The question did make me think a moment because I think they are so much more than that.  We share common interest and we are passionate about the heart and soul that goes into to our businesses. It’s not just a piece you buy or receive from us. It’s part of us. There is meaning, history, love and laughter and sometimes lots of tears. We share our lives with others and our customers and they pour their hearts out on us sharing their lives in return.

The Junk Gypsies now have their own HGTV show! I love being inspired by the Junk Gypsies! They make me dream a little bigger and the stars seem a little closer!

If you haven’t made it to Warrenton, mark your calendar for the spring and make a date for the prom! It’s a blast!

~ December Junk O Rama Prom exclusive for the filming of the Junk Gypsies on HGTV! ~

The day of the prom started off with some much needed pampering!

Thanks to the Natural Retreat Salon and Day Spa in Cypress, I got just that!

So this is what a movie star feels like!

Ahhh! Manicure! I really needed that after all the metalwork I’ve been doing! It’s pretty rough on the hands!

As I wait for make-up, a must to facebook!

make-up!

Feeling a bit like a princess!

fixin’ the hair!!

Oh my! Check out these curls!

I could totally rock the 80′s hair again! I had the biggest Texas hair in my high school class! Ha!Ha!

Thanks Natural Retreat! Y’all are great and I had so much fun with you!

We are ready! Limo please!

My Hillbilly Couture!

It was a fun relaxing drive! My first time in a Limo! Amy sang us the famous RED SOLO cup song!! and oh, yeah! OMG, we hit a deer!! Maybe not so relaxing, but eventful! haha!! The deer got up and ran off! scheew! Just very thankful we were all ok!

Now we pull up to the prom and the HGTV crew was waiting for our arrival! Probably the only time you may see me on the show, if that, but I’m totally ok with that! I had a blast watching everyone else!

We mingled, we danced, we people watched…there was some crazy creative attire I must say! A great time had by all!

FOR THE LOVE OF JUNK!!!

They’ve got some goods!! I have so much fun! It makes me giddy!

It’s miles and miles of all kinds of just about everything!! You gotta go!!

I had my handy iPhone to take a some pictures of my fun day…

A few of my favorite spots…

Junk Gypsy Company

That would be where I get gypsified!!

Gini and Gillian hanging with me in the HGTV tent! Can’t wait for their new show coming soon!

I’m just having a little fun…Who’s that Indian in my tee pee? It’s me! It’s me!

Leaving my mark!

I was so inspired by all that Amie and Jolie have done for Miranda Lambert.

I had to bring home a few accessories that they used in the Shelton wedding! How cool is that!?

I’m lovin’ the lamp shades. I was actually on a mission to find some while I was there and voila!

They will make great displays!!

Thanks Junk Gypsies for so much fun and inspiration! You’re a blast!!

Next stop…

Jillsuzanne

My first purchase ever in Warrenton was from Jill!

LOVE JILL!!

Yep, that’s me and Jill!!

See the little red and blue table? Oh yea, it’s mine!

She’s got a ton of great treasures and the sweetest smelling Creme Brulee candles!

YUMMY!!!

Then we headed off to Virgin, Saints and Sinners, Fitzgerald’s and the Purple Goat…just to name a few more!

This is Donna from Virgin, Saints and Sinners!

She has a picture of her grandmother holding an alligator that she shot back in the day! That’s one tough cookie!

She left a great legacy to be bold, strong, courageous and a big dreamer!

VSS has lots of t shirts, decor and jewelry with fun and inspirational quotes!

My awesome trunk from the Purple Goat. I paid $35 bucks for it! What a steal!

I found this scale at Fitzgerald’s in Campbell Hall! I had been on the look out for one!

Me and Stella

Some vendors have the sweetest help! te!he!

Debbie and Dewey are a precious couple whom I look forward to seeing each time I go! Love their style!

Last but not least! FOOD!!! My two favorite places to eat!

Scotty and Friends Restaurant & Catering

Located in Round Top

Look for the largest tree you’ve ever seen!

They have the friendliest service! Super sweet gals!

Thanks for recommending the Black Jack Burger! My fav! YUMMY!

No matter which burger you choose, it’s the best one you’ll ever eat!

Finished the day off with a ding dong for dessert made by The Bake Shoppe and Cafe at the Johnson’s Lemonade & cupcake stand!

Look for the sign.

May I take your order? just kidding! lol!

It’s me and Big Johnson! Fun guy!

Thank you Melissa for sharing your friends and sweets! It was delish!

The show ends Oct 2nd, but will return in the spring! You bet I’ll be heading back that direction!

Happy Adventures Y’all!

Be blessed! Stay passionate!

~Tricia

I’m trying to find words. She is amazing, inspiring and full of God’s love… It pours out of her in abundance… She gave God all the glory in her situation! His light shines bright through her and her son! I believe so many people will be touched and moved through her words. I am so honored to have made this piece for her, I can’t even begin to tell you how much it means to me.

Praying for  my faithful sister in Christ!

Missy’s story…

Tricia,

I cannot thank you enough! The necklace you made is so beautiful and means more to me than you realize!

Such simple words, ‘For this child I prayed…’

My husband and I, for years, prayed for a baby and God brought us Jake, not from our blood, not from our bones, but from our heart. Jake came home to us when he was 19 days old, beautiful, and healthy.

A few months after the adoption was finalized, at 15 months of age, Jake was diagnosed with an inoperable tumor on his optic nerve. Again, we prayed. I was so upset but I knew God had blessed us with this beautiful child, this beautiful gift, for a reason, although at the time I didn’t quite know what that reason was.

Jake went on treatment after the craniotomy for the biopsy. He was on treatment for over a year and the tumor reacted favorably and shrunk from about the size of a golf ball to just a couple of millimeters. PRAISE GOD! All was going great until at 4 years old, he stopped growing. We didn’t know if it was because of the tumor, the chemo, or what it could have been. He just stopped. His doctor, along with his oncologist, suggested growth hormone therapy (GHT), assuring us his tumor would not be affected. 3 months after starting GHT, while in kindergarten, Jake’s tumor grew and he had to go back on chemotherapy. THEN I was angry, I was angry at the doctor’s and I was upset that Jake had to go through chemo again because of a decision we made. I was convinced it was the GHT (only to find out later, it was not). So, again, we prayed.

It wasn’t until Jake was on his second bout of chemotherapy that I came to understand why God gives us challenges in our lives. Now of course I can’t speak for God nor do I begin to understand why He does what He does. I can only interpret in my heart what lessons, I believe, He is trying to teach. While Jake was on treatment, we met so many families, but there are two in particular that really opened my eyes.

One day while Jake was inpatient with a fever, a little girl that was Jake’s age came wandering into his room. She introduced herself with a big smile on her face and she and Jake were instant friends. We also became very close to her family. Her mom was single and not only had her but two other little girls. Times were very hard for her trying to keep her family together while taking care of a sick child. Christmas time came, and I found out that she had little money for bills, let alone gifts. So, we went into action and sent out emails and letters to everyone we knew. Right before Christmas, we were able to present her mom with plenty of money to pay her bills as well as some gifts for her girls. If it had not been for Jake’s relapse, we would have never been blessed to meet them.

We met another family, again, while Jake was inpatient due to a low fever and low blood counts. Not too sick, but sick enough to keep him admitted in the hospital. After our second day of being there, here came another beautiful little girl wandering into our room. This one was only 3 years old. Her mom came out of the room next to ours in a panic looking for her. I told her she was fine and playing games with Jake. Trying not to break down, her mom asked if her little one could stay in our room and play. She explained that her 3 year old was not the patient but that it was her 16 year old daughter, and she was not going to make it for very much longer. Her husband and son were on their way and would arrive the next day. In the meantime, it was hard for her to care for her little one while also caring for her older daughter. Jake, who was only 6 at the time, became like a little daddy taking care of her. He would have her stand on his IV pole and tote her around to the play areas of the hospital. It got to the point to where this little girl wouldn’t go into her sister’s room without Jake. He became her security. I was so proud of the strength he showed for that little girl. He was never afraid. The day after we met her and just minutes after her dad and brother arrived, God called her Home. A doctor came in with tears in his eyes after she had passed, hugged us, and thanked us for caring for the little one. He said, “God brought Jake here for her.” A flood of realization came over me and a light came on! It was at that moment that I understood why Jake was going through this again and that yes, God DOES have a plan for everything. Whether it was to lighten my heart, to strengthen us, or to help those families, there was a reason.

From then on, we have been active in supporting others. The Children’s Cancer Hospital (CCH) at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is where Jake has been a patient for over 11 years. The CCH has a Family Advisory Council, of which I have been honored to be a member, acting as a voice for the families of the CCH. Jake has also been involved and has sat on guest panels with me on occasion to give a patients perspective. He is only 12 now but I think he is starting to realize what a difference he can make on the behalf of patients and that his voice will be heard.

We have had many challenges along the way but have held our faith and have looked upon each one as a lesson in strength, love, courage, and patience. As for Jake, after 7 surgeries and 2 bouts of chemotherapy, his tumor remains stable. He has been such a good patient throughout it all, always happy and ready to take whatever came. He shows strength and courage beyond his years and his daddy and I couldn’t be prouder!

And it was all because, ‘For this child I prayed…’

Now you understand, Tricia, more of the meaning behind those words and why, when I saw what you had created, it filled me with a rush of memories, joy, tears, pride, and above all, thanks to God for all of our blessings.

Thank you and may God bless you each day!

Missy Ramirez

***Another patient and her family have made a huge difference by starting Keep Kids Connected (www.keepkidsconnected.org). Keep Kids Connected is non-profit organization which gives laptops to children in the hospital in order for them to stay in touch with friends and family who cannot be there with them. And for them, we pray.

Was this just for me? Crazy! I have been praying for months to be reconnected! To get really personal, I have felt very isolated and disconnected. To be honest, I went to camp this year just to be near my kids. I was first asked to just go and take pictures. Which I love to do!  Then things changed and they were in need of a leader. I had a great opportunity of leading seventh grade girls. I never thought it would be so life changing!

Do you ever wander if your prayers are being answered?

Some of our prayers we will never know on this side of heaven how they were answered, but this week I got to experience the blessings of a few!

There were ten girls in my group along with two graduate girls to help lead. They were amazing! For whatever their reason for going was… maybe their parents made them go, maybe they just saw it as a way to get away, beach bound or maybe they were truly seeking answers for what God’s purpose in their life really was? IT WAS LIFE CHANGING! Six girls in my group accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior! Sweet! Oh, how I wished I had an ear in heaven to hear the angels rejoicing!!

Let me take you a few steps back…this is so cool! You know how I said my pieces are made with love and a prayer? Well, several of my pieces are connected to these girls. There mother’s have one of my pieces and I have prayed for blessings upon them and their families that they would some how be touched by the love of the Lord. Now that’s prayer in action! So glad God has revealed that what I’m doing really makes a difference. I’m KONNEKTED!!

Matthew 22:³⁷ Jesus replied: “‘ Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ³⁸ This is the first and greatest commandment. ³⁹ And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

Thank you!

Photo #2 of Project Inspiration

Laura Shook, one whom I admire, recently said as she battled cancer, it was a gift. It was one of those head tilting moments. Huh? A gift? Cancer, a gift? Whatch you talkin’ bout Willis? :) It kinda took me by surprise, but funny thing was, I honestly got it! Though I do not have cancer. I recently had gone through some health issues.

The fear of not knowing…the waiting on blood work…being told I needed to go to a specialist…waiting on more blood work, the lack of understanding, again the fear of the unknown… the mind starts to spin out of control about all the what ifs. Then doubts, fears, anger, depression, tears and sorrow set in. Occassional meltdowns! There were many prayers…

I was reminded that no matter what I would be diagonosed with, I would not be alone. A gift!

Psalm 27 ¹The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Fears calmed. A gift! 

 I was told I had the symptoms of Lupus, but wasn’t quite there yet. To put it in simple terms, an auto immune disease. My body was attacking itself. Since I knew someone whose wife passed away two months after her diagnoses with Lupus, you could imagine the fears. I was also suffering from chronic fatigue. I think I slept the entire month of February. I decided I had ENOUGH! I was tired of being tired! My medication didn’t make me feel any better and the side effects frankly scared the hell out of me. It was time to take drastic measures! I can’t stand that some doctors send you home with a pill and tell you to come back in a month. Then tell you the same thing when you return. I’m not knocking all meds, it’s needed but surely not the cure all. Healing does not come without change. It was suggested that I avoid certain things in my diet. I took it and ran with it! It made more sense to me to stop putting all the toxins in my body that I knew couldn’t be good. I’VE LOST 20lbs since Feb. A gift!

Things to avoid (most important)

- anything containing artificial sweeteners (including chewing gum)

- anything with artificial flavors or preservatives

I also avoid dairy, grains and caffeine. I know what you’re thinking… NO COFFEE? You’re talking to the #1 addict here! You can do it!

I know, you’re also asking… then what the heck do you eat? A lot really!!! No, it’s not as convenient, but it sure taste better!! A gift!

Fruits, veggies, nuts and lean meats. 3 to 1 portions. 1 being your meat.

I can’t say it’s always easy, but absolutely doable! It gave me time to rely on my heavenly Father!  Mark 10:27 “… all things are possible with God.” A gift!

So many of you have asked how to lose weight and for healthier choice suggestions. Make one better choice and take one day at a time. Most of all PRAY! A gift!

3John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.

 Philippians 1:6 ~ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

I took this picture last night before my family and I left the lake. I thought I’d share it with you today. It reminds me of the love that God has for us. No matter what your need from him today is, it offers a smile, joy, peace, serenity, comfort, healing and even a bit of romance.

 I’d like to stop each day and  take a moment to recognize his many gifts that I often take for granted.

Photo #1 of Project Inspiration

You make a difference! I appreciate you all!

Congrats Lynn all the way from Iowa, You won a $100 gift certificate from Cache Chic!

Many prayers to all the families who have been effected by cancer.

Lynn writes…

My story isn’t new to you. I emailed you last year looking for a special piece for my “Ride for Life” ride. You so generously donated a piece that was as special as my granddaughter is to me. The person that got the piece was a brand new friend that I had met on facebook. She attended my ride and we have become even closer. Learning more and more about her and her family every time I talk to her. Her mom passed away from cancer also. So we were able to relate to each other easily. I got to see her this last weekend and she had it on and it made me have chills. Knowing that it went to someone that it meant as much to as it did me!

This year I have even more reason to have faith in the lord to help out some pretty special people to me.

My sister in law was diagnosed with Ovarian cancer and is in treatment at this time. She helped my son and wife out so much with there other children when Calisa was was going through her treatment and now here she is fighting this terrible monster herself. Her sister has passed away from breast cancer a couple years ago also. My sister in law is such a fighter that I have all the faith in the world that she too will beat this disease.

I also have a coworker that had been cancer free for several years and in Nov found out that the breast cancer has come back in a different place. She too is in treatment at this time. Not being able work full time but is in good spirits and is a fighter. She is a great mom and excellent nurse!

So again the reason I do what I do is to help folks understand and have a outlet to help with research, education, equipment, and much emotional support. We have so much camaraderie that it makes my heart smile.

My granddaughter will turn 13 this June and continuesto teach us daily. She gives me strength when I get lazy, smiles when all I want to do is frown, gives love when needed most and melts so many people hearts everyday.  The children in her school (all grades) treat her with so much respect and friendship that I can’t help but smile whenever I hear them address her. One little guy even did a benefit for her a few years ago. He is still her good friend. Upper grades as well as lower grade children all know her even in the public sector of life. She has changed alot of people lives just from being a cancer/stroke survivor.

God has given us such a miracle and we pray for more miracles to come.

As much as I would love a piece of your jewelry if I were to win this gift certificate I would spend it on the ones I love and cherish everyday, family and friends and acquaintances that participate in the 6th Annual “Ride for Life” event that I enjoy doing so much.

Thank you for all you do for all of your dear friends and clients out there.

Again, thank you Lynn. God bless you and your family and friends.

Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Today was a bittersweet day for me. This morning I was greeted by my 5 year old with a gentle “Happy Mother’s day Mommy, you’re the best!” as she crawled into my bed for a quick snuggle before her dad took her down for breakfast! I received a love note from each of my three children and one from my husband. It was better than anything money could buy. Mind you I did do a little Mother’s day shopping before hand for myself. I probably won’t even remember this time next year what it was, but I will always cherish what they wrote.

We spent the morning together. Went to Ihop, I know I said my youngest went down for breakfast, but she’ll eat three times for breakfast if you let her! It was yummy. Then headed to church for a nice service. Came home to lounge for the day…

This afternoon came, my mom had called, bless her heart, she was in the hospital. She had passed out at church! and yes, she was singing in the choir! Oh my! Please add her to your prayer list! Not quite the Mother’s day she had planned, she was ready to meet my brother’s family for a nice lunch. I went to go see her, she was in good spirits! She even said the hospital’s pot roast was “marvelous”, really? marvelous mom? That was a good chuckle!!

To all the mom’s out there, Happy Mother’s day! Count your many blessings!

For the ones remembering their Mother’s today or the ones longing to be a mother… My prayers go out to you! May the love of the Lord surround you in peace and comfort. You are loved!