to Bob and Sandy.

Bob and Sandy are going to be our new neighbors down the street. I met Sandy when I used to sell Bittersweet wholesale. She owned a cute little shop called "Whoa Nellie". It was a western/eclectic tempo type shop, very cute! Anyway, she sold Bittersweet products in her store, and we became good friends. Isn't that funny? Now she is moving two houses down from me. I am excited she will be  my new neighbor.

Sandy is one of the most creative people I have ever known. Both her and her husband have purchased an older 1930's style house, and completely remodeled it themselves. I should take pictures and show you, you won't believe your eyes what they have done! Marble counter tops, copper in the kitchen, custom fireplace mantel, custom cabinets, just unbelievably stunning!

I have some big secrets, and surprises I'm keeping from everyone. I have been dying to tell everyone, and it's very hard for me to keep secrets, but I have to wait until after the first of the year to disclose what they are though. You'll understand after I tell you then. I am very excited about my new adventure though. That's all I can tell you at this time. Anticipation for both you and me...

Speaking of anticipation.. Did you know Gilmore Girl song sang at the beginning of the show is both Carol King and her daughter? Isn't that cool! I so admire Carol King she is one of the most talented female artists I know.

All right then..Off to work I go.

Enjoy a caring and sharing day!

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

Everything Cheery And Bright!

Last nights Christmas lighting ceremony was great! I helped Patrick take video for his web site. We had the best view on the square. We stood high on the courthouse steps, Patrick covered the entire event while I assisted him with the video camera. I was not a very good assistant. I am not used to running the video camera, but he managed to edit the bad shots I took so ... 

As you can see from the pictures I took, or maybe I should say, as you can not see, from the pictures I took it was just beautiful! I believe some three or four thousand Christmas lights adorn our old historic buildings, and the old courthouse houses the Mayors Christmas tree this year.  My darn camera didn't come through again. Just when you think you have the perfect shot, and probably did, the camera flunks out!

I promise to take better pictures, cause you just have to see my little downtown all decked out with holiday lights.

Last year was the very first lighting ceremony ,and if I remember correctly we only had around fifteen people attend, mostly friends and other shop owners, and the Mayor. As we counted down, and got to one, some of the lights didn't come on, and.. well hey, it was the first year.. I remember it was bitterly cold too. Patrick brought his keyboard and played Christmas music while we sang as fast as we could so that we could get out of the cold wind and get warm. Although it was small in scale, I will always remember that night!

Last night was fun! Their were Christmas songs sang by some of our school choir kids, and families walking around just like I mentioned before about the good old days.

Saturday shop day, and I anticipate a busy day. Like Mr. Braun would say, "A Four Bell Day"!

I mustn't forget to care and share too!

Have a caring and sharing day!

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

Girls Night!

   

 

Girls night out out was so much fun! Even though I was behind the cash register most of the evening I still enjoyed everyone's company, and had a great time. It seemed the gals were having a good time too.

Events such as girls night out, allow people to discover the new restaurants and little specialty shops on the Liberty square. I believe this should become a regular once-a-month event. It's a great time to pull  together some friends, window shop, or just enjoy each others company. Like the good old days I mentioned yesterday.

Tonight, another big and colorful  event, and I'm so excited! The annual lighting of the downtown Christmas lights. Starts at six...and I noticed yesterday their putting up the Mayor's Christmas tree next to the old courthouse. I've talked about my little town before.

Last year a tall elf named Neil put most of the Christmas lights up on the old downtown buildings. I've been setting watching out my window as he again happily hangs the lights. He does it  out of the goodness of his heart, and receives no money for his hard work. Thanks Neil, for caring and sharing! Without your efforts the downtown wouldn't be as bright and cheery during this wonderful time of year.

Don't forget to have a caring and sharing day!

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)