Something Special

For the Dress Form Ball

2012-02-09T20:55:00.000-08:00

My dress form is small, and is really just to hold jewelry, but I love it just the same. It is perfect for my studio. Bought at a yard sale for $1.00. I just finished decorating it, after I decoupaged it earlier, with vintage crochet lace and rhinestones. It is just right for displaying one of my favorite costume jewelry pendants. The Polka Dot Closet's fun Dress form ball is going on now. I knew I had to get in on it.

I added rhinestones to the base.

I love the detail of these two laces.

And then I just had to add this little dress form that I made last summer for a dear friend after she had been in a terrible car accident. She needed some cheering up so I made this. .

I printed some vintage French Fashion advertisements to put in the card holders. My friend Tracy was very badly injured, and still in a hospital bed 5 weeks later, she loved this little gift and I was amazed at the good spirit she radiated in spite of all that she had been through!

Someday I hope to have a full size dress form particularly a vintage one. But until then I will enjoy my little ones.

and the WINNER is. . . . . .

2012-02-09T07:31:00.000-08:00

Congratulations go out to Brenda Brown of Bumblebees and Butterflies, You are my WINNER. Check out her lovely blog and her darling shabby bottle redo!

Everyone who entered was assigned a number. And her number was drawn. I have contacted her blog to let her know. I will be sending her all this!

Happy Valentine's day to all of you and thankyou for participating! I am so appreciative of all my followers and people who visit my blog and comment. Whenever I get a new comment it makes me smile big. Thankyou Thankyou! Hugs from Michele

Can't get enough!

2012-02-07T21:00:00.000-08:00

I am loving the Valentine's day swaps of this year and last. I can't stop putting up Valentine's. Here are the ornaments from the Valentine's Day Ornament swap I participated in hosted by Laurie at Indulge Your shelf. Yesterday, I got a package in the mail. We were suppose to make 4 Valentine ornaments. Here are the ones I received yesterday.

I am not sure who did this one. But it is made of layered wood and is just as pretty on the back side too.

This one is stunning, with the nest and the sweet glittered bird. Someone spent lots of time on all the ribbon glued on a vintage spool.

Here is a sweet little petite felt and lace heart lovingly stitched by someone

Another felt heart stitched by Wendy at stitchduchessscrazysanequiltingworld.blogspot.com

Laurie also had us make a Valentine card to send along with the ornaments. I was also sent this beautiful card! I love it!

And the back of the beautiful card.

All my blogging friends must know how much I like to hang up tag banners, or other paper banners that I put together. I change these out according to the season or holiday.

Most of these tags came from a swap of last February. There were so many wonderful tags for Valentine's Day. They are too wonderful to not be hung up and shown.

Love this pop-out

In the middle I hung up the nest with the glittered bird that I just received.

The other ornaments will go somewhere else.

Mini valentine matchbox swap

2012-02-02T10:25:00.000-08:00

I just have to post this. I don't think my partner has hers yet, although it is in the mail. I just think it was so fun to do this tiny project, and fun to receive one, that I just can't wait! Above is the one that my partner and host of this swap who is the wonderful Joanne at Vintage Dragonfly, sent to me.

Everyone was suppose to decorate the tiny matchbox and make 3 tiny ATC's to put inside. Look at these precious little ATC cards. So sweet. Thanks so much. She included a pretty tag too.
Below is the one I sent to her. . . . . .

I added a little loop at the top so that it could also be an ornament!

I also made this thank you/Valentine card for all she does for us in hosting her matchbox swaps in our Flickr group.

Notice, I used the same heart chipboard cutouts. (from my Cricut) on many Valentine's that I have made recently. I used vintage lace and velvet ribbon, which are two of my favorites.

Handmade and Vintage Valentines Around my house!

2012-01-30T00:17:00.000-08:00

This was last years Valentine decoration. I pulled it out again.

It was a great paper craft!

One of two cards I made with this lovely image, from the graphics fairy. This one was sent to Indulge yourself's blog for a Valentine's Day swap. And the other is to be given away in my fab giveaway for Valentine's day. Be sure to check it out in the post below and get entered in for the drawing!

inside this card.

a vintage card tucked into the teacups.

another vintage card tucked into my shelf of teacups

One of my excellent signs made by Kristin from signssalvage.blogspot.com We even share the same birthday!

This is the front of four Valentine ornaments I made for the swap also.

The back side of the same ornament

Another one of Kristin's wonderful signs sent to me for last year's birthday. I just love her vintage signs on recycled boards.

Another quite old Valentine card which I framed.

Just had to throw this in there. It is a sweet music box from Switzerland which plays Lara's theme. (I love song from Dr. Zhivago)

and one more. . . . .

My first two grandbabies captured in this adorably sweet double heart frame. They are both 9 years old now!

Valentine/Birthday GIVEAWAY!

2012-01-26T17:39:00.000-08:00

ANNOUNCING a giveaway in celebration of my birthday month and Valentine's Day. I made this necklace a while back and it has been in my Etsy shop. I really love it myself, but since it has not sold I will give it away. It is wonderfully colorful and shabby! Also the Vintage look Valentine card and the Vintage Doily are included. Maybe a little bit of chocolate might be included too.

This card is one of two that I made from this using this image I got from the Graphics fairy. I just love this image of this brunette beauty, and it was an actually Valentine image.

The drawing will be on February 8, 2012. This way by Valentine's Day the winner will have the prize. My birthday is on the 13th, so this will be a perfect day to end this drawing. To be entered into this drawing, just comment on this post, become a follower if you are not already. Let me know that you are a follower and for an extra chance to win, please put this picture on you sidebar linking it back to this post. Thanks so much and have a wonderful Valentine Season!

Decoupaging and Painting up a Storm for a very special reason!

2012-01-14T19:37:00.000-08:00

Here are all 18 of our grandchildren. They have become so special in our lives. I think we will be staring at this wall lots during each day. How can we help it!
And this morning as I was finishing up this wall, my husband and I could not stop looking at all these wonderful faces, and reminiscing about each one of their wonderful little personalities. These pictures are some of our favorites of them! Besides the gallery wall check out the other projects I have been working on or should I say decoupaging or painting.

With the neutral changes that have been taking place at my house, and wanting to get new pictures up of my family members. I have been decoupaging everything that goes in the living room or dining room that had a surface which could be decoupaged! Or I have painted it white! In the last 4 days I have been working on this grand kid photo gallery wall, and because I needed a little bit of variety even with the neutral look, I have decoupaged frames, a clock, and oh one of my favorites for my studio, the little mannequin dress form I scored at a garage sale for $1.00.
There are lots of pictures in this post, and I have to say that my photo gallery at the end of our grandchildren turned out much better than anticipated!

First I took these old books, (German hymnbook, and an old dictionary etc.) and rip the pages from them. (I check out and see if they are worth anything first) If not I go to work on them.

I decoupaged some frames.

This one below was decoupaged with the old dictionary.

I decoupaged this one but left the pretty edge on it!

This clock then became this (below). . . .

I left part of it green, because it matches my wall in the living room.

And this little dress form became this after I sprayed the gold part black. . . .

And this became this. . . .

This word just has to be present in my home, because my home reflects so much joy with husband and family. It is not just for Christmas at our house!

This was burgundy and gold, but now it is white.

a look into the dining room where the gallery wall is!

I am not finished with my living room, but the dining room is just how I want it now.

Moving toward a more "Neutral Shabby Palatte"

2012-01-12T23:15:00.000-08:00

After all the Christmas decorations got put away, I wanted to freshen up the look in my house. I am moving to a more neutral shabby look and have been painting up a storm. I found this piece above at a yard sale for $1.00 and it was gold so I painted it white and distressed it a bit. I love how it turned out!

I love white pitchers, so they are back on my mantel, and in some of my book shelves by the fireplace.

this was fun to spray paint, because when the white paint hit it, this color started to bleed through and running down, to make a really fascinating affect. See below the finished product. It is fun to see what the spray paint will do on different finishes.

I have been collecting all the small frames around here and painting them too. Spray painting and just painting with acrylic paint. I do like the silver frames though with the white so won't be painting them. I will post my gallery wall with all the new frames in the next post.

Finally some scrapbooking done!

2012-01-07T00:58:00.000-08:00

I finally got out the pages I had done while at the Fairview Retreat in November and finished them. I needed to reprint some photos because of bad color, and finish some journaling. You can view more of the family pages I did while at Fairview, on my other blog at askmichelespecialpaperprojects.blogspot.com.

I wanted to put this one here at Something Special, because this is my beautiful grandbaby Claire, and I know I have shown her before with the dress I made for her blessing, but I wanted to show the layout I did for her too because I used pieces from Storytellers Club to embellish, which I designed and had published. I can't take much credit for her beautiful looks, but I can take credit for what she is wearing and the layout which showcases her sweetness, and the blessing we were celebrating.

She is the sweetest little baby girl! We all love her very much!

Christmas gift that will be lots of fun!

2012-01-02T23:05:00.000-08:00

For Christmas my daughter ordered this for me for Christmas, off of Etsy. It is everything having to do with birds. Lots of birds to craft with, and some are vintage. The box it all came in was like a cute birdie cabinet. I was so tickled to get this gift, and am sure that I will have lots of fun crafting with this lot of crafty birds in 2012.

My daughter's new baking blog.

2011-12-26T19:48:00.000-08:00

Check out my youngest daughter Kylee's talent with baking on her new blog, The Bluebirdbaker.blogspot.com She would love to get some followers, and it would make her feel really good if some of you would comment and become followers. She loves this new hobby, and has already gotten many jobs for Birthdays and Weddings.

This is a 1st birthday cake she made for my granddaughter Lyla and her little niece in July!
I will let you see her other creations over at The Bluebird baker. She is so talented!

A friend for lunch

2011-12-21T01:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I had the wonderful privilege of having my good friend Camille Leavitt over for a sweet little luncheon at Christmas time. A sweet little quiet break from all the business of getting ready for Christmas this weekend, when lots of family descends on us. Here is a picture of our table.

I served spiced cider, sweet green salad, with pecans, raspberries, apples, cheese and a Raspberry vinagrette with mini ham puffs and then after that, poppyseed chicken. We exchanged gifts, and she brought me a darling vintage angel candle holder, with a bottle brush tree attached. Vintage tinsel adorned the base. I love it and now have it under one of my glass domes (cloches) and am so delighted to add to my bottle brush tree collection.

I didn't get a picture of the entire tree, because the lighting was not right at that time of day, but here is the bottom of it and the presents. I have another tree downstairs that I will post later. Only 4 days until Christmas Eve. I can't wait!

Chandelier Crystals on my tree.

2011-12-18T19:10:00.000-08:00

I have a fascination with glass and Crystals from Chandeliers this year. I hung many different kinds on my tree, and my tree topper is new. The star looks like it has been in an ice storm. I love the look of the clear glass, don't you?

Handmade for today with the look of the past.

2011-12-17T07:54:00.000-08:00

I find it very intriguing reading up on how Christmas in America became the way it is today. I mean the way in which we celebrate. Of course the immigrants who came over to settle in America from the Old World (Europe) influenced this a great deal. St. Nickolas whom the German and the Dutch called Sinter Klaus are truly responsible for bringing the Santa Claus to life in America. German immigrants bubbled over with enthusiasm for Christmas, putting up trees, exchanging gifts, and importing decorations and trinkets from Europe. Their festivities eventually won over American Protestants, who had previously viewed the holiday revelry and Santa Claus with raised eyebrows.

The other night I got all enthusiastic for making old fashioned looking German Ornaments, and here are some of what I made with German scrap, stretchy wire and tinsel. I will probably get better at this next year, but this year some of them will be given away and some will be hanging on my tree.

There are so many Christmas items out there so easily found (like Target and Walmart) to enhance the German scrap and the tinsel, like these glittered snowflakes which are ornaments by themselves.

Old Fashioned Santas and more decorations at my house!

2011-12-12T00:31:00.000-08:00

Those old-fashioned Santa's have been so interesting to me. You know the ones that look old world. I read up on some history of some old fashioned ornaments, Santa's and Belsnickles. Simple ornaments or decorations were made at home by resourcful mothers, grandmothers and children using materials bought in the five and ten cent stores. In the early 1900s, these little neighborhood stores were often stocked with German paper Scrap and other German or Japanese supplies. A Belsnickle is a little Santa (more knome-like look) that has a grumpier face. Often the legend of these were said to bring lumps of coal to the children. So yesterday, I gathered things I have collected to make some Vintage Santa's. I put on some movies and went to work. I made two of them. Pretty much identical to one another with slight differences.

I love the German Scrap Santa face, and the vintage tinsel at his cap!

I have two larger Santa dolls, which are not handmade.

My truly vintage bottle brush trees.

Under glass is this little round box, that I decorated with tiny vintage trees and other

Christmas miniatures.

I have found some beautiful little porcelain pieces.

Nativity on a table wreath!

This banner just got finished about a week ago. I used German Glass Gllitter.

Part of my Dept. 56 Santa's village

I painted this years ago and I just can't not put it out for Christmas.

There is still more to come. I have not even shown my Christmas Trees. I will post them later on. I love Christmas decorations and the process to get there. Hope everyone is enjoying a wonderful Christmas season so far!

Dining room decorations finally done!

2011-12-06T01:05:00.000-08:00

Come in for a visit. Oh I wish I could have you all for a sweet Christmas Luncheon, I think I would serve, creamy chicken noodle soup and rolls, a light sweet spinach salad, and perhaps Baked Alaska for dessert! Anyway, I guess we can dream!

This year it was more about displays and some vintage ephemera decorated and glittered up a bit! There are lots of pictures so sit back and enjoy. This is just the Dining room!

My new collecting fetish will be these Santa mugs!

On the Buffet!

I took an old sheet music and made this wreath, then added a chipboard glass glittered sleigh to accent. ( I cut it out with my cricut expression)

Also glittered this cut out 'peace' and bent it around one of the candles!

Framed some vintage images from old books. This one came from a very old "Ideal" book

I was given this superbly beautiful vintage bottle brush wreath last year, by my good friend Camille and it is probably my most favorite decoration that I have now!

Nativity on one of the shelves! ALSO a favorite!

I received this image with some vintage buttons from the recent button ornament swap, along with the felt holly, so decided to make something out of it.

I enjoy Christmas Tins

My Christmas China is the original Christmas Tree by Cuthbertson. I have loved it for many many years! Also notice the transfer ware urn, that I found at Goodwill in AZ for a few dollars. I just had to have that!

A bowlful of vintage glass ornaments

I crafted this snowman last year!

Added this new Putz church to the mix this year.

Another putz house that was a gift, and this finishes up the decorations in my dining room. In the next post you will see what is in the living room. I hope everyone enjoys their Christmas decorations as much as I am enjoying mine!

The Button Floozie Ornament swap

2011-12-01T09:22:00.000-08:00

This swap hosted by Laurie Jackson of Button Floozies blog gave us 3 partners, so we got 3 ornaments. and the main guideline was that there had to be buttons on the ornaments. I made some non-sewn metal ornaments and glued buttons on them.

I used vintage tart tins, added something in the middle, also used vintage foil, and buttons, then decorated with mica flakes, and german glass glitter.
then I also sent each partner, one of these. . . . .

This ornament came with other vintage buttons, Thanks Jeanelle from Colorado Springs.

Here is a cute hand crochet Christmas Tree, with buttons for ornaments. I love the fibers mixed in. Thanks goes out to Denise from Milton, Vermont. She also sent this vintage postcard in Mylar. . . .I love it all! Salt Lake City has sure changed from these days!

Look how pretty this paper and lace ornament is. I love the delicate tatted lace that surrounds this image. Thank you to Ann Murphy of Omaha, NE She also included a lavender sachet. Thanks to Laurie and all my partners. Woo Hoo!

My latest Baby Blessing dress

2011-11-29T01:11:00.000-08:00

The latest in Blessing dresses which I made the week of Thanksgiving. This one is for my nephew's baby girl. (their 1st baby) This one is again, different than all the others. I used cotton lining, and I think it gives it a vintage feel about it. The crochet medallions at the yoke were hand crocheted by myself, and the button is a vintage glass button from Europe. Maybe someday I will make some of these dresses and put them in my Etsy shop!

Thanksgiving Centerpiece

2011-11-23T10:24:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a very lovely, safe and wonderful Thanksgiving with loved ones around!

Here is my Thanksgiving Centerpiece that I just took down actually, because I will be going to Phoenix for Thanksgiving, but I did get to enjoy this bit of Thanksgiving spirit in my home on my table throughout November. When I return, I will be working on decorating for Christmas. OOH, CAN'T WAIT!

Be sure to check out the previous post and get entered into my latest giveaway, in honor of my blogs anniversary!

ANNOUNCING a new Giveaway

2011-11-22T00:02:00.000-08:00

Announcing my blogger anniversary giveaway. Here it is! Hope you all like it!

In honor of this blog which was started 3 years ago, I am giving away a little Christmas shadow box with a "Lenox" angel inside for this vintage look giveaway. I am not German, but I am fond of German craft goodies. I pulled together all my German supplies to put this together, and I love the way it turned out! It has Vintage German bible pages covering the sides. It has German glass glitter encrusted on the front panel, and vintage pink tinsel. Also it has German scrap and foil Dresdens in the form of angel wings and a round star at the top. There are 2 vintage doilies, (one rectangle, and the other is a small round one)

You can see the details here better!

Thesin grapes with gold glass glitter is also part of the giveaway, and also this cute little Crystal-like faceted angel ornament below.

All you have to do to be entered in my drawing which will take place on
December 2, 2011 is. . . . either be a current follower, or become a new follower. Comment on this post here and for another chance post this on your sidebar to spread the word. I am so excited to get my house decorated for Christmas!

Simple Crepe paper Christmas Tree Tutorial.

2011-11-16T10:41:00.000-08:00

A most simple and easy decoration to complete, without the use of hot glue. As far as glue is concerned, I only used a little tacky glue for the top glass ball. Everything else is pinned to the styrofoam cone. Follow the tutorial to a quick a little crafty decoration.

I got this idea from Paper Crafts Magazine, and made them up into little kits for the Fairview Retreat. Then I decided to do a larger one and add some Christmas red in there. Here is a little tutorial for you.

Using regular sized straight pins, and the tiny sequin pins, I went to work.

Start at the bottom of your Styrofoam cone. Over lap each layer, so the pins don't show.

Pin into place as you pleat the crepe paper.

Trim the excess crape paper off.

I found my supplies at JoAnne's. These little picks are perfect, because they are already attached to wire, and they are so glittery!

Clip off each ball leaving about 3/4 inch wire to stick into tree cone.

Randomly stick the balls all over the tree. They should go in fairly easily. If you want them to be super secure for a long time, you could put some hot glue on stems before you poke them in. I did not. They stay just fine. Next add your tinsel around the top, by using the pins too! I wrapped around twice, but this is optional!

Note* these trees are not good for children. Keep them out of reach of little ones. Any colors of crepe paper could be used. Hope you have a crafty Christmas season!

Been making Christmas gift tags!

2011-11-15T23:57:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my Christmas tags that have popped up lately! The last one is from a vintage card, and I made it last year. I am starting to get that Christmas fever. Although I am not ready to start decorating just yet. I made the Ultimate Christmas tag kit for a partner, and then forgot to tag a picture of it. Inside the tag kit box though, were everything she needed to put together 48 tags. Some of the pictures here are some of the tags I made up for the Ultimate Christmas tag kit by Michele.

From the Retreat to Fairview

2011-11-09T16:23:00.000-08:00

We exchanged kits with one another this time around at the "Retreat." There were 8 of us and we each had someone assigned to us, that we would create a kit for. It could be anything really. One gal got the makings of a perfect gourmet cookie recipe. Someone got a stationary kit complete with personalized stamp all done up in a lovely lid box. Another gal got a kit that was done up to give oneself a wonderful pedicure. Some kits had fabric. The point was that a kit was provided that the person receiving it would really like. Aimee gave to me, and she absolutely knew what I like. I was stunned when I saw that the beautiful case sitting there was for me. She knew that I loved anything french, plus she knows how I love to scrapbook and do paper crafts, so the pictures you will see here are of all the special details she put into the French case.

This is my beautiful case! It was like Christmas!

When I opened it I found all sorts of eye candy such as. . . . . .

Blank stationary, that will be turned into lovely french greeting cards wrapped up with a velvet brown ribbon, some brown tulle, and these sweet little blue forget-me-nots.

Isn't it wonderful that products like these can be found for us to use in our paper crafts. We are lucky to have such loveliness made for our embellishing! I think "be still my heart," were my exact words when I looked at all of this!

The pad of 48 sheets of 8x8 paper is titled "Ella Blue" and is perfect and the keys are so special too!

check out the lovely page markers that were in there too. Thank you again so much Aimee. I am swooning over it still!

Retreating!

2011-11-04T06:23:00.000-07:00

I need a Break! I have turned off my phone and will be doing nothing but crocheting or knitting, scrapbooking, crafting, and designing with my very dear friends from Nevada, Idaho, and Utah. I am so lucky to be in Fairview, Utah. Oh and I think we might get snowed in! (that would be so cool)

To get ready for it, I spent a morning two days ago making up batches of pomegranate jelly from our many bushes of pomegranates at home, to give to all my friends here.

It is also one of the friend's birthday this weekend, so I made another shabby tote for her with more vintage crochet lace on it, and one of the things I put into it, is another little gratitude journal.

The front view

The back view

The inside view. I will be posting all of what I complete while on this most excellent retreat at the end of the weekend. Happy November.

Our enchanted princesses

2011-11-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

Here is what I have been up to this past week. I was lucky enough to get to make my little Evelyn's Halloween costume. The cool thing was is that this princess dress was actually made from her Mommy's (my daughter) Homecoming Royalty dress back in 2002. And her escort was none other than Evelyn's father Trent! I had a good friend take her daughter's prom formals and make them into princess dresses for her granddaughters. I have wanted to do this too for a long time and finally got to making one. Every time Evelyn would see pictures of the one's my friend had made, she would say, " Grammy is going to make that for me." She was SO EXCITED! She really thought it was a real princess dress. Her crown is one of my daughter's from High school too. It just tops off the outfit so nicely.

Here is a view of the backside. and another picture from when they came trick or treating at Grammy's house.

My photographer daughter Tara took these pictures of her beautiful little princesses just before Trick or Treating. We ended up going to a party later on together and everyone loved the little princesses.

Little Lyla Jane as Snow White. She is 16 months old and I did not make her costume.

We had a very enchanted evening with our little princesses.

The Fall Intrigues Shabby Tote swap completed.

2011-10-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

I recently hosted the Fall Intrigues Shabby Tote swap and ended up with two partners because of an uneven number of players. So I am the lucky recipient of some great stuff. Two totes and really cool fall items. First, there are pictures of some stuff which I sent out to my partners. then I will show you how I got spoiled.

The Shabby tote I made and sent to Kerry James. I put lots of vintage crochet lace on this crazy quilted bag.

I found these cute ceramic witch's shoe to put chocolate treasures in!

I made each of my partners a smaller slap-happy tote filled with vintage cards, and ephemera

One got a gratitude journal and the other got this Halloween decoration

Each one got a card like this with trims and sequins for fall.

and here is the other bag that went out to Wendy Aspinall.

both totes were filled with goodies like the ones below.

Then I was lucky enough to get this tote from Wendy Aspinall of Bliss Angels

and here are some of the goodies she sent out to me. . . .

This little mini handmade accordian book!

This is true Wendy Aspinall fashion. She is so good at this mixed media art!

Don't you just love all this fall goodness, and I have never seen fall leaves done up in paper doilies before.

And Kerry James of Tales of a needle and thread made and sent me this beautiful tote bag.

Here are some of it's contents.

Kerry truly is good with a needle and thread for sure! I love pincushions!

These lovely keys and so much more. She really spoiled me and made such a pretty bag!

I am hooked on blog swapping! Thanks to both my partners so very much!

Some things that are truly Special!

2011-10-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

It isn't very often, that I get out to yard sales in my area that turn out to be the most amazing ones, due to the items which I find. But yesterday, my daughter-in-law Barbara and I set out to do a little bit of thrifting or antiquing. When we ventured out we covered those in the paper and those signs we would just see while traveling for yard sales. The last one however, was an estate sale in which the people there, would buy up storage units and sell the contents. Sometimes it is very profitable I understand. But we found some things that tickled us to no end! Next, Barbara found these little baby shoes. . . .A steal at $8.00

Aren't they just amazing? We were both so excited about these baby shoes. Then she was intrigued by this little rock hound's jar, with a description and rocks inside. (below)

Then I picked up, and decided to buy this adorable Double Breasted Child's dress coat. (below)

There are some stains on it, but otherwise it is in perfect condition! Any ideas out there on removing stains like these from antique clothing?

Detail on the sleeves. This little gem was $5.00

The back view of the garment. I love the collar. While taking these pictures I could just imagine the child standing in a pose at the photographers studio wearing the button up shoes and this little coat!

I also found these leather booties. The leather was pink and the ribbon was so worn and falling off, but for baby shoes they were amazing! The cost was $5.00

On the tongue of these booties, the soft leather was very pink. Not faded at all! I
love them! They were $5.00

I also bought this baby's bonnet. It is practically fragile, and so delicate, it is so very old. This was $5.00 too!

I was tickled to death to find these vintage beauties. The garland is several feet long and the glass globes will be great on my vintage bottle brush trees. They cost $.50 each. One of the best dollars I ever spent!

My other great finds of the morning. When we returned we felt like we truly did have a successful Antiquing experience, at major bargain prices! And what fun it was to share it with my daughter-in-law Barbara Askeroth!

Barbara also picked up this camera at the first sale we visited and got it for $15.00 It was a pretty fair price I think!

Another Shabby tote completed

2011-10-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

I finished this shabby tote the other day as I have two partners to swap with in the Fall Intrigues Shabby tote swap. The other tote is on my sidebar and in an earlier post announcing the Shabby tote swap.

I made some fabric yo-yos and some ribbon roses, and all of the buttons are vintage as is the crochet lace pieces.

I will p0st the contents later as I don't want to give away all of the surprise.

Wedding cake and Baby Blessing

2011-10-10T23:44:00.000-07:00

We had one of our daughters here visiting for an entire week last week with her 16 month old son Maddox and it culminated with myself helping her finish a wedding cake on Saturday. A little bit stressful, cause we finished just minutes before we had to deliver the cake.

I love this unusual cake, with it's curved tiers. The two top layers were white chocolate, with raspberry filling, with light chocolate fondant, and the bottom layer was chocolate with chocolate mousse filling and chocolate fondant. Very yummy cake because the fondant is made from scratch.

And I finished this sweet newborn size long dress below, for the blessing dress for little Claire. She looked so pretty wearing it.

I can't get over this little girl's eyes. She looks so much like her daddy, who happens to be my third child. We love this little Claire Elise so very much!

The Fall Button Floozie Altered Altoid Tin Swap

2011-10-03T22:38:00.000-07:00

Look what the very artistic Carolyn (CJ) Hyland fashioned for me in the Fall Button Floozie (altered altoid tin) button swap. Laurie Jackson of Button Floozie Blog hosted this swap, and I love the sweet artsy tin I got filled with buttons.

and on the bottom she put these sweet little legs from glass marbles for feet.

I was tickled to get it. This was the first altered altoid tin I have done.

And below is the one that I sent on to CJ.

Then I wrapped it all up in a vintage hankerchief and tied it with ribbon

I made a pretty little card for her and tied it all up with some fallish colored fiber.

Announcing the Fall Intrigues Shabby Tote Swap

2011-09-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

Do you like totes? Well I do! I am nuts about nifty little tote bags. To transport all sorts of things and keep everything in its place. I have one to store the coloring books, art paper and crayons for my grandchildren. I have a special little one that holds just enough favorite dvds for a great weekend retreat. I also have perfect totes for scrapbooking supplies and totes for magazines to take with me in the car.

I made this little tote bag just the other day. I thought, why not swap this tote and make it a fall one at that. So. . . . . . .

I am announcing the FALL INTRIGUES SHABBY TOTE SWAP Last year I hosted the fall intrigues "basket" swap. But this time I would like to make it a little bit more interesting.

****Here all the rules.

1) Make or decorate a simple canvas tote approximately 11" x 12" and put a shoulder strap on it.

2) Inside fill it with anything having to do with fall. Can be Autumn anything, Halloween, or Thanksgiving. Can be handmade, or vintage, or even brand new. Put things into it that you would love to receive. But please don't put lots of things in the box too, just what ever can fit into the bag. It can hang out of the bag, but not out of the tote. Keep it lightweight so shipping won't be to expensive.

3) If you are interested, you must email me by October 6th at ask@comnett.net and put in the subject line "Fall Shabby tote swap" and I will let you know who your partner is by October 7th. Give me all your info in this original email. I need your name, address, and also your email and blog addresses. It is beneficial to be able to visit blogs and or flickr pages to get a feel for one's partner's dislikes and likes.

NOTE******Please do not go out and buy lots of stuff. The fun of these swaps is to use what is in your stash and also use your abilities and creativity. Also be sure to contact your partner before hand. Getting to know one another makes for a better swap too!

Here are some ideas for things to put in the bag.

1) chocolate
2) scrapbooking supplies
3) vintage doilies
4) handmade cards
5) vintage ephemera
6) notebooks
7) albums
8) aprons
9) hankies
10) buttons
11) jewelry
12) small candles
13) small books
14) small frames
15) craft supplies or kits
etc.

Some closeups of the tote that I will swap. I decorated my bag with vintage buttons, ribbons, and vintage crocheted lace.

I will put all the participants names on my sidebar by the 7th of October. And the shipping date for this swap will be October 19th, 2011 REMEMBER THIS IS A SHABBY TOTE

The Halloween matchbox I made for my partner.

2011-09-24T05:53:00.000-07:00

I had loads of spooky fun creating this matchbox for my partner Karen. We were asked to make 4 handmade items, and they did not all have to fit in the box. I made some things that would not fit in the box, and some that would go in there. But the box was full. I don't like super gothic, or scary, but I did want to have it look very old almost victorian halloweenish! I hope it doesn't look to gothic/

So I made this chipboard faux coffin for the top, an decorated it with ribbon roses and velvety leaves.

One thing that did not fit inside was this witchy tag book. I wish I had one of these to keep.

I went through my stash and found these Alice in Wonderland halloween images by graphics 45. I also purchased digitally the antique witch images from Etsy for this tag book.

I pulled out the meanings of words like Witch, ghost and vampire from a very old dictionary, and embellished. The spider rub-ons looked a little bit to real, cause I kept trying to kill that little spider on this tag.

Got some cute quotes of some vintage postcards.

All 10 tags put together with a ring

Some of the other things inside the box. Notice the rope pendant. I don't know what it is, I just know that it is very old~it looks like it is made out of floss. A crystal chandelier prism that is definitely vintage, a little vintage doily, which the lace on it reminds me of a beautiful spider web, a vial of black german glass glitter and other stuff.

a cello bag of buttons and earrings that I made.

I framed this image with an old part of a buckle and crepe paper ruffle

This thick domino was just asking to be decorated.

the back of the domino

I put this necklace together for Karen and decided it needed it's own display card, so it did not go into the box either.

Fall Decorations

2011-09-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for the cooler weather. But we aren't really having that yet here in the desert southwest. So, I could not wait any longer and spent yesterday getting some fall and halloween decorations put up.

Hanging at my fireplace is two items I got last year from two blogging friends. The swag was made by Valarie Kraft of Glittery Daze and nights. And the tassels come from Kerri James of Tales of a needle and thread

At my entryway by the front door.

Where I live, we actually don't get fall color until November. It is pretty green out there still!

My dining room centerpiece. I put the wreath here instead of hanging it up!

I love wildflower look. It definitely reminds me of a high altitude meadow, late in summer or early in the fall!

Don't worry, right after I saw that the 'y' in spooky was sideways, I fixed it. It fell off while in hanging and my perspective was off! I hope these pictures help you all get in the mood for

fall and for Halloween!

Getting the Halloween Fever!

2011-09-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

Anyone in the mood for Halloween? Look how fun and cute this is!!!!! I am a partner in JoAnne's Halloween Matchbox swap or Vintage Dragonfly's monthly matchbox swap flickr group. My partner, Karen Hess karensmondaymusings.blogspot.com just left for a trip to Germany today, so she wanted to get a jump on it. Here is the amazing little gem of a matchbox she sent to me. We were asked to put in 4 handmade items. Heck the altered box counts as one thing. Well Karen spoiled me good. I was tickled pink (or should I say orange) with my box and all of it's contents. Enjoy!
You can tell that she really put a lot of time and effort into it.

She put the so cute box up on these adorable bead legs. I just love it!

She altered the matchbox into the cool lift up trunk style. The velcro tab and tie kept it closed.

this is a Spooktacular little swag that says "spooky" Another sweet little gem.

She made this cute little poison bottle from a tiny matchbox (I think) on the other side it bears a tag that states "Drink me"

There was this way tiny (1"x1") book that says, "things that go bump in the night. . .BOO!"
Those are brass jump rings for jewelry. I can only imagine how hard it was to get that all together being so tiny!

And on the outside of the box she sent along some more goodies.

A bagful of buttons and flowers, a really cute ATC signed by the artist, and this way cute pendant made from a bottle cap. I couldn't love it more. I still get giddy when I look at it all and I will post what I made for Karen in a later post! I have her's done, but will wait to post that a little later on.

Announcing the winner from my other Blog!

2011-09-15T10:06:00.001-07:00

Here is a sampling of what the winner will be sent! Above are the some of the pieces from the 1889 scrapbook.

Some of the other ephemera is not old, but is delightful!

I am adding in this handmade by me fallish, Thanksgiving type card too!

And putting it all together in this paper pocket that I crafted just for this giveaway!

And the winner is: Laurie from indulgeyourshelf.blogspot.com
CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU LAURIE

. . . . . Recent good fortune!

2011-09-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I had a garage sale here at my home, to mostly help out a friend who is losing her home. (darn economy) and moving into a very much smaller house. I also was able to clear out and re-organize my own home. Being an empty nest-or now, well it was time to clear out. Anything that did not sell, with the exception of a very few things all went to a local thrift store. So I am feeling like most of what is here is something we want to keep, at least for now. And since my friend is moving to such a small place, she went through her husband's grandmother's old vintage things, and decided that I, Michele should and would appreciate these things. She was so very correct in her assumption.
Below is just a small portion of Granny's button collection left in an old tin can, this was about 1/4 of the wonderful buttons in this can!

Aren't they lovely? There were so many celluloid buttons, and I tried to imagine the clothing that each interesting button came from.

More of my favorites!

Among-st the other things was a lovely, very old German Bible that she did not want to keep. A ha! Those pages will be lovely done up with old music sheets for Christmas Crafts. And I love the maps of the Holy land. Some are hymn books with music and German lyrics.

And then there was this box of old Chrystal salt shakers, some with just one, in all different sizes. she didn't know that I have been collecting shakers (sugar and salt) to put my glass glitters,micro beads, and mica flakes in. . . . . . . . . . Whoo hoo!

Don't you just love them! I am the luckiest!

I have posted some of these before, but the collection has recently been growing. This is all new to my studio, since I posted the studio. I love it!

And this lovely sugar shaker was an Etsy find of mine. I bought just one, and when I got the box a week or so ago, I opened it and there were two of them with a generous bag of special cinnamon sugar from a family recipe that she included. She was so generous with me, she even took the time to write out some of her families favorites done up with the sugar. There aren't many Etsy shop owners that take this kind of time to make it special! What a sweetheart! My luck just has been over flowing lately.

My last great fortune happened when I was in Cedar City to help with grand kids, when a daughter was sick and a new baby born. I was in between kids homes and had a little bit of time to kill, so of course I would have to find some antique shops to visit. I found these wonderfully different chandelier crystals at one shop called Aunt B's treasures.

Then the other antique shop, well I hesitated to visit this one, because the little old lady who owns that one, usually is way over priced. I visited anyway and went about looking for oil cans, and I did find one, but she just wanted more than I could spend for it. I was a sceptic for sure about finding anything there, that I would be comfortable with the price. I toiled with wondering if I should ask why so high priced, but I refrained and just thought I would chat with the old gal any way. Interesting old person full of story, lives alone next door to the shop, and has a dog to watch over everything at night that is outside. She directed me to the sale tables way out in front of the parking. Everything on these tables was 90% off. So I did find the following. . . . . . .

I have since brought these doilies home and already tea dyed them. The spoons are silver plate, but I can use them. Just to give you an idea of her pricing, her antique postcards are usually marked around $30.00 each, and the larger dresser embroidered scarf pictured here was marked $28.00 and the smaller napkin was marked $12.00 The price on each spoon was $2.00 each and I got all of this for $3.85, so I left there with something in hand and felt like I just got the bargain of the week! I am lucky!!!!

Well worth the wait!

2011-09-13T01:06:00.000-07:00

As I stated in my last post, my partner Jeannie lived in the hurricane riddled area of the East coast, and was not able to get my matchbox for the "Summer Garden Swap out to me until after the due date. Well, it was worth the wait! This one was so very unique and had the most wonderful surprises tucked inside. She used a little box that was slightly larger than a matchbox, and decorated it so eclectically beautiful!

Take a look inside below.

Inside the larger box was a sweet little wooden box, with vintage pins, and the most interesting tiny brass figures, that were so very detailed.

There were ribbons, oriental newsprint in a roll, bamboo sticks, a large skeleton key, a most wonderful little miniature grinder, some french stickers, and my favorite thing has to be the Christmas Tree brooch! Thank you thank you to Jeannie Crockett at

"The Threadmill" I was so happy upon opening my new treasures!

My latest matchbox sent out!

2011-09-04T11:14:00.000-07:00

The theme for this matchbox swap was Vintage garden. My partner was affected by Hurricane Irene, and so I have not received mine yet, so will post that one later. This is the vintage garden matchbox and contents, that I sent to her.

She said that she would not open hers until after she sent mine! Boy, now that is self control. When I swap a matchbox, I can't wait to open it and go through all the little goodies. She stated that she doesn't want to feel like she needs to add more or that she added to much, based on mine. Now that is swapping from the heart. I can appreciate her for that!

I used a vintage garden image for the top, and the sides and back were vintage music sheets.

Inside I tucked these victorian vintage ephemera, some very very old, and some reproductions.

Inside this little jar went vintage buttons, pearls, trinkets, and flowers.

Can't wait to get mine from my partner Jeannie, I hope all is well with all of my blogging friends who live on the east coast who might have been affected by the Hurricane!

Thrilled again!

2011-08-31T23:26:00.000-07:00

I have a new granddaughter. . .Meet beautiful Claire Elise!

My son Isaac is quite proud of his little family!

Her big brother and sister both love her very much!

Her two Grandma's think she is amazing, and truly "Something Special"

Oh, and everyone else likes her too!!!!!

So I am quite proud you see! Wouldn't any grandma be?

Check out this post on the history of scrapbooking, with a little giveaway!

2011-08-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

I have a lovely post about how scrapbooks began in the 19th century. Come see the actual scrapbook from 1889 that I have posted on SPECIAL PAPER PROJECTS, or click on the page above that says Special Paper Projects. If you become a follower there, and leave a comment, you will be entered into a sweet little giveaway there which consists of some lovely victorian ephemera and German diecuts. Two of the pieces will be from that 1889 scrapbook! The drawing for this will be on Sept. 15th. Note: you must become a follower and comment on the post about the history of scrapbooks at SPECIAL PAPER PROJECTS TO BE ENTERED!

Sweet Petite French inspired Crafts

2011-08-25T16:05:00.000-07:00

When visiting my favorite Thrift Stores, I like to look for interesting little containers, that I can put a handmade pincushion in. I have done up the following, for either my Etsy shop or just to have a little gift around when needed. I love to put a bit of a French touch too.

There were two of these mini glass houses, but I just got one of them. I knew I would regret that. I filled it with doily lace, ribbon roses, and a glittered up Fleur de lis on the top, and added some dyed seam binding.

I don't know what this little sterling silver plate tray was, but it was perfect for a sweet pincushion. And an antique glass button graces the top.

I call this the little french parfait pincushion. I used vintage lace on this one and found an old earring post to place on the top in my stash! This is such a sweet petite parfait cup.

Terrific Transferware. I love mine!

2011-08-22T14:32:00.000-07:00

Something else I love to look for, when antiquing is dishes in the transfer ware style. I don't know why, but I get so excited to find something unique and picturesque. And half of the fun for me is turning it over to see where it was made. I am not sure if all of the following pieces qualify as transfer ware, I have heard some refer to these types of dishes as toileware. I would love to get some input! Any experts out there?

"The Friendly Village" Johnson Bros. Staffordshire, England

The larger plate is more Johnson Bros. Staffordshire, England also "Friendly Village, and the smaller plate is "Myotts Bouquet" also Staffordshire, England. I think that many china companies are in Staffordshire, England

"Old English bouquet" Ridgway Staffordshire England

The red and cream ceramic is a little candle holder. In the front of that is Royal Homes of Britain "Hampton Cout Palace" (built in 1515) made in England Johnson Bros.

This plate is a "Spode" definitely unique!

Copeland "Spode" England FLORENCE

This little cup in the front is a souvenir from "Anne of Green Gables" the larger mug in the back is "Crown Trent" Staffordshire England.

This is the saucer which belongs to the cup above and it says, ENGLAND 1760 Leeds 1878
a reproduction in 1932.

Historical collection England

More Johnson Bros. Made in England (Coaching scenes)

I love the floral green! Made in England Strattfordshire

I love this one with the embossed raised edge. This one was made in the USA

This also comes from a company in the USA I think it is from a restaurant set of Dishes.

Our Everyday dishes. Not from England, just copy and made in China, but I love them anyway!

This set suppliments our everyday. Just wanted to have extra.

Hope you have enjoyed this post about transferware dishes.

My focus right now!

2011-08-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

This is Ty, and he is my baby. The youngest of 8 children, 18 and has graduated and left the nest. He is a handsome, very polite, appreciative and loving young man. He has found work and roommates in another city. I miss him so much!

Since officially becoming an empty nester 3 weeks ago, I have been going through everything in my home, getting ready for a big garage sale with my friend who is moving to a much smaller place. I have a feeling of power as I go through drawers and shelves and storage, throwing away, sorting and organizing and knowing that what does not sell, will be donated to the thrift store, and will never again be returned to my shelves and drawers. I also love coming across things from my children that hasn't been seen for years. But I have to admit, that junking and thrifting and yard sale finds, will not cease at all, but I am very selective! I just love vintage!

Some of what will go into garage sale pile. I seem to have them all over the house!

I love this light fixture in my Dining room. I picked it out myself and even hung it myself, 5 years ago, when I remodeled my kitchen and dining room, so I am pretty attached to it.

These wooden letters are on the shelf above dishes year round. I love to express that word all the time, as home and family are sources of GREAT JOY to me always!

My sister worked for Mikasa for a few years and gave me this beautiful turkey platter from her store. I have it hanging in my Dining room year round too. I actually have used it for the Thanksgiving Turkey

I found this cute vintage style clock at a thrift shop, for $3.00.

my vintage sewing notion collection.

A picture of my youngest Ty when he was 11 is underneath the cute white shelf that holds those sewing notions.

On the wall in my sewing/wash room

I am done for now, it is back to the sorting and going through more drawers, boxes and cupboards.

More Christmas in July swapping!

2011-08-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

I hosted the event, and I had a late comer, so I decided to be another partner to her and let her swap too. Here is what I sent to her. Deana at justdeesarts.blogspot.com

Avintage glass ball for her.

a glass glittered Santa bank circa 1950's

of course some chocolate, tinsel and a not so old, but new ornament. And this vintage red velvet reindeer head.

The hand done ornament I made for her. Also some vintage Ephemera in a handstamped bag.

Some extra things. The little china teacup ornament is lenox

A vintage poem about Kriss Kringle! (probably from the 20's)

and here is what Deana sent to me! Everything she sent is something I can and will use in my crafting. I don't know how she knew, just exactly what to send me!

She flattened and painted this old spoon. So cute!

She sent so many darling miniatures for trees and such!

Some are vintage I am sure, and I love them all!

these tiny little lights for tiny little trees. . . .

I love the little wreaths too. Thanks you so much to you Deana, and another thank you to Garage sale gal and all the other participants in the Vintage Christmas in July swap!

These are a few of my favorite things!

2011-08-11T16:40:00.000-07:00

I can actually say that I have a collection of little white pitchers now, with eight of them. Most all are vintage, some just vintage look-a-likes. But I love them all for their uniqueness. I can't help myself, whenever I am out antiquing, thrift shopping or junking, I look for little white pictures. Truly one of my favorite things.

I can almost say I collect bird figurines, and these are the birds scattered around my home.

I have to admit, I love hearing songbirds sing, and love hearing the call of the Loon on a lake in Minnesota, but I am not crazy about all the mess the doves make in my yard, and am especially not a fan of all birds. Particularly those of the Emu variety, but that is another post entirely.

The third thing on my favorite list today is; shiny silver and different metals of decorative elements all together. I am wild about mercury glass, copper, brass and shiny, "have to polish silver pieces." I should have taken a picture of this large serving piece before I took all the tarnish off of it. It was lots of scrubbing and buffing with various creams and liquids and it was pretty much blackened with tarnish. Notice the pick mercury glass candlestick. I had two, but one came broken, and I did not have the heart to throw it out, so I crushed it all up in a pillowcase with a hammer. now it has a special place in one of my salt shakers.

What's New in the Studio

2011-08-09T00:49:00.000-07:00

We have exchanged our boxes for the Vintage Christmas in July swap. Here is what I sent to my partner Deb.

We had to send one handmade ornament and one vintage ornament. Here is the handmade on I did for her. A tussie mussie style Victorian ornament.

then I covered this paper mache treasure style box with Christmas papers, and filled it with these vintage goodies. . . . . .

a vintage glass ornament, a Santa from the 60's, a little glittered bell, an oblong glass ornament, and old fold out accordian bell, a strand of mini mercury glass balls, candy canes etc. all wrapped up in this red vintage hankie.

A Santa head bank, and a little plastic pop-up toy.

I love these wind chimes from the 70's

Inside this wrapped box, was another vintage glass ornament.

Now here is what I received from Garage Sale Gal Look at these beautiful antique Christmas cards and ephemera. I love the little coasters too. I even love the tissue paper she packaged it up in.

Her handmade ornament for me.

Look at these darling vintage cupcake toppers. (Above)

I was so happy to see one of these cinnamon ornaments that we used to make in the 80's and 90's, and it is in the shape of Minnesota. Just love it. Not only is Garage Sale Gal from Minnesota, but so is my hubby!

An assortment of vintage ornaments. I love it all and she spoiled me good! Thank YOU Deb.

Then I made a trip to my favorite thrift store, and I found. . . . . My total came to $10.50

I found a crusty little metal tray, a sweet little iron trivet, a mini glass terrarium, and this wonderful fluer de li glass canister, and a sweet little glass beaded goblet, that is begging to become a pincushion holder. This metal wall pocket.

And I have been collecting shakers and glass bottles that would work well for my mica flakes and glass glitter. I found three the other day. I have had fun looking for the one salt shaker that gets left behind. I had fun filling all of them today, and lining them up in my studio.

Recent vintage finds in unusual places

2011-07-31T18:08:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I was in Cedar City, Utah with family, and my daughter-in-law and I decided to hit some yard sales. We found two that yielded some great finds. The old rusty tin above yielded some great old buttons and also some other very interesting vintage items. Above is the tin after I took most of the buttons out to wash the rust and dirt off of them. The button tin had a weird smell because of the rust. Below are pictures of what I found in all the pile of buttons.

These vintage glass buttons. I love love glass buttons! yippee!

These unusual pretty buttons. some are celluloid I am sure.

Some very large buttons and rusty bobbins.

then buried in all the buttons were these unusual items. A crusty "J" hair clip, a rusty boy scout knife, a whistle that had turned patina, and some military type wings. Most people would probably have thrown them away, but I call them truly interesting and wish I had stories of the people who once owned and used these things.

Even the button cards by themselves are cool. These are what caught my eye in the first place, laying in the old rusty tin. All this vintage goodness, even if it did need to be cleaned up, was only $4.00

At the next yard sale I found these way cool glass glittered shadow boxes (below) calling out to me. They aren't vintage, just look alikes. Oh, the things I could do with those, and they are still in the original box unopened. This was $2.00

And I also found this at the same sale. Something for my studio or perhaps my own dresser.

This cool jewelry console that was only $1.00

I am going to paint it up shabby!

But then my truly amazing find and bargain of the day was this electric wall sconce. I am thinking maybe 1920's There is still a bulb in it although I don't know if that is truly vintage. the crystals that are hanging on it will surely find other uses. And I am planning on something special with the rest of it. When I saw them I wanted at least one of them really badly.

The man was selling antiques in a parking lot, out of a big truck.

Notice that the tag on this sconce says $99.00 for the pair. I asked the man if he would take less than that. He said he could go as low as $25.oo for the pair. I said I just wanted one and would he take $10.00 for one. He said I guess so. So this lovely piece with all the crystal only cost me $10.00 I think it was the bargain of the day for sure!

Grandma's Attic Matchbox Swap

2011-07-28T18:53:00.000-07:00

Today the mail was really fun, because in it I received my "Grandma's Attic Matchbox Swap hosted by JoAnne at Vintage Dragonfly And here is the beautiful and stuffed to the brim and beyond matchbox that was sent to me by Michele Murray from Nook and Cranny gifts. I love love love it, and feel very spoiled with all the vintage goodies. When I opened it it was all wrapped up in tissue and tied with the vintage lace, and after unwrapping that I found this matchbox all wrapped up in a vintage hankerchief with this picture attached to it.

After unwrapping the hankie, I found this sight. I love the distressed doily, brooch and old watch.

Here is the contents. So much to look at!

Then there was a sweet organdy bag with these pretty earrings inside. I love them, and will definitely wear them.

And here is the matchbox that I sent to my partner, Becky

I sure have as much fun decorating and figuring out what will go into a matchbox as receiving one in the mail and going through it.

Thanks so much Michele Murray for the great matchbox you sent!

Summertime Tea Party

2011-07-26T23:36:00.000-07:00

When I woke up this morning I looked out and saw that it was cloudy and looking like it would rain. What do you do with your 8 year old granddaughter if she is staying with you and you can't go swimming? Well, I think you should invite another 8 year old and have a Tea Party.

Aren't they just adorable. And they are both just as sweet too. My little friend on the left, and my granddaughter on the right. I have been wanting them to get together for a while, so I kept telling my friend that I would have her over when my granddaughter came for a visit. Notice the vintage clip-on earrings they are both wearing. They were pinching, so I told them they only had to wear them for the picture!

My granddaughter and I went to work on setting a sweet little table. She is such a great helper, and was so excited for the little event. She loved getting out some special things and I taught her how to set a proper place setting. I finally got to use my sweet sign made by Kristin from Signs and Salvage. We swapped at Valentines and this is one of the signs she sent me. Another reason I had to have a tea party!

At each place I put a small teacup and saucer for them to keep, with almonds and dried cranberries inside with a special tag for each one in hopes they will remember the fun time we had at our "Tea"

We had buckwheat waffles, boysenberry syrup, juice and fruit salad. We talked about table manners all the way through it.

What a fun time we had discussing 8 year old happenings. These girls are the cream of the crop. Thank you for letting me play with you!

We have winners for my celebration Giveaway!

2011-07-25T00:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you so very much to all who entered my giveaway, became followers, and all those who left sweet comments and posted on their blogs about this giveaway. I had over 60 who entered. I thank you all! And the winners are :
1st place: The pitcher and dried grass
The pin cushion
The French inspired card:

Suzanne at Shabby ESP

2nd place: The faux watch and beaded necklace
Rectangular crochet doily

Marsha aka Sassy Mini Dolls

Congratulations: Please contact me so I can get your addresses ASAP

Christmas in July party

2011-07-21T23:23:00.000-07:00

Oh I found this blog this morning, at One Heart at Home and thought it was so appropriate for me to join in since I am hosting the "Vintage in July Swap." So if you haven't seen it, you must visit there, and you will be treated to a wonderful reminder of one of my favorite Vintage Christmas movies.
Yes, especially you gals who are participating, you must click on the picture to the right, and it will take you right there. She also has links for others who are blogging about Christmas in July!

From my Trip to Minnesota

2011-07-19T21:47:00.000-07:00

While on our trip up North, I was able to hit the antique malls in places we stayed. The first one, in Stillwater, my husband came in with me and enjoyed looking for particular items such as old record albums, and toys from when he was little. But the next day after driving through horrible thunderstorms, he kindly declined, so I said, just drop me off for a few hours. He was happy and I was happy. I was limited of course on what I could bring back, having only carry-on luggage. But I did manage to find oodles of vintage, buttons, a truckload of vintage crocheted lace and of course another small white pitcher for my collection. I found this beautiful white mug also for my studio shelf and some lovely old ephemera, and some vintage Christmas decorations. My suitcase was almost bursting!
* For anyone interested, my celebration giveaway is still opened until the 25th of July. It is on my sidebar! Also, my Where bloggers Create III tour of my studio is the next post down!

My Studio welcomes you!

2011-07-13T20:32:00.000-07:00

Well, it is finally here! This is my Studio post for the blog party!

My studio, like so many other crafters and artists out there, is most definitely one of my favorite places to be. I adore being at home right here in this little room all my own, with surroundings just for me, which doesn't have to please anyone else. Some people might call it cluttered and busy, but I think it is lovely eye candy everywhere, and that is what makes it so special, and inspirational. I am fortunate to have so many wonderful blog friends who have added to my wonderful little room here. They give me inspiration and such joy! And that is why I love to create here. It started out as the Scrapbook room or my family knew it as the "memory room" but that has all changed, and I simply call it the Craft Studio, because so much more happens here than just scrapbooking and paper crafting.

Above: As you look in from the hallway

Vinyl lettering over the only window in the room states one of my favorite quotes. I can sit at my desk and look outside our front yard and see what is going on in our very interesting neighborhood!

One of my set designs just finished for "Story Tellers Club" on my main work space.

A poem that my dear friend wrote for me as a gift about my creative hands is framed here. I am taking a sweeping circle of the room, and going counter clock-wise. So sit tight there are many pictures.

I turned this old sewing cabinet into a display table. I can't have the drawers in because they are not only holding exchanged tags, vintage trims and doilies, antique pins and findings for me to look at, but it is a way for me to have it all at my fingertips. I rather like the look of the skeleton cabinet without the drawers.

This used to be the closet, but the doors came off and I now have more room for inspiration. The DVD/TV player is for movies only, for when I am hard at work.

Favorite tag books go here, from exchanges from so many talented bloggers.

Yes, I am the queen of this room! It may be the only thing I am truly queen of!

Did you know that you can buy a box of 100 vintage look tags at Office depot. I love them for displaying trims, string and ribbon.

My cricut works very nicely on this antique folding table, and the French Apron and knob which it hangs on was a gift! Some of the wall decorations I have are made by myself or sent to me from a blog swap.

I simply love to find unique shelves for my room, but I don't think I have to much more space for many more. The slant top desk, has been in the family for generations! My husband let me paint it and use it in my studio.

This is a single page layout I did of my mother, and it hangs on a 12 x 12 clipboard.

The top folds down for another keen work space to build my recycled shabby jewelry.

The top drawer at the desk. Love those frozen charlotte heads.

Lots of German Scraps to create with!

My Christmas Crafting drawer!

Above: A new creation and part of a blog giveaway to be given out!

My magnet board collage

This shelf was made by my husband in 7th grade in wood shop. It has been painted many different colors and has been in many different rooms.

This print is simply called "The Nest"

Two of my favorite things are My Mother's hat portrait circa 1960

and this pair of antique Silhouettes.

My Imagine * Design * Create Wall

More views!

This lovely wedding cake was a swap gift from the extremely talented Jen of jnichelle.blogspot.com I am so very lucky to know her and to have one of her faux cakes with vintage figurine on top. It is something I cherish.

I can take credit for making this, but the idea came from Karla Nathan at Karla's Cottage. She is such a wonderfully talented lady.

I have always thought it fun to mix up the nic nacs in with the supplies, to make it more interesting!

I don't know how this picture got deleted ,but I added it in, because I wanted to show you what I did with my antique measuring tape. It now displays some of my favorite tags which I either made or blogging friends made.

A pretty wall pocket with some of my favorite photos of grandchildren.

a tiny catch-all right by where I work. I just like to look at the leftovers etc.

Glass glitter, microbeads and mica flakes in pretty packaging makes for more inspiration and eye candy! YUM! Thanks again Jen! jnichelle.blogspot.com (she sent me these lovely bottles and a jar full of mica flakes)

And there you have it, I can't show you every little detail or you would be here for hours. I love my Craft Studi0!!!!!! Thanks for visiting and come back again soon!

Nostalgic moments!

2011-07-11T07:15:00.000-07:00

Jacquelyne Rhea Ford MacCabe

Yesterday afternoon, I found myself feeling very nostalgic. I was thinking about myself as a child and I was also thinking about my wonderful mother. I found some things that were very special to her, and special to me because I remember her either wearing them or using them and I remember that she would always let me look in her jewelry box, and I would carefully go through each piece and wish I was grown up. Some of the pieces were very nice and some were costume jewelry, but which ever, I would spend hours in her lovely box.

Earrings that were hers from long ago, which I still wear today.

This zippered jewelry pouch was one she gave to me after using it for many years. The set below is beautiful costume jewelry in perfect condition, only the earrings were clip-ons, so I changed them to pierced, so that I can wear them now. I always use the jewelry pouch when I travel, even in it's very tattered state.

Lots of bling here!

Myself at age 6 and when I turned 7, my Aunt Joyce made this ceramic heart for me to wear. I am amazed that I still have this!

July 4th was a crafting day too!

2011-07-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

Here is what I was up to yesterday , before all of the family get-together got underway!

I started with this little card or picture holder. I they were silver, so I sprayed them with a hammered lighter black spray paint by Rust'O'leum. I have six of them, and they were obviously for bridal shower centerpieces. They had little white dresses on them, and they were collecting dust in my garage. I plan to do more of these in this manner ( with perhaps changes in the dresses, and put some into the Etsy shop. But for now, I just wanted to try doing something with one of them. I went on-line and found these French Fashion Advertisements and printed them out for the card hold part. I was tickled at how my first one turned out!

French Fashion of the 1950's advertisements, in the card holders

This is the back side!

Is it Magnifique? I guess it would be a cute little dresser decoration or they still would be darling centerpieces for a sweet French Tea, don't you think? I think I just got idea!!! lol

ANNOUNCING! A Giveaway and a Swap

2011-06-30T14:14:00.001-07:00

It is here! A brand new giveaway in honor of my 200th post and my new blog look! So spread the word! It is called the Something Special Celebration Giveaway! And it is loaded with some pretty French look handmade goodness.
1. A cream colored pitcher filled with dried mountain rye grass.
2. A lovely rectangle doily
3. A sweet little pin cushion
4. A pretty pendant (it is not really a watch)
5. A handmade Card/envelope

Here is what you need to do.

1. leave a comment to this post
2. become a follower or let me know that you are already a follower
3. for another chance to win, then just copy the smaller picture above and post on your sidebar.
4. For yet another chance, post about this giveaway.
good luck to everyone. this giveaway drawing will be on July 25, 2011

AND ALSO ANNOUNCING. . . . . .

Now for the 2nd part of this post. I am also announcing my newest swap.
The 2nd annual Vintage Christmas in July swap.
last year we had so much fun with this. I will partner you with someone I feel you would be great with. I loved my swap last year. Here are the rules for this swap. Ship date is July 27, 2011 and be sure to include lots of Vintage or vintage inspired goodness! First you need to send 1 handmade ornament and send another ornament that must be true vintage. After that, you can send whatever you want, but please try to keep it vintage or vintage inspired.

Here is a portion of what I received last year in the vintage Christmas Swap. I had a fabulous partner. Kimberly of Art Joy Stuff! If you want to get in on the swap then comment here and tell me your interested, and then email me your info.

Summertime Matchbox Swap

2011-06-29T11:40:00.000-07:00

When a Vintage Matchbox arrives in my mail, I am overwhelmed with excitement. It is like stepping into an antique mall on a tiny scale. The anticipation as I am opening the package is so much fun. Such special little vintage surprises await me. I am addicted to this fun little hobby. Here is the box I did up for my partner in the Summertime vintage Matchbox swap.

More Vintage Matchbox swapping!

2011-06-26T19:46:00.000-07:00

I sure love finding vintage matchbox swaps. This time it was a swap from the Blogger's Sisterhood Sorority Summer matchbox swap. I was matched up with someone I have been partnered with before. The very talented Sassy mini doll maker Marsha Mees and here is a link to her blog. She and I missed out on signing up for a springtime swap, and so I contacted her to swap one with me. She was and is an excellent partner. I loved mine before and I am crazy about the one she just sent me.

Marsha sent me the most lovely French themed matchbox. I was giddy with delight upon opening it all. She made a Burlap bag to put the box in and a vintage postcard book. Then inside there were so many wonderful little things. She has not seen hers yet, so I won't post
that one yet. But the interesting thing is that we put some of the same kinds of things in our boxes, we both did a French theme, so I guess great minds think alike I am sure of it.

I just can't stand all this French goodness! Thanks so much Marsha!

Refinding and reclaiming old Treasures!

2011-06-19T23:52:00.000-07:00

I finally took the big China Wreath off the wall that I made almost 20 years ago. I saw the idea in a book about turning flea market finds into something to decorate with. The wreath was hanging in a spot that could not be easily dusted. It was time to take it down, for about a month is was just put in a closet. Today I took the pieces off of it and even some of the silk flowers and parts of doilies. I had forgotten what cute antique pieces I had used on the wreath.

Tribute to my father John Shepard MacCabe

2011-06-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

My Father was only 28 when he was killed in a car accident while on Navy Business. A promising and upstanding Lieutenant JS in the United States Navy. Killed in 1960, (I had just turned 3 years old). I have mostly Naval pictures of him, some from his college days and a few Wedding pictures with my Mother. But in spite of being so young, I still feel like I know him quite well! I am thankful to wonderful family and relatives who raised me to come to know him. I only remember being with him once, because he was over seas and on board a ship in the pacific on the 7th Fleet. That time is implanted in my brain, and I have loved him and miss not having had him when I was growing up!

A few years ago I did this layout in what will some day, when I get it completed, a scrapbook about his short, but fulfilling life.

My 'French' bathroom

2011-06-16T19:35:00.000-07:00

Mixed media collage in the bathroom under glass!

The candlestick is actually a very dark green patina look. I love this piece.

I have a thing for bunnies, or should I say rabbits, always have. I found this one years ago in a
catalog!

I wanted the affect to be rustic, so the decoupage is done to look like it was done a long time ago.

What is it about the Country French decor. So many people like it. I have several rooms that I have decorated this way. Here is one corner in my main bathroom that I have enjoyed doing some mixed media collage work and some decoupage. The twigs came from my yard. I used oasis on top of this large candlestick, and surrounded the twigs with silk flowers.

From the 1920's

2011-06-11T20:48:00.000-07:00

And with it were these wonderful vintage greeting cards from the 1920's

this one is in such perfect condition and had a postmard of 1927

I love this one which is a panoramic piece of artwork when you open it out!

I recently hosted a swap for scrapbooking supplies, called the Scrap Stash Swap. I only had 3 partnerships involved. My partner was Julie from The Vintage Chic. She spoiled me greatly and I love what she sent to me. I really think she sent to much, but I will say thankyou and be tickled to death! There was really so much scrapbooking supplies, mostly brand new, and I felt like I won one of those contests from a magazine and they send you all these supplies donated by sponsors. I am thinking that they are a pre-art-deco type style. Anyway thank you so much Julie, you are a very special blogging friend. Check out Julie's amazing paper crafting style and her amazing ability to post very touching and poignant feelgood posts.

I am not prejudice at all!

2011-06-09T06:02:00.000-07:00

I have some of the most adorable grandchildren on the planet. This one is no acception!

Meet Sailor Anne Morris!

Just had to show off some of these spectacular photos of my daughter, husband and especially little sailor! Kendra is the author and shop owner off adorn me girl, and has a wonderful Etsy. If you are looking to accessorize your little one like Kendra does, then visit here.

Little corner that I love

2011-06-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

This is a corner in my craft studio, right by my computer, so I spend lots of time here. I love my little nests, small inspiration books of quotes and thoughts, and especially my apothecary jar of vintage buttons and small trinkets, in this little corner. I think I have probably posted some of these things individually before, but not all together. They will probably get posted again when Karen Valentines blog party happens in July. The larger nest is a small grapevine wreath filled with spanish moss and bits of lace, shredded book pages, tiny feathers and millinary posies are gathered around the eggs. The small nest is one that my good blogging buddy Kristin of Signs and Salvage made for me. It is shredded book pages which are paper mache into a darling little nest. It came with easter candy in it, but I have replaced it with lavender and a rhinestone brooch in the middle. It is all good eye candy for me each day!

shabbylishious giveaway

2011-06-07T05:11:00.000-07:00

Here is a very shabby little giveaway from 'Shabbylishious' from Norway. Check out her lovely blog. I love what she does with pillar candles. The Drawing is June 20th. I love the title of her blog.

Domed Fairy collage

2011-06-05T23:23:00.000-07:00

I use to make these domed collages. This one I did for my granddaughter Breya, who had a fairy themed nursery when she came into the world. It was 2002 and now she is 8. It still hung in her bedroom until recently and I told her I would take it apart so I could do some re-gluing. I brought it home but when I went to work on it, I realized that if I tried to lift off the dome, it might ruin the dome. I guess it will just have to do sweet Breya Michele.

My Mother had given me a half dozen of these acrylic oval domes. She said she found them at an old hobby shop. I have never seen them before or after and have looked all over for them. If anyone know where I could get more, please let me know! thanks

There is a beautiful giveaway going on here!

2011-06-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

There is a wonderful giveaway going on over at Cassandra's blog. You simply must check it out! She is giving away a copy of this magazine of which she is featured in, plus a gorgeous charm bracelet. click here

Vintage Modeling

2011-06-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

In honor of June brides everywhere, I have these new found photos of my mother in her modeling years. These photos were taken probably in 1960. Her hair was naturally black, but she had her hair dyed blonde in these photos. I think they are very stunning indeed! The photographer seemed to be ahead of his time.

New paper creations from the Fairview retreat!

2011-05-31T11:35:00.000-07:00

All of the projects in this post were created by me. But this card was not done at the retreat, I actually made this card above for my Mother-in-law for Mother's day!

Here are a couple of scrapbook pages I created while at my retreat!
"Liam's blessing" and "Sisters and their babies!"

I stitched and made two of these cards in Fairview, while watching the movie "Young Victoria" my favorite movie right now!

This card was part of our card exchange!

this was another one for the card exchange!

This one was just a random one I made to put in my card stash. To view many more card and scrapbook page creations from the retreat please visit here: askmichelespecialpaperprojects.blogspot.com
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This is where I have been this past weekend!

2011-05-24T07:51:00.000-07:00

I was at the semi-annual scrapbooking/craft extended Retreat. We left on May 19th and stayed until Monday morning (May 23) and had a wonderful time crafting, quilting, card making, scrapbooking and eating in Fairview, Utah. Just thought I would share some of the beautiful surroundings that were there. It did rain a couple of those days, but that is more condusive to working on projects. There were 7 of us women, and we have been doing this since 1997. I will post some of the projects in my next post. We were down on the farm and got to watch the cattle being moved by authentic cowboys! Yee Haw!

Looking to the east!

below is looking to the west! It is a beautiful little green valley!

It is Pinkalicious for Evelyn

2011-05-20T18:25:00.000-07:00

It is a birthday present for my granddaughter Evelyn. She loves all the "Pinkalicious" books, by Victoria and Elizabeth Kann, and they are her favorite. She also has a new bedroom that is painted pink and she loves to say pinkalicious. She will be three years old tomorrow, so this is her pinkalicious dress! I loved creating it for her. The floral bouquet on the front can be removed for washing.

My latest published set!

2011-05-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

I loved designing this set with no titles or quotes! I was really thinking "French" all the way with this one.

I love to use vintage elements. The braid ribbon and the ledger paper, are both vintage.

Each element is carefully and meticulously designed and put together.
These sets usually take me a few days to get done! This one is called "French connection"
And then this is what it gets turned into at Storytellers Club and they design paper to match. French connection was in the April 2011 monthly ultimate pack that gets sent out all over!

My Pink Saturday

2011-05-15T19:08:00.000-07:00

While thrifting on Saturday
I found these adorable pink and
white dishes. They sure called
out to me. I think they are milk
glass, but when I saw them I
pictured in my mind, tea parties
with the granddaughters, and
perhaps a sweet little French Bistro
on a side street in Paris. If anyone
knows anything about these kind of
dishes, please let me know as there
is not anything on the bottom of the
cups, saucers, or plates. I paid less than
two dollars for all of this! Woo hoo!

Paper Medallions

2011-05-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my paper medallions that I have had on Etsy. I am trying to decide if I am going to keep these there or use them elsewhere. I really need to make some more though. I have use the above large one on a package before. There are just so many possiblilities with this paper craft!

My Mother's Day cake

2011-05-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

My Sweet daughter Kylee, is just getting into cake decorating. She made this for me for Mother's day.
I could not love it more. She makes the fondant from scratch, and this cake was as yummy to eat as it
was pretty on the outside. I think she did a super job as this was her first attempt at cake decorating.
Kylee you have quite a future in cakes ahead of you! I love it!

And this is the cake that Kylee made for my son and his wife who graduated on Saturday from SUU
Kylee you are amazing!

I love being a Mom!

2011-05-09T00:48:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken in 2008 and pictured here is myself (in the middle) with my 4 daughters, one of my daughter-in-laws and granddaughter Breya peeking through my shoulder. My son's were not around, this was a baby shower. I couldn't love my sons and daughters more, as I have 4 of each. I am probably busier now than I was when they were all at home. Now it is helping them out with so many different things, being present when one of these daughters has a baby, babysitting grandkids, sewing for them, mending for them, helping out in many different ways, and I love every minute of it. Being a mom is what I always wanted to do when I grew up more than anything else. I am so thankful I had the priviledge of being everyone of these 8 people's Mother. Yep, all I did back when they were all at home and what I do for them now as they are almost all married is the most important thing in my life for sure.
My husband says I spend so much time on my phone talking to them all, but he knows that I need to talk to them as they need me for different reasons. Yep being Mom is the greatest blessing any woman can get!
I LOVE IT! One more thing. To all my kids, thanks for being such wonderful human beings, and for giving me such a great Mother's Day!

I am lovin pin cushions

2011-05-06T22:40:00.000-07:00

I have been making pincushions, and I am really having fun finding things to put pincushions into, and then decorating them. This one will be for a gift exchange for a retreat I have coming up!

Spring Art Project

2011-05-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

I have this sterling silver ornate easel in my living room, that I like to make different paper decorations to hang or sit on, depending on the holiday or season. Here is my "spring art project" Better late than never, right?

I mounted it on a little board that has holes drilled through for the ribbon.

This tiny paper swan with the feathers attached was sent to me by Marsha over at sassy mini dolls in our latest matchbox swap.

All this talk about the Royal Wedding!

2011-05-02T09:37:00.000-07:00

My daughter posted some of her wedding pictures on her blog and called it her 'Royal Wedding.' She has set up a linky tool, so that others can share their wedding pictures too. September 22, 1978 was our wedding date. That was almost 33 years ago, and we have been happily married since. Isn't my husband so cute? So here are some of our "Royal Wedding" photos.

Yes, those, were the days of hats and quiana gowns. That hat was designed and made by my mother. My husband called it my victory hat, as he thought it looked a little bit like the 3 musketeers. I wish I still had my hat, with all that beautiful vintage lace on it. I was wearing my mothers pearl earrings too. And all my flowers were silks.

I wish I could go back to that day just once more. There is nothing like your wedding day when you are truly truly in love!

Kinley's sweet blessing dress

2011-04-30T20:41:00.000-07:00

The past few days, I have been working on two particular projects. This little baby blessing dress is for my newest grandbaby girl for her blessing tomorrow. In our church, little babies receive a special blessing in one of the Sunday meetings. It is my tradition that when one of my daughters has a daughter, then I make the blessing dress. I have made 6 now, and they have all been different. Little Kinley will look sweet in this vintage look dress as the pattern came from 1970. I just finished it this morning.

I love the sweet little yoke on this one.

The past weeks project for a swap!

2011-04-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

The other project I needed to complete this week is for the Vintage Brooch Mother's day swap hosted by Linda Smith at a Swap for all Seasons. We were supposed to send a vintage brooch, or it could by made from something vintage, and package it up in a lovely way or present it in a beautiful manner. I had this vintage brooch frame so I took a piece of vintage hanky and placed it in the middle. Then I found this wire basket recently at a thrift store, and thought I would make a pin cushion for it to place the brooch on. I have put it all in the mail to my partner in Pittsburg, PA I love the way it turned out, and I am getting crazy about pin cushions, and vintage brooches.

Hope my partner will like her Mother's day brooch!