Reflections from the Stone Nest

A Picnic or Two......

2010-06-26T14:52:00.003-04:00

I've been thinking alot about family and picnics and just spending some relaxing time together in conversation. Maybe not talking at all, but watching the kids run around. No pressure to "use our manners" ~ No pressure to "use the right fork". Just to say AH~H~H~H, kick the shoes off, and sip that glass of sweet tea, all frosty and cold.

I absolutely love this picture. It is a picture of a family back in the 70's (yes, back when I was in my prime). The picture is from a vintage issue of House and Garden. Now these people are a little "over dressed" for my picnics. Shorts, t-shirts, sandals and flip-flops are a must at my picnics! But, doesn't this picture just bring a smile to your lips and a warm fuzzy feeling knowing they are having such a good time. All under the shade of a tree, with wonderful balloons, umbrellas, and yes, even hats for those of us that worry about the sun. Children in cotton dresses, the feel of grass under your feet, and the sweet smell of clover in the air! Just so wonderful.

While pondering about this picture, I suddenly had a flashback to my youth. When I was a little girl, probably 6 or 7. My family went to my Dad's grandparents who lived in Frametown, WV, near Gassaway and Sutton. Now these were country people, and Oh, such sweet country people they were. Big Mommy and Big Daddy (as I knew them), were the kindest, gentlest souls. With their thick local accent (which I found myself picking up the longer I was there :)), they would give hugs and talk and talk about what was going on in the local town and of course, their little church. Dad would line us up, me, my brother and my sister, and have us sing hymns for them. A small little concert. You would have thought we were stars on the stage by the twinkle in Big Mommy's eyes.

They lived in a very small, very simply furnished cottage ~ no air conditioning. Big Mommy's sister, Merle, lived behind her in a little cottage, where she raised chickens and a had a few sheep. I was thrilled to find out Aunt Merle had named the one sheep "Kitty Lynn". I mean, really, at the age of 7, wouldn't that be the most amazing thing in your life? We found eggs in the hen house, ran through the creek, and petted Big Daddy's dog, "Bally". Carefree summer days, where we would walk down the dirt lane, and take a ride through the mountains.

We didn't visit my great grandparents much, and it wasn't long until Big Daddy passed and then Big Mommy. Time gets muddled in your youth, so I couldn't give you the year. But the one thing I remember most is how Big Mommy died. The story goes, she was sitting in church, she stood up to give her testimony, sat down, and the Lord took her home. If I could ask for anything, anything at all, it would be to go home to the Lord, in this way.

So, as I was looking at this family, in the vintage picture above, all these memories came rushing back.

Yes, family, so precious, ever changing, and so many memories..... If there is one thing I want to do this summer, is to make some "family memories", for me, for my kids, and especially for my grandkids.

Blessings to all. Happy Summer! Kitty

Welcome to the Porch!

2010-05-08T19:30:00.004-04:00

I know I have been absent from blogging for a little while, but I took an "unannounced" blogging break. Sometimes you just have to stop what you are doing to allow yourself to "catch up". I know you all know what I am talking about. Spring came on beautifully, and after that horrid winter, well, it was time to just enjoy.

In honor of the beautiful spring we are having, I just wanted to invite you all over and have a little "sit down" on the porch! It is not a grand porch, or a veranda, or a big, long, wrap around porch, just a "teeny little porch". Enough for 2 chairs and great conversation, all the while enjoying some sweet and tangy lemonade. If I had to pick between lemonade and iced tea, I think it would be lemonade, every time. We should take a poll.... lemonade or iced tea, what do you prefer?

A sweet old cupboard I found last year at an antique mart. Love it with the angel statue that had its little feet glued back on. They seem to be holding just fine. This little cupboard sat on the porch all winter long, and held up just fine. But, I think I am tempting fate. I will find a place for her this winter, inside, away from "the elements".

This old metal table was another find. Since this picture I have painted the top white, but I think I need to give it another coat. Do you all remember these tables? What era? The 70's? 60's? I just love it. It's coffee table height. Maybe a tad higher. But I do love it.

And of course, what could be better than a mindful thought, "Water Your Spirit With Faith". A constant reminder that our Dear Lord looks out after us, through all of our ups and downs. God Bless You All. Here's hoping you are all having a wonderful spring, and for those friends in the Southern hemisphere, a lovely fall!

Blessings to all,
Kitty
xox

Potential of a Black Box?

2010-03-29T19:00:00.002-04:00

A few years back, I found this black box at a yard sale. I think I paid $5 for it. Even though the paint is a bit worn on the floral decoration, it intrigued me. It is a generous size; measuring about 2 feet across the front. It has a lid that lifts and a drawer on the bottom. The paint is chippy, which I LOVE! The color is black, which some may not like, but I just love mixing in black with my decor. It's like a dark neutral, don't you think?

This is a picture before I had hubby move the big knob on the top, down to the drawer on the bottom. I also had the sweetest little vintage metal pull that I got at an antique fair a few summers ago and never knew what to use it on. So, here it is now:

The inside is a bit rough, but I have big plans. I'm thinking a little sanding and a satin lining, maybe cream colored? Something a bit elegant to offset the chippiness of it all. What do you think?

This is the top. I adore it! Love the muted shades against the black background. So, this is my next project, well maybe second to the next as I've never finished the box to hold my Beautiful Life Art Journal!

Hope you all are having a good start to your week. We have some beautiful weather on the way, so maybe I'll take this pretty little thing outside and do a bit of sanding on that inside!

Blessings to all,

Kitty

Alice in Wonderland ~ Tag Book Swap ~ It's Here!

2010-03-19T17:24:00.001-04:00

Oh, I was so happy to see the tag book package arrive from Karla's Cottage. In spite of Karla's bout with the flu and then tendinitis, and pleurisy, Karla persevered and sent out the tag books. I sure hope you are feeling better now, Karla. That was quite a string of nasties!

But, here are the pictures of the tags. I just love it all grouped together, Such a luscious looking little book. I had to create a few extra of my own tags to include, just so I could remember what I created.

On the cover is Karla's very own tag. So so sweet, with Alice and "the key" to the tiny door. Love all the layering. I learned so much doing this swap. I can see how to layer now, and use "extra touches" to make the tags even more wonderful. I'm including a copy of the backs of the tags so you can see that the girls didn't stop on the front, but continued to create such beautiful backs, most with their signatures.

I'm not going to add to much text now, but just enjoy the tags....

And all I can say now, is I just loved this swap. I hope to join in the fun again. Hope you enjoyed the tour. Have a great weekend...

Blessings To All,

Kitty

Love those Browns...

2010-03-14T14:26:00.003-04:00

A bit of this, a dash of that..... That's what this post is about. I have some "pretty pictures" for you to see. This is from a recent "antiquing" day with Heather. She has already posted her pretties, so, I guess I am playing catch up :)

It is no secret, I "Love" Ironstone, and all those shades of white, cream, and brown. Love, love, love it! Speaking of "Those luscious Browns", a little later in the post, I'll show you my "rose making" inspired by the sweet "Ann", of The Tin Rabbit. If you haven't been over, you must see her blog. Gorgeous! But, here are a few more pictures of the shopping trip.

Couldn't pass up the old ironstone sugar bowl. No lid, but who cares? Love all those luscious shades. The brown transferware dish was a great find. It is now one of my favorites.

I know, don't you just love this simple white jewelry box with the sweet pink velvet and satin lining? HMMMM? I was lucky enough to purchase all the jewelry inside, as well. 3 rosaries, a few chains (for creating vintage jewelry), a few pair of earrings, and a gorgeous blue stone chain. Ah yes, and one sweet Christmas tree pin wich needs a stone replacement. But, it is an oldey and so very sweet.

Oh, and the lovely millinery, we couldn't believe the luck!

So, as a continuation of "the browns", I popped over to Ann's blog and saw her tutorial on making coffee filter roses (thanks Ann, I love it!). So, I thought, why not? I dyed my coffee filters in coffee, cut them up, as per her instructions. Cut some hymnal petals, and then started on my first rose. It turned out so-so, not tight enough, not enough petals, needed more glue. You know how it goes ~ you have to do a few before you get the "hang" of it. But alas, I persevered, and was very happy with the last few I did.

I did decide to add one thing. I thought wouldn't it be great to hide a few petals of pictures inside the roses? How fun to walk by the roses and look and know you can have a peak anytime you want...:) I have a few other ideas that I am going to try. More on this at a later date :) :) :)

So, off to the printer I flew, printed out a few pictures of the grandkids (in sepia), inked the back side a bit, and tucked a picture petal or two inside the rose. Here's a sneaky peak of the one petal.

I just love the fullness of these roses. The lusciousness of "ALL THOSE PETALS". And you can have as many as you want ~ from something so inexpensive as a "coffee filter".

I plan on making more roses tonight. It is an easy thing to do while watching TV. I DVR'ed a movie from Hallmark to watch tonight, so that, with my roses, and a "cuppa" something warm sounds just right....

Hope you all have a wonderful week. The snow is just about gone now, the tulips and daffodills are starting to pop up, the birds are all pairing up and building their nests. I can't wait to add some other flowers to these rose beauties.....

Thanks for stopping by, and Blessings to all,

Kitty

xox

Wonderland ~ Wake Up Alice!

2010-03-05T20:14:00.002-05:00

I was lucky enough to be asked to be in a tag swap by the gracious Karla of Karla's Cottage. This is my very first tag book swap and I was a bit intimidated. All I have to say after this experience, is "Go For It", if you are at all a bit hesitant, like I was. This was so much fun. Not only did I have a reason to create these fun tags, but I was able to read a story that I somehow had "skipped" in childhood. Needless to say, I now cannot wait to see the new movie that is out of Alice In Wonderland.

The tags above are actually the backs of the first set. I did double-sided tags. Just to have the fun of doing 12 different scenes. So, as you can see, Alice is falling down the hole, She is having tea, and asking for a "clean cup" and of course, the big question, "Who Stole The Tarts?". :)

On the tags above, we have "An Invitation to Play Croquet", A tag indicating a good many of the symbols of the story with a little tiny dangle that says, "Wake Up Alice"; and of course, the infamous "Off With Her Head" from the Queen of Hearts.

Again, the backs of the tags, with a cottage scene, White Rabbit in the Court, and the Cheshire Cat talking to Alice about being "MAD"! (Not angry, you know, mad like "insane"!) LOL! This little spot in the story really made me chuckle, as he tells her if she goes one way, she'll go to the "Mad Hatter", and the other way to the "Mad Hare", and then he told Alice she must be "Mad" because she is in Wonderland! I think I've been to Wonderland a few times, myself! :) :) :)

Here's a few closeups. I won't bore you with a bunch. :)

Well, I hope you all enjoyed a very quick trip through Wonderland. Wouldn't it be nice to take a little trip down the rabbit hole just to spice things up a bit now and again?

I can't wait to pop over to Flickr and see the rest of the tags as they are posted. And I am anxiously awaiting the tag book from Karla.

Blessings to all,

Kitty

Update: I've added some new items to Etsy. Get your Easter Trees! :)

"Find The Seed At The Bottom Of Your Heart and Bring Forth A Flower" ~ Shigenori Kameoka

2010-02-12T11:28:00.005-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you! May you ALL find a seed from our own heart that will sow something wonderful for you....

Rebecca Sower has been having a wonderful time making hearts, and at the same time, showing other artist's creations on her blog. I thought I might play along and show you my own creation. So, for Heart Session {no. 06}, this is my creation.

I would be delighted to tell you how I created this sweet pink and creme heart.

I began going to the thrift store. Yes, that is a spot to find all kinds of "affordable" supplies. I bought 3 pure wool sweaters (one being pink). Of course the pink is what I used for this project. I bought all 3 for $9. Bring the sweater home, put it in the washer with a little detergent and wash on HOT water! The water must be HOT. I did not use fabric softener. Run it through a normal wash cycle.  Next, put it in the dryer and dry it on a normal temperature untl dried. It will shrink up. A lady's sweater will now look like it will fit on a 6 year old! LOL! LOL! I'm not sure, but I believe they call this "wool felting". Maybe someone out there in blogland can confirm the name of this process, and any extra tips would be very much appreciated.

Next, take a heart template (I used a heart paper doily) and fold it in half. Cut enough fabric from the sweater for an entire heart. Fold the fabric in half and place the heart template on top, pin down, and cut out the heart. Un-pin,and un-fold the fabric heart ~ Wa-la, a nicely, perfectly shaped heart.

Find some lace that you would like to use. I used some vintage eyelet cut from an old curtain and some very fine, thin lace that has some discoloration (which I love). The different shades in the lace bring the piece a bit of definition, I think. Cut it to length across the heart. Get your fabric glue and glue down the eyelet first and then finish the top and bottom with the fine lace.  After drying a bit, I carefully strung 5 seed beads together in a row on a knotted thread and sewed in the middle of each eyelet flower. They dangle a bit. I then sewed 4 silver beads, scattering across the top, on the fine lace and 4 more along the bottom.

I had purchased the seam binding and crepe paper ruffle from Karen at Second Hand Rose. I'm sure she would love to sell you some, and besides, she has various colors, if that is your preference. But, someone who sews could make their own ruffled length ~ enough to go around the heart. I hot glued this onto the circumfrence of the heart.

Once that was completed, I used clear tacky glue to glue on additional silver beads to the crepe paper, here and there.

I hot-glued a length of pink seam binding (for hanging) onto the back of the heart and covered with one bone button and one shell button.

After allowing it to completely dry (probably over night), I added a 4 loop bow, and a vintage rhinestone pin.

Now you have your own pink and creme heart.

Thanks for stopping by. I love seeing all of you and will be around to pop in soon....

Blessings,
Kitty

xox

UPDATE: I have listed a few new things on Etsy. Please pop over and check them out...

A Beautiful Life Art Journal ~ Done!

2010-02-10T14:40:00.004-05:00

I am so excited to do this post. It's taken, well, let's see, Heather, Pretty Petals, posted the workshop in September of last year? (gasp!) As they say, better late, than never. And, OH AM I GLAD I FINISHED THIS! This "labor of love" was frustrating, at times, but taught me so much about collaging, and layering, and stretching your mind/imagination. I highly recommend it to those of you who were a bit intimidated. It also taught me to part with "my pretties" for a bigger purpose! You know, they are not all piled up or stored away in boxes. We all have a bit of the "hoarding instinct" when it comes to pretties. :) :) :) The very best part for those of you who missed it back in September, Heather has decided to offer this on-line class, once again. So all you, who missed it, come join the fun.

I messed up my page order, from the beginning :) :), but, alas, it is MY journal, so I guess that is just fine. Freedom of expression, as they say. The picture above is the cover, and I used all of my best laces for this, girls, as well as gorgeous millinery flowers. I wanted something to treasure, and using really "good stuff" makes your heart pitter-patter!

Below is a picture of the thickness of the book, after binding! Scrumptious, isn't it? For those of you who have completed the class, you know what I'm talking about! (~sigh~)

Now here is where "I messed up". For some crazy reason, I put one of the "Beautiful Ladies" on the back cover, which left the first page open. I decided to do somewhat of an index page. It lists the categories found in the journal, topped off with ribbon roses. A vintage lace sleeve is stretched over the vintage wallpaper to create a pocket. Inside the pocket, I have a copy of my favorite postcard,"Love's Messenger", and a little author paper (Me!). This pocket will allow me to store future "treasures", as I find them. Of course, old millinery glittered up with old German glass glitter tops off the page.

Now here is the first of the "Beautiful Ladies". She is the "Corset Girl", and I had fun glittering her up! I used a bit of ribbon I purchased from Andrea at Everyday Beauty and old millinery. In the bottom right corner, I added two little cherubs and corsets that were copied from an old advertising card. I thought it was just the right "surprise" for this page. (Please excuse the shadows, I tried to photograph on a sunny day.) Underlying papers are vintage wallpaper and pages from an old victorian magazine.

Here is the second "Beautiful Lady". She has the most beautiful smile, and her face just glows with excitement! It gives you such a warm feeling to look at her. She's topped off with (what else?) more millinery. Layers of pages, journal, wallpaper, etc., lie underneath. Gorgeous old lace edges the page.

The next 2 pages are "Oh How I Love". These are the pages you put "your pretties" on. It was hard deciding, not only what to put on them, but placement of the items. This is where the task of collaging comes in. How do you place them and make it all look like it works together? I started with vintage wallpaper. The silhouettes I received from Lili at LiliM in a swap. Heather made me the "You are Treasured" that I used on the corner of the picture, quite awhile ago. Old buttons, jewelry, and velvet strawberries add to the page. One of my Inspiration pins (in green) happily joins the grouping.

Page 2 is the other side of the page above that had the victorian lace sleeve stretched over it. This, once again, allowed me to use it as "a pocket". I have a letter that Heather wrote me as a little girl, in the pocket. I also added to the pocket a page from "The Secret Garden" (one of my very favorite children's stories). I received this in a swap from my dear friend, Madai of Wren Cottage.

The next 2 pages are "Sweet Friendshp". Heather gave us all of the images and copies of sheet music and wallpaper. Everything you need to finish this beautiful journal. I adore this sheet music used here. Layered, once again, wallpaper, sheet music, and a title page from "Let Us Be Friends". How appropriate is that?

I didn't stray very far from her instructions on these pages. Adding just the right amount of ribbon, millinery, and lace does the trick. The image of these 2 girls is just beautiful and says it all. Friendship is such a valuable commodity in today's world. I treasure all of you, my dear friends. It's been wonderful getting to know you in the last few years. What commonalities we have, in spite of our backgrounds, distance, careers, families. I treasure you all.

"Blessed Family". Two small words with such a big big meaning. A page from an old Victorian magazine entitled "The Happy Home" starts it off right, don't you think? The beautiful poem about standing together. Yes, that is how I feel about my dear family.

And antoher gorgeous image of a mother pushing a baby carriage, with her two little ones playing happily. I glittered up the page a bit and added a few millinery flowers. Added the sweet calling card that Heather supplied in her images. Wa-la! A gorgeous page. Simplicity at its best.

So, now, here was the test. A page of my very own. No instructions, no images to use. Just my own mind and creativity. Birds are one of God's creatures that I am in total amazement of. These sweet little bundles bring such joy by not only their song, but just of their sweet appearance. You'll remember this postcard from my first page. It is entitled "Love's Messenger". The background page is an image from Karen at The Graphics Fairy. I immediately loved it when I saw it and knew I would be using it for something very soon. It is actually an album cover. A few feathers, a jewelry dangle with a heart, and some nice old buttons. That did the trick for me.

So, that is the end of the journal post. I still have the "Keepsake Box" to make to store it in. That is a post for another day, as I have yet to begin making it! LOL!

I derived much satisfaction from making this journal. So you ladies that are holding back, go for it. You'll be so happy you created your very own "A Beautiful Life" Art Journal....

Blessings,
Kitty

"Just As The Bird Sings or The Butterfly Soars, Because It Is His Natural Characteristic, So The Artist Works...

2010-02-01T17:46:00.005-05:00

I've noticed in recent weeks, there seems to be a lingering of frustration, restlessness, maybe. One might say a feeling of "being held down", if you will. I've noticed this a great deal since the earthquake in Haiti, and the feeling of frustration over what the average person is able to do to help beyond monetary donations. This is not to say that money is not significant. It absolutely is; and without it, work cannot be done or rebuilding accomplished.

This "feeling" I am speaking of, seems to be cast over bloggers that I frequent, and even family. Maybe it is the "winter doldrums", or just a lack of inspiration. Lack of enough sunlight, maybe, you know Vitamin D?

I have had the pleasure of seeing deer in my yard (or should I say woods, as I live in the country). These sweet masterpieces of nature just amaze me at their beauty and their resilience. A little nibble of some fallen corn, a few nips of hemlock, a lick or two of green moss. Their quest is to get enough food, enough sustenance, to get them through the day and the long night. It is their "natural characteristic".

Are we content with just the right amount of sustenance or inspiration? Do we have to have the big rush of adrenaline, that huge influx of food for our souls? Is this in our nature as artists, creators, crafters, or whatever name one might be called? Can we not be happy with a "little inspiration"? What level is "Natural"?

These are the questions that have come up in my mind recently. Trying so hard to see the glass as half full, so to speak.

Are we like caged birds this time of year? Do we feel our creative wings are clipped? Do we have no purpose for creating, experiencing that rush, that joy, that "making one's heart beat faster" feeling? What makes us lose inspiration?

I feel, as I get older, that time is flying. I know alot of you probably feel the same. But I am determined to find inspiration in every day life. I am trying to be "content", "sustained" with what I find in my path.

I love my life. Am I rich ~ no, not monetarily. Do I have fame ~ no, only to those that love me. But I find richness all around me. A God who takes care of my needs, the love of my family, a job, a home; what else do I need?

As for inspiration? Just look around. Yes, even in the "winter doldrums", we can find inspiration. Beauty does abound ~ and so, the artist must work.

Blessings to all,

Kitty

Title Quote by Alma Gluck.

Images from The Graphics Fairy

Bits and Bobs......

2010-01-19T19:02:00.005-05:00

This post is a bit of a "mish-mush" (if that is a word??). A little Valentine's Day decorating, a little over due Christmas and a few miscellaneous pictures I wanted to share. This sweet little kissing couple I found a few years ago at a sale and just love it for Valentine's Day. The perfect sentiment, I think... Below is my dry sink. If I do not decorate anything for a holiday, I always decorate this. It's right as you come in my front door, and is the center of my home, visually.

On the sink are vintage heart candy boxes, a feather tree decorated with, of course, hearts, a Bethany Lowe sweetheart box, a candle, and lots of lace. Tucked in the background is a vintage floral hat, that complemented the color scheme. I looked around for more vintage valentine boxes this year, but did not see any. Always on the hunt for these beauties....

This was my recent find at the thrift store last week. A sweet little teddy, all fuzzy and cute, was just waiting for a good home, a new red bow and of course, her pearls!

The next picture is for Stephanie at Angelic Accents. She and I both collect Pin Money purses, and I mentioned I had a Penny Jar that seemed to blend well with the color scheme. Sort of the same decorating style, don't ya think? Just love these Pin Money Purse Banks. I don't find many of them. Of course, my collection is just beginning....

And this sweetheart of a doll is another find. I've been wanting a half doll pin cushion, but have found many in just so-so shape. This one is chalk and I just L-O-V-E-D her muted colors! She is a keeper, that's for sure.

Now, this was supposed to be my last picture, and I can't seem to move it to the bottom (I'm having Blogger fits!), so it will stay where it is. This is a sample of a page out of my Art Journal from Heather's "A Beautiful Life" Art Journal Class (which, by the way is open and on Pretty Petals Boutique).

I will be doing a post on this, very soon. I have had the best time creating this beautiful journal. Using all my pretties that I normally would just stare at! I know you all know what I mean. We collect all this beautiful stuff, and then what do we do with it?

I know, I know, it has taken me a while to get this done, but, life has just gotten in the way, big time! I am so happy to be just about done and was so thrilled to see everyone's journals when they were doing their posts. It truly is a very fulfilling task.

And, last, but definitely not least, are some pictures of some things Heather gave me for Christmas. She knows I love children's books so, she gave me the most delightful Children's Story Book with stories inside like, "Little Knitters", "The Dream Fairy", and "Baby Bumbles and Dottie Dimple". How cute is that?

Then she gave me this magnificent vintage Christmas card. It truly is an amazing thing of beauty with a velvet bell with silver sparkles. I adore it. Just look at this wonderful rhinestone belt buckle. What was I saying above, something about collecting all these pretties?? :)

I've been admiring pearl handled knives for quite a while. Well, Heather started me on a new collection. Aren't they gorgeous?

And this sweet vintage crepe paper bell with delicious gold glitter on the bottom. It's hanging in my bedroom/studio. Utter sweetness!

I just wanted to give you all a bit of happiness in the devestation of the Haiti earthquake. 53 orphaned children were brought to Pittsburgh, PA today to Children's Hospital. They will be kept overnight there. 47 of the 53 have already been adopted. I understand that the children were all very excited to have an airplane ride. I also understand the dear woman that brought these children here lived in a Haitian driveway of a house for a week with over 100 children. I know we are all trying to do our part financially, but please keep these people, and especially the children, in your prayers.

Well, that's the end of it for today. Glad you all stopped by for a peak, and a chat. I'll be stopping by to see you very soon. Have a good week,

Blessings

Kitty

xox

Treasure: To Regard Or Treat As Precious; Cherish

2010-01-12T10:30:00.004-05:00

I have found in a most recent experience that there are little "life treasures" hidden for us to discover. Regardless if experience is defined as “good” or “bad”, these little "treasures" allow us to see "what is" and "what could be" within our own lives and to those lives we touch, everyday. If I dig and unearth this treasure, then I will go down this path, and if I unearth that, then, behold, something altogether different, and maybe a bit more glorious, may be waiting for me. Forgive my babbling, but these experiences keep occurring and I feel the need to share.....

We, as humans, seem to have a knack for interpreting “bad” experience as something evil, a sort of, “What Have I Done Wrong To Deserve This”? But lying, just beneath the surface, a bit murky at times, is the chance to unearth a “treasure”.

My Mother had a recent stay in the hospital. She came to the hospital by ambulance, which always sets the anxious tone we begin to feel; praying all the while that upon arrival, I would find her OK, and without a terribly serious medical involvement. My Mother was admitted for a potential heart problem, and after much testing, she was “pronounced” just fine ~ just a bit of hietal hernia and much anxiety. Praise the Lord for that outcome.

During Mom’s 3-1/2 day stay in Cardiac Care, I met the most wonderful people. Her roommate, “Vanetta” was dealing with pneumonia and other complications. She was “healing medicine” for my Mother. Vanetta was sweet but vocal, and had a richness of faith and family. My Mother tends to stay to herself, but this woman brought her out of her shell. I would walk into their room and Mom would be helping her in or out of bed, calling in their lunch order and/or ringing the nurse bell for something needed. Mom got to unearth her own treasures during this stay. She called Vanetta after she was released from the hospital, and now, they plan on staying in touch. If you knew how difficult this was for my Mother, you would know how much of a true treasure this is. :)

One of my very own treasures was the opportunity to strengthen the bond between my Mother and I. This opportunity comes in the most unexpected ways, when I least expect it. I'm usually absorbed in the moment or some task I need to perform. And then, there it is, the treasure awaits.

Another treasure was meeting so many caring doctors and nurses; even those working in the gift shop and snack shop, all giving a caring glow to my day, each day.

So thank you to all those that work in the health care field, the hospitals, the ambulance attendants, the ER nurses and doctors, the medical test specialists, those that deliver the patients to and from. Due to all of you, Mom and I found treasure. We can’t thank you enough.

Heather’s post on saying “Thank You” is well timed. I would like to take that lead, and join with her to say, Thank You, to all my dear blogger friends, family, and readers who “honor” me every day with their thoughts, comments, and words of inspiration. To know I am a tiny thread, intertwined among many, creating this beautiful blogging community gives me much comfort. For this I am so very grateful.

God Bless You all this year through. Wishing you “glorious experiences” when finding your own life treasures.

Blessings,
Kitty

Much thanks to Karen at the Graphics Fairy for all of her beautiful clip art that brightens my day and alot of my blog posts! Blessings to you, my dear friend....

Longing For Lace....

2010-01-05T20:07:00.004-05:00

I received my new issue of Victoria Magazine in the mail the other day. OOOOHHH! Such a wonderful issue, with beautiful photos of ironstone, lace, dolls and sumptuous food. When Victoria re-started publishing about a year ago, I didn't feel sure it was of the same caliber as "the old issues". But, as the year progressed, I have to say, I am not disappointed one tiny bit, but rather, I can't wait to reach the mailbox when I know the next issue is soon arriving.

The article that caught my eye, this time, was "Vintage Lace ~ A Lovely Legacy". There is nothing better than the sheer delights of vintage lace with its subtle shades of cream, white and tawny brown. To touch it, and feel the "nothingness" of its weight is a pleasure unto its own. To study each intricate tiny stitch, and the patterns woven, just perfectly; well, need I say more?

Such patience. What did those women think of while they were doing these tasks? Did they think of their problems? Did they take this time to reflect on their day, or were their minds busy with what they had left to do, or where the children were, or was hubby coming home soon. I can't help but think they were not nearly as "scattered" as I feel a great deal of the time. Could it be I am conjuring up an image of a life that really wasn't so? Let me have my thoughts and think otherwise....

I am not a person that knows the names of all the different types of laces, years they were produced/stitched/woven. But, I don't think you need to be a "learned scholar" of lace to just simply enjoy its beauty.

The affect lace has on a woman cannot be explained. It's like slipping into a scented bathtub, sipping the perfect tea in a precious china cup, slipping into bed with newly laundered sheets dried in the sun, or the coo of a sweet little baby. You know, that kind of feeling. It stirs the emotion, almost makes one "giddy" at times.

Thank you Victoria for sharing these wonderful images, you have captured my heart. What could be more lovely than a winter's day and the latest issue of this dear magazine. So, enjoy the pictures, and run now and get your copy and enjoy some blessed "BLISS"....

Blessings,

Kitty

A Story So Old.....

2009-12-21T14:55:00.002-05:00

The fire is bright, a crackling sound
The wonderful smell of wood smoke abounds;
A sigh slips out, as I hang my head
A feeling so heavy, a feeling of dread.

I look to the window, the snow falling down
A curtain of white, a carpet is found;
The twinkling of lights, the shine of the tree
Such beautiful things, it must mean something to me!

The smell of the baking, those cookies, divine
Out of the oven, they cool in a line;
The presents all wrapped, colors red, green and white
It all works together, such a beautiful sight.

So, why am I feeling this sadness, so low
I sit and I question, as I add one more bow;
The toiling, the cooking, the work, all aplenty
It’s nothing so different, the lists are so many.

I go to the shelf and pull down one “Old Book”
This maybe will cheer me, I’ll have one more look;
I flip through the pages and find the old story
I know it by heart, I can see all its glory.

A mother so young, and a man full of faith
The journey they took was more than a place;
Such blessings bestowed, on these two, did they know?
The wonderful gift, she surely would sow.

Such darkness with starlight, and straw, all aglow
A beautiful child, in a manger, so low;
The sheep and the donkeys, the cows lying down
A cry and a smile, such love did abound.

A humble beginning, but lessons were learned
I thought of my Saviour, my heart was up-turned;
No longer the sadness, no longer beguiled
The gift of “The Father”, Jesus, “His” child.

I finished the story and sighed once again
Only, this time, a sigh of rejoicing within;
A tear of the joy from the story, I shed
Like sheep with the shepherd, I too felt led.
To tell you just read it ~ accept his great love
An act all too simple, it comes from above;

So, bless you, my dear ones, a moment, just take
This glorious Christmas, Oh let us awake!
To sit and remember the story, so old
The Christ Child, our Saviour, “The Book”, it has told….

Merry Christmas
Kitty
December 25, 2009

Christmas Decorating ~ Take Two......

2009-12-20T16:34:00.009-05:00

I thought I would do another "Christmas Decorating" post before Christmas. This is the final, for sure. No more decorating. I hadn't shown pictures of my old dry sink or the mantel decorated in the last post. These are close ups of what is inside the dry sink. I lined everything with buffalo snow and then this new snow that I found at a local gift shop. It is the texture of buffalo snow, only little balls. You can see it in the pics. It is great to work with. I then printed out some of my favorite Christmas card pictures and some "words of the season" that I absolutely love and edged in silver glitter. Hope you like the results.

The birds are in honor of my Dad as he loved the birds. This is the third Christmas he has been gone. I know he is celebrating with us....

I don't usually do alot with the mantel, as it is small, but, I cleared it all of except 2 sets of candlesticks. Put more of "the snow" down, and added my collection of sheep, and more Christmas cards. Wish you could see the glitter of the cards. They are so pretty.

A full picture of the mantel. I used vintage tinsel to loop underneath with some very sweet Bethany Lowe ornaments I found at T.J. Maxx.

And finally, a few shots of ornaments that I love on the tree. I have vintage mercury glass bead garland on the tree. And, I usually add "more snow" (LOL!) on the branches, but decided to "go green" this year.

The year my Dad died, I decided it was time to hang pictures of family that had passed, on the tree, in memory. This is just to show you what I did. This is my Dad's parents. They have been long gone, but not from my memory. I look forward to the day I get to see them all again!

I started a new tradition this year. I have many pictures of my family at the holiday gatherings, pictures of "all of the trees" we have had in the past, and of course, the infamous "snow pictures". I collected as many as I could, quickly, and put them in a red scrap booking album. No fuss, just put them in there, randomly, and will add to the collection when I print out more, or find more in the old photos. "I LOVE" the results. I LOVE sitting there and flipping through all the old photos, remembering (and sometimes not remembering), the time of the picture and what was occuring in life then. And laughing, too. I'll add a nice cover to it that says "Christmas At Our House".

God Bless You all this holy Christmas season. May you remember all who have passed on, and hopefully start a new tradition of your own this year...

Merry Christmas

Kitty

xox

I Wish We Could Put Up Some of the Christmas Spirit in Jars and Open a Jar Of It Every Month...

2009-12-09T17:16:00.006-05:00

It seems we are all getting far enough along now with our Christmas decorating to show a few pictures. I am no exception, and decided I'd better get out what is accomplished. I have cut back a bit this year, in the decorating, and the rushing. I really am trying to "enjoy" this blessed season.

The big question for me this year, was whether or not to put up the 9 foot tree. You see, 2 years ago, after many years of buying "real" trees, we decided to go fake. I know, I know, it is true, it is just not the same. No beautiful pine smell, no red rash on my arm from the tree, no pine needles to sweep up. So, we bought the fake tree. Am I happy, you ask? Not a chance.

The argument this year was, "Honey, can we get a real tree, but this year, can we get a 6 or 7 footer?" He tried the many ways he knows of to get me to re-think my proposal, and in the end, I did, mostly because of the work it would cause for him and the cost. You see, I am a Christmas tree "snob". Yes, I know. You're thinking *gasp*, I can't believe she said that. But, I am. I admit it whole heartedly. A real tree is never quite right, I critique, and critique, and critique. I am not happy with the results after it is decorated, and always have been in pursuit of "the perfect tree". You know, it has to be straight, no holes, and most importantly, the branches had to "almost" reach the floor. Not too high, and not too low. So, the dilemma of always cutting off just the right amount of tree trunk.....

Well, I hate to tell you, but I have passed this gene onto my dear daughter, Heather. Yes, yes, she is a "Christmas Tree Snob". ~ She probably doesn't want me to tell you this, but the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. She hinted of this in a recent post, driving her own dear hubby crazy when putting up the tree. So, I thought I would just come clean. There's nothing like "telling all" to cleanse the soul. I hope you all will not judge me (or Heather), and I hope NONE of you out there have this same illness. It has taken me years to get this far.

So, please enjoy my "fake" tree, and I promise, I WILL ENJOY this year's tree. :)

On with the Christmas decorating ~ :)

This Bible was given to my father when I was 8 years old by his Dad. It is one of the things I treasure so very much, and it was given to our family at Christmas, 1963.

The nativity set is not vintage, but I do love it and the banner (which, I hope you all can see), "Behold The Child", was given to me by my dear friend Madai of Wren Cottage. It is the perfect touch in my little bay window...

Garlands on the stairs.

Angels watching on the landing.....

An all white vignette....

And here is my beautiful tree, (without the flash), in all its glory....

Blessings to you all this blessed Christmas season. Praying for a most memorable holiday for all of you....

Merry Christmas

Kitty

Title Quote by Harlan Miller

Pretty Petals Garland Class....

2009-12-08T07:53:00.004-05:00

Heather told me about her idea for this sweet Christmas Garland, and I thought how inventive, how creative, and "Why Didn't I Think of That"! LOL! LOL! She is so very talented and creative ~ I just love my daughter, and couldn't be more proud of her.....

So, I just wanted to give all you gals a heads up to pop over to her boutique and sign up for her "on-line" class on how to make the "Sweet Messengers of Christmas Garland". I'm adding it to my list to do. Of course, that will be right after I finish her class on making the art journal. I'm nearly done with that one, just a "little pokey", as my dear Mom says.

I'll be doing a post very soon of Christmas decorating. My sweet friend, Madai from Wren Cottage gave me a banner to use over my nativity in a swap we had this past summer. It is in place, and I couldn't be happier. As soon as I have a good "light day", the camera will be buzzing.

Talk to you all very soon...

Merry Christmas,
Kitty

A Little Sparkle, A Little Joy.....

2009-11-22T17:33:00.007-05:00

It's been a busy time around my home this last week. There's been a whole lot of glueing and glittering. Alot of the girls are making these beautiful trees for Christmas, and I sure didn't want to miss out. So, I made a bunch and put them out on my Etsy. Of course, I'll be making more for myself, as well! I think I am at my happiest when I am in the midst of my chaotic creations! LOL! Such a mess I make. Are there any neat artists out there? Tell me your secrets to keeping an organized work space.

In addition, I've shown some pictures of other Etsy items I just listed today. The sweet feather fans, and the angel planter. And don't miss my flock of birds (I call them sisters).

I promise there are more items to list on Etsy. Linens, including a beautiful linen bedspread (white on white), with great basket embroidery. It is a true beauty.

Thanks for stopping by; and to all of my U.S. friends, here is wishing you and your families a wonderful Thanksgiving. We have much to be thankful for and are blessed in so many ways.

God Bless and I'll Be Seeing You Soon,

Kitty

xox

Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful... ~ Norman Vincent Peale

2009-11-16T09:14:00.021-05:00

Isn't it true? How Christmas just casts its magic spell and colors over our world, for such a short time. My goal is to get alot of the hectic Christmas prep done early this year (yes, I know, I say that every year). But, I truly want to save a bit of time just to enjoy and watch, and breathe in the sights and smells of this beautiful Christmas season. Really trying to focus on the birth of our Saviour, the true meaning of this blessed season.

I've captured a number of pictures, mostly from Flickr, for you to view that might help us move into a "bit of magic", "a bit of calm" and a "bit of peace". Thanks to all of those Flickr photographers that allow us to enjoy their art...

Enjoy and blessings to all,
Kitty

xox

A Bump In The Night....

2009-10-28T10:34:00.005-04:00

Oh, it was a frightful night, this night of Halloween Eve. The storm outside raged against the window, rattling the glass, and enormously blew the leaves on the trees, as if they were thin blades of grass. I had to settle myself, so, I decided to read a book that I had laid on the side table. I lit the candle and looked warily about. It was one of those nights; a night so dark, that it seemed to swallow up any bit of light.

Opening the book to the first chapter, I forced myself to stare at the pages, instead of around the darkly lit room. Ah yes, Chapter 1, “Emma and the New Swing”. Yes, this would do nicely, to forget such a night. Settling down into the comfy chair, I let out a sigh and started reading. I had only gotten into the first page about four sentences, when I heard a “THUMP”! Startled, I jerked around in my chair and saw that a mirror had fallen from the wall, onto the table below, but was not broken. The sound was muffled by the lace cloth Mother had placed on the table, earlier in the day. I got up, walked across the room, and replaced the mirror on the wall. There, everything was fine, I thought, as I let out another deep sigh, settling back into my chair and continuing with my reading.

Just as I began to relax, and was becoming more comfortable with the gloominess of the night, I heard a strange sound. It was not the wind wuthering outside. It sounded like a sort of crying. It wasn’t a baby cry, nor was it my little brother, who was upstairs sound asleep. I could not place where the crying was coming from, because it seemed to come from different places. As quickly as it started, it had stopped. I waited for a bit, and then heard no more, so I decided, whatever it was, it must have worked itself out. I really would like to get back to my book! Chapter 3, “The New Flower Garden”; Oh, this was delightful!

I had gotten no further than Emma planting her new daffy-down-dilly bulbs, when a sound, so wretched, made me jump from my chair in fright! This was “quite enough”! I had to settle my nerves, so I slowly got up from the chair and moved around a bit to investigate where the sounds may be coming from.

Each step I took, I became a little braver. I walked around the house, room to room, looking here and there, when suddenly I could hear it, the crying. It seemed to be coming from the Kitchen. I slowly walked toward the sound, as it seemed to draw me to the corner of the room, near the wood cooking stove. This was not a child’s cry. Not like it, at all, but a high pitched squealing sound, and more than one!

I felt the warmth of the stove, as I knelt down, ever so quietly, trying to get as close as I could to the sound, but afraid of what might be waiting for me! At first, I saw nothing, nothing but a bit of dirt from the stove, and the darkness of the corner. I breathed in the smell of wood and slowly, slowly crept. I looked hard into the corner, and just as my eyes adjusted to the dim light, glowing back at me were 8 very orange and green eyes; and just at that time I heard a “REEEERRR”! I jumped back in fright and nearly knocked myself silly on the edge of the stove. Recovering, I slowly moved back towards the corner. It was then I heard the “mewing” and “purring” and saw the soft, round fuzz balls of kittens laying on a pile of dish towels that Mother kept there for the stove messes.

Nestled in the back of all this fuzziness was Molly, my dear little Molly. My own sweet cat of nearly 5 years. Nestled in her softness were three of the dearest, sweetest, tiniest kittens, all of different colors. One a soft gray with little white booties, one all white with black around its eyes, that looked like a sort of mask. The last one was, oh so small, with the colors of the most beautiful fall day; orange and brown, black and white. A frightful night had turned into a delightful night, indeed!

So as the wind began to calm, and the moon came out and shown so brightly through the window, I held each kitten, stroking ever so lightly and ever so slowly. I was mesmerized by the purring, sitting in the dark, warm corner. My mind wandered to what to name these little dears. Because it was such a dark, spooky night, I decided to call the soft gray, “Nebula”, which means dark mist. The gray of his coat seemed to remind me of such. I spoke his name as I stroked the soft fur.

I gently laid Nebula back near his mother, Molly, and picked up the little masked kittie. “I shall call you “Delano”, meaning “Of The Night”, and your sweet sister (the calico kittie) we will call “Kaleo” which means “Shattered Mirror”.” Nearly appropriate, don’t you think?

So, should you hear a "the bump in the night" as you are sitting and reading on such an evening; just know that not “all” sounds of the night come from wretched and frightful creatures! One such creature might just make the sweetest sound of all, a tiny little "MEOW"…..

Happy Halloween To All Of You!

Kitty

"It's All About Me" Challenge

2009-10-21T18:45:00.008-04:00

The lovely Natasha Burns from Artistic Creations by Natasha Burns is hosting an "It's All About Me" Challenge. It was a challenge to complete a project that we have been wanting to do for some time. So, here it is, an inspiration board that I have been wanting to make from a frame I bought at a yard sale 2 years ago! Yes, I know, time does fly. But, Natasha put us up to the challenge and this is my result. I've added a little tutorial below so you all can see just how easy this is. Jut a little time and a little patience.

Get your favorite frame and buy a bulletin board that you can cut to size. The cork tiles didn't seem thick enough, so I opted for the board.

Measure the opening on the frame (notice mine has an inset). Since I am wrapping the cork in fabric, I cut it just a "smidge" smaller (and yes, that is a very technical term - LOL!).

Check it in the frame and trim it as necessary with a razor knife.

Pop it in the frame to make sure it fits. Take your favorite fabric (this is an old curtain panel that reminds me of bark cloth), center on the front, flip it over and hot glue away! Since this was the back (below), I used a small piece of already cut fabric to put in the middle of the back. I didn't want to cut any more of this fabric than was necessary. Hopefully, I can use what is left for another project.

Hot glue it in the frame inset and flip it over. Isn't it gorgeous?!

A while back, I bought this brown ribbon from Andrea of Velvet Strawberries. It was just the right shade of brown to trim the frame. Don't ya just love the ruffles on the edges of this ribbon? So sweet.

So, here it is after the ribbon trim is applied. Again, just hot glued on the edge of the frame. So simple.

So, now, what to put up my "inspirations" with? I was on a "bead kick" not long ago. I bought the pearl top pins very reasonably at a local craft store and put some pretty pins together. My thought is to sell them, but I think these might do the trick for a pretty way to tack things on the board.

Once I was totally done, my mind went to, what will be the very first thing I tack to my board for inspiration. Well, that was a "no brainer" for me. Years ago, my first grandson, Braden, (who is now 15) gave me this sweet little rose pin for Christmas. I've kept it on the edge of my mirror all these years. This is, without a doubt, the first thing I wanted on my board.

So, here it is, the finished product. Love it. I just have to put a wire on the back to hang and tack away.

Thanks for stopping by. I'm so glad I finished this. Thanks to Natasha for the "inspiration" to get this done! Make sure you stop over to her web site to see all the ladies that have joined in the fun....

Blessings to all of you,

Kitty

xox

Antiques "In The Woods" - Ah-h-h-h, such a delight...

2009-10-17T07:25:00.008-04:00

Well, the computer problems are fixed, and I am up and running again. Whew! That is awful when you don't have your computer. I know some of you have had the same issues. It is amazing how "connected" you feel once you have it back. I've missed you all. I am sorry it has been a while. We also took a vacation in the middle of all of that. So, we are back to our normal routine. So happy to be back blogging with all of you...

I wanted to put out the pictures of the last antique show I went to and share this.

Imagine driving up to a lovely wooded area, parking your car, and entering "the woods" where there are little cabins and cottages (some as small as little sheds), all filled with antique treasures. Amongst all of this, scattered here and there, is wonderful fair-type food, OOOHHHH the scrumptious smells! Sweet potato fries, sandwiches of all sorts, hot chocolate, corn dogs, YUM! You also can smell the wood smoke in the air, some of the food is cooked over open fire.

To soothe the ear, there is beautiful music, of all sorts, flutes, harps, country and western, and on Sundays, Christian quartets. You know, the old time'y hymns done in beautiful harmony.

A release for the mind and soul, for sure....

It was a beautiful day, that day at the "Antiques In The Woods" show in Columbiana, OH. This is held annually the 2nd weekend in September. And usually, the weather cooperates nicely ~ as was the case this day. To make it even more special, my sister was here from Colorado, and Heather, my sister and my Mother and I trotted off to find some treasures.

These first 3 pictures are of a "shabby chic" type booth. These gals also set up at the Washington Antique Fair (Washington, PA), so it was nice to see some familiar faces. There items are just a delight to peruse. I wish I had pointed the camera at the ceiling of this little cabin so you could see the chandeliers they brought. B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L!

This garden display was just adorable. Loved all the colored watering cans lined up like little soldiers in a row.

And how about his sweet little display. Some people know how to put things, "just right". And the quilt tops (below). All stacked up just waiting for someone to buy them. All those colors!

Of course, with Christmas not so far away (I know ~ can you believe it?), there was a nice selection of old Santas and sheep.

And let's, PLEASE, not forget the jewelry! Just a sampling. There was tons of jewelry at this show.

Sweet little linens were displayed, all cleaned and pressed. Just the prettiest of colors.

The crochet and lace collars (of all sorts) were just divine in these photos. Who wouldn't want to take that little "dolly" home? Just love her....

And, I am such a sucker for old cabinets. Look at this old bakers cabinet. Couldn't you just see this in a miriad of places in your home? And especially all decked out for Christmas! Can't you just imagine it? Love it!

I could have taken so many more pictures, but if you are in the area, next year, don't miss this show!

Hope you enjoyed all these luscious treasures. It was a very fun day, and I did come away with a few things, but as you can see, I could have bought a whole lot more!

Blessings to all of you. Talk to you soon.....
Kitty

Update: I have listed a few items on Etsy and will be listing more over the next week or two. So stop by and take a peak, if you are so inclined..... :)

I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself, than be crowded on a velvet cushion...

2009-10-12T09:44:00.002-04:00

I just loved the Title quote by Henry David Thoreau. Isn't it just so true??

I really feel like I've been in a pumpkin shell for the last while. I am having computer problems. So, I "borrowed" a computer to do a quick post to let you all know, I will be back as soon as possible. Hope you are all doing well and enjoying the lovely fall weather and the "gorgeous leaves". See you soon ~

Kitty

A Beautiful Life - G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S - Art Journal....

2009-09-21T09:01:00.007-04:00

You ladies have to pop over and sign up for Heather, Pretty Petals, art journal tutorial. It is amazing! That journal she is doing is absolutely divine. I know I'm going to do it. I've always wanted to do one of these journals, but never took the time. Perfect timing, don't ya think?

Spread the word....

Blessings,
Kitty

xox

Rich and Rare were the Gems she Wore, And a Bright Gold Ring on her Wand She Bore...

2009-09-16T18:54:00.009-04:00

I was looking around the house the other day and began to notice how many jewelry boxes, containers, holders, etc. that I have. Not a "grand collection", by any means, but jewelry containers near and dear to my heart. Velvets are just the "grandest" of all, aren't they? I had my eye on this sweet pink jewelry case in a local antique shop for quite some time. I'm surprised no one snatched it up! So pink with its little pearl adorned feet. The outside is faded a lighter shade than the inside, but that makes it all the more charming.

The blue velvet box is one of my favorites. Can't you imagine getting a strand of pearls in a box like this? This bracelet was a new find. Love the intricate detail.

And, if I am not mistaken, I believe they refer to these as "jewelry caskets". I guess you can see why. The lining reminds me so much of the satin inside a casket. I hope that's not too depressing, but it seems to be what they call them. I love their molded flowers and designs. So very precious. My heart just goes pitter patter every time I see one, but very few have a nice lining. Most are deteriorated. So, i f you see one in good shape, snatch it up!

This little lucite box was one of my first acquisitions. Beloved "Clara", whom Heather and I have posted about many times had this in her little shop. I just loved the faded plastic, just the right shade to make it look "antique'y". Clara is probably in her 80's and recently has had a stroke. We are watching her close to see how she is doing and have hopes she can reopen her little shop. Please keep Clara in your prayers, I know she would love knowing that.

And this sweet tapestry music box was a gift from my Mother. I will always treasure it. It plays a lovely little waltz. This is storage for all those dear little tags from my pets that have passed on through the years. Memories in a box.

And I found this little daring shell box at a recent sale and just couldn't pass it up. Such a glorious shade of pink and cream. It snaps shut. The dearest little shell.

And I've been looking for one of these boxes for quite some time now. I know these were popular in the 70's and 80's. It is rather hard to find them in good shape. Lady luck must have been with me this yard sale day. $3.00 for this sweet box. I can't wait to fill it up.

Hope you all have good luck in your hunt for "jewels" and "treasures" and for treasure boxes to keep them in! Blessings to all,

Kitty

Title quote by Thomas Moore, "Rich and Rare were the Gems She Wore"

"Parcels Between Friends" Swap....

2009-09-06T15:15:00.013-04:00

Oh, what a wonderful day it was on Thursday at my house! The bell rang, my heart skipped a beat, and there my dear sweet mailman, Ed, stood with the much awaited box from a friend. Just look at this darling label. This sweet little girl is holding a "dangling" rose heart.

I ran for the scissors, cut open the box, folded out the flap, and there, in all its glory stood this amazing sight! How can you be welcomed any better?

OK now, can you guess who it might be from? Surely I've given you a "HUGE" clue!

My dear friend, Madai, from Wren Cottage and I decided to have a swap way back in May. We have a history of being swap partners due to being paired by Heather, my daughter, from Pretty Petals, "Junque In My Trunk Swap" last year. But, due to this and that, and because we absolutely wanted "NO PRESSURE", we got our boxes shipped off last Tuesday. We took the summer to shop, hunt and select for just the right things.

I gently pulled out these deliciously wrapped parcels - all wrapped in vintage linens! All adorned with sweet ribbons, pins, german glass glitter embellishments.... (sigh..... big sigh.....). So elegant.

Beautiful ephemera. And in the little blue envelope were those precious seeds from Madai's post on striped Four O'clock flowers. She received the first seeds from this flower from another wonderful friend! Passing on the seeds of friendship. Just love it....

And look at all of this. Look how she made a "delicious" little banner for the books, "For Loving A Book". Just seeing how she made this sweet little banner made me want to open each and every one of those sweet books. And isn't that sheep so cute.

And look at this wrapping. Just love it... Inside is a baby picture, atop a baby dress.

She also sent this sweet goblet, the stem has a cherub. So beautiful. Can't wait to drink from it. Or maybe I will use it to store some wonderful little treasures in my crafting area.

More ephemera. This little picture says, "The Fairy Goldfish". Isn't that just too cute! And of course, "The Secret Garden" pages..... I know it is from Madai when I see these..... Madai also sent a CD children's story of "Le Petit Prince" (The Little Prince). I listened to the author's name, but could not spell, so please forgive. I haven't had a chance to sit and relax and sip a cuppa while listening to this CD, but I am relishing the thought. Here it is, below, all wrapped up so sweetly.

Now, here is such an amazing thing. I opened the box and found these wooden hands and just about fainted. They must have come from a doll? These are so very precious. And look at the sweet charm Madai attached. It was laying on top of this sweet butterfly, which is done on the flap of an envelope. How creative, how inspiring. It just made me want to rethink how I package things. How to create differently. Madai is one talented sweetheart!

Madai creates these wonderful banners. This particular one is done in silver german glass glitter, and it will go above or around my nativity set. This picture does it no justice at all since it just shines like a diamond!

And the sweet blue tin you saw in an above picture was wrapped so beautifully inside. Beautiful rhinestone jewelry. I believe this is a sweater guard because it has 3 clips n the back and a pair of beautiful earrings.

The treasures inside.... A sweet pin cushion. This was owned by two unmarried sisters who were born in the 1890's. Isn't it just adorable?

And she did not forget my sweet tooth. A delicious selection of those divine "Two leaves and a bud" teas, lemon curd (just like eating lemon pie!) and these delicious chocolate biscuits covered in powdered sugar, I might add... YUMMMMMM!

And such sweet refinement??? These Noritake soups are just so sweet with their dainty florals and the lovely pin that was on the top of the package. It was all wrapped up in this lovely linen they are sitting on.

In keeping with the sewing theme (which I love sewing paraphanalia), look at the graphics on these wonderful needle cards. Why don't they make stuff like this anymore?

And now for the grand finale! If it weren't for Madai, I would not have such a wonderful selection of children's books. She added to the meager few I had last swap and now all of these lovely books. Look at the graphics on these and feast your eyes.... Just so wonderful....

So, Madai, my dear friend. Thank you so much for all of these beautiful treasures. Our "Parcels Between Friends" swap was more memorable than I could have imagined. I'll be thinking of you, all the while, as I read these sweet books and listen to "Le Petit Prince"......

Blessings,

Kitty

xox

A Post From Home......

2009-08-30T18:58:00.005-04:00

A "HOME" banner was the theme of a story in a recent article in Somerset Home, Volume 4. When the feeling of Fall comes in the air, I start thinking in terms of snuggling up, lighting the fire, and putting on my comfies, everything home encompasses.

Since I am actually in another swap, I took the opportunity, and inspiration from this article to make my own rendition of the "HOME" Banner.

Madai from Wren Cottage and I decided to swap, way back in May. We decided to put absolutely no pressure on ourselves, and took the entire summer to collect, create, and find treasures for each other. Well, time is up. We are both mailing early this week. But, just for fun, I thought I would share my creation for her.

Madais' colors are brown, cream, and just a touch of very pale pink, blue and green. Madai has a way of making a person feel "Right at Home". I can just imagine, if we didn't live so far away, having a cup of tea with Madai and spending a few hours, laughing, catching up and telling stories.

Here is how I created my HOME banner for Madai:

I did not have antique cardboard picture frames to use, but I did have a picture album that had the same type of cardboard forms. I cut 4 of them out of the album and aged them with Distressed Ink (in the stamping section) which you can get at any Michaels or Joanne Fabrics.

Age both sides.

Glitter 4 letters. I used Martha Stewart's "Brownstone" colored glitter. Let dry, well.

Find 4 images you want to use and size them appropriately over the opening. I used a copy of a vintage photo, a copy of a vintage post card, and 2 images from old sheet music. Glue in place.

Take coordinating scrapbook paper (or you could use old wallpaper) and cover the backs so they look finished.

Take a stamp you like and stamp the top front of the plate. I used coffee bean colored ink.

Allow everything to dry well. Punch holes with a hole punch and thread vintage seam binding through the holes to connect all 4 album plates. Knot the beginning and ending holes so the seam binding will not slip off.

Hot glue a few ribbons and lace on the "H" plate in the upper left hand corner. Hot glue vintage millinery, in coordinating colors, on the H and E plates.

This is my interpretation of a "HOME" banner for Madai....

I hope you all have a wonderful time creating something warm and wonderful for "Your Home". Talk to you soon,

Blessings,
Kitty

xox

"I Thought Of You" Swap with LiLi M......

2009-08-27T20:16:00.004-04:00

The sweet Stephenie Gray of Just A Little Bit Pink hosted this lovely swap called "I Thought Of You". I was paired with LiLi M, much to my delight! I have been following Lili's blog for quite a while now and love her creations, the sharing of her travel and heritage, and love the way she supports the many women and friends in blogland. Thank you, Lili, for being my swap partner. It has been a privilege to be paired with such a wonderful lady!

Well, the day came when my package arrived. Lili and I had mailed them just about the same time. From Pennsylvania in the U.S., it takes about 5-7 days to get from the Netherlands to my little tiny town of Darlington, PA. I grabbed the camera, and was off on my beautiful adventure!

I was careful to take things out neatly, and lay them out so I could take pictures. Lili's wrapping was simply elegant. Don't ya love the little pillow of the two angel girls, all glittered up? Just love it. And the divine scent of lavender grabbed my senses right away! The little bird tin is just a-d-o-r-a-b-l-e! Inside is a tiny bird in a nest.

Below is a gorgeous gray/purple rose covered plate, loaded with all kinds of goodies with just a smidgin of fairy dust....

And below are laces, hankies, ribbons, beautiful jewelry, and of course, a smattering of Paris!

I am showing you all of the treasures together, but Lili actually sent out 3 separate packages. Talk about loving it until the end! Here is a tiny doll head in a tiny tin, a lovely pendant and Lili's sweet note....

A paper covered box with tiny seashells and playing cards. Ribbon, a whole roll, and tiny blue seed beads in the sweetest little bottle.

And of course, my love for Bibles and old hymnals. Lili so generously sent me a hymnal in her language and a New Testament. To me, such treasures!

And let's not forget about the sweet fairies. This is an adorable book. This will be a joy on a rainy afternoon to sit and quietly read with a cup of tea or cider.

And the ephemera, papers, wallpaper and postcards. I can't wait to use some of these lovely papers in my creations. I just love it all.

Lili covered this sweet box with wallpaper and decorated it with a Paris theme. Inside were the papers in the above photo. In the little pink envelope, Lilli wrote, "I Thought Of You". What a beautiful keepsake. It is just perfect for mementos.

And isn't this a sweety?? A half loaf of bread done in redwork. OOOOOHHHHHH! Need I say more?

German scraps, a tiny little prayer book. You know it must have been a little girl's. Pages from a book with Lili's stamping, stamps. Oh, my.

I about fell over when I saw these gorgeous silhouettes. I absolutely adore them! All kinds of thoughts are going on in my head for creations with these.

Beautiful fabrics and wallpaper.

I tried to get a good shot of these buttons. They are just so beautiful. The little hair pin is darling!

Religious charms, stamps, and tags. More fun to come with these!

And yes, a PARIS map! Beautiful book pages. All the possibilities!

Whew! I know! What wonderful treasures. Lili made this one of the best swaps I have ever had. Thank you, dear friend. Just know I treasure it all and can't wait to create. All the while, I'll be thinking of you, with a smile on my face, and wonderful memories....

Blessings

Kitty

xox

I Thought Of You Swap and Catching Up....

2009-08-06T08:43:00.003-04:00

The sweet Stephenie Gray from "Just A Little Bit Pink" is hosting the "I Thought Of You Swap". Today is the day parcels are to be shipped. I was so happy to have been paired up with Lili from LiLi M. While Lili lives in the Netherlands, I feel as if we live right next door to each other. You know how you connect with certain people? I have felt that "connecting tug" since the first day I started blogging with Lili. So, I have put a "sneak peek" of some of her goodies. Hope she finds them all delightful! I can't wait to get my box. It is so interesting swapping with an international partner. Something I have not done before. I feel like a child at Christmas, just waiting for Santa to arrive!

And of course, Heather and Stephenie, both, have already blogged about our craft night. But I wanted to show you pictures of my charms. The pictures are a bit dark, so please forgive. But, I am happy with the results. When I first put on the solder, I had lumps and bumps everywhere! Heather helped me smooth them out, but after practicing a while, it slowly came to me. Of course, it will take a bit more practice to feel good about sharing some of these. But, such satisfaction in accomplishing the task at hand!

Here are the backs. What is funny about this process is, the backs are just as important as the fronts. And you like to have something that sort of ties them together. It takes a while to cut your pictures and decide what you will pair up.

And in ending this little post, I wanted to share a picture with you that I thought was just adorable. Please feel free to use this beautiful angel as she is smothered with these gorgeous roses. Hope you all have a beautiful day, and I hope you all end the day with someone "That Thought Of You".....

Blessings,
Kitty

xox

"Into Art" Class and Adorable Animals.....

2009-07-25T18:59:00.007-04:00

Well, it has been an interesting day. Heather and I went to an antique sale at "Into Antiques" in Wurtemburg, PA a few weeks back. This nice lady, Jan, was informing everyone that she was going to have an art class in this tiny little house that sits next door to the antique shop. So, Heather and I decided to go ahead and give it a try. I have always had an interest in drawing, but got frustrated due to the lack of "necessary instruction" that I was lacking. So, to "dip my toes in the water", so to speak, this class was a wonderful start.

The table is all set for the 4 students. Pencils, rulers, paper, syllabus, etc. Off we go! We spent the morning drawing one of a few still life subjects. Mine, being a child's cowboy boot. It was freehand, with no instruction. During the course of the morning, Jan fed us tidbits of "artist knowledge", instruction, and stories of her own experiences. It was a delightful mix. The time just flew. Before you knew it, it was time for lunch. "Into Antiques" will provide lunch and on this day, we had a wonderful chicken salad croissant, sweet tea, and chocolate cake for dessert. Sorry, got so involved in the food, I forgot the pictures.

Jan brought a few books for us to study, and here is Heather and Jan deep in discussion about faces and eyes.

Here we all are, Me (on the right), Cindy, Patty, Heather and Jan. It was quite a nice group. Just the right size for all the attention we needed! And four hours later, here are the results of the boot and eye sketches. Now remember, I am a novice.

We are signed up for the next class, which is in about 3 weeks. Can't wait for it to get here. We are going outside to sketch! If you haven't tried this, it is great therapy. Thanks for a fun day, Jan!

I snapped a few pictures of the gardens while at the antique shop. Sitting between the shop and the little house is a small garden. Love how it is tucked in there. It leads to the back where the owner has her greenhouses.

Here's a few pictures of inside the antique shop. The owner has quite an eye for design and display. She actually lives here, with a kitchen in the back and all these wonderful finds! Love that green cupboard.

Looking from the front of the shop into where we had lunch.

The owner gives teas, and events. So, there are lots and lots of old tables set up awaiting a hungry brood! It is a vacation for the mind just to be here. Fairy lights surround the ceiling. A balcony at the top of the stairs surrounds the first floor.

Well, now I know this is a strange mix, but I had to get my animal pictures in a blog. I had promised some pictures of the "Wild Horses" at the Outer Banks, NC. So, here are a few pics. Notice how they feed right among the houses. There are no formal roads here, just all sand, and dunes. You have to have a four-wheel drive vehicle to live here. This is in the Corolla/Duck area.

Now the story goes that these Spanish Mustang horses swam ashore from a ship wreck. It is said that they drink sea water. They eat sea oats. Conservation groups keep a close eye on them and there are about 100 in the herd. The problem is they are not living in a protected area, like a national park. Living amongst people does cause issues. And from what I hear, there are struggles with developers. Note this little lady below. This is a back shot and notice how "pregnant" she is.

Such beauty! Look at those manes.

Well, I had to share "The Rest" of my animal pictures. I have been snapping up pictures all summer of local animals. This little fellow was strutting his stuff with his shaggy "leggings" and all. Just love him.

Ah-h-h-h-h-h-h............ Sweet little sheep....................

And these odd fellows are actually goats. I guess they are a special kind where they shear the wool which is similar to sheep wool. I think he was just as curious about me as I was about him.

And last but not least, a selection of local horse pictures. This sweet pony was very curious. He came over and put his head down and peaked at me through the fencing. He actually did let me pet his nose. He's a cutie.

I think he wanted me to get a little closer. But he was a big one. Wasn't sure how close I should get. He looks friendly enough.

And, look at these sweeties. Love their white coats. Are these mules? Their ears are bigger?

Well, I hope you enjoyed my "animal adventures" and thanks for sharing in my "Into Art" Class. Hope you all have a wonderful week....

Kitty

xox

The Garden Is In Bloom.....

2009-07-14T19:09:00.007-04:00

The summer is flying by, but I am enjoying each and ever second. I thought it was time to show some garden pictures. I just love all the colors they bring. It just makes a person "happy" to see all those divine shades intermingling.

I wasn't going to start with vegetables, but since Blogger wasn't cooperating tonight, I thought, OK, vegetables, it is. I only put some vegetables in pots, and that's enough. A little lettuce, some tomatoes and peppers, and this year, an eggplant. Isn't the eggplant bloom just so cute? Can't wait ot make eggplant parmesan. I'm open for recipies!

My neighbor, Mitsy, puts in a big garden and always shares her bounty with us. Thank you, Mitsy, I'm loving every morsel! She gave me some turnips. Can't wait to cook those up.

These impatience remind me of sherbert colors. All different flavors. Just delicious! And the butterfly bush is new to the garden this year. It's not very big, but I have about 4 flowers on it. Such beautiful shades of purple to lavender! Oh my! Just gorgeous. My little grandson has one, as well. He says he saw a hummingbird on it. What a sight that would be!

As I've said in the past, I don't have much luck with hydrangeas. But these are the new everblooming variety, blooming all summer. So far, so good. The flowers start green, turn to white, and then have just a blush of pink on them as they mature. I just love them! I'm hoping they weather just fine. Any tips on hydrangeas are absolutely welcome!

The back deck has a little garden and tiny frog spitting water into the pool. The snapdragons are wonderful this year. The clematis has already bloomed.

I've been fighting with the raccoons this year for digging up my pots. But, I think I've won the battle. Hubby put out the live trap to catch them the other night. When he catches them, he takes them over to the state game lands and sets them free. But, what did we catch? A Momma raccoon and a baby in the trap, and a baby laying next to it waiting for her Momma to get out. Hubby said he'd take the two over. I said, "Oh No! You cannot split up that Momma and her babies!" What else can you do? Those babies were so so cute.

I just love the double ruffled petunias.

For Mother's Day, Heather gave me a basket of beautiful flowers, tied up with a tulle bow! It was gorgeous; a basket I had always admired in her home. I was delighted with it. Here are the flowers, just growing like crazy! I love that chartreuse green. It has little spikes of pink flowers that come out the top. Not sure what it is. A viola and a trailing vine, which is just beautiful.

I also got a new hollyhock this year. I went to a sale at a local antique store, and she sold flowers, as well. I just love the fullness of this bloom. Beautiful!

Winter was especially hard on the lambs ear, but it is bouncing back nicely. It is a sturdy little plant. And, as they say, soft as a lambs ear.....

One of my statue angels praying under our American flag. I can't help but feel she's sending up a prayer for our country and our leaders. Can't we all use a little prayer? The plant under the flag gets little pink flowers in the spring (Forget the name).

A peek into the main flower bed with the gazing ball and the fountain.

And of course, my precious little lambs. Just love them. The ajuga ground cover is starting to take off.

That's the tour of my garden. It's wonderful getting out in the sun and digging around in the dirt. So, put those garden gloves on ladies, and get dirty! Of course get the Flexall 454 and heating pad ready. Some how I am not as flexible as I used to be!

Have a great week,

Kitty

By the Sea, By the Sea.....

2009-06-14T18:16:00.003-04:00

Hubby and I haven't taken a "true" vacation for quite some time. So, we decided with our 25th wedding anniversary, we were overdue! There is nothing like being by the ocean to make a person unwind. It was truly a wonderful vacation. We both are feeling restored and have wonderful memories. Never having been to the "Outer Banks", North Carolina, we lived it up like true tourists. Soaking up the ocean and the sun, seeing all the local attractions, and eating all the scrumptious seafood we could hold in the days we were there. I recommend it highly for any of you looking for a vacation destination.

There are historical sights, light houses, gardens, and lots and lots of water! The picture above is the first picture I took when we arrived. I just had to get a picture of the ocean. Nothing cures "the build up of life" like walking along the beach!

This is a shot from the Currituck Light House. I did climb the 200+ steps to the top, but could not walk out around the top! Just couldn't do it. But, hubby did and took this amazing picture. While in the northern part of the outer banks, we four-wheeled in an open air jeep to see the wild horses. These are amazing animals and I will post about that next time.

But one of my all time favorite spots was the Elizabethan Gardens on Roanoke Island. You all may remember how much I love the statues and urns. Here is the sweet face of a cherub on a wonderful planter in the garden. How angelic! And below is a boy playing the flute. Waer drips out the end of his flute pipe. A more calming sound, there never was!

Beautiful pink roses in the rose garden.

And a long view into the formal garden. A knot garden with boxwood and herbs planted in the interior. Just lovely!

And did I tell you about the hydrangeas! I have been trying to get my hyndrangeas to grow here in Pennsylvania for a number of years and without success. These beauties are amazing! What's the secret? A local woman told me they don't like the hot afternoon sun and if they are not blooming, move them. So, that's the plan.

Can't you just feel the cool of the shadow after being in the sun!

And did I tell you about the hydrangeas! LOL! LOL!

Well ladies, that's all for now. Hope you are all well and happy and enjoying the wonderful summer here up north. Sit back and have a glass of "sweet tea" and soak up the joy of this beautiful season!

Blessings,

Kitty
xox

A sampling of the cottage...

2009-06-03T19:38:00.003-04:00

I'm sorry it has been a while since my last post. Life has been getting in the way in a very big way! So, just for fun, I pulled together some of my favorite pictures of my cottage to give you a bit of a "tour". The picture above is old millinery and of course my beloved "strawberries" and velvet millinary, arranged on a huge silver tray that I found for $15 at the thrift store. Just love how it looks on the tray.

I was a collector of "primitives" when I first started collecting antiques. I could never resist these "child size irons. I have about a dozen of them, but here are some of my favorites. Can't you see a little girl in days gone by mimicking her Mama with these irons?

I'm sure many of you have seen these lambs before. But, they are my very favorite garden statues. I just love them snuggled down in the boxwood and lambsear.

These mini oil lamps are a sampling of the "milk glass" lamps that I have collected. These are impossible to find now. I cannot believe how hard it is to find things I could find 10 years ago. But, I am thankful for the ones I do have. They are sweet in a combined collection.

And where would I be without ironstone? Simple but beautiful, don't ya think?

Not sure if I have ever shown you my tiny guest bedroom. This is a poster bed I found at an antique sale. Just love it. I had to have the mattress cut down from a double, as it is just a bit smaller. As they say, people were much smaller back then.

And again, child size sewing machines! Just love them. What happened to these traditions? Where little children would sit with their mothers to learn these things? I think we are missing the boat on these old traditions. What do you think?

Well, thanks for touring a bit of my home with me. I hope to be around to see all of you soon. My hubby and I are taking a quick vacation, but I'll be back soon and can't wait to catch up with all of you! Hope you are enjoying your summer,

Blessings

Kitty

Ooooh-h-h-h-h-h, I LOVE that GREEN.....

2009-05-12T19:10:00.005-04:00

I have been without a computer for almost 2 weeks! UGh! It's been frustrating, to say the least. So, I thought I would get a quick post out to all of you. I've missed visiting with you. Since "May" is my very favorite month, I thought I'd post about the color green. Here in Pennsylvania, May is the "greenest" month of all! Just gorgeous. So, inspired as I am, here are a number of my favorite pictures, in no particular order.

Above, green is the color of the day last year at an antiques fair. Many shades of this luscious color!

Oh so pretty, this green table and chair with rose petals and such a gorgeous screen!

And who can resist this vintage card of marching angels in their sweet green/blue robes. Definitely 60's, don't ya think?

And the sweet fairy picture below. Not sure, but I may have borrowed this from Stephanie. If I have, Steph, please forgive me, I just loved it......

And the green sleeves of vintage Victoriage dresses. Oh so elegant. Dresses had such beautiful detail then, didn't they.

And the shade of this green coutier gown is just incredible. Hand coloring at its best. Lovely.

And a bolt of green ribbon that is just irresistible. Just love it. It's waiting for a special project.

And a bit of green garden inspiration. Yes, it is time to get those fingers dirty. Just love the thought of it!

Hope you have enjoyed my tribute to the 'green' month of May! Have a wonderful week. I'll be popping by to see all of you...

Kitty

xox

Finally, A Place To Create.....

2009-04-26T18:31:00.006-04:00

Well, it is finally done (well, maybe never done, right?) But, my little creative workspace (should I call it a studette?) is now a workable space. After all winter of my dear, sweet husband, building me a very long table, buying storage bins, and sorting through all of my "stuff", I think I can say, I have a studio.

Now, this is not a grand studio, by any means, but, is a great little place for me. My house is small, but I do have 3 bedrooms, and have no children at home. So, I did take one of the bedrooms and carved out a space against a wall, and took over the closet.

Forgive the quality of some of my pictures, but I've been taking them over and over again, without alot of luck.

My husband took an unfinished interior door (Lowe's), and added legs and trim, and painted it white. Underneath are plastic drawers. Yeah, I know, plastic, yuk. But, this is the most workable solution for me. At least I can keep things organized. In my closet, I have 3 large shelves and more plastic bins, to hold even more "stuff".

In this big cupboard, I have alot of my quilts, fabric, linens on the top. In the bottom half, I have magazines, paints, and misc.

Around, the room, I tried to use every nook and cranny. The little white stand by the bed is not filled, and is waiting for more "stuff" to be bought. The vanity is just a place for my pretties and inspiration.

Shelves above the table hold my jars and dishes full of "yet to be used" supplies. I don't have alot of wall space in my room, so I use this 3 tiered stand for "Inspiration".

A white planter and white milk glass jars atop a mirrored dresser tray hold buttons, beads, notes, and misc.

A sweet angel picture, that I absolutely adore, sits on the shelf, watching over me. Apothecary jars are filled with lace, forget me nots, and old millinery. Pink refrigerator dishes are ready to be filled.

If you are looking for a good desk lamp (in silver), that has the new natural daylight bulb, go to Lowes. I think I got it for $30. And, it is a nice size, and the head of the lamp moves up and down to give light where needed.

An old wire basket sits atop a stool I got on one of my very first auctions, years ago. Of course, I paid too much for the stool, as I got caught up in the excitement. But, it's a keeper.

On my desktop, I use an old toast holder to hold my punches and some tools. Can't have too many pens, either, right?

And for that "all too precious" old wallpaper, I have an old wood bin. Just perfect for keeping it safe!

I found some old sewing machine drawers at a yard sale a few years ago, and found some great old hardware at the Washington Antiques Fair last year. So, I had hubby put the hardware on the drawer. It holds some of my postcards and old photos. This drawer sits atop an old set of wallpaper covered drawers that Heather gave me. I just love it. Of course, it holds "more stuff", like glass slides for my future self-taught class on soldering, more paper, and misc.

Well, that's a tour of my little studio. Hope you all gained a tip or two. Thanks for stopping by and have a great week!

Blessings,

Kitty

xox

Bits of This and That.....

2009-04-15T19:35:00.005-04:00

I recently went to an antique show and got just a few good pictures of some beautiful merchandise they were offering. It was a fun affair that I took my Mom to. Heather wasn't able to go that day, to her dismay, because this is an annual event for the women in our family! Isn't this Victorian dress just wonderful?

Look at that teeny-tiny waist. They tell me the mannequin was a size 6, and the dress would not meet in the back, so it must have been a 4! How wonderful to be that size. How did those victorian women do it? After all, corsets can only go so far....

The hat below, I believe is from the 20's, and it is just gorgeous with all of those beautiful millinery flowers. I've never seen one like it, and with a price tag of $125, I'd have to say, it is definitely worth it.

This darling settee has such beautiful lines. Can't you just see this at the end of a victorian bed? Or in a French room, under a window? (Sigh.....)

And who can get past all the beautiful blue transferware. Such a yummy blue, at that! Well, I wish I had taken more pictures, but I got caught up in the moment and forgot to take them. So, for now, and until next year's show, these will have to appease me...

I wanted to share with you the latest addition to my "little studio". Actually the studio consists of a very long table and much storage, which I am in the midsts of taking pictures to share with all of you.

Madai, my very good friend from Forget Me Nots from Wren Cottage made the "NEST" banner for me, and I think it is just the most perfect touch to my mirror and little studio.

It came wrapped up in a little package, inside the tea died envelope. Folded in half was a page from the book "The Secret Garden", and inside this page were these sweet little tags, a darling paperclip and some Earl Grey Tea! Just the most thoughtful little gift! Thanks every so much, Madai....

And if that wasn't enough, look at the sweet little butterfly collage girl she made on the outside of my package. Oh so sweet!

Finally, I am showing all of you a few things I picked up at the antique mall recently. It was not a day of finding alot of bargains, but it gave me "the fix" I needed. Hubby and I decided to take the hour drive to the AAA-76 Antique Mall in Ravenna, Ohio. But, unfortunately, I didn't read the map right and we ended up doing a big round-about! But, we had a fun day, just the two of us, and made it into an adventure. After all, we ate at the Cracker Barrel, how can that be bad???!!!

Paper for crafting, and the little book is ALL in French. Actually, I got 2 and am sharing with Heather. Below are sweet pictures that I can't wait to use in my paper art.

And, I couldn't go home without at least one old millinery hat. I was lucky to find this beauty with the roses and the 2 large flower pins.

A few more books, gardening, and a book of Psalms, and a sweet little Victorian book that when you open, it is a little chalk board.

So, that's been my adventures for the last few weeks and hope you enjoyed sharing this with me. Wishing you all a wonderful rest of the week and beautiful, sunny spring weather!

Blessings

Kitty

xox

The Official Heralding of Spring.....

2009-04-05T18:05:00.008-04:00

Today was the day my husband and I and my Mom took the long-awaited trip to the Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh. We have not been to this wonderful Victorian style conservatory in quite a few years. Additions have been made to its "mastery of glass", and with bated breath, we entered its doors!

The flowers alone were enough for me. But the urns and statues holding precious flowers of all shapes and colors were nothing but jewelry for these vintage and lovingly cared for pieces. The angel on this urn above is just gorgeous!

There were waterfalls, a new rain forest wing, and oodles and oodles of flowers! Such inspiration, such color. It made you want to go home and tear up the dirt! And of course, make that annual promise - "I will plant more bulbs this fall!".

Here is a picture of the main conservatory, not showing are the three wings that go out behind and to both sides of this wonderful structure. There are gorgeous blown glass pieces intermixed in the display with the flowers, and a night show, is definitely on our agenda.

The orchid room is nothing but fabulous. Here is a sampling of these beauties....

Enjoy the rest of the show. I know pictures don't do nature justice, but my words sure do fall short.

And in my Etsy store, I have newly listed these fabulous paper doll books. They are in great condition, for those of you loving vintage fashion and, of course, Marie Antoinette.

Hope you all have a glorious week. Talk to you all soon....

Blessings

Kitty

xox

Buttons, Baubles and Beauties

2009-03-26T10:33:00.007-04:00

I was rumaging through my pictures, and saw an image of my button box, which, I realized, I had never shown you. It's not an amazing work of art, by any means, but it is how I remedied a scratched surface on an old plastic box filled with buttons. Inside, it was divided with compartments, filled with normal, every day buttons, nothing special. But, it intrigued me, because first of all, the organization appealed to me, and second of all, you don't find all that many boxes of the old, hard plastic, of the 60's. The dilemma was the top was discolored and scratched.

So, I took a piece of scrapbooking paper (before I had a collection of nice old wallpaper), some trim and Martha Stewart glitter letters - and I glued until I got this result. So, a happy home for my crafting buttons.

This image is of a grouping of porcelain, hatpins and knick knacks that are in my guest room. The kitty-cat statue is the item I bought at an antique show that inspired me to begin selling antiques. The lady that sold me the cat told me I would never be sorry in the decision to sell antiques. And, I wasn't, until the bottom dropped out of the antique market! LOL! LOL! LOL!

These sweet gold buttons are ones I cherish. Madai Rodgers of Forget Me Nots from Wren Cottage sent them to me in a swap. Love them, Madai. I love how the different hues blend so nicely together. And isn't it sweet that they were wrapped up in such a textured cloth?

Heather, my daughter from Pretty Petals had been looking out for strawberries for me, when I had started a collection. Here are a few from that collection. Grab them up! The vintage ones are so hard to find. There are some very nice new ones out there that ladies have been making, as well.

These buttons are from an excursion Heather and I took up to northern Pennsylvania, headed to a show that did not happen. But, the day was not lost as we discovered all these lovely buttons. It is a "rich day" when you can turn disappointment into delight!

I absolutely A-D-O-R-E this cupid pin! What sweet friends, eh? And the little mesh purse is on a very long chain, so I am assuming it was worn about the neck? And who can resist cameos?

Just a quick note about my Etsy shop. I have printed some small Marie Antoinette picture packs on high-end, soft-gloss printer cardstock. These are great for paper crafts of all sorts. They are definitely priced right. Should you want larger sizes, just send me an email, and I'd be glad to oblige.....

Have a wonderful Spring Day ladies, and for my dear friends in the southern hemisphere - have a beautiful Fall Day!

Blessings,
Kitty
xox

Cherish The Children

2009-03-19T17:36:00.007-04:00

I was reading a poem in a vintage children's book I have about "Baby Gets A Tooth" by Edgar A. Guest, and it reminded me of my 7 year old grandson, Christian, and the recent loss of the 2nd front tooth! He was very happy it was out, as it was loose at such an odd angle, but he was extremely concerned with the slight bleeding that goes along with the loss of such an important tooth.

Children fill our lives with such joy, no matter what the generation, and especially those grandbabies! This reminded me of the children's books I was accumulating, so, I gathered up all that I had. It seems I have a little collection beginning, and the little poems and stories are just delightful!

I just LOVE this verse (above) from the poem by Robert Louis Stevenson's, "A Good Boy". I can see in my mind's eye an angel keeping watch over my very own grandsons, all through the night.

I have purchased some of these books at antiques fairs, Heather, my daughter from Pretty Petals, has given me some, and Madai, my sweet friend from Forget Me Nots from Wren Cottage, has given me a few. All together, they make the start of a nice little collection.

But, I did not stop there, I thought about the trading cards and images I had of children. So I gatherd these, and put a few on this post to share with you.

No matter what the age, our children are the light of our lives. My daughter is 30-something, and she is still the light of my life. It is now, so wonderful, to share things with her as an adult, that I could not, when she was a child. But, those childhood years are so very precious.

In the picture above, I gathered together some baby shoes, laced with vintage seam binding, a few postcards, the camiosole of a child's slip, and one of Heather's baby pictures. This is my favorite picture of her as a baby. Her little eyes full of wonder, and dark hair, just like her Daddy. Such a sweet memory.

In the picture below, this is an album that Heather bought for me. It is filled with presidential newspaper clippings, but I just love the cover. Two sisters, for sure. How they look alike! I wish they would take pictures like this today with children....

And didn't they just make the covers of the books so enticing! Such beauty in just that part of the book, alone! Madai recently gave me the Alice in Wonderland book in the middle. Thank you, Madai. I just love it! The images inside the book are amazing, as well.

"The Summer Children" is a poem by Edgar A. Guest, which I adore. And another by Guest called Boy or Girl.

But of all the poems that I have read and love, I have to say, This little note that was given to me when Heather was born will always be my favorite.......

Cherish Your Children, today they are small

The toys, the clutter, sticky hands, and all!

For tomorrow will come and time does give way

Those beautiful memories in your heart will stay.

Blessings,

Kitty

xoxox

Fabulous Favorites....

2009-03-15T18:19:00.006-04:00

I've been struggling with my new camera, trying to find the place to turn off the date. Finally - I found it. So, some of my pictures may still have some dates, so please just ignore. I love all these techy toys, but sometimes, I just feel very mentally challenged! LOL! LOL!

I took a few minutes to take a few pictures and share a few old ones with you. Of just some items that I love, and some pictures of things in my home. Early spring is here, and I saw my first crocus today! I jumped for joy. I was going to share a picture with you, but, it's too late in the day and that sweet little purple flower closed back up. A picture for another day....

The above picture is just a few of my favorite things. A few of my journals, bits of old lace and ribbon, buttons and flowers. My favorite shoe pin holder. Bits and bobs, as they say.

Just for fun, here are some Marie Antoinette pictures (above) that I printed on my soft gloss cardstock. The colors just jump right out at you. I'll be adding some of these to my Etsy store in the not too distant future. The crochet trim was a new purchase from Clara's. The store I told you about in the last post.

I decided to show you some of my ironstone collection, I just love the simpleness of the white and can't pass up a good piece. This cupboard is in my bathroom and holds the little pitchers lined up, just like little soldiers. They don't match, but seem to love being together, anyhow!

Heather and I went to the antique store the other day, and with being such a sucker for ironstone, I found this little pitcher. Small sizes are sometimes harder to find, and in good condition She's just a cutie. A very sweet marked, English Ironstone pitcher. Probably part of a set. It looks just right with the bigger ones.

Ah, yes, ribbons. The favorite of alot of us, eh? Just a candid shot in one of my ribbon boxes. The pink ruffled velvet is a specialty of Heather's in her Pretty Petals store. It is so sweet the way she gathers it up after she hand dies it. The blue and pink satin are vintage ribbon for baby blankets. Remember all those blankets of days gone by with that soft edging? The white ribbon in the bottom right corner is Heather's silk ribbon, and the pink tea dyed velvet in the MA picture, above, is also Heather's. She really does have the best ribbon.

This is a corner of my bedroom, where I have my beloved "dry sink". For those of you who aren't familiar, they used these recessed wooden cupboards in the kitchen to sit their dish pan in. It's one of my favorite pieces. The wicker basket was given to me by Heather for my birthday last year. She "fuffed it up" with millinery on the front. I just love it. I have some old books in it and have a star with German glass glitter and one of Heather's "Dream Stars" sitting in it. The vintage porcelain jug I got at an auction many years ago. Again, a favorite!

Well, that's a short tour of some of my favorites. There is always more for another day. I'm off to bounce around and see how all of you are doing. It's been a busy, but good weekend. Lots got done, and of course, the weather was great! Many blessings. Talk to you all soon.

Kitty

A Tisket, A Tasket, A Sweet Little Basket.....

2009-03-08T19:22:00.005-04:00

Well, my little fingers have been flying in my little work area. Creating some treasures for my Etsy Shop. I also made a trip to one of my favorite spots to pick up little treasures, "Clara's".

Clara is a sweet older lady who is a dear to visit and always has something that I have to go home with. Last fall, Clara, who is probably in her mid 80's, decided to stop dying her hair. She thought it might be time to let it go naturally gray. So, she announced this to Heather and I, and we told her, it was an excellent idea! This hair dying, perming, coloring, foiling, frosting, etc, etc, etc, gets old! After a long winter of Clara holding up in her 2 story home, she finally opened again for business. I drove by and saw the "OPEN" sign, and nearly did a "U Turn" in the middle of the road! When I walked in to say hello, Clara, was back to being an "auburn beauty"! I guess no matter how old we get, we still want to think we look our best!

Well, back to the baskets.....
I decided to finally do something with some of that wonderful wallpaper that I've bought and Heather, my daughter from Pretty Petals, has given me over the last while. (Which by the way, Heather has new wallpaper parcels for sale in her shop!) So, little baskets, I've made. Filled to the b*r*i*m with little treasures, and supplies to create your own sweet creations.

The baskets themselves are glittered up with high-end rose quartz glitter, edged with a pink German foil border, and the handle is adorned with a vintage millinery flower and lots of ribbon and lace.

I've filled the baskets with a foot of vintage edging wallpaper, 1 pair of pearl earrings, 5 vintage rhinestone buttons, 1 vintage shell button, 2 vintage pink millinery flowers, 2 velvet white millinery flowers, 1 stem of vintage while millinery flowers, 1 pink vintage reflector, 1 blue vintage reflector, and the cutest spool of vintage white lace (4 feet). I'm hoping that is enough to inspire for a new spring project!

Wishing you all a wonderful spring! Hoping you all can fill your baskets with all the things that make your heart sing!

Blessings,

Kitty xoxo

Happy Spring????!!!!!!

2009-02-27T15:03:00.007-05:00

It has been Way-y-y-y-y too long since I've done a post and touched base with all my blogging friends. So, I am sorry I've been away so long. But, it is good to be back, and to have some time to enjoy catching up with all of you!

Might I say, "Happy Spring?"!!!!!!! Is it too early? Dare I say that? Either way, the birds are singing, the male cardinals are getting brighter, the days are getting longer, and that wonderful sun is shining! ALL the snow is gone, and my daffodills are poking through the ground! I just can't wait for those to bloom, and see the first signs of the crocuses.

I've been putting a few new things on ETSY for Spring/Easter, and am adding some pictures for all of the paper art fans. You'll find vintage pink Easter baskets, vintage wallpaper heart tags, cupid tags, and some images for use in your collage and mixed media arts.

The pictures that I am selling are framable, as they are printed on a high-end soft gloss card stock. Should you want them printed on regular card stock, that is possible, just let me know.

Here's a little poem that goes with the "Sweet Pea" pictures I have for sale on Etsy. It is from a Victorian trading card. Oh, so sweet! Perfect for Spring!

I wonder if you'll find me behind this tall sweet pea?

I'm 'fraid if you should look here you'd get a peep at me.

There's something on your doorstep, and I just rang the bell.

O dear, what am I saying, what made me go and tell?

I'm going to pop over now and see some of you. Hope you all got through the winter fine, and for my southern hemisphere friends, I hope your summer was absolutely divine!

Happy Spring to All!

Blessings,

Kitty

The Dawn Fairies.....

2008-10-13T10:01:00.006-04:00

I was perusing some internet sites and came across this adorable little story of "The Dawn Fairies". Being as it is Monday, the start of another work week, my mind wandered to how wonderful it would be to start the day with the siting of "The Dawn Fairies"......

Once a little boy had heard of the Dawn Fairies and was so eager to see them that he got up long before daybreak—in fact, before the fairies themselves were up, for they sleep when it is really dark.

This little boy hid in the trunk of a tree. After what seemed a long time to him, the lovely Dawn Fairies came out from their sleeping places, and he heard them laugh their low bell-like laughs.

Suddenly one of them realized that someone was around and caught sight of the little boy. "Oh, dear," shrieked the fairy, "there's a huge person near us!" at which all the fairies scattered.

From that day to this, the fairy queen has been careful that no one else should see the Dawn Fairies, and so they all dress in invisible costumes.

Hope you all get to see "The Dawn Fairies" to start your day right! Have a wonderful week,

Kitty

New Etsy Items and a Very Vintage Halloween Swap

2008-10-06T11:35:00.006-04:00

I've been in the "creative spirit" with some new paper items for Etsy. I couldn't resist making a very Fallish (is that a word?) journal for the upcoming season. A place to jot down lists, to-do items, creative thoughts, and even daily journaling. It's just a fun little journal that brightens the season!

I added some vintage millinery, a few rhinestones and lots of black swirly glitter.
Inside is a little pocket with a sweet little cupid tag. German silver glitter adorns the tag.

I could not resist printing some tags with these silhouettes of children feeding the chickens. What fun for the upcoming Thanksgiving season! Just a hint of black glitter and the yummy black and white polka dot ribbon!

And last, but not least, these sweet cupid tags, all done up in German glass glitter and silver cord. So sweet to add to a package.

I was in a "Very Vintage Halloween Swap" hosted by Heidi at Foxgloves, Fabric and Folly. Unfortunately, my partner had some family illnesses, so I am not able to show you her creation. But, here is what I sent to Missy.

I was inspired to create this "pumpkin lady" from a design by Bethany Lowe. I just loved that the "little lady" had a house of her own, and of course, vintage sheet music seemed to be the way to go for wallpaper. I edged the window openings in black glitter and added the sentiment of the season "Halloween".

She holds a banner of "Halloween Wishes" and seems a bit shy as she peeks out her window. Since the weather is getting a bit chilly, I gave her a crepe paper collar and a muff for her hands.

And where would she go without a hat? Made of vintage sheet music and circled in glitter, it adds a delightful frame for her little pumpkin face.

So, a very Happy Halloween to all of you in the "Very Vintage Halloween Swap", and to all of my dear sweet friends in blogland!

Kitty

And The Lights Went Out.....

2008-09-22T10:40:00.003-04:00

I came across this sketch by an artist by the name of "Sloan" and thought it to be appropriate (I guess in a romantic sort of way) for this past week. As Hurricane Ike hit Galveston and devestated that poor city, it continued on up through the country, all the way to my little town of Darlington, Pennsylvania. On that night, as we were watching the "Pittsburgh Steelers", the lights went out in Darlington.

The winds went on to "Howl" that night for about 4 hours. My dog, lady, who loves to be outside, would not step foot into the yard. I tried many times to get her to go out "to make herself more comfortable, so to speak", but she ran right back into the house. Do I blame her? Not one bit. For you see, those wind gusts hit 81 mph! Never in my life have I experienced such a frightening storm. A storm without one drop of rain! Just the constant sweep of wind.

In our area, we have many hills to break up the wind. In addition, we live down in a little valley and really did not get the full impact of the wind. But, living in the country, as we do, we got our share of downed limbs and sticks and green leaves that just blew right off the trees. We lost one tree. I thank the good Lord he chose to keep those tall oaks standing around our house. It truly is amazing how they bend and sway in the wind.

Needless to say, out came the candles and the oil lamps, and of course, thank goodness we had good batteries in the flashlights.

Since we had no electric and we have a well, we had no pump to pump the water. Thank goodness for the places that did have electric and gave us free water. My sweet hubby made many trips, with many containers to haul water. I have to tell you ladies that I have a "new appreciation" for the frontier women who toted and fetched water all day long. Water to drink, water to bathe, water to flush toilets, water for the dog. I can see why those women were in way better shape than I am!

God bless my mother for having a generator for us to use so we didn't lose everything in our freezer. Those peaches that were picked and frozen to enjoy in the middle of winter, would surely have been missed!

But here we are, a week later, and the lights came back on at 6PM last night, right when the Steeler game was on! It's like I dreamed all this......

have a wonderful week,
Kitty

The End of Summer Antique Fair

2008-09-09T18:00:00.007-04:00

Well, it has been a month since the last antique fair. I was happy that my schedule allowed me to attend this one, as there is only one more for this year (sigh). How can it possibly be that the summer is gone?

Well, I guess that means I just have to cozy up in my chair, light the fire, read a good book and work on some new projects! But, before that snow flies, take a little trip with me to the Washington Antiques Fair.....

Doesn't the above chair have such wonderful form? Can't you just see it reupholstered in your favorite yummy fabric? Wouldn't it be wonderful to go to one antique sale and have enough money to buy what you wanted and THEN........ have enough money to fix what needs fixed! I think I have purchased lots of things that need fixin' in my life, but not enough have gotten out the other end, refurbished! Projects for another day!

Isn't this picture a beauty! This particular table had LOTS of pictures. Just gorgeous. This one, in particular, reminds me of two sisters, playing happily. Good times, indeed!

These doors caught my eye. Looks like someone used some creative license on them. I think I like the one on the right better than the one on the left. But great colors, don't you think?

Now who can't use a fabric screen? I have a weakness for these. I own only one, but, boy, could I own more! There's that money thing again... Hmmmmmm.......

And, another screen. Cute dishes. Great table for the porch or a kitchen.

Sweet arrangements.

Love that white drop front desk in the background. I have just the place for it! (No, it didn't go home with me (sigh))!

Lots of tables with small items. Lots of silver at this booth. So pretty!

A few of my treasures. These little babies were a steal! Aren't they adorable?

These light switch covers are metal facings mounted on wood. Wouldn't they be so cute incorporated into a collage? Can't you just see some sweet little faces peeking out through the holes?

And this little china hat will be making its way to my Etsy. Perfect condition. It's just adorable!

Well that's it for today's trip to the antique fair. Hopefully I'll have one more trip to show you pictures and hopefully some purchases. I did get some great shell buttons at this sale, as well. Happy Hunting!

Kitty

A Little Shopping

2008-08-30T18:58:00.003-04:00

My husband and I were out doing errands the other day and I passed by a local store that I can usually find "something" to brighten the day! LOL! I found this little purse with woven wooden strips and a wooden handle. Now the "fruit", although probably lovely in its day, is not what I have envisioned to adorn this lovely purse. Can't you just see it with vintage millinery flowers and an elegant ribbon? And maybe some adorable little trinket on the front?

The inside of the purse showed this label. I've never seen a label saying "Hand Made in British Hong Kong". So, I will be "updating" this lovely purse and will later give you pictures. It will probably go for sale on my "Etsy".

I also found these 2 mini oil lamps that are 7" high. I thought they would be very cute in someone's collection or to decorate for the upcoming holidays. These are now listed in my Etsy.

These reflectors (I believe to be vintage) are so cute. I got quite a few of these in red and gold, blue and pink. The blue and pink I am having trouble letting go of, but I will list the red and gold in Etsy soon. But, as they say, you can't keep everything, right? It's quite possible the blue and pink will make its way over to the shop. I can just see little ornaments, or who knows what, made with these adorable things! I can just see something made with the inside of the reflector as the skirt! LOL!

Included in the basket with the reflectors were these little bells. Some are larger than others and some show signs of age (which is what we love). So, these too, will be making their way to my Etsy shop.

That's my treasures to show for today. I wish you all successful hunting!

Kitty

Bella Enchanted's Magic Wand Swap

2008-08-23T17:39:00.005-04:00

I was recently in a swap to make a magic wand hosted by Bella Enchanted. It sounded fun and something a bit different. So, Lori, from Morning Glories and Moonflowers, and I were partnered. It was great fun getting to know a bit about Lori and her two lovely daughters. Lori home schools her two daughters. I admire anyone that can have such dedication to their children's education!

Here's the results of our labor and the wand created for me. Lori used a vibrant pink for the base and silver glitter paint. Trimmed in luscious pearls and of course edged in her trademark, those beautiful buttons! She added the delicious wire ribbon with silver accents and glittered the shaft of the wand. Just beautiful!

All that silver glitter! Yummy!

Buttons and pearls - a nice pair, don't you think?

Lori told me she loved the color combination of blue and white, so that was my inspiration for her wand (see below). I love using vintage materials, so I felt that it was absolutely necessary to add the vintage glass drawer pull as the top of the wand. I topped it with a vintage rhinestone pin. The shaft of the wand was painted white, glittered with a stamp design, french blue ribbon, and of course the bling of blue rhinestones. I couldn't leave out her two precious daughters. So, flower fairy wands were in order for them.

Lori and I decided that we would wish for peace and contentment, and of course, good health. So, I added those tags to the wand to remind of us of what's important.

Flower wands for two little girls!

Thank you Lori for making the swap so much fun. I loved your magic wand you created for me and am hopeful you loved the one I created for you, as well.

Kitty

Lovin' all the Lovelies!

2008-08-19T06:06:00.008-04:00

This past weekend I took a jaunt to a local spot that I check out from time-to-time and found some great stuff! Love these adorable victorian calling cards. Isn't it a shame in this day and age that we don't do more things like this. How quaint!

The paper doll books are not ancient, but a little vintage and in great shape. Some of this stuff will make its way to my Etsy Shop. I haven't been very good about putting new items in the store, so hopefully I'll get to this soon.

There are many outfits that go with each of these books. All new old stock. Nothing is cut or discolored. Absolutely beautiful! Gotta love these designer looks!

Then I stumbled on 3 different hats. I liked this vintage millinery hat for fall. Thought the colors were pristine! A few velvet flowers here and there, mixed in. Lovely! And don't you just love the hat base!

This feather hat is in absolutely perfect condition. A smattering of rhinestones and the veil (even though I can't figure it out) is perfect.

This little cutie is adorable. Love the pink flowers and the style is just too cute! These 3 hats are in impeccable condition. It would be difficult to tear them up for creating, but decide for yourselves. Sometimes you just have to do it! LOL!

A number of weekends ago, Lori from Faerie Window was here to shop and spend the day with Heather and myself, and she sent the nicest little gifts to us. Thanks so much, Lori. I love all of the great stuff to create with. Your little collage was just so dear, and I absolutely, positively love the sparkly "K", as well as the other supplies. Thanks for being so thoughtful. Loved having you here with us. Can't wait to "shop" with you again.

I was recently in a fairy wand swap and will be posting those pictures of what I created soon. Hope you all are having some fun mixed in your days. Have a wonderful week!

Kitty

Before The Blooms Are Lost

2008-08-10T12:53:00.005-04:00

I was thinking today of how far we are into the summer, and how short the life is of those gorgeous annuals and perennials (until next year) that we planted not long ago. So, as I sat there, a little poem started developing in my mind. Every once in a while, it hits me to put to paper what I am thinking and feeling.

So, please enjoy "Before The Blooms Are Lost", not only with paper and pen, but with images from my garden.....

BEFORE THE BLOOMS ARE LOST

Oh look! They’re there! As a saunter down the lane,
How lovely to see that the pinks and blues remain;
The green has grown so tall and the buds no longer small;
As if they know to hurry ’cause their color intrudes on fall.

The dimming of the light and the swaying of the trees;
A leaf floats along, as if sailing on the seas.
How sweet those sounds of the bees and the birds;
A twitter and a buzz are their only sweet words.

But before the blooms are lost, I must take a look around;
I must press into my memory, the lovelies that abound.
For soon this precious green will be lost to quiet white;
Not that I’m complaining, just lingering in its sight.

So before the blooms are lost, I will take just one more look;
Not long into the future, I’ll possess a fire and book.
To sit beside and think again of pinks and blues and greens;
“So long, until next year“, I’ll say, as I sit and think and dream.

Have a lovely day,

Kitty

Show Me Your Form Party!

2008-07-31T18:01:00.004-04:00

Tiffany at Shabbyscraps is hosting a "Show Me Your Form Party". What a great idea, and what fun to see everyone's mannequins and their ingenious decorating ideas!

Bridgette and her two younger sisters (who have just begged their way into the pictures), are shown below. You might say, I have a family of "sister mannequins". All together there are four and their names are Bridgette, Claudette, Renee, and Clio. Renee and Clio being the two youngest.

So, here goes the pic's. Can't wait to see everyone else's "family".

Bridgette (the oldest), Renee (middle) and Clio (the baby) are shown in the picture below in the corner of my bedroom, where they hang out most of the time. Of course that little one gets into so much trouble. But, being as she is the baby, she gets away with way more than Renee. Renee might have what you call "Middle Child Syndrome"! LOL! LOL! But Renee is all dolled up in her finery and I have added some pearls, just to make her feel a bit older! Little Clio has rhinestone buttons atop her neckline, just so she will feel like she has a bit of bling! (More pictures below). Of course the 1950's prom dress hanging from the screen is the backdrop for all of this. Renee can't wait to fit into that one day!

But, let's give Bridgette a bit of a show as she was "the first" and she is "the oldest". So, we've given her the pick of the rhinestone jewelry to wear today. Her 1940's dress is just the softest of pinks and might I say, it is her favorite!

So Renee (on the left below) is wearing her best outfit, dolled up with a flower at the collar and of course, those beautiful pearls. She told me she just feels so elegant when she wears pearls! She hopes to wear them one day at her wedding. We'll tuck those away, just for her!

Now little Clio is wearing a very fashionable doll dress that fits her perfectly, and of course, to make her feel included, we just had to give her that bit of bling at the neckline!

Well, what started out as my first $10 mannequin from a yard sale , has now blossomed into another, very wonderful New York mannequin. Need I say, she is very high style, and very sophisticated. Her name is Claudette and here she is showing off her very fine figure! She has that wonderful bird cage bottom. Very high style, indeed!

She decided to wear a bit of lace and some millinery flowers from a designer hat that was found at a local vintage shop.

Even though the rhinestone necklaces are showy, she feels it adds just the right oomph and razzle-dazzle!
Now Bridgette did get the pick of the rhinestones, so she went for the beautiful rhinestone choker, adding a rhinestone pin and a few other goodies. She looks divine, and oh the compliments she has received!

Renee sporting her pearls. She hasn't developed a taste for the rhinestones yet, but I see that as not being far off! I can see the sister fights now!

And little Clio's rhinestone buttons. Just the right size for her. She says they remind her of shiny marbles. As they say, "Through a Child's Eyes"! LOL!

So ladies, there is my "Family of Mannequins". You just can't have one, you know. Can't wait to hop around and see everyone else's designs. Thank you Tiffany. This was a marvelous idea. I think your husband may be convinced after this show! LOL!

Have a great day ladies!

Kitty

Summer Pleasures.....

2008-07-30T11:35:00.009-04:00

Well, it was certainly a fun day last Sunday at the Washington Antiques Fair with Heather (Pretty Petals) and her friend Stephanie, Karla (Karla's Cottage) and Lori (Faierie Window). Fun was certainly had by ALL! And need I say, FUN shopping.

Here's a few shots of one of the prettier booths at the fair. Love all that WHITE! How summery is that?

Karla and Lori are in the photo above, enjoying the "wares"!

This wicker daybed was to die for. It just screams summer, doesn't it?

Aren't these the prettiest chairs? Love the whole set! It would look great on my porch!

Aren't those plates in the basket divine! YES! They are paper! LOL! I had to get close to see that!
Chandeliers and vanities! Ah-h-h-h, so pretty!

Karla brought the beautiful "birdie" cone below filled with wonderful treasures for me. Just love it Karla.

Heather made the cone above for all of us. Just so beautiful in white and ledger paper. Love the beautiful flower on the front.

I couldn't pass up this tin of buttons for $3. Yes, that included the tin!

I think I love this the most, though. It's a victorian over the bed reading light. Of course hubby will rewire for me. I just love the colors and the beautiful ribbon flower on the front!

Isn't this book darling? Printed in 1897. Can't wait to read "Dotty's" Story!

And last, but not least, I got these great cabinet cards and photos. Just love them. Check out the little girl in the striped socks. So cute!

As usual, I could have spent a ton more money, but as they say, "You Just Can't Have Everything". Can't wait for next month to once again go antiquing at the "Washington Antique Fair"!

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Kitty

Happy Birthday!

2008-07-11T16:47:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to give all you ladies a "heads up" that someone very special to me is having her 30-something birthday today! Sorry this is a bit late, but I know she'll be so tickled to have all of you give her some birthday wishes! Here's to you, Heather, my lovely daughter. I love you and wish you 34+ (oops, I guess I've spilled the beans!), more wonderful years. Now blow out those birthday candles and tell that sweet husband of yours to take you OUT TO DINNER! LOL!

It Only Takes A Minute.....

2008-07-01T15:49:00.000-04:00

It's been a rough week and a half for me and my family. Many family members have come up with different health problems. This has caused much anxiety and I would humbly ask for your prayers this week.

To aid in ridding myself of the anxiety and to help remind myself where my strength lies, I've written this poem. Thanks for stopping by and visiting... Kitty

It Only Takes A Minute

It only takes a minute, to brush your teeth and go
Into the world, drive to the job, running to and fro
It seems a must that we just trust we’ll get it all just right
But something says, did I forget? It’s edged just out of sight.

It seems there’s days when troubles rise, it’s all out of control
When peace within seems lost, there’s nothing to console
Where is the thing that kept me sane, the thread I thought was there
Oh did it break, where did it go? Does no one out there care?

“Be Still My Child” a voice I hear, so small I hardly heard
What was that sound, soft on the wind, the calling of a bird?
Again I hear, “Be Still Your Heart, Have Faith, Just Trust In Me”
“Ah yes”, I say, “What’s wrong with me?” I need to let it be.

You see my friend, I only need to put my faith “In Him”
With troubled life and all the strife, it isn’t just a whim.
He is the thread that still is there, my pain has blinded me.
For Christ the King, my Lord of Lords has died to set me free.

So when you feel that feeling rise, that life you can’t control
Things get rough, you just can’t bear, the hurting of your soul.
It only takes a minute to just say a little prayer
Just give to “HIM”, all your hurt, “He” is the one that cares.

Tread Gently Now, There May Be A Fairy Afoot.....

2008-06-18T14:35:00.008-04:00

I came across this amazing fairy art by David Delamare. Isn't he such a talented illustrationist? I popped in a few pictures for you to enjoy and a little "fairy lore". Enjoy....

How do you attract faery folk to your garden or home?

There are several ways to attract the wee folk to your home. First you need to decide what type of faery you hope to attract. If you hope to attract flower and garden faeries you need to have some of their favorite plants around. Some of these are: Foxgloves, Fairy like to make their clothing from them. Ferns, these make nice soft beds for the little guys. Apple and or Oak trees, Fae often inhabit these trees. The oak is held sacred by many of them. Tulips, the faery like to use the tulip bloom to put their babies to bed. Rosemary, heartsease, and forget-me-nots are some others. While there are many others that fairy like these are some of their favorites. You can also build a little faery house from twigs, stones, crystals or other items found in nature. Put a crystal on the house to attract the faery to it. Place it in your garden, and soon a faery may make it home. Faery are attracted to bright and beautiful things. Oh and very important, if you want to keep the wee folk around, keep the cat out of the garden!

And Yes, they even appear in winter? Obviously it is majic that keeps them "toasty warm"!

Oh, and Yes, they can FLY TO THE MOON (and back, of course!) Such talented sprites!

One of their many talents is to tell stories! Oh, how they love to tell the stories of their past. No One knows for sure how long they live, but the stories are passed from generation to generation!

You might get lucky, and actually see a "little fairy". They are very fast, and just once in a while, when the conditions are right, and of course, if they want you to see them, it happens! It is magical! I feel sure I have seen one or two in my lifetime!

And let's not forget, that they take care of all of those little critters of the forest. Living happily among the trees!

So when you think you see a glint, or a wisp, or a whirl, you might have just seen a wee fairy!

I Finally Finished The Bird House!

2008-06-08T17:26:00.003-04:00

It was ONLY back in March that Karla from Karla's Cottage hosted a "Bling your Birdhouse" Swap (or not). You didn't have to swap, if you wanted to create your own bird house. I immediately decided this was a swap for me and went out and purchased my little birdhouse at Joanne Fabrics. The shape of the house reminded me of the little country churches my Dad preached at when I was growing up.

OK, OK. It's only taken me 3 additional months to finish, but it is finished! Ta-Da! I guess since I decided to create my own little bird house, just for me, I wasn't pressured by time. (Gee, do you think?!?!?)

Wel-l-l-l-l, better late than never! I am happy with the results and wanted to share with you. My Sea Glass Blue Bird House, with Silver German Glitter, and a little extra bling from some rhinestones. I added a rhinestone button to the end of the little perch.

I added some pretty sheet music on the strips on the roof of the house, separated by strips of german glass glitter. I coated the sheet music with Mod Podge to protect it.

The steeple is glittered all around. As is all the trim.

The bottom of the bird house was stamped with a contrasting paint color, but I thought the result was a little dull. So, I hand painted glitter glue on the pattern and glittered away. On the back top of the little house I added a rhinestone pin top.

Well, that's my bird house story. I did get another bird house and painted it pink. We'll see how long that one takes! LOL! The Bird House story is to be continued............

Have a great day!
Kitty

Organizing and Just Some Pretties!

2008-06-04T06:00:00.006-04:00

Well, I can hardly believe it's been almost two months since I did a post. I won't bore you with all the "why haven't I blogged" stuff. But, it's good to get back and I've missed all of you! Hope some of you are loving the new summer and those of you that are in winter, hope you stay toasty warm! This is just a picture of my lovely azelea bush. All of the flowering trees and shrubs bloomed wonderfully this spring.

I know there's been talk of how to organize things and this is how I organize my brushes, pens, etc. It's an old plant stand in yummy "aqua blue". Love all those curly cues, don't you?

I was at the local antique fair with Heather the other day and got this cute little pink wire basket. Couldn't find a better place for those "journals" and scrapbooks!

I got this "lovely" at the antique fair as well. Heather gave me the half German doll in the bottom front. She's very sweet and just the right companion!

Sorry for the fuzzy picture, but this is what I loved the most from the antique fair. I've been looking for one of these for quite some time. It's a bank, and ladies used to call it "pin money" that they saved to buy these sweet little pins that they would put on their clothes. Probably around the turn of the century that was popular to do. But, I just love the little purse styling!

Well, ladies, that's about it for me today. I wish you all a beautiful day and many blessings! Look forward to bouncing around to see how all of you have been!

Kitty

Show and Tell Sunday - Hankies!

2008-04-13T17:50:00.004-04:00

Hankies. What a sweet "Show and Tell". Nice choice, Analise from Sugar Sugar. She is our host for today. This hankie above is so sweet. I just love the flowers and the colors! I think it's foxglove, at least some sort of bells!

These two round hankies are two of my favorites. Forgive the lighting. It's a gray day here and late afternoon. But don't you just love the "round" variety! Of course, florals, and florals!

Who can resist sheer dotted swiss in such a soft pink and a deep, deep crochet edge on this lovely hankie!

I only have two blue ones, and these are it. Again, the aqua and love the yummy blues.

I couldn't resist this floral. It's very old. Well loved. But the florals are scrumptious. Well, that's a quick trip through my small, but loved, collection of hankies. Can't wait to see what you all have posted. Have a wonderful week!

Kitty

Spring Flowers

2008-04-09T14:07:00.003-04:00

Just a quick post to share these beautiful crocuses that popped up in my flower bed. I just love their bright vivid color!

I was a little under the weather the other day, and my sweet hubby came home with these. Of course, they are getting toward their end now, but had to share them with you....

Hope you all are enjoying your day!

Kitty

Show and Tell Sunday - Millinery Flowers!

2008-04-06T19:28:00.010-04:00

Well, I'm a little late in jumping into this Show and Tell Sunday...... But I just LOVE the thought of it. Although I haven't been collecting millinery very long, I do love it and have to share a few of my pictures with you. Thank you Cerri from Little Pink Studio and Miss Analise from Sugar Sugar for hosting all of this fun.

The above picture is 3 of my favorite pink roses. I covered them with a pink veil, just for fun.

Heather, my daughter, gave me these delightful little violets. I just love them. So dainty! I put them on the saucer of a cup and saucer set Madai from Wren Cottage gave me in a recent swap. Don't they look so pretty?

And these sweet velvet flowers and dainty pink flowers sit in some new cups I bought at Preserve Cottage at her "April In Paris Tea Party" this past weekend. Just love the cups, they are just so sweet.

Well, Don't mind how I uploaded these pictures. I had the alignment set wrong. But, here's a new hat I just bought from Cottage at Doe Hill. Love the very pale pink flowers mixed with the white.

This is all my "pinks" that I dumped into a beautiful pot. They look scrumptious together, don't they? The pink velvet one on the top is my all time favorite.

Well, that's it for me, girls. I will have a ball going around looking at everyone's millinery! Enjoy!

Kitty

Etsy!

2008-03-31T11:48:00.005-04:00

Well, I've finally taken the plunge and decided to open an Etsy shop. I'm finding it fun to put items for sale out there that I either create or others can use for artist supplies.

Such is the case of this vintage ledger paper. I happened onto an old 1880 ledger from the Youngstown, Ohio area. Gorgeous handwriting! It seems to be an accounts receivable type ledger. Pages are for sale in my Etsy shop! This is a great find, with just enough ink blots and marks on the pages to give it that lovely vintage character we all love.

As you can see by my side bar, I've just put out there a pair of felt baby shoes. They seem to have faded to a blue/blue-green color. I've glittered them up and added vintage pink seam binding for ties. Just too cute!

I've also put my Romantic Lady boxes out there. What a great gift idea for Mother's day, etc. Wouldn't a gift card look lovely in them?

Well, that's my news. Heather is posting a new post today for her shop. I've included a few dresses I had (one prom dress and one child's flower girls dress) for her new listings. Check her out at Pretty Petals.

Hope you all are enjoying the spring as much as I am. My flowers are now just coming up. Crocuses are showing their pretty little heads! Daffodils and tulips will be next! Time for yard work! I don't know whether to be happy or sad about that?? I'll say happy until mid summer! LOL!

Enjoy your day!

Kitty

P.S. - not sure why blogger set my pictures up the way it did. Oh well, not being a techy, I'll have to live with it! LOL!

Easter Greetings!

2008-03-17T09:03:00.005-04:00

Well, it's not even a week away now. Easter is early this year and weather temperature predictions are in the mid 40's for Easter Sunday. But, after the long winter here in western PA, we'll take it! Just a few shots of my "quickly put together" Easter decorating.

In the picture above, my feather trees are scrumptious easter'y colors. My Mom got me the little white one for my birthday. The mercury glass beads are glittered and I love how they look intertwined in the trees.

Little Peter Rabbit is on his way to make the "egg" delivery! Love the soft colors in his clothes...

Chicks and Eggs!

A Teena Flannery glittered sheep. So sweet.....

"Birds of a Feather!"
Hope you all enjoy a very blessed Easter. And for you "young at heart" out there in blogland, hope the Easter bunny brings you lots of sweets and treats!

Easter Blessings,

Kitty

We Had It Good, Didn't We???

2008-02-25T08:51:00.005-05:00

I know most of you have read things like this before, but I never tire of remembering "the good old days". So, here it is again, just for fun.....

First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant.

They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.

Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.

We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets. Not to mention the risks we took hitchhiking.

As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat.

We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this.

We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank Kool-aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because, WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!

We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on.No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.

We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.

We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computers, no Internet or chat rooms........WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!

We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.

We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.

We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.

We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!

Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!

The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law!These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever!The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.

We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!

If YOU are one of the baby boomers, CONGRATULATIONS! You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids during this era.

While you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave (and lucky) their parents were. (Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?!) LOL!

Jay Leno puts it nicely, as well: "With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?"

So enjoy your day, all those that "survived" the baby boomer years! Wasn't life great??

Baby It's C-O-L-D Outside!!

2008-02-21T08:29:00.009-05:00

I was up before dawn (my normal) to go to work. It was 8 degrees. Luckily, we had no wind. I stepped off my porch and started up the walk to the garage, noticing my warm breath against the cold. Usually I might be grumbling about how cold it is and how I couldn't wait to get into the warm car that my sweet husband usually starts for me.

I stopped and glanced up at the sky, and after a pause, I reminded myself of what a beautiful world we have. The inky black sky with a bright, beautiful moon and the stars as a backdrop. The moon seemed particularly bright this morning, almost like it was a gift.

I took a few moments before the hustle and bustle of the day, while I was alone, just to ponder and give the Lord thanks for the beautiful morning and the start of another day. I'm wishing for all of you today, a few moments to enjoy those beautiful gifts we have been given. Enjoy your day!

God Bless,

Kitty

Belated Valentines

2008-02-20T09:54:00.004-05:00

You all remember that "B-E-A-U-T-F-U-L" vintage valentine box that Heather's hubby gave to her for Valentine's Day! If not, pop on over to Pretty Petals Blog and see for yourself (click here). Well, the day I picked that up for Hubby Joe, I bought two for myself. I wanted you all to get a load of these. (Forgive the bad quality of the pictures, it was a gray day, the lighting was bad, need I say more! )

Needless to say, I am JUST DELIGHTED to own these gorgeous vintage candy heart boxes! Both have gorgeous fabrics and of the big one has those lovely, lovely, millinery flowers!

Well, gotta go. Lots to do today. You all have a wonderful day! Talk to you soon.....

Kitty

Don't Ya LOVE Those Vintage Valentines!

2008-02-13T14:14:00.005-05:00

I cannot believe it's been two months since I sat down and wrote a post! You girls will all have to forgive me. I know that most of you know that my Dad passed away last October and I've been busy trying to get my Mom back on track. She's coming along, and although she misses my Dad so very much, she is getting stronger every day. I hope this Valentine's Day she will have wonderful, heart-felt memories of my Dad and the love they shared.

In honor of this, I've decided to show you some vintage valentines I found out on the web. These are so adorable. There's the classic ones we all know and love from the good old U.S. But there is just a "smattering" of adorable German valentines, as well.

Enjoy the show! And Happy Valentines Day to all of you!

Check out the old radio! Don't you just love those mary jane shoes!

Interesting they are both wearing mary jane's?? Love those outfits!! LOL!

Cool Car!

I think this is one of my all time favorites! That sweet little face!

Nothing beats the colors on those German valentines! Gorgeous!

I can't quite figure this one out. Is she going to hit him? (or maybe her?)

Of course we had to throw in a dog! Couldn't find a cat.