IsabellasCloset

Nicole Renee Rose April 28, 1973 - December 10, 2003

2011-12-10T08:05:00.000-05:00

Nicole Renee Rose

April 28, 1973 - December 10, 2003

If roses grow in Heaven,

Lord please pick a bunch for me,

then place them in my Nikki's arms

and tell her they're from me.

Tell her I love and miss her,

and when she turns to smile,

place a kiss upon her cheek

then hold her for awhile.

Remembering Nikki is easy,

I do it everyday,

but there's an ache within my heart

that never goes away!

RIP Nikki <3 Mama

a white Christmas at my cottage

2011-12-01T17:24:00.000-05:00

Sam my Grandson the football player

2011-10-16T18:05:00.000-04:00

Sam with Jeff his coach & father

Here are a few photos of my 11 year old Grandson Sam

playing football at our high school "Paul Brown stadium"

It's been great fun watching him play..

Granddaughter Bella's homecoming dance

2011-10-10T17:38:00.001-04:00

My 15 year old Granddaughter Isabella

attended her first homecoming dance..

she said it was amazing..

Just wanted to share a few photos with you..

Update on Bella my granddaughter.

2011-10-05T17:27:00.000-04:00

Bella first row first on the left.

74th out of 150..

Bella #774

#774 go Bella go!!

What a cold wet day it was

here in Ohio, temp was in the 40's

Bella's shoes came off in the mud

she ended up running the last mile in just her socks..

What a mess.

Bella at "Moose on the loose" day

*********

Just thought I'd give an update on how Isabella my granddaughter is doing.

She suffers from JRA ..has had 2 surgeries.

She just turned 15 is a Freshman in high school.

I'm so proud of her!

She's in all honor classes has a 4. grade point average

is secretary of student council, in choir, on the swim team, plays soft ball.

In many other clubs.

What both she & I are most proud of

is that she's on the varsity cross country team!

Yes she's a runner.. .

This is a child that the doctors said

probably would never be able run or do sports.

Thank you and God Bless Bella!

Me in my "Royal Wedding" dress year :-} 1966

2011-04-29T08:07:00.000-04:00

Me in my "Royal Wedding" dress :-}

Oct. 22, 1966

Nicole Renee Rose April 28, 1973 - December 10, 2003

2011-04-28T11:53:00.000-04:00

You were so very special

And from the start

I held you in my arms

But also in my heart

And like a single drop of rain

That on still waters fall,

Your life did ripples make

And touched the lives of all.

You've gone to play with angels

In heaven up above

I'll keep your special memories

And treasure them with love

Although my darling daughter

You were with us just a while

You'll live on in our hearts

With a sweet remembered smile

sick- sick -sick..I'm sick of being sick!

2011-03-11T17:56:00.000-05:00

Hello ladies,

sorry I've not been blogging much.

I've been sick since Feb 5..

not a good winter for so many of you too.

Was to have surgery Feb 9 went to hospital they took my temp

& sent me home with round #1 of antibiotics

Today is day 7 of round #2 of antibiotics..

Not been doing much..

not doing much sleeping

watching alot of TV.. and news

How sad about Japan..I'm lucky..

other then the power going out last night

because we are having another snow storm here in Ohio alls ok.

Gals thanks so much for letting me vent!!!

I'm off to work, feel awful but it could be worse..

Love you all..

I've been peeking at your blogs a bit.. how lovely!

awful ice storm here in Ohio

2011-02-03T13:17:00.000-05:00

My back yard

Front yard

Ohio Ice storm

********

Oh what a mess the weathers been here..

Our county Stark was the hardest hit in Ohio

Many are still without power..

This is day 3 with no school.

My cottage slip cover chair

2011-01-22T07:58:00.001-05:00

above not sure what I was doing :-}

under the slip cover

When my chair slip cover wore out and it

wasn't in my budget to buy a new one

I made my own.

I've slip covered child chairs, stools, & cushions

but never a large armed chair.

Being concerned I couldn't tackle this project

I still gave it a try..

Using fabrics I had I got busy.

In a week-end my cover was finished.

The cover is far from perfect

but sure serves it's purpose!

~Update about Bella's surgery~

2011-01-12T13:52:00.001-05:00

My Granddaughter Bella had knee surgery yesterday.

She's home from the hospital and resting.

The Plica problem has been taken care of

but the Arthritis is extensive and nothing can be done about that.

Thanks so very much for your thoughts & prayers!!

~Prayers needed for my Bella's surgery~

2011-01-09T10:04:00.000-05:00

Hello dear blog friends..
My granddaughter Bella's having surgery on her knee Tues. Jan11
Could you please say a prayer for her.
....FYI about Bella...
Bella has suffered with Polyarticular Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis for years.
JRA is a type of arthritis that happens in children age 16 or younger. It causes joint swelling, stiffness and sometimes reduced motion. It can affect any joint, and in some cases it can affect internal organs as well.

One early sign of JRA may be limping in the morning. Symptoms can come and go. Some children have just one or two flare-ups. Others have symptoms that never go away. JRA causes growth problems in some children.
No one knows exactly what causes JRA. Scientists do know it is an autoimmune disorder, which means your immune system, which normally helps your body fight infection, attacks your body's own tissues. Medicines and physical therapy can help maintain movement and reduce swelling and pain.Polyarticular (say: pah-lee-ar-tik-yoo-lur) JRA. Poly means many, so polyarticular means having to do with many joints. This kind of JRA affects five or more joints. Although this kind of JRA usually involves large joints, such as knees, wrists, elbows, and ankles, small joints of the hands and feet are also often involved.
Bella's doing a bit better these days with the JRA but continues on medication with blood work and doctors visits.
Bella also has Plica syndrome this is why she's in need of knee surgery. She's been living with much pain/swelling..Surgery will be Tues morning. Will you please keep Bella in your thoughts & prayers?
Bella's such a great kid, I'm so proud of her! She was voted student of the month, is secretary of 8th grade Student Council, on swim team, volleyball, soft ball & choir. She keeps very active a must for children with JRA! She's also working for a place on Academic Challenge. Way to go Bella :-}

..

My ruffled bag purse..

2011-01-06T09:45:00.000-05:00

What have I been doing these cold winter Ohio days..

Not much.

Just sewing, reading, & waiting to have surgery Feb.2

I needed a usable inexpensive bag/purse

so I made the one above.

What have all of you been up to?

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year 2011!

2010-12-30T11:26:00.003-05:00

Have a Happy & safe New Year!

Blessings from ~Mary~

MERRY CHRISTMAS from my cottage to yours!

2010-12-25T07:49:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas

from my cottage to yours

It's snowing this Christmas morning

here in Ohio

God bless!

<3 <3 <3

a PINK Christmas at my cottage

2010-12-15T05:50:00.001-05:00

Nicole Renee Rose.. rest with God

2010-12-10T09:29:00.001-05:00

Nicole Renee Rose

April 28, 1973 - Dec. 10, 2003

7 years ago today a part of my heart was taken away..

Rest in Gods hands my precious daughter Nikki ♥

white Christmas at my cottage

2010-12-05T06:04:00.000-05:00

~New washer dryer in my studio!~

2010-11-08T08:08:00.000-05:00

I love having a washer & dryer in my studio!

Hello sweet blogging friends!

Sorry I've not been around much.

I'm thrilled about my new washer & dryer

so I thought I'd blog about them.

They've been a few months in the making.

When my old dryer (in my basement) died.

I decided to make a dream of mine come true

of having a washer & dryer on my first floor.

So I thought what better place for them but in my studio..

I'm here so much anyway.

With the help of a good friend my dream came true!

Yippee!

The old cabinet had to me removed

and a smaller one put in for the set to fit.

We used my old sink & fixtures

because I liked them & kept the cost down.

Only thing left for me to do is paint the above cabinets.

How are all you doing?

I'm doing so so but that's another post.....

Have a lovely day!

~Halloween at Mary's cottage~

2010-10-04T15:34:00.000-04:00

I love my new mantel clock!

Great find at TJ Maxx for $10.

Here are some of the prints I used to decorate with.

I used some vintage postcards & prints that I altered

Printed them on old 1912 sheet music & parchment paper.

Also used some family photos that I also altered.

Found old wood frames at the thrift from .20 to .90 cents each

painted them black..

I designed & made these Witches last year..

~little stone Chapel on mountain at Von Trapp lodge Stowe, Vermont~

2010-09-23T16:46:00.002-04:00

a walk in the woods Von Trapp lodge

came across this sign..

resting...on a bench

lovely little stone Chapel

delightful alter.. rosary hanging from the cross

can you see the paper prayers tucked between the wood beams & stones?

inside the tiny Chapel

I truly hate having my photo taken
but I was so proud to ring this bell..

Glad someone was there to take this photo..

Hello... Thought I'd post about a lovely experience I had.

My sister invited me to spend a week with her, her son, daughter-in-law & adorable granddaughter in Vermont at their condo "the Villas" at Von Trapp lodge. Lucky me.. I've always dreamed of going to Vermont. So off we went stopping at Turning Stone in New York & spending the night in a gorgeous suite..Then on to Stowe Vermont what a lovely town. The condo was wonderful.. the grounds were so very peaceful. For a week I did alot of resting, reading, a bit of shopping, eating out, & playing with precious 7 month old Anna & hiking/walking in the woods/mountain. One day I walked in the woods came across a sign that said Chapel.. so I had to find this Chapel, I was not sure I was going to make it up the mountain.. but I did... at the top I had bad chest pains.. so I rested on a bench til they went away. I was the only one there this day . I did not enter the Chapel or ring the bell didn't think I was allowed to....I told my Nephew about my hike to the wonderful little stone Chapel he asked about me going inside I said I didn't.. well now I just had to see the inside. Next day off I went again. On the way up I meet a lovely couple from Cananda on Mountain bikes.. was shocked they even attempted to come up this hill/mountain. I stopped & rested at each bench along the way (something I should have done on my first visit) ..At the top I met 2 very kind ladies. After chatting a bit I opened the Chapel door and stepped inside. I was touched like never before! Thoughts of my Daughter Nikki who's passed away came to me.. I said a few prayers cried, added a prayer request to the box..I stepped outside. One of the ladies who was from South Burlington asked if I wanted my photo taken ringing the bell I said "Oh yes please!". After that down the hill I went. I will never forget this lovely little stone Chapel on the mountain..built by Werner von Trapp

I'm asking for prayer...again

2010-07-28T08:16:00.002-04:00

Hello dear blogging friends.

I'm again requesting prayer, this time it's for me.

(Not sure this old Gal deserves them)

Sunday I had to visit the ER and was then admitted to the hospital.

Doctors found some heart and blood pressure problems

that needed addressed immediately

After IV, shots in my stomach,

nitroglycerin patches, tons of blood work,
many EKG s, chest x rays, painful heart stress test,

added medications and a few days in the hospital

I'm home and doing so so.

BUT please if possible say just a small prayer for me.
A bit more going on but so sorry I'd would rather not add it here..
Thanks so very very much!
God bless you ~Mary~

~Update about Joyce ~A Secret Gardener~

2010-07-24T18:19:00.000-04:00

~What a lovely photo of Joyce on her 50th birthday~

Here's an update about our blogging friend Joyce

from the blog The Secret Gardener

She's home from the hospital resting.

She did not have to have surgery.

Stop by her blog and read her most recent post.

Thanks so much to all you wonderful Gals

who have been praying for Joyce!

I'm truly blessed to know you delightful Gals in blogland..

Thank you! Thank you!

~Prayers needed for our blogging friend Joyce~

2010-07-23T06:48:00.000-04:00

Prayers are needed for another of our blogging friend..

Joyce from The Secret Gardener is in the hospital.

She's in need of our prayers.

Please take a few seconds and say a prayer for Joyce.

For more info stop by her blog.

Thanks so much! ~Mary~

~Prayers needed for our friend Mary~

2010-07-02T10:17:00.000-04:00

Prayers are need for a dear blogging friend of ours..

Mary from the blog Crash-n-Smash

is in the hospital right now.

If any of you sweet Gals would like to send her a card

please email me at IsabellasCloset@aol.com for her address..

Mary's truly such a wonderful Gal!

We all love her and wish her a speedy recovery..

Mary you are in our thoughts and prayers!

~Covered wallpaper boxes~

2010-07-01T08:11:00.001-04:00

I find enevlope and shoe boxes

make great storage for crafting items.

I like to cover my boxes with wallpaper.

Make a pattern for the top and bottom of the boxes.

Use watered down white glue or wallpaper paste

to apply the wallpaper to the box.

Use a roller/brayer to smooth out any air bubbles.

This is an easy project, just a bit messy..

Have fun!

~A Wedding Blog Party~

2010-06-24T22:54:00.004-04:00

My wedding day Oct. 22, 1966

Welcome to Stephanie of Angelic Accents

first Wedding Blog Party

Thank you for inviting us all to the party!

Me age 18

My Mother Carmela & Father Sam

My 2 sisters & I as brides maids & flower girl

we are the ones with the dark fliped hair..

My Grandmother Lena Grandfather Louie

Bella & Sam my Grandchildren in my nephews wedding

Daughter Michele

Daughter Janene

My Grandmothers rings.. & wedding hanky

Vintage family cameos

wedding gloves

Daughter Janenes wedding invitation

Daughter Michele wedding invitation

our family church, we were all married here

Bella my Granddaughter has been in 5 weddings so far...

shes now 13

Family wedding photos..

Bella age 3

Sweet Sam & Bella

LOVE this photo.. it's of Bella & Edward from Twilight!

~Where Bloggers Create 2~ PARTY!

2010-06-18T17:14:00.004-04:00

The rose fabric is vintage..about 25 years old

worked out well for curtains, table skirts, & chair cover..

Wicker chair is one of 4

belonged to my Mother it's from the 40s
my old Pfaff sewing machine..

My cluttered cubbies..

Old metal desk.. ugly but useful!

Most of the things in my studio are either family hande me downs

or thrift/flea market finds.

Very little moneys gone into putting my budget studio room together.

It's far from perfect but thats Ok with me..

sink & cupboard... they sure come in handy!

I made these pocket

from vintage 40s barkcloth fabric

My free vintage sewing machine..

can you believe someone did not want this little machine?

I love it!

just some of my buttons.. I have lots more

My sister gave me the plaque

says "Wild women don't get the blues"

~~~~~~

Hello and welcome to the "Where Bloggers Create II" party!

Many thanks to our host Karen of the blog My Desert Cottage

for all her hard work in putting this party together!

So let the fun begin..

~~~~~~

Here's my studio where I create..

I'm blessed to have a room in my small cottage

just for creating..

My studio is full with lots of stuff

as you can see..

I've been creating since I was about 8

just a few days ago I turned 62..

I'm still creating and hope to do so for awhile longer.

Hope you enjoy your visit to my studio.

Thanks for stopping by.

Blessings ~Mary~ :-}

~I'm back!~

2010-05-23T06:29:00.003-04:00

I'm back!

Did you miss me? I missed you!

Hopefully I'll stay back..

Have a beautiful day :-}

photo is of granddaughter Bella (pink t-shirt) & her friends..

~I won a give-a-way from Pat's blog "The Urban Chic"~

2010-05-02T11:16:00.001-04:00

I 'm the lucky winner

of Pat's from The Urban Chic give-a-way!

See all the wonderful treasures I received

Everything is there but the big bag

of yummy butter cream candy

I'm been eating them and I forgot to add them for the photo

What a very talented and sweet Gal Pat is..

her work it lovely and everything is so perfectly made!

~Thanks so much Pat~

Check out the second photo

see how the paper box folds down flat

and the small square with brown ribbon bow

folds out to be huge..

AMAZING!

~letter to my daughter Nikki~

2010-04-28T07:04:00.000-04:00

Nicole Renee Rose

April 28, 1973 - Dec 10, 2003

~~~~~~~

Dear Nikki, Nothing prepared me for your death

almost 7 years ago..

How I grieve for you!

Today's your birthday, you would have been 37.

I often ask myself...

What if at age 3 you had not suddenly become ill?

What if your brain damage never occurred?

What if you just continued to be a normal healthy child?

Oh my sweet daughter the what ifs...

To think how your life may have played out.

You'd still be here with us today.

Here with maybe a husband, children,

...... my grandchildren.

Oh to think these lovely thoughts

To dream these beautiful dreams!

But God did not want this for you my sweet daughter.

Instead He wanted you to come be with Him.

I think of all the years you suffered, how that breaks my heart.

Well, you now no longer suffer...

they say you are at peace and in a better place.

Sadly we are the ones who suffer without you.

Happy birthday my sweet daughter.

May your party in heaven be the best.

I miss you so much!

Love, your Mama

~Wanted..the perfect clock!~

2010-04-25T13:20:00.000-04:00

my "make do" 4 time zone clocks..

I found these 2 laying around my cottage.. painted them white.

Wouldn't Amy's clock have been perfect

in my shabby white living room?

******

I had finally found the perfect clock that

I'd been searching for for my living room.

Amy (FourSistersInACottage) was selling just that perfect clock.

I emailed her asked "please can I buy your clock?"

she said "yes you can". I said yippee!

Well sadly Amy couldn't find a box large enough

to ship me that perfect clock.

Needless to say I was very disappointed. :-(

So until I can find another perfect clock something like it,

(Hey...have you seen one? )

....I'll just "make do" with the clocks I have.

I now can tell what time it is in all 4 US time zones!

This I like.

~Yet another vintage button cuff bracelet~

2010-04-22T11:20:00.000-04:00

I've made yet another vintage button cuff bracelet

This time using my vintage black and rhinestone buttons

Thanks Spencer of {Bellamere Cottage}
for the inspiration!

My next and last bracelet will be all glass buttons.

my bakelite bracelet
my mother-of-pearl bracelet
Happy Earth Day!

~Vintage mother of pearl mop button bracelet~

2010-04-14T06:32:00.001-04:00

One of my many passions is collecting vintage buttons.

Bakelite and mother of pearl being my favorites.
What is mother-of-pearl you ask?
It's the pearly inside layer of shells such as oysters ...
After making my vintage bakelite button bracelet

I then gathered my mop buttons

and went to work on this one...

once the main buttons were added

I sewed the bracelet closed

and then added more smaller buttons

for a total of 55 buttons

What I used:

1-1/2" wide white waistband elastic

3 large 2" mop buttons

52 other various size smaller mop buttons

quilt thread that I bees waxed

The above photo shows you

how messy the inside looks but

I wanted to make sure my buttons were secure

Let me know if you make one

I'd LOVE to see it!

Have fun :-}

got integrity?

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

Living with integrity means......

Not settling for less than what you know you deserve in friends, family, relationships.
Asking for what you want and need from others
Speaking the truth, even though it might create conflict or tension.
Behaving in ways that are in tune with your values.
Making choices based on what you believe, and not what others believe!

Integrity: as a concept has to do with perceived consistency of actions, values, methods, measures, principles, expectations and outcome.

Integrity: conduct that conforms to an accepted standard of right and wrong
devotion to telling the truth
faithfulness to high moral standards.........

~Happy Easter~

2010-04-04T07:56:00.003-04:00

Wishing you all a very Happy Easter

~more thrift shop treasures~

2010-03-29T16:53:00.002-04:00

Yesterday my oldest daughter Michele

treated me to a yummy lunch &

and a visit to

the Goodwill & Village discount thrift shop

in Akron Ohio

I LOVE spending time with my girls!

For $8.95 I found :

One rose barkcloth era 40s curtain only .45!

Pink polka dot fabric .45 cents

Oval wood/glass frame made in Germany .90 (I added the print)

3 drawer box with bakelite knobs .90

Rose tea cup .90

Wood teaspoon holder (I'll paint/transform into a hanky holder) .90

Vintage aqua Southern Belle towel .45

FABULOUS vintage heavy 13" silver tray $4.00

~Spring in Ohio~

2010-03-26T10:24:00.000-04:00

This is what Spring looks like in Ohio today ..
Photos looking out onto my deck/backyard...

~Remember Me poem & movie~

2010-03-17T07:55:00.001-04:00

REMEMBER ME

poem

Do not shed tears when I have gone

but smile instead because I have lived.

Do not shut your eyes and pray to God that I’ll come back

but open your eyes and see all that I have left behind.

I know your heart will be empty because you cannot see me

but still I want you to be full of the love we shared.

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live only for yesterday

or you can be happy for tomorrow because of what happened

between us yesterday.

You can remember me and grieve that I have gone

or you can cherish my memory and let it live on.

You can cry and lose yourself become distraught

and turn your back on the world

or you can do what I want - smile, wipe away the tears,

learn to love again and go on.

Poem by painter and poet... David Harkins
***

REMEMBER ME

movie

Yesterday I went to see the movie

"Remember me"

I'm a fan of Pierce Brosnan & Robert Pattinson

For some of you older Gals

who remember Troy Donahue

(my heart throb as a teenager)
Robert reminds me a little of Troy :-}

Oh to be young again! LOL...

Have you seen this movie?

If so what did you think?

I was curious about the controversial ending

and wanted to see what the fuss was all about.

The movie is dark and a bit upsetting.

Some of the screens were over done and unnecessary.

I found the ending very powerful, I did not see it coming.

I left the theater in tears and a bit depressed

but even so I was glad I went.

I say go see it...

~My thrift shop finds~

2010-03-15T12:08:00.000-04:00

My livingroom wall of mirrors...

I love this old chippy mirror...

found for only $1.00!

large gold mirror $1.00

large chippy framed picture $3.00

old tray 30 cents

Needlepoint rose pillow $1.50

wonderful match for my sofa!

These are a few of my recent thrift shop finds..

~vintage cuff bakelite bracelet and assemblage necklace~

2010-03-13T08:29:00.005-05:00

I love to recycle, reuse, and re purpose stuff.

With my passion for collecting vintage buttons, findings and jewelry

I created the above bracelet and necklace.

BAKELITE cuff BRACELET

I used wide black waistband elastic

and sewed on 50 of my old bakelite buttons,

layering 2 and 3 at a time.

I started in the center and worked to each side.

After sewing on buttons

I hand stitched elastic ends together.

Easy project....just takes time.

The other day my friend Penny and I

got together for a fun girls "play day"

we wanted to try our hand at assemblage jewelry.

We never make a thing that day LOL...

just chatted for hours and

showed off our vintage findings.
*

I'd like to stop and thank my dear friend

Carole a Bohemian Market

for sending me many of her fabulous vintage findings.

How kind she was to share her treasures with me,

bless her sweet heart!!

ASSEMBLAGE NECKLACE

With some of my own old stuff

I put together this necklace.

I added buckles, marcasite buttons,

and cross from an old rosary

to a sterling silver chain.

On to my next project

a vinatge white mother of pearl bracelet!

~Update on Carole a Bohemian Market~

2010-02-27T14:53:00.001-05:00

I finally heard from Carole a Bohemian Market..

She called and we talked for a long time....

Thanks so much Carole for the call!!!

I thought she was dead and told her so...

I was very worried.

She had surgery Feb 19 on her spine and is still in the hospital.

She sounds good but is in lots of pain.

Lets keep Carole in our prayers, please.
Yes.. Carole is checking her emails from her phone.

~Thoughts & prayers for Carole a Bohemian Market~

2010-02-18T09:53:00.000-05:00

Our dear sweet friend Carole

of the blog a Bohemian Market

is having surgery tomorrow..

Please stop by her blog and wish her the best.

She's a very special lady who's loved by all of us..

Keep Carole in your thoughts & prayers

she's been through so much!!

Carole good luck tomorrow.

I wish you a speedy recovery!

~Hearts Hearts & more Hearts!~~

2010-02-12T11:39:00.004-05:00

I love hearts <3

Many of these I've made

the sterling hearts on my bracelet & necklace

I've collected over the years..

♥ Happy 101 Blog Award ♥

2010-02-02T07:25:00.007-05:00

♥ Happy 101 Blog Award ♥

I received this very sweet blog award from my friend
Darcy http://darcyknottyknitter.blogspot.com/

Here is how it works:

1. Copy and paste the award on your blog.
2. List who gave the award to you and use a link to her blog (or hyperlink).
3. List 10 things that make you happy.
4. Pass the award on to other bloggers and visit their blog to let them know!

10 Things That Make Me Happy

1. Bella & Sam my Grandchildren
2. Disney world with my family!
3. My lovely friends
4. Thrifts/flea markets
5. Decorating my cottage
6. Sewing/Crafting
7. Going to the movies
8. Reading
9. My graphic design work
10. Blogging/Facebook

Passing The Award On:

1. Carol http://abohemianmarket.blogspot.com/
2. Mary http://crashnsmash.blogspot.com/
3. Amy http://foursistersinacottage.blogspot.com/
4. Jann http://www.foreverjann.blogspot.com/
5. Shelley http://shelleysvintagevariety.blogspot.com/
6. Joyce http://thesecretgardner.blogspot.com/
7. Amy http://abundantcuriosities.blogspot.com/
8. Bernie http://fluffytess.blogspot.com/
9. Lori http://rachel-and-pias-cottage.blogspot.com/
10. Karen http://recycledrita.blogspot.com/

Bella Luna Arts "Wishing Tree"

2010-01-29T14:51:00.001-05:00

Bella Luna Arts

How I loved Bridgette of Bella Luna Arts

blog post about her "Wishing Tree"

Please stop by Bridhette's blog and check out the post.

What a fun idea!

Wishing Tree

Yes, it sure is a good crazy idea!

Bridgette writes:

As we enter this New Year…I invite any of you out there who might have something they would like us pray or wish for, to feel free to send me something to hang in our tree. It can be anything, a tag, a little ornament, a ribbon, or banner. I guess really anything you’d like. Just keep in mind that it will be out in the weather and will be open to the elements. I have a few wishes that have been laminated that are doing fine and lots of other little things that are weathering nicely as well. I’m not sure why I’m so taken with this tree thing, but I think there’s a reason, so I’m doing it and I invite any of you out there who’d like to be a part of it to do so to. I know it’s kind of crazy, but it’s a good crazy I think.

my "Wish" tag

It's an honor to have my Wish Tag added to this special tree.

Bridgette thanks for sharing your "Wishing Tree"

and lovely blog with us :-}

~calling all Angels to help Haiti~

2010-01-18T08:33:00.004-05:00

We've seen the devastating photos of the

people of Haiti and how they are suffering.

How our hearts go out to them.

We all know what we must do

by sending prayers and contributions.

How hard it is for us to sit in our comfy homes and

watch these people suffer..

Seeing the faces of the children in pain

unable to get the medical attention is awful!

We have so much, they have nothing..

Give what you can and

please pray!

Calling on all you Angels..

~My reading~

2010-01-13T08:20:00.005-05:00

The Vampire Chronicles

my winter reading

The Mayfair Witches

***

I'm back to reading again.

I'd not picked up a book in over 6 years

since my daughter passed away.

When my Granddaughter Isabella got so excited

about the Twilight books I got curious.

I borrowed her 4 books and read them.

I enjoyed them so much I got my own and read them twice.

I found I needed more to read.

My middle Daughter gave me her

Charlaine Harris True Blood books I read all 10 of them.

I went on to read Anne Rice books about the Mayfair Witches

really enjoyed them but they are not for everyone!

After finding out the Mayfair witches were tied into

Anne's Vampire Chronicles
I went in search of these books
finding them on eBay & at thrift shops..very cheap!

They now have become my winter reading.

In between I've stopped to read the classics

I fluctuate between the Occult and Classics.

How about you, what have you reading?

~my Icicles~

2010-01-11T11:56:00.004-05:00

It's warmed up a bit here in Ohio to 19 degrees outside
and I keep it 61 inside my cottage.. to afford the heating bill.
My heart goes out to all not use to this cold.

states like Florida
I went out and took down my Christmas decorations.

Sure was cold.. I should have waited!

~my try at making a paper mache' doll~

2010-01-09T11:48:00.000-05:00

I love making dolls and recycling too!

above are 2 of the many dolls I've made..

The small doll is paper mache'

shes my first try at making a paper mache'doll..

and not a very good one.

I used paper egg cartons cut into small pieces

chopped the pieces in blender, small amounts at a time

added a bit of water and white glue to the paper

worked the paper/clay for a while

put in plastic bag let set

formed the head & torso insert a wire

form arms legs..

drilled holes to attach arms legs onto wires

She's a bit odd looking..

but my other dolls do not seem to mind her at all:-}

vintage hanky was used for her dress..

This would be such a fun project for kids..

She now needs a name.. have any ideas?

~what $3.74 buys at "the Happy Store" aka Salvation Army thrift ~

2010-01-07T07:53:00.007-05:00

One of my passions is visiting
"the Happy Store" aka a thrift store..

On my visit to the Salvation Army Monday

here's what $3.74 got me..

Rose double matted picture .79

"New" pink faux cake .99

plaster baby shoes .49

60's Valentine box .49

paper mache' Angels .49

40's organdy apron .49

Spending time with a best friend..

PRICELESS :-}

~Brrrr cold here in Ohio~

2010-01-04T10:21:00.003-05:00

I'm sooooooo cold!
How about you????

Temp right now in Ohio is 19°

with snow showers
weather man says

it feels like 8°

sure seems colder to me!

~Sewing, Cleaning, Reading~

2009-12-30T06:11:00.005-05:00

Now that the mad rush of Christmas is over

what have you been doing?

I've been cleaning my Studio, sewing, reading..

Most days I tend to jump from one thing to another

and yesterday was no different.

I was organizing my studio & came across a pile of scraps

from my tablecloth banner project

(& my favorite photo transfer of my Grandkids)

So I stopped what I was doing

& started to put together a spring bag with them..

***

Give this simple project a try..

I used the fabric scraps as they were

added some vintage pink ric rac

lined bag with white fabric

added 2 inside pockets

and a long strap..Viola!

Instead of a purse why not make

a lingerie bag

or clothes pin bag..

or how about plastic bag holder?

Have fun and enjoy!

~I made paper snow flakes!~

2009-12-24T06:13:00.007-05:00

studio window
living room window
Mary's paper snow flakes
I made all the above snowflakes!

***

Last year I bought paper snow flakes from Amy

from the blog Abundant Curiosities

her snow flakes are beautiful go check em out!

At the last second I decided to do a tiny bit of decorating

by adding Amys paper snow flakes to my cottage windows

I didn't have enough and it was to late to buy more from her

so I thought maybe I can make some myself?

So I checked out YouTube to find help

after viewing a few videos I found this guy

***SEE video below please***

With paper & scissors in hand

I went to work..and could not stop!

What fun & such a great stress reliever too.

You may want to give them a try, they are so easy to do

or just go and buy Amys see Abundant Curiosities

Note: use scrapbooking glue dots on snow flakes

to add to windows, packages, trees, wreaths

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T06:12:00.001-05:00

~Night at the pink cotton candy cottage LOL~

2009-12-18T17:50:00.002-05:00

I took these photos of my front porch

this evening 5:45 PM est Ohio

Oh my guess it does look like the "cotton candy cottage"

just like my daughter says :-}

~photos of past Christmas decorations~

2009-12-18T11:30:00.013-05:00

I made the above stockings from

an old matelasse bedspread & antique lace
Some of the photo charms on this white tree
I made using solider & glass..

some of the above houses
my grandchildren & I made

this tree was upstairs in grandchildrens room

a few years ago

I love this tree!

photo taken Dec. 2008
My pink cottage
looks the same this year as in these past photos..
except I added a pink tree & a large

pink painted wood sled to the front porch

pink wreath with pink lights

pink Santa I made from

an antique ironing board

I found this old sled at a flea market for a few dollars

& painted it pink

my wood, plaster, and ceramic Santa's.. fun to make!

I made the above "Sunbonnet girl" stocking in 1982

the year I moved into my cottage

I used them last year..

I made these Carnival stockings using photos

of my grandchildren

stocking
I made from an old chenille bedspread

stocking made from old 40s tablecloth

***

These are all old photos...

~Thoughts of Nikki my daughter~

2009-12-01T09:21:00.002-05:00

Nicole Renee Rose

April 28, 1973 - December 10, 2003

If roses grow in Heaven,

Lord please pick a bunch for me,

then place them in my Nikki's arms tell her they're from me.

Tell her I love and miss her, and when she turns to smile,

place a kiss upon her cheek then hold her for awhile.

Remembering Nikki is easy, I do it everyday,

but there's an ache within my heart

that never goes away!

~Happy Thanksgiving!~

2009-11-26T06:27:00.002-05:00

Wishing you all

a Happy Thanksgiving

God bless you

~Mary~

~Need a smile? please take mine~

2009-11-23T06:05:00.004-05:00

Do you need a smile?
Or maybe you know someone who does?
Please take my smile award above
add it to your blog for the taking.
Add the names of bloggers
you'd like to give this smile award too..
tell them why they make you smile!
This time of the year can be very sad for so many.
Maybe the above award will put a much needed smile on
someones face..
It can't hurt and a smile can be contagious!
~Thanks~
I LOVE YOU ALL..

~girls night at New Moon~

2009-11-20T08:06:00.005-05:00

Saw the New Moon movie last night

it was OK...I had lots of fun!
we had treat bags.. vampire blood

my Granddaughter Isabella aka "Bella" was ready to go

and enjoyed every second!

I'm tired this morning only 3 hours of sleep last night.

It was girls night out at the movies

we went to see the midnight showing of New Moon

got there around 9:30pm seated right away

and sat in on all the fun.. yes I am a Twilight fan

I truly have enjoyed the books.

For me it was more then just seeing the movie

it was the anticipation of the movie

it was sharing the fun with my granddaughter Isabella

Just sitting next to a 13 year old who LOVES

everything about Twilight was such a blast!

Oh what fun being

with hundreds of VERY excited Twilight fans..

both young and old like me LOL.

7 sold out midnight movies in our small town of 36,000!
I say yes see the movie but read the book first..

Eclipse comes out June 30, 2009..

can't wait :-}

~My Winter White~

2009-11-16T05:55:00.008-05:00

I covered the small square frame above

using tiny old white mother of pearl buttons

some of my white Madonnas

Old white pillows
had these many years..

I made these chair covers and curtains
from dust ruffles I found new for $2.99

I used a vintage popcorn chenille bedspread
for my chair..

I'd like to make a white damask slipcover someday

My sister made this candle for me
using some of my old white buttons

made this Annie doll using
an antique cutter quilt for her dress

and old ticking for her arms & legs

I gave a copy of the photo below to my friend Lolly

her Mother who at the time was in her

70s hand drew

this gorgeous piece

my sister had it framed

and it now hangs in my living room.

I'm amazed at the talent this lovely lady had!

I took this photo of my Granddaughter
Isabella on March 22, 1998

at the time she was watching Barney on TV LOL..

the dress Bella has on belonged to
my Brother-in-laws Grandmother made in 1894

the rocking chair dated 1868

it belonged to my Grandmother

***

~My Winter White~

is very easy to live with

the fabrics are cotton

just toss in washer/dryer when they need cleaned

I have 9 & a 13 year old grandchildren

and we use this room all the time!

~Can't wait to see New Moon~

2009-11-13T04:00:00.002-05:00

I couldn't sleep again..

so I got up about 3:00am

went to my computer

check emails, blogs, and Facebook

family's on Facebook

great way to see what they are up to

if I miss a day of talking with them..

well I see on Facebook that

Daughter #1 got tickets for 6 of us

to see the midnight showing of New Moon..

Yippee!!!!

~what a delightful surprise~

can't wait to thank her!

Daughter #2 tried to get tickets for the first showing

but they were sold out days ago

she's been checking to see if they would open up another showing

looks like they did.

we 2 Daughters, Granddaughter Bella, Me, & 2 friends

are going to see this much anticipated movie at midnight

We can't wait!
I'm reading the book again.. LOL..

~white slipcovered stool~

2009-11-07T14:55:00.003-05:00

Today I made this slipcover for my foot stool.. Love the white!
Thinking about having a "White Christmas" this year...
looks like I better get busy..
Hugs to you sweet friends!

~Happy Halloween!~

2009-10-31T10:12:00.004-04:00

Hope you all have a safe and

~Happy Halloween~

~Clean up on aisle 2,3,4,and 5!~

2009-10-31T07:52:00.005-04:00

Yesterday about 4:30 PM I was sitting outside reading

enjoying the beautiful day before leaving for work.

Suddenly I hear the squealing of tires & then a very loud boom..

My neighbors and I ran to see what happened.
A car had crashed into the BP station

(3rd time since I've lived here)..

God had been watching over everyone.

The man narrowly missed a large Gas tanker

drove between occupied fuel pumps and into the BP store.

Only the owner was inside at the time,

luckily he had been on the other side of the store.
The man driving the car admitted to police he had been drinking.

He was not injured just very shaken up

What a mess!

At the BP owners request

my neighbor took many photos with my camera.

~Trick or Treat 2009~

2009-10-28T06:20:00.007-04:00

Some bagged candy & dog treats too!

more candy

My Grand kids Sam & Bella

Loved the Witch handing out candy

Above is the walk in front of my daughters home..

She had $70.00 worth of candy to give out,

and she ran out before it was over!!

****

and one tired little prom Queen below

Trick or Treat is always the last Sunday of the month
in October here from 3 to 5..
Some of us walk with the Kids.

My Daughter hands out candy at her house

then it's back to her home for

our traditional Halloween get together..
Good food, family, and friends :-}

~Halloween Decor~

2009-10-27T08:11:00.004-04:00

I LOVE Halloween!

What great fun it is decorating for it..

These photos were taken by my daughter Michele of her home.

I got to help a bit with her decorating this year..

~Happy Halloween~

~My carbon footprint~

2009-10-23T09:28:00.004-04:00

This morning as I walked to the grocery store

about 8 city blocks away

using the above cart

(today it held $43.96 worth of food)

I use no plastic or paper bags..

I got to thinking about my carbon footprint

on the world..

So I visited the site below.

Check out Carbon Footprint

Here is my carbon footprint results:

Your footprint is 0.83 tonnes,

which equates to 10.42 tonnes per year
The average footprint for people

in United States is 20.40 tonnes
The average for the industrial nations is about 11 tonnes
The average worldwide carbon footprint is about 4 tonnes
The worldwide target to combat climate change is 2 tonnes

We all must work harder to decrease our tonnes.

Go green!

~2nd Annual Massillon ZOMBIE WALK~

2009-10-19T09:03:00.011-04:00

My grandchildren Bella & Sam

ready for the

2nd Annual MASSILLON ZOMBIE WALK

Sam the Rock Star Zombie..
neighborhood kids with Sam & Bella

Bella the cheerleader with a Zombie friend..
such fantastic make up!

Zombies walking into Duncan plaza

Wow what fabulous make up job

he looked great..so scary too!

Loved her look

Jack with his 2 grandchildren.. what fun!

Prom Queen Zombie ...

one of the prom Queen Zombies

ran up to me grabbed me

and pretender to bit my neck!
Omg!!

The Ananda center Zombies

dancing to Thriller

what fun it was watching them..

They did a great job..

Look even a Zombie dog!!

Sat was Massillon Ohio second Zombie walk

and oh what fun we all had!

My grandchildren Bella & Sam dressed the part

we all walked the town!
Last years video of the Zombie walk check it out!

~I received this very interesting email~

2009-10-15T07:26:00.004-04:00

Onions fight flu virus (?)

After reading this you'll probably think I'm crazy.

I received this email (maybe you have too).

However I feel a need to pass it on..

It may just work!

It's said to be a true story.

****
In 1919 when the flu killed 40 million people

there was this Doctor that visited the many farmers

to see if he could help them combat the flu.

Many of the farmers and their family had contracted it

and many died.
The Doctor came upon this one farmer and to his surprise,

everyone was very healthy.

When the Doctor asked what the farmer was doing that was different

the wife replied that she had placed an unpeeled onion

in a dish in the rooms of the home,

(probably only two rooms back then).

The doctor couldn't believe it

and asked if he could have one of the onions

and place it under the microscope.

She gave him one and when he did this,

he did find the flu virus in the onion.

It obviously absorbed the bacteria,

therefore, keeping the family healthy.
Now, I heard this story from my hairdresser in AZ.

She said that several years ago many of her employees

were coming down with the flu and

so were many of her customers.

The next year she placed several bowls with onions

around in her shop.

To her surprise, none of her staff got sick.

It must work. (And no, she is not in the onion business.)
The moral of the story is,

buy some onions and place them unpeeled in

bowls around your home.

If you work at a desk, place one or two in your office

or under your desk or even on top somewhere.

Try it and see what happens.

We did it last year and we never got the flu.

If this helps you and your loved ones from getting sick,

all the better.If you do get the flu, it just might be a mild case.
Whatever, what have you to lose?

Just a few bucks on onions.

***

I'm on my way to the kitchen for onions

I'll place them in my

studio

living room

bedroom

Hope you all stay healthy!

~Could you live without your phone & computer?~

2009-10-12T16:56:00.002-04:00

Hello.. I've been without a phone and my computer/Dsl service since Fri Oct 9 at 9:05am..
I was having a Dish network satellite installed Fri and the installer cut my phone/Dsl lines.. Dish installer said "yes I cut them but can't fix them call ATT" ..and walked out the door on his second visit... I called ATT (using my Daughters cell phone) Fri ATT was to come by 8:30 pm no show again.. I called ATT Sat at 8:00 am again no show. I called ATT and Dish Sun at 8:00am another no show.. I emailed ATT 2 times today.. no show AGAIN today but Dish came back to say "we can not fix it just wait for ATT"..Hopefully by tomorrow they ATT will email me and come fix the lines... I sure hope so. I have not been very nice to Dish or ATT...I've had to stay home everyday and wait and wait and wait.. only going to work a few evenings..so my question is "Could you live for 4 0r 5 days without a phone or computer?" It has been very quiet around here..

~Make your own foaming hand soap~

2009-10-08T11:54:00.006-04:00

I love this!

I live on a very limited income and moneys tight like so many of you.

I ran out of the foaming hand soap I use for guests/company/grandkids..

for myself I use the messy hand soap but no more LOL!

Rather then toss out the foaming soap container I thought.

wonder if I can make my own?

Well yes I can and I did!

Here's how:

Add about 2 tablespoon of liquid hand soap to your empty foaming soap dispenser.
Fill the dispenser with water a little less then 1 cup will do

Do not fill to the top leave a little space in the container.
Stir with a spoon or put lid on and shake..
Pump the dispenser a few times to get the foaming started.

It really does work!

Let me know what you think :-}

~Halloween at my coTTage~

2009-10-04T11:12:00.006-04:00

Here are photos of a few

Halloween decorations at my cottage

I made this bag a few years ago.

I carry it the month of October
****

~Mary's wood yard Witches~

2009-09-28T11:44:00.003-04:00

Here are my wood yard Witches..

Grammy, Mama , and little Girl...

I have 2 patterns for sale on Etsy

Grammy Witch

Mama Witch

~Happy Birthday Bella!~

2009-09-24T12:11:00.008-04:00

My Granddaughter Isabella is 13 today..
What a beautiful lady she is inside and out!

Bella I love you so much!!! Grammy

~my Halloween cloth bunting flag banners~

2009-09-19T06:32:00.006-04:00

I love making cloth buntings/flags/banners!

these Halloween banners are made with fabric

one fabric triangle for front one for back

sew front to back pink the edges

sew triangles to extra large double fold bias tape

top banner was stamped by my daughter Michele

bottom banner was stenciled by me..

go make a set...have fun :-}

~My round head Witch doll pattern~

2009-09-17T07:49:00.006-04:00

Mary's Witch Doll

Paint on eyes lips... blush for cheeks

black embroidery for lashes..
Hand draw eyes, lashes, lips, smile..

attach head to body

body

I used 5 football shaped pattern pieces to make head..

I LOVE designing and making cloth dolls!

Here's my latest

She's a round head Witch doll..

she's fun to make!

I used Antique trims and button for her dress..

hope these photos help you

if you'd like to make one of your own.

Hope you like her :-}

~Boo Witch door greeter stockings~

2009-09-13T12:54:00.004-04:00

I came across Witch stocking

on Etsy or eBay

they were not in my budget to buy

so I made my own...

I cut out 6 stocking using medium cotton fabric

used sewing machine to put them together

stuffed insides 3/4 way up with polyfil

the rest with newspaper

I painted 3 coats of white paint on stockings

last coat of paint (#4) I used the orange & black

stenciled on B O O

then antiqued them

added fake cat tails

hot glued moss on top

and moss on the front to look like buttons

sewed 3 rusty bells to the toes

antiqued 3 battery tea lights

and hot glued them between

the inside edge stocking & moss

nailed stockings on wood branch

added a black cord to hang
Now I have a Halloween door greeter

decoration for my Studio door

Give it a try

it's an easy project!

~Another Witch pattern~

2009-09-06T14:20:00.004-04:00

Check out my new "Skinny Witch" life size with pattern!

She's 65" tall!

I have this pattern on sale in my Etsy shop..

~My "Dancing Witch" Halloween pattern~

2009-08-26T07:50:00.005-04:00

~Dancing Witch~silhouette..

I LOVE Witches and Halloween!

So I've designed this LIFE size Dancing Witch..

The pattern is for sale in my Etsy shop..

If you are interested in her please stop by

and check her out!

IsabellasCloset Etsy shop

Etsy shop

65" tall

***Info added Aug 29***

I used 3/8" ply wood for my Witches. I bought it at Home Depot for $9.98 for 4' by 8' sheet. I had them cut the sheet into 2 -65" pieces and still had wood left over for the cats I'll make. In the past I've only ever worked with a ban saw for cutting out my wood pieces.. My Witches are to large for that. My 15 year old neighbor (with the help of his Grandfather) cut out one Witch his Grandfather cut out the other. They used a jig saw. The Grandfather said my Witches were not hard to cut out.. I'd love to buy a jig saw (someday) and try cutting out this large stuff..

~Samuel's back to school day~

2009-08-25T09:48:00.005-04:00

My sweet grandson Samuel

started back to St. Mary's today

he's now a big 4th grader!

My Daughter says he was so happy this morning..

Sam & Bella

are thrilled to be back to school

I asked Bella how her first day of Middle school went yesterday.

she said "Grammy it was just awesome!"

... how wonderful ...

Oh my gosh.. how I LOVE this photo!

They are the best kids..

we are so blessed to have these precious kids in our lives..

I know I've said that before LOL...

Hope they always stay so kind to each other.
God please bless these children and watch over them!

~Vintage 40s tablecloth banner~

2009-08-25T09:02:00.002-04:00

While treasure hunting at a flea market

I found a wonderful vintage 40s tablecloth

for only $1.00!

It had a few small holes and some light stains..

so I cut it up and made this fun cloth banner.

What do you think?

Any ideas as to where I should put it?

Maybe outside?

*** Thanks for stopping by my blog***

Have a happy day :-}

~Bella starts Middle school~

2009-08-24T11:27:00.005-04:00

Bella with best friend

***

Bella

Such sweet girls!

****

My Granddaughter starts public Middle school today.

I'm disappointed that Bella will no longer be

attending a private Catholic school.

She's made the Volleyball team at her new school..

what a thrill!...you see Bella suffers from

Polyarticular Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
and sports can be a struggle.

I called Bella at 6:30am to wish her the best today..

she was so excited.

My thoughts and prayers are with Bella today & everyday.

Good luck to all who are starting back to school.. have a fun year!

Julie and Julia - fun movie to see :-}

2009-08-22T10:50:00.003-04:00

My Daughter & I went to see the movie Julie & Julia..

it was fun!

I loved Amy Adams.

I'm not a big Julia fan & thought I'd not like the movie but I did.

Meryl did a very nice job too..

click link below to view the trailer.

Enjoy :-}

Julie and Julia - Trailer No. 1 - Moviefone

~just call me a copy cat!~

2009-08-12T08:34:00.003-04:00

above photo taken last year on a sunny day..

****

On my down time

I love to sit & read at this table in my side yard.

dark cloudy morning in Ohio
like my clock?

studio clock

Well just call me a copy cat!

I was visiting Jackie at

In The Land of The Living Skies II this morning

and loved her idea about her outside clock..

so I plucked the clock off my studio room wall

ran outside clock, hammer, nail, (and camera) in hand

and added my studio clock to my fence..
now the only problem is

when I look up to check the time here in my studio theres no clock.

I could just check time on my computer but that's to easy.

now I'm off to find a clock to put up where the old one was..

Gee am I doing this a bit back word?

Oh well that's just me.. LOL..

have a beautiful day!

~my lovely gift~

2009-08-11T08:17:00.003-04:00

I LOVE my new watch!

This beautiful watch

was made & given to me by my talented neighbor Missy

What a lovely surprise!

I wear it every day
Thank you Missy, you are such a sweetie!

Missy sells on eBay

and also has a web site called Forgotten Primitives

check out her very well made treasures!

SOLD

Missy is selling this handmade

Green beaded Swarovski crystal watch on eBay
..it's a "buy it now" for only $12.99 shipping is included!!

If you are interested get over there FAST before it's gone..

SOLD

Lavender/Lilac Swarovski crystal watch on eBay
I wish you could see the true beauty of these watches..
they are so much better then the photos!
I just love how they sparkle..

~my barkcloth Converse shoes & a flea market road trip~

2009-07-30T07:14:00.009-04:00

OK you asked to see em..here they are LOL..

my barkcloth Converse ALL STAR shoes.

Men's size 8, now what Man would wear floral shoes?

I LOVE barkcloth fabric new or old.

Found these years ago

on sale $8.00 & had to have em :-}

********

2-14" by 16" vintage Provost framed prints $3.00!
flea market finds
2- aqua hand painted rose lamps $4.00!
******
One of my passions is flea market shopping.
Sunday my oldest daughter said to me

"Mom what to go on a road trip?"
I said "Sure Michele where to?"
"She said you'll see..just wear comfy shoes"
so I put on my barkcloth Converse shoes
and was ready for a road trip.
You see my favorite flea market had
re opened this Summer
and I'd not yet been there..
To my surprise that's where our road trip ended.
Yippee!
for only $10.00 I bought
4-zucchinis
4-bell peppers
4-cucumbers
2-pictures
2-lamps..
Time spent with my daughter priceless!

~Enchanted Makeovers~transforming shelters for women & children

2009-07-28T16:15:00.005-04:00

This is Terry Grahl,

founder and president of Enchanted Makeovers.

She is a mother of four and an award-winning interior decorator.

“The mission of Enchanted Makeovers

is to transform shelters for women and children

into heartwarming havens, forming the catalyst for all that become involved,

that create the realization that everyone’s dreams can come true.”

Learn more about how you can become part of the team,

and, with your help, they can turn everyone's dreams into a reality.

Please take a few minuets to check this web site out!

Thank you :-}

~It's party time! "Where bloggers create"

2009-07-24T05:50:00.011-04:00

Welcome to my studio

It's where I work and create!

***

Thanks Karen from My Desert Cottage

for letting me join in on all the fun!

Many projects

have been made at this table

I find that having things where I can get at them

is very important

so my studio is cluttered

but most everything I need is close at hand!

my ugly but functional desk...

my old commercial Pfaff sewing machine

I made these barkcloth pockets

to hold a bit of everything

mainly cards from my blogging friends

a few paper projects

One of my vintage cupboards
it's holds/hides
just some of my fabric

My "friends" banner made
by a blogging friend

My sink and cupboards...

come in very handy

my favorite little sewing machine.. works great!

a bit of fabric

just a few jars of my button collection

*****

Thanks for stopping by!

~The winner is.......Forever Vintage~

2009-07-23T13:45:00.005-04:00

The winner of my 400th post give-a-way...
is Caroline from Forever Vintage..
Congratulations!
I hope you will be pleased with your banner & background.

~My 400th post give-a-way! ~

2009-07-17T09:07:00.011-04:00

My 400th post give-a-way!

To enter a chance to win the above

custom banner and background for your blog

please leave me a comment on this post

no later then July 23

I'll then pick a winner

If you add the above

"400th blog give-a-way" banner

to your blog post or sidebar

and let me know you've done so

you'll get 2 chances to win.

If you'd like to see what the banner & background will look like

on a blog

please stop by my Bella's Banners blog.

Good luck!

~I won The White Farmhouse II give-a-way!~

2009-07-15T07:37:00.006-04:00

Yippee!! I'm the winner :-}

Maggie from The White Farmhouse II
had a 100th post giveaway on her blog...

the gift was a $25.00 gift certificate

to her newly opened Esty shop

Thank you Carole from a Bohemian market

for telling me to check out Maggie's blog

I picked out this great ticking pillow.

It's so lovely and very well made!

Thanks so much Maggie..

I'm enjoying my pillow :-}