Bric-a-Brac

2012-02-02T15:14:00.002-06:00

It was a good day at the thrift stores today. I was so excited about finding that 60's cocktail dress for only $3.00, but when I got home I noticed some bad underarm stains. Darn!

2012-01-31T14:42:00.003-06:00

I've got spring fever today. It's 50 degrees outside and all the snow is melting. Loving it! My little one and I will being going to the park shortly. It feels like forever since we've been able to do that. I've been busy today sketching out ideas for new items for my handmade shop. That shop has been a bit neglected and I really want to focus on it now. I feel excited about it all :)

2012-01-24T15:24:00.003-06:00

I've dusted off my crochet hooks! It's been a while since I've crocheted. The last project was this afghan for Sara. I've been making these little crochet hearts for a garland for Valentine's Day. Very easy to make, and a perfect thing to make while watching TV. Boy, Valentine's Day will be here before we know it!

2012-01-19T14:53:00.003-06:00

I realized today that I forgot to post photos of the other things I made for Sara for Christmas. Along with the finger puppets, I also made an apron (photo soon) and this. I don't know what the heck to call this thing! She shakes it around while she dances. She's such a girly-girl. I wrapped some yarn around a plastic hoop and tied strips of yarn and ribbon to it. So simple.
It's only 4 degrees F outside right now. I need to get back to my coffee. Brrr....

2012-01-18T13:53:00.002-06:00

You may have noticed today that some websites have been protesting Congress today. Specifically, the legislation known as SOPA and PIPA which will be brought up for a vote on January 24. The purpose of these bills is to prevent internet piracy, but it will ultimately grant copyright owners unprecedented power to block or shut down websites completely for copyright infringement. As stated on etsy.com: "... under SOPA, anyone who is a "holder of an intellectual property right harmed by the activities" of even one shop on Etsy, could hypothetically serve our technology partners (e.g. payment processors, hosting services) with a notice that would require them to suspend Etsy's service within 5 days. That means that a trademark violation in one shop could affect everyone’s business." Utterly ridiculous.
If you'd like to take a stand, here's one of the many sites available to help you reach your representative.
Thank you.

2012-01-16T12:20:00.001-06:00

Boy, have I been enjoying that pasta with pesto and chicken. I had forgotten about the dozen or so batches of pesto I made last summer. They've been sitting in the freezer all this time, until this weekend. I used a little with this pasta and also threw in some oven roasted cherry tomatoes that I froze as well last year. It all brought a little bit of summer to our meal.
I had to include the photo of my daughter too. Usually she's right by my side when I take photos for this blog or for my shops. My little assistant :)

2012-01-13T07:23:00.001-06:00

~This Moment~

A Friday ritual created by Soule Mama. A single photo- no words- capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment to pause, savor and remember.

2012-01-11T21:31:00.002-06:00

A busy day today. Errands, packing & shipping sales (thank you!), all with a toddler that had her own agenda for the day. Ugh, it's like there's a 16 year old trapped in my 2 1/2 year olds body. Tomorrow we're finally getting our first big snow storm of the season. It's been an unusually milder and drier winter until now- very nice. Tomorrow will be a quiet day at home, watching the snow fall. I'm actually looking forward to it.
(piggy bank coming to my vintage shop soon)

2012-01-09T21:50:00.007-06:00

Sorry for my absence, I've been sick for the last five days. Hopefully tomorrow is the day I'll start to feel better- I'm getting a little "cabin fever." So, here's a little inspiration I found on Pinterest in the meantime. It makes me want to pull out those hexies I have stashed away somewhere.

2012-01-04T18:15:00.002-06:00

I only have a second right now (my little one is tugging at my pant leg) to share these cute little felt finger puppets I made for Christmas. It was fun doing a little sewing by hand for once. I can't wait to make some more to add to her collection. Got to go, more later!

2012-01-03T16:23:00.003-06:00

Have you made any resolutions for 2012? I have a quite a list of goals, including goals for this blog. I realized I haven't been posting enough about my vintage finds. So here we go! I bought all of this in the past couple days. I love that wool A-line skirt. I always thought this type of skirt looks great with boots. The sewing book is from 1961 and has some adorable illustrations. Some of this may find its way into my vintage shop. I also found a teal vintage typewriter, but that beauty will have it's own post!

2011-12-30T15:30:00.001-06:00

I just want to wish you all a very Happy New Year! Thank you for visiting me this year and for your lovely comments. I think 2012 is going to be a great one :)

2011-12-25T16:39:00.000-06:00

2011-12-22T08:18:00.002-06:00

Some of the vintage Christmas decorations I have around the house. The end is near with my gift making! I finished some felt finger puppets last night and I only have Sara's apron to sew. I have more Christmas photos to share, so I'll be back soon. I hope your week has been going well :)

2011-12-19T14:43:00.003-06:00

This is going to be one crazy week. It seems like the week leading up to Christmas always is for me. I'm worried I'll be the next one to get sick in our home, so I'm working hard now to get things done now. One thing I did finish last week was this sleeping bag for Sara's doll (my old doll as a child). I used a vintage sheet and was inspired by these adorable sleeping bags.
I better go now, I have some finger puppets to sew :)

2011-12-18T21:54:00.003-06:00

It was a beautiful frosty morning and a very busy afternoon and evening. One sick husband, one cranky little one, and a mama with a never ending to-do list. I'm exhausted. I should be doing our Christmas cards right now, but I think I'll curl up in bed and read a book. Good night!

2011-12-17T06:44:00.001-06:00

1. starlight, 2. simple & special, 3. O Christmas Tree, 4. Untitled, 5. i love christmas!, 6. ., 7. pepperkake, 8. Last gathering of the deer in the forest, 9. linen pine cones

It snowed last night! Have a nice weekend :)

2011-12-14T14:24:00.003-06:00

I just finished the last of my homemade fudge. Next on my list of holiday treats to make are gingerbread cookies. I may try to make a gingerbread house too this year. I think my little one would love it.

2011-12-12T15:05:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, we drove to a nearby tree farm to search for a Christmas tree. I thought Sara would really enjoy walking around all the trees. The perfect trip I imagined turned out to be a cold and windy experience with a toddler having a meltdown. Oh well, at least there weren't many people around. During her nap we put up and decorated our tree. The expression on her face when she first saw it all decorated was priceless!

2011-12-09T13:42:00.003-06:00

Brrr! We braved the cold this morning to drop off a package at the Post Office (thanks Kate!). I think we'll stay home the rest of the day. I'm really looking forward to tomorrow, we're getting our Christmas tree. I think that will put us all in the Christmas spirit. I have to go now and work on a Christmas gift for my daughter- a sleeping bag for her dolly. We have to keep her warm too :)
Have a nice weekend!

2011-12-07T14:43:00.002-06:00

Yesterday my mother-in-law babysat while I did a little shopping. I didn't have any luck at Toys R Us- boy, do they need to restock. What's up with their website too? I've had troubles on it for a couple weeks. Anyways, I did have good luck at the thrift store!That burlap angel is a tree topper. Kitschy, but cute, right?
I'm working on an update for my vintage shop right now, including kids books. One is "The Question and Answer Book of Everyday Science (1961)". I think I may have to read through it before I list it. Even though it's a bit dated, it looks interesting. One of the others is "Airplanes and Trucks and Trains, Fire Engines, Boats and Ships and Building and Wrecking Machines (1972)." Wonderfully illustrated. I think that's the longest title for a kids book I've ever seen!

2011-12-06T14:13:00.001-06:00

Pretty holiday decor, found on Pinterest. Love, love the small tree in the basket. Perfect to keep little hands away.

2011-12-05T14:28:00.004-06:00

I thought I'd share a cool DIY sensory activity for kids that I discovered, Rainbow Rice.
Very easy to make and my toddler loves to play with it. This is of course for older kids and not to be played with around wee ones or pets. Keep a broom handy!

Rainbow Rice for Sensory Play

5 pound bag of long grain rice ( or less if you'd like a smaller batch)
heavy zip lock bags
liquid food coloring
white vinegar or rubbing alcohol (it lightly coats the rice and doesn't get absorbed like water)
2 cookie sheets lined with aluminum foil

Preheat oven to 175 degrees F. In a zip lock bag, add 2 T vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Add a few drops of food coloring and shake a little. Add 1 1/2 cups dry rice. Zip up and shake really well. Pour onto cookie sheet. Repeat as many times as you like with additional colors in more bags. Bake 15 minutes. Check to see if the rice is all dry, if not put it back in for another 5 minutes or so. Let cool. Combine all the rice and have fun!

2011-12-05T11:11:00.003-06:00

This morning my little one looked through vintage Christmas books while I cut paper snowflakes. A pretty nice Monday so far! Some of the books will be in the shop sometime this week. Have a nice day!

2011-12-04T15:39:00.001-06:00

Enjoying a quiet day at home. The fireplace is going and I have a turkey roasting in the oven. Our house smells wonderful. I love these cozy times together.

2011-11-30T14:42:00.004-06:00

I've been slowly getting out our Christmas decorations. Watching a little Rudolph on TV last night has really gotten me in the mood now. I think I may turn on some Christmas music right now, sit by the fireplace and have a candy cane :)

(p.s., There's a problem with leaving comments, I'll check with Blogger)

2011-11-29T18:13:00.003-06:00

I made it through another day with a sick little one. It's hard seeing her ill, but I think she's starting to feel better. Thanksgiving was nice this year. It feels like as I get older, I appreciate the day so much more. I love a day all about family and being thankful. I think I may actually roast my own turkey this weekend. It's going to snow and that feels like such a good idea. Oh, and turkey soup with the leftovers. Mmmm..

2011-11-28T20:57:00.003-06:00

My new shop, Bric-a-Brac Handmade, is now open on etsy. Finally, whew! I've been working on Christmas items right now, but will soon be adding other items like pillow cushions, wall art, totes, and more. Most made with vintage fabrics. My handmade shop will feature upcycled and vintage inspired handmade items. I had today as my goal and made it even with a sick little one and also not feeling so well myself. But I did it! Now it's time for some much needed rest....

2011-11-23T14:21:00.003-06:00

"To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven."
Johannes A. Gaertner

I just wanted to wish everyone who is celebrating it, a Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow!

2011-11-21T07:23:00.003-06:00

Isn't this a pretty little thing? Perfect for holiday parties, although I don't think we're going to any fancy parties this year!
I'm excited about my first ever acupuncture session today. My husband has been working a lot the past few months, so he suggested I have a spa day as a treat. But I've always wanted to try acupuncture (and our insurance pays for half the fee), so I'm trying this instead. I'm hoping it will help me feel a little more balanced. Centered. Ah, that would be nice....

2011-11-18T23:25:00.004-06:00

Hi! It's now 11:30 pm, way past this old gal's bedtime. I'm taking a break from sewing and etsy stuff to post something inspiring I saved from Whole Living magazine. I love their 10 Thoughts on Whole Living lists and here's a favorite...

Make this the day you follow through
Invigorate body & mind: exercise until your spirit soars
Other people may have opinions about where your life is headed, but only you have the power to prove them wrong.
The path to fearless living goes straight through the roadblocks, not around them.
Seek out foods that sustain, nourish, and warm you.
Creativity goes beyond sheer artistry; it takes courage to express your ideas.
Disagreements offer invaluable insights. Don't avoid them-study them.
To truly detoxify your lifestyle, think about what you can add in, not just take out.
The coziest homes aren't merely filled with stuff; they're designed to bring people closer.
An ending doesn't have to be sad, it's the only way to begin something new.

2011-11-16T15:22:00.002-06:00

Sorry for the absence lately. I've been a little busy. Getting ready for a shop update and also for Christmas. Yes, I've been Christmas shopping! I'm almost done shopping for the little one. I'm determined to get all shopping done this month. I think December will be a little crazy for us, so hopefully getting it done now will help. I know, the above photo has nothing to do with this post. I just think it's cute.

2011-11-09T14:10:00.002-06:00

Snow is falling right now, our first of the season. Autumn is always over too soon for me...sigh...

2011-11-07T14:07:00.003-06:00

Saturday we drove an hour to one of my favorite thrift stores. It's in a small town, but it's a huge store. I always seem to have good luck at small town thrift stores. Anyways, look at these cute Christmas items I bought. I love this crochet throw! I haven't decided yet if I'll put it in the shop, it's so pretty.
I'm working on sewing some things for my handmade shop, which I hope to open soon. I've realized I need to start a schedule for myself in order to get things done. Being a stay-at-home mom, selling on etsy, and trying to keep a somewhat clean home is taking some work. But I'm trying to learn how to balance it all :)

2011-11-06T13:35:00.003-06:00

It sure does feel like November here, cold and gloomy. But, our garden is still producing. Yes! This is our first year with a fall garden (we've been gardening in spring/summer for years). We planted carrots, onions, radishes, and spinach. I'm just so pleasantly surprised how well our garden has done, even with many nights of frost.
Hope you are having a good weekend. I'm looking forward to making pot roast and apple brown betty tonight and hopefully doing a little sewing.

2011-11-02T12:34:00.003-05:00

Look at this awesome vintage craft book I bought at the thrift store. It's a Sunset Book from 1964 and is packed with projects to make for kids. Some of the projects are: puppets, wood scooters, kites, and a rolling lemonade stand. But what I love the most are the dollhouses. Look at that revolving house - and that furniture is amazing!

2011-11-01T08:17:00.003-05:00

Here's my Little Red Riding Hood! I made the hooded cape (ugh, I hate sewing on satin) and the skirt I made a few weeks ago during Kids Clothes Challenge Week. I hoped to get a lot of photos of her outside, but she could barely stand still for 10 seconds. She was too excited and wanted to join the other kids. I could tell she had a lot of fun trick-or-treating. It wasn't so fun for us later when she was way too hyper from all the excitement and sugar!

2011-10-31T13:41:00.003-05:00

The pumpkin is carved, the candy is ready, and the Little Red Riding Hood costume is done! But, just my luck the cat scratched the satin cape I made and a stain mysteriously appeared on it.
I think Sara now gets how trick-or-treating works. Watching a "Yo Gabba Gabba" episode about Halloween today helped, I think. Have fun and Happy Halloween!

2011-10-29T13:59:00.003-05:00

Yesterday my mother-in-law came over to babysit so I could have a couple hours of "me time". It felt so good, and was long overdue. I went to a thrift store, quilt shop and then wandered around a park with my camera. My favorite things to do. I think we'll have to do this a little more often. Sometimes I feel so focused on my family, I just need to step out on my own for a bit and recharge.
Hope you are having a good weekend!

2011-10-27T13:17:00.003-05:00

I'm getting excited for Halloween! I'm almost done sewing Sara's costume (I also made that garland) and today I bought cat ears for me. I can join in the fun, right? Next up is pumpkin carving. I think I may try something different this year. More elaborate. I'd like to make some pumpkin cheesecake too. Last year I forgot to add the canned pumpkin to it. Yeah, duh. Spice cheesecake, not so good.
Love this time of year :)

2011-10-25T12:49:00.003-05:00

Yet another project added to my list! I couldn't resist this cute pattern book at Michaels for slouchy hats. I think I'll make one for me first and then one for the little one. I think it's been over a year since I've crocheted something, so I think I'll have to dig out my Crochet for Dummies book. Yesterday, I bought a pattern at the thrift store for a crochet gingerbread house. It looks cute, but difficult. I think I'll need some more practice before I can try that one.

2011-10-21T07:35:00.000-05:00

~This Moment~

A Friday ritual created by Soule Mama. A single photo- no words- capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment to pause, savor and remember.

2011-10-20T22:11:00.005-05:00

This is one of the Halloween crafts I recently finished. On Pinterest, I've seen some Halloween crafts where doilies were used as spider webs and that gave me the idea to try to weave my own web. I learned how to weave a dream catcher on You Tube (this video) and used lightweight black yarn instead. I hadn't planned on having that opening in the center, but I ran out of yarn.
The little one is not a fan of bugs, so whenever she sees it she gives me the "ick" look. But I think it's kinda cute:)

2011-10-19T19:59:00.002-05:00

We had a lovely weekend, which included a trip to the pumpkin patch. I think the little one could have spent the whole day there! I can't wait to carve ours and roast pumpkin seeds. Love them.
We also went to a store to look at twin mattresses for Sara. I think she'll be ready to leave her crib soon, but I'm not ready. She's just growing up way too fast...sigh...

2011-10-14T13:04:00.003-05:00

The weather has become much cooler this week, and rainy. But today we are finally enjoying some sunshine. I did finish two skirts for Sara this week, but I still need to take photos. Gloomy weather = poor lighting for photos.
This weekend I hope to : finally buy our pumpkins, start sewing Sara's Halloween costume, list more items in the shop, make apple strudel, more yard work (it's never-ending!), finish Halloween projects, and hopefully take some more photos of the now fading autumn color.
Hope you have a good weekend!

2011-10-11T14:08:00.003-05:00

Well I was going to post about my progress on sewing Sara's clothes, but I've been busy with my first sale. I sold an item from my vintage shop! Thank you R.D. in Colorado!
I've also been taking photos of more items, like this little mouse bank. Cute little thing. I hope to have more items in the shop in a couple days.
Yesterday I started a skirt and not the shirt for the challenge. I needed something quick and easy to start out.
OK, better go. Sounds like nap time is over!

2011-10-10T13:59:00.004-05:00

It's Kids Clothes Week Challenge time! I'm planning on starting with that vintage pattern above for Sara. It's from 1977. I think this pattern is just adorable. I'm using that linen fabric and the calico for the yoke. I'm planning on sewing a couple easy skirts as well. If there's time, I also need to start sewing the little one's Little Red Riding Hood cape. Halloween is only a few weeks away, I can't believe it. Better get to it!

2011-10-06T14:16:00.003-05:00

It took a while, but I'm now officially for business on etsy. Yay! I have to say I was a little nervous to hit the publish button to list. I hope I set up everything correctly with etsy and Paypal. A link to my shop is now on my sidebar. I will be slowly adding items to the shop this month. I have a lot to list, so it will take a little time.
Saturday we're going out to celebrate our 5 years of marriage. Now I have even more to celebrate!

2011-10-04T12:31:00.004-05:00

I went to a thrift store yesterday that I haven't been to in quite a while. The only thing I've bought there in the past was embroidery hoops. But I'm glad I stopped yesterday. Look at what I found- I'm so surprised. I can't resist a cute pedestal mug. I must have at least a dozen of those. I should probably take a photo of my collection sometime. I'd like to cut out the bunny in the card and decoupage it on something. Overall, decent finds for only $3.00!

2011-10-03T13:43:00.003-05:00

It seems like in the last few days the leaves have really started to change color. I love it. We went for a long walk at the marsh yesterday. And I mean long. We didn't think the trail went quite that far. The little one was such a trooper. She walked almost the whole time, for an hour. I hope to get out every weekend this month for a family hike and really enjoy the season. It always goes by so fast!

2011-09-30T07:53:00.002-05:00

~This Moment~

A Friday ritual created by Soule Mama. A single photo- no words- capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment to pause, savor and remember.

2011-09-29T14:40:00.005-05:00

I have to share this recipe for homemade play dough. It's SO much better than the store bought kind. More flexible and it smells really good. The secret ingredient in this is Kool-Aid. That's right!

Homemade Play Dough

1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1/4 cup table salt
1 pkg (6 g) Kool-Aid Unsweetened Drink Mix, any flavor
1 Tbsp cream of tartar
1 cup boiling water
1 1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil
wax or parchment paper
small airtight container

Mix first four ingredients in a big bowl. Add boiling water and oil. Stir with a fork for 3-4 minutes or until cooled. Mix with hands until well blended.
Place on wax or parchment paper. Knead until no longer sticky, adding additional flour one teaspoon at a time if needed.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Have fun!

2011-09-28T14:27:00.003-05:00

I was so happy when I found this vintage sewing pattern for the My Friend Dolls. This My Friend Mandy doll was mine as a little girl and now my daughter is adoring her. I love that I was able to pass her down. I made this cute little dress out of fabric that was left over from a skirt I made Sara. I think I'll sew up a little coat next. So cute!

2011-09-26T13:53:00.002-05:00

Mmmm, caramel apples. I decided to start autumn off right by making caramel apples. It sure feels like autumn around here- the leaves are changing and it's been very cool. Love it! This week I'll start decorating my house for Halloween.
I've been busy making things the past week: a skirt for Sara, a dress for her Mandy doll, and home made play dough. I'll share more about them this week. Have a nice day :-)

2011-09-20T16:16:00.003-05:00

I'm already getting excited for Halloween. This year will be the little one's first time trick-or-treating. So, I'm determined to sew her a costume, Little Red Riding Hood. Isn't it cute? I had to buy that gingham too. I'm planning on sewing a garland with it. There's so much sewing I want to get done- hopefully I'll find the time for it all!

2011-09-17T17:23:00.002-05:00

From a lovely morning at the farmer's market. Probably our last time down there for the year. Sigh...

2011-09-16T08:01:00.003-05:00

~This Moment~
A Friday ritual created by Soule Mama. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment to pause, savor and remember.

2011-09-15T14:57:00.003-05:00

I've been having good luck at the thrift stores this week. Craft books, sewing patterns, mod pedestal mugs, flash cards, and several vintage Fisher Price toys. Oh yeah.
We're getting over a bad cold this week too. It's amazing my 28 month old handles sickness so much better than I do. Thank goodness for that :-) We'll be back to normal by the weekend. I'm looking forward to getting apples from the orchard and one last trip to the farmer's market. And maybe baking some apple turnovers too, yum.

2011-09-08T13:49:00.003-05:00

Boy, this is the fourth day in a row that I've blogged- a record for me!
I'm a little bummed out right now. This morning Sara and I went to an open house for a mom's group. I feel a little uncomfortable going to events like this where I don't know a single person. But, I thought this would be a good experience for my daughter. She enjoyed playtime with other kids, which she doesn't get enough of at the moment. Before we left, I was told we probably won't be allowed to join because we live 10 miles outside the club's territory. So that's disappointing. I need to figure out other ways to meet other moms and for Sara to meet other kids. Time to get creative...

2011-09-07T13:44:00.003-05:00

I love vintage hankies and have been collecting them for some time. They are all pretty little floral hankies, but now I finally have a Wisconsin hankie. Maybe I'll make a pillow out of this. It's too cute to just sit in my craft room!

2011-09-06T20:02:00.001-05:00

What a lovely way to close out summer....

2011-09-05T13:52:00.003-05:00

My little one's last dip in her pool for the year. Sigh...
A few days ago the temp was in the 90's and today it's in the 60's. I'm in a sweatshirt and I had to close some windows in the house because it was getting too cool. What a difference! We're going to go for a hike in the woods in a little bit. Maybe we can find some walnuts to bring home. Today is definitely putting me in the mood for fall.

2011-09-01T13:28:00.004-05:00

One of my things on my summer to-do list was to make homemade ice cream or sorbet. I made a batch of strawberry sorbet this weekend and it turned out really good. I'll share the recipe with ya. Enjoy!

Fruit Sorbet

2 cups fruit puree or juice
3/4 to 1 1/4 cup sugar
up to 2 T lemon juice
1 T vodka (it improves the texture)

Combine all in a large bowl. Stir on and off for several minutes until sugar is dissolved. Rub your finger along the bottom of the bowl to see if the sugar is dissolved. Pour into a container. Cover and refrigerate until sorbet is 40 degrees F or lower. Pour into your ice cream maker and churn. Freeze up to 2 days.

2011-08-26T13:57:00.003-05:00

I finally had a good day at a thrift store. Look at these awesome patterns! Almost all are from the late 60's to 70's.I wasn't able to look through all the patterns because my little sidekick was getting cranky. I'm making another trip back later to get some more. I also noticed there were a lot of vintage crochet and knitting booklets I need to check out as well. I'm keeping the pattern in the middle photo. Sara would look so cute in that dress with the collar. That's so adorable!

2011-08-25T13:18:00.003-05:00

My poor zucchini and cucumbers. They were doing so well and then the squash bugs appeared and destroyed all the plants. In less than a week! Lesson learned for next year. We don't use any pesticides on our garden, so next year we'll have to read up on pests and safe prevention. I'm so bummed out we didn't get to enjoy those vegetables for very long. But, we're enjoying our tomatoes right now and this weekend we'll plant our fall crop of baby spinach and carrots. I can't believe it's time to think about fall already!

2011-08-24T15:27:00.003-05:00

My finds from a church sale a couple weeks ago. Still not a lot of luck at the thrift stores. I didn't get to that flea market last weekend, but hopefully I'll make it to the one in September.
I'm so behind in blogging, I'm sorry. I have so many things to share. My little one has been having shorter naps lately, so there has been less "me" time. But as of right now, she's almost been napping for 2 1/2 hours. Yay!
Anyways, I have to share this music video. I've seen a lot of bloggers raving about Bon Iver, so I finally checked their music out. Awesome. The video for the song Holocene is beautiful. Sara had to watch it seven times in a row. I think someone just woke up. More soon...

2011-08-18T19:00:00.001-05:00

1. water balloons!, 2. Last one, 3. Untitled, 4. Grilled corn, 5. Poppies and daisies, 6. Strawberry Rhubarb Pie, 7. summer haze, 8. now in my belly, 9. Cherries

Ahhh, summertime!

2011-08-17T20:30:00.003-05:00

All I can say is.. yum. I've been slow roasting batches of our cherry tomatoes for a couple weeks now. They are just so flavorful when slow roasted. Wow. I'm freezing most of them for future use. The recipe is from the wonderful Smitten Kitchen. It's a must try if you like tomatoes!

Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Cherry or grape tomatoes
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 225 degrees F. Halve each tomato in half crosswise and arrange on a parchment lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, just enough to make the tomatoes glisten. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for about three hours. The tomatoes should be shriveled and dry with a little juice left inside. Enjoy!

2011-08-12T14:41:00.003-05:00

Have you seen the new magazine Mollie Makes? It's my new favorite magazine, with great crafty how-to's like these fabric strawberries. Aren't they cute? I had to throw in a photo of my thrifty finds from last weekend. I haven't had a lot of luck thrifting lately. I may go to a big flea market on Sunday, so maybe that will change my luck. Sorry posts have been a little light lately. I've been working hard to get my vintage shop open on etsy. The end is near :-) I'll get back on track with blogging next week. Have a good weekend!

2011-08-02T14:49:00.003-05:00

Last weekend I enjoyed...

the farmer's market; fresh sweet corn; seeing the little one excited over my homemade cake; splashing in the pool; squeaky cheese curds; ice cream at a creamery; feeding baby goats; making pesto; pretty blue spray paint; this inspiring book; listening to Garrison Keillor; the beautiful centennial gardens; taking photos; freshly baked french bread

2011-07-22T13:54:00.003-05:00

I'm so glad it's Friday. The heat and unbearable humidity we had this week will linger just a couple more days. I took this photo earlier in the week. I could see lighting in those clouds- it looked beautiful. I'm so ready to have a little fun this weekend. My husband had a rough week at work plus a root canal. Poor thing...
Have a nice weekend!

2011-07-20T20:22:00.003-05:00

It's been many years since I've made a God's Eye. I remember making these using yarn in Sunday school as a child. I found a vintage craft book and it inspired me to try it again. I used embroidery floss and a small wood dowl. It was a fun little craft to make. I love looking at old craft books remembering crafts I (or my mom) made years ago.

2011-07-17T20:27:00.003-05:00

OK, so in my last post I said I didn't mind the heat. I now mind the heat. Mid to high 90's this week! These photos were taken when it was a little cooler a few weeks ago. Our second time taking the little one to the county fair. She loved seeing all the animals. It was a nice time. Hopefully we'll do this every year. This week though, we're staying in and keeping cool!

2011-07-13T12:49:00.003-05:00

I went strawberry picking a few weeks ago at a u-pick patch just outside of town. Last year I made strawberry freezer jam, but this year I decided just to make some strawberry sauce to freeze. I froze the sauce in ice cube trays and then popped them all in plastic bags. The perfect size for a sundae or smoothie. I never did get around to making strawberry shortcake. Maybe I'll have to try that with my raspberries from our backyard. One of my favorite things about summer is all the fresh fruit. Yum!

2011-07-08T14:36:00.003-05:00

I've really been enjoying summer so far. The garden, our patio, playing outside with the little one- I'm even enjoying the heat most days. On the fourth, we brought out Sara's inflatable pool for the first time. She loved it. Later in the evening we took her outside to play and she headed right for the pool and went in, fully clothed and with shoes on!
I just came in from picking a bowlful of raspberries from our backyard. I think I may make a raspberry sauce for ice cream sundaes. Or maybe for smoothies... ah summer.

2011-07-04T13:01:00.003-05:00

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Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-01T20:29:00.002-05:00

What a week! There was a birthday, a party, the farmer's market, the best pad thai I ever had, strawberry picking,and a sick little Sara who is finally back to normal today. Now I'm gearing up for a busy holiday weekend with a lot of things that need to be crossed off my to-do list. Plus a little fun :-)

2011-06-22T13:41:00.003-05:00

around our yard

Enjoying outside our door...
the scent of lavender; relaxing in the hammock; fresh herbs;spinach, radishes and lettuce from the garden; pretty flowers; an out of control clematis; Sara running in the grass barefoot; fires in the fire bowl; smores; wagon rides; a new chair to lounge on the patio; dirt covered hands and lots of smiles.
Welcome summer!

2011-06-15T13:56:00.002-05:00

Going out to the thrift stores today in the cold and rain paid off! My first Vera item, a tea towel. I'll take a better photo of it once it's ironed. I may make a table runner out of this. I also found the most adorable smocked toddler dress (photo soon) and a small vintage chalkboard for Sara's room. It seems like all the vintage dresses I find lately are pink. Hopefully I'll add a little more color to my collection. Have a nice day :-)

2011-06-10T20:27:00.000-05:00

I'm loving these maxi dresses from Anthropologie. Hmm, I wonder if I should check out the sewing patterns at JoAnn's...

2011-06-07T07:51:00.003-05:00

I think summer is here- it will be 97 degrees here today. Wow! Our garden is loving the warmer weather. I'm harvesting lettuce, radishes, and baby spinach. It will be a while before the other vegetables ( and raspberries) are ready. I can't wait!

2011-06-03T16:58:00.001-05:00

My finds from this morning- it was a lucky trip!
Have a nice weekend!

2011-06-02T13:00:00.001-05:00

Just picked button mushrooms from our kit in the basement. I think I'll make mushroom calzones for dinner. Yum.

2011-06-01T12:47:00.002-05:00

Hello June. I hope you are an easier month than May. May was full of change, suffering, stress, and death. But there were also a-ha moments, inner growth, and a special birthday. I hope to have a little fun this month!
~vintage book for my little garden enthusiast :-)

2011-05-29T13:21:00.000-05:00

1. orange tree bokeh, 2. Vintage Wallpaper, 3. Flora, 4. Vintage Flower Cameo, 5. Yellow and Gray Triangles, 6. Untitled, 7. Zig zag pillow 1, 8. 81/365 :: afternoon snack, 9. Beautiful fabric

2011-05-25T23:30:00.003-05:00

There is a difference, you know, between thinking you deserve to be happy and knowing you are worthy of happiness.
~Oprah

2011-05-25T19:16:00.000-05:00

2011-05-24T14:09:00.000-05:00

I will be posting photos only this week due to a death in my family.
Take care

2011-05-20T18:59:00.002-05:00

This has been one of the most difficult weeks for us. It's hard to see a loved one suffering. Luckily we have our little one to make us smile. This vintage craft kit made me smile too. Have a nice weekend.

2011-05-17T19:47:00.003-05:00

Beautiful leather cuffs from aosLeather on etsy. I recently saw Geninne's photo of her awesome leather bracelet, so I had to do a little searching to find one for myself. I think I'll have to put one of these on my birthday list!

2011-05-16T14:40:00.004-05:00

The weekend~

:: asparagus, cheese curds, jerky, cookies, syrup from the farmer's market :: more herbs to plant in my herb garden :: books from the library- love the Cook's Illustrated cookbooks :: a new shish kabob set for the grill :: an unpleasant phone call :: yard work, lots of yard work :: garage sales:: wishing for a new bike :: using my Holga camera, it's been a long time :: sewing a top :: shopping for toddler sandals, I'm too picky :: being very thankful for my husband and little one ::

2011-05-11T12:58:00.000-05:00

Here's the tee pee I made for my daughter's birthday- with a little help from my husband. Right now I think the cat has been in it more than Sara! Check out RubyEllen's cute A-frame tent. That looks a lot easier than the tee pee I made. Maybe I'll just have to make one of those too for outside play.
I tried to sew Sara's tutu yesterday and messed it all up. I know what to do right on the next try. Live and learn!

2011-05-09T15:24:00.004-05:00

Well, my baby is now two. Where has the time gone! It was a nice little party and she really enjoyed her gifts- and all the attention. I was able to finish sewing her tee pee just in time. I'll post a photo of that this week. Speaking of this week, it's Kids Clothes Week Challenge. I'd like to sew a dress, shorts, and finish the tutu I was supposed to get done for her birthday. I can't wait to see what everyone else sews. It's always an inspiration.

2011-05-06T13:39:00.003-05:00

What a nice trip to the greenhouses we had this morning. Sara loved touching all the flowers and sticking her fingers in their pots. The ladies who worked there said she was their kind of gal :-) There was a group of older kids there on a field trip and the little one was thrilled that some of them waved to her. I only bought some fountain grass, so we'll definitely have to make another trip there very soon!

2011-05-05T14:07:00.003-05:00

from the botanical gardens

I've been busy getting ready for the little one's 2nd birthday this Sunday. Wow, two! I still have a few things to sew for her- hopefully I'll have enough time to do so!

2011-05-04T12:49:00.003-05:00

What a productive day it is! In the past hour I have planted carrot, radish, spinach, and green onion seeds in the garden. Finally. This spring has been so cold and rainy, I'm behind schedule in planting our seeds. I planted our onion bulbs a week or two ago. Next thing I have to plant is the sunflowers. I can hear the little one just waking from her nap now, so I'll have a little helper to help me plant those. I bought some dwarf sunflowers (2 ft tall) just for her, they're so cute.
Have a nice day!

2011-04-28T20:39:00.000-05:00

What a week. Easter was lovely. The little one had a bit too much sugar, a first for her. She was so cute wearing her bunny ears. Then we got some very sad news regarding my father-in-laws illness. Tomorrow is another day and we'll finally have warm and sunny weather. I think that's just what we need.
Have a nice weekend!

2011-04-24T19:24:00.000-05:00

2011-04-20T13:08:00.003-05:00

I'm finally getting around to posting some of my Easter sewing! I made these cute fabric eggs using retro mama's free tutorial. She sells the cutest patterns too. Unfortunately, the cat likes these eggs too.
I've wanted to sew the little one an Easter dress, but I'm not sure I'll have the time. I can't believe it's this weekend already. I'm planning to participate in Elsie Marley's Kids Clothes Challenge, so I'll definitely get some sewing for her done then. I'm looking forward to it!

2011-04-19T20:24:00.002-05:00

Currently...

smelling...freshly baked banana muffins
loving...my little romaine lettuce seedlings (above)
grateful...that the crankiness from teething is over, for now
looking forward to...planting our seeds in the garden this weekend
hating...the snow and ice from today
making...a bunny for the little one
listening...to sleet hitting the windows
feeling...content, relaxed, grateful