Studio Stuff

Dining Set Finished........s.w.e.e.t

2012-02-17T12:35:00.003-06:00

I found this set at a thrift store many months ago.....
and...procrastinated due to the size of the project.

This entire set had been stripped
by someone
and
was minus any seats for the chairs:(

With all the stripping done,
you would think the project would have been simple........NOT.

First hubby had to make some seats for the chairs
and
I had to gather foam, batting and fabric for the job.
(I also found a light weight
staple gun at Sears....
Beats the heck out of Hubby's gun
that I can hardly
pull the handle...even with both hands!)

Next came the painting, sanding and waxing!
As usual, I used Chalk Paint.....
but this time
I used my homemade mix!!!!!
(for more on that check a previous post)

After all that work
I wanted to be sure I wanted to sell it!
The best way to do that
was to set it all up in our kitchen:D

That is exactly what we did this morning
and
I still love the look of my glass top table and armed chairs
BETTER!

Not to take anything away from the set
I do love the contemporary look
of the chairs!
Very today....don't you think?

So.....the decision was made!

Good bye sweetheart.......it has been nice,
but now it is time
for you to hit the Mall!
We have spent some lovely hours together
and
I will never forget you:D

Wednesday is for Sisters:D

2012-02-15T22:47:00.003-06:00

Sandy brought over some new fabrics
she had purchased
and
we split them in order to make some little Salsa Skirts:D
This one is for Maddie
and I hope it fits!

We have officially set aside Wednesdays
as a playdate for my me and my sis......
Today we worked on entirely different projects....
but....
where in the same workspace:D

The idea is just spending time together!
Sandy has decided to move on from the Antique Mall.....
and spend more of her spare time painting.
I think the "Hunting & Gathering" has finally
gotten to her...LOL
That is a good thing!
...spending more time painting that is....
But, we didn't want to miss out on the time we spend together,
so we decided that we should spend Wednesdays
together doing whatever that is we do...ha..ha!
This week I worked on a little Salsa Skirt for Maddie's
summer wardrobe
while San started a large acrylic painting
of a bedroom setting:D
We had fun, got a lot accomplished, laughed, talked and had
a little lunch together:D

I love having a sister
that enjoys
all the same things I do!!!!!

CHALK PAINT made at home:)

2012-02-14T10:05:00.005-06:00

Here is my first 1 1/2 pt. of Chalk Paint......I made!!!!!

Thanks to "No Minimalist Here" blog
I was inspired to try
several of her methods of making
the golden liquid!!!
She purchases the sample size paint to get her colors:)
Great idea!

She recommends several additives for your latex paint.
The first one I tried was...
unsanded grout

I was able to make a paint that stuck like Annie Sloan paint
but
I couldn't mix out all of the granules that formed
when I mixed the paint with the grout:(

Next....I tried another of her suggestions...
Calcium Carbonate

I purchased mine online, but my sis
found it at a local health food store.
Well..............that did the trick!!!!! YEA
You can mix it with any latex paint you have left from
other jobs.
I purchased a blender
at the thrift store

filled it with paint
and
slowly sprinkled
the Calcium Carbonate
into the mix....blending between each addition:)

I just worked with it until
I liked the look and feel of the paint!
Once I painted it onto a piece of raw wood
I was thrilled to find that it stuck
beautifully
and dried just like the
expensive stuff!

The Calcium Carbonate is in powdered form......ground limestone!

These are my latest projects.....a table and 4 chairs.
Love the fabric I found for the seats
Now all I need to do is finish sanding
and
Wax!
You can see the fabric in the pic above.
We had to make complete seats
for these chairs.
Hubby made the wooden seat
and I already
upholstered
them!

linked to Coastal Charm here

Pictures just arrived:D

2012-02-13T16:55:00.002-06:00

Arica just sent me pics of the K.C. babes
in their Valentine Dresses:D
OH MY....
Look at that head of hair on Olivia:D
Couldn't be any cuter!

Look at my precious Maddie......
always on the move:D
Hope you have a Happy Day Girls:D
Nana love you...........

Fun Week-end Topped Off With Fashion Show!

2012-02-12T21:18:00.002-06:00

What a busy week-end!
Celebrating Rog's Birthday is a two week affair...LOL!
Friday night we went out to celebrate with my sister and hubby,
Sat. night we went out to celebrate with our son and daughter in law
(two little peeps too).
Next week-end is the same thing all over again,
except different people:D
Sunday put the icing on the cake for me.
My sister was in a fashion show
put on by one of her friends, June.
June is an amazing creative soul
with so many ideas running around in her pretty little head......
this show was all about the T-shirt!
Every piece of clothing was made by her (63 in all).
I never saw so many variations on a theme:D
Her pieces were so inventive
and
so fabulous I can not begin to explain.
I am including some of the pics of my sis
to give you an idea of June's creativity!!!!!

WOW! That is all I can say.

This was my favorite outfit.....love white!

Will be making something with stripes real soon!

Such a cute dress.............might have to have one of these!

This is ALSO my FAVORITE!!! Can't decide:D

Vintage Hangers...

2012-02-12T18:33:00.002-06:00

A friend recently gave me some wooden hangers......
(thanks Sharon)!
I painted them and shabby-ed them up
and
hung an image from each of them.
I had seen pants hangers used
for picture display and thought these would work as well:D
Off to the Mall........
we'll see if anyone around here likes them as much as I do:D

Tonight we celebrated 2 Birthdays!

2012-02-08T23:02:00.002-06:00

Papa and Margo share a Birthday.....
so it was quite a celebration:D
Margo turned 9 and Papa....well, he got another yr. older:)

Margo loves food....
and she is very specific about what she likes.
This year we put together a huge tote full of her favorite foods.
She was overwhelmed.....the look on her face was so funny:D
She did get some normal gifts as well..............
but her favorite was of course the food!
Before they left we were cleaning up all the papers etc.
and I went to put the top on the tote.
She immediately came over and pulled it off.........
telling me that that was NOT o.k......LOL!
I had to explain that she was taking it all home.....
but we needed to pack it up:D
Our precious little girls
were all decked out in their clothes
I recently made them and looked so cute.
Our precious angel will probably be dreaming
of her tote when she falls a sleep tonight...ha..ha!

Bunting from my scraps:D....& update!

2012-02-08T09:11:00.008-06:00

Well that was simple!
I love the way it turned out....but I didn't use all my triangles.
I think I will make several of these to hang in my studio
since the ceiling isn't finished...
it will make a nice camouflage for that ugliness:D

After organizing my stash
that had become pretty unruly...
I found myself with a pile of scraps
that were too pretty to throw away!
Since I am re-doing the booths at the Mall.....
I decided to make some bunting to decorate the children's section!
I will finish it up today and show pics once I have it hung!
I made mine very simply......
cut double of each fabric and stitched around the edge of the triangle
to hold them together
and
give them some weight:D

There is something about bunting that makes me smile!
It reminds me of the Circus....not a used car lot...LOL!
I have loved all the bunting I have seen online
but never have made any.
We shall see how this turns out:D

linked to Savvy Southern Style here!
linked to Coastal Charm here!

Annie Sloan is now in St. Louis!!!!!!!

2012-02-07T22:31:00.004-06:00

Annie Sloan

Annie's shop in Oxford, England

The magnificent Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
( aka ASCP)
that you have heard about on so many of the blogs
is NOW AVAILABLE in little ole St. Louie:D
I can't tell you how happy that makes me....
and my pocket book!
I have spent hundreds on these fabulous products
and
no small part of that was FREIGHT!

Now at Chesterfield Mall you can find an art shop called
Wood Icing Studio Gallery!

They are distributors for this world famous paint:D
If you haven't tried it.....I would highly recommend it!
No priming, no sanding and......the most beautiful
and
strong chalk like surface reminiscent of an aged patina.
Her waxes are to die for as well................
the prices will set you back some bucks,
but after using these products
you will agree that they are well worth the money!

Milly called me this afternoon.............

2012-02-06T21:55:00.004-06:00

.....and all I heard was this excited little voice!
I asked her to slow down because I couldn't understand
a thing she was saying....LOL!
She said she missed me and papa
and
wondered if she and Margo could come over for a visit!!!!
HELLO.....she didn't have to ask...............of course!
She and sis arrived soon after the school bus
dropped Margo off at home:D
After a little playing
dinner
bath
more playing
Milly was ready to paint:D
She is always ready to paint!!!

Can you say...THRILLED!
As an artist and former art teacher
I couldn't be happier!
Not to mention
that I couldn't get any of my own children
interested in drawing or painting.

Well.............off to the studio we went!
She picked the colors she wanted
and I got the paper.

It wasn't long before she had several paintings
completed!
She definitely had Valentines on the brain:D

Some Things I Can't Live Without.......

2012-02-04T17:16:00.005-06:00

"Between Naps on the Porch" put out a challenge
to see some of the things we can't live without!
After going through the list she posted.....
I thought I would join in
since I have somethings that fit right into the category!
Things I use ALL THE TIME and would be hard pressed to go on without!

Above you see a cluster of Jars on my counter top!
I use Jars for everything.
I pick them up when I see them at Goodwill
any size any shape
I will use them all!
Here you see them numbered.
I ordered some vinyl numbers on Etsy
and simply applied them to my numerous Jars!

First item is my IMAGINE Baby Lock Serger!!!!
Don't know how I got along sooooo many years without it!
It makes sewing children's clothing....
or anything for that matter.....
so much easier and fast!
Finishing off all the raw edges
and
making the item look professional!

I have been known to sew an entire pair of P.J. bottoms
on the Serger:D
I love to sew, probably as much as I love to paint and draw.
Have been sewing all my life....
and this machine is one of my best purchases!
If you love to sew.......you might want to try one out;)

Next is my favorite writing implement......Sharpie Markers!
Who can get on without Sharpies?
The fact that they will write on anything
makes them more valuable than any other marker:)
I have them everywhere......
kitchen,
studio,
office,
laundry,
bedroom
and even the bathroom!
They work great on plastic bags I use when packing for a trip!

Swiffer Dusters have become a Must Have for me.......
Makes cleaning so much easier!
The multi angled handle is great for ceiling fans and getting the top of cabinets.
The extending handle also is great for cob webs....
that have taken up permanent residence
at out home:(

If you are budget minded....I might add that you can wash
the soiled duster pads in the washing machine......
just don't put them in the dryer, which mats them together.

I don't know if everyone already uses Oxi Clean or not.....
but if you don't....you should!
Since I have booths at the Antique Mall....
I am forever getting linens that are soiled!
But.....what others pass up because of stains
I pick up....knowing that my favorite laundry product
will get them good as new:D
When the G-kids work in my studio
sometimes we end up painting our clothing
as well as the paper.
Oxi Clean to the rescue!!!

This little product made by 3M....Dust Remover...
is great for cleaning out my keyboard,
sewing machines
and serger!

I recently misplaced my magnetic pin holders.....and I was lost!
I had piles of pins on every flat service in our family area.
It appears that hubby
put my magnetic holders,
loaded with pins
up high on a shelf...so little hands
wouldn't get into them:)
When I found that Walmart had some
(not as good as the ones I had)
but I did purchase a couple!
A girl can't have too many pin holders....or scissors...Right?

Well, that is my list!
What do you have to have to go on?

linked to "Between Naps on the Porch"

Hit the Mother Load!

2012-02-03T17:03:00.003-06:00

A friend and I went to have lunch in Webster Groves today....
.and on the way
decided to stop at a new little fabric store
that we had both visited once before
right after their opening!
FABRIC NOSHERIE
Gore Ave.

WOW, were we surprised.
The fabric selection was large
and
the creativity around the place was abounding:D
We were just about ready to leave.....
when......
we spotted the marked down rack at the front of the store.
Getting designer fabric for 5.00/ yd. with NO FREIGHT
is how I like to roll:D
Well......about an hour later
we were happily on our way!
We were able to pick from Anna Marie Horner,
Heather Bailey
and many more favorite designer fabrics!!!!!
We have so few fabric stores in St. Louis......
it was so exciting to find a large selection of designer fabrics
right here in our neck of the woods.....YEA!
Here is a peek at a few of the wonderful fabrics we found.
These will be added to my stash for my next sewing tantrum..ha..ha!

Winter cold has got me down:(

2012-01-28T20:16:00.003-06:00

Not down enough to keep me from my machine though....ha..ha..ha!
Sandy came over to finish the stitching on her G-babie's
Valentine dresses
and
I made Maddie's dress!
The only things that really cry Valentine....are the buttons!
I like the way it turned out.....
the Moda fabric is such great quality:D

Sister Love.......and Valentine dresses :D

2012-01-26T20:29:00.004-06:00

Margo's Outfit!
(felted sweater hearts)

Milly's Jumper.....felted sweater heart!
one on the back too:D

Sandy and I are now spending every Wed.
doing something together.....nothing is off limits...LOL
This Wednesday was set aside to make Valentine dresses
for our Grandbabies:D
We got a start....and will have to finish up at a later date.
We made these little jumpers with a light lining....
then quilted them front and back.
I think you can see that here....if you look closely.

I consider my sister my best friend!!!!
I love spending time with her and working on projects together.
Over the years we have followed one another from interest to interest!
I guess you could say that we both inherited similar genes
from our parents.....
and our interests have always been similar as well.
We both became art teachers,
we are both artists,
love sewing,
love homemaking,
enjoy our homes
and
both put our family before anything else.
We went to the same college,
got our Master's Degrees from the same institution.
We retired the same year so that we could spend more time together.
We have shared a booth at the Antique Mall for 3+ years now
and both have an addiction to "thrifting"!
We are constantly running into each other at
Goodwill or at Jackman's
buying fabric for our next project.

When we were young, we fought like cats and dogs........
I guess the 3 1/2 yr. age difference had a lot to do with that:)
But........when I left for college,
we both missed the other
and
it wasn't long before she was coming down
to spend week-ends with me at Cape!

Having a sister that 'get's me' is sooooo special!
We share all our pains and excitement.
We really understand each other
and
rely on each other for an honest opinion.

While everyone in my family is important to me.....
my sis has a special place!
The kids have their own family's
and are spending most of their time raising their children
.....as it should be:)
Hubby has his brother and buddies
that love to watch sports with him or share their stories
about jobs, politics, finance and golf.

My sis and I are on the same page almost all the time.
I am so lucky to have such a wonderful sister
that loves me like no other.......
always has and always will!
I love her so much and thank God for this blessing
he has given me all my life!

linked to Under The Table and Dreaming here

Gallery Walls..........

2012-01-23T15:58:00.004-06:00

Many years ago I started a Gallery Wall
on the lower level where hubby and I have our desks and computers:D
At the time.....weddings were happening every year
and
it wasn't any time that we had plenty of photos to fill
the largest of the walls.
Periodically I have added more black frames and new pics
as the children arrived on the scene.
It has been a work in progress since it began.....just as it should be!

But.............after receiving new pics
of many of the grandchildren as Christmas gifts....
I felt it was time to re-do the entire thing
.....WOW!

I had NO IDEA how much time that would take
....but....
well worth it in the end.

I started by taking down photos,
taking them apart,
cleaning the glass and frame,
adding matts if I planed on changing the photo size.

You see...I wanted more current pics
of the children and families....
even though I loved the old photos as well.
I simply left the old photo behind the new photo
so that sometime in the future they will be waiting for me there:D

What started as one wall has grown into a 3 wall extravaganza.....and I simply love it!
We are all about FAMILY around here.....and that is what these walls speak to............

I have added some 3D elements since Gallery Walls are so in these days!

Below is the third wall to get into the act....LOL! Did I mention that I had to find all the pics on my computer, size them to the frames I had available and print them out?
That was another it took me soooooo long:D

The door to the right is the entrance
to the powder room I mentioned in one of the last posts:D

linked to Coastal Charm....here

A Stitch in Time.......

2012-01-22T09:30:00.005-06:00

This little quilt has been in my Stash Closet
for some time now!

I forgot about it and several others until the cleaning & purging started:D

Last night after all the kids left,
I decided it was time to find something to use as a border.

This is as far as I got and now the hand sewing begins!
Fun to sew while watching T.V. on a lazy, cold, winter evening!

I found several unfinished quilts in the closet.....so
I will be working on completing all of them
in the next several days :D

I used a variety of fabrics from my stash.
I loved all the different colors, shapes and themes!

It is hard to see from these photos,
but the border is a mini heart pattern.....white hearts on red background!
Great for Valentines Day.

linked to Romantic Home Blog here
linked to French Country Cottage here

Painting Projects:D

2012-01-21T11:33:00.004-06:00

A lot of painting going on here......different kinds I must admit,
but still painting!
The kids wanted to paint today
and
I had purchased Birdhouses for them at Michael's.

Chase had so much fun painting his.....
while Milly painted some small canvases I had!
She had worked on her Birdhouse a week ago while visiting:)

Hunter wasn't interested.....not yet anyway.
He was all absorbed in the XBox
with Papa:D
They were having so much fun.....I understood the attraction:)

Papa and I have been involved in some painting of our own....
The lower level bath needed a little TLC.
I found a gray blue I liked and we set to work the other night.
Once finished, we tackled the woodwork.
I like the change
it makes for a much brighter room:)
Haven't decided what to hang on the walls
but did pull out a couple of pieces I had in my stash.
I used to have blue all over the house
so I have plenty of embellishments...
just need to pick the right ones!
We purchased a new light fixture and I painted another mirror we had
Annie Sloan Pure White.
A little sanding and waxing and it was good to go!

We had the gang today......

2012-01-20T23:25:00.003-06:00

It is funny how quickly you can fall back in the routine
of "short order cook"
and
Master "Cleaner Upper"...LOL!
Now that 3 of them are 5 yrs. old and one is 8....
they are so much livelier and LOUDER!
We had fun playing games,
eating,
XBox,
eating,
running,
eating,
jumping and giggling:D
They are so much fun to have around.....
but I am happy that they are all tucked in and sleeping upstairs now:D
Grandma is tired!

Can't wait for a little warm weather:D

2012-01-18T17:36:00.002-06:00

For our Anniversary........hubby got me a 22 rifle!
Not a gift that just everyone would enjoy
...but...
I am so looking forward to going to the shooting range the next warm day:)
I would never shoot anything that is living....not my style,
but a few oil cans or a carton of eggs could make for a fun hour or two.
I have always had a 22 since I was a little girl.
Dad bought me one many many years ago
and I would accompany him to the near-by quarry.
We would set up our targets and have such fun.
I was always a pretty good shot.....
and though it has been awhile,
I am really getting excited about trying my hand at it again...
soon, I hope!
What are you dreaming about while winter nips at your nose?

Lettering 101 and Winter Projects......

2012-01-14T10:05:00.004-06:00

After changing the arrangement
and
many of the pictures on our Gallery Walls.....
I decided that I would like to add a saying or two!
Well couple that with my renewed interest
in lettering
....and...
this is what I came up with:D

I went hunting for a saying or two
that would work on our walls,
but couldn't find anything that said
what I wanted to say.

Now I need to find and paint some frames.
That shouldn't be too hard:)

Below is one of the projects I just finished.
This little chest was purchased thrifting
and
was made to house flatware.
By removing the inserts for dividing
knives, forks and spoons
it transformed this little chest
into the perfect
Jewelry Chest!
This will be headed to the Antique Mall
when our sale is over! YEA!!!

linked to My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia here

She's Back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2012-01-13T10:15:00.003-06:00

Our precious little girl had a really hard time
during the Christmas holidays :(
She was soooo anxious and uncomfortable in her own skin!
It was also very difficult for those of us that love her so much.
Nothing we could do..............nothing helped!
She would break out in tears for no apparent reason
and get into mischief if left alone.
She was unhappy, but we had NO IDEA why or what to do.
She was hitting her head to the point that I put a bike helmet on her.....
which she wore for the better part of two weeks......even sleeping.
Autism is such a mysterious disorder......
I keep praying for a break-through before Margo gets too old.
She was knocking her wrists together so hard
that her hands and fingers became bruised and swollen:(

When she went to see the neurologist he upped her dosage
of her regular meds.
and put her on Prozac.
We were all skeptical about that...........
but just hoped that something would relieve her frustration and anxiety.
Did I mention that she has to have gloves on all the time as well?
Well, that is fairly new development as well.

Yesterday she came to visit and spend the night!
OMGoodness....................he heard my prayers!
SHE WAS BACK..............
that precious funny, happy little girl that loves giving kisses and snuggles:)
Praise God for the doctors
that have the knowledge and wisdom to deal with these terrible disorders!!!!

I joined Pinterest and found so much inspiration:D

2012-01-10T21:52:00.003-06:00

I have always loved numbers and letters in my artwork.....
and this wall of artwork almost did me in:D
Isn't it fabulous?
I can see this in my grand kid's room at our house!!!!!
If you are interested in seeing how she came up with these wonderful letters
and made this work....check out the blog, "A Time For Everything" here!

Check out new listings on Etsy...

2012-01-10T08:05:00.003-06:00

The cleaning continues
as I find more things tucked away in my Studio......
anyway, I will keep on keepin on:D
I am definitely making progress
because I can now get my entire body into my walk-in closet :)

I had it packed to the gills.....no wonder I couldn't find anything!
I will take pics when the studio is finished.....
I didn't dare show you the "before"....
too embarrassing.
I have more supplies to list....so stay tuned.

Just added to my ETSY!

2012-01-08T22:18:00.002-06:00

I am purging my stash to clean out my Studio!
I have no more room
and
have decided the time has come to get rid of somethings:D

My favorite little shop, "Recycled Rose"
closed last May
and I have many pieces that had been made for the shop
or were actually there at the time it closed:(
Some of the pieces I will be selling at deep discounted prices
were featured in Somerset Studio Magazine.

Right now I have complete rolls of retro and vintage wallpaper
selling for 15.00/roll!

I have used these images in many of my collages
and assemblages
over the years,
but can not possibly use all that I have.
They are all quality papers
with beautiful screened prints
collected from Ebay, estate sales and thrift stores.
Check out my Etsy shop
and see if there is something you can use:D
ALSO....
Stay tuned for more from the purge!
I will add more items tomorrow:D

Celebrating 21 yrs. of LOVE, FUN and FRIENDSHIP!

2012-01-07T22:04:00.002-06:00

Along with the flowers, card and candy
was the wonderful dinner at Bristol's
.......and......
my new 22 rifle and ear muffs:D
We will be heading to the target range
the next warm day...
Yahoo!

I have always loved target shooting.
My dad used to take me as a kid
and
I got pretty good:D
We shall see if that is like
riding a bike....LOL

Treadmills

Once the dust settled......

2012-01-06T10:24:00.003-06:00

The weather is absolutely beautiful.....62 degrees and SUNNY!
Milly and I ran some errands
and
went to clean up our booth at the Mall...
(SALE caused a BIG MESS)!
It was so lovely that we decided to have lunch out.....
she loved BreadCo. so off we went for some Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
The day was still to wonderful to go inside....
so off to the park we went.
We met some nice new friends,
exchanged numbers and hope to see them again....
maybe a play date when the weather turns cold
and
we have to stay inside:)
Looking forward to another beautiful day.....67 degrees!!!!

Happy New Year Everyone!

2012-01-01T15:25:00.003-06:00

We spent the "EVE" with friends
having dinner and a little after dinner entertainment
at the "River City Casino" here in St. Louis!
Meem's has been teaching me some hints
about the video poker games
and
Rog and Leo warmed one side of the Craps Table:D
Always a fun time with good friends:D
Hope you had a fun evening.........
Let's go 2012

Annual Christmas Dinner with Neighbors....

2012-01-01T09:11:00.005-06:00

Old friends are so comfortable to be with:D
We have history and share memories.
We all purchased and built homes at the same time
and
shared the ups and downs of a developing neighborhood.
We have remained friends and have gotten so close after all these years!
Sharing time with friends is what makes the
Holidays
SO SPECIAL:D

2012-01-01T09:11:00.001-06:00

Treadmills

My first attempt at a Sailor's Valentine.....

2011-12-30T15:34:00.003-06:00

My first Sailor's Valentine.....and I am pleased with the results.
I wish I knew more stitches....will have to work on that:D
I left room on the back to stitch on the recipients name.
I learned that using upcycled wool is a good way to go......
it is forgiving when you turn it
and
it is easy to stitch into:)

If you try your hand at this please send me a picture and I will post!

linked to Chic on a Shoestring here

Vintage Sailor Valentines........

2011-12-29T18:26:00.008-06:00

Pam Garrison and Charlotte Lyons are going to be teaching a class at French General in January 2012. If you are interested visit Pam's site here. These are some of her samples for the class and I am in love with each and every one of them:D

So inspired by Pam's samples......I decided to give it a try
First I Googled Sailor Valentines
and
found the images below!
Aren't they fabulous?
The amount of detail is what makes them so exciting!

Below is the history and story of the Sailor's Valentines!

The Story of Sailor's Valentines evokes romance - majestic sailing ships and long sea voyages, adventures in the new world, and daydreams of loved ones across wide oceans.

Idle hours aboard whaling ships in the 1800's was thought to be the time and place for crafting Sailor's Valentines. However the creation of Valentines was actually a cottage industry on the island of Barbados. Once a stopping point on long sea voyages, sailors happily ordered and/or purchased a Valentine to bring home and present to a family member or loved one.

A true sailor's valentine was said to include a flower design, a heart in any form, and a special verse or message. Many of these pieces had messages inscribed with small seashells such as "Think of Me", " Timeless Treasure" and "Forever and Ever". Some expressed a bit of sadness which represented the feelings of men whose jobs kept them away from home for long periods of time. Many left a space for the insertion of a picture, perhaps a wedding photo or a photo of the sailor and his sweetheart.

These works of art were made in octagonal wooden boxes and were usually two sided and hinged, covered with a glass overlay, and closed with a heart shaped lock. When closed, the shell work is hidden and the glass protected so that the Valentines could be stored safely for travel.

It has been discovered that other Valentines were made during the Victorian era, later described as "fancy work for ladies". Possibly the shells used in the pieces were gathered by sailors on their sea journeys.

Monday Night Ladies got together......

2011-12-29T15:38:00.002-06:00

Although 3 of us are retired........the art projects and conversation still flowed like always:D
What fun to hear what everyone was up to...........and how many grandbabies they have!

Christmas Day brought more family and fun!

2011-12-26T10:37:00.004-06:00

Somehow Santa knew there were more kids visiting and made a REPEAT PERFORMANCE!!!

What A Santa:D

Maddie was not sure about the "lap thing".....so she spoke to him from afar:D

We all played the new X Box 360 KINECT
We laughed at each other as we tried to master the Dance 2 Game....
ha..ha..ha..ha!

We found our smallest peeps loving all the activities!

Jack and Sophie were game.....with a little coaxing from
Nana and Papa!

Olivia got into the act and even opened her own presents.

Maddie had no problem finding what Santa had left for her:D

Nothing like FAMILY.............

Hope your Christmas Day was filled with Fun and Family:)

What fun we had..........................

2011-12-26T10:16:00.006-06:00

Christmas Eve didn't disappoint:)
We had such a good time being together and sharing
fun, good food and stories!
I look forward to this every year
and
it always produces the BEST MEMORIES!

2011-12-23T21:42:00.004-06:00

I think we are about ready....
We are expecting about 30 family members tomorrow night
with a couple extra guests....Santa and Mrs. Clause
We are excited and a little tired:D
So we will say Good Night!

More Christmas Around Our Home.....

2011-12-23T21:14:00.003-06:00

I recently purchased two vintage Doll Houses for the girls in my life:D
I found them at the Antique Mall and the price was right:D
I had a basket of vintage doll house furniture in my booth
that I scarfed up really quick
and
brought home!
Today I spent a little time decorating the houses for Christmas as well.
I hope the little girls have as much fun playing with them
as I did getting them all set up for them:D

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas......

2011-12-23T08:41:00.002-06:00

Christmas Eve is right around the corner
and
we are prepared for our Annual Christmas Eve Family Party:D
The lower level tree is ready for all the kids
to gather round to see what Santa brought for them.
It is always such a fun evening
with Santa and Mrs. Clause making an appearance
to get all those last minute wishes recorded.
What a joyous time of the years.....
and
of course the best part is having everyone together!
It only happens a couple of times a year
and
I cherish each and every moment of it:D

Early Christmas.....

2011-12-21T17:35:00.002-06:00

Yesterday Rog delivered our Air Hockey Table to the twins......
an early Christmas gift:D

They have always loved it at our house,
but they are about the only ones that play it.

We decided it would get a lot more use
if the boys had it in their playroom along with their other toys.

Sheila sent me this pic this morning
when they got up and found it there:D
Happy Campers!

Christmas Aprons.......

2011-12-16T18:04:00.004-06:00

Today my sis and I spent sewing
but she got away this evening before I could find my camera for pics
of her aprons:(
We decided to make some of the little girls
in our lives
kitchen aprons to use then they cook with us!

As you can see, Milly's isn't finished yet....
have to add straps:D
I found a darling box of children's cooking implements at
TJ Maxx's the other day!
They were perfect to fill the pockets
of our cute little aprons!

linked to Freckled Laundry..... here

Love Tuesdays with Milly!

2011-12-13T15:03:00.003-06:00

This little "Bright Light" in my life
spends most Tuesdays with me!
She is so much fun to be with.....
always asking questions and making life interesting:D
Today we played restaurant
while she served me several items from her kitchen.
Then it was off to painting a bird house
for Mommy for Christmas.
Once complete with glitter
we went on to icing the rest of the Sugar Cookies.
She is so grown up for her age.....
can't imagine what I will be doing with her
when is 10....LOL!

Once Delivered!!!!

2011-12-11T21:15:00.003-06:00

Thanks Sheila!

Christmas Mantel....(lower level) & Studio Sign :D

2011-12-07T20:28:00.003-06:00

I was working on the lower level last night and after several changes
....decided to leave the mantel alone:D
I love using the chalkboard......changing the message is so easy.
The other items used were from my Christmas stash.
I have so many decorations
I could never use them all in one year.
I switch things up each year and it makes it all seem new to me...ha..ha!
I also had been working on a sign for my studio......
this is what I came up with!
A piece of old scrappy wood and some letters from Michaels.
With the help of chalkboard paint
we were home free!

linked to Brambleberry Cottage here

Quick Thrifting Door Decor.....

2011-12-04T22:07:00.003-06:00

I found this pair of skates at the thrift store for 2.50!
Simply covered the skate with a layer of Elmer's glue
and snow like glitter.
Added a ribbon
and
some greens I found in my Christmas storage:
Cute decor for any door and soooooooooooooo simple!

Cookie Baking....Day 2!

2011-12-03T18:22:00.002-06:00

Sandy and I have a tradition
of baking Christmas cookies for our kids each year.
We bake for several days
and
then prepare large platters of cookies for each family.
We love finding platters,
wrapping in cellophane
and tying them up with ribbons.
We usually include a back-up container of cookies
to refill the platter when the supply runs thin:D
This year we made Sugar Cookies
(that was our project today to cut out, bake and decorate),
Macaroons,
Chocolate Chip,
Oatmeal Scotties
and Pecan Puffs.
We will meet one more day
to make a few more types and package them all up!
We like to deliver them early so that the families can share
and enjoy them during the season....instead of after Christmas:D
Santa's little helpers!

Love our little Tradition!

Painters' Tarp Slip Covers.....

2011-12-01T09:44:00.010-06:00

Today was the day I have been waiting for since first contacting my friend and seamstress, Sharon. It was last Sept. that I first decided to have my pieces slip-covered. I wanted to use Painter's Tarps because of the texture, color and durability.....

Once deciding on the fabric....I had to find enough in the same color and texture to do the job. It took about 24 yards (36" X 54"). Sounds easy.....not so much!!!!! We decided that the darker tarp I found could be used for all the piping to make a little contrast......very subtle I know:D

Sharon has done a lot of work for me over the years.....and before she left we decided on another small project she is going to work on........a painters' tarp shower curtain with grommets! Once she finishes it I will have a large family monogram placed in the middle.

Her work is always right on........no matter what I ask of her:D
She does a lot of work for designers in the area and always has a long waiting list.....I think you can see why.

Recently I had seen these pillow covers at Dear Lilly and had to have them! When I went to order of course they were sold out:( I emailed her and found out that she might have a few more before Christmas!!!!! She said she would let me know as soon as she put them up in her Etsy shop........thus...the holiday spirit pillows for my newly slip-covered sofa!

I am sure I will be fooling with the pillow combo for some time, but I had to get a few pics to share.

I hope you are experiencing a little sun and something fun and new in your home this holiday season.......

linked to Brambleberry Cottage.... here
linked to From My Front Porch to Yours.....here
linked to Common Ground....here
linked to the Shabby Creek Cottage.....here
linked to Savvy City Farmer......here

Alll About Family..........Thanksgiving!

2011-11-26T21:57:00.002-06:00

As usual.....we all gathered at Aunt Sandy's and Bus' for a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. Lots of playing and conversation. Some new faces and a few missing.......but they will be here for Christmas:D Hope you all had a great day and dinner with loved ones!

Treadmills

No tree until after Thanksgiving.....

2011-11-21T21:15:00.003-06:00

...but, no harm in doing a little decorating! Today I took on the mantel and a few other little areas:D It takes me so long to decorate that starting early helps a lot:D May I add...that it takes me soooooo long to take it all down. That is why I leave it up for quite a while...LOL!

linked to:
Mod Vintage Life

Maddie's Book.............

2011-11-19T17:47:00.004-06:00

I have been working on Maddie's Book
since I know I need to get started on Olivia's Book:D
I have gotten behind on all the books
because
I spent my time with the kids instead of in my studio this past summer!
They are in so many activities
and I don't want to miss out on anything.
Not that I make all their activities.....
but I try to go to any that I can:D
Now it is time to get busy again....
especially since the weather will be getting cold soon!
Much easier to stay in my studio when it is cold outside.....ha..ha!

Last night we celebrated Chris' 41st Birthday

2011-11-12T14:53:00.002-06:00

They are soooo funny! They dance when they play the games....and...I might add, THEY ARE GOOD!

Hunter boxing with the Wii.....

2011-11-12T14:52:00.001-06:00

He danced a bit more :) So precious and oh so serious!

So sick and couldn't tell us :(

2011-11-10T18:45:00.004-06:00

My poor little girl was so sick today and couldn't tell anyone what was wrong! This part of Autism SUCKS!!!!! Mommy called early this morning to tell me that Margo was really acting funny! She wouldn't get out of bed or respond to any suggestions. Just kept pulling the cover over her head:( I went over to their house and picked her up for the day since Mommy had to go to work. On the way home she managed to throw up all.....did I say ALL....over my car. I couldn't do anything to help her since I was driving and she was in the back seat. I raced her into the house and into the tub. Since she threw up she was feeling a bit better and enjoyed the bubbles. Once clean and shinny she decided she wanted to lay down.....and you guessed it....up it came again:( That went on several times but my sweetie never cried. Her little face shows how bad she must feel......but I can only guess because she can't tell me:(
Last week-end we purchased an Ipad to use with Margo. We are hoping that with all the apps available she will soon be able to tell us how she is feeling and much, much more:D

Today was Bev's Birthday!!!

2011-11-04T18:09:00.003-05:00

The Birthday Girl!

Aztec Salad at Milagro's in Webster Groves......wonderful!

The Birthday girl opening a present!!!

Cyndy and I ready to tear into the beautiful salad:D

The view is great from Art Hill............the the trees didn't disappoint!
What a lovely day:D

We actually went to see the Monet Show at the Art Museum...Friday is Free!
Unfortunately we didn't get the memo that said we needed tickets:(
We did get tickets for next Friday while we were there
and the party will continue then:)

Happy Halloween.......such fun!

2011-10-31T22:05:00.002-05:00

After a chili dinner.....kids visited the neighbors for treats!
Margo didn't dress up but sure had fun outside
with all the neighborhood kids coming and going:D
Milly decided to be a witch and a good witch she was.
Alexia, Milly's neighbor, and her family came along too
Because the weather was great.......the entire neighborhood
was outside and having fun!
Fire pits and Bar-B-Q grills going
and even movies playing on garage doors!
Always so much fun:D

Milly turns 5 and we all have fun!!!

2011-10-30T16:40:00.004-05:00

Treadmills

First Try at Machine Quilting.....

2011-10-29T12:25:00.004-05:00

This little vest pattern is by "Pink Fig"
and it is called "Natty jacket/vest"!
I found it at Jackman's in St. Louis, Mo.
Easy pattern to follow....but the machine quilting was all new to me!
Had to find the right attachment
and
then practice for quite some time to get the feel of it:D

Love the fabrics....all from Jackman's

Love the sweet little rose buttons I found at Hancock's!

Two Little KC Pumpkins!!!!!

2011-10-28T17:14:00.002-05:00

Two little LOVES OF MY LIFE.................xxxooo

Gallery Wall Coming Along...

2011-10-26T14:35:00.004-05:00

I have had Gallery Walls for some time now.
We started it when the Grandchildren started coming along.....as did the photos:D
With the new found popularity of Gallery Walls
containing items other than photos displayed in collage type arrangements......
I decided to add some items to our walls as well!

I had seen something like these little spoons
in one of the catalogs we had received in the last year
and the image stuck in my brain.
How sweet to have little spoons along with the pics of all our babies.
I started looking on Ebay and Etsy for little spoons.....
and before long had a nice little collection.
Then, I had to decide how to display them.
I recently found this piece of wood
(actually a sign for a union hall)
that fit the bill.
With some chalk paint, paint pen and some silver jewelry wire....
I set to work.
I love the result!
I will probably change all the pics around once I have a few more elements to add in, but for now here is how it looks!

The "13" represents the number of grandchildren
that can be found on our wall:D
(another Etsy purchase)

Fabulous Week-end!

2011-10-26T10:56:00.003-05:00

Trees in our back yard are gorgeous! So is the temperature:D

The Pumpkin Patch was Delightful! Especially with the grandkids!

Maddie came to visit and dressed up for us:D

We all had so much fun enjoying each other!!!

Margo Cantering......YEA! Bravo!

2011-10-24T21:17:00.000-05:00

Not much in life has given me such pleasure......as watching my baby riding free!!!!!!!

Treadmills

Late....late....late last night!!!!

2011-10-16T12:01:00.003-05:00

I found this cute fabric
last year
when a major fabric store in our area went out of business.....
well......closed the store near our home:(
It was really the only NICE fabric store around.
I bought up hundreds of dollars worth of fabric
at the time 50% off,
knowing that I would find something to make out of it
down the line:D
When I couldn't sleep at 4:30 am
I went searching for something to do until the sun came up!
My biggest job is not the sewing....
it is the picking of prints to go together.
I spend as much time picking as I do sewing sometimes:)
That was the case last night!
I wanted a good contrast but non-related fabrics.
I finally settled on this red and cream print
and I love it!
With a cute t-shirt underneath....Milly will be ready to go come December!

Something for Baby Olivia :D

2011-10-13T17:51:00.006-05:00

Arica had wanted some canvases for Olivia's room.
We had found some at Pottery Barn Kids awhile back
and
I decided to make some of my own.
Her wall are cream with white woodwork.
The rug Arica purchased is shown below.
We found it at Pottery Barn Kids as well.
I wanted to pull out the grays, beige, white and pink colors
found in the room and rug!

I hope they all work together when they are hung:D

Recent photos of my "Peeps"....

2011-10-12T22:20:00.003-05:00

Have had the opportunity to spend
a lot of time with my babies lately....at least some of them.
I love taking photos of them
to document where they are at this time in their life:D

Milly riding

2011-10-12T09:50:00.001-05:00

Today at riding......they took Margo back into the woods
where she has to navigate up and down the hills
through the woods:D
Milly had the rink to herself.....and she did so well.
She loves this horse
and told us her heart was racing
because she was so excited to ride him :D

More Reunion Pics.....

2011-10-08T15:50:00.002-05:00

Today I had lunch with a few old friends.......C.J. Muggs, Webster Groves!
It was fun getting to spend an extended amount of time
talking about life with these friends.
Last night was sort of hectic.....
so many to say "HI" to and not much time for deep conversation:D
Hopefully tonight I will have more time to spend with people
over dinner.....Algonquin Country Club!
I want to put them all in my pocket and take them home with me so that I can get to know them all over again:D

Treadmills

50th HS Reunion Week-end!!!!

2011-10-07T22:16:00.003-05:00

What a fun evening
to start our week-end
reconnecting with old friends:D

One was my close friend all through Jr.High......
the other was a close friend all through High School!

Fall at the Mall.........

2011-10-02T18:05:00.002-05:00

Don't be shocked!!!!!
We do have a little of EVERYTHING
in our booths at the antique mall:D
Today we decided to spruce up a little for Fall.....
and
added some lights and garland.
Yes, it is a bit cluttered......
but we aren't sure what to do about that...LOL!

I didn't even take a pic of our other booth.......
since we didn't
have any Fall going on there:D

My sis is putting one last display together:D

While Perusing the Antique Mall....

2011-10-02T09:43:00.003-05:00

I found this lovely cement column......and it was the right price:D
I immediately thought of that awkward corner
in the dining room.
The corner I wasn't sure what to do with!!!!
I went home and measured the height
and
decided to give it a try.
First a trip to Michael's for some artificial ferns.
I don't ordinarily like any artificial plants or flowers,
but this corner had me stumped.
I wanted something green......
but not enough light to keep a cactus growing:(
I gave in to the idea of artificial
when I saw these beautiful life-like ferns.
They actually cost more than the pedestal
....but they were lovely.

I believe the balance in the room is much better,
and
although I still have an aversion to the fake...

I do love the overall look of the room!

What do you think?

This post is linked to the Brambleberry Cottage....here!

Quite a Pair................

2011-09-29T21:25:00.005-05:00

A beautiful pair of French tables took main stage this evening:D
I found these pretties at a thrift shop
last week for 12.95 ea.
They are Drexel furniture and really beautifully made.
With a good coat of Annie Sloan Paris Gray
......little sanding.....
and a good coat of clear wax, they are ready for their debut.

I wish I had a place for them.......I am soooo tempted!

A generous coat of Annie Sloan!

They came to me a little rough......but oh such good bones:D

Linked to Miss Mustard Seed.....here!
Linked to Perfectly Imperfect...... here

Finishing Touch.......

2011-09-26T22:15:00.004-05:00

After months of looking for the perfect rug in the right size.....
I finally found it:D
My DIL and I went shopping today
and
there at Homegoods was just what I had been looking for!!!!!
I have searched everywhere that I could think of;
in person
and
online!
I started to think that there was nothing that would work for me:(
I was just at Homegoods 3 days ago too!!!!
You can imagine my surprise
when I pulled back those walls of carpet today
and there she was.....
just waiting for me:D

If you look closely you can see the teal blue
that accents much of our living space
as well as the tomato red!!!!!
The mustard color is repeated in our upholstered chairs
on either side of the fireplace.
It couldn't be better if I had designed it myself!

Check out this link party at Savvy Southern Style!

Laundry Room Additions:D

2011-09-24T21:21:00.007-05:00

Today while I was at the antique mall straightening our booth.......
I found a couple things
I couldn't live without:D
Maybe that is a little strong......but.....I have been looking
for these baskets online for quite some time.
I love the fact that they have real purpose along with the vintage look!

They fit perfectly in the space available above my hanging rack!

Just perfect, so cute I can hardly stand it.......``````` (me doing a happy dance).

The glass jars are filled with vintage spindles, insulators and clothes pins!!!

I also found this rug swatter.....or whatever it is called:D
Love the fact that it was used for dusting/cleaning rugs years ago.
Perfect accessory for a laundry room....don't you think?

(if you watch Survivor....you will understand the comment
on the chalkboard).

I am linking this post to "Between naps on the porch". Visit the party here!
Also linked to Southern Hospitality. Visit the party here!
Also linked to Coastal Charm. Visit the party here!

Break from same ole....same ole!

2011-09-20T19:56:00.002-05:00

After about 10 hrs. of sitting at the computer working for my son.....
I had to get out of my PJ's and out of the house!!!!!!
I have been wanting to do something to the lower level fireplace.
The same picture has hung there pretty much for 7 years.
Occasionally I have changed things out, but never completely.
I headed to Michael's with a coupon in hand.
Wasn't sure what I wanted to do,
but I had an inkling!
I didn't want Halloween anymore.
For some reason that doesn't work for me anymore.
I wanted something that will last through
to the Christmas season and decor:D
With a little help from a chalk board
I made for the mall
and
some fake artichokes I found in storage.....
I was on my way.
I love the way it turned out.....
so refreshing to look up and see something
new,
fresh
and
different:D

Halloween Outfits:D

2011-09-18T19:54:00.004-05:00

I hope the girls look cuter in them than this.......LOL!
I found this darling fabric at Hancock's of Paducah early this summer.

Linked to Freckled Laundry Party Link....here!

Margo

2011-09-17T22:04:00.002-05:00

This lovely lady came to visit today
while her sis went to the movie with a friend:D
Her main entertainment.....finding food and eating...LOL! That's my girl:D

Alicia LaChance & Milly..............

2011-09-17T16:05:00.003-05:00

The last couple of years I have been going to the Clayton Art Fair
(several posts back)
to see two of my favorite artists!
Although the pocket book didn't allow me to purchase.....
it is so much fun to see what they have been up to:D
In Alicia LaChance's booth I was blown away by her new pieces
and would have purchased any of them
if not for the bill for the new flooring (I do own one)!
I am interested in getting one of her Pele Prints
when she finishes them!
My other favorite artist is Carol Stewart ( I have two pieces she has done) and she never disappoints either:D She had some large paintings of Japanese Lanterns that were fabulous!
click on their names to see more of their work:)
The piece above is a poster Alicia had a stack of in her booth!
When I asked what they were....she asked if I wanted one....
Well of course I did!
These lovely posters are printed on old vintage wallpaper and had tags hung in each of the stars on the left with her name, booth number and phone no.
Wonderful advertising for her work and the show!!!!!
Now, I have one framed and hanging in our family room:D

One day & night each week Milly and I have plans.....
sometimes we paint, print, walk, or take in a local sight and lunch!

This is our special time
since Margo occupied most of my time this summer:D

Milly is not in school yet
and
it is perfect timing
to make up for lost quality time this past summer.

Here she is working on a Halloween printing project!

Treadmills

Wooden Tool Box

2011-09-14T09:40:00.003-05:00

Bad blogger that I am.......once again there is no "before" pic!
Sorry...........but just visualize a dirty beat up gray tool box!
Got it?
O.K. with a little cleaning then a coat of ASCP,
"Old White" paint it started to come to light:D
After some playing with the color and a good clear wax coat....
it was time to get the shine on!
I wanted to do something to the outside,
but wasn't sure if I should paint on a false advertising piece
or just numbers.
I actually wanted bigger numbers,
but didn't have any stencils
and
didn't like my hand painting so..............I found some stampers
I had and went to work!
I used permanent ink and am really happy with the result!

I have always thought the sofa table was nice,
but didn't quite fit into my more shabby and re-purposed grouping.
I also wanted to hide the cords from the lamps up top:D
I had my measurements when I went to the antique mall
to deliver some goods yesterday.
Right there on the front porch was what I was looking for..............WOW!
The price was right as well.....a mere 25.00
and
I didn't have to use a tank of gas looking for it:D

Eventually I will paint the inside of the box with one of the ASCP blues
and use the box for storage!
But for now, I wanted the instant gratification....LOL

Clayton Art Fair never disappoints:D

2011-09-11T21:19:00.003-05:00

Sandy and I had a ball at the Clayton Art Fair today
........along with a lovely salad at Roseann's!

As usual there were fabulous artists from all over the U.S.

We talked to many of the artists including
Carol Stewart and Alicia LaChance...
two of my favorites:D

Below is one artist that really
had a booth full of whimsical creatures:D
His name is
Anthony Pack
and what a sense of humor.....

(click on collage for better view)

Aren't they funny and full of attitude?
So CREATIVE!

Floor reveal & Fabulous Friend:D

2011-09-08T22:56:00.003-05:00

I feel so lucky to have a friend that is so unselfish
she would spend her day cleaning my house!
You see......the men made a huge mess
tearing up the old carpeting,
scraping up the staples,
cutting off doors,
leveling the floor
and
sawing the new wood!
My wonderful friend.....Meems....
who came the day after the floor was finished
and
volunteered to work her butt off ALL DAY LONG!
She arrived at 9:30
and
didn't leave until after 4:00 in the afternoon!
Not only that she worked all day,
but her sweet hubby brought us lunch
so we didn't have to fix anything or go out for a bite:D
I wish for you a friend that cares enough about you
to volunteer to wash you windows, baseboards, flooring
and knick knacks!
She even took all my curtains and drapes
to her home and washed
and fluffed them....returning them and re-hanging them
all fresh and dust free!
Thank you Meem!
Your help meant so much to me:D

Now for the floor reveal......

Rug is from Pottery Barn!

This isn't the rug that will remain in the dining room....
Meems came up with a solution to the "No Rug" situation:D
We just turned the oriental I had upside down!!!
It will work until I find what I want:D

I am so pleased with the results.......it makes so much better sense for us
with all the little people that come to visit.
I no longer have to worry about the carpeting being ruined with
cheese, juice and red yellow...Ha..Ha!

Mostly White Master Bedroom....

2011-09-06T21:50:00.003-05:00

It has been ages since I posted about our master bedroom.....
and things have definitely changed!

Over the past several years I have gone to all white furniture, with the exception of the metal bed.

I love the quilt I found at Linen Source online.....the perfect summer covering!

The dresser you see is one I recently bought at a thrift store
and
refinished with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint.

The little box on top was a Goodwill find....
again Annie Sloan did the honors:D

The clock collection is a combination of garage sale, Etsy and Ebay finds.

I love the gray green walls and have let the color remain
because I find it soothing.

Funny, but as I look back.....
I have almost always had a green bedroom
in one form or another:D

White Wednesday Link...

Learning Curve with Annie Sloan....

2011-09-06T21:31:00.003-05:00

I learned something about Annie Sloan paint
that I will be able to use in the future:D
I found this little stool at the thrift shop for a couple of dollars!
I painted it with Annie Sloan "Old White"
and
once it was dry, I sanded it at the edges.
To avoid the waxing process since it can be time consuming......
I painted over the finish with Latex Polyurethane.
When I came back into the room
after covering the seat with fresh foam and linen fabric...
I noticed the paint starting to craze!
I love the crackle look and the age it added to the finish.
Although I will probably not use this on many pieces.....
it is nice to know how to get a crackle glaze without some fancy kit:D

Annual Bike Races...........

2011-09-06T07:18:00.004-05:00

We always love watching Chris race during the Labor Day Week-end. In this photo he had broken away and was in the number 2 position:D
The races over the week-end take place at Lafayette Square, Francis Park, The Hill, and Benton Park! At 42 it is hard to believe he can still keep up that pace!

Here comes the pack behind him:D

We had a lovely lunch while we watched the race.
Absolutely beautiful day after days of 100+ weather!

As always there was a big crowd.....the atmosphere is electric!
Since we sit right on the bike path.....we can enjoy the race with good food in front of us! The trip to the street with camera in hand every couple of minutes!
Finally we nabbed some seats on right on the street and watched the remainder of the race up close and personal:D
Chris actually finished 8th.....not bad for an old man...LOL!

Annie Sloan to the rescue!

2011-09-05T10:34:00.003-05:00

I am remiss when it come to "before" pics......sorry! This little folding table was a steal at $10.00 at a recent garage sale:D The finish on the top was in terrible shape, but nothing Annie Sloan couldn't take care of. I love the way it turned out. I used Chateau Grey and Old White for the top, using a Martha Stewart stencil I purchased at Michael's.

I love the fact that it folds to store against the wall!
It is on it's way to the antique mall:)

Now this piece was a different situation entirely.
I found this vintage sunburst clock at
Goodwill.
I removed the back and all the clock workings.
Once clean, I painted it again with Chateau Grey
and dry brushed over the top
with Old White....Annie Sloan.
I found a mirror that fit the opening
but ended up mounting it on mat board to actually make it work.
This piece was a "Sorocco" piece from the 50's.
It was one of the first plastics
to hit the decor scene back in the day.
I didn't apply any wax....
just left the chalk finish which has a really nice look.

Our Youngest Peeps!

2011-09-04T10:27:00.002-05:00

My daughter-in-law sent me
this pic of Olivia the other day and I had to post!
Her aunt is a professional photographer
and
has taken some of the most wonderful and creative pics of the girls:D
This has to be one of my favorites!
Precious little bundle about 6 weeks old......
how can you not love this:D

Flooring.....Day 2

2011-09-02T19:44:00.001-05:00

OMGoodness.............
Can you say "HAPPY"? That is what I am feeling.....

Flooring.....Day One!

2011-09-02T08:16:00.003-05:00

This is just how I envisioned it to look!!!! YEA.....
Our home will be torn up for awhile,
but I think the end result will be just the look I wanted....
casual,
light hearted,
sunny,
warm,
comfortable
and
inviting:D
I couldn't ask for more.

White Painted Wood Floors......

2011-09-01T09:36:00.004-05:00

Well.....after much deliberation
we finally decided on what to do
about the worn out carpet!
It has been down since we built the house 13 yrs. ago
and the time had come to replace it:D
The problem we had was.....I didn't want anything dark,
since all my furnishings
were based on the light almost cream colored carpet.
Hubby said we needed something darker
because of all the grandkids:(
I didn't want dark......so.....I set out to find something
that would meet both of our needs.
The alternative I came up with was
Shabby White Painted Hardwood" flooring!
Although it was much more expensive
than we wanted.....
we decided to do some of the grunt work ourselves
to cut costs:D
The flooring I found was a custom hardwood flooring
that had to be ordered
That was all right because we didn't have a rush!!!!
After two months the flooring came Monday.
It had to acclimate in our house......
which meant that it had to sit for 3 days before being installed.
Last night we moved all the doors and furniture
from the area.....
once again stacking everything in the dining room and piano room.
Not a big deal really:D
Today they started!!!!!! YEA!
They will be installing the great room and hallways first.
Once that flooring is in,
we will move the furniture back in and onto the new flooring
At that point we will clear out the kitchen and dining room.....
that means dishwasher, stove, frig, washer and dryer
....OH MY!
Hopefully the beginning of next week they will complete
the last two areas
and
we will then install our quarter round
and re-install some of our moldings (kitchen).

We are not putting the flooring in the bedrooms at this time.
I still like the feel of carpet when we trip out of bed:D

Funky Little DIY Lamp Project!

2011-08-26T14:23:00.004-05:00

I found this little lamp for $2.00 and it had good bones.
The shade was metal so I knew I could paint it.
Nothing special but I thought I would share
because lamps are so cheap at the Thrift Stores.

You can paint glass, metal, plastic and wood.......

so never pass up a shape you like:D

Antique Mall.............

2011-08-26T11:04:00.004-05:00

My sis and I spent the day yesterday
working on our booths at the Antique Mall!
Several of you had asked me to post some pics.......
I hesitate because our booths are so chocked full and almost scary
with merchandise:D
I took these pics to show you what I am talking about!!!!!!

This booth houses most of our "Littles"....

It is a major undertaking to keep these booths straight
and in some order,
but it is always a fun day with my sister:D

Thinking of Fall!

2011-08-24T12:15:00.005-05:00

While at Nell Hill's in K.C.
I picked up these beautiful white pumpkins
and
was ready to start introducing "Fall" to my home!
Starting with the mantel,
I used a twig wreath I purchased at an Estate Sale:D
The pumpkins and wire basket worked well with it.
The leaf stems were also from N.H.
and
added a special detail that I really like.
I purchased some artichokes at the grocery several weeks ago
and let them dry out.
I really like their shape and texture for Fall and Winter displays:D
Now I have to "Fall-sify" the rest of the house:D

I was impressed with several succulent gardens
I had found the galvanized oil pan
(probably used for changing car oil)
at an Estate Sale sometime ago.
I really like the inside garden
and
only hope it takes me through the winter months.
Having something live and green is so nice
when it gets cold and bitter outside:D
This garden sits on my kitchen island for the time being.
Not sure it gets enough light there....so I will have to see how the plants do!
Check out this fabulous succulent table
created from old wooden pallets:D

There are so many varieties of succulents available....
it is hard to choose:D
The pea gravel keeps the plant leaves from touching the soil.
This garden needs little water
and
should not be watered until the soil is completely dried out.
Easy....huh!

These succulent starts sit in water on my kitchen table!
A friend gave them to me a month or so ago
and
I simply love they way they look.
Although they are rooting
I would love to keep a stand of them on the table
all winter long:D
Thanks Toni!

MASALA Cards.............

2011-08-22T22:23:00.005-05:00

Masala Card Company will be producing a line of cards in January
called Grasshopper Press!
My "Peepin and Peckin" prints will make up a line in the new catalog!
I am thrilled to have been asked and on top of that,
they are also using several of my Valentine "Peepin and Peckin" series
in their pre-sale!
I feel honored to have my work appear for sale next to the many fine artists they promote:D
Thank you Deborah!

Nothing like a visit to NELL HILL'S when in K.C.

2011-08-21T14:08:00.004-05:00

My sweet Missy checking out the wares:D

A bed skirt Arica and I were looking at for Maddie's big girl bed!
I think when Maddie finally masters the toddler bed,
it will be time to try the regular twin!
At this point I think I could make this bed skirt for her color scheme:D

Isn't this sweet?

I always bring a little something special home with me from Mary Carol's.....
this year it was white pumpkins and greenery:D
I will share what I used them for in the next post!

Just back from K.C.

2011-08-20T22:58:00.003-05:00

Thanks kids for a fun visit!

Sweet Missy and Olivia at Doc appointment! She has gained 3 1/2 lbs. in the last 5 weeks!
Unbelievable!!!

Precious Baby..........

Such a good girl:D

My precious Maddie!
She loves to pose and will accommodate at almost any time....ha..ha!
What a "Ham Bone"

Today's Thrift Project!

2011-08-15T21:49:00.004-05:00

I purchased this piece for only 23.00 and was tickled pink!
It was sturdy but the drawers stuck and it needed stops.
Not a big deal.................
paint, sanding and wax brought this baby into the 21st century.
With the help of some vintage hardware I purchased on ebay...
she is lookin good!
I painted the inside of the drawers with Annie Sloan Duck Egg Blue!

Some Recent Thrift Store Purchases.....

2011-08-13T14:59:00.004-05:00

This piece was really U-G-L-Y........but,
with the help of Annie Sloane paint and wax
along with some Chalkboard paint.....she has come full circle:D
With a little help from hubby who put straps on the back to make it more secure
and a new magnetic closure on the door....
she is ready for the mall!
The little chalkboard on the door should bring joy to some little girl or boy!

This little piece just needed some tender loving care!
Once washed and de-stickered.......
she was ready for a fresh coat of paint and a little shabbiness!
I love how this turned out!

This little piece grabbed me because
it looked like a sewing machine table....handmade of course.
I think we are going to add an apron around the edge
of the top to make it look a little more stout!
I simply love the iron legs and the fact that it rolls around with ease.

This piece was just waiting for me...............
already white
and
longing for some TLC!
I was right there to give it what it wanted:D
A good sanding has been started and
when complete I will apply a coat of Annie Sloane Clear Wax.
I will be looking for new drawer pulls
since the ones that were on it appear to be kitchen cabinet pulls.....
not really suited for such a lovely shabby piece!
I will either paint the inside of the drawers a contrasting color
or
paper them with vintage wallpaper:D

Well that is it for now.......I do have some work to do!
I don't like to scout around for more furniture
until I get my space clear to work, since I share the space with hubby!
That space, I might add, is the home of our vehicles
that haven't been sheltered for quite a while!

Friday in Our World................

2011-08-13T09:53:00.004-05:00

Friday means Margo......and I have been teaching her to fix her own food.
She has mastered making her own toast
and now I want her to be able to fix her own soup....
one of her favorite things
(right now anyway...HA).

Tonight we celebrated Ali's 19th Birthday.........
with a dinner and dessert with Chris and Christine.
What a wonderful young lady she is......beautiful inside and out:D
Keep up the good work as you start your second year at Butler!!!!!
We Love You!

Little DIY just completed!

2011-08-07T10:35:00.004-05:00

It appears I posted these pics in the reverse order.....but....Oh Well!
I found this silver tray at the thrift store and it had such an appealing shape and size
I couldn't pass it up!
As you can see the surface was in bad shape.....
which didn't bother me a bit:D
I decided it would make a darling chalk board for my kitchen....
so I proceeded with ChalkBoard Paint!
Once complete I put it on my counter with the help of a large metal easel
I had stored......and I just love it.
What do you think?

New "DO" for our baby girl.........

2011-08-05T17:06:00.005-05:00

After fighting the tangles all summer long.....
Carrie said it was O.K. to take Margo to get a hair cut!
She looks so adorable and so much older with this layers look:D
She is such a pretty little girl, any hair do would look good.......not too prejudice..LOL!
The girl, Sarah, that cut her hair was so kind and patient with Margo.
Since this was a rather new experience, she was a bit apprehensive:D
Wasn't sure what that lady had planned with those scissors!
I prayed on the drive to Fantastic Sam's that the place wouldn't be packed!!!!!
It is hard to know what Margo will do, and with a full house it could have been a trying experience. When we arrived......we were the only ones in the shop!
God works in mysterious ways.....LOL!

Birthday Lunch for Meems........

2011-08-03T16:26:00.004-05:00

Mimi celebrated a Birthday while we were in Seattle.....so today I took her for her annual Birthday Lunch! We went to a lovely place called "Table Three" up the road from where we live. It was elegant and the food was GREAT! I had not been there before, but Meems said that it was owned by one of local Eureka gals that used to have a little cafe and catering business on our Main Street! WELL.......Beth came out from the back and we expressed our congrats to her for her lovely place. Fun to see a local make it big:D Beth, we will be back!

Then we went to investigate the Cupcake Bar.....a new addition to the area.
So sweet.....you can go and pick out your cake base,
icing flavors
and toppings....
just like an ice cream store:D
They make it up for you right there
and
you can sit outside (on a cooler day) and enjoy your sweet treat!
I am going to have to take the grandkids there for something special:D

Their cakes were out of this world........and these are just a few!!!!!
You can visit them online here!
Check out the Prada purse and children's creations:D

Quick bathroom make-over......

2011-08-03T09:30:00.004-05:00

This lower level bathroom has always been accented in bright colors.....
so a change was needed badly!
Hubby and I laid the floor and put up the bead board almost 7 yrs. ago.
Since the room is basically white......a change wasn't difficult:D
A trip to Homegoods & Target got me started.

The large piece of furniture was purchased many years ago at an estate sale......
just a couple coats of white enamel
and
a good round with the sander.....and Voila!

Most of the pieces hanging on the walls were nabbed from other areas of the house....or the storage area.
The framed egg botanical prints were purchased at a paper show my sis and I went to some years back. They originally hung in the laundry room but have been replaced with the chalkboard (in the post below).
The fern and Salomon's Seal plants I dried and framed after seeing Martha do them on one of her segments:D

New towels and woven rug were purchased at Homegoods.
The pieces on top of the cabinet were items
I made (like the collage box)
or had (like the fall fruit and pine cones)
or bought (like the basket.....Target find).

This room is easy to change since there really isn't any color to work around.
The wall are painted "Dried Grass"....a color I found at Walmart of all places!
I love the color and have used it several places in our home:D