Exciting things around the corner…

by | Dec 30, 2013 | Miscellaneus | 138 comments

This post may contain affiliate links.

There have been a lot of things in the works, behind the scenes, for a few months…years in some cases.  I like growth in my business to happen organically, not forced, so sometimes it takes a while for everything to fall into place, but several things seem to be converging in 2014 and I thought I would share them with you…

the Mustard Seed Workshop

The first one, involves my husband, Jeff.  He’s been working with me in my business since the very beginning, but as a full time youth pastor, there was only so much time he could dedicate to it.  We’ve gotten to the age where our backs hurt after sleepovers and we’re cranky after all-nighters and we’re feeling a little…well…old for youth ministry.  We’ve been doing it full time for 10 years and as lay leaders for about five before that.  We started talking and praying through what God would have next for him (us) and, long story short, Jeff is starting as the part-time associate pastor at our church and Faith’s husband (Remember my assistant, Faith?) is becoming the full-time youth pastor.  It’s a dream scenario and was really exciting to see how God brought it all together.

Jeff going part-time at the church means that he’s freed up to work with me more and to launch his own arm of the Mustard Seed empire!  Mwah-ha-ha!  Totally joking about the empire thing.  Anyway, we’ve been dreaming about him starting a blog for a long time.  A couple of years in fact.  He’s been fixing furniture and building things and installing trim and floors and plumbing and all of the not-so-decor-oriented things that make my visions come to life.  He’s been sort of a silent partner.  Well, now he’s going to launch the Mustard Seed Workshop.  This blog is for those who want to know all of the stuff that happens (and how) before I start painting and decorating.  He’ll share everything from free project plans, tutorials, tool reviews, tips on setting up a workshop and basic household fix-it stuff.  He’s mostly self-taught as I am, so it will all be very approachable and practical.  You also get to hear his perspective on our home and me, which should amuse.

Isn’t the logo awesome?  It’s just a shell of a blog right now, but we’ll get going on it in the new year. Jeff’s also going to pack up the purchases for the online shop, so I can post more without dreading the packing and shipping and he’s going to make and edit all of my videos, so there will be a lot more of those.

Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint Blog

I never wanted my blog to become all about milk paint all the time, so I have started a blog just for that purpose!  It’s the Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint blog.  Since I can’t manage an entire other blog, I have some great contributors and we’ll be sharing a lot of your MMS Milk Paint projects there.  We’re going to build a one-stop information center for all things milk paint, waxes, hemp oil and other companion products, so you can get lots of ideas, inspiration, encouragement and support.  I know it’s going to be a lot of work, but I’m excited about getting it launched.  It’s live now, so you can start poking around, but it will officially launch after the new year.  (Look for some upcoming giveaways!)

missmustardseed-154
missmustardseed-154

MMSMP Look Book

I am excited about this one as well.  I get to play magazine.  We’re putting together a beautiful look book full of MMS milk paint 101 information, a feature on all 18 colors and more.  We hope to release it this spring…just in time for warmer weather and project fever!  This project has been almost therapeutic for me, since it’s mostly creative work and all about styling, photography, content development and layout.  I don’t know the details of how much it will cost, but we will be making it available in a printed version and online.

Here’s a preview of the cover…

The Mustard Seed Pages

This is one of those wacky “can we do this?” kind of things I send along to my tech guy, but don’t think it will actually happen.  Well, he was able to make it happen.  It all started in October when I mentioned getting a free quilt from Layla at the Chapel Market.  Some of you mentioned wanting quilts and some of you mentioned you had quilts to sell.  This got the wheels in my head turning.  What if we could have an online community where people could list things for sale?  It would be limited to things girls like us like…antiques, textiles, home decor, ironstone, etc.  I’ve also received some comments on how I can sell things I mention on my blog so easily because of my audience.  Well, this is a way I can share my audience with you!  You can post the things you want to sell (and it’s free and really easy) and you can connect with other people who read my blog and like similar things.  I think it could be really awesome!  I need to get a few ducks in a row before we launch it, but it should be up and running soon and we’ll see how it goes.  It may be a total dud.  It may take off like crazy and I’m getting myself in way over my head.  Who knows, but we’ll give it a try.

There are some other things in the works, but these are the biggies that I can share with you right now.  These are ideas that took flight and have landed.  The rest are still gliding around, waiting for the right time.

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    138 Comments

    1. Rosemary

      I am so excited for you guys! I can’t wait to see all the new stuff coming up!

    2. Sue

      WOWEE! I’ll say you have a few exciting things…the cover of your look book is gorgeous, the milk paint website is gorgeous, and I cannot wait for the Mustard Seed Pages. I am happy that things are working out so that your hubby and you can work closer together and that opportunity opened up the opportunity for Faith’s husband. Very exciting things to look forward to 🙂

      Sue

    3. Ricki @ The Questionable Homesteader

      Oh I really love some of these announcements!!! Super excited for you guys, and looking forward to seeing/following your husbands blog.

      Keep up the great stuff.

      Ricki

    4. Debbie Byrd

      So glad I came back to computer, because everything I’ve read in this post just makes me giddy with excitement! Your humbleness (is there such a word?!) in all your endeavors is so refreshing in this fast pace world we live in. Congratulations to you and your husband on the new growth of MMS!!! May it shine ever so brightly….just as you do.

    5. wendy

      Oh Marian, this is al so exciting! My husband has just had a change in work and over the past month we have decided that he will become the “behind the scenes” guy of Front Porch Mercantile, he is already the “fixer and builder” and tackles all the weird things that come up when we are up cycling items to paint – so we are BOTH anxiously awaiting your hubby’s blog! SO excited for him, you and all of us! Happy 2014!! It’s going to be a fabulous year!!
      Wendy

    6. Deb Packard

      WOW!! Totally awesome! I recently became unemployed and I am selling things from my booth, ebay, and etsy. You will do fine!!! Super excited and your blog encourages me, Thanks!!

    7. Talitha

      Wow!!!!! So exciting!!! Can’t wait for it all to happen! Very happy for you guys that you were able to make some big decisions. May all the transitions go smoothly for you as a family. Wishing you blessings for the new year!

    8. Ella

      YAY!!! More Miss Mustard Seed and Friends in my life! This is just awesome. I love all of these ideas!

    9. Rita Mireles

      I wanted to share that this year’s christmas gift from my mom was different milk paint samples of yours. I can not tell you how exciting this was to recieve!! I laughed as I got a few looks from firends about my gift, being that it wasn’t the newest electronic or Purse or clothes. Nope, Miss Mustard Seed Milk Paint was one of the top items on my list to Santa this year and I can’t wait to try my new colors!!
      I also wanted to share one thing with you that I’m very excited about this year and it took me a whle to understand. Like yours, I have many different go to blogs about furniture refurbishing that I read daily. I’m in awe of all of you ladies and it always seems like you all have this dream come true life but I started to notice the one constant that I see through out and it’s how you put God first and he delivers the dream. This is one thing I’ve lacked in my life and now I know why things don’t always fall into place. I’ve tried to hold on to all the cards without giving them to Him to deal.

      So, all that being said, thank you for your perspective and helping me better mine! if it weren’t or you, this Christmas present quite possibly could have been socks haha!!

      Truely thanks,
      Rita

    10. Katy

      Super excited about the spin-off blog. I would love to see some posts on furniture repair. I like to get things in smooth operating order to sell, but I know my skills are limited. I have seen other bloggers touch on the subject, but nothing in depth. Nothing is worse then pouring your heart into painting something and having to discount it because the drawers dont slide proper.
      Alos, excited about the “shop”, cause I am one of the gals that mentioned quilts….lots of quilts.

    11. Chris

      So happy for you, Marian! You are an amazing woman!

    12. Leah

      It has been inspiring to watch your blog and business progress over the last few years. I blog, but can’t devote as much time to it as I would like. I paint and sell furniture as an outlet. You inspire me and keep me dreaming. Congrats!

    13. Irene

      So excited for all your new endeavors! I agree with the comment about your humbleness. I especially like Rita’s comment about you putting God first. Best wishes for a prosperous new year.

    14. Jane Dawson

      Marian,
      What a blessing to work with your husband. My husband is currently employed part-time. I have a full time job and my part-time furniture painting/vintage business. He is very much my handyman, behind the scene guy. I couldn’t do my business and manage our home without him. I’m am so excited for you and all your new endeavers! I’ll count them as gifts to all of us followers.
      I have to tell you about my Christmas gift too. My husband and I decided not to exchange gifts buy my adult children wanted to buy us little things. First on my list was your book and I sent them to your shop. It is sold out of course but I think they ordered it from Amazon. With the UPS and FedEx delivery issues it was the one gift to get lost in the mail. So I got a picture of your book for Christmas!
      Jane

    15. Sue at Blu

      Yeah Jeff! He had mentioned this venture at the Chapel Market and I’ve been wondering how it was all coming along! So exciting to branch out together! Congrats on all of the new things to come a people to inspire in 2014!

    16. Jeanine Okio B Designs

      Congrats! My dear, I don’t know how you find them time for everything but God bless your energy! I’m sure each and every one of your new projects will be a success!

      Jeanine

    17. Heather

      Amazing! Wow! Incredible – and awesome! I’m amazed at how God is working in your life to bring about the desires of your heart. Thank you so much for sharing your creativity and inspiration – the excitement and enthusiasm of this post is just so contagious! You make me want to start a home business and see where God will take it! I like The Mustard Seed Pages idea – what a lovely way to ‘share you audience’ and bring your readers together in a mutually beneficial relationship! I wish for you great success in all your endeavors Marian!

    18. Tara

      Wow! Congrats! This is kind of like my hubby and I! We are starting to prepare for him to join me full time in 7 years when he retires and I will retire from my business as well, handing it off to my son! We figure this will be something we both enjoy and will be good for us in the retirement years!

    19. Darrielle

      Congrats on all the new things going on! I am excited to watch it all grow and be part of it by checking out all your great stuff!

    20. Michelle

      That is wonderful – congratulations! To see wonderful things happening for a deserving person is a true day-brightener!

    21. Lin

      All of this sounds so very exciting. I am so happy for you and your family and us! I am looking forward to the new happenings. As far as you joking about your empire….look how far you have come and Martha and Oprah all started somewhere. God has big plans for you Marian!

    22. Laurie

      I love all the new things!! Way to go, girl!

    23. Michelle

      Wow everything you have planned sounds really exciting. Congratulations! I’m really excited that I get to follow along and see your Empire grow!

    24. Debbie Bell

      Great news we all welcome your husband and are ready for learning new things and appreciate all your good tips…

    25. Kelly@mysoulfulhome

      All so exciting indeed! Inspirational as well. I have stuff to list on those pages so I will be paying close attention!!
      Happy New Year…
      Kelly

    26. Karen

      Wow it sounds like a lot of great things are coming your way. It’s so great that you and your husband get to work together like this. Nothing beats having a wonderful support system and a spouse who takes an interest in what you do and/or shares your vision. You two make a wonderful team. I wish you all the best. I’ll be right here sharing in all of it along the way, and that makes me very happy. Congratulations to you both.

    27. Anne Boykin

      Dear MMS, I’m so excited for you and Mr. Mustard Seed and his new blog. I will follow it, you can be sure. Looks like 2014 is starting off very well! Happy New Year! Hugs, Anne Boykin

    28. Ronda Zalenski

      Awesome!!! I am so so excited about all that’s in the works! Yey!

    29. anya

      What exciting happenings! I can’t wait for each of these – looking forward to it all!

    30. Melissa @ DaisyMaeBelle

      Wow! 2014 looks like an exciting year! My husband is now 18 years in full time youth ministry! We had no idea that we would still be here after this long, but my husband still LOVES his job and our oldest is in the group and our middle will be in it next year! How time flies… LOVE the idea of the “miss mustard seed pages!” Can’t wait to see all of the new goodies! Happy New Year! Melissa

    31. Jennifer

      Congratulations to you and your husband!
      I am sure that all will be successful — You could endorse a bag of rocks and somehow we all would be running out to buy one!! That is meant to be a compliment – You’ve got the “Marian-Touch.” I look forward to the next chapter.

    32. Sandra at Thistle Cove Farm

      wow! Tremendously exciting projects and am excited w/for you and your husband. Leaving a full time job to work full time with my husband was the second best decision of my life! (Christ, of course, being the first.) The Mustard Seed Pages sounds amazing; especially as I’ve got 100 years of “stuff” I’d love to re-home -smile-.

    33. Pam

      That’s wonderful, what a way to start the New Year! Good luck to you and your husband in 2014!

    34. Angie @ Angie's Roost

      Ooooh…so much wonderfully exciting stuff! So happy/excited for you and all the new changes/ventures! I’m especially excited for your MMS Milk Paint blog! I’ve become addicted to your paint and furniture refinishing since attending your class at Haven (which was awesome-sauce by the way) and am always looking for new ideas and inspiration. Yay! Oh so awesome!

    35. Jelena

      Such exciting news!
      Congrats to Jeff on his part-time associate pastor appointment and also on the Mustard Seed Workshop! I am sure once the workshop takes off, I will be forwarding the link to my husband.

      Mustard Seed Pages sound like an interesting project, and I would definitely be interested in joining in the fun. Also, I can’t wait to see the Look Book!

      Marian, may the Lord bless you with wisdom and strength to bring all of the new projects to fruition!

    36. Julie

      I read your blog every day and don’t usually comment, but am really excited about the Miss Mustard Seed Pages idea! Many times you were getting rid of items and I knew there was no way I could be first in line to buy 🙂 . Now I have a chance to buy and sell some of my items as well!

    37. Danielle

      So much fun Mustard Seed stuff! I can’t wait for all of it. x

    38. Cindi @ RustiqueArt

      Very awesome news! Love the MMS Pages idea, can’t wait to surf that site 🙂

      Congrats on Jeff’s new position in the church and his new blog. That will be a great tool for us DIYer’s.

      Happy New Year, it sounds like it’s going to be a fun ride.

    39. Marlee Dickerson

      Marian…you are amazing and it is so wonderful how everything is flowing for you and your husband…truly inspiring.

      I just jumped over to the milk paint blog and if I could make a suggestion….the ad placement on the page is very distracting…you have put a lot of work into all the beautiful illustrations and design of the page and to have these jarring ads outshining all your hard work seems a shame. The ads are on the left hand side of the page rather than on the right as they are on this page and they are also in the middle of the posts on top of that…its not your usual style and for me at least kind of takes away from the beauty of your work.

      I hope this is helpful…I truly love all you do and I hope that I haven’t been overly harsh.
      Best Wishes in All!

      Marlee

      • Miss Mustard Seed

        Thanks, Marlee. Yes, we’re still working on things over on the blog and it doesn’t look 100% the way I want it to, yet. It’s a bit more complicated, since it’s a part of a website. I appreciate the feedback!

    40. Nancy

      This is such great news!! Looking forward to it all!

    41. Donna Allgaier-Lamberti

      This is all VERY exciting news. I am so happy for you!!

      I have so many things (that we painters, decorators and collectors desire) to sell. I can’t wait to see how this all falls out! I’ve already figured out I want to call it Small House Vintage.

      Small House / Big Sky Donna / White Oak Studio Designs / SW Michigan
      Hand-Painted Vintage Furniture Transformations
      Blog: http://smallhouseunderabigsky.wordpress.com
      Facebook: donnaallgaierlamberti@facebook.com (for portfolio of chalk painted work)

    42. Lisa @ Lisas Creative Designs

      Well it looks like 2014 will be off to a good start! Congrats and Good Luck with all your endeavors!

    43. Ann Norris

      Wow….so exciting! Looking forward to how it all works and your wonderful ideas. I will be praying for God to show you His best…as He already has in what you have done thus far! To Him be the glory for allowing you and your husband to work together. Blessings!

    44. Suzie

      SOOOO excited about it ALL! Need that book! Praying you have the strength & stamina to do it all with joy. :). Thankful for you.

    45. Pamela

      All great news for the new year!
      I especially look forward to the buying/selling addition for us blog followers.

      Birds of a feather paint together!

      Have a Happy Healthy New Year …

    46. Rhondi

      Wow, you sure have a lot of projects in the works all at once. I can see that 2014 is already shaping up to be an exciting year for you and your family! Congratulations.

    47. Beth

      Wow-you’ve got a ton going on! And I’m thrilled…I think it all souns awesome and I’m looking forward to all of it!

    48. Jill Cooper

      How exciting for both of you – I can’t wait to see all the new sites. Many blessings to you in the new year.

    49. LeAnne

      Marian, I am simply thrilled with hearing about your new endeavors. Isn’t God kind?? He has blessed you tremendously and we get to benefit and be blessed as well. 🙂 Happy New Year!

    50. Cindy

      So excited for you guys. It has been awesome to watch over the years to see how God has so abundantly blessed and prospered you. Looking forward to your new changes coming.
      Happy New Year.
      Cindy

    51. Val

      I have been a blue and white gal for a very long time so of course I love the photos in your blog. I’m also excited for your new ventures…especially the mustard seed pages. I am a weaver and have been inspired by your paint colors to weave rag rugs using some of those colors in them. It’s been fun to imagine a rag rug accenting one of your projects. In 2014, perhaps that can happen!

    52. Janet Egan

      This is so exciting:) I will be reading all your new blogs it will be fun!

    53. Cindy KA

      Soooooo Fabulous! Congratulations to you and Jeff both. You are a major inspiration to so many of us and have blazed a beautiful path for others to follow, guidebooks and all.

      When I told my husband about Jeff’s blog he grinned and said he would certainly have to read it. As my Hero and silent parter of The Quirky Nest he feels that the husbands of Bloggers should stick together :).

    54. karen

      WOWOWOW …so excited for you and for all of your readers!

    55. Cecelia Brandt

      All I can say is…..YAY and congrats…looking forward to all the changes and updates. And by the way, I love the approchable and practical!!

    56. Jane B

      Wow – exciting things coming – congrats! I did go to the MMS Milk Paint Blog and tried to subscribe but seems that’s not working yet? Please let us know when that is up and running. Can’t wait to see your husband’s blog as well as the “The Mustard Seed Pages” – I think that will take off quickly! Congrats again and Happy New Year!

    57. Susan Mocker

      How exciting for all of you! I’m looking forward to all of the pages!

      All the best!

    58. Pia

      Yayyayayyayayaayayaay!!!! All fabulous and exciting news!!!

    59. Susan

      So, so fun! Can’t wait.

    60. Lee Caroline - A World of Inspiration

      All sounds like it is moving forward very fast for you, I have no idea how you cope with everything and running a family, your amazing.

      The book sounds fabulous, still wondering when the paint will hit New Zealand’s shores. Would love to try it out.

      We have a website in New Zealand that started out similar to the one you are proposing, it has grown so incredibly it’s worth millions, it is called Trademe.co.nz. People buy and sell second hand goods, although it now includes shops selling new goods on there as it is such a popular place to buy and sell, brick and mortar traders have realised its potential. It has categories to search easily for things and I believe it started out similarly to yours….Maybe there will be a Miss Mustard Seed Empire after all 🙂

      I finally have my DSLR camera, I bought the Nikon D7100 as couldn’t afford the next one up. I am having triumphs and disasters as I have no idea how to use it properly and signing up for a course in the New Year. Although I have some lovely shots I have taken of my little dog with the 35mm lens I bought the other day (kit lens wasn’t enough). I hope to share on my blog in the New Year. Your photos inspire me and I will be striving for beautiful shots like yours.

      Have a lovely New Year, pleased about your husbands job and looking forward to seeing the new blog and website.

      Lee

      • Rene

        Check out Pinterest there is a tip sheet for dslr cameras…. A big help….

    61. Marlene

      I can’t wait – Love the idea of the buy/sell–Maybe, I’ll be able to sell a piece that you said you were proud of!!!

    62. Christie

      Can’t wait for Jeff’s blog!!!!!!

    63. Sally B

      Wow, I wish I had your energy and vision…these all sound very cool:) Can’t wait! Sally

    64. sonny

      this is all great news.. very best of luck with all your new ventures.

    65. Marilyn

      Fantastic! My husband and I worked together here in Nashville at our record company and had a blast! I’m sure you’ll work well together …..I can tell by your song!

    66. AnnW

      There’s even More! in the works? You two are going to be the Young House Love of Pennsylvania. I’m thrilled about the Paint Blog. I’m always running into problems that I wish you could answer right away. I would be very interested in the Mustard Seed pages. I have a lot of extra stuff to sell. I’ve been selling on ebay the last two months and had good response. I still need to learn how to cut up wood and make things. I can do almost everything else. I’m thrilled as much as if you were my own kid. Ann

    67. Jaimee

      I just want to say how darling you look on the front cover of your Look Book. Couldn’t be any cuter. Also, the song you and your husband sang together touched my heart in a powerful way; it is certainly an anointed song. Blessings to your husband in his next step as associate pastor, and many prayers for you as you also step into a pastor’s wife role.

    68. Alice Hanson

      Marion and Jeff!
      So excited for you both! My husband and I worked together for ten years. He kept his day job though. I really believe he enjoyed it though. It was great and trying times as well. You both are young and the time it right! I will be looking forward to the new sites!
      Smiles, Alice

    69. Susan Lewis

      I’m so excited about all your plans! And proud too. I’m most excited about The MustardSeed Pages. I have some quilts that I’d love to sell. Congratulations on all your success.

    70. Jamie

      I have been following Miss Mustard Seed for quite awhile and always love seeing the new ideas you come up with for your blog and business. I’m so excited to see all these new projects start for you…..I’m not sure what one excites me the most! Your blog is a constant source of inspiration for me from business to furniture refurbishing to antiques and even to faith. As someone who has been blogging for less than a year, I constantly turn to you to remind myself of what could happen if I put my heart and soul into what I love. Thank you for taking those first steps so many years ago and for letting us all into the life you’ve created. I know more great things will happen for you in 2014!!

    71. KellieC

      Praise the Lord, Hallelujah and AMEN! Go girl! Go YHWH! Protect and Bless the Parsons Crew, Lord!

    72. Anita Ward

      So excited and happy for you and your hubby as you start on and expand to new ventures! God Bless you both!

    73. Karen

      Happy New Year indeed!!! WOW! Marian!! I am so over joyed for you and your husband. What an incredible journey you have both been traveling. I love seeing how God puts things in motion, gives us gifts, and as we share them, He blesses us so greatly with more. It has been so fun to see how much you have grown and your brand, gifts and talents have grown. Thank you for all your inspiration and the encouragement you provide to each of us working in our own corner of the DIY world. This post just totally made my day. So Cool! Happy New Year to your family, -Karen

    74. Allen Haun

      I have been a follower of your blog for awhile now and enjoy it so much. I get inspired on a daily basis. My wife enjoys it as well. I am very excited to hear about your husband being more involved and also starting his own blog. We, like you have been in ministry for over 19 years. I also was a youth pastor for a few years until we became full time missionaries in Ukraine and Mexico, then I was on staff in our local church in south Texas. Now in the Austin Texas area I want to begin to do design and upholstery work full time. I get so much inspiration and encouragement from your blogs and FB page. God Bless you and your husband in your current and new journeys. Thank you.

    75. Courtney

      My husband’s comment about Jeff’s new ‘workshop’ blog: “Good! Will he tell us men how to deal with Miss Mustard Seed-type Women?” Sounds like a rough comment, but I’ll take it as words of endearment. Congrats on all that is around your corner!

    76. Osiris steward

      Hi Marian I love your blog, you are an inspiration for me, last weekend I started my own blog, I will like you to see all my projects!

    77. Carrie in Spokane

      It all sounds wonderful! Looking forward to it all unfolding!

    78. beverly schneider

      Wow – you are a brilliant entrepreneur (and not sure you even know it!!). I am amazed that you invented a whole new paint product that everyone is talking about, and also have such a huge audience using it now. I wanted to let you know that there is another blogger whose blog is named “Matters of Style” – (I think her name is Sarah) I don’t think she’s blogged in a while because she has three very young kids and seems lately to be selling her finds on One Kings Hill. ANYway – when she was blogging every day, she would, for a small fee, advertise people’s finds that they wanted to sell. She’d post a photo and a description, and if anyone was interested in the various items, they would directly contact the person who was selling the item. She did this for a very long time, and I think it worked quite well for her. So I just thought I’d let you know that I think it’s a terrific idea and that it can really work! Bev

    79. Paola Norman

      Happiness all around, sounds like an exciting year is in the works. Congratulations!

    80. Marty Cotton

      This is all SO EXCITING!! May God bless you in these new endeavors!!

    81. Rita C

      Congrats, Marian and Jeff, on your goals that have landed for 2014! All of them are unique, and sound great. I look forward to watching them all unfold, and will be paying close attention to the Milk Seed Pages – I am very interested in that. I jumped right in with Ruby Lane’s beta operation of Ruby Plaza, and was sad to see it fizzle out. It was a great learning experience, and with already having retail space in our local antique mall, I’m positioned to participate. Let’s go!
      Happy New Year!
      Rita C. at Panoply

    82. Teresa Mucha

      Very exciting news. Looking forward to seeing the Mustard Seed Pages! Happy 2014!

    83. Sarah Lahrmanh

      SUPER excited for you and your family and can’t wait to see all the NEW plans for the New Year!! LOVE LOVE the idea of the Mustard Seed Pages (now I am the one with goose bumps and giddys!!) Congrats Marian 🙂

    84. SheilaG @ Plum Doodles

      Wow, how exciting! I love what you said about not forcing things, but letting it happen organically. I need to let go and trust God more to bring things along as I am ready. He knows better than I when that will be. I’m looking forward to all your new ventures!

    85. Gerri

      “Who knows, but we’ll give it a try.”

      Marion, that statement is why you are such an inspiration to me. I hope to “give it a try” more often in 2014. Thank you for all you do:)

    86. Darla@ Reflections of Sugar Hill

      I have dabbled as an entrepreneur for what seems like forever. I also have huge plans for 2014 in opening my own store and blog. You truly have been an inspiration to me. The store keeps having setbacks but your post today came at the right time. Big things do take time and this just allows more opportunity to get it right. I can’t wait for the opportunity to participate in your marketplace.
      Thank you for your inspiration. I look forward to reading your blog every day.

    87. Tracy Holcombe

      What an awesome idea. I can’t wait to see what you work out. This is going to be a great New Year start!!!

    88. Debi M

      Congratulations! Looking forward to reading Jeff’s blog now too!

    89. Anita

      I get ridiculous happy for other people when they work hard for their goals! And I’ve got to tell you, I found an MMSMP retailer about 30 miles from me and went and bought French Enamel today. I mixed up just 2 tablespoons and WOW! The sun shone, angels sang and I painted my little heart out! I had never used milk paint and was skeptical, but I gotta tell you I am now a convert. Lowe’s who?! Thank you and I’m so happy for you news 🙂

    90. Carrie - Curate by Carrie Corso

      Wow! You are going to be busy in 2014. Congratulations on all of your exciting endeavors! Your story is so inspiring to me. It’s amazing how far you have come on your journey. I look forward to following along as always. I wish I had half of your make it happen attitude! I’m still at stage one for me, blog more consistently & grow my audience….for blogging year # 3, maybe one day I will find a way to really share my something special. Oh, & Look out I think the Mustard Seed Pages could be huge! Very cool idea!

    91. Kristine Price

      I am very thrilled about the exciting new changes! I will read both blogs gladly now! Way to go!

    92. Elysa

      Congrats to you! I love your blog and am looking forward to following you and your husband in 2014! Happy New Year!

    93. jenny

      Loooooooove the MMS pages idea! Congrats love your blog and all you do

    94. Mary @ Orphans With MakeUp

      Congratulations Marian on all your new ventures. They all sound great! You are like our OPRAH of the DIY/blog world.

      Mary @ Orphans With Makeup

    95. Ginene

      Marian,
      I am so excited about a possible buy and sell addition to your web site(s). I think, if you offer this to women who have things that fit into this style, (as it evolves), your web site traffic will go through the roof. It will be a gift to all of the people who have purchased milk paint and have followed you all this time. Really a beautiful thing to do. Thank you.
      -Ginene Nagel

    96. Gail

      WOWOWOWOW! Omg! That’s some awesome stuff for 2014…and beyond! I’m especially excited about the Miss Mustard Seed’s Pages. Will it be like Craigslist but just for antiques, textiles, home decor items, etc? Will it be nationwide? I’m excited about it…and I totally think it’ll take off—hold onto your hat!!

      So excited for you..and what the future holds!

      GG

    97. Laura Strack

      Yay, I will get my Hubbie hooked on reading your Blog, too. Lol. Jeff’s new Blog sounds like something my husband will enjoy. We have always been “Lets see if we can fix it first” type of a family, so this will be fun. Good luck to all your new endeavors and Cheers to a creative 2014!

    98. Alicia

      I like the comment “You are like our OPRAH of the DIY/blog world.”

      Thank you for taking us into your home and family and seeing what God is doing with you all. I look forward to your community website. As a new “retiree” I’m looking forward to spread my artistic wings that have been trimmed for so long and find your blog encouraging and motivating.

      I’ve already been inspired by your tutorial on making a slip cover for a wingback arm chair and am in the process of completing my first slipcover and have begun “reupholstering” two wingback arm chairs that sit in my living room. I’m hand stitching and using fabric glue where needed to accomplish this “reupholstery” project. If it turns out well I’ll send you a picture.

      Again, thanks for pursuing your dream and motivating so many others to be similarly blessed. Your enthusiasm is contagious.

      God bless.

    99. Debbie K.

      So excited for all the new pages and the wonderful opportunity for your husband, God truly is good! I am so happy I found your blog more than year or so back and have had the opportunity to see your growth and transformation, it’s been a blast for me to watch and I can only imagine what it’s been like for you all. Thanks for all you do Marian, you’re awesome and a true inspiration. Happy New Year and many blessings to you and your family.

    100. Vicki Cotnoir

      you go girl! Keep moving forward! Love the idea of the pages,I have some beautiful rescued Ironstone that needs a home!

    101. MARY EGUIA

      your amazing

    102. Leslie @ House on the Way

      Wow! You’re a busy girl! I can’t wait for all of it! Have a Happy New Year!
      Leslie

    103. Kim

      Congrats to all your new adventures! I am really looking forward to seeing these pages come to life. Can’t wait for the Mustard Seed Pages!
      Happy New Year!

    104. Jeanine C

      Lots of exciting things on the horizon. I love how God makes everything come together in His timing <3

      Enjoy the adventure!

    105. Gloria @ glutenfreepoodlehome

      Wow, that is a lot of excitement! I am a do-it-yourselfer so I will enjoy your husbands blog! best wishes for the new year!

    106. Gail

      Wow!!! I love all your new ideas and look forward to browsing all these new endeavors!

    107. Susan Mallios

      AWESOME!!! Happy New Year and best wishes on your upcoming changes! Am really looking forward to seeing this all happen.

      SM

    108. Sian

      Marian, How generous of you to give us your audience and allow us to sell to them! I think this is great. I have been wanting to sell a lot of my vintage and antique finds, but I am at a loss as to where to start or how. The extra money would be so helpful though. I would love to start a blog as because of your inspiration, I have been painting furniture and have some before and after photos, but again, I am a little bit lost. Perhaps someday I will get all of my ducks in a row and make these dreams a reality.

    109. Cherri Lamar

      Marian, Thank you for leading us through this awesome market of Kindred Spirits. I too am in the position of selling more pieces on line. God is so Good, I love seeing this business side of things giving Him credit.

      Cherri

    110. Lisa

      Sounds like a really big year for you! I’m really excited about the milk paint blog…I’ve become obsessed with your product. It really is a lot of fun to work with. Thank you for all of the inspiration and Happy New Year!

    111. Maureen

      I think the Mustard Seed Pages is a fantastic idea! I have a basement full of painted and distressed things as well as ironstone dishes, etc. I buy and buy meaning to sell, so if there was a place to sell to people who are interested in these items, that would be FANTASTIC! I was just about to try Ebay, but would much rather sell on Mustard Seed Pages!

      Congratulations on your success, I am sure it will continue!

    112. Mollie Culpepper

      How amazing! What a true inspiration you are! So excited about all of your upcoming endeavors, and have enjoyed everything you share in the blog world! Good luck, and I am sure everything will turn out a wonderful success! P.S. SUPER excited about the milk paint blog…I am in the very beginning steps of creating my own furniture business and will be focused on using your line of milk paint! SOOOO EXCITED!

    113. Jean Goza

      AWESOME! Congratulations on all your new adventures. I look forward to reading about them.

      Happiest of New Years to you!!!

      Jean Goza

    114. Pam Nemfakos

      Wow–those are a lot of really great things coming down the pike! How inspiring! I am especially excited about the Mustard Seed Pages as I have also started painting and upcycling furniture and smaller pieces and have some things I would love to sell to others out there. I am also excited about the milk paint blog as I have just started using MMSMP and need lots of tips! Best of luck to you on all of this!

    115. Eileen Kennedy

      Sounds like great ideas…really like them all. Regarding selling items some of us might make, I would be very interested. Etsy is just too big. I love making unique pillows, etc but there are 10’s of 1000’s of them. Let me know when I can share with you.
      Eileen

      • Miss Mustard Seed

        Yes, definitely! This will be a place for anything home related that would appeal to the readers here, so I think homemade items like pillows would be perfect!

    116. Susan Prillman

      The start of a new year is always so exciting….for fresh starts and all things new. Love the sound of all of this and can’t wait to venture with you!

    117. Barbara Bussey

      Sounds like you have great tbings in store for you! All tbd best!

    118. Leslie Rae

      I can’t wait to follow along with all your upcoming ventures. Happy New Year!!

    119. Stephanie Hobson

      I’m just going to add one more Wow! to the bunch! This new year looks to be very exciting for your family, and for us!

    120. Kathleen Lane

      I am certain that any number of us would love to become “Charter Members” of the MS Pages! I will follow along closely, or better yet, would be thrilled to be advised when you are ready to go, because we have in storage many items that might qualify, once “kissed” by MMS Paint. It is indeed thrilling to see this growth of your business …

    121. Alisa Miller

      I’ve followed you for quite a while and I’m excited about all of your news but thrilled to hear about the Mustard seed pages! I sell vintage and handmade items on Etsy but it is difficult to get noticed when you’re competing against the world 😉 Thanks so much for thinking this up – I hope it’s a great success!

    122. Angie

      I don’t know if I’m more excited about your husbands blog or the Mustard Seed Pages. Both sound like my cup of tea! I’m so glad that your husband will get to spend more time with you working on the business that you built together. I met you both at the Chapel Market and you are adorable together and make a great team. Blessings to you in 2014!
      Angie from Pensacola

    123. Sharon H

      I’ll just second all these emotions! It’s awesome to see all the potential surrounding you, but what I appreciate most of all…..is your Faith in God, and that you’re not fearful of showing and sharing it. Blessings abound for you, Rock Star!

    124. Shawn

      *clears throat* Girls? Lol. I guess I am in the minority.

      Excited about what is new and coming! Not sure if anyone is in my corner of the world (Saskatoon) but I love looking at what everyone else has.

      I think this is the first blog I started reading faithfully. You’ve been endlessly inspiring, for which I thank you. I am gearing up to take a few risks. I laughed at myself today when I was at a thrift store with a cobalt blue candle holder and a white flour sack table runner.

    125. Tamms

      It’s a snowy morn here in Ohio and I have an entire day to myself….hubs is back to work after being home with me for a week (I’m a teacher and have been on break). While perusing the Net for inspiration (mainly how to upcycle damaged vintage linens), I stumbled upon your fantastic site! I have a small Etsy shop (and occasional blogger) and would love to do this full-time (as my mother once did) one day in addition to all my veggie gardening. I love your pics and will be “catching up” over the next few days.

      I really enjoyed the before/after pics of your home as I am doing the same myself (again) in our pre-Civil War farmhouse of three years. I am an auction addict and get just about everything I use in my home (and gifts for others) this way. I’ve recently discovered homemade chalk paint and have done some pieces for my 20-something daughter and myself. I love to see that your are spreading the word (and love) by sharing your projects.

      I wish you great success in 2014!
      Tamms

      • Terrie from Atlanta, GA

        Welcome, Tamms from Ohio! You sound like an MMS-type of girl. 😉 We hope you enjoy the friendship and camaraderie Marian has created here. It’s like the old-fashioned gatherings women have been doing for generations: all about creating and sharing the ways of “home keeping.” XoXo

    126. chris from midwest cottage and finds

      Marian,
      In Cole Porter’s word–You’re the top,You’re the Tower of Pisa, Your’re the top,
      You’re the smile on the Mona Lisa!
      In all of your success you have NEVER stoppped sharing with all of us. Your energy exudes in your writing–and that is why we love you so. Looking forward to all these exciting new ventures!!

    127. Karen

      This is all very exciting news! I am so interested in the Miss Mustard Seed pages! What a great outlet for your readers! May God continue to bless you and your family in 2014!

    128. Carol Morris

      WOW, now that is some BIG news. And amazing, can’t wait.

      Thanks for sharing, really looking forward to the new book, and Jeff’s blog. And everything else.
      Carol

    129. Jenny Lynn

      2014 sounds like it is going to be an amazing year for you and your family. I am looking forward to following Jeff’s new blog, reading more about Milk Paint and all the other exciting adventures that are coming.

      Happy New Year!

    130. karin

      I don’t know what to be more excited about..Your Hubby’s blog or the Selling blog…my head is spinning!
      What a wonderful New year this will be!
      Happy New Year~
      Karin

    131. Kimberly

      Oh my goodness, I admire your creativity and energy! Sounds like you have a lot of stuff going on, but if anyone can pull it off, it’s you Marian! I love that your husband is going to be involved and I can see this turning into a family business eventually, involving your parents and your sons in the future. I’m looking forward to your husband’s blog, the MMSMP blog, and to the Mustard Seed Pages! I’m downsizing and have SO MUCH stuff I want to find good homes for, and so much of it fits with the aesthetic of your blog, so this is a great marketplace opportunity for your readers! Best of luck with all your endeavors.

    132. Liz

      Oh Marian! You are truly amazing! I think craigslist & Etsy may have some competition from the Mustard Seed Pages! Also I am really looking forward to Jeff’s Mustard Seed Workshop blog. I have an idea for a blog posting-I absolutely need to know how to make the elegant wood rack in your basement. I just love the wooden supports he built to hold up your lumber. (I spied it behind you in one of your tutorials). Good luck to you and your family in all your creative endeavors.

    133. Rose

      Wow, first of all, congrats to you and your husband. You both must be so excited. I must admit my interest really peaked when I read about the Mustard Seed Pages. I have so many beautiful, vintage items that belonged to my mother and her mother and grandmother before her. My adult children have already told me they are not interested in my treasures and to sell them. My problem is I don’t know where to begin and I want them to go to a home where they will be loved. You just might have solved my problem and I will be watching for you to start up your idea. I really enjoy your creativeness!

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