Lulu's Cottage

WINNER!!

2011-05-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

Thank you soooo much to everyone who took the time to vote for our band. I can't even tell you how much that meant to me. Our band is "older" people and we play for "older" people....lots of times the people at our shows don't even have email. When we are competing with the younger people...well, they can just send out a text to all their friends and just like magic the votes come pouring in. That just makes the results even sweeter for us, we made it to #9 out of 365 bands. Top Ten....WOO HOO!

And, now for the winner of my shoe flowers.....drum roll please.....

Karie of http://karieschiccreations.blogspot.com/

I just love Karie's blog. She is so creative and I think that we have tons in common.

Thank you to everyone who commented and voted....I'm sending you ALL virtual HUGS AND KISSES!

I'm giving these away!!!

2011-05-08T10:29:00.000-07:00

Yes! These beautiful Flowers can be yours!

Here they are on a pair of sandals:

I'm in a Classic Rock band called Crystal Image and we were voted #11 last year on KCRA's "A List". Right now we are number 8 and the voting ends on May 18. Would you take just a minute to vote for us? I would be so very grateful!!

click here to vote: http://ctvr.us/crystalimage

All you need to vote is an email address, and you don't have to live in this area.

If you do vote for us, leave me a comment and I will draw a name from the comments and send you this pair of Shoe Flowers that I made. They are fabulous (if I may say so myself) and they go on anything. They would look great on a pair of flip flops, sandals, as a bracelet or necklace, pinned on a sweater or tied on to your purser. And, if you already voted....THANK YOU! And, yes, of course you can enter!

And....if you post my giveaway on your blog, I will add your name in twice, for a total of 3 entries!!!
Recap:

Vote for the band = 1 entry
(leave a comment to let me know that you voted...thanks!)

Share on your blog = 2 entries
(let me know in your comment that you shared..thanks!)

Drawing will be on May 19th

If you want to read more about our band, check out my other blog: http://stephaniesbandblog.blogspot.com

Thank you thank you thank you!!

Stephanie

05-11-11 P.S. Voting update. I want to thank all of you out there in the blogging world for helping me!! We are hovering at our position, the voting is intensifying this last few days. Without your votes I'm sure we would be moving in the wrong direction! Only 7 more days!

Shoe Bling

2011-04-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

I went shopping for shoes....again. They can put a man on the moon, but they can NOT make a truly fabulous, cute shoe that is comfortable! Why???

I saw so many shoes that I wanted, but I just can't wear them anymore. I love all the embellishments that are in style right now. This pair costs only $395. What? That's just a little out of my budget, and I could never walk in them.

As I was shopping, I started to get an idea. I could buy the comfortable shoes and embellish them myself. I couldn't wait to get started. I decided to start with fabric flowers. I found a tutorial on youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEbpMvAGs5k I learned what I needed to know and made this flower:

I decided that it wasn't necessary to cut circles, so I just cut squares. Just bein lazy I guess.

I cut about 3 or 4 sizes.

Next step was to singe them with a lighter. I used up the small one and finished with the long one. I will use the long one from now on, the small one hurts my thumb after a while. But, the long one tends to be too much, so be careful. It can do way more than singe if you aren't.

Here's all the pieces. The large one was to flat so, I clipped it in a few places and singed again. That did the trick. I did the same thing on the smallest pieces.

Here you go, two finished flowers. I put a few small red beads in the middle.

Then I sewed the flowers to a piece of ribbon.

Here is my new sandal. Very comfy!

I just tied the ribbon in a bow, under the flower.

Ta Da!!

How cute are they? I can't wait to wear them.

I will definitely make more of these!!

Now all I need is for the weather to co-operate and get warm!!

I won!!

2011-04-26T20:35:00.000-07:00

I'm a lucky girl!!! I had a wondrous journey through blogland with the One World One Heart tour. It was my third year in a row. It was truly amazing to see all the creativity out there!! Every blog (there were over a thousand) had a giveaway. I was so blessed to have received the following treasures:

This stunning necklace was sent to me from Cheryl. I love hearts and I will wear this one close to mine!!

A closer view! You can visit Cheryl at cherylstrait.wordpress.com

This wall hanging found it's way to me all the way from Australia. Beautiful Artwork, I love it in so many ways! The wonderful charms that hang down, the colors, it's just beautiful! To see more visit: Roz at rossylalah.blogspot.com

This artistic card was sent to me by Robin. I love blue and this picture just makes me happy! You can visit Robin at http://urbandebris.typepad.com/urban_debris_journal/

I'm sorry that it took me so long to share.

Eco/shopping bag instructions

2011-04-26T20:06:00.000-07:00

I said a while back that I would put instructions here for the bag that I gave away on the One World One Heart tour. Each time I write them, I get myself confused. But here goes!

First the bag:

I made these for gifts and I wanted to use "eco friendly" as my theme. I had this handy little shopping bag and it became my inspiration.

Here is it all folded out.

So, I figured what is more eco friendly than using a bunch of fabric that I already have? I looked through my stash and found this huge piece of fabric that I bought for a project that I never finished. There was a LOT of it!

So, I just cut a couple of large pieces to get started.

The bottom was the fold, so I would only need to sew up the sides.

This fabric would look cool on either side. I even ended up mixing the sides for variation.

On the top I just folded under, ironed it and sewed.

I ended up folding under twice. It looked better and seemed sturdier.

I sewed the sides up. On the next few bags I ended up making french seams. That made the bags pretty much reversible and sturdier.

So there is the basic bag.

I used the same fabric to make the straps. You can make them any length you like. I just made them the length of the fabric that was left over when I cut out the bag.

I made two strips about 2-3 inches wide.

Folded.

again

and ironed.

Then I sewed each strap.

This is the outside pocket. I just wanted something big enough to put a magazine or such in it.

Some velcro to hold it closed.

This is where the inspiration piece came in handy. There was a flap that made the bag stay rolled up small.

I sewed the soft side of the velco on the top of the outside pocket, and the sticky side on the inside of the flap. That was so that the velcro on the outside of the bag would "catch" on everything. Do the flap, but wait on the pocket so you can put it in just the right spot.

I sewed the flap on to the pocket before I sewed the pocket on to bag. As I made more bags, I realized that the pocket should go on before I sewed up the sides....much easier.

Then I sewed in the straps. I folded the bag first to decide where I wanted the straps.

I made the little box with the x inside to make the handles sturdy.

This fabric frayed very easily. I decided to make that a feature in my design and I pulled all the threads around the pocket and the flap.

Getting ready to fold it up and decide where the pocket velcro would need to be.

Fold each side in.

And then fold the entire bag twice, so it's in thirds.

With the flap out.

fold it up.

That's where your matching velcro needs to be.

Sew it on and you are done!

Here is another one with the wrong and right side of the fabric mixed up. I like the way it turned out.

They are really cute if you fold them up with the handles out.

Hope that works for you.

OWOH WINNERS!!

2011-02-24T13:40:00.000-08:00

I was supposed to draw my winners on Feb 17th! That very day we had a huge storm and our power was out for 4 days, and even on Monday...it kept going off! I've been catching up ever since! So, I am JUST NOW announcing my winners for the One World One Heart giveaway. And, just in time, because ANOTHER big storm is coming in as I write this!! Ugh....please send me positive thoughts to keep our electricity ON!!

Here are my two winners:

Lynne at http://islandgirlsinsights.blogspot.com/

and

Wanda at http://needlewings.blogspot.com/

Congratulations!

Thank you to all who stopped by to visit during OWOH. I look forward to getting to know you better!!

OWOH I almost made the whole trip!

2011-02-17T09:23:00.000-08:00

Whew! I tried to get to all of the blogs on the list before the deadline and I stayed up late late late. I think I had less than a hundred left when I finally gave up. Wow. What fun! I found so many great new blogs to follow!

I am going to do my drawing tonight just to let those last minute entries count....because I was one of them myself!!

I received almost 800 visits from all over the world during the event....wow!

I'm looking forward to going back and visiting new favorite blogs at my leisure! Thanks to everyone who stopped by for a visit. I appreciate each and every one of you!

One World One Heart 2011- ECO bag

2011-02-17T02:33:00.000-08:00

It's time for the magic carpet ride again!! I'm so excited!! I've been waiting and waiting for this. This will be my 3rd year to participate and each year I have had the most fun visiting blogs from all over the world. Each participant gives something away and let me tell you...it's incredible how many talented and creative people there are! I have been so lucky to receive many precious treasures!

I'm so happy to meet you! I love blogging and I have loved meeting all the terrific bloggers out there. My name is Stephanie, I'm married to my high school sweetheart (very cool guy!), empty nester (woo hoo!), I'm a grandma and I live in the mountains of Northern California. I like to make things, usually with fabric. Since I joined a Rock band (read all about it http://stephaniesbandblog.blogspot.com), I haven't had as much time to create....or at least my creation has taken a different track!

For the OWOH occasion, I am giving away TWO of my latest creations, a handy ECO friendly tote/shopping bag that folds up for travel. I made these for Christmas and got lots of compliments. You can keep it in the car or leave it in your suitcase. There will be TWO winners!

The tote/shopping back opened:

And here is the same bag rolled up and closed with a velcro flap, it looks like a cute little purse:

This is the second bag opened out. And, this one is reversible:

There is a large pocket on the outside:

You fold it the long way and roll it up with the handles out:

This is the bag all folded up, it has velcro to keep it closed:

If you like these bags and would like instructions to make your own, let me know and I will post them. It's a very simple process.

To enter, please leave your name and email address. If you don't put your email address, I have to go searching for it and when there are hundreds....that can be a lot of searching!! If you win, I will notify you by email.

The drawing is February 17th. I will announce the winners here on my blog the following day.

You simply MUST take the trip around the world with me and experience all the wonderful blogs.

Visit the One World One Heart headquarters here: http://awhimsicalbohemian.typepad.com/a_whimsical_bohemian/one-world-one-heart-1.html

I have to say how much I just LOVE Lisa's artwork...isn't it wonderful??

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your trip!

Keeping up with technology...or trying to

2011-02-13T11:18:00.000-08:00

I have always loved gadgets. When I was little I was in love with my "cassette" recorder. I didn't even know anyone else who had one. I recorded everything and everyone (ask my sister...he he)!! Remember the first "walkmans"? And, I remember our first computer, which was just a glorified typewriter. Remember DOS? We had the blue screen with white letters. I thought it was amazing. I remember floppy vs hard disks, and don't even get me started on ZIP disks(ugh). Those first games that our kids played...they seem so lame compared to what they have now. And my first car phone had a SUITCASE to carry it in! But, wow...the idea of talking on the phone from my car. It was like magic! My kids have often asked me what kind of music I liked when I was young. I tell them that I liked whatever was on the radio! We didn't have the internet. If the radio didn't play it, how would I even know about it?

Fast forward. I have been carrying around these wonderful "high" tech items:

digital recorder, ipod, camera, pda/phone:

And it's just too much. My purse doesn't have enough pockets for all this and besides, it's too heavy. So, at the urging of my daughter who got an Iphone, I got this:

And, it is supposed to replace all of those other items. So far....NOT. I'm starting to use the Ipod on my phone, but I haven't transferred ALL of my music...I have too much. I want to go in and choose just my favorite music to put on my Iphone, but that sounds like a daunting task. I'm still in transition on that.

I haven't given up on my digital recorder yet. I still use it to recorder music to practice for the band, and I still use it to record our shows. But, I don't carry it with me all the time anymore. If I need to record a thought or a note, I will use the Iphone....but admittedly, I still have to search around to remember how to do that!

The PDA was a favorite of mine for many many years. And, the Iphone has replaced it completely! I am syncing my calendar and can go online and play games. All things I used to use my PDA for. So, there's one!

The camera. Here is a picture from my old camera

My camera was not without it's problems. It often had those little dots that look like water spots. But, always in different places.

Here is the same picture from my Iphone:

I prefer the other one, spots and all. So, how can I NOT carry my camera with me?

I was talking to a friend who is a professional photographer and he told me that the problem was ME and not the Iphone. So, with his suggestions, I downloaded some "filters".

Here is a regular pic (from the Iphone):

Same picture with a filter applied:

So that was cool.

Here is another:

Here is the same picture with a filter applied:

That was also cool.

But, this whole ...take a picture...save the picture...apply the filter....save again....well that's not me. I don't particularly like taking photos. I just take a picture to save a moment or to show on my blog. I don't want to take any extra steps at all!

It would be nice to have my Iphone be my camera, but for now, I'm still carrying around my old one!

Yesterday I felt particularly HIGH tech. I wanted to get a movie. Hubby told me to go to Redbox. I went to the one I always go to and they didn't have the one I wanted. I was shopping and running errands and he told me on the phone to go to another one. So, I pulled over and opened the Redbox "ap" and found the movie at a location just seconds from where I was. I got there and there was a line. So, while I was waiting for my turn, I got on my phone and reserved the movie. Just like that. If someone in front of me wanted my movie...TOO LATE! I already got it. I was feeling pretty smug!

I'm still learning all the wonderful things this phone can do. And, I'm sure I have just scratched the surface.

Happy Birthday to my precious girl

2011-02-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

It's her birthday...and not just any birthday....it's the big 3-0! Woo Hoo. She thinks it's old and I want to shake her and tell her what "I" know...this is a terrific age to be! She will love her 30's, I'm positive!

She was a precious baby, sweet girl and we've been so close. I'm really lucky. I have a ton of photographs. Almost literally! Hubby is a photographer...so you can imagine! I could spend hours sifting through photos. I decided to narrow it down and include pictures of her and me. That made it really easy!

I love this picture! It's like time travel for me. I can remember that moment and everything about it. I love those candid 'everyday' pictures that capture real life.

My girl was always soooo cuddly. I held her most of the time.

This is from Yosemite...we go way back with this special place.

She has always been a "girlie girl" (I don't know where she gets it!) and I always LOVED fixing her hair and dressing her up. Gotta love those pigtails!

And she has always been a really happy person. She does have a temper, but it's always short lived. I remember when she used to get mad and she would stomp her foot and say loudly "I'n not Hoppy!".

This is from our fun trip to New York with her Jr. High choir. We couldn't be in NYC and not go to Broadway!

This looks like Yosemite again!

I always called her my "precious angel", but the "little devil" fits too!

My one and only backpacking trip. It was so wonderful that I could write pages about it. And, it was a really bonding time for my daughter and me.

Her teen years were a dream. She was a gymnast, cheerleader, swimmer and she even placed 2nd Runner up in the Local county pageant. It has always been fun to be her mom!

My daughter's wedding was one of the very best days of my life. We both say that we would love to do that all over again!

Her we are just recently. She lives right next door and we have many good times together.

I was honored to be included with her girlfriends for a day of pampering!

And, I gave her 30 presents to honor her special day, (will admit to adding some pieces of candy to pad the numbers!).

This past 30 years has been wonderful. I'm looking forward to the next 30! Happy Birthday Sweetie!!

Woo Hoo...I made it! #542

2011-02-01T10:19:00.000-08:00

I made it on the list! That Lisa is incredible. I don't know how she does this?! I put OWOH on my calendar with the plan to be one of the very first to participate. Then as it approached, I could not think of anything wonderful to give. So, I procrastinated. Then I started visiting the wonderful blogs on the list and I HAD to participate. I am officially #542. Last year I think it went way over 1,000, so I will be in the middle of the list. That will be just fine. I am truly enjoying my travels around the world and I am amazed by the fabulous giveaways that are being offered. I am going to up the ante and add to my giveaway asap. What fun!

If you are on this journey too, I have a few tips to share with you that may save you some time.

Commenting/Entering: First, write a basic message to post on your comments that include your name, email and blog address, then "copy" it, (control C). It's really hard for the blog author to find this information when you have hundreds of comments. So... when you visit a blog, write something personal and then "paste" your basic message underneath.

If you have a blog...I love hearing about you and where you live. I didn't put this information on mine until I realized that I was enjoying that part of other people's posts.

As you travel, either bookmark the blogs that you really resonate with or "follow" them. It's almost impossible to find them again because there are so many. I have found blogs that I have followed over the past couple of years and truly enjoyed that I originally found on my OWOH journey.

Have fun on your trip!

Our new "Blog" Dog

2011-01-08T13:33:00.000-08:00

This is our new doggie, Pepper:

We lost our precious Zula, last spring. She was the PERFECT dog for us.

She was sweet and calm, but also big and black and scary to strangers. She really barked and protected us. She also played and took care of our little Pookie.

We called her the "babysitter". When we brought Pookie home as a puppy, Zula adoped him right away. He slept with her, played with her and she would even let him steal a treat right out of her mouth. Zula was perfect. She can't be replaced.

But, we do need a big dog. We live in the country and I just feel safer with an outside dog watching over us and our place. Ever since last spring, we talked and talked about getting a new dog. We even went to the pound to get one, but they had this crazy policy that just wouldn't work for us. You choose the dog you want and then you show up on a certain day and they do a lottery for the dog with anyone and everyone who is interested in that dog. We did this one time and did not get the dog. Who has time to go down over and over hoping to get a dog? So, we just gave up.

Then a couple weeks ago, I was looking at my favorite blogs and while I was on Donna's blog, anenchantedcottage, she had a button on the right that said "adopt a dog". I clicked on it and found the animal shelter in my county with lots of pictures. The animal shelter I went to before is in the next county over where I spend most of my time. I decided to try the one here in my own area and we found Pepper on the first visit. We had to wait a few days to pick her up, but she was ours the minute we made the committment!

That was easy!

Turns out, she is a really sweet dog. She is 7 months, so still a puppy. She thinks that Pookie is a toy and he liked playing with her at first, but now it's a bit much for him. I saw her grab his harness by the mouth and swing him around....fun for her...for him...not so much!

And, now, she has a "crate":

We got it yesterday and already, she is already comfortable with it. What a good doggie.

She cries a little and then stops.

This is my daughter with Pepper. She lets Pepper and her dog, Foxy run in the fenced in garden. They are a really good match and it's fun to watch them go. Can you see Foxy hiding up the stairs?

We are so happy to have Pepper. And, she is one lucky dog. This place where we live, is truly dog Heaven!

A special thank you to Donna, this wouldn't have happened without you!! You are Pepper's fairy godmother!

It's coming.....OWOH 2011

2011-01-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited...it's almost time for One World One Heart. This will be my 3rd year to participate and it will also be the final year. It's a wild time of visiting blogs all around the world. Each blog that participates has a giveaway. Usually the giveaway is a hand made art or craft. I have several treasures from OWOH that are so special to me. I still don't know what I am going to give away, but I want to make it something really great.

You can read all about it by clicking on the picture above. Get ready, it's going to be a wild ride!

2011....all things are possible!

2011-01-06T13:02:00.000-08:00

It's a brand new year and I am making a brand new start. I am clearing out 2010 and putting it behind me. There were many wonderful things that happened in 2010. The biggest for me was being in the band. It started out as something small and grew into a very large part of my life. I even have a blog dedicated to it: stephaniesbandblog.blogspot.com . I learned a lot and had so much fun. There were so many fun shows that it's hard to point to a favorite. We played for 2 county fairs and 1 festival. We played for many wineries and out door venues like "music in the park". We also played for private parties and those are always fun. Of course there are the restaurant/bar/pub shows that are also a blast. We are looking forward to an even better year and it's already shaping up!

Another big thing is that my son moved to Seattle. It was a really hard and harsh reality for him and he learned so much. He changed a lot and all of it for the better. He is smarter and stronger and in a really good place right now. I'm so happy for him.

My home based Isagenix business has been a steady source of income and I am so grateful for that. I look forward to putting even more effort in to that in 2011. And, of course, the Isagenix program has kept me healthy and happy all year....I can't even imagine life without it. It has given me the energy and health that has allowed me to do all the things that I wanted to do.

I finished out 2010 with a surgery that I was not expecting. I had to have my gallbladder removed. I was super sad because I had to miss our New Year's show that I was soooo looking forward to, but it could not be helped. Darn. The surgery was a week ago today and I am feeling pretty close to normal. Wow. That's amazing. I am grateful for modern medicine and all those wonderful medical professionals that are there to take care of us when we need them. And, I am grateful for Isagenix, which I am certain had a big part in my speedy recovery.

So, now, it's time to look forward. I have put together my new vision board and I'm still adding to it. It sits on the wall opposite my desk, so I can see it all the time. It has really changed my thinking. It's pretty much my mission statement in "images".

I have lots of goals for 2010 and I have a feeling it's going to be a really great year.

How about you?

a few of my favorite things....

2010-12-18T12:30:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas! It's such a wonderful time. And, I love all the decorations too. I thought I would share a few of my favorite Christmas items with you.

This is something new that I added this year. I love having a table runner and I found this PERFECT one at a thrift store for just a couple bucks! The best part is the bullion fringe...which of course you can't see because it's hanging down.....but "I" know it's there!

I have lots and lots of favorite things here...including my Christmas dishes, of course!

This beautiful Waterford crystal bowl was a gift from a company that worked for many years ago. They sometimes gave some 'lame' gifts and sometimes they gave fabulous ones...this one is one of my favorites!

These candlesticks are my Mother in Laws. She gave them to me to put out for Christmas dinner a few years ago and we have used them every year since.

I don't know what it is about this box. I loved it the minute I saw it in an art gallery. Hubby went back and got it for me and it's been one of my treasures ever since. And, I can change it to match any decor by putting something else inside it.

This little birdie is new. A gift from a friend. This is something that I would not have bought for myself. It's a little teapot and she knows that I like teapots. Even though it doesn't look like something I would pick out....I have really fallen in love with it. It just goes with EVERYTHING. Thanks to my dear friend.

Tom & Jerry. This was just like one my Grandma had. Every Christmas they served Tom & Jerry drinks in cups like these. I loved that drink! When I went to visit as an adult and they gave me my drink...something was horribly wrong with it!! I never knew that it was a booze drink!! As a kid, we had just the sweet mix. The booze ruined it....ha ha. I had my Grandma's Egg Nog bowl and cups, but the bowl somehow got broken. I still have the cups and I'm always looking for the exact bowl to match.

My baby....he's 23 now...made these in kindergarten. I don't save all my kids art projects, but I always liked these lights. So, they go up in the same place every year.

This ornament in the middle was a gift from a friend. It's so pretty that it has to be one of my favorites!

Of course the fireplace is one of my favorites all year!

I always put out these 3 nutcrakers in the same place every year. Way back when my kids were little, we decided that tv was a bad influence and when the lightning took out our antenna that was at the top of a tall pine tree (that is how we did it way out here in the country!! before satellite!)...we just didn't have tv at all. So, they missed out on all the latest shows and....the commercials. When I asked my little boy what he wanted for Christmas, he would only say a "nutcracker". No toys, nothing. I used to have to show him a Sears catalog so he would see what was out there! Of course, we got him Nutcracracker, it's the one in the middle. The arm is broken and it's been played with a lot! The other two were the next couple of years until he grew out of it. Seeing these always takes me back to those innocent days.

When I started switching out all my decor for Christmas, I found I was missing all my family pictures. So, last year I found all of our Christmas card pictures. We used to take one every year with our kids. I framed them and you can see them all grow up in an instant right here.

This little violin was something we added when our son brought his family home for Christmas after missing it for a few years. I remember our granddaughters just loving it!! When you tap the strings with the bow, it plays a Christmas song. They were so excited to find out that they could play the violin!! He he.

These towels are a gift from my BFF. Whenever we visit each other, we bring a gift. All of the gifts that she has given me are my favorite things!! I just love these towels! They really perk up this corner of my kitchen! And, she chose them just for this spot!

Whew. Time to rest! This is really Pookie's spot. Sparky just took over and they are both willing to put up with each other for a place on Dad's lap.

Are you ready for Christmas?

Thanksgiving...then Christmas

2010-12-05T12:56:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. My Dear Daughter prepared the turkey and pretty much most of the meal at her house. It smelled WONDERUL in there!!

I did my part. I made yummy sweet potato casserole. I'm not the best cook. I would rather set the table!

And when it was all over, it was time for the transition to Christmas!! One year as I was putting away my Christmas decorations, it just seemed so bare. All I did when I decorated for Christmas was to add a few little knick knacks here and there and when I put them away, it just seemed so blah. Sooooo.....

I had the idea of packing away all my normal decorations and only put out Christmas ones. It's a chore, but it's worth it to me. And, hubby. One year, I told him I wasn't going to go "all out" with the Christmas decorations and he got all "sad" on me. So, now I know who I'm decorating for!

And, he helps! We keep all this stuff in the attic. I unpack Christmas and pack the everyday stuff in those same boxes.

And there are a LOT of them!

I figured out that I should always save the boxes that things come in for packing and storing.

I always wanted Christmas dishes. I got these a few years ago from Kmart. They were super affordable and I just love them. After Christmas that year I went back and bought more at a huge discount. So, now I have extra in the cupboard and at Christmas dinner I don't have to take these down to eat on!

And of course the fireplace. All ready for Santa!

That's it for now....more to come!! Are you all ready for Christmas?

Here's another one...

2010-11-28T13:57:00.000-08:00

Yep..another giveaway! This pretty reindeer will be given out on Dec 10th. Go to Lulus Lovlies to enter:

http://luluslovlies.blogspot.com/2010/11/happy-pink-saturday-and-100th-follower.html

Great Giveaway!

2010-11-28T13:39:00.001-08:00

I just came across these lovely earrings that she is giving away! I want to wish you well in the contest...but I also would like to win these pretty earrings for myself. Oh, what the heck.....GOOD LUCK! Click here: http://graciejewellery.blogspot.com/2010/11/november-27-pink-saturday-give-away.htm

I'm not ready....

2010-11-22T13:13:00.000-08:00

Nope. Not ready at all. But, I am one step closer.

It sure seems like the Holiday Season has snuck up on me this year. I feel like the Christmas decor is out early...or is it just me? My Dear Daughter already has her Christmas decorations up and that was a couple weeks ago!! Yesterday I told hubby to get out the Xmas boxes! But, then I realized that I didn't want to have Christmas all around for Thanksgiving...it would seem like a whole different holiday, or Christmas dinner would seem like a repeat of Thanksgiving dinner. So, I held back.

I'm going to put on my holiday sofa slip cover that is burgundy and corderoy (so comfy and warm), and my fall flowers and those little Thanksgiving items here and there. Since we are having our family dinner on Wed. Guess what I will be doing on Thurs? You got it. Christmas will be arriving at this little cottage in FULL force!

Here are my few little changes so far. You've seen it all before...I haven't had time to create anything new. (But, I did make time to make something for ME...next post!)

Dining room..before

Ready for Thanksgiving:

Fireplace before. Ugh...this fireplace is not just for decor..it keeps our house warm, and that is very messy! Lots of ash dust and wood shavings. This is a constant thing all winter!

Good time to vaccum the wall and ceiling! I always say that this fireplace is the heart of our home. We have so many pictures in front of it, family pics, prom pics. So many happy memories. I think it's so pretty with all the rocks.

Now it's all ready for Thanksgiving.

But, come Thursday...it will all change!!

P.S. This decorating really got me in the spirit! I even went over to Cutest Blog on The Block and got a Thanksgiving background for my blog. Isn't it great??!

Spider Necklace for Halloween

2010-11-13T17:50:00.000-08:00

I wanted a really great necklace to wear with my Halloween costume. We had 3 Halloween gigs with our band and I had an Elvira costume. I searched around the internet and decided that I could make a spider necklace.

I chose a few things out of my stash....mostly clear, crystal, black, silver and red.

This spider was my first attempt. I love the way it turned out.

And, so I made earrings to match. My daughter had to fly (as a flight attendant) on Halloween and so I gave this set to her. She said she got lots of compliments.

None of my beads were big enough for what I had in mind. So.....I went through my stash of old jewelry.

I had loads of earrings from the 80's and I picked an earring from this pile and took it apart. This spider necklace has 2 parts of one earring. How did I ever wear them that big? I actually made this twice. I felt that the wire gauge wasn't strong enough to hold the shape in the legs. And, that's so important.

It turned out just the way I wanted it. It was HUGE!! And, it kept it's shape the whole weekend!

I made some little spiders to match.

Here's the final result...hubby and me in our costumes. We had a terrific weekend of FUN. You can read all about it on my other blog: http://www.stephaniesbandblog.blogspot.com

Oh...one more thing...I must point out the fabulous spider ring that my dear daughter bought for me on one of her trips! It was perfect!

My Home Office Tour

2010-10-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to share my home office with you for a long time. Reasons why I haven't: it's always messy, I want to paint it, I need a rug, it's always messy. I am not one of 'those' people for whom decorating comes easy. I don't have the 'knack' and I know it. It takes a lot for me to figure out what I like and making it happen is even harder. But, I love this room. Even with all it's flaws. It has some truly wonderful characteristics and I enjoy the time (which is a lot) that I spend in here. I work from home and I'm on my computer a lot. I have several businesses that I run from here: www.myskinnystory.com, www.crystalimagemusic.com, www.stephaniesemarketing.com and I work with my husband in his business: www.stevenfarrell.com. So, I have good reason to be here for hours on end. And, it's truly one of my favorite places to be.

Let's start with my view. This is what I see from my own vantage point.

I actually do keep my desk cleared off a lot of the time, but that's because I shift everything to the shelf behind me! Roses were from hubby for our anniversary. The bulletin board is my "vision board". I wanted to re-do it and now it's been blank for a long time. I DO have a vision for my life....goals, plans and dreams. I'll have to get on that soon!

I also have a cute lamp that is not in the picture...darn. Here it is and you can also see my headset. I'm lost without a headset! Best thing ever!

I don't know why those spots keep showing up in my pictures, ugh. Behind my desk is another bulletin board with a little bit of everything on it. Momentos mostly. The shelves were here when I moved in 22 years ago and when they were built, the closet got blocked off and there is no door. So, I put a curtain there. I love that little window above the bulletin board. This desk was one of those things that I had in my mind and when I found it, it was PERFECT!

And, notice the cords? Or lack thereof? I posted about this a while back read it here. Yep, I hid them. The two chairs go to my dining room set, it's great place to store them. I would love to put a rug in here. I have a challenge with my little doggy and rugs....if anyone has advice on that...PLEASE let me know!

I love the window. I'm enjoying looking out right now, it's raining. It's always green and pretty. And, it always makes me wish I was the gardener type, there is such potential there.

This is the small wall between the closet and the door. My daughter made the little picture hanging with pics of the two of us. It was for my birthday and I treasure it. Who says you have to buy an expensive gift??

I used to call this the Angel Room because the light switch has an angel on it.

The bulletin board is more for looks and less for function. I can't write on it...ever. Shall I show you why?

It's a little message that my granddaughters wrote the last time that they were here. I'm not going to erase that!! They can erase it and write me a new message the next time they come....which will hopefully be soon. I should call them right now!!

I love this little credenza. I have matching end tables in my living room. If I ever get a flat screen tv, I will get rid of that horrible entertainment center (hubby just had to have it years ago) and put this cute cabinet in the living room. Ah, I wish!

Since I work on different projects, this is how I keep them separated. These little file holders are so handy!!

One of the drawbacks of this room is that it gets really cold in here. There is no heat source at all! We use a wood burning stove in the living room, but it doesn't really reach in here. So a space heater is crucial. I've been through soooo many of them. This is my latest and I think I have a winner!! It's got a nice warm feel and not blowing hot air right at you! Plus, it has an 'economy' button. We'll see about that when the electric bill gets here!

Pookie likes it too!

What I would like to change in here. I would like to have an area rug, it would be pretty and maybe keep it a little warmer. I would paint all the trims white. When I painted this room, I painted EVERYTHING with wall paint. I just didn't know. Even the door. And, it's all lavender. I would like white trim on the window, closet, door and drawers. I even bought the paint.

I want it to magically paint itself. Or a painting fairy.

So, there you have it. My home office. I would love to see yours!!

My latest creation...Please tell me...great or awful?

2010-10-13T00:04:00.000-07:00

I'm always thinking about what I want to make. I have lot's of little notes and sketches (and I don't sketch!!). I had this great idea and I jumped right in to make it. I was thinking that I need more cute jackets to wear to shows. I'm getting really tired of what I have. One of my favorites is a sweater makeover I did a while back. So, this one is in the same style, with a different take.

It all starts with the sweater. I keep forgetting to take a picture (for you) before I cut it. I get so excited, those scissors seem to get a mind of their own! Here is the sweater that I started with (sorry I did already cut it).

I cut off the ribbing on the sleeves and waist.

Then...

I had a small piece of this red and gold fabric. I thought that both sides were pretty cool and I wanted the threads to come loose. I also like beads, so I added those too. I almost couldn't cut this fabric (it's so pretty), but this is the idea that I saw in my head...so the scissors started snipping again.

I want it to fray, but if I don't stitch a stopping point, it will all come undone. So, I stitched all around the cut outs.

Here is the finished sweater. I was pretty disappointed with it. It just didn't turn out like I wanted. I hung it on my sewing room door and my daughter saw it. She said it was great. Confusion.

I decided to try it on with black, which is how I would wear it. And, in the picture, I'm in love with it.

I think I will wear it afterall.

Either it's pretty great or not. Please tell me!

Taking a little break

2010-10-06T13:24:00.000-07:00

I found myself with a 'free' day today. So, I was trying to think of all the things I need to do, there are many. As I was shuffling things around my desk, I looked up and realized what a disaster my office has become. How can I get anything done? So, I decided to clean and organize it. And, now...right now...I'm taking a break and sitting (once again) at my computer. Big surprise. Not. But, hold on... I'm going to get back to it. I just got hungry. That's plausible, right? I decided to have a cup of soup. Mmmm. It's chilly today and a cup of soup is perfect. And, this is not just any soup...nope...it's skinny soup. Read about it on my other blog: myskinnyblog.com

Okay. Back to the cleaning. Well, not really back to the cleaning, back to talking about cleaning. I just wanted to say out loud that it seems like I am just the manager of a bunch of stuff. Do I need all this STUFF? Boxes, and papers and things I can't even categorize. Time to purge. Time to be ruthless and throw some stuff out. Is that a hard thing for you to do? I think of myself as someone who does not keep things, but I DO have a lot of things, so maybe I'm lying to myself. I want some breathing room here.

So, I'm going to do it. Where are the trash bags? Wish me luck!

Wine Waterfall and Deb's Dangles

2010-09-29T15:21:00.000-07:00

I don't like to clean the house, I don't like to do yard work. What was I thinking when I decided to have a Garden Party? When it was time for the party...I was exhausted!

On the plus side, I am completely enjoying my clean house and yard. Maybe I should have a party every couple of weeks!

The occasion for this party was to showcase my friend Deb and her jewelry business. She makes all her own jewelry. Some of those jewelry parties out there can get expensive!! Deb's earrings are ALL $12. What a deal!!

We set her up in the tent.

She had a very nice display. It was already getting dark, so I brought out a lamp and some flashlights.

This was a Wine, Waterfall and Earring party. So, of course, we had plenty of wine!

And the Waterfall! Thank goodness for the great weather!

Lot's of yummy food. Thanks to my wonderful Mother in Law for the Banana Bread with 2 different spreads and plenty of deviled eggs!

For my crafty friends....I had a TON of this green fabric. I used some of it to make some outdoor chair covers (see next pic) I made a zillion years ago. So, I got it out and cut it to fit all the tables. I didn't hem it or anything. It was a last minute thought and I love how it turned out.

Ah. So nice.

My dear daughter the "Cork Mistress and Wine Expert"!

Here is Deb, the Jewelry Designer (right).

Too much to choose from!!

Deb was surprised when my mother in law wanted the "skull" earrings!! Ha Ha! She will wear them for Halloween.

It was a lovely night! Thanks to everyone who came.

Feeling Groovy

2010-09-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

I was getting ready for a party last weekend that our band was playing for (check out my band blog), the party was Hippie themed.

I decided that my hair do would be to part my hair down the middle and straighten it. After I was finished, I had deja vu. This is the exact hair do I wore in high school. I was class of 77. We didn't have curling irons or flat irons. The "Blow Dryer" had just come out!

I don't have naturally straight hair. In high school, to have straight hair, I used to lay my head on the ironing board and iron my hair with the iron.

I burned my head a couple of times because if you didn't get real close to the scalp, you would have a bump. Yuck. No bumps please. I finally came up with a little technique of holding a comb next to my scalp and that worked. It took FOREVER to accomplish this.

Now....What a treat to be able to straighten my hair with a flat iron. So fast....so easy!! And, no injuries!!

When we first started doing the Hippie Themed shows, I had to get an outfit to wear. I did some research and came up with either wearing "authentic" hippie clothes, which are kind of a free for all, no shoes and not all that "showy" or a "costume" which might be more entertaining. I chose "costume".

I have a costume that I got from Ebay last summer. It was much too revealing for me, so I did some adjusting. I added a waistband...these pants were waaaaay too low for this Grandma! And, the top didn't cover up much at all. I added some "fringe" to the top and some beads here and there. I've been tinkering with it over the last year.

I had added some beads to the sleeves, but many of them fell off. So, I sat down to replace them with something better.

First I decided to bring my supplies out to the deck and enjoy the nice weather.

I looked at my choices and picked some beads that I thought would be perfect.

And, some wonderful refreshment...a shake...not just any shake...read all about it here.

Taa daa! Just right!

If we keep doing the Hippie Theme, I'm going to need a new costume, because I'm getting tired of this one!!

My Purse, her purse...OUR purse!

2010-09-23T21:05:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I went shopping. It's that time of year. You know what I'm talking about? If you don't buy your fall or winter clothes right now, they will all be gone. Then, when it's REALLY winter and it's REALLY cold and you wish you could buy a warm sweater or a coat...well, all that you will find in the stores is swimsuits and sundresses!! This is how it seems to me!!

So, I bought a few things to add to my closet for the fall weather AND I found the PERFECT purse. I have been on a search for the PERFECT purse for a really long time now. Years. And, here it was. I just knew the minute I saw it. Of course, it was waaaaay out of my budget. Except....I had found a gift card for Macy's that I forgot I even had. "Found Money". That' what that was. So, with the gift card, I thought I could afford it and I bought it.

When I got to the parking lot, I switched to my new PERFECT purse and was feeling blissful. A beautiful DESIGNER purse. All mine. Ah.

And, then....I realized that my neck and shoulder were starting to hurt. I even started to get a headache. I realized that my PERFECT purse was too heavy.

Maybe it was all the fabulous buckles, one of my favorite features.

When I got home, I showed the purse to my daughter.

She decided that SHE had to have it. But, I DID tell you it was expensive, right? So, she decided to put it on her Macy's card.

We went shopping today.

When I told the clerk at Macy's that I wanted to return the purse. No problem. Then my daughter said..."I would like to now buy that purse", the clerk was surprised, of course. She even gave her 20% discount for using her Macy's card. Woo Hoo!

It's such a great purse that another customer wanted to buy it right then and there. But, it was too late, dear daughter already had it.

She wasted no time getting her stuff switched over!

I can't be jealous (well maybe a little), it looks great on her. And, I can visit it anytime!!!

So, I am still on the hunt for the PERFECT purse. Here is my latest idea.

I think I will make one. Remember this one?

I'm going to make one in BLACK. So, it will go with everything. And, I will make the new one bigger, because this pink one was too small.

I bought some fabric today and I'm going to start knitting right away! My hopes are high!!

Fashion, Magazines & Fall??

2010-09-14T12:59:00.000-07:00

Is it fall? Is summer over? It feels like summer never really happened at all. We had a really late spring and it just hasn't been all that hot for all that long. And, now Labor Day has passed. The Official Day to switch out my wardrobe. Well, I never really get it done that soon, but it's the day I start thinking about it. Do you pack away your out of season clothes? I love to switch. It's extra work, but I think it's worth it.

I love fashion. Have I told you that? I'm sure I have, many times. I get so excited whenever it's Thursday and I get to watch Project Runway! I would love fashion even more if I was taller, thinner and richer!!

Do you give much thought to your own personal style? Or does it just happen? I think about it a lot, because again, I just like clothes and such. But, for me, it DOES just happen a lot of the time. I'm REALLY in to comfort. I like soft fabrics and I don't like tight clothing. (I even wish I never had to wear a bra ) I just read a quote from Tim Dunn, Project Runway (LOVE HIM!) on this very subject from Marie Claire: "I get very impatient with the whole "comfort issue" with clothing. Yes, you don't feel as comfortable in clothes as you do in your pajamas. That's a good thing. Your navigating a world where you need to have your wits about you. If you're in a lackadaisical comfort haze, you can't be engaged in the world the way you need to be." Hmmm. As I read that, I was in my daily uniform of comfy sweats. Can't looking great be comfortable? There must be a way.

I love to read magazines and get ideas. But, wow, that can get expensive, right? When you leave behind your magazines on the airplane, the flight attendants, like my daughter, pick them up and keep them. She brought me this entire selection. LOVE HER!!

Yes, I do LOVE magazines. But, I don't love having piles of them sitting around the house. So, I have a system for reading magazines and I'm going to share it with you. I read the magazine, page by page (rather quickly), stopping when I like something. If I like a picture, I tear it out. If I think I might want to read an article again (instructions or such), I tear it out. After I'm done, that magazine can get filed in the garbage.

These are my tear outs from today.

I have folders for my main catagories like: fashion, crafts, decorating etc. Then when I want to make something, I pull out the folder for ideas. I love looking through these folders. All my favorite ideas...all in one place!

I have had these folders for many years!!

In Remembrance

2010-09-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

Red Blouse Refashion

2010-09-03T21:22:00.001-07:00

Wow...has it been a whole month since I've posted? What the heck? I guess I've been busy. Take a look at my other blog and you will see what keeps me so busy these days: www.stephaniesbandblog.blogspot.com Yep. I'm in a band. And, I need something new to wear! We wear all black and red and it gets hard to be creative. I wear more black and I could use some red. So, here we go....a blouse "refashion". This blouse is nice. It's red with little black pin stripes. But, I have only worn it once. It's too big and I just don't like the way it fits.

Dang. Why didn't I take a picture before I started cutting it all up? I think you can get an idea of the "before"....right?

I knew that I wanted it to be a little jacket. First thing I had to decide was how short to cut it. After that, I attached some black ribbon all along the bottom.

Then I decided to put some black ribbon all along the collar too.

I cut the sleeves and decided how short I wanted them to be.

Really short looked better. More "current".

How about changing the buttons? That would be nice.

I like these fabric covered ones. They would be perfect, IF they are the right size and the right amount. Note: I always remove buttons from clothes I get rid of. You can never have enough buttons.

I'm going to search through my stash of vintage buttons that I have collected at garage sales.

More choices.

Dang. Some of these are navy. That won't do. Only 3 black ones. I need 7!
\

Unless, I just space out the 3. What do you think?

I tried it on and it's still too big. So, I am going to make all four darts just a little bit bigger.

It fits perfect! I LOVE it! I also added a bow on each sleeve. I love bows. I'm super happy with my new jacket!!

Everyday Daughter Love

2010-08-07T14:37:00.000-07:00

Have I told you that my dear daughter lives next door? Probably about a hundred million times, right? I just love that everyday relationship that comes with close proximity!

Today she called and said "Help!". She wanted me to come up and help her figure out what to wear to a friend's birthday BBQ. I went right over to help with the emergency!!

Come take a little walk with me. When I say that my daughter lives "next door", that is a relative term. In "country" terms, it is up a little trail from my house.

This is on the "upper lawn". We have always called it that, but there has NEVER been a lawn there. Don't ask me.

This is where we had a little "shake date" this morning. She came over and we had our Isagenix shake together. Nice.

Right beside the waterfall. I was thinking that it was a perfect moment. Shoulda took a pic for you!

Okay. Let's continue. Look down the "lawn" (ha). Do you see a trail? It's on the right.

See it now?

Here we go! It's uphill for sure. Not too far...don't worry!

Can you see her house yet? Look harder....

We're here. See....RIGHT next door!

She's waiting for me, with a welcoming committee!

Here are all the rejects. You see she recently lost a bunch of weight and nothing fits. Good problem, right? (did you know that weight loss is my home based business? If you're ready to have the good problem of clothes that are all too big....I can help!!)

I picked this out...and she is happy! She looks great...if I may say so myself!!

A little pose at the front door. She is such a trooper to put up with me and my camera...she was reluctant (no makeup)...but I just snapped away.

View from her porch. Ah.

Turn around. This is the way back to my house.

Dear Daughter's little guard dog.

Do you see the trail?

Oh good. Downhill all the way!

Can you see my house yet?

Here it is. We're back. That didn't take long at all.

Now I'm back inside, where it's nice and cool...checking out my favorite blogs. Hope you enjoyed our little walk!

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OK...it's hot now

2010-07-17T12:24:00.001-07:00

It wasn't all that long ago that we had the "winter that just would not end". And, I kept saying that I was looking forward to COMPLAINING about being hot. Yeah. It's hot out there. We live in the mountains and our place is in a shady area that doesn't get hot. We don't have air conditioning and we always say that we only need it a couple days a year. Is today one of those days? Not yet, but it's warming up!

When it's hot, my downstairs is cool. And, guess what is downstairs? Yep, my sewing room.

I made this a few weeks ago and have another one started. This material is sooooo soft! I don't wear a lot of light colors, but with a tan, this would look great. (my tan comes from a bottle!!)

Dear Son is down there sleeping in, just visiting for a couple days. It's time to go down there an make some racket. Hopefully I will have another new dress to post soon!

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What a fun show!

2010-07-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

A very dear friend gave us her tickets to the Music Circus last night. Oh what a fun time!! This show was a real HOOT! My husband is a BIG Monte Python fan. He just was beside himself.

These tickets were incredible. We were in the 3rd row. I've never been so close before. You could see everything! We were really lucky!!

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A Lovely Summer Evening

2010-07-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

My absolute favorite thing about summer is family dinners outside. I love it when things come together at the last minute....everyone is so busy these days! My 2 closest neighbors happen to be my daughter and her husband and my mother in law.

This is the "dining tent". Ahem....lovely!!

Come on in!!

Margaritas at the bar.

And after we have stuffed ourselves (ugh)...let's get in to a rousing game of .....

Croquet! We have had this set since the kids were small. We are getting so old that our stuff is starting to look antique!!

MIL is very serious.

Son-in-law wins at everything!

Sitting by the waterfall....ah.

That's me. I totally lost both games. (and I hate to lose!!)

I think that the bushes should be like the "sand pit" in golf. You should have to hit it from there, right? (unless it's me of course) Hubby got to set it on the course and try again.

Take aim.

Ridicule your husband.

Because he will win anyway!!

This is where you try to knock the other person's ball out of the way. Frustration!

What is she doing? Whatever...it worked, she got it through.

And for that...you get another turn.

Okay. We are now ready for some dessert.

Mmmmm yummy. That was a great night. Here's hoping for many more of them!!

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The winner is....

2010-06-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

The winner of the necklace set is (drum roll please!).....CC from Lace 'n' Ribbon Roses!! Congratulations.

Thanks for all your wonderful comments!

I ate a Flower!

2010-06-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

Yes! I ate a flower and it was GOOD!! This plate of yummy Lillies stuffed with a cream cheese filling were served at my women's network luncheon. The speaker was Jeanne Deaver of Amador Flower Farm and she made these for everyone.

I was skeptical. Jeanne picked one up and popped the whole thing in her mouth. I did the same thing and mmmmmm it was delicious! I think she is going to put the recipe in our fundraiser cookbook.

After hearing all about Day Lillies, I wanted to get some for my garden. As it turns out, they need more sunshine that I can offer. Darn.

Can you imagine how fun these would be to serve at a dinner party? Pretty and delicious.

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Happy Pink Birthday...a present for YOU!

2010-05-29T02:00:00.000-07:00

Guess who's having a Birthday?????

Pink Saturday...that's who!! Woo Hoo! Pink Saturday is hosted by Beverly at How Sweet the Sound. If you love PINK, take a look at all the wonderful pink posts.

And, of course, Birthdays mean PRESENTS! Here is my present to YOU.

This necklace and earring set will go with all your lovely Pink fashions! To enter, please leave comment with your email address and you will be entered to win. I will draw a name on Wednesday morning. Good Luck!!

Incredible Jeans!!

2010-05-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh!! I was walking out of a store last week and these jeans TOTALLY caught my eye. I just had to stop the lady and compliment them. I asked her if she did it herself and YEP she did. Her name is Jeannette and she did all of this embroidery by hand. I am so impressed. It's definitely on my list of things I would like to do. Aren't they pretty?

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Pink Memories

2010-05-01T02:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Pink Saturday! This is a celebration of all things pink!! Our Host is Beverly of How Sweet the Sound. You can find oodles of pink on her blog, check it out!

Way back in 1994, I earned a trip to Hong Kong for myself and my husband with my company. And, what a trip it was! The very first thing waiting for us in our hotel room was this basket:

And, next to it was a plate of cookies. We had been on a very long flight and this was a welcome sight for us.

When we opened the basket it had a steaming hot pot of tea and little teacups. Mmmm.

I was so in love with this pretty little teapot and teacups.

Imagine my delight when they gave the set to us as a gift to take home!

I even bought some matching bowls and spoons.

Every time I look at it, I am reminded of a wonderful trip of a lifetime. Isn't it special how a keepsake can take you back in time?

Have a wonderful Pink Saturday!

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Pickle Patch

2010-04-28T15:11:00.001-07:00

It's raining, raining, raining today. Even some freezing rain and sleet. Snow just last week. I'm so ready for spring. In the spirit of warm weather, I am going to share with you a trip to one of my all time favorite places to eat, the Pickle Patch. These pics are from a few weeks ago when we had one of the first warm days of the season.

The Pickle Patch is inside of an old home and all the decor matches that time period. Consider this little tour just a "tease", when warm weather and blooming flowers arrive, I will take you on a proper tour.

There are 2 decks a lots of patios. It's outside dining at it's very best!

Dear Daughter and me enjoying the day.

This is my favorite. I have never ordered anything else. Why mess with perfection!! They have the best BLT in the county. This has been proven by popular vote and published in the local paper.

Behind this lovely fountain is the deck where we had our lunch.

This is the big patio that is full most days in the summer.

And this....is my progress on my afghan. Will these motifs ever become the afghan that I'm hoping for? It's taking a long time, but it does give me an excuse to watch tv (as if I need one).

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Come Fly with me (to get a pedi)

2010-03-12T12:27:00.001-08:00

I'm always telling people that I think we should celebrate our birthdays the WHOLE month. I am following my own advice. While my birthday isn't for a couple more weeks, I am already celebrating!! I haven't been to Connie's since my last BD. So, it WAS time! She took me out for a pedicure at her favorite place. They do actual ART on toes and fingers. It's amazing. Connie is looking at all the designs for St. Patrick's Day.

And this is just a small fraction of the choices! There are boxes and boxes to choose from!

Picking a design is the hard part. Staying awake is also difficult....this is so relaxing!!

Connie has four leaf clovers.

I have the ocean, complete with seaweed, bubbles and kissing fishies!

Can you see this? They use toothpicks to paint with. It's amazing to watch.

St. Paddy fingers on Connie.

And it's off to lunch right after.

We did lots of other fun things and darn it....no pics! We went shopping and then we met her daughter and husband for dinner at the beach. I LOVE the beach! We walk out to the end of the pier and eat at Ruby's, a 50's style diner. It was chilly and it started raining AFTER we got in the car to leave. Perfect!

I fly standby. That means I get the last seat on the plane. But, hey, it's free! That is thanks to my Flight Attendant daughter...woo hoo! This time the plane was hardly full and I got to sit by the window. I always get a middle seat. But, not this time. By the way, I think the middle seat person should get both armrests. It's only fair. After all they are stuck in the middle. Just sayin. This picture is right after take off. The planes in Orange County take off STRAIGHT UP, it's like being on a carnival ride. That's for "noise abatement". ugh. Then we vear out over the ocean. I could see an Island. Can you see it? I thought it might be Catalina, but I didn't see any buildings. So, probably not.

Looking back at So Cal. Bye Bye!

Oh. This is why nobody picked this seat. Oh well. The chairs don't really recline much anyway. Am I right?

No we are heading up the state and it's the beginning of the Sierra mountain range.

Underneath all these clouds are mountains. I usually look for Yosemite. I imagine my son (who lives there) is under all these clouds somewhere.

Must have just snowed on these high mountains. So pretty.

We are starting to get close to our destination. This is probably around Modesto somewhere.

I always look for Lake Tahoe. Not sure. Is that it off in the distance? I need some binoculars!

This looks like where we live or close to it.

Look in the middle of this photo. Do you see the 2 cooling towers? That is on my drive to the airport. They are HUGE when you are up close.

This is the beginning of the Sacramento area. What a pretty day.

There it is! Sacramento. Looks different from the air.

We are coming down. I love the farms that surround the airport.

Here is the 5 freeway that is on my way home.

It was good to be home. Missed my bed. And my hubby. And my doggie(s), and my kitty. Woke up to this white stuff. Just told hubby this morning that I was really looking forward to summer. I can imagine being really hot and wishing for winter.

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Cross this off my "Bucket List"

2010-03-07T12:28:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to stay t the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite. It's been a dream. It's so expensive....I wondered if I would ever do it. Well, I did! My son works at that Awahnee and has been there for more than a year. I've been bugging him to get me in and he did!!

There was snow on the ground on the way in.

This the view from inside the car.

This is the lookout point. If you look in the background....way back there...you can see El Capitan and Half Dome.

This is a quick pic of Bridalveil Falls from inside the car.

One of my favorites, El Capitan. Pictures never show you how big this really is. You can be right in front of it and it would hurt your neck to look up to the top. And, if there are climbers on it, you would need binoculars to see them. It's amazing!

This is Yosemite Falls. There are better views from the other side of the valley.

We're here!! I have been to the Ahwahnee many times. I've just never stayed in a room there. When we are on our family vacation, hubby and I love to go to the Ahwahnee for breakfast. We also go sit in the Great Room to use the internet. So, we are very familiar with the place. Now, we are going to be actual "guests". Woo Hoo!

This is the Great Room. So much history! Presidents, movie stars and even the Queen have stayed here. Wow. This room is so cool to just sit in. You will see lots of people on thier laptops.

My sweet son. He had this treat made special for us! Isn't that terrific?

Pretty AND yummy. This deserves a closer look.

Here I am next to a warm fire. (a real one) Keeping this fire going is just one of my
son's duties as Lobby Porter at the Ahwahnee.

Here we are at breakfast in the dining room. This room is spectacular! And, the food is top notch!

Here is a bigger view of the dining room. Isn't it cool?

Are you sitting down? This is the room that we stayed in. While this was a 'dream come true', I have to tell you, I was expecting something else. This room is $450 a night, after taxes it will go over $500. I guess I was expecting more luxury. If I had paid the actual amount for this room....I would have been pretty bummed.

More of the room.

The bathroom is cute....but is it $500 cute?

Before we go, I want to send postcards to our granddaughters.

This is the tent cabin we stayed in last summer on vacation. I'm really starting to look forward to this year.

A really pretty view on our way out.

I think this may be one of the most photographed places on the planet. It's so pretty. This is Yosemite Falls. You can the the "Upper" and the "Lower" falls from here. There are always photographers at this spot.

Brrr. It's chilly up here. It feels like it's raining a little, but that is really the mist from the falls.

Turns out that all my favorite parts of the Ahwahnee Hotel are free. I love eating in the dining room and you don't have to be a guest to do that. I love sitting in the Great Room. I love just walking around the place. And now, I won't be wondering what it's like to stay there anymore.

Thank you son, for making one of my dreams come true!! You rock!!!

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Procrastination

2010-03-03T16:25:00.001-08:00

I am really good at putting things off. I think of Scarlett, "I won't think about that today...I'll think about that tomorrow". Yep. That's me. I bought this magazine last spring and I fell in love with the crocheted throw on the cover. Isn't it pretty?

I liked it so much, I bought all the yarn to make it. I gave it a try and (admittedly) I could not seem to figure it out. So it all went back in the box and put away for "another day".

I'm ready for Spring and I'm ready to tackle this project. I really want to see it on my sofa!!

I have a pretty good start (I have to make 32 of these), and I enjoy making them while I watch tv.

I have decided that not all of the projects I have abandoned are worth doing. I give myself permission to let go of the projects I have lost interest in and don't want to finish. I'm not going to finish a project just for 'finishing' sake. So there. This pretty little throw is something I truly do want to finish. I'll keep you posted.

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You can Win this giveaway!!

2010-03-01T14:45:00.001-08:00

Alaina at "Live Creating Yourself" is giving away this beautiful bedspread. You need to hurry as the drawing is tomorrow. Isn't it pretty? I wish you well in the drawing, but I must tell you that this will look sooooo fabulous on my bed!

Good Luck!

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I'm a CONFUSED girl!!

2010-03-01T14:40:00.001-08:00

Oopsie! I somehow got my wires crossed and put the opposite names with the necklaces in the post below. It's all fixed now. My apologies to Betzie and Julie. I invite you to visit both of their blogs and see all the wonderful things that these two ladies create!!

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I'm a lucky girl!

2010-02-28T13:54:00.000-08:00

I'm lucky in lots of ways....I got to go on the Magic Carpet ride with the One World One Heart gang and I saw sooooo many fabulous blogs...it was incredible! And, I was honored to be the recipient of these incredible giveaways.

This one came from Betzie at Time Enough.

This ribbon is lovely!

And, the box is a treasure in itself!

Inside was a pretty little bag with something sparkly....

This necklace is truly a work of art! It's stunning! Thank you Julie.

The very same day I received yet another package in the mail, this one from Julie at Julie Miller. What sweet surprise is this?

Inside this pretty package was a very charming necklace.

It is filled with teeny tiny seashells.

I just adore it!! Wearing it is like having a little piece of the sea shore with me.

Thank you Julie and Betzie! I am truly grateful!

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OWOH Winners

2010-02-17T22:59:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful Magic Carpet ride. I found so many fabulous blogs to explore and follow. I am so excited to announce my winners. I have already notified them and their scarves are one the way!!

Stephanie dragonflydegignstudios

Becky Writings on rose petals

Sherri artfilledinspirations

Catieann catieanscorner

Mindy

I hope that the winners will enjoy their swirly scarves.

None of this would have been possible without Lisa of A Whimsical Bohemian, she is the creator of the One World One Heart event and she is so awesome. I don't know how she was able to pull it all together, but she did. I'm in awe!!

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Granddaughter Days

2010-02-13T13:08:00.000-08:00

Our Granddaughters came for a visit this past week. Pookie got all ready! I always say that I don't know who they are more excited to see...us or Pookie!! He managed to get these bows out before they got here. The groomer thought they would stay in for a few days. Huh!

I can not show up empty handed. We stopped on the way and bought these stuffed animals. I put them in the seat belts and when the girls went to get in the car, they got a surprise!

We have several "rituals". One of them is TEA. They love to go to tea. We get all dressed up and have a wonderful time.

When they get here, I let them use my camera and take pictures the whole trip. It's pretty interesting to see what they photograph! Then the last day, I help them make memory books with a colored paper cover and plain paper inside bound with ribbons. Then we bring markers, scissors, glue and stickers on the ride to take them home. I let them choose a certain number of the pics that they each took and get them printed. The ride home goes so fast for them as they work to finish their books. Then just before I hand them over, they show their books to me (I love to video tape this!). This year's highlights were: Aunties Birthday party, going to tea and watching Avatar. We also painted tote bags. I think both of them have more pictures of our dogs and cats in their books than anything else!!

I was so tired that I was ready for the trip to be over and get back to my quiet life. Then...just as soon as they drove off (we meet halfway), I felt sad and was missing them!! Boo Hoo. Until next time.

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My sewing room (closet) re-organized (somewhat)

2010-01-26T14:05:00.000-08:00

I mentioned that I was cleaning my sewing room a while back. I'm ready to share. It may look a lot like what I have shown in the past. What you don't see is how crammed full of stuff it had gotten. I wouldn't want to show you that!! Seems like I just kept adding and adding and I needed to take some things away. Now, I can breathe in here again. It's a small space (7 1/2 ft X 9 1/2 feet). Too small to be a room, but to me it's nice and cozy. It was originally a small cellar, when we remodeled the basement, it became a closet.

Come on in...

This is the wall that I face when I am sitting.

I took down all the flowers and found all kinds of things underneath...baskets etc. that I didn't even remember having!! I rearranged them by color. Below I folded my smaller fabric and I can actually see what I have. I separated them by 1 yard, 1/2 yard and 1/4 yard.

I came across a label maker that I don't even remember buying. So, everything got labeled, well almost everything.

The bigger pieces of fabric are hanging. I measured each pc and refolded, with a note pinned on it with the size.

This hook is where I hang what I am working on. And, it ends up being a reject place as well. It's so hard to give up on something that isn't working. So, I just put them in a box and stuck them away.

I love this shelf. I put up all the odd shaped but cute containers. I wanted to put all my old jewelry in a clear container. This isn't even a fraction of all of it....hey it was the 80's..ya know?

This corner is my yarn. I don't have an enormous collection. Do you see the pretty doll? That's Annabelle. I won her last year during the One World One Heart. She is a beautiful handmade doll and she moves around, she doesn't like to stay in one place long.

This is my pattern collection....I have lots of them!

I don't have a fancy machine. I bought this out of the paper years ago. It suits my needs just fine....I wouldn't turn down a fancy machine mind you, but I am grateful for what I have.

Here is a project waiting to happen. I would really like to create something wonderful in this space. I'm not an artist or a decorater, so it's difficult to come up with an idea. That's one thing I love about blogging, I get to see the wonderful things that others post, then I can use others ideas for my space.

This chest of drawers my daughter left behind when she left years ago (she can't have it back now). On the top I have some books, I tried to purge...the only book I got rid of was one that was all about 80's fashion. I guess it's almost vintage now. The pin cushions are special to me, the blue one on the left I got in Hong Kong, the one next to it was made by a friend, the red one is full of sand that is from my Grandma's pin cushion that wore out, and the silver one is a musical pin cushion also my Grandma's.

A couple of drawers are full of interfacing. This drawer is the one I use the most.

All this thread and I still often don't have the color I need. I try to by thread whenever I buy fabric.

I have a serger, it's from Walmart, so it's not the best one. It drives me crazy actually, I have the most trouble with it. Here is my small collection of serger thread.

I have managed to spill out into the multipurpose room. These two cabinets are now for crafting. Luckily I have plenty of room inside that is still available....shall we go shopping?

Ugh. I loved this wallpaper that I put on them back in the 80's. I wish that they were the original white. That's a project for another day.

Inside the left one I have dedicated the space to all things Wrapping. I told my daughter to always come over to wrap things. I have a lot of stuff to use up!!

So, there you have it. Thanks for taking the tour. Happy crafting to you!

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About me...

2010-01-25T13:27:00.000-08:00

I am sitting here in my home office, flying around the world on a magic carpet ride (see my post about One World One Heart). I am amazed by all the wonderful blogs and the intriguing artistry of so many people. My blog began a couple of years ago as I discovered a few blogs that drew me in and as I visited more and more, I was hooked. I love the little peek into the lives of bloggers and I am so happy to learn and grow from the experience. With all the new folks visiting Lulu's Cottage, I thought a quick introduction was in order.

I live in a rural area of Northern California, in the mountains. I was always a City Girl and now I can honestly say that I love the country way of life. I'm a happily married mother of 3 grown kids and 2 beautiful granddaughters. I am truly blessed to be able to work from home with my own business, Isagenix. It's a program of health and nutritional cleansing that changed my life (literally) 6 years ago. (you can read my story by clicking on the box "myskinnystory" on the upper left of my blog) And, I am able to share this business with others who would also benefit from a home based business. In fact, I met my dear dear friend and business partner Emily from my blog. (Hi Emily...I appreciate YOU and our friendship!)

I have 2 doggies and 3 kitties who sometimes find their way into Lulus Cottage. Sewing is my first passion in the crafting world. I love to make garments to wear. Most of my creations end up in the "reject pile", but I can't stop myself! Sometimes I say that I have Crafting Attention Disorder. I see something wonderful and I immediately want to make it! So, add to sewing: beading and all things jewelry making, knitting, crochet and home decorating.

My little blog is a place to share what I'm excited about in the moment. Right now, I am completely consumed by being in a band. This is a long story...but here I am, in a Rock N Roll band. It sounds crazy just telling you about it. I love it and it has been an incredible journey of personal growth. One year ago, I wouldn't even sing in the shower. Now I'm singing into a microphone, is that crazy or what?

Thanks for stopping by, I hope to see you again and call you friend.

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One World One Heart

2010-01-25T00:38:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Lulu's Cottage. Lulu here (aka Stephanie). If you are stopping by from the One World One Heart event, nice to meet you. I know you have about a billion blogs to visit, so I will be quick.

I found OWOH last year and I had a BLAST visiting ALL (yes, I went to each and every one!). the wonderful entries. I found some new favorites to follow. I was amazed by the artistry of so many people. I won some fabulous give aways from all over the world. I can't tell you how excited I am that it is time for OWOH again!

If you do not know what the OWOH event is....oh boy are you in for a BIG surprise! click here look at the list of participants and start visiting!

On to my give away. I crocheted scarves for Christmas and I loved them so much I made some just for OWOH. From left to right: light purple multi, navy and light blue, brown and blue multi, lavender and plum, red black and gray. Each scarf will have a winner.

A close up for you.... It got crazy last year....so I will be crocheting away with scarves to add if the amount of entries gets really big. I have a gray and black multi on the way right now.

To enter. Leave a comment with your EMAIL ADDRESS (I have to contact you if you win, right?). If you are a OWOH participant, please tell me your entry number so I can come see you! And, if you like, tell me your favorite scarf color, either from these that I have shown or a color that you would like....who knows?

The winners will be chosen on Feb 15.

Enjoy your trip around the world as you flit from blog to blog...have fun! I can't wait to get started visiting everyone.

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We survived the storm

2010-01-24T12:06:00.000-08:00

It's raining again. That is a whole lotta rain! The snow is melting and we avoided any major damage. A friend of mine posted a picture on Facebook of a huge oak tree that fell at his place and that same day the picture showed up on the Sacramento News stations (2 of them!).

In the midst of all this WINTER are signs of spring....the daffodils are starting to come up!

We lost our electricity twice. One day for a couple of hours the other day was six. My handy friend here is my "wind up" radio. It sure does make my arm sore, but it's nice to have. You just wind the crank of the side and the radio comes on.

This is my old phone. I keep it in the cupboard just for when the power goes out. It has a really long cord. I was chatting with a girlfriend and I told her that I couldn't talk anymore because I couldn't keep HOLDING the phone up to my ear. I am so spoiled by my headset!

I found a few things to do while the power was out. This doesn't take any electricity:

Tomorrow the One World One Heart begins! Come back and see what I am giving away!

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New Hat and Scarf

2010-01-20T13:05:00.001-08:00

It's raining...no POURING today. I live in California and we are having a DOOZY of a storm! It's okay. It can rain and rain...it can snow...just leave the power ON and I will be just fine!! Everything I had planned for today has been cancelled. It's a nice opportunity to do some blogging, cleaning...and who knows?

This is the same hat I made for my son for Christmas, except mine has the earflaps. I also made his tighter around the face. I love this yarn, it's sooooo soft!

I think it needed a scarf. I tried making it with horizontal stripes, but I couldn't figure out how to keep the sides even. So, I switched to vertical.

Just in time for all this cold weather!

I'm so excited about the coming One World One Heart event that is coming soon!

Stay dry!!

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New Year's Eve

2010-01-02T13:49:00.000-08:00

We had a "Groovy" New Year's Eve. Our Band, Crystal Image, performed our show "Hippie Party" at the Schoolhouse. Lot's of fun, dancing and singing along to all the favorites!

The Band plus our friends who helped us man the door.

Far Out.

Happy New Year. 2010. Going to be a FABULOUS year!!

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2009 A Year in Review

2009-12-31T11:29:00.000-08:00

What a year. Time to reflect and review. I am joining with Cindy at My Romantic Home to look back over the year and share.

I had a wonderful year in my home based business as a Health and Cleansing Coach. I have personally coached many many folks in to Improved Health, Better Sleep, More Energy and Released Pounds and Inches like Crazy! I love helping people and hearing those happy comments about how our program has changed their lives is what keeps me going. I have taken on some new business partners in 2009 that have become more than partners more than friends (you know who you are!!).

I look forward to helping more people in 2010 with health and also how to make serious money working from home. more here: www.myskinnystory.com We are beginning a weight loss challenge right after the New Year....would you like to join us? email me.

I found Facebook early in 2009 and I've been hooked ever since. It makes me feel connected to the "outside" world. I work from home and live far from town, so it's nice to have friends that are constantly there. Are you on Facebook? Come find me isastephanie@yahoo.com

In Feb I found the One World One Heart Giveaway event. It was pretty much at the end and I was so happy that I found it. I gave away a crystal necklace that I made. I visited each and every participant, I think it was over 900. Wow. That was a blast.

And, I won several wonderful handcrafted items. My favorite was Miss Annabelle. You will see her again when I show you my finished (well it's not finished yet) sewing room reFRESH.

I did alot of sewing, mostly Refashion. Did some beading, knitting and decorating.

Then in March, I started guitar lessons. I wanted to learn to play for our camping trip in June. In April, my teacher asked me to sing with his group. I thought he was crazy. By June I was performing at the local Farmer's Market. That continued through the summer.

By Fall I was in the band and doing Gigs (that what we call a show....who came up with that anyway?). Music has dominated ever since. Hubby joined the band with his harmonica. We are both learning new instruments (more about that in the future). Here is the band: www.crystalimagemusic.com

Over the summer we lived for those wonderful family BBQ's!! And, brunches and sitting on our deck just enjoying where we live.

I also participated in Pink Saturday pretty consistently up until mid summer. I'm hoping to jump back in, I really miss my pink friends!

Family vacay in June...that was so fun. And, yes, I did play my guitar. We are really looking forward to this year.

This was the year of rafting for us. We love to raft in Yosemite, but that season is very short. This year we found a cool place close to home. I can't wait to go again!

At the end of summer we were graced with a visit from our beautiful Granddaughters. Aren't they precious! This was at our visit to Tea Eras.

In November I actually finished my project for my ASG group "Classic Clothes". I have procrastinated with this project for years. It took a luncheon to make me finish it!! That was so fun, those ladies are truly talented!!

In December I was elected to be President of Amador County Women's Network for 2010. I'm super excited about it and looking forward to a whole lot of fun and networking. It's a fabulous group and it is an honor for me to serve as President. Yay!

We had a wonderful Holiday Season, Thanksgiving and Christmas with our family, and we hope that you did too! Right now, I'm enjoying this quiet time after the holidays. I'm setting my goals and plans for 2010. I just know it's going to be a great year!

I can't stop making these....

2009-12-30T09:34:00.001-08:00

I was privileged to tour a new friend's sewing and craft room. Sigh. It was lovely...BEAUTIFUL and full of treasures and so organized. I haven't wanted to even go in my own workspace. I just keep shoving more and more stuff in there, it's not nice anymore! So, Lulu's Cottage is in chaos. I have pulled everything out of my craft/sewing room (a closet really). So far, it's just a huge mess! My daughter said it looked like I was having a yard sale! I need to purge. It's so hard to let these things go.....I might want them. I decided to take a break and show you my latest obsession....

I made these for Christmas presents. I really enjoy making them while watching tv.

This doesn't even include all the ones that I already gave away. I must be crazy!! My favorite isn't even featured here, it's red with black and I wear it alot.

This pattern is SO easy!! And, I just adore how it turns out.

I may have a problem here. What the heck am I going to do with these? I have a new one already started and ideas for another. I must be crazy!