Vintage-at-Heart

Spring Fever

2010-02-24T18:44:00.000-08:00

As a teenager living in California , I remember loving the early days of spring. The skies were magnificent blue and filled with cotton candy clouds. I loved those spring days because they were filled with daydreams of convertibles and ocean beaches. Now that I’m a mid-westerner, I long for those types of days. The daydreams are still filled with convertibles and ocean beaches, but they are quickly crowded out with the anticipation of auctions, flea markets and just plain junking. To satisfy my junk cravings, I devour decor magazines, watch American Pickers (my new obsession) and haunt the internet. Old Man Winter teases me with a glimpse of days to come, but then he laughs as he slams us with record-busting cold and snowfall.

That’s okay Old Man, I’ll get the final laugh.

2009-10-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

Gage Andrew

8 lbs 15 oz

I'm in Love

2009-02-02T18:12:00.000-08:00

Today we went for an ultrasound of my first grandchild and all I can say is "Wow"! At 12 weeks, this baby already has a personality and is a mover and a shaker. I believe there is a gymnist in my daughters womb. Life is good!!

2008

2009-01-01T20:54:00.000-08:00

In 2008, life has been good...and sad. The year has brought much insight, heartache and freedom. I left a soul-stealing job, gave myself some space and freedom from a relationship and began the process of finding out who I really am. The journey is still in front of me, but isn't that what life is about?

In 2008, I also learned I will be a grandmother. I still don't connect myself to that title, but I'm excited at the possibilities. While timing is not always the best, the blessing of a baby is never wrong. My wish for my daughter is to have the insight and wisdom to make loving decisions for her baby and herself...and to be touched by a child as much as I have been touched by her and her sister.

Watch out 2009, here I come!!!!

I'm a Doris

2009-01-01T20:04:00.000-08:00

This was right on....amazing for only two questions...

You Are a Doris!

You are a Doris -- "I must help others."

Dorises are warm, concerned, nurturing, and sensitive to other people's needs.

How to Get Along with Me

* Tell me that you appreciate me. Be specific.

* Share fun times with me.

* Take an interest in my problems, though I will probably try to focus on yours.

* Let me know that I am important and special to you.

* Be gentle if you decide to criticize me.

In Intimate Relationships

* Reassure me that I am interesting to you.

* Reassure me often that you love me.

* Tell me I'm attractive and that you're glad to be seen with me.

What I Like About Being a Doris

* being able to relate easily to people and to make friends

* knowing what people need and being able to make their lives better

* being generous, caring, and warm

* being sensitive to and perceptive about others' feelings

* being enthusiastic and fun-loving, and having a good sense of humor

What's Hard About Being a Doris

* not being able to say no

* having low self-esteem

* feeling drained from overdoing for others

* not doing things I really like to do for myself for fear of being selfish

* criticizing myself for not feeling as loving as I think I should

* being upset that others don't tune in to me as much as I tume in to them

* working so hard to be tactful and considerate that I suppress my real feelings

Dorises as Children Often

* are very sensitive to disapproval and criticism

* try hard to please their parents by being helpful and understanding

* are outwardly compliant

* are popular or try to be popular with other children

* act coy, precocious, or dramatic in order to get attention

* are clowns and jokers (the more extroverted Dorises), or quiet and shy (the more introverted Dorises)

Dorises as Parents

* are good listeners, love their children unconditionally, and are warm and encouraging (or suffer guilt if they aren't)

* are often playful with their children

* wonder: "Am I doing it right?" "Am I giving enough?" "Have I caused irreparable damage?"

* can become fiercely protective

Take Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz at HelloQuizzy

I'm Back!!!

2008-09-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

I feel rejuvenated and ready for new adventures. I've had time to get clarity, make some major changes and get jazzed about being creative again. These photos are not good, but I thought I would share my bedroom re-do. I had to use my phone camera to take these, but I'm working on getting new photos soon. I'm so happy with the way it turned out. Now, if I can just keep it this way....that's the true test.

The bedroom set has been a project I have been meaning to tackle for a long time and just procrastinated doing it (once again, part of the major change). I'm really happy how the red turned out. Reminds me of an old red barn....thus the name of the paint. The dressers had seen better days. It was an old set of my parent's and I have had it for at least 10 years. They have been through two of my kids, plus six of my parent's. So, it has held up VERY well, but needed to be reinvented. I hope I did it justice.

Next project....an old office desk that has seen better days also. When I'm done, it will look like it was bought out of a Pottery Barn catalog. Hope to show pictures this weekend.

Time for Reflection

2008-08-05T08:56:00.000-07:00

The last five days have "blessed" me with some life-changing events and I'm taking some time to regroup and focus on matters. I'll try to blog and sew, but I won't allow guilt if I don't. In order for me to be creative, my mind has to be clear and open to the process. Right now, it is too full of deep wounds and critical tasks to be completed. But already, I see the light at the end of the tunnel and savor the vision of a bright future.

2008-07-31T12:59:00.000-07:00

This is not an endorsement, just a small town photo. Obama came to Rolla, MO yesterday and this is what greeted him. I believe he enjoyed the sign because there is a national news photo of him smiling and shaking hands with these guys. He had to go out of his way to do this. Whether you are for or against him, Obama was the talk of this small town. He was greeted like a rock star.

Yippee!!

2008-07-22T06:04:00.000-07:00

I looked at the U-Handbag blog this morning and found something familiar. Lisa added my Hannah handbag (made out of a vintage tablecloth) to her Saturday Eye Candy Post. I love this bag and it's exciting to see others like it as well.

Sweet Hannah

2008-07-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

I met my niece for the first time last night. She is so cuddly and sweet. Oh, why do you have to live half a continent away? She will be with us for a month and I can't wait to spend time with her.

My Dirty Little Secret Is OUT!!!!

2008-06-27T07:29:00.000-07:00

I'm coming clean...literally. In the hopes of rehabilitation, I am posting my dirty little secret. My sewing room. In my defense, it's not all my fault. My daughter stored her things in this room and when she moved into her new apartment, she took her things and put my stuff all over the floor. Thus the rehabilitation.

I've actually already made major progress. Furniture has been moved and junk taken away. You can actually see the floor now.

By Monday, I'll have new photos to post. They at least won't be so embarrassing.

I've got a few new things to show you. I found the coolest website yesterday and it is addicting. It is called Block Posters. You upload a photo and it will create posters that you can print on your own printer.....for FREE. The possibilities are endless with this site. Look what I made yesterday. These were the first ones, so don't look to close.

The last thing I want to show you is adorable....and up for adoption. I was driving home last week on a country highway and almost hit this adorable basset-mix baby. I couldn't figure out where she came from (dogs are dumped all the time in the country), so she came home with me. She's adorable and quickly becoming part of our family....but, when the right home comes along, she will become part of someone else's family. That's me trying to convince myself.

My Dad

2008-06-26T08:18:00.000-07:00

I run across this photo of my father on a regular basis and it makes me smile every time. This photo is circa 1987 and his ingenuity amazes me. Work is never complete and sometimes you just need a break.

My dad has a kind soul and he's a soft place to fall when life has chewed us up. He loves our mom like you would not believe and by doing so, he has given us a glimpse of what real love really means.

I'm So Excited....and Honored

2008-06-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

I was recently contacted by Virtue Radio Network and asked to be part of their new series "Crafter of the Week". Judith Norman saw my Etsy store, allowed me to answer great questions and there I am, on the front page of the website.

It's exciting to be chosen out of so many talents on Etsy and it gives me the incentive and boost I have been looking for lately. If you get the opportunity, look at the website and read the other bios as well.

The Nest Is a Little Emptier

2008-06-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

Two of my babies flew from the nest this weekend....one literally. It has been a crazy week of both good and bad. We lost one of our cows on Thursday (she left a month old calf, who is doing great), Saturday my oldest daughter moved into her own place and Sunday...well, our pet sparrow, Toolah, decided it was time to leave the nest also. She flew out the door to her new life of babies and freedom. As my husband put it, "those darn boys". She'd been talking to the other birds through the screen and enjoying herself, but she never tried to fly out the door. In fact, she would fly AWAY from the door. Not this time. The door was opened for the dogs and she made a run for it. We miss her, but we are happy for her also. She decided it was time to go out and learn about life on her own.

This leads me to my daughter. I would have preferred she stayed at home a little longer, but just like Toolah, she decided it was time to learn about life on her own. I have faith because she's a smart girl and she can do it. I just wish it wasn't so soon.

On a lighter note, we had our own yard sale this weekend. The weather was beautiful and we were very successful making room for more "junk". Five families combined their stuff and we had it at my sister's house on Main Street. I think everyone was happy with the outcome and we all feel lighter.

Feedback Please

2008-05-27T21:54:00.000-07:00

I created a new business card and I need to know if it is too much. Please let it rip and tell me the truth. They haven't been printed yet, so I would appreciate any feedback you are willing to give. They've been designed to go with my soon-to-be updated website....it's all so exciting.

Tis the Season

2008-05-24T16:58:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year. The weather is great, the grass is beautifully green and the flowers are prolific. Best of all, it's auction and garage sale time. I went out with the hubby to get groceries and I brought back a little extra. I thought I would share.

This was the most expensive find...$13.00. We are going to use it as a planter and it will look great after I mow the lawn.

Hold your hat...$2.00. The owner said it was no good because they had to add the support pipes. I say, all the better to hold my fat behind. The vintage green is fabulous.

Vintage Vera scarf...$.25. It was amongst some kitchen towels not worthy of photos. I saw it and jumped with joy. It is a beautiful scarf.

Vintage planter..$.25. It's official, I have a vintage planter obsession. What can I say, they come in handy.

Vintage sharpener...$.50. I have wanted one of these for a long time.

Vintage sheet sets...$2.75. Love this pink and green one.

Vintage tote...$3.00. I found this last week at Goodwill.

Lastly...the first peony of the season. They are beautiful and smell heavenly.

Busy (and Proud) Week Ahead

2008-05-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

My dear (and hard-headed) daughter is graduating from high school this weekend. I'm proud of her since she has struggled and goofed her way to this moment. My hope for her is that she stops and smells the roses before she runs into adulthood. Slow down sweet girl and remember your momma loves you....now and always.

My brother and sister-in-law are coming to our small town to help celebrate this momentous event. We haven't seen them since moving from California 5 years ago and we are excited to see them. After raising two teenage daughters, I'm off to the hair dye aisle. I'm afraid they won't recognize me through all the gray hair.

So Cute She Gave Me a Heart Attack!!!

2008-05-07T15:51:00.000-07:00

Last night I was so tired, I fell asleep before putting Toolah, my pet sparrow away for the night. I woke up suddenly in a panic because I remembered I hadn't d0ne this and nobody in my house seemed to know where she was. Granted, she's very self-sufficient and able to hold her own with the dogs of the household (she, in fact, teases the dogs), but still I was freaked out. I kept calling her and looking in all of her "hidey-holes", but could not find her. As I stood in the hallway and scanned the living room, I heard a little shuffle in my ear. I glanced to the wreath on my daughter's door and look what I found. She was watching me worry and decided to keep quiet. She was asleep and didn't want to be disturbed. As I look at this picture, I realize she looks just like a mushroom bird that I would buy at Michael's, but indeed she's real.

A Treasured Possession

2008-04-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

Long ago (REALLY long ago) a very special women walked into my kindergarten class. Mrs. Upton was taking over my class mid-year to allow my original teacher, Mrs. Summers, to leave for another school. I'm not sure why this dear women has integrated herself into my childhood memories, but she is firmly within the depths of my heart and mind. After I graduated from kindergarten and moved up into the world of elementary school, I would continue to visit and help with "the younger kids". I enjoyed seeing her and helping out as much as I could. During third grade, I learned that she would be retiring. This was sad and I knew I would miss her. With the help of a few other teachers, I conjured up a "surprise" going-away party during one of my recesses. My mother was a professional cake decorator and was able to make a beautiful cake. I wore the special peach dress Mrs. Upton had bought for me and invited a friend to join in on the festivities. Now this is where the memories of a little girl and the eyes of an adult collide. I, of course, remember her great "surprise" over the party and festivities. I remember my excitement and the anticipation of the party. But, as I look at the photos capturing these memories, I realize she knew all along. But in true Mrs. Upton spirit, she faked her surprise and enthusiasm for an 8 year old girl who thought the world of her.

About 7 years ago, my mother gave me an envelope that held a thank you card from Mrs. Upton. My mother had kept it for all of these years and found it during a destashing session. I treasure that note and the photo showing my happy face. I've talked to Mrs. Upton a few times since my elementary school days and she's always happy to hear from me. But, I've never been able to express how much she meant to me. I think it time to sit down and write a quick letter to her and thank her for being such an integral part of my happy childhood. I hope we can all do that for the ones we love. Life is too short not to.

Here is a photo of my treasured possession. The turkey is also a treasure. She gave it to me in the third grade for helping her with the kids and their craft project. While it isn't the prettiest thing, I do love it and it has traveled far. It is always on display and something that I don't plan to part with anytime soon.

Painting and Moving Fun

2008-04-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

My house is in a state of disarray. Hmm, would you call it simply "disarray" if it looks worse than homes that have been hit by tornadoes? That seems too mild. I'm actually moving and painting three rooms of my house. My daughters have switched rooms and I'm moving my sewing into a room of it's own. This has been a crazier ordeal than anticipated and I'm not even close to being finished. As my husband complained about the house getting "messed up", I had to remind him that it would get worse before it got better. Boy, was I right. One room is painted and on it's way to being decorated. I thought I would share a few pictures. While the camera had a hard time picking up the correct pink, I think you will get the idea. My daughter is completely in love with her pink room. I enjoy pink also, but this is a little too pink for me. But, she says it makes her "happy". What more can a mom wish for than a happy teen?

I'm excited for this project to be completed since I haven't been able to sew for two weeks. I will make sure to post pictures of the completed project.

Look What I Just Got!!!!!!

2008-03-31T14:03:00.001-07:00

I just received this BEAUTIFUL print from amberalexander. Her name is Elly and she will look wonderful in my new studio. I love watercolors and elephants and this print embodies both. I love Elly and I love amberalexander's work. I will definitely be back to purchase more art and you should take a look.

My Poor Neglected Blog

2008-03-31T11:50:00.001-07:00

I have been so neglectful lately. I'm in awe by my favorite bloggers. How do you accomplish so much? How do you decide what to write? Do they have classes on how to become a better blogger? These are some of the questions I ask myself. Too much time thinking and not enough time typing...that's my problem.

Oh dear blog, I promise to write more often and to show h0w much I care. But first, I must sew a few purses, paint two rooms, move furniture, get the car fixed.......I'm sure there is more.

See you soon!!!

That's What Friends Are For

2008-03-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

My friend (the best in the world) sent this my way last week. She has figured out my style and is on the lookout. Isn't it sweet?

The "crud bug" has visited

2008-03-05T10:52:00.000-08:00

I have avoided it for so long, but the crud bug decided to visit me. I haven't had the energy to do much and I'm trying to shovel my way out of the pile of things to do.

Good news is we got a snow storm yesterday. While it was really beautiful, I'm ready for Spring.

Here's to good health....for me and all of you....oh, that and a nice nap.

WooooHooooo!!!

2008-02-22T09:24:00.000-08:00

One of my goals for the first part of the year was to create a website for my Vintage-at-Heart store. I'm happy to report that I accomplished this LATE last night. I had a vision and no money, so I worked on it myself. I'm pleased with the look and the outcome. I asked a professional web designer to look at it and, while she liked it, she told me what was wrong with it technically. So it seems I will be going back to the drawing board in order to fix those technical aspects. I am NOT a technical person and it scares me to look at the html code. But, I will try this weekend. For now, it is up and running, just technically not the greatest. Please take a look.
Vintage-at-Heart

The photos used for this site have meaning to me. The two on the left are of my paternal grandmother. When I look at these photos, it's like looking into a mirror, minus a few pounds (okay a LOT of pounds). When I looked at her photo the other day, I truly saw who I am and where I came from. When you're younger, you don't appreciate that your parents or grandparents had lives before you. You think they've always been old and just can't understand what it is like to be young and carefree. My grandmother was always someone that was elusive to me. She traveled extensively with my grandfather's job when she was younger and became a recluse in her later years. But, as I mature, I understand the sacrifices she made and the craziness she endured. I remember an older (but still beautiful) women wearing her husband's flannel shirts with no bra (gee, that sounds familiar). But now, I can understand she was so much more. She was a women just like me. She had dreams, desires and dissapointments.

By using her photos as a basis of my new brand identity, I feel like I am "channeling" some of her guts and strength to go through my own life....professionally and personally.

Yum!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-08T15:05:00.000-08:00

We have been encouraging my friend, Nadine, to go for her dream and open up her own bakery. I love being her friend because as she develops her ideas and comes up with amazing products, I get to eat the "prototypes".

Let me be a good friend and share with you. :-)

These desserts are literally the best I have ever tasted. She creates EVERYTHING from scratch. She makes killer Red Velvet cakes and cupcakes with REAL cream cheese frosting. But, my favorite treat is the Triple Threat....a brownie bottom with a cheesecake top and then decorated with REAL chocolate fudge icing, cherries and mini chocolate chips. It's like getting brownies, cheesecake and fudge at the same time. I'm telling you, it is to die for. By the way, if anyone is interested, I can connect you with her.

These are photos are a sampling of her custom orders...and once again, they are AWESOME!!!!

Who's Been Playing In My Stuff?

2008-02-06T13:17:00.000-08:00

I received these from a friend of mine. I think they are mice..but they don't have a long tail. Hmmm, maybe they're chipmunks. I don't know what they are, but they are cute.

Meet Kate

2008-02-05T11:06:00.000-08:00

Meet Kate. Kate is hip and smart. I love her curves and she's the perfect size (unlike me). You will find Kate in my shop.

Look What I Found!!

2008-02-04T09:03:00.001-08:00

Isn't she beautiful? I found her in an antique mall for $4.00! She's been loved, hence the low price, but her flaws add to her character. My husband even conceded she was beautiful and not just more "junk" that I brought home.

Take a look at what I found for $2.00. It is a miniature McCoy vase. It's no bigger than a business card. I love the color and its small size.

Look what I received from my mom and sister this weekend. My mother collected these about 25 years ago (wow..I'm that old already). You know, those collections that take years to complete because they only send you one figurine a month. When my sister got married, my mother gave them to her (15 years ago) for her new house. Well, I seemed to be in the right place at the right time this weekend. My sister was downsizing and giving them back to my mom and my mom passed them to me rather than trying to find a spot for them. I have always loved them and I'm so happy they have found a great spot in my house.

Meet Ellie

2008-01-18T15:12:00.000-08:00

Ellie is the latest purse I've designed. Ellie is the little sister to the Madeline....but she can carry her own load. They are for sale in my shop.

This is a 3-day weekend and I can't wait. I have a few gifts to complete, but I hope to have new purses ready for the shop by Monday. Maybe I'll get to do a little thrifting as well...we'll see.

Happy weekend and I hope it's productive for you as well.

Getting My Groove On!!

2008-01-15T09:46:00.001-08:00

I thought after December, I'd feel rejuvenated with tons of creativity and time to make all new things for my store. Alas, I’ve been working for several weeks and I have little to show for it. I’ve been asking myself, where does the time go and WHEN will my creativeness come back? My blog and sewing machine have sat untouched for a few weeks and my design corner looked like this…

But, last week we got some news about my husband’s health and it really put things into perspective. He was diagnosed with Parkinson ’s disease and after a few days of shock and a few hair-pulling situations with teenagers, I realized clarity can sometimes come from chaos. My groove is coming back and it feels good.

Over the weekend, I cleaned and organized my area, created a new purse design and finished the prototype. Since the prototype looked so good, I’ve started creating bags for the store and I have new vision. I’m setting goals, strategically planning my next moves (personally and in business) and most of all, going back to my corner…my design corner, that is.

To Martha Stewart, chaos is NOT a good thing...but in my case, it's turned out to be okay.

Under Construction

2007-12-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

Please forgive the appearance of the blog as I try to figure out how to create a new template. I keep messing up, but I'll figure it out......eventually.

SNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-12-19T07:09:00.000-08:00

This California girl loves snow. Living in Sacramento my entire life, I was never able to have the enjoyment of waking up to a fresh blanket of snow on the ground. If we had frozen dew on the grass, baby it was cold.

BUT living in Missouri is a different ballgame. The first major snow storm was set to come through our area Friday night into Saturday and drop 5 to 10 inches!!! But by Saturday afternoon all we had were a few ice pellets and lots of drizzle that would turn into ice by the next morning. It seemed there would be no snow in my future. But by late evening (well past the the time frame that was forecast), the drizzle turned to ice crystals then to big fluffy snow! Finally, I was able to wake up to glorious snow on the ground.

I know if I lived further north, this would be a joke. But, for this snow newbie, it was heaven.

I've Been Elfed

2007-12-12T13:16:00.000-08:00

This is the cutest thing. I wish it would allow me to place the video into my blog, but it will only allow a link.

Get Elfed at this link.....

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1393253321

and

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1327483564

Look Who's Helping Now....

2007-11-28T14:03:00.000-08:00

My new assistant...

What Was I Thinking?

2007-11-28T08:04:00.000-08:00

I seemed to be a little ambitious when creating my vacation TO DO list (I forget to add sleep to the list). So, while I only accomplished a few items, I did have a few bonuses added to my list.

I didn't get to make the sleep pants out of vintage sheeting (still top of my list), BUT I did get to create a few matchbox drawers. Here is my favorite. They are so cute and I am now on the hunt for miniature items to place inside.

I also haunted the local Goodwill for neat items and found this vintage planter. It had these strange holes (I think it use to hold a music box) and I had an idea.....cell holder/recharger. Granted the idea in my head didn't quite translate to reality, but it still was a good one. I was just "creating" late one night and added the quilt and pillows. I know it is cheesy, but with a little tweaking it might work.

Now for the added bonuses of my week off. Look at the new additions to the ever-growing brood. My sister rescued "Ellie" from the local Sonic. She had been seen around town for the last several weeks and had made her "home" at the Sonic. I have to say, we instantly bonded and she is a great dog. She's housetrained, polite and gets along with the other dogs. We are looking for a forever home for her, but since she is so good, she can hang with us until then.

This leads me to the next bonus. Meet Petey, my first horse!!! Yes, I know he is only 4 feet tall. But a horse is a horse, of course (sorry, couldn't resist). Anyways, we were asked to give him a new home and we happily obliged. This photo was taken at his previous home and I will have new photos up soon.

BTW, that is a 4 year old standing next to him. I told you I was looking for "miniature" things. :-)

More Inspirational Things

2007-11-16T11:36:00.000-08:00

I'm looking forward to some creative ME time this weekend. I have been working on a creative, but monstrous, project at work and I think it ate my brain. So, I am ready to get back to MY type of creative fun. In order to do this, I have been looking for inspiration. Look what I have found.

SouleMama created these brilliant lounge pants. How much better could this be..vintage, comfortable and beautiful!!

Painted Pony had this photo of a matchbox drawer on her Flickr page. I recently joined Swap-Bot and these matchbox swaps are very plentiful. I had no idea what they were, but after seeing these photos, I can't wait to create one...or two.

Wrens Nest made these beautiful tomato pincushions and needlecase. There is a needlecase swap I would like to join and this is a great inspiration.

Picnic by Ellie (love her name) posted this photo on her Flickr page. This photo stopped me in my tracks. It is beautiful and VERY inspirational. The colors are wonderful and the fabric is amazing.

A Few Favorite Things

2007-11-09T12:43:00.001-08:00

I'm still alive, I just haven't had the time to blog much. I've been trying to catch up with some custom designs, visiting with visitors to the farm and creating new stuff to show a local boutique owner. I'm taking vacation the week of Thanksgiving and hope to get refreshed and rejuvenated. In the meantime, here are a few favorite things I have found online lately.

You can find Princess Tea Party Annie at Raggedy Old Annies. Isn't she great?

Georgia Peachez blogged about her BEAUTIFUL computer sleeves and matching totes. I love her choices of fabric and her use of vintage barkcloth. They are great.

Fresh Vintage blogged about these great suitcases. I love them and I'm on the lookout for one of those great white ones.

Also, I joined Swap-bot.com recently. I sent my first swap to the Czech Republic this week and I'm excited to receive my first swap. I'm still trying to figure out the swap thing and if anyone has some information, PLEASE let me know. I'm sure there are other sites that I can join and information on these would also be helpful.

Finally!!

2007-10-22T08:50:00.000-07:00

My youngest daughter has avoided getting her ears pierced for 15 years!! She finally took the plunge on Saturday (she didn't want to be like Oprah and get them pierced at 50). Fear has held her back from a lot of things, but the last year has been full of new and exciting things for her. But, isn't that what growing up is all about....spreading the wings and finding your strength? Now, as a parent, the balancing act is allowing this and keeping them safe and healthy. That, I'm sure, I'll figure out when the grandchildren come along. Until then, I will continue the nail biting and growing gray hair.

Help! I'm Running and I Can't Slow Down

2007-10-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

Oh my!! I feel like my head is on fire. I have been running and running and I'm not even in shape! My husband had surgery last week (he's fine) and between trying to get work caught up and taking care of him, I am out of control. I had no email access for 5 days and, let me tell you, I missed it.

Before the surgery, I was able to attend a local estate auction. I love auctions and I have an entire blog planned on that topic. But, for now, I will just show you my finds. I only spent $7.00 total and had a ball.

I know she is straight from the 70's, but isn't she adorable? At first she looked like a funny turtle....and then....they put on her shoes and I had to have her. Apparently, I was the only one that felt this way about her, because I only paid a $1.00! I'm going to name her, but I haven't found the perfect name yet. Every time I look at her, she makes me smile.

This was a great find for $1.50. I have a matching suitcase and the train case will go perfect with it. I have been warned by the hubby, though. NO MORE LUGGAGE!! I know, I know. But they are so great. In my defense, I use them for storage. The train cases make great jewelery boxes.

This will match perfect with my other vintage red thermos. I only paid $1.50.

I did get a little creativity time in this weekend. I made 3 Haley handbags and put them on Etsy today.

Look at the inside of the gray purse. I love this purse because it's demure and subtle on the outside, but when you open it up...WOW!! Your true personality is clearly seen.

Heavenly

2007-10-04T07:46:00.001-07:00

I received the Cath Kidston catalogue yesterday. My heart be still...I love her products. They are so fun and simple.

I love this sewing box.

Fall Clean-Up Week

2007-10-03T21:50:00.000-07:00

In my area, it's apparently the bi-annual clean-up week. The piles start slow and gradually grow, until you feel like you are driving an obstacle course. Last year, the scavenger bug hit me and I joined that group of people that lurk amongst the piles in the night. I felt like the outcast robots from the movie 'AI'.

At work, I gained the nickname "Dumpster Diving Donia," which should have offended me since I have never dived into a dumpster, but I just took it as a compliment to my creativity.

The first find of the night was a huge, and I mean HUGE, panda bear and her baby. Who would want to throw that away? The next morning I understood why. Unfortunately, momma panda had an accident and stuffing beads spilled out and completely covered my mini-van's floor. While it was a noble idea to save momma and baby, it was not meant to be. She promptly went to my own dumpster.

But, by far, the best find of the night was a metal office chair. This chair was VERY vintage and right up my alley. It wasn't pretty at the beginning, but I saw the vision. A fresh coat of paint and floral fabric took the rusty, greasy chair to a comfortable, pretty chair. Plus, it's a great addition to my vintage metal chair collection.

While I love vintage shops, garage sales and flea markets, I don't think I can "dumpster dive" again this year. I just don't feel it and I'm not ready to lurk through the night. I'll leave that to the brave ones.

Happy Things

2007-09-25T18:24:00.000-07:00

Life has been very crazy in my house. But, who's not busy? My sister-in-law flew in from California for a quick weekend and this allowed me the excuse to go thrifting and sightseeing. I found this great yellow planter ($2.00) and a really cute saucer ($1.00).

Since I was in the city (that's what us country folk call it) I was able to visit the fabric store and I hit the jackpot. Amongst the clearance pile was this beautiful cinnabar tapestry I bought at another store a few months ago. It made some beautiful purses and of course I was unable to find any more of it...until now. I saw it and snatched it up fast.

Since my sister-in-law had never been to St. Louis, we did a little sightseeing and I learned things I didn't know either. It was fun. We had lunch at the Boathouse in Forest Park and drove home. Since it has been several years since we have been back to California, she brought us Sees Candy and a few other goodies. I was hoping she could sneak In-N-Out Burger on the plane, but that was a no go. Oh how I miss the best hamburger in the world!

I also got some great news about my Mimi business tote. Several people bid on the bag and there might have been a little bidding war going on. I am very proud and I hope the winner is happy also.

In a Disney Frame of Mind

2007-09-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

In addition to my obsession for vintage items, I LOVE Disney. As a teenager, I thought liking Disney meant I was "immature"....fast forward "a few" years and now I'm a bonafide Disney fanatic. Well, maybe not completely fanatical, but close.

It's been about a year since I was in "the World" and I'm long overdue for a visit. Mickey has been sending me letters begging me to come back home and I'm ready...just not able. Don't worry Mickey, I'm working my way back to you. But until then, pictures and dreams will have to suffice.

2007-09-12T05:45:00.000-07:00

I've been in a little bit of a funk lately. I've had a lot of commitments and no time to really do what I should. I've had a little bit of writer's block and unable to think about blogging while I had all the other "stuff" in my head. But I think I have the commitments out of the way and I now look forward to creating fun items and blogging away.

One of the things I have been stressing over is a business tote I voluntarily committed myself to making for a fundraising gala. The stressful part is that this gala is for a very important cause and I wanted to ensure my piece was not looked at like a joke. After an entire weekend (and about 10 broken needles), I think I accomplished it. I feel very proud of this bag and its accessories and, so far, it has had very positive reviews. I can't wait to see how it does at the auction.

2007-09-11T16:35:00.000-07:00

Teenagers Aren't Always Bad

2007-08-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

My increasing head of gray hair would beg to differ, but, for the most part, my teenagers are good kids. Yes, they talk back and complain about everything. Yes, I have moved to Stupidville (I should be ready to move back to Normalville within the next year). Yes, they scare the daylights out of me when they are late coming home. No, they don't listen when I tell them not to have other teenagers in the car. But, would I trade being their mom for anything..NO. Because, every once in while, I can see they are becoming the adults I've dreamed they would be.

This is what my youngest daughter left for me on my sewing table Saturday. So, for the fellow mothers of teenagers, stand tall because there IS light at the end of the tunnel.

A Work In Progress

2007-08-21T05:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, here it is. I promised I would post on Tuesday, according to the Flickr group guidelines. I actually did get motivated and moved my corner to a bigger corner. I really love how it's shaping up and I can't wait to get home and finish. I'll post finished pictures later.

All things Littleput: Studio Shot Tuesday!

2007-08-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

I love this idea. Littleput has created Studio Shot Tuesday Flickr group as a weekly studio update. Maybe this will help me organize this weekend. My little corner of the studio world has been taken over by fabric, buttons and patterns and I need to fix that. If I get organized, I might even be able to move to a BIGGER corner. Here is a photo of "my corner" in its better days. But, I promise I will post on Tuesday, organized or not.

It's Raining Dogs!!

2007-08-15T07:31:00.000-07:00

Well, actually I wish it WAS raining in the mid-west. We are in a major heat wave right now with no rain in sight.

When I created Bella the Scottie, I realized I have a major vintage dog collection. I have a THING for vintage planters, statues and especially dogs. I love planters because they are so handy for pens, brushes or gathering those little items that get away from you. Besides, the dogs are just plain adorable. So, I gathered a few from my office and thought I would share them. Send me pictures of your favorite vintage collections.

Beam Me Up Scottie!!!

2007-08-13T17:40:00.000-07:00

I found a great Scottie dog pattern on Allsorts last week and had to make it. This is my first attempt and I think she is adorable. She did have a slight accident with her ears, but since she is mine, I don't mind. In fact, I think it adds to her character. I believe she will be called Bella, but the jury is still out. My favorite great aunt's name was Bella and I'm not sure if she would enjoy me naming a stuffed Scottie after her. But, on the other hand, she might think it was funny.

I've also been busy sewing a new line of items. My sister-in-law had the baby and I made matching burp cloths and bibs as a gift. I had so much fun creating them, I've decided to start the Eva and Alex Collection. In the next week or so, I will be placing these gift sets in my web store. In addition, I have been given the opportunity to place these sets in a local children's boutique and I hope they are highly successful. Wish me luck!

Metal Chairs - Oh How I Love Them!

2007-07-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

I think I have a metal chair fetish. To me, they are the epitome of vintage. These chairs were made to last...long after they went out of style. When I see a metal chair, I think of women creating bread from scratch, canning the fruits of their gardens, clothes on the line blowing in the wind. It takes me back to a simpler time. A time when kids could play outside all day and never check-in, a time when taking a drive didn't entail taking along the DVD player or MP3 players.

Oh wait, those days also meant no dishwashers, no air conditioners on 100 degree days, no front loading washers....I think I'll sit in my metal chair and drink tea, while the clothes wash themselves.

Cute, Cute, Cute!!

2007-07-26T13:25:00.001-07:00

My sister-in-law is having the first baby girl in my family since my 14 year old daughter was born. YEAH!!!!!! I love my nephews, but it is going to be so much fun shopping for a baby girl. With this said, I HAVE to show the adorable shoes I found today. I fell in love and couldn't leave the store without them. It must be the shoe obsession I have and I wonder if it will rub off on my niece. I hope this will be the first pair of many beautiful sandals in her life.

Home Sweet Home

2007-07-10T07:23:00.000-07:00

I survived!!!! It was fun, but absolutely exhausting. By the time we made it home, my ankles were two times the size they should have been due to the 24 hours of sitting on a bus. But it was a nice trip with my daughter and we saw a lot of great things. I just need a few more days to recover.

While I was gone, I had several requests for custom designs and I can't wait to get started on those. It seems like things are picking up on the storefront and I have a few new ideas up my sleeve. I can't wait to get back to sewing and designing. My goal this next weekend is to move my sewing "studio" to another corner of my house. Right now, it is in my bedroom and I have completely taken over the room. Yesterday, I watched the Oprah Show and it was about decluttering your life. Of course, while I was watching the show, I looked around and saw suitcases, clothes, fabric and a complete mess. I knew she must have had a secret camera in my home and was talking directly to me. After staying 10 days in several hotels, it was time to organize my home and life. So that is my goal. I will post photos of my new area when I have it complete.

I also hope to get in a little vintage shopping this month. On my trip, I was in upper state New York and hoped to visit antique shops, but time didn't allow this. So, I need to get my fix and if I find anything good, I will post those pictures as well.

In the meantime, I am posting a few pictures from my trip. Happy looking.

On the Road Again

2007-06-28T05:21:00.000-07:00

I will be traveling, on a bus, with my 14 year old daughter and her friend to Niagara Falls, Toronto, New York City, Baltimore and Washington DC starting tomorrow. The 10 day trip will be a whirlwind. While I know it will be fun, I'm not jumping off the walls with excitement. Maybe it's the thought of sitting on a bus (although a nice bus) for umpteen amount of hours and no sewing machine. Or, maybe it's the thought of being in New York City (Times Square on July 4th) with two teenage girls. Oh My!! Or maybe it's the fact that I will be away from my fur babies, other daughter and husband for 10 days. Regardless of how I'm feeling now, I know when I start off tomorrow morning, it will be an adventure that I'll be sharing with my youngest daughter. One that we will never forget and always say "hey, remember when we did ......?" As I have learned all too fast, they are not babies forever. My oldest "baby" started her first job last weekend. A REAL job that involves tax forms. So I will take the giggling, grumpiness and whatever else comes along with this trip, and be thankful that I have this opportunity....just give me a few days and a pedicure to help me recover.

Momma Gets a New Bag!

2007-06-20T05:23:00.000-07:00

Finally, I made a purse specifically for me to carry. I usually take the prototypes or ones that "aren't quite good enough for sale". But I figured, as the creator of the handbags, I should be my best advertiser. If someone asks me where I got my handbag, I didn't want to feel the need to explain that this was just a prototype and the one THEY purchase will be much better. So, I actually sat down and created one just for myself. I love it and I'm proud to carry this Haley purse.

New Handbag Introduced In My Store

2007-06-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

I introduced the Alexandria to my line of handbags this weekend. She is a small clutch that can hold a surprisingly amount of items. My teenagers went nuts over her since the clutch is the "in" bag right now. I was told it looked like something they would buy from Forever 21 or Charlotte Russe. I took it as a compliment.

Victoria was gracious enough to model it for me and Haley couldn't stay out of the picture either. I thought it was too cute to pass up.

Welcome to my blog!!

2007-06-15T20:16:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe I am creating my first blog. While I enjoy reading other people's blogs, I never thought I would create one of my own. Heck, I don't even keep a journal. But, I look forward to posting on a regular basis.

First, maybe a little bit about myself. I am a married mother of two teenage daughters. While they are good girls, it is a little hormonal in my home. I am also the mother to two fur babies, Haley and Gracie, and a rescued sparrow we named Toula (we were watching My Big Fat Greek Wedding when we named her). I live on a family farm after my family moved to the Ozarks from California four years ago. It was a good move....at least I think so. When I visit the city now, I can feel my blood pressure rise. We have cows, donkeys, rescued goats and sheep on our farm. They are all pets and will stay that way.

I work as an executive assistant and enjoy creating my Vintage-at-Heart designs on the evenings and weekends. I really enjoy vintage everything...jewelry, fabric, kitchen items and so forth. My latest find was a vintage pink fridge drawer. I was at an auction this weekend and it was being auctioned with a bunch of Folgers cans. A gentleman paid $1.00 for about 10 cans and the fridge drawer. I approached the gentleman and asked if he wanted it and he only wanted the cans. I paid him $1.00 and happily took my pink drawer home. It's enameled pink and my daughter is going to use it for her art supplies. It's great. I love those country auctions. You never know what you will find.

I opened my Etsy shop in March after my daughters said "NO MORE PURSES, MOM". When my first purse sold, I was scared and excited at the same time. I was thrilled that someone felt it looked good enough to buy, but scared that when they actually received it, they would think it was horrible. What a relief when she sent me a personal note telling me how much she loved it. Since then, I have continued to refine my line of handbags and have added rings and necklaces to my store. My future design plans include diaper bags and fashion pet carriers. I hope they are as accepted as my current line has been.

Well, I should get back to sewing and please send me critique of my blog. I am clearly a novice and hope to improve and transform the blog as time goes by.