A Stroll Thru Life

Some Things Just Don't Work

2012-01-27T09:06:00.000-07:00

The best layed plans of mice and men just don't work sometimes. I had these gorgeous fabrics and wanted to use them all together. Well, that turned out a dismal failure no matter how hard I tried.

This is a look at one senario for how to mix them. Really looks bad in real life.

Another try and it is even worse. I finally figured out what the problem was, and it is the background color of the gorgeous embroidered piece. It turns a sort of dirty green brown next to the others. (How come I couldn't see that before?)

So I just eleminated that one piece of fabric and now have a look that I can live with. The dark pillow and the small rectangular are both old pillows from when we first moved in 5 yrs. ago. Guess my taste hasn't changed all that much. lol However since they match the tableskirt and drapes, they still work beautifully.

I also used this fabric for the jelly roll pillow I gave you the tutorial for here. Love this fabric.

This fabric is reversible, so I made the pillow with the dark side out on one side and the light on the other. Love that I can change it around and get double duty out of it.

Here's the light side.

Now we are back to the dark side. Both are so pretty.

I think for right now I am going to use the dark.

Just a tiny change but one that makes me happy when I see the room.

Ok, now to work on other areas of the house. I need to spruce up the master bedroom, so I am hunting for inspiration. Guess all the decorating and fluffing never ends. Maybe that beige embroidered fabric will work in there? Hummmmmmmmm Got me thinking.

Thanks so much for stopping by. I always look forward to your visits.

Sew-No Sew Jelly Roll Pillow Tutorial

2012-01-26T11:10:00.003-07:00

I love jelly-roll pillows, I think they are so classic and so very french also. If you look at many of the old world rooms you will find this pillow has been around for years. The forms come in several sizes, so choose what fits you furniture and then you can create many for next to nothing and have constant changes.

I want to use the smaller size for this chair, and I have a new fabric to go with my beige and white color scheme that I am currently using. This is the cover I previously had on this form. Cut your fabric twice the length of your form. ( I will show you why later. ) Then cut the fabric so it will go around the pillow and will fit snugly when you finish it.

Ok, my fabric is cut. This is a reversible fabric, but since I am using it on a white chair, I am going to use the beige side as the outside of the pillow.

Turn the right sides together and stitch closed. If you don't sew, then just use the fusable seam tape and close the side all the way down. (Super easy, you don't have to sew to make this pillow.)

Turn it inside out so you have the right side of the fabric showing.

Insert the pillow form making sure you have it in the middle with the same amount of excess on both ends.

Fold half of the excess on the end inside the opening. Make sure it is evenly folded in.

Now, using 2 heavy rubber bands, gather the fabric close to the pillow form and wrap the rubber bands tightly around the end of the form.

See how pretty your little pouf is!!!

Do the other side the same way and then play with your poufs until you are happy with them.

Fits perfectly on the chair. I have a couple of tassels, so I want to add them to the ends.

Just loop them around the ends where the rubber bands are and arrange them so they fan out on the chair.

Perfect and doesn't it look elegant?

Great addition to all the fabrics that I have in the room.

Now to make a pillow for the sofa.

So, let me know, are you going to make one? They are so easy.

Beige & Cream Living Room on a Budget

2012-01-25T14:42:00.006-07:00

I have tried and tried to get a picture of what my LR really looks like and it is almost impossible. Bright sunshine comes in through the windows and it always changes the color to make it look more yellow than it is. In fact as I have said, there is nothing yellow in this room at all. Beige walls and carpet and the furniture is brown and white. I did some spring cleaning after my company left and finally got a picture that shows what this room really looks like.

I have also been asked many times about the furniture in this room. As I have stated before, almost everything in this room was purchased over several years at thrift and consignment shops. If you look you can find some fabulous pieces and just keep building until you have a room you love. Don't compromise, only buy what you really love, then you will love your entire room.

My sofa is one that I bought from a neighbor that was moving a couple of years ago and really is white. It is a beautiful cut velvet with down filled cushions and oh so comfortable. She was foolishly giving tons of things away and sold me this sofa for $100. She said that moving and storage costs would eat up anything she made from selling her furniture, so knowing that it all had a good home meant more to her. (Lucky for me, I love it.)

The pillows and tablecover are made from fabric that I used when we first moved into the house 5 yrs. ago. It goes perfectly with the fabric on the chair that I found last year at Hotel Liquidators. The chair was in perfect condition and for $79 I think it adds a fabulous touch of elegance to my room. The coffee table was a gift 27 yrs. ago when DH and I got married.

The leather chair I found at a consignment shop about 15 yrs. ago. It had been marked down to $100. The white letter chair was a designer floor sample that I found about 8 yrs. ago, it had been marked down to $150. The little chest between the chairs came from a design showroom at the LA Design Mart in 1969. I was redoing a house and a friend got me a pass. It was one of the most expensive pieces that I bought and is an import from England. I think it was around $350 which seemed like a lot of money (and still is) to me in l969.

The huge mirror over the sofa was a "white elephant" that was heavily discounted because it was so big. It is really quite large in this tiny house, however I bought it for our last home that had two story ceilings and extremely large rooms and it looked kind of small there. It is 5ft. x 8ft. I think it was around $350 -$400. Really inexpensive for something with such a massive carved gold leaf frame that is 8" wide and 4" thick, and a beveled edge thick mirror. (This thing weighs a ton)

I really like my room and the furnishings I have found. It just proves that you can decorate on a really tiny budget if you just look and are patient to build one piece at a time.

I've already changed this vignette. I added a new frame with a pic of my grandson that just got married this past year. His new bride wanted some pics of him when he was small, so I had a copy made for me too.

He's 1 1/2 yrs. old here and just such a sweetie. He could talk up a storm and was so fun. He still is.

My next project is to finally sew some coordinating pillows with these fabulous pieces of fabric that I found at the Discount Fabric Outlet. I love these fabrics and they will definitely add a touch of frenchy elegance to my room. Can't wait to show you when it is all done.

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits. I am linking to the following parties:

Jill at French Cupboard for Voila!French Inspiration on Thursdays

Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Brown & White Transferware

2012-01-24T14:42:00.007-07:00

I love brown and white transferware and most that I see is a light brown color. I found this one plate at a thrift store a while back and it is a really dark brown. I love the look.

Isn't it a beautiful pattern and color. All the identity there is on the back of the plate is "Two's Company". If you know more about the pattern, I would love to know.

When I was doing the spring cleaning in the LR and DR, I decided to use the plate on the DR table in a vignette. I moved the silver champagne bucket floral arrangement from the coffee table and added my little dog figurine. A dark brown table runner finished off the display.

This ties in so well with the beige, brown and white theme I have going on. It looks so quiet and restful to me.

Thanks so much for stopping by. I am having a ball going through the links to the 100th TTT. You guys are amazing. The party is still open if you want to link up.

I am linking to the following parties:

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays

Judy at DIY by Design for Winter Blues

Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday

100th Table Top Tuesday

2012-01-23T13:10:00.002-07:00

Yip-Skip!!!!! It's our 100th Table Top Tuesday. I am so excited. You have all been so faithful to join up each week and show us all of your wonderful vignettes and displays and consistently provide tons of eye candy and inspiration. I have had the best time seeing what all you are doing every week.

Since I have a very small house and very few tables and surfaces to decorate, you have also patiently seen the same table and counters decorated in different ways every single week. Now to have the patience and fortitude to stop by for 100 weeks to look at the same spaces says volumns for how wonderful you all are.

How many times have you all seen my kitchen counters? Remember all of these and many, many more? I constantly change the island and this corner area. I know you have seen all these same accessories spread all over these spaces dozens of times.

How about the Dining Table and Buffet. I know you've seen those changed quite a few times too.

Of course the coffee table and two end tables in the living room have had their fair share of changes too. Hope you guys aren't sick of them yet!!!

I will stop there, you remember all of these? There are so many more. Yes, I have almost worn those poor tables out changing things.
Now that we've gone down memory lane a little, let's get on with the party.!!! We have Gifts.

Gift #1 is a super generous one from Ann @ Sutton Place Designs. She creates the most fabulous pillows and linens for her Etsy shop. She is generously offering one of her beautiful creations for 1/2 off. Just look at these gorgeous pillows that are part of her collection, all made from lovely vintage linens. There is so much more to see, so be sure to visit her shop, you will definitely find must haves for your decor.

Gift #2 is a beautiful Limited Edition Giclee of an Original Oil Painting of Laguna Beach Shoreline. The painting is 5"x5" and just the perfect size to fit in with any decor. This lovely painting is given by Paulette @ Summerland Cottage.

Gift #3 is a $50 Visa Card.

Now for the rules - - - - Let's keep them simple.

1. Link up to the party for 1 chance.

2. Visit Ann's Etsy Shop and tell me your favorite item if you win.

3. Stop by Paulette's @ Summerland Cottage and thank her for the painting.

4. Follow me with Google Friends Connect or Rss Feed for a 3rd chance.

Be sure to let me know you've done all four. That's it, the winner will be announced next week on Table Top Tuesday.

Thank you all so much for all the fun I've had hosting this party. You are all the best and you make my day every time you link up or stop to say hello. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Table Top Tuesday Highlights & 100th Party Tomorrow

2012-01-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

We had such a fabulous turnout for TTT last week. I saw such wonderful vignettes and displays, you guys are all so talented. It was hard to pick just a few to show you, so you really need to go back and see them all. You will definitely be inspired.

Housepitality Designs created the most beautiful tablescape using Pears as her theme. You really need to see this table. Lovely.

Babs @ Upstairs Downstairs created this lovely and serene vignette using a grouping of varied items she found. I love how you can mix such different things together to creat such a lovely vignette.

The Thoughtful Home is a brand new blog created by a lovely lady named Treva. Be sure to go by and welcome her to blogland and take a look at her beautiful vignette.

Heather @ Our Life In A Click found fabulous treasures while out thrifting. She created several stunning displays that you will drool over.

Stephanie @ Balanced Style redid her bedroom. You have to see all the changes. Such a beautiful room.

Lizabeth @ Infuse With Liz created this wonderful display using a lantern she already had. It is lovely and such a beautiful idea. Liz is also a newby blogger. Be sure to go say hello.

Ceekay @ Thinkin' Of Home put together the most charming winter tablescape. You really need to see all of the detail she added to this tablescape. Gorgeous. Perfect for the snow everyone is having.

Rosemary @ Villabarnes is so clever. She is using an item we all have as the perfect easel. You really do have to go look and see what she's come up with. Such fun.

Now of course you all know that with our 100th Table Top Tuesday coming up tomorrow, there will be gifts a plenty. So make sure that you put together a beautiful vignette and let's party!!!!!

Can't wait to see you all there.

Let's Party, Party, Party

2012-01-19T15:30:00.001-07:00

I know we all love a good party, and my very special friend Barb @ Grits and Glamour is hosting a wonderful Egg-xellent Spring Party. I was thrilled when she invited me to join her and two other lovely ladies to participate in the festivities. This is going to be tons of fun.

It kicks off on March 13th, with

Marty at A Stroll Thru Life.

Marty will host a

"Cloche Party."

Next, is

Shirley with Housepitality Designs.

On March 16th, she will host a

"Tablescape Party."

On March 20th,

Barb @ Grits and Glamour

will host a

"Mantlescape Party."

And finally, on March 23rd,

Michael at Designs by Gollum

will host a special edition

"Spring Foodie Friday."

Please join us as we welcome in Spring and Easter

to what I promise will be an

Egg-straordinary Fun Event!

I've placed a button on my sidebar, so please add it to your blog and spread the word. This should be tons of fun. I can't wait to see you all there.

Roos and Black and White Transferware

2012-01-18T14:42:00.010-07:00

I love the look of anything black and white, it just seems to jump out at me every time I see it. I finally couldn't stand it and just had to tear the kitchen apart and really clean. You know how you just clean through the middle when you have company, well, I've done a lot of that this last month, but I have so enjoyed my son and grandson. I am going to try really hard not to cry when they go home Thursday.

The kitchen got a really good scrubbing, and it looks soooooooo good. While I was at it I decided to use the frenchy basket and create a new vignette in the corner.

Roosters to go with my rooster picture. (Can you have too many roosters?)

I love this rooster and the little hen, perfect together. Isn't it amazing how sometimes you find just the right piece to compliment each other. Of course I think almost every vignette needs wheat. ( I have no idea why I have such an obcession with it.)

A black and white check tea towell is perfect with the black and white Haystack transferware. I found a whole bag of faux veggies at GW, so I added those. See the figs and the little cherry tomatoes.

A tiny plant in my little french pitcher sitting on the scale just finishes it all off.

It is always such a good feeling to have the kitchen clean. Now I really need to clean the rest of the house.

I have been trying to make the rounds to all the TTT links. I am having such a hard time with way too many that just turn to blank white pages and I can't see your post at all. I have been told it has something to do with the New Interface. Sorry if I miss yours, I tried, really I did.

I am linking to the following parties:

Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Courtney at French Country Cottagefor Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Rachelle at Fingerprints on the Fridge for Feature Yourself Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Breakfast Table Centerpiece

2012-01-17T14:42:00.004-07:00

When it's the winter months and every day seems to call for comfort food, I love having a tablecloth on the table all the time. It just seems to invite you to sit down and eat. However, I don't want a centerpiece to block the view so we can easily visit.

This little rooster planter is just the right size for our breakfast table. Big enough to have some inpact and yet small enough to allow for ample placesettings and food at meal time.

I love the black and white transferware plates on the wall, so I thought I would tie the arrangement in with some black and white toile ribbon.

Ivy, a candle and of course some feathers. (Yes, I am still having fun with them.)

I also added a small wood fiber flower to add even more nature.

Nice to light the candle and enjoy a quiet meal with the hubs. Makes the most simple fare seem grand.

I am sorry I am slow making the rounds for TTT this week. My son and grandson will be heading home on Thurs. morning, so I am soaking up every minute with them that I possibly can. I know you all understand.
I am linking to the following parties:

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for Winter Blues
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

99th Table Top Tuesday

2012-01-16T13:44:00.011-07:00

I can hardly believe that our 100th Table Top Tuesday is coming up. Next week on Jan. 24th will be the big day and I think we need to have a huge party with celebrations and gifts.

Gift #1 is a super generous one from Ann @ Sutton Place Designs. She creates the most fabulous pillows and linens for her Etsy shop. She is generously offering one of her beautiful creations for 1/2 off. Just look at these gorgeous pillows that are part of her collection, all made from lovely vintage linens. There is so much more to see, so be sure to visit her shop, you will definitely find must haves for your decor.

Gift #3 is a $50 Visa Gift Card.

So, get all of your vignettes together and let's have the best party ever.

Now for some wonderful inspiration from last week.

The French Hutch had the most wonderful pictures of her Christmas decor. I especially loved this pic of her kitchen. Love those french doors and the fabulous sheers on the bottom half of the glass. Everything about her decor is pure eye candy.

Beaux R'eves does the most wonderful tutorial on how to make this gorgeous floral and fruit arrangement. Great way to show what to do when "Life Gives You Lemons".

Rita @ May Days found this fabulous antique table. Love it and how beautiful it looks in her home.

Lilies for Kate refinished a couple of jars for this vignette and I totally love the tulips in her champagne bucket. Stunning.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and I can't wait to see what all you have to inspire us with this week.

Still Pulling The Familyroom Together

2012-01-15T08:50:00.001-07:00

I am still trying to put something on all the empty tables in the familyroom. So again I grabbed the first things that were on the decor-stash shelves.

This little dog is such a cutie, that he just had to play somewhere.

Perfect on this small end table on the side of the sofa. An urn with some ivy and that's all that's needed to let him have star billing.

This little table between the two leather chairs is really small, so everything has to be small. The clock is a wonderful keepsake, so it always stays.

The tiny books and a little dog figurine continue the dog theme showcased on the previous end table that sits on the other side of the leather chair.

Now the tables all have something on them. It makes the room look so much warmer and cozy.

That's it. Nothing really spectacular, but at least the tables aren't empty.

How to go back to the Old Interface

2012-01-14T09:05:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of you not very happy with the "updated Blogger interface" and really want to go back to the old, however that is seems hard to do.

Not really, on the new interface in the upper right hand corner you will see a box with "English" or whatever language you use in it. Next to it you will see a symbol that looks like a gear. Click on the gear and a menu will pop down. You will see "Old Blogger Interface". Just click on that and you are back to the old.

Hope this helps. I have read how frustrated many of you are with the new.

Hugs, Marty

Wow, Getting It Together Slowly

2012-01-13T08:50:00.001-07:00

I am still enjoying company after the Christmas Holidays, my son and grandson have been here on an extended visit while he does some work for a client. You can't imagine how much fun I have been having, and getting the house back together is definitely on the back burner. Today as I dusted I thought I really needed to put somethng on the end table by my chair. Now if you know me you know that nothing but the lamp for a couple of weeks is definitely not like me.

A quick trip to the shelves where everything is stashed when not in use and these are the first things I saw, so that's exactly what I am using.

An antique candy scale, fruit, rooster bucket and plant plus a pair of children's shoe lasts.

A totally odd combination, however it works for me. Seems like anything vintage goes together.

So, until I can really clean and create after my company leaves, at least the table isn't bare.

My son is almost finished with his work, and they are planning on leaving for home in Oregon next Wednesday, so I am going to spend as much time as I can with them this week. I will check in when I get a chance.

A New Designer In The Making

2012-01-12T10:48:00.001-07:00

A friend was visiting with her granddaughter and while they were here, the little girl decided she wanted to decorate. She saw my french wire shopping basket that I had started playing with and asked if she could finish the display. Of course she could and what a great job she did.

I had already pulled out a bag of faux fruit, bread and a bottle of wine, she asked for some cloth, so I gave her a couple of tea towels. For a 10 year old little girl, she shows that she is already a fabulous designer. Thanks Cindy, I had fun watching you create your design, and I so enjoyed your visit.

She wanted to know if it was good enough to put on my blog. Of course it is.

I think we definitely have a world class designer in the making.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

A Soak in the Tub Changes Everything

2012-01-11T11:26:00.006-07:00

Super Important Message!!! Since Google is going to discontinue Google Friends Connect in March, I have added the NETWORKED BLOGS Button to my sidebar. I would so love to still have all of you as followers, so I hope you will click on the Networked Blog button to follow. Thanks so much. I will look for the networked blog button on your sidebar also so I can continue to follow you.

Sometimes we just need a little quiet time and a nice hot bubble bath. I seem to be one of those that can't turn the brain off, so while I was soaking all I could think about was changing the vignette on the bathroom vanity counter. So, after a nice soak, I started looking for things to dress up the bathroom a little.
Bathrooms are so hard to photograph, and mine really isn't very big. This is the view you see as you enter.

A smallish vanity with double sinks, so the only area I can decorate is the center section.

Yes, I know, I am moving those pictures all over the house. These were in the livingroom previously, but since I put new ones there, these came in here. A little frenchy rooster cache pot floral arrangement, candle and clock. Nice and simple.

The colors and the arrangement go well with the rest of the decor.

As you can see, I am still on the kick of adding feathers and pods to floral arrangements. I love the combination.

Just a really small change, but something fun for me to look at for a change as I get dressed and do my makeup.

Please be sure to click the Networked Blog button to follow, or subscribe in a reader to continue to follow.

Take Six left me a message saying that she believes it is not going to affect bloggers. She interprets their message to say all non bloggers. It does in fact say all non bloggers, so hopefull we can all still follow each other with our usual Friends Connect. Let me know what you all think. I am totally confused. This is the link, so read it and let me know what you think.

http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/more-spring-cleaning-out-of-season.html

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

98th Table Top Tuesday

2012-01-09T14:15:00.013-07:00

Welcome to the 98th Table Top Tuesday. Can you believe that we are almost at the 100 th mark. I have some things up my sleeve for this big event including some giveaways and highlights. So be sure to get your vignettes and displays all ready so you can join in the fun.

Today I want to highlight some of the wonderful displays that were in last weeks party. You guys are so creative, there was so much eye candy to see. Some are New Bloggers that I hope you will visit and welcome to blogland. Also, if you are a newby blogger, please go to your comments settings and turn off "word verication". It really isn't necessary and I am sure you will receive a lot more comments.

I love this antique paper cutter used as a tray. Such a clever idea, be sure to check out

Eclectically Vintage for more fabulous ideas.

Love this tablescape by The Best Moments. Using clock napkin rings is just the cutest. and her china and decor is so stunning.

Daffodil Hill shared this lovely scene after all the Christmas clutter was put away. Looks so fresh and springy.

Opulent Cottage took us on a tour of projects in 2011 and this is one that took my breath away when I first saw it. Love the use of the plate rack and the silver in the bathroom. So clever. I am still going to copy cat this when I redo my hall bath.

Plum Perfect created the most beautiful display using silver, greens and beautiful ribbons.

There were so many beautiful displays and vignettes, it was impossible to show them all, so you really need to go back and visit as many as you can. This is just a tiny sample of all the loveliness that everyone had to share.

So, now let's see what all you guys have up your sleeve this week. Don't forget the 100th Table Top Tuesday is just 2 weeks away. We need to clebrate, so get your posts ready for a party with tons of fun and gifts.

Projects on the To-Do List for the New Year

2012-01-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

Do you have a to-do list for the new year? I have a couple of things that I really want to get done this year. Some I may have to save up for, others just find the time to get it done.

#1 on my wish and project list is to replace the carpet in the living and familyrooms. I am drooling over this.

Bellawood Maple Hardwood Floors. Photo courtesy of Lumber Liquidators.com. Now this is a save up for project, but definitely on the wish list for this year.

#2 Redo the Hall Bathroom. I have a standard builder grade nothing special bland bathroom. Vanity, cultured marble top and sink, plain faucet and the standard square slab mirror. I am dreaming of new paint, fixtures, vanity mirror and I totally love this wall college. This picture I borrowed from the header of The Shabby Chick. If you aren't familiar with her blog, be sure to visit, you will love her style.

#3 is to redo the Guest Bedroom. This has been on the to-do list for over a year, time to get it done. I am going to do a Hunt Theme. I already have the painting, riding hat and boots, and the paisley fabric bedspread. I just need the houndstooth fabric for some accents and a drapery fabric. Mainly I need to redo the floors, so that has been holding up the whole project. Can't decide if I want to replace the carpet or put in hardwood floors.

#4. I am going to finish making my new pillow covers for the livingroom using the lovely beige and cream fabrics that I have, then I am adding this fabulous Mink throw to the mix.

www.softsurroundings.com

So what is on your to-do or wish list for this coming year. Are there some big projects or just a few smaller ones. I would love to know.

Living Room Redo Started

2012-01-06T13:15:00.005-07:00

Since I love yellow, gold, peach and orange colors, I am always thrilled that my home takes on a soft yellow glow, however that is not at all what the real colors are. My walls, carpet and drapes are all shades of beige. Not an ounce of yellow anywhere.

Here you can see a little bit of the wall color and how it is really just beige.

This pillow made from remnants of the drapery fabric also show how beige everything is.

If I lay this fur throw on the floor, it is exactly the same color as the carpet.

So, even though this looks sort of yellow again, I am really enjoying all of the beige and white. Such a soft color scheme and so fun for a change.

I still havn't made my new pillows yet, but these are a couple that I have that match the tableskirt and my ottoman that I made when we first moved in.

The cream pillows are actually ones that came with my bedroom duvet set, they had been packed away since I havn't ever used them. They work great here.

The little crochet table topper adds a touch of elegance to the table. It's one I found at Big Lots for $4. How fun.

A picture, plate and the floral arrangement that I showed you finishes off the table.

I really like this fabric with the pretty medallions on it. Seems to go with everything I have and the colors are perfect with my frenchy side chair.

I really like the champagne bucket feather arrangement with the soft beige too. I see gold and silver all over in the magazines, so I am experimenting with mixing my metals.

I still have the pleasure of my son and grandson visiting, so it will be a while before I can sew. However this gives me a taste of a beige and white color scheme. Great change. Kind of a non color, but oh so clam and soothing. So when I get these new fabrics sewn and added to the mix, I think it will look super.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am joining the following parties:

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday
Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday
Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for Winter Blues
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Courtney at French Country Cottagefor Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Rachelle at Fingerprints on the Fridge for Feature Yourself Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Toile, Checks and French Men

2012-01-05T13:30:00.004-07:00

Now that sounds yummy doesn't it. There is something about toile and checks that I just love and french men just always look sooooo handsome.

Ok, so it's just toile and check ribbon and my frenchman is a figurine, but they are still fun to play with.

A simple vignette for the kitchen island.

Just playing and having a ton of fun.

Also just a reminder that I would love to start the New Year off with your ad on my sidebar. If you are interested, please see my Advertising page.
I am linking to the following parties:

Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Silver & Feathers

2012-01-04T14:15:00.007-07:00

I think a champagne bucket is just about one of the most versatile pieces there is. You can fill it with a beautiful bottle of champagne or wine, maybe a fabulous bouquet of flowers, a heaping mound of fruit with grapes hanging over the edge and any number of other things you can dream up.

Since I am on a feather kick, I thought I would make an arrangement in mine for the coffee table.

A few pods and pearls too, I just love the combination.

The white oystrich feathers are so pretty mixed in with the pheasant feathers.

A few silver candlesticks and coasters finish things off.

(Yes, that's still a few gifts that you see in the background that havn't been delivered yet. We are getting together next week.)

So how about you, are you mixing metals and using all that silver?

I am joining the following parties:

Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Courtney at French Country Cottagefor Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Rachelle at Fingerprints on the Fridge for Feature Yourself Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

Feathers, Pearls and Pods

2012-01-03T14:05:00.010-07:00

I am thinking about my new color scheme of soft tans and creams that I am putting together, and then my new fascination with feathers of all kinds, so my brain is on overload working with some new floral arrangements.

When I started playing, I just loved the mix of feathers, pearls and pods.

Aren't pods of all kinds so interesting, and pearl picks are so fun to use.

Throw in one beautiful hydrangea blossom - - - -

and you have a fun mix of texture and color.

This is another feather arrangement that I am working on. I will show you later.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am joining the following parties.

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Judy at DIY by Design for Fall into Fall
Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What's It Wednesday
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursdays
Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursdays
Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday
Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday
Honey at 2805 for Potpourri Friday
Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday
Diann at The Thrifty Groove for Thrifty Things Friday
Debra at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday
Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday
Rachelle at Fingerprints on the Fridge for Feature Yourself Friday
Jen at Tatertots and Jello for the Weekend Wrap-up Party
Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for Saturday Nite Special

97th Table Top Tuesday

2012-01-02T13:30:00.012-07:00

The tree and all the Christmas decor is down, packed away and up in the attic. Now we are into a brand new year with tons of possibilities for new everything. Every day the Lord gives us a new day to start afresh, and the New Year always reminds me of that Blessing. I hope your New Year is full of wonderful new starts and everything is fresh.

It's so fun to see how different the house looks and feels when all the Christmas decor is gone, kind of empty, but oh so calm and peaceful. I love trying to fix those first few tablescapes. This is the first one this year. Things that were already here, just moved around to different spots.

I am still enjoying my family photos so much, so of course a couple stayed.

This urn is one of my favorites and I really enjoy the soft colors of the floral arrangement. I also love the two marble orbs, the color and texture is so pretty when the light hits them.

I have really been intrigued by all the feathers I see in all kinds of arrangements. I love the big frilly one on the right. I just got a bunch of feathers in the mail from a floral supply, so you will probably see feathers all over the place.

I am sure you are enjoying putting your house back together after the Holidays too. I can't wait to see what all you've created.

New Looks for the New Year

2012-01-01T14:28:00.001-07:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!!! I hope your new year was filled with fun, love and hope for the best year ever. I finally got all the Christmas boxes put away in the attic, so it's time to start re-creating all of my vignettes and enjoying changing things around.

This corner of the kitchen was the first place to get a couple of changes.

My cow becomes the star under the cloche.

I paired him with some cheese and fruit. I think he is just so fun.

Eggs and chickens seem to form the rest of the display.

The roo and hen always add color to any vignette. Seems like I have a farm yard collection going on.

Cows, Roosters, Eggs and Wheat. Definitely have a farm in this corner. he-he

Now to get the rest of the house put back together, then I can really play. It's always so energizing to start the new year with all of the displays looking new.

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am practicing Praising The Lord for All Things

2011-12-30T13:30:00.002-07:00

I have been known to be a neat freak from time to time, so I am sure that is why the Lord puts a LITTLE chaos in my life every once in a while. I have a house full of company still and while I am loving every minute of it, I just had to laugh at what my world looks like. I always show you all the pretty pictures, but let's end the year with what it really looks like today.

Everything but the tree is packed away and ready to go to the attic, and of course, this is when DH says I have an erand to run, I'll be back in a couple of hours. Oh well, there is a path to open the front door. lol

My grandson asked if he could set up his computer, of course I said yes, I just forgot how they spread out and make a mess. Gotta love it. Reminds me when I was raising my boys.

The guest room is full, so the grandson put his suitcase and clothes here. Guitars, clothes, presents and who knows what all.

I think the Lord has worked wonders in me, there was a time when this would have definitely driven me up the wall to the point of tears. Now I just thank Him for my family and Praise Him for the mess.
I can clean house when they have gone home and then I will miss them sooooooooooo much, besides I do have a clean familyroom. (Thank you Lord.)

As the year ends, I am trying to be Thankful for all the messes in my life this past year, and to Praise and Thank Him for all the wonderful Blessings that I received.

I count you all as a huge Blessing and I so appreciate your friendship. I pray your New Year will be filled with Blessings to many to count, Love, Laughter and Health.

A New Look for the New Year

2011-12-29T13:23:00.001-07:00

I am constantly changing the pillows and accessories in my living room and it really does change the look of the room. It's always fun to look back and see what all was going on in 2011.

One of the first changes last spring was to make some blue and yellow pillows, and use some of the blue and white decor that I had found at GW.

Summer brought some totally different colors. I had a new sofa and some orange and green pillows for a vibrant summery color scheme.

Fall arrived with a few more changes. This time I added some brown crewel fabric to the orange mix.

Winter came with the revival of some old pillows in a dark peach, taupe and chocolate.

I always start to long for a clutter free and calm space when Christmas is over. So my mind is spinning around looking for a new color scheme for the new year. I love this piece of fabric, the pattern and color is wonderful and since it is reversible, the possibilities are endless.

I dug around through my stash and found a couple of other fabrics that will coordinate really well with it. I love this heavy embroidered piece.

A simple stripe always works with multiple patterns.

I found this lovely crocheted table topper, maybe layered over a simple cream cloth.

This is a good start, now I just need to find some trims and possibly another fabric and I will have a totally new room for the new year.

How about you, are you ready for something totally different for the new year?

Just Think of all the Possibilities

2011-12-28T15:19:00.002-07:00

I love it when I get really great things to play with and to decorate with. That is definitely my favorite kind of gift. My daughter knows me all too well. She gave me the fabulous flavored olive oils and had them all displayed so beautifully in this wonderful wire basket. Of course I tore it all apart so I could see it all and didn't get a pic., but take my word for it, it was really pretty.

Can't you just imagine how many wonderful displays I can make in this great basket.

I love the size and the handle is just perfect.

She had this all filled with the most wonderful oils, chocolate truffle candies and these wonderful tea towels. Don't you just love them.

Now I would love to live her and have the lifestyle that goes with it. lol Well I guess we all would.

I am linking to the following parties:

Open House Thursday @ No Minimalist Here

Feathered Nest Friday @ French Country Cottage

Home Sweet Home Friday @ The Charm Of Home

Vintage Inspiration Friday @ Common Ground

Flaunt It Friday @ Chic On A Shoestring Decorating

Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence

Potpourri Friday@ 2805

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

Most Popular Posts of 2011

2011-12-28T05:00:00.003-07:00

Seems like I have been super busy this year, but some of my favorite projects are really sort of small. I love to find great frames and decor items at flea markets or the GW and then transform them with a little bit of stain, paint and buffing. I showed you several items that I transformed with just the use of some stain and how wonderful it works on ceramics, metal, plastic and wood.

This is a frame I found for $1 that was way too shiny gold. This is just one example of how a little stain can transform anything.

A little minway walnut stain and then a couple of coats of clear and it looks fabulous. Throughout the year I showed the same technique on a lot of ceramic pieces as well as some plastic and wood ones.

I took a very plain tray, a little paint and some decopage and totally transformed it into a chic accessory.

Gold paint with a little stain for aging.

Then decopage a great graphic into the center and you have a stunning piece.

The one change that I have enjoyed the most is redoing the family room/breakfast room drapes. This is the before.

I added a contrasting fabric and trim to the top, hung them from rings and it totally transformed the rooms. Such a simple change to update a room and give it a designer look.

You have all inspired me with so many fabulous and creative ideas this past year. I can't wait to see more in the new year.

I am linking to Southern Hospitality for Top Project of 2011

Gourmet Gifts for my Kitchen

2011-12-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

I love to cook with seasoned oils and I got some fabulous oils from my daughter.

Garlic, Basil and Tuscan Herb. I can't wait to give them all a try.

Of course they immediately found a place on my little tray by the stove.

I love the pour stopper that came with it too. I need to get two more so I have one for each oil

Fits perfectly with my regular olive oil and the salt and pepper grinders. I also received a new can opener too. Yip-skip, now I am all set. No excuse not to cook up a storm.

I am linking to Wow Us Wednesday @ Savvy Southern Style

What's It Wednesday @ Ivy & Elephants

Fall into Fall @ DIY by Design

Can't wait to see what all Santa brought you.

96th Table Top Tuesday

2011-12-26T15:49:00.009-07:00

Welcome to the 96th Table Top Tuesday. I hope all of you had the most wonderful Christmas ever. Today we are having an "Anything Goes" day, so in honor of the Christmas season, I am posting a few pics of my Chirstmas.

Our Christmas started off Friday night with part of the family for dinner and gift exchange. It's hard when you have to share with inlaws, but we manage to shuffle everyone around. My grandson and his wife with his dad, (my youngest son) and my grandson here from Oregon. My grandson gave his dad a new Base Guitar, he was so surprised and thrilled.

Next, we were on to Chirstmas Eve.

My daughter and her two sons in front of her fireplace on Christmas Eve. We attended church and then went to her home for dinner and gift exchange.

My daughter, two sons and 3 of my grandsons.

Around her kitchen island for some snacks and visiting.

I love this silly bunch, and every once in a while they will stand still for a real picture.

My son-in-law by their tree.

Christmas morning at my house with DH, two sons and grandson for Santa.

Don't you always have to have a picture of all the mess.

My son got new Vuarnet sunglasses from his son.

As you know if you've read my blog for very long, that all of my guys make guitars, this is the lineup this year of the newest ones they've made. The one on the far right is one my youngest son and grandson are making while he is here from Oregon. (I have sawdust everywhere that they are tracking in, lol. I love it. I'll hate the clean house when they're gone.)

Now this is a super present. A stand that holds 7 guitars. My youngest son is thrilled. They had to put it together and give it a try.

We did manage to get the whole gang together here at my house for Christmas Dinner. The Lord Blessed us all so much this year with the Gift of time together, the best gift of all.

That's a taste of the wonderful chaos that is going on here, I hope yours was just as fun and chaotic as mine. Now let's see what all you've been up to.

Christmas Blessings

2011-12-21T14:10:00.000-07:00

Source - Kincaid Painter of Lights

I read where some of you are getting ready for family and friends to arrive and others are getting ready to make a trip to be with family. This is definitely the time of year when we try to spend as much time with all of our loved ones as possible.

My family has all arrived, we have a house full and I am loving it. Lots of talk coming from every room, tons of laughter and eating non stop. One of the biggest Blessing ever to see them enjoying each other's company, reliving old memories and making new ones. I feel especially Blessed and grateful.

I am also so grateful for all of my friends in Blogland. You all enrich my life daily with your creativity, talent and kindness. You are definitely one of my biggest Blessings and I appreciate your friendship so much.

I am going to take a few days and enjoy my family, but I would like to wish you all a very Blessed and Merry Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. My prayers are for a safe trip for all that are traveling and may your Holiday be filled with tons of Love and Laughter.

God Bless,

95th Table Top Tuesday

2011-12-19T14:11:00.010-07:00

Welcome to the 95th Table Top Tuesday. This is such a special week, the Tuesday before Christmas. I am sure you are all running around getting things ready for all of your family and friends. Wrapping presents, baking and planning parties and meals. This is the time of year when family seems more special and spending time together is such a Blessing.

I don't have any new vignettes this week, just the addition of some family pictures that add special meaning to our family this time of year. There are so many antique or beautiful frames available at great prices at flea markets, thrift stores or even Home Goods and Hobby Lobby, you can always find something that goes with your decor.

My great-grandson is such a blessing, and adding a photo of my parents just makes it feel like they are here enjoying this special time with us. They are spending another Christmas in Heaven, we all miss them so much.

A picture of Jim and I in Maui in Oct. I am giving a copy to each of the family's and a huge thank you for this special gift they all chipped in and gave us, 8 days in Maui all expenses paid. A fabulous gift of love that we enjoyed so much.

Of course having all these special people here is the most precious gift of all.

If you need another decoration somewhere, just add a family picture in a pretty frame and you won't believe how much it will warm your heart to see it.

I wish you and all your family the Blessings of time spent together as we celebrate the Birth of Jesus.

God Bless and Merry Christmas

Next week since it will be 2 days after Christmas, we are going to have an open post. Anything you want to post about.

Now, let's see all of your beautiful decorations and vignettes.

Some People Are So Smart

2011-12-18T13:15:00.016-07:00

Don't you just love it when you see something so simple and yet so genius and you can copy it? I do. Now who doesn't have a few things that they just need to have within easy reach when they are cooking. I do, and yet I want to keep them organized. Well, my friend had the best idea and I just had to copy her. I try not to be a clean freak, but the kitchen really needs to be clean for me to cook, and this is just the greatest idea, a glass vintage snack tray with dividers, holds everything and washes sparkling clean.

I had all of this sitting on the cutting board, but then I had to take it all off to use the board. This little glass snack tray is just perfect, and there's even a compartment for everything.

See the dividers, they are perfect to hold all my necessary things.

My olive oil bottle and salt grinder fit perfectly on the right and my bottle of seasoned parsley fits in the cup holder on the left.

My shakers of onion and garlic powder and the pepper grinder fill in the center. Now how clever is this. Everything is so handy and still easy to just wash up when it needs it.

Organized and pretty. Gotta' love it.

Christmas Fun Gift Ideas

2011-12-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

With all the family together this year, I wanted to find something for them to do that would be fun for all. Since there are all guys and only my daughter and I, this year I thought it would be fun for all the guys to go to a Cardinals game. I got tickets for them for the January 1st game. Great seats and at super discounted prices. Seems like Jan. 1 didn't sell out, so the prices were a little more than half off. Yip-skip for me. So my sons, grandsons and great-grand will all have a day together.

Source - phoenix fanster.com-Az Republic.com

I am putting the tickets in their stockings, I am so excited, I think they will have a great time together.

This leaves my daughter and I a day of quiet and relaxation. That's a super day for both of us.

Have you found any fun Christmas or after events this season?

I'm In Full Baking Mode

2011-12-16T14:22:00.001-07:00

I still have a lot of baking to do, but today I really wanted to get 3 different batches of cookies done. So I am full on in baking mode.

Do you mess up the entire kitchen when you start baking. I use every square inch of mine.

I have two more batches to make, so everything is just left out so I can start all over again.

These are ready to go in the oven. This is when I really miss not having two ovens. Oh well, I am thankful that I have ONE.

Ok, this is half of the first batch, these are Chocolate Crackels, they are my kids favorites, so they always go fast.

Next I am making black and white brownies and snowball cookies. Tomorrow I have to make 2 pies, so I better get my act in gear and finish this.

How's you baking going? I hope you are ahead of the game, or at least enjoying it.

Presents - √ Wrapped - √ Stockings Filled - √ Baking Done - NO

2011-12-15T08:31:00.002-07:00

How's your check list going. This is crunch time for me. Seems I don't get near as much done as I use to, and surely it couldn't be that I am getting older. he-he I am still filling in working for a friend 3 days a week and also trying to keep up with my volunteer work, and get everything ready so I can visit with all these precious people and my son and grandson that will be her this coming weekend. All of my children together as I said for the first time in 15 years for Christmas. I am so excited, I can hardly wait.

So, I've been busy getting all the perfect presents picked out and wrapped.

Finding super fun things to go in their stockings.

Making lots of cookie plates for neighbors and friends.

Stocking the freezer section of the fridge in the laundry room with Date, Banana and Pumpkin bread, assorted cookies - chocolate chip, chocolate crackles and sugar. An extra lasagna is made too. I still have 2 more batches of cookies to make, and pies of course for the big meals.

Everything is under the tree, just waiting for the Big Day.

Having all the family together is such a Blessing and so hard to do when everyone lives so far away from each other. I want this special Christmas to be filled with tons of good food, laughter, memories and of course Love as we gather to celebrate the most wonderful present of all, the birth of Jesus. How wonderful to all be together for Church Christmas Eve and to be able to praise the Lord for this precious gift of time together.

I hope you are able to spend time with your loved ones and make special memories as you share the Blessings of the Christmas season.

Sometimes You Just Have To Laugh

2011-12-14T08:56:00.001-07:00

You know how we all strive to have the perfect pictures for our posts, we fret over the lighting, how every item is placed, how about the colors, are their any shadows and etc, etc, etc. Then sometime we are so focused on one thing, we totally miss everything else.

I showed you my little Frenchy Farmer that I added to this vignette. I was so focused on him that I didn't even notice the funny grass whatever that was hanging over the top until after it was posted. Then I just cracked up. If only you could all see what was behind this vignette.

Does this remind you of that one cupboard or drawer where everything is stuffed and you can't see it when company comes. he-he-he. I just cracked up when I realized what all I was hiding behind this vignette.

Some weird seed pod that DH wants to plant.

Ivy cuttings that I am trying to root.

This grassy whatever plant that DH is trying to root.

Two tiny coke bottles that I washed and am saving for a project. I would probably hide something else here if I had more room.

So this is the pic I showed you - - - - - -

and this is what I meant to show you. No, I really havn't moved anything except the grass. It didn't root anyway.

Hope you laugh at yourself today, it really is theraputic.

A Frenchy Farmer

2011-12-13T13:15:00.003-07:00

Sometimes you find something and immediately know that it just fits your decor to a tee. I found this really cute little guy that reminds me of a French Farmer a couple of weeks ago and thought he was perfect to go in my kitchen island display.

Love his wrinkled brow and his hand holding the sweet little bird. Such a fancy shirt and vest.

Cute patched pants and of course he has a rooster nearby.

I think he fits in perfectly with my island display of bread, wine and cheese.

I am joining Kim for Wow Us Wednesday and

Elna-Sudden for Show Off Wednesday.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

94th Table Top Tuesday

2011-12-12T15:19:00.013-07:00

Welcome to the 94th Table Top Tuesday. If you are like me, you are super busy trying to finish up shopping, doing some baking and visiting a few friends. Just seems like there aren't enough hours in the day to do everything.

I appreciate you stopping by and linking up for TTT. I love seeing all of your beautiful vignettes and displays, you have all created such beautiful and welcoming homes.

I ran out of steam by the time I got to the family room, so the coffee table got a bit of a thrown together display. My newest Old world Santa and Reindeer that I found at GW was my start, then the beautiful huge Poinsettia that I bought just up and croaked. I was so bummed. I got out the dough bowl and put a little tree and a bunch of foliage and balls in it and called it good.

I really like this cute little Santa and the Reindeer is also such a great find.

A tiny tree with some tiny toy ornaments.

Now let's see what all you have been doing.

Thanks tons for stopping by, I really look forward to your visits.

Welcome to My Home for Christmas

2011-12-08T13:30:00.004-07:00

This year I really wanted everything to be pared - down, so I left most of the decor as is and just added a few items to create a simple and I think elegant Christmas.

I will be so Blessed to have all of my children here together for Christmas for the first time in 15 years this year. I really wanted the tree to be the star of the show since it always was when they were small, so I kept all the other decor to a minimum.

Our tree is a very old fashioned one filled with heirloom ornaments and ones that have been collected for years.

It is filled with angels, doves, toys and ornaments gathered over the last 50 yrs.

The chest in the front window showcases my favorite Santa. I have a really small collection, and this was my first and largest, so he is really special. All the Santa's in my header are part of my small collection. I love that he has a tree, a big bag of gifts and a horn tied on his sash.

A couple of beaded ornaments to finish the vignette.

I left the coffee table just as it was, and just added a gold gild reindeer.

A simple bow is all he needs. I love his all over scroll detail.

The end table showcases another of my Santa's and a Christmas floral arrangement.

The dining area has just some minor changes as well as the buffet.

I added my Nativity scene to the cloche and a few ribbon loops to the floral arrangement. A Wise man, angels and a cow from the manger surround Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus.

My smallest Santa was placed on the buffet. I thought the gold on his robe went with the gilt of the fruit arrangement.

The wreath hanging above the buffet has gold gilt ribbon and a large gold ornament.

An evergreen garland with poinsettia's and glittered fruit on top of the china cabinet.

A simple Christmas ready for the Blessings of family and friends.

This has been such a fun week and I have so enjoyed the Christmas Blogger Block Party.

Today I am joining these fabulous parties:

Common Ground for A Vintage Christmas

2805 for Trees

French Country Cottage for Vignettes

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas. May the Lord Bless you and all your loved ones this Holy Season.

Christmas Blogger Block Party - Tablescape

2011-12-07T09:01:00.002-07:00

I am having two friends for a really small lunch tomorrow, so I thought I would use my new Christmas Dishes. Can you believe that I have never had any Christmas dishes. I just always use my China, but these are so fun, so I had to play.

These are my latest GW find. Since there were 8 of them, I had to have them.

Dinner plates, I like the old fashioned decorated tree. These are simple stoneware dishes, nothing fancy, but fun.

With 25% off they were 75cents each.

Salad or desert plates.

These came to 52 cents each. Yes, I know, that is called stealing.

I thought my little rooster centerpiece was perfect for the informal dishes and occassion.

A red placemat, white napkin and a green stem finish off the simple setting. (Yes, I just noticed the fork is crooked. ) Oh well, just keeping it real.

We're all set for a simple lunch of Quiche and Salad.

I am linking with No Minimalist Here for Holiday Dining

I am still trying to make all the rounds to everyone, such a busy time of year. I do appreciate everyone that has stopped by and linked up to TTT. I hope to visit more this week. Your visits and your comments mean the world to me, thank you.

Christmas Block Party

2011-12-06T13:30:00.004-07:00

Today I am joining At The Picket Fence for Doors and Porches. Be sure to visit them to see all the beautiful outdoor decor.

Now, ours is really simple and plain, but it is what my grandchildren have grown up with and since they will all be here this year, we just did the same old thing.

Do you guys remember these old twig reindeer and sleighs that were everywhere about 15 years ago, well, we still have ours. We don't usually put it up anymore, however the grandchildren think it is mandatory, so it is up again this year.

The garland looks a little cheesy in the daylight, but the lights really make it sparkle at night.

We placed them so it looks like Santa just landed on the front yard.

The garland almost fades into the dark shutters, it's really hard to see except for the lights.

At night it looks a lot better and the lights light up the whole yard.

Simple decorations, but they mean so much to the children.

Be sure to check out all the parties this week and join as many as you can. It's so fun to see everyone's decorations.

I am also linking to the What's It Wednesday @ Ivy and Elephants

93rd Table Top Tuesday

2011-12-05T14:30:00.015-07:00

Welcome to the 93rd Table Top Tuesday. I am so excited to seee all of your Christmas Decor. I keep seeing snippets of all the fabulous vignettes you guys have been doing and you always amaze me with how creative and talented you are.

My goal this year is a really pared down Christmas. I didn't change anything on the Dining table other than what was under the cloche.

A couple of Christmas ball and ribbon loops were added to the floral arrangement.

My beautiful Nativity figures that I inherited from my MIL are now displayed on the table. Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus are under the cloche. A wiseman, angels and a cow a gathered outside.

A simple reminder of the reason for the season. I hope each of you stops for a minute everyday to Praise the Lord and remember his birth and all of your many Blessings.

Now, let's see what all you guys have been up to.

Holiday Copy Cat

2011-12-04T09:01:00.003-07:00

Yip-Skip, it's time for the Holiday Block Party and Debbie is starting it off with the Holiday Copy Cat party. Be sure to visit her and see all the fabulous copy's everyone has been doing.

This year I really wanted to keep all of my decor to a minimum, yet have a welcoming and inviting home for the season. I loved the look I kept seeing of simple wreaths hung in windows.

Source - BHG. com

My dining room always seems like it has the least decor for Christmas, so when I saw the hanging wreaths, I figured I could do one in my window also.

I had a plain simple wreath that I looped some gold gilt ribbon around and used ribbon to hang it from the top of the window like the inspiration pics.

This filled the area with some additional Christmas cheer and still kept things on the minimal side.

I added a large gold ornament to the center of mine for a little extra bling.

The wreath finished off the dining area and was a very simple 10 minute copy cat.

Thanks for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits. Be sure to come back and link up the Table Top Tuesday tomorrow evening. I can't wait to see all your decor.

Fabulous Christmas Decor Finds

2011-12-03T13:50:00.006-07:00

A few years ago I bought one of the Old World Santas and fell in love with all of them, so I started trying to collect a different one every year. I hadn't had time to look for one yet this year and then of course when I was at GW, what in the world was just sitting there ?, A fabulous Old world Santa completely different from the ones I already have. I found him a couple of weeks ago, I just hadn't shown him to you yet. He is in my header collage and I think he is a great addition.

I am always fascinated at all the ornamentation that is added to Santa's robe and dress. Fabulous silk dress with gorgeous trim on his velvet robe and tons of fur trim. He even has a beautiful gold and ruby necklace.

A pretty ruby on his hat too.

Yes, can you believe $2.99!!!! I was thrilled and of course he jumped in my basket super fast.

I also found a lovely reindeer that I had to have. Super simple and elegant in all white.

Yes, he was $2.99 also. I havn't been adding anything to my decor, in fact I have been thinning out, but I thought both of these were classic.

Two great treasures and perfect for my Christmas decorating. I've placed them both on my familyroom coffee table. I'll show you a pic later when everything is all done.

So are you all done, or are you still decorating and have you bought anything new?

An Old Fashioned Tree

2011-12-02T13:15:00.007-07:00

The tree is up and all of our decor is finished. We love an old fashioned tree filled with family heirlooms and collected ornaments from many past Christmas's. Very simple decor with the tree being the star of the show. At night the lights make the whole room glow.

A daytime view showing the many, many ornaments, and all the stocking ready to be filled.

Doves and angels for the season.

Vintage ornaments and toy ornaments collected by our children and grandchildren.

Lots of teddy's and stuffed animal ornaments too. A different one for each grandchild.

Just an old fashioned tree filled with tons of memories and lots of love.

Hope your tree brings back loving memories of Christmas's past.

Country Farmhouse Christmas

2011-12-01T13:30:00.003-07:00

This year I have been trying to create a French Country Farmhouse Christmas, using what I have. Well, I think part of it looks frenchy and then part just looks farmhouse. I am striving for a really paired-down simple Christmas. At any rate, it is fun and what I am going with.

This is the breakfast area all dressed for the season.

My rooster and hen arriving with Santa's sleigh.

The sleigh is filled with pinecones and bits of berries and greens. The Hen is proudly riding high on the sleigh's seat, and pulled by Mr. Roo.

The buffet does dual duty as my desk, so a simple pointsettia adds some Christmas cheer.

My Raggedy Santa decided to sit on top of the wine rack.

Isn't he cute, he loves to dangle his legs.

Simple and minimal, but just the right amount of Christmas for a farmhouse theme.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

More French Farmhouse Country Kitchen

2011-11-30T11:30:00.001-07:00

I am trying to create a French Country Farmhouse look in the kitchen, but it seems like I have gotten carried away and added a few more decorations than they would have. Oh well, it's Christmas, so I am just going with the flow and wherever the mood takes me.

This is a look at the finished kitchen.

To the left of the stove I have this little vignette that I've already shown you.

I just love this cutie little Christmas Chef. How fun is he.

The right hand side of the kitchen has the most counter space and always gets most of the decor. It's also what you see as you walk into the room.

I kept the pumpkin/gourd stalk since both are used through the Christmas season, and I love the colors. lol I added a black ribbon to the bow to tie it into the rest of the decor.

My little French chef and the cute Petite Provence plates center this display. Wheat, berries, fruit and table necessities are handy in the bottle carrier.

Some Christmas cookies under the vintage design cakestand and some bananas on a vintage pie plate.

Remember these old pie tins. This was my moms. The holes really helped to cook the bottom of the crust evenly. I love using it for a fruit plate.

This corner gets a Father Time figure that I found at GW. I think he fits the old world theme of my French Country Farmhouse .

He is dressed so beautifully and has a pouch on his back full of presents.

My favorite cream roo is all dress up with some Pointessetia flowers and ready for the season.

My version of a French Country Farmhouse kitchen.

I hope you enjoyed my tour and I would feel totally Blessed if each and everyone of you were here to visit and enjoy a cookie and tea/coffee, or a glass of wine and some cheese and fruit.

I am linking to the following parties:

Open House Thursday @ No Minimalist Here

Feathered Nest Friday @ French Country Cottage

Home Sweet Home Friday @ The Charm Of Home

Flaunt It Friday @ Chic On A Shoestring Decorating

Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence

Potpourri Friday @ 2805

French Country Kitchen

2011-11-29T15:00:00.004-07:00

How is all of your decorating going. I see that some of you are all done and everything is glorious, however I am just starting. I need to hurry up or it will be too late to do it at all. lol

I did get another small vignette done in the kitchen. Just a really simple display using my favorite cloche, a demi-john and a stalk of wheat. I added a couple of ribbons to the top of the cloche and on the wheat to go with my black and red Country French Farmhouse theme.

See my precious little chef that I found last year after Christmas. His hat and basket are decorated with holly and berries for the season. I've added some plums, wheat and cinnamon to the cloche, and I am sure he is going to cook something wonderful.

Isn't that a sweet little face. Such a cutie.

I have a couple more things in the works that I will show you later.

Hope all of your decorating is coming along beautifully.

I am joining Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesday

92nd Table Top Tuesday

2011-11-28T14:18:00.012-07:00

Welcome to the 92nd Table Top Tuesday. With Thanksgiving over I am sure everyone is on their way to decorating for Christmas. I know you will all inspire us with your lovely vignettes.

I am going to try and create a French Country Farmhouse Christmas in the kitchen, so I did a small vignette to remind me that a French country home is always ready to entertain and welcome guests. A large basket of fruit, bread, wine and some cheese and grapes at the ready for anyone that should drop by. No lavish decorations, just bountiful displays of food and wine that say WELCOME.

The wheat is a symbol of welcome and is tied with a combination of black and white toile and red checked ribbons to coordinate with the black checked napkins. A loaf of Sesame Seed French Bread and a long Crusty Bagel is perfect to go with our fruit and cheese.

The bounty of food and wine arranged in a vintage wood bucket.

Cheese and grapes on a black and white transferware plate.

A glass for you and one for me. A couple of pinecones and a pointsettia brought in from the yard to celebrate the season.

A little bit of nature's goodness to welcome you when you visit.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits. Now, let's see what you have.

French Country Christmas

2011-11-26T13:07:00.001-07:00

Did you all survive Thanksgiving. Ours was wonderful and we are having another one today, so I have a turkey breast and dressing in the oven, green bean casserole, candied yams, mashed potatoes, gravy and cranberry sauce all ready to go in the oven While that is all cooking away, I have been playing and creating another small French Country Christmas vignette for the kitchen. Here's a little sneak peak.

I hope you're all having a super day shopping and decorating. I will see you Monday evening for Table Top Tuesday and a full reveal. Have a super weekend.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

My table is all set, and the pies are all made, bird's in the oven and all the sides are on their way. I have so much to be thankful for, and have been so blessed this year with many miracles from the Lord. All of my family is well and healthy, and my grandson that broke both legs had his final surgery and is walking and doing well. That in itself is a major miracle.

Today as I reflect on all the Lord has done and all I have to thank Him for, I include you in my prayers and as one of my biggest Blessings. You all have enriched my life more than you can imagine. I am so thankful for all your visits and all the friendships I have made through this blog. May the Lord Bless each and every one of you this Holiday. God Bless.

Recreating Storage

2011-11-22T13:30:00.001-07:00

We enjoy a glass of wine occassionally and use to have a fairly good collection since we would tour the wine country every year and visit a lot of the wineries. However, we havn't been to Napa in a few years and our entire wine collection is long gone. DH really wants to have a few bottles around for the holidays and has ordered some from his favorite vinyards so it was time to resurrect the wine rack that has been stashed in the laundry room. I thought maybe I would give it dual duty and use it to not only hold his wine when it gets here, but to hold some of my placemats and free up a little space in the buffet for other things.

This is how the corner of the breakfastroom has looked with a pedestal holding a fern.

Here it is now with the wine rack. It holds 44 bottles, so that is definitely more than we have on order, but there will be plenty of room for the 18 bottles he has coming and room for me to get some sparkling cider and champagne and still hold some of the placemats.

So from this - - - - - - - -

to this - -- - - - - - - - - -

As you can see, we don't have a lot right now. I do have a fabulous bottle of Chocolate Wine, I can't wait to have some on Christmas Eve. The empty wine slots work great for rolled up placemats. They add a little color and fun to the piece too. So, something different, and no money spent at all - well if you don't count the cost of all the wine on the way. lol

So, what do you think? I always have to get use to something new. Sorry for the poor lighting, the sun was going down, so I couldn't get very good pics.

I want to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving and may you be Blessed with all of the Lords Blessing on this special Holiday. We all have so much to be thankful for and I am so thankful for all of you that I have met through blogland. This has been such a wonderful place to exchange ideas and to get to know such special people that I would never have the chance to meet otherwise. You have all enriched my life immensely. God Bless and Happy Holiday.

I am linking to the following parties:

Wow Us Wednesday @ Savvy Southern Style

Fall Into Fall @ Diy by Design

Transformation Thursday @ The Shabby Chic Cottage

Open House Thursday @ No Minimalist Here

Feathered Nest Friday @ French Country Cottage

Home Sweet Home Friday @ The Charm Of Home

Flaunt It Friday @ Chic On A Shoestring Decorating

Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence

Potpourri Friday @ 2805

91st Table Top Tuesday

2011-11-21T13:44:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the 91st. Table Top Tuesday. I can hardly wait to see all of your Thanksgiving and Holiday vignettes and displays. I know you have all been super busy.

I showed you these two really cute American Atelier Petite Provence plates that I found at GW for $1.99 each, and since they had some red and green in them, I think they can work in the beginning of a Christmas vignette. So, this is the start.

I'm not ready to go all out yet, but just a hint of things to come.

The bundle of wheat got a little red checked ribbon and some berries, kind of cute for a Country French Christmas.

Fruit and the french bottle carrier holding some flatware, napkins and a little fern join the corner.

Aren't the plates just the cutest ever. Love the border and the rooster are both so sassy.

This one is strutting his stuff too.

So I think I will strive for a French Country Christmas in the kitchen this year, and this is just a tiny start.

Now I can't wait to see everything you guys have, so let's get the party underway.

Decorating with Pheasant Feathers

2011-11-20T15:55:00.001-07:00

I love decorating with pheasant feathers, and I see that a lot of you do too, however I don't like the high price at the craft stores.

Just a few feathers makes any arrangement look more elegant.

So I went on a quest to find some affordable feathers and I found some. I thought I would share with you so you can have some also.

orientaltrading.com

They have a pack of 24 long pheasant feathers for $10.00 . That's a great price and they had super reviews. So I ordered some, can't wait to get them. I plan on using quite a few in my Christmas decor.

So, if you are in the market for some feathers, they have several kinds and the prices are all very good. I am not paid by them, just thought it was a good deal and wanted to pass along the info.

A little Petite Provence

2011-11-19T08:11:00.002-07:00

Garage sales weren't much this weekeend, but GW did have one treasure that I just couldn't pass up. Aren't these little salad plates fabulous. I adore the colors and the roos are just way too cute and sassy.

The floral border and the red and yellow is so cheerful. Such a fun plate.

Both of the roos are definitely strutting their stuff.

American Atelier Petite Provence and for $1.99 each, they flew into my basket.

Naturally that always starts a new vignette, and these are so fun to play with.

I am also starting to think Christmas, so I thought I would add these plates into the beginning of a Christmas vignette. I took a bundle of wheat that I have and added a red checked ribbon and a few berries for a little country Christmas. Works great with the little Frenchy roos.

So be sure to check back in for Table Top Tuesday for the full reveal. I also can't wait to see all of your vignettes and displays also. See you Monday evening.

Table Top Tuesday Highlights

2011-11-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

Every week for Table Top Tuesday I am just in awe of how creative you all are. It is always so hard to pick just a few, but these were the ones that seemed to speak fall and the season to me. I hope you will visit these lovely ladies and all of the participants in the party. You are sure to be inspired.

This tablescape took my breath away. This is called Harvest Time by

Home is Where The Boat Is You really need to see it all.

Just look at this centerpiece. How perfect is this!!!!!

I am sure we all relate to how hard bookcases are to accessorize and still house all of the stuff we need in them. Well wait until you see how Shabby Love took their bookcase from this to - - - - - -

this. Wow I love it.

This basket with the plaid, antlers, horse and nature inspired elements is absolutely stunning. You also really need to see the rest of the entry. Gorgeous. Be sure to visit Babs @ Upstairs Downstairs to see how beautiful everything is.

With the cooler temps and the feeling of fall, can't you just imagine snuggling up next to the fireplace and enjoying dinner at such a beautiful table. Chari @ Happy To Design always creates the most beautiful settings. You really need to see her entire room. Fabulous.

All of these ladies are so talented and are sure to inspire you. If you missed any of the entries for Table Top Tuesday, you really missed a lot. I hope you will visit as many as you can.

Have a super weekend and I will see you Monday evening for TTT.

Flowers and Food

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

One really doesn't have anything to do with the other, so this is just one of those potpourri posts. A little of this and that.

While I was out roaming around the backyard the other day, I was surprised to see that a couple of my mums were blooming. So of course I had to grab my camera and take a few pics

Such a fun surprise to see in the garden.

Now onto the food part of this. - - - - -

Sometimes we forget that people from different states may not be as familiar with certain dishes as we are. I recently had a luncheon for 9 friends, really informal, so I served Taco Salad. I was a little surprised that 4 of my 9 guests had never heard of it. So, I thought I would share the recipe just in case you hadn't heard of it either.

A super light easy meal, with the flavor of tacos all in one salad.

Start with a large salad of lettuce, onions, tomatoes and cheese.

Cook some ground round thoroughly and season with taco seasoning mix and any other seasonings you use for tacos. I sometime add a can of chopped green chili's.

Add the hot meat to the salad.

Get a large bag of Fritos.

Add a generous amount of fritos to the salad meat mixture, then toss well to mix all together.

Spoon some into a bowl and top with a few extra fritos.

Serve while salad is hot and offer toppings of extra Fritos, Salsa and Cholula for those that want a little more spice.

A great hearty salad and if you like Mexican food, you will definitely love Taco Salad.

So tell me, have you had Taco Salad before?

I am linking to:

Foodie Friday @ Designs by Gollum

Thanksgiving Tablescape Inspiration

2011-11-17T08:11:00.003-07:00

Are your plans all set and all of your decorations in place, or are you still trying to figure it out. I still don't have a tablescape finalized for Thanksgiving, so I went back through some of the ones that I've done in the past to see if I could get a little inspiration.

I love pretty floral arrangements whether they are big, small, ornate, simple or anywhere inbetween. This is a really easy one with hydrangeas and pumpkins.

Sometimes just a half dozen beautiful roses surrounded by a ton of silver and candlelight creates a lovely and elegant table.

Keeping things simple and monochromatic like this green and white table works well for a more informal tablescape.

Then you can do something a little more sophisticated such as black and white, throw in a lot of silver and candles and you have a much more formal and elegant setting.

A large hurricane, berry garland, pinecone potpourri, gourds and pumpkins and this is perfect for an informal gathering or maybe for a brunch that you're hosting.

This was my tablescape a couple of years ago. The colors are perfect for my house right now, and this just may be what I repeat again.

Mixed faux flowers of all kinds and a few feathers for interest creates an eye catching centerpiece.

I also arranged a berry garland and some ribbon loops to add some extra glitz as it winds through the candles.

So, how is your tablescape coming along? All done or are you still looking for ideas?

My Office Spruced Up

2011-11-15T16:00:00.002-07:00

When I say office, boy is that using the term loosly. I don't really have an office, I just have a small piece of space that I have claimed where I have my computer and it keeps me in the middle of all the action, so that is perfect.

I use the buffet in the breakfast area as my desk and office. With the two end leaves on the top up, it gives me a really nice long space, so there is plenty of room for my computer screen and keyboard. The computer tower tucks nicely under the end leaf on the right and is completely out of the way. The buffet drawers still holds some extra flatware and the bottom holds an assortment of placemats and tablecloths, so really easy to set the table for dining.

Even if I use it for a desk, I like for it to look nice and still function well. A green and orange sphere, plus a plant have been anchoring the left side.

A trip to GW this week and I found this really cute dog, so of course he just jumped in my basket.

I placed him beside some antique shoe forms and my little desk organizer that I found at GW a while back. This little organizer is just perfect to hold a couple of tablets, a pin, my computer glasses and a little brush to keep the keyboard clean. The slanted door opens to hold my camera and my little Flip. So just about everything I need for blogging is right here.

Isn't he cute. I have seen so many different ones of these and in so many colors, and usually with spots on them. I love that mine is just plain, it fits my style best. I usually see pairs, however there was only one at GW, so he just had to be mine.

Doesn't he have a cute little face.

See that price, I think he is really a steal.

So as you read my posts, you know I was sitting right here. Perfect spot to read all of your blogs, watch tv, keep track of what my DH is doing and cook dinner all at the same time. lol Multi-tasking at it's best.

Thanks so much for stopping by, I always look forward to your visits.

I am linking to the following parties:

Wow Us Wednesday @ Savvy Southern Style

Fall Into Fall @ Diy by Design

Transformation Thursday @ The Shabby Chic Cottage

Open House Thursday @ No Minimalist Here

Feathered Nest Friday @ French Country Cottage

Home Sweet Home Friday @ The Charm Of Home

Flaunt It Friday @ Chic On A Shoestring Decorating

Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence

Potpourri Friday @ 2805