Highland Hollow Emporium

2010-04-21T18:27:00.002-06:00

It has been along time since I have blogged. John and Jane have changed what I am. I am no longer a coffee shop. I have one more month of being a yarn shop. I have become a place to just roast coffee and store soda pop. I'm sad.

2009-01-27T20:59:00.001-06:00

Did you see the stupid little BIRD????? Whats up with that??? I think these people need to stay home. ELMWOOD!!!!! John talk some sense into your wife!!!! Has anyone ever heard the word INTERVENTION?????? Jeffrey where are you???? Your not doing a very good job controling these two. Or have you given up?? I know I have.

2009-01-27T20:39:00.004-06:00

Jane is finally done with inventory!!!!!!! She has counted every skein of yarn and every knitting needle and all the other stuff she has in my shop... I have noticed she has been moving allot of things to that Kinni Coffee and Lounge thing John has going on. I am not happy. These humans are like the craziest things I've ever seen. Some one has got to monitor these people. MJ where are you????? Have you seen what they did to Molly B. God help us.

2008-12-13T22:56:00.002-06:00

It's been along time since I've posted. I suppose you all thought they tore me down and hauled me away. I will not go down that easy. A lot's been going on in the last few months. John's semi retired so he says, but from what I see he hasn't slowed down a bit. The coffee business has really grown. I'm in another transition, I don't know how much more I can take. It's a good thing I'm made of brick. The crazy man bought another coffee shop, he's cheating on me. What am I to do. Let me know. I think I need counseling

2008-02-01T13:17:00.000-06:00

It has been along time since Jane has been able to sit at the keyboard and blog. I can hardly wait until spring. This has been a very long winter, but spring will come.

In the mean time shop car is getting a workout. The ladies are knitting, Coffee is roasting, and tea is brewing.

2007-12-27T13:16:00.000-06:00

I just want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
With great affection.
Highland Hollow Emporium

2007-12-27T13:14:00.000-06:00

This is a double rainbow that showed up outside my front window last Oct. Isn't it the most wonerful thing? I just had to have Jane post the pictures, It was so cool!!!!

2007-12-27T13:11:00.000-06:00

Coffee break is NOW over!!!! How much coffee can one person drink? Good grief!!!
Anyway, MJ's jewelry show was a GREAT success. She is now settled in the apt. above the shop. I call her the crazy cat women that lives above the coffee shop. Her Jewelry from Nepal is really really nice. Jane is behaving now that things have settled down. She has some old pictures to post. Since she hasn't blogged in a really really looooooong time. Alot has happened. Things are moving and shaking.

2007-09-20T14:54:00.000-06:00

Things have been very busy around here. John and Jane have been working on the Apt. trying to get it done before the first of Oct. I want to have humans living in the apartment. It will be nice to get it rented.

MJ is coming Tuesday, than her and Jane will start getting the shop ready for the Jewelry sale. Can't wait for that, it should be a good time.

Lots going on! Time for a coffee break.

2007-09-06T09:05:00.000-06:00

Having Molly B. held hostage has worked!!! M.J. is coming up to do a jewelry show and sale.
here is the info.

Jewelry Sale

"The Crystal Peddler"

M.J. Stewart will be showing Jewelry

from Nepal at

"Highland Hollow Emporium"

(that's Me)

105 S. Main St.

Elmwood, Wi. 715-639-2052

Sept. 27, 28, and 29th

Oct. 04, 05, and 06th

Thurs, Friday and Saturday

10:00am-6:00pm

Jane is even checking into getting a special events licence to serve free wine. Should be a really good time. Food, wine. Jewelry, knitting and spinning. And of course Molly B.

2007-08-22T18:14:00.000-06:00

The Shetland yarn has finally arrived. Jane is sooo happy. It took a long time to get but it turned out really nice. Thank you Carothers .
4 fleeces, 2 done worsted, 2 done lace. Very nice spinning. Price was very reasonable. Brooklyn is holding 15 skeins of "Princess" 180 yards spun lace. Yummy, Yummy.
On the table we have worsted "Tanzy", "Gidget" Lace "Black Star", and "Princess".

2007-08-17T10:33:00.000-06:00

Jane had a stowaway in her knitting bag this morning. So today we have a very special guest at the Emporium. It is MOLLY B.
Molly B. is a very special. This doll was given to Jane by her cousin MJ when she was about 6 years old MJ gave Molly B. her name. MJ loves Molly B. Jane likes to use Molly B. to get what she wants from MJ. One time Jane had a little too much wine (nooo I hear you say NOT Jane) MJ took Jane's wine and hid it. Jane went and got Molly B. and said MJ give me back my wine or the doll GETS it. MJ cries NOOOOO not MOLLY B. please Jane don't hurt Molly B. I'll get your wine, sure enough Jane got her wine back lickety split. Now on the farm blog I see Jane is using Molly B. again to have MJ up for a visit, no wonder Molly B. came to me "the Emporium" and stowed away in her knitting bag. Molly B. knows I can hold my own with Jane.

2007-08-17T10:26:00.000-06:00

John and Brooklyn look down the fence that got wrecked in the storm. I tell ya if it wasn't for the 4 year old nothing would get done around here.

Leah and Britta are checking out the yarn. Leah doesn't knit or crochet or any crafty stuff, but she sure likes to have Jane make stuff. She's planning Afghans for both the girls. Jane better get those needles flying!

2007-08-15T16:02:00.000-06:00

Well Kids, it's Wednesday that means that John is roasting coffee. All the humans LOVE coffee, (these humans anyway). People seem to be wanting a DARK roast, the darkest John can roast it. I wonder what that means?!?
Look what happened to my fence!!!!!! The storm took it down. John has been talking about taking it down and putting up a better one (yea like that would ever happen. How long has Jane been saying she was going to give me a cute little garden.)
New yarn for the yarn shop. Linen and more sock yarn. I didn't want to say anything but have you noticed on the sock yarn picture that something looks a little odd. Can you guess who took the picture and set it up???? need I say more!!!!!!
More socks for Jane's dog to chew and unravel.

2007-08-09T13:38:00.000-06:00

Jane, what have you been doing????? Good thing I have a yarn shop. Her Border Collie puppy Kallie likes to chew up the knitting needles. It's always the most expensive needles too.

2007-08-03T10:52:00.000-06:00

stupid quiz doens't work GRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!

2007-08-03T10:50:00.000-06:00

coffee quiz!!!!

http://mingle2.com/bb/view/how-addicted-to-coffee-are-you">I am 98% Addicted to Coffee

2007-08-02T09:25:00.000-06:00

It was that time of year again!!! You guessed it UFO days in Elmwood, Wi. Tony can hardly wait, neither can Jane, remember last yr. (should be in the archives) She could hardly wait to get her ufo burger and beer. She made such a fool of herself. I had to blush, honestly my bricks got redder, I wouldn't let her take her camera this year to get her UFO burger and beer. Last year was just to embarrassing.

2007-08-02T09:19:00.000-06:00

2007-07-13T13:53:00.000-06:00

Jane is knitting a lacey dishcloth out of the Louet Euroflax she has in the yarn shop. Looks like fun.

2007-07-13T13:47:00.000-06:00

Opening up this morning this is what was on the sidewalk. I don't think it is really a crime scene, but I think some clever human was having fun last night. I know it isn't a knitter because a knitter would have needles in their hand. Anyway, who ever it was they look like they had fun.

2007-07-06T13:02:00.000-06:00

Wow! how did it happen to be July already?
Jane likes to put stupid little sayings all over my walls.
Things like:
Sanity calms, but madness is more interesting.
Jack Russell
Way too much coffee. But, if it weren't for the coffee I'd have no identifiable personality whatsoever. David Letterman.
Bread and water can so easily be toast and tea.
unknown.
You know coffee and tea shop stuff.
The latest one is:
Unattended children will be given an espresso and a free puppy.
unknown.
Ha Ha I really like that one.

2007-06-23T12:24:00.000-06:00

Today Elmwood is haveing an Expo craft fair in the Auditorium.(the love of my life, but she dumped me, another time we will talk about it.) John, Chris, and Mel are at the expo while Jane is staying here with me. I wonder if Jane knows John is at the Expo flirting with all the ladies, naughty boy.

Chris and Mel seem to be selling alot of food and coffee at the expo. Good for them, but they better not be getting use to not being here. I will let you know I'm not real happy about being here alone with you know who?!

2007-06-23T12:05:00.000-06:00

Toe-up socks on the magic loop!!! You should have heard Jane working on this little piece of extravaganza. (trying not to laugh to hard) I think she has ripped this out 15 times before she finally got the hang of it. She's only been working on it off and on for about 6 weeks, and look how far she is. The yarn was getting worn out. Anyway she's happy now she has a handle on the short rows. Whew, nice yarn though, It's Treeking.

2007-06-23T11:46:00.000-06:00

Mary came into knit and have some of John's new Organic Bolivian coffee. Apparently Organic coffee is really becoming a big thing. Each country only has a handful of Organic coffee farmers so when the crop is gone, it is gone till the next harvest. I know John has been running out of alot of coffee and won't be able to get it again until the next harvest. Timor is gone and that was everyone in the shops favorite, but this Bolivian is wonderful and selling fast. I know Jane drinks enough of it. (I wonder if John knows how much coffee this girl drinks.) I suppose it could be worse it could be beer or wine.

Raven comes in and drinks tea. I like it when Raven comes in with her friends and has a cup of tea.

2007-06-23T11:37:00.000-06:00

Houston, we have a problem! Jane has not been blogging like the good little slave she is.
she has been spinning. She spun Rosy the Wonder ewe's wool right off her back, yikes! She than washed it in the skein. The top picture is all greasy and dirty.
The bottom picture is all clean and dry. Should she dye it or leave it natural? She wants to make some fingerless gloves to keep her hands warm this winter while she types on my blog, bless her heart.

2007-06-15T09:11:00.000-06:00

Brooklyn came into the shop yesterday to make a bracelet and ankel bracelet. She sure is growing.

Britta came into the shop yesterday too. Britta has found her feet. Britta knows how much I love feet, just look at those wonderful little baby feet.

Now, I have to show you my little garden I have in the alley behind me. Jane has been promising me a bench and flowers in this garden. I ask you do you see a bench and flowers in my garden?????? I see 3 pathetic plants she brought from the farm as an after thought and lots and lots of WEEDS. I noticed at her farm the gardens are nicely weeded. Why oh why do I have to put up with this? Look at my driveway!!! Someone has got to stop the madness. She better start fixing up my driveway and garden or else. I know I said I would stop yelling at her but I just can't she drives me crazy.

2007-06-14T13:08:00.000-06:00

There, Jane has made me look alittle better. I will stop yelling at her now.

2007-06-14T09:43:00.000-06:00

It's getting harder and harder to get Jane to post anymore.

But I can be very demanding!!!!

Part of the reason is she's reading this book she checked out at the library (to cheap to buy the book) Knitting under the influence. by Claire Lazebnik. She is either reading, knitting, spinning or talking to customers when she should be doing the things I want her to do. Anyway

A new place is opening in Maiden Rock called Vino in the valley. www.vinointhevalley.com and they are going to be selling John's coffee there. The coffee is now in more and more establishments. People seem to really be liking the coffee in my shop.

2007-06-07T11:36:00.000-06:00

Jane can't stop making these cupcake dishcloths. They seem to be making her happy and they seem to be on her diet.

2007-06-06T17:07:00.000-06:00

Tonight is John roasting coffee, and little girls wanting to learn to knit!!!! What fun.

2007-06-01T09:40:00.000-06:00

Jane is trying to start a farm blog. Guess what???? Things are not going good for her with that. (surprise, surprise). She ended up deleting my profile. not a good thing!!! needless to say I was really upset. My blog doesn't look the same and I'm alittle ticked. She keeps trying to get it together. I'm not going to hold my breath.

2007-05-25T10:32:00.000-06:00

2007-05-11T09:48:00.000-06:00

Jane would like to show her latest knitting project. Lately she has been into the skull stuff , she says it's because of the Pirate movies. I don't know, I think she has a problem. I just wish she wouldn't knit that stuff in my shop, she should save it for the farm. creeps me out. (shudder)

2007-05-11T09:39:00.000-06:00

Using this ram from Kimberwood on these ewes Highland Hollow Farm has 2 dark brown lambs. Jane is very happy she hasn't had any dark browns for years. Jane was reading Mary Ellen's blog and noticed Mary Ellen has dark brown also. Could it be a dark brown year?

2007-05-09T17:00:00.000-06:00

This really cute little calf is named Wildfire. She is John and Janes new pet. She thinks she is a human. The really cool thing about this is that she is the Granddaughter to Janes favorite cow Willow who died Feb. 22 of this year. Some of you might remember her cow Willow, She was a really fun Highlander to hang out with.

Jane got a new Border Collie puppy last week. Seth is not real happy. Everyone keeps asking her what she was thinking and they keep calling her the devil dog. I haven't gotten a chance to meet the puppy yet. When Jane comes to the shop she mumbles things like, "had to get away from the puppy." Devil dog. hound from hell, and I must have been nuts." I don't know she looks harmless enough.

Little lamb is sooo cute.

2007-05-09T16:56:00.000-06:00

We have Brooklyn pictures!!!!! Here is Brooklyn playing her guitar for the big sheep shearing day at the farm. The sheep and Seth loved it.

Here is Brooklyn showing off her new hair cut and fancy dress she is planning on wearing to her Great uncle Jay's wedding this month. Doesn't she look fancy?

2007-05-04T15:05:00.000-06:00

Saturday was sheep shearing day. See how Brooklyn is playing her guitar for the sheep

Chris is shearing the old ram Dylan

2007-05-04T15:02:00.000-06:00

Hey, guess who's back???????
It is I Highland Hollow Emporium!!!
I have a question for you can anyone identify this plant?
let me know what it is

2007-02-22T10:19:00.001-06:00

Jane just had to post a picture of the new Granddaughter Britta with her Great Grandpa and Grandma. Aren't they just sooo cute?
Good morning everyone. It sure is cold this morning. We had a little tease with the weather yesterday, it was kinda warm. Not today.
Jane has to show you what she got in the yarn shop yeserday. Organic Cotton yarn. Now isn't that the strangest thing? It's not like your going to eat it or anything.

2007-02-09T16:40:00.000-06:00

Chris is baking!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It is soooo nice to have someone in my kitchen again.
It smells so good in here. She is baking cookies. Today it was lemon sugar cookies.
And Bird seed bread!!!!! Yummy

Pink Camouflage yarn!!!! Can't wait to see what the knitting ladies do with this stuff.

2007-02-08T10:48:00.000-06:00

Little hedgehog has eyes and nose!!!!! Brooklyn finally said it was ok to put eyes and nose on the cute hog. Doesn't he look alot better?
crazy killer cat on the loose in Elmwood. Human hands to hold him down.
just kidding, Stuart is the kind of cat you can do anything to, Brooklyn lays on and drags this cat all over the house, he just purrs away.

2007-01-19T15:17:00.000-06:00

OOPS!!!! I stand corrected on the Idol thing. It's suppose to be "Ovine SHETLAND Idol".
Sorry Rosy. Whew!! Rosy sure got mad about THAT little mistake.

2007-01-19T12:13:00.000-06:00

Last night was knitters night out and again Jane forgot to take pictures!!!! What can I say, if I had arms I would throw them up.
She did take a picture of Jeffrey and Raven looking over Ravens art work. I love the drawing of the foot, but we all know how much I love and want feet. You must read the comments Jeffrey has written a poem about Audi and Me. You must read it. Jeffrey had to post it on the comments because you know who couldn't figure out how to post it to my blog without typing the whole thing.

She also took pictures of 2 of her sheep
This is Betty and Connie. Aparently "Rosy the wonder ewe" is having a contest on the farm.
"Ovine American Idol" and Betty and Connie just have to try out. The contest is, which sheep can baa to the tune of Black sheep black sheep have you any wool. Will one of these two be the next ovine American Idol? We will see. The judges (Rosy, Angel soft, and Boaz) are really tough they make Simon look like little bo peep!! (and I don't mean Mary Ellen)

2007-01-10T18:07:00.000-06:00

John roasts coffee on Wednesday night. we had all sorts of visitors this evening. Jane only remembered she had the camera after almost everyone had left. But she did get pictures of Seth the farm dog and Brooklyn's side kick. He has to go most every where she goes. And Britta came to the shop for a visit with her Mom. Who will never let me show her face.
And of course we have Brooklyn.
If you are wondering what this thing is!!! It is the Fiber Trends Hedgehog done in the yarn Brooklyn picked out. Jane knit it and felted it. It was a great pattern. The only problem with it is Brooklyn will not let Jane put the eyes and nose on it. Oh, Well, she really likes it this way.

2007-01-10T18:02:00.000-06:00

Farm pictures!!!! These were taken a couple months ago. This is Jane's old girl Brandy. This is the famous Alices mom from Bluff country Shetlands. She is a real sweetheart. Jane really loves her. She may be old but she stills looks Great.

2007-01-05T13:17:00.000-06:00

OK, Jane very funny. Had to put this on my blog didn't you.

2007-01-05T12:46:00.000-06:00

Here we go, these are some better pictures of the tea. It is wrapped and tied green tea leaves around a blossom. Drop 1 in a wine goblet, fill with steaming water steep and enjoy. Leave in goblet, re-infuse. Jane steeps it in the wine goblet, then serves it in espresso cups. This Jasmine tea is the best Jane and My tea customers have tasted. One blossom had 5 infusions and still tasted wonderful. It did start to fall apart alittle bit. They sell in a pack of 3 for $2.67. Really a very good value.

2007-01-04T16:12:00.000-06:00

Whew!!!!!! the holidays are over, inventory is done for the year, (That was rough) Now Jane can get back to a somewhat normal (what ever that is) life and make it all about ME!!!!

We have a new tea in the shop. Yummy!!! Red Flower Jasmine made in a wine glass, it opens into a flower really cool.

2006-12-15T18:35:00.000-06:00

My friend Jeffery knew how much Steve loved the poet Eugene Field so on behalf of Steve's Mother, Father, and siblings here is a poem he loved.

Long ago
I once knew all the birds that came
And nested in our orchard trees,
For every flower I had a name---
My friends were woodchucks, toads, and bees;
I knew where thrived in yonder glen
What plants would soothe a stone-bruised toe---
Oh, I was very learned then,
But that was very long ago.

I knew the spot upon the hill
Where checkerberries could be found,
I knew the rushes near the mill
Where pickerel lay that weighed a pound!
I knew the wood ---the very tree
Where lived the poaching, saucy crow,
And all the woods and crows knew me---
But that was very long ago.

And pining for the joys of youth,
I tread the old familiar spot
Only to learn this solemn truth:
I have forgotten, am forgot.
Yet here's this youngster at my knee
Knows all the things I used to know:
To think I once was wise as he!---
But that was very long ago.

I know it's folly to complain
of whatsoe'er that fates decree,
Yet, were not wishes all in vain,
I tell you what my wish should be:
I'd wish to be a boy again,
Back with the friends I used to know.
For I was, oh, so happy then---
But that was very long ago!
Eugene Field

2006-12-15T16:52:00.000-06:00

I told you there would be pictures of the beautiful Britta. Just born and already bored with the world. My my.

Brooklyn is a very good big sister.

2006-12-13T17:47:00.000-06:00

Bill, thank you for your kind words. I have been hugging her and telling her it will be ok. She is still in shock over the accidental death of her brother. They were very very close in age and spirit. He was 15 months younger than she is. They spoke on the phone everyday in fact she talked to him that night at 7:00pm and he was hit by a truck walking home from dinner at 9:00pm that evening. killed instantly. I think it will be easier for the whole family once the holidays are over.
Anyway good news to announce. New Granddaughter Britta made her way in the world Dec. 6th. Pictures to follow very soon.

2006-12-08T22:01:00.000-06:00

Long time no blog!!!!
I have been being very kind to Jane lately. Her brother Steve has been Killed in a tragic accident. She is very devastated. They were 15 months apart and very close. Jane is having a very hard time going on with out her brother. She talked to him shortly before his death!!!! But she felt it was not enought!!! Is it ever enough? Can you ever say enogh to someone y0u love so much!!!!
P.S. Rosy the wonder ewe is safe and loved very much by Brooklyn and Jane and thanks to a special friend she loves animal crackers!!
Long time no Blog

It's been a very tough time at the Emporium this last month. Jane's brother Steve was taken from us in a tragic accident, way to young. Jane has taken it very hard and doesn't know what to do. It's so sad when someone you Love is taken away from you before their time. Steve was a great man and a good friend and Father. His family loved him and will greatly miss him. He had so much life in him and to be cut short is such a shame. Steve cheers to you!!!!!! Jane had talked to Steve shortly before he was killed and was going to talk to him later but it never happened, he died at 9:00 Jane was going to talk to him about that time when she got home.
His kids will greatly miss him, his family will greatly miss him. Steve you will always be with us

2006-10-29T16:23:00.000-06:00

Ok you humans! Jane is NOT dead!!! Although I would like to kill her !!!But we can't do that. John would miss her. ( really, he does love her, yuk) Anyway, Jane has not taken any pictures. I hate a blog without pictures. that is why I haven't made her blog for the last 2 weeks or is it longer? I don't know. Time is going so fast. Anyway, Jeffrey has written a poem about me and my new love Audi. guess what? Jane lost the poem. JEFFREY!!! Help!! We need an intervention!!! I really need a new human to do my bidding. I really like Queer Joe I wish he would write for me or maybe crazy anut purl or my favorite the I can't even say her name I read her blog every day. She is the coolest. can you guess who she is???? Queer Joe would know. Someone out there in the www has to help me and the Rosy the wonder ewe. John has set up a butching date for 2 ewes. John is really starting to like lamb. Jane is making lamb soup as we speak. I don't know what to do. I am just a stupid building. I'm getting very nervous. I need help. Can you believe I just said that. I am so much smarter than these 2 humans. It is all a joke I and Rosy have it all under control. (help) I will make Jane blog later and take lots of pictures. Did you humans know that Big Al came back? pictures to follow. Someone out there has to care I really need help!! Emporium

2006-10-06T14:58:00.000-06:00

Last night was knitters night out and Jane forgot to take pictures. I think she was having to much fun with the ladies. She did manage to take some sheep pictures.
Here is Rosy the wonder ewe standing on Jane's sitting rock. She sure thinks she is cool doesn't she. That's what I like about her she sure has attitude. You go Rosy!!!! your the bomb.
Notice how Angel soft is trying to be as cool as Rosy the wonder ewe? She just doesn't have the coolness that Rosy has.

2006-10-04T16:46:00.000-06:00

Winter will be here soon and the gardens will be covered in snow. BRRRRR. So here are some garden pictures from the farm. This is some love-lies-bleeding after the big hail storm. It was alot bigger, but it is really pretty just the same.
Here is Brooklyn and Seth in front of the plume poppy. I'm just glad there aren't any sheep in the pictures. Those naughty little Shetland Sheep.

2006-10-04T15:33:00.000-06:00

Pam came in to add some new soap. Pam makes the best soap and shampoo. My new favorite is Plum spice. YUMMY!!!!! (smelling not eating)

2006-10-04T14:15:00.000-06:00

Hello, Hello all you awesome humans out there!!! Can you believe it is October? Where has the time gone. This month is the one year anniversary of MY BLOG!!! It has been a rough year for me, but I've made it. It hasn't been easy working with Jane or should I say making Jane do what I want her to do. The shop has had it's ups and downs. The people that come in for coffee have had there ups and downs. All and all things have been interesting. I'm looking forward to an exciting new year blogging. If I can force Janes little fingers to work more than 3 days a week blogging. I have so many complaints!!!! But, I am really trying hard not to dwell on the bad. I must keep positive. I have a new girl friend Audi Torium. John has been working on the apt. upstairs. (very, very slowly) Which should have been rented out 2 years ago. But, John has alot to do. (yah, right). Ok, Ok I will dwell on the positive. Anyway, I was all excited last week when I thought the town was giving me a parade. Jane goes "hey Emporium there is a parade going right past you downtown" I get all flushed thinking it was all for me I smile at the people, throw candy because everyone knows you always throw candy in parades. Than Jane starts laughing at me saying it's a homecoming parade silly!!! Boy, did I feel stupid. I will be punishing her later.

2006-09-28T14:49:00.000-05:00

See my beautiful Audi? Her and I are going bowling tonight. She has her own bowling alley. I can't wait. See how nice her bricks line up? I tell ya she is one nicely put together building.

2006-09-28T14:21:00.000-05:00

Some really cool people have been coming into the shop! This really cute couple came form St. Paul, Mn. This is Lauren and Emily. John and Jane had a great time visiting with them. I hope they come again.

This is Tyler learning to knit! You go girl! Jane thinks everyone should knit. The world would be a better place. (I think the world would be a better place if it were run by buildings)

These really cool people are from Seattle, Wa. Gene and Joyce. They were so nice. I hope when they are back in Wisconsin they come again for a visit. I wish Audi and I could go visit them. But alas, we have no feet.

2006-09-28T14:02:00.000-05:00

Some wonderful knitting pictures Jane found on the internet. I love the internet. Isn't it great for knitting stuff?!

2006-09-15T11:03:00.000-05:00

Last night was knitter night out. I was kinda looking out the window half listening to the knitters blah, blah, blah when I noticed the top of a building I had never noticed before. I yelled Jane run over across the street and down the block and take a picture of that building around the corner. She starts whining! I'm knitting do I have to go NOW! I said yes yes go take a picture of that building. I have to see her!!!! NOW. Here she is, isn't she beautiful? Her name is Audi Torium. I am in LOVE!

2006-09-15T10:59:00.000-05:00

Can you tell Jane is still not allowed to take pictures of faces? Jesse is spinning a fleece off one of Pam's wonderful Romney sheep, it is so soft, I can't wait to see what Jesse makes with it Poor Cherri still working on Pie are square shawl. Will it ever end. One row at a time girl.
Deb is making a sock. I'm not sure what the Lopi is going to be.

2006-09-15T10:21:00.000-05:00

Time for the dreaded farm stuff. Here we have "Rosy" the wonder ewe. Jane has now reduced her price to $60.00 Jane says she has 4 different kinds of sheep on her farm. Show quality, breeding quality, pet quality and freezer quality. Rosy is on the fast track to being freezer quality. (I the Emporium will never let that happen) So she can jump gates!! So what!!! These little green gates are no match for Rosy the wonder ewe. She only wants to be where the humans are, is that any reason to drop the price or start talking about the freezer? I don't think so! If it was Connie, Shrek or Flopsy her precious little perfect Shetlands she would just get taller gates. But because it happen to be Rosy one of my favorite sheep. Rosy who has attitude, intelligence, and grace. Rosy the wonder ewe. She starts talking freezer.

2006-09-13T15:24:00.000-05:00

Today is a great day. Jane's spinning group "Hot Babes with wheels" came in to spin and knit this morning. It was alot of fun. A few years back in 1999 Jane was having a hard time thinking of names for her lambs that were born that year so she came up with this great idea to name the lambs after the ladies in her spinning group. So there was Margaret, Kitty, Donna, Jennifer, and Sheri. If turned out to not be a very good idea. Mary Ellen bought Donna, Kitty, and Sheri, then joined the spinning group "Hot Babes with wheels" Jane and Mary Ellen would constantly be talking about the breeding habits of Sheri, Kitty and Donna. Much to the embarassment of the group. (No one likes to have thier breeding habits talked about in public) Jane learned a valuable lesson. Never name sheep after friends!!!!!

2006-09-13T14:41:00.000-05:00

Jane decided to come back from Jefferson, Wi. The sheepy thing she went to was really fun. There were so many WONDERFUL Shetland sheep at this show she wanted to show pictures of all the sheep but I won't let her because it is not about me. So I will let her post 3 pictures of the wool festival at Jefferson. John wanted to post a picture of his good friend Patrick showing sheep. Patrick sure did a really good job. And a big shout out to Mary Ellens little ewe that got "Best fleece on hoof" Way, to go you wonderful little woolly beasts.
These wonderful Shetlands are from Bluff country Shetlands. These are some fine Shetlands that won some nice ribbons.
One of the cutest little shetlands was from Juliann's flock she looked like she had black lipstick on, very gothic. (only 3 pictures remember?)

Oh, and Jane got a 1st place ribbon on her double-coated fleece.

2006-09-07T12:54:00.000-05:00

Well Well Well, Jane has finally lost her mind. She is going to leave early tomorrow. I hope you realize that means she is going to close my shop early. Do you think I'm real happy about that? She says she is going to some sheep thing! Can you believe it? She has the nerve to close early on a Friday to go to some sheep function, I am so sick of hearing about her farm and sheep I could pull my bricks out. Oh, and remember Rosy?

Sweet, innocent, smart, does nothing wrong Rosy is now for sale for a measly $75.00 (with gift of course) can you believe it?!? The only ewe I like of the whole bunch, the only ewe that would do what I would do, is now being offered for sale for only $75.00. Do you what to know why? all because she bumped Connie alittle bit. Connie the big baby! She should get rid of Connie for $75.00, Connie can't take it, the little squeler. Rosy, poor Rosy look how innocent she is. Look at the gleam in her eyes. (not to be confused with the look of SATAN) Always, getting blamed for others short comings. Oh, life is not fair.

2006-09-01T12:30:00.000-05:00

Wow!!!!!!! can you believe it is already Sept. 1st??????? Where did the summer go? Time is moving way to fast.
We are starting to get busy again. Whew! This summer was really really slow in town. It was so slow in fact Mary had to quit the Cafe. So for the summer all we had was coffee and tea. John did some baking but he hasn't had time to do any baking lately. Which is ok since both these guys are on diets. Oh, and I suppose your wondering "well, can't Jane cook?" well, NOOOOOO Jane can't cook!!! serious. Jane can't cook or bake. She can hardly handle being the "Barista". And, really I'm not kinding. Ask some of my regular customers. The ladies that come in for knitters night out are afraid to ask her to make them any coffee drinks. She has shown them all how to make there own tea. Her favorite customer in the whole world was Gordy and he moved. It was so sad when he left. He got to the point where he would come in make his own Americano, ring himself up at the register, do his own dishes then leave. Jane always said he was the perfect customer. When Mary did have the Cafe' and it got busy Jane would be the waitress (and I use the term loosely) She was the WORST waitress on earth. And, I am not kinding about that either. Two guys came in and said that they drove an hour because they heard about this waitress in Elmwood. They heard how bad she was and had to see for themselves. It wasn't long after they were in that a new resturant opened in the cities calling themselves "The bad waitress cafe". They took alot of Janes bad waitressing skills and created a whole resturant theme. Anyway, hopefully the cafe will open again with a new waitress. Until then,In my little coffee and tea shop There are 39 different kinds of tea. This little cup brewed up here is Honeybush, which is really not a tea but an herb from South Africa it is very invigorating but caffeine-free. Very Yummy!

2006-09-01T11:49:00.000-05:00

Knitting stuff! Jane finished one of the double knit mittens, Hopefully, she will get the 2nd one done It took her a long time to get the first one done, not that it was hard to do, she (Jane) just tends to get bored really fast. The yarn is shetland black on the inside and cuff, spun single. The outside is 2 ply shetland moorit. I think these will be some very warm mittens. Now, for the fun shetland yarn. She's making a hat and mitten set. Kinda fun.

2006-09-01T10:55:00.000-05:00

Jesse's Flurty ruffles is done and blocked. Man can that girl knit lace or what?!?

2006-08-25T12:04:00.000-05:00

Last night was suppose to be knitters night out. But, instead we got one of the worst storms I've seen in a loooong time. The hail was golf size or bigger. The wind was blowing so hard that the rain came in the big front window and got the carpet all wet. Thankfully Jane had one of those shampoo machines and was able to get the water out of the carpet. It was a very scary storm.
Jane was very worried about the animals at the farm. Everyone managed to ride the storm out OK.
This is her favorite lamb "Shrek" She really likes the look of this ewe. It sure would be nice if she could take desent pictures like Nancy K. or Darrell But, (sigh) again need I remind you this is Jane we are talking about.

2006-08-24T11:10:00.000-05:00

Remember when Jane got that aromatherapy yarn in the shop awhile back? And everyone laughed at her and thought she was nuts? And we all thought now we had seen it all? (by the way this is the last skein of aromatherapy yarn she has left) Well are you all ready for this!!!!!! Now you can knit in the dark!!! Believe it or not!!!!
Knitting needles with little lights in the tips!!!!!
Now, I do believe We really have seen it all. Now you can knit your smelly yarn in the dark. I can't imagine what these crazy knitters could think of next but I'm sure they will come up with something.

2006-08-18T13:55:00.000-05:00

Jane wants to share an ad that she can't stop laughing about. She thinks it's funny and thought some of you guys might get a kick out of it. I really don't see the humor.

2006-08-18T13:28:00.000-05:00

Look at the cool Flip-Flops!!!! Her toe nails match the shoe! That is tooooo cool!
Look at the cool shoes!!!!! Big foot, little foot. I also have a cool hat pattern to share from Queer Joe's knitting blog It works really well with Shetland homespun. Jane has made several of these hats, John and Jeramie snap them up and wear them all winter long. It is a great pattern from a great guy. ENJOY!

2006-08-18T12:04:00.000-05:00

Knitters night out was a really good time. Some of the projects are really cool!!!!
And we have a shout out to Jesse who got Grand Champion at the fair in the knit and crochet, for her white shawl that is pictured in one of the previous posts. Her purple flirty ruffles is almost done. You go girl!!!
Cherri is working on a really interesting kid's sweater.

2006-08-16T16:23:00.000-05:00

John and Jane have been having a heated discussion about sheep lately. It is really starting to annoy me. This is how it goes. John: Jane how many sheep are you breeding this year? Jane: Oh, I don't know maybe 5. Just like last year. John: Jane WHY do you have all these sheep if your not going to be breeding them? Jane: Oh, well, some of them I don't really feel they are good enough. John: then why do you keep them? Jane: because they are my friends. John: That is so stupid. Who cares if they are good enough or not, you breed them all and ship the lambs. Jane: GASP!!! You mean like to the stock yard???? John: Why yes of course. Jane: I can't do that! They are so little, so cute, so friendly, so interesting!!!! John: Jane, we can't keep feeding all these sheep. You have ewes that are 7 yrs. old that have never had lambs. What are you thinking!!! Some of these sheep have got to go!!! Emproium: This is the talk they have been having for weeks. It is really getting sickening. So, these are some of the sheep she is willing to part with. This is Sweetpea. She is a very friendly ewe. She is for sale for $100.00
This is Connie. She has very nice wool and cute personality. $250.00
And to really motivate the sale of these wonderful Shetland sheep is a FREE gift with purchase.
Roosters!!!!!!!

2006-08-16T15:53:00.000-05:00

More sheep for sale. This is Rosy. She is very friendly. loves to be petted. We have worked on her bad behavior. She doesn't butt anymore. (fingers crossed) She is for sale for $100.00
This is Flopsy. She is very good quality. She is for sale for $250.00
This is her twin Mopsy. Another fine ewe. $250.00
Last, but by far not least is one of the sweetest little ewes her name is Betty. She loves everyone. She is for sale for $100.00 If you see any little ewe you like, call the Emporium at 715-639-2052 or email. highlandhollow@svtel.net

2006-08-10T11:52:00.000-05:00

Jane was late yesterday. Want to know why? She thought she needed a pedicure. This is a woman that walks around bare foot. Stepping in sheep poo and cattle poo all the time and she thinks she needs a pedicure.
I know she did it just to make me mad. She knows I don't have feet, she knows I want feet. she knows I love shoes and the little flower is too cute. I hate her.

2006-08-10T11:45:00.000-05:00

Remember the fleece Jane washed ,dyed the six colors ,4 kool-aid and 2 gaywool? This is a sample of it spun and plyed. It really is fun. It looks like candy. She doesn't know yet what she is going to knit with it yet. Should be interesting.

2006-08-10T11:36:00.000-05:00

The one year old peacocks went to a new home. Leah, Janes daughter is very happy. She doesn't like the peacocks because they sleep outside her bedroom window. Leah even offered the people $50.00 to take the stupid things. But they were nice people and paid for the pair.

2006-08-03T12:38:00.000-05:00

This is the coffee roaster John uses to roast the coffee beans. He roasts every Wed. night. He roasts some of the best coffee in the world with this antique roaster. That is really how The Emporium got started. It was a place John could roast his coffee and sell it. ( The Wi. state Inspector was not keen on the roasting in the barn idea.) But she is Keen on him roasting in the cafe. So John bought me and started roasting his wonderful coffee here, in downtown Elmwood. He roasts alot of different beans from all over the world. All the beans are Organic. And, he does special roasts from light to Espresso. People say it is the best coffee they have ever had. Some have even asked him what he puts in the coffee to make it so they have to have it. A gentleman from the United Arab Emirates just left with 12 lbs of Johns wonderful coffee to take back with him. He says he loves the coffee. So now we can say Johns Coffee is getting shipped all over the world.
One of Janes favorite coffee is a bean that comes from a country called Timor

Timor seems to be having trouble. I hope they still continue to grow that GREAT coffee bean.
Jane without her favorite coffee, I think that would be dangerous.

2006-07-28T18:27:00.000-05:00

Jane finally gets her UFO burger and beer. Notice a UFO burger has cheese and sauerkraut on it? Jane the dork adds pickles and mustard. She waits every year for a UFO burger and a beer!
These are the UFO can coolers. If anyone would like her to pick one up for you she will. Jane has several UFO can coolers. These are some of the people that made it possible for Jane to get her UFO burger and beer. This is Larry the beer guy.
These are some of the other good people that made it possible. (Notice Mike buying a UFO burger himself)
And of course Steve (the guy on the lower right) he takes the money from John to make it all possible for Jane to get her UFO burger and beer. Every thing is right in the world. Jane has gotten her UFO burger, she is very happy!!!

2006-07-28T12:53:00.000-05:00

While we are waiting for Jane to get her UFO burger and beer. (they don't start the ufo burgers until 5:00) I will post more pictures. Did you all know I have a thing for shoes? I love cool shoes. I think it's because I don't have feet. I guess I'm a bit jealous. So I make Jane take pictures of peoples feet if I like the shoes. HA HA I hate to say it but it has gotten her in trouble a time or two. Imagine: Hey, the Emporium really likes your feet, can I take a picture? I can hardly wait for someone to punch her in the nose. That would be sooooo cool. I would make her take a picture! Anyway, these are some cool shoes. UFO souvenir stand and information. Cool!

Here's Brooklyn yesterday ringing the neck of the little alien guy. Isn't she just the cutest?

2006-07-28T12:33:00.000-05:00

It's Friday!!! The start of UFO DAYS in Elmwood, Wi. There is a little shop across the street from me that sells gifts, beads, etc. Charmed Gifts They have some UFO stuff over there. I bet they will be seeing lots of aliens this weekend.

2006-07-28T12:22:00.000-05:00

Last night was knitters night out. I can't believe these ladies knit and spin in this heat. Amy's working on a winter dinosaur hat. Jesse is still working on flurty ruffles. Cherri is starting a sweater for a toddler, and Jane is working on another of the beaded mini bags.

2006-07-27T11:26:00.000-05:00

This is Dylan, Janes beloved ram of many years and his buddy Boaz. Dylan is really slowing down this year, she is worried he won't last much longer and probably not be up to breeding very many ewes this fall. Soooo
She has a new little ram named William who came from Kimberwood Shetlands
William has some of the bloodlines Jane has been looking for.

And another ram she will be using this fall. His name is Curtis. Curtis is a son of Dylan. (she just can't stand the thought of Highland Hollow Farms not having a son of Dylans on the place) A very sad thing happened on a farm of a good friend of Janes. A wonderful ewe named Panda
died. She was a great ewe. Karen of Twinbrooks is lucky to have a decendent of Panda.

OK Jane enough farm stuff. You WILL be posting shop stuff later. I tell ya sharing a blog with Highland Hollow Farms is really getting tough, Have you noticed that there is not alot of shop stuff anymore????? It is really becoming a farm blog. That is going to STOP. I demand MORE than equal time. GOT THAT!!!! After all the blog WAS mine ,the EMPORIUM. It was always suppose to be about ME ME ME. oops, did I say that out loud? I have to watch it. MJ (Janes Cousin) has been talking intervention and anger management.

2006-07-26T16:37:00.000-05:00

Elmwood is being invaded by ALIENS!!!!!!
This weekend is UFO days in Elmwood, Wi. Every little town has to have an event that they are famous for. My little town is famous for a sighting of ufo's back in the 70's. (Might I add it was in a corn field after the bars closed) but, none the less my little town is one of the ufo capitals of the world. alot of towns people were even featured on Phil Donahue. There is a video you can check out at the public library that has all the broadcasts pertaining to the sighting, It was a really big thing back in the 70's to have an actual sighting of ufo's.

Now alot of the shops have little alien people all over them. I made Jane go out and take some pictures so you could see.
Of course did Jane dress me up for UFO days?????? Of course NOT. All she cares about is the UFO burger and a beer. I'm sure you'll be seeing pictures of that on Friday when the food tent opens. This is the 28th year that Elmwood has been celebrating UFO days. I'm planning on having a really great time.

2006-07-26T16:22:00.000-05:00

Now, I will let Jane post some farm pictures, only because I can't stand the whining. Cute little peacock chick found a very good home. Now she has this pair of peacocks that are both a yr. old for sale. $25.00 dollars each or $45.00 for the pair. Everyone in the household is starting to complain about all the peacocks living on and around the house. (She is only suppose to be keeping her original pair). These two are very tame they will eat bread out of your hand. But they have to go to a new home.

2006-07-21T11:56:00.000-05:00

These are some of the ladies Jane has coffee with every morning. Betty
Connie
And Rosy.
Rosy has alot of issues. Rosy has to have her forhead on Janes knee (reason why head is lifted) at all times and be petted constantly, if you stop petting her she rams your knee. We are working on that bad behavior.

2006-07-21T11:21:00.000-05:00

Now for Farm stuff. I really do not like sharing a blog with the farm, but I don't have a choice now that other Shetland people have started blogging. I wish there was a way to stop it, but the Shetland blogging madness has taken hold of the World Wide Web and, as we all know once something has taken hold of the World Wide Web it can NEVER be stopped. And, these Shetland people love to live and breathe Shetlands. It's enough to make me want to start pulling my bricks out.
But I will be kind today. Some people are starting to mention "Anger Management" around me, I'm not sure I like the sound of that. Anyway, Brooklyn is helping Jane (remember Brooklyn is only 3) try to understand fleece. This is Tillie's wool sheared off this spring.
Is this double coated ?
Jane hates to sound stupid. But she is!!!!!!!!

2006-07-21T11:05:00.000-05:00

Last night was knitters night out. Apparently Jane made such an impression last week with the ladies pictures, that she is no longer allowed to take pictures of the ladies faces, only what they are working on. Way to go Jane.
Notice the Ole and Lena joke book? God help us all!!!
Cherri is still working on the pie are square shawl. Chin up Cherri, one row at a time!

2006-07-20T13:22:00.000-05:00

Ok all you sheep people out there,( If any sheep people read this blog.) Jane wants you to know she is trying really hard to study the Scrapie thing and she found this website that will probably take her years to read, but she thought was kinda nifty. Time to insert another picture of her favorite lamb born this yr.
Moonstone and her two daughters Flopsy and Mopsy. (Brooklyn likes these names) got really bored waiting for Jane to get the camera ready, so they walked away. If I had feet I'd walk away, too!!!

2006-07-20T11:48:00.000-05:00

Jane has been getting into some really cool blogs. Some people are doing knit alongs. Jane wants to do a knit alongs. This is what she wants to knit a chicken hat. I can't believe it a human who wants a chicken hat. So if you want to do a chicken hat knit along with Jane go for it.

2006-07-17T12:20:00.000-05:00

Jane is back from her workshop. But can you guess she forgot to take pictures, she did remember the camera. but totally forgot to take a single picture. It was so hot that day 100 degrees and these ladies still could not stop playing with wool, either on or off the body of the little sheep. Nancy has a lovely flock of shetland sheep. There were sheep coming and going at Nancy K's. I was surprised they did as well in the heat as they did.
Jane did get to meet some really cool ladies and she did buy the book. Hopefully we will be seeing pictures of her progress. As for now it is HOT, HOT, HOT outside right now.

2006-07-14T15:37:00.000-05:00

It's Friday afternoon and Jane is getting ready to close my doors, and of course we have one more of her favorite lambs born this yr. This is "Curtis" Connie's twin.
John and Jane are taking the motorhome to "Bluff Country Shetlands"http://www.angelfire.com/mn3/blufcountryshetlands/ for a MSSBA meeting and a workshop on making a braided rug with roving. http://www.plfkarakuls.com/book.html
It should be alot of fun. I know Jane is really excited about meeting with other sheepy people. She sure likes her sheep and the people that raise these little Shetlands. Really what is it about these little sheep that make people so crazy for them? Did you see what Jane did I think she figured out a new thing, now if it actually works. I am so proud of you Jane If you get this to work it will open a whole new world for me er...... I mean you.

2006-07-14T12:53:00.000-05:00

This is Cherri last night at knitters night-out. Jane thinks Cherri likes her as a friend. Ha Ha Cherri really likes ME. She loves my brick, my windows, my chairs, my tables, She loves my knitting shop, my spinning shop. She just loves me me me!!! Poor Jane, she has no idea, she is clueless. I own Jane, she works for me, people come to see me, not her. Someday Jane will be a good slave.
Anyway, back to Cherri, Cherri is a really great knitter she is still making those really cool face cloths from Fiber Trends, only now she is using the Euroflax which is really cool.
Anyway, I sure love these knitters and spinners. They are all pretty cool.

2006-07-14T12:05:00.000-05:00

Last night was knitters night out. These ladies are doing some really strange things with wool!!! Guess who made this little number? Lets see what should we call this? Jesse's alter ego? or my Little Mermaid after a really hard night? Jesse is really getting good at needle felting. Jane calls her the rain man of lace, soon it will be the rain man of needle felting. The girl is a fiber artist genius.
Amy, Amy what can we say about Amy. Amy is really a jewelry designer, but she loves to knit and create fun things. She is trying to design a mobile for a new baby, Jesse thought needle felting littles things would be cute, Jane thought little breasts would be nice. Lets see breasts on a crib mobile, I think Jane might have something, maybe she's not so dumb after all. What little baby wouldn't love a needle felted breast mobile hanging over thier crib.
Chris is spinning and knitting like she has been doing it all her life. She is just one of those special people that can do anything right away. She is knitting on a tube sock. Cool!!!

This is Jesse, needle felting little tiny animals and stabing herself every once in awhile. needle felting is not for the squeamish. Be very careful ladies needle felting can be dangerous.

2006-07-13T17:37:00.000-05:00

I'm starting to see a pattern here. I think they are ALL her favorites. This is Connie and Betty. Jane says these are her favorites. How many more are there, Jane!!!!

2006-07-13T17:31:00.000-05:00

This is Janes favorite little ewe born this yr. Her name is Mopsy.

2006-07-13T14:26:00.000-05:00

This is Janes favorite little lamb born this year. Her name is Shrek. Can you tell Brooklyn helped pick out names this yr. Shetlands have the cutest butts.

I think I am about done with the farm stuff now, I've kind of had enough of all this animal stuff. I told you if Jane had a blog it would be nothing but farm stuff. Tonight is Knitters night-out. We will see if we have sharp sticks and yarn flying around.