Thoughts of Whimsy

A New Phase......& a 100 Follower Give Away!!!!

2012-02-08T06:54:00.000-08:00

Okay....many of you have asked. I was scared. I didn't know how to do it to be honest. I don't know if I even know how to do it. But I am going to try. Lincoln & I made a banner today for my new Etsy shop. It is called Hope Ellington Designs. I am starting small with a few soldered pieces. These to be exact. It scares me only because I am not computer savvy. All this technology scares me. I sell my wares at Lisa's shop, Lola Rue, & I will always do that as long as she will have me but it is very local and some of you have started to ask if I have an Esty shop. So I am going out on a limb....I am going to see if I can get these loaded into the new Hope Ellington Design shop. Be patient with me dear readers.

So while you are all being patient with me....why don't we just have a little give away....because I am really good at that! In honor of my 100th follower & I find that really remarkable I really do let's just honor that. Why don't I just pick a winner on Valentine's Day. That sounds lovely. So, all comments must be received by February 14, 2012. New followers will receive 2 chances to win with a comment, just let me know that you followed me and leave a comment. Current followers will automatically get 2 chances to win just let me know you are a follower and leave a sweet comment....I love my comments. They are the best part of my day!

Want to know what you will win???? One of these sweet velvet & rhinestone soldered pendants. I will randomly choose the color.....but sweet little birdies usually get to choose!!!! So I hope you will leave a comment. I hope you are just as excited about my Esty shop and my giveaway as I am....thanks for always being such an inspiring & supportive group of friends! Blessings for an artfully creative day.

A Few Butterfly's for Spring.....

2012-02-03T04:02:00.000-08:00

It's really starting to feel spring-ey around here. I know we still have a lot of winter ahead....but warmer days get me thinking of spring & hey....my spring bulbs are popping up. So what better way to kick it off than with some pretty butterflies.

I really love butterflies. So whimsical & free. I tried to do just that here in my own way of course. Using small vintage bling....vintage ledger.....some old German paper that I LOVE & of course I had to put in a few vintage scraps of French papers. Really what ever I could find in the scrap box.
I can't get enough of this bubbled edge on the solder. I love it. You all know how much I just adore polka dots....well now we have it on the solder. It is fun to do too. I love how it looks....sorry the photo isn't too good but you get the idea I hope. So...I am happy as a lark on a wire or a butterfly on the breeze.....and guess what....I finally got my Christmas decorations put away! So now I can just create till my hearts desire until the weather really turns spring like....& then I will hit the gardens! I hope your day is artfully creative & joyful! Blessings!

Bo.....A Heroic Rescue

2012-01-25T04:08:00.001-08:00

Monday night after Lincoln had missed the entire day of school with respiratory flu like symptoms and spent the entire day asleep, we got a phone call at 10:24. This little boy, Bo, had been missing for 3 hours. He is 7 and we knew that surely he was cold....scared....and hungry. We told Lincoln that we were leaving to go on the search and he jumped out of bed and insisted going despite his illness. He said if Bo was missing he would never forgive himself if he didn't help find him. So we collected our flashlights....extra batteries....water.....& POPTARTS because they help with every rescue mission, and traveled to one of the furthest most Monroe County parts and very treacherous terrain, to begin the search for seven year old Bo.

Bo is part of our Hockey family. His 16 year old brother Gabe has been playing with Lincoln for 9 years. We knew Bo before he was born. We have traveled to Canada with Bo & his family and many weekends of our lives. Our hockey family is extensive & unique. Help is given when needed and this most surely warranted help & lots of it. By the time we reach Bo's home it was 11:30. We had never been there....we travel together....we are never home to socialize together. We were warned of the Crumpet-like driveway in Who-ville from Dr. Seuss's movie, without the winding spiral & it was NO JOKE. Drop off like conditions on BOTH sides & steep. Straight up for about a mile. We were lucky because Jeff just drove right on up.....most people walked. When we got to the top, the experts were getting the canine unit ready to begin the search. The infer-red search of the helicopter was underway and shortly.....us.....the walkers....would begin our 2 by 2 scan of the surrounding property. The 150 people I met at the top, most of course I didn't know....but there....most of the hockey family was.....huddled close together....ready to hunt for sweet Bo. We were given our instructions. Paired into our groups. We were supposed to go 2 by 2, but Lincoln wanted to go with his Coach Nick, Jill his wife, & their 2 sons Eli & Zaiah. Bonding with Nick is a treasure no matter what the circumstance because we love him dearly. I went with Jeff & his plethora of flashlights that he passed out to everyone BUT me so I didn't have one. It was awful. I was unprepared in the most treacherous terrain I had ever experienced and it was horrible....truly....I was scared, and it was very difficult. I hunted for about an hour and then another mother & I went back to the house and her son & Jeff continued. Really, it was bad....so I went back and did what I do comforted & talked....after all....that's really what I do best. About 45 minutes at 2:26a.m. later my sweet son called with the most jubilant voice proclaiming that he found Bo.....the rescue experts sounded the sirens & the volunteers meandered in 2 by 2. Lincoln and his rescue unit were so deep into the forest it took them an hour to get back in. Lincoln asked little Bo if he was cold....tired....or hungry....what I always tell Lincoln a mother always worries about for her own child.....good thing he had some POPTARTS to offer! Lincoln doesn't want me to make a big deal about his heroic status....he says we all helped so we are all heroes & he's right in a way.....but one thing I know for sure....his heart is gold and it sure does show in times like this! He said hearing Bo's voice was the most cheerful noise he has ever heard.

It' ICY here....so some clear photos for you.....

2012-01-23T03:48:00.001-08:00

The other night Jeff said I heard the ice is going to miss us. He was wrong. He must have been listening to the weather forecasters. We came out of the high school basketball game to head over to the ice rink to watch the high school hockey game & about slipped down the steps. When we came out of the rink, a family had placed some egg cartons on the roof of our car for Lincoln's little egg business and they were frozen and completely encrusted in ice....stuck to the top of the car.....I guess we really looked like the idiot chicken farmers that we really are. I thought I would show some pretty clear photo vignettes from my craft room & around the house. I think they look icy and beautiful.

The above photo is from my craft room. I adore salt shakers & love to use them in my art....or for vessels for my art. Like for lovely decanters for glitter or for storing beads. Pretty containers inspire me. This photo is from my bathroom. I love the old apothecary jars they used in the past to store their toiletries. And look at this neat old soap storage box. Don't you just hate our new plastic ones?

I would much prefer this old metal type. Sometimes I just have to break down & use the old ones.

The old glass the way that it has worn & aged just makes me happy. So grey & calcium encrusted. Here in Indiana we have lots of limestone & it gets on everything. I also just love the old silver top on this bottle. This bottle is actually part of a set that I have taken out of the old ratty case. Typically....I love old & ratty.....but this was a little too old & ratty even for me. So, I am just displaying them randomly. If you know me....you know I like a good little vignette. I just love my collections. I guess it is a good thing we can now call an addiction a collection....otherwise....I'd be in big trouble. I hope you have liked looking at my icy photos. Apparently it is supposed to be warmer here & all the ice will melt....but then again....are those weather forecasters ever right? Have an artfully creative day....no matter what the weather!

Sweet Soldered Flowers.....

2012-01-20T03:26:00.000-08:00

Okay....Okay....I know they aren't they best photos in the world....but are they ever cute in real life? Lisa from Lola Rue loved them yesterday when I took them in. They are creamy & just the right touch of blingy.

They have the sweetest velvet little flowers with little vintage rhinestones. They have vintage ledger paper and the palest of yellow little fresh water pearl adorns them. They really are too cute for words. I hope you are artfully blessed today!

Je t'aime....

2012-01-18T15:49:00.001-08:00

I've been saying for days....love is in the air. And it just isn't letting up. I guess I can't remember a time when I have been so jazzed up for Valentine's Day. Look at these fun journals that I made today. I bought these vintage-y journals.....umm you guessed it.....years ago.....& decided now was the year I would use them.

I got so inspired to get some of this vintage silk sari ribbon when I took Michelle Gellar's journal class at the very first Handmade U last year. I just love it!!! It comes all wadded up and coiled all up. It is really neat. The colors are just exquisite. Of course I couldn't decide on 'A' color so I bought many colors!!! I need variety in my life. The colors just kind of fade into each other and they are yummy.

So the creative 'love bug' has definitely bitten me this special LOVE SEASON. Who knows what is in store for me tomorrow or where the creative journey will take me. I hope that some of my special silk sari ribbon has inspired you to try a new craft item....venture down an unknown path and purchase something really special to create with. Blessings for an artfully creative day.

Be Mine....Valentine Bookmarks....

2012-01-16T07:41:00.000-08:00

They really are cuter in real life.....I promise. They are distressed and pale pink. They are sweet. I am trying to use up stuff I have found in the craft room. I bought these years ago. I thought they would be a fun kids craft for Valentine's Day.....NOT. So I am left with 'WHAT TO DO WITH THEM????'

So.....with a little paint, a little Hannah Silk ribbon, a few rubber stamps.....I think they made a slightly cute book mark. Hey...if I would use it....I think others would use it. I like little 'gifties' at the holidays. I think others do too. I hope you are able to use up your over stash of supplies! I know I am forcing myself to do just that this winter. It's been fun. Blessings for an artfully creative day.

Love Is In The Air......

2012-01-13T06:57:00.001-08:00

First, I would like to say....I can't believe I have been away from my blog this long! So.....let's just get that out of the way from the very beginning. Happy New Year & all of that. Same old resolutions and all that good stuff. I don't have a good excuse....and it is pointless....I am busy like all of you & I just couldn't make time for this blog. I had a GREAT holiday season....cooked....decorated....created with my nieces & children....wrapped gifts....decorated mountains of cookies....& truly enjoyed every minute of it. The best part of it....I got inspired by all the hoop-la. I de-stashed!!! I organized & re-organized! I am set to go for 2012 & have been having a ball so far. Love is in the air around here! So XOXOXOX to all of you!

I had so much fun making these soldered heart pendants. They are made from snippets of lace, vintage French book papers, vintage sheet music, velvet flowers, glitter, and little pieces of Hannah silk ribbon. I love how they turned out.....I hope you do to. I can't wait to run them into Lisa's shop this afternoon. Love is in the air at Lola Rue too. Stop in for a peek if you are in the Bloomington area. Blessings for an artfully creative day.

Psalm 23 Silhouette Ornaments.....

2011-10-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

As many of you know.....I love silhouettes. I love the simple black & white. I think black & white compliments so many colors.

They are Psalm 23 silhouettes. The Lord is my Sheppard. I love this verse. It is so special to me because it was special to my grandmothers. Psalm 23 was recited at each of their funerals.

The background paper has part of the scripture written on it. I love the little lamb & the little boy. What a sweet...gentle reminder of a beautiful scripture. These silhouette ornaments will look sweet on all your Christmas trees. I hope you have an artfully creative day....and thanks for stopping by to check out my latest creation. Blessings.

A Few of My Favorite Things.....

2011-10-26T09:53:00.001-07:00

I have really enjoyed stitching the past couple of months. I had so much fun using this little snippet of a doily as a frame for a long forgotten child. I love to buy old vintage cabinet cards & 'love' those long forgotten faces....that were once loved so dearly. Since stitching has become a favorite craft these days it' s fun to see what others put into their stitch work.

This truly is one of my favorites of all time. I have done this numerous times now. I love how the little pearls look like flowers. I just think the wrapped stems are really fun. It is neat to look at old stitching's and look at the intricate stitching that was done. I can only pray that I become that proficient in my skills.

Adding something that you wouldn't expect has been really fun too. Here are some beads that I found in the craft room that Lindsey has long forgotten. She made them....and there they were sitting....for me to use in my art. I just love vintage book paper....it was a fun find...now if I can just get her to make some more! Are you stretching your imagination today....are those of you in Colorado enjoying your snowy day??? What are you creating today? I hope my stitching is a source of inspiration for you. May your day be filled with comfort & joy. Blessings.

Some Little Trinkets.......

2011-10-25T09:11:00.001-07:00

I am the girl who looks through the last box at an auction or an estate sale. Jeff is even worse than I am. But oh the treasures I find. I adore all old medals....old buttons with interest....old coins.

When you are a collector like me....you accumulate. It doesn't hurt that I love to shop & I will dig through to find just that perfect piece. Like the doggie above. That is my favorite. The funniest thing about these bracelets....men go crazy for them. They love to look at all the nostalgia. Jeff thinks these are the neatest thing that I create. I hope that you are artfully blessed & enjoy your day....it is beautiful here in the mid-west. Thanks so much for stopping by today.

It's coming.....but what is it?

2011-10-24T03:53:00.001-07:00

Just a little snippet of something I have been working on. It took a while but it has been a very rewarding experience. Soon.....you will see my creation in full. But what is it? Can you guess?

I have worked with some extremely talented people. The experience has been awesome because of it. I have learned & I have grown. Any more guesses on what I have created??

Some vintage scrap here....some vintage scrap there. The hoarder must use all her stash at some point in her life. Here....some vintage green upholstery fabric I found in an abandoned house. I have used this fabric in numerous projects and swaps. Perhaps you have received something I have made with it??

What oh what will this be......can you guess yet? Do you like the supplies I have worked with? Are these the colors of your Christmas Celebration?? Lately.....I have been anything but traditional....that's what I love about art. You can be anything but traditional. I hope this little snippet has inspired you today. Do have an artfully creative day. Thanks for stopping by.

Button Card Swap......

2011-10-23T05:54:00.000-07:00

When I went to Karla's Cottage in April for her Bird Song Event I had the most glorious time. Part of an art retreat is creating & crafting....but the other part & probably the biggest reason I go is the friends you make. I met one such lady & we have blogged & emailed to one another a little over the past months. Tami Hacker is that said lady. Since Bird Song, not only did she start a blog...but she hosted a swap. I entered her 'No Harm Button Swap' and had the best time creating my Button Card.

I don't think I followed her rules entirely because I don't think we had to make a button card....rather anything using at least 5 buttons in a 'no harm' way. Any hoo.....I LOVE what I created. Any time I can use old buttons & vintage ledger paper together....I'm all over it. I might even make some more of these button cards to high light some of my favorite buttons as well. Kind of like baseball cards.....Everyone knows by now....that I love collecting & high lighting my collections.

My Swap Partner was Pam Kenney....she should have received her button card in the mail yesterday. I really hope she likes it. That is always what makes me nervous about swapping is knowing if what you make your partner 'thrills' her. She doesn't have a blog for me to really get to know her.....so hopefully I sent a gift she will love.

I chose this vintage ledger paper because of Mrs. Eastabrook. My elementary school music teacher had this name. I have such fond memories of her music class....she turned misbehaving students into musicians & always made a wrong a right. I love a teacher that can do that. Here's to you Mrs. Eastabrook...thanks for inspiring me musically as well as knowing how to turn wrongs into rights. Thanks for stopping by and checking out my art today. I hope you are blessed in a creative way today.

A Little Glimpse Into.......(SHHHHH)....my powder room.....

2011-10-22T03:09:00.000-07:00

I am an avid collector. I began collecting these Frozen Charlotte's about 15 years ago. I didn't even know what they were....I just knew that I loved them. I didn't know there was a huge group of artists out there who loved them as well. I love groupings. I love to buy old shelves & old cubicles to place my collections in. I have turned my entire family into a group of collectors too. The following photographs are taken in of all places.....my powder room......I don't invite many in.....so you are a privileged few.

When I was a child my mother always did up a printers tray with 'dinkies' for all the holidays. I would stare in wonder & amazement at all the cute seasonal things. She would always say.....'Everything fits in this world.' She meant there was a place for everything. I am the master of making everything fit. You could even classify me as 'over organized'. I have one of everything & prove this quite frequently with my family & art friends. Last spring, Stephanie over at Crowns & Pearls came over for a day of lunching and crafting. She tearfully began.....'I forgot my glasses & now I won't be able to craft!'. No worries I said.....what strength of 'cheaters' do you need....I am sure I have a pair. Of course I did. I have been collecting old medicine tins since I was first married. I just love the old vintage patina that they have accumulated over the years. Here is just a small sampling of my collection.

I wish that my 'favorite' necklace was displayed like this when it isn't around my neck. But it isn't. I love how the silver looks spectacular with the glass. Glass bottles....didn't even realize I collected them until this post.....but there you have it.

.....and pearls. I love my strands.....& strands of pearls. Browns....pinks.....grays....greens. I love them all. Now....really....I won't classify these as a collection....all though some might.

A little vignette in my bathroom. Hey....I know it's not perfect....but I really use this stuff. I house my face powder in that old powder jar. It is truly one of my favorite things. Very handy too....just the right amount of powder due the the screen that came in it. I just love that feature. Thanks so much for stepping into my powder room. Glad you came in for a visit. I hope you have an artfully creative & wonderful day.

A Little 'French' Country......

2011-10-21T05:37:00.000-07:00

I have always just loved little peat pots. I created with them a lot in the 90's and fashioned them into little candy cups. Well I don't really need to eat candy any more and my taste has definitely changed to a more sophisticated style. I love that about art. How you just grow....& keep growing.

I decided to try my hand making these look a bit like linen. I just love the brown peat the way it turned out. I adore the vintage French book paper.

So....since my creative palette has changed.....& my food palette has changed....I decided I would fill these cups with hand made soap.

This soap was so fun to make. I followed my daughter Lindsey's lead. Her soap is a family & friends favorite. I just have oodles of lavender....and oodles of strawberry seeds. I added these ingredients for the exfoliating properties. This soap takes all the glue & grime my hands are constantly covered in.....completely off. I scented the soap with my favorite scent......Vanilla.

Then as a cushion....I added hand made spaghetti.....not really.....but it sure felt like I was working with noodles. I had a lot of fun making my hand made 'shred'. My husband thought I had completely lost my mind. He said "Can't you just go to Wal-mart and buy that shredded tissue".....not if I wanted mine to look 'French' Country. I hope you have a wonderfully creative day. Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Breast Cancer Awareness Month.....

2011-10-20T04:35:00.000-07:00

Little did I know that October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Last Friday I went in for my yearly mammogram. I don't dread getting a mammogram.....I dread scheduling it & then showing up for the actual event. I don't know why???? Sira Imaging where I go shows dignity....provides comfort....& they are so on schedule that it is very convenient. In & out. They had a table set up in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness. They provided me with a ticket to drop in the gold fish bowl & possibly I might be a prize winner of some really cool 'PINK' stuff. I couldn't resist asking if they might like a few more donations......here's what I came up with & took in for additional prizes. I think they are sweet & cute. Two weeks ago, my close friend Shelley lost her mom to breast cancer. Her son is Lincoln's best friend from elementary school. He took it really hard. He is the star quarterback on the freshman football team....I have always loved to watch him play! He placed a pink breast cancer sticker on his helmet when his Grandmother was in her last days.....the referee broke the rules and let him keep it on his helmet. We all thought that was really neat. I gave Shelley a pendant & she broke down & cried. She was really touched....and didn't even know it was Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Please dear readers....if you haven't had your yearly mammogram....schedule it today! Don't delay.....early detection is essential. Sometimes I have the tendency to blow things off. This is something we should never blow off. I recently told my father this....about my blowing off tendency. He is a retired physician. He begged me to not ever blow this off. My dad doesn't react like that about all things. Note to self....'If dad is serious about this....I MUST be serious about this.' Don't delay....pick up the phone...and schedule your appointment today!!!

Baby Chicks.......

2011-10-10T03:29:00.001-07:00

Well as excited as I am you would think that I hatched these cuties myself. The word 'grandma' has crossed my mind. These little sweeties were hatched sometime yesterday. The eggs were nestled under momma the night before & we had chicks the next day. Our momma hen hatched 5 of the most adorable little chicks. We had chicks this spring, but we used a heat lamp to keep them warm. This momma was one of our baby chicks this spring. In less than 6 months we have our very own little hatchlings. We are so excited to see Gods work unfold before our very eyes. The miracle of life is such a joy to see. Lincoln said it is so neat to see that the momma knew exactly what to do even though she made it in life her first few months with a heat lamp & not her real mother. I think that is neat too. I am so glad I get to share this journey of life with Lincoln. It is awesome to see his compassion & joy in experiencing life.

Handmade University.....debriefed

2011-10-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

In September I had the awesome pleasure of traveling to Omaha with my wonderful friend Stephanie of Crowns & Pearls. We attended Rachel Velder's Handmade University. It was phenomenal. Here you see how we were greeted by the lovely & creatively talented Michelle Gellar & Rachel. It was Handmade University....so everything was school themed....hence the chalkboard!!!

We were taught how to make real books and learned (because it was school) everything you ever needed to know about a book. But just like how it was when I was in 'real' school....I have forgotten all the technical stuff....and just remember how to do the method. I am a hands on learner.....and Michelle showed us each step beautifully. I was the question ask in the group....of course.....but I really wanted to learn how to make the book. Each student was very creative & talented. I rekindled old friendships....& made new friends too!!

Rachel taught the next class....it was making a quilt block. It was so fun. We were given an artists canvas and then sky was the limit. I saw painted quilts....& stitched quilts....& then some that didn't even really look like quilts. That's the beauty of an art retreat. So many talented ladies doing what they do best.....creating. Mine is in the forefront....and looks bling-ey. Would an art project I make be complete without a frozen charlotte or two???? Someday I will show you a close up.....it is really quite cute.

I loved Handmade U so much that when I came home I immediately began an art journal for my niece for her birthday. I didn't want to forget how to make the book....so I had to use what I learned right when I got home. It was really wonderful using all the supplies I had at home. I added candy, & gift cards, and toys & trinkets, a few hair clips attached to the pages. It was so fun to make for her....and the best part....she will want me to teach her how to make one for herself. The one on the left is the one I made at Handmade U. See those little polka dot tabs???? That is the Japanese masking tape that Michelle Gellar has made famous!!!! Stephanie & I fell in love with it and used it a lot at Handmade U. I think we bought every color so we could swap & share when we got home.

We stayed at Minglewood Lodge. It was a wonderful place. Very comfortable and conducive to creating. Very well thought out. Our lovely teachers exhausted us with many methods & techniques.....so much so that Michelle Early & I had to host 'Starbucks'. We made everyone Caffe Mochas complete with sound affects to mimic Starbucks. I can't wait until second semester begins....to see what my wonderful new teachers can come up with to teach me!!!

Hey Football Fans....

2011-10-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hi Blog Friends....I have been away for awhile....and I

have missed you! I have been having so much fun & enjoying

fall & all the fall related activities.....like FOOTBALL.

Check out the cute new soldered pendants I created for a

friend & her little girl. They are going to love them.

Just the perfect amount of bling for them.

Another fun thing that I got to do was attend Handmade U. More

on that later. It was a great time. Michelle Gellar & Rachel Velder

inspired me beyond belief! So much so that I came home and spent

a week organizing my craft room so I can create to my little hearts

desire....and make some great things!

I hope you have an inspiring & beautifully creative afternoon!

My Gaga's Sweet Pickles.....

2011-08-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

These are my grandmother's unique pickles. I did a quick google

search & couldn't find this recipe. She was the love of my life & I

called her Gaga until she took her last breath. I miss her everyday.

I made these pickles because my father loves them & he was her

youngest son....yesterday he had hip replacement surgery & he can

enjoy these delicious pickles while he recovers.

Here they are all canned up & ready to go into the refrigerator.

That is where they are stored. I think it is because you don't cook

them & there are cloves of fresh garlic in them. They will keep indefinitely

in the refrigerator though.

These pickles are sweet.....& the funny thing is.....they are made from

whole dill pickles.....that is why I call them unique. Gaga was always very

particular that each jar got garlic cloves & cinnamon sticks. She said it

made for a pretty presentation & I couldn't agree more. I hope you try

making these easy & fun pickles. People get such a kick out of them

because they are made from dill pickles. Here's the recipe......

Crisp Sweet Pickles

1 Gallon Kosher dill pickles, drained

1 box (or jar in our world today) cinnamon sticks

2 buds garlic

5 pounds of sugar

1 Cup Cider Vinegar (used on the last day)

Slice the whole dills into 1/4 inch slices, thinner if you are using them

for sandwiches. Break the cinnamon sticks into 1 inch long pieces. Break

open and peel the garlic into cloves. Place the sliced pickles, garlic, &

cinnamon sticks into large crock. Gaga specifies it must not be metal. Pour

in the 5 gallon bag of sugar. When it has dissolved give it a good stir. You will

want to stir your pickles each day for 5 days....using a wooden spoon. Gaga was

very explicit about this because the pickles will be very crisp & a metal spoon

might break them. On the fifth day add 1 Cup of cider vinegar. Stir & allow

to stand for 1 hour. When the hour is up fill your jars....and don't forget to add

those garlic cloves and cinnamon sticks to each jar.

My grandmother....Gaga... was the love of my life. She departed this earth

in May of 2000 at the age of 88. I miss her every day.....& I make these

pickles as a tribute to her. I hope that you enjoy them as much as

my family enjoys them.

Some Bridal Jewelry.......

2011-08-28T06:28:00.000-07:00

A little snippet here.....a little snippet there. I know these cuffs

have been such the rage. Now I know why. They are so fun

to make. Little, sweet bits of vintage goodness. I was thrilled when

my friends daughter wanted me to create her bridal jewelry. A true

compliment is given when the younger generation likes what you do.

I was really nervous too. I am finishing up so that I can present them

next weekend over the holiday.

Here is a close-up of the headpiece for the maid of honor. I really

don't understand these new head garters as I like to call them....but

apparently the younger girls like them. I am not sold quite yet.....but

I love the vintage yumminess that I have added & hope the bride does

too. It is a destination wedding....I won't be attending....so I guess if the

bride really doesn't like these pieces she won't have to use them.....that

takes a lot of pressure off me.

Dorm Life...........

2011-08-25T03:50:00.001-07:00

This is what I have been doing this week. We moved Lindsey into

her first college dorm on Sunday. It is so exciting & unbelievable

at the same time. She is going to IU & living in the Kelley Living

Learning Center in McNutt. She is in the IU Kelley School of Business

and wants to major in finance......Oh my goodness....let's just say she fell

far from her momma's apple cart....which is a really good thing!!!!

Here is a picture of the room mates. This is Nisha and

she is from Chattanooga TN. I think they are going to get

along beautifully. Nisha got a little homesick & we dealt with

a few tears. We have been adopted as her parents away from

home. I guess that is part of the beauty of going to college in your

home town. That has been a true blessing....but I still feel this huge

empty nest. It is much more lonely having her gone. Lincoln & I seem

to just rattle around the house together.

Lindsey's bed isn't AS GOOD as her home bed.....but we got a mattress

topper & she is thrilled with it. So....that is great. It is very cozy and

cute & helps makes her space her own.

Nisha's big sister graduated in the spring from Georgia Tech....so she knew

exactly how to create a beautiful desk space. I didn't jump in and help

create or anything....but let me tell you when glue & scissors come out....

it is really hard for me not to dive in. She made Lindsey & Nisha matching

desk bulletin boards. I was very impressed and Lindsey was thrilled.

I bought the desk organizers from Office Depot....Lindsey had seen them

on Facebook in another friends room.

ummmm......the closet is spacious.....NOT. I really don't know how Lindsey

is going to survive this one part of dorm living....but so far so good. I think she

will be just fine. We are so excited to see how she just blossoms at IU. I know

she will take the campus by storm. She is so excited to go through rush and

work on the big fundraiser for IU Dance Marathon. I know one thing for sure....

I miss her a bunch.....but know this is just the next chapter in raising a

beautiful daughter....I love how it is going.

Some Belgium Lace.....and some gorgeous buttons...

2011-08-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

While out junking yesterday I came across these gorgeous linen towels. I love the look and adore displaying them in my powder room. I love the tag just as much as the towel as I am a huge lover of vintage labels. The navy & white is so crisp & clean and reminds me of the final days of summer.

Aren't these just the most YUMMY! These celluloid buttons about took my breath away. Truly, the photo doesn't do these justice because they are the most beautiful shade of amber with a cream colored 'dogwood' blossom. I fell in love with these the moment I saw them at the re-sale shop.

And once again....the photo doesn't do these justice either. The outside edge are pave set rhinestones. The center is a yummy mother of pearl. These buttons are convexed which gives them the most beautiful look. I ADORE these buttons & can't wait to make something so special from them. Maybe adorning a lovely sampler....or maybe added to a special Christmas stocking????

I would be remiss if I didn't add these adorable spools. They will add to my collection so nicely. None of them are too special.....but I like 'mass' in my collections....because you never know when you might need that special part of your collection for an art project. I hope you have enjoyed seeing my sweet vintage finds that I got while out junking the other day. Blessings for an artfully creative evening.

Little Glimpses.....

2011-08-17T12:11:00.001-07:00

I can't show you the finished projects yet....but

here are some of the supplies I have been using. I

can't wait to post to you the finished projects.

Maybe you can guess what these are??? I think they are fun.

Very holiday. I had to use up a bunch of glue.....so

I made these. Tint your glue with a little brown paint

for a yummy vintage look. I think it really makes things

look special..... & very vintage.

What's not to like about felted balls of pink.....vintage

mercury glass balls & hannah silk ribbon.

What a yummy combination....sure to make your heart swoon.

This will surely please....when you see where it is going.

I can't wait....but don't tell anyone....it is such a fun

surprise. Remember....Santa is checking his list.

......and these little ditties are for a special friends wedding.

Not exactly sure how they will turn out....but I think she

will be thrilled.

A New Kind of Trail Mix.....

2011-08-16T13:48:00.000-07:00

I have known that I loved these dark chocolate almonds

from the moment I tried them. It is like having a dessert....

but in a healthy kind of way. I buy mine in the huge 38 ounce

container at Sam's Club. They are my go to snack. But I came up with this

delicious new taste sensation that I know you are going

to love. You simply must try this concoction.

Raisins have always been a personal favorite

of mine. So sweet & delicious. But added together

with cheerios & cocoa almonds......YUMMY!

Literally.....I just dumped into a ziploc baggie. Shook

it up really well & put it in my purse. Now I have a healthy

choice that I really like. So portable & simple easy to make.

I know you will adore this little snack. Do you have any super

easy....super healthy things that you like to eat? I would

love to hear from you....and I know others would too. Have a

wonderfully healthy evening.

Family Room Re-Do....

2011-08-02T05:15:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I sat down to complete some special orders. I

couldn't concentrate and I didn't feel inspired. Sure....those

projects around the home that were screaming at me had

needed tending to for a long time....in some instances for years.

In some instances.....since we moved in18 years ago. But yesterday....

they screamed louder. I couldn't take it anymore....so I called my

mom. "Please...come over...let's play". So...I took down a large mirror

that was so ugly...years ago....I thought mantles needed mirrors above

them....NOT. I added this adorable vintage game table.....my

vintage collection of tops....some old stools & some old boxes. I love

the look...it is playful & this is a nice space to recreate in now

which is where we play video games & watch movies as a family.

I love this hand-lettered vintage sign. I bought it for Jeff

for his birthday. (I love presents that are for him & me!!!)

I had been dying to hang it. All though my room is red & green...

this touch of blue works for me. I have some accent pieces

that are in the grey tones that have original paint & I don't want

to change them....I am working with what I have. That is one of my

motto's. I really don't ever get rid of too much & rarely feel that

I make furniture 'mistakes'. Buy what you love....if you like it....

it will work.

Okay....I know this looks sparse....but I love the grouping

on the wall. The large circle thing is something from

a working farm. I don't know what it is....but I

bought it originally to use at a picnic to keep flies off

foods & desserts. That never happened....so onto the wall

it went. My mom thought I was crazy but I like how it

picks up the brown colors from the woods. My mom loved

it after I did it. I made the little rabbit framed picture. I love

stitching. I felt flattered when my mom asked where I

got it & was able to say I created it. That little red hinged

box is my saving grace. I am putting cuddly blankets in there.

Part of the reason for the re-do was the atrociousness & chaotic

feel to the room. The family wanted a cozy room & had ugly

gross blankets & pillows every where. Today...I will buy some soft....

fuzzy blankets that will be housed....out of the way for our comfort.

I always love the fabrics I pick out for furniture. This

is my favorite chair. It is big enough for 2....but isn't

a love seat. I think it is cozy. I loved picking up the reds &

greens in the room. I didn't buy one thing except a couple

of lampshades. I shopped my house for the things I have

collected over the years. Really....that is the way I decorate.

Kind of a hodge-podge kind of way...but it works for me. I really

hesitated posting these photos.....I guess because they don't look

like magazine photos. I'm trying to keep this blog real....I want it

to reflect me....so these are my 'normal' photos of my home.

This is a close-up of something I have always loved. I bought

it for an Easter decoration.....but somehow.....can't ever seem

to put it away. Once again...the red & green circulates around the

room. I hope you have enjoyed my little room re-do. Now I

feel inspired & accomplished. Ready to tackle more of my to-do

list to make the ever daunting task of home keeping fresh

& updated. Are you tackling any projects around your home...if so...

please share your photos so we can be inspired by you. Also...if you are interested

in my 200th post give away....scroll to the last post and sign up. Have an artfully

inspiring & creative day.

200th Post Give-Away....

2011-07-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

As I anxiously await the 200th post to my blog.....I wanted to let

you know of my 200th post give-away. I am excited because

to me.....200 posts represents stick to it-ness. I didn't really think

I would keep this up....and I have grown to love it so much. Mostly....

I have grown to love all of my blog friends.

So here's to you....dear friends....& new ones too.....a little give-away

for you. I have put together 24 spools

of bakers twine. They each have 25 yards for your enjoyment.....

red....green....& blue.....tied up with vintage sheet music & tulle.

They are really all gussied up.....and cute.

Here's how to receive one of my little give-aways. Become a

follower of my blog & leave a comment in the comment section.

I just love to receive comments....it is the happiest part of my day

actually. Then.....drop me an email with your address and I will mail

out your little spool of goodness. I think it is safer posting addresses

in an email than in the comment section. You will find my email in

my profile section. If you are already a follower...don't fret...just add

a comment & send me your address in an email. I really look forward

to hearing from you.

Finally....share with your friends. Also....one other little bit

of information.....this give-away ends on August 3rd, 2011 on the day

I anticipate entering my 200th post. Thank you all....my wonderful

blogging community. Thanks to the ones that have inspired me over

the years. It is my hope that I will inspire others to join this wonderful....

artful....inspiring community.

Her Majesty.....waits

2011-07-28T06:41:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I showed you some roses that I made. Today

I created this crown with the roses. Not the whole crown today....

but the embellishments. Here is a close-up of

the roses with some added vintage leaves. See...it is

proof I just completed it....you can still see the blue

glue....but don't worry....that will dry clear with the

hint of Martha Stewart glitter I added for a faint glimmer.

You can almost see it in its entirety. I am just in awe

of the beauty of the roses. A little bit stunned to be

exact. I really think they look vintage & realistic.

I added vintage rhinestones and of course had to

throw in some pearls. I adorned it with tulle &

velvet ric rac. This was really fun to create and

a little challenging. I joined The Fairy Society & took

Sherry's online class to make the base for the crown. I

hope you have enjoyed my crown creation. Have a beautifully

inspiring day.

Little Pink Roses.....

2011-07-27T13:15:00.001-07:00

I have been wanting to make really pretty flowers all summer

long. Realistic....yet scrunchy yummy....with a vintage flair. I

think I finally did it. After looking at the lovely tutorials out there

& wholeheartedly following all the ladies directions....I couldn't master

it. So....I resorted to a life altering method I learned from Betz White

at Silver Bella last year. These yummies are made from hand dyed

coffee filters.....coffee stained with just a hint of tulle scrunched

in for texture. They look almost like a real dried prom flower.

Here is one of the blossoms in all its glory. Don't you just love

how the coffee has dried around the edges. If I hadn't added the

pretty tulle....which I really love....and wouldn't want to change....it

really would look like a dried rose.

This beauty sat in front of me & screamed inspiration. I actually

couldn't take my eyes off it and had to create something. That is why

beauty needs to be in front of me (note to self) at all times....to inspire

creative beauty.

These were Lindsey's 19th birthday roses. I made the

bouquet for her last week. They are just lasting.....& lasting....

& lasting. I really can't believe it. I had to add a little 'mom'

flair to the bouquet. I don't think she likes crowns as much as me....

but she plays along & she is my darling princess. Let me know what you

think about the sweet roses. I am not a tutorial person....but I would love

to let you know what I did to create them.

Under water fun....

2011-07-26T04:46:00.000-07:00

It's hard to get them all together...but under water is even more

difficult. We almost did it....we are minus one....sweet Hannah....but

Sarah replaced her as cousin in waiting. Here all the cousins flutter

under water. What I am most thrilled with is that they all still want

to be together. Ranging in age from 19 all the way down to 7. We

spend our summer at the pool and we do it together as often as we

can. What are your summer fun activities? Please share them with me

as comments are the high light of my day...when I'm not at the pool!

My Favorite Things......

2011-07-23T04:57:00.000-07:00

The other day I posted about using my favorite things in my art.

I wasn't always able to do that. Creating a warm and inviting space

to create in has helped. Being able to be inspired by the things

I love has helped me to do just that. Also....attending art retreats

like 'My Favorite Things' hosted this month by Kim Hanauer forces you

in a positive way to use and create with beauty. This photo captures

beauty to the right of my soldering station. I love the 'dingy-ness' of the baby shoes.

This is probably one of my favorite little pieces I have ever done.

I love the colors. I love the textures. I love the method. This was

part of a sampler that I made for Christine Edwards in A Swap For All

Season's. I came out of my comfort zone. That is one of the many reasons

I just love to swap. I have come to love stitching....it is restful and there

are so many neat techniques I remember my grandmother teaching me.

My mother gave me this little typewriter. She said it was me. I

couldn't agree more. I love how it looks like I typed in my name.

Believe it or not.....it is one of my favorite things. The reason....because

my mom supports my art. She is very creative....but doesn't create any more.

She says she supports artists. I think that is neat. So now my mom comes

over....sits with me sometimes while I create and 'supports' me.

It is fun....and yes....I am trying to get her to create something!

This is in front of my soldering station. I love the way that the

class pieces are stored. I love the containers. I love looking at

the unfinished pieces.....they speak to me.....and remind me....that

my work is never finished.

Housing neat and interesting pieces is always inspiring to me. I bought

this cute mermaid....someday it will be made into something for

my mom. She loves.....and collects mermaids. And oh....those rhinestone

rings.....I LOOOOOVE them. They came off a vintage sweater. They inspire

me and sometimes I use them in my art. What all this artful inspiration

has taught me....is use what you love. Use the good stuff....you are worth

it & trust me it inspires others....especially me. Have a beautifully

inspiring & artfully creative day.

Our First Chicken Eggs

2011-07-22T12:58:00.001-07:00

Yesterday.....it happened. Something I have been so excited to experience. Well it happened yesterday. Lincoln went out to the

coup like he does every morning. We knew it was getting close....and

yesterday it was here. Our chickens layed for the first time. We have

received 6 beautiful brown hued eggs. Three yesterday....& three

today. It is a miracle. I am so happy. I can't believe something

so simple is making me this happy. Are there simple miracles in your

life that make you exquisitely happy? If so please share them with me

in the comment section....I'd love to hear about them.

My First Shadow Box.....I'm loving it!

2011-07-21T13:09:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure to visit Kim Hanauer

in Nashville and attend her special art retreat......

My Favorite Things. That is why I packed this cameo.

I have been wanting to use it in a piece of art for a long time.

It's old. It's real. It's gorgeous and I chose to put it in my art.

My mom says I am worth it & can use the good stuff to create

with. It makes my pieces look better don't you think??? Thanks

mom for giving such creative license & and always supporting me.

I also packed this crest. This too....I have been wanting to create with.

When she said bring your favorites....I knew I would grab this.

It was cheap. It was discarded. Yet to me beautiful. It went into

my special crafting tin that as of yet.....I have been taking it to

all the art retreats for my 'specials'.....and also my 'shares'. You

never know when your neighbor might want to share something from

your tin. I love it against the vintage ledger paper....that always

makes all my creations look terrific I think.

...and oh my mercy....this just spoke to me. I didn't have this little

cutie with me so she went on when I got home. But I did bring

this scrumptious vintage rhinestone buckle....after all it was

'My Favorite Things'....and wouldn't you all have to have it if you

saw it at the antique mall too? The vintage German paper is so yummy...

it is from an old German bible....and I just had to have it...and yes....it

is some of my favorite paper....so I had to bring it!!

Here's the finished project....the camera just doesn't capture it's

beauty.....but as my mom says.....'You're an artist...not a photographer'.

Thanks again for that creative license. She right though. I almost quit

blogging because I couldn't take good pictures.....but I LOVE the creative

outlet that blogging provides....plus all the GREAT friends I am blessed

to have. So as long as you can all tolerate the poor photo quality....I will

keep blogging. Thanks Kim for teaching me these lovely techniques &

sharing your exquisite 'favorites'.

Baseball Tournament......despite the 105 heat index!

2011-07-20T05:35:00.000-07:00

This past weekend.....Lincoln participated in a baseball Tournament.....

despite the high heat index. Fans as well as players were

miserable. We had a blast though.....we took the RV and tailgated

and had some relief from the heat because of the AC in the RV. Here

Lincoln makes an awesome bunt to advance some base runners.

(Word to self......you don't know baseball terms!!!) I am just there as

a proud mother and to be a support to my darling young man.

We played on a horrible field. The biggest advantage I saw was that

numerous home runs were hit. The field was only 255 & our home field

is regulation at 355....so that was a big boost for some of the egos on our team.

We even had a couple of grand slams. Here.....after 6 games our tired and hot

boys graciously gave us a group photo. Didn't have the heart to make them

pose for the picture. They look like the bad news bears I think.

We were all saying prayers when the ambulance had to come. Two

young men on the Avon team collided. One boy was totally fine....the other

had to go to the hospital for a knee injury.....he possibly has fractured

his femur......we are still waiting on the results. This young man continues

to be in my prayers. The conditions....and non-regulation length of the field

cause me to believe an accident could have been prevented. All in all.....a great

time was had by all. We took 2nd in the tournament. I love a good baseball tournament.

Farmhouse.....a unique dining experience

2011-07-18T10:57:00.001-07:00

Last week....with the heat index hovering right at 112 degrees....

we decided to road trip. My sister Jill.....girlfriend Amy.....and my

stepmother (Good Golly I sure hate that word!!) left on our

excursion to Brown Co. Indiana. We were headed to Farmhouse Cafe....a

delightful little restaurant where their home cooking is really

home cooking.... meaning....that the Auntie really does get up at 4:00 a.m.

to prepare the freshest pies....soups.....and salads. I had the best

broccoli soup I have ever eaten....

Situated around their spectacular nursery & antique shop.....this

was almost pure heaven for me. The other girls loved it too.

Their specialty plants were exquisite....and had it not been so

hot I would have enjoyed it even more.

I hope that I am not one of these persons....& that I truly do

see the beauty that surrounds me. Honestly.....I truly know that

I am NOT one of those people....because on a daily basis....I thank

God for the beauty that I see.

Their plantings were wonderful....even on the scorcher of a day

that we decided to road trip. I hope that the group of gardeners

I road tripped with will want to make this into a 2 time a year

excursion....because I need to go to this sweet spot a lot. I hope this finds

you cool....happy....and creatively blessed.

.....I Love The Small Packages!

2011-07-15T04:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday....this gorgeously wrapped small package came

in the mail. It made me really happy because yesterday

July 14 was my 21st wedding anniversary. It wasn't from Jeff.....

rather from LuLu Kellogg. I was anxiously awaiting this

package since the day I ordered it.

Here's what was inside....this awesome pendent. I love anything

with a fluer-di-lis. So I was smitten with this piece anyway.

What really sold me though....was LuLu found this vintage

drawer pull in the basement of her 1890's Victorian home.

Stories like that just get me....because as you are well aware I live

in a vintage farm house from the 1850's. I love this piece....and I am

sure it will always be one of my favorites.

I guess I just might as well confess....I have sort of been on

a spending spree. Look at this lovely.....(which isn't captured as

beautifully on camera as it is in person). This piece was created

by Kim Hanauer. It is created from a 1950's stretch rhinestone

bracelet with a gorgeous rhinestone broach attached. I love

it's casual....yet dressing look.....plus it is super comfortable. I

don't buy into the old adage....it's better to look beautiful....than

feel beautiful. I guess when you are 45 & married 21 years.....

comfort is a big plus! I hope you have enjoyed seeing my

purchases. Thank you to my lovely friends for

being so creative & beautifully talented.

My New Stairway.....

2011-07-14T05:58:00.000-07:00

Okay.....so I am not the best photographer....but I wanted to get it all in

and there is a wall there. So.....I have been wanting to do this for a

very long time & it finally happened. I stenciled 'But as for me & my

house we will serve the Lord. Joshua 24:15' up the steps of my

staircase. This staircase is in my kitchen & leads to the bedrooms

upstairs. My kitchen is black....red.....& white. I accent with other colors

and I have a silhouette wall which is perfect with the black & white.

Here....I will show you some of my favorites.

This was one of the first 'intricate' ones that I cut. Ironically.....it is

a man cutting a silhouette.....which I found neat. I LOVE the vintage

ledger paper I mounted it on. The old papers took my silhouettes to a new

level. That is one reason I am so grateful for the art community.

So.....having a daughter & a son always makes me want to have boys &

girls together. But I also am not opposed to having 2 girls in a

silhouette. Of course I have nieces & friends. Really.....any silhouette

is game for me.

This is one of my all time favorites. I don't know if you can read the

inscription.....but it says 'Lincoln age 9, May 14, 2006'. My sweet son cut this for

me for Mother's Day. He shot his first turkey that day....so to commemorate the

turkey hunting & Mother's Day....he cut this sweet turkey. I will treasure

this special gift for always. Where ever your artful journey takes you today....I hope

you are blessed. I hope you enjoyed my staircase & some of my

favorite silhouettes.

Tiny Bear.....My Friend Tina Jensen

2011-07-13T07:37:00.000-07:00

A Couple of years ago I was smart enough to say I would love to swap

internationally. When Heather Rawley of Speckled Egg hosted

her very first Petite Inspiration Box Swap I was more than willing

to sign on that dotted line. I jumped at the chance....and lucky I did....

because I was paired with the sweetest & ever so talented Tina Jensen

of Tiny Bear. She lives in Denmark and makes....well you guessed it

.....Tiny Bears. They are wonderful....I don't know how she stitches so

tediously....but I am amazed. Several months ago.....I invited Tina to do a

one on one swap together really hoping she would say yes...and she did. Look at

all the lovelies she sent to me.....wrapped up so prettily in my favorite.....old

pattern paper. I was really hoping that she would send me one of her

journals....and she did. But I never dreamed it would be all the wonderfulness

that also came in the box. The pincushion is my favorite....it is grey and

created with the most gorgeous tapestry. What really made my heart

squeal though...were the vintage postage stamps she sent all tied up with

jute. Too cute!!!! Also....she made me an artists canvas with roses that is

really pretty. And of course the old tin and cabinet cards. Thanks so much

my sweet Danish friend.....some day I hope to meet in person this sweet

swap friend of mine.

Here is what I sent to her....that she so lovingly captured. (As usual....I forgot

to photograph what I sent.) I made her this cute bird box.....in the Petite Inspiration

Box form....from a match box. I love how it turned out. I like so much just the

hint of color in the bird eggs. I had a lot of fun creating this piece & I adore

the bird's tail feathers made from vintage sheet music that I Gesso'd up and

twirled. I hope that Tina liked it....as much as I enjoyed making it.

Our swap contents were really similar. It probably wouldn't be me.....

if I didn't add some cabinet cards. I love them....and buy them

every chance I get. I feel they are discarded and need a place to call

home. Especially the baby & children cards. That really makes me

so sad....to think they have been discarded.

.....and if you know me.....frozen charlottes almost always accompany

anything I send. I knew that Tina had recently been on holiday to

Germany.....and was really hoping to find some frozen charlottes. She

had no such luck.....so I of course had to make her day and send her

some. I also couldn't resist sending her a soldered piece with vintage

lace. I know Tina loves laces and purchases them every opportunity she gets.

We are kindred sisters that way.

It really is uncanny....Tina & I sent so many neat things to each other.

What's really funny.....so many of the things we sent were the same.

I guess when you are drawn to someone.....you are bound to have many

similarities. Many days I spend thinking of my sweet Danish friend Tina. I

wish we lived closer together so we could meet in person....hopefully....

that day will happen. Have a glorious day....creating & being productive

in some sweet way.

Kim Hanauer's Art Retreat.......'My Favorite Things'

2011-07-12T16:15:00.000-07:00

As someone recently said to me....I am on the art retreat circuit. It's

true. They are inspiring.....and they help me be artful. I was

so fortunate to be able to attend Karla Nathan's Birdsong Retreat

in April. A lovely event. I also am fortunate to be going to Rachel Velder's

Handmade University. I can't wait to get back to Omaha. So.....it

was a true blessing when Kim Hanauer invited me to come to Nashville TN

back in January to attend her art retreat which gathered this past

weekend......'My Favorite Things'. She sure new my favorite things. We had a ball.

Just look at the supplies & how they were packaged. She knew the key to

my heart.....I was swooning. Nothing second rate here.....she let us work

with all her special treasures. I was flattered. You know how it is....when

you work with the best your projects turn out beautifully.

Here is one such creation. I adore how it turned out. I brought some of

the embellishments like the silhouette tin....and the 'Mother' pin (Thanks Heather

of Speckled Egg)....also the rhinestone's...buttons......and sweet Kana shared

her velvet with me. We always love being table mates. We like to share.

I am thrilled that we have gotten close. It is really nice to travel to Nashville to see

Kana & Kim.

And this little ditty.....well Kim called it.....'The Happy Hour Project'.

We did away with alcohol and just created to our hearts desire.

This little girl we got to embellish up and add ribbons & rhinestones.

They looked so cute after we were finished. One of the best parts of the

weekend though was getting to rekindle a friendship with LuLu Kellogg. She

is an absolute doll. We met at Silver Bella and became fast friends. We have

kept in contact with little gifts of love and emailing and blogging to each

other. So....not only do art retreats inspire me....but they bless me in

so many ways. I hope this post finds you in and artfully creative way....and

blessed by the friends that you have in your life.

Hawaii......

2011-07-11T04:12:00.001-07:00

So.....here are the last photos of our awesome summer vacation.

Our last leg of the trip....we landed on US soil.....

and that is always an incredible feeling for me. There really

isn't a good way to describe it other than to say that

I love my country!!! Here we are in front of our awesome

hotel. We are getting ready to leave for the Luau.

I guess one of the best things for me about going on vacation

is noticing the beauty that surrounds me. The sunsets

were magnificent. The beaches awesome. Here we pose at

the luau. I really loved the luau. The food was wonderful. The pig

was incredible....I will pass on the Poi....it was awful!!!! Is there

anyone out there in blogland that likes Poi???? Please let me know......

also the second worse thing I ate on the trip was.....Vegemite.

No.....don't let anyone tell you that it is an Australian substitute for

peanut butter.....and yes.....we tried it the way Australian's really

eat it thinly spread over a lavishly buttered piece of toast.

Of course I knew that my awesomely athletic son would be able

to surf! What I didn't know is that Jeff.....just 3 days after

turning 50 would be able to do it as well!!! Jeff & Lincoln

had a ball surfing the waves of Waikiki.

Lincoln said surfing was really exhausting. No wonder all those

surfers look so fit!

Here Jeff & Lincoln take their lesson.....on dry land.

I am so happy that they got to try surfing.

......and I will save the best for last. I say best only

because it was incredible to be at Pearl Harbor. Our countries

resting place for so many soldiers. I admire and respect the men &

women that have died for me. Have protected our country

for me to have the life that I have. All though we didn't get to tour

Pearl Harbor long enough....we did get to see a lot....and it is somewhere

that I will definitely go back to see again.

All in all this summer vacation was absolutely terrific.....as Lincoln says

it was our last family vacation since Lindsey goes off to college this fall....but

I know that isn't true....a lot of awesome vacationing lays in front of us.

I hope that you have an awesome & wonderfully creative day. Over the

weekend I traveled to Nashville TN....to visit Kim Hanauer. I met her

at Silver Bella. I attended her wonderful art retreat......'My Favorite Things'.

I can't wait to show you the awesome things we created. I got to

sit at the table with LuLu & Kana.....beautiful Bellas. We had

so much fun. It was awesome to catch up with them.

Australia.........

2011-07-08T06:21:00.001-07:00

A-STRAY-IA.....that's how it's pronounced. I never knew that. Let me

tell you being in Sydney is like being in any big city in the US.....but

hey.....you are in Australia. It truly is amazing and beautiful in

it's own way. When I thought of Australia....of course I thought about the famous

Sydney Opera House. So capturing a photo was pretty important to me.

Lindsey said 'Mom....if you want a great picture of the Sydney Opera House

.....just get it of the internet'. She's right....but then it wouldn't be MY photo.

With us in it. We are in the harbor.....right in front of the Opera House.....

how cool is that?

I fell in love with the series Bondi Rescue....kind of like the US show Baywatch

but more like a reality TV show because it is interactive on the beach with

all the rescues & Blue Bottle Jelly Fish stings. Apparently they are a horrible jelly-fish

and the sting is awful. Bondi Beach was beautiful and a huge area for surfing.

Since it was winter in Australia....there weren't many beach combers....and judging

by our attire.....I couldn't even put my big toe in the ocean. Here we are in front of the

famous Lifeguard station. They rescue 2500 drowning people a year. Only 2 people have

died on Bondi Beach in the last 30 years due to the exceptional lifeguards that dedicate

their lives to keeping people safe. Truly.....an amazing profession!!!

Now....this was what I was waiting for. The Koala's. AMAZING!

These truly are the cutest creatures I have ever seen. I could have just

snuggled in with these cuties the WHOLE vacation. The boys are so

stinky....so I will take a lil' girl any day. We went to the Featherdale

rescue where we got to feed and hold the Koala's. These spoiled

littles only eat the tips off the Eucalyptus branches....because they are

the most tender and delicious.

Maybe in the wild Kangaroos are vicious....mean.....tormenting

animals....but we definitely say the lovable side. We LOVED the

kangaroos and they had such sweet dispositions. Their dexterity was

incredible and they would eat right out of your hand......picking up the ice cream

cone feed servers. We got a huge kick out of this.

This was a favorite photo opportunity for many on the trip.

Hold on to HOPE. We got a huge kick out of this. Jeff seems really

tickled by this. We had a great time in Australia. I will definitely go back.....

but next time....I am going to the Outback! I wanted to see

Crocodile Dundee! I hope you have an artfully creative and blessed day.

I am traveling to Nashville TN to go to Kim Hanauer's art retreat....

'My favorite things'. I can't wait to see Kana & LuLu and to meet all the other

creative ladies. Oh.....and don't forget Norm....Kim's amazing husband....I am

sure he will be doting on each and everyone of us!

New Zealand........

2011-07-07T05:07:00.000-07:00

I mentioned in my last post when we were in Fiji that it was winter.

I wasn't kidding. When we got to New Zealand.......it

was freezing. Lindsey & I had to buy some hats.....sure....hats

were mentioned on the packing list but we were idiot

tourists and didn't listen. Actually....when you are traveling from

98 degree weather back home not even including the heat

index.....well hats just aren't on your mind. The lakes & other

scenery like the giant Redwoods were breathtaking.

Did you know that there are more sheep in New Zealand.......

than people?????? They are grazing every where.

My next pet will definitely be a sheep. It is only fitting.....

I love wool and wouldn't it be fun to card my own wool? I saw the

process at a local farm in New Zealand. Lindsey loved them too!

We were really excited to see the Maori tribe. They came to our

hotel and served us a special dinner called a Hanni Dinner. It

is cooked under ground by the steam that comes from the

geysers. Thermal heat. Basically.....it is a crock pot in the ground.

My favorite dish was Pavlova. You know the meringue dessert with

fresh fruit. Yes.....kiwi was served with the Pavlova. Kiwi fruit is

very popular in New Zealand....but did you know that the people

of New Zealand are called Kiwi's???

We got to take a huge cable car up the mountain to have

lunch. The scenery and view were exquisite. We had the best

dessert on the mountain. Basically....it was like an

eclair....but better. Then the kids got to ride down the

mountain in a luge car. They had so much fun! Extreme sports

originated in New Zealand.

This is a WW2 Duck. In New Zealand....they call this

a duck bus. We got to ride in this open air 'bus'

all around the area.....and then drive into 2 lakes. So we toured

the lakes in the same bus we toured the land. We had duck quacker

whistles that we honked at all the walkers in the

area! During WW2 the US made 20,000 of these vehicles.

They took supplies & soldiers from ship to land. They weren't

very good vehicles....and this is where the term

sitting duck comes from. Only a few remain today.....and have

been refurbished into tour vehicles.

I hope you have enjoyed hearing about another leg of our trip.

New Zealand was truly one of the most gorgeous places

I have visited...maybe that is why it is called the rainbow

capital of the world. I hope you have an artfully

creative & productive day. Yesterday....I finished my bird tags

for Karla's swap....today....I think I will make some hair accessories!

Fiji.....

2011-07-06T07:53:00.001-07:00

The Fiji Islands were the first part of our South Pacific

vacation. Words or photos can not even

begin to describe the beauty that we witnessed. This

is the private island that we visited and how it

looked as we approached it from the boat that we

had been sailing in for 2 hours. We were deep in the

middle of the South Pacific Ocean.....and could see only this

and the deep blue sea.

As we walked carrying our bags high above our head.....

we were able to look onto the ocean floor and pick up

sand dollars from the bottom of the ocean.

I can't begin to tell you how exceptionally beautiful it was

to see fish and coral. Lindsey, Jeff, & Lincoln scuba dived and saw

even more than I did. Lindsey said scuba diving was

the best part of the trip. Certification.....not needed!!! The

Fijian Islander said as long as they could breathe....they were

fine. When you are deep in the South Pacific simple rules

need not apply.

When you hear the word coconut.....refreshing doesn't really

come to mind.....but it is really refreshing. The Fijian Islanders

climbed up the palm trees and picked and cut coconuts

for Lindsey & Lincoln. We all thought it was delicious.

Placed strategically around the island were these little

'love huts' as I like to call them. They had little

fabric mattresses and thatched roofs. You could

just lounge on one all day and read

or relax. Here, Lindsey & I pose for a photo!

I knew that we were in for the 'foliage' adventure of

our lives.....but this photo just doesn't do it

justice. It was winter in the South Pacific.....

but Bird of Paradise bloomed prolifically as well as many

other gorgeous tropical plants. Fiji was our first stop....and the

next excursion of the tour will be a little glimpse into

New Zealand. More on that next time. I hope you have an

artfully creative day....I will be working on my bird tags

for Karla Nathan's bird tag swap!

An Amazing Gift!

2011-07-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

I'm back after an amazing vacation to the

South Pacific! More on that later though. I can't

wait to show you the wonderful gift

that I found waiting for me when I got home.

Sitting on my kitchen table amongst the enormous

stack of mail that always awaits you when you

arrive home was this gigantic box.....filled

with amazing beauty. Wonderfully wrapped gifts

so plentiful Christmas can't even compare. Wonderful

Somerset magazines....about 12 back issues of

their various publications.....and I love them all!

Handmade treasures like paper mache eggs each one

bestowed with a different vintage paper. Ephemera

galore. All for me....and really I don't even know

why????? Honored yes.....but I still can't figure out

why???? This lovely gift was from the beautiful

Suz Reaney of Katsui Jewelry.....a beautiful gift

in herself. Thank you so much dear friend!

High School Graduation Gifts

2011-06-06T05:12:00.000-07:00

I have always loved high school graduation

time.....but never as much as

this year......2011. This was the year of

Lindsey's graduation. It was so fun

to see where her friends were going to

school.

In honor of that.....I decided to make the girls

pendants with their college of choice.

It was fun to find all the different college logos.

It was fun to find out where each of the

girls were going to school. It personalized

it for me....and gave me a chance to talk

to the girls one on one. I liked that. As a mom,

it made me feel connected.

I made bookmarks with their high school

graduation date. I put 'Love, The Ellington's'

on the back. I just love personalizing things. I think

it is special. Since I couldn't give the boys pendants

I just gave them money. I don't think they felt

slighted....I guess I could have made them college

key rings or something. It was fun going to all

the graduation parties this weekend. I loved passing

out the gifts.....and I think Lindsey did too.

Bling-a-licious!

2011-05-28T05:22:00.000-07:00

I came in from the garden to create a little. Here is what I came

up with. I love how they turned out.

I took vintage game pieces and soldered them. They

are similar to something else I made a while ago....but these

are way better. I love how I attached the vintage

bling.

I love how the numbers show up. I just love anything with old

numbers. The red is really cute. I think a touch of red

on anything is cute. I hope you have enjoyed the little

creations that I made and I hope you have a wonderful

Memorial Day weekend! All blessings to you and your family

on this special weekend.

Unusual....but Lovely House Guest

2011-05-27T04:49:00.000-07:00

On Monday evening we had a HUGE storm. This is what I found

in my mothers yard......displaced from her mommy and

twin sibling. Too feeble to keep up, her mommy left her tucked

hidden in the wet grass. Cold alone.....and quite surely to perish with

out warmth from her mommy. When I called Wildlife, an organization

here in town to help those with wildlife questions know what to

do, they instructed me to watch and see if the mommy came back

by the time it was dark. If not, wrap the sweet fawn in a blanket and

bring her inside. I am no Ellie May, sure I love animals.....but caring for

a feeble......new born fawn????? Surely.....mommy will come back for her.

SURELY never happened. It was 10:00p.m. and long after dark.

So as per our instructions.....I made this the happiest boy

on the face of the planet. Lincoln wrapped the tiny fawn in a

warm fuzzy blanket......brought her home......and now we

had the most unusual and lovely house guest ever! She wasn't

much bigger than a magazine. She wasn't even stretched out.....and we

aren't even sure if she had stood up or walked yet. This was the

sweetest thing I had ever witnessed.....and at that moment....I became

the coolest mom in the world when I asked Lincoln if he would like to

have her in his room. Right then and there.....I literally

became the coolest mom in the world. So.....we bounded up the stairs....

Bambi in tow. Nestled all snug in the warm bed Lincoln & Bambi set out

for one really long....sleepless night. Right about that moment Bambi

decided to get her fawn groove on and stood up & started talking.....well

I should say 'Maaaaaawwwww-ing'. All night long this sweetie

walked around the room. Not quite mastering the hardwood floors......

Lincoln 'carpeted' his room with blankets so she could walk around. I

don't think he got more than 15 minutes of sleep that night....but he was

one happy little guy. At 5:30 a.m. we embarked back over to my

mothers and reunited the fawn with her mommy. Nursed & content....

Bambi snuggled into the soft grass & drifted off for a nice nap. Mommy gave

us a happy & thankful look and bounded off to find the little twin fawn.

This was a life changing event for us. Lincoln said it was his second most

awesome experience ever right next to going to Poland last year. I am glad I

have been a part of both of those experiences. Sharing our lives together

is a blessing.

My Nest Banner From Birdsong

2011-05-25T09:05:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when I go to an art retreat......the last class

I want to bow out on. Maybe I am tired.....maybe

I am just ready to go home. I almost bowed

out on this one. When you are being

instructed by the ever talented Karla Nathan of

Karla's Cottage.....you wouldn't want to

bow out. I had a blast creating this 'Nest' banner.

The 'N' is my favorite piece of the banner.

The vintage wallpaper is so yummy. Karla gave us the little

turquoise egg and taught us how to build up the moss

to make the little nest. Of course when you are with

THE Karla Nathan glitter isn't an option.

Just look at this vintage wallpaper.....Karla must

have learned her sharing technique from

Sugar Wings.....her granddaughter. She passed out these

cute little felted bird nests and I added the mica. Love it! This is

my 'E' piece but the 'E' is turned around.....sorry!

I love the 'S' piece. I hope to make many more banners

in the future. It was really restful and I enjoyed

it immensely. I want to make a L-I-N-D-S-E-Y banner

for Lindsey's graduation party. It is the last item on

my agenda....so I hope to complete that!

Here is my 'T' piece for the banner. I wasn't to keen on

using yellow.....but I loved how it turned out. I guess

a little glitter added with some vintage wallpaper

and old book paper.....what could be bad about that? So.....

really what I guess I am saying....experiment with

different colors because they might just surprise you. I guess

that is what an art retreat is for....to broaden your

creativity. I was blessed to achieve that at Birdsong.

A Bird Song Swap

2011-05-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

I know you all are probably tired of seeing all the Birdsong

hoopla.....but I would be remiss if I didn't post

about the sweet treasure box matchbox I received.

Sherry....of Sherry's Cottage made this wonderful

box for me. She wrapped it in this awesome

vintage hat that looks like it came right out

of Karla's Cottage.

Here it is in all it's splendor. I just was so impressed by

all the minute details that she displayed.

She really paid attention....a girl after my own

heart. I just truly felt special when I received it.

She special ordered this vintage silhouette for me. That just made

me so happy. She really figured 'me' out. How she glued

on all that special bling is beyond me. Sometimes I feel glue

challenged. Do you ever have those days?

Here are some of the yummy gift items that were

meticulously placed in the box. She told me she packed it

and repacked it 4 times. It sure was packed to the

brim. I just love all the treasures inside!

And yes I must mention that I adore my special.....

sweet little inspiration box. I will treasure it for years to

come. If you notice my new 'button'....I am attending Handmade U

in September. My travel companion will be Miss Stephanie Oyler

of Crowns & Pearls. We are both so excited to attend. Check it out...there

are still 2 openings left....and I am sure the will fill up quickly.

Have an inspirationally creative weekend.!

Lindsey's Senior Prom.....A City That Never Sleeps

2011-05-15T16:11:00.000-07:00

It was a magical day. Glorious in fact. Lindsey & I

had so much fun much making the flower arrangements,

her bouquet & Matt's boutonniere. I thought it would be

stressful and that we were making a HUGE mistake.

It was truly an incredibly wonderful experience. I would do

it again in a heartbeat. I just woke up....picked from

the yard & then headed to Kroger for the rest of the

flowers.....easy peasy!!!!!

Someday I hope to do

her wedding flowers....it was that much fun.

Lindsey says "The third time's the charm.

I feel the same way. This was her

third time to attend the prom with

this wonderful young man.....Mr. Matthew Acton.

They have grown up so much....in fact....

they have basically grown up together before

my very eyes.

I absolutely LOVED doing the floral arrangements for the

tables. Lindsey and three others hosted a dinner

at the Country Club for 46 other prom attendees. It was

a really great group of kids....and a neat way for them

to really do a dinner. Securing the location, choosing the menu,

picking napkins.....all those important details that tend to

overwhelm a person. Of course.....they hired THE best florist

in town....and the price was right.....ME!

Of course anyone that knows me.....knows I am all about

the treats and the favors. Here is a sample of what I did....but

there were 4 different versions. I did this one because it

was the most manly. The others were polka dot and flowers.

I filled them with pink....green.....and white M&M's.

They were really cute!!!!!

.....and I would be remiss if I didn't add a sweet

picture of my beautiful daughter Lindsey & me. It was

such a happy day all the way around. I hope this

finds you well & full of special blessings.

Woven Purse....Happy Mother's Day to Me!

2011-05-06T06:53:00.000-07:00

Can you believe little old me made this??? Isn't it

cute. You know what it's like when you take

a new class that turns out to be

life changing......well this is just the one. While

attending Birdsong at Karla's Cottage

I was lucky enough to learn this cute

weaving technique from Lisa McAlvain of

Tarnished & Tattered. It's just like what you did at

Girl Scout Camp....a weaving on a piece of

cardboard. I even made this one at home....so

really anyone can do it! I hope you have an

artfully creative day....try this little ditty....you'll

be amazed at the fun you will have..... and who doesn't have

old fabric and a sheet of cardboard lying around.

Blessings!

Bird Song Recovery Week....I'm still reeling!

2011-05-05T04:35:00.000-07:00

Can I just tell you that Birdsong at Karla Nathan's

was utterly delightful. What an awesome hostess

and creative & generous lady.

These are the teachers and boy did they

inspire me. Carol Spinski, Karla Nathan, Lisa McAlvain,

and Debbie Dussenberry helped us create

wonderful projects. I didn't see anything that was created

turn out badly. These were life changing projects. I will show

you more of mine when I get them photographed.

Here is the treat bag that Karla made for us. They

adorned the backs of our chairs. Lovely treats

were bestowed upon us. I loved adding my treat to

the bag. I love to help sponsor events and adding little

bits of wonder to the bags.

Here I am showing off the awesome banner

that I created in Karla's class. I was 'done' creating

and thought about not even starting the banner.....

but when you are creating in Karla's Cottage

you just can't stop. It is such an inspiring & magical

place. I was so happy that Kana roomed with us Indiana girls.

We loved having her....and hope we didn't keep her

up too much with our snoring.

Here's a little snippet of one of my banner tags. I love

this old piece of vintage wallpaper. I don't normally create

in the yellow family.....but I thought this worked.

It actually was one of my favorite tags. Not only did the banner

turn out beautifully.....but Karla gave us some wonderful

tips about creating that I never knew. That is what I love

so much about going to an art retreat. I am still reeling in all

the little tidbits that I learned.

Only Karla would decorate the table cloths with hand

drawn 'art'. This was such an inviting and warm

creating space. It's no wonder all our projects

turned out fantastically. I didn't see a bad one in the bunch.

I hope that each of you are lucky enough to get to

Karla's Cottage some day. I feel so blessed.

Bird Song Bound...and I can't wait!

2011-04-28T06:15:00.000-07:00

Here is the little ditty that I made for my sponsorship

for Bird Song. I am so giddy with excitement to

be going. I stole these pictures

from Karla.....her son took them and

he did a wonderful job capturing the beauty.

There are even little presents inside for the

participants that attend. This is the most

prepared I have been for an

art retreat. I can't wait to get there. Along

the way we will talk and antique. The 'girlie'

time is really what I crave most.

Also.....art retreats inspire and I can't wait to

get home to create. I hope you have

an artfully creative day.

Preparing for Bird Song

2011-04-12T12:34:00.000-07:00

I am getting so excited to attend Karla's

Bird Song event. Actually...I am

giddy like a child counting down the

days. Three out of the four Indiana girls are

attending...Lisa.....Stephanie.....& Me!

Cherie can't go because of a pre-scheduled

church event.

In preparation for the event I made about 40

of these adorable felted bird nests. Shhhh......I

am a sponsor and they are being used

for my little treat. Really they are quite cute.

I am also using them in a couple of swaps. Two of

the swaps are for Bird Song & the third swap is a

one on one swap with the lovely Tina Jensen

of Tiny Bear from Denmark. We 'met' as

swap partners in I believe the very first Speckled Egg

petite inspiration match box swap. We have kept in

touch and now we are doing an independent swap.

She is a very talented creator and we should

have a lot of fun. I hope you have a wonderfully

creative evening.

Dance Marathon.....for Riley Children's Hospital

2011-04-10T05:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday.....Lindsey danced for those that

couldn't. In an effort to raise necessary money

for Riley Children's Hospital.....Lindsey & a wonderful

team of high school students from Bloomington High School

South hosted the 6th Dance Marathon. They danced for those

that couldn't and raised $68,000 for the kids.....or

better known......FTK. She made these cakes for the

Care Fair to be used for the cake walk. I am really proud

of these dedicated students.....way to go!

Dance Marathon.....for Riley Children's Hospital

2011-04-05T13:38:00.000-07:00

This Saturday Lindsey & her Dance Marathon Team

will host a benefit to help the children that are

patients at Riley Children's Hospital. I made these

pendants to raise money. All proceeds will

benefit the hospital 100%.....I am so proud of

these students who want to make a difference in the

lives of children. Blessings to you for a wonderfully

creative evening.

Little Easter Vignette

2011-04-02T04:18:00.001-07:00

I have been a very sluggish blogger lately. It

has been so drab and gloomy here.

No sunshine....in fact

even SNOW!

So in order to make myself think

it is Spring....I made a few

Springy-Eastery vignettes. Yesterday

I made these eggs covered in

vintage papers. I love the pale blue one

that is made from 1850's vintage ledger paper

I got from Jenni Bolin a few years ago.

I love how they look with my

white ironstone. They really do scream me.

They go nicely with my little white

birds. So maybe these little

vignettes are just what I need to

make me think it is Spring. Today looks

like it might be a beautiful day. A great day to

watch the opening day at the baseball park....

starting with a little double header action.

I hope you have a lovely and inspiring day.

All blessings to you.

State Chapmpions

2011-03-27T05:52:00.000-07:00

So as you know.....I've been gone awhile. I have been following

Lindsey's high school basketball team around the state.

Last night was the big pay off. Bloomington High School

South won the 4a Class Indiana State Championship.

It was SO exciting. The boys just were tremendous. Such team

players. I have followed these boys for years....some since they

were on the kindergarten teams. Now.....as they graduate and go

on to their perspective colleges I don't know how I will ever keep up

with their basketball games. So....now back to my regular little

old life of swaps and creating.

I Got It & Can't Put it Down

2011-02-16T13:25:00.001-08:00

Look what I got in the mail today. It was

a happy mail day. Now....to get my family fed

because I am having trouble putting it down.

This will definitely help me with my

workout tomorrow. I can read & ride. What a

great combination don't you think? I hope you

have an artfully creative evening.

Blessings to you!

A Cute Little Sampler Swap

2011-02-15T07:57:00.001-08:00

I joined Linda's from a Swap for All Season's sampler

swap and really came out of my comfort zone.

I have professed my love of stitching.....but creating

for a one on one and making a sampler

none the less....left me a little worried.

Here is what I created.....as my husband said....It

sure has a lot of elements. I like to add a little of

this and a little of that to my creations. Essentially.....

I love how it turned out.

My swap partner is Christine Edwards. She is re-doing

her bedroom in blues...creams & browns and

she wants to put her sampler in the new decor'.

If that isn't enough to make someone nervous! She

has a lot of faith in me I guess. This is a little snippet

of a favorite area of the sampler. I stitched my little

flower bouquet on cream wool. I used robins egg

blue freshwater pearls and stitched in green. I went

up and around the stems with my floss....and

this was a first time technique for me. I adore

how it turned out and will try this again

and again.

Here is another close up of a section I

just absolutely adore. I used a

crocheted drapery thing-ey and used that

as my little frame for the cute little nameless baby. Didn't it work out

perfectly? I stitched it onto hand dyed velvet

and used a tan linen flax to stitch with.

I am pretty smitten with this little panel....I

hope Christine loves it as much as I do!! Also.....

couldn't resist adding a frozen Charlotte!!

These are becoming a little like Hope's

signature statement.

When Lindsey came home from school she saw

the little sampler all completed and posing

on a cake plate. She said....Awwww that is

so pretty. She was really happy when she noticed

I had happily stitched in some of her hand-made

paper beads. I secretly have been eyeing them

since she made them.....today I used them! I guess

I will just have to try my hand at making her

some more. Won't that be a dreaded chore? I am

thinking vintage ledger paper.....vintage sheet music.....

and vintage French book papers....what do

you think? I hope you have an artfully creative day.

Blessings~

Valentine's Day Lovelies

2011-02-13T06:10:00.000-08:00

I have been participating in Alanna George's

Pre-Silver Bella swap since it's inception.

We are having a great time getting to know

one another while we create lovely ornaments to send.

This adorable pink heart looks awesome on the tree.

It was created by Terri Gordon.

This little lovely was created by Stephanie Oyler.

I love the burlap and the doily and the life

changing rosette flower we learned from

Betz White.

This adorable soldered ornament was created

by Shawn Street. Look at her lovely soldering....

it is soooo smooth. Way to go Shawn.

And this wonderful quilted heart was made

by Sara Velder. It is a real show stopper on the

tree. I hope you have enjoyed these Valentine's

Day Lovelies. For the rest of the ornaments check the next

2 posts.....I can't figure out the way to add more photos

than five.....I'm getting there though.

Valentine's Day Lovelies

2011-02-13T06:00:00.001-08:00

Look at this sweet ornament from the swap

I participate in hosted by Alanna George. I adore

this cute talent that was created by Robin Sanchez.

And this darling red creation by Rachel Velder.

Simplistic & the splash of red shows up so well.

This cute little snowman.....yes it certainly is

still winter here in Indiana....was created by

Melissa Danner.

This little girl made me happy the moment

I saw her....just like her creator Miss Lynn Lesback.

This what I sent....a little soldered diamond

with a glass glittered heart.

Valentine's Day Lovelies

2011-02-13T05:50:00.000-08:00

I want to give you some photos of the latest

swap ornaments I received. I am in what we

call a Pre-Silver Bella Swap that is hosted by the

lovely Miss Alanna George. This cute ornament was made

by Colleen MacDonald.

This cutie was made by Bianca Gaspard.

I love the way it dangles on the tree.

This darling ornament was made by the

hostess herself. Miss Alanna George.

This sweet heart stuffed with vintage paper

was created by Jessi Nagy...aka Scrappy Jessi.

The detail on this adorable felted penguin

is the creative talent of Valita Baxley.

A Valentine Inspiration of Sorts

2011-02-05T13:41:00.000-08:00

Here are a few Valentine silhouettes I hand cut. There

are several that aren't Valentine.....but

still there is a theme. These are

at Lola Rue & I love how they are

displayed. She is always re-arranging so

things always look fresh and new.

Here is my silhouette wall in my kitchen.
They grace my stair way. I love the black....
red....and white. I know it is more bold
than a lot like these days.....
but the red just gives the silhouettes
a punch. I LOVE the contrast.

Here is another shot. I plan to add more.
Most are hand cut by me.....but some
are guest artists. Like Lincoln made me
some. He gave me the turkey silhouette for
mothers day a few years back......
and then there are the kitties that Lindsey
hand cut for me. Some are old
and have no artist signature. I love those too.
Some are of me when I was a little girl.
Then there are the hand cut ones
of Lindsey & Lincoln from Disney World.
I love that old world charm. A few are
from Lincoln when he was in pre-school. It brings
joy to me to see these. I hope you like this little
bit of quaint charm. Get out your scissors & see
what you can cut. It is timeless & classic.
Blessings for an artfully creative evening.

Craft Room Inspiration Snippettes

2011-02-03T14:29:00.000-08:00

I know that I never tire of looking at

craft room inspiration. So

I thought I would give you another

peek into my craft room. It is chock full

of snippets of lace....bits-n-bobs.....

and general loveliness.

Don't tell anyone in my family.....

but it's my favorite room

in the entire house. I corral my vintage bling

in these old printers trays. I

love looking at them this way.

I don't know if being this organized

helps or hinders me in creating.

Sometimes I just can't seem to quit looking.

I always want to use these blocks.

I never get around to it though.

I love how they just seem to

have a place here with me. And that

velvet ribbon. YUMMY. I got that

at Anthopologie. I love to shop stores

that sell creative things.....other

than just clothes and accessories.

I love my giant spool of cotton string.

I use it mostly to hold my

favorite paintbrushes. But it is

always at the ready to tie up

some brown paper packages.

And I have often said how special

my little bundles of tags & journals

are to me. They would probably

be some of the first things I were to

gather if devastation struck. Signed little

pieces of artwork that inspire me.

I hope that you have enjoyed a little

peek into my favorite room in

the house. I hope it inspires you to

have an artfully creative day.

Isn't she Lovely!!!!!

2011-02-01T06:06:00.000-08:00

Isn't she just too pretty. I received this altered bottle

swap in the mail yesterday. Jennifer Babcock

of Covered In Glitter made her for me. Jennifer was

my Silver Bella Lil' Sis. I couldn't have received

a prettier bottle! I adore her & will treasure

her always.

This is the pretty embellishment Jennifer added.

It is the dolls necklace. I love it.

It just glistens gold sparkle.

Here is the sweet card that Jennifer made

for me. I love the sparkly heart.

The sentiment is dear to me.

As a gift to me....she sent these wonderful

rubber stamps. I adore 'letters'. How

did she know? Actually....with all

the things out there in the world with

'Hope' on them.....I don't have many. This is

such a special touch. I love it all Jennifer.

We are in the midst of a gigantic ice storm.

We are staying put and enjoying yet

another snow day. Crafting. Reading. Cooking.

Video Gaming. Working out. I just love a

good snow day. Blessings for an

artfully creative & productive day.

My Little Hockey Man!

2011-01-31T06:44:00.001-08:00

I have always loved being a hockey mom.....but having

the cute hockey jewels makes me love

it even more. Lisa (from Lola Rue) made me this awesome

piece. Well she didn't actually make it for me....

but I saw it in her shop and had to have it. It

is a vintage locker tag with the number 48 etched into

it. That's Lincoln's hockey number! On the back she

embellished it with vintage rhinestones. It is

absolutely stunning. We traded for it. I gave her one

of my felted necklaces and she gave me this!! All

the other hockey moms are so envious of me. So.....

now I am on the hunt for their boy's numbers.

Won't that be fun....we will be the envy of the

whole Buckeye League!

Isn't he just growing up????? He is just

changing so much. It seems just like yesterday

I was swaddling him in my arms. (He still let's

me hold him.....but mum's the word ok????)

I am really proud of him. He is turning out

to be just the young man I had always hoped he

would become. I can't believe he will be in

high school next year and playing varsity hockey.

I hope he gets to keep the number 48....but if not.....

at least I know where to get another cool necklace.

I hope you have a delightfully....energetic.....productive.....

& creative day. Blessings!

Hope's Must Have Kitchen Essentials

2011-01-28T06:01:00.000-08:00

I wouldn't go & say that I am the best cook

on the planet. I would categorize myself as

a good cook though. More importantly, I

would categorize myself as a very

organized cook. Yes....all these measuring

cups are mine. I call them baking essentials.

I like to have a lot of them. Lately it seems that

there are usually about 3 cooks cooking in

my kitchen. I love cooking together. It seemed

that each time I needed a dry measure....it was always

wet....with say peanut butter....or oil. That's when

I had a light bulb moment. Have more sets of

cups.

Yes....I do need all these spatula's. Actually....

I have more in the color red. These are actually

one of my most used kitchen essentials. Do you know

how clean you can get the peanut butter jar

with a tiny spatula? Jeff looked at all my cooking

things one day and remarked.....'I think some of your

tools need to move to the garage...like mine'. I don't

think so.....MY tools make our home run more

smoothly.....your tools are like an accident waiting to

happen. Besides...mine are so nicely organized. I

actually like looking into my 'baking drawer' and seeing

everything all organized....at the ready to cook

something fabulous!!!

And yes......of course I need all these measuring

spoons. Most of them cost only a quarter

at garage sales. Who wants soy sauce or Worcestershire

sauce dripping down their hands....or

worse the side of the bottle....only to dirty up

the refrigerator? Why yes...these are time saving

tools....that make my life easier. Don't forget the dry/wet

measuring problem either!!!! Baking powder....baking soda....

soy sauce & Worcestershire sauce don't mix!!!!

I know....I know.....the photo is horrific! But I just

had to show you these scrapers. The stainless steal one

is the biggest blessing in my kitchen. It is a breeze to clean

the counter off into the trash....or my hand with this!

Cooking rolling day....a breeze!

Noodle making day....a delight!

Pie crust rolling day....HEAVEN!

Oh....I forgot....I buy Pillsbury Pie Crust....who can

make better crust than them????

The brown scrapers are fabulous to clean out

my cast iron cook wear. Yes.....I really do use cast

iron! It cooks the best....and makes my food taste

the best. Anyway....the scrapers are a must for those pans.

I hope you have liked reading about my kitchen

essentials. Do any of you have any great tips

in the kitchen? I am always looking for

ways to make my life easier & more productive. I hope

that you have an artfully creative day either in the

craft room....or the kitchen. My favorite rooms in the house!!!

Altered Bottle Swap

2011-01-27T06:55:00.001-08:00

I am so excited to share this with you. I love how

it turned out. It is a little late for my

lovely swap partner....Miss Jennifer Babcock of

Covered in Glitter

http://www.glittermyday.blogspot.com/

but I think she will be happy when she

finally receives it. She is hostessing a swap a month

and so far....I have signed up for both. I hope you will

join in for the swap for March....sign ups will be

towards the middle of February.

This is a close-up of her cute face. For those of you

who know me.....I love Frozen Charlottes. I am

always thrilled to give them away as

supplies or just as excited to create with them.

Here is a close-up of the added embellishment.

That was part of the assignment....to add

an embellishment. I know Jennifer loves

silver soldering....so it was fitting to

add that as part of the bottle. She does a lovely

job herself. I met her at Silver Bella....and

actually she was my Silver Bella Lil' Sis. I was

honored to get to know her...her mother...and

what a treat to meet her 13 year old daughter who got

to miss school and attend Silver Bella. I think it is quite

a learning experience!!!!

Here she is....all finished & ready to be shipped

off to Texas. She is filled with mica and pearls in

lovely shades of grey....pink & white. Jennifer

will love this color combination. She is wearing a

crown with a tulle veil. The veil is filled with vintage

sheet music and adorned with seam binding in

shades of cream...white & pink. I hope you have

enjoyed seeing the un-veiling of my altered

bottle. I hope Jennifer will love it. Have a wonderfully

productive & creative day. Blessings.

My Mother's Pearls 100th Post Give-Away

2011-01-26T15:04:00.000-08:00

Check out this scrumptious 100th post

give-away. My good friend Sue from My

Mother's Pearls is hosting this. Not only will

there be ONE lucky winner.....but TWO!

There is a pink crinoline & a yellow crinoline.

I sure hope I am the lucky winner of one

of these pretties. You can access her blog by

clicking on my sidebar. You have 3 chances to win

if you follow her guidelines. I hope you have

a wonderfully creative and blessed evening.

Early English Ironstone

2011-01-25T13:58:00.001-08:00

I love a good collection. These pictures are not

mine. However....my collection

is pretty awesome. Pictures to follow on

another day.

I have been collecting early English Ironstone

for about 20 years. I bought my first

piece at an auction with Jeff.

I liked the lines of the sugar & creamer

set that I bought that day.

Little did I know it would turn out

to be something I would seek out my

entire life.

It goes with everything I own. It's creamy

and dreamy. All the shades of white a

different pale shade. I love the grazing

and the crackle of the old finish.

I especially love all the different

markings. My favorite....

and the marking that will make me

purchase each & every time is

Meakin. I love the earlier pieces that

they created. The period I aim for

is 1850-1890. But really any piece of

white ironstone has enough draw to bring me

right in. I want it.....I need it.....like a

junkie needs her drug.

If you start collecting white ironstone

Vintage Jewelry Boxes....a Must!

2011-01-21T18:27:00.000-08:00

I love a great vintage jewelry box! The

crushed velvet compartments

really make me jump for joy. What neat storage

vessels they become. What fun you can do

with them. I recently put this together to

send to someone....well someone I thought

needed a little pick me up. I think

she will be so happy when she opens it.

Lot's of trinkets & just all around fun!

I am ever so partial to a good pink or

blue box. These boxes...all though

originally used to store gloves make awesome

jewelry boxes too. I like to use them at

art shows to carry merchandise in....and then

use them as the actual display piece. I don't know

if patina is the right word for describing the way

a piece of fabric has aged....but these vintage

beauties have just that special 'patina' to them. What

kinds of things do you like to store your vintage

collections in? What would you send trinkets

to a friend in? Do you know just the right way

to make someone feel delighted with joy? I hope

you have an artfully creative evening. All the best that life

has to offer....and many blessings to you!

A Tragic Loss

2011-01-19T03:51:00.000-08:00

I woke up yesterday all energetic & happy

to start the day. I was going to box

up & mail out my swap package to

Alanna George......then I read my

email. My dear friend & swap partner

Julie Baxley had endured a home fire. It

destroyed everything....all her personal affects.....

her home.... & her beloved fur children.....the

loves of her life. Her 2 cats. She is a beautifully

gifted artist. We attend Silver Bella together. Above

is a montage she created. It is lovely don't you think?

Here is a picture taken on our first night at

Silver Bella 2010. I was exhausted after a long day

of travel & SHOPPING....Julie looks full of life & smiles.

That's the way Julie is.....ALWAYS. She also always

wants to help & give. Our little Gnome friend was visiting

us....a token from Karla Nathan. She lost everything....yet

was more concerned with others. I found her commenting

on FB about others happiness....about the beauty of

others children. I would have been crying a pity party.

Not Julie. She....on the morning after the fire

was letting us know she wouldn't be mailing

off her Valentine's to us. Tragically....along

with everything she

owned they were

burned in the fire. That's Julie....worried

about our happiness. I just love her. I wish I

could carry this burden for her.

Here's another piece of this talented artist's work.

Julie is faithful. Her art reflects her faith. Yet

another quality that I adore about Julie.

I scored this awesome photo from Miss Jodie

at Everything Vintage. Which brings me to another

point of topic. I am writing about a friend who

has lost everything. Yet....I am able to find examples

of her work and cherished photos on the web. What a

marvelous tool in the face of something tragic. Also,

what a great way to let others who know Julie about her

loss & to give everyone who reads this a glimpse

into the artful soul of a beautiful & talented lady. I love

sharing these photos with you today.

Here is the ornament that she sent at Halloween. She

always personalizes things so nicely. Here....she added

a 'V' for Valita. I know that I treasure each of

her pieces. They are fun & thoughtful. Sending out

the package of Valentine Ornaments will be bittersweet.

Knowing that my beautiful ornament made by

Julie won't be in the bundle of lovelies.....destroyed

by fire....I know that box will be filled with love. Love

from all the swap ladies who lovingly create ornaments for

our sweet swap hosted by Alanna George. I am happy that

Julie will receive her ornaments from us....and I have added

a little commemoration extra about the fire. I guess

when you love your friends.... commemorating

the happy & sad moments is what life is all about. I know I

have come to love each of these ladies through their

art. If anyone reading this would like to know

where to send something to Julie, contact me here or

send me an email for her contact information. Blessings

for an artfully creative day.

Love is in the Air

2011-01-15T14:06:00.001-08:00

I want to give you a little peek. A peek into

some of the swaps I have been working on.

This is a swap with a group of past &

present Silver Bella girls.

Started by Alanna George because of the

fact she would be unable to attend

Silver Bella 2010.... she asked if we wanted

to do a spring ornament swap last winter. 15 of us

eagerly joined. Let me tell you....there are some

very talented women in this group.

So while I squealed

and opened that first box of ornaments.....in my mind

I knew I wanted to be in another swap. Then we swapped

for a Halloween Ornament Swap. We again were not

disappointed. So....without a moments hesitation....

the Valentine Ornament Swap began. So now as we

scurry about packaging the lovelies into

the finest wrapping and get them boxed up to send

lovingly to Alanna....I thought I would give just

a little peek at my pretties.

In my mind I cheat just a little. I have been

going the easy route and making a

soldered ornament. The girls seem

to enjoy them & boast about them....

so....I add to the swap with a little

soldered lovely. It's what I am into now...so

that's what I have been doing.

My photos don't do them actual justice. I

think you can get the general idea. I really don't

want the best photo....since it is really just

a peek. After I receive the whole swap.....I will

post more photos. I hope that you have enjoyed

this little snippet of my Valentine Ornament

Swap.....because love really is in the air

around here. Blessings for an artfully

creative evening.

The Numerous Blog Responsibilities

2011-01-13T09:13:00.001-08:00

I love having a blog. I love knowing that

really there are people out there who

read my blog....even though they never

post comments. That's okay....I lurk on a few

blogs too. I knew that when I first started

my blog there would come with it a

certain amount of responsibility. I love that too.

Recently I came home from a long hockey

weekend. Typically when I am gone I don't

post to my blog....or even check it. Sometimes....

I don't even follow blog etiquette and

post to all you wonderful friends out there in blog

land that I will be away. I know you all forgive me. So....I

was really excited to check my followers and found

that I had 3 new ones. I WAS so EXCITED!!! I check the first

new follower.....ummm really a sorted...checkered life she was

leading. Like stripper possibly....maybe swinger....ummm

looking for the kind of fun.....well the kind of fun this blog

isn't about. Check the next new follower....ummm...same

type of girl. Beautiful....like most of my followers....these girls were

just beautiful....and shall I say also buxom if you know

what I mean. Well I politely just removed them from

my list of followers. I couldn't believe it. Actually....I was

wondering what they were seeing in my blog. Then....like a bolt

of LIGHTNING it struck me................................

.................................of course they were interested in

my blog. I was posting things like......I LOVE to SWAP!!!!

Check out the new SWAP I joined!!!!! My goal for 2011....join lot's of

new SWAPS!!!!! I was posting to my friend Kristin at Retro' Art Cafe

about her shrinky dink journal. I was excited because I had

purchased some shrinky dink paper over the holidays.

We were talking about how we hadn't done it in years and

how we were excited to take it to an 'adult craft'. Now.....see

how this is going????? Funny....I remember when I purchased

some frozen charlotte dolls from her.....she posted to me.....

'Hope.....your heads are on their way!!!' So....I'm just

saying...there are a lot of responsibilities to having a

blog.....I just never new some of them would be reading

between the lines. So.....now when I see I have a new

follower.....I check their references so to speak.

Do they really like a good swap....one that maximizes their

creative potential? Or are they the kind of person that wants to

SWAP?????:? Me....I am all about the creative potential....why just

today....I have been working on 3 swaps!!! I hope you have found

the humor in this....I know I got a good laugh! Blessings for

an artfully creative day.

A Sampler Swap

2011-01-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

As I promised myself this year in my list of

goals....I am challenging myself to

participate in more swaps. I love a good

swap. The anticipation of waiting

for them to come in the mail.....

all lovingly packaged. It is a simple joy

I just love. As you can tell by my sidebar....I do

partake in a few. I belong to a wonderful group

of Silver Bella gals that will be sending off

our third independent from Silver Bella swap

next week. The group is 15 strong and we make ornaments

for different holidays. We have done a spring swap....a

Halloween swap....and this one will be a Valentine swap.

The group is hosted by Alanna George and let me

tell you the talent is strong. Last year at Silver Bella I participated

in Chantal Johnson....from Wishblooms....her sampler swap.

This is what I sent. I had to make 4 I believe. I was trying to

be fancy.....and I really liked how it turned out. She made our samplers

into little sewing books with embroidery scissors.

Really a wonderful keepsake. So....this year

I thought I would go out on a limb and join Linda's.....from A

Swap for All Season's 5x7 sampler one on one swap. I will get my

partner shortly and eagerly wait to get started. Sewing really isn't my

thing....but I love the calmness of it. It is relaxing and by

participating in these little sewing swaps it forces me to get

out of my comfort zone. I have joined a few more....but let me

finish them....and I will post about them later. Hope you

had an artfully creative day today. Blessings for a beautiful

tomorrow.

My Possum Story

2011-01-11T12:50:00.000-08:00

Some might think this is cute.

I don't. Especially at 2:30 a.m. when you hear

a blood curdling scream. 'Mom.....we

have a rat!' We were knee deep in

renovations....the 12" crown moulding had

been removed from the base boards. A huge expanse

of crawl space could be seen. The dirt floor remains of a

generations old possum colony had been exposed.....and

now it was time to meet the humans. I can see why the kids

thought it was a rat....it's long nasty tail....it's beady little eyes.

This is more of what I saw. Plus add to the humiliation.....
that you think you have a rat in your home. A
mouse might be bad enough. I was devastated. In fact....
I was balling my eyes out and wanting to go
to the nearest Holiday Inn. We were all pretty shaken.
The next day I called my good friend Kevin....lucky for
me he owns POW Extermination. Get it POW.....because they
get it done. They get rid of vermin. He said....'I don't see any signs
of rat infestations. It would be really evident.' Gnawing....pawing....
all sorts of rat behavior. But the kids said they saw a RAT!!!

......so the next day....it all came clear to me. We
didn't have a rat....we had a possum! The dogs were
going ballistic. One was hunkered up all safe on
the couch. The other one....was protecting us. Treed to
the back of the couch ready to pounce on said RAT....um....
possum. Lincoln yanked forward the couch....Liberty lunged
forward....grabbing the RAT.....um possum by the scruff of
the neck and immediately ran out her doggie door.

Lincoln and I bolted out the door....not the doggie
door of course....and I said get it Lincoln!!!! He was
scared so I started beating the ferocious RAT....um....
possum in the head with a hoe. It flattened to the mere
size of a pancake. I scooped it up with the hoe and took it to
the driveway so I would be able to show my husband....ummm....
let's say my kill to make him happy....when he got home.
No sooner had I placed that sucker down on the driveway.....
it was gone. I thought our stable hand had disposed of it....
but no.....that RAT.....ummm possum....well you guessed it....
it was playing possum. So now we had a brain dead....possum
playing POSSUM running around.

This possum.....um not so lucky.....or is he just playing....
POSSUM????? I hope you enjoyed one of the many
adventures that I have taken in my humble
little farm life. I am not a farm girl at heart....but I do love
our quaint little life here. For those of you curious about the use
of possum/opossum....you can use them interchangeably according
to my dictionary. Do any of you have funny stories...I would love
to hear them....at first I was a little scared to tell this one.
I thought you all might think I lived in squalor...but then I thought
it was just too funny not to tell. I hope you have a clear image
in your mind at what I might have looked like beating
a poor defenseless possum with a hoe. Blessings for a fun filled
evening.

I want Sparseness in my Life

2011-01-10T03:52:00.001-08:00

I promise you that I have been very energetic

these past couple of weeks. I have been

so diligent at clearing out. I think they actually quit

taking donations at one of the smaller....more

quaint re-sale shops here in town because

I was taking in too much. The sign on the door

said 'No more donations until further notice!'

YIKES!

So I switched and started taking in more

to the Goodwill.

This is the kind of chaos that we have been

living in the last couple of weeks.

On one hand it feels great. On the other

hand it feels chaotic. It is really hard

to relax when you know you have such a mess

under foot. Which makes me start thinking about

my goals for 2011. Do you realize that by

achieving some of your goals you have to break

some of your goals? Like for example....at the top

of my goals....and remember they weren't in any

particular order.....but let's face it they kind of are.

'Enter studio and create daily.'

It is really hard to do that when your studio is torn

up because you are re-organizing. But I am committed

to believing that you have to work all your goals.

So.....that is why I have been just adding little blurbs

into my blog.

....and the really funny thing about all this

donating and clearing out....

each time I pull into the local Goodwill

it about kills me not to go in. I want to

go in and shop. I am staying committed and focused

until I achieve the sparseness that I want. Then....and

only then will I feel that I have achieved my goal.

I hope that YOU are able to have an artfully

creative day....because I am going to have another

day of weeding out.

P.S. More dates with Jeff is last on my 2011 list of goals.

He certainly is not last on the list. So Jeff, if you

are reading this post....I love you honey!!!