Kristen Klump Pare

Recharge

2012-02-12T19:32:00.000-08:00

A need to get out of this town and hit the big city, of Atlanta, even for a few hours was needed for some soul recharging and a bit of fun family time. There is just something about driving into a city and seeing the beauty of the skyscrapers that makes my heart pitter patter. When we lived near Philly, it was the same way. Does that make me a city girl at heart?

Little one loved the Aquarium --crazy busy as it was Saturday but fun. The Beluga's are absolutely beautiful and I could spend a lot of time just watching their giant gracefulness. Peace was the word that came to mind.

These little guys were a hoot and putting on wonderful fun for all the camera's.

The really cool part is the underwater walkway and seeing all the different species co-habitate with each other. The guide stated that there is sometimes an 'unwanted snack' by the bigger one's. Ohh...that's not nice fish business :) He stated they feed them all ALOT.

The whale shark was 30 FEET long--can't even think about that one.

This guy was really smiling at me, kinda scary! Freaked little one out.

This sting ray had to have been 6 feet wide, it was HUGE.

All in all, I even enjoyed the 2 hour car ride there and back. Yeah, it was needed that bad.

So today, I stood in my craft studio door and stared. Yeah, stared, at the heaps and the mounds, papers, ribbons, buttons, artist pads, pencils, yadda-yadda.

and it sometimes takes a bit of this to get that.

A bit of inspiration for Spring 2012. Really, winter decides to show Feb 11 in the South?!

Here's to winter weather this week--no excuse for me not to have a hot toddy to warmeth my little soul. Come on over, I'll make you one too and we can stare through the door into my studio. Yeah, its that bad.

Very Tiny Foyer

2012-02-06T03:43:00.000-08:00

Hello February--okay, I know but January was sooooo long.

After 2 years of moving in this house, I finally found a bookcase that would fit our tiny wall space in the foyer! I admit I'm pretty picky--it had to be open and have some interest and also by luck it matched the iron mirror that has hung lonely for a friend.

Set up in time for the week of New Year's, I placed a small tree wrapped in burlap which I left up for the little bit of winter we have here in SC. Last year, Karla from Karla's Cottage had a challenge to use the 'good' stuff. You know--the bits and baubles you collect that are your absolute loves.

The little collage just came together, I titled it Family, it's using a 1800's envelope with the most gorgeous script writing. I adore the penmanship they had with the swirling letters. Sigh...just makes me happy. Vintage posey flowers just waiting to be used and a vintage inspired girls which I embellished with my Copics. The brass finding I purchase years ago (I mean years! 5-6yrs!) to go with my jewelry business finally find a project. I found at Homegoods this gorgeous ornate frame that just sets off the collage. I gave up green (you know that sage color) when I moved, trying to move forward from that early 2000's look, but the frame just was to beautiful to give up for this collage.

Now to fill out the rest of the bookshelves! I really need someone to just go for me and buy the goodies, as it may be 2 more years before its done!

Sharing my 2 latest jewelry creations--combining the textile love with designing jewelry. The cuffs are made from an aluminum base, fully covered so it won't cause any allergies. Utilizing more of the good stuff with vintage bits and pieces combined with a bit of sewing. I hope to be adding to my shop soon, let me know if you are interested. Pricing will be $25 US plus ship.

Vintage -Tag Tuesday

2012-01-25T03:42:00.000-08:00

It's funny how inspiration hits some times. I received a sweet old quilt and the beautiful postcard inside is what inspired this tag. The colors were derived from the card and maybe a wish for Spring air!

Vintage book page, lace, calling card (I adore the script and just love to think who the person was), and a sweet vintage brass pup--the vintage inspired image- I finally was able to use my Copic markers to add some sweetness to her.

Perfect tag to place in a bowl with other Spring vintage type goodies.

Have a great week! Kris

Tag Tuesday

2012-01-17T16:28:00.000-08:00

Joining all these awesome artists for a weekly challenge, Tag Tuesday.

Loving the challenge for this very long month.

The drifts of January

be still and listen

Illustration board with vintage whitewash, white fluffiness, and a dab of my favorite blue

More goodies tomorrow--I have been working :)

Handmade Ornament Swap

2011-12-13T03:31:00.000-08:00

Hello all, I know its been awhile. Personal 'stuff' has swarmed over my life the past 3 weeks and have to tell you I'm a little worn out. A week of vacation is coming up next week-a nice staycation. Lots of fun things with little one including movies, hot cocoa with BIG marshmallows, sappy christmas songs, and lots of Christmas cookies.

I did join Cassandra's Holiday Handmade Ornament swap. We were assigned to make 3 ornaments for each of our 3 partners. My sweet partners were Terri, Heather, and Cerri. All such talented ladies and can't wait to show the beautiful ornaments!

From Terri:

From Heather:

From Cerri:

What I gave:

I've been working on my illustrations again and decided to make one into an angel, then dressed her up in sparkly finery. I thought she came out so sweet. On the back is a glassine bag to place your wishes!

Love how the sweet romantic bird came out.

Lastly, this started out something so different but I kept getting an artist block so it ended up with my favorite vintage music paper, glitter icing, and using the old fashioned technique but updated with pearl pins, vintage beads, and vintage glass. Love the frou frou and different textures of each fabric.

Please see Cassandra's blog for the full list of all the participants. Thank you for hosting Cassandra!

Happy Holidays!

Kris

Just a Simple Sweet Thanksgiving

2011-11-20T05:16:00.000-08:00

Last year I made this shabby pumpkin to be on my Thanksgiving table, the wire pumpkins sit on my ledge in the new kitchen this year. Thus this year I decided I wanted something shabby but with a little french inspiration. I used those bright orange, approx 2 to 3 inch sized, pumpkins from Michaels, and restyled them into this:

I used the same technique, noted in the link above, but tried some other types of papers, the heavier scrapbook papers really need to be soaked and patience is the key. I used a soft greyish/blue color. I found testers at Home Depot and the paint works lovely in projects. Nice to have other today colors to work with. Taupe velvet ribbon, grey/silver seam binding, and a tuck in of some leftover burlap ribbon, in a warm honey basket. Love the simplicity and the little bit of pumpkin frosting from the glitter.

Although this year it will be a small family dinner, all the favorites will be made, including my grandma's oyster dressing, and Mom's bread dressing/stuffing. I still haven't gotten used to the Southern version with cornbread yet.

My little one really, I mean REALLy, loves the Food channel and slightly obsessesed with the 'cooking lady' or Giada at Home show. Seriously, she asks to watch the DVR shows! LOL :) Not sure if I have a chef in the making. We watched the Thanksgiving show and I want to try this turkey recipe, Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey, it just sounds refreshing and light. I tend to like the more citrus flavored turkey recipes. We will let you know, she loves to 'help' course the whole kitchen needs a cleaning afterwards between the two of us.

So tell me what is your favorite dish or recipe for Thanksgiving? Love to hear!

It will be a very short week here; loving all this collected vacation time to use up before year end.

May you have a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving

Wonderful long weekend

2011-11-14T03:36:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful long weekend, using up the collected vacation and a generous holiday on Friday. I managed to finish painting the last of the projects for the house. The laundry room is freshly painted Krypton from Sherwin Williams. I LOVE this blue/grey color, made the very large deep moulding POP in the room, the white cabinetry and sink with a greyish countertop just look finished. I know but the original owner was very generous with the lots of moulding throughout the downstairs, beautifully deep. Added some french inspired wall hangings on the wall you see from the hall, and I don't think I will faint each time going in that room, it was the most horrible yellow orange color before. Shudder...

The other is that I went to a local antique dealer (in this old industrial building with about 20 vendors) and found some lovelies but the jackpot was in this old strip retail center where a new antique dealer opened up, she had about 15 vendors.

The adorable crochet basket I found in this grungy doo-dad basket and it was in perfect condition. Not sure of its origin and no pin. It's about 2.5 inches tall. The one hat with the tulle and sweet posey's were an estate liquidation she had set up in the stall. The other 2 hats I found at the 'new' antique dealer and the dealer had a wonderful area, all full of women's and children's fashions. I haven't found something like that in Greenville before. The hats are pristine, I almost hate taking them apart. I found lots of jewelry bits, some vintage doilies with the right amount of tint, and the some vintage papers.

It was a good day. Off to work we go, ha ho, ha ho. See ya soon,

A little romantic, shabby, french inspired Halloween

2011-10-30T19:13:00.000-07:00

Merry Happy Halloween!

After getting tired of the bright Halloween colors and black, I decided to work in my favorite grayish lavender color, it's several layers with the vintage script reflecting through on the brim. A vintage lace doily, soft ribbons and lace, a french script stamped on the brim. I wonder who's initials those are. Soft creamy lace, an altered envelope tucked in there with a vintage pearl earring... a good witch's hat for a romantic Halloween.

Hope you have a wonderful and safe Halloween.

Time

2011-10-25T03:26:00.000-07:00

So why does it take so much time to re-acclimate after a vacation, even if it was a sweet short one? First I LOVED Tybee Island, Ga. Laid back and relaxed, nothing compared to the super huge deluxe of the SC coast. Luckily, it was an easy ride, just about 4hrs from Greenville SC. Can you tell little one was just as excited?!

We stopped at Uncle Bubba's, Paula Deen's brother place on the way in, mainly having to wait to get in our condo. Recommend those oysters with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese. Very fresh and tasty! Just a few pictures from our balcony.

Seriously think every seagull in the South visited our private beach for freedom and solstice!

This awesome shell island has formed from the beauty of the sea.

The weather was beautiful low to mid 80's with the ocean breeze. NO humidity. One thing I can not get used to living in the deep south.

A picture of this sunset. I still can not believe how beautiful it was!

We checked out some art and craft shops on Tybee just a short walk from the condo. I bought a scarf and some wonderful crochet socks from this lovely shop The Misty Marsh. Her crochet scarfs were so beautiful and flying out of the shop.

Savannah was fun but you definitely need more than a day. I think we walked for 6hrs straight. D and little one let me wander through several shops, definitely recommend The Paris Market and Nourish. Awesome fish from Stingrays on Tybee (paper plates and all!)

It was a wonderful way to end the year after alot of downs this year. I will be back with some fall and halloween craftiness in a few days!

Bye Summer! See ya in the new year.

Savannah....

2011-10-14T05:04:00.000-07:00

See ya next week while we explore Savannah and enjoy some Tybee Island time. We already enjoyed some fresh seafood. Nothing like the shore!

Happy Birthday, Little one!

2011-10-10T03:25:00.000-07:00

I'm still amazed it's been 4 years ago today that the blessing of you arrived. Love you little one!
Yes, you can have some cake :) Check out that face! LOL!

Blessed that my Dad was healthy for the cake; and yes, that is football on the big screen in the background. Can't live in the South and not watch college ball on a Saturday! Now you know why hubby loves the screened in porch with the triple windows :) I hope one day to decorate the porch; its huge--somewhere around 21 x 18.

Curiosities Petite Inspiration Swap

2011-10-09T15:10:00.000-07:00

Heather hosted another petite inspiration swap, noted as Curiosities, of which you could distinguish between Halloween, Flea, and mixture. My lovely swap partners, Linda and Deborah, spoiled me with beautiful boxes of vintage goodness!

Linda's wonderful box; look at those gorgeous cabinet cards! Love these and the script is beautiful.

Deborah's

This is what I gave the ladies. I love the idea of the mixture so I used the less seldom purple touched with my romantic verision of Halloween and Flea. The tag was made from papers and fabric that I washed and distress slightly; along with embellishing the vintage style image. The hand stamped Witch ( I couldn't resist using my Copics to color her in) little baggie was filled with some Halloween tid bits for making tags.

Another fun swap. I've really been thinking of a paper doll swap. Just something to think about. It could be a small one--just love that idea of creating a doll with sweet clothes!
Let me know what you think,

Hello Autumn

2011-10-03T03:27:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy you have arrived after the very long and very hot summer here in the South.

Lots to do this month:
1. Little one's 4th Birthday on Monday 10th; cupcakes for preschool; cake for home--testing my baking skills!
2. Travel to Columbia 11th and 12th
3. FINALLY-- R&R in Savannah and Tybee Island starting the 13th
4. Anniversary
5. Halloween--little one is going to be a Butterfly Fairy. I'm working on the drawing to paint on her face!

Sharing a collage with a color palette that is out of the box for me.

Below is what little one does to entertain herself when I'm trying to photograph; awh--caught her on camera this time :)

I planted these hydrangeas this year and what a surprise to get such wonderful blooms! I tend to think I have a green thumb but never does it work out! I dried them and added in some of my dried roses in a rustic pot. Love this arrangement for Autumn.

This month is going to fly by and the Holidays will be starting soon. Have a wonderful week.

Till next time

Kris

Sharing my Space--Craft Studio Room

2011-09-18T17:08:00.000-07:00

As you read a couple of posts before, everything fell down a rabbit hole in June, today I finally finished this makeover update of my tiny craft room. It's a spare bedroom, approximately 11 ft x 11 ft. We moved into this house a little over a year ago. So many projects that had to come first but in May I finally decided on my paint color, its Glidden color (but I used Behr paint), called Polished Pewter. I LOVE it! It's more of a muted pewter lavender color, perfect French, romantic. I really lightened this 'Before' picture as the color was a dark mustard. I hope to eventually put hardwood floors throughout the top floor but it's almost 1,200 sf so that is definitely on the very long 'I Want' list.

I do not take many pictures of my home mainly due to not being able to photograph rooms well. Also, as you will see my space for my art is much different than my everyday spaces. We tend to have a French, farmhouse, eclectic mix. Very much lived in with vintage and antiques spread throughout. I favor lighter colors on the walls, with darker accents as accessories whether it be the furniture or decor pieces. We live lean on the doo-dads, at first, as a necessity with a little one, and now I've become accustomed to less and tend to do vignettes in a space or two then randomly alter. I tend to find something I like and there it will stay.

I finally have opened the few boxes of items that I have been collecting for the past 5 years.

I've read numerous Where Woman Create and the Cloth/Paper Studio magazines for ideas, but in the end, I decided simple and clutter free as I tend to get nervous with to much 'stuff'. Then I clean out like those hoarder shows :) Have you seen any of those?? Wow..

Entrance and Welcome!

I adore the sweet antique christening gown, the shabby white board is magnetic I've attached one of my favorite collages I made a few years ago. I found that tin sign on clearance at Steinmart's years ago and never had a place to hang it, till now.

Straight ahead is the wall with my workspace, and then I set up an inspiration area for my little one with her own 'inspiration board'.

My workspace is an antique buffet. The story goes that my Dad found this black piece of furniture in my Grandma's barn in NY. He is a woodworker at heart. Took it home, cleaned that sweetie up, and there she is. Over 90 years old and where it's from and the story well, it went with my Grandma, who unfortunately had Alzheimer's and now is gone. My Mom put those Victorian knobs and pulls on and well, not so keen but I do not even know what would look good on it.

Look at that gorgeous detail!

Little one's special place, don't you love the Pom Pom art :)

Inspiration Board

It's definitely not the typical kind, its functional but it contains personal items that 'speak' to me. Those flower wands are my Little's one's first birthday party favors. Pink and green!

Um, yes that is me and hubby at a very very early age, check out those acid washed jeans! and the Christmas Polaroid frame :)

I have 2 windows and right in the center is my one and only white bookcase, a Target metal frame, I actually love it due to its size and depth. I prettied it up with vintage dresser scarfs and doilies.

On the other wall, the newest item is the altered farmhouse table that my Mom & Dad got me for my birthday in July. Dad raised it to pub height with addition of dowels then I added some french ribbons. This is my second workspace and my Dad also made my little one the step stool you see with handles. She has to do 'art and crafts' with Mommy. In the future, I will add some bar height chairs farm style one's. Dad got this table at Walmart online! It's perfect.

Then because its a bedroom turned studio, I use the closet to organize. I had an old jewelry hanging rack and since it was linen and the perfect color, I just accessorized it with my favorite tags and filled that sweet thing up. Then I added a closet organizer shelving unit (from Home Depot) and the rest is history! Super bonus, the closet has french doors that I keep closed.

Last, I have to share my little one's latest work. I am so in awe how she concentrates and selects her colors. It's amazing watching that little mind grow.

I hope you enjoyed the visit into my little space.

Well, its conversion week for me at work as we were acquired some time ago but now are in transition. I may need some relaxation by next weekend! Have a wonderful week. The weather has turned here and it's absolutely wonderful, that alone will keep my spirits up.

Night all,

Tip toe....

2011-09-01T17:07:00.000-07:00

So as I tip toe back to the creative front, I wanted to share what I was working on before all went south in June. Although I live in SC now, my memories are of the summers in upstate NY where I grew up. These little tags or cards bring me back to those times.

Illustration board, vintage inspired papers, vintage book pages, vintage beads and buttons. I adore the sweet girls with the little vintage bead pearls--

As I arranged them together, the idea stemmed for a calling card that they used in that time period. Since I'm sooooo ready for fall, I loved the Harvest Moon idea. Almost, as a calling card or invite to a party. I've really love this rustic combo with the vintage, aquas, creams, and browns.

OHH..if anyone can tell me where I can find these vintage posey flowers, PLEASE..they are my absolute favorite and I can not find them locally.

It's Labor Day weekend! Planting my feet on the lounge with a good bottle of wine.

Happy Happy!

Till next time,

Kris

Documenting

2011-08-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

How are you? Where to start? Honestly, it's been a long trying summer along with being in excruciating pain. I wish I could be more light hearted and say we did all these wonderful things but 9 weeks of pain, not being able to move your neck and shoulder, well, it plain stunk.

The pain has lessened and the past week and half I have been 85% human again, and it wasn't due to the specialists and doctors, it was due to my wonderful acupuncturist who prescribed homeopathic herbs and of course, acupuncture. That is a whole other story, infertility related, and you are not here to listen to me about all that. You can email me if you like to hear about my experience. I've been seeing her for over 6 years.

In the end, its managable, although I will have days when I have to come home and just rest. Learning to craft and work my art with the neck is going to be an issue, that is where the problem lays, my neck. Its just natural to bend your neck when you work, look down at the paint, etc. I'm open to suggestions. Even sitting doing needlework you bend the neck!

BUT, life moves forward. I did my best with having an almost 4yr old. Limitations will always be there now we know what it is. I tried to capture the simple things we enjoyed. Dripping popsicles, swimming in her little pool, bubbles, my beautiful flowers,

My sweet lab, who has been extremely nervous, the whole summer with me. She never sits still but I caught her outside the door waiting/watching me. I was trying hard to do something creative.

And then a few weeks ago, these 3 beautiful fawns were in our backyard. I caught them through our screened porch. So quiet, so still, and when they moved it was so graceful. My dad gave us a salt lick to put back in the glade and those little one's were enjoying it.

Then last Monday, my little one started 4K kindergarten. She was just estatic! And what a drama poser.

Aren't I cute?

Wait, I need to wear my huge backpack stuffed to the BRIM with her loveys! Oh, and SHE picked it out.

CHEESE, or MONEY...Watch out world, here I come :)

For those that want to know, she is wearing a Bailey Boys jumper, handmade strawberry barrette, target shoes (we couldn't leave without them since they were pink!), Pottery Barn Kids backpack.

That's our summer.

I hope your's was a sweet one full of memories even if they were everyday small moments.

Thanks for reading.

Hello Saturday....

2011-06-18T13:02:00.000-07:00

Stretch, yawn..what a long week. Errands this morning and this is what we are doing today..

Hope you are having a wonderful weekend..strawberry shortcake made with homemade bisquits is for supper tonight :) Isn't is fun when its just the two of you!! Plus its one of the 4 things little one will eat.... Shh...don't tell

Till next time,

You Are My Sunshine

2011-06-12T16:33:00.000-07:00

Sunday, AGAIN! Doesn't time fly when its not a work day?! I have to travel this week so little one and I spent some time crafting and painting. She is quite the artist :) I bought a new magazine Creative Spaces while looking for preschool craft items at Michaels last week. Ohh...lot's of envy there. Juice flowing now to re-do my space (aka spare bedroom). Hmmm...how to do it on a 'no' budget concept. I've been perusing the contractor's dump it sales on Craigslist for ideas (I live in SC where housing was at an all time high when the economy tanked--lots of items know floating out there). I am definitely taking a cue from several who set up a small area for their little ones. Keep you posted!

In the previous post I had begun trying some new mixed media concepts that Christy Tomlinson's class taught. I did one more based on her concepts and little one scarfed it and put in her playroom already. You can not see the detail but the bird I pieced together bit by bit with some dimension added in the tail and body. Aptly name Sunshine and Blue Skies....Love that peaceful concept it congers up in the mind. Laying in a field with lots of puffy clouds with the sun warming your face.

I love the idea of paint with stamps and used it alot with this one. Today I added a touch of paint with the techniques learned.

You Are My Sunshine

This sweet collage with the vintage girls, vintage daisy and velvet leaves..and the butterflys..

Love how this came out.

Lastly some new tags that I have been working on with a vintage feeling with my love of sweet children and the soft feel of the colors.

How is everyone's summer going? Any plans for a vacation? None for us this summer; fall maybe. I plan on doing projects to the house--painting is on the top of the list.

More to share

Talk soon,

Kris

Whatcha doing?

2011-06-06T03:31:00.000-07:00

As the little girl from Phineas and Ferb says...so for the past 6-7 weeks we have been enjoying our summer --tons of outdoor 'stuff' and the like. Oh, dealing with 3 major issues-2 with the house and the other the car--yikes it seems like I was writing a check every day for 3 weeks straight! I'm still in sticker shock at the prices for items now. Last week we went to Miami for a few days to visit the in-laws and it was cooler there then here! Geez, I'm ready for this 97 degree weather to leave. It was sad to see all those abandoned sky rises or shells with empty windows in downtown Miami..I know there a few major cities probably seeing this same effect.
I have squeezed in some time to take the Christy Tomlinson class and now taking her journal class. It's been interesting--the techniques--using products I never would of thought of. She does use a lot of black and that has been a little intimidating to incorporate. Working to find my own style..I thought I would share my first products:

The 'Blossom and Grow' one is more to my color range ---I have decided my camera and I do not have a love for each other as you can tell from the pics. Maybe its me (and I've read that manual dozens of times) but its time to look for a small compact one that will work fine for the art too. Any suggestions on the one's you use?

Off to meetings and little one to pre-school summer adventures,
I promise to be back soon! I am LOVING this Pinterest site and lots of decorating blogs--getting in that mode since its so hot outside.
Till nex time,
Kris

Dreaming of an old fashioned summer

2011-05-02T18:49:00.000-07:00

Here in the South, early summer has arrived, 80's with big fluffy clouds and a breeze to billow the blinds. A reprieve for the long summer heat and humidity for the next 6 months. The first signs of summer is the request to buy sweet tea for the fridge (Northern transplant here), popsicles, and drumsticks. Remember those? Ice cream cones, gooey chocolate, and nuts--all melting at once. Lick the fingers kind of fun. The tinkling of the ice cream truck as it rounds the corner wafting through the windows. Planting season is almost over here with the brutal sun and long spells with no rain. Dreaming of my hydrangeas--everything this year has pittered out quickly; not sure if it was the cold winter, or hot/cold spring.

These days I spend outdoors, sitting on the porch, sipping coffee and listening. Trying to be 'present'. I recently read a blog that spoke of this and it really resonated with me. Trying to remember its okay for the house to be dusty w/ fur balls and pollen while I go play pre-school soccer in the yard, or sit on the swing and we both fall back laughing. Running in the hall and giggling like a kid. Working not to be stressed all the time over work matters, worrying that my art, is well, art. All the while not physically feeling up to par... I will 'be present' as time is quick running and it would be sad to know I missed the moments not captured on camera.

As time meanders this summer..I will work on my painting. I thought Christy's workshop was great--lots of energy. Two! have been started...but no stress to get them done. My sketch book, sticky pads, and anything that has a little space is currently where my thoughts go. I may not get to them all, or it may be years from now but creativity is ageless and I will be 'present' for my sweets little years--she will be all grown up before I know it.

Showing you a few pictures of the items just loaded up in my Etsy shop.

May you have a sticky sweet and drippy Summer ---Enjoy it...moments are precious.

Treasures abound

2011-04-27T17:48:00.000-07:00

when you swap with the lovely, Cristina. I joined in Cerri's Easter basket swap for some sweet fun! We have similar loves and that just makes swapping so much more fun and I love the tiny details that go into it. Look at this wonderful basket that she sewed--OMG---wish I had the talent. and the wonderful soft faded flowers in the most perfect shades...

Look at all the wonderful papers and tidbits! The sweet hankie... I adore the little girls so much and cherish this immensely. Beautiful vintage flowers, a lovely fabric flower and tag. A wonderful tin that is already filled with vintage tidbits. So much inspiration--thank you my sweet friend for a wonderful swap.

Last, I didn't realize I hadn't taken a picture of these sweet eggs so I borrowed Cristina's. She has a sweet tutorial on how to make them.

Just wanted to share what I gave to Cristina. I asked her if I could do a non traditional basket and what better than a vintage basket purse. The shade of faded honey is just drool worthy. I made the flower for the purse out of 2 Southern vintage lady hats in shades of faded cream and aqua; and tucked in a vintage blue bird.

Treasures tucked inside

We had to make a least one handmade item I made a sweet petite collage and a Spring/Easter tag. Just love how these came out.

Hope you had a wonderful and sweet filled Easter.

My little one appears to be :) Candy fiend in the making!

Till next time,

Think, think, think....

2011-04-03T16:04:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling a lot like Pooh lately with my hand taping my head going Think, think, think! You just get in those ruts personally and professionally at times. Directions, possibilities, wishes...so much too little time. Swirling around like cream in your coffee just not blending all together. answers? not sure of those.. how do you know if its knocking or scratching that you hear, which do you listen too...think, think, THINK.

What do you do at these times? Me, I spend time in books, magazines, good wine, fine coffee, and buying myself a beautiful bouquet of cottage roses from our local Fresh Market. These beauties will be dried and set aside for future projects (you will see below).

A challenge was needed. I joined one of Danielle's swaps, always vintage, but this one A Bird in the Hand. The interesting part is that its limited to 10 players and not knowing who is in the challenge. You send to Danielle who then ships you back another. This allowed me to make it my own. The challenge was a 5x5 collage and a handmade bird nest. Lately as I looked around my home, my tastes have become more closer to neutrals, natural elements, and french inspired design ideas. Romance blends in the form of soft feathers, fresh flowers, and soft pastels. My inspiration came from these.

My parents live in the country and my dad leases multi hundreds of acres so I asked him to be on the look out for a real bird nest. He found one abandoned and as I had never taken the time to look at one up close to study. It was amazing. The intricate blends of small twigs, fluff from it appears to be a pillow or dryer lint, tiny tiny weaving to make a beautiful and soft bed for the little ones. It was so delicate that it fell apart when my Dad moved it but I used pieces of it, along with mosses, and twigs.

I adore this nest I made and honestly very hard to part with but off she went. The softness came in from french inspired stamped muslin that I tattered somewhat and ruffled. The challenge was to have 3 eggs which I utilized paper craft ones stamped with French writing. Other 'eggs' were vintage silver/grey beads, one of my dried roses and real feathers tucked in. The base was to be sturdy so I secured the nest on an antique photo card embellished with vintage ledger paper. An antique doily ruffled/tattered with more vintage silver/grey beads. This could represent the ledge/soft landing the nest rests on.

I thoroughly enjoyed this challenge.

The 5x5 collage base is made from illustration board. I used acrylic paints and stamps blended together for the background then added a soft glaze like paint that gave it some shimmer. The vintage birds are from cards. I wanted the nest to represent a softness too along with all the different items birds gather to make their nest. More muslin, tattered and shaped, an antique button and bead, vintage sheet music curled, and other tiny items. The only thing I couldn't decide on was to add some words like many collage/mixed media do. I like this result but give my your thoughts? Natural elements came in when my little one and I went in search of the 'perfect' twig to make the hanger from.

As I took pictures this weekend, I realized maybe stress and thinking break me out of my box. I hope whomever receives enjoys them as much as I enjoyed putting them together.

To further challenge myself I decided to take an online mixed media class which starts on the 11th. There are so many out there but I selected this one because she utilizes so many different textures, elements, stamps, stencils, pastels, etc. I am actually excited about this!

The She Workshop

She offering a new journal class too.

Off to bath the little one and jammie time!

Take Care,

Flea Market Petite Inspiration Swap and Sunday goodness

2011-03-13T13:29:00.000-07:00

I just had to show you the flower rosette I made for each of the ladies in the swap--what fun that was but it was definitely some work and sewing involved. I most likely took it the hard way but I do love the result.

Hope everyone's weekend is going well. I'm definitely missing my hour already :) It's 4:30 Sunday afternoon and I can not believe it--ton's of stuff to do yet. It was spring clean weekend here--this big old house sure get's dusty--I now know we have WAY to many chandeliers and lights. Little one has been really sick the past week with fever, cough and such; spent time with Grammy and me for about 4 days and now Mom and I are both sick. Ahh, but its Spring here in the South! I pulled out my early Spring wreath, planted some pansy's in the window boxes, moved the Johnny Jump Ups to the ground to spread some love and now I'm here with my coffee enjoying the breeze and the 68 degree weather. DH took little one up to our pond to feed the ducks and play on the playground. Kids bounce back like that!

On to the good stuff:
I joined in Heather's Petite Inspiration swap--Flea Market edition. I just love working with the small inspiration pieces and would like to share the wonderful pieces I received from my beautiful partner's, Michelle and Lorraine.

Michelle's --Beautiful box with lovely papers, tags, ribbon, and sweet tid-bits; just thinking of all the history in those vintage pieces. What a wonderful box--thank you so much Michelle!
I had to borrow Michelle's picture of the outside--mine did not come out. I took pictures during our monsoon rain for about a week.

Lorraine's-

Soft, vintage, sweet flowers, birds, and papers, and the little tiny treasures all tucked in. So lovely, thank you Lorraine!

This is what I made for these lovely ladies:

I loved making the homemade rosette out of vintage pieces and lots of different textures. The sweet bird embellished too.

Till next time,

The Good Stuff Challenge

2011-03-06T14:06:00.000-08:00

Karla and Mrs.Stagg's had a challenge to utilize your 'best stuff'. This idea really was wonderful as times I tend to 'hang' on to some of the good stuff mainly because I love it and others as I buy with a tendency not to know what to do with it yet.

With spring stepping up to the plate here in South Carolina, my mind has turned to the gardening magazines, catalogs, etc with popping of my bradford pear tree. We moved into this 'old' new house a year ago this past week and have to say the original owner's planted some very beautiful flowering trees, hydrangeas, and alot of lilitrope but there is so much improvement yet to be done, I decided a garden journal was needed for this house. I dug out this kraft journal I had for years and scrounged in my vintage papers and such--then the beautiful image, although not vintage yet--only 11 years young, that I have been saving --this was it! You see this is the last blank note card I had left from my wedding. Perfect for this lifetime house we moved into last year. I really love the rustic of the burlap with the pearls, roses, and vintage inspired stamping. Sorry for the darkness--it's been raining for 4 days straight.

And a look at the inner page:

Then I decided I wanted my other favorite look--I used some of this vintage wallpaper I had been holding onto--just enough to fit the other half of the Kraft book.

Now --I should use one for the front yard and the other for the back yard! Oh well, it was fun and love making to different looks. Please visit Karla's blog for the rest of the links.
Off to tend to a sick little one--
Happy Sunday!

Oh soooo Sweet

2011-03-01T12:09:00.000-08:00

I found this Oh so sweet blog today called Sweet Paul. I just had to share. They just launched their Spring magazine --all for the kids. Spring2011 Magazine

I can not resist these --pink, frothy, and polka dots..what not to love! My 3yr old says 'I want one'!

Winter Sweetness

2011-02-20T15:55:00.000-08:00

It's Sunday, a harried long one, and I'm finally relaxing (little one finally passed out from exhaustion from talking NON STOP for 10 hours!) How do 3.5yr olds do it? I was worn out by 8:10am this morning. She refused a nap again today--a lovely brief escape for Mom--no luck for me this weekend. I've been really dreading the day when she would stop the nap.

A nice little respite is coming this week in SC--weather in the 60's. I'll just be happy with bright sun to warm my face. I believe its time to retire my Uggs to the back of the closet (I admit this little splurge this year was well WORTH the money). This has been the longest and coldest winter here in over 10 yrs. I'd go home from work and slip them on--just heaven. My office will not get over 62degrees and I can't have a heater or the dumb building blows a fuse (let's just say I found out the hard way--still not living down that one at the office when it went dark). geez..so I justified not having frostbite at home :)

Little one has been 'helping' me in 'our' room (craft). I had this gorgeous vintage girl image for years--not sure what to do with it; then one day a few weeks ago all the pieces fell in place. It's actually a folder to store sweet papers in! I absolutely LOVE the velvet hood with fur trim and the sweet face. I utilized doilies, seam binding and vintage button as closure. I have another sweet vintage girl image to make another folder soon.

This collage has another vintage style image--up close you can see her freckles. I just love that face. It says St Valentine but I think you could use this year round. Vintage ledger on a canvas board is the backing. There is vintage bling from rhinestone and broken earring and then I think the bottom was an earring also but was missing it's middle so I added the vintage pearl rectangle. This is simple and sweet.

This 'Snowman' day hanging is made out a vintage children image that I added some sparkle and glaze to showcase the snow and accessories. Vintage bingo board for the backing.

I tend to be drawn to the vintage images of children and women from yesteryear. Innocence, romance, and beautiful fabrics, trims, and wonderful teas!

I really do plan to upload some items to my little bare Etsy shop soon.

Accomplished this weekend:

some spring cleaning

5 loads of laundry

all 3 meals plus snacks

lots and lots of coffee (thanks DD)

Lots of time with Little One :)

and my TAXES are DONE!

I still hand calculate and mail them in though (I know!)

Happy Sunday night--off to warm my coffee :)

What is Romance to you?

2011-01-31T17:18:00.000-08:00

As I spent most of the month at the doctors and sick in bed, I had plenty of time to catch up on all my magazines that were cluttering up my bedside table. I don't remember being this sick with a very nasty sinus infection then sick from the to many very strong steriods and antibiotics to finally get rid of it. Along came this article, what is romance to you? I really enjoyed all the different scenarios and with it FINALLY being February makes this an excellent topic. To me, the good old Encyclopedia Britanncia summed it up perfectly about me and reflects the differences in how each of us interprets art, the beauty that someone may overlook and we must as artists create to share:

Romanticism emphasized the individual, the subjective, the irrational, the imaginative, the personal, the spontaneous, the emotional, the visionary, and the transcendental. Among its attitudes were a deepened appreciation of the beauties of nature; a general exaltation of emotion over reason and of the senses over intellect; a turning in upon the self and a heightened examination of human personality; a preoccupation with the genius, the hero, and the exceptional figure; a new view of the artist as a supremely individual creator; an emphasis on imagination as a gateway to transcendent experience and spiritual truth

So dear friends, I appreciate everyone that spends a moment just to view my art and share a kind comment or two. I am glad that you have stuck with me through these slow months. I saw a promise of Spring yesterday and was glad to see the sun shining and a warm breeze blowing my hair, one step at a time and one breath to move forward.

A new set of large tags/toppers. The lovely romantic image is from the lovely Cerri, the back has an area for you to write more sentiment and to.from. It would look lovely hanging off a vase or pitcher or even just setting on a shelf/cabinet. I just love these which is about 7inches tall by about 4 inches.

These are made out of a thick illustration board, both are using vintage papers, buttons, with some newer version of pearls and millinery. The taller set is 2.5in by approx 5in and these above are 2.5in by 3.5in. They also are perfect as tags, toppers, and hanging off a vase of beautiful flowers or just for show. The string can easily be removed if so desired.

The last is a small altered craft book with craft paper and watercolor to have a small journal/notebook. It would be perfect for a small garden, notes, pictures/collage. Then I made this sweet matchbook to go with it so tiny for just a few special items (couple of the pages shown below).

Talk soon and take care,

Evolving

2011-01-09T10:29:00.000-08:00

Merry New Year! Okay, really first week down and 3 more to go. January has always been a longggggggg month for me and with each passing year seems to drag out even further. I seriously believe I have a touch of that seasonal disorder as I get in the dumps-- so this January I'm working on updating everyday items, like sheets, towels, and kitchen items. I still need curtains for each of the rooms. Can you believe we have lived here a year and I still can't find something I like. I haven't shopped for these items in a long time and I get off tangent so easily especially on the internet! Priorities were very different for the past 7 years and are now easing back to spending a tiny bit of money on myself personally and finally a big house of my own. Those 70's hand me downs are going to be replaced eventually!

In between the nasty sinus infections (of which I'm miserable today with), I have been working on some projects. I did spend a little time reflecting on the past year and realizing that I have been evolving, working it out to find my own in this world of creating. I love the mix of textures and little bits of colors with vintage bits/bobs. I recently read about doing a word for the year and maybe this will continue to be 'my' word. I have too much I want to do artistic and family related so time will tell. In the meantime, it's nice to just live, day by day, see the past 7 yrs were mind trapped with having a child and then a house. Working off of a daily list be it cleaning, food, or recipes, its simple and soothing after all those years of stress. Being Open to the next thing that comes along--isn't that what its all about?

Enjoy these new sweets:

This wall or door hanging is my most recent:

A Thank You card that was just bursting to be put together, I just love how this came out. I don't make many cards (actually I think this is my 3rd one ever!):

This collage sentiment and my favorite elements all mixed together. I was experimenting with some items from the scrapbook world -transfers:

A sweet bird collage box with her own vintage eggs (buttons and bling!):

Inside of the box for little trinkets and keepsake items:

If you are interested let me know! I will upload to Etsy for purchase.

I was on a roll the week and half I was off and still have more pictures to upload.

Hope your Sunday is going well.

Off to make a favorite, Apricot and Lemon Chicken with rice and carrots. Simple and yummy.

Till next time,

Christmas Past, Joli Stocking Swap and Projects

2010-12-28T17:10:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling the yucks and DH has just now got our computer up and running after upgrading it the past 2 weeks. Sigh--so this won't be very long.

How was everyone's Christmas? That month blew by like that 3inch snow we got on Christmas Day! First time in over 47 years. My little one didn't want anything to do with it--gonna be a Southern gal with bare feet and warm weather. She said Mommy look they are throwing snow and building a snowman across the street. Mom- hmmm, deep in thought reminiscing about growing up in the North. Wanna go, I said? Little one--Nope! too cold. At 3! Sigh...I WANNNA GO! Too late now--one nice thing about South Carolina it's gone the next day :)

Cindy, from Junque Art, was my partner. What a beautiful stocking she gave me with all the trimmings. Isn't it cool? I LOVE it so much. Thank you Cindy!

Just a peek at what I made for Cindy.

My sweet friend, Cerri, shared this idea for making some ornaments with my little one. Aren't they cute? One to Grammy and one for us. Thank you Cerri for the idea (and I still had baby jars hanging around-sad thought!) All I was allowed to do was add the bows--quite a crafty one in the making!

I made this one for my Mom while little one was busy with all kinds of crafty projects. I love the different textures--dyed doily, simple stich of the linen picture and vintage doo-dads.

Well, lots more projects to show but that will have to wait until next time.

Till then,

That's Princess music

2010-11-23T03:36:00.000-08:00

Mommy as it came floating out of the speakers said my little one. I normally have complete silence when I create but it was a day for classical to fill the air and tinkle out the open windows on this beautiful Fall day in SC..perfect high 60's blue skies. A day to be happy and thankful for the warmth and coziness of creating together (or making messes is more like it :)

I made this sweet a little shabby Christmas book mainly out of coordinated scrapbook papers. I admit on those days when time is fleeting it's quick to put together these little books for future journals or simply happy holiday pictures.
Below are the Front and Back of the little book.

A couple of the inside pages:

I managed to have a few hours to myself so I headed to a local antique mall with various local dealers. I love to look and historically just did that due to limited space to be able to collect a lot of items.
Now that I have room to put my favorite things to collect, I picked up some gorgeous books. I tend to collect children's books prior to the 1960's as the illustrations are so detailed. These are somewhere in the late 1800's and though they are not in pristine on the edges; the colors and paper are still wonderful. Look at that handwriting that was in the first page. I spent a long time just looking at all the books; picturing who held these books; what they were wearing, --I tend to daydream about all these items. I guess it's one way to preserve the past and thank whomever for keeping these 100 yr old books for future people to enjoy.

Last a wonderful illustrations book by Kate Greenway from 1946. It's rough but the inside illustrations are in awesome shape. I so can't wait to create with these!

I hope you all have a wonderful Holiday; I'm cooking the big 22lb turkey for about 10 people. Today is my Friday and then I'm off to play with glitter and paint with my little one :)

Oh, if you haven't check out Hope and Kari's course Winter Stories. I'm also working on my manifesto for the class. My book is actually going to be a sketch book as I am pushing myself to work on my painting and illustration work again. My cover hasn't appeared yet--I hope that comes out of this tired brain too!

Blessings,

Before and After--a Little Shabby Sweet Thanksgiving

2010-11-03T04:14:00.000-07:00

Our First Thanksgiving in the new old house this year. I am having 9 people for dinner--definitely not the size of the one's my Grandma hosted over the years. I do miss her and being the one to make the 'real' whip cream. Does anyone do that anymore? It's so simple to make. Oh and helping her 'make' the apple pie and then her baking the leftover pie crust with a little bit of sugar and cinnamon...ahh the smell was wonderful but the flaky sugary goodness was the best. Wonderful simple times filled with simple Joy. Thanksgiving has always been about sharing, giving thanks, and the simple emotion of Joy. Thanksgiving wasn't fancy, just filled with food, laughter, and well, football, if my uncles had their way. Since we moved South, our family is small and over the years, our Thanksgiving has progressed to sharing with those that don't have anyone or are also transplants with no family and won't be going home for the holidays--so you may end up eating of a melamine plate but the door is open and your belly will be full! This Thanksgiving will be hard for many --I will do as much as I can to make sure others share this joy too even if its for a few hours.

The table is simple but I wanted something a little shabby with a vintage feel for my sideboard. These pumpkins would be perfect for any Fall project.
Here she is finished:

A paper mache pumpkin found on clearance --less than $1; mod podge, walnut ink stain, vintage paper, clear glitter, new and vintage embellishments.

These little 'Joy' pumpkins will be on the main table.

Before:

After: some craft paint, new and vintage embellishments, handmade tag, and a little bit of glitter.

Off to travel to Asheville for work today with a late night arrival back home. Hope you have a beautiful day.

ohh la la

2010-10-25T16:41:00.000-07:00

I was in a serious slump after putting together little one's party several weeks ago and some serious long haul time in my day job (can you say crunching numbers for hours as a time--I think I've been chained to my office!). I was bone tired. Okay--now you are thinking analytics and creative (yes I do have headaches most days as both sides fight for being front runner in my brain!) It's not my love, art is but it pays the bills and allows me the luxury of buying my sweet vintage goodies. Yesterday I slipped into my craft room while she slept and stood there...tick tock...starting moving 'stuff' around --just looking at the little piles I had been gathering and the start and stops of several project. I haven't been very motivated for Fall projects at all! Very unusual for me as I love this time of year.

I opened the windows, pulled up the blinds to let all that sunshine in, and listened to the quiet...slowly the baubles and trims came together and since I've recently found the new love of 'petite' worked on a Romantic inspired box and goodies--which is now in my Etsy shop. I decided it was time to move forward and share a few of my creations. Please let me know your thoughts-- I have sketched a sweet logo but now I'm stuck and need to find a web person. I am NOT that person--for some reason the computer part of this stuff is work to me maybe its the 9 hours of analysis-crunching numbers-tables that it reminds me off. Let me know of any recommendations to help me get that little logo computerized.

Enough brooding--back to the art:

Ohh, la la--Romance Petite Inspiration for you :)

Goodies in the Romantic Petite Set:

A French Inspired tag with pretty bobby pins--also in my Etsy shop

Sweet romantic tags --I just love the natural textures with the softness of lace and linen--also in my Etsy shop.

I feel a little more back on track--well except for this sinus stuff that seems to be ramping up! I'm off to watch the one goofy show I do watch-Chuck (I am married to the ultimate geek squad)--it's so stupid it makes me laugh most times and some days you just need that-fluffy . Oh and off to share some pumpkin sugar cookies I made yesterday afternoon too!

Preppy Sweet Pink & Green Birthday

2010-10-10T17:07:00.000-07:00

My sweet little one turned 3 today, 10/10/10. Listening to the numerologist on the Today show this morning indicated this was a celebration day. Her's turned into a weekend of fun and with this being her first 'kid' party, it was even more special. I am so grateful to Him for allowing me to enjoy this special little girl in my life and the weekend ends with her sweetly yawning from all the activity and watching her favorite movie.

She picked out the preppy girl theme and how much fun it was to gather ideas together from some of these great design blogs out there. In the end, it was simple and sweet with the cake as the centerpiece.

The cake came from a local bakery, Couture Cakes of Greenville, besides beautiful they are also delicious!
I highly recommend them for any event you are having.

The color scheme developed from this sweet cake topper from MadebyJackie which we used as a topper in the flowers. Everyone loved this arrangement. She also made her the banner below.

The weekend was wonderful and the Southern fall showed itself in its glory with a cool morning and warming up to a nice 80 degree day; even today was the same beautiful sky. The party ended up on our very large screen porch--aren't they so sweet :) The food was ham and turkey sandwichs, mac & cheese, and crackers with fruit. They enjoyed it so much.

We ordered her invitations from Digipixils and I came up with the little saying for it. This is just the sample as the other has personal info on it.

Our goodies bags one filled with candies and the other a recycled bag with a water bottle. I'm all about trying to help the environment as much as possible. We found them at Old Navy, inexpensive but oh so cute-but being that 3 of them were boys we went with a gender neutral bag and bottle :)

They bounced and played, swang, and played in the sand. I enjoyed seeing her so happy; the kids ended up

staying later than anticipated and did not want to leave. She slept like a baby for her nap all curled up in a ball on the couch with me and I gratefully rested for an hour and just appreciating that I was able to help bring her happiness with a real understanding of what motherhood is all about.

Happy Birthday my sweet little one.

Thanks for letting me share a little of this weekend. Today we did the Zoo ( a small local one), pumpkin patch, and brunch. Jammies and milk time.

Night.

More Sweet Halloween

2010-09-25T11:48:00.000-07:00

This year my favorite color combo is black and white with a pop of color or bling. I gathered this sweet Halloween tag set together along with my other Halloween tags. Just email me at kristen7744@hotmail.com if you are interested in any. The purple wall hanging or door hanging is so adorable with the nice shot of colors.

A few more items for Halloween left to show you soon. I've gotten side tracked lately with everyday life and 3 kid birthday parties! My soon to be 3yr old has goes to more parties than I do :)

Sweet and Simple Halloween

2010-09-13T16:31:00.000-07:00

Bang, down comes the big box of Halloween and Fall. I had packed them away a year ago, one because of the lack of space and two as I knew we would be moving to a bigger house (specifically with a room for my 'stuff'). Sadly, a lot got smooshed by our movers (aka DH's friends) you know the one's that do it for free beer?! So I have been happily putting out my Fall decor, which is my favorite time of year, and smiling as most of my Halloween tidbits survived.

Having a 3 year old, I wanted sweet, simple, and a bit of vintage thrown in. You don't realize that most of the Halloween items out there now are for adults until you have a terrified child! I took my little one to Michael's and she got scared over the crackling, howling, and sinister looking decor.

Cracking open that box (oh, wait that should be plural with groans from the DH), I forgot about all the vintage looking scrapbook items I had picked up year over year. Now I have space to keep my goodies out or organized without putting in the attic for a year.

I made this little collage with my little one in mind. It has vintage paper, scrapbook paper that had a vintage feel, rub-on's behind the goofy ghost, and a sweet glittered pumpkin Boo with a cute hang tag dangling off for some extra fun for her.

She said is that for me? Yes, and it will hang sweetly off your door for the season.

This vintage inspired collage below is in my favorite, black and white color scheme, and with sweet black glittered cats, and the piece I've been so wanting to use in a project for so long now, the fluffy feathers! I just adore this piece using scrapbook paper with a vintage feel, vintage inspired images, vintage flowers and vintage earring bob, and my new favorite love, stamping. It's so simple with a slight elegant air.

Hope you enjoy. I have a few more projects to share soon.

Fall? Are you here yet???

2010-09-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

It's September 2 and it's 92. Hmpphhh, I'm putting up my fall decorations this weekend--phmpt to mother nature; I want apples, spice, and that crisp coolness. Sigh...

What have I been up to? Let's see, sniffling over this one starting K-3--LOL! I told her I was going to put this picture on her wedding table, check out that petulant look ALREADY! You can barely see her Dr.Suess converse chucks, so sweet :) Hey, we are into comfort here. So she is loving her puppies so I had to get her a lunchbag with them on --it says its for boys but who cares at 3--she was absolutely happy with it.

I've been playing with my new set(s) of Copics. Can you say LOVE! Be kind--these are my very first try with the pens. I still am amazed at being able to blend so well. I've really started to collect stamps and enjoying the ease of making tags with them.

Ready for my team to start their season tonight, glad to have a break from the never ending work.

I've started to sketch again and working on a new logo for myself and a studio/design name.

What's up in your area?

Till next time,

Time is flying by

2010-07-25T11:37:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe its the last week of July already. The past month has been quick and busy. Work is non stop and with it blistering hot this month, a lot of indoor activity. This is what has been happening the last couple of weeks

Yesterday and today since it's 105 out-Devyn and I spent some quality crafting time :)

Bead necklaces! I found these chunky beads at Michaels perfect for her little chubby 3yr old hands.

Look how intent and focused she is! Bestill my art loving heart :) She gets SO Excited when I break out new crafty ideas and supplies.

My sweet Cookie looking on forlornly. She is detesting this weather immensely with all her furry heavy coat of hair.
Beads a few days before; the above picture shows her much needed haircut into a sweet bob.

Her first day of preschool starts in 3 weeks! Can you believe school is starting already. I ordered this sooo cute skirt for her first day from Etsy. How cute is that! With a sweet little red shirt and sandals --awhh, scrapbooking the first day will be bittersweet.

I celebrated a birthday; I've decided I would either be 38 or 40 from now on since I was pregnant at 39! I woke up to see this from Devyn and DH along with a gift card to Starbucks (my very bad habit) which is a short walk from my office downtown.
Aren't they absolutely stunning image of late summer? I LOVE non traditional arrangements and he always buys from the same lady at Twigs in Greenville. Roses are beautiful but I so love the natural arrangements they do.

I received my Crown from Rochelle and what a BEAUTY! See the crown I sent for the swap below post. I LOVE it so much and the handmade necklace is gorgeous! Thank you so much Rochelle. The colors are so me and can't wait to showcase it in my cave called my craft room which I'm rearranging and looks like a ribbon and paper bomb went off! LOL

This is the vintage hatbox it came in--I am sooo putting that way up high so grubby toddler hands do not touch this sweet box.

Sorry the pictures are so dark; the weather is so hot and cloudy no matter how many lights I use its just miserable.

I refinished an old TV cabinet my Dad converted years ago (remember those TV's that were furniture in itself?) He removed the TV gunk and added a shelf and doors-gee, I guess it was when I was a tween. I inherited it when I moved into my first apartment--it was that old brown color, so I painted it a shabby white. I am looking for vintage glass knobs to replace the current one's. It's going back in my bedroom as a side table.

FINALLY painted my bedroom which happens to be huge for some reason and found a gorgeous soft grey color from Sherwin Williams called Fleur De Sel. This is what they say this color palette Soft and Sheer is: This is a classic collection of tender whites and lights. Slightly feminine, and reminiscent of antique linen and vintage lace. This reserved Soft and Sheer palette is both subtle and evocative. These colors don’t need to scream their importance, instead they rely on the power of gentle harmony to create a wonderful calming magic. Can you picture bed sheets blowing gently on the clothesline in the warm summer breeze? Relax into the softness...

Did you seriously not think I would buy it from that!? Another bestill my vintage/romantic heart! I haven't decided on Twinkle or Evening Shadow for my attached master bath. I want to re-do with new countertop --marble would be beautiful with this palette. To many other wants for our new old house before that.

What have you been up too this summer?

As August blooms shortly, my mind is moving to early Fall, Halloween, and Christmas. I'm ready for cooler weather, sunny and bright days with that hint of crispness, apples, mums, and my sweet little's one 3rd birthday in early October. This summer has been way to hot to enjoy so mentally as the Web and catalogs (the Pottery Barn one just came is just filled with some great ideas) come rolling in this past week with all the Fall goodies you can't help but start to be nostalgic for the season that is my absolute favorite. Oh, including some college football too :)

Till then, Kris

Showcase--Crown Swap

2010-07-11T17:26:00.000-07:00

This was a interesting and challenging swap that sweet Molly hosted. I have never made a crown before and the lovely Holly gave me some wonderful advice on how to construct her. Thank you Holly!

My partner was Rochelle of Lola's Mommy. Her preference was cream, black, reds, and aqua. I am quite excited on the outcome. I also made a mask to go with her sweet crown. I hope you love it Rochelle!

*blush* admitting that I used to read historical romance novels when I was a teen and forever was fascinated by the balls, dresses, and the masquerade ball's that would be detailed in those books. It was wonderful summer teen reading for an only child and I would just let my imagination go. The swap just brought me back to those wonderful book details. I was fascinated to see what I could create. Holly's crowns are to die for and you need to check out her flickr. BEAUTIFUL! That might be why I now make my dress form gowns (see my flickr on the sidebar for pictures). They are a labor of love. Anyhoo, getting back to the crown--let's present:

Now for the mask:

I just adore the mask; vintage papers, tid bits, tulle, and red lace and ribbon left over from the crown. The paper matches the crown. The crown has a vintage lace, french inspired paper, red lace, and sparkle bits and vintage leaves.

I'm slowing down for the Summer now. The weather has been extreme here 100 plus degree for the past 2 weeks with no break. It just puts me in a down mood and I move soooo slow. My creativity is snoozing for awhile so I have begun to focus on 'to do' projects for the house. I have Heather's swap to post next. I hope you all have a great weekend!

Kris

Merci! Paris Petite Inspiration Swap

2010-07-05T15:21:00.000-07:00

Hello, I hope everyone's holiday was wonderful. Little One and I spent the weekend just puttering around together and doing lots of outdoor 'stuff' since it was beautiful in S.C. this year.

Heather hosted a beautiful themed petite inspiration swap about Paris. Ever since I was a child I have been full of wonder about art, beautiful castles, and countrysides in Europe. I do love working petite which is a recent recognition as I work my way back to the love of art I left behind for other journeys. It's been an interesting journey back with the technology, even with the types of art.

My lovely partners were Michelle and Cristina.

Michelle sent this stunning box with absolutely beautiful fabric images, lace, vintage bits and bobs, tags, glitter, sweet french themed glass and vintage papers. All in drool worthy shades of creams, taupes, and browns. The images I knew immediately I would be making a collage for my Mom who will swoon about this. I LOVE IT! Thank you so much Michelle!

Cristina sent this wonderous box full of yummy shades of reds, creams, taupes in the forms of fabrics, lace, buttons, papers, and the most scrumptious buttons, cards, and papers as extra goodies! Oh gosh, thank you so much Cristina!

I was certainly spoiled and appreciate the time and love that went into this swap by these lovely ladies. Please visit their blogs for more beauty.

This is what I made for the ladies-I love how we each received different theme colors. I have been loving the cream, white, grey, black, and blue lately.

I sent them a goodie bag made of a vintage hankie with vintage baubles and beads (seen above), then I made these pretty tags pictured above to go on top of the package.

Enjoy! Till next time, Kris

Let Them Eat Cake!

2010-07-01T12:23:00.000-07:00

It's nice to have a few vacation days after a couple of LONG months (work wise--no headaches till Tues--well hopefully!). Today was errands in the morning, gardening after lunch (Mommy anyways) sweating in the 90 degree heat and now this is happening:

Can you see that I'm excited!! Time to myself for an hour :)

So this happened:

A sweet altered art CAKE :) I made some of those flowers that are popular--using vintage pearls and a broken earring, vintage paper flowers, vintage lace, some paper from the scrapbook industry, and that luscious silk ribbon. This would be sweet for a table at a shower. I tend to go more romantic and stray towards wedding, baby, and french inspired art. The funny thing is our house has only bits and pieces of this --we tend to be simple with lots of light colors, vintage linens, antique furniture here and there (thanks family!); thrown in with new traditional sofa and chair. Not sure where my love came from must be all those historical romance novels I admitted reading when I was younger (see Crown post). I grew up a jeans, sneakers, and sweatshirt girl and still that way (till I put that suit on for work). I pop it with vintage pins, jewelry, and funky socks :) Oh, it's nice to know others are in the same pickle with style Elyse has some gorgeous photos but I LOVE them all--my issue is that I tend to get it half done and get into something else!

Anyways, I PROMISE to get pictures of my awesome swap partners for Heather's Paris Petite Inspiration box. Till then, Kris

Art Challenge

2010-06-28T03:18:00.000-07:00

Lisa had an art challenge to see what we did with a simple soap box. BTW, that soap is awesome along with the lip balm by that company! As I tooled through Target, my little one and I came out with a Big Cart full. Sigh..I never do well at that store.

My inpsiration came from the french paper which I set off with some watercolors and the lace dyed with walnut ink--I did a dip and pull with it. I'm now going to use it showcase my vintage buttons. Thanks Lisa for the challenge!

Have a great Monday! It's a short Holiday week for me; although painting my bedroom and working in the garden are on the 'to do' list.

Kris

Friday Love

2010-06-18T03:27:00.001-07:00

So I thought I would share a few items that I've been loving this week for some weekend inspiration:

I am so lusting over this Eileen Fisher Dress!

These Born Sandals to go with,

A few accessories
Lastly, a pair of beautiful BUT comfy PJ's. I just love pajamas.
All these beauties are courtesy of my fav shop: Garnet Hill

Have a great Friday!

Just a peek

2010-06-16T17:34:00.000-07:00

I didn't open up to blog land about my Dad (he is 66) due to the extreme mental exhaustion I was in from his sickness and my own.

He is recovering (thank goodness) but underwent open heart surgery in February for a triple bypass and they also did something else to his heart. He had a massive heart attack some time in October but never knew. The Dr was pretty blunt and stated he was being watched over by the Lord as he was lucky to be walking. I am very blessed that everything went okay. I found out a few weeks before Christmas but they had to put him on medicine for over a month to see if his heart could even take surgery.

So the story goes on : This past month my parent's have been 'downsizing' or 'upsizing' and 'redoing'. LOL! Take your pick but I am the lucky recipent of their now antique goods (or in DH's groan-I've got to MOVE WHAT!). For the past week, I've been hinting about the couch he needs to move to the house and put in little D's playroom/TV room. I AM NOT giving up a perfect 1960's couch that absolutely no sat in the past 40 years since it was in our family's formal living room. It was recovered in a cream fabric with some type of flower in the early 80's. That fabric is isn't even squashed! It's classic line and LONG. They don't make them like this anymore. I've also got my Grandma's table side table--it's an interesting piece got to be from the 40's.

But! I was able to bring home my Dad's baby shoes from the 40's, his original spoon, and baby ring. They now reside on a very top shelf in my craft room (so little helper won't be playing with them!). The booties still have the original ribbon in them and are in perfect condition. The ceramic isn't even scratched. I LOVE the patina the spoon has now.

I'm so greatful its the Mid week hump. Work is wearing me out!

I so appreciate the friends I have made here. Thank you!

Take Care, Kris

Enjoying

2010-06-14T03:30:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I spent 5 hours putting primer over my ugly brown bedroom walls. I just couldn't live with that color after moving in 3 months ago. Even the white primer is an improvement so this Sunday, little one and I went to the pool for the first time. Let's just say she isn't good with new 'experiences'. This is about as happy as she got going in the 1ft toddler pool at our subdivision pool.

So since that lasted a whole hour; I decided to play the rest of the afternoon and also work on my picture taking with this camera. After a year, I think I figured this Canon out.

Just a simple collage called Happiness:

I tried those flowers that are poping up everywhere. I winged it and love the results.
Another collage--I just love this sentiment, it gives thought that you need to try new things and you may find a new love for something.

A paper mache bunny I've had for years. This baby must be at least 15yrs old. She was in a country style that I was in so to freshen her up I painted her white and placed some vintage style flowers and ribbons on her. She sits on my workbench now. I dried these pretty creamy roses to a perfect shabby beige tone.

I also wanted to share my treasure tin swap with Melissa at PineyRose. She sent the most beautiful tins and the sweetest petite bits. I love everything! Thank you Melissa.

Okay, I'll be back with the Tin pictures--they didn't come out.

Hope you have a great week,
Kris

Pretty Pockets Swap

2010-05-30T11:37:00.000-07:00

Oh what fun! Jen of My Shabby Altered Life was my partner. Jessica hosted this sweet swap. I have to say I had never made a pocket before and really fretted over it :)

Look at the absolutely stunning one Jen made for me and all the YUMMY goodies. I was extremely spoiled. Thank you Jen!!!

Here are so close up of my favorite elements:

A peek at the goodies:

The most gorgeous photos!

Awhh...now a few photos of what I made Jen.

She liked beads and baubles so I packaged up a bunch for her.

I also included one of my paper dolls with vintage bits in her packaging:

On top of all this gorgeous goodies; I won Heather's giveaway! Look at all this awesome stuff!

I'm in LOVE with these:

Phew--time to relax on this Stormy Sunday afternoon. It's extremely humid which causes these nasty summer storms here in the South with huge cracking thunder and lightening to scare you to death.

I'll be back with some projects I've been working on. I've also set up my new Etsy shop (see top right for link). Let me know what you think and thanks for the support.

Happy Memorial Day USA
xo Kris

Let's talk style

2010-05-26T03:15:00.000-07:00

as you guys have read I moved into a new house at the beginning of March. I'm having a time getting my style here at the house. My previous house was 'eclectic clutter' with a known color scheme of cream, sage, beige/browns, and a splattering of vintage and cottage/romantic. Funny thing is I still have all the same furniture (let's better phrase antique and vintage hand me downs). The only new items is the couch and chair/ottoman. I totally changed my color scheme with them and I think that's what throwing me. It's a deep beautiful blue by Lane. It's deep and LONG-Little one, 2 dogs and I can lay down together. I looked and looked and looked-when I walked into a small local shop and she was sitting there with the matching chair in the coordinating pillow (flower tapestry one)-that's it! Totally unlike the neutral me. I left my floppy shabby beige one in the dust--it can't stand up to a toddler and dogs; it died a death after 7yrs--way to early for the LARGE price tag piece of furniture. So as you can see:

Its contemporary /classic style with the old fashioned big stud construction. My grandpa owned an upholstry business when I was growing up and that's what I remember best going in his building and hear the hammering of those studs in beautiful old antique furniture.
Which brings me to the kitchen (one of those kitchen/breakfast area/living room combos with the countertop eating area also)--it's a dream one you see on those HGTV shows but I miss my white kitchen, white appliances, and light countertops. I can't get used to the granite--it's dark brown with some creams, light browns, etc. The title backsplash is browns/tans/grays/copper like colors. The cabinetry is a nice light maple but for some reason they installed BLACK appliances--all nice top of the line stuff but black? So out goes this horrid sunflower walls and a nice grayish/tan color on the walls from Lowe's. It totally calmed down the whole downstairs area. I felt a tiny bit better and have received a whole lot of compliments from the family who saw it before. I saved that paint chip for 4 yrs! You can see a bit of it behind my tiny cottage corner here in the breakfast area.

For those that live in the South, I got these gorgeous creamy roses at a local supermarket, Publix! for 7.99! and appropriately called Cottage series. The sweet bottle and metal carrier I got at our local Pottery Barn for $19. Not bad for Pottery Barn.

This is the other corner of the breakfast area (the owner left these white hanging shelves perfect for plants due to being next to 4 windows)

So let's talk style--what's yours? Ideas to break down and soften that kitchen? I'll be back to talk about the dining room (formal); get some pics of the kitchen, and my horrid poop brown walls upstairs!

So this one followed me around; take my picture, TAKE MY PICTURE; CHEESE! How can you not love that? (okay--don't ask me after 8 hrs of that insistent chatter)

xo Kris

Summer

2010-05-17T03:08:00.000-07:00

is here in South Carolina and along with it came the summer FLU (capitalized as it has hit all 3 of us-Little one gave it to Mommy last week, now it's Daddy's turn). Ugh--nasty stuff.
Oh friends, please tell me why when Big D gets it; he is absolutely dying, whining, and CAN'T help-'cause I'm soooo sick'--did you hear the moaning when I typed it?! Seriously, I still had to work FT, clean, cook, and take care of little one AND I would get that look if I stated I was to tired to do something-breathing-breathing---so you can tell I gave no sympathy back this past weekend. Humphh..

Before sick camp started, this was what I HAD been doing:

My feeble attempt at flower arranging. I absolutely adore flowers and digging. It soothes my soul. It's hanging on my front porch. Little one was excited but big D stated 'we'll see how long that lives'. Sigh..yes, I don't have a green thumb. I try and try and try--just like the little engine that could.

Check out my vintage glider and chairs that I scooped off Craigslist for a sweet $120 for ALL! Vintage, perfect condition! I had been searching for the 'perfect' furniture for my new front porch (previous owner's had tiled the front porch & it's wide Southern style). Saturday morning--there they are--shoot the email. Sunday morning at 9am (yes LOL!) I shove the cash in DH hand and off he goes. Nice elderly couple downsizing. I'm drooling over the vintage style pillows from Pottery Barn that will nicely go with them. I'm also working on finding some tiny tables to be on each side. Little one wouldn't move out of the picture and is pointing ' a doggie, a doggie, A DOGGIE!' --OKAY I see him. .. 2 3/4 yr old--very insistent.

After that little one and I worked on Grandma's Mother's Day flowers (every year I get her a different type and from the one of our local nursery's-Martin's) This year they had a gorgeous double begonia in the deepest shade of red. Mom loves a variety of romantic, country. The strawberries are made from wool felt and the blackbird I found. As usual, the flowers were a hit.

Lastly, sharing my screened porch and right now is very tropical since the humidity is 100% and it was 90 the other day. The screened porch is huge 18 x14--we had 1 tiny table from our very tiny deck previously and a portable picnic table from Marlboro--LOL! I put a vintage tablecloth on it to make it more homey. I'm going to wait until the season is over and get furniture clearanced. Serious money on outdoor furniture and I want the iron type with cushions.

Have a great week. It's a long one for me --work is extremely busy and will be till July. I'm grateful for the new job close to home but it's wearing on the brain. Off to put that suit on.

xo Kris

May Day Inspiration Swap

2010-05-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

Seriously, it's Monday! OMG_and it's May 3! Time is flying by.

I wanted to share some goodies I made for Kathy for the swap.

My hand made paper dolls-new in my studio!

The sweet vintage berry basket with half the goodies.

Phew! I worked 9hrs straight today and pooped. Off to laze on my new couch and VEG. My new job is good but demanding. Seriously.

Kris

May Day Petite Inspiration Swap!

2010-04-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

Jenny from Fated Follies had a May Day swap. I loved the idea of petite inspiration! My partner was the lovely Kathy of Kat's Collects. We had so much stuff in common especially the bunny rabbits :)

I received a scrumptious basket and all kinds of sweet vintage goodness. I was spoiled! Thank you so much Kathy! Please forgive the picture quality-I was trying to get them done with my little one poking at all my stuff and you know how that goes :)

Love the bird attached to my basket:

Look at this beautiful top!

Goodies detailed and I didn't even get a picture of the absolutely gorgeous vintage wallpaper roll she gave me.

And these sweet hankies (my favorite collectible):

The 'what' flashcard made me laugh out loud as it's a joke in our NY family cause no one hears each other so we are always saying 'what' in our NY accent! Annoying to anyone not used to it! LOL!

I enjoyed our swap greatly and will share the goodies I sent to her next.
Have a great beginning of May--spring is rolling into summer here in the deep South. Central air will be on full time till October-sigh...I do miss my cool summer nights I grew up with in NY.

Night!

Secret Garden Swap

2010-04-24T10:56:00.001-07:00

Sharing what I sent Julie Ann for the swap.

A handmade birdie piece:

I repurposed the frame to a pretty white which came from Hobby Lobby; stained the birdies to a sweet beige w shimmer; tulle, vintage beads & sparkle; sweet frame from Melissa Frances w/ rhinestone added; some jewelry doodads (which I have extensive amount of since I stopped making jewelry). I just love how this came out.

The swap called for a basket. This one came from a antique 'junk' store--I repurposed it with paint; and lots of crepe paper flowers; and a vintage style bird which had some color to it; I also added a cameo with crepe trim. Vintage hankie that the birdie is sitting on. The inside I utilized some vintage fabric --such a sweet print.

These are the goodies included in her basket:

The paper doll is a new item from my studio. I use vintage and new vintage style trims; vintage jewelry parts; flowers; vintage beads, and a dress style that I created.

Both the birdie bag and the cello bag had inspiration goodies for her to work with. I added some girly flowers with vintage buttons to an embroidered sachet that is so sweet!

A sweet vintage wallpaper pocket with a vintage flower and handmade tag.

Lastly, a sweet paper mache egg that I painted my new favorite-white; vintage chenille bedspread piece utilized as trim and lots of pretty summery type colors. I think this would make an adorable favor for a wedding, shower, or baby shower. I put candy in Julie Ann's. This is a favorite piece.

We are finally getting some much needed rain here in South Carolina so enjoying some mandatory inside time. I've got a stack of magazine's calling my name! Have a great weekend.

xo Kris

Secret Garden Swap

2010-04-20T16:14:00.000-07:00

Julie Ann sent me the cutest basket for the garden swap with all kinds of sweet stuff inside to create with! Thank you Julie Ann!

Look at the sweet sides!

Now the goodies inside---
My little one was enamoured with these so cute PINK! resin birdie napkin rings. We were pretending they were very cute rings :)

I am so lucky what a wonderful garden swap!

Hope everyone is having a good week. I'm whooped-I started a new job and its demanding!

Night

Secret Garden Swap-sneak and Spring

2010-04-10T19:31:00.000-07:00

Sarah of My So Called Junky Life had a lovely garden swap and my partner was the sweet Julie Ann--just a sneaky peeky since she won't get her goodies till mid week!

I created a garden themed basket. The basket was so in this little junk antique store near my new home; it needed some work but was perfect! More pictures to come of my goodies! Lately with the move into our new house, my artwork is leaning towards whites, creams, vintage laces, vintage music and ledger papers, and nature inspired items. Lots of white themed items coming soon.

Hope everyone had a great weekend. It was absolutely gorgeous here in South Carolina, 70's sunny and beautiful blue skies.

I have to share some my 'new' spring garden. The past owner's were in love with flowering color and I am so beside myself to see what summer brings!

The moss covered potted plant on the table was an Easter gift and has since bloomed 4 different flowering bulbs, daffodils, crocuses, some little white type flower. I 'think' this is a cherry blossom tree but don't quote me on that. I'm working on my Southern Living books to help me determine what kind of garden I do have. Look at my beautiful bradford pear (my sinus's not so much).

If you haven't guessed, flowers are one of my loves. I'm not a great gardener but I'm trying to learn. I would love to do this all the time.

Last, a sweet picture of my little one in her first easter egg hunt (I know she is 2.5!) Gosh, I keep thinking how old I'll be when she's a teen-lordy I'll be in my fifties! But God finally blessed me late in life after many hardaches with my one and only which I'm eternally grateful for but darn those terrible tantrums are mind bending!

Off for some French Roast coffee with French Vanilla creamer my little treat to myself.

XO,Kris

Ten Thousand Villages

2010-04-08T17:29:00.000-07:00

Ten Thousand Villages opened a long awaited shop in our town. The website details there history-they represent the diverse cultures of artisans in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. One of the world's largest fair trade organizations and a founding member of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), the company strives to improve the livelihood of tens of thousands of disadvantaged artisans in 38 countries. Ten Thousand Villages accomplishes this by establishing a sustainable market for handmade products in North America, and building long term buying relationships in places where skilled artisan partners lack opportunities for stable income. Product sales help pay for food, education, healthcare and housing for artisans who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed.

Ten Thousand Villages

Please visit and support our fellow artists. The workmanship on these is impeccable. These lovelies I got today while out at lunch hour:

Enjoy!

2010-04-01T14:48:00.000-07:00

It's time for a new blog to go with all the other changes in my life.

Happy Easter!