PlumWater Cottage

Knitting for toasty toes...

2012-01-23T15:19:00.000-06:00

Here's a project from yesterday. The bodies of the slippers have been finished for a while, but I finally got around to sewing them together and making pom poms for them. Super-quick slippers...if you ever get around to the finishing touches!

Gloomy Sunday

2012-01-22T16:15:00.000-06:00

I love Sundays...especially when I have no big plans. Today is going to be filled with puttering, movie watching... Ides of March, knitting, necklace crafting, and of course, laundry and getting ready for the upcoming week. There's a roast in the crockpot, plenty of loose tea to be brewed, and maybe the promise of a small cake to be baked from a recipe from Miette. Tea and cake while watching Downton Abbey...sounds delightful!

And here's the cake!

Yellow cake filled with Tangerine Ginger Curd, frosted with 7 Minute Frosting, topped with coconut. Yum!

71 Days...the countdown begins

2012-01-10T13:05:00.000-06:00

Woke up again this morning thinking "Spring"...the weather has been so nice for the past several days...so un-January like. I know that there are 71 days until Spring...but looking out the window at that gorgeous sunshine makes me crave what I think Spring should be.

Photo: via Miss Bee's Haven/Facebook

I saw this picture this morning on Facebook and absolutely fell in love with this boxcar/gypsy wagon. Wouldn't it be great to step out into your backyard and have this? What a nice little getaway! Since the boxcar is wider than my backyard, I don't think it would work...and where would I find a boxcar to re-do? It is charming though.

Photo: Unknown source

Another bit of my Spring-thinking is garden related crafts for library programs. Hypertufa, anyone? I think we're going to be elbow-deep in Portland Cement, peat moss, and vermiculite.

It's a whole new year...

2012-01-01T00:01:00.001-06:00

It's a clean slate...a new year to accomplish our goals, fulfill our dreams, and just enjoy life!

Have a very merry...

2011-12-24T16:36:00.001-06:00

Christmas!

A "room" of her own...

2011-12-14T07:22:00.001-06:00

via junkaholic

How fabulous is this little crafting shed? Usually when I think of a "studio", I think of a much larger space...there are lots of spacious craft/art rooms to be viewed on Pinterest, or just while blog-hopping, but I'm always attracted to tiny, well-thought out spaces. This is one of my favorites, and more importantly, it seems quite do-able in my home. Looks to be about the same size as my enclosed back porch. Even in the dead of winter, if the sun shines the temperature is quite moderate in the little room. Maybe this could turn into my new project for one of my favorite weeks of the year...the week between Christmas and New Years...but only if it's sunny!

I've had lots of ideas for projects lately...that's what happens when my brain overloads with other things to think about and do. I can be sitting at a stoplight and have a gigantic flash of inspiration, yet when I have time to do creative things, I always seem to be disinclined...why? Choices...clean the house/sit and knit? iron/read a book? mop the floor/take a nap? I always seem to go for the less active choice...after all, an unmopped floor will be there until I do something about it, but that urge for an afternoon nap is fleeting. Problem is, I now have lots of chores stacked up to do and it's interfering with my playtime. After all...wouldn't it be nice to be clean and organized all the time so that making those "hard" choices wouldn't so significant. Something more to think about today...

Holiday Week Monday

2011-11-21T07:31:00.000-06:00

via Channel House Tours

This is the beginning of a busy week...not busy at work, but busy at home. Last Friday was the start of a vacation week. I played around on Friday, got a haircut (and boy, did I get my money's worth on this one...a little too short!), and had lunch with a friend on Saturday, then went to the movies with Megan yesterday to see Breaking Dawn. I'm not a fan of the vampire/werewolf genre...unless we trip back in time to Dark Shadows on tv...but since she wanted me to go, I did. I guess what I don't like about the Twilight series is that everyone seems to be so tortured...way too much angst.

I'm looking forward to seeing the top of my dining room table by day's end...and maybe a little floor space surrounding the table. It's a good day to clean...gloomy and rainy outside...time to make a pot of tea and get started.

Sunny Saturday

2011-10-29T20:16:00.000-05:00

Today was the most perfect fall day...sunny, crisp, and beautiful. After attending a morning meeting at the library, I drove to Newburgh to visit The Village Knitter. Last week I peeked into their darkened display windows and spotted some chunky yarn I thought I needed. Chunky yarn is not what I purchased though...I fell in love with the braided Madelinetosh Parchment Merino and had to have it. I also needed some really small needles for it...size 2. I started knitting as soon as I got home--I'm fond of wearing scarves indoors and out all winter long, so that's what I'm making.

It's been a busy weekend (I was also off yesterday)...I painted two walls in my living room, rearranged furniture, and worked on a few items for my long-bare Etsy shop.

Delicious

2011-10-25T07:43:00.001-05:00

While perusing Pinterest a month or so ago, I came across this pin from The High Heeled Hostess...a redo of Starbucks' Spiced Apple. It tastes like the very best apple pie in a beverage! After the Ghost Walk Saturday evening, we stopped at the local Starbucks...pretty rare, as we usually frequent the local coffee houses rather than the big chain. While in line for a coffee (I had the almost sinful Salted Caramel Mocha), I remembered this apple drink I wanted to try at home. I purchased a bottle of the Starbucks Dolce Sugar-free Cinnamon syrup from the barista...she asked if I had a pump for the bottle, and included one in my bag when I said I didn't have one. Anyway...after sitting in their comfy leather chairs and chatting for a while, one of the employees came around with a tray of sample drinks...it was the Spiced Apple! Delicious--and now I had the original to compare to my soon-to-be whipped up "home edition." I stopped at the grocery on the way home to purchase apple juice, fat-free RediWhip, and fat-free caramel. Decided I needed all fat-free products since I blew it on the Salted Caramel Mocha (!!). Early Sunday afternoon I put the High Heeled Hostess version together:

8 oz. apple juice (warmed in the microwave)

2 pumps of Dolce Cinnamon Syrup

Whipped Cream

Drizzle of Caramel

Totally delicious, not too bad in the calorie/fat/sugar category, and way less expensive than the Starbucks brew. This is going to be my official beverage for fall...and maybe winter! Go visit the High Heeled Hostess for other amazing recipes.

P.S. I thought cinnamon syrup would taste like liquid Red Hots...and I was so wrong! The Dolce version tastes buttery and rich (and zero calories). Definitely worth a trip to Starbucks.

Historic Newburgh Ghost Walk

2011-10-22T16:24:00.000-05:00

After work, I'm meeting a few friends in historic downtown Newburgh...we're going to go on a Ghost Walk. Newburgh has been doing these tours for quite a while...there are two different tours; the State Street Tour, and the Water Street Tour. It's been quite a while since I've done the Water St. Tour, but I lived on that street for several years when we first moved to Indiana.

Plum + Water = Plumwater Cottage!

I miss Newburgh...most of my friends live there, and I really enjoy the {generally}quiet little community on the river.

This should be big fun!

2011-10-21T07:50:00.001-05:00

It's a chilly morning here...a killing frost is expected early tomorrow morning. Lots to do to get ready for winter! One of my priorities early this morning was to snip some hydrangea. The colors are so pretty; they are not the beautiful dark blues and lavenders of summer, but rich burgundies and greens to complement autumn.

I've been a hermit the past few months...staying inside, working on a few projects (I should say plans for projects), and feeling a bit isolated. It was getting to the point where I could almost not see out of my left eye and the right one was following at a slower pace. In 2007 I had cataract surgery on both eyes and in recent months they started clouding up. Monday morning I had a YAG Capsulotomy on both eyes. I can SEE again! They computer type is crisp black instead of faded grey, and all is now well in my little world. The downside---I see dirt, dust, and cobwebs everywhere!

Lots to do today; cleaning is definitely at the top of the list, followed by a little sewing on Megan's Halloween attire...she's going to be Rainbow Fish. Lots of scales to sew!

New interests include art journaling; we're having a wonderful class at my library branch facilitated by Lynda Heines (edited to add the link to her blogpost about this class) Everyone is having a great time!

Things I'm looking forward to...

2011-09-06T19:35:00.000-05:00

1) The premiere of FOLK Magazine ("Like" them on Facebook). I've been checking out their website and looking at the wonderful photos on Facebook. It's going to be a fabulous magazine...chock full of Prim!
2) Autumn color...I'm so ready for the reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn leaves.
3) Apple Crisp...after a trip to the orchard.
4) Halloween...one of my very favorite holidays.

Check out Folk Magazine...it's going to be wonderful!

Cold Comfort...

2011-09-05T13:15:00.001-05:00

We are having the most amazing weather today...cool, low humidity, breezy...feels like autumn is just around the corner. It's good to have a day like this after the relentless heat and humidity of the past few months. Time to catch a breath of fresh air, turn off the air conditioner, and relish the quiet of non-electrical cooling.

Yesterday was a fun day for me...I went to Louisville with friends to see Sense & Sensibility performed by the Louisville Actors Theatre. The play was wonderful...amazingly simplistic sets, beautiful costumes, and wonderful actors. I spotted a few places along Bardstown Road to investigate at a later date.

Today is turning into a truly *un*labor day. Relaxing, enjoying the cool, and thinking of fall.

Happy Labor Day!

Saturday!

2011-08-27T07:42:00.000-05:00

I've been looking forward to today all week...I'm packing up my sewing machine and visiting my friend Michelle. We're going to spend the day sewing and working on projects, and I'm so ready to sew! Here's what I'll be working on today:

The pattern is "Peppermint Twist" and I love the subtle 'non-Christmasy' coloration. It's the perfect autumn/winter quilt.

Be safe East coasters...

Friday Craft...super easy

2011-08-12T14:58:00.001-05:00

It's not the best picture, but here's what I made today...a zipper flower pin. Metal-tooth zipper + glue gun = a prototype for Fabulous Faux Flowers II on Monday afternoon at the library.

Lounging...

2011-07-23T12:46:00.000-05:00

A couple of weekends ago, I actually started AND finished a sewing project. Rare, but true...it's a "patio" dress and it's been my clothing of choice when I'm at home...cool, comfortable, and quick to make. Perfect for this long, hot summer. Think I'll make another for variety in my loungewear!

Fun is just around the corner...

2011-07-22T17:35:00.002-05:00

My addiction to Pinterest continues...and it has inspired my programming activities at work. Don't you just love this artsy little traveling art supplies poster?

via Pinterest

The group of four crafty things are on the agenda for Quick Holiday Gifts...a series of three programs featuring make and take crafts...glass magnets, ribbon bookmarks, tile coasters, and a sticky note memo set. Cute, utilitarian, and my favorite...cheap 'n easy.

via Pinterest

Next on the agenda...a series of weekly classes beginning in October...Fearless Art Journaling, led by Lynda from Bloom, Bake, & Create.

via Bloom, Bake & Create

And lastly...but really first on the autumn schedule, Water~Paper~Paint, an introductory art series with projects from Heather Smith Jones' wonderful book. This class will be led by Connie Walts.

I can't wait! We're going to have an Artful Autumn around here.

Obsessions

2011-07-03T08:29:00.001-05:00

I've been obsessed by many things in the past few weeks...mini donuts, Lisette patterns and fabrics, art journals, stitcheries, herb and lettuce gardening...random things--but they have engaged me lately.

One of the blogs I look forward to reading every Friday is Under A Blue Moon. Andrea features her Friday Favorites, and nearly every week there is something that captures my attention. About a month ago, I was drawn into the world of mini donuts. It was a Friday Favorite linking to a blog entitled Such Pretty Things. I immediately put the mini donut pan on my "need to buy" list. Nothing urgent...after all, I'm supposed to be Weight-Watchering.

While strolling the aisles at Hobby Lobby Friday, searching for yet another obsession...water soluble pastels to create journal pages seen here, I found the mini donut pan in the Wilton aisle. Two obsessions, one store. I added cake flour and buttermilk (low fat) to my grocery list.

Saturday morning I woke up with the desire to bake those cute little donuts...the problem? No cute little sprinkles to adorn them. I checked out the Facebook page for the local (and very nearby) cake and candy supply shop and found that they opened at 9:00. White jimmies and two tiny tubs of "petal dust" in hand, I now had everything I needed to make donuts. I could have purchased colored jimmies, but I wanted delicate, hand-tinted pastel jimmies. Yes...there is seriously something wrong with me.

The biggest obsession...garment sewing, of all things...began when I visited Purlbee a few weeks ago. While I wasn't super fond of the fabric choice on the dress they made, I was intrigued by the patterns. I visited the designer's website, fell in love with a few of the four patterns available, and off I went to purchase them (while they were super-reduced at JoAnn and Hobby Lobby). The new patterns are due out any day, along with a fall line of fabrics. I haven't done any garment sewing for decades, and can't figure out why it sounds so appealing now...and why do I want to start wearing dresses? Something's up...

Sunday

2011-06-12T08:19:00.001-05:00

I've mentioned my "affection" for Pinterest before, but I've just got to say there are some really great ideas posted on the site...linking back to some blogs that I would never have found on my own. I especially like the gardening/home dec/entertaining inspiration boards.

I went outside this morning to take pictures of "how my garden grows", but found that the camera battery was dead, so instead, today's post will be "here's what's for lunch":

Pretty dramatic, huh? A long strip of cucumber wrapped to hold spring mix and carrots. Easy and elegant. I "heart" Pinterest and all of the interesting and creative people who contribute to it.

Photo 1: nobiggie.net
Salad photo : Framed Cooks

May Review...

2011-05-31T23:07:00.000-05:00

Did May fly by, or what? Lots of fun things happened in May...

A couple of really good programs at our little library branch:

Bicycle Safety and Maintenance--with fuel prices escalating (and coming down really slowly now), pedal power may be the way to go. We learned how to change a bicycle tire, how to lube and maintain the chain, how to check the brakes, and most important--tire inflation.

Discard to Decor--a local business owner, Tresa Miller from Grateful Threads, brought in a few wonderful chairs that had a makeover treatment...one with slipcovers, and the other reupholstered. I fell in love with the upholstered chair...it was done in French Laundry fabric...tea names in French. As soon as there's money in the budget (or if they do another Groupon!!), I'm going to order the fabric in the red graphic colorway. Adorable. We also learned about new color trends...go big or go home...and she presented a slide show with lots of before and afters.
The annual Newburgh Art, Wine & Jazz Festival...the rains stopped just in time for this event. Some really good wines, and a few not-so-good wines...but a good time was had by all.

A punch-needle embroidery class...I've had the equipment and patterns for years...now I know the technique. I'm also interested in starting a little "inchie" embroidery project...a square a day. More details to follow...

So, we've talked about the fun things...now the "unfun" things...rain, rain, and more rain. Cool (verging on cold), gray, damp weather for weeks on end. Flooding...which didn't impact my abode a few blocks from the Ohio River, but devastated many residences in the northern part of the county. Storms, tornadoes, hail...heck; we had it all. Now it's just plain hot and humid. No spring-like weather to speak of this year. I'm just grateful that we've had it easier than many parts of the country.

Maybe June will be a quiet month...nice weather, sunshine and blue skies.

Wanna Build?

2011-05-02T07:32:00.000-05:00

3.5 inches of rain yesterday...find your Cubit Converter and Ark size Calculator here.

Ark graphic: St. Joseph Parish, Wisconsin

Sunday Evening...

2011-05-01T18:36:00.001-05:00

If it doesn't stop raining soon, I'm going to have a bumper crop of zucchini in my front window. I tranplanted the squash and tomatoes into #10 cans...they have outgrown the peat pots this week.

My friend Michelle dropped off white geraniums this afternoon. I pulled the terra cotta pots out to plant them in, but it's raining too hard to do that. Another day...

Here's a random photo...a dried arrangement I purchased a month or so ago. Blues and lavenders...cool and pretty.

...and this is what took forever to list on eBay today. It's been a while since I've listed anything, and just like Blogger, they've made lots of changes I'm not used to. I have lots more to list...all Gail Wilson Designs kits, but right now it's too much to wrap my head around. I have probably two dozen of the Early Amerian Doll furniture and clothing kits, and from what I understand, they are no longer available. Gotta get them listed...need any kits? Check out the listing(s) under the seller: oldbluequilt.

May Day

2011-05-01T03:40:00.000-05:00

Rabbit, rabbit...have to get the "first of the month" important stuff out of the way first. I love the month of May. One can generally count on pleasant weather, sunshine, and the beauty of new plantings. Green grass, dogwoods, rosebuds, peonies...ah, Spring!

Good Day, Sunshine...

2011-04-28T09:31:00.001-05:00

The Beatles' song came to mind as I looked out the window this morning....sunshine, no clouds...looks like it's going to be a beautiful day. There are lots of things on my "to do" for these four days off...outdoor cleanup, digging, planting, and indoor painting, purging, and upholstering.

On another note, and something I'm more inclined to do...I found this online while looking for something else (isn't that always the way??)...

It's a mystery stitchery by Brenda Gervais. If you don't have a local needlework shop, just Google "Birds of A Feather" mystery stitchery. You'll find lots of online shops offering this project. I've been feeling the urge to stitch lately...along with the urge to piece a quilt top. My friend Michelle (MadRedHare) is doing a block of the month feature on her blog, and I've made two of the four blocks assigned. She just sent out the next two blocks, so I hope to work on those sometime this weekend. Just before the first of the year, I decided that I wanted to do an embroidery project...a square a day, just like the projects I've read about on OPB's (other people's blogs). By the end of January, I had my cloth ready...one inch squares drawn 19 x 19 with four squares at the top for the year. 365 blocks. By the end of February, I had stitched around the borders of maybe 1/3 of the blocks. I pick it up in spurts, and I'm hoping that by the end of May I'll have all 365 blocks outlined. My stitch-a-day plan hasn't worked out so far, but there's no reason (like I have concrete "rules" about much of anything?) I can't run my year from June to June. Sounds like a plan...

Better get to work!

Good Day Sunshine artwork via Deviant Art xbooshbabyx

Keep Calm...

2011-04-27T06:52:00.000-05:00

Taking a little break from the weather forecasts today to bring up another overexposed news item, and a fond memory of mine. I'll be watching the Royal Wedding early, early Friday morning; coverage of the event begins at 3AM in my enchanted neighborhood. I've tried to avoid other coverage of the upcoming event, but it's hard to avoid since all of the morning news programs have sent staff across the pond to cover the wedding.

I remember the excitement and oh so romantic stories surrounding the wedding of Charles and Diana...at the time I lived in a small courtyard apartment complex. One of my across-the-courtyard neighbors and I would chat in the parking lot when we were coming or going...and we "bonded" on the royal wedding. We planned a small but elegant breakfast on the morning of the wedding. I remember getting up (or perhaps I didn't go to bed--I was "young" then) and cooking...and serving the food on my pale blue and white china. We watched the wedding and drank mimosas.

Two vacation days are coming up...at 6PM this afternoon/evening, I'll be officially off for the next four days. No fancy wedding breakfast is in the works, but I'll be there...in front of the TV drinking coffee and watching the latest fairy tale come to fruition. I hope happiness is on their agenda.

Photo: Mr. X Stitch

Life along the river...

2011-04-26T07:38:00.001-05:00

While I worry about getting my meager "crops" out, there are definitely more serious issues at play in our area...the flood walls went up yesterday along the Ohio River in downtown Evansville. After the standards are all in place, sheets of aluminum are inserted, providing protection from the rising waters.This photo is from the Evansville Courier Press.

This picture (taken by Johnny Kincaid and posted on the Superhits 105.3 website) is of the Casino Aztar plaza. Water is level with the plaza...and that was before the overnight storms that passed through the area.

Another photo by Johnny Kincaid...of the Dress Plaza area along the riverfront. What you're not seeing is the seating available under the water. Pretty scary!

On another note, when the river hits cresting stage in Newburgh, Water Street will be under water. Maybe it's a good thing that I don't still live in that little cottage!

Rain, Rain Go Away!

2011-04-25T06:47:00.000-05:00

Rain...flooding...gloom. A trifecta of misery. There was an article in the newspaper this morning calling the upcoming cresting of the rivers "catastrophic"...a word the hydrologist (!!) said she used to "get our attention." The rain is supposed to stop by Thursday and Friday, only to start again for the weekend and beyond. Delightful. This farmerette needs to get her crops in the field...or barrels and other containers.

...and then there's the wedding coming up at the end of the week! The media already has us on "royal overload" with much, much more to come. Busy week for lots of people.

Looks like it will be a low-key week for me...three days of work followed by two days of vacation. Sunshine, please...

Quakin' Tuesday

2011-04-19T08:05:00.000-05:00

Stormy weather is on the way to our area today...and this morning we are having an earthquake drill at work. If I'm folded up under my desk for two minutes, I hope that I will be able to crawl back out and "unbend". One never knows.

I'm trying to get back into the photography habit again. Nothing spectacular for sure, but just a record of what's going on around me.

Manic Monday...time for a cuppa tea

2011-04-18T21:03:00.000-05:00

Busy, busy day at work today. I'm so glad I had the chance to play in the dirt yesterday. I checked my plants in the front window before work this morning...and I swear the one tomato plant and my zucchini grew over an inch today. Sure would be nice to keep them where they are...maybe make a viney curtain! I'll probably put them in containers outside this weekend if the weather looks good. So far, the 10-day is looking pretty nasty...and isn't there a saying that if it rains on Easter Sunday it will rain for the next 7 Sundays?

I've been slowly making my way through Mary's Mosaic Monday participants. So many lovely pictures and mosaics. I love blogland! Now it's time to organize myself for tomorrow morning, and then sit back and enjoy a cup of Constant Comment.

How I Spent My Sunday...

2011-04-17T18:08:00.002-05:00

It's a beautiful day today...so unlike yesterday. Yesterday I was content to just cocoon and stay under the radar...flipping through books I've brought home from the library (pretty good ones, too...The Jewelry Architect, Potted Gardens, Garden Whimsy, Home Herbal, Cooking in the Moment, DIY Projects for the Self-Sufficient Homeowner, The Kitchen Garden Cookbook, and my new favorite The One-Block Feast). The One-Block Feast has a blog on the Sunset Magazine website and can be found here.

I can't wait until our Farmer's Market and Locals Only Market start up for the season. This year I'll be doing some "farming" in the backyard, too. I currently have quite a crop growing in my front window...parsleys, sage, rosemary, oregano, tomatoes and zucchini. I purchased a two-part galvanized laundry sink at the antique/flea market in Owensboro a few weeks ago and that will house my herb and lettuce gardens.

My three small things for today: (listed before the day actually started)

Finish getting the sunporch ready for the season
Move the galvanized "planter" from the dining room to the garden area
Sow lettuce seeds

And as they say on TV, here's what really happened:

Transplanted the sage, small tomato plants, Irish moss, Rabbit's foot fern, and sedum; moved them to the sunporch.
Planted the pelletized seed I purchased from Cook's Garden. Soon (within 3 weeks, or so they say...) I'll have pots of lettuce looking like this:

So the galvanized planter is still residing in the dining room "warehouse", and although I spent some time sprucing the sunporch, it's far from ready for spring and summer enjoyment. Since I ended up with a fresh new mosaic, I've joined the Little Red House link party hosted by Mary. Visit & enjoy!

With the 10-day forecast looking mostly like warmth, storms, and clouds, I'll have plenty of time to finish painting and doing other inside things. Carpe diem.

Projects Started...barely

2011-04-17T00:01:00.007-05:00

This is what started it all...the settee sitting out in the snow awaiting pickup by the trashmen. I pulled it down the street, turned it end over end up my stairs, and left it in my entryway (on top of a plastic dropcloth) to dry out. The scent wasn't overly pleasant as it dried, so I sprinkled a bit of Carpet Fresh Linen scent on it. Two months later, it sits in my dining room...alongside a bolt of Waverly Rose Fairhaven.

A more recently started but definitely not finished project is painting the living room. I've spackeled all nail holes and so far have just painted above the mantel...Martha Stewart Tobacco Leaf. At this rate, it will take a month to finish the room.

I will say that I've been much busier at work in the last month or so. I've been promoted (yay me!!) to an Outreach & Programming position at a (very) small branch of the library. It's still really close to my home, but it is so very different from what I'm used to. The branch is just beautiful...it's a Carnegie library, nearly 100 years old, and it sits alongside a park in an urban residential area. The building was remodeled a few years ago and they did a wonderful job.

Got to get busy...lots to accomplish. By the way...what favorite programs does your public library offer? Let me know...

A Saturday in April...

2011-04-16T17:32:00.000-05:00

via Flickr

Long time, no see...I've been around, reading blogs via Google Reader mostly. One of my new favorite things to do is play on Pinterest. It's an amazing, visually stimulating, and get-your-creative-juices-flowing kind of place. The photos on this post are all cool pics I've found on Pinterest...they're on my pinboard there, under Discard to Decor...also a new favorite thing for me lately. Seems I've been trash picking a lot lately...it's not that I want or need any furniture, but it kills me to see perfectly good "trash" waiting for the landfill. So far, I've acquired a cute little French camelback settee, a headboard, and a side table...and a few other small items. My dining room is looking more like a furniture repair shop than a dining room.

I know that the Paris Flea Market Star is from the Connecting Threads catalog. There's a free download here for the pattern. I just love those pastels!

This is a cool memo board. A tutorial for this project is here at Shabby Garden Creations.

I love this sunny little dining nook. So springy...this one's from Flea Market Trixie. You will love her style.

From Flickr via Jamaica Byles blog

I don't know that I'd ever paint anything this big pink, but I love this picture! Prim and farmstyle.

Rubie's Place Vintage Locker Basket tutorial

Locker baskets and burlap...it just doesn't get any better.

Sunday pursuits

2011-01-16T09:09:00.000-06:00

I've been spending ample time blog browsing the past few days, and as usual, this activity spikes my creative urge. Designer peat pots, stitcheries, knitting, and quilting....but the activity I most want to engage in is gardening...the one thing I really can't pursue now. My indoor garden is blooming...paperwhites planted just before Christmas, and the hyacinth sitting atop water is slowly growing. The rosemary and oregano I planted last fall are still alive and...get this...thriving... in my living room window. CBS Sunday Morning had a feature on Tovah Martin's The New Terrarium: Creating Beautiful Displays for Plants and Nature. I read (and wrote about) this book last year, but had forgotten about it. I have the book on my "pick up" list when I go to work this afternoon. Maybe I can garden now. Maybe I can grow things in the Wardian case in the corner of my livng room instead of using it for wine storage. Hmmmm...

Brrrr...brighten up your world!

2011-01-12T10:08:00.001-06:00

Snow and cold...two of my most unfavorite things. I feel fortunate that my area isn't overwhelmed by snow and ice, and for that I'm so grateful. Spring....where are you?

Mosey on over to Purlbee and whip up some perky Valentines to add a little color to the gloom of the day! Super easy instructions for these can be found here.

Photo: Purlbee

1.9.11

2011-01-09T16:30:00.000-06:00

I had high hopes of starting the new year with a blog post every day, with a brand spanking new picture to go along with the post. Seems that I've been in a bit of a tech nightmare at home; uncooperative wireless compounded with a laptop that may or may not be the actual culprit. I've put off trying to figure the whole mess out--seems like too much work at the end of the day. I was able to keep up on email via my iPhone, but I can only peck out so many letters before frustration sets in. As of this afternoon, all is well in the land of wireless.

So far, I'm not doing a good job of keeping up...which brings us around to my word for 2011:

fulfill - to develop the full potential of. To bring to an end; finish or complete, as a period of time. To satisfy (obligations, requirements. To carry out, or bring to realization as a prophecy or promise.

I am a listmaker...always have been, always will be. Problem is, I make lists and don't fulfill them. There are so many things I'd like to accomplish this year...projects, crafty things, reading and writing. I just have to start...

A sunny Sunday afternoon...

2010-10-10T17:39:00.002-05:00

Autumn decorating is in full force around the neighborhood. Many go for the cob webby spooky look, but I admire the pumpkin-filled urns on this porch. It's a perfect day for wandering around and admiring the scenery.

October....already?

2010-10-03T10:07:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how fast September flew by. This entire year has just flown...sometimes the individual days seemed excruciatingly long, but as a whole...wow!

I volunteered to help at the Art, Wine & Jazz Fest this year. It's my "new" thing...volunteer to help at functions I want to attend--thus, saving admission money. It's a great opportunity to meet new people and it has worked into my monthly challenge to myself--to do something outside of my comfort zone. One of the art booths at the festival really fascinated me...check her website here. Beautiful jewelry, handbags, and totes.

For the past several months it's been hot (beyond "hot") in the Evansville area. Seventy days above 90 degrees...plus the humidity. We finally got a taste of autumn early this past week...last night was downright cold---now begins the countdown to when I'll break down and turn on the furnace. I believe it was December 7th last year...I'm hoping to hold out longer in 2010.

Slow down, October...you're one of my favorite months!

Stalking Dillard's...

2010-09-15T11:49:00.000-05:00

Image courtesy of Country Living

Last month while browsing through the September issue of Country Living, I came across this purse in their editorial pages. The "where to buy" listed Dillard's as the location to purchase the purse (actually, it's a tote bag). I immediately wanted it. It's "the" purse I've been looking for. The price tag was a bit steep for my budget, but I rationalized that if I made and sold enough earrings and necklaces, I would put that money toward the purchase....good thinking, right? Downright practical.

Off I went to Dillard's to see the purse up close and personal...and couldn't find it or any other purse of that brand. Online....they had it only in black. I wanted 'tobacco'. A week or so later, I was browsing the Dillard's website and IT WAS THERE! More importantly, the price was reduced! $158.00 marked down to $110.00. In the time that it took me to answer a phone call and go get my debit card the item became unavailable once again. Another week passes....one of those sleepless nights and I find myself on the Dillard's site again. The item is in stock and unbelievable as it seems, they've marked it down again...to $66.36. I put it in their "shopping cart", signed up for their shopping service, and placed the order. Three days later, the purse of my dreams is mine and I love it! What I like more is the bargain---not so much the thrill of the chase.

I know it's a long, convoluted story and it's not really indicative of how I usually operate, but I can't explain how happy I feel when I pick up this bag and take off to work!

An unexpected Friday treat...

2010-09-10T12:56:00.000-05:00

Today started out to be an almost typical Friday...up early, walk to the Farmer's Market down the street, and then the usual fritter-a-Friday-away type day---reading, watching TV or a DVD, a little laundry---then I got a call from my friend Michelle. She dropped off two huge white mums on my front porch this morning on her way to work.

I bought four small bronze mums a few weeks ago and still hadn't planted them outside. I took them out of the window box in my front window, pulled out a few annuals I had growing in a huge planter at the base of my steps, and then proceeded to pot the big mums. Lots of potting soil later (I have huge 40 qt. bags of the stuff under my back porch), and voila! My front entryway is finished!

Thank you Michelle! Truly, it made my day.

9-8-2010

2010-09-08T11:18:00.000-05:00

Back to work...and I've got to say, I really do function better with structure in my life. The big news at work is that the parking lot is finally open. It's been closed off for repairs for the past YEAR. For the last several months, staff has had to park of premises, either on the street or in the big parking lot behind the local government center. We've saved the underground parking for patrons. It's been a gigantic hassle, and with most of the downtown area torn up in some aspect or other (we're building a stadium just down the street from the library) the entire area has been a construction zone. The lot is open now, and also, after many months our library cafe is opening today...and the menu looks pretty tasty. They brought a coffee cart through our work area yesterday afternoon with samples, and the coffee was delicious!

Labor Day 2010

2010-09-06T19:41:00.000-05:00

Vacation week is officially over at 8 AM tomorrow morning, but it sure feels like it's over now. Of course, it really doesn't feel like Monday evening...it feels like Sunday evening. Sunday night "blues" on Monday.

I accomplished a few things this past week, but I always seem to create more of a mess trying to clean, rearrange, whatever...than I had when I started out. I talked myself out of doing a few things, knowing that the uproar just wouldn't be worth it right now.

The herbs are still alive in the kitchen window...that's an accomplishment...and I harvested quite a few "sausage" tomatoes. I've had lots of green tomatoes all summer long...they just wouldn't ripen until this week. I didn't get my lettuces planted and that's something I really need to do, especially since it's now getting cooler at night. My only "cool weather" crop.

A not so TGIF...

2010-09-03T11:14:00.000-05:00

While generally I love Fridays, a Friday that falls at the end of a vacation week is rather bitter sweet. Of course, I still have a few days off remaining...I don't head back to work until Tuesday. This morning's big adventure included a walk to the Farmer's Market. There were fewer booths this week, but I was still able to purchase what I needed...zucchini, spaghetti squash, butternut squash, and my treat of the week--a carrot cake cupcake!

I carried my camera with me on the few block's trek to the market, but really didn't find anything too photo-worthy other than the Main Street Arch. Maybe this afternoon I'll wander around the neighborhood and take a few photos.

Autumn, where are you?

2010-09-01T13:58:00.001-05:00

September...one of my very most favorite months. My start of the new year...as opposed to January. New school supplies, new schedules, new everything. No new school supplies for me this year, but September always feels so "new"...a breath of fresh, crisp air after a stagnant summer.

I'm ready to at least redecorate the mantel in an autumn theme...and I really need to get the mums in pots outside. Couldn't resist putting them in the tool tote I got earlier this summer at the in-the-middle-of-nowhere Cinnamon Creek Cabin open house. Love that place! The temperatures are supposed to go down at the end of the week---maybe they'll get planted then.

As much as I've enjoyed cool, fresh from the garden meals this summer, I look forward to soups and crock pot meals scenting the air.

Objects of desire...

2010-08-31T07:15:00.000-05:00

Still pluggin' along...

The highlight of my day yesterday, other than moving stuff around in my kitchen, was my Weight Watchers meeting. 3.8 pounds down from last week. Simple pleasures. Another highlight...a bag of tomatoes and peppers from my friend and her husband. Almost every Monday night I get a bag of tomatoes from them, and they are delicious!

Going to get the puttering in early today...I have a novel tempting me, and I don't know how long I can just let it sit on the coffee table!

A new day...

2010-08-30T12:24:00.001-05:00

Almost every day this month, I've thought about a blog post..but there seems to be nothing much going on in my life to write about. Sad but true. I've decided that all of that is going to change, beginning right now! I'm not saying that I'm bored OR boring (jeez, I hope not, anyway!!), but it seems to take so very little to make me happy. I'm usually quite content to be at home, either puttering about, or doing absolutely nothing. All summer long--heck, it's been way longer than that--I've mentally wanted to clean and organize the house. During other stay-at-home vacations I've had long "to do" lists made...from organizing closets to scrubbing floors and walls...and none of it gets done. What I'm best at, it seems, is thinking about doing things and compiling lists. What I'm not so good at is the follow through. This.must.change...NOW! Recent spurts of activity...like the beginning of the month cabinet redo...were accomplished by just getting out of my chair and doing something. Well...I'm on vacation this week and have NO list. So far, all I've done is transplant Greek oregano and a rosemary plant into the clearance planters I picked up at Lowe's after work yesterday. That and try to artfully arrange the kitchen window overlooking the back enclosed porch. Clutter, clutter everywhere, but by gosh, that window sill is finished!

How I spent my Sunday...

2010-08-08T18:28:00.000-05:00

Here's what's for dinner...Moussaka, Weight Watchers style. The main ingredients are still there, and it's quite flavorful...very low fat, very delicious.

I've been up to my usual things...sitting around doing nothing, mostly--then I get hit with a burst of inspiration and can't stop creating (a mess usually). Today's spark came from a bit of a cleaning rampage yesterday. I have a pine jelly cupboard wedged into a tiny corner of my bathroom. It's stained dark and is kind of primitive. I had to pull it out of the corner to mop and wax the floor, so I decided it was time to update it. I pulled pages out of an old foreign language dictionary and ran them through some liquid starch. They now cover the back and shelves of the cupboard. The outside of the cupboard has been painted white. After the paint dries, I'm going to put a bit of antiquing wax on it. It's amazing what all I pulled out of that cabinet...old makeup and creams, hair things, lots of Megan's old stuff. It's good to do something like this the day before garbage day!

Before...

Page liners...still drying

After...the paint is still drying, but it's finished (except for the antiquing wax). I put a piece of lace inside the wire opening in front...can't wait to move it back into the bathroom and load it up!

Summer Reading

2010-07-11T20:53:00.000-05:00

It has been so nice to read for pleasure...no deadlines (other than library due dates!), no hurries, no worries. I'm almost finished with the new Susan Isaacs book...As Husbands Go. I love her books...one of my favorites from long ago is Compromising Positions...loved the movie by the same name with Susan Sarandon and Raul Julia, too.

The House at Royal Oak, by Carol Eron Rizzoli is the true story of a couple who find a wonderful farm house and leave their careers to open a Bed & Breakfast. It is a well-told tale and should be a must read for any of us who have ever dreamed of opening our own B&B.

Young Romantics by Daisy Hay, subtitled The Tangled Lives of English Poetry's Greatest Generation, is an engrossing tale of love, betrayal, sacrifice, and friendship.

I've just started Anna Quindlen's latest novel Every Last One. Her books are always thought provoking and hard to put down once begun.

I've always kept a journal of books I've read, and lately I've tried to use Goodreads.com...I'm not very good at entering books on a timely basis though.

I hate it when I covet things...

2010-07-03T15:07:00.000-05:00

If you've been a reader for a while (and have hung out through my dry spells of blogging), you will know that I love sheds and little garden houses. Never mind that I don't have a back yard large enough to accommodate even the smallest shed (an outhouse, maybe). I've been distracted by the article in The New York Times featuring the most enchanting little building I've ever seen. If you
haven't already, you MUST visit this blog...My Shabby Streamside Studio.

This little building has been featured on many blogs...but I can't get enough of it. I want one! The next best thing though, is for one of my friends to have a similar one. Michelle (Mad Red Hare) has a shed with a loft (sleeping loft), and has been asking her husband to move it closer to their log cabin home, and close to the outdoor pond. You know how it is with husbands...you ask and ask, and soon nag and nag...and it goes undone...either because they didn't think of it or they just consider it to be too much trouble. Michelle and I talked about it yesterday...and I'm in...I'll help her move the shed. I'm sure we can gather together a few strong guys and get it done. I can't wait to help!

I think it would be great fun to paint and decorate a shed/garden house...lots of gauzy whites and lace...way too frilly for me 95% of the time, but it would be a great escape.

We all deserve a little place to escape, don't we?

Photo credits:

(1) My Shabby Streamside Studio via The New York Times

(2) Country Living Magazine

(3) Shed Chic

Happy Father's Day, Dad...

2010-06-20T09:41:00.001-05:00

Here's another piece from my $5.00 rummage sale collection...I forgot to take a picture of it Friday. When I first spotted it, I didn't realize it was an aftershave bottle...I just really like the hand form. My first thought was to fill it with buttons, but the opening is a little hole in the glass top...not plastic like most things are today. As with the Fenton Milk Glass Lavabo (thank you so much for identifying it, Bernie*), I'll have to rethink its purpose.

Father's Day has dawned hot and humid (again)...I've already spoken to my dad (and mom!) in Ohio, and it's super hot there too. With the first day of summer arriving tomorrow morning, here's hoping for lower humidty and comfortable temperatures!

What $5.00 will buy...

2010-06-18T12:04:00.000-05:00

The church around the corner started their annual rummage sale this morning at 7AM. My friend Michelle and I were there shortly after. So many treasures! We pulled my cart along with us, usually a sure sign of not finding anything worth buying. Wrong...

The fun thing about this sale is that nothing is priced. You take your purchases to a the cashier's table and the ladies look things over and quote you a price, usually sounding like they would quibble if that's what you want to do. I pulled my items out of the cart and the lady asked if $5.00 was okay for the lot. Heck, yes!

The brass candleabra (soon to be painted), a nice picnic basket (for Farmer's Market use),

the tiny copper oil lamp --with an extra hurricane

A silver ????, and a "milk glass" I don't know what to call it...

and a new to me mailbox...larger than the one by the front door and so much nicer looking. All for $5.00. Love it!

After the rummage sale, we pulled the cart on to the Farmer's Market a few blocks further. Fresh green beans, blackberries, zucchini...yum!

A day for me...{mental health day??}

2010-06-15T14:48:00.000-05:00

Yesterday afternoon I requested a day off...I wanted/needed a day to just putter around, and so far, that's what I've been doing. A little coffee drinking, a lot of Crystal Lite drinking (cherry pomegranate--the best!!), some blog reading, and as far as puttering goes--some soap making. I just Googled "pantry cakes" and I've found a recipe I want to try...my friend Michelle bought one this weekend, and I decided to make my own to either display on a cake plate or to put into an old wooden bowl. Either way, they will smell cinnamony delicious (and no calories or "points" since they're inedible!!).

Once again, it's a hot and humid day. I have a little yard work to do, but it's going to have to wait until early evening.

A Farmer's Market Bouquet

2010-06-14T06:51:00.000-05:00

Hot and humid...the mantra for the past several days and for the next several.

Seems like it rains all around us, but not here. Watering the plants is the only outdoor priority for me. Other than that, I've been spending my time reading and relaxing. Love it!

American Summer at Cinnamon Creek Cabin

2010-06-12T19:52:00.000-05:00

Saturday morning...a perfect day for a little day trip across the river into Kentucky. My friend Michelle and I explored Cinnamon Creek Cabin, a little cabin/gift emporium on the far outskirts of Owensboro. Today was their American Summer Open House, and lots of handmade goodies were everywhere...soaps, candles, stitched items, minnow bucket and funnel lanterns...oh my.

Old rocking chairs with grainsack pillows...a tree in the center of the cabin...a refreshing "finger bowl" of lemon and mint...

Jewelry, lots and lots of burlap items and mason jar filled goodies. Doesn't the bedroom look like a MaryJane's farm bedroom? Farm/cabin glamour at its finest!

Our trip also included stops at a few antique malls...we had a great time!

Happy Mother's Day...and Happy Birthday Megan!

2010-05-09T11:02:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all...and happy birthday to my daughter Megan--vacationing in Mexico this week!

Image: Mary Cassatt~Young Mother Sewing

Strolling along the river...

2010-05-04T22:35:00.000-05:00

This evening after work, I drove to Newburgh to walk with my friend Patty. Newburgh has a new walking/biking trail that is right along the Ohio River. We walked by where I used to live...at the corner of Plum & Water. The only thing of mine that remains there is the Plum tree and some spring bulbs. So sad that the house is gone--torn down to make room for new construction. The view of the river was (and still is) breathtaking.

This little gypsy wagon sits in the side yard across the street from my dearly departed little cottage. So cute! Notice the barge on the river behind the wagon...

TGIM--Thank Goodness it's May!

2010-05-02T08:58:00.001-05:00

Happy May! I've finally made it through the toughest ten weeks of school...weeks filled with hours of reading, research and writing...lots of writing and collaboration with schoolmates on projects and final assignments. The final project was writing a grant--my partner and I wrote a grant that we actually will submit--most others wrote a "fantasy grant" to fulfull the requirements of the course. Graduation is next weekend, but classes are over. Now what will I do with a Master of Science, Public Service Administration? Any ideas are welcome...

The house and garden have been neglected, so I hope to take those extra hours I have while not working to remedy that situation. I purchased a few plants yesterday to join my seedlings outside.

Time to get back to normal, whatever that is...

Happy Birthday Randy and Patty!

Still thinking Spring...

2010-02-11T11:16:00.000-06:00

This is what I've been reading...a beautiful book featuring simply gorgeous flowers and bouquets. It's definitely the book to dream and plan with.

Cottage Flowers for the garden...

2010-02-08T00:04:00.001-06:00

It's such a shame when you get Spring Fever at the beginning of February. It makes the shortest month just drag on and on. It's all about container gardening here...I'm now in search of a galvanized water trough for big time planting. Easy to weed, no bending over, and closer to the sun...important when your "garden" is downtown with lots of tall houses surrounding it. At least it's almost time to plant the sweet peas!

After ordering vegetables Sunday, I decided to visit another of my favorite seed websites and purchase flower seeds. My mailbox should be full by the end of the week.

Garden Planning

2010-02-07T10:44:00.000-06:00

Uh-oh...it's an ADD day. I really didn't see this coming on, but right after my Heart post, I received an email from Cook's Garden...on to their website...and I ordered seeds for my little garden. Here's what will be growing at PlumWater Cottage:

Carmelita Tomatoes

India Paint Eggplant

Boston Marrow Squash

San Marzano Tomatoes

Pistou Basil

Summer Squash Mix

Summerlong Basil

I guess I should dig out the peat pots and seed-starting supplies before the next snow!

Get inspired...visit Cook's Catalog!

Hearts Aplenty...

2010-02-07T09:37:00.000-06:00

Photos from BHG.com, except lower left primroses (my photo), and heart on a peg (unknown blog...isn't it pretty?)

It's a usual Sunday morning here along the river...CBS Sunday morning on the TV, coffee at hand, and I'm thinking of what to do for the rest of the day. Football? (doubt it), DVD's (the third season of The Tudors), projects...embroidery, jewelry making, sewing? Magazines?....lots in my pile to look at...Where Women Create, Apronology, Country Living...I love days like this.

I have a one week break from school. Statistics just about did me in. I can read and understand them, but do I really need to know how to arrive at them? And all of the ways to do it? I think not. The next class is entitled Applied Research/Program Evaluation...proposal writing, critiques, and evaluations. Delightful. As I see it, it's just this class and a grantwriting class between me and the Master's Degree (that, and endless years of student loan repayment...).

It's a sunny day here...we had a gloomy, rainy (but not too much snow) Friday and Saturday and the first part of the week doesn't look too enchanting weatherwise. There are pictures to be taken of a little Valentine decorating around the house...today looks like the day to do it.

Fruits and flowers...

2010-01-24T10:49:00.002-06:00

Still craving color here along the river; we had a burst of sunlight just before sundown Thursday after a very gloomy week. As I recall, that's it for the week. We're still foggy, rainy, and gloomy---but not freezing. This is good.

I went for color as I grocery-shopped yesterday...carrots, cucumbers, lettuces, lemons, limes, tangerines...and flowers. Two more sets of violets and primroses doomed to an unpredictable future in my house. I hope they survive the remainder of the winter!

Monday at home...

2010-01-18T10:01:00.003-06:00

Gloom and fog (and frog---frosty fog) have been having an extended stay here along the river. The temperatures during the day have at least been somewhat of a treat...the bone shivering cold has left temporarily, I'm sure. This is the time of year I need an infusion of color...any color.

I received my pattern order from Crabapple Hill Studios on Friday, and immediately went out to pick up floss...even though I had plenty, I wanted "new" floss---just for the pure color inspiration. While I was out, I picked up the latest issue of Somerset Life---also filled with colorful inspiration. I love the coffee filter crafts---the pink/teastained wreath and kissing ball are definitely on my "to do" for Valentine's Day.

Currently Reading: The Complete Magnolia Bakery Cookbook
Currently Listening To: Bob Marley & The Wailers

Be Present...

2010-01-03T07:49:00.003-06:00

I did it again this morning...sitting in my chair, drinking that first cup of coffee of the day--I pushed my mind ahead to the end of the week. I hate when I do that, and this year I'm going to try (and it will be hard) to live more in the moment. The year has started with work--Saturday and Sunday and for the next four days (plus school on Tuesday evening) --will it kill me, I ask? I started thinking about the upcoming three day weekend. I've done that for the last several years...skipping my thoughts over the current situation and fixating on time off. Time goes by quickly enough without me doing major time skips.

This year I'd like to eke out as much quality time from each day that can be had...be more productive, be more organized, and definitely be present.

Currently Reading: The Italian Slow Cooker by Michele Scicolone
Currently Listening To/Watching: CBS Sunday Morning

It's Complicated

2010-01-01T07:31:00.010-06:00

On New Year's Eve Eve, I went to lunch with my friend Carol. Lunch at Grand Traverse Pie Company...pie...so good. After, we went to the movies to see It's Complicated.

The pictures shown today are from the movie. Jane (Meryl Streep) had a fabulous house in Santa Barbara, with a fabulous potting shed and an even more fabulous garden. On top of all that, she had a fabulous business called The Bakery. Beautiful, envy-producing elements of a life.

Who wouldn't love this kitchen garden? One of the dishes Jane fixed for her architect was Croque Monsieur...ham and cheese. It looked so delicious, I found a recipe for it and had it for dinner last night (preceded by a trip to Sam's to get gruyere). It was pretty tasty, as was the movie. As my friend commented, all of the "good parts" weren't shown in the trailer. P.S. Loved the purse she carried, too.

Photos: It's Complicated website

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T07:31:00.004-06:00

"A new year is unfolding--like a blossom with petals curled tightly concealing the beauty within."

--unknown author

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T07:24:00.003-06:00

Happy Holidays to everyone. May they be everything you wish for.

Friday

2009-12-18T10:45:00.002-06:00

Just a week until Christmas...and I'm looking forward to the big event being over. For some reason or other, I just can't get into the holiday spirit. It seems that so many people are overwhelmed by the shopping craziness and have forgotten the reason for the season. I've always enjoyed the week between Christmas and New Year's...it's become more of a time to reflect and rejuvinate to prepare for the coming year.
One thing I am looking forward to is a visit from my parents. I hope the weather doesn't cancel the visit.
Off to lunch with a friend...and a little grocery shopping. Ugh! Hope it's not too crazy at Sam's Club--but who am I kidding?

Currently Reading:
Currently Listening To:

Mosaic Monday, Norwegian Style

2009-12-13T18:30:00.000-06:00

Once again, I find myself clicking through Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian blogs...all of the photography is so beautiful. I love the zinc, white, and greenery. Poor man's silver (silvered glass) is something I've been collecting for the past few years. Nice, since it doesn't tarnish. The best part of looking at these blogs is the automatic translation of the pages with Google Translate. It's the best!

Visit Mary at Little Red House for more Monday Mosaics.

Photos: Ellis, Country by Mail, and Country House; mosaic uploaded by me

Sunday Morning...

2009-12-13T09:16:00.006-06:00

Currently Reading: Await Your Reply by Dan Chaon
Currently Listening To: Holiday Music

Fa la la Friday

2009-12-11T08:36:00.005-06:00

Today is the start of a three day weekend for me...the benefit of working all last weekend. No plans to even leave the house...a weekend of baking, cleaning, and relaxing. I've gathered some interesting recipes this week and I'm anxious to try them out.

I've brought a few DVDs home from the library...Angels & Demons and Public Enemy (Johnny Depp as Dillinger)...and I'll probably watch a few Christmas movies--A Christmas Story, for sure.

Photo Credit: MidWest Living

Currently Reading: I'm Dreaming of a Green Christmas by Anna Getty

White Wednesday

2009-12-09T04:39:00.001-06:00

1)BHG.com 2) BHG.com 3) mine 4) Under A Blue Moon 5) ?

6) mine 7) RS Home 8) ? 9) BHG.com 10) BHG.com

11) Crabapple Hill Studio 12) Dove Grey Studio 13) mine

14 & 15) BHG.com

A few of my favorite white images. I just hope to not see number 13 (unlucky number 13?) this winter in Evansville.

Visit Faded Charm for more White Wednesday.

Tuesday

2009-12-08T07:30:00.000-06:00

It's a rainy, rainy Tuesday here in Evansville...I'm thankful it's not snowy as it is just to our north and west. I'll take a rain over snow any day.

I have a final exam this evening, so I've taken the day off to study and regroup. It's a good day to be at home. Before any studying is started, I've got to do a quick pick-up of clutter. I swear it grows overnight!

Holiday Decorating & Craft Party

2009-12-05T07:30:00.001-06:00

Visit the party hosted by Bella Dreams...my photos will be posted later today.

Holiday Party

2009-12-05T06:59:00.000-06:00

Experimenting...

2009-12-04T10:42:00.002-06:00

All of a sudden this morning, I decided to do something with all of the burlap I purchased a few weeks ago. Originally purchased to make curtains for the sunporch...now a scalloped mantel cloth. Just an experiment, so now that I've seen how it looks, I'm going to remove it, try to press a crease in it, and sew on a little lace or ribbon.

Currently Listening To: Martha Stewart Holiday Jazz

Scenes from around the house...

2009-12-02T20:35:00.001-06:00

Every year I have a little internal battle...do I bring in the geraniums, or do I just yank them out of the pots and throw them in the compost pile...or, more likely, let them freeze and die in the pots? I'm not good at keeping plants alive inside, but the geraniums still look pretty fabulous for December 2nd. It's rained all day here, and the temperature has dropped to 36 degrees. All day...do I bring them in, or do I just forget about them...

Well, they're safely inside, looking pretty perky in the entryway. Lots of buds ready to bloom. I think the plan this year will be to try to root some cuttings from them. If it works, I'll have 'free' geraniums for the spring; if not, I'm not out anything.

A few Santa banks...the cast iron Santa in the middle is marked Hobart...from Hobart Manufacturing in Troy, Ohio. The others are reproductions.

Colorful ornaments in my bargain 'bridge dish' from the Santa Stroll in Huntingburg a few weeks ago.

Currently Reading: Layered, Tattered & Stitched by Ruth Rae
Currently Listening To: Classics for Relaxation

Decorating Collage-Tiny Trees

2009-12-02T07:49:00.004-06:00

{Click to enlarge}

Tiny tree decorating is 'big'in my house this year. I've taken some ideas from MidWest Living and Coastal Living...these are some of the inspiration photos from the magazines.

Looking forward to the blog party at Bella Dreams on Saturday...

December--Rabbit! Rabbit!

2009-12-01T06:42:00.004-06:00

Festive bunnies for the first day of the month...Rabbit, Rabbit!

Photo: www.thesoapark.com

Currently Reading: Unclutter Your Life in One Week by Erin Rooney Doland

November Retrospective

2009-11-30T07:01:00.003-06:00

While looking over my list of simple pleasures, I find that it mostly involves beverages or food. I guess that just about sums up what I think about and/or look forward to. Kind of pathetic.

November was a wonderful weather month--it was what we usually enjoy in October...the months definitely 'switched personalities.' I am not a fan of winter; after the holiday festivities of December, I certainly start dreaming of spring. Maybe that's why I'm such a fan of all things Swedish lately. The pictures with this post come from Country Living.com--featuring a sunny, almost spring-like atmosphere. I love decorating for Christmas, but by the time it's over, I'm ready for the pared down look I find so enticing in the decor of Sweden.

Photo: http://www.countryliving.com/

What to do, what to do...

2009-11-29T08:44:00.004-06:00

A re-run photo from last Christmas. In the meantime, I've collected more silvered glass pieces and I'm finding it hard to put it all together. When I layer it, it's too, too much. Wish I had fresh hydrangea in my aluminum tumblers--I'd like a re-do on summer!

Currently Listening To: CBS Sunday Morning

A Puttery Saturday

2009-11-28T09:10:00.003-06:00

I've been relying on some of my favorite images I have tucked away in photo files. These three are all from Better Homes & Gardens. Other than the annoying pop-ups on their website, there are some really great ideas and recipes to be found there. I'm holding off on taking any more pictures of my holiday decorating until I'm finished.

I have no plans to leave the house today...there's dinner already in the crockpot, a pot of coffee ready, and a decorating strategy in place for this afternoon. My only need/desire today is a box of hyacinth bulbs. I've seen them on so many of the Swedish blogs and they look so pretty in their almost-ready-to-bloom state. Hyacinths have never struck me as a particularly Christmas-sy flower, but in that culture they are. All inclusive decorating...that's my style this year.

Have a fabulous Saturday!

Photos: www.bhg.com

Currently Reading: Jeanne d'Arc Living magazine
Currently Listening To: Rosemary Clooney Christmas Songs

TGIF

2009-11-27T13:33:00.003-06:00

Black Friday...I'm working today, and even if I had the day off, I highly doubt that I would spend it shopping. Years ago, it was a family tradition...and years ago stores weren't open so early and they certainly weren't open on Thanksgiving Day. Thing change...

The library was quiet this morning, but I'm sure the folks will be out and about snagging DVDs for viewing this weekend. Here's looking forward to the weekend!

Photo: bhg.com

Currently Listening To/Watching: A rerun of the pilot for White Collar. Matt Bomer=very cute!

Happy Thanksgiving...

2009-11-26T00:01:00.001-06:00

Shiny things...

2009-11-25T00:01:00.002-06:00

More beautiful images, this time from the Better Homes & Gardens website. I love the look of candles on a glass topped table...or on a mirrored tray.

A few ornaments in stemmed glassware or apothocary jars look festive...little jots of color.

This is one of my favorite pictures--a bit more primitive than the others--crackled glass ornaments in a rustic outdoor urn. Beautiful and understated.

Shiny, sparkely things...I'm so attracted to them, especially this time of year.

Photos: bhg.com

Currently Reading: Under the Dome

Inspiring books for Christmas decorating...

2009-11-23T07:11:00.005-06:00

These books are among my favorites for Christmas decorating ideas and craftiness. Tricia Foley's White Christmas is at the top of the list for the beautiful simplicity presented in most of the ideas. I've had this one for years and have gleaned many ideas from it.

Sara Toliver and Jo Packham's Ruby & Begonia Christmas Style is another favorite. It's loaded with wonderful vignettes and display ideas.

Another Sara Toliver book, Vintage Christmas Crafts, is chock full of do-it-yourself projects and features the home of Curious Sofa's Debbie Dusenberry. It's a beautiful book.

Another inspiring book is this one from Country Living...Merry & Bright 301 Festive Ideas for Celebrating Christmas. I've adapted many ideas from this one...and hope to work on a few more today!

I plan on spending most of this week cleaning and organizing--and decorating. Company's coming for the Christmas holiday and I'd really like to have it all together this year. At any one time, there's always a 'bright spot' in the house, and I find that as I get older I can overlook a lot of things--this time I want to do it right.

I now have dozens of little cottages glued together and they're ready for glitter. Primitive, but kinda cute!

Currently Listening To: GMA

Holiday Decorating, part 1

2009-11-22T08:15:00.005-06:00

I finally made it to JoAnn Fabrics after work yesterday--an extra coupon that could be used in conjunction with all of the other coupons I had couldn't be used until Saturday. I like to get the most 'bang' for my buck while crafty shopping, so I waited.

Christmas decorating has begun! I totally fell in love with the picture from Country Living (click here for the picture)---the three small trees in a graniteware bowl with apples. This is my take on it--three artificial trees in my gigantic spatterware bowl, topped with apples and nuts. It's currently displayed on the coffee table. I purchased a white 'feather'-type tree on Friday. I've wanted one since I found this photo a few years ago. It will reside in the dining room.

Today there are button wreaths to make, a dining room to declutter, and a few secret Santa presents to construct. Maybe more pictures later...

Currently Listening To/Watching: CBS Sunday Morning

Mother's Best, a must-have cookbook

2009-11-20T07:24:00.007-06:00

Friday...time to feature another cookbook I've browsed through this week...this one is really, really good. Mouth-watering recipes, beautiful photography...what more could you want? Visit Lisa Schroeder's website for more information, recipes, and for a virtual visit to Mother's Bistro & Bar in Portland, Oregon. I read about this bistro on Tracey's blog a few years back and wished I could visit Portland if only for a visit to the restaurant. I remember googling it and finding their menu. Buy the book...it's so worth it! Almost winter...'tis the season for comfort food.

Holiday Gift ideas

2009-11-19T07:33:00.004-06:00

White Flower Farms is one of my favorite inspiration spots on the web. Their plants, flowers, and accessories are always stunning. The email from White Flower this morning featured jasmine and lavender...either live plants shipped for the holidays, or accessories. I was wowwed by the lavender offerings...wreaths, sachets, and a hanging liner for drawers or closets. Pretty images. I'm heading to the fabric store tomorrow for some organza to make some liners and sachets...thanks for the idea, White Flower!

Images from White Flower Farm, mosaic created by me

Currently Reading: Belong to Me
Currently Listening To: Mozart in the Morning

New old music for the holidays...

2009-11-18T07:51:00.002-06:00

I'm currently loving this CD. Nice background music...and it's Sting. What could be better?

Tuesdays are hard...

2009-11-17T22:10:00.004-06:00

Tuesday is not my favorite day of the week; it begins with work at 8:00 AM and doesn't end until after class at 9:00 PM. By the time I get home and settled, I'm wound up and not ready to go to sleep. Reading and/or television keeps me company, and sleep usually comes around midnight...then it starts all over with work in the morning. I look forward to vacation time off next week...just 23 more hours of work 'til vacation.

I have quite a few projects in the works...Christmas presents and decorations--I have forms for a dozen teacup-sized cottage ornaments cut out. They just need to be glued, glittered and otherwise decorated. I've filled dozens of small clear glass ornaments with lavender and have tied ribbon through the hangers---these will be package tie-ons. Heart shaped sachets have been cut out, and I've gathered buttons, lace, and ribbons to attach to them. I'm definitely in the holiday mood. All of this is on my agenda for my time off next week. I can't wait!

Photo: Butik Sophie

Currently Reading: Belong to Me by Marisa de los Santos
Currently Listening To: If On a Winter's Night by Sting--a beautiful Christmas CD!

Mosaic Monday- Getting in the mood for Christmas Style

2009-11-15T19:00:00.000-06:00

After attending several holiday open houses in the past few weeks, I have Christmas decorating on my mind. Here are a few photos from my inspiration file, all gleaned from Country Living. Please click to enlarge.

Visit Mary at The Little Red House for more Mosaic Monday offerings.

Currently Reading: Under the Dome and The Christmas Kitchen by Tammy Maltby with Anne Christian Buchanan
Currently Listening To: NPR

Antiquing in Huntingburg

2009-11-15T08:11:00.001-06:00

Don't you hate it when your words come back to haunt you? Remember a few days ago when I said that this was a weekend to purge...to simplify my possessions...a New Year???

Yesterday my friend Patty and I went to the Santa Stroll in Huntingburg. This set of Shenango China caught my eye...I thought about it as we strolled through the rest of the shops in the little town, and knew that I had to take it home with me.

The cheery red and white would be nice for the holidays...Christmas, Valentine's Day, and the "patriotic" red, white, and blue holidays of summer. 35 pieces for $29.00...I love the size of the luncheon plates.

I also found this little bowl, marked Mayer China, Beaver Falls, Pa #356. I don't know what the original use for it is, but it's so cute...tea bags, perhaps?

Currently Reading: Under the Dome
Currently Listening To: CBS Sunday Morning

Friday the 13th P.S.

2009-11-13T09:30:00.006-06:00

Aren't these Cottage Ornaments from Room Service Home (now called RSH) adorable? They would be so cute decorating the holiday table...and hanging on the Christmas tree. More importantly...they look pretty easy to make! Follow this link for instructions.

Friday the 13th...

2009-11-13T09:01:00.005-06:00

Friday the 13th...the beginning of a 3 day weekend for me, and it's my birthday. While thinking about a topic for today, I came across this quote:

"I find a heaven in the midst of saucepans and brooms." St. Stanislaus

Add just a few more elements, and that is my idea of heaven, too. I'm always happiest at home, puttering around--doing something, doing nothing. This is going to be an "at home" weekend, cleaning, fussing, fluffing, and yes--purging. The start of my personal New Year, so to speak.

Of course, a bit of celebrating is on the agenda, too. Dinner out, and a Saturday morning adventure with a friend. Happy Friday!

Image from art.com

Currently Reading: still...Under the Dome
Currently Listening To: The Beatles...everything

UE Chili Bowl 2009

2009-11-12T11:56:00.003-06:00

This morning I attended the 2009 Chili Bowl at the University of Evansville...it's an annual event to raise money for the UE Clay Club. This year there were 540 bowls available. One of our bookshelvers at the library is in the Clay Club, and she's been busy making bowls. I met up with a co-worker around 10:30, and we scouted out the bowls we wanted---while we were behind a crime scene tape---and awaited the ribbon cutting at 11:00. After a mini tug-of-war with someone who had their sights set on the bowl I wanted, we all grabbed a styrofoam bowl and it was filled with chili. A piece of art and a bowl of chili...a bargain at $5.00 (student price).

Currently Reading: Stephen King's Under the Dome
Currently Listening To: Abbey Road

More books...

2009-11-10T01:45:00.004-06:00

I've been reading Ree Drummond's blog The Pioneer Woman for quite a while. Interesting photography, a fun and breezy writing style, and really good recipes. The book is like the blog---great recipes and step-by-step photography.

Another book that hit the shelves at the library today (not really, there are lots of 'holds' on this one) is Cookie Swap. The cookies are so beautiful...cookies through the seasons...weddings, garden parties, Halloween, and Christmas. I've never spent much time decorating cookies--or baking them--but I really want to try the snowflakes and hearts. Too pretty to eat.

I love working at the library!

Currently Reading: cookbooks
Currently Listening To: NPR

Early Saturday

2009-11-07T07:20:00.005-06:00

I don't know where the above wine cork photo came from, or I'd credit it; my friend Carol assembled a wine cork wreath a few years back at one of our crafting retreats. I've been saving corks forever--maybe one day I'll make one. It's almost time for Beaujolais Nouveau!

I've added a word completion step for commenting--it seems that spam comments with links (possibly leading to 'bad things') have started to pop up on my blog. I've deleted those comments, but if I've missed one DO NOT click on any links in the comment section. Don't people --or bots--have anything better to do?

Edited to add...wine cork wreath is from Sterling Wines Online.

Currently Reading:
Currently Listening To: Good Morning America as I get ready for work

Reading and Browsing...

2009-11-06T08:27:00.003-06:00

I brought this book home from the library this week...Victoria's The Essential Tea Companion. It's very reminiscent of the earlier tea books published by Hearst under the Victoria name, but it's always a treat to look at beautiful tea settings. The recipes sound delicious, and I'm in the mood for a bit of baking.

Another beautiful book recently released is Victoria's 500 Christmas Ideas. This book also recycles photos from Victoria magazine...the "old" Victoria...and it reminds me why I love the old magazine.

Today's a day off...I have the pleasure of working Saturday AND Sunday, so I plan on enjoying my Friday puttering around the house and yard.

Currently Reading: Victoria's New Essential Tea Companion
Currently Listening To: Rubber Soul

Very Early Thursday morning

2009-11-05T00:15:00.003-06:00

Photo: publicradiodux.com

Time sure flies, doesn't it? This past year has almost been a blur. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, we're close to closing the book on 2009. For the past few months, I've been 'living' for days off; not living in the moment, but looking forward to time I can call my own. Once the time arrives, I'm almost too worn out to enjoy it. I quietly sit in my chair and watch the world move by...it's time to mend my ways and enjoy each day as it comes...

Currently Reading: How To Rule the World From Your Couch by Laura Day **
Currently Listening To: Abbey Road

**I was captivated by this title...we'll see how it goes.

Happy Tuesday!

2009-11-03T13:30:00.004-06:00

Photo: Williams-Sonoma

It's so nice to see sunshine three days in a row. Sometimes that's all it takes to make me happy. I've been thinking about my lack of blogging this past year... I enjoy writing, taking pictures, and finding cool things on the web...blogging takes me to my 'happy place'. It seems like time is going by so quickly and I really do feel the need to document little every day things. This is a habit I need to get back in to.

For Thanksgiving recipes and decoration information, visit Williams-Sonoma. They have the best ideas!

Currently Reading: Her Fearful Symmetry
Currently Listening To: Natural Mystic (I'm on a Bob Marley kick)