About Us

Hi, I'm Grandma Pearl (a/k/a Connie M Smith).  Living in the woods of upstate New York I have access to all kinds of bird, animal and wildlife.  Because of my rural roots I have always felt close to nature and all it has to offer.  Observing my backyard birds is a passion, as is the challenge of gardening in a wooded and therefore almost totally shaded area.  However, I have learned some tips and tricks over these many years that I am eager to share, about feeding and protecting wild birds, as well as gardening and discovering Nature.

My love of old barns, old wood and wooden items that have been lovingly used since they were created, as well as vintage items like quilts and handmade linens is another passion of mine.  I collect, among other things, old and new tins of all sizes, old quilt patches, vintage and antique quilts, wooden boxes, spindles, cupboards, and various primitive items that 'speak to me'.

I denounce the use of toxic pesticides, rodenticides, herbicides and artificial fertilizers.  All of these things are polluting our water sources.  They kill off all insects, including beneficial bees, butterflies and the animals that feed upon them, like birds.  We need to allow native species to do what they do best, and that is to control bugs, rodents and weeds.  I would much rather see a few dandelions in someone's lawn because I know they are some of the first flowers used by bumblebees when they awake from their hibernation cycle.  Wildflowers are another passion of mine!

I think the key to preserving this Earth is to follow the old adage, which has become my motto:  "Use It Up--Make Do--Or Do Without".  I learned this 'way back when' by the example both my grandparents set for me.  I see the beauty in the old craftsmanship, some of which has long been lost to this new and improved technologically-driven world.  Don't get me wrong!  I embrace the new 'techy' stuff as fast as I can, but I still hold a special place in my heart for the old ways.

Combining my love of old barn wood and my passion for watching birds in the backyard and woods, I created my website:  http://www.rusticbarnwoodbirdhouses.com
There you will find a wide array of  bird houses and bird feeders made by American craftsmen made from recycled barn wood, some from century-old barns.  Other items are made in the USA with more modern materials, some of which have also been recycled.  I believe in America and supporting businesses in this country, particularly smaller businesses, when I can.

If you are looking for more information on birds and bird habitats, I have written many articles that are listed in my Bird Information Center

As a Platinum Expert Author at ezinearticles.com I have enjoyed writing articles that reflect my passion for nature in general, and songbirds in particular.  I also contribute articles to Hubpages.com
Every walk in the woods or glance out the window presents another way to relax and connect with this area that I love.  I will endeavor to convey those experiences here.