Brookhollow Lane

Little Surprise

2011-05-25T14:43:00.000-07:00

Well-this is my life right now. All our stuff is in 3 storage units-we kept adding on as things were moved in and using up the space. We are settled in our tiny, and I mean tiny, apartment. I've concluded-Moving is Not Fun! Anyway it's done for now. We'll have more time to look at houses. We made offers on 2 different old houses-and neither one went through. Now we'll look at newer houses around where we live now. I'm not quite ready to give up on the vintage house yet-but there's not much in the area we want in our price range, that fits our criteria.

As we were packing up the old house, I pulled down from a ledge, a collection of old shoe shine boxes that had been up there for 13 years. One was kind of heavy, so I opened it to find this treasure chest full of vintage jewelry.
My Mom had given it to me years ago, and I completely forgot about it. What a nice surprise in the midst of all the chaos. The heart above has a L and R-My husbands name begins with R.
Some of the pieces are rhinestone and plastic and all kinds of stuff. Anyway. it was fun to go through it all. I hope you find a little surprise in your life! Have a great Wednesday! It's good to be back!

Leslie

Moving On

2011-05-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

H is for House. It's been so long I almost forgot my password. I want to update you on what's been happening in my crazy life. The last time I posted, we had put our house on the market-and it sold that first day! I was amazed and never expected that to happen. It really caught us unprepared-as in buying the downsized house. We did make an offer on a cutie, but that fell through. After spending another unexpected week with my Dad, I have been packing the entire house-yes all 13 years of junk, and well loved stuff. We are moving into a temporary apartment until we find the right house. So move this weekend-then We can take out time to look. It has been a crazy few weeks-I'll be glad when the move is over. I'm exhausted and my back is killing me! Hopefully we'll find a house soon-so I can do this all over again. Ha ha! Hope all is well with you guys. I have been reading your blogs- just haven't commented lately. I'll be back next week. Have a good one!

Leslie

For Sale

2011-04-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

I've been an MIA blogger. SO sorry. The reason is-we've listed our house for sale. The sign went out today. I have mixed feelings-I love this house and will miss it, but we want to down size and get a one story house. We haven't looked at much yet- but now that all the hard work is done, we can really start looking. My dream house? Well, small enough to be charming and cute, but big enough to keep most of my stuff. I know I'll have to get rid of some furniture and I really need to curb my thrifting habit. Anyway-we've been working our butts off getting everything ready. Now it the upkeep part. No big projects where I can leave out my mess, no big baking projects. Boo Hoo. I'll keep you posted on progress. Now I can finally check out your lovely blogs. That doesn't make a mess. Happy Easter to you all!

Home Again

2011-04-16T11:57:00.000-07:00

I'm finally home after 3 long weeks of a roller coaster ride. My Dad is finally doing better-he was in and out of the hospital and is home now with 24 hour care in his home. Thank you so much for all your positive thoughts and prayers. I can't wait to catch up with all your blogs-I missed you guys! Life is hard without internet. lol

I took this pic outside in Arkansas-the butterflies were everywhere. I finally feel like it's spring!
I did do a little thrifting when I got home. I love this pillowcase and the little applique placemats have a slot to put a napkin through. I have lots of pieces like this with fruit and flowers. Love the colors.
I plan on doing some tiny projects-like painting these little ornies up. Still working on my stitching. I'll share the progress soon. It's so good to be home!!!!!!

Leslie

Blog Break

2011-03-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note-I'm back with my Dad who's in the hospital. Connected to hosp. wi-fi-but no interent at his house. Hopefully I'll be back by the weekend.
Leslie

March into April

2011-03-15T16:08:00.000-07:00

I forgot to put up my little calendar girl for March and April. I love how they combine both months in what she's wearing.
Did a little thrifting yesterday. Do you ever come home with a theme and you didn't know it till you took the booty out to look at it? You can't really see the cool scarf in the back-it has time pieces, old books, music and a violin. I found the lone piano salt shaker,an old dictionary and the cute tiny wooden shoes. They all kind of went together.
I've been busy spring cleaning, and stitching at night. Here's the progress on my little project. I'm not sure what I'll do with it when it's finished-we'll see. Have a happy day!

Leslie

Time To Rise

2011-03-13T08:15:00.001-07:00

A birdie with a yellow bill

Hopped upon my windowsill

Cocked his shining eye and said

'Ain't you shamed, you sleepy-head?'

Robert Louis Stevenson
I was a sleepy head this morning when the time sprang forward-but I'm glad it's finally feeling like spring around here.
I took these pic's in Arkansas at my Dad's house-he has the best bird feeder and gets tons of different kinds of birds and woodpeckers. I didn't see the pilliated(Woody) woodpecker that day.
I could sit and watch it for hours out the sliding glass door. It was kind of cold that day-but the birds came out in droves. Hope you have a great day and enjoy the little signs of spring.

Leslie

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-08T10:25:00.001-08:00

I have a little Irish in me from my mom's side. I brought back this little guy holding a shamrock from my Dad's house. I had the little chalkware sheep.
Thought I'd make a little St. Patricks Day vignette. The candles are from Christmas.
This cottage picture usually hangs in my bathroom, but I thought it went well with the theme. Gotta get some corned beef and cabbage for next week. Does anybody have a good recipe for cooking it? I'm working on plumbing and painting- little projects that need to get done. See you later.

Leslie

Always Find Time

2011-03-07T09:41:00.000-08:00

I'm home -again.I always try to make time for thrifting, as you know. While taking my Dad home to Arkansas I hit a Good Will and found a few treasures. Love the tarnished silver gray boat or whatever you call it.
I always pick up Pyrex. Check out the cutter cloth that someone already made into placemats and napkins. Saves me the work!
There is a whole set of crocheted doilies in different sizes. I'll do something with the embroidered picture. I am so glad to be home again. I can't wait to get back to my routine, and also catch up with you. Have a wonderful Monday!

Leslie

Thrifty Reds

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

Happy Rednesday!

I snuck out for a little thrifting today, and look what I found! Love salt and peppers with red lids. They sit on a cute tablecloth that will go perfect with some of my plates.This is the back of an afghan. Something about the colors in this really got me. Not sure weather to use the back or front.
Some vintage linens. I'll probably use a few of these for embroidery.
More red. Vintage Christmas music books. The illustrations inside of some of them are great.
This is the first coloring book I've bought. I saw some in a blog(forgot which one) and I think these pic's can be used for all kinds of things.
For more great reds go check out It's A Very Cherry World. It's a beautiful day here in Dallas-off to take my Dad back home later this week. Maybe I'll get to a few garage sales over the weekend.

Leslie

Hidden Places

2011-02-25T19:02:00.000-08:00

I love when a piece of furniture has a secret. Like when you open a cupboard and you have something that only you get to see. I have my quilt stash in this armoire.I love opening the doors and seeing the pretty stacks of quilty goodness.
I think the reason I bought this primitive cabinet, was the red painted drawers. I never leave them open, and only I know they are painted red. I love that someone took the time to go the extra step to add some hidden cheerfullness.
Most of you know I'm a piano teacher, and I love crafting with music paper. The back of this computer armoire was sitting against my stair railing. You can only see the decoupaged back, when you go up the stairs.
Here it is peaking through. Someday I will add some hidden personality to a few more drawers and doors in my house.
I've been so busy doing college scholarship paperwork, income tax stuff-YUCK! Just about done. Also taking care of my Dad, who is getting better. I'll probably take him back to Arkansas this week. Than hopefully I can catch up with all of your blogs and get back to some stuff here. Have a great week-end.
Leslie

Nodders

2011-02-20T19:04:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd share a collection of my Mom's. She has about 15 of these salt and peppers. They are called Nodders.They swing back and forth in the little holders. The bases are all very similar. They usually have a floral motif/ They were originally tourist souvenirs.
My Dad put little glass shelves in the kitchen window so she could display them. They are so unique. I'd never even seen or noticed them in shops before she started collecting them.
Now I think they are kitchy and cute! Happy Monday!

Leslie

Thrifty Thursday

2011-02-17T15:24:00.000-08:00

I still managed to get out thrifting while in Arkansas and here are my finds. I collect red and white enamelware coffee pots, so I nearly mowed a lady down when I saw this one. You don't see them with red lids very often. I'll use the little Ginger can in my Christmas decor.I have one fireking cup and saucer with tulips, and I found these two at different shops. I'll use them in some kind of spring vignette. I still want to find one more-maybe the pretty blue floral, or the red and pink floral that I've seen. I want to have a set of 4 mismatched cups and saucers.
The pillowcase was found at the GW. for 50 cents.
I love this book! I keep saying I don't need any more books, but I couldn't pass on this.
The illustrations are so charming and it's in excellent condition.
I'm catching up on things around here and getting lots of little things done. Hope you all have a great day!

Leslie

Happy to Be Home

2011-02-16T08:20:00.000-08:00

I'm back. I'm really glad to be back. Thanks for all the well wishes for my Dad. I brought him back with me to Texas, and we are playing everything by ear. I really missed you guys-reading everyones blogs and keeping up with you. I thought I'd do a short post about the 3-yes 3 snows we had in Arkansas while I was there. This is the view out my Dad's window. It was gorgeous!This is my van after it was pushed to the shoulder, because I was sliding down the hill backwards. Not fun!
Here's the hill. Didn't know it was icy-after all I'm used to Texas!
I stayed busy reading and stitching in between helping my Dad out. I'll share more tomorrow-just wanted to pop in and say there's no place like home!
Leslie

Valentines for you

2011-02-02T10:38:00.000-08:00

Here are a few valentines for you. I'm getting ready to go help out my Dad. He's been in the hospital and will be out today or tomorrow. We are iced in, here in Dallas, but I hope we can make the drive tomorrow. I will be gone for a little while, there's no internet there, but I'll be thinking of you. Stay warm and safe.
The inside of the above card says:

I'm much too shy to tell you

So I sent this Valentine

To let you know I'm very glad

That you're a friend of mine!
See you soon.

Leslie

I Heart You!

2011-01-29T16:29:00.001-08:00

Here is my little entry way table. This antique jar I found at an antique mall awhile back. I love it for putting seasonal stuff in. My little vignette is all about hearts.
These felt conversation hearts were inspired by Elizabeth at Bluebird Papercrafts. If you haven't seen her blog go check it out. You are in for a real crafty treat!
The little plate and milkglass candy dish were found at Good Will a few months ago. I had to buy the vintage gloves. They are embroidered with a black running stitch and little pink flower design. Don't know how they did that. Thanks for all the Dollhouse Sweet Shoppe love. You guys are awesome. It was 75 here today-sorry all you guys that have below freezing weather. I felt like planting a gardenit was so beautiful, but it's supposed to change midweek to maybe freezing rain. We are hosting the Super Bowl here in the Dallas area-so hope you all are watching! Have a great day!

Leslie

Dollhouse Sweet Shoppe

2011-01-25T11:53:00.000-08:00

Come on in to The Sweet Shoppe.We are open for business.
Sit down and enjoy a homemade piece of cake or pie.
We also have cookies and donuts and cupcakes.
Candy and chocolates are in the hutch. There's twine and scissors to wrap up your goodies. See Little Max in his basket?
This is where we make our goodies. There's a n apple pie coming out of the oven. Little kitten is staying warm under the stove.
She didn't notice Miss Mouse is out for a stroll.
Put the dirty dishes in here. I'll wash them later.
My red and white enamelware coffee pot is always on the stove.
Making some gingerbread men at the table.
Hope you enjoyed the tour. Come back soon!

For those of you who haven't seen my doll house, I bought the shell at an antique mall and fixed it up. I added the door and windows and everything inside. It was a really fun project and could become addictive! I was inspired by Turkey Feathers Dollhouse Bakery. I'm linking up to It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday. Please check out more fun Reds.

Leslie

Red and PInk

2011-01-24T12:04:00.000-08:00

I have really started liking red and pink together. In honor of upcoming Valentines Day I thought I'd show you some red and pink around my house. Here is my little dollhouse Sweet Shoppe. I'll show more of the inside if you haven't see it later this week.My inspiration board, that I got at GW and painted. I've got my little apron tags from Cindy from Rick Rack and Ginghams tag swap.
Here it is before with nothing on it.
Stacked in my craft room.
I found this at a thrift store and filled with red and pink gumballs. Great when you are not feeling creative and need a little sugar boost. Better then eating an entire box of Oreos.
Vintage linen with beautiful red and pink cross stitch. I love the red crocheted border.
Last is this pretty hankie. I love the colors.
Come back later this week-I'll give you a tour of my little dollhouse. Am close to 100 followers so a giveaway is also in the works. Have a great Monday!

Leslie

Early Valentines

2011-01-20T10:03:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day will be here soon!I know I'm a little early, but I love decorating for Valentines Day. I did things a little different this year. I've never decorated my mantle for VD. I found the red picture frame at the thrift store and did a chalkboard paint backing. Found the thrifted V.D. sign and glittered it. What a mess that was!
I decided to do a little cherry vignette. I don't know why, but cherries remind me of Valentines Day.
I've had the vintage hat in my craft room and the little figurine and put it together.
Here's my little collection of vintage valentines. I like to use scarves and hankies-this was a thrifted scarf. I pick up any with polka dots-doesn't matter what color. You never know when you might need one!
Here it is altogether. I found the cute heart garland from Michaels-probably could be made easily from ribbons. I'll share my entryway next time. It's really cold here and dreary. I'm gonna nest and do some embroidery and watch some football this weekend. How about you?

Have a great week!

Leslie

Kitchen Chair Covers

2011-01-18T07:14:00.002-08:00

Hi !I thought I'd share my red slipcovers for my "new" kitchen chairs. I bought the red and white checked and red and white striped fabric from Ikea. Did some red and white striped piping.

We are pretty much slobs here, so I knew the white covers wouldn't stay white. These covers are washable and than if I want, I can take them off to reveal the white seat. Now I won't worry if someone spills or drops something.

I'm getting my ,mantle decorated for Valentines and will take pic's as soon as the sun comes out-don't know when that will be-it's so dreary outside. Thanks for all the great comments on the Valentines pillows. You should try one. They are fun to make. Have a great day!

Leslie

Finished Pillows

2011-01-13T06:58:00.001-08:00

You are probably sick of seeing these this week, but I thought I'd pop in quickly today and show you my finished pillows. I found this cute ruffle trim at Hobby Lobby yesterday

I used mini pompom trim that I had for the inset.

Here they are getting ready for Valentines Day on my couch. I'll be away for the weekend, so I hope you all have a great one.
Leslie

Valentine Pillows

2011-01-11T18:13:00.001-08:00

Valentine How-to-

. Here is a simple version of how to transfer a valentine onto an embroidery picture. You may use this vintage valentine or any image that has simple lines to it. I scan my image and enlarge it to about 5" across, or how ever big you want your image to be.I usually go over the main lines with a thin marker, so when you trace the design it will show through. I don't transfer every line in the valentine. Just the outside and a few details.
I use a light box, and a fabric marker. You can also tape your fabric up to a sunny window. I use white cotton light weight fabric. Take your time drawing, and hold or tape the fabric and paper down.
I use a straight stitch, because I can get alot of detail. Don't be afraid to omit or add details. It's your own creation. I added color to the girl on the left. I use crayons and color lightly, and iron over it to set it. I do this before embroidering. I haven't finished these yet. I need to get some trim, and then I'll sew on a back square and have my little Valentines pillows.
I love doing this kind of project, because it's portable and once you've drawn on your design, you can just take your time. I added some matching fabric strips and trims. I'll show you my finished pillows later. Give it a try with the valentine above, or try one of your own. Have fun, and if you make one, I'd love to see it. I'm joining It's A Very Cherry World for Rednesday. Go over to see some more fun reds!

Leslie

Valentines in the works

2011-01-10T08:30:00.001-08:00

I've been pulling out my Valentines stuff and thought I'd jump in today. I'm on jury duty and have to be back in court after lunch. I made these last year and never sewed them into pillows.
I'll do a little how -to this week. Hopefully I'll finish them before Valentines Day this year.
This is what I drove through this morning-not much to you northerners, but for Texas-it's pretty exciting.
I'll be back later to show you what I've come up with. Hopefully not too much later in the week-I hope it's not a long trial. Anyway, have a good Monday!

This and That

2011-01-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

I've been doing a little of this and a little of that. I found this cute vintage card at an Antique store yesterday and had to share. It's so springy-and that's what I'm looking forward to. Below a couple of thrifted finds. I'm going to glitter this kind of beat up sign and use it in my Valentines display.
I couldn't pass this adorable little doll chair at GW and I always pick up red and white tins. You can use them for so many things.
I'm in the middle of year end paperwork, making little chair slipcovers for newly painted kitchen chairs, and trying to get some crafting in too. I guess that's what January is all about. Taking stock and GETTING ORGANIZED! I really appreciate all of your comments . You guys had some great ideas on using the ME calendars. Now if I can just find the time....

Have a wonderful week!

Leslie

Time

2011-01-02T18:11:00.001-08:00

Time. Days and weeks and months. I put up my new Mary Englebreit calendar as I do every January by my little desk. I love the sayings she chooses and of course I love her artwork.I always take the old calendar down and add it to my pile in the closet. For awhile I thought I'd do a wallpaper border with all the pictures. I just cannot seem to get rid of them. They also remind me of things in the past. But I'm looking to the future now and counting the days and weeks. Son went off to college this morning and I won't see him until June. It's really hard and I'm missing him already. He goes to an out of state school and it's too costly to fly him home for short breaks. So I will keep busy-I've got my list and my projects and piano lessons to teach. And keep looking forward! And I will try to to "carry laughter with me where ever I go" .
What ever will I do with this pile of ME calendars? All ideas are welcome. I'm linking to ME Monday for the first time with Cherry Chick.Have a wonderful Monday!

Leslie

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T08:07:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
Please feel free to copy this little calendar girl for crafting. I wish you all a healthy and happy 2011!

Leslie

Winding Down and Gearing Up

2010-12-28T09:05:00.002-08:00

Here is the last of my mini redos. I painted this TV armoire over Thanksgiving and wanted to show it to you. I know you've seen tons of these around. We've had ours for years in the family room.I sanded it, painted it, and aged it, so we could move it into our bedroom to hold the TV. It looks new to me and I'll be happy with it now.
After Christmas, I get into the cleaning, organizing mode. I can't wait to get all the "stuff" put away and start in on cleaning. (it's been along time for that to happen). I also went to the quilt store and bought some yummy fat quarters to get me inspired for some projects to come.
We had a wonderful holiday-I hope you all did too. I loved visiting your blogs and reading comments that have come my way. Son goes goes back to school on Sunday, so I will be keeping myself busy to keep my mind off missing him, by diving in to some work, cleaning,organizing, and creating! Can hardly wait!

Holiday Home part 3

2010-12-18T18:58:00.000-08:00

Here is the last part of my Christmas Home tour. These are ornies from my parents tree-this year I piled them in a jadite bowl.

I got the idea for the salt shaker snowmen from Mamie Janes blog. She has some wonderful projects.
I do like a touch of pink and pastels-I do up my hutch with glitter and glitz.
Got these houses from Hobby Lobby a few years ago and fun decorating them.
Here's the whole thing.
I had to share my latest thrifty find. I'd been looking for some Christmas plates to go with my Mom's Depression glass desert plates and sherberts. I found these that have a matching gold rim marked down to 75% off.
I spent a whopping total $4.00 for a complete set of four place settings. Perfect for our Christmas dinner!
I like to do a kitchen theme tree in my kitchen window. I use vintage cookie cutters, doll cups, and doll rolling pin.
Found this at Hobby Lobby this year along with the red toaster this year.
Vintage cookie book from 1940's along with my red toy stove.
Last my dutch S &P and cake plate.
I hope you enjoyed my little tour. I'm joining Between Naps on the Porch for Met Monday. I really hope you all are having a wonderful time getting ready for the big day and are enjoying time with your friends and family. I'll be back right after Christmas. I've got to finish my last minute shopping, baking, and spending time with Son, who is home from college.

May peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through. Author Unknown

I wish you a Very Merry Christmas!

Leslie

Vintage Toys

2010-12-15T07:58:00.002-08:00

Family Room Tour- Vintage ToysI'm joining Sue at It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday. Above is a little pepperment set,I found in McKinney a few weeks ago.
Snowman vignette, Snowman cards are from a few posts ago if you would like to copy them.
Our tree is mish mash of homemade and bought ornies-no theme-just ones we like.
My older son and I will fight over this one. He had the barn when he was a kid-it's still in the garage.
I decided to do a vintage toy them this year and pulled out all my kids stuff from around the house.
Picture on the little piano is of me and my brother on Christmas morning. I got a toy iron and he got a guitar. Wish I had those things now.
Kids Christmas books and an old red record. Sock monkeys from garage sales and thrift stores.
The stockings were my brothers and mine. I will change them out to my kids stockings before Christmas, so I can fill them.
Vintage card and ornie. I have to use blue and red in my family room, so I think this ties it in nicely.
This concludes part 2-still to come kitchen and vintage piesafe. Happy Rednesday!

Leslie

Holiday Home Tour (part 1)

2010-12-11T15:05:00.001-08:00

Welcome! Come on in.
I've been decking the halls. This is on my front door-little vintage looking sequin Santa.
Here's the living room, with newly painted black chairs and red pillows for Christmas. I love having a white slipcover- you can decorate in any color for any season.
I made these pillows a few years ago, different styles, but all Santas.
My little drop front desk is next to the couch. Usually it's closed, but I open it to decorate for the seasons. This year I decided to do a vintage elf theme.
I found the mushrooms at the thrift store(they were turquoise) and painted them up to shelter this little elf.
Found the oil lamp at a thrift/antique store in Waxahatchie, Texas . Little red guy hanging on for dear life!
If you have been following my blog, you know I like to decorate the piano ledge for my students. Rudolph's Christmas was actually my book, when I was a kid. I guess that means I'm vintage too. I love to use old sheet music or vintage magazine covers in frames. The little flocked ornie was from my tree when I grew up. It was always my favorite ornament.

On to the dining room. I found this pretty little thing awhile back and just had to have it. Pewter set behind it was from my Grandparents.
Miniature beaded tree, that was a kit from years ago, sits on a vintage tablecloth.
The oak piece above the door to the kitchen is from an old head board, that I got years ago at a garage sale. The vintage hanging light was the first thing I ever bought on Ebay.
This sits in my entryway. It's full of music ornaments, many of which I have received as gifts from my students through the years.
So here is part one. Hope you enjoyed my little tour. Joining Between Naps on the Porch.and Christmas Tour of Homes. Family room and kitchen to be shown soon.
I hope you all have gotten your decorations up and out, and are getting into the spirit of the season. I've still got shopping and baking to do, but that's the fun part(well, the baking anyway).

Leslie

Happy Homecoming!

2010-12-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

My son is coming home from college for the first time since he left. I'm so excited. This is our usual Christmas breakfast table, but I thought I'd do it tonight in honor of Son.
Here's my newly painted table and chairs, just in the nick of time for Christmas cheeriness.
I used my vintage jadite and vintage polka dot glasses.
Cute dutch salt and peppers.
I used dishtowels for napkins and my old Target flatware.

Here is my vintage small cake plate-it looks really good with the jadite and kind of ties the red and green together. I'll stick some homemade brownies in there for dessert.
We will have natchoes for dinner because Mexican food is what Son missed the most. Welcome Home!
I'm joining It's a Very Cherry World and Between Naps on the Porch today. Please go and check out some wonderful reds and beautiful Tablescapes!

Leslie

ME Giveaway Winner and Snowman Cards

2010-12-04T19:15:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from Max!Max went for his annual visit to Santa at Pet Smart. He really hates it, hates dressing up, hates being nervous in the car, but I have to have my cute photo each year. It tradition!
Winner Winner!! I'm happy to announce the winner of the ME giveaway is Kelly Mac from Simple Southern Suburbia. Kelly, I'll contact you so you can send me your address. We went antiquing this week and I found these adorable vintage cards. I thought you might like them too. I did a little snowman vignette which I will show next week along with my Christmas decorations.

Thank you, thank you for all the positive comments about my kitchen table and chair redo. I'm so happy I painted them. I love reading comments and ideas from you all. I'm still painting away and will have one more mini redo to share next week so stay tuned. Hope you are all having a great weekend and to those of you in the snow storm, keep cozy. It's still pretty nice here in Texas, but supposed to get a little colder tonight. Stay warm and cozy!

Leslie

Red Redo and ME Giveaway

2010-11-30T11:22:00.000-08:00

I love Mary Englebreit and I know some of you do too. I'm in the mood for an ME Giveaway!I made this Christmas cutie-she looks kind of MEish.
This is a little coaster set and crocheted doily in Christmas colors.
An ME tin set.
All you have to do is leave a comment on this post and I'll put you in the drawing. I'll draw a winner on Saturday at 6:00 P.M. So get the word out all you ME lovers! Now on to other things. I told you I'd show you my before and after for my continuing mini redos. These chairs were in my dining room-they are really old and I was getting tired of them. I'd looked around for new kitchen chairs, and couldn't find anything I liked. SO I decided to switch my kitchen and dining chairs.
Here's the tired old kitchen table. I needed something with a little personality...so with a little paint magic...
Here's the "new" set. I painted the table white and aged it a little and painted the chairs red.
I think it will do the trick. Also goes pretty well for Christmas decor, that I'll be sharing soon, and goes great for Rednesday. Go check out It's A Very Cherry World to enjoy some more reds.
Happy Rednesday!

Leslie

Chair Redo

2010-11-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving! We had a quiet one, but Son is coming home next week for Christmas break and I'm really excited to see him! I've been busy doing mini redo's on the cheap-as in repainting stuff. Below is my before in my living room.
Here you can see the wicker chairs painted black. I think it really makes the room come alive. I have small touches of black in the room-black curtain rods, black frames etc. I've been wanting to do this for awhile. It only took 4 cans of spray paint and voila!
I switch out the pillows for fall and Christmas, but I think they'll look good either way.
I've also been painting some other things-I'll share those on Rednesday. Does that give you a clue? We were at Sams Club over the weekend and the greckles(I think that's what they are called) are everywhere. It's like a scene from The Birds. Look behind the tree and at the top of the building-they are lined up. They come every fall and it's kind of a weird thing.
Wanted to let you know, if you get a chance to see the movie Flipped-we rented it over the weekend, watch it! It's directed by Rob Reiner and is a sweet, nostalgic little movie that makes you feel good. At least I did! Have a Happy Monday!

Leslie

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T13:07:00.000-08:00

I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Leslie

It's a Small World

2010-11-19T05:39:00.000-08:00

I am excited to announce the opening of my Website! This has been my little secret and what I've been working on.Please go check it out here http://www.smalludolls.com/_ I'll be having a drawing soon, so keep on checking. There are still some kinks to be worked out, but I wanted to get it up before Christmas. I've been making these personalized ornies and dolls and selling them locally for about a year, but I made the first one about 4 years ago. I couldn't find a marching band ornament for Son, so after looking everywhere with no luck, I decided to make my own. I copied his uniform in miniature. When friends saw it, of coarse they wanted one too, and my idea was launched. The cast of characters grew and I'll be adding to the designs. Thank you BJ for your inspiration and Thank you Tommy for all your hard work on creating the web site. Thanks Hubby for putting up with all this going on!
This is what MAx has been up to-trying to keep warm. He's on my lap right now. This is how he sleeps at night.
What's Up Max? If any of you are going away for Thanksgiving have a safe trip. And if you're staying here check in. Talk to you soon!

Leslie

Busyness as Usual

2010-11-14T18:14:00.000-08:00

Hi All-I've been a busy little elf!

I have been working on a project for a really long time...
And am starting to get things together and organized. I'll let you in on my little secret soon!
I forgot to show you my fall leaf garland. I used felted wool sweaters for the leaves,
and little felt balls and real acorn hats for the tops. Stitched and held together with rick rack. I ironed on fabric with fusible interfacing on the back.Easy and fun.
Also I keep forgetting to post this picture. Remember a few posts back about the ginormous honey crisp apple? Well I had to caramel coat it, and of course I'm not satisfied until it has some chocolate and crushed walnuts on it.
It took us 3 days to eat that thing, but it was worth all the calories. Yum! I hope you had a great weekend-we were busy, cleaning the garage, going to Ikea, watching football and eating(too much). Just wanted to thank you all for wonderful and helpful comments. They really make my day!

Leslie

It's a Small World

2010-11-10T06:04:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, I was out shopping and went into a doll house store in Dallas. You could spend hours in there looking at the tiny stuff. I asked the owner of Through The Keyhole if I could take some pic's and she agreed. Here are some amazing dollhouse rooms. This is ladies dress shop, complete with all the dreamy dress forms and pretty mirrors. Check out the detail.
I love this red retro kitchen set-I'd love to have one like this someday.
A sweet nursery for baby.
I love this- an unfinished house on wheels-Cindy! This would be so cute done up retro style.
The last is a gingerbread small house with Santa and his elves working away. I love the creativity that it takes to put one of these tiny houses together. I know some of you out there are working on your own dollhouse, Check out my dollhouse sweet shop if you haven't seen it. That was one of the most fun projects I ever worked on. If you can't have the real thing-you can always dream in miniature!
Leslie

Turkey Time!

2010-11-07T14:05:00.000-08:00

Here are the last of my fall decorations. I feel like I'm really behind-I'm seeing so much Christmas decorations already. I know-I have an obsession with vintage turkey salt and peppers. I found the first giant turkey at Salvation Army years ago and started collecting them. I finally found the mate to the first one. I do love the Made in Japan ones with the flaky red paint on their gobbles.

I put the gaggle of turkeys on my fall penny rug. I like to make these from felted wool and wool felt.I traced a leaf and went from there.
Fun and easy to make. See the acorns around the edge?
Here's my mantle-even though I have alot of stuff, I try to keep it pretty simple and not too cluttered.
Here's some of my thrifted finds from last week. The boot is metal-I've seen these, but don't really know what they are from. Can anyone help? They are sitting on a lace cut out(new) round table cloth that I found for $1.97. It seems to be in perfect condition. I have a round dining table, so I'm always excited to find a round cloth. Yeah!
It's going to be a busy week ahead. Don't you just feel the energy in the air? I know I'll probably poop out in about a month, so I better take advantage of it now!

Leslie

November is Here

2010-11-03T06:30:00.001-07:00

November is here and I thought some of you might want to use the Nov-Dec. calendar girl in your projects. I'm joining Sue at It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday. Go and check out tons of reds to get you in the spirit! Back to more fall decorating. I always try to use vintage sheet music or books in some way. I thought Turkey in the Straw was kind of appropriate for the season.
Sorry about the dark pic below, but this is in acorner and hard to photograph. I found the little brown teapot and crocheted doily at a garage sale. The little fall embroidery was from the thrift store.
I can't remember where I got the little girl, but I think she goes well with the theme. I've been inspired by Sweet Cottage Dreams and all her cute vintage figurines.
It turned from about 75 over the weekend, to cold and rainy here in Texas. It really does feel like fall. I'm loving this weather!

Leslie

Fall is in the Air

2010-11-01T07:57:00.001-07:00

I put away my Halloween stuff and brought out the fall stuff. I know alot of you girls already have your Autumn decorations out, but I do mine in 2 stages-Halloween and then fall/Thanksgiving. Above is a little vignette that I put on the shelf above my piano. My most favorite fall decoration is the little chipmunk salt and pepper. The grin on the little guy with all his teeth just cracks me up.
Here's the other side. I found the giant flashcard with the turkey last year and decided to use a vintage turkey candle. I love the old picture next to it. That turkey is going to have the last word!
Here it is all put together. The middle picture is an old puzzle of Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater. You can see I even have an old piano. This is the one I've had since I was a kid. It's pretty unique and it took me a long time to appreciate. it. I have grown to love it. I'll share more as the week goes on. Hope you all had a good Halloween. I even got Hubby to help me carve the pumpkin this year-I think he was waiting for all the kids to be gone. He did a really good job!

Leslie

Nightmare Before Christmas Tablescape

2010-10-27T11:34:00.001-07:00

HAPPY SPOOKY HALLOWEEN! Here is my creepy Nightmare Before Christmas Tablescape.

I used alot of thrift store stuff-the yellow plates remind me of the moon and I cut the black silhouette out of paper. I used black marker to make Jack on the white pumpkins.
All of the black fabric and tablecloth was from the thrift store. I draped it over the chairs for a haunted house look. The Nightmare Before Christmas snowglobe was my inspiration. It was my oldest sons. I knew there was some reason I couldn't get rid of it!
Spider under glass anyone?
Here a few night shots. I even found the yellow globe and covered it with black bat stickers.
The tarnished silver goblets were even found at the thrift store. All the candle holders as well.
This is my antique pewter coffee set dressed up in cobwebs. Vintage orange sherbet dished, were my Mom's.
I found the diecut black gate at a scrapbook store and knew it would work well on my hutch. The black crow was found at Hobby Lobby.
The black plates are from the dollar store. I used different wine glasses for the candy corn, M&M's and chocolate eyeballs.
The napkins are fat quarters from JoAnns. I had the yellow round placemats and used everyday flatware.
I hope you enjoyed my ghoulish table. It was the most fun to collect stuff for this and put it together.
Please join Between Naps on the Porch for more tablescapes. Happy Happy Halloween!

Leslie

The Big Apple and more Halloween Decor

2010-10-21T18:46:00.001-07:00

Has any one ever seen an apple this BIG? The top apple is a normal size apple and the bottom one-well- it looks like an apple on steroids! I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this at Kroger. I just had to buy one , they are both honey crisps, which are my faves. An apple a day (this size) would keep the doctor away for about a year!

I made this charm bracelet a few years ago and I actually soldered the charm(not my best skill)
Here is a little penny rug out of felted wool that I made, also a few years ago. I think the edge kind of looks like candy corn.
I added a thrift store blanket and a Halloween dishtowel for color to my couch.
Made these pillows awhile back. I love the vintage Halloween print on the right.

My Dad has been here all week and is doing better. My Aunt (his Sis) and my Brother are flying in tomorrow for a weekend mini-reunion for the weekend. Should be fun. Hope you all have a great weekend!

Leslie

Red Books

2010-10-20T07:50:00.001-07:00

When I was in Arkansas I went through some of my Mom's old books and brought a few back. I never realized how I'm attracted to red book covers.

I use them on shelves as platforms.
I love the different shades and sizes.
I didn't realize this may be a new collection starting. Oh no! Anyway- Happy Rednesday. Please join Sue at It's a Very Cherry World to see lots of wonderful reds. Have a good Wednesday!

Leslie

Winner of Fall Giveaway

2010-10-17T13:01:00.001-07:00

I have been in Arkansas for the last week and the trees there are beautiful and starting their autumn show. This little picture is from A Child's Garden of Verses and has some pretty fall colors.

I want to announce the winner of my first giveaway! Congratulations to Pam from Treasures-n-Text. So sorry about the delay.
I got back from my Dad's after spending a week there and am happy to report that he is slowly feeling better and gaining strength. I brought him back with me and he will stay here at least until we have our annual mini reunion with his sister and my brother. We appreciated all the comments and thoughts and prayers sent our way. Am slowly getting back to my routine and I really missed checking everyones blogs. It's good to be home!

Leslie

Be back soon

2010-10-13T18:02:00.000-07:00

I had to go out of town suddenly to care for my dad who's been sick. Hubby is taking dictation over the phone because I don't have internet. When I get back in town, I will do my drawing/giveaway. Please hang in there.

Hope to be back soon.

Leslie

Rednesday and Fall Giveaway!

2010-10-05T08:11:00.001-07:00

I haven't joined Sue at It's A Very Cherry World in a while, so I thought I'd join the fun! Below is my finished key holder.
It started life in brass, I sprayed it white and it wasn't showing up well on the wall. You may remember it I think it looks much better in red.
Another follow up-my spice rack glitter holder. The lids were silver and voila----
now in red. Much better!
I'm celebrating autumn here at Brookhollow Lane with my first Giveaway. I've been collecting fall things and here they are. All you have to do to enter is leave a comment. That is what makes blogging so fun and I love reading each and every one.
I've collected a little painted tole tray with fall colors and this beautiful vintage tea cup and saucer. I also added the fall Country Home magazine.
I added in a vintage linen and I made a fall leaf and acorn bunch that you can use to decorate. It's made from felted wool sweaters and wool felt.
Also included is a vintage scottie dog planter and yummy apple candle.
Please cozy up and enjoy a cup of tea and browse through the magazine on a nice fall day. I'll leave up this post and next week on Wednesday,October 13 I'll draw a name and announce the winner. You don't have to have a blog to enter,anyone can enter- just leave a comment! I hope you all enjoy your fall days.

Leslie

More Halloween

2010-09-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

Here is another part of my Halloween decor. I found the sheet music a few years ago at an antique store and couldn't pass it up. It has the name Leslie on the cover! Sorry about the reflection of the glass.

An old toy cash register bank. I love vintage toys.
This was one of many Oz books that I got from my mother.
I have some spice tins, old crocheted doilies, orange pottery, and a few vintage paper things.
I hope you all are having fun if you decorate for Halloween. More to come later.

Leslie

Halloween House

2010-09-28T09:01:00.001-07:00

I've finally gotten my Halloween stuff out-today I'll show you my primitive black cat and pumpkin vignette.

The pumpkin wool felt picture I did along time ago, from a pattern-can't find it to give credit.

The owl plate came from Home Goods about 2 years ago.
This was from another pattern-very fun to do-no straight lines here!
Painted boxes and house with a pumpkin man-from Martha Stewart a few years ago.
I love my Halloween stuff. I'll share more later this week. I put Halloween stuff up in October, than in November I put up fall and Thanksgiving decorations. I've been busy organizing and getting some craft stuff done. Thanks for the comments on my Extreme Makeover! Getting excited for fall and Halloween. I've been checking out your blogs-whats your favorite holiday to decorate for? Have a Happy Tuesday!

Leslie

Extreme Makeover #2

2010-09-25T06:38:00.000-07:00

Here is another extreme makeover. This is Max and Son before-

Max and Son after. Much better! They both got their haircuts the same day.Still missing that boy!
Sorry about this pic, blogger won't let me delete it. Although you can see he let his hair grow for a year before he cut it.
Here are some of the garage sale finds from our trip. We didn't have time to do much. You know the show Hoarders? Well, I think my vintage linen piles are getting that way!

I love this pink powder box. Very dainty.
It's finally starting to cool down around here. It's a dark rainy fallish day. One that I've been waiting for. I've been trying to catch up on everyones blogs and getting geared up to do Halloween decor this week Stay tuned.

Leslie

Vintage Shadow Boxes

2010-09-21T11:42:00.001-07:00

I've been a busy bee, These have been in the works for awhile and I finally got them done. Many of you have expressed interest in my kitchen shadow box, so I've made a mini box.

This one has vintage gnome and mushroom.
The last one , I found a cuckoo clock that was broken and took the whole thing apart and put it retrofitted it to the shadow box. This reminds me of Ocktoberfest! These will be in my Etsy shop finally!
More things to do and cross off my list. Fall just makes me want to organize and get things in order. Maybe the holidays looming ahead. Better get busy!

Leslie

Home Again

2010-09-20T06:44:00.000-07:00

Hi-I'm Home! It's been along trip. We got son into school and everything went well. I'm missing him already. We stopped in Central Illinois and did some geneology stuff-they were so nice down there. It was a fun trip and now back to the real world.Here are some of the old houses in Central Illinois. The neighborhoods are so beautiful.
We saw tons of houses like these. Outside of the town is all corn fields-so peaceful.
Some day-I'd love to move into a house like one of these. I can dream-right?
I have so much to do this week-I've got a list a mile long. I missed looking at everyones blog. I'll slowly get back into the swing of things around here. Happy Monday!

Leslie

Back to School

2010-09-07T13:32:00.002-07:00

Well it's back to school around here. We are leaving this week to take our son to college. We are making it a mini vacation on the way home to see some sights and do some geneology. Here is my Back to School Tablescape. I'm joining It's a Very Cherry World and Between Naps on the Porch. Please check out other reds and wonderful tablescapes.

I found the little school house for sale at an antique mall. The bell and apple bell are from the thrift store.
I made the little chalkboard names on the computer. They are held in place by the brass apple bells-also from the thrift store.
Here's my bakelite again.
The apple plates are from JoAnns. Wood salad plates, green dinner plates and wicker charger-thrift store. I even found the amber glasses at Goodwill.
I'll be gone for a while. I'll miss you-but will have lots to post when I get back. I'm getting together a give-away-so come on back to check it out. Now I'll get my Baby off to school in the big city of Chicago! Bye for now.

Leslie

This and That

2010-09-05T14:38:00.001-07:00

Hi there! I' thought I'd share some of my thrifted finds of the week. I almost ran over another shopper when I spotted this across the store. A vintage tablecloth-worn on the edges, but still has great colors and can be used. $2.50!! Yeah! Below is a milkglass dish and I also found the pretty linen behind it. It's in great condition..75!!!
Last -these cute tole painted tiny trays. I love the colors on them. Not sure what I'll use them for yet-but I love them.

Thanks for all the lovely red comments! Painting the brass key holder red definitely won out. I'll share when I get it painted.

I'm playing along with Cindy at Rick Rack and Gingham on 8 questions that she asked. Check out her blog to see what others have answered.

1,Disaster is upon you-all your family and animals are safe-you have all the necessary papers and family albums. You can only fit 10 items into your car-what 10 do you grab?

My Blue and white quilt that my Great Grandma made, Family videos, geneolgy stuff, my Mother's charm bracelet, my old piano. I think everything else could be replaced.

2.You are in a store shopping for groceries-limited time-in a big hurry-you need to fix supper quick for a large group-what do you grab and fix?

Canned refried beans,hamburger meat, grated cheese, jalapenos, tomatoes and tortilla chips to make natchos. We have them all the time!

3.A memory of a car trip as a child? What did the car look like?

I remember in California, my parents driving about 150 miles out of our way to drive through the huge redwood tree called Wowona. I read a story about it in fourth grade. It's still there-but they don't let cars drive through it anymore. I can't remember what the car looked like, but I do remember-no Air Conditioning!

4.You have won a lot-I mean a lot of money! So much that you need an accountant to help with it- what are you going to do with it-whom do you help with it?

Once I knew my kids were set, I would probably go on a nice trip with Hubby, and then donate the rest to start a scholarship fund for kids going to music school.

5.What would you plant in a fall garden if you lived where the weather was garden friendly?

tomatoes,peach tree and avocado tree. I could probably live on those things!

6.A religious song that means a lot to you. What memory goes with it?

Amazing Grace. I used to play piano at an old Baptist Church out in the country and remember the older people singing their hearts out!

7.What has blogging meant to you?

I started blogging on a whim-I've always read alot of blogs and loved them. When I started getting comments and making blogging buddies everything changed. It is now a two way street-not just me putting stuff out there. I miss it when I'm away and look forward to posting and sharing stuff with everyone out there in Blogland.

8.Your favorite pie-color-candy-flower-season- and smell?

This is easy-chocolate pecan pie-(I live in Texas),color-RED,candy-anything with dark chocolate,flower-daisy-they are so cheerful,season-spring and fall,smell-cinnamon rolls baking the oven.

Hope you got to know me a little better. Feel free to answer any questions on the comments. I'd love to hear from you!

Leslie

More Thrifted Reds

2010-08-31T18:54:00.000-07:00

I've been doing alot of little projects lately. Here are a few. I found these vintage salt and peppers-and painted the lids red. They look so much better!
These were those wooden ones you see all the time at the thrift store. I'll keep this set by my stove.
Last is a brass key holder-I sprayed it white, but am thinking RED. What do you think?
I'm joining Sue at It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday. Go check the reds out!

Denton, Texas

2010-08-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

We had a little weekend outing. We drove to Denton, Texas, which is about 30 minutes from our home, and checked out thrift stores and did a few errands and went out to lunch.
The courthouse in the square is pretty spectacular. There are many courthouse squares in Texas-I love to take pictures of them.
This is the old bank-I think it's empty now.
Antique store-this used to be a hardware store-up until about 4 or 5 years ago. It was still owned by the original family!
After all that we had to make a stop at Mr. Frosty for a shake. It's hot out there! Hope you all had a great weekend!
Leslie

Cute Baby Cards

2010-08-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

No, nobody's pregnant. I just wanted to share the rest of the baby cards I discovered when going through stuff.
These were for me when I was born.
Feel free to copy these cards if you want.

It has finally cooled down slightly here. It's in the 90's-which actually feels great!
Hope you have a great weekend!

Leslie

To School and Home Again

2010-08-24T14:03:00.000-07:00

I'm joining Sue at It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday!
School started here on Monday. We are getting my youngest ready for college in a few weeks. Don't you love all the school supplies?
Since I teach piano at home I always do a little welcome back vignette. The little toy typewriter is from Marshall Fields store in Chicago. I couldn't pass this up on Ebay since my Mom used to work there.
The other school supplies have been collected-Avon School desk, ink bottle, water colors, flashcards and vintage crayons.
This little book was found at Goodwill. I definitely have mixed feelings about school this year, but I can't wait for autumn weather!
Leslie

A Little Indoor Project

2010-08-22T13:50:00.000-07:00

Start with a thrift store find. Well made, but not the way you envision it. Sand it down. Prime. Paint it white.
Sand the edges so it looks a little worn and aged.
Go to Hobby Lobby and Ikea and buy spice jars. I still need 4 more.
Fill with glitter,scrabble letters,more glitter and any odds and ends.
Use the little drawer for tiny bottles of what not.
And you have turned a not so great find into something useful and pretty. If I get tired of the white I can always add paint or a decal or decoupage a little something on it. For now I'll just enjoy. Thanks for letting me share my little project. Still over 100 degrees here-so I will be doing a few more of these indoor projects. See you soon!
Leslie

Birthday Reds

2010-08-17T16:02:00.000-07:00

It's Rednesday and today I'm sharing a gift I received last week for my birthday from my dear friend Donna. Look how she's packaged everything-just so I could post it on Rednesday!(Just kidding) It was so cute!
Look at all the red and cherry items. There were cherry cupcake papers,ME ribbon, chipboard shapes, cherry rub-ons and magnet. Also -check out the vintage looking cherry soda bottle. I'll add that to my red and white display.I love the cute cherry linen that she added and everything put into a cheery cherry tin!
My fave thing was this adorable pin cushion she made-She got the idea from a blog, and used a thrifted little chair and a piece of my fabric. Don't you just love it? I do. Than we a had a day of antiquing and she took me out to lunch. You couldn't ask for more than that! Thanks, Donna.

Happy Rednesday! I'm joining Sue at It's a Very Cherry World, so go on over to check out more reds.
Leslie

Miscellaneous Monday

2010-08-16T06:19:00.000-07:00

It's Monday morning and I've got tons of stuff to do. But I wanted to share a few things with you all Above is a little scottie dog I have in my living room. I just love scotties, really all dogs.

I've had a few "meant to be" junking moments lately. This weekend I had another. On Friday I went to a favorite antique store and we drooled over a set of cottage plates. They were expensive and there were only 3.

So on we went. On Sat. morning Hubby and I went out garage saling-It's so hot here it was pretty bad. Until... This one sale had a stack of 3 cottage plates marked at $5 each. I asked her what her best price would be and she said $1 each-I'm sure because we were standing out in 104 degree heat and there was no one else around. Needless to say I bought them(and screamed when we got back in the car). That afternoon I go back to the antiques store to get a tablecloth I had seen the day before and went back to see the plates. Now I had a feeling they were the same, but wasn't sure and (Right you guessed) THE SAME PLATES. Of course I had to buy the fourth one, but still couldn't believe my luck. I know they are Edwin Knowles China made in 1933-but couldn't find a pattern name. Does any one know what it 's called? I just love them and can't wait to do a tablescape with them.
Sorry for rambling on so long. Hope your weekend was cool and fun!
Leslie

Yellow and Blue TableScape

2010-08-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

I'm joining Between Naps on the Porch today for Tablescape Thursday! I decided to use my blue and yellow centerpiece for inspiration. It's a deco vase from that my Mom gave me years ago.

I had the vintage tablecloth(from a garage sale) and actually found matching napkins at an antique store a few weeks ago. Weird!
The flatware is bakelite-same auction I got my brown set from. I didn't have spoons, so I mixed in my everyday spoons.

I found 2 duck napkin rings at a thrift store and than found 2 matching ones in Arkansas-weird!
This is a summery and cheerful scape-and we had my birthday dinner at it. Thanks for the Wonderful Birthday Wishes. I appreciated every one! I always am thankful for comments and love to read them!
Table cloth and napkins-vintage
Centerpiece-vintage
Yellow placemats-Marshalls
white plates-my everyday
Blue plates-vintage from a garage sale years ago
yellow salad plates-Tom Thumb Grocery Store-on sale
flatware-vintage
wine glasses-Dollar store
napkin rings and little goose-thrift and antiques store
I hope you all have a cheerful day!
Leslie

Hot Thrifty Finds

2010-08-10T07:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday-my younger son baked the chocolate cake, and my older one frosted it with light pink buttercream. The segment that's not frosted is for younger son-he doesn't like frosting so we have to work around him. I had a really nice day. I went out thrifting and got some great finds.
This was from a garage sale-I don't need it, and I don't have any place to put it, but
when I saw this sweet little decal and she said $2 I couldn't pass up this little doll crib. The side even goes up and down!
I found these small really old plates at GW-I just think they're pretty.

The little red tin is cute with red stripes and the table runner was a quarter!
More vintage linens-doilies from a garage sale and table runner from thrift store. I had a pretty good day.
It is still really hot here. It has been over 100 for I think 14 or 15 days. I've lost track. I'm definitely in the autumn weather mode-can't wait till that arrives. My Air Conditioner can't either!
Leslie

Waiting for Fall

2010-08-06T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking about fall and especially fall weather. I can't wait! We are getting ready for college here. Doing last minute shopping etc. Thought some of you scrappers might like to use the little calender girl image for tags or cards etc.

When I think about autumn I think about hooked rugs. I'm sure most of you have seen some these around. I've always been interested in them and took a class about 14 years ago. They start with recycled wool clothes that you shrink and cut into thin strips with a wool cutter. Then you hook the strips through a backing of burlap or Monks cloth.Below is my only vintage rug-I've had it in my bedroom for years.
You can see how faded it is. The back side is still vibrant. Some people actually used to turn them over when they faded and use the backside.
Here are a few of the ones I made. This was my first one.
I loved searching out the wool and then dying it to get the colors you want. I was in a hooking group that was so much fun, when we lived in El Paso.
The sheep below was from a pattern I bought. I love the "hit and miss" border.
I had most of my rugs down for years, but my taste and style has changed, so they are in storage (my husbands office closet) for now. Do any of you hook or have hooked rugs? I'd love to hear about yours. Have a wonderful weekend. I'm staying in-it's still over 100 degrees here and no sign of a break. Yuck!
Leslie

More Thrifted Reds

2010-08-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

I'm joining Sue at It's a Very Cherry World today for Rednesday. Check out the other reds.
I hit the jack pot on red Pyrex this week at the thrift stores. I found these three red refrigerator dishes with lids. I love these and use my Pyrex all the time. I serve food in them and then put the lids on and stick the leftovers in the fridge.

I love that you can stack them up for easy storage. I also found the red bowl below. I can't seem to pass up Pyrex. The last thing I have to share is this pretty red silk shawl. I love the colors and it has a pretty yellow fringe.

It's still so hot here-about 103 and it's supposed to stay that way all week. I am so ready for fall. What about you? Try to stay cool and enjoy the rest of the week!
Leslie

Around the World

2010-08-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

I'm usually a vintage kind of gal, but found this pretty asian cloth at a garage sale over the weekend. It's got beautiful pieces of fabric kind of patchworked together. It's not old, but kind of feels old. I will probably use it in a tablescape someday.
Close up of fabrics. I love the butterflies. Below are a few pic's my son took in Europe. It's interesting to see stuff from a kids point of view.
Here he is in front of the Berlin Wall. I love the murals.
He started in Germany, went to Holland, Belgium and ended in France. Quite a trip! He worked and saved the money and had a wonderful time.
Inside Notre Dame.
Love this shot-he said on the hour the Eiffel Tower goes crazy with lights and sparkles!

Wow! Anyway -that's my taste of world travel!
Leslie

Cute Apron Tags

2010-07-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

I was really excited to get a package yesterday from Cindy at Rick Rack and Gingham. My first apron tag swap-My first any kind of swap actually. The first one is so cute, using all different papers and put together with rick rack and lace at the hem from Michelle and Ashley. Thanks -it's adorable.
The apron above and below are from Cindy. You are a talented lady. I got the pink apron because of our pink gingahm apron stories. I love it, Cindy!
This is the cute ME apron that she made. The little flowers are each painted and she even put little dots on the rick rack. What detail!
I strung them together and made a little banner. I may add to this in the future. This was a lot of fun-thanks again Cindy! I will be hanging this little banner in my craft room! I hope you all have a cheery weekend. It's supposed to be about 102 or 103 this weekend. I can't wait for fall!
Leslie

Happy Rednesday!

2010-07-27T17:30:00.000-07:00

I'm joining Sue at It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday! Above is a little shadow box I made using a vintage cover of a book I found and a little wooden house tree and plastic sheep. You know how I like wool!
Here are a few thrifted finds from this week. The spoon thingie has 3 hooks and I found the polka dot frame. I guess I've got dots on the brain lately. Have a fun Wednesday and enjoy all the reds!
Leslie

A Gift From My Mom

2010-07-25T07:23:00.001-07:00

I have been on a mission. I've been searching for clues to my family history since the spring when I discovered Geneology. Last week when we went to visit my Dad, I decided to search through pictures and papers for clues. My Mom was the keeper of the family history and she died 4 years ago, so it's up to me and the stories she told me. As I was looking I decided to take some of the pic's on the wall down so I could copy them to take home and I found a gift!
I never knew she took the time to label these old photos that were in frames. It was exactly what I needed and it was if she was talking to me through her handwriting. It may seem like a small thing, but it was huge to me! Some of the relatives I knew, but there were others who I was guessing at. SO I had fun taking all the pic's off the wall and checking out the labels on the back-from my Mom.

I found some little newspaper clips that will really be helpful on our upcoming trip to Illinois. We are taking the Graduate to school in Chicago and stopping in the town where my relatives lived in the early 1900's and earlier. I'm really excited to find out more and be close to relatives I never knew. I grew up in the Chicago area , but had never been to the little southern Illinois towns where my great grandma's family had 4 farms.
So, anyway I'll keep you updated on my search as it unfolds. Please take the time to label your photos. As a scrapbooker I know how important it is. I am going to go and label my pictures that are hanging on the wall. If you label the back of a snap shot try to use an archival pen-they are available at any craft store or scrapbook store. Don't use any tape or glue that isn't safe. You can see the damage that it can do in the above photo. Products will say acid free or archival safe to use.
I treasure these vintage photos and hope my kids will someday. At least they'll know who's in the picture!
Above are my Mom and Dad-looks like she was pregnant. Love the little smootch on the cheek.
Don't forget to label your pic's! You don't want your family history to end up in a shoebox in some antiques store someday, with people saying-I wonder who those people were...
Have a good day,
Leslie

Red Polka Dots

2010-07-21T10:28:00.000-07:00

It was Hubbys birthday so we are celebrating outside-although it's about 100 degrees. Thought I'd do a cheerful red polka dot theme.
I just layered red dots over more red dots.
The placemats are form Big Lots-kind of like oil cloth.
White dinner plates are my everyday plates.
Red polka dot plates from Home Goods.
Red flatware from Target bought a few years ago.
Napkins and napkin rings from thrify store.
The ME birdhouse was also bought at thrift store.
Giant red mug with flowers from Hobby Lobby.
I'm joining Sue for Rednesday and Between Naps on the Porch today. Please go over and check out more reds and some great tables. Happy 100 Tablescape Anniversary!

Hopefully the german chocolate cake won't melt.
Happy Birthday Hubby!

Hope you all have a great day!
Leslie

No Place Like Home!

2010-07-19T18:08:00.000-07:00

It's nice to be home. We spent the weekend in Arkansas at my Dad's. Also took a side trip to Memphis, which we had never been to. Beale Street is a wild and crazy and fun place. Also visited the Civil Rights Museum while there. Of course we garage saled and hit the jack pot this weekend. Above is a little German house bank and a German or Swiss bottle stopper. I thought they looked cute together.
At an estate sale I found these linens including a Vera dish towel and a towel with the pattern printed on it. I love finding these, because I like to embroider them myself. The orange linen is a table runner with french words going around it. Really cute.
I found the green hankie above for 25 cents and the unique little salt and pepper at a different sale.
I bought the jar of buttons and bag of rick rack stuff and the lady told me to take whatever sewing stuff I wanted. So I came home with a pile of felt. I love vintage felt, because the texture is different and sometimes you find neat colors. We hit about 7 sales. I love going in a retirement area, because they have different stuff then around my house. Hubby scored a great set of binoculars so he was a happy camper. It was a fun weekend, but it's always great to get back home! It's about 100 degrees here and really humid-stay cool! Hope you all had a great weekend.
Leslie

Blogging Break

2010-07-14T06:17:00.000-07:00

I've been checking my calendar and see that I'll be taking a Blogging break for a long weekend. Here is a cute image for you tag and scrapbookers out there to use. I bought this little diecut calendar because it was from my birth year. No secrets here! I will share the rest, as the year goes on. See you next week!
Leslie

This is The Way We Wash Our Clothes

2010-07-12T06:11:00.000-07:00

I've been washing things at the kitchen sink-not dishes but linens.

Usually I do laundry on Sunday.
But today I'm washing vintage linens in Biz and Oxyclean. I've read about this on other blogs and it really does work. Last Friday my good friend and I visited a small town north of Gainsville called Whitesboro. Sorry I didn't take any pictures.It has a tiny main street and not too much there except a wonderful scrapbook store, quilt store. and 2 antique stores. We also hit an estate sale. I ended up buying mostly linens. Then I came home and tried the soaking technique and it works! Some of the towels below had brown stains on them and after soaking I can't see any on there. Now I want to go into my stash and see if I can get them all clean. It does take awhile but persistence pays off!
Next I need to iron-haven't gotten to that yet. For some reason when I'm washing old linens or washing old dishes by hand it's kind of fun. I would never say that on new stuff, but you kind of appreciate handling the vintage things. Anyway below is a nice piece of fabric that will soon become a tablecloth. I even got the yellow napkins at the same estate sale.
Off to the kitchen sink and than onward to the ironing board! I need to get a life! The first pic is from an old book-it's quite large about 12' by 20'. Bought it at one of the antique stores. Couldn't pass it up-the colors are perfect for my kitchen and I love that sink!
Getting ready to send my Graduate off to Europe tomorrow-many last minute details to take care of for him.
Have a great Monday!
Leslie

Thrifty Tropical Vintage Table for Two

2010-07-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

Please join the party at Tablescape Thursday. to see many more wonderful tablescapes.
Tonight Hubby and I will be alone, so I thought I'd set a casual table for two.
The idea came from the thrifted salad plates. I snagged a set of 8. Something just drew me to them-kind of retro vintage. Found out the pattern is Homer Laughlin-Desert Lily. I thought they kind of looked tropical. The chargers were also thrifted-I only have 2, so I'll be on the lookout for something similar. Green plates-Good Will.
Wooden plates I've had for ages-I got them at a garage sale.
The flatware is Bakelite. I bid on a silent auction years ago at my local thrift store and won these.
The day I bought the Homer Laughlin plates I saw this. I'm not sure what it is-if anybody knows, please let me know. I thought the colors went perfect with the plates. It opens and there is a small accent piece on the other side of the flowers. I cut some oleander because I think it kind of ties in with the look.
Later I found this plate at a thrift store. I've seen the pattern out there, but don't know what it's called. I just got the one bowl.
The pineapple was made by my Aunt Ruth. I think it's a fun addition and will use it for our salad tonight. I made the placemats and napkins-fabric from Hancock Fabrics. Wooden napkin rings-thrift store found yesterday.
Thanks for all the bloggy love last week on my first scape. You guys are awesome! My goal is to use mostly what I have and supplement things from GW or thrift stores. So far so good.
Have a great weekend!
Leslie

Small Reds

2010-07-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
It's Rednesday ! You can link on to other Reds at A Very Cherry World.
Thanks Sue!
This is an Apron tag that I made for Cindy at Rick Rack and Gingham- Mary Englebreit Apron Tag Swap. I put them in the mail today. My first swap and my first tag. It was fun to make. Thanks Cindy.
This is a red vignette in my craft room. The little dress form pin cushion was my Mom's. She was quite a sewer. The little girl figure I picked up at an antiques store-I love her polka
dot dress and red shoes.
I found this at a thrift store and added the yummy gum balls-great when you need a pick me up!
Last Red for today is also in my craft room. A little doll coat and hat and the little chubby girl in the pic is Yours Truly. I only had the best clothes for Easter-I' was all decked out! It looks like I'm wearing a paper plate on my head! hope you enjoyed my Reds.

Hope you have a great day!
Leslie

Hammered Aluminum and Decal

2010-07-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great Fourth of July. We are getting ready to watch fireworks tonight after we have a hotdog cookout. Hubby's already eating the cherry pie! Above is a wood paper holder that I found at GW. It used to be painted with cherries and was yellow, but I decided to redo. I used a decal from Sandy at 521 Lake Street to transform this. It was fun and easy to do and looks vintage now, don't you think?
I saw a hammered aluminum tray on Tablescape Thursdays and thought I'd share my collection. Hammered aluminum was called poor mans silver and was made during the war years when silver was not available. There are many serving pieces and trays as shown above.
This ice bucket is what started it for me. I picked this up at a thrift store years ago and got hooked. I love the look and feel of these pieces.
I do use these pieces especially when entertaining. I really don't have any silver, but I pull out the old aluminum when I need big trays or tiered servers.
Some pieces are marked on the bottom and numbered. Two of the most common markings are Everlast and Continental. The pieces were stamped out and they look embossed. Many times the edges look as is they were cut with pinking shears.
I love these servers for hors d'oeuvres and desserts.
I also have some cute small trays for snacks. For Christmas my Mom used to give me money and I would buy what I liked. I bought a set of snack trays and wrapped them up to me. Little did I know that she also had bought me a set of trays-same size -different pattern. That was a surprise to me and her on that Christmas! I love these pieces. Let me know what kind of serving stuff you use. Do you use silver, pewter, aluminum or ceramic stuff to serve in? If I missed something let me know.
Thanks for the wonderful comments for Rednesday and Tablescape Thursday. I love reading them and feel like I'm really getting to know some of you. I think that's the great thing about blogging.
Have a great day!
Leslie

Fruit and Flowers Breakfast Table

2010-06-30T19:24:00.000-07:00

I'm glad to join my first tablescape party with Between Naps On The Porch. Go check out many other tablescapes HERE. This is my vintage breakfast tablescape.
I had almost everything hiding around my cupboards. I had the 2 vintage tablecloths. The applique tablecloth is placed over a cherry plaid cloth. Vintage strawberry jam jar.
These vintage banded ring plates were my inspiration. I placed them over my everyday white plates.
Vintage painted fruit pitcher for OJ. Red pyrex bowl for fruit. Mary Englebreit vase holding flowers. I bought the fruit glasses a few years ago in an antiques store(they are not antique), but look old.
The red flat ware was from Target a few years ago. Napkins bought at a thrift store. I had so much fun putting this together, I've been checking out everyone 's tablescapes and have been totally inspired by you all. Thanks for coming by! Happy fourth of July!
Leslie

Red Thrifty Finds

2010-06-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

Today for Rednesday I wanted to show you some of my thrifted findsthat I got this week and last week. Above is a cute wind up toy that works. Definitely my colors.
This little ceramic tomato is really cute. It's missing a little spoon, but I'll find something to replace it.
I saw this at an antique store and loved the vintage looking bluebirds. I'm so glad I didn't buy it , because there was one at my favorite thrift store. See the little red flowers?
I've been meaning to show you this quilt. I looked for a few years to find an affordable red and white quilt-no luck. So I got out the old sewing machine and made my own. I just hung it in the newly painted family room above the couch. I won't show you the couch-cuz it looks really bad. I'm working on that issue.
Last is a tablescape that I made up using my vintage plates. I will be joining a Tablescape party tomorrow for the first time. More about this later. Join Sue at It's a Very Cherry World to see more Reds. Thanks for joining me. Happy Rednesday!
Leslie

Kitchen is Done(Almost)

2010-06-28T06:20:00.000-07:00

Monday mornings-I just love them. For some reason I always feel like getting organized on Mondays-paperwork, housework all that good stuff. Above is the after pic of my kitchen table area. I'm thinking of painting the table white(maybe with some red accents on the legs) and we need to get new chairs. These are antiques that aren't holding up to heavy use. I'd love to find some and paint them red. What do you think?
Here are some different views of the kitchen. We had the granite put in, I had already painted the cabinets white. We never had a backsplash, so we tiled it with white subway tiles.
Here's my little desk nook. Sorry about the glaring sun.Love this area!
Here's the before of the floors-Remember we had 6 different floors on our first floor. We now have 3-the new ceramic tile and wood in our living room and laminate in our family room. Much calmer.
Here's the same view-after.
Here work in progress-I was really glad to get rid of the tile counter tops. I don't miss them a bit.
Love the granite-even though I didn't think I would.
This rooster was made by my Aunt Ruth- every animal that she made (and she made tons of ceramics) have eyelashes! Little red toy stove was found in an antique store, on sale. This is in my window over the sink.
What we hired out-granite counters
tile floor install
What we did-painted the cabinets white
ripped out old floor and backsplash
tiled backsplash
painted walls
A few more little things to do, but hey that never ends. I was able to keep my vintage things witch I love, but kind of modernize the overall look.
Thanks for all your positive thougthts about BJ's wisdom teeth. He's coming along just great and will be tooting away on hist trombone soon!
Happy Monday!
Leslie

Hutches and Cupboards

2010-06-23T19:12:00.000-07:00

I just noticed while going through pictures I have 3 cupboards in my house. The one above stores my vintage and new jadite. This was one of the first antiques I ever bought-it was painted turquoise and was covered with about 1/2 inch of black grease. It must have been in a kitchen for about 50 years or so. We've had our TV in this-Hubby took off the back and made a plywood one, it's been on our porch and than I brought it back in and painted the original bead board backing white. It now stands in our entryway.This is the cupboard I decorate for holidays.
This hutch was bought at an antique store a few years ago. It was falling apart and Hubby redid it and made it sturdy. It has tons of storage and sits in our dining room. I almost took out the stained glass and put in clear, and I'm so glad I didn't. I love the different colored glass. It was already painted and it was meant to go that room!
My 3rd cupboard is in my craftroom, so you've seen that one. Love all the storage. What do you store in your hutches or cupboards? Any secrets out there?
My Graduate is getting his wisdom teeth out tomorrow, so we'll be at home for a few days. I plan on catching up on crafting and doing some sewing while he watches soccer and recoups. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Leslie

After the Party and Little Treasures

2010-06-22T05:16:00.000-07:00

I am still trying to get through the list on Where Bloggers Create-I have found so many great ideas, and some really awesome craft rooms and studios. Thank you for all the wonderful comments on my space and on my dolls. Amazing how many creative women are out there.

Thought I'd show you a few garage sale and antique store finds from last week. Above is this cute little girl-she's the second one I've found. Does anyone know anything about these? No markings.It seems like they all have that little pattern on the dress and they come in different colors and always holding different things. Love the face.

I'll add this to my metal tea set collection-love the blue-it's alittle dented, but well loved.
Bought the embroidered pink and gray for 50 cents at a church sale and the Easter tablecloth below at a garage sale.
Many of the comments I received about my craft room were-how neat and tidy-well that was my space cleaned up. I took this before-this is what my desk looks like when I'm scrapping-I know- there's no place to work.
And here's my ottoman that you are supposed to put your feet on- more paper. The scraps are thrown on the floor. I keep big scraps and the trash finally makes it into the trash can when I'm done with a project. Sorry to mislead you all-here's the real room!
Hope you all have a great day!
Leslie

Where Bloggers Create

2010-06-18T15:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Where Bloggers Create Party. Check out many, many other great craft rooms- just click the button on the sidebar and enjoy.
Welcome to my Craft Room. Come on in! I am a scrapper, sewer, and doll maker. Above is my scrapping and all purpose desk. Bought at a thrift store of course!
I have to share my space with the guest bed. You can see my sewing corner. The quilt on the bed was made by my Great grandma and was the inspiration for the colors in the room. I had to add some red and a dash of pink.
I love vintage, so most of the accessories are thrifted, or from garage sales. The sewing table was from the thrift store-as well as the chair.
Here are my personalized little dolls. I've been selling these locally and am working on a web site as we speak. Welcome to my Small U world.
I keep my scrapbook supplies in the bottom of this cabinet. My vintage stuff is on the top-Oz books, Childs Garden of Verses and my Mom's Singer Feather Weight that I learned to sew on.
Close up of my desk. I love having my pens and scissors out where I can just grab them when I need them, my paper is above on the shelf.
I have a small walk in closet where I hide lots of goodies. I keep my paints in an old soda crate, my fat quarters in an old enamel dish pan.
In my desk drawer-my scrapping embellishments.
The whole other side of the closet is my wool. Shown here is my recycled wool clothing-some that I've dyed for rug hooking and other crafts. I also have my felted sweaters and other craft stuff in bins.
Here is my little cozy corner where I can sit and do hand work or look through my craft and decorating books. It's right next to the big window, so I get good light. I slip covered the chair-thrifted of course.
My craft room is my favorite room in my house. I love working,playing and creating in here.It's
full of memories, vintage treasures and things that I love.I hope you enjoyed your tour. Please come back again, I loved having you.
Leslie

Reds and Blues and Silvers

2010-06-15T17:09:00.000-07:00

I am in Flag Day spirit and also getting ready for the 4th of July. Most of the things you see were thrifted. Please join Sue at A Very Cherry World to see many other Reds for Rednesday!
I teach piano and always like to add vintage sheet music for the seasons. There is my little Texas Teddy Bear.
I used to have my boys room decorated in a Patriotic theme. Some of this is stuff from that. I love red, white and blue.
Here is a little table top vignette using an old school box and my patriotic horns. You've seen those before.
I know this stuff is Blue, but I wanted to share a little of my Sons graduation from last Saturday. I made these cupcakes and thought the liners looked a little graduation gowns. I added silver sugar(you can't really see it in the photo) and the little pics I made.
Last is a place setting from our Graduation breakfast. I got the placemats from Marshalls and had everything else. I tried to make the napkins look like diplomas and added a little navy tassle. We had a wonderful weekend in Blue and Silver. Come join me on Friday for Where Bloggers Create. I'm excited already. See you soon!
Leslie

Baby Cards

2010-06-14T06:36:00.001-07:00

I'm am such a ditz! While we were being nostalgic and looking through old pictures during Graduation weekend, I found these. They were given to my parents for me , when I was born. This is my fave, of course with the cute house.
I can't believe I forgot about them- and did a whole scrapbook without them . Oh well- thought I'd share these with you guys. I have a few more that I'll share later.
Just wanted to post today after our busy weekend. It was great! Company left this morning, so I'm trying to get back to my routine. Better get back to laundry. Happy Monday!

House Embroidery

2010-06-11T06:16:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd pop in(Hubby is at the airport picking up my Sister In Law.)My dear friend Donna gave me this wonderful embroidery for Christmas last year. I love it and have it on the back of my craft room chair. I'll be back to thrifting next week and plan on getting my Patriotic stuff up. Graduation this weekend. Hope you all have a great weekend!
Leslie

The Pink Gingham Apron

2010-06-08T07:09:00.000-07:00

I’m participating in Cindy’s (Rick Rack and Gingham) Travelling Pink Apron Story. You can link on to these blogs:
Kelly at Chick'NCharge
Maryjane at Beehive Cottage
Cindy at Rick Rack and Gingham
to read some wonderful stories about this pretty pink apron. This was really fun to do-it forced me to use my imagination. Thanks Cindy!

Feb.15, 2010,

Dear Journal,

We had a nice Valentines Day yesterday. Mom made her special Double Chocolate cake and Grandma Bundy was in town. Her birthday was a week ago so we celebrated that and Valentines Day together. She was 82 years young (she always says). She does seem young at heart. She even likes to watch American Idol! I got to ask her some of the geneology questions I had prepared. ,She was able to fill me in on a few things I didn’t know. Grandma,Aunt Ruth, Aunt Hazel and Uncle Herschal lived on a farm in Sullivan.. She even had an address so that when I go to Southern Illinois, I’ll be able to drive by one of the houses that she lived in. Anyway, it was a nice get together.

March 4, 2010

Dear Journal,

I’ve been on the computer for 2 weeks non stop on Geneology.com and have done all kinds of research. Found Grandma Bundys birth certificate and an article about her Dad’s death in a Sullivan newspaper. I called her to let her know and she started telling me about life when she first got married to Grandpa. They lived in Sullivan and it was a small town. He worked on a farm and she stayed home. She told me of all the Sunday dinners, visits from her sisters and about my Mom when she was a little girl on the farm.. I think I’ll even make some kind of scrapbook to put all of this together. I love that era in history-about 1948. Pretty interesting stuff!

April 4, 2010

Dear Journal,

I got a package in the mail today from Grandma Bundy. Inside was an old cookbook, some old kitchen utensils and a pretty pink gingham apron. She had a little note inside and this is what it said:

Dear Abbey,

I thought you might like this cookbook-I’ve had it since your Grandpa and I were first married in 1948. There’s a lot of notes written in the margin-if it has a sad face-don’t make it! Must have been that your Grandpa didn’t like it. I was going to sell the old utensils at a garage sale but thought I’d send them to you. I know you collect old stuff, so maybe you can find some use for them. The pink apron was given to me by your Great Grandma Martin as a birthday gift to me when I first got married. Hope your doing well,

Love, Grandma

I love the stuff she sent. I’ll add the utensils to my collection. I can’t wait to use the cookbook. The apron will go in a shadowbox frame in my pink craftroom.April 14.2010

Dear Journal,

After going through the old pictures and slides that Mom dug out of the basement, I found the most wonderful surprise. There was an old black and white photo of Grandma Bundy standing outside this old house with my Mom when she was a baby and Grandma was wearing the gingham apron! I know it was the same apron, because it had little swirl designs on it. I will frame the picture and hang it next to the shadowbox. I can’t wait to call Grandma and tell her!

Story written by me. I thought I'd better post this, because it is graduation week and I've got visitors coming in tomorrow and Friday. Hope you all enjoyed the travelling apron series. It's been to Texas, Florida, California and back to Texas. Have a wonderful week.
Leslie

Painting and Baking

2010-06-04T11:30:00.000-07:00

This is what I've been up to this week. There are alot of pic's- so be patient please. I have repainted the kitchen(2 coats) and today the family room. After the tile went in my pretty yellow didn't go anymore. I didn't think it would, but wanted to make sure. I went with a light tan. I'll post finished kitchen soon.
Next, my soon to be graduate son and I made a simple pastry that he could take to his class where they are studying food from different cultures. This is an Armenian recipe that's been passed on to me by my sweet Auntie Sylvia. If you've ever tried baklava you'll love this. It's called Boorma and is a simplified version.
Let 1 bag of the phyllo dough defrost(i microwaved it for about 5 min. on defrost. Carefully unwrap and lay it out-keep a damp dish towel over dough at all times. Assemble other ingredients.
About 1/2 cup of any kind of chopped nuts, about 1 stick of unsalted butter melted and honey. Yes just 4 ingredients! You need a broomstick or dowel rod( we used his karate staff).
Take one sheet of phyllo and put a row of nuts across the dough. Carefully and loosely roll up around the dowel. If it tears, just patch it together. After it's rolled scrunch the ends together-it kind of makes a ruffle, and than slide off dowel rod.

Place in a 9x 12 cake pan that has been buttered. Lay them close to each other.
When you have used all the dough, drizzle with melted butter-I use a pastry brush for this. You want to be liberal with the butter-that's what makes the dough crisp up in the ruffles. Bake at 350 until a little brown and crisp looking. I think about 20 minutes.keep checking.
After you take it out of the oven drizzle with honey- maybe about 1/2 cup or to taste. Sorry the measurements aren't real exact-it's been passed down. My son made them and were a big hit at his class. They are pretty easy and an unusual dessert.
I loved reading about your enamel ware pieces. Thanks for all the wonderful comments. I'm off to clean up and more graduation parties. I think I need a rest, but am trying to enjoy all the excitement. Have a great week-end!
Leslie

Red and White Enamelware and Three Bears

2010-06-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

I looked around my house this week to find something red to join the Rednesday Party at It's A Very Cherry World and I came up with this little set. The book and the little hand made bears are all from garage sales. I just couldn't pass up that sweet little Mama Bear. And you know I love vintage children's books.
I had to take down my red and white enamel ware from above my cabinet, so I could get ready to paint this week. That should be the last step of the kitchen re-do. I took all the pieces down and cleaned them. Now I can rearrange them when I put them back up. I weeded out some others and decided to concentrate on coffee pots and tea pots.
How many of you collect enamel ware and what colors do you collect? There are so many variations and colors out there. Just trying to get the painting done and I'll show pic's when I'm through. Happy Reds!

Leslie

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy week, with the tile being installed and then putting the house back together again. Bathroom and laundry room still aren't done. It will get there this week end-or else I can't do laundry. Oh- maybe that would be a good thing.
Remember a few posts ago I showed these plates and assorted stuff I got from thrift stores? Well, here is my first attempt at a tablescape. The only thing I bought new was the flowers and the candy in the dish. It was really fun putting this together .
I've got to find out how to put the silverware-I can't believe the fork is tilted! Anyway, my BFF came over yesterday and we had fun, pulling out different dishes and thinking about more tablescapes. My rule to myself will be, use what I've got or buy at a thrift store. Anyway hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

Leslie

Red Tea Sets

2010-05-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

It's Rednesday! Thank you Sue from It's a Very Cherry World for hosting. Here is one of my childs tea sets.
I love children's tea sets. I think the graphics are great. I'd love to collect more , but the prices are way too high for me.
This set is plastic and is complete. I've never seen one like it. The tray has ladybugs on it.
Last is my thrift store afghan that I got for 97 cents! Love the shade of red.

I want to thank Sally of Sally Annie Magundy for my first blog award. The Trendy Blogger Award. I was so excited. I am having a hard time doing links today-Blogger is not cooperating.I can't get the image up. Sorry. I will pass this award on to some old and new blog friends. Please go check them out-they have alot to offer.
Rick Rack and Gingham
A Conversation at Goodwill
Linda Ruthies Aprons
Old Glory Cottage
Pretty Little Things
Georgia Peaches
Sawdust and Paperscraps

Thank you Sue and Sally. I hope you all have a great day!
Leslie

Senior Mini-Scrapbook

2010-05-24T05:48:00.000-07:00

Here is a pic of the Mini Scrapbook I have made for my graduating Senior. I did a collage in his name of all the things that have been important to him through his school years. Below is what I started with. A kids board book that I thougth would be the right size and number of pages.A GW find.
I did a little repair to the right corner and I sanded the gloss off of every page. That way the glue will stick.
I glued on primary color background pages. I weighted each page down with books until they dried. I wanted to keep it simple and schooly without going over the top. I was keeping him in mind-not me(otherwise I would have done a retro themed book)
I counted the pages and planned on one side per grade. Example-1st grade left side, 2nd goes on the right and so on.I shrunk down the pic's on the computer.I only put a few pics-things that he participated in or enjoyed. This is not meant to be a full record of school years-I have done that in his school scrapbooks.

I had 2 pages at the end left-did all the pics through the years and a little thought at the end.
This was my first board book. It was really fun to do and I plan on doing some more. Probably vintage next time around-I really had to restrain myself. I will give this to him on graduation day. I can't believe it's in a few weeks!

Have a good day!
Leslie

Extreme Makeover

2010-05-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

Here is the before-
And here he is after. Quite a difference. Max is sitting on my best thrift store find from yesterday. I almost missed it. The price-hold on to your hats-97 cents. It's full size and in great condition, I couldn't believe it!
These are small conductor scores-there was a bunch of them, I may go back and pick up a few more. Great for crafts.
I've been seeing all these wonderful tablescapes from alot of the bloggers and when I saw these all seperated at GW I felt a patriotic tablescape for two coming on. I've never done one-in fact my dishes are white. So I thought I might have fun with these. I even got the striped sheet to use as a tablecloth..
Of course I can't pass up ME stuff. Too cute. THose are my treasures from yesterday. I'll be holed up here next week-the tile is going down, starting on Monday. Have a great week-end!

Again I want to thank you all for your comments. I look forward to reading them all. I have a question-what is the correct way to respond to a question on the comments. Do you go to their blog to answer, email them, or post the answer on your own comments. Wasn't sure what to do on that. And I want to respond, but not get in the way of your blogs. Help!

Leslie

More Random Reds

2010-05-19T05:46:00.000-07:00

I thought about these plates for a week and decided to go back to Home Goods and get them. Love them!
I love to sew and bought this at an antiques mall in Arkansas.
Story behind Raggedy Andy is-when I was 6 years old I already had had my Raggedy Anne doll for 2 years and she was my favorite. I slept with her every night. So of course I wanted Andy for Christmas. I saw the wrapped box under the tree and shook it and just knew that was it. Christmas morning I go to open that box and there were a pair of slippers! Oh my-disappointment. A few presents later there was the much awaited Andy Doll in a different size box. So there he is.
Little Tiddly Winks game in mushroom- what a cute game" box". Thanks you Sue at It's a Very Cherry World for hosting this party. Go check out everyone elses red and have a great Rednesday!
Leslie

I Have A Little Shadow

2010-05-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me, And what can be the use of him is more than I can see. Words by Robert Louis Stevenson from A Child's Garden of Verses. The Copy above is what started my collection. It was my Mothers as you can see from the penciled in name below-Gerlene,
She gave me her childhood copy when I was in high school and that started me off. I would pick them up through the years when I would see one. Mostly vintage but some newer versions.
This copy is a cloth book with the most wonderful graphics. I think that's partly what started my love of vintage. The graphics in some of these books is amazing!
I began to love all vintage children's books and artwork.
Love the cover on this one. My friend Donna and I were at GW last week and I found not 1 but 2 vintage copies in the kids book section.That was a good thrifting day. I have many more copies and will share more with you later. I hope you enjoyed my little book collection tour. What's your favorite children's book? I'd love to know.
But my lazy little shadow, like an errant sleepyhead, Had stayed at home behind me and was fast asleep in bed.

Red Boxes

2010-05-12T05:48:00.000-07:00

Thanks to A Very Cherry World for hosting . Check out everyone's reds here.
I decided to share my red shadow boxes. I made one for my Hubby who is an ex Navy guy and one for My Son who is a Trombone Guy. I used vintage frozen charlottes and sheet music and books in them. I had so much fun putting them together and they are hanging on our hall wall.
I bet most of you don't know what this is. It's my Mom's vintage MahJong Game. She was an avid player-I have yet to learn. She probably got this one from a garage sale. It looks like it's never been used.
It opens up and you can see the trays of tiles. They are really pretty.
Hope you all enjoy your day. Happy Reds!