She Dreams Big!

Another special gift to show you {and the winner} . . .

2012-01-20T14:03:00.000-06:00

I'll never get to France.

Frankly, I'm not sure I want to visit France. Oh, if I was a gazillionairess it would be on my bucket list but there are so many places in the United States that I would like to see first.

But that doesn't mean that I don't love all things French! I am so glad that there are blogs out there that supply me with all of the Frenchy goodness that I crave.

Rhonda from A Little Bit French is usually where I go to dream of France.

And I was lucky enough (not lucky enough to be a gazillionairess but . . .) to win her monthly giveaway! Maybe some of the pieces she used to create these beauties actually came from France! At least that is what I tell myself!

She made a pincushion out of a spoon! Can you imagine the creative mind that thought that up?

And little stamped pillows!

I'm feeling the amour! The jen e sais quai! I'm transported to France!

I found the doorknob and it isn't from France (or is it? hmmmm . . .).

The giveaway package is dressed and ready to go to the winner of my birthday giveaway! Where shall I send it? Who will the random generator choose? (Why can't I get a picture of the random generator?)

#18!!!!!!

Joanna of Fiddlesnips!

You are going to celebrate my birthday month with me!

If I get your address before Monday morning, I'll get the package in the mail. If not, you'll have to wait a little longer until I get back from my VACATION! Send it to me ASAP, okay?

(Sorry about the difficulties commenting. I hear that blogger wasn't being cooperative. But if I heard from you telling me your problems, I added your name anyway.)

Yes, this little Nebraska girl is traveling out of the country. To sun-filled (I hope!) Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! Scary - YES! Excited - YES! Have to white-knuckle it on the plane - DEFINITELY YES!

Thanks to all of my friends who wished me a happy birthday and welcome to the new followers! Sometimes we have fun here so the more the merrier!

See you on the flip side!

What a co-in-ci-dink ...

2012-01-13T16:35:00.000-06:00

. . . I mean coincidence.

Well, you know it's my birthday month and I'm having a giveaway (see post here). Only 6 commentors so far (what am I doing wrong? this may just be my last giveaway!) so you have a really good chance to win.

Anywhoo, back to the coincidence.

Last year, way back in 2011 (isn't it funny that 13 days into 2012 we think of last year as being so far in the past), I was a happy camper to discover that I won 2 (not just one, but 2) giveaways!

And I received both gifts ON MY BIRTHDAY!

What are the odds of that happening? Did they secretly know that is was my birthday? Did they covertly send their packages so that they would arrive on the same special day?

Probably not. Just a very lovely coincidence!

Marie from Lost Bird Studio is probably the most talented, creative and prolific artist I know. Always, always something new and wonderful to see on her blog! I truly hesitated to open this sweet packaging but I knew inside would be something even more special!

And special it is! I'll treasure it Marie!

(Darn post office cracked the glass on my special piece but neither me or my memories are in perfect condition either).

Tracie of Fishtail Cottage (one of my 'new' favorite blogs) sponsored a giveaway with a prize from Shellagh of Ticking and Toile. Another beautifully wrapped package almost too pretty to open.

But being the 'can't stand a unopened package' kind of gal that I am, I tore into it to find a wonderful stamped pillow cover. Gorgeous, no?

Thank you Marie, Tracie and Shellagh for unknowingly making my birthday a day of happy surprises!

Now, IF you visit my blog and IF you enter my giveaway, maybe you will win and the package will arrive on one of your special days too!

Won't you celebrate with me?

2012-01-11T19:21:00.000-06:00

It's my birthday.

Well, it was my birthday last week. On the 7th.

(a little trivia for you ~~ Elvis' birthday is on the 9th so I always say 'thank you, thank you very much' when receiving birthday wishes. and nobody gets it! my mom would have.)

At my age (which is very young! tee hee!), I can't party hardy all in one day anymore so I spread out the celebration all month.

I love to get presents! I love to win giveaways!

And I know (at least I think) you love to win and get presents too!

So won't you celebrate my birthday by entering my giveaway? Please? Pretty please?

If the lucky stars choose you (by random generator, of course) you will receive a loooong crocheted-edge linen dresser scarf (which I really want to keep for myself), a teeny tiny flower frog (that is just so stinkin cute) and several vintage valentines (they came from my main man's stash so you know they are really vintage. tee hee again!).

Now, you know I don't like rules but I think I'll require some this time.

1. Be a follower and wish me a Happy Birthday! Yup, I think that is an important rule. I should really require that you promise to leave me at least one other comment during the year to let me know that you still visit me and don't just follow to win but I won't.

2. For another entry, the dreaded 'add my giveaway to your sidebar' requirement. I know, I know, it is an extra step and time consuming but I love to see my name on your blogs. I'm going to bask in the knowledge that I can be somewhat famous for awhile and maybe I'll meet some new bloggers out there (even though I LOVE all of my current bloggy friends!).

3. This is an important giveaway rule and imperative to be included to win. Since the picking has been really terrible around here lately and I'm lost as to what will sell at Miss Maggie's House and what won't, tell me what flies out of your store/shop every time you offer it. Or if you don't have a store/shop, tell me what you always, always pick out for yourself when you are out and about. This is worth another giveaway entry. Or maybe 2!

4. Do something out of the ordinary for someone else. It won't get you an automatic win for this giveaway but it will make you and that someone else feel really good about the day. Sometimes a sweet gesture can be life saving!

Whew! Those are alot of rules but hey, it's my birthday and I can do what I want!

Let's draw the winner out of the proverbial hat on January 19th, okay? That will give me 2 days to get the package in the mail before I leave on my beach laying, mai tai drinking, flip flop wearing, zip line screaming, weighing down the para-sailing, swimming with the fishes vacay!

Now, get those fingers walking and shoot me some comments! You just might be glad you did!

I almost feel sorry for the guy . . .

2012-01-04T16:34:00.000-06:00

. . . the snow shovel.

(It's a guy snow shovel because this gal doesn't scoop snow.)

And please notice that I said I ALMOST feel sorry for him.

All he can do is wait in a pile of leaves. He was put on this earth to scoop snow, not leaves.

(this guy also scoops bunks and feed but he feels it is really beneath him to mention it)

He tries to move a little to the north thinking there might be snow there.

Nope, no snow. Only more leaves and a pile of dead grass.

He knows it is January. He knows he lives in Nebraska. Normally, he is just about wore out by this time of year. He hears that it will be in the 60s tomorrow! What is a poor snow shovel to do?

(and he sure doesn't want to think about being moved back out to the lowly feed shed!)

Who did this cruel, cruel thing to the anxiously awaiting snow shovel?

ME!

I wished for no snow. Ever.

(you fellow snow haters can thank me later)

Think it will last?

No? Me either. We technically still have 3 (and sometimes 4) more months of potential snow weather.

But I am relishing in the balminess of Nebraska weather today and I snear and laugh at the poor, little snow shovel every time I walk by.

He shoots me back a look that says 'You just wait. You'll be sick of snow by the time this winter is over'.

*sigh* I know this to be true.

How is the weather where you are?

I'm linking to Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday. Can I also link to Faded Charm's White Wednesday when there is a lack of the white stuff?

Novica - Change your Life, Change the World

2012-01-03T20:51:00.005-06:00

Isn't that we all would like to do? Help change the world, one purchase at a time?

Novica, in association with National Geographic, is not only helping those of us shoppers who love the unique and the handcrafted but are directly helping those who design and craft these products from countries all over the world. Novica provides assistance to talented artisans who may not otherwise have access to a world market. There is also an Artisan Loan Program that allows these artists to expand their businesses.

Novica's Mission Statement :

We want to give artists and artisans around the world a global platform to express their true artistic talents and to spur their creativity. And, we want to provide you with access to unique, hard-to-find items at great values that only the Internet infrastructure can allow.

At the deepest essence of our philosophy, we want to create a bridge between you and the many talented artisans across the globe.

We want you to know about who you're buying from. We want you to feel that attachment to the product and to the hands that created it.

Handcrafted items are plentiful . . .

Home Decor . . .

Jewelry . . .

Handbags . . .

Original Paintings . . .

Accessories and Clothing

I was offered an opportunity to see what Novica is all about and believe me, it was hard to choose just one item.

Sandeep's (aka 'Prince') family is in the business of making shawls. The most beautiful shawls with hand embroidery and made from the most luxurious wool. Mine came wrapped in a lovely bag, along with a personal note from the artisan. Novica's service was outstanding and considering that my shawl came all the way from India, the anticipation time was very short.

Novica is now on the short list for all of my holiday gift giving!

Novica Live is a new division recently launched because customers wanted to see products live and in person. Consultants have the opportunity to do just that with Novica's new party plan. Beautiful gifts and jewelry are showcased through home parties in an entertaining way, while supporting artisans worldwide. Check out how you can help 'change the world' here.

I'll even make searching for some very special items easier. Just click on the links below!

Now, let's make 2012 the year that we help and support each other, whether it is next door or the next country over!

I can see clearly now . . .

2012-01-01T17:24:00.000-06:00

. . . the rain is gone,

I can see all obstacles in my way

Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind

It's gonna be a bright, bright

sun-shiny day.

Well, that pity party is over for another year. (I think.)

Time may not be my best friend, but I think we can tolerate each other for awhile again. But really, what are my choices? To wallow or to weather the storm.

I'm going to concentrate on myself this year. To find out who exactly I am. To face the fears and tackle them one by one. To actually write goals/dreams/plans down so I have to work on them each and every day and not dismiss them as trivial. I'm not going to worry about what other people think. After all, I am ultimately the only person standing in my way!

It is back to business -- back to DREAMING BIG!

Thank you, my lovlies, for the encouragement and kind words. They helped more than you could ever know.

2012 - I'm ready!

The year is ticking by . . .

2011-12-30T14:58:00.000-06:00

. . . and I am holding on. Again.

I'm wallowing in my annual 'holiday pity party'.

It starts the beginning of December but really takes hold of me the last week of the year.

It hasn't always been so. But the last few years have left me anxious to see the season end.

I know the reasons why and I have resolved all of those feelings but I still can't help myself.

I truly have a good life. People who love me. Other people who care.

Believe me, it is all self inflicted.

I am usually content.

But I am not confident.

This new year will be different. I mean it! I really mean it!

I will struggle on whether to publish this post but you need to know the real me. I don't know why I think you do, but you do.

I'll catch up with you all on the flip side. The happy side. The 'see me always smiling' side. The 'making future plans' side.

Because this will pass. It always does.

Blessings to you, my friends, in this upcoming, wonderful, glorious new year!

I can show you in many ways . . .

2011-12-24T08:35:00.007-06:00

. . . and I always mean it from my heart!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Now, go make sure you left cookies for Santa and carrots for Rudolph because I already ate their share at my house!

I'm scrambling today . . .

2011-12-23T09:44:00.000-06:00

. . . because I thought I was prepared.

Christmas Eve is tomorrow night!

And Christmas is the next day!

Why wasn't I notified that the week was going to fly by!

I thought I was prepared.

But there is so much left to do!

Why do I do this to myself? Will anyone notice the cobwebs? The fingerprints on the windows? If they do, they will have to go to a house with a maid for next year's holidays.

I'm going to enjoy the festivities today and anxiously await my family's arrival!

Wishing you a 'stress-free', 'no need to worry about the little things', 'take time to revel in the holiday' day!

Hmmmm . . .

2011-12-22T07:16:00.001-06:00

. . . as I look back on my recent posts, I see a theme of sorts.

I'm very non-colorful this Christmas.

Very dark even. Very blah.

I thought I was just being neutral but now I just see blah.

Hmmmm . . . I wonder what that means?

Christmas MUST go on . . .

2011-12-21T08:07:00.003-06:00

. . . just like the postman, through snow, sleet or rain of night ~~ or the blah feeling of a cold.

Christmas preparations MUST go on!

This super woman got up, got going, finished wrapping the last gifts, fluffed the decorations just a bit and (I must of been delirious from a fever) even baked!

I've been wanting to try these bite size cupcakes for awhile.

And I thought it is 'feed a cold' right?

I fed a couple (okay, I admit it, it was many) of these yummy, coconut filled, chocolate mini-bites to my cold.

I should be back to healthy very, very soon!

ps ~~ if you want the recipe, go here. but if you want the 411 on the necessary tweaking, email me.

A re-gifted early Christmas present . . .

2011-12-20T09:40:00.000-06:00

. . . do you re-gift?

No? Me either.

But my grandkids do.

Those sweet kiddos of mine gave me an early Christmas gift . . .

. . . my very first winter cold of the year! (sniff, sniff, ah-choo, ah-choo)

And as I sit close to my box of kleenex, snuggled under my furry quilt, I can't help but think this snowman is smiling a little too sinister at me. He knows how much is left to do before Christmas but he wanted the company today.

Not too fear though. This super woman will rally and all will be well.

Wishing you a healthy, productive day!

Christmas at Grandma's house . . .

2011-12-18T18:40:00.000-06:00

. . . is a tradition for many.

My family is no exception.

Except now, I'm the Grandma whose house is where everyone gathers for holidays.

And you know what? Even though I may grumble to myself about all of the work from time to time (shame on me!), I truly enjoy it! It just won't be the same when my children have homes large enough to fit us all and we start taking turns. That IS the plan for the future, right kids?

The years take their toll on those we hold dear. Absent loved ones are especially missed during the holidays.

We hold our old, sepia-colored memories close to our hearts.

And cherish the new memories we make each year.

Where do you hold your Christmas gatherings?

Are you heading 'over the meadow and through the woods, to Grandmother's house you go'?

I think I can start now . . .

2011-12-15T13:38:00.000-06:00

. . . actually 'feeling' the season, that is.

The decorating is finished, the presents are waiting to be wrapped, the Christmas programs have gotten me in the holiday mood, the ingredients for baking are sitting on the countertop, the cards are addressed and ready to be mailed, the Christmas menus are planned and baby, it's cold outside.

Everything is as prepared as it is going to be. I'm going to enjoy the last week before Christmas without the stress of not being ready.

How about you?

Have you gotten into the 'feeling' of Christmas yet?

Not all stars shine brightly . . .

2011-12-14T10:07:00.000-06:00

. . . some are just as meaningful made out of paper.

Go here for instructions.

Hope the stars are shining brightly over you wherever you are today!

Plans for the next 10 days . . .

2011-12-13T14:13:00.000-06:00

. . . I'm unusual.

I have to plan time to make plans. Oh, I can think on my feet alright but the big plans need a special time carved out to just sit and think about.

This morning was planning time.

The next 10 days will be a flurry of activity. Shopping, wrapping presents, baking . . . you all know the drill.

I have the written plans to ensure a happy Christmas. And, as I promise myself every year, I WILL NOT wait until the last minute to accomplish those plans!

Hoping your Christmas plans include enjoying the season!

I hope Santa will be there . . .

2011-12-12T08:32:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited!

We finally have a grandchild old enough to be in the Christmas program! I get to be the silly grandma in the audience waving and making funny faces as the J-man sings his pre-school songs.

I hope Santa will be there. I have several things on my wish list that I hope he can help me with!

Wishing you a ho ho ho kind of day!

Joyful, joyful . . .

2011-12-09T22:47:00.000-06:00

. . . we adore Thee.

God of glory

Lord of love

(don't you just love Sister Act? both 1 and 2?)

And we are joyful that it is the weekend!

Only 14 more shopping days until Christmas!

Do you think I should start? Yeah. Me too!

Wishing each and every one of you a joyful weekend!

ps ~~ Miss Maggie's House is open again tomorrow! Please let the roads be clear of snow!

From dark to light . . .

2011-12-08T07:16:00.001-06:00

. . . and shiny and bright.

Don't ya just love vintage ornaments?

I wish I had a bucket full!

I wish I had enough to make those wreaths that I drool over each time I see one!

Wishing you a shiny and bright day!

Just a touch of black . . .

2011-12-07T11:51:00.000-06:00

. . . always makes it into the Christmas scenes around here. Since most of the decorating is staying in the 'white' category this year, a touch of black is required.

I don't 'do' traditional red and green any more. There may be a little lime green thrown in the mix some years but not this year. Three Christmas boxes came out and what was in those three boxes were used. I didn't even dare to look in the other 256 boxes because then I would have wanted it all out!

"Simple" is the theme for me this year.

But I do enjoy all of your over-the-top Christmas decorating and wish I wasn't so dang lazy!

Teeny, tiny, glittery, white . . .

2011-12-06T11:48:00.000-06:00

. . . houses.

Truthfully, these are last year's photos with a little more 'foofing'.

They look exactly like last year, only in a different area. I couldn't improve on the photos so why try.

Time is of the essence. I've GOT to get this decorating DONE!

Are YOU finished yet?

Overworking Christmas . . .

2011-12-05T14:31:00.000-06:00

. . . sometimes, when you think you need to add more, you see the beauty in simplicity.

I'm leaving this just as it is.

I hope you are experiencing the simple joys of the holiday season!

Christmas tree delivery delayed . . .

2011-12-04T09:06:00.000-06:00

. . . due to being stuck in the snow.

Maybe tomorrow.

*sigh*

Just a dusting . . .

2011-12-03T10:54:00.000-06:00

. . . of snow so far.

The nasty weatherman is calling for 3-6 inches.

I'm hoping for no more than this.

Wishing you all a warm and wonderful weekend!

The madness . . .

2011-12-02T09:11:00.000-06:00

. . . of me thinking I could knit everyone a scarf this Christmas!

One down, two started and three more to go.

Do you think I will accomplish this goal?

No? Me either!

The winter cold has settled in . . .

2011-12-01T11:06:00.000-06:00

. . . and I am settled down.

Snug as a bug in a rug.

Under a fur lined, warm and cozy, made by me, new quilt.

Can't you just feel the lusciousness?

Oh wait! Is it the first of December? Does that mean that the Christmas decorations have to be put up?

DRAT!

No more snuggling in front of the fire for me! Off I go to lug down the boxes, untangle the lights, move furniture, scrounge for batteries so the 'fa la la la la' music can be played, put away the non-holiday knickknacks, find places for my favorite Christmas pieces and generally get into the holiday mood!

Here's my plan . . . I'll show you snippets of the old farmhouse Christmas everyday. It may not always be pretty. It may not always be something that is actually finished. And it certainly may not always be something homemade. But it will be how we celebrate the holidays here on the farm. Gosh! I hope I don't have to show you how we shovel snow out of the bunks or thaw out the water tanks!

At least the weather is conducive to staying inside today cuz 'baby, it's cold outside' here in Nebraska!

I'm cold just thinking about what is bound to be coming so I am going back to hunker down under the cozy fur quilt and think about my Christmas plan for awhile longer.

Happy December 1st everyone!

Let the merriment begin!

YOU won! And YOU won!

2011-11-22T14:33:00.000-06:00

. . . but before I tell you who the YOUs are, you have to look at a couple of pieces of furniture that were finished before the workshop was closed due to 'it's too dang cold to paint outside anymore'.

Both of these pieces were originally painted to be sold at Miss Maggie's House. But I'm sure you all are like me . . . you fall in love with your creations and decide to keep them instead!

This first piece fits perfectly in a spot in my kitchen. I'll never find anything else that is narrow enough to place there. If I do, I'll sell this!

ASCP French Linen, distressed with dark and clear wax.

This desk belonged to my grandma. It is not old, not very well made and in my opinion not very useful as far as a desk goes but my grandma was a ferocious letter writer and I can still picture her sitting at this desk. She also filled her letters with newspaper and magazine clippings of things/recipes/tidbits of information she thought we could (should?) appreciate.

So, of course, I have to keep this piece too!

ASCP Granite and Old White. Again, distressed (because I love everything about a distressed piece of furniture!) with dark and clear wax.

And I want to keep this desk so much! (Hmmm . . . seems I have a desk obsession going on, doesn't it!) But I have no room for it . . . YET! So it is for sale at Miss Maggie's House and I will cry real tears when it goes to it's new home!

When I soaked the handles to clean them, they came out with the most beautiful patina! Now, you just can't duplicate that!

ASCP Paris Grey and Country Grey.

Okay, I've digressed far too long from the reason for this post.

You want to know if YOU are one of the YOUs that won the wedding bits and pieces.

Well, if YOU are Becky from Junk to Joy or Jill from Jill Ruth & Co

. . . YOU WON!

I'll be emailing you shortly.

The main man and I are alone for Thanksgiving this year (that's okay. I have Christmas at my house!) and I am not cooking a thing! I think McDonalds will be open. lol

Wishing you all with big, wonderful, loving families a blessed Thanksgiving!

We had so much fun . . .

2011-11-16T18:01:00.000-06:00

. . . that we are doing it again!

Miss Maggie's House first ever occasional sale was a big success! Both my friend and I sold enough to make all the work worthwhile, we had a good time Friday night (but who wouldn't have a good time with bottles of bubbly and yummy snacks) and the turnout on Saturday was way more than we expected.

We think we could learn to like selling, primping, picking and creating very, VERY much!

A few more photos to make you wish that you could have been there!

Miss Maggie's House may be open one more time before Christmas. If we can find more stuff. If we can find a date that there aren't a million other things going on. If it doesn't snow.

This is just too.much.fun!

My giveaway reveal . . .

2011-11-15T15:37:00.000-06:00

. . . thanks for waiting to see what TWO of you can win!

I told you the prize wouldn't be leftover wedding cake or any wedding bills! Just pretty little do-dads, knick-knacks and an insulator candle holder to light it all up!

I'll leave the giveaway going until Sunday, November 20th so you still have a chance to enter. Go to THIS POST to try your luck!

Good luck!

{GIVEAWAY, GIVEAWAY!} Picker Neighbors . . .

2011-11-08T21:59:00.000-06:00

. . . (I should have remembered that everybody clicks on the giveaway posts but it MUST be in the title of the post to catch your eye! If you would like to enter my giveaway, click here.)

Now back to the reason of this post.

You've all seen the TV shows American Pickers and Picker Sisters, right? Well, my friend/neighbor and I have become 'Picker Neighbors'. We've been scouring the local auctions, flea markets and antique stores this summer. And what, you ask, are we doing with all of our fabulous finds?

We are going to try to sell all (at least the ones we can part with) of our goodies. The very first occasional sale at Miss Maggie's House is this weekend!

Am I scared? Am I nervous? Am I thinking what have I gotten myself into? Am I wondering why we are going to all of this work when I KNOW no one will want my stuff? Do I need a little confidence booster here?

YES!

But we are having the best time ever and really, isn't that the point? Doing what you love to do. Living out your dream. Having a reason to go shopping. And only buying what you love and would have in your own home and hoping someone else loves it too.

Here is how all of this came about: my friend's husband has a house sitting empty. I say to my friend Kate in a half joking kind of way "we need to have occasional sales there. A place where we can occasionally sell what we make/buy/find." Lo and behold, she thought it was a great idea and pushed me (yes, pushed me hard) to follow through on my suggestion. AFTER the wedding, of course. So, here we are.

We are having this first sale on-the-fly. We are not necessarily ready (I haven't sewn a thing!) but I think we both knew that if we waited for spring, we would have found a way to back out. We figure that this occasional sale will announce that we are here and that we have some fabulous plans for the future. We didn't want to do the 'Christmas' thing so we had to stage this house quickly. And 'townies' just won't travel to the country when there is snow on the ground! I have been painting and distressing furniture like crazy and she has some very lovely antique pieces. I have scoured my 'stash' and very reluctantly have chosen pieces that I think I can live without if they sell. I can always bring them back home if they don't! I LOVE MY STUFF!

Invitations for a 'sneak peek and first dibs' on Friday night have been sent.

(and we have bribed our guests with the promise of wine and snacks!)

An ad in the paper has been published.

We have been working on the house for 2 weeks straight.

We are committed!

Here is a sneak peek for you!

Pricing has proven to be very, very difficult. I think the purpose is to sell what you are offering but how do you put a price on things you love? Do we price things low so customers will think they are getting a bargain and come back or do we price things what we think they are worth and maybe have them sit there waiting patiently for a home? Tell me, how do YOU put a price on your items?

Anyway, wish us luck!

This just happens to be my 200th post! (yeah for me!) And I am one follower away from having a nice round number. Makes my previously mentioned giveaway even more special, don't you think?

Only the memories (and some giveaway goodies) are left . . .

2011-11-01T10:34:00.000-05:00

. . . and maybe a few more photos of things you haven't seen yet. But I pledge, I guarantee, I swear, I pinky promise . . . this is the last wedding post you will have to trudge through! (At least until the professional photos arrive!)

She wanted the cake to mimic her dress. Ruffly.

Doilies were laid out on all the tables. And we used our ratty old suitcases everywhere we could.

I'm a stickler on cutting threads when I sew, but we wanted the banners to show the torn edges. Just maybe not this much!

Never got a photo of the complete favor table but I'll sneak one in when the photos arrive.

We made 4 kinds of cookies and stacked them in the suitcases so pretty. (no, the sack of shredded paper doesn't belong in there) The kolaches were snarfed up quickly!

The simple props were a big hit and we got some way too funny poses! After a few drinks and a few dances, this was really a fun way to let off some steam. I highly recommend it for any party!

This is such a crappy photo but I wanted to show you what was on the tables during the dance. (gosh, I hope that is not dust but just poor lighting!) The battery tea light was just enough light to make sure you were drinking the right drink and not sticking your finger into someone else's.

And my darling grandkids! (why do they always scrunch up their faces when you tell them to say cheese?) The J-man did a fantastic job as banner bearer and had the best time hanging out with the 'big boys'.

Now, because you have all been so patient with me throughout this summer of wedding planning and then finally the wedding itself, I'm offering a GIVEAWAY!

Two of you will receive mementos of the wedding! Don't worry, I won't send you any leftover cake or any of the bills! Just a little package of anonymous things you can use as you please. If you would like to tell me what you hope you win, I'll take that into consideration too!

The rules (ya know, ya gotta have rules!):

THERE AREN'T ANY RULES!

(cuz I hate rules! and I usually don't follow them anyway!)

JUST LEAVE ME A COMMENT!

But if you want to post it on your sidebar or become a follower or sneak any Butterfinger candy bars from your kids' Halloween bucket and send them to me, I'll love you forever!

Oh, and if you were sweet enough to leave any comments on ANY past wedding post, you get another chance to win for each comment you left! Now, aren't you glad you didn't ignore any of my ramblings about this event?

I've got another big deal coming up in a week that I'm ~~nervous~~ ~~panicky~~ ~~loosing sleep over~~ planning (that I'll tell you about later), so I won't set a definite date on when I'll choose the winners but it will be as soon as possible. Okay? Get those fingers limbered up and shoot me a comment!

And, as always, thank you for your support.

Take a flashlight with you tonight . . .

2011-10-31T18:34:00.000-05:00

. . . because the goblins will get you if it's dark.

But if there is light, they stay in the trees looking innocently down on you. Just waiting for night time to pounce from their perches.

Have a safe and happy Halloween everybody!

And save all of the Butterfingers for me!

What we ladies really notice . . .

2011-10-26T09:50:00.000-05:00

. . . are the details, right? No matter what the event is. Big party or small gathering. Whether we are invited to a fancy gala or a barn party or just over to the neighbor's house for potluck, what we look at first are the details. Our eyes just naturally seek out to see what is new, what is different and, truth be told, what ideas we can recreate in our own homes. This is true if you are like me. And I know you are all like me.

If it is details you desire, then you came to the right place today.

Behold! ~ the wedding details ~.

(at least some of them)

Half of the tables had centerpieces that included dried hydrangeas in my white McCoy vases.

On chalkboard trays with 'love' quotes.

On burlap placemats.

(BTW, do you know how hard it is to get a perfect rectangle shape out of burlap? Impossible!)

(AND BTW again, do you spot the fancy, schmancy jello mold I posted about earlier?)

The other half of the tables were decorated with vintage vignettes.

Everything used was from 'stuff' we already had.

Needless to say, I had many empty shelves, table tops and spaces in my home!

There was a 'thank you' on each table so the guests knew how much we appreciated that they came.

(The issue of RSVPs will be discussed in a later post. After I cool down a little.)

There was either sheet music, ledger paper or dictionary pages as foundations for the centerpieces.

And each vignette sat on a vintage doily.

We made muslin wreaths . . .

and oodles of different (you'll see other kinds later) paper flowers . . .

and blinged out bottles.

In the back of the stage were huge frames, with chalkboard inserts, that held huge fluffy wreaths.

And of course we had to add a little bling to each one!

Did you get your fill of details yet? No? Well, stay tuned.

There are just a few (dozen) left to show you! lol

And I'm planning a surprise!

First, let me set the stage . . .

2011-10-20T17:54:00.000-05:00

. . . and invite you to the biggest party we have ever thrown!

Please let us know you came and grab a program.

The backing of the programs is old dictionary paper.

This was my ocd kicking in. I couldn't stand the ugly back of the dresser so I quick made a couple of paper garlands.

Please come this way . . .

. . . and choose a seat. Comfy red velvet theater chairs.

Don't forget to wave your wand to tinkle the bells when the married couple walks back down the aisle.

The makeshift alter at the top of the landing.

The ceremony was very moving and personal. And no one fell down the steps!

Be sure to grab a glass of bubbly at the bar for the cocktail hour.

There were oohs and aahs over this gorgeous old theater. Yes, the lighting was atrocious for the amateur photographer that I am but I think you can still tell that the place was opulent and the perfect setting for a wedding. I should be patient until the professional photographs are available but I couldn't wait to show you everything.

Next time . . . the details.

She done went and got herself wed . . .

2011-10-19T12:04:00.001-05:00

. . . and it was lovely.

the dress . . .

the bling . . .

the shoes . . .

(btw, these are the exact Monolo Bhlaniks that Carrie wore in the Sex and the City movie)

and the happy couple.

More photos coming. After I recover.

PS ~~ what could be more white than a wedding dress (even though it was really a vintage ivory color). I'm linking to Faded Charm's White Wednesday.

Here me are!

2011-10-11T11:59:00.000-05:00

I haven't been abducted by aliens. I haven't been on an extended vacation to some exotic place. I haven't broken my arm or fingers. And I certainly haven't been blogging!

I won't bore you with excuses, especially the one that I have been just too busy (my biggest pet peeve! it is all about priorities people!). Suffice it to say that I have been gone but now I am back!

Lots to do on a farm in the fall. Especially when I have told the farmers in my life that I need them for the major part of 5 whole days (without complaints!). They were allowed to complain about the wedding taking up so much of their time all through the summer (which they did), but there is to be NO CRABBING ABOUT HARVESTING NOT GETTING DONE during the week of the event.

And here we are 5 days away from my daughter's wedding. I get teary eyed every day thinking about it. Will I cry during the ceremony? You betcha! And I have decided I am not going to be embarrassed about it either! I'll just delete all of the photos taken of me while my face is scrunched up in a blubbering mess. I WILL get through this. And it will be such a happy day!

All that is left to do is to primp and fluff my house for next day guests. So far I have 2 fall-looking vignettes. Yup, that is all that there will be. There are a couple of Halloweeny looking things laying about too but I will share those later.

Well, I'm off to do some more primping and fluffing. I suppose I should try on my (disappointing) dress to see what might need to be fixed and how I can glam it up and to gather everything together that needs to be transported to the wedding site. I'll be so glad to get the room that has been 'wedding central' back to normal.

Just wanted to check in.

Thank you for the suggestions from my last post. I haven't forgotten about you!

Please clear your schedules for next week when you will be bombarded with wedding photos!

And please think good wishes for my daughter (and her sobbing mess of a mother) on her oh-so-special day.

What to do, what to do . . .

2011-09-15T18:01:00.000-05:00

. . . and I'm asking YOU to tell ME what to do!

I've just about had it with making decisions. I don't seem to be able to cope anymore.

What I'm asking you for is not earth-shattering. Not life-altering. But it is something that is confusing the heck out of me and I cannot think of a good solution.

I am unclear, unsure and perplexed and time is ticking away . . .

. . . what the heck should I serve at the gift opening gathering the day after the wedding???

Keep in mind that I will be gone from the house 2 days before we return to open the loot. The motel offers a breakfast, my main man and I will rush home (40 miles away) and I'm telling people not to come until 1:00 so a light supper after the goodies are oohed and aahed over is what I am thinking. If I order something to pick up on the way home, what would I order? Think 'simple, but elegant' like the wedding itself.

Oh, and what can we munch on while getting ready on the wedding day? I don't want anyone skipping out to grab a burger and returning late or fainting from hunger during the ceremony! It has to be simple, non-messy and easy to clean up after.

As much as I like to eat, you would think the food would be the easy part. But nooooo.

Help me please! Or better yet, just come and do it for me. tee!hee!

Maybe this will be a surprise contest! The best (and most 'simple, but elegant') suggestion wins!

Single wide trailer style . . .

2011-09-10T17:40:00.000-05:00

. . . the Robelyn way.

Celebrating a fancy, schmancy *birth*day of some kind like only she can do.

She is spilling the secrets of her success.

All week long.

But you don't have to sign up or anything because I am determined to win this perfect hobo bag. I just hope that a roll of duct tape is included!

red.neck chic

Hope your weekend is grand!

Sweet ladies . . .

2011-09-08T07:46:00.001-05:00

. . . who send wonderful gifts!

Sweet Becky from Junk to Joy.

She sent me pieces to make something myself but she put them together too pretty to take apart. So I'm loving them just the way they are.

Jennifer Rizzo, with the creations of Beth Quinn, made me feel special. I know you can't see them well but the matching necklaces say 'sweet mama' and 'sweet girl'. My little girl and I will be wearing them to her wedding rehearsal. Tears will be falling.

Cindy from Fat Cow Studio sent a gift almost too pretty to unwrap.

But unwrap it I did and . . .

. . . discovered beauty and a reminder to spread my wings and venture into dreams that may be too big, but oh so worthwhile.

Thank you sweet ladies.

This is the last post . . .

2011-09-06T08:27:00.000-05:00

. . . of the wedding sneak peeks. I promise!!

Normal life begins soon.

Linking to Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday.

Crackerjack is the texture.

Now why do I suddenly have a hankering for candy coated popcorn? Crackerjack . . . like in the red and blue box . . . with the prize inside . . . get it?

Nevermind.

Okay. Bye.

Nightmare or reality?

2011-08-31T09:45:00.000-05:00

We show up for the wedding . . . late. Inside the lobby of the theater, mobs of people were shoving all of the decorations and the dresser that was to hold the guest book out of the way to set up more tables for them to sit. My big, beautiful, antique dresser had shrunk to the size of a bedside table and someone had placed their flowered hat on it. I guess they felt that since the guest book that I had spent hours and hours creating was never shipped and didn't arrive in time, that the dresser needed a little pop of color.

Inside the theater, royal trumpeters were playing 'da da DAA' to announce the start of the cocktail hour. Waiters were trounced upon and cocktail weenies were flying and being snarfed up by the crowd. There was a scuffle over the last piece of cheese. The crowd then smelled the dinner food and began pushing and shoving towards the buffet line. Children were crying and running wild.

On the stage, a 20 piece 50's big band was playing amid the piles of boxes of centerpieces that weren't yet on the tables. The string quintet that we actually hired were more concerned about their own dinners than being upstaged by the band.

A group of men decided that the wedding programs were not suitable so they took it upon themselves to improve them. They were busy cutting and folding them into different shapes and sizes. When I was chastising them mightily, a woman came up to me and told me to leave them alone. They were making beautiful art and it was keeping them away from the beer. We almost came to blows.

The photographer never showed up. The flowers never showed up. The minister never showed up.

But there were guests. Lots and lots of guests. In jeans and hooded sweatshirts.

And me. In my silver lame' pleated dress. With a bolero jacket that I just could not keep down over my boobs.

As my daughter, fiance and I were trudging through a football stadium tunnel, we tried to think of how we could actually have the marriage ceremony.

Then I woke up. At 5:45 am.

Please tell me dreams are not fore-tellers of the future.

Forty-five more days. I am not stressed, I am not stressed, I am not stressed.

Okay, maybe just a little bit.

A little book of randomness . . .

2011-08-22T17:06:00.001-05:00

So . . . I'm checking my email. In amongst the offers of being a partner in a Libian bank scam, buying the perfect bra (why am I getting that one?), credit card and mortgage offers and something (??) about bored housewives, Shutterfly always sends me emails too. I usually don't read them. But, this time they were offering me a FREE photo book!

"Well," I say to me, myself and I, "I'm up for free today. I think I'll check it out. Oh, but I don't have any new photographs since I made a Blurb book this spring and I don't want to look at any more of those darn engagement pictures since I've spent the last 2 weeks organizing and editing them for the wedding guest book. What shall I do, what shall I do? It is, after all, a FREE photo book!"

So . . . to make a long story short, I just chose photos that really weren't all that great. They aren't interesting enough to post about but were saved somewhere in my very unorganized files. And I decided to throw caution to the wind, give up control (well, just a little control) and let Shutterfly do all the work by letting them make the book for me. Thought it would save me some time.

Two hours later (why oh WHY am I procrastinating on those last little bits of wedding preparations!), I'm going to have myself a little book of random photographs. Courtesy of Shutterfly. Saving me $30 buckaroos!

I won't bore you with each and every found photo I included (there were over 50!) but I thought you might scroll through these really fast . . .

. . . plus I needed something to post about that didn't include the dreaded 'W' word (okay, I may have mentioned it once or twice).

The name of my book is 'RANDOMNESS . . . in no particular order . . . in no order of importance'. Appropriate title, don't you think?

Hurry to make your own FREE Shutterfly book. You have until Wednesday. The code is

RXV4-CWS9-HZ0V-SR8UAJ.

Now, go take some photos so you won't be stuck without any like I was!

ps - I was in no way asked to do a Shutterfly commercial. Although I'm up for saying nice things about anyone if they give away something for free! Truth be told, I prefer the Blurb way of making a photo book. A few more options and maybe a little more user friendly. And btw, free shipping is NOT included with the free photo book but for $8 bucks, I still thought it was a good deal!

Calling all experts . . .

2011-08-18T22:37:00.000-05:00

. . . hydrangea experts.

This is my hydrangea bush (tree?). I've had it for many years and it always grows to be big and strong.

It produces many flower buds. I wait anxiously for those buds to bloom. I picture cutting and drying and arranging those gorgeous big blooms. I'm even standing by patiently with a clippers in my hand, ready to pounce and cut those babies as soon as they are ready! But the problem is - they are never ready!

The darn things just won't flower completely!

You can see that only a couple buds on those potentially big flowers actually produce a bloom! They have looked this way for a couple of weeks.

If I cut them will they finish flowering?

Are they getting too much sun (they are on the north side of the house). Too little sun?

Too much water? Not enough water?

Do they need different dirt? Any fertilizer?

And what the heck is going on with the fuzzies on the end?

It is such a conundrum each and every year. Those fake hydrangeas from Hobby Lobby are looking better every year! NOT!

So hydrangea experts . . . can you give me any hydrangea growing tips?

****And now here is a tip for all of you chalk paint users . . . ****

I've never seen anyone paint anything black. Or in Annie Sloan speak - 'graphite'.

It is not a true black. More of an dark grey. Thus, the 'graphite' name I guess.

(oh yeah, don't I have a pretty workshop?)

This photo shows the paint after the clear wax and a little buffing. Not black. 'Graphite'.

I'm not saying I don't like it. I do. I just wanted you to know that it wasn't black.

Now, tell me what to do about my hydrangeas please. Oh, and you could send me some of yours if you want! lol

It is the little things . . .

2011-08-09T08:07:00.002-05:00

The challenge today for Texture Tuesday is to take a photo of something little. At least that is my interpretation! It probably meant to 'cherish the little things in life' or 'its the little things that count' or some other philosophic meaning but my brain works in literal ways. Thus the photo of something little. A bunch of little somethings. While the bunch of little things isn't little, the somethings are little.

Okay. Moving on.

Kim's 'canvas magic' and 'water stained frame' were used because those were the free ones from last week. Wouldn't want my brain to overload from making an original choice!

Oh, and a whole lot of manipulation was used too because these were originally really, really bad photos.

Can you guess what they are? What do you think they will be used for?

I'm going to have SO MUCH stuff for a giveaway AFTER the wedding! And you all deserve a giveaway from me because you have stuck around and looked at and listened to all of my wedding ramblings!

I really have been doing other things besides obsessing over this event - really I have! Just nothing blog worthy, ya know?

Now, go find some little things of your own to cherish or to count . . . *sigh* whatever.

ps ~~ I found a dress. I hate it.

Frugal-lishous-ness . . .

2011-08-05T07:46:00.001-05:00

Is that a word? Did I just make that one up?

Anyway, to keep costs down for the wedding, we are trying to make those much needed props ourselves.

Really, we are trying to keep costs down.

And really, we just like to make things.

Can you think of ANYTHING else that says FRUGAL more than altered thread spools? Nope, me either but I think they are kind of cute.

I could make a hundred of these and be happy. Easy, peasy - with a little bit of creativity in the mix.

I've been ~~saving~~, ~~hoarding~~, collecting little bits and pieces for YEARS, just for this wedding! At least that is my excuse for storing boxes of stuff in the 'don't open the door' closet.

And now for your 'handmade', 'use-what-you-have', 'there is a use for everything eventually', 'ta-da' peek of fancy-schmancy 'what every wedding should incorporate in their decor' piece of beauty ----- the very versatile tin jello mold!

I did tell you before that the theme of the wedding was simple but ELEGANT right? We may be crossing the line just a tad.

I'm so proud that we are finally using some of my ~~crap~~, ~~junk~~, ~~worthless stuff~~, collections for GOOD instead of EVIL PILES. And I can tell my main man that we are not SPENDING MONEY on everything for the wedding. Look honey, we MADE these ourselves out of stuff we already had!!

Now all I have to do is think of a new excuse to continue to ~~find~~, ~~buy~~, ~~search for~~, ~~hoard~~, COLLECT more of those addicting little bits and pieces of goodness!

Now, go start a box of your own treasures for some future day of ELEGANCE!

A non-professional's take . . .

2011-08-02T08:08:00.000-05:00

. . . on taking professional looking photographs. I discovered it is WAY harder than it looks!

I've always admired those of you who can produce beautiful photos - photos that tell a story, that capture a single moment in time, that can evoke a feeling, that stand the test of time and be cherished over the years. I envy your talent! And I discovered that it takes a good eye, a plan and an intimate knowledge of your subjects and your camera.

I also discovered that I am a much better photographer of things rather than people.

What I don't know about photography can fill a book!

Lighting -- forgetaboutit!

Aperture - sometimes it works, most of the time it doesn't!

Shadows - from any angle, I got them!

Moving shots - can't do it. You must stand perfectly still!

But it was fun trying out all of the poses we admired and saved from Pinterest.

Love this shot!

Just couldn't get high enough for a proper shot. Even from the top step of the ladder!

This one just says it all about a couple in love with dreams of a future together, doesn't it?

We were constantly wiping sweat from out brows while searching for decent spots with unobstructed backgrounds to take pictures. Engagement session number 1 was productive but I hope I can talk them into engagement session number 2! I have a few ideas for photos around the farm - standing in the cornfield, walking in the beans, sitting in the loader bucket, posing with the cattle. SHE's a farmgirl and simply must have some farm shots!

Plus I don't have NEAR enough decent photos for a blurb guest book! (BTW, I sure could use some advice on any specifics on making one of these books. If you've ever made a guest book, can I ask you some questions?)

I'm off to read my camera manual! Thanks for looking!

I haven't linked any photos to Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday for a long time so I'm linking these. At least one of these photos had Kim's 'grey day slate' texture added. An action (actions are my new lazy way to improve my pictures) was used on the last one.

I've got me some thanking to do . . .

2011-07-29T20:35:00.000-05:00

. . . now don't hate me but I've been incredibly lucky lately. I'm even a little embarrassed about how lucky I have been. But not so embarrassed that I'm giving my gifts back - no way, no how!

The wedding gods were smiling down on me when I won Lilly's Lace recent giveaway. Cindy is the most incredible collector of all things wedding and she FILLED a box with the most gorgeous pieces of wedding fluff. I'm slowly going through each little bit so I can get my daily dose of oohs and ahhs! You know I can use all of this fabulousness now and my head is spinning with ideas!

Thank you Cindy!

And I know you will probably REALLY hate me with another of my recent wins. I am now the oh-so-proud owner of one of Lynn's Trash to Treasure Art pieces! I am constantly in awe at the different mediums that Lynn is so proficient at and, even with her trials and tribulations, produces something beautiful almost every single day! This special pendent will be displayed where I can oogle at it several times a day to remind me what a true artist accomplishes!

Front.

Inside.

Thank you Lynn!

I have borrowed these photos from both Cindy and Lynn's blogs. I hope they forgive me. My camera card is full of photos from the engagement session we had this week. I think I captured a couple of good pictures and hope to share them with you soon.

If you don't hate me for being so lucky and decide my little blog is worth a second chance, come back and see some more wedding junk (if you aren't sick and tired of seeing wedding junk, that is!).

Now, remember you can't win if you don't play!

Can you stand it?

2011-07-20T20:50:00.000-05:00

Can you stand ANOTHER chalk paint testimonial? I've read them all! I soak up all of the tips from seasoned chalk paint aficionados! We all know that this paint is a little pricey and I wanted to know EVERYTHING about it before I plunked down that kind of cash.

Well, how lucky was I to WIN a can of chalk paint! Kim from Truly Tattered and Debbie from 'Round the Coop (fantabulous blogs and I INSIST you visit them ASAP) co-sponsored a giveaway and I was the winner, winner, chicken dinner!

The day I received the paint I IMMEDIATELY grabbed my paint brush, my super ugly brass lamp, my paint can opener and I was off and running to the workshop to make some chalk paint magic. Well, imagine my surprise to discover that chalk paint is worth every penny of that high price because my 'ready to be thrown in the garage sale box' lamp turned into 'why was I looking for a new lamp when the one I already have is beautiful' lamp!

My button shade (remember when I posted about that?) now looks even better on a lamp that is worthy of the shade's uniqueness.

The paint color is Country Grey.

From studying all the tips and instructions, this is how I painted the lamp.

I just wiped the lamp down with a baby wipe (great tip BTW). I barely dipped my paint brush into the paint because I didn't want to waste a single drop. It covers very nicely but I've NEVER painted anything that didn't need a second coat so a second coat I did paint. I found that the chalk paint dries VERY quickly (maybe because I was working in 95 degree heat!) so this project didn't take me long at all. I then lightly sanded the lamp (oh, my gosh does this distress wonderfully and yes, it is a little messy). Working in small sections, I used a brush (again dipping very little) to apply clear wax and immediately brushed on (dipping even LESS) some dark wax and wiped off (again with the baby wipes) the amount of dark wax until I was satisfied. When I was finished with the whole lamp, I applied a light coat of clear wax and buffed to a shine.

And voila! I think my lamp turned out as beautiful as the painted tin that Debbie also sent!

I have jumped on the chalk paint bandwagon and I'm NEVER getting off!

I was so in love with the results of my lamp, I drug my grandmother's vanity out to the workshop and continued chalk painting away!

Yup, lovin it!

Here are a couple of other observations from an unskilled but going to get better painter --

The dark wax is VERY dark. Use VERY sparingly! The wax also dries VERY quickly so wipe off what you don't want immediately!

Don't try to clear wax the whole thing and then go back to apply the dark wax. Works much better when working in sections.

One of those fancy schmancy round brushes would be ideal! I found that my cheap, flat bristle brush was more or less ruined trying to get into the details of the wood and I didn't have that many details on either piece. I'm sure there is a sure fire way to clean the wax brushes but needless to say, the brushes I used will only be used for wax from now on.

I can't stress enough how little of the paint needs to be on the brush to get good coverage. After 2 coats on the lamp and 2 coats on the vanity, I probably didn't use more than 3/4" of the paint.

The wax is the trick to make any piece look and feel like a professional did it. All of the furniture I have previously painted with latex paint will be getting a coat of clear wax in the future.

If you have hesitated about chalk paint and couldn't quite believe how wonderful every one says it is, I encourage you to bite the bullet, buy some and try it for yourself. It just so happens that you can get it from Debbie! Just my opinion, but all of blogdom can't be all wrong, right?

Now, go out and paint something pretty!

ps - since this is kinda white, I'm linking to Faded Charm's White Wednesday

MOB . . .

2011-07-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

. . . Mother of the Bride.

I'm not teeny-tiny but I'm not the biggest woman in the world either. My proportions (and modesty) are such that there are parts of me that I'm not comfortable showing off to the world. I'm the average age of a mother having a daughter more than old enough to be married. I live in the midwest where October can be very cold and sometimes snowy. I also live in a small town in the midwest where I have to travel a couple of hours to find almost everything! I'm a major procrastinator and have a hard time believing that it takes 3-4 months to order anything from the main warehouse and get it to the local store. Ever hear of UPS or FedX?

Are there no dress designers that can create a dress for the real woman? A special occasion dress that is practical, yet beautiful? Something that is well-made and looks better on a person than just on the hanger? A dress that doesn't cost more than the wedding itself?

I'm discouraged, disgusted and disappointed.

These are examples of what I encountered on my most recent MOB dress excursion ~~

Low-cut, taffeta, two-piece.

Result if worn: Things popping out that shouldn't pop out; after wearing all day for photos, a wrinkled mess before the actual wedding; every time an arm is raised a tummy is exposed.

Ruffed, bolero jacket, three-quarter length sleeves.

Result if worn: Yes, most of us want our stomachs and hips to be the focal point of a dress, don't we; where do those bolero jackets really end up each time you move? Yup, stuck somewhere under your armpits; and the shorter sleeves - I just hate them. Yuk, yuk, yuk! But I guess they make room for a wrist corsage (which I am NOT wearing, thank you).

The one-shoulder, form fitting dress.

For many reasons - no, no and no.

The strapless ball gown.

My prom was many, many years ago and I don't wish to recreate it. Unless I get to go with HIM again. Hmmmm . . . visions of a first love (but a real loser).

The slit up the leg.

Believe me, NO ONE wants to get a peek at the cellulite on my thighs!

The typical mother of the bride dress.

All one piece with a long jacket. Usually accompanied by a few rhinestones around the scoop neck and jacket edge. It just screams 'it is not YOUR day, it is the bride's day so please blend into the walls'.

I would like to wear a long dress because once I left the business world, I swore I would never put on a pair of pantyhose again.

But maybe I should go SHORT! And tight! And hoochy! Really make a lasting impression on all of the inlaws!

*sigh* Can't I just wear the same dress I wore for my son's wedding?

Now, your assignment for the week is to write letters to all of the dress designers and let them know what we woman want. Beautiful, elegant, well-made, age and body appropriate attire!

MOB UNITE!

Second sneak peek . . .

2011-07-11T09:42:00.000-05:00

. . . boutineers. Finished! Unless you think they need something else. All opinions appreciated!

I find that I am constantly second guessing myself. Who are we really putting this wedding on for anyway? Us or the guests? Will they even notice the details? Is there a survey taken after the event and will it be rated and published?

The bride and I like what we like and there will be no apologies for this non-traditional wedding.

Can you tell that I am having a 'down' day of wedding preparations? I just emailed a friend that I have so many ideas in my head but am having a hard time getting anything done. If things aren't finished, does that mean that the wedding will be postponed? No.

I think it stems from the 'dress shopping for me' excursion yesterday. Disappointment abounds! Oh yeah, I'll simply have to put my feelings down in words about that!

But the bright side is that I am thinking of a fantabulous idea right now and must go try it before it leaves my fuzzy and forgetful head! I just hope I have more glue for my ever faithful, hardly gets a chance to cool off glue gun!

Now, go work on those flabby arms! Someday you will have to go sleeveless! (or am I the only one who doesn't like to jiggle while they wave?)

Sneaky peeky . . .

2011-07-06T22:19:00.000-05:00

. . . into WEDDING CENTRAL!

First of all, let me give you a hint at how my daughter and I have gone about planning our (oops! HER!) wedding. We start with an idea, so we go to wedding heaven (which is also called the internet) and search for the perfect way to implement our idea. We find what we are looking for and make a decision. Oh, but wait . . . one of us finds a better idea somewhere (which is also called blogs) so we change our original decision. You would think we are finished, right? No! We both have begun perusing other people's ideas (which is called Pinterest) and we make the decision to completely dump our own original idea and go in an entirely different direction! Our wedding work sessions became 'look what else we can find' sessions and we were getting NOTHING accomplished!

So . . . the new rule is NO LAPTOPS, NO COMPUTERS, NO IPODS can be within our reach when creating wedding wonders! We have a plan and we are finally sticking to it!

Welcome to the first sneak peek of the elegant, but simple; vintage meets junky; white, ivory, cream, with a little black thrown in wedding of the century (at least in our little world). All created by two wanna be party planners/crafters who don't really know what in the heck they are doing!

One of the inspiration pieces . . .

I will always try to give credit where credit is due if I can. This lovely bottle came from A Little Bit French. I would have purchased more if they were available but unfortunately, Rhonda sells her bottles as fast as she makes them! So I made my own.

Bits and pieces that I have collected for years have finally been put to good use! I KNEW I was storing pretty little things for a reason! I'm NOT just a hoarder . . . I'm NOT!

The first doily was really, really hard to cut up.

And the jewelry was hard to give up.

And don't get me started on gluing a vintage Christmas ball on top!

But who else deserves a few of my treasures than my daughter? Besides, these bottles will look so pretty on MY windowsill after the wedding!

There will be more to show you soon. I think we both finally realized that there are LESS THAN 100 days until the big event so we are in a creating frenzy now. I don't have a dress (really, do I HAVE to wear a dress?) (I think I should do a whole post on just trying to find a dress - really, who wears the stuff that is offered in stores?), invitations haven't been ordered, I'm still working on painting (with CHALK paint!) a dresser that will be the alter and we haven't chosen any flowers but HECK, the super wedding planners (that would be US) have it all under control!!!

I think I still have time to link up with Faded Charm's White Wednesday, so I guess I will!

Are you all enjoying your summer? Is your's speeding along as fast as mine?

Now, a little piece of advice . . . if you have daughters, go search for your own wedding inspiration while you still have time!

Shades of a truck . . .

2011-06-20T18:19:00.000-05:00

. . . I learned a new skill and have a new 'time-consuming' love. I finally took the time (yeah, I know the things that I SHOULD be doing but what the heck - I am the STAR of putting off doing the things I SHOULD be doing!) and figured out how to load 'actions' to Photoshop Elements. Why did I wait so long to do this? Because technology is not always my friend and I seem to create more computer glitches with my downloads than those that actually work. But this was one of my successes! All the time I have spent editing photos one layer at a time and now all it takes is one click to achieve perfect results!

This is my photo of an abandoned truck straight out of the camera.

Pioneer Woman's 'soft and faded' action. All actions used are free for the taking so go and take!

PW 'colorized'.

The CoffeeShop blog 'vintage blush'. Oodles and oodles of actions can be found here. With tutorials! Gotta love that!

PW 'heartland'.

PW 'sepia'.

PW 'black & white'.

I'm always amazed at the creativity, talent and generosity of fellow PSE users. And I'm constantly amazed how PSE can transform even my very unprofessional photos into pictures I'm not embarrassed to show.

My daughter has asked me to create a 'blurb' book with their engagement photos as a guest book for their wedding. We are even going to be doing a photoshoot and I am taking the photos! Brave, brave, naive couple! Not to worry, they will also have professional photos taken but not those cute ones that are all over the wedding blogs. Those are my job! Wish me luck and if you have ever done a 'blurb' wedding guest book, I'd appreciate any tips!

Better get back to my Photoshop practice!

Now, which truck would you like to ride in the parade?

Unbelievable . . .

2011-06-15T21:20:00.000-05:00

. . . I'm still shaking my head. So I'm visiting some of my favorite blogs. Getting great ideas, pinning photos like mad - just being inspired as usual. One of the blogs that I get to occasionally is The Pioneer Woman. That Ree is just a hoot and I appreciate a good chuckle before going to bed. Love her confessions and there are always great tips on the photography side. For some reason, I clicked on her cooking page, not because I cook but because all of her recipes include butter. That, to me, is goooood cooking! Oh, and by the way, if you don't have her cookbook, get it! Right away! And make the chicken pot pie. And the olive bread. To. Die. For. But back to my point . . . She recently had a giveaway for a pot. Okay, it was an orange French pot but still just a pot. 50,313 comments! This is NOT a typo! Over FIFTY THOUSAND comments!!!

Can you believe it? Would you enter a giveaway knowing there are over 50,000 other bloggers vying for this pot? But then again, it IS a pot from Ree Drummond . . .

My next giveaway is going to include a pot. Just saying . . .

Walking through doors . . .

2011-06-07T23:06:00.000-05:00

. . . when I went back to college as a non-traditional student (yup, wasted the first time I went on parties and not studying) when my last child was in school full time, I had to write an essay on any subject in order for them to determine what English class would fit my talents. You know the categories - was she Pulitzer prize special, not so very special but she can spin a yarn okay or she spelled most of the words correctly and included several complete sentences. It was the fall term and summer had just ended so for my subject I chose the classic - "what I did over my summer vacation". Only I didn't write about my vacation, I wrote a very clever and humorous essay about how I needed a vacation from summer.

If you have children or have had children, you know that summer can be more hectic (if that is possible!) than any other time of year. Various lessons, practices, baseball/softball games, camps, Bible school, fairs, 4-H can leave you in a cloud of dust for 3 solid months. I couldn't wait for school to start to have a rest!

But because my children are now grown, I have left those summer whirlwinds behind me. I have walked through that door.

For the past several years (more than I would like to count), summers have been more leisurely. At least I'm not spending the day in the car, schlepping kids here and there! It seems that the days still go by quickly because there is always something that needs to be tended to. Crops to tend to, lawns to tend to, flowers to tend to, grandkids to tend to, actual vacations to tend to. But this summer is different. All of my usual plans and activities have been derailed. I have walked temporarily through another door.

This summer is all about my daughter's wedding. Everything else seems to be put on hold. We both wake up thinking of the things that need to be finished (or started!) for the wedding. We spend our days traveling to find that perfect piece for decorations. We go to bed dreaming of the wedding that we both have envisioned. But I must confess, some days my heart is not into it like it should be. Am I procrastinating on finishing things because of a deep seated fear of losing my daughter? Do I not encourage her to make final decisions because if she doesn't decide, the process will take longer and we will get to spend more time together? Or maybe it is as simple as thinking I can make a wedding beautiful and I just don't have the talent so I am afraid of trying! Whatever the reason, we are knee deep in wedding preparations and still have so many things to accomplish. I only hope that she is enjoying the process (as slow as it seems to be going) as much as I am!

Anyway, in a few short months, I am preparing myself to walk through another door. And I will leave my spot open for a son-in-law to take my place.

So my posts may be far and few between this summer. Forgive me. Remember me. And check up on me every once in awhile so I can come up for air.

Oh, and by the way, my "what I did over my summer vacation" essay earned me an A and an opportunity to skip that dreaded freshman English class altogether!

Now, go and enjoy every single minute of your kids' summer activities and your busy lives. In just a blink of an eye, you'll be watching your child walking down the aisle too!

A sad little watering can . . .

2011-05-27T16:11:00.000-05:00

. . . she doesn't have anything to do. Usually, she is busy at this time of year. Sprinkling drops of water to nurture the pretty flowers that have been planted in the black, dry dirt. She helps the fertilizer bury deep into the ground to feed the roots of so many plants. Pots of annuals, faithful perennials, newly planted bushes and grasses. She is constantly filled with cool, spring water.

But not this year.

She waits patiently for the clouds to pass by. You see, the clouds are dousing everything with enough rain to make puddles (I mean lakes!) out of low-lying areas and keeping what flowers there are longing for a break in the drenching and begging for the warmth from the sun.

But never fear little watering can! The rain will eventually stop (I hope!) and the sun will once again shine!

Flowers will always need to be watered and will welcome you back with their thirsty roots!

The pots are standing by in a well protected place, waiting - waiting - waiting. Be prepared, little watering can, and rest for now. June will certainly be hot and dry and you will be filled to the brim several times a day! You will soon be happy, busy and tired after long days of work!

To those of you who are also stuck in the constant rain rut, I feel your gardener's pain. To those of you who are suffering much more than a little (okay, alot!) of rain, I apologize for my petty complaints. Planting flowers are the least of your worries and I wish for you God's speed in restoring your homes, your properties and your lives.

Now, for those of you who can, go put your watering cans out of their not-being-needed misery!

Linking to A Rosy Note's Photo Feature Friday!

I'm out the door . . .

2011-05-20T11:26:00.000-05:00

. . . but wanted to leave a little white photo for A Rosy Note's Photo Feature Friday.

I've got places to go, people to see and things to do.

Now, go have yourselves a fantabulous weekend!

A haphazard linker-upper . . .

2011-05-18T13:31:00.001-05:00

. . . is what I have been on any particular White Wednesday. But believe me, I NEVER miss going over to Kathleen's party and drooling and swooning over every bit of beautiful white.

I certainly can't let THIS White Wednesday go by without participating because it is her 100th week of hosting the most popular party of all of us lovers of white (or creams or ivories).

I love photos of anything white (or cream or ivory or, well you get the drift) and if you put a vintage texture or a sepia tone to it, I get all weak in the knees. There are some fabulous stylists and photographers out there. They know just the right touch to render speechlessness when viewing their photos. I get so much inspiration every Wednesday from visiting their blogs.

So, thank you Kathleen, for giving me something to look forward to every week. I'm studying, I'm learning, I'm striving to take photos that are worthy to be included in the bunch that share their talents with their links.

I'm off to pop open a bottle of bubbly (well, a can of Pepsi) to drink a toast to your milestone.

Now, go check out Faded Charm Cottage's 100th White Wednesday! You'll be glad you did!

The lack of color . . .

2011-05-13T17:25:00.000-05:00

. . . doesn't mean that spring is never going to come. Green is a color, right? We are in a state of green here. Nothing is blooming yet. Not even the lilacs. When the lilacs flower, I know that spring has decided to stay.

I feel a little guilty telling you that I had the air conditioning on for one day and now the furnace is running. I got to wear my beloved flip flops for awhile and now my feet are covered in socks. At least I have been spared the agony of trying on last year's shorts for a few more days!

I like to see the greening up of things. I still have the time to pretend that everything that I plan to get done is possible. I can still dream of beautiful flower beds without noticing the plants that didn't survive the winter. There is still time for them to poke their little sprouts through the ground. I'm still thinking hopefully.

Hen and chicks never disappoint me. They thrive in my little plots of land.

I'm oohing and aahing over all of the flower photos from the warmer climates. But, for now, I'm content with my greens. This color allows me a window of opportunity for wishing, dreaming and planning my own show of color!

Now, go check out what is green in your gardens and picture in your mind what is to come!

Linking to A Rosy Note's Photo Feature Friday.

There are rewards for motherhood . . .

2011-05-10T17:22:00.000-05:00

. . . I suppose I should think of the non-tangible kind of rewards. The love and loyalty of your children. Knowing that you can be your child's best friend. The pride in realizing that, because of you, your children grew up to be productive, caring, self-sufficient adults. You did your job as a mother and you sent them on their way. Happily, but with a few regrets that they couldn't stay little longer. Now when they ask you for advice, you relish it, because they don't have to ask YOU anymore. They value you and your wisdom. Your children don't just love you as their mother but they like you as a person and want to spend time with you and really, when they are adults and out on their own, that is reward enough.

BUT (this is the gift-loving side of me) . . . look what I got!

Mccoy (and you know I LOVE McCoy) jardiniere with pedestal. I've never seen one like this before and it is in near perfect condition (not that I care about a few dings and crazing).

The detail is wonderful. I don't know the pattern.

Even a half dead primrose (I hid the brown spots) looks good.

My kids. They. Are. The. Best!

Hope your kids treated you special like the special mother you are too!

Linking to Kim's Texture Tuesday (I used Kim's 'luminous' texture again) and Faded Charm's White Wednesday. Not the best, most creative photos I've ever taken but hey . . . I'm the crazy linky lady and I simple must play along!

Okay. Bye.

What is more vintage than 5 cent gas . . .

2011-05-06T18:39:00.000-05:00

. . . I can remember pooling our CHANGE to fill up the gas tank! I am really not that old, I just carried change with me as a toddler just in case my mom didn't want to break a $50! tee!hee!

Seriously, am I the only one that thinks gas prices are manipulated during the busy driving months/holidays? And yet we pay whatever price gas is because we gotta get where we are going! At what price would we say enough is enough and get out our bikes? Of course, since I live in the country, my medical bill for a heart attack as I was riding my bike would be much more than a tank of gas. But don't even get me started on the medical issue!

Wow! This post took a turn for the worse. Back to the photo . . .

Cute vintage gas stations like this were before my time but I think they should make a comeback. Do we really need to buy groceries while we are filling up? Do we need a stale slice of pizza with our big gulp to make it through until we get home? Is a gas station the place we would go to buy that last minute gift? Well, YES to all of the above! Convenience is worth alot but, people! We are sacrificing cuteness here!

Is there anything more nostalgic than a black and white photo of a gas station? Where someone filled the tank up for you, checked your oil and washed your windows. Too bad we are always in a hurry.

Linking to Tricia's Photo Feature Friday at A Rosy Note.

Now, go and pump up those bicycle tires!

Quick! Before I miss it . . .

2011-05-03T10:26:00.000-05:00

. . . the SUN! the SUN! no WIND! I think I can finally quit whining about the weather.

So I quickly shot a teacup for Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday (that I am linking to BTW), slapped on a couple of textures (without any tweaking BTW) and I'm out the door!

I used 'empty page' (my new favorite) at 100% opacity and multiply, 'luminous' at 81% opacity and overlay.

This one with 'empty page' at 100% opacity and multiply again, 'luminous' at 100% opacity and soft light and another 'luminous' at 39% opacity and multiply and one more 'luminous' at 100% hue change. Maybe I overdid the 'luminous' but my fingers are itching to play in the dirt!

So gotta go! Check out all of Kim's teacups this week. They will make you thirsty for a cuppa!

Okay. Bye.

Thank you Lynn . . .

2011-05-01T08:45:00.002-05:00

. . . for being so sweet! A wonderful gift! Made by the talented, creative, and fabulous-enough-to-be-published Lynn of Trash to Treasure Art.

She even used one of my own moo cards for the back of the pendent. I'll cherish it forever Lynn! Thank you!

Just one of the many reasons I love to blog. Good friends!

Now, go have yourself a wonderful day!

Searching for pink . . .

2011-04-29T13:09:00.000-05:00

. . . anything that is pink. Now don't all of you shabby pink froo-froo gals hate me but I don't have alot of pink in my house. I love it - I just don't have much of it. I drool over all of your pink blogs! I wouldn't call myself a girly-girl. I really don't know what kind of girl I am but lace, ruffles and bows just don't fit my style. Who am I kidding? I don't think I even HAVE a style!

And wouldn't you know that A Rosy Note's challenge this Photo Feature Friday was to photograph something pink. The following photos are my contributions. The only pinks I have!

I thought that if I used a pink texture, I could fake it. Kim Klassen's 'dusty rose', 'pink sweet treat' and 'golden' were used to class up some whites (MY color of choice).

This is more me. A little grungy using a couple of dark layers of 'golden'.

And even darker using Kim's 'empty page'.

Ya know, the more I look at these I'm realizing that I really love these soft pinks. I think I'll leave them out to inspire me to find more. Pink lovers beware! There may just be another member joining your group!

Now, go see what other pink goodness is out there!

I'm going to give up . . .

2011-04-27T08:08:00.002-05:00

. . . on Pinterest. Oh, it looks like a whole lot of photo fun! I have boards galore ready for all those ideas that I see and want to remember where I saw them. Ideas to try, ideas to buy, ideas that are too fabulous not to check out again. Photography tips, freebies and how-tos. Creative wedding invites, programs and stylings. Books to read. Shops to visit. Vignettes to try. I got a million of boards I'd love to fill. But . . .

HOW IN THE HECK DO YOU PIN FROM A SITE?

I think the problem lies in the fact that I can't get Pinterest on my toolbar (what toolbar?) I'm using Yahoo as my homepage and there is alot of gobbledygook on the top of the page but where do I drag the link to make this app work?

I'm assuming that it supposedly works like this -- I'm perusing my favorite blogs/websites. Oh, I say, I must remember where this ________ is so I can come back and buy it/comment on it/send it to my daughter/~~copy~~ put my own spin on it. I'll just click on Pinterest on my toolbar and it will give me a magic link to transfer it to my whatever board.

Is that how it is suppose to work? The only repinning I can do is from other members' boards. And I don't know any other members. If you have an account, would you care to share so I can visit?

I try to keep up on all of the latest computer trends. Am I getting too old to be taught the simplest of app tasks? Was there a secret class on how to Pinterest that I missed while I was saving photos the old fashioned way? Is there an evil computer genie blocking my way to photo-saving bliss?

Pinterest = Frustration = Giving Up

(and I hate to let something like this get the better of me! I'm not a quitter!)

Now, please if you can, help this poor blogger/wanna be a pinner out!