24 Seven~The Journey Awakens the Soul

New Love in the Shop

2012-02-01T10:47:00.003-06:00

My Valentines Day Designs on my Etsy Site {see sidebar}

New charms just made, will be in the shop soon...

xxoo

Loving Life

2012-01-21T20:26:00.009-06:00

Loving Life in 2012. Can you tell, I have not posted since it began! I have been trying to stay on track with all my goals starting with deep cleaning my studio space to reorganize a mess that has been building for years. It has been a real chore, but I must say I highly recommend digging in to those out of control spaces. I feel renewed and inspired. I will post some after shots when the project is complete...maybe in a month or so {I told you it was a real mess}.

I took a photography class...yes something else I have wanted to do for some time now.

Getting into the LOVE of my new found energy, photographic knowledge, etc.. Pictures of hearts found around the house.

Photography was one of my favorite classes in high school and college, of course we worked with something called film. I miss the days of playing in the dark room watching that magic happen when the picture would emerge on your paper when you dipped it in those great smelling chemicals!!! Are any of you with me on that???

Since digital came out, I have only used a point and shoot camera on automatic. I have been very happy with the quality of pictures my little camera gives me, but have wanted to mess with my settings again and have a little more say in the way my pictures turned out. You know like an artist!!!

I have been debating Nikon or Canon for years and doing research and more research and then not taking the next step. Then for Christmas my dear husband surprised me with a new Canon SLR camera {made the decision for me}.

I needed a photography class to get reaquainted with the art of photography and the mechanics of my new toy. My good friend Jeannie emailed me and asked if I wanted to join her for a workshop with Nancy Merkling {nancymerkling.com/} a very talented photographer and teacher. Her studio is in an industrial space that is a photographers utopia. We spent most of the class learning about our cameras, which was much needed and then had some time to take some pictures using our new found knowledge!!!

Look at this place, inspiration everywhere!

Hope this finds you doing what you love in this new year!

2012

2011-12-31T10:24:00.004-06:00

Open the new book.
Its pages are blank.
You are going to put words on them yourself.
The book is called Opportunity and
its first chapter is New Year's Day.

2012 make it great!

2011-11-28T08:51:00.002-06:00

Tree Lighting in town on a beautiful evening. It was unseasonably warm. Met up with some good friends that were in town from Colorado and ran into other local friends and rang in the Holiday season. Sent drama darling back to college yesterday and already miss her terribly and cannot wait for the holiday break and having her home longer.

I have extended my SALE for any that may of missed the Saturday Small Business day. It will run through today Monday in both my shops, see details on previous post!

Hope you all enjoy time with family and friends this past weekend and through the following month.

The Holidays are here!

Small Business Saturday SALE

2011-11-26T07:49:00.003-06:00

SALE on both websites today! See sidebar for websites. Etsy site use code: shopsmall20 and on Tart-Travelingart discounts are already listed.
Help support local small businesses, many listed in my favorites on the sidebar:)

Happy Holidays & Happy Shopping everyone.
xxoo

Natalie Merchant-Kind And Generous

2011-11-24T12:27:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! One of my favorite songs that seems appropriate for today~

I will be having a SALE on both of my online shops on my sidebar this Saturday for Small Business Saturday. For my Etsy site use this code at checkout: shopsmall20 and for the Tart site select items will already be marked down 20%. One day only!

Enjoy the day :) xxoo

Tart

2011-11-16T08:24:00.011-06:00

I have done it all by myself...so proud, actually created my own website from scratch just in time for the holidays. I wanted to create an online boutique that I could sell my jewelry and altered art along with that of other artists that I admire and want to support. I plan on taking it on the road {locally that is, for now} to art shows, home shows, business shows, flea markets, etc.
Please take a look: www.tart-travelingart.com

Here are some pictures to give you an idea of what I have to start. The girls at thegildedjunqueyard.blogspot.com have created some beautiful one of a kind pieces for me to debut on my new site. The Snow Divas designed by Lisa are so adorable, created from vintage bottles and pieces. A true one of a kind holiday gift for yourself or someone on your list. Once they are sold they are gone.

Jeannie has made unique one of a kind earrings out of broken china and all vintage components. Each pair is also one of a kind.

I had artist Teresa Sheeley make up some one of a kind bags for me that you can tote your books, knitting, groceries you name it in style.

and some of her tea towels

I will be adding new pieces of jewelry as they come off my bench, here are some of the newest.

Click on the link on top of my sidebar to go to Tart and of course my jewelry designs will always be on my etsy site {also on the sidebar}.

New in the Shop

2011-11-05T13:59:00.004-05:00

Time Flies Necklace

Special Order Mother's Necklace & Initial Rings

Ah, yes love rings...Oui & Love Word Rings

The Beauty of Fall

2011-10-27T10:40:00.005-05:00

Just wanted to share some pictures of the beauty of dried fall flora and chippy, junky goodness!

Happy Halloween!

I'm Back

2011-08-07T21:42:00.014-05:00

I'm Back!!! I have never had such a busy summer!

I did Festival of the Arts and enjoyed another great year. A lot of friends and shoppers came out to enjoy the weekend.

softball, softball, and more softball...this is my favorite picture captured by my dad of the girls running for the ball in flight! Baby girl is in the front (3rd base)

and she got her braces off!!!! Look at that gorgeous smile ((:

Now I have to face the fact that it is time to get Drama Darling ready for college. This is going to be a tough transition in my life and I am just now beginning to realize it. She performed as the returning Gurnee Idol this weekend and now she is packing to leave for college tomorrow. I am so excited for her and at the same time already missing her presence in the house. She has done a good job of getting me used to her not being here by being gone most of the summer. Hanging out with all her friends, working etc. etc. I am packing my tissues for the 5 1/2 hr. drive tomorrow. She is about to experience some of the best years of her life!

I really do think her sister is going to miss her...

I hope to have time to be more present on my blog again. Thanks for any who are still reading me! I have some new things happening this year and will keep you posted.
Hope everyone has had a wonderful summer and I look forward to catching up with all of your blogs too!

ta, ta for today~xxoo cindy

Traveling

2011-07-03T09:36:00.009-05:00

I know I have not been blogging much lately, because I have been doing some Traveling this summer! Not to Europe, Exotic Beaches, Fancy Cities or Disney World. No, I have been traveling to softball tournaments with these crazy girls, that I adore!

I have also been traveling to Iowa with these two gals preparing for their next stage of life in college.

In between all this traveling I am preparing for my summer art festivals and spending time with family and friends!

Tonight the hubby and I are going to see Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow! I cannot wait to travel to Milwaukee to hear some great music on the lakefront!!!

I will be launching a new website in the next few weeks, and posting some pictures on my blog! Check back for the reveal!

Don't forget to enter my drawing in the previous post, I need 4 more to enter to pick a WINNER!

Spring Give Away!

2011-06-02T21:43:00.004-05:00

Time for a giveaway! In honor of Spring and the fact that I have over a 100 followers now {whew hoo}, I have chosen to give away one of my vintage spoon garden stakes! So cute in your flower pot. Just tell me the name of your favorite spring flower or herb and consider yourself entered.
I will do a random drawing in 2 weeks {June 17} if I have at least 10 comments, otherwise, I will keep the drawing open until then {it really is not much fun with less then that}.

Enjoy your planting...xo

Drama Darling Graduates!

2011-05-31T22:49:00.003-05:00

My first born graduated from high school this weekend! Mama is very proud and sad to know that I have 2 months left with her before she goes off to college. I know this summer will pass quickly as it always does, so I will cherish the time we have. In a few weeks we go to Iowa State for orientation to sign up for her classes. It seems like just yesterday that I was doing that myself! So now I spend my days giving her advice and what to be careful of in college, you know beer and wine you will probably be fine...liquor you will never be sicker...say NO to drugs. Do not waste your time looking for a husband spend it following your dreams and enjoy your independent time, you will never have it back. All those things we learn with age!!!

Graduation went smoothly even though the 2011 class was over 1000 students. Unbelievable!

A bonfire with some close friends to celebrate, (The ASU sweatshirt...one of the many colleges we visited and considered, we have a good collection)

With all the graduation festivities I have not listed much on my website, but here are two new belt buckles that will be up soon.

Happy Spring All. I will be doing a giveaway at the end of the week, please check back!!!

New in the Shop

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

Just wanted to pop in and show you a few new items listed on my
CR Design Gallery Etsy website!
Love the idea of a flower basket with a spoon stake for mother's day. Hope mom is not reading my blog!

Speaking of Mother's Day...In case you have not seen this William Tell Momisms by Anita Renfroe, I thought I would share, this is why we deserve a DAY OFF!!!

Happy early Mother's Day to all you mom's out there, I hope you all have a relaxing day planned, because we deserve it ((:

SALE~Crown Jewels

2011-04-27T10:51:00.007-05:00

I Fancy a Bloody sale is in order for the Royal Wedding this week, don't you. I know it is a bit Cheeky, but it is Jolly time to have a sale and what better reason then Prince William & Kates Smashing Royal Wedding?!

Any Blooming piece of bling in either of my etsy shops that Sports a CROWN {hence crowned jewels} you may take 10% off!

Use this Smashing code {Royal10} during checkout for 10% off of your purchase through the end of this royal week!
~ Cheerio Mates

The Vote is in and it is Iowa State!

2011-04-25T16:36:00.003-05:00

Drama Darling chose Iowa State. Mama could not be happier. I have such fond memories of my years at Iowa State and cannot wait for her to start on her college journey. She is going in with an undeclared major, but really is interested in Communications & Public relations. Any advice on the career outlook in either field would be greatly appreciated!

Now the fun begins roomate choice, housing choice, orientation, move-in, rush, loans (ugh) etc. etc.
So excited ((:

Easter Greetings

2011-04-24T08:07:00.002-05:00

See the land, her Easter keeping,
Rises as her Maker rose.
Seeds, so long in darkness sleeping,
Burst at last from winter snows.
Earth with heaven above rejoices... ~Charles Kingsley

Happy Easter to all my blog friends~

Please Vote tonight!!!

2011-04-20T10:16:00.010-05:00

I have been enjoying music for many years by a local duo Peter & Harry here in town. Earlier this year I found out that Harry's daughter made it through the first round of American Idol in Milwaukee (that's Harry picking up Haley at the end of the audition video). I started watching when she did her great audition. Making it to Hollywood is no small task, after attending Idols auditions in Chicago the previous year with Drama Darling, I was blown away by how many talented singers were there and the small amount that actually made it through! That was just round one then you have to go through about three more rounds at least to get seen by Randy, Jennifer & Steven!

Well not only did she make it to Hollywood, but HALEY is one of two girls left in the competition!!! If you are reading this and watch tonight, all I can say is...

Here is a duet she did last week with Casey (another great Idol hopeful)! So Good...

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Drama Darling came with us a few weeks ago to see Peter & Harry perform and they called her up and let her sing "Let it Be" with Haley's dad, Harry. A thrill for her!!!
Look at this great picture I got of the experience, lol. Can I say that phone cameras in dim lit places are NO good!

Hope you watch and VOTE tonight and help her go all the way ((:
You can vote on American Idol.com up to 50 times (just sayin)
Thanks for listening...xxoo

Look what Joe made me!!!

2011-03-22T16:28:00.006-05:00

I must say I do have talented friends! I met Sandy and Joe a few years ago at the flea market and they are two of the most creative people I know. I knew when I had the challenge of coming up with a belt display that Joe was the man to talk too. I showed him my buckles and asked him to create something wonderfully vintage to display them on and walla (is that a word) here it is!!! An old grate that looks like a tooled leather belt and some vintage leather belt straps to slide my buckles on. Absolutely Perfect as always!

As I have said before you can find Sandy & Joe of Rhubarb Reign at many midwestern flea markets~
http://rhubarb-reign.blogspot.com/

“No one can prepare you for what heights you will soar until you spread your wings.”
New listing on www.buckleupbabe.etsy.com

2011-02-24T08:20:00.003-06:00

My newest design inspired by the realization that 50 is creeping up on me and I still have a lot to do!!!!

One of the hardest things to believe is that our someday is right now!

Someday I will exercise
Someday I will eat healthier
Someday I will be organized
Someday I will not procrastinate
Someday I will go on a creative retreat with other artists
Someday I will go to Italy (maybe for a creative retreat)
Someday I will make more money then I spend on my jewelry
Someday I will have my own shop/studio
Someday I will live in a warm climate (or have another home in one)
Someday I will get away with my husband for a much needed vacation
Someday I will be visiting my girls in college (back to making more then I spend)
Someday I will accomplish all I want in a day (back to the organized thing)
etc. etc. etc.

Someday I will have the courage to be the person I always knew I could be

Time Flies ~ Live your life to the fullest, the time is NOW ((:

Girls Weekend

2011-02-13T12:35:00.012-06:00

A great girls weekend brought on by the chance meeting of two very creative souls that recently came into my life. I met Jeannie at a flea market and she introduced me to Sharon who so generously offered to take us up to her beautiful farm in Door County, WI.

The perfect girls weekend with two very like minded junk loving, treasure hunting, creative, business minded, beautiful, sweet, supportive, FUN new friends. What better way to really get to know each other then a 4 hr. car drive up north with various junking stops, story telling, much laughter, food & WINE. A perfect getaway for a gal like me.

One of our stops along the way was suggested by Jeannine at
http://chippyshabby.blogspot.com/2011/01/chippy-shabby-shops-farm-girl-antiques.html

An eclectic antique shop called "Farm Girl"
http://yourfarmgirl.blogspot.com/.
We met Lisa the owner who went out of her way to offer the best friendly customer service, complete with demonstrating how to pound out a vintage spoon and stamp words on it to hang or use in your flower pots. Can I say I was very envious of her anvil for those of you metal workers out there.

Look at this picture of Lisa isn't she the cutest funky girl, well she has a personality to match. Stop by and see her when you are in the Milwaukee area!

Once up in Door County one of our many adventures was to go to a fund raiser where you picked out a ceramic bowl made by local art students and then enjoy numerous varieties of soups of our choice. We spent about a half hour just looking at all the bowls, it was so hard to choose.

Jeannie chose one with a face and big red lips!

We stopped by a few shops, this gallery had the most beautiful colored glass bulbs and Adirondack chairs in the yard. Who would think something you associate with summer could look this beautiful in the winter. The colors just popped against the snow.

One of the highlights for me was the this beautiful shop named "Viva La Cottage" with such creative display. All soft whites and natural linens, burlaps in a mouth watering shop where you discovered something new around every corner. Unfortunately, my pics did it no justice so I did not post any of them. You will have to stop by and visit yourself or just take my word for it. In the meantime you can check out the owner Angie's blog~
http://www.vivalacottage.blogspot.com/

Angie was not there the day we stopped by so I did not get a chance to meet her, but I had the pleasure of meeting Carol (what a sweetie) and we spent time talking and taking some pictures with her (we are facebook friends now). Rumour has it we have to come back and check out Carols place in Door County, Sharon said it is something to see. Here is a picture of Sharon, Jeannie & Carol.

O.K., I am going to wind this up. Unfortunately, I cannot post all the pictures here of our fabulous weekend. All I can say is it felt good to get away and spend time making and sharing new friendships and taking in the beauty of Door County!
I cannot forget to mention our fourth traveling companion "Jackson", I would say the sweetest dog I have ever spent time with!
This is a true companion dog((:

Thanks Girls, until we meet again ~love you~ xo

Valentines Day SALE!

2011-01-30T10:35:00.004-06:00

Valentine's day is almost here, hard to believe and for all of you that need a token to share your love with yourself or others...
I am having a SALE in both of my Etsy sites! Starting today through next Sunday take 20% off all items (use code "blog20" at checkout). Links to both sites are on my sidebar. Hope you can find something for yourself or a great Valentine's Gift.

I have taken the image that I created in Photoshop as seen in my last post and made it in to a belt buckle. Here is a picture of it. I think it turned out great, if I do say so myself. I listed it on my Etsy site today.

I am spending these cold snowy days filling out the FAFSA form for college funding. Yikes, am I really old enough to have a college bound kid already? I feel 50 getting closer as I recieved my AARP card in the mail this week )): As a friend told me the other day, I will enjoy getting old and seeing my wrinkles as it is better then the alternative of not being here at all!
So I am embracing my life wrinkles, failing eyesight, sore joints, and all, glad to be alive and to have a daughter that wants to go to college.

Can I hear an Amen Sista!!!!!

2011-01-15T23:24:00.008-06:00

Playing in photoshop again, this is my latest piece! Funny, but I had to call baby girl down a few times to help me to figure out how to make my visions happen. Me...a college degreed graphic designer needing help from a 14 year old. Now a days if you do not stay active with the programs, everything changes. I was doing graphics when we still did everything by hand, "cut and paste" is what we called it. It is a whole different field now. So many more possibilities. It can be FUN((:
One of my New Years Resolutions to PLAY more with my art! You never know where it will lead you.

On a completely different subject~ One of my best friends is a very talented story teller and writer. Rhonda is a professional horse trainer and although I know she is an expert in her field...I kept encouraging her to write a blog with her wonderful stories. Every year Rhonda includes a story in her Christmas Card and it always would make me laugh, cry or both and I will never forget any of them. They stick with you.
So grab a cup of coffee or glass of wine and check out her blog and read some of her stories you will not be sorry, I promise!
The story "Young Prince Taj" still gives me goose bumps. "Finding my Friends" is a must read!

This is a picture of Rhonda on the right and her friend Mo on the left. If you read her first story it is about their friendship. You will love this story.
http://rhondahasstories.blogspot.com/

2011-01-05T19:42:00.008-06:00

It has been awhile since my last post I know! This was a busy month of Holiday shows, parties, being with my family and unfortunately many colds and sickies in the house. So I wanted to sit down and do a New Years post, but was not feeling very creative while blowing my nose, sneezing etc. etc.

I just found out though that my good friend Sandy from Rhubarb Reign http://rhubarb-reign.blogspot.com/ has been featured in Somerset Magazine this month and I am so excited for her. Sandy and her business partner Joe are some of the most talented people I know and are very deserving of this article! I am so glad they do the flea market near my home every month so I can go and see what goodies they will bring! I currently have them working on a belt buckle display piece for me. They created my cute chicken wire dress form that I featured on here a while ago. Not only are my friends in this issue, but one of my favorite artists Misty Mawn, whos work and blog I have been following for a few years is featured in & on the cover. Misty writes a beautiful blog http://mistymawn.typepad.com/and has the most amazing photographs and artwork. I have enjoyed her blog for so long now and hope some day to meet her and take a class.

She has a book coming out that I cannot wait to get my hands on. It is sitting on my wish list on amazon and just waiting for the release date!!!

I look forward to a New Year full of
New... ideas, friends & experiences and hope the same for all of you.
cheers~xo

2010-12-24T08:05:00.000-06:00

May all your dreams come true!
Merry Christmas to all my friends in blogland...xoxo Cindy

2010-12-06T22:30:00.008-06:00

Thought if I posted some Christmas images that maybe I could wrap my brain around the fact that it is right around the corner.
I recently aquired this cute little tree under a dome at my friend Dawn's shop here in town and just love it! We are planning a Christmas blow out at her shop with a jewelry trunk show this Sunday. I cannot wait, love hanging out with Dawn and her customers and friends! Come on by if you are in the area.

This angel is a vintage piece from my mother in laws collection. Came with my husband, lucky for me, I love it!

Some of my favorite Santas

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...

And while I was shooting these pictures around my house, I saw the little sparrows that like to gather outside my front window in the naked branches of my shrub {a little hard to see in my picture}. They are puffy and chattery, I love to just sit and watch them.

I need to get out of my house and start some Christmas shopping. I have not bought one gift yet, accept for myself from my friend Jeannie's {http://thegildedjunqueyard.blogspot.com} holiday sale. Could not resist the face and the vintage character of this snowman made by Lisa. I bought the joy one, he has a jack on his head, how adorable is that?! Talked to her today and they still have some left if you are interested, check out the blog. Lot's of cute vintage Xmas!

Happy Shopping All ((:

2010-11-29T09:19:00.002-06:00

HAPPY CYBER MONDAY!
10% off on jewelry at my etsy site~ crdesigngallery.etsy.com
use code: CYBER10 when checking out.

Enjoy your online shopping day:) I know I will~xo

Day Trip

2010-11-26T18:33:00.009-06:00

Guilded Junkyard booth pics

Last weekend my friend Jeannie and I went on a fun trip to Morris, IL to the 3 French Hens Holiday Boutique. We had a good hour or so drive to Morris, but the time passed quick as we chatted and laughed the whole way there. Jeannie and I have only known each other for about a year and she is one of those people that come into your life that you feel like you have known forever. I feel, we are twin sisters from a different mother. We met at a flea market (imagine that) of all places and both design jewelry and share a love of vintage and we are both dealing with teenagers. So that being said, we had a lot to talk about.

We arrived in Morris and spent some time shopping in some great boutiques in town...
"Whimsy" which had a great window decor and even better when you got inside! http://www.whimsydecor.blogspot.com
& "Ruby Begonia's" beautiful clothes and other fun things http://www.rubybegoniastrinkets.blogspot.com

Then off to the 3 French Hen's Holiday boutique where we saw many great vendors including one of our favorite vendors and bloggers Jeanine of "Chippy Shabby" http://www.chippyshabby.blogspot.com
photo op~

We ended up back at Jeannie's beautiful home. This girl has a home and studio to die for. So much fun exploring and digging through beads and vintage jewelry in her studio. If you live in the area and get a chance to go to Woodstock and see her & partners Lisa & Laurie's booth in the antique mall in town, do! Check out their blog at http://thegildedjunqueyard.blogspot.com

The picture on the top of this post is from their booth as well as the refinished headboard with the angel, unfortunately most of my pictures did not turn out or I would of had a lot more:(

And for you Vintage Lovers, new belt listed on my etsy site~xo

My Buckles & Giveaway Winner!

2010-11-18T09:07:00.003-06:00

O.K., here it is, drumroll please, LOL...I am starting to make belt buckles. For a lot of women the obsession is shoes, for me, it is belts & fabulous buckles! I love to dress up a simple jean and tee outfit with a great belt and a little jewelry of course! So I have been experimenting with ideas of how to create a buckle using similiar design to my jewelry and here is what I have come up with so far. I am in the process of getting some belt straps and creating a new website on etsy just for my buckles. I am really excited to move into this arena, because I love the look of a great belt, did I say that already? My goal is to have it up by the end of the month for some Holiday orders. Any great ideas of images or sayings that would make your heart go pitter patter I would love to hear:)

And now...the winner of the earrings is #4...Effy! Send me your info. Miss Effy so I can get these out to you for Thanksgiving!

Happy Turkey Day all! This is one day I try not to wear a belt, no matter how fabulous, if you know what I mean?!

Fun with Photoshop

2010-11-08T13:19:00.004-06:00

O.K. I admit, had to get a new post up a.s.a.p. the picture of me in the cat suit had to get off the top of the blog!

I have found a new pastime (like I need one), playing in photoshop. A very hard program for me, that I kind of knew years back, when I worked at the college doing graphics. I have started playing in it again and applying my love of collage with some of my jewelry pictures and really like the effect. It could take me hours to do jewelry listings on the website if I use these techniques for everything, at least until I get better at remembering all the steps.

I took some photos of my setup in my piano room at home that I leave up all the time for the occasional shopper that wants to drop on by the house. I bought a cabinet at a flea market a year ago and it makes a great display case.

This was one of my favorite pictures that I did, even though the bracelets are a little blurred.

I will be debuting my newest product in the next few weeks, I am very excited about this one!

P.S...Don't forget to enter the giveaway in the previous post for my earrings:) If you do not have a song to leave, it's o.k.!

Halloween & Fall Giveaway!

2010-10-31T18:24:00.015-05:00

Halloween is here...We were invited to a halloween costume party and well, it just gets harder and harder to be creative with a costume idea. Being that I am in the last year of my 40's I decided that it would be fun to go as a Cougar. I tried to capture the essence of the animal along with the oh so sophisticated, sexy, on the prowl for the young men qualities of the female human cougar. I think in the end I just ended up looking like me dressed in an animal print dress with cat ears on my head and a tail. Oh well, I felt like I stepped outside of the usual jeans & tee so un-cougar like me. McDreamy went as a punk rocker from the 80's. We ran out and got him a Punk band Tee and had a good time trying to spike up his hair in a Fohawk! We did have a mighty good time!

Now that October has come to an end and most of the leaves have blown off the trees with the strong midwestern winds... I think it is the perfect time to do a giveaway.

I would love to send my favorite new earrings with warm autumn colors to someone for a Thanksgiving Gift.

The winter months are coming and I know I would love some new inspiration in my studio, please leave a comment with the name of your favorite album or song so that we can all find some new music to listen too during the cold winter months. In exchange consider yourself entered in the drawing for the earrings. I will draw a random winner on November 15th and post that person on my blog that week.

This is a song that I have been listening to lately, Baby Girl has been learning it on her guitar, we love it {pause music on the sidebar and have a listen}...

	Paramore - The Only Exception .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

"A few days ago I walked along the edge of the lake and was treated to the crunch and rustle of leaves
with each step I made. The acoustics of this season are different and all sounds, no matter how hushed,
are as crisp as autumn air."
- Eric Sloane

Welcome November

New Pieces

2010-10-17T22:24:00.003-05:00

Looks like it has been a while since I have posted some pictures of my newest designs. Here are a few that I will be listing on my Website in the next few days.

The first one is one of my favorites. I love the way this vintage button looks with the dangles and the ball chain. It is stunning on if I do say so myself and well I did.

My Dangles Necklace is one of the best sellers in my boutiques. Looks great on and really makes a statement with anything you wear.

The pairing of this royal crown necklace and ring make you feel like a princess or better yet, a queen.

This medieval style metal necklace is already listed on my website

and last a hand soldered bangle bracelet with some bling to just make you feel good!

2010-10-06T09:02:00.006-05:00

Just recently this month in Warrenton, TX there was the awesome RouNd ToP/WaRReNton aNtiQueS WeeK. I went to this with a friend a few years ago and was so amazed at all the wonderful vendors and junk (treasures) that one could find there. I long to go back and relive the excitement of the hunt. Hard to find a way from Illinois to Texas other then driving a long distance to be able to get all those treasures back home! Big dilemma.

My friend Stephanie and I got to meet and get a picture with the famous Junk Gypsy's (Amie, Jolie & Janie Sikes) whom I have admired for many years. I love the whole attitude, blog and merchandise these gals put out. A mother, daughter's team they inspire me so much. I recently saw that they are embarking on a TV show, how exciting, I cannot wait.
If you have never heard of the Junk Gypsy's here is a link to their website:
http://www.gypsyville.com/

Here is a video that was shot the year I was there and yes if you watch closely I actually made it into this video~

This year the Junk Gypsy's hosted a book signing by Shabby Chic's Rachel Ashwell. We all know that she was the start of this crazy obsession that I as well as so many of you probably have. The love of all things chippy, rusty, faded and just simply wonderful stuff. I would of loved to have met her.
Jill at Gypsy Brocante is also doing a giveaway on her blog for a signed copy of Rachel's new book and a vintage style scarf. I have entered and here is the link to her blog so you can read about Warrenton and see some great pictures of the whole experience and enter too. http://www.gypsyfleamarket.blogspot.com/
I will have to live through her experience until I can get there again!

On another note my girls went to homecoming this past weekend and you know that I have to share a picture with you of how beautiful they looked.

How can I get my girls interested in flea markets, dumpster diving and all the things that just make my heart sing? I do believe that I got the bug from my mom, who was an antique diva long before any of the books came out. I spent many a day in an antique shop or flea market.
Thanks mom...who knows maybe someday the girls will come around?!

The Vintage Work Bench

2010-09-11T21:31:00.013-05:00

I have been looking for a vintage workbench for a while now and I found it recently at a flea market. I brought it down in my basement studio to use as my soldering work station. I am so excited to finally have this in the studio. I have been soldering my pieces in the kitchen on the stove with the fan for ventilation. I am looking for a way to vent the fumes out of the windows in my studio. Oh the fumes I breathe...solder, e6000, resin, paint...can anyone relate. When creativity calls, we have to do what needs to be done. I try to be as safe as possible, but it is hard to not breathe in any fumes. If anyone has any ideas for ventilating solder or resin fumes, I would love suggestions!

I bought this great vintage workbench metal chair, I added a rusty old star to the back of it.

I found some more vintage victorian buttons too!

To make more of these~

I am almost satisfied with my studio now, almost. I am still looking for a tall dresser with drawers for storage, you know the vintage, chippy kind. The I will know it when I see it kind!
When it is all put together, I will have absolutely no reason to not be super productive!

Hope you all have your own special space in your life, I highly recommend it:)

Sweater Weather

2010-09-08T21:08:00.028-05:00

Oh heart be still...these boots from Anthropologie, what can I say...Sweater Weather is here! I look so forward to going shopping for my fall wardrobe.

I have decided that I am a J. Crew girl at heart. I love their comfortable looks every season. I believe that this image is actually a spring one, but this is so my style. Even the chair is my style.

and of course my dear friend Lynne and her new fall lines at Olivia's in Long Grove...that jacket, that scarf, love, love, love.

I have not done a blog post in sometime. I seriously had been waiting to post, because drama darling was in a singing competition here in town, she sang "Before he Cheats" by Carrie Underwood (with a lot of attitude I must say) and she won. I wanted to post the you tube video (that will make her the next Justin Bieber) on here and well, I am having some technical difficulties. So here is a picture...until I get it all figured out. I have my computer savvy neighbor on it as we speak!

Basking in the limelight afterwards~

Since then the girls are back in school. Drama darling is finishing up her final year in high school and baby girl is just starting. I want to hold on to this year, I know that my life is going to change drastically in the next few. I cannot believe my babies are both in and almost out of high school. They were just born really, weren't they? I know that we all feel this way as mom's, but boy time really does fly! Just look at how grown up and mature they are.

I am trying to get back into a normal schedule here at the homestead. I really want to function like I used to when I had to go to a job. I feel blessed and cursed all at the same time. It is so hard to motivate myself to work at home when all the dirty laundry, dishes, floors etc. keep calling my name. Sometimes, I would love to have a studio away from home, of course then I would have to get dressed and could not work in my jammie's. Of course, that would be a reason to have more Fall Clothes!

I went to a bead show this weekend and got some fab beads to inspire me to get back in the studio and design new things for fall. I cannot wait to play with them all. I am in the process of reorganizing my studio to make it more efficient. All of you creative sorts understand where I am coming from. We tend to get a little messy from time to time, right. I call it creative chaos. It is what it is. It does feel good to clean it up every once and awhile and get back to some sort of system. Look what I did with my old printers tray, painted it white and it works great as a bead organizer.

I will post my process on the new pieces soon...until then...
Enjoy...football, halloween, fall color, new clothes, bonfires and all the beauty that fall brings.
~Enjoy Sweater Weather~

2010-08-09T07:55:00.004-05:00

This weekend I did my annual Art Festival in Libertyville, Illinois. It was a huge success with a great turnout and lots of familiar faces. I grew up in Libertyville and started doing the Art Festival when Drama Darling was one year old. I realized that this weekend was my 17th year doing it. I have evolved a lot from those early days and so has the show. My first year I was the only one selling jewelry and now there are at least 20 or more at every show.

I was honored to win the "Best in Jewelry" category this year, which makes my heart sing, since it was one of my hardest working years. My best artist friend Cindi Sartain whom I met at this show about 15 yrs. ago won the "Best in Painting" Category, so you know that we went out and celebrated! If anyone is interested in this painting, I can hook you up. She does not have a website or blog, she is a very busy art teacher and such a talented painter.

One of my favorite new things about my display is this great little display "t" bar that my friend Jeannie made me. Isn't it adorable?!!! She is another kindred art spirit that I met at of all places a flea market. She makes gorgeous jewelry from rosaries and vintage. When we met we realized that we had so much in common it was an instant friendship. Here is a link to her blog~ http://thegildedjunqueyard.blogspot.com/

Last week I took my girls on a trip to Iowa State (my alma mater). The campus was still as beautiful as I remembered. I loved walking around with the girls and showing them all the buildings and places that were so special to me.
The architecture on this campus is just breathtaking. The building below is Beardshear hall, my memory of this building is one of paying my fees. So the memory although not my favorites, the building was gorgeous.

The Campanile would chime on campus and just hearing it again took me back. The tradition was you had to be kissed under the Campanile at midnight to be an official ISU coed and yes, I was!

I think my girls enjoyed themselves and maybe were even interested in possibly attending. However, baby girl, I think is still not very into the whole college experience. She was very into her friends back home. Not sure what all the texting was about under and by these beautiful buildings, maybe she was just letting them know how much FUN she was having!

Under the Campanile~

On Curtiss Hall Stairs~

This last picture is of the Design Center where I spent most of my time! Such a great space to create, look at that sky!

My girls are back to school in a week and summer will come to a close. I think summer seems to go by faster and faster every year.

This was a short but eventful one...
Softball Games, driving here, picking up there, Parents 50th wedding anniversary, Galena, Turning 49, Art Festivals, Canoeing, Hanging out with friends, Flea Markets, Singing Competitions, College Visits, Jewlery Making, Jewlery Making, Jewlery Making...

Happy end of Summer all... xo

The House that Built Me

2010-07-25T07:46:00.004-05:00

Not too long ago, I drove by one of my old homes where I grew up only to find it was totally torn down and rebuilt. The only familiar thing was the yard and the foundation. It was shocking and heartbreaking. This particular home is one we lived in when I was 6 till about the time I was 10 and then we moved to the home my parents still live in, which by far is what I consider home. They better never move, I love going HOME!!!

I LOVE this song by Miranda Lambert, it brings this girl to tears when I listen to it, not only because of my roots, but even more the ones that my daughters are building growing up in our home and neighborhood. Now that the girls are getting closer to leaving the nest, I think about all the memories they will cherish of their home and family.

posing in their rooms for self portraits...

Christmas at home...

Christmas at grandma & grandpa's...

I am taking the girls to Ames, IA and Iowa State, my Alma Mater next week for a college visit and I know that will be such a sweet walk down memory lane. I have so many good memories there! Can't wait to go back and see the campus and my many homes there. Dorm (which I know has been taken down :( ), Sorority and our off campus apartment. I hope they get a glimpse into a bit of my life that was so special to me. Then I hope they choose to go there!!!!! A mom can dream, right?!

I hope you take a minute to listen to Miranda's song and relive all those good or bad memories, that built you into the fabulous person that you are today.

because, when things get wicked, there's no place like home~

summer part 1

2010-07-05T13:13:00.009-05:00

I have been on a break for a while and realize that wow, it is July already! When the girls are home for the summer, time flies. We have done some fun things like going to Galena, softball tournaments, I have visited flea markets and art festivals, the 4th with friends and last night Carrie Underwood. It has been a whirlwind.

Here is a pictorial of some of it that I remembered to capture...

Galena~

A hot air balloon festival that was gorgeous. This one flew over our house. Great picture of mom & dad watching the balloon on the deck.

At night they did an illumination...

The girls and their cousin, I love this picture with the balloons in the background...

McDreamy & me at my parents 50th anniversary dinner...

Wow, a family picture that I actually got in!

I attended the Festival of Fine Craft festival in Highland Park, IL and saw and spoke to one of my very favorite mixed media artists ever. Her name is Danielle Desplan and she does such beautiful old world style collage pieces. She is as beautiful as her art work I loved talking to her. I left her booth and wandered the rest of the show and planned on going back, but had to leave to get my daughter home and never got back. I was so disappointed, because I really wanted to get a picture of her booth and one of me with her, since I admire her so much!!!! I really want to own one of her pieces...Next Year...

Until then here are some pictures of my favorites from her website...

and her beautiful self...

Here is the link to her site: danielledesplan.com

Then I came upon this booth by artist Valerie Bunnell~
I was drawn to it, because it reminded me of Cirque du soleil. She had such unique, fun & eclectic pieces that just intrigued me.

Look how fun with the recycled pieces and then the queen bee, there are no words, loved her!

Drama darling and her friend Erica in Valerie's booth...

Link to her website is: www.valeriebunnell.com

Then Carrie Underwood~
One of Drama Darling's favorite singers and Baby Girl and I love her too. McDreamy, well what would he have to complain about, right? She was incredible. My pictures, well I am going to call them artistic interpretations. The lighting was not good for my camera, but I kind of like the way they turned out. This girl can belt out a song like no other, how she can not loose her voice throughout the concert is beyond me. A true beauty with a voice of an angel, we had such a good time.

Get your summer on everyone, I love cruising all of your blogs and seeing how you are spending yours:) xo

Run to You

2010-06-22T08:26:00.003-05:00

Drama Darling performing "Run to You" by Lady Antebellum with boyfriend #1 and boyfriend #2 at an open mic nite in Woodstock, IL. Their first time performing at "Stage Left Cafe" and I thought they did a great job!!!

We just got back from Galena, IL and my parents 50th Wedding Anniversary family get together and had a wonderful time. I am in the process of collecting pictures from the family and am excited to post them soon. What a beautiful place. The scenery was breathtaking and we had so much fun together.

2010-06-17T23:51:00.005-05:00

{Galena Picture by Harry O'Toole}

We are on our way to Galena, IL. A serene old fashioned town with rolling hills and beauty everywhere you look. We are going there this weekend to celebrate my parents 50th wedding anniversary. My sister & brother and their families as well as ours are staying at a beautiful resort in a lovely home my parents rented for us all. I am looking forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with my family, relaxing and reconnecting.

Here is my favorite wedding picture of mom & dad, they look so beautiful!

Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary my dear parents...I love you...xo

more pictures in a few days:)

wHerE I cREate~

2010-06-16T22:09:00.008-05:00

where bloggers create is a forum where creative bloggers can share their artistic spaces, thanks karen for this great opportunity for all of us.
check out this link for more information on the blog party...
http://mydesertcottage.blogspot.com/2010/04/where-bloggers-create-ii.html

my STUDIO broken down by letters~

S
serendipitous

T
tantalizing

U
unpredictable outcomes every time

D
design spot

I
irresistible to me

O
overwhelming at times

My STUDIO!
where i create~

Baby Girl Graduates

2010-06-07T15:00:00.002-05:00

8th Grade Graduation. Seems like she was born yesterday. Next year her first year in high school and her big sisters last year. Wow, how time flies. She has achieved so much in school, sports and friendships, we are very proud of her!

On another note~ A new blog friend of mine Dawn at The Feathered Nest is doing a give away of one of my necklaces. So stop by and leave a comment for a chance to win it and discover her lovely blog!
http://the-feathered-nest.blogspot.com

Enlightened

2010-05-30T14:27:00.006-05:00

Good Day All~
I have spent this morning moving rather slowly. I watched the Blackhawks win the first game of the Stanley Cup with some friends and then slept in a little bit today. It is a holiday weekend after all.

Drama Darling was up at a cabin in WI with a friends family and Baby Girl spent the night at a friends house and McDreamy had to work, so I had the house to myself this morning and took advantage.

I listed my newest creation...a RING...on Etsy, very excited about these, they are one of my new favorites. They match my new necklaces and are vintage looking, yet fun and funky to wear with anything. I will be making a lot more!!!!!

Here's the link: http://www.etsy.com/listing/48375389/crowned-bird-ring

A bird may be known by it's royal song!

I came across this video of Elizabeth Gilbert, author of "Eat, Pray, Love" on Kelly Rae's Blog the other day and watched it this morning with my cup of coffee and it was so enlightening I wanted to share it. A must see for all women, I think!

I could not link, so you will have to copy & paste into your browser...
http://www.oprah.com/omagazine/Elizabeth-Gilbert-Talk-from-O-Magazines-10th-Anniversary-Video

When you have a little free time sit down and watch this video.
I cannot wait for the movie of her book to come out with Julia Roberts, that is a girls night out for sure!

Have a great Memorial Day Everyone~ BBQ, your favorite brew...
and always give thanks, pray for & remember the troops that gave us our freedom!

Secret Garden

2010-05-27T19:25:00.006-05:00

Barb, a wonderful gal that I met while doing the flea market was having a vintage sale at her home. I was very excited to go and see what great things I might find...

I found a treasure trove...a table, glass tray, pictures, chippy garden chair (turned planter), some little dishes, beads etc. etc.

~but what I did not expect to find was her beautiful gardens and pond. I was so inspired that I dragged my friend Kathryn back the next day with my camera to take pictures to help motivate me to go home and get to work on my own garden.

handmade pond complete with koi...

look how cute, old faucets turned into garden art...

and Kathryn thanked me for taking her, because she found a few great treasures herself!
thanks Barb...love all my things!!!

New Stash

2010-05-20T14:50:00.010-05:00

Bead Show + $ = New Stash!!!!!

Now the fun begins. I love going and getting some new beads and baubles to play with and create new designs. Here are a few of the items I picked up recently at a local bead show. I will be designing and posting new items on Etsy in the next few weeks, so check out the website if you are interested.
www.crdesigngallery.etsy.com

I have added a few pictures of my new designs thus far. They have all been spoken for at this point and I am in the process of making some more. Here are some pictures of what they looked like~

Oh~ and a picture of my favorite little flower...

XOXOXO

Drama Darling's Prom

2010-05-16T01:34:00.006-05:00

Star Light, Star Bright it is my bright stars Prom Night!!! I know that was corny, I could not resist. I can't believe how grown up and beautiful she has become.

A fun group of kids out for a FUN evening!

Let the Drama Begin...

Happy Mother's Day all you Hot Mamas!

2010-05-08T17:12:00.003-05:00

{mom & fat happy child}

The Images of Mother

4 YEARS OF AGE - My Mommy can do anything!

8 YEARS OF AGE - My Mom knows a lot! A whole lot!

12 YEARS OF AGE - My Mother doesn't know everything!

14 YEARS OF AGE - My Mother? She wouldn't have a clue.
.
16 YEARS OF AGE - Mother? She's so five minutes ago.

18 YEARS OF AGE - That old woman? She's way out of date!

25 YEARS OF AGE - Well, she might know a little bit about it!

35 YEARS OF AGE - Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion.

45 YEARS OF AGE - Wonder what Mom would have thought about it?

65 YEARS OF AGE - Wish I could talk it over with Mom.

Happy Mother's Day!

Sneak Peek at My New Line

2010-04-29T07:22:00.008-05:00

I have been working the last few months on developing my new line for the year. I always work on it during the winter months and unveil it at the Libertyville Art Festival the end of the summer. I will be doing a Trunk Show at Olivia's this Saturday and decided to bring it out early this year. With a push, I was able to get a lot of the pieces made. I still have to go on my big bead buy, so I had to work with what I had and what I could order online. A little tougher then going to the show, but I really liked the results and it forced me to use up some things I already had, imagine that!

So I thought I would give you a glimpse of what the line looks like. This line is a compilation of everything I have done from the beginning of my jewelry career, 17 yrs. ago until now. It combines beading, metal work, vintage jewelry & buttons, mixed media and influences from every class I have taken, every book I have read, current fashion trends along with many long hours of figuring out how to create components to make these images in my head a reality.
So here it is~

My trunk show will be Saturday from 11-5 at Olivia's in Long Grove~across from the Village Tavern
The Long Grove Chocolate Festival is also this weekend, if you get a chance come on out:)

The Typewriter

2010-04-23T09:29:00.005-05:00

I have been looking for an old typewriter to type little messages for my collage pieces, pricing, signage, etc. Well, look what came into my life and made me very happy :)

My friend Dawn was out at the garage sales last weekend and remembered, bless her, that I had mentioned wanting an old typewriter and she found this cute little gem that works perfectly. I can also leave it out in my house and it makes me happy to just look at it!

I did some online research and found that Ernest Hemingway used this same typewriter to do his writing. So special, maybe this is his old typewriter, do you think? I am going to pretend it is and know that it will help me to express myself beyond belief!

I looked up some Ernest Hemingway quotes and these are some that really spoke to me...

I never had to choose a subject - my subject rather chose me.

As you get older it is harder to have heroes, but it is sort of necessary.

That terrible mood of depression of whether it's any good or not is what is known as The Artist's Reward.

There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.

Courage is grace under pressure.

What a great man, l remember back in my youth, a long time ago...we saw his home in Key West on a family vacation. It was so beautiful and now I have something in my home to remind me of that moment and the author. My hope is that it will give me more confidence in writing my little blog!

and now...I had to put a picture of my beautiful crab and pear tree in full bloom in the back yard. Wish they looked like this all year, but I will enjoy their beauty as long as I can.

~ happy writing and happy spring

Happy Birthday Baby Girl

2010-04-21T12:12:00.005-05:00

My baby girl turned 14 today~can't believe it!

daughter, sister, grandaughter, niece, friend, skater girl, softball player, guitar player, sweet, funny, athletic, artistic, music lover, dog lover, nature lover, cuddle bug etc. etc.

my Courtney ~ my baby girl
xoxoxo, mom

Butterflies are free to fly~

2010-04-17T12:41:00.008-05:00

My favorite cool chick ever is Sheryl Crow~
she is such a down to earth, natural girl and well I am a fan.

This may be old news to some, but I just discovered this song & video recently. I was in my body pump (weight training) class, yes I do force myself to exercise every once in a while. This song was played while we were doing my favorite part of body pump stretching and relaxing after the pain is all over! I thought this has to be Sheryl Crow, but who is singing with her? How did I not recognize that voice? Anyhow, I remembered that it had "Butterflies are free to fly" in it and when I got home, I googled and here it is... "Always on your Side"

Thought I would share it with you, beautiful...

I have added some of my favorite songs to a new playlist on my sidebar, if you care to listen just click play!
I love discovering new music ~ What song has inspired you recently?

New Girlfriends

2010-04-11T14:03:00.009-05:00

I made some new girlfriends at the flea market this weekend & then...
well I brought them home!

The first one I found was custom made by Sandy at Rhubarb Reign she is made out of chicken wire on an old lamp base.
I named her Ellie Mae (you know shes a farm chick with the chickenwire and all)
Here is a link to Sandy & Joe's blog:
http://rhubarb-reign.blogspot.com/
They travel and do a lot of shows in the area, if you ever get to one make sure you stop in their booth.
Lots of great finds and they are wonderful people!!!!

I found my other girlfriend all by her lonesome in a cute little booth with vintage prints. As I walked around contemplating if I needed one more friend, she kept calling my name from across the building. I went back to say my goodbyes and well we struck up a friendship & a deal...I would let her live here if she would pose for pictures with my jewelry on. She agreed so I brought her home and now she adorns my living room by a beautifully lit window and is picture perfect. I think I will call her Tiffany:)

We also had a visit from our girlfriend Jeannie and her dog Ivan who took a liking to Gina and well...sat in her lap! One big lap dog, thanks for stopping by and showing us your tricks Ivan you made our day.
You can find Jeannie's blog @ http://thegildedjunqueyard.blogspot.com/

our booth at the flea...

cute little butterfly bench~

and last but not least...thank's to Dawn for all the fun and laughs. You are the best girlfriend~

Flea Market this Weekend

2010-04-09T08:27:00.004-05:00

My second weekend at the Grayslake Flea Market. I am excited for better weather then last month and another chance to meet new vendors and friends! Dawn and I will be bringing some fun new things this month, we hope you come out and see us.

A few of my new creations with the things I found out junking this month

Here is my repurposed cheese grater~earring holder

& my muffin tin~jewelry holder or desk organizer

and of course I will have some of my jewelry there...xo...come visit!

This month at Grayslake Flea Market they are featuring vintage clothing, so come see some vendors with fun clothing~
Here is a link with information on the flea market:
http://www.zurkopromotions.com/

I will also be featured at Prairie Arts & Fibers at a Women's Art Show on Sunday~very close to the flea market you could do both :)
For information and directions there see the following link to Prairie Arts & Fibers: prairieartsandfibers.com

Creative Juices Flowing

2010-04-07T08:19:00.004-05:00

Just a few of the items that I am working with to bring to Lake County Flea Market in Grayslake this weekend. I am having a lot of fun with them! Will post the pictures later this week on how they turn out:)
ooh the suspense....

Drama Darling turns 17!

2010-03-27T17:31:00.007-05:00

O.K. I have to do a post about my daughter turning 17! First of all, I cannot believe that I have a 17 year old, how does that happen. We are looking at colleges and talking about what she wants to be when she grows up. Cripes I am still trying to figure all that out.

One of her best girlfriends decorated her bedroom and surprised her, it turned out so cute. When she got home with some other friends the party broke out in her room! My girl has the greatest friends!

To moms delight she dates a creative boy! He is a singer and comes to our house and plays and sings beautiful music on our piano and guitars. I have also discovered he is an visual artist as well, oh heart be still. Could it be she takes after her mom after all, creativity not only is in her, but in those she chooses to call her friends!
He made this mosaic of her for her birthday.

I would say a great likeness of her gorgeous self!

Here they are with her big orange birthday smile:)

Happy Birthday to my sweet, talented, beautiful girl~mama loves ya!

Recipe Box or Treasure Chest?

2010-03-20T15:12:00.010-05:00

A while back I was at an estate sale and found this little recipe box that turned out to be a treasure trove of history. It was so fun pulling out the old brittle pieces of newspaper and recipe cards. I really bought it just for that, a recipe box. I was going to collage it and hold all my old family recipe cards in it. I had no idea of what a treasure it actually was, at least to someone like me who loves old images, papers or anything vintage.
Look at the date on this newspaper clipping~

Who doesn't love a recipe with "Ethel" as the creator? Names of our ancestors...My mom had an aunt Esther, Elsie, Bertha and her mom Mayme.

Prune Cake & Jelly~I found a lot of recipes that included jello or jelly in this little box~

I think the owner of this little recipe box used it for more then her favorite recipes, maybe her favorite things. I found these old ads in there~

and a report card~

Where would I go to buy some lard, so I can try out this Short Cake recipe :)

You never know when you may find a little treasure...happy hunting!

Successful & Fun

2010-03-16T16:31:00.009-05:00

We had a Fun time at the flea market this past weekend! I made some new friends and saw some old friends and chatted with other vintage crazed people like myself.
Loved working with Dawn, she is amazing to me. So calm about everything and more energy then anyone I know. The mix of vintage furniture with jewelry and mixed media items worked out well in our booth. Look at this great chippy window frame that she put some screws in that we hung my spoons on, so cute!

I of course did some damage while I was there. Imagine that. I bought this cute little box that I could not pass up that Joan made, here is her blog ~ http://thepottingshed-anythinggoeshere.blogspot.com/

Then I bought some more buttons and earrings to pull apart that will make gorgeous necklaces!

So many great booths at the show, I have to go around and take more pictures next time. Since I was a newbie I stayed close to the booth. Must admit every time I went for food or to the ladies room I stopped and picked through boxes and it was as though there was a vacuum that would suck me into booths.
I had a great time talking with a new friend," Jeannie" who also designs jewelry and has a child who is passionate about music, we had so much in common, I could of talked to her for hours:) Here is her blog link ~ http://thegildedjunqueyard.blogspot.com/

I cannot wait till next month~so inspired to make more for the next show!

getting ready for the flea market~

2010-03-09T08:20:00.004-06:00

I have had a fun this week creating mixed media and new jewelry designs for the Lake County Flea Market that I am doing with my friend Dawn this weekend. Dawn has repurposed furniture and I am bringing along little gift items to put in the booth. This will be a new venue for me and I am very excited! I know that it will be hard to be a seller at the flea rather then a shopper, lol. Who am I kidding, I have a feeling I will do more damage buying then I will make selling. The temptations will be too great:) What better way to spend a weekend then at a flea market with a good friend and lots of vintage treasures?!

Mixed Media Designs~

New mop button pendants and rings~

Here is a link with information on the Flea Market:
http://www.zurkopromotions.com/Grayslake.htm

Jewelry Envy

2010-03-03T10:34:00.008-06:00

Can I tell you, I have jewelry envy, because my jewelry gets to travel to these wonderful places that I cannot. I send it to a beautiful little gallery packed with the best art ever in Prescott, AZ. I long to live in an area like this with its beautiful scenery, weather, boutiques, galleries & just visual stimulation everywhere you look.

My jewelry also travels to people that order it off my website who live in areas that I can only dream of visiting. If only I could hand deliver everything, I would be one happy camper (because that is exactly what I would be doing, CAMPING).

I love to work with beautiful images of the Madonna and Guadeloupe which you see a lot of in southwestern art. I get my fix, using them in my designs for the "Newman Gallery".

If you are visiting Prescott, AZ look for "Newman Gallery" in its quaint little downtown area and tell Dave, Donna & Nancy "hi" from me, they are wonderful people with a gift for creativity! I guarantee you will be glad you stopped in!
Dave Newman is an artist and you can view his website (listed below) to see some of his wonderful pieces!

{Here is a link to the galleries website} http://www.newmangallery.net/
{Here is a link to Dave Newman's website} http://davenewmanstudio.com/
Newman Gallery {106-A South Montezuma Street Prescott, Arizona 86303}

Magical

2010-02-22T22:13:00.004-06:00

As much as I complain about the cold here in the midwest, it is days like this that are just magical. I could not resist going off my route today to drive down a park road that I knew would be breathtaking and I was not disappointed.

Loved the way this evergreen was framed by the tall trees~

and this mighty oak tree, still hangs on to its leaves all cloaked in snow, beautiful!

Spring Shopping

2010-02-18T07:21:00.007-06:00

Went out to deliver some jewelry to Olivia's Boutique (in Long Grove, IL) and can I say that every time I go there Lynne has found more great pieces. Clothing, Scarves (which is my latest obsession), Purses, Shoes, Belts, Jewelry things you will not find everywhere, she has such an eye.

When I go shopping and see such great clothes it motivates me to get into the gym and get body ready for wearing all the new spring and summer pieces and reveal my skin again. To shed the winter coats and heavy clothes. So yes, starting this week my goal is to get to the gym at least 3-4 times a week, which is great for me. Yesterday, I went out and instead of buying the cute spring clothes I bought some new workout wear. How is that for motivation? We will see how that works!

Check out these boots~

Loved the top, scarf & great necklace on this display

If you live anywhere around the area and are ever in Long Grove, I encourage you to stop by and visit Lynne and her beautiful shop! Tell her Cindy sent you:) Here is a link to Olivia's website and facebook page~
http://www.longgroveshops.com/merch-pages/Olivias/Olivias.html
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=44083504962&ref=ts

LOVE on Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T11:22:00.004-06:00

Hope everyone is finding TRUE LOVE on Valentine's Day and doing things that they LOVE. A quiet day for me, husbands working as is my drama daughter. Baby Girl & I are home and I know that I need to clean house, but I do not LOVE that, so being that it is Valentine's Day...one should only do what one LOVES, right?!

Yesterday, I made some heart collages to give to my friends and family. Planned on making a bunch and well, got 3 done. Now think mom will get one and I will probably just keep the other two. They took much longer then I anticipated, my great idea came way to late, but I did LOVE doing them. I also visited my friend Dawn (the one with the beautiful vintage jars from previous post) at the flea market which I LOVED. I always LOVE the flea market, what's not to LOVE about the flea market?

So far I have LOVED my weekend and will enjoy spending tomorrow with my family at the auto show and we can LOVE all the new cars and each other then!

MUCH LOVE to all on Valentines Day~xoxo

She does it again!

2010-02-12T08:05:00.011-06:00

My friend Dawn owns a shop here in Illinois named "Recovered Treasures". She has vintage furniture that she gives new life to and many vintage and new home accessories and gift items. She is so creative, I was by her shop the other day and she was making these beautiful keepsake ball jars with vintage jewelry that you can store just about anything in.

How great would these be to receive some Valentines Day candy in? I posted pictures of a few of my favorites, they are all so wonderful!

Being there during the creative process has its perks...look at the one I picked out for myself, Happy Valentine's Day to me!

You can see some of Dawn's shop items on her Facebook page and soon to be Etsy site at these links~

FACEBOOK LINK ~ http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lake-Villa-IL/Recovered-Treasures/115806311746?ref=sgm

ETSY SITE {coming soon} ~ recoveredtreasures.etsy.com/

Baby it's Cold Outside

2010-02-10T09:59:00.003-06:00

Oh Peter, you long for Neverland...My lil Peter Pan in his garden Loin Cloth is shivering in the snow~

As well as the the birds in their snowy little house~

We got dumped on in the midwest yesterday! Hey we even had an earthquake...what is going on here! Again House Swap anyone?

Making "LOVE"

2010-02-06T15:31:00.010-06:00

Hammering love into the brass

"Making Love"
Oh My...Imagine what search engines my blog might show up in with this title. Maybe, I will capture a whole new audience ;-)
Sorry, if you were looking for a bit of excitement, that is of course unless you are excited about Hearts, Jewelry, Soldering, Hammering, Love... etc, etc. Just a little post about what is up in the studio...

I have been busy creating some Shadowbox Necklaces that capture a Rhinestone Heart in them with the word "Love" stamped on the back to remind you to give and receive it every day! I have listed these in my Etsy shop along with a few other heart inspired pieces. Hope you take a look...If you purchase a piece of heart related jewelry on my website and say you saw it on my blog in the comment, I will refund you 10% of the purchase price from now until Valentine's Day. Even if you came across this blog when you happened to be looking for something else...you know what I mean?!

More pieces just soldered

More Heart inspired Pieces~

Little Rhyme for the day "Valentine's Day is a week away"
Sending Love your way~XO

Ingrid Michaelson

2010-02-04T08:12:00.001-06:00

Love Ingrid Michaelson~ this video of "Far Away" goes along with the longing of escape to a beach! Includes "The Way I Am" too another favorite. Enjoy~

Longing

2010-02-02T09:25:00.005-06:00

Every year at this time I get this longing to be by the ocean, to feel the sun on my body! I am sure this is true for most everyone that lives in the midwest.

I was given this picture by an artist friend to have fun and collage with and I just love it. How long has it been since I have picked up a shell and listened to the ocean. I remember doing this as a child, my dad had a conch shell and we would hold it up to our ears and you better believe we could hear the ocean and maybe even dream of being a mermaid!

I was just talking to my daughter the other day about a movie I saw many years ago called "The Incredible Mr. Limpet" with Don Knotts. Anyone remember that movie? I am showing my age, I know. I loved this movie and still remember it so vividly. It was about a man who longed to be a fish and live in the ocean.

Found a clip on youtube...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdK3z3Uqiws

This clip is so vintage, guess that means, so am I. I loved the part where the wife says...if you only paid me half as much attention as those fish I would be the happiest women and he replies that the fish are so bright and cheerful. I think I would appreciate the movie for other qualities now that escaped me as a child.

For any reading this post that live by the ocean and are longing for a trip to the beautiful midwest...can we say house swap?

Happy Birthday today to Diana who writes a beautiful blog about the midwest to tempt you to want to visit...
http://heartlandblog.blogspot.com/

Happy Birthday Dad!

2010-01-30T10:31:00.008-06:00

{retro} picture of dad working with one of the many students he has mentored over the years.

Father, Grandfather, Son, Brother, Dog Lover, Friend, Dr. Weik (Professor), Teacher, Mentor, Naturalist, Botanist, Star Gazer, Story Teller, Artist, Photographer, Model Maker, Ham Radio Operator, Handyman, Hiker, Runner, Raquetball Player, Cook, Traveler...etc. etc. etc.

My Dad's birthday was yesterday and we went out for a nice dinner and then back to the house for our favorite Birthday Cake and yes you guessed it, the same Chocolate Cake that we had for the recent Bad Day. Seems to work for everything!!!

Happy Birthday Dad...Love you~

Let the Sun Shine

2010-01-28T07:44:00.009-06:00

I have been feeling so tired this week. Hard to get motivated. I think it is the lack of sunshine. I think I have Seasonal Affective Disorder. The disease that makes you shut down when there is no sunshine! I think my dog has it too...of course he tends to shut down during the day most of the time. He is my partner for most of the day, hard to motivate when your partner is snoozing on the couch all day and all you want to do is join him. He has recently taken to the only piece of furniture that he has not ruined and of course my favorite pillow! Aw, but doesn't he look cute?!

This has been one of those weeks that maybe...I should of stayed in bed.
My drama darling had a bad audition for a summer job at Great America for one of the entertainers in the shows. Her CD skipped during the singing audition, missed part of the dance audition training, etc. etc. so she cried for hours and well, I baked her a chocolate cake to make her feel better. Seemed to help.
Here she is in the last play she was in "The Wedding Singer" she is the bridesmaid to the right of Billy Idol (who happens to be her boyfriend)! She would kill me if she saw I posted this picture...l know she does not read my blog though so all is good!

While all this was going on at the audition...I went to take my baby girl to register for spring softball and then out to lunch. On the way home we got rear ended in the Mini Cooper by an SUV, (ouch) and had to file police reports etc. etc. Neither of us was hurt and the Mini suffered some scratches and dents to the hatch, but considering the size differential we did o.k.! So the chocolate cake was for us too!

Moral of the story, when the sun fails to shine on you and all seems lost~
EAT CAKE :)

And the Winner is...

2010-01-24T09:57:00.016-06:00

Inspiration is hard on a cold, gloomy, rainy day like today. The kind of day you just want to crawl back under the covers, but one must get up and get going, put on the coffee and see what unfolds for the day. Yes it is raining here in Illinois, I am so grateful it is not snow. Maybe, Mr. Robin Red Breast did know that spring would be coming early? Let's Hope!

I want to thank all who participated in my first Give Away, what fun. I loved all the inspirational comments, I am now very inspired! It was a great way to kick off my new Blog design, that I plan to stay committed too, again inspiration!!!
So...I wrote all the numbers on pieces of paper and had my baby girl draw the winner out of my lucky cowgirl hat.

And the Winner is...#4~
Cindy M.
(I will contact you)

I am inspired to do more Give Aways in the future. I am going to look around and see if I cannot work on some swaps for Give Aways, with my favorite artists, so keep your fingers crossed.

My Donation for Haiti by Hand Relief Fund

2010-01-22T07:33:00.006-06:00

My donation of the Guardian Angel Shadowbox Necklace is for sale on the "Haiti by Hand" etsy site. All money made from sales will go directly to the relief and rebuilding efforts of Haiti by Hand in Despinos, Haiti. For more information on the cause go to: http://haitibyhand.typepad.com/blog/

Please, keep checking, because new items by many talented artists are added every day and this is a great way to give to people in great need!

www.etsy.com/shop/haitibyhand
Thanks~xoxoxo

Scroll down to Tuesdays Post for GIVEAWAY and leave a comment there if you want to enter!

New twist on Girls Night Out!

2010-01-21T09:21:00.007-06:00

Last week I went to my friend Dawn's house and her gracious sister Donna came over and taught a few of us gals a simple crochet stitch. I'm not sure if it is the crocheting or the wine and girl talk, but I am hooked...no pun intended! What a great way to spend time with a few friends.

I had crocheted a bit when I was very young and you know what, it was like riding a bike it all came back. I felt my grandmother being channeled through me as I went row to row. I remembered how she would come over and crochet & knit for hours while visiting. How she was able to count her stitches and carry on a conversation is beyond me. Maybe, if I was not drinking wine at the same time? Eventually, I stopped counting and just eyeballed it. This, however, was not the best idea!

My mom made beautiful blankets for all our babies and now for those same babies going off to college! So it makes sense that I learn to crochet blankets for my girls babies, right?! Learn, while I have the time. I think I will start with simple scarfs.
Look, I already have enough done to make a scarf that fits my cherub statue!

If you want to see some great knitting & crocheting check out this etsy site by "afra", absolutely beautiful pieces, my favorite: http://www.etsy.com/shop/afra

Love For Haiti

2010-01-20T07:26:00.009-06:00

The images of Haiti that we have all seen on the news are heartbreaking. I love that the red cross has found such easy ways for us to donate. I came across this website by Rebecca Sower the other day and was delighted to find another way that I could help with the cause.

http://haitibyhand.typepad.com/blog/

On the website Rebecca will be featuring~
Supply drives.
Art auctions from some of your favorite artists.
Stories told.
Information shared.

She is asking for other artists to donate their art to the cause for the etsy sales site.
I have just put in a request to send jewelry to her, I hope that others follow and we can make a difference. The items already offered on the site are beautiful, I encourage you to go and see what is offered.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/haitibyhand
You may have to check back often, because they will sell fast. If you want to see some that have already been purchased click on sales.

A big thanks goes out to Rebecca and her insight to create and implement this heartwarming and charitable site.
http://rebeccasower.typepad.com/

Give Away This Week~Inspire

2010-01-19T09:47:00.011-06:00

“Enthusiasm is excitement with inspiration, motivation, and a pinch of creativity.” ~ Bo Bennett

What inspires you? Inspiration to me comes in different ways. A sunny day, working out, cooking, a walk, being around my family, friends, music, art, a moment just to name a few. I wish I could wake up every day with a burst of inspiration, sometimes you have to go out and look for it and other times it is just there and wonderful!

I am giving my "inspire" necklace away. If you would like to have it add your name to the comment section and tell me in one word what inspires you? I will randomly pick a post number and announce the winner on Sunday!

Go out and be Inspired today:)

Please, leave your comment for the give away right here below this post click where it says comment. Thanks~

Crystal Morning

2010-01-18T09:07:00.004-06:00

Yesterday, I woke up to a beautiful icy/foggy morning. All the trees were coated with this thin layer of ice that made them look like chandeliers. I was up early dropping my daughter off at work and then off to beat the crowds at the grocery store on a Sunday morning. On my way home all I wanted to do was to get out my camera and capture these beautiful trees. Then it happened, the shot of a lifetime, out my kitchen window there it was a bright red cardinal perched in my icy pear tree, absolutely breathtaking. I quickly scrambled to get my camera and go out and capture the picture. No great zoom on my little digital so I quietly opened up the patio door to sneak out and snap the shot. Well you guessed it, the cardinal flew away the minute I got my camera to my face. In my disappointment, I noticed this chubby little robin sitting in the tree right next to the pear tree posing ever so grandeur for me to capture this beautiful morning. I was very pleased with his patience as he even let me get up close and get a good shot of his big belly. Thinking all the while to myself isn't he supposed to be flying south by now? Could spring be around the corner? Signs of last spring still linger in the trees. One can dream...

The simple Robin Red Breast, as grand as any old cardinal sitting regally on his throne of ice crystals. Thank you for letting me capture your beautiful simplicity~

Tomorrow I will be announcing a give away so come on back...xo

Time for a Change

2010-01-17T09:51:00.003-06:00

Out with the old...In with the New...

I felt with the new decade, I wanted a new look for my blog. This is the vision I have had for sometime for my blog. Like I said in my previous post, I had been putting it off and decided to take advantage of my ambition in the new year to go for it!
Unfortunately, I am not very web savvy, so a lot that I wanted to do I could not figure out how to do! So I settled, yes I settled, I am trying to not sweat the small stuff in 2010! It is just FINE!

I decided on the more subdued colors, because that is what the majority of my jewelry and painting colors are. I am always drawn to soft watercolor hues and deep blacks, browns & grays. Why I originally went with the bright colors I am not sure, but whenever I did a post other then at Halloween, I found I did not like the way the pictures looked with my background colors.

So here is my redesign, I hope that those of you that are looking at my blog find it appealing, I know that I am much happier with it.

Now can I redesign my kitchen? Think I need that warm and fuzzy feeling in there too :)

Pass the Doughnuts

2010-01-16T09:38:00.003-06:00

Traditions...isn't it funny how certain things just seem right and they carry on from generation to generation? I know that my girls will be making the same recipes that have been passed down through our families. Grandma W's Mushroom Soup, Grandma N's Swedish Meatballs, Aunt Esther's Chocolate Cake to name a few...

Mom used to make these light, sweet doughnuts when we were kids and now they have become one of my kids favorite weekend delicacies. They could not be easier to make on a sleepy Saturday or Sunday morning. I encourage you to try for yourself you will not be disappointed.

1 package of refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
vegetable or canola oil
sugar or cinnamon sugar

Fill a small saucepan 1/3 to 1/2 full with the oil on medium heat not too hot. While it is warming open your biscuits and with a pop bottle cap cut your holes in the middle of the bisquit, these will become your doughnut holes! When you are done cutting out the holes, start by gently dropping one of the holes in the oil. When it starts to brown add the others your oil is now hot enough. With a slotted spoon take out and drain on a plate with paper towels, while still warm, but not hot, roll in your sugar and put on another plate. Continue adding the rest of the holes and doughnuts into the oil and rolling in the sugar till done. That is it. Total process takes maybe 10-15 minutes and your done.

Serve with coffee or milk~DELICIOUS!

A Cold Day

2010-01-06T18:19:00.009-06:00

Another New Year is upon me and I long to leave the old and bring on the new! I have so many visions of designs for jewelry, home, paintings & collages that I cannot wait to get started. My girls are back in school today and the hubby at work and here it is house to myself and a Cold...a sneezy, red nose stuck in bed all day COLD!

What to do, I cannot let this opportunity completely escape me when I remember that I have been wanting to get back to working on my blog. I can do that in bed with a runny nose! What is it that while cleaning house or getting ready for an event that you realize you really need to redecorate or go shopping for new outfits? Well the same thing has happened with trying to work on my blog...I think I need a major redesign. So I will add that to my list for this month with all the other things.

Off to get a good nights sleep and take plenty of fluids and of course my NyQuil and hope tomorrow is a sick free day:)

Here's to a healthy and creative New Year to all!

~painting is by one of my very best friends, Cindi Sartain

Happy Holidays

2009-12-23T09:25:00.004-06:00

Another year is coming to an end and the magical time of Christmas is upon us once again. As I get older and my children are now teens, Christmas has a different feeling. Sometimes we get so involved in the shopping and to do lists that the meaning of the season escapes us. We lose sight of the season through a childs eyes.

Christmas is a magical time and I long for the days of that wonderment with Dancing by the Christmas Tree, Caroling, The Nutcracker, Cookies, Hot Chocolate, Building Snowmen, Sledding and all that goes with the season. I want to step back and take the time to savor this time of year and enjoy the quiet & stillness of a magical snowfall. Even as our children and ourselves grow older that inner child is still there in all of us and we need to celebrate it, especially at Christmas!

Happy Holidays to all and a shiny bright New Year~

~HOLIDAY SALE on my Etsy site~

2009-11-25T10:00:00.004-06:00

Holiday Sale starts Friday Nov. 27th thru Sunday Dec. 20th
~check it out!

Halloween Display

2009-10-26T07:54:00.005-05:00

Setting up a display of jewelry for a show this past weekend inspired me to pull out all my Halloween goodies! A sexy witch costume worn many years ago that of course still hung in my closet~will always fit the dress form! My great find of a glittery skull at Michaels:) A box I found at a recent Estate Sale little did I know how Halloween it was! What fun it was...

I love this time of year, the cool temps the colors and of course all the fun of Halloween witches and goblins. The girls are older now so I can no longer dress them up in cute little costumes, but still enjoy watching the little ghouls and princesses that come to my door to trick or treat. Not sure what the plans are for this Halloween, but I know I will put on a pot of chili and hand out candy and then chill with a few of my favorite monsters!

hAppY hAlloWEEn!!!!

Festival of the Arts 2009

2009-08-03T13:30:00.002-05:00

This past weekend I spent showing my jewelry at "Festival of the Arts" in Libertyville, IL. We had a lot of rain on Saturday, which made the people disappear for awhile. Totally made up for it on Sunday though with a beautiful sunny day with the temperatures in the upper 70's, could of not asked for a better day! Enjoyed being beside my talented friend Cindi with her paintings and meeting many new people. Here are a few pics of my booth and jewelry.

I cannot believe summer is coming to an end and the kids will all be going back to school soon. As we get older it seems each year goes faster and faster. I just want life to slow down so I can do all that I want to do and spend time with those that I miss! Enjoy what's left of your summer everyone and know that a wonderful fall is just around the corner!

Gurnee All Stars

2009-07-27T08:46:00.001-05:00

Ah, it is over:[

Thanks girls for another great softball season...Fun, Sun and SOFTBALL...a winning combination!

Happy Birthday Baby Brother!

2009-07-05T10:27:00.007-05:00

The years between us are so evident in this picture! I was 13 when you were born and used to change you, feed you, babysit you and of course play with you! Now you are all grown up and making your mark on life. You truely are an inspiration.

So Talented... {http://www.v-i-k.com/}
Happy Birthday Dave~xoxoxo

Independence Day the New Berlin Way

2009-07-05T10:02:00.004-05:00

Family, Friends, Parades, Food, Drinks, Laughs, Fireworks, Carnivals, Chats, Music, Laughter, etc. etc.
Another wonderful Fourth!
New Berlin, WI ~ July 4, 2009

The Cindy/Cindi collaboration project~

2009-06-26T17:12:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite people in the world, who also happens to be a very talented painter Cindi Sartain and I worked today on some pendants with her paintings in them. We wanted to do some this summer for the "Festival of the Arts" in Libertyville, IL. , since we always have booths right next to each other. Here are some samples of the ones we put together that are still drying. Love the way they look in the pendants! I will post some more pictures as we do more and will be putting some on the website.

Idol Auditions

2009-06-22T18:40:00.007-05:00

The pictures above are of Carly, Dylan & Kelsey entering United Center, In our seats after singing the group song & Kelsey singing "Landslide" for Judge #3!

The American Idol experience was a lot of fun. We saw very interesting as well as many talented people that were singing their hearts out in the parking lot, hallways, nooks and crannies. With the announcement that Chicago had the 2nd largest amount of people they have seen audition, we knew we were in for a little bit of a wait. They took the groups up by sections and we were pretty much a little past half way. Each person was allowed about 20 to 30 seconds to shine! With only few Golden tickets given out with the amount of people there, I do not know how they choose. The talent as I said seemed incredible.

There was your typical American Idol fun dressed people and we saw a few of them get in, not sure if the vocals were good too? We could not hear from our seats. Great people watching though!

We went with Kelsey's boyfriend Dylan and his sister Carly and their parents. All the kids have been involved in theater and music for some time and their songs sounded great. Kelsey sang "Landslide" one of my very favorite songs of all time! She sang it beautifully! Unfortunately, none of the kids will get the chance to audition for Simon & the Idol gang or be Hollywood bound. We look forward to trying again(?) another year:) All in all, a fun day, now we are exhausted and ready to go to bed!

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-20T08:09:00.006-05:00

Hop on Pop. We like to hop. We like to hop on Pop!

Seriously...Dad~Hubby
loving, fun, good looking, handy, sporty, our rock, music lover, motorcycle enthusiast, creative, stylish, friend, supportive, driving instructor, coach, therapist, part time friend and family ER doc, my mcdreamy, gentle soul, giving, funny, the greatest...

& oh so Cool...Happy Father's Day!

We love you~xoxoxo

New creations from my Studio

2009-06-19T10:45:00.006-05:00

Rain Rain go away, but wait, I have gotten some new pieces done in the studio, woo hoo! I will be posting on my Etsy site soon.

When the sun comes out and the garden beckons I have such a hard time going into my basement studio. I love my studio it is well lit and very inspiring, but no windows! It is hard when I have been locked away all winter and now the birds chirping and all the greenery I just want to be out there. I have tried to plan my schedule where I spend the morning and early afternoon hours working and then reward myself with late afternoon outings. Here in the midwest though we have had many rainy days and it does make it alot easier to be productive.

So while myself and others complain about the weather deep down I do love rainy days:)

Time Spent~

2009-06-11T09:30:00.003-05:00

My girlfriends (+ one hubby in tow) and I went on our annual first of the season trip to Kane County, IL flea market. Always fun looking for treasures and spending time with friends. You never know what you might find. We picked up plants, garden objects, bed sheets, a cute little bohemian bag, vintage tri-pod, jewelry, gifts, and of course as always some good eatin! I believe Mike (hubby in tow) might of had more fun and purchases then the rest of us:)

Happy Birthday Mom~

2009-06-07T23:07:00.000-05:00

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. ~Tenneva Jordan

~mother, wife, grandmother, sister, friend, family center, traveler, cook, doll lover, antique buff, silly, creative, family historian, teacher, counselor, gardener, etc. etc. etc. xoxoxo ~ Love to my mom on her birthday

sWeeT TwEEt

2009-06-06T21:42:00.001-05:00

This little goldfinch visits our window and knocks a few times a day. Is he looking to come back home from some escaped cage? Is he in love with my dog? Is he beckoned like the wildlife in Snow White to my daugther's singing?

All I know is that I have come to expect this little guys visits every morning and will miss them terribly if he ever stops coming by.

pink heaven

2009-05-26T12:50:00.000-05:00

If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom. ~Audra Foveo

The Peonies have Popped~

hAppY bIRthDaY SisTa~

2009-05-21T08:54:00.000-05:00

You have always been there to support my artistic endeavors...

To make me feel like you needed me for support...

To CHILL with..

A sister shares childhood memories and grown-up dreams. ~Author Unknown

Best of Birthdays Becky...Love ya ~

Fashion Show

2009-05-20T22:52:00.000-05:00

Mother's Day weekend fashion show at Kemper Lakes Country Club. Beautiful model (caitie) wore my peace sign shadowbox necklace along with an adorable dress from Olivia's in Long Grove. Loved the Look!

Heart & Soul

2009-05-20T08:03:00.000-05:00

Time to do a blog post...it has been a while. I have been cleaning out the studio and getting at some new ideas that have been rolling around in my head. Wish I had many more hours to tackle all of the ideas in my head, oh to have more time!!!!

I am so excited about some new designs that were inspired by some cute little heart charms that I had. Just put them on my Etsy site and in some of my shops. Hope everyone loves them as much as I do!

I will be posting some other new designs as they roll of the work bench! Off to enjoy a beautiful sunny day and go to my metal working class, Life is good:)

The beauty of Arizona

2009-04-11T09:12:00.000-05:00

Our spring break was spent in Scottsdale, AZ with side trips to Prescott, Sedona, Cave Creek and Phoenix. We fell in love with this beautiful state. The colors the mountains, cactus, blue skies, warm temperatures and people. We would love to live here someday. We met up with my sisters family who were also vacationing there for some poolside fun and great meals. Here is one of our favorite restaurants in Cave Creek.

Relaxing with my hubby in a beautiful lookout spot!

New Shadowbox Necklaces

2009-03-05T08:56:00.000-06:00

These are my newest "For Luck" and "Peace" Necklaces. Loved the colors in these!
Took them over to my favorite boutique in Long Grove "Olivia's" the other day.
Just wanted to post them, because I loved the colors so much:)
Remind me of spring!

Spring is in the air a week of 60's here in the midwest, ahhhh! I am so ready.

For the love of Tofu

2009-02-19T12:02:00.000-06:00

O.K. I never thought that Tofu would become my favorite food. I Love, Love, Love it and wanted to share this with everyone. The possibilities are endless with this remarkable, healthy food. I have been having my own Tofu scramblers for lunch every day. Here is one of my favorites.

My Italian scrambler...
Firm Tofu (mashed with a fork to the consistency of a scrambled egg)
garlic
onion (any kind will do, but do use fresh not dry)
chopped spinach
pesto about 1T
cut up grape tomatoes - plum would work too
a little tomato basil Mrs. Dash seasoning (you could use salt and pepper, but I try not to add any to keep my salt intake down)

Wasa cracker with cheese on the side:)

Try other combos... mexican with salsa and onion, ham & swiss with mushroom and onion, veggie...any combo works, tofu takes on the flavor of whatever you put with it. Keep track of any cheese for calorie content and cut on the salt and you have a great healthy meal. Sprinkle some walnuts or almonds on top for a little healthy fat.

Since cutting out salt and sugar in my diet I have dropped 8 lbs. in 4 weeks. It is remarkable what just that will do. I have started eating fresh fruits and veggies every meal and cutting out soda and drinking a lot of water! O.K. it took me a long time to actually except what I always knew, but never thought I would love the food so much more.

The girls love everything we have been eating to my surprise! Should of done this years ago. Seems like I was stuck in a rut of making the same things all the time. Experimenting with spices, fresh ingredients and whole grains has been a lot of fun and the benefits are great.

Rocking...School House Rock!

2009-02-04T08:12:00.000-06:00

Kelsey was part of the cast of "School House Rock" this past week and Courtney and I were on the backstage crew. We had such a fun time being involved with this great cast & crew! Some parts of the show were broadcast on WGN news in the morning which was really exciting for the cast. By the end of the week all were exhausted along with being excited that it went so well! We are all a lot smarter then when it started we know our adjectives, verbs, nouns, the preamble etc. etc.

This picture has Kelsey in front after doing some flip flops across the stage:)