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Saturday, December 31, 2011

Happy New Year 2012!


I wish all of you a Happy New Year!

Friday, December 30, 2011

Vintage New Year Postcards for You!



Here are two lovely postcards to share with you. I am partial to songbirds and beautiful artwork. These are two of my favorites.

Love Affair With Scarves


I love scarves, old and new silk are my favorites. Plus, new, long, cool season scarves that I wear many ways. Storage is something that I have had difficulty with, boxes or what else.  I have found that the wooden scarf hangers are really nice, especially for the lighter, pure silk ones. I think that I should store my scarves by color, to make selection easier. Sometimes I put the scarf on the same hanger with the garment that I like to wear it with. Things can become hard to find...maybe I should consider making a hanger similar to this DIY project.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Dark Chocolate Addiction


I need to admit this to everyone...I am addicted to dark chocolate. A chocoholic! The flavor is so yummy.  Dove dark chocolate is an easy favorite, just bite size and taste is perfect. I can go without it, when I need to. I have moved my stash to another part of the house in an attempt to cut back...it is working...I am not so tempted when it isn't near. My control over this addiction is very weak. I would probably lose some pounds if I cut back.
Wish me luck.

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

The Rose Bowl 2012


This may seem like a strange post...our area is all buzzing over THE game. We are home to the University of Oregon....the Ducks.  The premier university in Oregon. Many people are excited and anxious over this game.  I know people who are going to Pasadena to enjoy the game in person. These are very loyal fans.  I am a 1974 graduate of the university, and happy that the school is doing very well. My hubby will DVR the game and watch it many times. We luv our Ducks!

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Merry Christmas to All


I found this vintage Christmas card image, and decided to share it with you. May everyone have a joyous Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Peace be with you.

Friday, December 23, 2011

Two Days Til Christmas Day

I like vintage postcard greetings, and a big thank you to 52 Flea for putting these images on her blog to share with us.


The Brave Girls Club shared this message, and I want to pass it on to you.



Thursday, December 22, 2011

Winter Solstice 2011


Today is the shortest day of the year. I am always happy when this day is over, and daylight starts increasing. Normally, we in the Pacific NW are under a nonstop deluge of rain and snow.  This is a rare year, we have had a dry and sunny month. The flood control reservoirs are at extremely low levels, maybe historically low. The snow pack is low, and the ski areas are closed.


I must have seasonal S.A.D. disorder...because I am definitely much happier than normal with this sunny weather.  The temperatures get down in the 20's at night, and come up during the day.  Of course, not dealing with deep snow is a big help.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

OPI Nail Laquer Update


Last week I tried OPI nail lacquer. I am a happy customer. The color was applied as 2 coats over bare nails. It lasted for 7 days, the tips did wear off some of the lacquer, but not very much.  I stopped by the store to get a base coat, and top coat.  They were having a sale buy 2, get 1 free. I had to get another color of course. I am happy to have 2 choices! I am hoping that by using a base coat and top coat the manicure will last even longer than 7 days...maybe 10 days.

Sew Somerset Magazine, Winter 2012


I just purchased this Winter 2012 magazine.  I found that the ideas and craft projects that use sewing to be inspirational.  Totally love it, especially making the notepad covers. A fun idea..that gives a completed project without a long time crafting. I have been collecting vintage photos that I like...and now I know that I can print a copy onto fabric and use for projects in this magazine. I can also use up small scraps of odds and ends!

2012 Calendars


Are you like me, and need a calendar for 2012?  There are many free to download. I liked this one page Parisian for free. Just print it onto a sheet of cardstock. Yes, I like free! Go to Call Me Victorian to see this one and other free downloads.  Mine is already hanging by my desk (sewing, crafting, and computer).

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Button Bracelet - A Good Last Minute Gift


I saw some cute bracelets today, made with buttons. A simple craft project...great for teens.  This website has a tutorial showing how to make them. lillyella.blogspot.com

The numbers of people out and about Christmas shopping today was completely crazy.  I was just doing some junking with sis. I am happy that I am not in the last minute frenzy..like all those people! Now, I just need to gift wrap my gifts....

Monday, December 19, 2011

I love Beth Quinn Designs




I think that this talented designer is creating very special one of a kind necklaces. I have not decided on one that I like the best. See her at Beth Quinn Designs  I have ideas of how to make my own jewelry...I have blogged about it in the past. 

Sunday, December 18, 2011

An Old Fashion Sleigh Ride


I really enjoy this old image. A sleigh ride would be a very special experience.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

What do you think...when you see these signs?


What do you think, when you see people with these signs?  The beggars are all over the city nearest my home.  I think...are they really homeless or is this a con to get people to feel sorry for them...and give away money?  I see the same people, at the same places, for months on end.  One time, I saw a man begging for money in the morning...and later in the day I saw him at a gas station purchasing a 24 pack of beer. My hairdresser told me that her co worker's hubby begs full time..and he makes a good living.


My way of helping the needy is to give to a local charity that provides food and housing for the really needy. What charity is it- St Vincent De Paul.  I know that they are locally the best, their donations and money stay right here....and it doesn't go to the very high salaries like some Goodwill managers receive.

Friday, December 16, 2011

O Christmas Tree


We cut our tree just next door, at the neighbors Christmas tree farm. I have been waiting to bring it inside...so it stays fresh longer. Today was the day to bring it in, and decorate.  I really must organize my things better...so I don't need to go thru 6 plastic storage boxes to find what I want. Well, I didn't find the white lights...so I put multi-colored ones on the tree...and put the ornaments on the tree. Then I found the white ones at the bottom of a box...but I didn't change them. I resolved to spend the time necessary to organize my Christmas things.  I found a round Christmas theme tablecloth at the thrift store, and I am going to change it into a tree skirt...an easy project. I will cut out the center and up one side, and then use some bias tape to finish the raw edges. This project is not difficult for an experienced seamstress.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Old Sled and Ice Skates


I like this look...feel the holiday spirit! Thank you to all my readers, and I am so happy that you like my blog...most days there are about 50 of you looking at my blog!  Sharon

Taking care of Myself


Today, I stay out of the kitchen. Hubby has to go to a dinner meeting tonight, so I have the day off (from cooking). I decided to say home and have a quiet day taking care of myself.  I took time to do my hair very nicely, and to give myself a manicure. Three weeks ago I purchased an O.P.I. nail lacquer (expensive $9), after reading that this product is superior. That it lasts without chipping...something I don't care for! OK...the test starts today...2 coats...hum....I wish that I had the topcoat. It went on well and dried quickly..I like that. I wear my nails short because they break and I am hard on them.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Pumpkin Nut Bread


I have been baking all day. Cookies, Bread, Pumpkin Custard, and my favorite- Pumpkin Nut Bread.  I am baking several small loaves for giving as gifts to friends. It is the season for spices and wintry flavors. Hubby's hunting partners really enjoy this recipe...good in lunches, or with coffee.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Ree Drummond Christmas Special on Food Network


Ree is back on TV with a Christmas Special that is airing on Saturday at 12 pm. There are also several other times.  She has Season Two on Food Network starting in mid January.  I like her cooking style...I can relate... and Hubby likes her recipes. Look at her blog for more information The Pioneer Woman

Monday, December 12, 2011

The Cottage to Dream Of....



I love this tiny cottage...I wish that I had one just like it. And someone decorated it for Christmas...just for me. Or maybe a really cute vintage travel trailer would do... 


  
Hum....dreams of the possibilities! I would be very happy just to spend a night or two in these...Sweet Dreams

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Glittery Paper Stars


This photo is from one of the blogs that I follow. Thats My Letter has a post showing how to use old yellowed paperbacks to craft into stars, garlands, and other fun projects. If you like this funky look that doesn't cost much to make, take a look at her blog.

Saturday, December 10, 2011

A French Country Christmas



I follow the blog that features these pretty photos, My French Country Home. She has photography that I enjoy. I have not been there, and this blog brings her lifestyle to me. I enjoyed this display because it brings the ideas that I have to life for me. It is not difficult to create this display, many of us have things at home to use...I know that I do...and are attempting to not purchase more things. Create and celebrate beautifully with what we have!

Friday, December 9, 2011

Monticello at Christmas Time






The shop was decked out beautifully. The ideas were great, and I completely enjoyed the trip. I like to change things around every year. It is more interesting to me to do things differently, to use creativity and imagination. I am going to use crystal candle sticks, vases, vintage silver bowls, white poinsettias, glitter, faux snow, pearl stands, and vintage silver ornaments.  I have these things on hand. The color theme is white, silver, and red. I have some vintage white ice skates to throw into the design...ribbons, glass ice drops and vintage glassware.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Monday, December 5, 2011

On the Road to Monticello


A wonderful antique mall in Portland, Oregon opened their Christmas Show last Saturday. Check their blog Monticello Antiques. I am excited to go to Portland tomorrow. I get to visit some of my favorite places in that locality. It is about a 3 hour drive from here, so I only visit about 4 times a year. I stay with my sister and we have a great time. Smile!

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Collecting Vintage USA Pottery...McCoy...Fiesta...





I like the vibrant colors of vintage, 1930's 1940's... USA, American made pottery. McCoy, Fiesta, Hall, Hull, Shawnee....you get it. The fun thing about this collection is that I find this at thrift stores for a song. I found a cobalt blue covered casserole in excellent condition for $3.59 yesterday! The books price these much, much higher. It is possible to slowly build a nice collection that way...it is how I have done it.

Friday, December 2, 2011

Sometimes Life is Hard

Sometimes life is hard. My girlfriend's husband died yesterday, he was 65. A brilliant man, with four grown children...hit hard by a voracious disease. He had early onset Alzheimer's, taken fast and hard of his mind. I am stunned. I grieve for Jeanette's loss.

Ariat Showbaby Boots

I have some Ariat Boots. They fit very well, and feel good on my feet all day. I have foot troubles and need well built, comfortable shoes. I have looked for a fashion boot, and have not been happy with the choices. I actually bought a pair a week ago, but decided that I didn't like the fit after wearing them in the house. I want winter boots that will keep my tooties warm and dry. I found these boots today, and bought them. Now I will test them inside the house. I am very hopeful that they will live up to my expectations. I have to get my own Christmas gifts.  I recommend Ariat to my friends.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Martha Stewart's Cooking School

I have said that I need to learn how to cook...for hubby to be happy. I found this book, and purchased it.  The hardback book is 509 pages. I have said that I am not a Joy of French Cooking type of girl.  I think that Martha's book will be very helpful for me. The price was right too. Only $8.99 for the normally $45 book. Wish me luck!