Sweet Dreams and A bit of Creativity

New Blog

2010-04-01T17:52:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone--please meet me at my new blog--it was time for a change to go with all the other in my life:
http://www.sweetdreamsartstudio.blogspot.com/

Stitching as a collage

2010-03-27T20:20:00.017-04:00

To challenge myself back into the realm of art, and that there is an abundance of stitching in blogland lately- I decided to stitch with various objects-most vintage but some not, and see what I came up with. I chose a variety of items with a similar color scheme of cream, beige, and sage green. I didn't set out the objects, I just went with the flow. Other challenge was is that everything is stitched-no glue (OMG-I love my gluestick though). This transpired over the past few months while I waited for the house to sell and I could unpack all my favorite items that had been hiddened away for what seemed like forever.

I surprised myself with the end result; it's calming, a bit shabby and sweet. I like it. Now I am in the process of looking for a vintage frame to place around it. Dark wood to make the artwork pop.

Welcome to my new front yard--Hello Spring--it's soooo nice to see you!

I've got swap pictures to post; craft room progress; and hopefully a large mixed media painting for my little one's room. Stay tuned..I hope your Spring is as bright as it is here in South Carolina.
xo Kris

Settling in for a Spring time change---

2010-03-10T15:53:00.009-05:00

Life is settling down after a whirlwind February. My Dad is mending well after having open heart surgery (2 bypasses and aneurysm removed). One stress down--he is only 66 and way to young to miss out on my little one's life. I told him that he had get through this after struggling for years to give him a grand child! In essence, the next few months for him will be the hardest. It's been hard to watch the Dad I know diminish and hope to see some of his old personality come back. Being an only child, I've been spending time helping Mom get through all the day to day 'stuff'. I worry about her too.

Closing, moving, unpacking.. settling down 2 large dogs, 2.5yr old, and a very excited DH these past 2 weeks has been a learning experience. Little one had to start a new pre-school and this week is sick with an ear infection, cough, and fever.

The only room left to unpack is my 'new' craft room! Spring is finally coming to the South and I have plans to re-paint almost every room in the house and the outside shutters and door. Lot's of landscape projects--just bought some magazines to help with my design skills, or lack thereof! Whipped out my vintage tablecloths to help bring some brightness in.

So dear one's tell me what you have been up to? I hope it has been an easy transition into Spring. I'll be back with pics.

Happy Spring forward :)

I've been looking for a swap to join--anyone know of spring, easter, or vintage type swap going on?

EDIT:

Found Jenny's! I hope she still has room. Please check out her site: fatedfollies

It's Official!

2010-01-16T11:57:00.005-05:00

We are moving! Yep, guess the third time (I mean contract) was the charm :) The girl buying our little house is in love with it and we are well on our way. I am happy that our little house is going to the right person. Weird, I know but that was concern of mine as I put ALOT of work in this place over the past 10 yrs.

AND the house we loved was STILL for sale so it was meant to be! Plus we even got them to come down a little in their price.

So we are packing up and be in our spaces on Feb 26!

The whole place needs to be painted. I know the REALLY DARK colors are in but they are just not my style. Double psyched as I get my own space to call my studio! It's a spare bedroom but who cares--I can decorate to my delight :)
Off to look at furniture today and out for supper.

I've been so busy with work, holidays, and this house business I haven't been crafty in awhile. I hope to be back in business by March. I'll be in and out to say Hi though. We had a breath of Spring yesterday and now's it's back to the 40's. It sure has been one bleak and cold winter! Stay warm and sharing some images with you!

Toodles

Kris

The calm

2010-01-01T15:12:00.010-05:00

has settled in--awhhh..there is just something that the New Year brings in--nesting and fluffing starts setting in for the coming Spring.

I hope everyone's Holiday was good--our's was and one to be remembered. Devyn was finally grasping the concept by Christmas Day (she is 27mos old). The best was her running out of the bedroom saying 'Mommy' and then very excited 'TOYS!' Santa put most of them together but there were a few to unwrap. Ahhh...love the baby stage but this stage is the BEST! Her vocabulary is busting at the seams, why this, why that, what are you doing-every 2 minutes, annoying at times but I'm not complaining after all the time it took.

I got some great pictures of this Christmas which will be our last in this house. Part of me is sad but looking forward to buying our new house and settling in for a LONG time preferably another decade or more.

Do you do resolutions for the New Year? I don't do that but I did reflect on the decade and the significant amount of historical events that happened, globally and personally. The decade I've named as 'growth and perservance'. Marriage, first time homebuyer, career, part time shop owner, and lastly and most memorable, Mom. My story is here.

As the daylight is the starting to fade on today, I am blessed with all I have. I hope everyone has a beautiful and fruitful 2010 and beyond.

xo Kris

It's a Pumpkin Spice kind of

2009-11-22T16:34:00.013-05:00

day; my little one has been enamored with Disney movies lately so I actually had some free time here and there so I finally got to work on my Thanksgiving Day centerpiece.

A bit shabby, a bit vintage, and oh sooo glittery (is that a word?)

Can you smell the pumpkin spice coffee? yummmm......

With our selling the house, I've been regulated to the kitchen counter and boxes to work out of. A 60% off paper mache pumpkin from Hobby Lobby was transformed with vintage book paper, and walnut ink stain and LOTS of Modge Podge.

Before:

After:

Here is a full shot of the pumpkin:

The tag says 'give thanks' which and the little wooden piece shaped like a house came as a freebie from the lovely Kim who I just ordered some other wood from also. Please check out her website. The paper roses were from the wedding isle and I lightly stained them and glittered them; the wood acorns I did the same stain and glittered their tops; the chenille trim and vintage velvet trim are a lovely shade of taupe and are pinned with a vintage rhinestone earring in lovely shades of bronze.

Hope you love this as much as I do!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Talk soon, Kris

What wonders to be found...

2009-11-14T17:47:00.007-05:00

on a stunning fall day in Greenville. It was absolutely gorgeous, 70's and the most spectacular tree colors I've seen since I've moved South. I love, love, love this time of year.

Isn't this reindeer lovely! I wish I could get the palest shade of pink to show up. It just wouldn't work with my camera skills or lack thereof! I think she must be from the 40's-50's based on the rhinestone's and gilding.

My other purchase is this sweet tiny creamer--LOVE! I think she is from the 40's also.

I got this tablecloth a month or so ago to put on my formal dining room table for the house showings. This goes beautifully with the cream, pale green, and pink color scheme.
I got this from an Etsy Seller.

I bought a few other things but haven't photographed them yet. Well, it's time for a movie with the family. I got 'Up' at Target yesterday. We are having to watch every Disney and Pixar movie ever made! LOL!

I hope everyone is having a good weekend,

talk soon, Kris

She turned 2!

2009-11-01T13:22:00.006-05:00

I can't believe my little one is 2 and boy have we moved into those throw down tantrums! whoooo..they can be quite the scene--dramatic actress in the making here in the Pare' house hold :)

As you can see Disney reigns in the DVD section of the videos and our love of the week was Nemo! Dory the fish fell over from the heat in the top pic!

Check out my PINK princess shoes:

See :)

LOL! Pink is our favorite color--we'll see once we move into our new house.

Have a great weekend!

This just puts a smile on!

2009-10-24T15:46:00.003-04:00

Gotta find some fun in this hectic life! Check it out here :)

Where have I been?

2009-09-19T14:03:00.012-04:00

Mending your heart takes some time. Although, the past few days the rumble of creative spirit is working itself back in my soul.

Have you seen that Joli Paquet is back up for the Holidays? I'm also taking Lisa Pace's All Hallow's Eve online class. Lots of cute ideas! I'm really tending toward Black and White this year. Check out my new banner. Devyn picked out the ghost at Target. I just love those little pumpkins and found some in white/cream color!

Spending lots of time with my little one; here are just a few clips.

Saturday afternoon trying on every hair bow in her closet. She looks so cute with pony tails and bows but she just won't leave them in so we play dress up :)

We are off to visit our play doh and make strings of stars. I have to admit fitting on one of those little chairs your bum is sore after 30mins!!

So I hope you are enjoying Fall. Right now I'm trying to sell my house and let me tell you, it stinks. Letting strangers in your house, lowball offers, keeping the darn place clean with a 2 year old, 2 gigantic dogs, and a husband...umph...

I told him that we need to sell this baby this weekend, after 2 weeks on the market I'm ready for it to be over! The promise is that we've had 2 offers and lots of showings!

Once we move, I will have my craft studio space!!! We found a house we like, needs some TLC and updating but LOTS of space! Lots of trees! and has neighborhood amenities, pool, tennis courts, pond, nature trail, and playground for the kids.

Off to watch some football and eat my specialty chicken I bake in the oven. Hope you are having a good weekend, ours is soggy and will be ALL week. Can't complain since we haven't had rain in over a month.

xo Kris

Sundays.....

2009-08-09T15:38:00.003-04:00

I haven't shared in some time..healing process is going on but I must share a picture of my little one. This is what we are doing at 7am! LOL! I went to refill my coffee and swear she was going to bid on something on Ebay while I was gone for 5mins! LOL!! Devyn LOVES Mommy's new computer that Mommy splurged on herself. Ohhh, I'm so loving the laptop.

Sooo, on the other side of the bed is this :) My other sweet pee--Cookie. Check out that forlorn look!

I really hope everyone is having a great Sunday. I have to admit not committing myself to a bunch of stuff and just enjoying my daughter and pups has been very soothing. I hope to have some creative spirit soon.

Where the heck is FALL?! It's 97 today...Football and school starts in another week or so!

Thanks for all the support, xo Kris

Finally

2009-07-12T19:52:00.011-04:00

I know I haven't posted much lately but honestly life isn't going well for me and hasn't for the past month. Not to dwell on it since that's not what you are here for but my spirit is down and hurting. I'm going to post a few items I've been working on but lately my creativity has been in the dumps. Bear with me while I transition through this phase--I'm not sure what will still be intact after it's over but it hasn't fully played out yet.

Let me know your thoughts on my new ventures:

This is a collage I made which is called Paper Dress. I designed the dress along with all its details. I am absolutely in love with paper dolls and this was inspired by them. Vintage trims, pearls. The dress is attached to the tulle so it's three dimensional. I LOVE this but it was not easy to photograph (lack of skill on my part!)

Next is a journal that I've been working on of which parts were from a kit from Cerri.

This so sweet journal is made out of vintage hankies (2), fabric, lace, and vintage paper doll images. The inside I embellished with more fabric and trim. Check out the back cover with the little girl peeking in the cover :)

I hope everyone is having a nice summer but won't be long the kids will be back in school here--mid August! I love hearing from everyone so please drop me a note or an email. I definitely need my friends now.

xo Kris

The Coffee Filter Rose Tutorial

2009-06-16T19:09:00.007-04:00

How wonderful is this!? I love how they came out--the colors are beautiful. I would love to do them with more neutrals. Next on my list to try! Just had to share. The tutorial is here. Thanks Sarah!

It's been summer here for awhile in the South--hope you are finally getting some summer where you are. Mom & Dad just came back from New York and said it was COLD. Of course, it's 90 with 100% humidity here! LOL!

On the crafty front, I've taken a slight break. I cleaned up my dining room (aka crafty area) to start fresh. I'm working on a Patriotic theme right now for my Mom and I. I will post once they are finished!

Now to share some flowers I bought recently to perk up my soul--hope they do the same for you.

The Projects & Vintage Goodness

2009-05-31T17:54:00.012-04:00

I wanted to share the projects we worked on at En Le Jardin. I finally finished mine this past weekend. I found the perfect little bit of trim at an Antique store in the new town I work in. You can see the flower lace around the rim with button's center. The flower trim was actually once a placemat!

The fairy ornament--so sweet:

(yes, this picture stinks. I really am beginning to dislike this new camera DH bought me).

These are my finds from the antique store in the small town I work in (just started a few weeks ago) so I was exploring it.

I only found those pansy flowers when I opened up the baggie! What a find! I think there was 5 of them total along with all the trim and lace you see. The birdie is a sweet round doily. I've got some projects in mind already.

I've been working on a few new projects and hope to share with you soon! Have a wonderful Sunday!

Continuing on

2009-05-27T16:13:00.013-04:00

with Savannah from En Le Jardin. The city is absolutely lovely with the historic beauty you think of when you imagine the deep South. I wish I had more time to explore. Like Charleston, I love looking at the grand homes and architecture.

I'm almost finished with my projects but it has been raining, gloomy, and doom like for over a week now so once the sun shines again I'll snap some pics.

We had lunch at:

Went to Vintage General, The Paris Market, and finished off the day with Back In The Day Bakery cupcakes!
I had an awesome time!

En Le Jardin

2009-05-19T21:46:00.010-04:00

Wow, what can I say beyond it was fan--tabolous!

Jenn is the most gracious, sweetest hostest and wait to you see the pictures! The event was just beautiful and every detail was attended to. I had so much fun even though I was only there one night. What a wonderful bunch of women and sooo much talent. I haven't smiled and laughed like that in a REALLY long time! I admit I wasn't my full self since this was my first time leaving my little one--Cheryl, one sweet and talented lady, had some much needed wisdom in that area! Thank you Cheryl!

I loved that everyone was so supportive of each other. It was so nice to be with people who understand you creatively and don't give you the 'one up' eyebrow about 'what the heck is it' look.

My roomies for the night were 2 of the best! OH, the guest cottage was TDF! Lorraine and Roselyn Sue--I have to say I haven't had a roomie that wasn't my hubby or child in a LONG time :)

I so would love to go to other events.

Now if that 'dang' job didn't get in the way--or the guilt of leaving my sweet child BUT

I walked in the door and this tiny 19mo old FLEW into my arms and we twirled and danced. It was the best weekend.

Thank you Jenn and the flower fairies!

Sigh..back to real life and PILES of laundry!

May Day Swap

2009-05-19T06:47:00.003-04:00

Just a few pics of my May Day Swap with Cari. It's taken forever to upload my pics. I've had a lot going on personally and some of it not so good. Sorry for the short delay in posting.

Isn't this stuff great! Love it all--thanks Cari!

My heart swells...

2009-05-03T11:17:00.003-04:00

as this is why I love being a Mom! My 19mo old made this for me at school. awhhhh...the simple things in life is what it is all about.

Wishing you a peaceful and joyful Sunday.

My swaps are in the mail and I'm about ready for Jenn's retreat in 2 weeks! See my sidebar for details.

Sharing...

2009-04-16T19:37:00.008-04:00

I have to share my beautiful southern lilac bush--took this pics Easter morning. I've pampered this baby for years and I FINALLY got a couple of blooms last year. I have moved her around my yard, treated this awful red clay, and for heaven's sake I was going to have a reminder of my love of lilacs that I grew up with.

Now look at her:

I can't believe my pics came out as well as they did with the sun as bright as it was and didn't even have to edit much.

So here is my other love of my life. Being a bunny with Grandma!

I've got some May Day basket swap pictures to share but she hasn't received it yet --soon!
Toodles for now!

Have a Joyous Easter!

2009-04-12T10:15:00.001-04:00

I Like It!!

2009-04-05T17:25:00.012-04:00

Finally, a blog banner I like and reflects me! I MADE it too! Whoop..mean old Photoshop wasn't going to get the best of me. Now if I can figure out how to make collage one. Another day for that!

So see what we did this weekend---Happy Spring!

Oh yeah, check these 2 helpers out!

Lucky looking for them birds and squirrels!

Cookie is like 'is it over with? I'm missing my nap!'

In the midst of naps, I was able to work on the kit from Cerri! So cute--I changed the original a little --just love these! Devyn and my Mom and I worked on these Saturday during breaks on spring clean up.

Hope your Sunday is going well. Kabobs on the grill, potato salad, and cole slaw for dinner.

See ya!

I'm really working on

2009-04-03T12:49:00.007-04:00

this 'going with the flow' thing.

It's HARD! Especially if you are a multi tasking, super organizing, anal wanna be! Part of this stems from my daily day job (analyst)--but now Devyn has been having the BIGGEST, UGLIEST temper tamtrums. Girl hit the terrible 2's wayyyyy to early. Food flying across the table, stomping feet, laying down and swinging both legs and arms. Screaming when getting dressed.

Wooozzzeee! I know, I know---everyone tells me it will pass but STRESS, STRESS!

This weekend is 'Spring Yard Clean Up, Spruce Up'. Unfortunately, our gazebo collapsed during our 1 big snowstorm here. I am seriously still sad about it. I loved that space out in the corner of our yard with it's concrete patio underneath. Sigh---the price of those babies has really gone up over the years.

The poor yard has been severely neglected the last 2 years with my being pregnant then Devyn's first year. Let's just say my hubby is more of a technical person than outdoor's person :)

So we have mulch, clippers, flowers, potting soil! We are going to be 'purdy' real soon as they say here in SC :)

I'll post pics when the ugly bermuda grass has turned green. The builder put it in and I just don't like it.

These gals put together some yummy scrapping kits. Check it out! Lots of shabby goodness and vintage. I just ordered a load and check out that Glimmer Mist--can you say YUM!

Happy Weekend!

Reedy River at Falls Park--can you believe this is our view in our downtown/Main St area!!

The end of the sogginess

2009-03-29T13:47:00.009-04:00

here in SC! We had 5 straight days of rain, fog, and gloom. The type that requires lights all day. I am glad that's over! Phew, that will dampen anyone's spirit. On this bright sunny but cool Sunday, this is what I'm doing:

Loving my french press brewer. If you don't have one, try it! Makes strong coffee though but I like it that way. Just like my NeeNee; having a pot of coffee simmering on the stove. One of the best smells I remember from her. Dark chocolate--must have! I have to limit sugar's though and the Dr says if I'm going to eat chocolate make sure it's dark -won't spike my insulin so bad.

It's been a rough weekend for Devyn. She's 18mos old and still won't sleep well. I think I had 4 hours of sleep last night. I hope it's growing pains. She did transition to toddlers last week at school and was having some overexcitement from that. Hoping this week will be a little calmer!

I do have to recommend this cookbook. It's absolutely darling and has some of the easiest recipes--family and kid oriented, beautiful photos and stories. The fun part is that is based by color! I just love that idea.

I've just purchased these-you can find: here and here . Can you tell I collect cookbooks? :)

Preparations are under way to attend Sweet Flower Fairy Garden Art Retreat!

Lastly, I'm off to watch my DVR movie from Lifetime--nice sappy romance for one tired person.

xo Kris

Oh, how do you like my new banner? I am in LOVE with the vintage look and my favorite-birdies!

Happy Spring!

2009-03-21T13:28:00.010-04:00

I love reading about the goodies people find but I honestly have to say, right now, I'm lucky if I get a full night's sleep. Finding the time and energy--it will have to wait. Also I don't have anyone in the area that really enjoys the hunt.

I have to show my new obsession (I mean collection!).

Vintage Postcards

Okay, at first, I thought I can make some collages but as I keep collecting more of these beauties- I just enjoy them. All 4 are from the early 1900's and have the most interesting handwriting. I paid $3 for all the flower ones. I splurged on the bunnies $3.50 for the card itself but I HAD to have it. I have a 'thing' for bunnies. Sad but true--I admit it!

Just a couple of sweet Easter goodies I made. Sometime's the image is great by itself and all it needs it some glitter and ribbon!

Isn't this an awesome photo?

Enjoy your weekend!

xo Kris

A Touch of Spring

2009-03-15T12:42:00.030-04:00

If you've read my posts before, I'm a Target junkie. Look at the goodies I got! My favorite is the cream colored pottery with the bunny. I will offer these few items for sale in my shop http://www.thelavenderrose.etsy.com/ for Spring and/or Easter. They would be so sweet in a baby's room too!

You are my sunshine is made with vintage bingo card, vintage bunny image, vintage ledger paper, scrap paper, sweet buttons, and a pom pom tail with a so soft pink yarn for hanging. It's approx 5.75 x 3.5 inches

Blue Bird and Flower Bird

Bluebird is made with scrap papers, hand painted scrolled wings with glitter over it, sweet velvet flowers, and vintage earring and drop, seam binding for her bow and hanger. Her eye is a rhinestone. Her tail has a my favorite sentiment from Emily Dickenson 'Hope is the thing with feathers'. I also hand painted her back (see pic below). She will hang sweetly off a door, wall, mirror!
She is approx 9.5 inches from head to tail and approx 6 inches from belly to top of scroll wing.

Back:
Flower bird is made with vintage wallpaper, handpainted scroll wings with glitter, velvet flowers and vintage earring, seam binding for ribbon and hanger. Her eye is a vintage part of an earring. Her tail has my favorite sentiment 'Hope is the thing with feathers'. I also handpainted her back. She is approximately 9.5 inches from head to tail and 6 inches from belly to top wing scroll.

Lastly, here is our Magical Thinking Jar!

Now you are asking 'what's that?'. When I'm having a crappy day which is way to often now at my full time job. I can pull one of these bits out!

Children say the funniest things, yet all too often, you seem to forget them after a day or two. So I will start writing down the funnier moments of the day. This jar will be on my desk, and when the my little one says something particularly worthy of recording, I will put it on a scrap of paper and jot it down.So when I'm having a crappy day, I can reach in and pull out a quote.. and suddenly I'm laughing and running to hug my little one.

Simple to do:

Jar and pretty doo-dads! I used vintage crepe paper, seam binding in the middle, vintage flower, buttons, and fabric.
Enjoy!

Hope everyone's weekend is going well. It's been raining here for days and its soggy! Major grocery store shopping is on the agenda and playing with my little one.

Happy Sunday

xo, Kris

Life

2009-03-01T16:12:00.002-05:00

That's it. Life is just going on..

Cookie says 'Yawn'. Stay tuned...

Oh soooo sweet!

2009-02-21T16:38:00.009-05:00

Thanks everyone for the well wishes! Devyn is doing great and is pretty much back to normal today. Check out this stance at our back door :) Nooo shoes already! Girl is going to be a flip flop year around---I can tell now can't keep a shoe or sock on her more than a minute.

Here's a picture from the wedding last weekend down in W.Palm Beach FL. It was 85! The ocean was actually warm.

It was a LONG day. Poor thing is looking at me saying when are we EVER going to go home :)

I wanted to share these sweet cones I started on a couple of weeks ago and have been sitting forlornly in my dining room waiting for all their finery. I finished them today and I think they came out darling. Perfect for upcoming spring and Easter. They are part vintage goodness and new items. I just love the color combos--something a little different and the vintage blue flower is just gorgeous. I rummaged through a HUGE (blushing) tupperware bin (you know those storage ones!) that is overflowing with ribbons and found the perfect match!

The rose paper cone has a vintage strawberry and I used fabric to make the cute covering on the top.

Off for sushi tonight since we couldn't afford W.Palm Beach seafood prices--egads what a rip off! High season right now and prices are awful!
I hope to do a little more crafting tomorrow but we'll see.

Have a great weekend!

xo Kris

What's Happening!?

2009-02-10T16:34:00.005-05:00

Life has been a whirlwind for me lately. Spring has come to the South. All weekend we enjoyed having all the windows open, a nice cool 67 degrees with a whisper of a breeze! The last couple of work days have been the same. I really have to say it's refreshing! I sit and listen to the breeze, smell the fresh air, listen to my neighbor's fountain that streams into his pool...it's so relaxing and energizing the start of Spring in the South. It's much different from my childhood growing up in New York where Spring would spurt and tease you here and there for quite some time.

Devyn and I spent Saturday hanging on our deck, cleaning out my disaterous dining room (aka art desk). I haven't seen the top of my dining room table in months! It took 3 hrs and it's still not fully done. Sunday we went to the zoo.

Now we are packing for our trip to Ft Lauderdale, FL to arrive Friday, the 13th for my mother in law is getting re-married after 30 years on Valentine's Day! She has known this man a long time. She just moved down there to retire--I wish her all the best.

We get back on Monday. On Wednesday, Devyn has to have surgery. 16mos old--having tubes put in her ears. I have been told by many a Mom that it is so common. Her specialist said so too but being a first time Mom, I'm going to worry! I just want her to feel better. The specialist has confirmed her hearing has been muffled so a few weeks later we'll have a hearing test. I'm praying she is okay but if not, we will learn to deal with it. Her speech has been slow to master but she does understand what you mean--just won't do much beyond babble. She is trying soooo hard though. It's frustrating for me to see her get frustrated to try to communicate. We are mastering sign language and routine helps.

So I haven't created much lately but promise to get back in the groove shortly.

Hope everyone is doing well and I'll be back soon.

I'm off to find a precious bunny for my little girl to help her through her recovery. Both her and I love bunnies (or bun-buns as we call them)and why I included this sweet image.

Anyone have any recommendations? I really like to buy homemade.

xo Kris

Valentines!

2009-02-01T13:47:00.011-05:00

Devyn's class is having an exchange for Valentine's Day. I made these packets of goldfish for the little one's (There are 8 kids total and all are between 12mos -18mos old) so no staples, ribbons, etc. The 2 teachers I made felt baggies with vintage ribbon handles and filled with chocolates-Yum! Who says they can't have a goodie :)

I love the ladybug theme for something a little different.

I normally don't make many cards but with so much out there I thought I would give it a try and everything coordinates!

These 2 are for Devyn's teachers:

This one is for my parents:

This one is for my hubby:

I just had to share these sweet vintage pretties I received from Julie . If you haven't checked out her book, Pretty Little Felts. You need too, some of the cutest and inspiring projects in there.

I'm off to work on some projects and then relax. Homemade chili is waiting in the crockpot and the Superbowl is tonight.

Have a great week!

Kris

The Crud

2009-01-31T19:16:00.009-05:00

Well, the family has been sick for the past 2.5 weeks. First with the worst stomach flu which followed into the Crud as we call it at work. Nasty cold and sinus all wrapped up with the aches, pains and fever. So besides wiping my nose and my 16month old daughter, my whining husband was included. I swear he was worse than my little one. Let's not go into that story!

This is the first weekend we haven't been sick in January. This month has flown by for the first time in my life. For some reason January always seems to drag by.

I haven't been too creative as I've been crawling into to bed to get a few hours of sleep before Devyn woke up again from being sick.

I did receive my kits for Joli Paquet. Aren't they adorable? I put them together while Devyn was asleep today. I still haven't quite gotten over my crud yet so my creativity is nil. This helped immensely to get the juices flowing.

This darling wreath kit was from Brandy. She has the most wonderful supplies. You must check her out. Love everything she does! Her nature inspired supplies are so lovely and really speak to me. I hung this pretty on my mirror in my entryway.

This adorable centerpiece is from Tiffany. Her blog has the most beautiful photos-I wish I was a near as good at photography. Her shop has beautiful vintage items, so visit!

Thanks for the Valentine inspiration!

I had the jewelry making bug again and ordered a few items--one of which is a bracelet I want to make for my mother in law's wedding in a few weeks. I'll share when it's complete.

Have a great weekend!

History molds us

2009-01-19T16:16:00.011-05:00

My 2nd and 3rd pages in my art journal. I started to just work on a background. I picked bold colors that I liked and went from there. No real layout in mind. As I let it dry and was moving items around my table, ideas started to flow.

The page is 'History molds us but doesn't break us'. I had been thinking about how we as a country will mark another historic event during my lifetime and I journaled this to my daughter about how much I have seen in my short life and how it molds me in my daily living. How do you explain all that has happened is the eternal question.

The bold colors depict my love, the white stands for her purity, and the objects are for freedom and all that is good in this life. The written words tell it all and you must Smile as it's her time.

Art Journaling

2009-01-18T13:31:00.007-05:00

I have to say I haven't been more excited about starting something new than trying Art Journaling! Thanks Cindy!

If you haven't, please check our her blog, Junque Art, which shows her journey through this plus some great links! I also bought the new Somerset Art Journaling. It has great tips plus some awesome artists.

I was a little intimated at a large size one so I'm starting small at 8.5 by 5.5 inches.

My first journal is going to be called 'Find Your Passion'. I've missed it for a long time so this will be my adventure into finding it and loving it again plus a splattering of bits and pieces :)

Let me know your thoughts!

I had the most fun in a long time. I really feel refreshed like I got it off my mind. I believe this is going to be the best therapy any money can buy! I can now put all my fine art skills back to use, plus my newly learned mixed media, and write my thoughts out. Can you ask for anything sweeter?

If anyone is interested in my collages from the previous posts, email me and we can discuss!

kristen7744@hotmail.com

Have a great weekend!

Brrrr...it's cold here

2009-01-17T18:47:00.013-05:00

in the Deep South! I haven't been this cold in ages. I actually broke out my long wool coat but had to blow some dust bunnies from it first :)

We have battled the nastiest flu ever. Devyn got it last Friday night and we all had it by Sunday night. It really took all week to feel like eating again.

I've been accumulating my work till I got some sunshine which is why the pictures are not so great.

I wanted to share my collage for my Vintage Valentine Swap. Sorry the pictures are so dismal. It had been raining here for WEEKS and no sunshine till we got this cold snap a few days ago.

It came out so sweet. I'm really sad I couldn't get a good picture of it. The little envelope opens to reveal a Valentine message for a sweet someone.

This mixed media collage just came out darling. I loved the vintage image of the little boys playing all innocent. Vintage and new embellishments.

This is one of my favorite's. Mixed media collage with a vintage image reproduction and vintage embellishments. I've really been drawn to the blue/aqua and brown theme.

I made this one for fun. I had this card that I knew I wouldn't use but when collaged on this tag and embellished with sweet little girl doo-dads, lots of white and pink ribbons. It would look so cute hanging from a doorknob or hook.

This one was different. I really wanted to incorporate the crochet flowers which I added vintage pearls as stamens. It has sweet vintage images and I like the long form I used this time. I'm still not sure I like it or not.

Lastly, is the bitty book I made: Portion (see flickr for whole book)

Have a great weekend! I plan on resting and recouping my strength. Mom always seems to be the one that has to be up till all hours when the family is sick.

Pondering

2009-01-09T10:52:00.008-05:00

Or as my mom used to say ‘quit brooding’ and go out and play~~I did spend quite a bit of time thinking as a child and still do. Maybe it has to do with being an only child or that I’m just happy in my only little world. I do believe it’s the second one :) It's good for the soul.

Do people really use this word? In my job, I have to write with definite pontification. Can you say Ewwhhh!

Back to pondering, I would spend time just staring up at the big fluffy clouds or out my window wishing, hoping, and dreaming. My early teenage years my Dad made a window seat in an alcove in my room. I plopped fluffy and bright pillows in it (it was the 1980’s~was anything not bright? Leggings, big tunic tops, and rubber bracelets—remember?) and then time would be gone.

Thanks Madonna!
You know the look I’m talking about~ it appears you are staring but just actually looking beyond that spot. I’m really bad in the car after leaving work~ I believe the car just knows to go pick up Devyn from daycare and go home.

I would love to go to Art Nest . I received Taking Flight by Kelly Rae Roberts for Christmas and though I just started it, I’ve been really ‘brooding’ (see Ma I agree this time) over my current career and where it’s not going due to lack of interest on my part for the past year.

So I will next work on my goals for the year and share next time.

Check out this awesome year long blogfest by Kari at Artsy Mama: A Year of Color. Julie Collings is the guest this month! I got her book Pretty Little Felts for Christmas too and LOVING all the projects!

Surely there are others out there who are like me!

My sweet Lucky~~Look at those soulful eyes~She's pondering where is my next treat?! Most likely to have little Devyn leave her alone (she loves hugging the dogs).

It's Saturday

2009-01-03T13:09:00.010-05:00

and I dropped by Target to get diapers and sinus medicine so 'of course' I browse around and looky what I found for my daughter.

Super cute placemats and a couple of dishes they have put out for Valentine's Day! In the $1 bin I found those cute pink baskets and the Valentine's cupcake decorations!
I love the owl and birds~~we'll be using them all the time. They are to cute to use once a year!
Reminds me of Noggin. That kid loves that channel!

I made few few items that I've decided to sell for Valentine's Day. They are listed HERE

Mini collages I made from salvaged vintage embellishments and paper.

A few 'Love Note' tags for you to write your sweet messages on!

Happy Weekend!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-30T16:23:00.005-05:00

As the year is closing, I look back in my mind at all the 'first's that I saw with my little girl~~I feel blessed~~even with a grump from me here and there, I know she is my most precious gift of all.

May all you have comfort and hope through the next year.

PS: I made it almost through my whole list!

*sigh, it feels good*

On to my 2009 list!

The List

2008-12-19T10:26:00.006-05:00

As the saying goes, she's checking it twice!

As of 2pm today, I am officially on vacation till 8am Mon Dec 29th! Can you say, WHOOP!

I haven't had time off since early spring and so ready for this week. As most know the banking world has deteriorated significantly-Let's just say hostility and bitterness now run hand in hand. You can only take so much ass kicking and head bashing before most become this way. I am happy to have my FT analyst job as it pays the bills, so I am grateful.

SOOOO on to happier things:

Hello to my list!

3pm today for little D's first Christmas party at her school (aka daycare). She absolutely loves this place and how she has blossomed!

Dinner of Mac & Cheese w/hot dogs~kid food! She will love it.

Wrap presents soon! Santa comes in 6 days!

Sushi! Saturday night--Yah, baby, sake is calling my name.

Make canister for Silver Bella 2009 faire. I figured if I drop money $1 here, $5 there, etc, it should add up nicely.

Work on Vintage Valentine Collage Swap (maybe). I don't have all the collage items but I do have my idea.

Finish my Joli Paquet kits I bought from Cerri. Both ornaments are for my Mom & Dad as they have helped immensely from my fertility issues, fertility procedures, and this first year of little D's life then my surgery recovery, her being sick frequently, day care nightmare's (we are on our 3rd in 9mos). They have been my rock. I owe them a lot. As a family, we are creative so these handmade items will be that more special.

Acupuncture on Tuesday (my lifesaver). This girl has helped me so much in the past 3 yrs. I went weekly for over 2 yrs!

Read these two books I bought: book 1 and book 2. Oh and this one--I've read the 2 before in this trilogy when we went to the lake this past spring: book 3. Okay, I love my fluff now and then :)

Visit this crazy flea market which is about 30 mins from me towards Atlanta. Anderson Jockey Lot. You never know what you may find! I will bypass the fake Prada's and livestock. We'll see if I can talk Mom into going. If not, babysit?

Oh, finish these Ornaments(I work on them in bed before sleeping so its been VERY slow going cause having a 14mo old~~I barely get 10mins in before I'm sleepy).

Non fun-2009 budget. We are planning to buy a larger home in the next year and a half and I've been trying to get that Fertility debt paid off. It's a monster amount as insurance does not cover anything.

Plan trip to Ft Lauderdale for wedding. My MIL is getting married on Valentine's Day after 30 yrs of being single. She is moving to Fl at the end of Jan. We are still a little skeptical!?

Buy new makeup including tinted moisturizer. Any recommendations?? Now that my hormone's are under control I definitely need new stuff as I didn't wear much when I was pregnant in 2007.

Finally, relax?, make cookies, plan good meals as I don't cook much working FT, and watch my crap load of DVR shows I've taped.

I would love to see these: Bedtime Stories and Marley & Me. Honey, please??? Date night? I swear I have Marley in 2 dogs!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Brunch with Santa

2008-12-14T16:25:00.004-05:00

What can I say? The picture tells it all!

So after some hugs; she had this face..'Mommy, why are you trying to give me to that big RED man?'

After waffles with strawberries and whip cream: I'm now happy! See ya next year Santa!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Oh it's beginning to look like Christmas!

2008-12-07T13:12:00.015-05:00

Finally, I had a spark of Christmas spirit. Each year I help a family at Christmas anonymously. The social worker found a woman with 2 children and a baby on the way. A few girls and I went in with money and donations. I spent yesterday in my VERY cold garage going through D's baby items. I have a large box of goodies waiting to be wrapped today for the family. I got the warm and fuzzies!

Hubby had to bring down the Christmas decorations but my style has changed so I only put out a few things from previous years and with a 14month old. I can not put anything on my tables and you can only put so much on my fireplace mantle! LOL!

This is one of them:

A vintage ceramic Christmas tree from my childhood. My Mom gave her to me last year. So sweet! White is hard to find!

I have been working on a few crafty projects:

An ornament with one of my Sweet One's handpainted children. I glittered her and put tinsel around the shabby wire (you can see the white wire peeking out) and a sweet glittered snowflake that dangles on the bottom.

A cute snow sign that I painted, glittered, added vintage buttons, trim and tarnished tinsel. A few flowers peek out at the top where you hang it. It's a shabby light blue color.

A paper mache Holiday House collage with lots of glitter, trims, and a sweet birdie watching for vistors!

My Happy New Year collage hat made from an empty fruit can, vintage Auld Lang Syne sheet music, seam binding, petit flowers, and lots of glitter!

A sweet star ornament with glittered crown, butterfly, and flowers with lots of glitter and a pretty pink paint!

I handpainted, glittered, and flowered this sweet tree for little D's room. I put my snowwoman (see previous post) next to it. She's ready for Santa!

Hope everyone has a great week as the Holiday is 2 weeks away already! I have lots of Christmas projects I want to work on but not sure if I'll get to those this year. I'm really looking forward to December 22nd. I'm off the whole week from work and plan on relaxing. It's been a long year and it's time to put up the feet.

I need to work on my swap for the Vintage Dragonfly--Love Me Tender-Vintage Valentine.

I also have some ideas for jewelry that I want to try.

Toodles~~~

Kris

My Inner Child is Happy!

2008-12-01T12:24:00.004-05:00

Your Inner Child Is Happy

You see life as simple, and simple is a very good thing.

You're cheerful and upbeat, taking everything as it comes.

And you decide not to worry, even when things look bad.

You figure there's just so many great things to look forward to.

How Is Your Inner Child?

Have a great week!

Mmmmmm, the jelly is good....

2008-11-27T09:37:00.003-05:00

LOL!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

I'm so thankful for many things

but she is #1 on my list. Smooches...

Update!

2008-11-20T10:30:00.003-05:00

Poor little one had a fever of 104 degrees last night. It was a VERY long night. I think I'm more tired from worrying then the lack of sleep. This is the sickest she has ever been. Dunkin Donuts coffee is a blessing and so are those great flavored creamers they have now. Pumpkin Spice...YUM!
Her fever was down by 6:30 this morning but still at 100. Mom is watching her this morning while I work at my FT banking job. Got to make an effort to keep this job. No word yet on the future. I try not to watch any news now.

My world continues to swirl and I hope this carousel slows down for the Holidays!

Soooooo tired....

2008-11-19T10:35:00.005-05:00

my little one has another ear infection which brought on double pink eye. Can you say miserable 13.5 month old? I have been working on some craftiness during her naps on the weekends and FT work so no crafting during the week.

It's for my snowflake swap so once she receives it next week, I can share! I need to work on Lisa Pace's 12 days of Christmas class and my Joli Paquet tutorials! (see sidebar for the blog!)

I really am drained due to lack of sleep (poor thing has her eyes glued shut by early morning from the pink eye) and I've got some serious worries for my day job not much different than the rest of the US. I'll just have to wait it out and see how the cuts go.

Off to rest, sorry for the downer but that's life...Promise to be perked up next week.

I just love her to pieces!

A Sunday of Creativity

2008-11-09T19:02:00.025-05:00

I finally had a few hours to work on some projects today! Whoopee! Time has been very scarce lately plus I've had awful sinus/allergy headaches all week.

My $10 SALE find at Target. I blinged it up with ribbon, vintage clip earring and broken necklace. LOVE the black suede--perfect for my uptight conservative workplace.

Oh, and I got these cuties for $0.99!

My Fairy Snow Woman! Ha and she's living in a pink, glitter world! I love the birdie--birdie from above. Perfect! Frosty has to have some girl friends so meet Ruby. Fluffy, sweet, glittery, pink, and Frou Frou~~what else can you ask for?

I've never used Celluclay before but it was so much fun. I plan on working some more in it.

Well, I did a few more in the Sweet Ones series-2 tags and a tiny wall hanging. They are handpainted. Just a bit of background of me for those in blog land. I had formal drawing/painting from art school many moons ago. My professors wanted me to become a fine artist and I even had scholarships to continue. Life's challenges intervened but after many stories in my life, I circled back to my creativity and painting. It's a small start. I'm very very rusty as I haven't sketched or illustrated in a long time. I'm working at it and that's all I can ask for right now.

The wall hanging and one tag is handpainted with good ole craft paint and the others are pastel chalks.

And a few Christmas Tags!

So my weekend is now over---off to put the little one to bed. She's had a rough weekend with a lot of splats. Trying to climb ALL over the place at 13 months old! Poor thing has bruises..I cried today cause she fell so hard. This parenting thing is rough on your nerves! Now it looks like she is getting a cold--coughing and snotty. Yuck!
Night all, talk to you soon

Sweet Ones Series

2008-11-05T20:44:00.006-05:00

Handpainted collage tag I've named the Sweet Ones Series. Aren't these children so cute? I handpainted with pastel chalks, vintage wallpaper, button, and flower, and a lovely pink satin ribbon.

I plan on making a few more with these children but all will be one of a kind collages.

It's finally getting mid week and my day job is taking its toll this week! Ready for a weekend!

Off to put little one to bed then myself. I'm sooo tired.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-30T19:20:00.004-04:00

Do you know hard it was to get a 1 yr old to sit still? See the pen~bribes already!

All Dressed Up!

2008-10-28T10:09:00.016-04:00

My little lady, AnnaMae, is all ready for dinner and a dance! This dress form is from Cerri's shop. She has the loveliest items. You must check her out! The silk ribbon is from Pretty Petals. Another lovely shop! Glitter is painted on the dress form to add as jewelry. Feather ribbon and pink pearls complete the look!

LOVE it! This tiny little dress form reminded me of my childhood. My best friend, Dona and I, would 'dress' our Barbies. We spend HOURS doing this. I was lucky enough to have beautiful scraps of velvet, silk, ribbons...My late Grandfather owned and operated a sewing and upholstery business and did only antiques. My Grandmother was the epitome of PINK! VELVET! SILK!

It's nice to go back to my heritage-New York and 'see' my late grandparents work in the prominent homes and museums. It's sad that this is a dying art form.

I promise to upload our Pumpkin Patch pictures soon. D loved it! She picked a pretty one for $4.

As I close my Halloween crafts

2008-10-26T08:23:00.008-04:00

for this year, I wanted to share the last 3 crafts I made. I think they came out so cute. I'm pondering if I should make some of these to sell next year. What do you think?

Have a wonderful Sunday! Off to the Pumpkin Patch today for our first pumpkin!

Autumn is a great time of year

2008-10-21T09:04:00.053-04:00

to snuggle with your loved one's, have a cookie or cupcake with a steaming cup of coffee, and get in your comfy PJ's with a good book, and my favorite-do Nothing but sit and enjoy the sun with

its burnished golds, reds, and browns.

**off topic~~Seriously, those people at Michael's are sneaky putting all that 'stuff' in the $1 bins! I spent over $20 in dollar stuff today to alter! I never get out of there less than $50...**

This is my Autumn Gathering~~see the other partiers at ArtsyMama!

Photo of downtown Greenville where I live called Falls Park. We have a beautiful river that runs through it and an awesome suspension bridge. It's a nice place to relax and watch the world go by on a warm Autumn day.

So I start my Happy Gathering with a little history of why I love this time of year so much. A wedding photo of moi and my dear D, or big D as his friends call him from 1999.
We had our photos in black and white before it became popular. I love this photo. I came up with the flower arrangement of deep burgundy roses, blush pink fill in, and tied with gorgeous burgundy ribbon. I remember the florist insisted on keeping my idea. Ha! Now you don't see an arrangement without it tied with ribbon. Hmmmm....

October 23 is my 9 year Anniversary. We got married at a beautiful outdoor chapel on a cool, crisp October day. The nickname for Symme's Chapel is Pretty Place. It's high on a mountain outside of our town and is part of the summer camp for YMCA established in 1912. My father in law looked down in the valley and stated it looked like a bowl of fruity pebbles because of the gorgeous fall foliage.

My little October Pumpkin is born on 10/10/07. We are blessed. Fast forward to 10/10/08 and my Little Pumpkin is ONE! See her birthday pics below!

and Mommy is so excited to 'dress' the house this year even if she is worn out from working FT outside the home, chasing Little Pumpkin, and trying to craft somewhere in between!

Welcome!

This is a Fall collage I made.

Here we are on my deck~~Let's sit and have some wine~~oh, I do have sweet tea~~can't live in the Deep South without that~
*Note to self--get help for the flower fetish!*

Thanks for coming!

Now onto to Christmas!

Christmas ought to be interesting this year! Anyone know how to hang a real Christmas Tree from the ceiling? Little D is going to be inside that tree, I know it! I'll be putting my soft ornaments or my unbreakable Hallmark one's up this year~~Ha!

I did buy this awesome felt ornie kit from Alicia Paulson! Can't wait to snuggle in bed and work on those! Check them out~~can you say cute :)
What I believe my tree will look like on 12/26.

MIL likes to remind Big D that his brother dragged their Christmas Tree around the house one year around Little D's age. *YIKES* The two dogs ought to enjoy that if it happens!

Happy Autumn !

Happy 'Boo' Halloween!!

2008-10-17T18:37:00.017-04:00

Welcome to the Halloween Party!! You can find other fellow partiers---A Fanciful Twist

Thanks for visiting!! Please come back and we'll have some coffee, tea, and yummy cupcakes and cookies!

My First Birthday Party!

2008-10-12T10:43:00.021-04:00

Very early on my Birthday morning. Mommy needs more off her juice called Dunkin Donuts coffee! Below is Mommy putting out my decorations and setting my Birthday table.

Check out my Chenille Rabbit. I LOVE it :)

All dressed up...where is my family..they don't tell time very well. I'm off to amuse myself with my balloon.

Lucky asking Mommy to have D quit boinking her with the balloon.

Cookie has the smart idea---ran off to sleep on Mommy's bed. Her she is saying Get Out! Leave me alone :)

FINALLY! Cake!! Ice Cream!! Whooppppppeee...

Before:

After!

The ice cream was my favorite! I passed out from all the sugar after a few hours. Mommy was tired but happy.

Happy 1st Birthday Sweet One

2008-10-10T09:14:00.004-04:00

Mommy & Daddy love you so much and are blessed you came to us after many years of infertility.

Sweet Shabby Cards!

2008-10-05T11:14:00.013-04:00

I like making simple sweet cards and they are QUICK! This is very much needed having a 1 yr old--She was pulling out all my ribbons at my feet as I made these :)

(Gee Mommy I don't see what the big deal is with all these pretty ribbons..Drool and all!)

This one is for Pink October-Breast Cancer Awareness. I've got a few more projects I'm working on and hope to have them up this week!

Have a great Sunday! It's beautiful here-sunny and cool around 80 degrees--off to get my magazines and get some much needed rest. D and I both have sinus infections--she's on an inhaler because of so much chest yuckiness. Awwh, the changing of the seasons in the South!

I used Anna Griffin papers, card stock, seam ribbon, flowers, vintage flower on the Hope card, and vintage wallpaper from Holly. The inspirational cards I used these scrapbook embellishments I found in the clearance bin.

AWESOME idea!

2008-10-02T10:55:00.003-04:00

I'm going to shabby/cottage this up for my desk especially since D is starting to talk! I'll be ready :)

Check it out Out!

I LOVE Pottery Barn!

2008-09-30T16:15:00.005-04:00

Oh, looky what was in their PB Kids catalog! I MUST have :)

Look at the SIZE of this advent calender~~big enough to tuck a few sweet treats and yummies in it to help move the month along!

OMG! Can you say CUTE? Look at this bag! My Favorite-POM POMS!! hheeeee......I can just picture this with my Dad as Santa! HA! Well, maybe Daddy since he's all SILVER hair while Grampy is BALD :) Shhhhh...told let them know I told ya.

Just had to share...off to drool some more. I absolutely MUST have this too!

So a little off topic but

2008-09-30T12:35:00.005-04:00

this is what I'm seeing around town! Gas lines! I live in a fairly populated town (approx 250,000 people) and being in the South, every half mile is a gas station, CVS, and a church, a fact, no opinions please. The fact that I had to drive by 5 gas stations to wait to get gas for 20 mins and then can only get $50 worth (that isn't going to get me through the week!) is scary. Prices are high too!

Picture from the 70's! Ha, 10 gallons of gas is nothing!

Pretty scary situation when you add the current economic faltering of the US economy. My mind has been very preoccupied with all this as I am directly effected working in the commercial real estate~financial industry. I can understand the various topics being talked about but the fact is WE as a country have to DO something and come to agreement. Do WE not want to help ourselves? I definitely do NOT want to go in a Depression. I'm really sad that many of the newscasters and radio people just harp on the Wall Street when the BIG picture is our overall economic viability and our future (our KIDS future). They are just fueling the fear that is felt at the "Main St" level. The fact that OUR Commander in Chief, the President of the US, has indicated that WE as a country must come together for our future is very disconcerting. It's SERIOUS. Please research, make an informed decision, before calling and fueling more fear out there.

*getting down* my humble opinion...let's be nice people.

A few of the projects

2008-09-28T20:04:00.015-04:00

I've been working on.

First it's the Vintage Hankie Bunting from the Sweet Six Studio workshop. I purchased a bag full of vintage hankies for a steal, washed them, and most were in very good shape. My bedroom window needed that something extra. It's been months trying to think of something and bam! this was perfect. I had put up my Rachel Ashwell valance which is a very light shade of pink. My bedroom windows are three across or 96 inches! That's a lot of window. I LOVE how it came out. Several pictures to capture it up close.

I also finished Squirt's (aka D) birthday banner and crown! I love it. Bright colors and lots of glitter. It matches her lantern I did (see below with pom poms). Okay, my new love is pom poms :)

I have to say that was the toughest thing to capture. The pics are still not showing how beautiful it came out. I'll try again on her birthday. She kept trying to pull them down today!

The shape is a flower with flower centers and chip board letters. So cute! Please don't look at my vintage WRINKLED tablecloth. I always use my vintage tablecloths on my kitchen table but never iron them.

As you can see I've ALREADY started putting up my Halloween items!

The CUTE crown I made for her out of the same scrapbook paper, pom poms :), and butterfly embellishments, and ribbons to tie around her head. A big D for her name. She is going to look so sweet on her 1st Birthday!

Halloween Party!!

2008-09-24T09:45:00.002-04:00

Please come join in the fun!!

http://afancifultwist.typepad.com/a_fanciful_twist/

Venture outside & Cookie Day!

2008-09-21T16:08:00.006-04:00

It was a sugar cookie day at our house since it started to cool off. In honor, we baked these yummy cookies for Halloween :)

Please take one and have some tea or coffee. I've already had one but will be happy to have another with you!

We ventured outside today and little one took awhile to get used to it. She has been walking about a month now and still shaky on new ground. Check out her Daddy's hat :)

4---yes, 4 teeth have been coming in the past few weekends. Talk about a CRANKY kid! I did get a few good shots. Here is Squirt at 11.5 months old. I've been working on her crown, happy birthday banner, and invitations to match her lantern (see post below) that I did for the Sweet Six event.

Fall Vignettes!!

2008-09-20T16:24:00.010-04:00

Front door...I won this on Ebay. Can't say I got a bargain but I HAD to have it with the shape and the cute prim objects in it. Perfect for my maroon red door behind it!

Entryway..Okay, I'm not a big fan of fake flowers but I've collected these sweeties over the years and keep tossing them in this basket for a loose sweet feel. Last year I found these turkey feather looking picks and jabbed them in there. I like the messy just picked feel. I always have some kind of candy for D's starving friends!

Kitchen table--I'm one of those people that always has fresh flowers on the table and I found this gorgeous colored mum at Publix!

Fireplace mantle with mixed media collage I made, MORE birdies, and a sweet pumpkin with leaves.

Other side of mantle. That pretty babe in the gorgeous black cottage frame is my sweet little one who will be 1 in a few weeks. LOVE the black and white photo! Peekiing out is my other FAVORITE bunnies!

Basket of sweetness of fall yummies--pumpkins, acorns, sweet Halloween basket I made, and my ceramic Birdies! I have many :)

Just a few vignettes around my house. I can never wait till the first day of Autumn. I did these last weekend! I LOVE the autumn colors---my absolute favorite time of year! Hope you enjoyed :)

Off to download some I Tunes for my FREE IPOD shuffle :)

Little Bit of Greenville SC

2008-09-18T09:26:00.009-04:00

Main Street

Liberty Bridge

Reedy River

Falls Park

Reedy River at Falls Park

I thought I would share a few photos of where I live, Greenville South Carolina. We are finally see a bit of Fall in the air with the temps down to 80 degrees. I know, that's not cool but it feels like it after 5 months of 95 degree heat and humidity. This is one of my favorit times of year. Fall invorigates me to bring out those beautiful reds, golds, orange, greens, and browns. I do miss my red maples. D & I planted one when we moved in our starter house 9 yrs ago and that tree may have grown 3 feet in those amount of years. It finally has a roundish shape and produces leaves but nothing like that firey red I grew up with. *sigh*

All these photos are of downtown. I'm lucky to work in this beautiful area. We have a spectacular river and waterfall that flows right through the middle of town and it just reflects how beautiful the years of restoration have brought Main St USA back on the map. Our town is very International due to the various companies that have settled here, BMW, Michelin, Flour Daniel, GE, Samsung, many many others. After years of struggle with losing all the textile industry, it's nice to see it prosper again. Nothing like when my Dad moved us here over 25 yrs ago.

Art has a larger audience here now. There is a row of studios that they rent to artists for a few bucks a month where you can go in and view there work. It's awesome! They face the river with gorgeous views. It's part of a non profit organization to bring in the Arts. Now if we could get a few more scrapbook shops!

Handmade Paper Lantern and Altered bottle

2008-09-08T17:17:00.005-04:00

Isn't this lantern sweet? I made it out of a chopped date box with colorful paper, ribbons, and pom poms. Adorable! It's for my daughter's birthday party. The theme is Berry Sweet.

This was made out of an old expresso bottle using vintage flowers, ribbons, and colored parfum tag by N.Burns.

It was a Cupcake Day

2008-09-01T18:55:00.005-04:00

here at the house on the unofficial end of Summer. September is a reminiscing month for me where I reflect on the past and look forward to the cooler weather. Although, here in the South we have at least 4 more weeks of high to low 80's. Nights will finally cool off. We are in the midst of very tropical air from Gustav and awaiting a dump of rain from Hannah. It's really needed here as we are in a severe drought.

I've decided to put my shops on hold for now. The Doc says I need to slow down a bit so I'll be concentrating on my crafty part of me to occupy that art passion. Learn some new techniques and enjoy my baby girl who will be 1 in a few short 6 weeks! Working FT outside the home and trying to run a shop, plus take care of my little one has depleted my health. Must do what the Doc says. I'll find out my test results by the end of the week.

I also bought my first autumn flower to start my Fall today. Isn't this a beauty?

Tomorrow starts the Sweet Six Retreat. It will be so much fun! I really need this distraction right now.

Enjoy the rest of your long weekend!

Halloween!

2008-08-31T20:42:00.004-04:00

Just a few items I've made recently. You can see the rest here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/29828567@N04/

How can you say NO to this face?

2008-08-30T17:56:00.002-04:00

She was watching college football with her Dad today. I love this pic! I'm finally get a hang of my new camera :)

Fairy Swap

2008-08-30T17:52:00.005-04:00

This is what I received from Marcela. Isn't is adorable?

Below is what I made for her! Princess Honey Bee :)

Can you say it? GAME DAY!!

2008-08-28T15:42:00.003-04:00

Whooooooooopp!! Get out that garnet and black because South Carolina has their first game tonight. GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Carolina!

'Squirt', as I call my lovely little girl, has her very first Gamecock cheer outfit. I'll post those soon.

Remember, Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman waving her fist going, whooop, whoop! Here we go :)

Cross them fingers for another 'wonder if we'll win' season.

Flowers, Flowers, OH MY!

2008-08-16T16:57:00.006-04:00

Crochet beauties with vintage buttons. Felt flower with vintage button. I have left off the pin backing as these could be used for embellishments too!

Tea and Cocoa Time!

2008-08-16T16:19:00.005-04:00

These tags are made with the ability to put your favorite tea and/or cocoa in them. They came out so cute! They would be darling hanging off a pretty basket of supplies.

Sweet Six Studio

2008-08-14T13:28:00.004-04:00

Sweet-- These very talented women have joined together to bring an amazing and super fun event. These sweeties are having an on~line art retreat with tutorials for making projects that are sweet and a the most have---whimsical! Yeah, sign me up! Click the title to check it out.

Isn't this sweet?

2008-08-05T20:50:00.002-04:00

My new small daytrip diaper bag. I love it. Got it from QT Creations: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5161031. Wonderful and fun!

Altered Journal

2008-08-03T20:03:00.006-04:00

It's FINALLY done! My first altered journal! It's taken forever it seems due to numerous interruptions. I love how it's so feminine and frou frou. I need to learn my new digi camera better. I'm am stinkin at the close ups!

My glam journal for your viewing :)

The butterfly with ribbons is the bookmark.

It's been a difficult couple of

2008-07-31T10:17:00.004-04:00

weeks for me, personally and work. DH started a new job (thankfully, he was laid off the week before Christmas) and I'm very glad as its more money but he has to work out of town for a couple of months till they get the facility up and running. Devyn and I see him on Sundays so far and they may quit if they get behind schedule.

At my full time job everyone is unhappy and take it out on me, either by constant complaining or getting snippy with me about something, even though I did my part, I get blamed for the process of the company not working. I've been struggling with my own unhappiness at my work place, I really don't need their unhappiness too! Most days are tolerable especially if I purposely don't talk to anyone but that's a sad thing when your work is tedious and somewhat mundane in the whole scheme of life but banking makes the world go around and right now, the whole banking industry is suffering along with the economy.

To brighten my day, I usually visit http://etsycottagestyle.ning.com/ to chat or think of new ideas for collage or jewelry. I'm working on my Fairy Swap, Halloween Door Swap, and an online doll class.

The best part was checking my email today and I sold one of my wedding pieces. She is a beauty named Adrienne. I'm so glad she found a wonderful bride to wear her!

Isnt' she gorgeous? Made from all vintage repurposed parts with the exception of the gunmetal chain and clasp. Ahhh...

Busy this weekend

2008-07-27T18:56:00.010-04:00

making tags and collage items. I can't believe I found the time. It might be that I organized my dining room AKA place to do arty type stuff last weekend. That was quite a chore!

Recipe for the day

2008-07-27T15:47:00.007-04:00

I'm not a great baker. Not sure if its my oven or just me but don't get me wrong, I like to do it. I just get saddened when it doesn't come out like the pretty pictures. This time, no pics, to get me bummed.

I found this recipe on the back of the organic yogurt I eat by Stoneyfield Farms. You can get it free off their website.

Zucchini Bread!

As you can see, I'm pretty laid back on the gadgets. I use the old fashioned grater and shredder. No Cuisinart for me :(

It's quite dense and very moist. I don't like my breads dry so if you do this recipe's not the one for you! YUM

Fairy Swap

2008-07-15T19:50:00.009-04:00

I can't wait. My first one at http://etsycottagestyle.ning.com/. Check out this lovely group of woman. Everyone loves the cottage, shabby, whimiscal style. They made me feel right at home.

Fairies are my favorites. I've been in love with them since I started drawing as a toddler. My Mom would read me Dr Suess (of course) and all my old fashioned children's tales which had the most beautiful illustrations. I must look for that book at Mom's. Hmm, I was going to buy a journal or book to make my list's as I'm way to forgetful (either being 40 or the pregnancy did it to me) :)

This will be my first swap so I've been musing over what you are supposed to do but this lovely lady, Kat, http://katsimagination.blogspot.com/, will be letting us know soon the rules. Oh you must check our her awesome art work! I love her Rain Rain Go Away collage. YUM!

Someone please tell me how to get the names as their websites? I read other blogs and the name is what you click on to get to their site. I'm way to new at this stuff!

Sad News :(

2008-07-15T19:36:00.004-04:00

My digital camera finally went kapoop! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa...I wanted to use my birthday money for much more fun stuff. Oh well...it never fails that something useful always breaks down when I have extra spending money. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmphh..must be the law of the land around my house.

Any recommendations out there? I had a Canon Powershot A80 4.0 megapixals. It was adequate. LCD screen went out and now it won't take pics. UGH!

Snarkle it all!! Etsy guess you lose my extra monies this month.

It's the BIG 40!

2008-07-12T08:29:00.003-04:00

My birthday that is! I still can't believe I'm 40. I keep thinking that at 50 I'll have a 10 yr old girl. WOW, now that's perspective for you.

Grandma is taking care of the little one today and off to a awesome Fondue restaurant tonight. I love fondue especially for special occasions. You can relax and take your time.

Oh, and I finally got Photoshop for my birthday! WHOOP! No more stinky free software to edit.

Wii!

2008-07-07T09:33:00.003-04:00

Okay, we broke down and bought a Wii. Dear hubby is now 13 again! LOL! It is a cool system. I love that there are no wires/cords, etc. Ahhhhh, we did our part to stimulate this US ecomony and now we'll just be sitting in our air conditioning playing the rest of the summer away.

The schools start in another month here in the South so it won't be long. This is our winter--too hot and humid to be outside and with the drought, all my pretties outside are fried. I hate looking at dead brown grass and I just cut down all my flowers :(

Rubby Ducky your the one!

2008-06-30T19:37:00.003-04:00

Bath time and Johnson's lavender baby soap. What a delicious combo!

Tags!

2008-06-22T20:38:00.008-04:00

Okay, this is my first jaunt into making tags. I did simple. Lots of fun!

My First Vacation !

2008-06-22T20:25:00.006-04:00

My first swim!!

Okay, not mine but my little one's! She hated the long car ride but loved her first swim in the lake!

The start of the trip and I'm soooooooo happy_NOT!

The OTHER girls in my life :)

It was a tight ride but well worth it--at least for me.

Our first morning sunrise-it's gorgeous there. It's between Ellijay and Blue Ridge, GA, in the north east part of Georgia. I love it there. We've rented several different cabins each year and they just keep getting better.

My very first collage

2008-06-08T13:48:00.004-04:00

the inspiration was the Strawberry Jam recipe from a vintage cookbook. It's simple. I was thinking it would be great for a recipe scrapbook. I've hung it on my inspiration board which I just had my Dad hang so I can now put up all my colors, favorites, and doo-dads. I've been sent to the dining room for my craft area now since my daughter is here and needed a room!

Oh look at what my Dad

2008-06-08T13:45:00.005-04:00

got me! I know it's because I'm constantly at his house asking to use his tools or cut something off for me :)

These are heavy duty tools to use in my vintage repurposing of jewelry. My other tools are not strong enough. I'm so excited!

Saturday Mornings

2008-06-07T17:21:00.004-04:00

Awhhh, I love Saturday mornings when you can lounge around with little to do. It's rare in our house and it was one of those days. I caught this picture of my daughter and husband just when I got up this morning. They let me sleep IN! A whole 7:30am. I'm a new woman :)

Aren't they cute?

My First Time to the Zoo

2008-05-28T15:33:00.007-04:00

Deyvn had her first outing to our local zoo on Saturday. It's small for zoo's but perfect for little time away from home. It does have a beautiful lion too!

For an 8mo old, she spent more time people watching than anything although the elephant was a surprise. Check out that expression!

She's like what is that!!

I haven't figured out my two dogs yet :)

LOL!

She loved the giraffe. It came running towards us for food. I was actually a little scared~~it was at TOP speed!

We conclude the day with ice cream. YUM! Marble Slab. They sure know how to make your wallet groan.

But finally at home:

I do love my Sweet Potatoes and Chicken~~Thanks Beech Nut!

Awhhh, she's the love of my life!

New Goodies in my shop!

2008-05-26T19:19:00.015-04:00

Finally! The long weekend allowed me some time to actually work on my designs. I love all the new ones. Perfect for all those summer parties, special occasions, weddings, showers, and my favorite, just because!

This is Bella. Isn't she a vintage beauty? The vintage enamel shabby cottage like pendant is awesome and I utilized a gorgeous light blue vintage crystal to set it off then I added ribbon as the tie so it will drape beautifully down your neck!

This lovely is Elizabeth. I love this salvaged beauty. So classic..reminds me of Audrey Hepburn. This came from a damaged necklace and I added vintage faux pearls in the most beautiful shade of gray which you can not find now a days.

These pretties are Ella. Vintage golden metal flower (close to 1 inch, or 30mm wide) with vintage ivory rose bead for center. Antiqued brass ear wire.

Close up of that beautiful vintage rhinestone button I used.

This pretty 18 inch necklace is made with dyed freshwater pearls, silvertone ring, and a gorgeous vintage rhinestone button. Simple yet elegant!

Okay, I wasn't have the best hair day for this picture :)

This is Alcott.

Fits 7.5inch wrist comfortably. Vintage pale pink czech glass beads, vintage crystal beads, vintage faux pearls simulated to look like freshwater pearls, a beautiful shade of ivory, and vintgage rhinestone beads. Stretch cording was utilized to keep the look clean.

Crystella :

This gorgeous necklace is made with opalite glass, vintage cyrstals salvaged from broken necklaces, silvertone ring, and beautiful velvet ribbon embellished with a sweet pink rose. The pictures do not do this gemstone justice.The necklace is 18 inches long and you could lengthen another 5 inches or so based on how tight you do the ribbon. I love the look of the gorgeous ribbon tie to drape down the neck or to the side to add that little extra.

Absolutely stunning!

All these beauties would be perfect for a special occasion, party, wedding, shower, or my favorite, just because. It would look beautiful on a bride or bridesmaid!

Saying Goodbye to a fulfilled journey

2008-05-24T20:06:00.007-04:00

when it was a heartbreaking experience can be hard. I say goodbye to a group of beautiful women who helped me endure 3 of my 5 years of infertility. I've never met any of them but with the technology of today, I was able to get through the hardest journey of my life. I made the decision not to renew my membership. It was time to move on. Time to put the past behind me and relish in my appreciation for my beautiful little one. The absolute love of my life (sorry, DH, my honey of my life). The trials and tribulations of infertility is great, it does not effect just me but your significant other, and eventually the rest of your family. I consider myself lucky compared to some women whose journey still has not ended or the conclusion was not what one wanted but must accept.

Infertility brought me patience, acceptance, understanding, and perservance. You MUST be your own advocate in your goal of motherhood. I read, and searched, and queried those with greater knowledge or alternative knowledge. I pushed my doctor to find the answer. In the end, there was NO answer. It was inconclusive or by industry term UNEXPLAINED. Who comes up with these terms? Unexplained... You don't tell two people who desire in their hearts a baby..Medically there is no reason. UMMM, yes there is. You need to find it.

Money is the biggest issue for us infertiles. Insurance does not cover testing, procedures, and drugs. Those who do live in mandatory states in the US, consider yourself VERY lucky.

DH & I are part of the lucky statistic of IVF working the first time. Although, it was very calculated on my part. I spent 2 (yes, 2) years having weekly acupuncture, eating a strict diet, and trying various herbs to bring my body BALANCE. Acupuncture healed me and I believe is the reason why the IVF worked. I was stressed out, impatient, and depressed. Infertility will do this to you. I was mentally exhausted or a better term, consumed with achieving motherhood. Unless you've been there, it is a difficult thing to understand.

My pocketbook groans each month and will for many many years to come. I don't regret the choice I made as statistically it was a gamble, due to my age and history of insulin resistance. 50/50 ....those aren't good odds at $20,000 a pop. My specialist and team are considered one of the leading teams in the US in regards to research and success.

Derek said 'let's do it' but he is a gambler at heart. If this didn't work, we would be a family of two the rest of our lives. I cried many a night because it was ultimately my decision. I was soooooo tired of tests, shots, poking, prying, surgeries.

Those that don't know~~ it's just not a few shots. It's pills first, then blood sample, then 2 different kinds of shots 2x a day~most of the time it is for 10 days, with every other day blood draws. This leads you to retrieval..more pills. Then the whomper shots start and because it worked it was 14 weeks of this shot in the bum. Derek is my nurse and I love him more because he would stumble sleepy to my bum and poke :)
3 days later I receive a call of how many survived and were viable, then transfer. On my back for 24hrs. Then time stands still for 12 days till you go in for the LAST blood draw. Tick, tock, tick tock till you receive that call ~~yes or no~~. Will my heart break or be fulfilled?

As I lay my inferility to rest along with any further attempts to enlarge my family, my heart feels sad. My system is winding down. I can feel it but it's part of life. I must let go. Enjoy my family as it is. I am BLESSED. God did hear me but required me to struggle, endure, accept, and be a part of a special group of people that must bring understanding to the world regarding the pain infertility brings. Not all people will understand using medical technology to attain conception, and that's okay. Life provides choices and this was ours.

Goodbye infertility, the journey was hard and my body has the scars to prove it. Years of reminders lay ahead as not all those scars will heal very quickly.

A poem for those who endured infertility:

Thoughts on Becoming a Mother
There are women that become mothers without effort, without thought, without patience or loss and though they are good mothers and love their children, I know that I will be better.
I will be better not because of genetics, or money or that I have read more books, but because I have struggled and toiled for this child.
I have longed and waited.
I have cried and prayed.
I have endured and planned over and over again.
Like most things in life, the people who truly have appreciation are those who have struggled to attain their dreams.
I will notice everything about my child.
I will take time to watch my child sleep, explore and discover.
I will marvel at this miracle every day for the rest of my life.
I will be happy when I wake in the middle of the night to the sound of my child, knowing that I can comfort, hold and feed him and that I am not waking to take another temperature, pop another pill, take another shot or cry tears of a broken dream.
My dream will be crying for me.
I count myself lucky in this sense; that God has given me this insight, this special vision with which I will look upon my child that my friends will not see.
Whether I parent a child I actually give birth to or a child that God leads me to, I will not be careless with my love.
I will be a better mother for all that I have endured.
I am a better wife, a better aunt, a better daughter, neighbor, friend and sister because I have known pain.
I know disillusionment as I have been betrayed by my own body, I have been tried by fire and hell many never face, yet given time, I stood tall.
I have prevailed.
I have succeeded.I have won.
So now, when others hurt around me, I do not run from their pain in order to save myself discomfort.
I see it, mourn it, and join them in theirs.
I listen. And even though I cannot make it better, I can make it less lonely.
I have learned the immerse power of another hand holding tight to mine, of other eyes that moisten as they learn to accept the harsh truth and when life is beyond hard.
I have learned a compassion that only comes with walking in those shoes.
I have learned to appreciate life.
Yes I will be a wonderful mother.

How does one little girl

2008-05-20T10:04:00.004-04:00

NOT sleep? Dr Spock, Sears, and all the others~~your methods may work on some but my little one has a mind of her own. She will sleep through the night when SHE is ready! Part of the problem is that she has constant colds, ear infection, and reflux for the past 6 months so at 7 1/2 months old, sleeping is all new to her.

Many a Mom has told me that she will sleep eventually when she tires her self out. Do you realize how much they have to go through to grow up? It's amazing to watch her learn new skills. She is working hard on crawling but has bypassed and is working on pulling herself up. She is determined to walk. Her dad and I were both early walkers so time will tell.

Off to get more coffee. Thank goodness for Dunkin Donuts and their coffee!

The Deck

2008-05-18T15:28:00.010-04:00

Just a few pics of my flowers on my deck. My dad made me the gorgeous cedar flower chest, it's perfect next to my back door which leads in the breakfast nook and kitchen. I'm growing lavender, sage, and coleus this year. It's just starting. Mom has numerous herb plants which she will share once they are big enough. Ohhh, I can't wait!

Check out the fun zebra pot I got at a local flower place :)

The Garden

2008-05-18T12:33:00.010-04:00

I have to share my front yard. After 8 years of living in a cookie cutter house (first time homeowners) I feel my gardens are finally coming to life! I never grew a garden before and the knowledge I did have was from growing up in New York. We don't have dirt here in South Carolina, it's red clay. It's taken almost 8 years of mulching to get some 'good' growing soil! I wish I had gotten a picture of my southern version of a lilac because it was the first year I had buds after 6 painful years :(

I haven't gotten to our back down by the fence mainly cause it's huge and the dogs have a track back there from running back and forth. We have a horse farm backing up to us. It's nice to have them come visit for an apple or carrot. Drives the dogs batty!

Today is the beginning

2008-05-18T10:51:00.001-04:00

of my new blog! I was inspired by the Artful Blogging magazine. It had so many interesting people and ideas. I'm a little challenged to the technology but here it goes :)