Thistle and Vine

Homegrown & Handmade Lavender

2011-01-30T22:45:00.004-05:00

Here at Thistle and Vine we grow all the lavender that goes into our products.
As a gift lavender signifies luck or devotion. It is known for its comforting and calming properties and few other herbs can rival its usefulness. As an herbal medicine lavender is used to soothe and relax. Oils in lavender can treat hyperactivity, depression, insomnia, bacteria, fungus, and airborne molds. Lavender is also reported to help cure migraines and motion sickness. And it was recently discovered to increase circulation.
From our luxurious soaps to our highly scented lavender soy candles, sachets, stress bags, bath salts, sugar scrubs & tub teas.
Our main concentration is on quality, You can be sure you're always getting the very best.

We are always happy to create Special orders for Special events or Bed and Breakfasts.
Contact us for pricing at thistleandvine@aol.com

Shopping in Strasburg

2011-01-23T20:54:00.000-05:00

This article was copied from http://blog.authenticbandb.com/
Thursday, January 20, 2011

Shopping in Strasburg

Established in the early 1700's, Strasburg remains much the same. The old town charm quickly takes hold as you stroll past quaint shops on tree-lined streets and hear the clip-clop of Amish horse and buggies going on their way. With each step, you step back in time - to the days when the town served as a trade center and stagecoach stop between Philadelphia and Lancaster.

From cozy bed and breakfasts to magnificent theatrical productions to unique quaint shops Strasburg is the community has something for everyone. While you are here ride in an authentic Amish buggy, take a trip to Paradise aboard an historic steam train and explore the quiet back roads past rolling hills and real working Amish farms, or simply enjoy a quiet walk thru town and embrace our old fashioned hometown feeling.

As an Innkeeper, I am often asked by guests " Where can I shop for unique, handmade gifts for my ..."(fill in babysitter, petsitter, grandchildren, best friend etc.) The home town feeling you'll get when in Strasburg is exemplified in my favorite store in town, Thistle and Vine 10 West Main Street in the square in Strasburg. Upon entering the store each guest is cheerfully greeted by the owner Dee and the scent of her homegrown and handmade lavender soaps, bath salts and other aromatherapy products. There is something for everyone in Thistle and Vine, and each product is locally made and, if not hand made by Dee, they are hand picked from local artisans and crafters. Dee personally creates all the beautiful jewelry, the individually designed seasonal wreaths and silk flower arrangements, soy candles and aromatherapy products. Her store motto is "Remember to keep the American dream alive, buy from an American artist".

She is also the chair for two craft fairs, one in the spring (held the Saturday of Memorial day weekend) and one in the fall (held the Saturday after Thanksgiving) . Please check her blog for details: http://www.thistleandvine.blogspot.com/ Submitted by Stephanie Kaminoff, Rose Garden Bed and Breakfast.

Posted by of Lancaster County at 4:36 PM 0 comments Links to this post Labels: Lancaster, Rose Garden Bed and Breakfast, Strasburg

Cold Winter Slumber

2011-01-16T11:48:00.001-05:00

As the cold winter wind blows and the little town of Strasburg, PA enters into its slumber, I am busy creating new items for upcoming events in 2011.

Our long awaited web site is now under way and should be ready soon. So stay tuned........

Happy New Year!!

2010-12-31T14:44:00.000-05:00

2010 is coming to an end and 2011 is full of Hopes, Dreams and Possibilities.
At Sunday mass not to long ago, Father Leo Goodman said " Dream your Dreams " Don't be afraid!
We have so many plans and dreams for this year, We also have a few hurdles to overcome but I know with the help, support and love of family & friends we will make 2011 another fun filled adventure.
Here's to wishing you & your's all the best in the New Year!

What I want for Christmas

2010-12-19T12:02:00.001-05:00

Every Christmas you always hear people discussing what they want & where they went.

What I want more than anything this year is for my friend & everyone that is sick to be cured.

I want children with no families, to be given a secure warm home full of love and happiness.

I want homeless people to never have to worry about food and shelter & heat.

What a Wonderful Christmas it would be if all my wishes could come true.

May your holidays be filled with miracles. I pray that mine will.

Winter Wonderland Arts and Crafts Bazaar

2010-10-13T09:27:00.000-04:00

Attention Every One!!!
"The Winter Wonderland Arts and Crafts Bazaar" will be on Saturday November 27, 2010 from 8am to 3pm.
Space is still available If you'd like to participate this year.
Email me at ThistleandVine@aol.com or call me at 717-687-6186

Fall is on it's way...

2010-09-13T05:20:00.000-04:00

Our 45 year old Oak tree's are signaling us that it's that time of year again. Time for the kids to return to school . This summer went by so quickly that I can't believe it was here.
We had the worst humidity here this summer that it brought back memories of living down south and what I didn't miss in my trunk load of wonderful memories.
I have to admit we did have some cool storms this summer.
Memorial day started our summer with lightening and flash floods, there's nothing like watching the sky when there's a storm.
We ended our summer in Cape May, NJ.
Have I ever mentioned how much I love Cape May? Although my husband was weary of Hurricane Earl hitting while we were down there I talked him into it and he was happy that I did.
Labor day weekend ended with beautiful weather, and the ocean was so cool to watch because you could see the turbulance and the color change that the storm had caused .
We returned refreshed and ready to face the crazy days ahead of juggling school & work schedules.
Have a wonderful Autumn everyone..............

July is gone in a blink

2010-07-31T22:12:00.002-04:00

Where did July go??
It seems as if I blinked and it was gone.
So much has happened this month that I'm still trying to process everything.
My friend lost her sister last night to a brain tumor,
We knew the end was near, but we were still hopeful that there was still a little more time.
My heart hurt so much for her last night as we drove the half an hour drive to her sister's house, a trip that we've made weekly so the sisters could have a few quiet moments together.
My friend left Tuesday with a smile that her sister had given her only to return last night to face her families tears.

My prayers are with you...

School's Out

2010-06-15T22:21:00.000-04:00

Congradulations Gracie! She graduated from kindergarten on Friday but had to return to school until today. She was so cute leaving school today kicking off her shoes for the rest of the summer. Now the fun begins!

What a Wonderful May Morning!

2010-05-08T09:19:00.001-04:00

May is here again ! Flowers are springing up out of their sleeping places and looking for the sun. Sound familiar ?

I'm so happy to feel the warm sun on my face and get out in the garden and plant. Have I ever mentioned that this is really my favorite season?

Everything just feels so fresh, How can I help but feel inspired to create something new.

What a day!

2010-04-01T23:55:00.000-04:00

Sorry that it's been forever since I've updated this blog, I need to find someone to help me with the internet stuff, I'm terrible with updates.
Today was so much fun, Our day started out with decorating for a surprize baby shower, which turned out to be a complete success!
The weather was a beautiful 76* degrees and should last through the weekend, so if you're thinking about visiting Strasburg, PA. This would be a wonderful weekend to do it.

Looking Forward

2010-02-22T11:38:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited Spring is almost here! We are busy creating our special tea cup arrangements, and adding new items daily.

In Search of Faschnats !

2010-02-17T15:04:00.004-05:00

Tuesday Morning started out with a road trip to Columbia, PA.

In Search of Faschnats!

Our trip turned out to be quite an adventure, the side streets in Columbia are an obstacle course of ice and snow from this months past snow storm.

We stumbled across a cute little bakery The Flour Child, hoping that they had faschnats, but to our disappointment they didn't!

The owner Alixe was so nice, she gave us directions to Holy Trinity Catholic Church and a few other places.

If you're ever in Columbia, PA and need any pastries, or a good cup of coffee, Stop by The Flour Child, It is so cute and smells wonderful!

On my girls next day off, We will be heading back to Columbia looking for those big chocolate frosted cupcakes .

Alixe, Thanks for your kindness!

Celebrate Love!

2010-02-03T06:45:00.001-05:00

Valentines Day is February 14th!

I think this should be a National Holiday!

Everyone should get the day off from work & school!

A whole day to relax and focus on the Importance of "Love" in our Lives.

What a positive difference it might make in the world.

Check Your Medicine Cabinets!!

2010-01-21T05:58:00.003-05:00

I recieved this in my email this morning and felt it necessary to share. Please check your medicine cabinets.

Tylenol Expands Recall To Include Motrin and Children’s Medication

Johnson & Johnson issued a massive recall of several Tylenol products because of a moldy smell that was making people sick. The recall has now expanded to include Motrin, St. Joseph’s aspirin, and some types of children’s medicine.

Click the link below to find a complete list of products that include Tylenol Extra Strength, Rolaids and a number of children’s medicines. Don’t forget to forward this article along to anyone who you think might have a bottle of Tylenol on their medicine shelf!

The Food and Drug Administration slammed the McNeil Healthcare LLC, the manufacturers of Tylenol, for their slow response to problems at a facility in Puerto Rico that was responsible for the tainted pills. The FDA said that McNeil knew about the problem back in 2008, but only made a limited investigation into the problem.

Check your medicine cabinet! http://www.top-colleges.com/blog/2010/01/20/tylenol-expanded-recall/?isrc=Asdf#none

Handmade Primitive Antique Quilt Pillow

2010-01-12T14:02:00.000-05:00

$20.00

Quick Winter Pick me up

2010-01-11T06:56:00.002-05:00

Thought I'd share something that really is wonderful!
Here's a nice little Homemade Winter Pick me up.

Soothing Mask

1 cup plain yogurt (it feels particularly great straight from the fridge)
½ cup oatmeal (nothing fancy here — any type works)

Mix together and apply to your face; leave on for 15 minutes then rinse with warm water and a washcloth. (If your skin is oily, add a few drops of lime juice to the mix. Dry skin? Stir in two tablespoons of honey.)

Annual Winter Slumber

2010-01-08T11:35:00.003-05:00

January is has arrived with its wind and snow.

Sight and Sound Theater and Strasburg Railroad have closed for their winter break, Our little town has settled into it's Annual Winter Slumber.

I will be keeping myself busy rearranging and creating new items, along with trying to play catch up with finishing "Special Orders".

If you need to pick up a Gift or Special Order, (or trade a good book you just finished) during these unpredictable winter months.
Email me at ThistleandVine@aol.com or call 717-687-6186.

Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-01T08:16:00.003-05:00

In The Wee hours of 2010, I'm already up and excited about My New Years Resolution! Have you made one? For 2010, My Goal and Resolution is to focus on being more Organized. Here's my short term plan. Maybe this can work for you too! Today I'm going to create a check list of every thing I want or need to get done this Year. Than I will make a focus for each month. Each month will be broken into how many weeks are in that month. Each day of the week I will set 5 goals. ( They don't have to be big.) I'm starting out small because that seems to work best for me. I don't know about you but I sometimes get overwhelmed by the big picture but if I break it down into little check lists I'm ok. I carry a little pocket calendar for bills that need to be paid and items that need to go out so I will just expand on that and paper clip my daily to do list to that. If you have any great ideas or tips Please share. I'm sure if we stay organized, This will be a successful year!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T18:32:00.003-05:00

Shhhh, I'm Stealing a quiet moment with my hot cup of tea, gazing out at my peaceful snow covered landscape. Our house is a buzz with a sugar overload from making our Gingerbread House & getting ready for Santa. We have Icing Everywhere ! Hope your Christmas Eve is filled with many wonderful memories..

Happy Holidays!!!!

2009-12-10T05:54:00.006-05:00

The Holiday Season is upon us once again, as usual I'm juggling 10 things at once, I'm always wishing I had a few more hours or I still don't think I'm doing enough.

Does that sound familiar?

Last Saturday night was the most wonderful night! We had our first real snow fall of the year! (I love Snow!)

My daughter Emilie and I were driving over to St. Mary's in Lancaster for an Artisan Fair.

I kept reminding myself to slow down, the roads were getting slippery.

I took this as a sign that I needed to slow down in other areas of my life also.

After setting up our table at the fair, we went to Saturday evening mass, as I was sitting in the church listening to Father Leo, My eyes kept wandering over to the lighted christmas tree aka (the giving tree) that is decorated with stars everywhere, on each of the stars it has homeless child needs gloves and a hat or homeless mother needs socks.

It brought tears to my eyes, that there are so many that are in need, in our own community.

In the true spirit of the season look deeply at all the blessings that surround you and Please reach out to someone that needs a little extra help this season.

Remember, It's in giving that we also recieve.

From Our Family to Your's.

We Hope you have a Safe Holiday Season filled with Love, Peace, Faith, Hope & Happiness!

Calling All Crafter's

2009-11-08T11:29:00.005-05:00

Winter Wonderland Arts and Crafts Bazaar Wesley United Methodist Church 40 West Main Street Strasburg, PA November 28,2009 8-3pm Start your Christmas Shopping and Enjoy the most exciting show of the season. We will be kicking off the holiday season with the best handmade vendors in our area. Hope to see you there! Tables are still available. Call 717-687-6186 or email ThistleandVine@aol.com to reserve

Welcome Fall!

2009-09-24T09:35:00.005-04:00

As Fall dances in the door. We are adding New items daily. Stop in and check out "Our New Classy & Colorful Jewelry designs" for the upcoming Holiday Season.

We will also be featured this October in a Wonderful Newspaper that advertises local businesses. So check back often for more details..

It's that Time Again!

2009-08-23T19:56:00.007-04:00

Join Us on August 29th & 30th for " Our Annual End of Summer Sale "

There will be savings up to 50% off throughout the store.

Email Questions & Requests to:

ThistleandVine@aol.com

Changes

2009-08-12T10:06:00.004-04:00

Here we are in the raging heat of August, Can you believe the weather this summer? I can't believe at the end of this month my youngest will be going off to kindergarten. I'm juggling between being excited to finally have me time and feeling a little lost at what to do while she's making new friends and learning and expanding her world.

I'm always telling my girls that life is a journey that will bring so many new and exciting changes.

Yet, Today I find myself sitting here with tears in eyes realizing that this new journey has come to soon and I'm not ready!

Christmas in July

2009-07-09T08:26:00.011-04:00

Hi Everyone,

We just returned from our family vacation of sun, fun, and cuddling with the newest family member .

This month kicks off " Christmas in July ". I am moving into holiday gear a little early this year so I'm prepared for all the holiday parties, crafts shows and personalized gifts.

Thinking about a party in the near future? Call 717-687-6186 or email me at ThistleandVine@aol.com so I can get you on the holiday calendar.

Some of you are all ready a few steps ahead of me, I will be returning your calls and catching up with you.

Thank You for always inspiring me to look ahead.

Introducing Miss Lilly

2009-06-16T08:59:00.004-04:00

We were blessed with Miss Lilly's arrival into this world on Monday June 15, 2009.

For any mother that is contemplating being in the labor room when their daughter is having your grandchild. I recommend it!

It is one of the most amazing experiences you will ever have.

I am so in aww of my daughter Ashley, she handled labor with the strength & grace of an angel. She never cried or even complained.

Ashley's labor moved so quickly, family members had to rush to the hospital.

My husband Edward arrived just in time to kiss Ashley when the midwife came in and said, "Are we ready to have a baby!" Everyone was so shocked that they started running to stand in the hall.

Shane, 3 nurses, a midwife and I stayed to help Ashley while Miss Lilly made her big entrance. She arrived in the midst of laughter, joyful tears and stories of Ashley & Shane's first meeting, Prom and memories of Shane going off to the military, & after all their struggles coming back together to create the most beautiful grand daughter we could have ever hoped for.

Just Another Beautiful Day in Strasburg!

2009-05-22T22:01:00.004-04:00

Where else can you have the best of both worlds?

Today was such a beautiful day that everything about the day was a special reminder to slow down and enjoy the view.

I couldn't help myself I had to share.

The 3/50 Project

2009-04-19T22:25:00.004-04:00

Think about which three independently owned stores you'd miss most if they were gone...Your contribution is what keeps those businesses around.This idea is at the heart of a new nationwide movement to save independently, locally owned brick and mortar stores. It's called the 3/50 Project. Brick and mortar stores around the country are rallying their loyal fans and customers to help support the local economy, three stores at a time. Click the graphic at left to enlarge the flyer and read about how YOU can help preserve the citizen-driven economy that America was built on! If you like this idea, I encourage you to print the flyer and pass it on to your friends.

Spring is in the Air

2009-03-11T09:01:00.003-04:00

"Welcome Spring!" I have always looked at this time of year as New Hope. Maybe it's my optimistic outlook on life but how can you not be optimistic when you see new life budding everywhere?. The air seems so much fresher with the trees and flowers beginning to bud .

"Come out and stroll Strasburg!"

Everyone is celebrating the beginning of Spring with New items and Great Sales!

Hope to see you soon!

Finding a Peaceful Place

2009-01-31T09:24:00.012-05:00

I remember growing up in Chicago. When life was difficult there was always one place that I knew I could go to sit and reflect and make sense of the world going on around me. This place is no longer standing except in pictures and in my heart, I go there when times are tough and the memories always bring me peace. This is my peaceful place. Where is your peaceful place?

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T14:19:00.008-05:00

Here we are at the beginning of 2009. I pray that this year will bring many blessings to all my family, friends and the many people that touch our lives. This year as we head into uncertain economical times. I would like to step back in time to the depression years. My Grandma Catherine lived through so much in her life time, a husband in WWI and 2 son's in WWII, back then money was always scarce so she had to be creative with running a household. Today when we watch our money it's called being "frugal". In my grandma's day she had to hold tight to her pennies to just survive day to day. This year as we step forward, I will try to bring a little of the past to this blog and hopefully it will be a blessing to everyone that reads it. "This is my New Years Resolution!"

Happy Holiday's

2008-12-09T19:46:00.002-05:00

This is my favorite season, but time just always seems to fly by for me . I would like to Thank everyone who has helped me with the endless craft shows and decorating for holiday parties and Open Houses. Thank God for Vanilla Cappacino's and Hills Bros. They have been my fuel these past few months. I apologize to all my friends and customers who faithfully check my blog for updates. My New Year's resolution will be to update regularly. For now check out my new pictures and if there's something that catches your fancy, Drop me an email. Happy Holidays

September is Here!!!!!

2008-09-12T08:08:00.003-04:00

There's a new song in the air, A quiet melody now that our children are getting settled back in school. It always seems to me that September is a time to slow down and enjoy a little solitude before we gear up for all the holiday festivities. This is the best time to come out and walk the Streets and enjoy the Shops. I have had so many locals stopping in that didn't know what Main Street in Strasburg has to offer. Hopefully they will tell their friends. "Please tell your friends!"

New Items are Arriving

2008-08-11T21:16:00.006-04:00

This summer has flown by in a blink of an eye and the kids will be back in school in less than 30 days. I've had a wonderful, yet tiring summer juggling home, children, vacations, gift shows, not to mention staying up late to create new wreaths and the day to day life of running a gift store. A young girl in her 20's stopped in last week and exclaimed to her friend, "I'm officially in love with Strasburg, Now that I've discovered this store!"

Thank You to her and all my friends, family and customers who have blessed me with their kindness. I have been promising everyone new items and they are finally arriving. The Jewelry is so beautiful, and remember I do gift wrap.

Email or Call me for custom orders on wreaths and gift baskets .

Till we meet again, Take care & Enjoy the best of what this Summer has to offer.

Summer's Here

2008-06-11T06:22:00.003-04:00

Strasburg kicked off our first Saturday in June with a Fireman's Parade down Main Street . The air was full of excitement as neighbors came out and strolled the streets to chat with family, friends and curious tourists that had stumbled upon our town not knowing that they would be spending a few hours till the streets reopened after the parade. I smiled as I stood on the front porch, the delicious aroma of chocolate cupcakes and cookies for sale mixed with my daughter Emilie's laughter, & the sight of Terri from Lulu and Tutz floating down the street with bunches of balloons in hand, filled my day with joy. Strasburg really showed it's best side on Saturday, I'm proud to be a resident! How many people can really say they love the town they live in. I can! One more thing before I forget, Thanks, Cindy Baker (Meranda Zugs) for promoting all our local shops here in Strasburg!

Introducing Our Adorable "Halo"

2008-04-30T09:17:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone, We have added a new addition to our family. His name is Halo and he's absolutely adorable. He loves to go everywhere with me and sleep in my purse. On Sunday I took him to church and Monsignor blessed him for me, A blessing is something Halo will definitely need living in our house hold with Grace loving him to death and showing him how to dress and have tea parties. (Of course something every good dog should know.) I hope everyone is enjoying this wonderful weather, It has definitely inspired me to move the store around and add some special new items. Till we meet again, Enjoy the Sunshine!

Fresh Snow in Strasburg

2008-02-21T09:10:00.003-05:00

Last night was so pretty with the stars shining on the snow, it was just a light dusty snow that swirled around when the wind blew which made it look so magical. I just love when it snows at night and no one has walked or driven on top of it. I have always believed that when it snows, it's God's way of saying here's your fresh start! Make the most of it!

Creative Ideas Always Welcome

2007-06-02T10:44:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone, I created this blog page with all my wonderful friends, family & customers in mind, so now you can share all your wonderful ideas whenever you like. Do you have any creative ideas that you think I should try in the store? Is there certain item that you would like to have me carry?