christine's cottage garden home

Tea party...

2012-01-29T14:49:00.000-05:00

I had a delightful time getting ready for a Tea Party at my house! Decorating the table was so much fun.
Before it looked like this...

Then I added a pretty floral tablecloth....

and theses dishes. I got a whole set at the thrift store for cheap and they're fine china!

Then the silverware I got a long time ago at another thrift store for only 10cents each piece. They were really tarnished and it took alot of polishing but they turned out beautiful...

I made some favors, tulip chocolates on a stick, and tied silk flowers around the stem. They looked great tucked into the green napkins. ( Floral theme - can you tell? )

I also used my cricut - which I love, to cut out little tea cups which I taped to the napkin rings

and then I thought I could also use my cricut to make place cards. They turned out too cute! First I printed names on floral paper, then I centered my cricut and cut out tea kettles. I glued a piece of folded paper to the back so they would stand up. Love it...

Some flowers and greens for a centerpiece and we were all set for Tea...

Oh , by the way, the reason you don't see any Tea cups is because everyone brings their own.

2012-01-05T09:38:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year Celebration! Now what?! I have taken down all of my Christmas decorations and cleaned house and it always feels so spacious after everything is put away. The one thing I don't care for after Christmas is my outside . I always put up sooooooo much stuff that after I take it down it looks so bare and dreary. So this year I decided to make a winter wreath and put up a couple of decorations. I didn't want to put up too much and then have to take it all down again but I did want something to welcome you when you come in the door. I thought since it's winter I would make a snow ball wreath.
Here's what I did...
Start with a white styrofoam circle and a bunch of snow balls in different sizes ( they're on clearance right now)and some snowflakes

start by tying a pretty ribbon at the top and then, using your glue gun, with the largest snowball first start gluing....

then fill in with smaller snow balls...

keep adding more...

I cut some of my snowflakes in half so they looked like they were coming out of the wreath...

I love the way it turned out...

Then I added some ribbon, snowflakes, tule, and a snowman ...

Since this fence is always by the door, it needed a little decoration. I cut out the words using my cricut and simply stuck the letters to some clear tape and taped it to the fence. I even piled some snow around the snowman( or should I say Snow-woman).
Winter Welcome...

Much better than a blank wall.

What do you think?!

Linking up:
http://todayscreativeblog.net/creative-craft/

Chocolate covered spoons!

2011-12-14T18:05:00.002-05:00

Chocolate covered spoons are great little gifts for visitors, teachers and bus drivers; they're easy to make and add a great flavor to any hot drink. I made mine with MINT, DARK chocolate, here's how...

Supplies needed: chocolate candy melts, plastic or silver spoons, wax paper, bowl & spoon, plastic bag, ribbon and tag.

1 - empty chocolates into bowl, melt in microwave, stirring often(directions for melting are on the bag)
2 - lay out a piece of waxed paper on a flat tray tray
3 - dip spoon into chocolate covering well

4 - set spoons on tray and place in the refridgerator until hard

5 - place spoon in bag, tie ribbon, add tag...

Simple, sweet, gift....

ENJOY!

Old Christmas Sled...

2011-12-13T10:55:00.000-05:00

If you have and old sled like this one...

add some greenery, pine cones, ribbon and a bell and you get an outdoor decoration like this one...

I love the country look. This is great leaned up against the house as a sweet decoration for Christmas. Now it would look much better if it snowed!

Dreaming of a white Christmas!
Linking up to creative Tuesday - http://todayscreativeblog.net/

Craft Show

2011-12-07T17:42:00.001-05:00

Had fun at the craft show last week - but wow did I have way too much stuff! Next time I'll have to purchase 2 tables! I'll be posting on some of the things I made for the show, like the old windows - that I just LOVE and the decorated christmas sleds, but for now enjoy a couple of pics...

Christmas Craft Show

2011-11-30T08:44:00.001-05:00

Been busy getting ready for a Craft Show Sat. Dec. 3 at Normandy High School. Stop by and say high. Here's a preview of some of the items I've been working on....

Here's a Santa I painted on an old water ski...

Some ornaments for the tree...

I fell in love with these felted wool pincushions when I saw them on the Martha Stewart show so I had to make some...

And this small cupcake pin cushion is so sweet...

I have also been making wreaths, decorated sleds, an old wagon decorated for Christmas and some wooden plaques for the wall. I hope to post more soon. Hope to see you there.
This post is liked up to ...
http://todayscreativeblog.net/

Thanksgiving Pumpkin Favor

2011-11-20T15:00:00.001-05:00

With Thanksgiving only a few days away, I had to make a little something to give to my son's teachers. This is so cute and easy! It would be a great little gift for a teacher or bus driver and would look nice at your Thanksgiving table as a favor.
Simple supplies: orange slices, plastic wrap, brown floral tape and a leaf with wire stem.

Tear off a piece of plastic wrap and place 7 slices in the center. You'll need to hold them in your hand as you do this like a ball. Wrap the plastic up aroung the slices and twist at the top. Wrap brown floral tape around the plastic stem and twist at the top. Wrap leaf around stem and twist, Leave the end of the wire to wrap around a pencil to form curly q. That's it!

Add a tag if you like. Mine says : Give thanks to the Lord( Sorry for the blurry pic)

I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving! I thank the Lord for all his goodness. What are you Thankful for? And Who are you thanking?

Happy Easter...

2011-04-24T14:42:00.000-04:00

Well I haven't blogged in such a long time. It's been a long and dreary winter here in Ohio. I really think I have that condition where if you don't get enough sunlight you get depressed, oh yes SAD - seasonal affective disorder! That's me, give me a sunny day and I can conquer the world but 4 months of cold darkness and I'm a major couch potatoe. Well I'm Back! We had a beautiful warm sunny day here yesterday and today is Easter and the flowers are in bloom. He is Risen Indeed!
Happy Easter to everyone! I hope to be posting more soon.

Merry Christmas! Soon!

2010-12-10T18:18:00.000-05:00

Well I haven't been blogging forever! It seems I've been sooooooooo busy with life!. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas! I decided to do the craft shows this year and so have been busy crafting Christmas decor. I did okay at the 2 shows and really had a lot of fun displaying everything. I sure would love to have my own little shop! Here's a few pics of my displays. I still have some things left, so if u r interested check out my etsy shop.

Flower Fairy

2010-09-14T19:06:00.000-04:00

Well it's been a while since I blogged. I'm finding that it takes too much time. I've been doing alot but I'll have to pick and choose what I post.
Since I made my fairy door a friend asked if I would make one for her daughters' birthday. Glad to do it - she's such a sweet girl- I thought I would also make her a flower fairy to go with it.

Flower Fairies come at dawn,

Bless the flowers,

then they're gone.

Here's how:

First I painted a face on a wooden bead and put a folded wire threw the hole

Next, glue on some moss hair :

Next , seperate silk flower petals and leaves:

make sure there is a whole in the center of the petals and start threading them on the wire:

Attach another wire across for the arms, bending the ends for hands:

Continue adding flowers for the skirt gluing after each petal or two, and don't forget to glue some on the back for wings. Bend the wire bottoms for feet. I glued some berries and a flower on her head. If you want, glue everything onto a stick to put her in a plant. And you're done.

Isn't she sweet? I have to make a few more....

Patio set redo...

2010-07-05T15:01:00.001-04:00

Well it's been awhile since I've blogged. I have been so busy with the boys' school ending and baseball games and gardening and yard sale, etc. You get the picture. Well I was able to get one of my summer projects done. I have been wanting to replace my patio set ever since I bought a new set of outdoor furniture last year. The old set just looked horrible, here's a before pic...

The set functioned fine but I didn't like the look. So I went out shopping around for new sets and WOW! the price they want was way too high for me - $300-$500. So I decided to fix up the old set. First,it needed a good cleaning . Then, a sanding and priming. I really took my time with the prep work because I don't want it peeling off! I used Krylon for plastic on the slats, which are more like rubber, and I used rustoleum on the rest. Then to my favorite fabric store - JoAnn's. I found a beautiful print on sale. I bought an old black sheet for the back of the chairs. If you've never recovered your outdoor cushions, you should try it , it's sooo easy, like making a giant pillow case.. here's the before cushion...

really comfortable but not nice to look at.

And here's the after...

I love it!

Here's the whole set. I was so excited how good it turned out, and it only cost me about $35.00 for paint and fabric...

What do you think!

Thanks for the comments - I used Rustoleum Hammered over Rustoleum flat black.

A sweet little surprise in the garden...

2010-05-25T18:56:00.000-04:00

Well I haven't been here to blog in awhile! I've been soooooo busy working outside in the garden. I love being outside and when eveything starts growing and turning green, I just can't stand to be inside. The weather in Ohio has been very warm and after such a long winter, it's so nice. I plan on sharing all my garden areas with you but I'll start with just a few.....

I have some perennials that are spreading, I just love it now that I can divide them and move them around.

I live in a mostly shaded area and only have one section where the sun shines.

I am always amazed at how some people will throw things away!

I found these clematis in the garbage last year...

Welcome signs are scattered here and there...

And I love my garden bunnies! I have quite a few I will share with you another time.

Here's one of my most recent...

but while I was working in the garden I was greeted by the best little surprise ever...

a little bunny!

Do you see him? Isn't he adorable? He can probably just fit in your hand. I don't know where he came from and his family is not around. He's been munching on clover by my garage. Some of you might think a bunny in the garden is a problem,

but I think it's a sweeet, little,

happy surprise!

Happy Gardening!

Fairy Door

2010-04-21T19:01:00.000-04:00

Well it's taken me a while to get back to blogging. I've been busy outside, cleaning up the garden beds and dividing some plants. It's always fun when you finally have enough to move some around. I hope you all had a wonderful Easter!

One project I got done was this fairy door. I saw it somewhere on the web and thought it was soooo cute that I just had to try it. It didn't cost me a thing because I had all the stuff somewhere around the house.

Here's how it's done...

Find some scrap pieces of wood about 1 inch wide and 12inches long.

Make sure one piece is longer to use as a stake in the ground.

I used some metal thing that had wholes in it to screw it together.

Then I drew a curve at the top and cut it out.

I glued on to smaller pieces of wood cut to the width and a wooden doorknob.

Coat the whole thing with some exterior varnish so it will stay looking nice.

Staple some ivy around the top. Your done. Find a nice tree that has a groove at the bottom. Pound the stake into the ground. I cleared all the grass and added some rocks.

I just love the way it looks! It's in my front, on the tree lawn, for all the passer-bys to see.

Now I guess I should cut the grass...

Sweet Bunny plant sticks....

2010-03-30T14:59:00.000-04:00

I made these to go in a gift basket for my sons teachers for Easter. I think they are so sweet. They can go almost anywhere you would like to have a little pink bunny and they are so easy to make.

First, trace and cut out 2 bunny shapes from pink paper. I was making 3 so I cut out 6

If your paper isn't colored on both sides, you'll have to cut mirror images. Lay them out in mirror image

and dot them with white paint. I used a stylist but you can use anything with a point like a pencil.

Let them dry well. Glue on a piece of cotton for a tail

I used bamboo skewers for my sticks. Spread glue on inside of bunny, place stick at an angle, then place mirror image on top. Work the pieces toghether, pressing the stick in place. If the pieces don't match exactly, just trim with scissors.

let dry and you're done!

Great in a plant or a gift...

Rooster lamp....

2010-03-25T14:32:00.000-04:00

Just happened to stop into my local thrift store to browse around and I saw it! A beautiful large white ceramic rooster lamp. The store was about to close and it was $10.00, a little steep for me. So I said no. And I went home and thought about it. I have been working and earning money and I just happened to sell something on craigslist for $10.00 just the other day( what a coincidence ). So the next morning, first thing , I was there just as they were opening and it was still there, lucky me. What do you think?!

I think the rooster alone is worth $10.00

You just never know what treasure you will find

browsing your local thrift store!

Outside Spring decor...

2010-03-21T14:41:00.000-04:00

In the winter everything is so cold and dreary, and because we get so much snow I don't put anything up outside. Everything is so bare...

but not any more... Spring is here...

I love my Spring bunnies...

Easter Decor.....

2010-03-18T21:18:00.000-04:00

Since the weather has definitely felt like SPRING, I thought it would be a good time to get out my Easter decorations. It is only 17 days away! I usually don't go all out for all the Holidays but Easter is one of my favorites and Spring is a great time to brighten things up. I'm soooooo glad I have an attic to store things in. I didn't realize how many boxes I had....

I keep things really simple during the winter on my faux firelace...

but it's always a great place to decorate...

I didn't realize how many bunnies I have!

Most of them I've picked up at yard sales or the thrift store...

I filled my jars up with Easter grass and eggs, then added a spring ribbon...

I'll show you what I did to the outside tomorrow. I hope you add a little Spring to your home.

I'm sooooooo glad winter is over!

Spring hasSprung!

2010-03-12T20:26:00.000-05:00

Finally, after a long hard winter and looking at this , what seemed like forever snow...

the weather warmed up. Actually we have been about 20 degrees warmer than it should be, 60's and sunny - all week! Nothing makes it feel more like spring than warm, sunny days. And looking around my yard I found this...

A sure sign of Spring. The daffodills and crocus have started growing!

Welcome Spring!

Now it's time to start cleaning up the yard and spraying to keep the deer away -they love crocus and tulips. I have a wonderful recipe to keep them away. You have to spray it about twice a week , but it works.

4 - raw eggs 1 cup listerine mouthwash( could be generic)

gallon jug( I use an old milk jug rinsed out) water

Whisk the raw eggs and pour into jug; add mouthwash; add enough water to fill jug; shake. Fill a spray bottle with mixture ( sometimes the sprayer clogs up so run water through it ) Store in garage. It smells the longer it sits, so I usually spray at night.

Plaid Curtains

2010-03-10T20:29:00.000-05:00

I've always admired the black and white plaid curtains that I've seen in the country magazines but never thought they would look right in my green living room. Well, at my recent visit to JoAnn fabrics I found a beautiful plaid that I just fell in love with! I thought I would buy enough to make my curtains ( super easy if you know how to sew) and just kind of drape them and if the color didn't look right I could always return it. Well, I think they turned out great!

Here's a picture of my curtains before...

They were the toppers that are kind of puffy,

not too bad but I've had them up for 15 years!

(I hate the way the colors in my pictures look -much better in real life)

So, I painted my rod black and made two side panels...

I think they make the room feel so much bigger, I love the way they turned out.

Unfortunately the plaid doesn't show up very well in the pictures.

What do you think?

Rooster tassel

2010-03-06T12:26:00.000-05:00

I recently was introduced to someone's rooster tassel, which I thought was beautiful , and I thought I would try to make my own. Here's what you do...

First, find an object, like an ornament, or any small doller store critter you can screw an eye hook into the top for hanging. I found my Rooster at the thrift store. You will also need some fringe, various sizes and colors, ribbon, a wooden candle holder, and hot glue.

If you don't have a hook in the top, drill a hole and screw in an eye hook. Glue, use an extra strength, the rooster to the bottom of the candle holder, let dry.

Next, roll your longest fringe to fit inside the candle holder. I found an old T-shirt at the thrift store that had fringe on it and then I cut it off. You don't need a lot, but fringe can be awfully expensive.

Roll the fringe to fit inside the holder...

Use your hot glue to glue the fringe inside the candle holder.

Next you have to cut various trims to go around the base, work longest to shortest. If you're using ribbon, fold it in half and glue it on, I used black macrame cord.

I finished mine off with some fluffy red scarf yarn. Cover all the wood.

The red isn't as bright as the picture shows.

Lastly, tie some ribbon or cording through the eye hook for hanging.

Not bad for my first one! I think the hardest part is to find just the right colors of ribbon and trim. Now I have to keep my eyes open when I go to the thrift store. Christmas ornaments would work great at the top, I just didn't see this in time. Great to hang from a lamp or a door, or any where you fancy. Try one!

Country Curtains - tour

2010-02-24T17:06:00.001-05:00

Nothing cheers me up or brightens my day better than a walk through my local Country Curtains Store. The days here have been so cold and dreary, I thought I would just take a ride and browse through the store. The clerk was very kind and said I could take some pictures to share with you. If you don't have a store near you, you can check them out at http://www.countrycurtains.com/ . They are full of beautiful displays and inspiration. I hope you enjoy...

I love the bright blue, the warm reds and I adore the pale yellow walls!

What is your favorite?

cloche party

2010-02-19T21:33:00.002-05:00

Joining Marty for her cloche party.
I don't have much really, trying to get ready for spring.

It's hard with all this snow!

I just put a couple of eggs in this one

I made this one out of a candle holder turned upside down

and I put a finial on top with some ribbon

very small one I made, need to change it up

and this jar I had filled for valentine's day

More Home & Garden Show....

2010-02-17T19:47:00.000-05:00

Here are some more pictures of the Home and Garden show. I'll have to say I wasn't impressed with the inspiration homes - they looked like someone just put the furniture in and hung up pictures - so that's why I didn't take any pictures of the homes. No decorating ideas at a Home and Garden Show - how dissapointing. I did enjoy the outdoor furniture arrangements - I hope you do too...

great way to display indoor plants outside!

love the bunny picture - too high priced for me

lambs inside a glass cage with candle

Look closely at all the little fairies! They are black metal silhouettes of fairies - cute idea!

Home and Garden Show....

2010-02-14T21:23:00.000-05:00

Well it's taken me about ten days and some antibiotics to start feeling better. Hope everyone is having a loving Valentine's Day! I was able to go to the local Home & Garden Show here Saturday and I took lots of pictures. It's always nice to see some spring flowers when the weather outside is cold and gloomy.

Here are some of the beautiful garden displays...

the pink tulips "pop" next to white

I never think to put red and pink together

I love hydrangeas!

A country watering pump

an eye catcher

I had to take a picture of this, so simple but unique

add height with bamboo

St Francis - beautiful!

There were many beautiful statues and works of art.

How I'm looking forward to spring, sigh.

If it would just stop snowing!

I have more pictures to share with you next time.

Sick household....

2010-02-07T14:47:00.000-05:00

First, my youngest was sick. I took him in and he has a sinus infection. Then my middle child gets the same thing, back to the Dr. He has a sinus and ear infection. Luckily, my oldest rarely gets sick. But I wasn't so lucky. Started with a fever and chills and now I think I have a sinus infection. Mom's don't run to the Dr. so quickly though. Don't feel like doing much of anything. Back when I feel better.

Tole painting...

2010-01-30T21:07:00.000-05:00

I took a class a long time ago on tole painting

and every now and then I pull out all my stuff and play.

Looks like my supplies have been used quite a lot...

I was inspired by one of my tole trays that I collect.

I made some small flowers that I'll make into cards or tags...

and a large print that I'll have to frame....

It was a nice way to spend a cold Saturday afternoon.

Pressed flowers...

2010-01-29T17:53:00.000-05:00

Did you ever press your own flowers?

I tend to pick some every year and stick them in a book,

but I never get around to using them.

So, using up some more of my stuff, I painted an old wood frame.

First a coat of white, sand some off, then add some stain...

Love the shabby look...

while that was drying, I was busy glueing pressed flowers onto some green cardstock...

add a chocolate brown matt and put the two together.....

I love the way it turned out!

I really can keep busy using all the supplies I already have.

It's for sale on my etsy shop, if interested....

http://www.etsy.com/shop/cottagegardenhome

On line sales - etsy

2010-01-28T19:30:00.000-05:00

Just started my own on-line site at etsy. Starting small. Here are a few items up for sale...

I have 3 different designs of these hand-cast paper heart decorations...

and 4 set of 5 floral notecards...

I plan on getting a lot more things out, but it's a start for now.

Wish me Luck!

You can see my shop at....

http://www.etsy.com/shop/cottagegardenhome

Floral cards.....

2010-01-27T16:07:00.001-05:00

Keeping up with my New Years' resolution to start using up some of the craft supplies I already have on hand, I decided to sit down and make a few cards. I have sooooo much paper I really need to start using it up. So since I'm looking forward to Spring I thought I would hand paint a few floral cards...

Some daisies...

Some Iris....

Some roses...

Some impatiens...

Oh how flowers just put a smile on my face!

I made a set of 5 of each with coordinating envelopes. I hope to start selling some of my wares. I think I might try out etsy. Not sure how it works but I think I could figure it out. If you have any tips for selling, please share them!

dessert stand / cheese dome...

2010-01-24T17:30:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone is having a good weekend.

I saw this project on a couple other blogs and fell in love.

I'd like to share my version with you.

You start with a cheese stand with a glass dome, and a candle stick holder.

I also used an extra circle of wood.

Glue the pieces together...

Sand and paint...

I cut a piece of paper to fit inside. I also cut a piece of plastic mylar to go on top of the paper. You could probably decoupage it on but I wanted to be able to change it....

I had this adorable white pom-pom trim...

I hot glued this all around the edges...

I love the way it turned out!

Imagine all the different colors and seasons you can decorate this for!

You can also use the stand without the cover for many things like: plants, pictures, candles,etc.

I'm going to start selling these; have to keep my eyes open for old cheese domes!

Final pics of entry....

2010-01-23T13:41:00.000-05:00

Well, I think I'm done in my entry, except for painting, which will have to wait until spring.

I put up my rose pictures...

and these darling plate holders that I've had forever...

I found some cute bird plaques,

I just added some black so they would look better..

and of course the top shelf which I love...

Note to self.... make sure to take before pictures!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Hallway - over the door swag...

2010-01-21T13:11:00.000-05:00

Well I'm almost done in the hall entrance. Just a few more things to update. On the back of my door I have a lace panel, ( it's supposed to look like a window, I used to have a mirror behind it until my hubby wanted to install a peep hole) with a swag above it. Not too bad looking but I think it's outdated and definitely dusty...

Before...

I used some of those new (old) flowers and

some ivy and created a more romantic feel...

After...

I really like the way it turned out, what do you think?

Do you see the bells? I always have bells on my door so I can hear when someone comes in.

I'm also thinking of changing the color of my door? But what color? If I change the door I also have to change the trim. I was thinking maybe black, but that might be too dark. Any suggestions?

I also wanted to share a couple new things I added to my hutch and shelf. I know I said I wasn't going to buy more things at good will, but I couldn't resist this blue and white dish...

It looks great and repeats the blue and white color from the dishes on the hutch. And I found this little bird at Joann Fabrics for$1.50..

How sweet!

Entry - wall shelf....

2010-01-18T18:26:00.000-05:00

Another area in my entry that I'm re-doing is the wall shelf.

It's been this way such a long time - a bit out dated...

I love the way it turned out.

More cottage charm...

Everything I put up I already had or got from the thrift store...

A simple tin with just the right colors, a rusty star,

a red vase and some greens from that old swag...

An adorable bird in cage, tray turned on its' side (in back),

and some more of those old flowers in a rooster pot...

I also made a wreath out of those old flowers and hung it below.

Before... and After...

I could kick myself though - I got so caught up in putting things out

that I forgot to take before pictures before I took everything down! Duh!

Redecorated hutch....

2010-01-17T16:39:00.000-05:00

Okay, I started changing things in my entry but I have to say the pictures I took look like crap. There isn't much natural light and when I used the flash the colors don't look right - so use your imagination.

Here's my hutch before ...

( Oh, by the way, I'm thinking of painting it black in the spring, I think that would look much better).

Again, I apologize for the lighting.

Here's the after...

It looks so much better in person.

I love these blue and white plates I found at goodwill

Floral swag - Project #2....

2010-01-15T19:51:00.001-05:00

In my entry I have a couple of artificial flower arrangements that I need to redo to go with my cottage /garden feel. I know some don't like fake flowers at all, but I think they are fine. I found this large arrangement at the thrift store a while back that has the perfect color flowers. I should have taken a picture of it before I started tearing it apart, oh well.

Since it was so big, I should be able to get a few smaller arrangements out of it.

Project #2....

This is the way the swag looked before...... a bit out of date and dusty!

All I did was tear off the bow and the dried flowers,

I left the green leaves - they just needed a little dusting.

Hot glue guns are soooo handy, all I had to do was glue the new(old) flowers on.

And this is how it looks after...

So much better, don't you think?

I made sure I added some blue so it will still go with my walls.

I'm still not putting it up until I get everything ready.

Until next time....

Project #1 - Rose pictures....

2010-01-14T20:14:00.000-05:00

Well, I have a room in my house that I've been meaning to update. It's okay as it is but it doesn't have that wow feel and it's a bit out-dated. It's my entry room. It's done in blue and very 80's country. I'm going to change the accessories and make it more cottage/garden. I always have fun changing things up. If I had the money and time I'd probably gut the whole room,

but I don't so I'm not.

The first thing I'll be doing is making some accessories

to go in the room. I'll be sharing them as the days go on.

Project #1

I have this old book that has pictures of roses in it,

I thought that would be great to use to frame a couple of pictures.

Cottage style can always use roses.

The book is really old but has great pics of roses. I want to add a bit of red

to the room so these are the two I chose...

I had these old picture frames that will work just fine...

a little black paint....

I decided to go with a green matt. I simply cut the paper

to fit the frame and matted the picture on top of it...

I also added a touch of gold to highlight the frame...

Here's the result without the gold, I took the picture before I added it...

I really like the way they turned out.

I'm not going to put them up until I finish some other projects.

Stay tuned....

Hot cocoa.....

2010-01-11T13:04:00.000-05:00

When the weather outside looks like this...

there's one thing that will warm me up...

a nice warm cup of hot cocoa......

only a couple of minutes to heat up...

nothing like some whipped cream and chocolate syrup on top....

Sit back and enjoy - while I search some beautiful blogs.....

Valentine jar....

2010-01-09T19:58:00.000-05:00

Well I know I said I wasn't going to buy any more things. But I don't think this counts. I wasn't looking to buy any more stuff, I went to Marc's for groceries

and then I saw this....

I wasn't quite sure what it was, but then I saw this....

still not quite sure, until I saw this in the next isle...

did you figure it out?

It's an apothecary jar in PIECES!

I couldn't believe it. The top was marked .99 cents as was the base.

The center jar was only $2.99! So for only $5.97 and a little glue ...

a few red apples...

a Valentine ribbon...

I get this...

Now that's a deal I couldn't pass up!

I hope there's a Marc's near You!

Before and after candlesticks....

2010-01-04T15:53:00.000-05:00

I'm joining Sarah for her before and after party. Had to think for a minute - just thought to do something simple. That's my favorite kind of work anyway - SIMPLE!

Bought these candle sticks at Goodwill for cheap....

BEFORE...

Took them apart and filled for Christmas...

AFTER....

Could probably redo them again for any season.

Check out other before and afters at :

http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2010/01/before-and-after-party.html

Craft - Calendar box

2010-01-03T15:08:00.000-05:00

Okay, well it's taken me a while to get back into routine. All the inside Christmas decor ( the outside will have to wait until it stops snowing!) is put away and I'm geared up to start cleaning and sorting out my stuff. I started in my craft area.

Remember I told you I have enough supplies to open my own store. Well I took out all my containers and am starting to straighten and get rid of ( put away for yard sale) my stuff. I found these old calendars I had bought because I loved the pictures...

It has all these great garden pictures...

I'm sure there are a million and one things you can do with them.

For one, I thought I could use these to cover a box that I was storing some old picture frames in.

All I had to do was cut the box down to the height of the calendar and then glue them on.

I was fortunate the box was just the right sized square.

All four sides get a pretty picture...

And now I have a pretty box to store my frames in.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T20:24:00.000-05:00

2010

Well, another year over. Time to start a new. I always like the way I feel when a new year begins, a fresh start. I'm sure my resolutions are like most... eat better, exercise, lose some weight. One of the new resolutions for me though is to stop spending money and start using up the things I already have, especially craft and home decor. I love going to the thrift store and finding bargains but I have been doing that way too much. I have to go through all the stuff I have and use it. I need to change some of my decor with some of the pretties that I bought and are just sitting and I need to start using up my craft supplies. I think I have enough to fill a whole store! Since the weather is cold and gloomy it's a great time to clean out and sort through.
How about you? Any new resolutions!

Why do you......

2009-12-24T17:44:00.000-05:00

To all my friends out in blogland......

Why do you celebrate Christmas?

" for God so loved the world, that He gave his one and only son, for whoever believes in Him will not die but have ever lasting life"

JESUS is the reason for the season!

Merry Christmas!

Chair pads...

2009-12-18T13:21:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite things to look for at the thrift store is fabric! I'm always checking out the sheets and pillow shams for beautiful patterns. Sheets work great if you need extra large pieces and I've found some quilted pillow shams that I've used to decorate with. But this time I needed something to cover my dingy chair pads. I thought about buying new but they were all too thick and at $12.00 each - no thanks. I got lucky with 2 red pillow shams. I could of used this material in a multiple of ways but I decided to cover my chair pads with them. Here's what I did...

This is what my old chair pads looked like...

These are the red pillow shams I found ( not bad for $2.00 )

First I laid my old pads on top of the fabric and cut out the shape.

There were 2 shams so I was able to get 4 pads out of them...

Next, I used the extra fabric to cut strips for ties.

Fold them in half and sew them right sides together.

I find the easiest way to turn them is to use a safety pin.

Simply pin it on the end and then push it through.

After I sewed the pads together and sewed on the ties,

I inserted my old pads, kind of like a pillow case.

Sew the opening shut and your done!

Not bad! 4 new chair pads for about $2.00 total. The pillow shams had a trim on the edges which I just left on. I think they turned out pretty good. And the red is great with my Christmas decor.

The next time you are at the thrift store check out the bedding department,

you might just find some fabric.

Warm childhood Christmas memories....

2009-12-10T21:47:00.000-05:00

Do you have any special memories of Christmas when you were a child? Maybe all the decorations, or the cookies you would make with your mom, or sitting in your warm pj's after a nice bath and looking out the window at the beautiful white snow falling. How about the smell of turkey first thing in the morning or the wonder of searching for your present under the tree? Well, I cherish all those memories. But, when I got older and my mom was selling our childhood home, she asked what I wanted. I told her all I really wanted was that old Santa she used to put on top of the Christmas tree. It wasn't anything fancy, but when I thought about it, it gave me all those warm fuzzies you get when you think back. Well, unfortunately my sister threw the santa away a long time ago because it was broken. I was very angry and disappointed. Then, one day I thought, just maybe, let me google it. And what do you know? I found one on ebay. Exactly like I remembered. And when I saw it, all those warm fuzzies returned.

It's amazing how the simple little things can warm our hearts. The santa is now sitting on my Christmas tree and I will never throw it away....

Merry Christmas everyone!

More Christmas decor....

2009-12-09T14:45:00.000-05:00

Here's a few more pics of my Christmas decorations....

Let's start with some jars I had and I filled them with candy.

Jars are so easy to find at the thrift store for little money.

This deer I also found at the thrift store for $1.00. I painted it black and then crackle( the crackle finish doesn't show up in the pic) and then gold. I added some greenery and a big red bow.

Let's move on to the only place in my house with pink Christmas decorations... the Bathroom! I did it in pink, for one- it matches the decor and for two- I had a bunch of pink stuff left over from long ago.

And let's not forget the most important decoration of all, without which there would be no Christmas...

the nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ....

Christmas candle sticks...

2009-12-06T14:09:00.000-05:00

I love it when I find something at the thrift store and fix it into something beautiful.

These candle sticks are a perfect example..

This is what they looked like when I bought them for 99 cents...

I think they used to have a shade and they had a voltive holder.

All I had to do was use my screwdriver to remove the top...

I could have left them and put a candle inside but I wanted to do something different. So I went threw my stash of flowers and Christmas picks and found the perfect red flower...

I simply glued the flower with some greens into the center of the candle stick...

I love the way they turned out! Not bad for 99 cents...

What do you think?

Christmas Home Tour 2009...

2009-12-04T20:36:00.000-05:00

Well, I thought since I'm almost finished with my home decorating, that I would take you on a tour. I take everything off the shelves and out of the hutches and bookcases and replace them with Christmas. It takes a while but when it's done it is soooo worth it. Grab a cup of cocoa and enjoy ....

My entryway....

Stairway...

my kitchen...

dining room...

my living room....

Wow! That'a alot of pictures and I didn't

show you everything! Maybe I'll show you the rest another time.

The last thing we put up is the tree.The kids will help put the ornaments on while we listen to Christmas music. Now we can sit back and enjoy the season. I hope you enjoyed the tour.

Apothecary jar

2009-12-03T22:05:00.001-05:00

I've had fun strolling thru some other blogs and stumbled across a cloche party. I love the cloche displays but haven't purchased one yet.

Here's a couple of my jars filled with Christmas .

These jars I purchased at TJ MAXX. I love the sparkle thru the glass...

Check out the other blogs, it's better than a magazine!

Christmas Outside...

2009-12-02T16:35:00.000-05:00

I finally got to uploading my pictures of the outside of our house. I've been so busy decorating, you know how it goes. Well, even though I do the front of the house pink the side is done with traditional red.

I love the simple country look.

All my garden decorations get dressed for Christmas.

I love filling my iron shelves with cute finds from the thrift store and yard sales,

and even a few things I've made myself...

this old ski I painted years ago...

and this cute little snowman I made for a class...

I was so glad the weather was warm for decorating outside...

the side is finished....

even the bird houses get a touch of red...

Well that's the outside. I allow myself one day per room on the inside.

I have alot of Christmas stuff!

More pictures to come...

Pink Christmas Porch...

2009-11-28T13:41:00.000-05:00

I always wait until Thanksgiving is over before I start decorating for Christmas. This is probably the worst part of decorating a home. Packing and unpacking. First I had to put away all my fall stuff. I pack everything up into bins and hall it up into the attic. Then I start unloading the Christmas stuff. This will take a few days. First I take out all the outdoor stuff. Today was such a beautiful day, sunny and 50. Great day to put things up out side.

These deer I actually keep stored in the garage. Great garbage find years ago. I just added a wreath around their necks with a pink bow. They are staked into the ground.

Another great find, a wreath to hang on the fence that hides my garden hose.

My milk cans get some greens and a pink bow.

Under my window - garland of pink and white poinsettias and some pearls.

My front door gets a small wreath.

And the front of the house gets a large wreath. Another great find in the trash! Oh, I have to paint that cord to match the house so you can't see it. I hate dangling cords!

Oh and of course a Christmas tree.

( another free find!)

Even the mail box is filled with pink poinsettias.

Wow, that was a lot of work. But doesn't it look great! I always love when I can step back and see the finished product. The front is the only part I do in pink, it actually works well with my porch furniture.

Now, on to the side of the house!

More pictures to come...

Thanksgiving...

2009-11-24T14:04:00.000-05:00

Because my children go to public schools, I try to be faithful in teaching them the true meanings of Holidays which they will not here in school or in the media. Before we move so quickly into Christmas, let us pause and be grateful. This truely is a time to give thanks. But not to your family or friends or to your teachers, (although that is always a nice thing to do), but let us give thanks to the Lord God. For He is truely good and His love endures forever!

I am reading this wonderful book with my children by Barbara Rainey called Thanksgiving-A time to Remember. It reminds us of the very first Thanksgiving and how the Pilgrims gave thanks to God for all His provisions. I hope we can all do the same, for even though we have troubles and hardships, and at times things seem very uncertain, we truely are a blessed country and we should be grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Recovering bar stools...

2009-11-11T09:49:00.000-05:00

So, the other day I finally was in the mood to recover those bar stools that I had bought material for about a year ago. I had done them in dark green but they were looking a bit worn.

The color on my camera doesn't do justice to my pictures.

I had bought some gorgeous deep red upholstery fabric from JoAnn's a while back that I used. First, I removed the old decorative tacks. I don't bother removing the old fabric.As long as it's in good condition you can cover right over it. Then I measured enough to cover the top and fold under to staple to the back.

You have to flip the whole thing upside down and work from the bottom.

I could have stopped here but I like a more finished look with a trim. I cut enough fabric to go all the way around the stool and about 4 inches wide. I used my handy glue gun to hem it, you could sew it.

Once the trim was finished I glued it all around the stool about halfway down.

Again, I could have stopped here but I wanted to add some decorative upholstery tacks.

I had these stashed away in my tool box.

Just measure equal distance and hammer 6 in around seat just below top of trim. Make sure they get into wood or else they will eventually pop out, I've learned that from experience.

I really like the way they turned out, although the picture doesn't show the true color.

The red is warmer and darker. What do you think?

Just a little side note - I should have changed the date on my camera.

Oh well.

Pumpkin Rolling...

2009-11-09T21:40:00.000-05:00

Well, we had fun!

Pumpkins this year were quit large...

but I have STRONG boys.

Ready , Set, Go...

How far did it go?!

Or maybe we should try the Slides...

A slide for each pumpkin...

There they go... 40 Pumpkins get rolled quickly!

Time for a fire...

and we can't forget the S'MORES!

Don't get too close...

What a nice way to enjoy the end of the fall season.

We had such a nice weekend.

Thank you Lord for the beautiful weather and family and friends.

Pumpkin pick 'n...

2009-11-07T10:09:00.001-05:00

Well, I almost forgot to share one of my most favorite family traditions! It started about 10 years ago. Since we live in an area where there are a lot of deer; and since we have a big hill in our back yard; we decided to not throw away our pumpkins after Halloween but to roll them down our hill for the deer to eat. Well that was just so much fun that we had to do it with more than one pumpkin...

And so it Began.....

I started going around the neighborhood and gathering up all the pumpkins people were throwing away. (This isn't new for me because I always love finding treasures in the trash!)

Well I don't pick up just one pumpkin...

and I don't just get two pumpkins...

but I get about 40 pumpkins!

It may sound crazy, but what fun we have! And don't forget I have 3 boys that are always game for wild and crazy fun. What we do is invite a few friends over. Start a fire. Get out the s'mores and hot dogs and of course apple cider. The boys stand at that top of the hill with one pumpkin each and then let 'em roll! The pumpkins go flying down the hill, crashing into trees and bouncing around. We try to see whose pumpkin will go the farthest. It's so much fun! This weekend is going to be in the 60's, perfect weather. I'll take lots of pics and share them with you next time.

Until then....

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T13:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween Everyone!

I hope everyone had fun and got lots of candy. I'll start taking everything down and leave just the fall stuff up for a few weeks and then it's time to start thinking about CHRISTMAS!

Halloween Teacher Gift...

2009-10-28T11:32:00.000-04:00

I always like to give a little something to my son's teacher, and Halloween is no exception!

A treat seems appropriate, here's what I did...

Here's how...

I found these cute chinese food boxes for.25 at Pat Catan's. I gathered some tissue paper, ribbon, gift tag, paper spider and of course...

CANDY!

I think most teacher's appreciate a little something from their students. Being a teachers is one of the most over worked and under paid professions. Do something SWEET for a teacher today!

BOO picture...

2009-10-24T15:44:00.000-04:00

I just had to try this idea I saw at http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/search/label/Fall%2FHalloween%20decort . I always have too many extra frames and scrapbook paper so it didn't cost really anything. First, I found an old frame and some paper with a background design on it. Cut the paper to fit the frame.

I used a stamp to add some corner detail and I found a" BOO " glitter chipboard at JoAnn Fabric's.

Stamp the corners and use the ink pad to distress the edges.

Don't forget to clean your stamp!

I glued the "BOO" down with double stick tape and added ribbon to the outside, once I framed the picture.

This picture can go anywhere, but I think I have the perfect place...

Thanks for the idea Thrifty Decor Chick!

Fall Jar...

2009-10-23T13:53:00.001-04:00

I'm so excited! I found a beautiful jar to fill at different seasons.I love the way it turned out!

First......

I set out an old checkered shirt ( any pretty fabric will do). I found this one at the thrift store for a buck. I love the checks and it's perfect for fall. Fold it over and crunch it up so you don't know it's a shirt.

Next...

Get yourself a pretty jar. I found this one at TJ Max.

It was a great bargain.I set it on top of the shirt.

Then...

Get some fall goodies.

I used a bag of plastic gourds from Marks and some small pumpkins.

Fill the jar about half way and place some outside the jar around the base.

Finally...

Add a pretty ribbon. I tied mine to the top of the jar.

Step back and enjoy...

I think it turned out great! What do you think?

I can't wait to change it around for the different seasons.

I think I'll fill it with ornaments for Christmas.

Now, I just hope my boys don't knock it down!

Cleveland Metroparks ....

2009-10-21T10:03:00.000-04:00

Well this is exactly why I love fall! Wait till you see. If you don't live in an area where the trees change colors you probably don't get to see this kind of awesome beauty. I live near the Cleveland Metroparks and at this time of year you have to take a ride through and stop at the Gorge, in the Bedford Reservation. Many people have their wedding pictures taken here because it's so beautiful. I hope you'll enjoy these pictures...

Wasn't that beautiful! I hope you enjoyed it. I'm so glad God didn't give us a black and white world to live in. What a wonderful display of beauty. Thank you Lord!

(Please ignore the date on the pictures I didn't set it)

Skeleton craft...

2009-10-18T14:01:00.000-04:00

My 8 year old son came home the other day from school with his adorable art picture. He had seen his brothers do this in the past and he was just waiting his turn. Mr. Wilson (art Teacher) is so... very creative. Any of you moms out there with little children will enjoy doing this with them.

It's hard to tell by my photo but the skeleton "bones" are made out of Q-tips! Cut the skull and pelvis out of white paper and glue to black paper. The "bones" of the feet and hands are broke in half and the ribs are just bent. The ghosts and moon are added with chalk.

This is the first "Halloween" decoration up in my house. I don't usually put the Halloween stuff up until a week before. I'll share all of that with you later.

Fall Hutch....

2009-10-13T10:29:00.000-04:00

I have a few hutches in my home that I love to display and decorate. I usually have to box up seasonal items so I have room to switch things out. It's always good to go through things, dust and rearrange. Here are two hutches I added some fall to...

This is a hutch in my entryway. Just about all the summer decor got packed up. I have way too much fall stuff, but I love the change of seasons and the warm cozy feeling fall brings.

This hutch is in my dining room. About half of it gets packed away. I love the sunflowers and pumpkins. Almost everything I find is from yard sales and thrift stores. There is still more to see. Check back tomorrow.

Fall fireplace...

2009-10-11T20:01:00.000-04:00

I'm changing my home decor around for fall. Here is my faux fireplace in the dining room. Complete with real wood logs and a screen, it's hard to tell it's not the real thing.

A bunch of fall leaves, sunflowers and a bow adorn the mantle. While a scarecrow, pumpkin, indian corn and a rooster wait below for the cozy fire.

Scarecrow...

2009-10-07T16:32:00.000-04:00

I always wanted a scarecrow in my yard but didn't want to buy one.

So we made our own.

Stuffed some material and painted on a face.

Glued on raffia for hair and added a hat.I bought an old

flannel shirt and jeans for the clothes. Glued on some patches, silk leaves and sunflowers. Stuffed the shirt with plastic grocery bags and just tied on the jeans( I like the skinny leg look). Hung it all on some wooden stakes nailed into a cross shape.

Glued on a foam black crow and he's all done!

What do you think?

I set him in the corner of our yard along side a bamboo wagon ( garbage find ) filled with mums. The pumpkin on the left is actually half of a styrofoam pumpkin that had a face carved out the other side. It was broken so I just fixed up the back and added a stem and some leaves and sunflowers. I still have to get some real pumpkins to add around. I always buy the mums that aren't opened yet so they last longer.

This is a little clay crow I just love. Isn't it darling? It only stands about 2 inches.

A fall pillow with Mr. and Mrs. Crow.

Some of my fall decor on my entry bench.

Fall decor - outside

2009-10-05T11:49:00.000-04:00

Fall is officially here !

I hope you enjoy some of my outdoor fall decor.

A side door should always be welcoming...

If you can't find a flag you like, try painting your own...

This wooden scarecrow was easy to paint...

My summer bunnies have been replaced with

fall flowers, pumpkins and a squirrel...

More to come

Fall has arrived!

2009-10-03T19:06:00.001-04:00

I've been away for a while. It was hard to get back into the school and work routine. And summer was just hanging on. But not anymore... Fall is here!

I've crawled up into the attic and brought down all my fall decorations.
I have about as much fall stuff as I do Christmas... way too much!
It may take a while to put out, but it's worth the effort.

I'll be sharing all my decor with you. I hope you enjoy it.

In my opinion, fall colors go in any room.

It's such a short time of year, you have to enjoy it while you can.

I always shop after the season to get the best deals.

And don't forget the yard sales and flea markets.

A few sunflowers here and there add just the right touch.

Copper collection

2009-09-09T09:26:00.000-04:00

I like to add some sparkle to my kitchen with copper. I started collecting it a few years ago. First it started with molds then canisters, then what ever I can find.

Here are some of my favorites...

I just found this tea kettle yesterday at a Goodwill store for $3.00. I love it!

Craft Room

2009-09-06T15:13:00.000-04:00

I have an area in the basement where I do my crafting.

But I hate to look at messes, so it's hidden behind curtains.

I bought a bunch of sheets from the thrift store and hung them on curtain rods in front of storage shelves. I also stapled sheets to the ceiling since our basement isn't finished. A valance at the top hides the rods.

It's my own little area for crafting and when I'm done I simply put things away and close the curtains.

Tole Painted Trays...

2009-09-03T14:21:00.000-04:00

I wanted to share some painted tole trays that I have collected over the years.

I think they're beautiful, what do you think?

This one rests behind my stove. It's colors are perfect with my old, gold counter top.

This is my favorite. I love the red color. It sits on my faux fireplace mantle.

This one is small and my latest find. I put it on top of the tv in the living room.

This large round tray sits on top of my refrigerator. I inherited this one from my mom when she passed away. I remember she bought it when we went to a yard sale together.

I really think these trays are beautiful works of art. I purchased most of them at yard sales or thrift stores for under $3.00. Next time your out shopping, keep your eyes open.

Hide the hose...

2009-09-02T15:18:00.000-04:00

I never did like looking at the garden hose , so I decided to hide it...

I mounted the hose on the back of a picket fence. Now I can leave it out and it doesn't bother me to see it, plus,I have another surface to decorate.

Summer is ending...

2009-09-01T16:22:00.000-04:00

Boy has it been cold here the past few days. It got down to 45' last nite.Pretty soon it will be time to change over to the fall decor...

By, by Bunnies...

No more bunny statues in the garden...

But I won't start changing over until the leaves start falling and the flowers die back..

Until then....

Let me enjoy a few more days of summer ( if only the weather would cooperate).

Thrift store finds...

2009-08-27T12:23:00.003-04:00

Isn't this thermos great!

Went to the thrift store today for one thing. (Like that will ever happen!)

I couldn't resist some of these wonderful finds.

Large wooden rooster ...

Tole tray, fabric, bird houses, cups, flowers...

What fun I had. Now to go and find new places to display them.

I think you should always display the things you love.

Everywhere you look in your home should give you joy.

Fresh Raspberries!

2009-08-26T11:45:00.002-04:00

Fresh Raspberry Cobbler... Simple dump cake recipe...
How many fresh raspberries can you eat?!

5 jumbo quarts of fresh picked raspberries...

My family went to the local farm to pick fresh raspberries. They were soooo delicious, one of those summer fruits that is only around for a short time.

Outdoor Table Redo..

2009-08-25T20:11:00.003-04:00

4 squares of tile at 99 cents each - not bad!

New table next to new furniture...

I went and bought new patio furniture the other day, it was on sale 75% off,

can't beat that, considering my stuff was getting pretty old looking. The redwood chairs I had were starting to rot and since the new set was on sale , now would be the best time to buy. Okay, so I get it home and all my old tables just look too old next to the new stuff. Instead of buying more stuff, I reused the old ones but covered the tops with stone tiles I bought at the Home Depot. I glued them on with construction adhesive and grouted the seams. I think they look great and now they match my new stuff. Hmmm now what about that picnic table...

YARD SALE FINDS!

2009-08-21T20:43:00.002-04:00

I had such fun today going to a couple of yard sales.

I found this adorable truck for a steal.

A little dusting and it will be like new. Perfect for someone with 2 cats.

A fruit candle , yellow desert cups, and a heart pin.

Like a kid in the candy store!

This cute vase -
wouldn't it be great full of fresh daisies!

I'll take going to yard sales and finding a

whole load of treasures for $10.00

over going to a department store

and buying one thing for $30.00

ANY DAY!

Brothers...

2009-08-21T10:38:00.003-04:00

Okay I finally got a picture of Blue. He and his brother Whiskers are napping on my bed. As opposite in character as can be, but still like a cat - likes to sleep all day.
Blue has a beautiful black coat.
He was actually the only kitty of the litter that was black, the rest were all grey.

A little bit COUNTRY...

2009-08-20T23:06:00.003-04:00

These pictures are dedicated to Nate from the Oprah Whinfrey show, who recently redecorated an outdated country home. His design turned out beautiful but he took away the country style . In doing so he made me feel as though country style has no STYLE. But not for me -I Love Country and I know many others do as well.

For Nate, a wreath made of the dry dusty things he hates.
For Nate, some cute little bunnies .

For Nate, some more of those artificial things on top of one of those old time doilies.

For Nate, a heart to welcome you home.

To Nate.... I LOVE COUNTRY!

2009-08-20T22:56:00.003-04:00

For Nate, who doesn't like doilies, I have them everywhere, I collect them. Someone took their precious time to crochet them. A little piece of history.
For Nate, who doesn't like using stuffed animals in decorating... A little kitty to wait for the birdies. He probably doesn't like bird houses either!

For Nate, who doesn't like dried flowers. I save them all and use them to decorate with and to make home made potpourri, oops.... he probably doesn't like that either.

For Nate, who says to leave the farm animals outside. Every house should have at least one rooster. I know I have at least 4.

For Nate, hearts are always welcome in a country home.

Sleeping kitty...

2009-08-19T14:18:00.002-04:00

Whiskers is one of 2 cats that we have. One is all grey and the other all black. They are brothers we got from the same litter. Brothers but totally different. Whiskers is thin and active, loves to go outside, hunts anything that moves and is fearless. Blue on the other hand ( picture to come) is a solid black cat. He's fat and lazy, afraid of every little noise. We actually have to leave the door slightly open when he goes outside so he can run back in when he gets scared. But as you all know, pets are part of the family and we wouldn't have it any other way.

Splashes of yellow...

2009-08-18T08:19:00.002-04:00

Yellow is not one of my favorite colors, but it does add a pop of sunshine.

Stella Doro. A smaller version of a Day Lily.
I only have a small area of sun so I am limited in what I can plant.
Large yellow Marigolds stand out next to the Pink Impatiens.

Red roses are always welcome.

Faux fireplace...

2009-08-16T13:47:00.002-04:00

Our house didn't come with a fireplace and is too small to install one, so I did the next best thing - built a faux fireplace. The best place to put it was in the dining room. I think it turned out pretty good. I had to take the mantle part to the local high school wood shop to have cut, but otherwise did the whole thing myself. I love having a mantle to decorate for the seasons. This is the summer look. What do you think?

Growing Wild...

2009-08-15T15:28:00.003-04:00

Purple and pink are one of my favorite color combinations.I love the impatiens but so do the deer. If you live near the woods like I do, you may have trouble with deer eating your garden. Here is a recipe that really does work. I used to buy the netting and the $50.00 a gallon spray but my neighbor shared this with me and now the wild animals still come but they don't eat. Take an empty gallon jug, add 4 raw mixed eggs and one cup listerine type (I usually get the generic version )mouthwash, fill with water, shake well. Pour into a spray bottle and spray your plants. When I first used this, I did it every day to make sure, but now I only spray once a week. Sometimes the sprayer gets clogged so I spray water thru every now and then. I try to share this with everyone. No one wants to spend all that time and money and then have the deer eat it all.
These beautiful ferns have gotten so big. Time to devide them next spring.

I've heard of putting a mirror in the garden, so I tried it. What do you think?

Caladium and hostas are a perfect pair.

Garden BUZZzzzzz....

2009-08-14T21:34:00.003-04:00

This morning as I was sitting outside, a big bumble bee came buzzing by. I followed him. First he landed on the pink begonias. Do you see him? He's right in the center.

Then he went to the hosta. And crawled inside the white flower. For a time he was so deep you wouldn't even know he was there.

I really don't like bees or any other flying insects. But I do love my flowers and we can't have one without the other. Bees are actually gardeners, tending to the garden. Spreading the pollen where ever needed.

An extra chair...

2009-08-13T19:46:00.002-04:00

We have an extra chair in the dining room . It sits in the corner waiting for that special guest to join us. For now it's a place for my basket of lace table cloths and napkins, a bag of home made potpourri and a sweet kitty creamer.

Morning sun...

2009-08-13T08:22:00.003-04:00

The morning sun comes right in my bedroom window. This may not be a real rooster, but waking up to the bright sunshine ( at about 6:30am ) and seeing this vignette first thing in the morning, reminds me of how it must feel waking up to the roosters crowing in the country.

Fresh Garden Tomatoes...

2009-08-12T09:43:00.003-04:00

There's nothing better than fresh picked, home grown, garden tomatoes. If you don't grow your own ask a friend. Most people grow way to many to eat by themselves. And if you grow your own, share some with a friend. Enjoy!

Cool Summer Evening...

2009-08-11T21:12:00.002-04:00

This was such a beautiful summer evening. Sitting on the porch, the cool breeze, the setting sun. The crickets and cicadas are so loud. The lightning bugs are out - little flashes of light in the looming darkness. The days are getting shorter. You can just feel it. School is going to start in a couple of weeks. No more sleeping in. Back to routines. Let me just enjoy it a little longer.

Weekend flea mrkt/yard sale finds!

2009-08-11T10:52:00.002-04:00

What a wonderful time I had this weekend findings treasures. And the prices were fantastic!
Roosters .50cents/ each

Tin .10 cents! Wow

Bag of molds 25 cents

Green plates 50 cents/ each

Wow! Did I get some Bargains! A lady even thru in a crocheted table cloth because it had a stain on it. What a great time. Now to clean them up and find a place to put them....