Joy for the Journey

What? A Trophy? For Me??!

2012-01-14T08:10:00.004-05:00

I've been looking for vintage trophies forever, ever since I saw awesome decorating ideas featuring these beauties. But none were ever coming my way! Sure, I'd find some online here or there, but they were always way too expensive. I found TWO the other day at awesome proces and I snapped them up. Of course my hubs thinks I am nuts, but hey - you understand, right?

2012-01-10T19:40:00.000-05:00

Hoppin' John

2012-01-01T11:41:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure why John was hoppin', but I'm not asking! My husband had a great idea: an homage to his southern routes with a traditional New Year's meal for good luck! He also wanted to take some to share with his employees who are working on New Year's Day, so that of course called for some crafting! What better symbol to use than Baby New Year? Best wishes for a wonderful 2012!

2011-12-20T08:20:00.001-05:00

Are you stressed and overloaded yet? Never fear, I know the feeling. I've spent the last few weeks with a seemingly insurmountable to-do list and not enough time to accomplish it. But never fear, there is light at the end of the tunnel!

Today I'm delivering some gifts, going to my son's holiday program and hopefully getting some time to take a deep breath. See how I've already stopped by to say to you?! So I'm turning up the heat in the craft room and challenging myself to take a few minutes to something else. It all can wait!

Fall Beauty

2011-11-22T20:40:00.006-05:00

A few weeks ago we decided to take some time out to enjoy Longwood Gardens.
So much beauty to be seen...

...in flowers and in architecture.

2011-10-06T09:15:00.000-04:00

From Pinterest.

Perfection!

2011-09-20T19:02:00.001-04:00

I am a big fan of the 'non-traditional" rose. To me, ones like this one that Hubby managed to somehow grow to perfection amidst all the funny little bugs and the torrential downpours we've had, are the best kind of all.

2011-08-15T14:01:00.001-04:00

I've been trying to take advantage of the time I have left this summer....

ahh, it goes so fast!

Today I jazzed up this Target clipboard portfolio...

...so cute!

2011-08-06T09:39:00.000-04:00

The CK Convention!

2011-08-01T20:07:00.003-04:00

Holy cow, was I excited to get to the CK Convention in PA. I am not really a 'class' kinda person at this point, so I was more than happy to get to stroll the vendor faire.

I could hardly contain my excitement when I went to get my ticket!

Would it live up to my expectations?!

It sure did! I am so appreciative of all the people who entered videos and other blog entries about their CK experiences. It sold me on going, and I am glad I did!

Plenty of great eye-candy.

I loved this idea of storing odds and ends in the clear shoe hangers.

I know some other bloggers and crafters do this, too.

If you ever have the chance to go to the CK Convention and Vendor Faire, it is definitely worth it!

Lest You Think I've Not Been Up To Much...

2011-07-25T21:42:00.002-04:00

Haven't been blogging about my craftiness the past few weeks. Busy enjoying the summer and all it's opportunities for relaxation. But I've still been busy. Made the box above for a friend's birthday - full of trinkets and treasures.

I've tried to keep my hands of etsy lately, but I couldn't

resist this small vintage set of drawers. To me, the warn look of it

makes it all the better.

Made a special card for a friend using some vintage advertisements.

Who wouldn't be honored by a Clever Hostess Award?

Lastly, this summer scented candle was the perfect project for a 'happy summer' gift. I especially love old beach photos and here was a perfect chance to use one.

Hope your summer has been full of inspiring projects, too!

Happy Birthday, Baby Girl

2011-07-18T22:44:00.002-04:00

Today was my daughter's 14th birthday. I hate to be cliche, but where does the time go? No, seriously. I am not being rhetorical. Where does it go? She left for Field Hockey camp this morning before I got up (thanks, Hubby!) and wasn't home til almost nine o'clock. I went to see the last 30 minutes of her game. Watching her in the land between little girl and, well, bigger girl. I thought about the days to come when I may not even see her on her birthday. I'll just leave pathertic messages on her voice mail. Or worse, texts. (sigh)

Happy Birthday, Baby Girl.

A Boy's Heaven

2011-06-28T10:05:00.003-04:00

After visiting my son at boy scout camp, I understood why he decided he wanted to stay another week and skip coming home. It's pretty much heaven for a boy. I was thinking it's a shame we don't all get some time away at our own version of 'summer camp'. (Everyone's life preserver hanging on the line.)

I liked this little peg board sitting by the tree. It has two sides: "In the water" and "Not in the water". You move the little key ring that has your name on it to the proper side. I was thinking the world would probably be a better place if we all had such a look-out system for each other.

Peaceful...

...wishing you your own idea of summer camp...

Camping!

2011-06-25T15:13:00.003-04:00

No, not me, silly! I can not believe that my son is staying for a second week of scout camp! I honestly was doubtful about his staying the first week, so this was a big surprise! We are going to head out there tomorrow for "Family Day", so of course I decided to take some goodies with me. I packed some of his favorite cookies inside this camping-themed box. It's so cute! I'm sure he'll be really impressed - lol!

2011-06-21T15:11:00.002-04:00

"Guard well your spare moments.

They are like uncut diamonds.

Discard them and their value will never be known.

Improve them and they will become the brightest gems in a useful life."

~Emerson

What I've Been Up To

2011-05-30T19:51:00.003-04:00

I was determined to get some order into things this weekend,

and hopefully get some crafting done as well.

I think I accomplished both goals!

When I found these vintage wedding cake forks on Etsy,

I knew they were the perfect gift for a June bride I know!

All that was left was to jazz up the packaging!

The forks came wrapped in tulle and in a pretty gauzey bag,

so they were off to a good start! (Thanks to Beachhouseliving on Etsy.com!)

I covered the box in old paper from an ettiquette book, and found the perfect flower for the top. I added an old clipon earring for some glam!

Those of you who are crafters will appreciate the fact that I decided to add the lace

after I had glued to bow and tulle. Ugh!
A special card with a small photo of a bride from own family topped it off. Tah-dah!

I hope you got some relaxing and cafting done this weekend as well.
Drop me a note and let me know what you were up to!

2011-05-27T21:05:00.002-04:00

Are you as glad as I am that the holiday weekend is finally here? I've already tackled some long overdue chores like cleaning up the craft room! Too many bits and pieces of projects here, there and everywhere.

When I found this treasure trove of small old envelopes, all addressed to the Williams sisters, I knew they were coming home with me. Each one is a wedding invitation, or an 'at home' card. So beautiful and lovely.

Although my to-do list is long this weekend, I am definitely making time to hit the antique mall. Are you?

For You, Teacher...

2011-05-22T09:33:00.004-04:00

Thanking my children's teachers has always been important to me. They work so hard all year, and I want to make sure they know I appreciate them. This year, I am saying 'thanks' with chalkboard clipboards.

I painted the clipboards with chalkboard paint, added a few stamps and hot-glued an apple with their name. I attached a tag with the directions for cleaning, etc. Up at the top I added a thank you card that I made from a vintage class picture.

On the back I used 'mod podge' to attach some pictures from old school books. I sure hope they like them!
*Have you thanked your teacher today?*
Please stop by and check out my friend Sandy's awesome stamping blog.
This gal has really got it going on when it comes to stamping!

Happy Mother's Day ~

2011-05-08T18:06:00.008-04:00

Today I like to reflect on the woman who is to me the most inspirational of mothers.

I think how blessed I am to have been given the opportunity to
be a mother, and for all the responsibility and joy that role involves.

Here is a poem entitled When Mother Sleeps by Edgar Guest

When mother sleeps, a slamming door

Disturbs her not at all;

A man might walk across the floor

Or wander through the hall

A pistol shot outside would not

Drive slumber from her eyes-

But she is always on the spot

The moment baby cries.

The thunder crash she would not hear,

Nor shouting in the street;

A barking dog, however near,

Of sleep can never cheat

Dear mother, but I've noticed this

To my profound surprise;

That always wide-awake she is

The moment baby cries.

However weary she may be,

Though wrapped in slumber deep,

Somehow it always seems to me

Her vigil she will keep.

Sound sleeper that she is, I take

It in her heart there lies

A love that causes her to wake

The moment baby cries.

Happy Mother's Day...

Crafting...By Necessity

2011-04-03T10:56:00.003-04:00

I have been crafting lately, but only things that must get done,

which I suppose is something. Not exactly what I aspire to.

Perhaps you feel the same at times. Hopefully warmer weather and a little bit of spring break will open up some more windows for me.

The..."Big Kick"

2011-03-14T19:45:00.003-04:00

Well, after much hemming, hawing and generally coveting my friend's Big Shot, I decided to take the plunge myself. I, however, decided on the Big Kick instead. (Mainly because that was the one I could get my hands on!) I was a little intimidated at first...okay, a lot intimidated, but I think I pretty much have the hang of it. My first creation here (see above!) I used a huge die cut (actually called a BIGZ) by Sizzix. This bird and bird cage were especially created by Tim Holtz. Not bad, huh??

For the Love of....Jars

2011-02-13T16:57:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

This is a month to think of all there is to love in the world...

and for me that involves...

jars.

My latest obsession.

I'm not really sure what's up with that.

I hope this holiday finds you

with someone

or something to love.

" O, you

Were the best of all my days."

~ Frank O'Hara

2011-01-27T09:42:00.002-05:00

"Elegy for the Personal Letter" by Allison Joseph
I miss the rumpled coreners of correspondence,
the ink blots and crossouts that show
someone lives on the other end, a person
whose hand makes errors, leaves traces.
I miss fine stationary, its raised elegant
lettering prominent on creamy shades of ivory
or pearl grey. I even miss hasty notes
dashed off on notebook paper, edges
ragged as their scribbled messages-
can't write much now-thinking of you.
When letters come now, they are formatted
by some distant computer, addressed
to Occupant or To family living at-
meager greetings at best,
salutations made by committee.
Among the glossy catalogues
and one time only offers
the bills and invoices,
letters arrive so rarely now that I drop
all other mail to the floor when
an envelope arrives and the handwriting
is actual handwriting, the return address
somewhere I can locate on any map.
So seldom is it that letters come
That I stop everything else
to identify the scrawl that has come this far-
the twist and the whirl of the letters,
the loops of the numerals. I open
those envelopes first, forgetting
the claim of any other mail,
hoping for news I could not read
in any other way but this.

A Sneak Peek!

2011-01-26T14:14:00.005-05:00

While the grand finale of the long-awaited new craftroom is not yet ready,

I think I can share at least a sneak peek!

It's overwhelming to have a place for everything and everything in its place.

I am so not used to that.

I hope it doesn't disturb my crafting mojo.

More to share after some finishing touches...

...and a little more organizing.

Have a great week!

2011-01-23T18:39:00.002-05:00

I went to a friend's Stampin' Up party on Friday night. Of course, I needed a stamp-themed hostess gift! These stamps from Michael's dollar bin dressed up nicely!
In the meantime, the craft room project is finally finished! Hubby hung up my punches today; one of the final things on the To-Do list! When it's light enough tomorrow, I promise pics.
Have a great week!

Inspiration

2010-12-23T17:54:00.003-05:00

I got the inspiration for this gift box from one I found at an adorable vintage store.

Getting it right was harder than it looked, but well worth it when I saw
the smile on my friend's face.

I put it in a cellophane gift bag, tied the top with lace and an

old earring and it was ready to go!

Wishing that you receive a gift with an extra special touch this holiday.

2010-12-20T16:51:00.002-05:00

I tried not to let the major construction elements (ie: plastic on the walls, cardboard on the floor, general mayhem) stop my holiday decorating.
This year I finally did what I've wanted to do for some time...
decorate with all pink and white.

So far, no one's even noticed.

(ie: complained)

I'll take that as a good sign.

It's Been A While

2010-12-04T09:26:00.002-05:00

Sorry, my blogland friends. I have notforgotten about you.

Simply a time of computer issues...

...and massive reorganization as we begin craftroom construction!!

But in the meantime I did manage this cute cookie tin for my friend's birthday. Of course, I forgot to take pictures before I put the wrap on.
You know how it goes!

Hope you are getting some crafting done in your own corner of the world!

2010-10-31T08:36:00.002-04:00

Although I was a little behind in the Halloween crafting, I am still chugging away and gathering inspiration. I have figured out about myself that I need to start several holidays ahead...like right now I need to be thinking about Valentine's Day.

I know, it's sad.
This weekend has been really chilly - not a time I like to spend outdoors! But the beauty of the pumpkin farm can not be over looked, no matter what the weather!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-16T15:18:00.002-04:00

What a great present for me today! Hubby had a contractor come today and talk about finishing part of our now-attic into a craft space! Be still my heart! Now we just have to see how the estimate comes back...Grrrr...
When I found this vintage candy box on Etsy (a place I've been perusing way too much lately, according to the ol' checkbook)
I knew it would be the perfect thing for some old vintage love letters, no?
A great decoration for Valentine's Day.

As promised, I worked on some paperweights this weekend to add to Etsy. I like how they turned out, though they are tricky to photograph!

This one I love...

...and this one, too!

Have a great weekend!

2010-10-10T17:40:00.002-04:00

Yesterday morning, Hubby woke me early to ask if I wanted him to drop me off at an antique market while he ran an errand in a neighboring state. Is that a question that even needs asking? And so I enjoying a Saturday morning surprise that left me with even more treaures stockpiled. I decided that by next weekend I will have a few more paperweights added to my long neglected etsy shop.

Some new tags to get the inspiration rolling.

Have a great week!

2010-09-19T16:41:00.002-04:00

"Autumn to winter, winter to spring,

Spring into summer, summer to fall-

So rolls the changing year, and so we change;

Motion so swift, we know not that we move."

-Dinah Mulock Craik

Scrounging For Treasures...and...Another School Year

2010-09-06T15:31:00.004-04:00

If you have children, or work in the school system, then you know that Back To School and the start of a new school year are a bigger deal then the ball dropping in Times Square. Everyone is hopefuly for a great year full of possibility...

In the meantime, I've hit a bit of the flea treasure lately. You know how that goes...

sometimes it seems like feast or famine.

I ordered a beautiful vintage necklace online, complete with origional box.

So sweet!
(Ooops. Upside-down. Sorry.)

More flea market treasure...with loads of possibility.

When I happened upon this vintage jewelry box, I knew it was for me!

With pink insides! Be still my heart!

This vintage choker necklace was right up my alley!

Well, I'm off to finish enjoying the long weekend.

Hope you're finding some treasures this weekend, too!

2010-08-22T09:38:00.003-04:00

While frantically absorbing all the yumminess of Tinsel Trading Company, I noticed that they had jazzed up one of my absolute favorite vintage obsessions...pink quilted handkerchief boxes. I decided I had to try it myself. I liked the result! It's fast and easy and looks so sweet. What a great gift box!

I told you already that this was the summer of the vintage wedding photo....boy, did I get a lot of great ones! The other day, after I found a great stash of tissue garland, I knew that these two would be paired up in the future!

Monday is Back-To-Work Day (sigh). I'm going to try my best to keep up the craftiness.

(Almost) Live! From Tinsel Trading Company!

2010-08-21T13:39:00.005-04:00

Well, girls. If you're like me, places like the famous Tinsel Trading Company in New York City make you want to swoon. Thank goodness I have a hubby who will pull the car over in the middle of rush hour traffic so that I can just "dash in".
A feast of crafty eye candy!
What's a girl to do?

Poke around and buy a few goodies.
Get some inspiration for the long autumn ahead.

I left with some of these...

Of course, there is much to behold in the Big Apple.

Who wouldn't love to try this on for size?

This beautiful display was at the check in table for lunch at the

Museum of Modern Art.

I found this scetch to be inspiring.

Something about the use of tape I really like...

(sigh) More tomorrow about my awesome vintage wedding picture discovery...

2010-08-18T15:26:00.003-04:00

The clock is ticking on the final days of summer for me.

They find me crafting like a maniac.

I had some things to sent to my mother-in-law, so I made this cute

little container from a craft store lunchbox. So very "back to school"!

Enclosed will be some Joy for the Journey deliciousness, of course!

Lucky Number '3'...Plus a Kooky Coincidence

2010-08-08T18:04:00.007-04:00

Look what I spotted in the current issues of Where Women Create. That's right....a big ol' copy of the give-away book, Charmed Bracelets! How crazy is that!? Well, obviously, it's impossible to choose between 3 lonely souls. Three?!? Seriously, people. Is that are there are of you out there? Well, regardless. That deserves something in my book.

So...after a rousing episode of Eeny-Meeny, Alison is awarded the Charmed Bracelets, and Cathie and Luv2Shop will get a 'runner up' prize! Send me your address this week girls, and I'll get it right out to you!

I know you think I haven't been crafting, but I have. I am very particular about my work planner. It has to be just right. Trust me on this one. So the new one gets a pretty new decoration. Let's hope it can survive life in my bag...

~ A 200th Post Celebration Give-Away! ~

2010-07-30T12:06:00.004-04:00

It is hard to imagine...200 posts!

To celebrate...a give-away of this beautiful book, Charmed Bracelets.

The pictures is this hard-back book are beautiful and sure to inspire.

Just leave a comment on my blog, or if you are a shy one, send me an email at listensister@hotmail.com.

I'll choose a winner randomly on August 8th...

In the meantime...some seashore R&R with the hubby and kids!

See you soon...

Treasures from 'The Big Flea'

2010-07-26T11:39:00.004-04:00

So many treasures found at The Big Flea...
Fun to unpack and discover all over again...

Inspiration for creativity.

Next...a 200th post Giveaway!

2010-07-25T09:49:00.003-04:00

"Deep summer is whenn laziness finds respectability."

~ Sam Keen

Yesterday, despite the unbelievable heat wave, Hubby drove me out to The Big Flea. The, to make matters even better, he left me alone! Girls, you know what I mean here. It's not that I don't want Hubby around, but it can sometimes quash your junkin' mojo, especially when you hear those dreaded words, "Are you almost ready to go?"

Boy, did I come up with some treasures. I saved them for unwrapping today. That's one of the best parts, don't you think?

Hard to believe, but I am nearing my 200th post. Stay tuned for a special surprise.

~ A Garden Like No Other ~

2010-07-21T13:46:00.005-04:00

While we were on our holiday, we wandered into the heavenly gardens of El Escorial.
Yes, those are swans!

Hard to imagine a more beautiful place to think, reflect...

Be amazed.

So beautiful.

Coco

2010-07-20T14:19:00.003-04:00

Looking through some amazing images found in

Chanel; Collections and Creations

by Daniele Bott.

Coco Chanel once said,

"Black comprises everything. So does white.

They possess absolute beauty: They are in perfect harmony."

"Go and fetch my pearls. I will not go up to the ateliers

until I have them around my neck."

Though also famous for her cosmetics and perfumes, Chanel said:

"Beauty is not prettiness. Why do so many mothers teach their daughters to flutter about, instead of teaching them about beauty?"

"Beauty should begin in the heart and soul, otherwise cosmetics are useless."

"A woman can be overdressed, never over-elegant."

A lesson that still rings true for today.

(Chanel: Collections and Creations by Daniele Bott)

~ A Heavenly Candy Shoppe ~

2010-07-19T06:18:00.005-04:00

Though I am not a "candy person" by nature, I can recognize

something amazing when I see it.

And this was amazing.

Walking along the street in Madrid, this heavenly mirage of confections
seems to materialize out of nowhere.

The colors are amazing, and the aroma divine.

Yum...

Of course, I had to buy one of these adorable pink tins to remind

me later of my adventure in Candy Land!

I hope you find something amazing today, too.

2010-07-18T07:28:00.002-04:00

Today is my baby girl's thirteenth birthday.

How is that even possible?

It seems like just yesterday.

(sigh)

2010-07-17T08:47:00.003-04:00

One of the most beautiful parts of our trip were the cathedrals.
Centuries old art that can still speak to us today.

So beautiful...

The Most Beautiful Park in the World?

2010-07-16T14:36:00.004-04:00

On our trip we visited the main park in the city of Madrid.

The beauty was breath-taking.

Here, Hubby lounges in the boat while my children row! What a life!

Beauty from Parts Near and Far

2010-07-15T20:14:00.005-04:00

I was lucky enough to go to Europe with Hubby, kids and my mom for a few weeks.

Of course, I brought you back some beautiful souvenirs of beauty.

So much beauty to be savoured in the heart.

~ Remembering ~

2010-06-22T12:07:00.003-04:00

My grandparents were married 60 years before my grandmother died.
Over the weekend, it was their anniversary - June 20th, 1936. Though they are not here anymore, I know wherever they are, they were together on Sunday. I have lots of pictures of my grandparents around my house. Maybe too many, I don't know. We spent a lot of time together growing up. One of things I loved most about my grandparents was that their lives were not perfect; not by any stretch of their imagination. They had their share of hardship and tragedy. So while their anniversary may be forgotten, it means something to me.

"The holiest of all holidays are those
Kept by ourselves in silence and apart,
The secret anniveraries of the heart."

~ Longfellow

~What I've Been Up To ~

2010-06-13T08:50:00.007-04:00

I finally finished my little bundles of goodies for my teaching friends.

Tied with a beautiful box, dyed flower and a vintage flashcard, they turned out great ~

I scoured etsy for vintage autograph book, which I decorated.

I made note cards out of old 1930's report cards.

For the kids' teachers, I made a Dick and Jane themed card.

"Look, Jane, Look! No School!"
That's what I'm talkin' about!

It worked! Plus, a free Art and Soul ticket...

2010-05-15T18:59:00.005-04:00

Eureka! Browsing the internet this week for some aged vintage millinery for a project. My issue: it can be hard to use those lovelies once you get them...they are one of a kind and so beautiful. So, I went to the craft store and got some super-cheese stark white ones and soaked them in tea. I was a little afraid the hot water would make them come unglued, but...wha-laa! I love them. And they were inexpensive!

Last weekend, the family indulged me on a trip out to my favortie antique mall. Came back with some lovely things for projects. I know, these days I have been collecting more than crafting. But I am slowly working!

It looks like I will not be able to make it to Art and Soul (sigh). I have a ticket for the journal session on Thursday, 5/20. If you live near Hampton Virginia (or if you don't!) and you'd like my ticket, please email me. (Listensister@hotmail.com) I'm determined to get to an art retreat one of these days...Maybe I will see you there!

2010-05-08T21:25:00.000-04:00

~Happy Mother's Day~

Celebrating a Big Birthday...and...Catching Up

2010-05-02T11:36:00.003-04:00

(sigh) Celebrating my baby's tenth birthday today. TEN! I cannot believe it. Now everyone is on double digits. A mixture of joy and sadness.
More mixture of joy and sadness...Art and Soul Retreat! My invitation came the other day...so excited! I'm only signed up for one workshop, but still! Now, cosmic forces are conspiring to keep me away. Stay tuned. There may be a freebie headed your way.

I am lucky enough to have a hubby who will entertain my love of dressing up. We went out to a facy fundraiser the other night. These pictures are reminders of a lovely evening.

What a treasure I found the other day in a fun new boutique! I love these gals and their jewelry...right up my alley!

We are enjoying unseasonably warm weather these days. Summer is coming. Soon, everyone will be out of school and our thoughts can turn to lazy afternoons. So thankful.

2010-04-18T19:35:00.002-04:00

I hate the feeling of my neglected blog, honestly. It reminds me that so often when things get crazy, it is the things so important to just me that go by the wayside. So I went to check out my handy-dandy calendar to see when things would be slowing down a notch. Good news! Soon! Thanks to many, many thoughts and prayers my mom is doing much, much better. She is out of the hospital and staying with us for a while. The course I'm taking will be coming to a close, and before you know it...school will be out! So I promise that there will be more of a priority on the me-ness of it all!

As a way of showing just how serious I am about this resolution, I wanted to tell you I did someting entirely selfish...signed up for Art and Soul in Hampton, Virginia next month! I am soooo excited! Anyone else going? I can't wait. Even though I could only eeeck out time for one workshop, it's an investment that's well worth it!

Good News and Bad News, and Happy Easter

2010-04-02T20:56:00.004-04:00

( First of all, I got this picture from here.)

Now. The bad news: My mom is in the hospital.

More bad news: It's pretty serious.

Good news: She's getting better. Miraculously. (And I mean that literally.)

Really good news: Hospitals are amazing.

Bad news: It happened over our Easter break so I

haven't gotten anything done that I had planned.

Really good news: She's getting better, so who cares about that?

And as my son said, "At least this didn't happen over Christmas!"

Very good news: I have amazing friends.

One thing that I did get done, as promised. New knobs!! Ahhhhhh....

Happy, Happy Easter. God is so good.

2010-03-07T16:12:00.002-05:00

"It is the first mild day of March.

Each minute sweeter than before...

There is a blessing in the air..."

~ William Wordsworth

No, not a baby blessing. (LOL) But who can not think of that when it's spring! It's the baby version of summer, at last the way I look at it. Gosh, it was great to be outside without the hugest of wintercoats, and to see the kids playing without being able to see their breaths in the air. Come on, Spring!

For Kim ~ The Hat

2010-02-15T10:29:00.003-05:00

Kim, here's the hat! I did think after I made that post that I should have shown the hat, but I didn't. This kind of hat is the only kind that looks even remotely okay with my super-round face!

I even love the label. It's not actually vintage, I bought it new. But I love the look.

When I woke up this morning, I was looking at the small closet across from my bed. I realized that I have never liked those dark green knobs. Dark green went with the colors of the previous owner, but not with me. I think I will be hitting Anthropology next weekend. Yum!

~The One Where She Wears a Hat to Church~

2010-02-14T10:55:00.006-05:00

I will confess right now that I have always had a bit of a love~hate relationship with the holiday of Valentine's Day. So I try and make it one that I have brought my own meaning to, in my own way. Today, I wore a hat to church. I love this vintage-inspired hat that I found, and I decided I was the kind of girl who would wear that hat to church. I finished my crafting project (remember the cards and the candy bars?) and I was able to use our days of snow to enjoy a little more time with some beautiful things. I found this ring while I was out poking around yesterday. Lovely and simple.

My daughter's play has been postponed for two weekends now due to the weather. I wanted to make her something special for both performances. I made these nosegays, and I love how they turned out. Now, I just have to hide them from her prying eyes...and remember for next weekend where I put them!

Over the weekend, I set aside some time to read the new issue of Artful Blogging. I love looking through all the delicious pages of that magazine! I always read it when I have timeo soak it all up. I think one of the things I enjoy about it most is that other women talk about their relief at finding friends who 'get' the same things that they like, and the ability to find an entire virtual world of enless inspiration. I couldn't agree more ~

~Happy Valentine's Day, Friend ~

~Valentines Crafts ~

2010-02-07T11:38:00.003-05:00

Being stuck inside has afforded me no excuses for finishing up my holiday craft ideas. Inspired by the dreamiest of all wedding pictures...my great aunt's ...(the one in the middle) I raided my wedding stash and made these hand made cards for friends.

When they were assembled, they looked like this!

Hubby tried hard to dig out the mailbox in hopes the mailman would get through. Nothing yet. Valentine's Day is fast approaching...Hurry, Mr. Mailman!

Holy Cow! What a Storm!

2010-02-06T17:39:00.002-05:00

Man, what a storm! Ok..obviously this is not it...I found this here. But we got wholloped with a storm last night and today. No good pics yet. I took a few from inside, but I wasn't up for venturing out! Who could pass up a day indoors to cuddle up and relax? More to come!

~ Sunday ~

2010-01-31T15:48:00.004-05:00

A snowy weekend here, and I was determined to get something done for

Valentine's Day.

I was inspired by Lori and I made these chocolate bar covers for two friends that I think will appreciate them! They are still a bit of a work in progress, but you get the idea! I wonder if they will want to tear into them to get that chocolate?

New York City {Cont.}

2010-01-10T18:47:00.002-05:00

We were so surprised to wake up the enxt day with a beautiful, gentle snowfall around the city.
But first...the Ink Pad! I was bound and determined to get to this shop that I found online when I was planning the trip. Imagine my surprise when we were stopped at a red light heading into the city..and there it was! We pulled over and I hopped out. Inside this TINY store, there are THOUSANDS of stamps. Amazing!!

The following day...Central Park.

Gorgeous architecture...

Until next time...

...beautiful city.

Whew!

2010-01-05T17:48:00.003-05:00

Who wouldn't love a little shop called 'House of Cards and Curiosities'? Well, I definitely would! When we found this little shop by accident on our trip to New York City, I knew the crafting gods would be with me! The windows alone are intriguing!
Ahhh...curiosities!

More to follow!

~ Happy New Year! ~

2009-12-29T18:21:00.003-05:00

Hubby's taking us to New York City tomorrow - wahoo! We'll be coming back before the New Year craziness. I'm not a crazy New Year kind of gal. But I'm looking forward to getting some holiday cheer, and some new inspiration for 2010.

Happy New Year!

Sunday

2009-12-27T21:26:00.006-05:00

Today I decided to treat myself to a trip out to one of my favorite antique malls. Though it's an hour away, it never fails to disappoint! What treasures I found...
Definitely the theme for the day was vintage pillow cases...gorgeous condition.
I got several embroidered, crocketed, and just plain scalloped.
Beautiful...

But my favorite Christmas goodie of all...
I found a new site where I can order colored masking tapes!

This Japanese company really has the knack for beautiful packaging.
A treat for the eye!
(Let me know if you'd like the address.
I'm also thinking of maybe selling them through my blog or etsy shop! Hmmm...)

Hmmm...where do I start?!

~Something for the person who has everything...~

2009-12-26T21:49:00.005-05:00

I was racking my brain to think of an appropriate hostess goft for my cousin...a person who falls under the catagory of one who has everything. When I found a picture of her parents at Christmas exactly 50 years ago, I knew I had struck on a good idea! I filled one of the jars (see previous post) with cookies, and I was good to go!

Day Two!

2009-12-22T15:49:00.005-05:00

Another snow day afforded me some glorious extra crafting time!

Merry Christmas to...me!

I think these sticker sets I made could be cute for sale at my friends shop.

What do you think? I packaged them in small vellum ATC envelopes.

Opinions, please!

A cookie jar I made for a friend...

This one is for a family member, and has a family photo attached.

I attached a 3D flower to the little girls hands. So sweet!

Have a wonderful holiday!

Don't Be Jealous...

2009-12-21T18:14:00.003-05:00

Amidst all the Christmas craziness, I was blessed to get some extra time to go junking. Can you believe it?!?! Always a gift, but especially at this time of year. I am looking forward to hopefully getting some crafting time over the holidays. (sigh) Maybe you have the same Christmas wishes, too?

Holiday Craftiness

2009-12-12T20:41:00.004-05:00

Not wanting to put my holiday gift cards in a plain ol' box...

I made some cards to hold them.

It helped get me in the holiday mood.

Hope you are getting there, too!

Oh La La!

2009-12-06T12:06:00.005-05:00

I was sooooo excited when I won Lori's darwing at Vintage Flair. I never win anything, and to win something from a crafting goddess like her is 'doubley' special. Her bow is even more gorgeous in person than when she shoed it on her blog.

She jazzed it up with some of her fancy sewing and an adorable little girl.

Thanks, Lori!

~ Happy Thanksgiving ~

2009-11-22T19:45:00.002-05:00

I apologize to you, and to myself, that I have been so absorbed with other things that I have had precious little time for doing anything crafty. I am making an oath to myself that over the holiday, I am going to get things cleaned up and put in order enough that I can get some things accomplished!

I wanted to share with a poem I found years ago, that is on my fridge year-round. To me, it is the epitome of what Thanksgiving is about. Have a wonderful holiday. Rest and be thankful.

O God, when I have food,

help me to remember the hungry;

When I have work,

help me to remember the jobless;

When I have a home,

help me to remember those who have

no home at all;

When I am without pain,

help me to remember those who suffer.

And remembering,

help me to destroy my complacency;

Bestir my compassion,

and be concerned enough to help;

By word and deed,

those who cry out for what we take for granted.

Amen.

~ From A Thanksgiving Prayer by Samuel F. Pugh

~ Sunday ~

2009-11-15T19:39:00.003-05:00

I haven't had much time for crafting...or blogging...lately. Not only have we been in the swing of a crazy fall season, but my crafting areas have been overrun by boxes packed up from my living room. Not for much longer, though...my husband promises, and then I'll be back to my crafting self! I found this here at a blog that talks about his lovely, lonely old home. To me, there is something beautiful still about old buildings that have been long forgotten. I'll be back soon!

Something Spooooky

2009-10-17T13:33:00.004-04:00

I decided to experiment with canvas this past week, and I like the results! The strip of paper at the top is from a card deck of scary stories. It was too funny, and I had to include it. It says,
" She was nervous when her husband said they were to stay in the abandoned house, for it contained the corpse of a hermit who had once lived there, enshrined in a coffin in the loft."

Um, nervous. Ya think so??

~ Fancy Finery ~

2009-09-28T09:02:00.005-04:00

Splurging on an old 1922 fashion magazine this weekend

gave me the perfect springboard to create two envelopes

for special friends.

Special goodies to be tucked inside...bliss!

~ Shabby Chic Interiors ~

2009-09-16T07:19:00.002-04:00

I admit I was sceptical about the new Rachel Ashwell book, Shabby Chic Interiors. Was it a ploy to scoop in some last minute income in the midst of a breakdown of her company? But nothing could be farther from the truth. Each page is beautiful, bringing home the lesson that even in the midst of her personal sadness, she sticks true to her principles and ideals. Inspiration for us all...

~ Farewell To Summer ~

2009-09-07T18:29:00.008-04:00

What a great summer it was (sigh). We topped it off a few weeks

ago with a trip to New York City.

I found this gorgeous outdoor flower market in a small neighborhood.

Flowers to drool on...

Ahhhh...

We told the kids they were in charge of finding the restaurant

on the last morning there. I said we would we watchingto see if they

followed all the safety rules along the way...

They held hands...

Life is good...

~ Treasures ~

2009-08-19T13:10:00.003-04:00

This week has brought lots of new treasures from places far and near! I found these beautiful pink paper flowers at Michael's (of all places! I'm usually not a fan of their fake flowers) and some great old photos from the flea market in New York. Now...what to do with it all! Ahh....!

Once you have started seeing the beauty of life

Ugliness starts disappearing.

If you start looking at life with joy,

sadness starts disappearing.

You can not have heaven and hell together,

You can only have one.

It is your choice.

~Osho

~ Sunday ~

2009-08-16T15:41:00.003-04:00

I finished up this board book that I made for my mother-in-law. It's got pictures of the kids doing all the things we did this summer..and man did we do a lot! One of the good things about the school year is that is makes you break down time and appreciate where you are, where you've been, and where you're headed! I took some great pics of New York Thursday, Friday and Saturday. There is so much inspiration there! More to come...

Paperweight Creations

2009-08-03T13:23:00.006-04:00

I decided to combine three favorites...paperweights, lines from Nancy Drew,

and vintage patterns.

This is what I got...

I really like how they turned out, so they will go to the shop.

Although it is hard to part with them...

Especially this one....

Is This Weird to You?

2009-07-31T17:05:00.004-04:00

My mother thinks I am completely nuts. We went together to a small town across the state line yesterday; popping in to see a friend of hers who has a booth at the Amish Market there. Delicious sandwiches...yum! Anyway, there was an antique mall nearby and of course - come hell or high water - I was going to get in there! So we did. I picked up this baby picture from a bin and said, "Oh, look at this one! Don't you just want to pinch those cheeks?"

My mother replied, "No."

Then, she looked at me like maybe we should stop by the local hospital. Seriously. I only recently got her off my back by swearing to label the old pictures from flea markets so my 'children would know they weren't family.' Ugh. Maybe I do have some sort of problem! I just can't pass them up. Especially because they oooze stories. Well, that's my view.

My 'Wish'!

2009-07-29T16:38:00.007-04:00

I got my yummy packet of 'wishes' from Andre Singarella at One Hundred Wishes.

We all know...she rocks.

I decided to go for the new tape rolls in beige, pink, and striped pink.
I can't wait to try them out!

And you would think tape can't be gorgeous....

2009-07-27T15:16:00.003-04:00

Keeping my crafting vow by finishing another card for a friend...
"And yes: is when you stretch out
on your couch and summon up ten thousand
daffodils, all dancing in the breeze."

~Joyce Sutphin

2009-07-19T12:32:00.002-04:00

Back from the beach and full of plans laden with vim and vigor.

Will I ever get it all done?

My find of the trip...this beautiful 'bathing beauty'. She will hopefully be a reminder during the dark winter days of how I feel today.

As Robert Browning wrote, "I am full of sunshine now."

2009-07-10T19:23:00.002-04:00

Excited about heading to the beach tomorrow.

Looking forward to recharging and regrouping, and hopefully finding some inspiration along the way.

"The sea does not reward those who are too anxious, too greedy or too impatient.
One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach -waiting for a gift from the sea."

~Anne Morrow Lindbergh

~ Thursday ~

2009-07-09T11:57:00.005-04:00

I've been crafting instead of gettingthings ready for our trip to the beach.

I'm gonna pay for that!

Made this birthday bag for my friend, Juli. It makes me think that I actually enjoy that size surface, and getting sticky with modge podge. I always enjoy Pam Garrison's art journals. Maybe I will tackle that someday soon?

2009-07-07T00:27:00.002-04:00

"Nobody is ever met at the airport when beginning a new adventure.

It's just not done."

~Elizabeth Fernea

2009-07-04T15:54:00.001-04:00

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-03T13:54:00.002-04:00

Did I meet you in that shop

where the book of love is kept behind the counter?

Impossible, except our names are there

in golden script upon the luminary page.

Who would have thought the string bean boy,

the girl who hops and squats like garden toads

would find each other in the deep immensity

but there you are, my fingers trace your name.

I see mine linked with your by radiant hearts

the shops' proprietor, his quiet smile,

before the book is closed, takes up the feather pen

turns the page, and writes our names again.

~Fred Andrele

~ For Lucy ~

2009-06-30T09:51:00.006-04:00

Slightly crooked pics today of a card I made for a friend.
My favorite part of the 'poem' Imagine A Woman.
Imagine a woman who values the women in her life.
Imagine a woman who sits within circles of women.
Who is reminded of the truth about herself when she forgets.

So true.
So lucky to be within the circle.
Sometimes in the circle, sometimes in the center.
Sometimes we all need to be reminded.

2009-06-28T19:42:00.007-04:00

I made this tin for a fellow Nancy Drew fan.
Therapeutic...

...to give...

...and to receive.

There are plenty of summer mysteries out there to be solved!

2009-06-24T08:49:00.001-04:00

Still keeping my determination to get more crafting done this summer.

Also enjoyed time yesterday with my niece, Vivian.

With the exception of a nasty hot pink hoola-hoop incident

with the neightbor girl, all went swimmingly.

~ Album Fun ~

2009-06-22T11:56:00.005-04:00

I know! I'm such a bad blogger. Is anyone even still out there?

But I at least do have an excuse...I've been crafting! In between trying to get all the minutia of my life settled out since the school year ended (all the things I've been putting off getting done...) I was mulling over how to do this project! Friends of the family celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary...

But not just any friends, they also were our next door neighbors

and babysat us...forever. All my brothers and I.

So it needed to be a mixture of wedding, and our own fond family memories.

Hopefully, I accomplished the task! Now I'm off to work on a journal page.

Stop by and let me know what you've been up to!

2009-06-03T20:56:00.002-04:00

Seriously. How long do you think it took me to grab up this little beauty at the antique mall a few weekends back? Yeah, about that long. Love her!

I made this card for one of my children's teachers for the end of the year. Don't forget to thank a teacher in your life! It's never too late.

~ Prongs ~

2009-05-25T11:28:00.003-04:00

Well? Do you have your prongs? I know, I know - you're probably thinking 'What the heck does that even mean?' "Prongs" are a euphamism that my girlfriend and I use to encompass the idea of inspiring self improvement plans. Dongs are things that distract and mislead you away from...well, your prongs. Several summers ago I realized that I needed a plan in the summer months for what I wanted to accomplish, so that Labor Day didn't roll around with big disappointment. So I began making plans each spring for what needed to get accomplished, and madly sticking with it. Sometimes it's things like reading all of the books by an author, or learning a new skill. Last summer I did volunteer work for two causes I believed in. You'll have to trust me, in the fall it feels good that you did it. It helps to have someone checking in on your progress and making sure you don't get distracted from your plan. So today my girlfriend and I are meeting for lunch to do a prong check, and make sure we're starting the summer right! Do you have your prongs in line?

~ Monday ~

2009-05-18T19:11:00.008-04:00

Whew! That extra Sunday nap-time gave me an extra buzz of energy last night! Wisely, I turned off the tube and got crafting. I used a quote that I had found on another card, and adapted it to a more 'vintage' style.

I stamped a jar to go with the idea of the quote - a Sanity Relief Fund - and attached a note to the inside. It was enjoyed by the recipient! I need to turn off the tv more often...

~Sunday~

2009-05-17T18:09:00.004-04:00

Ahh, another weekend. Made sweeter by knowing that before we can blink an eye, summer will be here. Next weekend, the pool will open, and it will seem like an eternal summer lies ahead. I am determined not to squander it. Lots of goals I plan to accomplish, including lots of crafting, of course. Saturday I got to sneak out to the antique mall. (yeah!) Found these great charms. The wedding bell actually moves! They are larger than the rest of my charms, but I could not resist.

Went to the gardening store; pure heaven for the hubby. While I can appreciate plants; he can actually see in his mind's eye what to do with them. What a gift! Though our yard is not the best for roses, I couldn't leave without two of these dreaming pale pink Heritage rose bushes. Here's hoping they can survive! So beautiful and delicate; what a gift.

Have a good week!

2009-05-12T21:13:00.000-04:00

"Learn to pause...or nothing worthwhile will catch up to you."

~Doug King

2009-05-11T06:55:00.002-04:00

"Hats prevent the growth of new brain cells," he said sternly.

She nodded and vowed to buy herself an elegant hat

with flowers, organza and a veil the very next day.

2009-05-10T08:30:00.001-04:00

~ Happy Mothers Day~

To Make You Laugh...And Wonder

2009-04-28T21:17:00.005-04:00

"This is the best thing to wear for today, you understand. Becaue I don't like women in skirts and the best thing to wear is some pantyhose or some pants under a short skirt, I think. Then, you have pants under the skirt and then you can pull the stockings up over the pants underneath the skirt. And you can always take off the skirt and use it as a cape. So I think this is the best costume for today."

~ Edith 'Little Edie' Bouvier Beale

Though the Beales are not pictured above, I think this photo is a great background for this quote! Who can watch GreyGardens and not feel like you are witnessing an amazing and curious disaster unfold, only to realize it may not be a disaster afterall. Though at first seeming to be completely nonsensical, this mother and daughter team may make more sense than we realize. They became a national attraction for their reclusive and often downright bizarre and hygiene-challenged lifestyle, it makes one wonder what the world might think if they followed us around for a year or two. Here's to you, Beales!

Big Edie: The cat's going to the bathroom right on the back of my portrait.

Little Edie: God, isn't that awful?

Big Edie: No, I'm glad he is. I'm glad somebody's doing something he wanted to do.

2009-04-26T12:11:00.001-04:00

"Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not;

remember that what you have now was once

among the things you only hoped for."

~ Epicurius