The Smith's

NYC!!

2011-02-22T12:56:00.000-08:00

My mom, Olivia, Miss Mary, and I took a little mother/daughter trip to NYC in January. We had a BLAST!! Olivia and I have been friends since her birth - literally! I am only 16 days older!! :) I took these pictures off of her blog, since I don't know how to collage...

We did it all!! Shopping at Bloomingdales andTiffanys, Excellent meals - Balthazar, Serendipity, Antonios, Forty Carots, two broadway shows - Mary Poppins and Wicked, carriage ride around central park, the statue of liberty, Ground Zero, and CUPCAKES!! oh, and LOTS AND LOTS OF SNOW!!!!

WE HAD SUCH A FUN TRIP - CAN'T WAIT TIL THE NEXT!!

Happy 3 years!!

2010-12-01T14:41:00.000-08:00

Thank you Charlie for such a FUN and memorable trip!!
Three of the best years of my life!! Heres to MANY MANY MORE!!

Thanksgiving in NYC!!

2010-12-01T14:35:00.000-08:00

Serendipity - AMAZING!!

Anniversary date - top of the empire state building and dinner at Roxys

The best tour guide in NYC!! Thanks Michelle for trucking it ALL over to show us EVERYTHING!! We had a blast!!!

More pictures to come!! Way more!!

The Smith's Beach Trip 2010

2010-08-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

The whole crew!!

Back Row L to R: Josh, Emily, Jeffrey, Doris, Harry, Smitty, Jamie, and Charlie

Front Row L to R: Justin, Mary Louise, Noah, Nathan, Anderson, and Tonya

The in-laws!

the brothers

Thank you Mary Grace and Jordan for taking our family pictures!!!

We had a blast!! Can't wait for next years trip!!

Happy Birthday To You!!

2010-05-26T09:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Charlie's 29th Birthday!! We celebrated the entire weekend. Friday night we went to Outback with his family - Mary made him this PRECIOUS and DELICIOUS cake. Saturday - he played golf at Cherokee with 2 of his friends. Saturday night we had a few people over for Barbeque. (Old Style BarBQue in Olive Branch is wonderful and VERY inexpensive!!) Sunday we went to Holly Springs and watched Avatar - Charlie has been wanting to see it since it came out in the theaters!! We had such a good weekend - It was so fun celebrating with family and friends!!

Happy 29th Charlie!!

BFF

2010-04-14T15:51:00.000-07:00

Emmie and Jack - holding "paws" in their sleep!

THEY LOVE EACH OTHER!!

More Snow Pictures!!

2010-02-11T08:16:00.000-08:00

Snowfireman

our neighborhood

look how tall!!!!

the square in Hernando

our house

SNOW!!

2010-02-09T10:06:00.000-08:00

Meet - Flo

our Snowlady

we love having Michelle here!!

Jack's First Snow

HE LOVED IT!!!!

Naptime with the Smiths!!

2010-02-06T16:24:00.000-08:00

This is what we did Sunday after church!!

It was wonderful!!!

Yes, we know, Jack needs a haircut!! :)

It's like Christmas - ALL OVER AGAIN!

2010-02-05T16:25:00.000-08:00

Market purchases are coming in!!

12 boxes yesterday

8 boxes today

I am taking Saturday off!!

We have rearranged and gotten in TONS of new things...

COME SEE!!

New Addition!!!

2010-02-05T16:23:00.000-08:00

Emmie Smith

8 weeks old

sweet and tiny

favorite things - her tail, climbing couches, and batting dog food around on the floor

WE LOVE HER!!

Jack tolerates her!!

Jules got MARRIED!!!

2010-01-19T16:50:00.000-08:00

We had such a great time celebrating Julie and Chris's wedding. It was so much fun seeing Meridian friends...I wish we could get together more!

Molly, Whitney, Julie, Ramey, Jamie

Jamie, Mary Emerson, Molly, and Jenn

The Swindells and The Smiths - WE MISS YALL!!!

How many pictures of the three of us do we have?? TONS from 8th - 12th grade!!

Jules was so beautiful!!!

sweet mom!

I will post more pictures of the wedding after I get copies to Julie and her family!!! :)

happy 2010!!!

2010-01-19T16:45:00.000-08:00

We had a BLAST in Dallas for New Years!! Great Food, Great Friends, and a Great Time!!

The Emersons, The Granthams, and The Smiths @ Del Friscos

Warren Family Christmas

2010-01-19T13:36:00.000-08:00

whitney, erin, jamie, leanna, savannah, and anita

We had such a great time getting together with y'all.

Wish we could do it more often!!

The Cousins!

drew, charlie, joshua heath, craig, brandon, and eric

Smith Christmas Decor!!

2010-01-19T13:33:00.000-08:00

Our First Christmas in Hernando.

We had such a great time having friends and family over.

Some of these ornaments were used at our wedding and reception for decoration

More Smith Christmas Decor

2010-01-19T13:32:00.001-08:00

"The Pretty Tree"

Smith Christmas Decor 2

2010-01-19T13:32:00.000-08:00

"The Family Tree"

The ornaments on this tree were Charlie's and mine growing up.

...and, I have added a "few" along the way :)

My Gran gave us this angel when a was little. I have always loved it!! My mom gave it to me this Christmas for our tree.

Smith Christmas Decor 3

2010-01-19T13:31:00.000-08:00

Christmas Cards and Handpainted Santas

If you are wondering who the 3rd stocking is for...well, JACK of course!!

had to post!!!

2009-10-19T15:56:00.000-07:00

We had some of our sweet friends, Chas and Jennifer Emerson, over one night for dinner. They have two cute little girls. One is still using a pacy and dropped it on the floor.

Guess who found it!! :)

HOW CUTE/FUNNY IS THIS!!

Jack picked it up and ran off with it in the correct way!!

I promise, we did not stage this!

HAPPY FALL Y'ALL!

2009-10-19T13:01:00.000-07:00

Lately

2009-10-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

THIS IS WHERE I WORK...

NEW BLOG FOR THE SQUARE CUPBOARD

2009-09-10T11:55:00.000-07:00

I have finally started working on our store's blog...check it out!! Please add it to your lists!!! THANKS! squarecupboard.blogspot.com

This is what I am currently coveting and dying to take home - Annieglass Cake Plate - It's a beauty!!

Charlie won't let me though :)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!

2009-08-31T11:22:00.001-07:00

it's official!!!

The Good Earth Pottery's own Richie Watts will be at the Square Cupboard

SUNDAY - NOVEMBER 15!!

Hernando's Christmas Open House.

Reserve your special pieces early!

Congrats to the Swindells!!

2009-08-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome sweet Ann Katherine Swindell

This little baby girl is so precious!!

Proud Aunt Jamie

My best friends in the world!

Charlie and I drove down to Jackson Saturday afternoon and had the best time!! Sat. night, Jenn and I went to the hospital to meet Katherine. She was a beauty!! Just like her mama!! Molly and Katherine are doing great.

Sunday, we went to pinelake - (which we absolutely love and miss!!!) and then had the best pizza ever at Soulshine! Cannot beat it! We loved staying with Kyle and Jenn. Thanks so much for having us!!! Jack loved playing with his old friend!!

After leaving the York's cute new house, we packed up and headed to Madison to see Molly and Ryan's new house and 2 sweet girls. We had a great visit - and Jack got to see his Aunt Julie - which was such a fun surprise!!

It was such a wonderful weekend - I can't wait to go back!

Posts Galore!

2009-08-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

There has been lot's to update on in our lives! July has been a crazy busy fun month. Hope you enjoy seeing our new home and pictures of our store turning one! I cannot believe we have been here a year! We love it and are so thankful that this town has welcomed and supported us!! Thank you to everyone who helped us make it this far and celebrated with us last week!

also - we are excited to announce our dear friends - the Reed's from Huntsville, AL - welcomed their baby boy into the world. Olivia is my oldest friend in the world. We have been friends since we were David's age!! :)

David Reed

"Praise God from whom all blessings flow"

David and Liv ... so sweet!

Mom and baby are doing great!

We had our cake and ate it, TOO!!

2009-08-03T13:23:00.001-07:00

Happy 1st Anniversary to

the Square Cupboard!!

Thank you Jennie's Flowers and Gifts in Holly Springs for making the BEAUTIFUL cake topper! Also, Thank You to Special Daze in Senatobia for making the gorgeous yummy cake!

What's a party without cake??!?!

Birthday Celebration - DAY 3 cont.

2009-08-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

We had the best time with Brent!

Featuring the 2009 Christmas Line!!

We were SO excited to show these pieces! It definitely got me ready for Christmas. (Aren't those snowmen ornaments cute!!)

I absolutely love this pottery!!

And...to top it off...it's all food safe, microwaveable, dishwasher safe, and goes in the oven!

Not only is it awesome for display - you can use it and clean it!! :)

THANK YOU BRENT for spending the day with us!! We can't wait 'til Christmas Open House!

Birthday Celebration - DAY 3

2009-08-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

Our third day of fun began when Brent DeShea Weathers of Etta B. Pottery came for a visit! She signed pottery ALL DAY LONG!! It was wonderful!!! She brought so many new pieces from her everyday line. We loved being the first store to show them!

The crosses and the bunnies were a huge hit!!

The extra small pieces are perfect for happies and hostess gifts. All of her pieces are food safe - these are great for salsa and dip! I have mine by the sink to put my rings in at night.

Love this platter! - This piece went to a lucky girl!!!

Birthday Celebration - DAY 2

2009-08-03T08:59:00.000-07:00

Our second day began with our Jean Tucker Collection Trunk Show. This jewelry is gorgeous. Definitely something for EVERYONE!!

Small, dainty, and lots of pearls!!

Gold and Silver chains - Great for layering!!

Chunky African beads in fabulous fall colors!

The Jean Tucker Collection is created by MS artist, Jean Tucker. She handcrafts each piece to insure a unique quality, and combines colors, textures, and styles from all over the world.

Birthday Celebration - DAY 1

2009-08-03T08:57:00.000-07:00

The Square Cupboard enjoyed hosting MS Author and Illustrator - Laurie Parker!! She is such a fun woman and creates the most fantastic stories. Because her illustration talents are amazing and stories are so creative, these books are great for both children's libraries and fun coffee table books! Her newest book "Sweet Dreams" is perfect for helping that little one fall asleep!

The Square Cupboard turns ONE!!

2009-07-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

Come on in and

celebrate with us!!

The Square Cupboard's turning...

ONE!!!

My Sweet friends from Jennie's in Holly Springs did our gorgeous flower arrangements.

The store dividing line - front half and back half!
Wed. and Thurs. the front half is 25% off!!
Friday and Saturday the back half is 25% off!!
Fun and great savings!!

OUR FABULOUS CAKE WAS MADE BY SPECIAL DAZE - SENATOBIA, MS!!

Ask for Megan - She does an excellent job!!!

SOLD!

2009-07-09T13:07:00.000-07:00

the house in Jefferson is....

OURS!!!!

The Smith's have moved to Hernando!!

Of course, the dining room was the first I set up!! :)

Our room - we are LOVING our homemade curtains a.k.a. the guest room sheets.

and, we need some things to hang on the wall...

Butler's Pantry

This is how we all felt after a LONG week of unpacking!! POOPED

Jamie needs

2009-06-30T14:24:00.000-07:00

I saw this funny thing on another blog today and thought I would try it. Type in google - Jamie needs (or your name - needs) and see what comes up...It was so funny!

Here are some of mine

Jamie needs to stop making all of those horrible faces!

Jamie needs to shut up!

Jamie needs a bit of help to get up out of bed.

Jamie needs a kid.

Jamie needs a good home. AMEN!!

Jamie needs a poo!

I THOUGHT THESE WERE SO FUNNY! TRY IT..IT WILL MAKE YOU SMILE ON A RAINY MONDAY!

FINALLY WE ARE MOVING TO HERNANDO

2009-05-27T18:13:00.001-07:00

It's ours!! (Well, it will be when we close June 26th) After months of searching and waiting and searching and waiting and searching.... we finally decided on this one.... and we are so excited!!! This subdivision is new and undeveloped. Hopefully, Charlie will be able to build some houses in it in the future. But, for right now, we are just going to enjoy having a home for ourselves and relax and have fun. We have decided that this year (28 for him, 26 for me) is going to be less stressful. We are not going to be making anymore major purchases and most certainly will not be starting anymore businesses. I think 3 is enough for one family of 2. This will make the 4th house that the Charlie Smith family has lived in since we were married Dec. 1st, 2007. That is enough! :)

the front of our new home

kitchen - and it's green!! LOVE IT - my fav color

Dining Room

the den - cant you imagine the built ins that charlie is going to build on either side

stairs

cute little coat/bookbag rack for our little smiths...one day

master bedroom

Since the construction was not complete, we get to pick out the floors, lights, and a few other things.

Happy Birthday to You!

2009-05-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you! Happy birthday sweet Charlie! Happy Birthday to you!! Today Charlie turns 28!!! I hope you have a wonderful day. I love you so much and am so thankful for you! I am so blessed to be married to my best friend! Have a good one!!

house update

We have decided to give up on the one that we made an offer on 2 MONTHS AGO!! We are sick of waiting..and if they don't want our money bad enough to pick a closing date, or even tell us they accept our offer, than we are moving on! We found another one that we love...we will keep you updated!!

SOLD!!!

2009-03-27T19:30:00.000-07:00

We are no longer home owners, and it feels GREAT! As of 4:25 this afternoon, we closed on our house and celebrated with showering each other with gifts. Charlie got new golf shoes and gets to play a round of golf with Ryan, and I got a McCarty bunny and Peter's platter. (Who would have ever thought I would want pottery???) :) Yay, We are so excited...now the house hunt begins in Hernando!!

It's a Boy!

2009-03-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

We are excited to welcome into the family...

Jeffrey William Smith

March 11, 2009

9 lbs. 9 oz.

21" long

Isn't he just the most precious thing!!

Proud Parents - Josh and Emily Smith

Proud Aunt and Uncle - Charlie and Jamie Smith :)

Hand Made by Noxie Taylor

2009-03-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

These hand-made frames were built by my Paw Paw. They are gorgeous and really display the beauty of natural wood. He pays great attention to detail and each of his pieces are one-of-a-kind! The frames vary in size and are sure to fit in every home. (I am not biased or anything :) Even if he was not my sweet Paw Paw, I would think they are gorgeous!!)

the Square Cupboard is Ready for Spring!

2009-03-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

Easter Happies

2009-03-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

We have gotten in more cute new Easter decorations!!

Fun things for the table!

You definitely don't want to miss out on the golden egg!! These precious ceremic eggs are made for Easter Egg Hunts and will ensure excitement from all of the little ones. I loved looking for the Golden Egg! I remember where it was both times I was the lucky finder!! Such a fun tradition for families and friends.

Cute wreath - perfect for making your door whimsical, springy, and fun!

Egg Topiary Tree - matches the wreaths and the other fun eggs! Would be great on the mantel or as a centerpiece on the table.

House for Sale - Avalon - Brandon, MS - 403 Knights Cove West

2009-03-04T14:54:00.000-08:00

For Sale By Owner! Charlie and I still have our house for sale and we are looking for the perfect person/people to take this wonderful treasure off our hands. This 3 BR/2 Bath is nestled off of Old Fanin Road in Avalon subdivision. Located in a cul-de-sac and surrounded by friendly neighbors, this house is the best one in Brandon and close to the Reservoir.

Den with hardwood floors and gas fireplace

Backyard - with added deck, extended patio, and fully fenced backyardHuge Master Bedroom with tray ceilings

Master Bathroom - Double sink vanity, tile floors, extended shower, and 2 LARGE walk-in closets!

Guest bedroom - (2) each bedroom has a walk-in closet

Formal Dining Room

Kitchen Nook - Eat-in Area

LOOK AT ALL OF THOSE CABINETS!! Huge Kitchen with tons of storage, large pantry, and the refrigerator stays!! This is my favorite part of the house. LOTS of countertop space - perfect for cooking and easy to spread out when making multiple dishes. Undercabinet lighting for the countertops and lots of space above cabinets for display!

403 Knights Cove W
Brandon, MS 39047
1730 square feet
call if interested 601-479-5695

Notes about the home. This was Charlie and my first home together. The space was perfect for our new family and we loved the location. We could get anywhere we wanted to in 10-15 minutes. But, still felt like we were in a neighborhood area. Before Charlie moved in, I had 2 roommates. It was easy sharing the house with 2 other girls - the storage is great (huge closets) and the floorplan is open. We loved using the deck!! I do miss this house, I wish I could pick it up and move it to Hernando, AS IS!! :)

Hop On In!

2009-03-04T13:15:00.001-08:00

It's getting to be that time!! Easter is arriving and we are ready! Seeing all the pretty springy colors all over the store has made me ready for warm weather! We have tons of cute new things that are perfect for Easter baskets! And, lots of fun pieces to decorate your home for this special time of year.

These cute rattle bunnies are so sweet! They even have a pocket in their back to hold teeth that fall out - making it easier for the tooth fairy to find them!

Etta B's spring line of pottery will make any table look fresh and fun. Her pieces are so pretty, very unique, and completely functional - they go in the oven AND the dishwasher!

Great Easter gift for the older kids...these fun towel wraps will definitely fit in any Easter basket! The wraps will also make great personal graduation gifts.
Diaper covers/Bloomers
How cute are these?!? Made by the same MS based company out of Jackson. Love these!
We also have solid pink letters, polka dots, and this funky bright pattern.

One of my absolute favorite things I found at market! These letters will look great over ANY baby bed or in their room. The ribbons are customizable (is that a word?) :)
They provide all kinds of ribbons to choose from!

Back from market!

2009-01-23T10:05:00.000-08:00

My mom and I went to market in Atlanta two weeks ago. We had a blast!! But were pooped when we finished!! We saw so many new great things!! And, we ordered a lot!! I can't wait for it all to come in.

A few things I am excited about are: Arte Italica has a new gorgeous everyday china line that we are introducing, as well as, more pieces from their Vetro pattern. We LOVE the Vetro line!

Lipstick shades has a personalized plate program that is the cutest thing ever! Each plate comes with an age appropriate placemat that is cutely decorated on one side and has games, puzzles, coloring activities on the other side. Rafia is a new jewelry line I picked up. This designer is from L.A. and creates the most unique and fun necklaces and earrings. She has a "Mommy Necklace" that I will be carrying that is beautiful and special! I can't wait to get one...but it will be a few years! :)

We spent a lot of time finding graduation, Mother's Day, Easter, and Valentine's Day gifts. We found great classic items, as well as, new fun trendy pieces.

New fun Vietri line - Poppies - This mixes great with the red and green Vietri dishes and our Belaverra serving pieces.

Belaverra is one of my favorite lines! It works great with Gracious Goods, Vietri, and Good Earth Pottery. I wish I would have known about this line when I got married. Their cake plates and serving bowls are amazing!!

The bird pattern was huge at market. I was so excited about it. The birds are precious and will accent any type of serving pieces already owned.

This collection is PERFECT for Valentine happies, baby gifts, and Easter baskets. These animals are super soft and will surely be loved by the little one that receives it!

It's not too early to think about graduation! You can be sure those seniors already are!! We have tons of new items arriving daily. This line is a fun great gift for graduates, summer birthdays, or congratulations happies. They have great prices and are very functional. The tote bag is great for over night trips, and the patterns have coordinating toiletry bags, make-up bags, and laundry bags.

IT SNOWED!!

2009-01-21T12:08:00.000-08:00

Growing up in Meridian did not provide many experiences of snow for us. I can remember vividly 3 times that it snowed enough to see it. In Meridian, the chance of snow creates chaos and long lines at Wal-Mart. Schools close, stores run out of soup, batteries, and duct tape, and kids pray that it will stick! That is not the case in Hernando. I guess these people are used to it. (Not that it snows tons, but they know what to do when it does.) No warning what-so-ever, I walked out to my car to drive to work, and it was snowing! It snowed all the way to Hernando! It was the prettiest drive. Although none of it stuck, it was gorgeous!! Here are some pictures of the courthouse and clock tower.

It's Been a Year!!

2008-12-01T09:53:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe it has been a year since Charlie and I were married. It's been a wonderful year, and full of big changes!! We have lived in 3 different towns since Dec. 1, 2008...Changed careers twice, each!! We are starting to feel settled and really love being in Hernando. The store is a blast! And, Charlie still really loves woodworking. Please come see us if you are driving up or down I55. We are just right off of the exit!

Updates on Charlie - This is his favorite time of the year..I wish I could say because its our anniversary, but no...its hunting season. He spends as much of his time as he can out in the woods...well, as much as I will let him :)

Update on Jamie - I spend all of my time at the store. It's so much fun during the Christmas season. I love watching people find the perfect gift for their loved ones. It's fun hearing, "ooh, I am giving this for my dirty santa gift...and I am going to win it back!!" It's such a huge compliment and our shoppers are so sweet to us!! On my day off, after church, I am usually sitting on the couch resting...That is what you are supposed to do on that day, right?!?!

PS - Charlie will be shaving that beard tonight...

Open House

2008-11-11T09:18:00.001-08:00

The front window
Karen Didion Santas

Fun Christmas Serving Pieces!!

Our MS Christmas Tree - Every ornament is made in MS.

Copper MS by Copperworx, Etta B 2008 Ornament, Sprit Song Pottery Ornaments, North River Studio Stained Glass Ornaments, and Brushfire Designs Handpainted Ornaments.

Dressing up china and Annieglass with snowflake garland!

Sweet Friends Come to Visit!!

2008-11-11T08:48:00.000-08:00

Molly and Mary Emerson drove from Meridian to come see the Square Cupboard's Open House. It was so much fun having them there!! Mary Emerson looked so cute in her Christmas dress, and I cannot wait to see the pictures with Santa!!

Mary Emerson, Molly, and Me

Jenn drove from Southaven to visit!! It was so fun being together again. (even though I only got to enjoy it for a few minutes..before the fun Christmas OH rush!!)
I love y'all! It meant so much that y'all were there!!!!

My Favorite Holiday Collection

2008-10-31T13:35:00.001-07:00

I love to decorate the house for Christmas. Christmas trees, ornaments, wreaths, stockings, Santas, jingle bells, Christmas china, etc. You name it, I LOVE it!! One of my favorite Christmas presents every year is the Limited Edition Annieglass Snowflake plate. She makes a different one every year and they are gorgeous! I use them as platters for holiday parties and display them around our dining room the rest of the time. I love that they can be used throughout January, too!!

I have decided that when you are not around kids, Halloween is not really that big of a deal. I did not even eat one piece of candy today. And, since working at the store has gotten me in the Christmas spirit early, I thought I would start sharing about some of our Christmas items that are my favorites.

Etta B. Pottery

2008-10-28T08:59:00.001-07:00

If you know me at all, you know that I LOVE Mississippi pottery. It really does not matter who makes it - it's all so unique, different, and gorgeous. The Square Cupboard just got in several new pieces of Etta B Pottery, and I LOVE IT!! Her prices are great, the look is different, her colors are bright, and her Christmas pieces are fabulous. She is from Etta, MS, and is relatively a new potter to the retail world. Her patina line (blue) would be perfect for any occasion. I especially think the serving pieces would be cute to serve with for a baby shower, springtime, or on Easter Sunday. I love how she has taken the non-traditional Christmas color and made it wintery so it will work for all seasons!

The pear line is my favorite. Of course, because green is my favorite color! This collection is perfect for every season also! Another great thing about Etta B. is that it is functional and pretty. So when you are not using it, you can decorate with it!
Hollyberry - The first Christmas line of Etta B. pottery. How cute is that?!?! I love the colors and I love the cute snowman. Perfect for carrying over through Christmas into January. I really love the plaid pieces that mix with her snowmen pieces. I am not one really for plaid, but I think her's is adorable. Who would have thought to put plaid on pottery?? But, it's cute!

Carrie Underwood

2008-10-27T08:55:00.000-07:00

Carrie Underwood came to Southaven last night! Let me just tell you, it was GREAT! She was awesome. That girl has some talent! I mean obviously, she won American Idol, but still - she can do everything!!

Jill, Erin, and I had a great time!

Yes, that microphone is pink! She rocked it at the end!!

Little Big Town opened for her. They were good, too!

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

David and Anna, Laurel, Bryan, and Knox Taylor, Lee, Joy, Rivers and Taylor Beth Knight, Jamie and Charlie Smith, Wally and Annie Whitley (notice how the puppies are smiling, too!)

Charlie and I had the chance to visit my Maw Maw and Paw Paw for the long weekend. We were so excited to hear that most of all of the cousins were able to come Sunday afternoon. We had so much fun catching up, visiting, eating, and playing with the kids. (We missed you Drew, Christina, Julia, and Sophia!!! Can't wait to see yall!!) It's crazy how much things have changed in the past 5 years. We have all gotten married and 3 out of the 5 of us have small kids... They were so much fun! I am no longer the baby in the family!

Paw Paw and Charlie worked in the woodshop Monday building furniture and Mom, Maw Maw, and I went to Hobby Lobby for some much needed shopping. I sure miss that place!

Welcome Carter Remington Bell!!

2008-08-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

August 27, 2008 is a day that the Bell's will never forget! It's the day when their sweet little baby boy was born! The 8lb. 11 oz. bundle of joy came that afternoon. Charlie and I are so excited for Jill and Joel. We know they will be wonderful parents and Carter will be blessed greatly by them. Enjoy the pictures!!

Sleeping in Joel's arms

And I must say, Jill looks amazing - you would never know she just had that big boy!!How cute!

Traditions

2008-08-27T13:26:00.001-07:00

Each time I visited Sweet Water, my grandmother and I used to sit in front of her china cabinet and talk about traditions. She would tell me stories about the friends and family members that gave her each piece. They were not just dishes to her; they were fond memories of her wedding, sweet meaningful people in her life, and important events for which she served with them...Christmases, Easter Dinners, Birthdays, and Family Gatherings. They began to mean the same to me as well. She always told me I could have her set when I "grew up." I could not wait for the day that I would be grown up enough to have her treasured pattern. When I bought my first house, my dad gave me her china. Seeing it in my china cabinet was a constant beautiful reminder of her love for her family and friends.

I have had so many people ask me why I wanted to open a china shop. And this is why; I want to be a part of and see people start their very own traditions and pick out patterns that reflect their personality. I love seeing people find that perfect set and knowing it will be a part of their homes for years to come.

New Things Arriving Daily!!

2008-08-26T15:30:00.001-07:00

We have boxes coming in by the truck load...seriously, just ask the FedEx and UPS men!!

We hope you will be able to find the perfect wedding gift, baby gift, birthday gift, or gift for you!

We have tons of tailgating things to kick off Football Season. Our Baby Section has grown! We have more handpainted picture frames, fun wall clocks, and lots of new books!
Gifts for ANYONE!
Everyday Dinnerware

Casafina

Juliska

Vietri - Made in Italy

Earth Born - Leeds, ALThe Good Earth Pottery - Starkville, MS

More of the Store

2008-08-25T15:22:00.000-07:00

We have loved being on the square in Hernando! It's such a historic area with gorgeous buildings surrounding us. Here are some pictures of the entire space. (Notice the brown boxes in front of the cash register..We get new things in DAILY!!!)

Didn't Charlie do a great job on the counter?!?!? I love it!!

the Grand Opening

2008-07-27T14:24:00.001-07:00

Here are some pictures from the Grand Opening. We had a blast and were welcomed so well by the town. Thank you so much to everyone who helped us get to this day and have such an amazing Grand Opening.

China Section

The Good Earth Pottery - Thank you Richie and Carlos for coming and signing!
our tailgate area

our baby section

We have gifts for everyone!

Thank you Aunt Phyllis and Uncle Fred for the beautiful plant!Thank you Mr. Harry, Mrs. Doris, Uncle Jimmy, Aunt Sue, and Seth for this plant. It made the area smell so good!

Sweet Jenn, thank you for the chocolate chip cookies!!

I will post more pictures soon.

The Square Cupboard Ribbon Cutting

2008-07-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

Our Ribbon Cutting - July 25, 2008 - 12:00

The mayor of Hernando, Chip Johnson, is to my left.

(I was a little disappointed that the scissors did not actually cut)

We are so excited to be in Hernando and on the square!!

Coming Soon!! - Carter Remington Bell

2008-07-22T13:40:00.000-07:00

My dear sweet friend, Jill Bell, is about to have her first baby! We are so excited! She and Joel are going to be such great parents!! We are so excited for them and can't wait to meet little Carter. We had a little shower for her Sunday and she got some great gifts. Lots of things that I have no clue what they are for. :)

Congrats Jill and Joel!! We love you!

Our First Window Display

2008-07-04T08:29:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, my friend Hillary and I started working on our first window display around 12:30 and did not finish until 7:00. We had a blast displaying our Good Earth Pottery. I cannot wait to start working on the rest of the store. We did take a lunch and milkshake break at the Dip. They make the BEST milkshakes. Erin came up after work and helped with the finishing touches. (She also brought me a much needed Diet Mountain Dew) After we were finished, we stepped outside and enjoyed the 4th of July parade. Let me tell you, this was the cutest thing! Kids from Hernando dressed up in Red, White, and Blue and rode their bikes around the square, babies were pulled in dressed up wagons, and soldiers marched around in between them. It was great! We are so excited to be here!

The window from outside. I am sorry for the bad lighting and glare, but I wanted you to be able to see the whole window!

Thank you Hillary and Erin!! Y'all were so sweet to help us get ready!!! We are excited to be able to carry Hillary and her friend Jennifer's line of stationery and invitations, Address to Impress. They are so cute!

Look at all of our bubble wrap!! :)

More from Carpenter Charlie

2008-07-04T08:20:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of the two bookcases Charlie made. You really can't tell how huge they are. 7 feet tall and 4 feet wide!

I am so proud!!

Carpenter Charlie

2008-07-02T08:44:00.001-07:00

Charlie and I have been out of touch with just about everything unless it revolves around the store. We have been meeting with reps, ordering merchandise (which is my favorite part), taking care of "business things", and creating displays. That's right, Charlie has been building beautiful bookcases and refinishing old hutches, pie safes, tables, etc. We are trying to get everything ready for the big day...July 21 we hope to open, and then the huge event July 26 with good earth. We are so excited!! I want to show off my husband's carpenter skills. I am very proud :) He has made 2 of these - i just only have pictures of the first one. You can check these out in our window display July 4.

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

2008-07-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say a big thank you to my mom for giving us weeks of her summer break!! She has helped build, sand, spackle, paint, repaint, and distress our furniture. We could not have done this without her. She has also taught me several more good recipes...I am now up to about 7 that I can do. :) She also helped so much with the move! We would still be living out of boxes if it weren't for her!

Also, a huge thank you to the Smith's - ALL OF THEM. for helping us pack, move, unpack, rearrange, and store merchandise. I could not have done it without their strength :) and patience for all of our boxes of merchandise piled up throughout their house.

Charlie and I love you so much. Thank you!!!

PS-jack has thoroughly enjoyed having his Aunt Annie and Uncle Wally over to visit. He loves company!

AUNT ANNIE

JACK

UNCLE WALLY

Home Sweet Home

2008-06-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

Charlie and I have finally settled into our home in Como. Wow! I definitely do not want to move for a while. Talk about STRESSFULL!! I felt like our lives were one giant Easter Egg hunt! Now, it finally feels "homey." If you are driving up or down I55, stop by! We are right off of the Interstate. Here are some pictures of the process.

-BEFORE -

What a mess!!!!! AAHHH

-AFTER-

I love the kitchen!! And, I am learning how to cook more and more things!

This house is over 100 years old. It sits on several acres of land, and we frequently have deer in our backyard. (Which, Charlie loves!!! Only he is not supposed to kill them.) We are really enjoying being in such a small town...also, our sweet neighbors baked us homemade bread!!
I love Mississippi! And, I am a big fan of Como!

Charlie's Only Section :)

Yertle the Turtle

2008-05-31T21:01:00.001-07:00

The craziest thing happened today. Jack and I were watching Charlie play golf in the backyard, (through the window of course, I didn't want Jack to get hit by Charlie's golf club) and the pup started going crazy. He started barking histerically and jumping into the door. (ramming the glass!!) I thought he was barking at a stray golf ball, but then I saw it. Yertle...our new friend...crawled onto our back porch and meandered around the patio. Once he saw Jack, he froze..completely motionless. I think he thought he was hiding...We poked him with the golf club to see if he was a snapper.
He didn't snap at us, but he sure was ugly!! I thought turtles were supposed to be cute. He was not! Charlie scooped him up with the shovel and set him in our garbage can. He then released him into the "wild" aka the Rez. We sure hope he's okay! Jack keeps looking outside for him. He misses his new buddy!

Jack staring intently at his new friend

Coming Soon!!

2008-05-29T16:39:00.001-07:00

Charlie and I are opening a gift shop/bridal registry in Hernando, MS. We are so excited!! Our Grand Opening is July 26, 2008, but we hope to open the week before to get things rolling for the big day. Our store will carry a huge selection of fine china, everyday dinnerware, pewter, copper, pottery, stemware, jewelry, refinished furniture, stationary, and 3 lines of invitations. Also, we are having a baby section and other fun gifts. Our first ad comes out in the DeSoto Magazine June addition.

We have a special surprise...Mr. Richie Watts from THE GOOD EARTH pottery is coming that Saturday, July 26, to sign his pottery! We are so excited. His work is so good!!! I can't wait to have a personalized piece!!

We will be located on the Hernando Square, in between Old Venice and Center Stage. Spread the word! :)