Jailhouse Primitives ~ A Unique Blend of the Olde & New

Meet Baliegh...

2010-03-21T00:31:00.003-04:00

...the newest addition to our family! My Mom & Dad just got her last week...she's 7 weeks old now & as adorable as she can be! Baliegh is a chocolate lab full of puppy energy...a real cutie-pie...love that puppy breath...she's so soft & has a personality like no other! Should be interesting and entertaining when they open the pool this summer!!! It'll take all of us to keep her OUT! LOL...who am I kidding?

I now find myself making "extra" visits...just to see my "sister"!

Happy Spring!

2010-03-20T23:36:00.005-04:00

I've been anxiously waiting this day to arrive as I know many of you have as well...as the new growth peeks above the ground's surface to wish us all "Happy Spring"...it's such a long-awaited, beautiful sign! One of my favorite times of the year...digging in the dirt & planting something new to my garden! I adore the picture above...it was taken several years ago by Obscura Photography (a local studio her in Germantown)...they would often stop by the shop to see what new props I had for them...I miss that...this picture includes some items they bought from me for their Spring specials that year! Cute as it can be!

Speaking of cute! Here's a pic of me & my girl before her Spring Dance this year! I don't normally share personal family photos...but, we had such a special time! Yes, only in middle school & already looking DOWN upon Mom (even with Mom in HEALS)!

Here's the whole gang...Mom's & sisters included! My friend Reva & I (two Mom's in the middle) took the "gang" to Lone Star for dinner before the dance...they had a blast...we did too! I can't give all the details (she would shoot me)...but we did a fine job of embarrassing them! What else are Mom's for?

These kids have known each other since before kindergarden...but they all act like the other has CUDIES! LOL

Who's the NEW renter in my OLD shop?????

2010-03-20T23:24:00.003-04:00

Well....March is coming to an end so I figured I better reveal who has moved in my old shop...as promised! BALL AND SKEIN!! :)

I'm so excited & I know she is too! The yarn shop is now officially moved in and ready for business! Susan has done a wonderful job displaying all of her fine yarn, wool, knitting needles & other merchandise. Her decor & merchandise fit so nicely with the decor I had in the shop! It's such a great look! So if you're a knitter...you've gotta stop in to see her NEW location & gobs of yarn. It's bubbling from every nook & cranny! She offers patterns for sale too & has many completed items on display...she even spins her own yarn! She's open Wed. - Sat. from 12 - 5:00 p.m. and hosts a "Knit Night" on Thursday's...staying open til at least 9:00 p.m. They all seem to have such a great time...if I was a knitter...oh my...I'd be right in there with 'em!

Check out her link "msknits"...you'll find it in my favorites!

Happy Spring!

Where have you been?

2010-02-16T07:40:00.003-05:00

Seems I've dropped off the face of the Earth! Not true! LOL

I've had lots of folks wondering what I've been up to...well...here's some idea! BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!!!! Closing the shop was quite an ordeal! Just liquidating merchandise was a long process, then it was off to prepare the house for a rental once again! That entailed painting, cleaning, installing a shower stall, yard work, installing a hot water heater & so on & so on! Seemed it took forever since it was already rented prior to liquidating the merchandise!!! Whew...after we got that finished the new renters moved in...OMG...what a nightmare! Literally! After moving out in the middle of the night (only being there for 5 weeks!) they totally destroyed the place! Seriously...they're kids colored on the walls, they never hooked up their dryer vent to the outside exhaust, left an overwhelming amount of GARBAGE throughout the entire house, left furniture, dirty diapers on the floor, milk on the walls, spills in the hall, half eaten boiled eggs on the floor....I'm really NOT joking! I was in tears! Months of hard work for a spotless, "move-in ready" home for a family...down the drain! I truely could not believe someone would not have any more pride in themselves than that. Such a mess. We have now gotten that cleaned up AGAIN...and it is rented once more. I'm very excited about our new renter and certain we won't have to deal with this again for quite some time! I'll reveal who will be moving in in March! I think you'll all be as excited as I am!

Between all of that...we celebrated Christmas (which was wonderful & prim as usual...I think I gained 30 lbs from all the baking I did!), DH graduated from his HVAC program & found employment (wooo-hooo), I caught up on my deep cleaning & organization (so badly needed), closed the books to the shop (what a relief to have that behind me..yeah!) & have been enjoying the kids on all these snow days we've been having! Holy Cow have we had some snow this winter! Man am I grateful for 4 wheel drive! I would have been stir-crazy! LOL

NOW....I'm helping my sister with her cleaning business! Check out her blog broom-n-bucketcleaning.blogspot.com! I've also added a short note in a gadget if you want to take a peek! We've been steady at it & business is good! There are a few days still available if any of you gals need a hand! Gaps are slowly filling in though...give us a call if you need some help with Spring cleaning, graduation parties, etc. Mention you saw her on my blog & receive ONE HOUR OF FREE CLEANING SERVICES!!!

Hope everyone's holidays have been blessed! Mine sure have! I'll be posting more often now that I'm somewhat caught up around here! Take care prim pals! Til next time....Many blessings, Missie

2009-12-14T23:45:00.002-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K16SEmYJwNU

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-18T17:04:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to wish you all a Blessed Thanksgiving!

Take care, Missie

GARAGE SALE NEXT WEEKEND!

2009-09-10T11:57:00.004-04:00

YOUR TREASURE AWAITS........

I'm having a Garage Sale at the Shop to liquidate the residual inventory left over from closing & non-primitive items as well!

My sister will be adding a few items of her own...large wood office desk, a primitive table, etc. Who knows what we might come up with!

Wednesday, 9/16 10 - 4 p.m.
Thursday, 9/17 10 - 4 p.m.
Friday, 9/18 10 - 5 p.m.

No early birds please! CASH ONLY!

If you live close...stop on by! We have some Fall & Christmas items as well!

Have a great day!

Everyday Cheapskate!

2009-09-09T15:10:00.004-04:00

Helpful hints I ran across on the Everyday Cheapskate Website!

Hand sanitizer with 60 percent ethyl alcohol will remove pen and permanent marker ink from skin! This is a cheap and easy solution for removing ink from skin. As a bonus, it also kills germs. Great idea now that school is back in session!!!!

Here's a way to put your cell phone to good use: create an entry named "License Plate" in your contact list. Enter your license plate number and you will have that information at your fingertips. This is great info to have at hotel check in, or in the unfortunate event that your car gets stolen. Having that entry could be the difference between a quick recovery and a never-ending hassle.

Use an old golf bag to store my brooms and mops. Its deep pockets hold dust rags and a dust buster, and you can hook a spray bottle on the top edge. The bag makes a handy cleaning caddy and it stands easily in the corner out of the way!

Never use expensive commercial septic cleaner. Septic system installers recommend flushing three packets of yeast down a toilet once a month to keep the septic in great condition. Yeast is the key ingredient in the commercial solution. Buy the cheapest three-pack of yeast you can find (quick-rise or regular) and flush it down one toilet every month.

Have a great day!

2009-09-03T09:18:00.013-04:00

Well....Fall is arriving quickly...so I thought I'd get a few Spring/Summer pics in I've been meaning to post!

This is a picture of the lil' mini pond we put in last Spring next to our patio. I love it! The sound of trickling water is soooo relaxing! We put in some lil' gold fish & planted some flowers around it! It was really a fun project!

This is a picture of our "Moon Plant" or "Angel's Trumpet"! It's sooo beautiful & a lot of fun to watch! There are only pods in the morning...then, as the afternoon goes along...they begin to expand! By evening they are nearly open...you can watch them grow through out the day!

Then when the sun goes down, just at dusk...they open! You can literally watch them blooming throughout the day! It's the most intreguing plant I've ever had in my garden. We planted it next to the pond, so I find it hard to get anything done once I'm out there...between this flower & the pond! Geez!

Although our yard is small...living in town & all...my Sunflowers did awesome this year! Love the color!

This is my "Gate Prop" on the patio! Looks like someone needs to do some weeding & stop listening to the pond & watching that Moon Plant! This is the first shop sign I made when I was at my first store! I drug it home & found a place in my garden for it~nestled with the tomatoe plants on an old wheelbarrow!

My fern on the porch got HUGE this summer! I LOVE ferns!

Can you believe no one bought this in my liquidation sale!!!!! I drug this beauty home, hung it on the porch & put watering cans on every hook I could find!!!

A view from outside the porch!

Well...that's all for now! Hope you have a blessed day!

~Fried Mozzarell Sticks~ mmmm

2009-09-03T09:11:00.002-04:00

As you may be able to tell...since the closing of the shop, I've been doing a lot of cooking, gardening, etc!

Here's another quick & easy recipe I wanted to share with you all! Enjoy!

1 lb Mozzarella
3 eggs
1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
Light Vegetable Oil

Cut cheese into 2 inch long, 1/2 inch wide sticks. Dip cheese into beaten eggs and then into bread crumbs, 2 times! Freeze for about 10 minutes (can be overnight). Fry until golden brown (about 2 minutes on each side).

~Flapper Jacks with Meat Filling Receipe~

2009-09-03T08:51:00.002-04:00

My mom shared this receipe with me....can't wait to try it! Sounds so old-fashioned!!

2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
2 cups milk
1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 cup grated cheese
shortening

Mix, sift dry ingedients. Add milk, egg butter. Mix well. Melt enough shortening in skillet to cover the bottom. Make 6 thin pancakes about 5 inches across. Brown both sides. Put meat filling in center of each, and wrap into rolls. Spinkle with cheese, put in hot oven (400 degrees) just until cheese melts.

Meat Filling ~
3 tablespoons shortening
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup milk or stock
1 1/2 cups chopped feal or chicken
12/ cup diced celery
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Blend shortening with flour and add milk. Stir to keep smooth. Add meat, and celery and cook slowly until celery is tender. Add salt & paprika.

Enjoy!

Ruth Rochelle~Walking with the Angels

2009-08-31T16:38:00.003-04:00

Ruth Rochelle, co-owner of Primitive Homeplace...It is with much sadness I learned recently of Ruth's passing. I had the pleasure of meeting her and her husband, Jimmy, a couple of years ago as they passed through Germantown going home from a buying trip. I found this sweet couple to be very down to earth...just kind folks! They were the first prim shop owners I met, as a new prim shop owner myself. I loved to follow her website & picture trails from shows...she will be dearly missed by many. My condolences to her family & friends.

A friend of Ruth's created this picturetrail: http://www.picturetrail.com/sfx/album/view/22377966 for all to view.

Visit Ruth & Jimmy's Picture Trail at: http://www.picturetrail.com/sfx/album/listing/user/primitivehomeplace

Blessings

Our Brick & Mortar Shop is officially CLOSED!

2009-08-17T21:53:00.001-04:00

We would like to thank all of our wonderful customers over the many years for your loyal support and heartfelt goodbyes. It has been a great experience and it’s been an honor to do with business with you.

Thank you for letting us share our love of primitives with you…and thank YOU for sharing your passions and knowledge with us. It’s been a great relationship. We have been blessed many times over, and have memories galore that will last a lifetime! Things that make us laugh…and things that make us cry...things that just plain make us wonder ~ all a part of the wonderful experience that has been Jailhouse Primitives!

We very much appreciate all the support and kind words you have shared with us! Without a doubt, we will really miss our Jailhouse Primitives community and the friendships we forged along the way…

Till our paths cross again…Best Wishes!

Cecil & Missie

Don’t forget to visit us eBay for primitive smalls & Scentsible Scents, Ltd. Candles!
Seller Name: jailhouse*primitives or Email Us At: jailhouseprimitives@gtownonline.com

~75% OFF SALE THIS WEEKEND!!!~

2009-08-11T09:16:00.001-04:00

WE'RE HAVING A "75% OFF SALE" THIS WEEKEND!!!

~*CASH & CARRY ONLY*~

~*STOREWIDE*~

Friday, August 14 & Saturday, August 15
Open 10 - 6:00 p.m. each day!

*~*GREAT BARGAINS*~*

*~*SALE PRICES ARE BELOW WHOLESALE*~*

THESE ARE OUR FINAL DAYS, HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

ANOTHER 50% OFF WEEKEND!!!

2009-08-06T21:56:00.003-04:00

Seems there's never enough time to get everything done!!!! My mind races as I attempt to keep business & home running!! So...needless to say I'm a little late posting this! Our closing weekends have been soooooo extremely busy & by popular demand...we'll be OPEN AGAIN THIS WEEKEND! I had hoped last weekend would be our final weekend & we could move on to remodeling (once again) for the next renters, however...there's soooo much stuff that just keeps popping up from the wood work & garages!! Seems it will never ALL be gone! Guess I've just collected too much for too long!!! I've had several phone calls, emails & off hours shoppers...so I just don't see how it's possible. So..this weekend will again be 50% off!! Well be open Friday, August 7 & Saturday, August 8 from 10 - 6!!! Stop in for a great bargain! We're deal'n!

Last Saturday we cleaned out the garage behind the shop, so if you weren't in last weekend, you may find some NEW things this weekend! I just keep dragging things in! HONESTLY...were did I have it all? My sister (who's helping me with these final days) is just about to choke me!

The sales have just been awesome! Seems folks are very appreciative of the deals they're getting & ohhh so very sad we closing :( Seems I forget myself!!! Picked up a few prim wares today & geez...for the first time I have "buyers remorse"! I didn't think that was possible!!! Suppose today proved I'm a junkie!!! I just can't help myself! LOL When I find a truely unique, prim goodie I just can't resist!! I tried to fight back....LOL...but lost! I don't know what makes me think I can stop....I love this old stuff...and always will...guess I'll be holding some annual garage sales when it's all said & done! 'Cause I'll have to dabble some way or another!

Will try to share pics of my finds at a later date! Just too tired to get any yet this evening, but I'll give ya a hint....I got the most awesome umbrella, sounds weird I know, but it's an umbrella made of advertising feed sacks!!! It is the kewllllest thing I've ever seen! I believe these were used many years ago by farmers to shelter themselves from the sun as they drove their tractors! It's really awesome! Also picked up some choppers, a strawberry carrier, some mini crock bowls, nut grinders, a wood kraut masher (huge ~ which I intend to use next year!), and a few other goodies!

Well...my cash counter is gone, the candle shelving DH built me is sold too! Sad in a way! Looks so bare now compared to how it use to look...packed full! But, there's still lots of great prim stuff to pick from!

Hope to see you this weekend!

50% OFF STOREWIDE ~ FINAL DAYS!!!

2009-07-27T01:15:00.004-04:00

As many of you may already know...this coming weekend will (hopefully) be my final weekend! I'll have the shop OPEN Wed. - Sat. from 10 - 6 each day!

EVERYTHING IS 50% OFF!!

A lot of the merchandise that sold last weekend isn't due to be picked up until Wednesday, some even on Saturday... so it may take me several days to consolidate the goodies from the other 2 garages! I plan to drag it all out before Wednesday!

We still have plenty of old doors, shutters & windows if anyone is looking for these items! Although I have 2 serious buyers for the Antique Pie Safe & 12' Harvest Table...they ARE still available at this point...so if you want'em...you better come'n get'em!!!!

I also still have the 8' Grapevine Tree, Antique Wood Wheel Barrow, Antique Glider, Misc. Smalls, Antique Tools, Antique High Chair, Antique Baby Stroller, Primitive Wood Baby Cradle, Ladders, Enamel Top Table, Antique Fresh Air Estate Stove, Old Bikes, Handcrafted Potting Bench & much more!

Hope to see you this weekend!!! Primitive Blessings!

A BLESSED WEEKEND!

2009-07-27T00:32:00.003-04:00

WOW! We had folks knocking down the doors beginning Wednesday!!!! Fortunately I was doing some cleaning & dragging down stock from upstairs...'cause I wasn't even open!

In addition to many other great customers, I had the pleasure of meeting Sherry Rexrode & her husband (of Dusty Teasures) who just happened to be taking a trip she'd laid out from the Mercantile Gatherings Magazine! I'm not sure where they'd been or where they were headed...but I'm certainly gald I was at the shop when they stopped!!!! My sister & I had the BEST time chatting with these folks for hours...genuine, good hearted people!!! We had such a WONDERFUL time!!! I can't wait to visit her shop in PA!!! As soon as I finish the loose ends here...I'm on my way to PA! If you live in PA or plan to visit, her address is 1922 Oxford Rd, New Oxford, PA 17350. She's open Sat's 10 -5 & Sun's 12 -5! If you can't stop by to see they're adorable shops (yes, I said "shops" ~ there are 3 on her property!!), visit her website at: www.dustytreasures.com! I did! It's adorable!!! She was also gracious enough to share pictures with us! WOW! We really enjoyed your visit, come back anytime!!!!

Thursday was also another day set aside for "clean up & consolidating"...and again...many more sales!!!!

Then.....Friday & Saturday was SO BUSY IT'S A BLURR!!!!!!! Thanks to everyone who dropped by for all those great deals!!! I was able to help a new shop owner with loads of start up mercandise & display pieces, which was also great for me! Sold many, many, many (a van load) to another gal opening a booth in an antique mall! Good luck ladies! I'll be by to check you out! Thanks sooooo much!

We have many more items left & will be working hard to consolidate additional items from 2 more garages!! So...don't hesitate to stop back in as we SELL OUT & FILL BACK UP!!!

Hope your weekend was as blessed as mine!

50% OFF SALE THIS WEEKEND!!!!

2009-07-21T17:05:00.004-04:00

Ok...first...I'd just like to say I LOVE my new template designed by Deb's Lost Treasures!!!!!! Thank you...Thank you...Thank you! It matches my eBay Template too! I just can't say enough great things!!!!!

Where have I been???????? Wow...it seems forever since I've posted!!! I've been so incredibly busy winding the shop down to a close, I've really had to force myself to stay focused & not "blog" & actually do some serious work!! LOL

On that note...I wanted to let everyone know that this weekend (July 24 & 25) the Scentsible Scents Candles & Grapevine Trees will be 20% off & the remainder of the shop is 50% off!!!!! My target date for closing is the last weekend of July!!!!! If you have any questions, please feel free to give me a call! At this point, I cannot hold items for pick up unless they are paid for in full...and, the final 2 weekends are CASH ONLY! I hope this doesn't cause anyone any inconvenience, but at this point it's hard to justify the credit card fees, etc. Hope to see you all in the next couple of weekends!!!

Thanks again for your support, we have truely appreciated your business! Many of you have expressed such dissappointment & I will honestly miss you all!

Till next time....Missie :)

ChEcK uS OuT oN eBaY!!!!

2009-06-17T23:34:00.002-04:00

I'm up & running on eBay! This is where I will continue to sell my primitive wares after we finalize our last few weeks in the brick & mortar store! I also have wall to wall prim goodies stashed in two garages, the upstairs of the shop & some still at my home! We will also continue to make handmades! So if you can't make it in the shop (or even if you can) be sure to check us out on eBay!!

You'll find us under the Seller Name:

jailhouse*primitives

Blessings!

30% OFF SaLe ThIs WeEkEnD!!!!

2009-06-17T23:31:00.002-04:00

This weekend I will be increasing my % OFF to 30%!!!!!!!!!! Grab a friend & shop till U drop!!!

Friday, June 19th & Saturday, June 20th from 11 - 4!!! See you then!

We're CLOSING our Brick & Mortar Store :(

2009-05-30T12:21:00.004-04:00

Sadly, we made the difficult decision to close our brick and mortar store this month.....one of those good news-bad news situations. I have loved having the store...having great handmade vendors and wonderful customers....but letting go of it will give me more time for home, creativity and such. A closing date has not been set yet. We'll be having a 20% SALE on the following dates, so stop by for early pick'ns! Grapevine Trees & Scentsible Scents Candles are 10% off, everything else is 20%!

Friday, May 29 ~ Saturday, May 30 from 11 - 4 p.m.
Friday, June 5 ~ Saturday, June 6 from 11 - 4 p.m.

My Mom and I will then transition to selling online, and I will continue to peddle larger primitive wares from home. Once we transition to selling online you can continue to purchase our wares through eBay. Jailhouse Primitives' eBay Seller Name is "jailhouse*primitives" and my Mom's Seller Name is "mamawscozycupboard". More will be available online for purchase as we finalize the closing of the shop.

I will continue to post on Jailhouse Primitives' Blog to keep you abreast. You can continue purchase your Scentsible Scents Candles at the shop and they will be available, as usual, on the Jailhouse Primitives' Blog. You can continue to contact me via email or the shop phone number.

We would like to thank you all for your business over the past 4 years. It has been a great experience and a pleasure to do business with you. Thank you for letting us share our love of primitives with you and for you sharing your passion and knowledge with us.

The best part of owning the shop has been the people we have had the chance to meet. We know of no other industry where such strong ties are built with their customers, it truly has been special. Stories were told and friendships born. We have been blessed many times over. We have memories galore that will last a lifetime. Things that make us laugh, and things that make us cry, things that just plain make us wonder - all part of the wonderful experience that has been Jailhouse Primitives.

Be encouraged to continue shopping with us and making memories. Until we meet again. . . .

Blessings
Cecil & Missie Phelps

How to Protect Your Email Address Book

2009-04-30T15:23:00.004-04:00

Not sure if this works OR not, but it's worth the try! I received this in an email...How to protect your e-mail address book.

As you may know, when/if a worm virus gets into your computer it heads straight for your email address book, and sends itself to everyone in there, thus infecting all your friends and associates.

This trick won't keep the virus from getting into your computer, but it will stop it from using your address book to spread further, and it will alert you to the fact that the worm has gotten into your system.

Here's what you do: First, open your address book and click on 'new contact,' just as you would do if you were adding a new friend to your list of email addresses. In the window where you would type your friend's first name, type in 'A'. For the screen name or email address, type AAAAAAA@AAA.AAA.

Now, here's what you've done and why it works: The 'name 'A' will be placed at the top of your address book as entry #1. This will be where the worm will start in an effort to send itself to all your friends. When it tries to send itself to AAAAAAA@AAA.AAA, it will be undeliverable because of the phony email address you entered.

If the first attempt fails (which it will because of the phony address), the worm goes no further and your friends will not be infected.

Here's the second great advantage of this method: If an email cannot be delivered, you will be notified of this in your 'In Box' almost immediately. Hence, if you ever get an email telling you that an email addressed to AAAAAAA@AAA.AAA could not be delivered, you know right away that you have the worm virus in your system. You can then take steps to get rid of it!

Pretty slick huh?

If everybody you know does this then you need not ever worry about opening mail from friends. DO IT NOW and pass this on to all your friends.

Fly Screens!

2009-04-23T18:46:00.004-04:00

I mentioned these really kewl Fly Screens in a previous post & I've had LOADS of requests to see the pics....here it is!!! These are the Fly Screens we made, they're offered in 3 different sizes!
I just lov'em, especially with Momma Sue's Pantry Cakes under'em! Aren't her Sugar Cones & Pantry Cakes GREAT!!! They're sooooo prim! Thanks for the inquiries! Have a great Spring weekend!

Germantown's 10th Annual Saturday Night Out's are Scheduled for 2009!

2009-04-23T16:24:00.006-04:00

Here's this summer's schedule...come on out!

June 20th ~ 50's, 60's & 70's Chevy's
Buddy Myers and and Butch "Rock" with "The Gren Twisted Tucker Band"
Special Appreciation Awards

July 18th ~ 30's, 40's & 50's Ford's
11 Piece Jazz Band "Reload"

August 15th ~ Stock & Custom Trucks
Muddy Buddy's Jeep Wrangler Club
Entertainment by "Atticus Loud"
Laff's Wing Eating Contest

The Dixie Chopper' Monster Truck -- built by Corae and Kyle Neff of Neff & Sons Lawn Service, of Germantown, Ohio -- showcases that sometimes bigger really is better.

Built in just three months time, this show-quality truck shows some serious attitude. The fiberglass Silverado body with was sprayed silver with tribal orange flame and sporting decals matching the graphics Dixie Chopper uses in its catalogs and literature. This supercharged bad-boy turns out 1800-plus horsepower. And it puts all that power to the ground through a Turbo 400 tranny, linked to a 30" four-wheel-drive dropbox, on down to a set of 66-inch, 600-pound tires. Dixie Chopper Monster Truck specs include:
-- 540-cubic inch big block Chevrolet engine.
-- 1,800-2,000 horsepower.
-- Capable of 0-60 mph in 3 seconds.
-- Pro-built Turbo 400 transmission.
-- Pro-built 30" drop box.
-- 8 nitrogen shocks per tire.
-- 26" drop-out suspension.
-- 66-inch tires.

Each Saturday Night Out runs from 5 - 9 p.m. For more information, visit SNO 2009 website at: www.germantown-sno.com.

Stop by to visit us while you're in town!

History of the Mason Jar ~ Celebrating 125th Anniversary!

2009-04-16T11:38:00.003-04:00

When I get my Country Living Magazine in the mail I so anticipate the time I can sit down & leaf through page by page! I always walk away with at least 1 good idea if not many, many more! So...last week when I received my May issue I waited until that perfect opportunity for ME TIME...I was not disappointed! I wanted to share, if you haven't already seen it, the History of Mason Jars. I found it to be very interesting, I guess because I use them for so many different things in most every room of the house!

Here's what was printed: Used for canning pickles and sipping iced tea, these wide-mouthed jars have been kitchen mainstays ever since the Ball Corporation began producing them in 1884. Even now, the company continues to make 585,000 Mason jars each day.

1858: John Mason invents the first canning jar with a screw top: his patent expires in 1879, opening the market to competition.

1884: Brothers Frank, Edmund, George, Lucius & William form Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing in New York State and start making Mason jars. The company moves to Indiana three years later.

1909: The first Ball Blue Book, a primer on home canning, is published. (An updated version can be purchased at freshpreserving.com)

1918: The Ball brothers bequeath a small college in Muncie to the state of Indiana; the school is later renamed Ball State University.

1933: The Ball Company does not lay off a single employee during the Great Depression. (Would that be great if that were the case in today's economy!)

1972: After 88 years as a family-owned business, Ball goes public.

2009: The Ball Mason jar clebrates its 125th Anniversary. An exhibit, Can It! 125 Years of the Ball jar, can be viewed through August 23 at the Minnetrista Cultural Center in Muncie, Indiana. Visit minnetrista.net for details.

One idea I walked away with was the use of a back yard branch perched in a jar to use as a clever jewelry holder for necklaces & earrings! Just so happened I had a bundle at the shop! Guess where it's headed tonight!

I was thrilled this week when I found a skeleton key necklace while out shopping & picked it up! Usually something I would never spend the money on...What a cool accent I thought to where to the Jailhouse on work days! Well...according to Country Living the "skeleton key" look in necklaces is IN for Spring! I was shocked...I was actually a step ahead of dressing in style & didn't even realize it...this never happens! I'm usually covered in paint, sanding dust or DIRT!!! LOL I'm always into something! My kids are embarrassed to be seen with me half the time!!!

Loved the sterling silver mirrors arranged on the bathroom wall above the sink! Guess what I'll be collecting now? Can't wait to get out & start searching!

Did you see the clever uses for an old hand rake? They showed one suspending stemware near a stocked bar, a tie rack & a letter carrier! Really neat ideas!

This magazine makes me want to tear my house UP! Have a BIG RE-DO PARTY! Yard & all!!!! Good thing the weather is finally nice...I NEED OUTSIDE! Want to do some transplanting & hopefully get my back porch painted & redecorated this year! Picket fence needs a new coat of paint too!!! LOL There's never an end...but that's OK...I LONG FOR WARM WEATHER to be able to do just that! No to mention the garden!

Have a great day!

SpRiNg HaS sPrUnG...

2009-04-16T11:16:00.003-04:00

at Jailhouse Primitives!! When we arrived at the shop yesterday...this is what I found in the Salvage Yard! What a beautiful sight I must say... so my lil' sis snapped a pic for me.

~fReNzY fRiDaY~

2009-04-11T15:24:00.011-04:00

I went into a complete frenzy yesterday...signs, signs, signs! I was just in one of those creative & inspired moods...ever get in one of those moods to make stuff...you don't know what...you just start...one idea after the other...you just can't move fast enough? That was me yesterday! I had such a blast! I felt like I'd lost 50 lbs! CRAZY isn't it? This is my favorite one of all!!!! I had an elderly customer come in a couple of weeks ago & mention this saying about going to the Outhouse.."A Pump & A Path"! I thought that would make the perfect sign!!!! What do ya think? I love how it looks leaning against the pump outside!Here's an "Antiques" sign I finished. "Country Ways"...got the idea from Dawn at Holly Hills Primitives! LOVE it! Thanks!This one makes me think of an amusement park ride...just seemed festive!I LOVE this one too! Great garden or fence sign!
I made a ton of these little guys for Christmas last year...they sell like candy! They're fun to make & a great little pick up! Just mini signs you could hang anywhere around your house, in or out, from a shutter slate!

Sooooo...that's a sneak peak at what I was up to on Friday! Had several other projects going on too, maybe I can get some pics out in another post! It was a great day at the shop today, not to mention a beautiful Spring day, which never hurts business!

I almost forgot...my grubby silicone lights arrived last week! Woooo Hooo! LOVE'EM! You're gonna too! I have 20 count brown cord (rice & regular) & 10 count brown cord, as well as some standard replacement bulbs! They're the grubby-est! The Olde Primitive House really does a wonderful job with these! If you haven't seen these, or need new ones, stop in for a set! They give off a soft, warm glow! Yummy! All I need is a Scentsible Scents candle burning & soft lighting & I'm as happy as a pig in slop!
Happy Easter! Missie :)

Little Weekend Projects...Such Fun!

2009-04-09T12:57:00.005-04:00

Sometimes it's the smallest things that bring us joy...for me it was our weekend projects that just thrilled me to no end! This was one of those home projects you just never seem to find the time to finish, yet it only takes maybe 1/2 hour! I've been wanting shutters hung above my tub where we put up an old door for the wall (As you can see when I took the pic, we still hadn't hung the other one! Leave it to me to jump the gun with an idea!) While we were working on it, I got an idea I HAD to do! STENCIL "BATH HOUSE" ON MY SHUTTER!!! I think it turned out really cute! Now I'll have to make a sign of some sort to add to the "Bath House" idea. If you have any, I'd appreciate your thoughts! I was thinking I might even personalize it some how, so it has a meaning to us. Would love to hear from you!

I didn't take pictures, I know some of you have already made some of these, but I finally got my fly screens done! We had soooo much fun making them! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE'EM & so did everybody else! I think I gave away half of them before I even got them close to the shop! Soooo darn cute! If you'd like to see a picture, just ask or shot me an email, I'd love to share!

Hoppy Easter!

Birdhouses...a sure sign of Spring!

2009-04-06T07:48:00.021-04:00

The shop needed a Spring touch...hubby & I felt like getting into a project since the weather was sooooo beautiful here yesterday...so I tossed these kegs into the garage & said, "Can you make me a birdhouse out of this? Here's what he came up with! Aren't they awesome? I ABSOLUTELY LOVE these! They look so primitive! I just can't decide which one to keep!!!! :) It's a good thing I came across many of these kegs, since the 1st 3 of anything is spoken for before it's even made (me, my mom & my sister)!!!! It's just an unspoken JP Rule! He'll have to get hopp'n so we can put some in the shop for Wednesday! Birdhouses are a sure sign of Spring...

Between customers on Saturday, I did a little Spring cleaning around the shop & a light re-do...here's a peek!

I was feeling so energetic...after I closed Saturday, I decided to get busy on some signs I've had floating around in my head for quite some time...here's a couple I finished, the others aren't quite ready yet.

After a full day at work...I come home to this!
What's a girl to do? Nothing...if you can't beat'em, join'em! I wanted to curl up next to her she looked so sweeeeet! Our little Shop Foreman had put in a full day's worth too! Just plain tuckered out, or spoiled!!! Probably the later!
Last weekend I picked up some georgeous ferns, I love ferns, actually bought 4, 2 for the shop & 2 for home, but it's been too cold to take them outside, so I've got them on my back porch where they stay protected & the morning sun warms them up. At least that's what I'm telling myself! They're so beautiful!

Have a great day! Till next time...Spring Blessings! Missie :)

Ever have primitive dreams?

2009-03-28T15:48:00.004-04:00

Today was a GREAT DAY at the shop!!! It really gets me inspired, not that I need any more...I can't sleep the way it is!!!! I've got sooooo many ideas bouncing around in my head...I truely think it's going to burst sometimes!!!! I'm going to have to jot them down so I don't forget! Ever do that? Or, just can't sleep till you see a vision completed...doesn't matter if the results are good or bad...you just have to do it? I actually had prim dreams last night!!!! LOL I'm an addict!!!! Scary isn't it! That's how my shop got started....a DREAM!

I bought myself a present & received it today.....SOME NEW STENCILS!!!! What fun is that!! Can't wait to use them!! I've got a really kewl sign idea!!!!!!!!!!! Woooo Hoooo Only one problem, this weekend is half over & Sunday is spoken for...It's going to drive me insane until Tuesday! But, it'll give me something to look forward to!!!!!!!!

Have a great weekend! Missie :)

New "Momma Sue" Items!

2009-03-27T13:40:00.005-04:00

This is what "Mamma Sue" (that's what our customers call my Mom!) bought in this week!!!!

pRiMiTiVe EaSteR EgGs! They are so darn cute!! These sweet little eggs turned out GREAT! She got them primmed to perfection, as usual!!! They are a grungy Robin's Egg Blue! Only $2 each! I picture these nestled in a prim pot of Wheat Grass!

These are adorable hanging from cupboards, screens & doors! I have them all over my house & just can't get enough! There's just something about children's clothing & toys!!! This primmed up dress & top are only $12.99 & $14.99!

MORE, MORE, MORE Prairie Dolls! I just love these sweet little dolls! She just can't keep them in the shop! These cute little dollies come in two sizes, and also look great hanging from cupboads! I have mine nestled in the center of a Sweet Annie wreath! They sell for $23.50 & $17.50.

Tip of the Day . . . Tuesday!

2009-03-24T14:12:00.008-04:00

Now that Spring has sprung & it's time for potatoe salad, a great barbecue side dish, you're gonna want to know this!

Too bad we didn't know about this YEARS ago!

Mary Ann from Gilligan's Island demonstrated this in a You Tube video. I couldn't get the link to work, but peeling a cooked potato couldn't be easier!!! No peeler needed!!

Here's what'cha do:

1. Boil water in a large pot.

2. Score potatoes, circularly, in center.

3. Place potatoes in boiling water for about 15 min., use tongs.

4. Use tongs to remove potatoes, one at a time, and place in another pot of ice water. Rotate potatoe for about 10 seconds until slightly cooled.

5. Use your hands to twist skin off in opposite directions & Waaa-Laaa!!

My Mom always makes the potatoe salad, 'cause she's best at it!!!! But, this looks soooo easy & quick I can't wait to try it!!

Have a great day!!! Missie :)

~Homemade Laundry Soap~

2009-03-19T16:34:00.003-04:00

Are you watching your pennies? Trying to be frugal in today's scary economy? Me too! Lately I've had two customers tell me they're making their own LAUNDRY SOAP! Sounded a little crazy to me initially, but I guess a lot of us are truely getting back to a simpler tyme! One of my crafters, Carole Hymer of Pickleberry Primitives, emailed this to my Mom today & I thought you might be interested in the recipe! I think I may try it as well!

24 cups of water
1 bar Fels Naptha or Zote soap (Fels can be found at Kroger's)
1/2 cup washing soda
1/2 cup borax

Bring water to a boil. Grate the bar soap while water is boiling. Turn off the heat to water. Stir the soap into the water and stir until the soap is dissolved. Then add the washing soda and borax and stir till all is dissolved. Stir every so often (about every 20-30 minutes), til soap is cooled. Makes approx 1 1/2 gallons of laundry soap and the consistency is like a lumpy tapioca pudding. Use 1/2 cup per load.

Thanks Carole!!

Kindred Friends Rock the House...Jailhouse that is...

2009-03-19T15:41:00.007-04:00

It's been exciting & fun around Jailhouse Primitives lately...today, I had the honor of meeting Dawn Rossell of Holly Hills Primitives (Michigan) and her prim pal, Connie (Indiana)! I really enjoyed their visit!!! Both super sweet ladies! Dawn & I have been emailing one another as she axiously awaited her trip to Ohio for a "girl's weekend" prim shopping! I'm so grateful they included me on their "places to see" agenda! We had a lot of fun!!

This is me & Dawn with her "goodies!
This is Connie & Dawn with their Jailhouse Loot!

We looked like a bunch of crazy women taking pictures of ourselves on St. Rt. 725!! ROFL, but we didn't care! We were having too much fun! Thanks ladies, it was great to meet you both! I'm sure you enjoyed your next stop...Lizzie's Cabin!

Yesterday, Lizzie of Lizzie's Cabin Primitives, stopped in to see what treasures we had that she could make something with. We had a very long visit & did some catching up! I hadn't seen her since a year ago Christmas! My Mom finally got the opportunity to meet her & just thought she was a hoot! We covered everything from primitives to politics!

What a fun week we've had! As soon as I get the opportunity to get out from behind these bars(LOL), I hope to visit their stores in the near future as well...Yes, that's right, I'm planning a Jail Break!!! They've got me pumped up for a trip!!!!

Scentsible Scents NEWS!

2009-03-19T14:43:00.005-04:00

It has recently been brought to my attention that Scentsible Scents will no longer produce the scent Keeping Room...I know, I know, many of you will be disappointed, but I've been told the scent that most resembles it is Kindred Spirits. I do stock Kindred Spirits. I currently have votives, tarts, oils, room spray medium apothecary & large appothecary candles on my shelves of Keeping Room. Once they're gone, they're gone! So if this is your favorite scent, be sure to stop in & stock up!
Lemon Curd is a fairly new scent & it's a delicious, strong aroma of baking a lemon cake, oh so sweeeeet! A customer of mine said, "this scent is reminiscent of my Grandma's Lemon Pound Cake!" "I LOVE it & have to have one!" A great Spring candle you're just gonna love!!

Scentsible Scents has a NEW scent...Prickley Pear! It smells wonderful! Watch for it on our shelves SOON!

Welcome Spring.....

2009-03-19T11:35:00.011-04:00

The last couple of days here have been so "spring-like", just georgeous! Being able to get outside & do a little yard work felt so refreshing! I was so sore & slept like a baby the last few nights!!!! After cleaning up last fall's leaves that had settled around the fence lines & my plants, I decided to get into a little perking up & re-do's around the house for a fresh look! I had so much fun! I always do a little arrangement on the front gate, this year I decided to do something different! When it's safe to put out flowers I'll fill the watering can with some plants! I can't wait! Forgot to snap a pic of that gate, when I do I'll post.
Here's a lil' sump'n I threw together for the back yard gate.

I threw this together on the back porch. I was told this came out of an old building from downtown, maybe it housed a clock or something, I just think it's the neatest! I needed something to hide an old window from the kitchen to the porch that was covered many years ago.

Here's a re-do on my harvest table in the dining room. I whipped up this Freedom Pole & nestled it in some honeysuckle vine!

Hubby made me a Shutter Peg Rack to display old wooden bowls, I think it turned out pretty neat.

This is a re-do of an old cabinet I found, just changed up the decor with an old chicken wired door. Decorated it with a sweet annie wreath & a prairie doll my mom made me. Love my furkin collection & little pie safe!

Happy Spring!

Rudy's Churrascaria

2009-03-14T13:33:00.005-04:00

Rudy's Churrascaria, a South American-style steakhouse just around the corner from us is now open! Located at 42 N. Main St. in the former Germantown Opera House (Circa 1872). Dr. Rudy and his wife Colette Mejia and Rudy’s brother German Mejia and his wife Patsy, own & operate the restaurant.

The restaurant is open Monday - Saturday from 3-6 P.M. for Specials, and 6-10 P.M. for dinner. The Sports Bar will serve food until 11:00 P.M. and will remain open until 1:30 A.M. They serve beer, wine & rotisserie-cooked meats in the Brazilian and Argentinian steakhouse tradition. They plan to add spirits in the coming weeks, along with a Sunday brunch service. The phone number is (937) 353-7375.

The Churrasco Rodizio, or all-you-can-eat rotisserie meats, is $21.95, while the Carne Assada for One is $15.95. Other entrees are $6.95 to $7.95. The Churrasco Rodizio is the ultimate South American Steakhouse experience, with meats carved and served tableside throughout the meal, but for the best value, bring a friend and order the Carne Assada for Two for the same price ($21.95).
The restaurant has a main dining area and also a Sports bar. Along with the “Steak House” dining room, the “Sports Bar” offers cheeseburgers, chicken wings, sandwiches, salads, etc.

The staff of Rudy and German’s Restaurant are local people. German (Rudy’s Brother) is one of three chefs. German said his wife will be making the desserts, including special cakes and pies.

The Opera House ballroom upstairs can be used to cater for groups up to 300 people. They offer a “private” dining room in the back that can be reserved for groups of 10-30 people.

The main floor of the building was used for the Village offices, post office, a bank, a smokery, a jewelry store, Dayton Power and Light office, lawyers offices, restaurants and bars down through the years. The second floor was added in about 1873. This floor has been used for various functions in the 1920’s and 1960’s.

Advice/Ideas on Aging Concrete Pedestal Urns?

2009-03-14T12:06:00.004-04:00

Hello Prim Pals! I need your help! Yesterday I bought 6 great old concrete pedestal, planter Urns (like shown above), you see adorning the entryways to colonial homes, etc., you usually see them with a topiary type shrub planted in them, they're awesome! Since I don't have much experience in giving concrete an "aged" look, I thought someone else might! They're currently an original old white paint. I'd like to age them with a paint/stain technique. Do you know what kind of paint or a technique that could be used to accomplish this? I'd just like to give them a little more patina. If you have any ideas I would greatly appreciate it! You can email me at jailhouseprimitives@gtownonline.com.

Thanks a bunch! Missie

Germantown Covered Bridge

2009-03-14T11:55:00.002-04:00

Restored in 1963, the Germantown Covered Bridge on E. Center St., spanning Little Twin Creek, was 93 years old and is reported to be the only existing covered bridge of it's kind in the world! For 41 years this unique inverted bow string truss covered bridge spanned Little Twin Creek on the Dayton Pike in Germantown, Ohio. In 1911 it was removed to it's present location where it has been restored and beautified as a link with Ohio's early history. It is a symbol of individual initiative in America's pioneer days. The landscaping is watered & maintained by the Twin Valley Heritage Foundation of Germantown.

Ever Wondered..."What are the Lions?"

2009-03-14T11:16:00.003-04:00

If you've ever visited Germantown, Ohio, I'm sure you've wondered..."What are the lions?" A trademark of Germantown , these are the "Homer Kern Lions". Homer Kern, who made approximately 300 handmade concrete lion statues decorate homes, parks and offices in this Village and across the nation (according to the Germantown Historical Society). A native of Germantown, born in 1900, he died at the age of 101. He began making the 420 pound concrete lions in 1984 from a mold found at the Buckeye Concrete Company. Mr. Kern's 10 years of handiwork brought him fame to the Village and brought Germantown an identity as the "town with all the lions."

The Florentine Hotel

2009-03-13T16:43:00.009-04:00

I wanted to share some of the wonderful historic landmarks Germantown has to offer. Above is The Florentine Hotel, known to be the 2nd oldest in the state of Ohio (the oldest being the Golden Lamb in Lebanon, Ohio). In 1804, Philip Gunckel and a group of Pennsylvania Deutsch settlers founded Germantown, Ohio. Records show that in 1816 taxes were paid by Philip Gunckel on this structure & it was sold to William Schaeffer in 1832. Since there is no written history of this building, it is assumed that Philip Gunckel, the "founder of Germantown", felt an inn was needed at that point in Germantown. The Florentine Hotel has had 42 owners.

Many important Americans have stayed at The Florentine Hotel, Clement Vallandigham & Henry Clay both drew large crowds when they spoke from the ornate wrought iron balcony. It has always been a resting stop for travelers, the first settlers on horseback and in wagons, then stage coach travelers & in the early 20th century, for passengers on the traction car.

John Finley, who bought the hotel in 1911, was known as the "souvenir" owner. More memorabilia has been found bearing his name than any other owner. Amoung the Finley collectible are tip bags, tokens & bottle openers. Old timers tell us that when Mr. Finley died, his wake was held at the hotel.

Prohibition and inflation took their toll on the old hotel, and by 1940, it was reduced to primarily a stag bar with just a few live-in tenants. Because of an acute state of disrepair, the landmrk was forced to close it's doors in 1974.

The building remained closed until 1976 when it was purchased by two local couples who restored the interior and exterior and reopened for business as a full service restaurant in August 1979.

The Florentine Hotel contains three distinct sections, all built before 1860. As best can be determined, the brick section of the building was built sometime during 1816, and housed the original inn rooms. Using this date, historians were able to determine that The Florentine Hotel is probably the second oldest inn in the State of Ohio. The back part of the tavern was part of the original brick building, 1814 - 1816. It has a fireplace which kept all the travelers confortable during their visits. The Tavern Fireplace - This was on the first floor of the original inn. The food was cooked in the basement fireplace and elevated by dumbwaiter (now the firewood box) to the first floor where the taverlers dined. Center Staircase - One of the hotel's most outstanding features is the beautiful center staircase, crafted of oak, cherry and walnut. Leighty Room - In the dining room just west of the staircase, guests can see the exposed original interior brick nogging. Livery - Immediately East of the Florentine was a livery stable where travelers' horses could be boarded for the night. Outside Balcony - The ornate wrought iron rail balcony on the front of the frame structure was a common decoration for many houses in the area. The gracefully designed accessory, fashioned in the shapes of acorns and oak leaves, was fabricated at the ironworks in the old Oregon District of Dayton.

Information is courtesy of The Twin Valley Heritage Foundation, Germantown, Ohio.

The Florentine Hotel has special meaning to my family. My Great-Grandfather, Ed Blevins, an electrician, wired the Florentine's Sign which adorned the front of the building in the early 1900's. My husband's family was one of the owners during this period, and restored this wonderful piece of history in which my husband assisted.

There are many beautiful historic landmarks in Germantown. When you come to town, be sure to visit them all. The Florentine Hotel is just up the street from us, one block West at 21 W. Market St., call for their dining hours at 937-855-7607.

~I've got the Primitive Bug~

2009-03-13T15:47:00.004-04:00

The "Jailhouse" definition is: "A correctional institution used to detain persons who are in the lawful custody of the government"! Well...right now that's exactly how I feel!! LOL I truly dread this time of year..."TAX SEASON"!! I feel like that is ALL I get done until it's finished! Ick...sooooo boring!! It's not one of my favorite things about running a business, but it must be done! I'm so close to being done I can taste it...then I can get back to what I enjoy the most...creating! I'm so excited, I've had the "primitive bug" for weeks, but have been true to getting these darn taxes finished so I can freely concentrate on making some new things!!! It sure is hard though! I've had to right down my ideas so I don't forget & can focus! Those paint brushes are calling my name!!!! Not to mention Spring is around the corner & I have so many ideas for outside the shop. I'm ready to get my hands dirty and break a sweat! I have actually gotten some home projects completed with hubby at home recently. I'll take the time soon to snap some pics to share! Have a great weekend!

A Sneak Peak...Of Our Home

2009-02-12T14:32:00.001-05:00

The History of Aprons

2009-02-12T10:57:00.002-05:00

The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath, because she only had a few, it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and they used less material, but along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven, like setting her hot baked pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw. It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears. From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven. When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids. And when the weather was cold, grandma wrapped it around her arms. Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove. Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron. From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls. In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees. When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds. When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner. It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes. They would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron. I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron ..... but Love!

Thanks for sharing this with me Max so I could pass on to many others!

"Business of the Month"

2009-01-31T13:23:00.003-05:00

Germantown's Website, http://www.downtowngermantown.com/, is now up & running! We've been featured as the "Business of the Month"! Check it out! Mike Kuhn & Brian Wafzig, both Germantown residents, created this website to promote "Downtown Germantown". It offers a one-stop Website with a list of restaurants (their menus, shops & businesses with contact information and hours of each, as well as a map of the village and a calendar.

Thanks to you both, great job!

On My Quaint Corner...

2009-01-18T23:45:00.004-05:00

On my quaint corner this Sunday evening, I've settled on the couch in my jammies with a hot cup of tea listening to the hum of our gas stove warming the house as the rest of my crew slept & the snowflakes gently fell...I decided to hop on the laptop to surf "prim stuff" (shocking I know), & ran across this ... "Grandma's Hands". I found it so touching & thought you would too.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GRANDMA'S HANDS

Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench. She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands. When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was OK. Finally, not really wanting to disturb her, but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. 'Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking,' she said in a clear, strong voice. I didn't mean to disturb you, Grandma, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK, I explained to her. Have you ever looked at your hands, she asked. I mean really looked at your hands? I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making. Grandma smiled and related this story:

Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled, shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life.

They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor. They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child, my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots.

They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to war. They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special. They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse.

They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand. They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw.

And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.

These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life. But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home. And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of Christ.

I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God reached out and took my Grandma's hands and led her home..When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and husband I think of Grandma. I know she has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God. I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face.

Author Unknown

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As I read this, I think of my Grandpa Blevins, as he too was 90+ yrs old when God reached out to take his hands. He lived with us for many years when I was younger, and I remember often thinking of what all he must have seen over the years of his life. It was he who nicknamed me "high-pockets"!

I suppose he's close to my heart this evening because I made my Grandma Blevins' Custard Pie today to share at our family "Sunday Dinner" tonight. Although I don't particularly care for custard pie, I was told it was DE-licious! As well as the Coconut Cream Pie I made from a 1950's Cookbook I had entitled "Old Fashioned Pies Men Like"!!! Well...the men liked it alright!! I arrived home with a few crumbs in the pan! An old neighbor of mine, Vicki, shared her homemade crust recipe with me many years ago...I used her recipe today...Thanks Vicki!!!

God Bless...

January is Military Month!

2009-01-09T17:49:00.002-05:00

We appreciate your sacrafice & loyalty. Therefore, military employees & they're immediate families will receive a 10% discount on purchases of $25 or more with a military ID during the month of January!

Christmas Open House 2008

2009-01-09T17:43:00.001-05:00

Christmas Open House 2007

2009-01-09T17:00:00.005-05:00

Welcome...to our thyme

2009-01-09T16:25:00.001-05:00

Coming Soon...

2009-01-04T23:40:00.002-05:00

the Germantown Business Community Website...you'll see us there! www.downtowngermantown.com

I'm back to work!!!

2009-01-04T22:35:00.003-05:00

Well...I figure the holidays are over & it's time for me to get back to work! And that I've done (if you can call it work)! Some of you may have been wondering why I wasn't open between Christmas & the New Year...Hubby & I took a road trip treasure hunting again....one of my favorite things in the WORLD to do!!! Happened across some great stuff near Amish Country! What beautiful countryside! By the time we got done, we couldn't fit another thing in the truck!!!

We found 3 double wash tubs, yes I said "3"! These are sooo great for storage, which is what I do with mine. They also make great outdoor beverage coolers for those summer time parties fast approaching! Picked up an awesome piece of schoolhouse slate, it's 3/8" thick and 3' x 5'!! Georgeous! How fun would this be to hang in a main room, like a kitchen, to leave family notes or a message..."Soup Beans & Corn Cakes Special ~ Shoo-Fly Pie" or whatever!!! Got a great crock type pie plate! Some feed sacks, remember these not only make great decor hanging from a peg rack or square-headed nail, but they also look great as curtains! Two wooden mashers, 1 metal masher, antique cookie cutters, several crocks, lanterns, an antique (very primitive) rake, 2 very old, small black screen doors & some really neat boat oars! Too much to mention, so stop in Wed - Sat to check it out!!

Happy New Year!

Missie

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-15T16:20:00.002-05:00

We'll be closed Wednesday, November 26th & Thursday, November 27th for Thanksgiving.

WE'LL BE OPEN "BLACK FRIDAY", NOVEMBER 28TH & SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH!

Thank you!

2008-11-15T15:30:00.004-05:00

Christmas Open House was a huge success! Thank you to all who shopped with us, you are much appreciated!

Our Door Prize Winners were Patty Watkins who won the handcrafted by Sue "St. Jig's Tree Topper" to adorn her primitive tree! Susie Hosler who won the Christmas Wreath, handcrafted by Missie! And Robin Boyer who won the Vanilla Goose Creek Candle, adorned with a primitive snowman label! Congratulations! We had many entries for the drawing & a lot of Jailhouse Primitive Keychain gifts were given entitling those customers to a lifetime 10% discount!

Santa was a hit, passing out Candy Canes & Coloring Books from his little red wagon! The Ele' treats were a big hit...they didn't last long! I also want to thank Ele' for preparing the treat tray at a moment's notice (since I procrastinated & didn't call ahead)!

Primitive Holiday Blessings!

We'll be CLOSED....

2008-10-29T18:12:00.002-04:00

Trick or Treat!
I plan to try to cut out a little early on Thursday, October 30 for our Trick or Treat Night! Most likely around 5:00 p.m., if possible, to help my little "Gobblin" get ready!

Christmas Open House Week!
We'll be closed Wednesday, November 5 & Thursday, November 6 to get everything primilious for your Christmas Open House weekend! We'll have bells on our feet, so mark your calendars.....

Friday, November 7, 10 - 6
Saturday, November 8, 10 - 6
Sunday, November 9, 12 - 4!!

See you then!

Grapevine Trees are arriving soon!

2008-10-28T19:46:00.005-04:00

We're replenishing our stock of Grapevine Trees, in a wide variety of sizes, just in time for our fast approaching Christmas Open House! Expected arrival date is Wednesday, November 29th. Our Grapevine Trees are handmade from real, natural growing vines found right here in the Heartland of Ohio! They are the best quality you will find, with a sturdy 4-legged base, they will maintain their circular shape for years to come!

Although Grapevine Trees have become a commonplace decoration for many homes in the Midwest and Midsouth such as Ohio, Tennessee, Indiana, Michigan and Kentucky, they are fast becoming popular in many parts of the United States from East coast to West coast.

Grapevine Trees can be used to decorate your patio or porch, or in your home, lodge or cabin year 'round. They make a great rustic addition to your holiday decorations. Use as a centerpiece too! Create a welcoming atmosphere by adding a strand of brown cord lights! We sell these lights year 'round also.

Outside Care of your Grapevine Tree: Although it is not recommended for year 'round display outside due to the elements. You can spray your Grapevine products with a light polyurethene product to help protect them from rain and moisture. It is best for them to be placed under a covered patio or porch, if possible, to help extend the life of your tree.

Inside Care of your Grapevine Tree: We spray our trees with a mixture of linseed oil & mineral spirits to rejuvenate the warm, rich brown appearance you originally received your tree in. However, Scott's Liquid Gold (a furniture polish, sold in a spray can) can also do the trick!

How did Candy Canes Get Started?

2008-10-23T11:34:00.003-04:00

Anyone who's even been near a child knows the impossibility of keeping one of them still and quiet for any reasonable length of time. Like, say, for five minutes.

And it's even worse in church. Especially if it's a Loooonnnng Mass. This was the concern of the Choirmaster of Cologne back in 1670. His solution was probably the same as any harried child-care provider: Give 'em a candy.

Well, it just wouldn't do to pass 'em over a bag of Snickers. Even if they had been invented at the time, it would have felt a little sacrilegious. So, his solution was to create a religious candy. Kinda.
Hard candy was freely available - he simply changed the shape from a straight stick to a hooked one. It became a mini-shepherd's crook, instantly transforming a bad distraction into a heavenly one.

The Christmas tree was getting along in popularity around this time, and it didn't take long to see how easily these religiously shaped sweets hooked onto the branches. Soon, the candy cane left the pews and went commercial.

Although enormously popular, the original candy cane was simply white - it was a sugar stick with a humble attitude. It was not until the 1920's that the candy cane's more recognizable striping was added. This was done by Bob McCormick, who ran a small confectioners in Albany, GA. He started by hand-twisting the colors into the candy canes, and eventually found a way to mechanize the process. "Bob's Candies" is now most likely the brand of candy cane you buy during this holiday season.

There's an interesting, but wholly erroneous, net-myth concerning a confectioner in Indiana who put the whole candy cane idea together, fraught with deep significance in the red and white stripes for the blood of Christ and the color of purity. It can certainly mean that, if you care to think of the candy cane in that way, but the story has no basis in fact. Let's not take credit away from a priest in the 1600's that came up with the spoonful of sugar that made The Word go down easier for nearly 400 years of wriggling children.

Originally appeared in Truths Behind Traditions.

Primilious Primitives!!! Ohhhh My!

2008-10-17T23:10:00.003-04:00

In a previous post regarding Christmas Open House, I mentioned that we were working hard on handcrafting "hand-did's & hunting special antiques for you! Well...I just can't keep the cat-in-the-bag on this one! I received a surprise visit from one of my pickers today! He had some of the most primilious primitives I've ever seen! Absolutely authentic antique beauties...stop in soon, I'm certain these babies are not going to last! I have 4 awesome Rice Buckets (Hard to come by in great condition like these! Original hardware!), 3 antique Gathering Baskets that are just to die for, several wooden trays & wooden boxes with great patina (these would be beautiful as a candle display for the holidays or adorning the back of your primitive cupboards), 2 antique wire Fish Baskets (very nice), an aged primitive store sign from TN (I almost took home!), some wood & wrought iron architectural pieces, an Early 1900's Pie Safe (That I almost took home too!) & much more!

See you soon!

Old-Fashioned Christmas Open House ~ Details Finalized!

2008-10-17T22:39:00.005-04:00

Jolly Ole' St. Nick will be at Jailhouse Primitives on Saturday & Sunday from 2 - 4 p.m. to spead holiday chear to all! Shhhh....He's told me he'll have a gift for all the good boys & girls (12 & under)! So bring your youngn's for a treat!

ALL furniture will be 20% off this weekend ONLY!

We'll have an Ole' St. Nick Door Prize Drawing again this year! One handcrafted primitive needful will be given away each day! Entry to win when you spend $50 or more (one entry per customer). Door Prizes will be on display above our Vintage frig, so sneak a peek as you arrive!

I'm so excited about this....I have a special Jailhouse Primitives Christmas Gift for my customers this year to show my appreciation to each of you for your patronage throughout the years! I owe my success to you! Therefore, each customer purchasing $100 or more will receive a Skeleton Key Keychain with Jailhouse Primitives engraved on it, in addition to an entry for the Ole' St. Nick Door Prize Drawing! Your "key to Jailhouse Primitives" entitles you to receive 10% off each time you shop with us!! Yes, that's right, a lifetime discount just by presenting your key when you check out!

Join us for some old-fashioned fun & enjoy a homemade treat while you browse!

Blessings to All...And to all a goodnight!

Christmas Open House 2008!!!!!

2008-10-10T20:09:00.003-04:00

~MARK YOUR CALENDARS~

Jailhouse Primitives Christmas Open House 2008 will be:

Friday, November 7 from 10 - 6 p.m.

Saturday, November 8 from 10 - 6 p.m.

Sunday, November 9 from 12 - 4 p.m.

We're working hard to create unique "primilious" hand-dids, hunting special antique treasures & baking tasty treats! So bring your family & friends & join us for a fun-filled day gathering treasures for your home & festive one-of-a-kind gifts!

More details to come as I finalize Santa's Stop; the St. Nick Door Prize Drawing for those of you who spend $50 or more; and a special Christmas gift for all of you who spend $100 or more!

Furniture will be 20% off this weekend only!

Welcome Autumn.......

2008-09-22T05:33:00.004-04:00

well, the Autumn Season is upon us once again! It's just the beginning of a most beautiful time of year as the leaves begin to change color....it's once again time to trick or treat, eat carmel apples, drink fresh apple cider, have a bon fire and bake a homemade apple pie! Can you tell I love apples! It's also time to add a touch of "Fall" to your world! Stop by soon, as our "crafed by hand" Primitive Pumpkins, Punk'n Head Dolls, Candy Corn bowl fillers, dried Sweet Annie bundles, a Gobblin Goodies Candle from Scentsible Scents, etc. are awaiting you! Our farm wagon is again loaded down with gorgeous Mums of all colors!!!

Fall Blessings!

Goose Creek Candles!

2008-09-22T03:53:00.006-04:00

Goose Creek Candles ~ OMG ~ they just came in this week & you're gonna love'em!

We're currently offering the "Folk Art by David" Collection in Original, Holiday & Saltbox & Willows, as well as the "Inspirational" Collection. "Folk Art by David" candles are exclusive to Goose Creek & Jailhouse Primitives is an exclusive Goose Creek retailer in the Germantown, Ohio & surrounding area!

The "Original" Folk Art by David prints have been specifically matched to the candle to create not only a pleasing frangrance, but an appealing primitive candle display. The "Holiday" Folk Art by David prints are artfully paired with a fragrance that is sure to make your holiday season memorable. The "Saltbox & Willows" Folk Art by David is a brand new design that you're just going to love.

Some of the scents we currently have stocked in the "Folk Art by David" Collection: Apple Bourbon adorned in the Homespun & Heartland labels, Apple Spice adorned in the McArthur's Farm label, Angle Kiss adorned in the Angels Gather Here label, Baked Apple adorned in the Home Sweet Home label, Cider adorned in the Red House label, Cinnamon adorned in the Betsy Ross label, Hot Buttered Rum adorned in the Welcome label, Maple Cream adorned in the Welcome Home label, Maple Toddy adorned in the Pear of Sheep & Bless This Home labels, Orange Vanilla adorned in the Kindred Spirits label, Patchouli adorned in the Primitive Vase label & Sugar Cookie adorned in the Primitive Life label.

We have stocked the following scents in the "Inspirational' Collection: Apple Bourbon adorned in the Wisdom label, Orange Vanilla adorned in the Serenity label, Sugar Cookie adorned in the Home label, Angel Kiss adorned in the Blessed label, Cider adorned in the Faith label, Banana Nut adorned in the Hope label, & French Vanilla adorned in the Believe label.

All candles are 26 oz size only at this time, burning time is 120-150 hrs, reasonably priced at $24.95. Stop in today to smell them for yourself! Candles make great gifts for any occasion, super stocking stuffers & teacher gifts or treat yourself! You know you deserve it!

Blessings to you & yours!

Smokehouse Ham Hocks! Mmmm

2008-07-18T17:47:00.006-04:00

Wednesday, our own Primitive Artist, Sue, brought in her latest handmade creation ~ "Smokehouse Ham Hocks"!

They are grubby, grubby, grubby & big! I've got them dangling from the ladder that's suspended from the ceiling in the kitchen. Each are adorned with a sprig of Sweet Annie & have a hanger of Jute ready to go home with you! All you need is a big simmering pot of beans & some corn cakes! Mmmmm

Stop in today for your...One-Of-A-Kind SMOKEHOUSE HAM HOCK!

Prim Blessings to You & Yours!

More Interesting 1500's facts...

2008-07-18T17:26:00.005-04:00

In the 1500's people cooked in a kitchen with a big kettle that always hung over the fire. Every day they lit the fire and added things to the pot. They ate mostely vegetables and did not get much meat. They would eat the stew for dinner, leaving leftovers in the pot to get cold overnight and then start over the next day. Sometimes stew had food in it that had been there for quite some time. Hence the rhyme, "Peas porridge hot, peas porridge cold, peas porridge in the pot 9 days old"!

On occassion they would obtain pork, which made them feel quite special. When visitors came over, they would hang up their bacon to show off. It was a sign of wealth that a man could "bring home the bacon". They would cut off a little to share with guests and would all sit around and "chew the fat"!

Those with money had plates made of pewter. Food with high acid content caused some of the lead to leach onto the food, causing led poisoning death. This happened most often with tomatoes, so for the next 400 years or so, tomatoes were considered poisonous!

Bread was divided according to status. Workers got the burnt bottom of the loaf, the family got the middle, and guests got the top, or the "upper crust".

Lead cups were used to drink ale or whiskey. The combination would sometimes knock the imbibers out for a couple of days. someone walking along the road would take them for dead and prepare them for burial. They were laid out on the kitchen table for a couple of days and the family would gather around and eat and drink and wait to see if they woke up. Hence the custom of "holding a wake".

When folks started running out of places to bury people, they would dig up coffins, take the bones to a bone-house, and reuse the grave. When reopening these coffins, one out of 25 coffins was found to have scratch marks on the inside and they realized people were being buried alive. So they would tie a string on the wrist of the corpse, lead it through the coffin and up through the ground and tie a bell to it. Someone would have to sit in the graveyard all night (the graveyard shift) to listen for the bell; thus someone could be "saved by the bell" or was considered a "dead ringer"!

Till next time...Prim Blessings!

Interesting facts from the 1500's

2008-07-18T16:55:00.003-04:00

It's a blistering hot day in Germantown today, the humidity his high & the heat is breath taking. I thought it would be a great day to share some interesting 1500's facts with you! I came across these while reading the Germantown Historical Society's Newsletter & thought they'd be fun to pass along...

A bath in the 1500's was a large tub filled with hot water & the man of the house had the privilege of the nice clean water...then, all the other sons & men...then, the women...and finally, the children...last of all, the babies! Hence the saying, "Don't throw the baby out with the bath water"!

The next time you are washing your hands and complain that the water temperature isn't just how you like it, think about how things used to be in the 1500's...most people got married in June because they took their yearly, yes I said yearly, bath in May! They figured they still smelled pretty good by June! (Trust me, that was not the reason I got maried in June!) However, they were starting to smell somewhat, so brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide their body odor. Hence the custom today of carrying a bouquet when getting married!

Houses had thatched roofs, thick straw-piled high, with no wood underneath. It was the only place for animals to get warm, so all the cats and other small animals (mice, bugs, etc.) lived in the roof. When it rained it became slippery and sometimes the animals would slip off and through the roof! Hence the saying, "It's raining cats & dogs"!

There was nothing to stop things from falling into the house. This posed a real problem in the bedroom where bugs and other droppings could mess up your nice clean bed. Hence a bed with big posts and a sheet hung over the top afforded some protection. That's how canopy beds came into existence!

The floor was dirt. Only the wealthy had something other than dirt. Hence the saying, "Dirt Floor"! The wealthy had slate floors that could get slippery in the winter when wet, so they spread thresh (straw) on the floor to help keep their footing. As the winter wore on, they added more thresh until, when you opened the door, it would all start slipping outside. A pice of wood was placed in the entry way. Hence the saying, "Thresh hold"!

Hope you enjoyed these fun facts, I know I did!

Prim Blessings!

Antique Tool Collectors!

2008-07-11T17:49:00.004-04:00

We've added some extremely nice antique tools to the shop, they have been maticulously refinished. Each has been cleaned with a wire brush so the original writing is legible; the wood & metal has a great patina! They are beautiful pieces! If you're an old 'tool collector', come on in....we have a variety of picks, hammer heads, cobbler's tools, axes, shovels (round tip & square headed), a potatoe fork (my favorite), just to mention a few!

We NoW hAvE....CABIN FEVER!!

2008-07-11T17:30:00.006-04:00

...well, not literally! Scentsible Scents has offered this scent for quite some time, however, I have never had it available. Why, I don't know! I smells awesome, truely reminds you of a scent you would expect in a log cabin home, just a hint of orange! Simply said...just yummy! Stop by for a sniff yourself! We carry tarts, votives, room spray, fragrant oil, jelly jar, medium apothocary & large apothocary sized candles!

And...don't forget, we have a very LARGE selection of the Scentsible Scents line!!!

Here's a sneak peak into our candle room....we're in the process of extending the shelving across the back wall! Wooo Hooo more room for 'smell goods'!! My hope is that I'll have enough space that I can incorporate the votives with each scent so we won't have to dig thru the 'laundry basket' anymore!

Primitive Icicles...brrrr

2008-07-03T18:39:00.004-04:00

These handcrafted tree ornie Icicles are anything BUT cold! They're sooo hot we can't keep'em stocked! They're a "best seller" all year long...new supply just brought in! Our local artist offers them in Wintery White, Rudolph Red & Burnt Brown! Get'em while they're hot!

HaPpY 4th Of JuLy!!!

2008-07-03T18:18:00.002-04:00

Independence Day celebrates the birthday of the United States of America. Founded July 4th 1776, with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, America is celebrating it's 232nd birthday this year (2008)!

The 4th of July is a time for Parades, Picnics & Fireworks! A time for Beaches, Bon-Fire's & BBQ's! Relax with family & friends...enjoy your favorite grilling receipe...and count your blessings!

We'll be closed July 4th! Have a safe holiday!

LEMON CURD ~ Just in Tyme for Spring!

2008-03-20T10:23:00.004-04:00

Scentsible Scents, Ltd. has come up with a NEW Spring scent for you in delicious LEMON CURD! It reminds me of Lemon Meringue Pie! Mmmmm! We're offering this scent beginning today in Tarts ($3.95), Oils ($4.95), Jelly Jar candles ($7.95), Medium Apothecary Jar candles ($16.95), and Large Apothecary Jar candles ($24.95). Stop in for a sniff or pick up a candle for your Easter dinner guests! They're going fast already!

Happy Easter!

Our Own Folk Art Artist ~ Sue Poff

2008-03-15T13:57:00.007-04:00

As many of you already know, our Primitive Dolls, Make-do's, Santa's, Stitched Needfuls, & etc. are handcrafted by my Mom, Sue Poff. Although humble, she's a very talented artist & I wanted to share with you this special order she created for a local yarn shop. I think he's absolutely awesome & primmed to perfection!

This sheep, fondly nicknamed "Crow" by Susan Mullins, owner of The Ball & Skein in Germantown, Ohio, is resting on a piece of salvaged barn wood and comfortably nestled in a patch of moss.

"Crow" has a reclaimed "gate weight" attached to his handcrafted chain so he cannot wonder far...adorned in yummy hand-sheared, cleaned & sterilzed wool, homegrown right here in Germantown by a local farmer! Perched on his bottom is a very primitive, grungy "crow"; behind him, filled to the brim with wool, is a grungy bag of muslin, handstiched "Ball and Skein". Sue would like to give a special "Thanks" to Becky.

Similar in style, we currently have in stock a black sheep and a white sheep. If you're a sheep collector, you'll flip over these! Stop in to see her other creations ~ Mammies, Primitive Ticking Stars, Old Glory Dolls, American Eagles, etc. Too many to list! New creations in the works!! The next time you're in, be sure to say "Hello" to Susan & "Crow" at The Ball & Skein, located directly behind us in my old location, the original Jailhouse!

The History of Barn Stars

2008-03-15T12:20:00.004-04:00

I'm often asked by customers what is the meaning or significance of these "Stars" ~ Well, I've done some research . . . and here is what I found:

On many older American barns, particularly German farms, one could see a large decoration in the shape of a star mounted on the face of the barn. These were called Barn Stars. Sometimes they were just aesthetic, but sometimes they represented the trademark of a specific barn builder.

Although they go back to at least the 1820s in Pennsylvania, they were most popular after the American Civil War. In modern times, Barn Stars have come to be known as signs of good fortune and luck.

What do the various colors mean? The colors have significance with Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch barn paintings. These folk art designs, many of which were star shaped, were painted directly onto each end of the barn, and date back to the 1850’s.

Black: Protection, also used to blend or bind elements together.
Blue: Protection, peace, calmness and spirituality.
Brown: Mother earth, also can mean friendship and strength.
Green: Growth, fertility, success in things and ideas that grow.
Orange: Abundance in career, projects and matters needing an added push.
Red: Emotions, passion, charisma, lust and also creativity.
Violet: Things that are sacred.
White: Purity, power of the moon, allows energy to flow freely.
Yellow: Health in body and mind, love of man and the sun, connection to the God.

And history continues with the decorative star. These stars were featured in HGTV's Dreamhome 2005!

I have this information printed and available in the shop for your convenience.

Many Blessings!

Our Very Primitive & Rustic Amish Barn Stars

2008-03-15T12:03:00.019-04:00

Adorn your barn, shed, house or garage with one of our Amish Barn Stars! These handcrafted, three dimensional, five point stars offer loads of character & a unique look in a variety of colors!

All are ONE-OF-A-KIND, handcrafted by Amish farmers in Pennsylvania, and nicely constructed of salvaged tin from old barns and out-buildings. Each star will have variations in shading, peeling, small nail holes, rust, wear & old paint giving the stars a rustic, weathered & VERY PRIMITIVE look like no other! A metal tab hanger is handcrafted for each for hanging.

Not all colors & sizes are stocked, but can be ordered. The sizes range from 1', 1 1/2', 2 1/2', 3 1/2', 4' & 5 1/2'. The depth is 3" to 7" depending on the size of the star. Due to their handcrafted nature, the sizes are approximate and can vary by one inch on the larger sizes.

Available the following primitive colors: black, heritage blue, dark green, sea moss green, mustard, barn red, rust and white.

Feel free to call for pricing, ordering, etc. or stop by to take a look for yourself! They are soooo awesome & all the craze!

2008 Germantown Community Events~We'll be OPEN!

2008-03-14T13:22:00.003-04:00

As many of you already know, during Germantown's Community Events, we extend our hours!

This year the Saturday Nite Out Car Shows are scheduled for June 21, July 19 & August 16.

Founder's Day Antique Show in Veteran's Park is scheduled for August 3.

The Pretzel Festival is scheduled for September 27 & 28.

Mark your calendars! WE'LL BE OPEN!!!!!!! Feel free to stop by & browse!

Extended Saturday Hours!

2008-02-29T15:51:00.002-05:00

Due to increased traffic, we will remain open til 4:00 p.m. on Saturday's beginning April 5, 2008, for your convenience. Please keep in mind our hours are "by chance", meaning there are previous commitments that require my attention during advertised hours, the same as, I will stay open past advertised hours when needed. If in doubt, please feel free to call the shop before you make the trip.

Many Blessings!

Skeleton Key Discount

2008-02-29T15:47:00.001-05:00

Beginning Wednesday, March 5, 2008, we will unlock a new promotion, the "Skeleton Key Discount"! Inside Jailhouse Primitives' kraft bags we will randomly tape skeleton keys. If you receive a bag with a skeleton key, you will be entitled to receive 10% off that day's purchase!

Christmas Open House '07

2008-02-28T15:43:00.001-05:00

Photobucket Album

Merchantile Gatherings' Sping '08 Issue!

2008-02-28T13:13:00.001-05:00

Stop by to pick up your Spring '08 issue of Merchantile Gatherings Magazine today!

Merchantile Gatherings Magazine

2007-10-24T23:14:00.000-04:00

Jailhouse Primitives will begin advertising in Merchantile Gatherings Magazine beginning with their Christmas 2007 edition!

As you may know, I was blessed to meet some of these wonderful ladies not long ago & we were included in their "Gurlfrenz Road Trip" article in the Fall 2007 edition! This was a great honor for me.

You can now pick up your copy of either edition, and future editions, in our shop!

Prim Blessings!

Thanks again for another successful year!

2007-10-24T22:27:00.000-04:00

The shop will be closed Wed., Oct. 31st and Thurs., Nov. 1st to get it "prim perfect" for the Christmas Open House! I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you & hope you are able to stop by for this event.

I have several awesome things planned for all of you & I don't think you'll be disappointed! Saturday, November 3 from 12 - 3 our customers, as well as Ball & Skein's customers, will be treated to a horse-drawn buggie/wagon ride (weather permitting)! Santa will make surprise visits again this year! And don't forget Phil & Ann Case will be performing for you Sunday, November 4 from 12 -3!

There will be a "Prim-Drawing" again this year with a purchase of $25 or more! Friday's drawing will be for a 2' GRAPEVINE TREE, Saturday's drawing will be for a HAND-DID (you know this will be great since it's a Mamma Sue Make-Do!). And, last but not least, Sunday's drawing will be for a SCENTSIBLE SCENTS, LTD LARGE APOTHECARY CANDLE, your choice of scent! And you all know we have some lucious ones! Each day the item will be on display for you!

Tickets will be required for both the drawing's as well as the horse-drawn buggie/wagon ride. Please see cashier for yours. A purchase is required for the drawing, however you need only to be our customer or Ball & Skein's customer to take a ride!

Refreshments will also be served! And, don't forget Ball & Skein, Fox Gallery & The Guest House will also be hosting their Christmas Open House's! Hope you can join us for some holiday fun & get a head start on your shopping!

This is just Jailhouse Primitives' way of thanking all of you for another successful year!

Primitive Pumpkin Patch~freshly handmade!

2007-09-15T14:12:00.000-04:00

Ok, here's a sneak peak of what's coming in on Wednesday, September 19th! As many of you know, "Momma Sue" works the shoppe on Wednesday's, and that's usually the day she brings in what she's been craft'n on all week!

Shhhhh, don't tell her you saw it here! She'll know I let the "cat-out-of-the-bag"! These are awesome & new this year, different from the pumpkins we offered last year! Although, like last year's pumpkin patch, these too are handmade & primmed to perfection!

Be sure to stop by & pick up several for display in your dough bowl, kitchen island or to adorn your primitive Haddie the Witch doll, another "Momma Sue handcrafted original"! I know my punk' will be nestled in with my "Punk'n Head Doll" Momma Sue made me!

Prim Blessings!

NEW SCENTS ~ from Scentsible Scents, Ltd.

2007-09-15T12:51:00.000-04:00

Two NEW scents ~ Sugared Pumpkin & Kindred Spirits ~ in TODAY & stocked on our shelves for your enjoyment!

I picked these up last night, and I must tell you, I'm burning Sugared Pumpkin in the shoppe today and it is LUCIOUS! An absolutely perfect scent for Fall!! Kindred Spirits is an awesome blend of orange, spice & cranberry! Mmmmmm Haven't burned this one yet, but I can already tell it's delicious!

The complete order was ready for pick up, so our shelves are full!!! Stop by for your favorite scent, they're already going quick!

Bale Me Out!

2007-09-12T20:08:00.000-04:00

Meet "Brice's Boys"!

Our "Fall" display is sure to put you in the mood for this wonderful, fun-filled season! It's without a doubt, one of my most favorite tymes of the year! Hayrides, candles burning, hot cup of tea, apple pie, colorful foliage, Mums & much more! Be sure to stop by soon to see what's new as we continually add to our fall and Christmas collection, as their completed!

Shhhh....Mom's working on some great new "Harvest Thyme" items, you won't want to miss out on these! I got a "sneak-peak" & they're all to die for! As usual, they go fast! Don't forget, she usually brings her little creations in on Wednesday's!!!! But you didn't hear it from me!!!

The Mums were just brought in today, and they're going fast, I mean lightening fast!! Their georgeous!

I have some Scentsible Scents "Goblin Goodies" candles in stock (smells like "candy corn", some say "vanilla" ~ whatever it is, it's lucious!) & I'll be picking up a partial candle order Friday night!

Fall Blessings!

Jailhouse Primitives' "Hope Chest"

2007-08-31T22:43:00.000-04:00

NEW! Just in thyme for the holidays! Jailhouse Primitives' "HOPE CHEST" (same concept as a "wish list")! Here's how it works: Next time your in, be sure to complete your "Hope Chest" questionaire! Then tell ALL your family & friends you have a "Hope Chest" at Jailhouse Primitives'. When they come in to shop for you, all they have to do is tell us YOUR NAME! We'll open your "Hope Chest" & they'll be able to shop with ease for all your favorite prim hand-did's, your favorite scents of Scentsible Scents candle line, handmade ornies, that perfect primitive cupboard or anything in the shop you just can't live without!

We're very excited about this! It's an easy way to ensure the perfect gift, whether it be your birthday, anniversary, Christmas or just because! You'll find clipboards throughout our shop, just pick one up and have a ball!!

Don't miss out!

We'll be OPEN during Germantown's Pretzel Festival

2007-08-28T21:44:00.000-04:00

Germantown will be hosting their annual Pretzel Festival this year on Saturday, September 22 & Sunday, September 23. Well be open both of these days during the festival for your shopping convenience! Be sure to stop by & see what's new!

Blessings!

2007-08-25T20:18:00.000-04:00

I have to share this one! As many of you know, my Mom is our "doll-maker"! Well...we have a new friend & neighbor who recently opened a yarn shop in our old location (the original Jailhouse), she holds knitting classes on Tuesday evenings ("Knit Nite"), spins her own wool & who knows what else! She asked my Mom to make her a special sheep for her shop, and....OMG!!!...can you believe what she came up with! I am so in love with this sheep! I think it's the best one she's ever done! She used Susan's wool, which she gets from local farmers, salvaged an old cast iron ball from the shop (hope you can see it) and chained it to the sheep! Sitting next to it is an old bag of fresh wool just bubbling out the top! The bag has "Ball and Skein" hand sewn on it (which is the name of her shop!) and the best touch of all....(but hard to see in this photo), there's a crow on it's behind representing her husband cause his nickname is "Crow"! This sheep makes me crazy, my mom crazy & now Susan is crazy! What talent! If you get a chance stop in her new shop (behind me) & take a look, you won't believe your eyes!!!!!! Don't forget to stop by our shop too & pick up your own incredible handmade!! Hurry, they don't last long with this amazing talent behind them!

ChRiStMaS oPeN hOuSe

2007-08-25T10:41:00.000-04:00

Our Christmas Open House is officially scheduled for November 2, 3 & 4! Mark your calendars, you don't want to miss this one! So far we've got Phil & Ann Case scheduled to perform live at our shoppe playing their fantastic Christmas songs on Sunday, November 4 from 12 - 3:oo p.m.! I'm hoping the weather will be nice enough that they can perform outside so their music carries down the street of this sweet old town setting the mood for all of us! We carry their CD's all year long...I think you'll really enjoy listening to their olde tyme music especially during this wonderful season! We'll have Santa again this year! Exact dates are yet to be announced as I finalize details. I'm also working on a FANTASTIC surprise that I can't reveal just yet! But, hope to soon!!!!! If it plays out the way I have dreamed, it will be the most awesome Open House we've had! We'll also have drawings...these details to be announced later too! But I can reveal one of the drawings will be for a handmade primitive! You'll want to get in on this one!

Our Open House will be in conjuction with other retail shops in Germantown! You'll be able to sit-n-spin or sit-n-knit with Susan at the Ball & Skein, browse The Guest House's Folk Art Gallary & find that perfect piece of jewelry for you or your special someone at Julie's Fox Gallary!

I'm sooooo excited about Open House this year! Hope you can join us in the fun!

Prim Blessings to All!

HELLO ~ PriM LvRs!!!

2007-08-24T16:34:00.000-04:00

Hello prim lvrs! I'm creating this blog to share my tales of Jailhouse Primitives. An adorable, must see, brick & morter primitive shop nestled in our small, quaint historic town of Germantown, Ohio. Wow, I have sooo much to share ~ and I'm not sure where to begin. I'll be posting quite a bit of information in the near future....so be sure to check back soon!!!

Stop by & browse our goodies when you get a chance! Our hours are Wednesday's 11 - 6:00 p.m., Thursday's & Friday's 10 - 6:00 p.m. and Saturday's 10 - 2:00 p.m., (or chance!) but I sometimes stay open later on Saturday's if there's traffic to justify it. We extend our hours for community events such as...Saturday Nite Out's, Founder's Day Antique Show, Pretzel Festival, Octoberfest, our Primitive Holiday Thyme & etc.! I'll be posting the dates of some of these in the near future, should be alot of fun! We have some exciting plans in the works for our Christmas Open House, which I'll post at a later date once the details are final! Can't wait! I luv Christmas!

PRIMITIVE BLESSINGS!

Jailhouse Primitives ~ A Unique Blend of the Olde & New

Meet Baliegh...

Happy Spring!

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Happy Thanksgiving!

GARAGE SALE NEXT WEEKEND!

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Our Brick & Mortar Shop is officially CLOSED!

~*75% OFF SALE THIS WEEKEND!!!*~

ANOTHER 50% OFF WEEKEND!!!

50% OFF STOREWIDE ~ FINAL DAYS!!!

A BLESSED WEEKEND!

50% OFF SALE THIS WEEKEND!!!!

ChEcK uS OuT oN eBaY!!!!

30% OFF SaLe ThIs WeEkEnD!!!!

We're CLOSING our Brick & Mortar Store :(

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Fly Screens!

Germantown's 10th Annual Saturday Night Out's are Scheduled for 2009!

History of the Mason Jar ~ Celebrating 125th Anniversary!

SpRiNg HaS sPrUnG...

~fReNzY fRiDaY~

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New "Momma Sue" Items!

Tip of the Day . . . Tuesday!

~Homemade Laundry Soap~

Kindred Friends Rock the House...Jailhouse that is...

Scentsible Scents NEWS!

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Rudy's Churrascaria

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The Florentine Hotel

~I've got the Primitive Bug~

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The History of Aprons

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On My Quaint Corner...

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Christmas Open House 2008

Christmas Open House 2007

Welcome...to our thyme

Coming Soon...

I'm back to work!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thank you!

We'll be CLOSED....

Grapevine Trees are arriving soon!

How did Candy Canes Get Started?

Primilious Primitives!!! Ohhhh My!

Old-Fashioned Christmas Open House ~ Details Finalized!

Christmas Open House 2008!!!!!

Welcome Autumn.......

Goose Creek Candles!

Smokehouse Ham Hocks! Mmmm

More Interesting 1500's facts...

Interesting facts from the 1500's

Antique Tool Collectors!

We NoW hAvE....CABIN FEVER!!

Primitive Icicles...brrrr

HaPpY 4th Of JuLy!!!

LEMON CURD ~ Just in Tyme for Spring!

Our Own Folk Art Artist ~ Sue Poff

The History of Barn Stars

Our Very Primitive & Rustic Amish Barn Stars

2008 Germantown Community Events~We'll be OPEN!

Extended Saturday Hours!

Skeleton Key Discount

Christmas Open House '07

Merchantile Gatherings' Sping '08 Issue!

Merchantile Gatherings Magazine

Thanks again for another successful year!

Primitive Pumpkin Patch~freshly handmade!

~Fried Mozzarell Sticks~ mmmm

~Flapper Jacks with Meat Filling Receipe~

~75% OFF SALE THIS WEEKEND!!!~