Time to bloom....

altered journals

2012-02-03T07:21:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to show you a couple of altered journals I made for a swap this month. The ladies should be getting their packages today so I feel safe sharing the pictures.

It was so fun to dive into my stash and actually cut into the vintage lace hankies and ribbon that I've been hoarding.

Both ladies love soft vintage colors...

lots of lace...beads...buttons...and ribbons.

I can't wait to see what they send my way.

I just finished the last row of borders on a quilt that I started early last year. I'll take some pictures today and be back to share it with you soon.

Have a wonderful weekend, Patty

I'm back....

2012-01-31T12:19:00.000-08:00

For those of you who follow my Cottage Blog, this is old news but it certainly bares repeating here.

After 27 years of public service employment, I have retired to a life of ~~leisure~~ extreme budgeting and the opportunity to do what I truly love...

C.R.E.A.T.E.

I know, know, lucky me. And as if that wasn't enough, I just re-did my craft studio so it's all ready for me to start playing...er, working in there now.

I thought I'd share a few pictures of my creative mess today and share the finished project tomorrow.

Feel free to pinch me at any time!

Patty

vintage tin...

2011-12-17T14:24:00.000-08:00

I bought this little tin at Michael's for $2.99 knowing that I wanted to embellish a container to package a Christmas gift in. My original intention was to spray paint it white and go from there but as usual, my lack of patience got the better of me and I went straight to the embellishing. Even with the metal tin, I think it has a decidedly vintage look to it.

It really was a simple project with a big pay off...

All I did was cut a piece of designer scrap paper (6 x 6 sheet from Pixie Glen by Prima), distress the edges a bit with Chestnut Roan chalk ink and add a hand made flower.

The twisted rose was made from a strip of white muslin that I soaked in good old Lipton tea bags. I found a matching bead in my stash and layered it on a squished and turned piece of vintage seam binding.

I have a couple more of these in the works plus some fun stuff to tuck inside that I hope to share soon.

Oh, the fun of it all...

Patty

pink pillow ornaments

2011-12-11T08:11:00.000-08:00

I went to visit a pink loving friend yesterday and wanted to give her a little something to thank her for her hospitality. She loves Christmas and her beautiful decorations have been featured in Romantic Homes and Romantic Country magazines so I knew whatever I made she would make look special.

I have seen little felt pillows like these in magazines and they seemed like they would go together easily enough and allow plenty of room for embellishing...my favorite part.

It was fun working with pink and white since my Christmas decorating is in more traditional reds and golds.

I went through my stash of lace, pearls and buttons and found everything I needed.

These were so much fun (and quick) to put together that I think I'll make a few up for stocking stuffers.

Thanks for stopping by and I hope your Christmas season is coming along wonderfully!

remember me...

2011-10-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

I really had no intention of being away so long. I have been crafting but for whatever reason just haven't taken the time to blog about it.

Now I don't know whether to show you from oldest to newest or just show you the most current. Since it's mid October (I know, I can't believe it either) I think I'll start with this super easy quilt I made for the living room.

I say super easy because it started with a panel that I just trimmed out with a couple of borders, a little straight line quilting and into the washer it went.

It's pretty easy to see who took ownership of it already...No problem, that's what quilts are for, right?

I promise to be back soon with a few other crafty projects. Patty

me and my dolly...

2011-08-21T12:10:00.000-07:00

I am having such a good time sewing little girls dresses that my quilts and such have been placed on the back burner. The simplicity of the dresses mixed with beautiful quality fabric has me bewitched.

Isn't this American Jane fabric adorable. I purchased it a while back to make a quilt for my grandson but since that hasn't happened yet (nor is it in the near future) I couldn't resist using it to make a little dress for my nieces, little girls first birthday.

Of course, I added some covered buttons...

and a beautiful red gross grain ribbon tied in the back just to finish it off.

I thought about buying her a Dick and Jane type book to go with it but then it dawned on me (at work while I was staring out my office window) that a little, old fashioned cloth doll would be darling.

I made a rough sketch right then and the wheels in my head began to turn in overdrive.

Last night I had a chance to make one up, with a matching dress, of course.

I just love it! I have some adjustments to make to the arms and my daughter says the head looks a little gumbyish so I will tweak that a little but overall I am so happy with her sweet face and playability. My three year old grandson loves her, too and has asked for a little boy doll of his own.

I was careful to think of a toddler playing with her so I made sure that nothing could come loose and cause any kind of choking hazard. As tempted as I was to use buttons to embellish, I stuck with simple embroidery stitches and think it looks quite charming in a rustic sort of way.

I hope she will be drug around, chewed on and played with for years to come. The best thing is she is completely washable.

The doll pattern is still in the tweaking stages. I'm hoping to add the dress and matching doll to my items for sale in a Christmas craft show I've been ask to sell at. What do you think? I'd love to hear...

Patty

Simplicity pattern# 5695

the bags...

2011-08-17T21:59:00.000-07:00

I finally took a minute to snap a few pictures of the purses I've been working on.

The pattern was really easy once I figured it out. Unfortunately, the instructions left alot to the imagination but I have since rewritten them in a more user friendly (to this user anyway) version and the purses go together in a snap.

They are alot of fun to personalize and embellish, too.

As you can see, I haven't gotten over my smitteness (did I just make that word up?) with covered buttons and have used them once again on these bags.

The pattern is See & Sew 4271 and the fabric is a combination of Amy Butler and Riley Blake.

These will go into my stash of Christmas gifts...What are you working on? I'd love to hear...

just because...

2011-08-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

I was invited to lunch at a friends over the weekend and wanted to take her just a little something to show how much I appreciate her hospitality.

She is a note writer so I thought a few beautiful "just because" tags were in order.

The paper is from Pink Paislee and it's so pretty it didn't require much embellishing at all. The beautiful sentiment stamps are from Papertrey Ink.

I love making these little tags almost as much as I enjoy giving them.

I've been busy sewing up a storm so I'll be back soon to share some more.

pucker up...

2011-07-31T08:20:00.000-07:00

I've decided on a pattern for my Christmas bags. I've been gathering fabric from my stash plus adding a few new ones and plan on starting to cut them out this afternoon.

Before I begin, I wanted to share one more sundress that I just finished using some beautiful fabric my mom gifted me with.

Isn't it beautiful? The "pattern" was shared by Girl.Inspired here. (She has the most beautiful blog.) It was a snap to sew together. This was my first time using elastic thread to make the shirred puckers and it really was so simple. I even pulled a couple of my tops out of the closet and added a few rows of puckers.

Of course, I had to add a covered button yo-yo flower just because they are so fun to make!

I'll be back to share my fabric and pattern for the bags soon.

Hope you have some fun puckering up this week!

watermelon sundress...

2011-07-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

My daughter and I took the grandbabies to the local farmers market last night. The weather cooled just enough to make for a really enjoyable evening. After a little fresh fruit sampling we headed home for bathtime and hot air popcorn. It's become kind of ritual to finish off an evening at grandma's house.

I'm sure by the time I've finished adding salt and butter I wiped out any of the healthy benefits of air popped corn but they love to watch it pop and if you've ever tasted air popped corn you know it needs a little help in the taste department.

Once they were off to bed, I headed into my craft studio and finished the little sundress I've been working on for my local fabric store The SewNSew.

This is the first time I've added fabric covered buttons and I love the little extra detail they add. Since I know I will definitely be using these on a regular basis I hunted down an online source through Etsy called Cutiestuffs.

The fabric is Lil Miss Cutie Patootie from Red Rooster Fabrics, (it's available at The SewNSew online) the pattern is a Kwik Sew pattern #3035.

It really was quick and easy and one I will be using again and again.

Next up...I'm not sure. Be back soon to share...

finished quilt top...

2011-07-16T17:28:00.000-07:00

I finally had a chance to take my finished quilt top outside for some pictures.

Even outside this is one of the most difficult quilts to get a true picture of.

The colors are much more vibrant in real life. Once it's backed, bound and quilted, this one will go on the sofa in the living room.

Fortunately I had enough 2 1/2 inch scraps to make a pillow for the recliner. I love when that happens.

Next up is a sweet dress for the local quilt shop and then it's time to get busy on Christmas gifts. I have some gorgeous Riley Blake fabric for purses that I can't wait to get started on. I guess I better get back to my sewing machine now. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

a new block in the mail

2011-07-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

I came home from work to a sweet package with a brand new Fat Quarter block of the month and I realized I never shared the first block with you.

Isn't the fabric amazing? It's part of the Strawberry Fields line from Moda.

This first block is called "Sweet Pea" and it was designed by Bonnie Olaveson and Camille Roskelley. The instructions were great and the block went together really easily.

I can't wait to start on the next block. It looks more complicated and there are alot of different fabrics involved. But I'm all in...

I finished the quilt top I showed you last time. It just needs to be ironed and then I will take a few pictures to share with you. I love the way it turned out. I'm going to try and photograph it outside so that the colors will look truer to real life.

Be back soon.

quilt progress...

2011-07-06T19:51:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the strips I've put together with the fabric I shared yesterday. This is one of my all time favorite patterns. It was super simple to cut using this technique from Cluck Cluck Sew and the squares are very easily chain pieced together.

It’s the same pattern I used to make last years Christmas quilt and I’m also using a smaller version to make my scrap quilt this year.

It feels so good to be quilting again. I’m in the groove and don’t see an end in sight…for a while anyways. I know my crafting A.D.D. will kick in soon enough and some other craft will call my name but for now I feel the call of the fabric and I am loving it.

I’ll be sharing my first Fat Quarter block of the month very soon. I finished it just in time as I think the next one will be in the mail any day now.

fresh fabric...

2011-07-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun playing with my fabric over the long weekend. I debated whether or not to finish up a project, use up some scraps or really indulge and pull out fresh fabric.

I bet you can tell what won out...

I picked this Heather Bailey fabric up in Houston this past spring during a visit to my sisters. It was at the front of the store and I was immediately drawn to it.

I don't know how you shop for fabric but I have to walk the entire store before I pull a single bolt out. It's funny how it's usually the first bit of fabric love of the day that I end up buying but I have to make sure I see it all first.

I was able to cut and piece an entire quilt over the weekend but I thought I'd tease you with some fabric love before I show you my progress. Love, love, love this fabric. It was a dream to work with.

More to come...

pretty little dress...

2011-07-02T17:38:00.000-07:00

I finished this little girls sundress for my local fabric store, "The Sew and Sew". It's a Simplicity pattern I've made many times before but I still love the finished product so I keep making it.

I actually intended to make a cute ladybug apron but I just wasn't feeling it and I knew this little summer dress would be adorable in these bright colors.

I brought home fabric for a couple more little girls dresses and a little boys romper and since it's a gazillion degrees outside I think I'll just sew my weekend a way.

I hope you have a safe and happy 4th of July celebration...

and may God Bless America and those sacrificing to keep us free.

muted papers...

2011-06-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

I shared the inspiration for this layout last time. I thought the sepia picture really suited this color scheme.

I use paper from Pink Paislee and a couple of Martha Stewart punches for the butterflies and flowers.

Of course the subject matter is oh so dear to my heart!

I have my sewing machine out and ready to go so you'll be seeing some fabric goodness next...

blissful blooms...

2011-06-15T21:20:00.000-07:00

I actually have a couple of cards to share with you…amazing, I know.

Both cards are made of entirely the same papers but one is accented in white while the other I’ve chosen to highlight the reds.

I don’t know if it’s the kindergartener in me or what but I just love fussy cutting beautiful paper flowers. Cutting out just the flowers or other special elements is an inexpensive way to achieve the look of die cut accents to your favorite paper lines. If I really like a paper or if I like both the front and back side of a two sided paper I always buy a couple of sheets. That way I don’t mind cutting snips out here and there. I still have a whole sheet for larger layouts or several cards.

The pretty hand dyed wrinkle ribbon is from MemrieMare. I love, love, love this stuff.

I also finished a layout page that I’ll share with you soon. Here’s a sneak peak at my “inspiration station” for it.

Pretty muted shades of color, don’t you agree? I love it, too. Be back to share the finished project soonl

I'm linking with CR84FN color challenge...

paper pretties...

2011-06-14T12:47:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry for being away so long. It seems time got away from me again. Does it sound like that's the story of my life lately?

Last night I was inspired to pull together some paper and embellishments for a couple of new cards. This beautiful paper is from Pink Paislee and made it very easy to be inspired.

I thought it would be fun if I went through all my beautiful stash of lovelies and put together a little inspiration station. Papertrey stamps, pretty pearls, silk ribbon and lace...

I even broke into my new stash of wrinkled seam binding...

Seeing it all laid out always gets my creative juices flowing. If you haven't tried working like this, I highly encourage you to give it a try. The colors, patterns and textures make putting a project together a breeze. The trick is in knowing when to stop adding stuff...A lesson I am still learning.

I promise I'll share the finished cards tomorrow.

Thanks for stopping by, Patty.

baby quilt...

2011-06-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

I’ve been back behind my sewing machine again, putting together a baby quilt for my niece.

She requested non-traditional, so I went with this beautiful Moda fabric called Lily and Will. I purchased a charm pack at a quilt show in February knowing I would use it for her baby.

I just kind of winged it with this simple four patch design. I love how the patterns just melt together. I could see a whole room put together around these colors.

I’m back to a clean slate with no projects started (recently, that is) so I’m on the look out for inspiration.

I'm making a child's apron for display at my local quilt shop and then I think I'll get started on some easy summer dresses for sweet Emily. What about you...anything fun started this summer?

Creatively, Patty

journal complete...

2011-06-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

I know I'm late getting back...it was a very busy weekend. I thought I'd share the last of the journal pages with you.

Sorry for such a quick post but I'll be by to chat tonight.

I've been sewing, so I'll be back to share the quilt I made to go with this journal, too.

more journal pages...

2011-06-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

I'm finishing off a couple of gift projects for my niece's baby shower this weekend. Am I the only one who tends to wait until the last minute with handmade gifts?

I think not...

I don't know if I just work better under pressure or if I am easily distracted by another fun project before I finish what I'm already working on?

I suspect like some of you, it's a little of both!

More pages of the memory journal and more delicious Webster's Pages paper. I know, isn't it yummy?

I'll share the finished journal tomorrow and then I can't wait to show you the baby quilt that goes with it.

It almost makes me wish for a new little one...grand baby that it!

Creatively yours, Patty

memory keeper...

2011-05-30T16:17:00.000-07:00

I shared a peak at the cover page of the memory keeper I made for my nieces first baby on my last post.

I thought it would be fun to share the remaining pages along with pictures of my garden in my posts this week. I love making these journals. Each one takes on a personality of it's own.

The papers I used are from various lines of Webster'sPages paper. They are so beautiful on their own that you really don't have to do anything to them but as usual my more is more attitude kicked in. The crepe paper flower was a happy accident. When I first placed it on the page it seemed to overwhelm the layout so I started scrunching it down in size. The white color still stood out in contrast with the rest of the elements so I added a spritz or two of coffee colored glimmermist. Now it's one of my favorite pages in the entire book.

My desire is for these books to be used to capture memories so I've started to add a little "photo" stamp to the areas intended for pictures.

And a lined sheet on the companion page for a little journaling. Even if it's just the date and occasion.

The journals start with a worn, vintage look to them but my hope is that they will also show the love that only the turning of pages can produce.

Thank you for all the warm welcome back to blogspot wishes. It feels good to be back in my craft studio again. I can't wait to share the rest of this beautiful journal and other projects with you in the days to come.

Creatively yours, Patty

I'm linking to CR84FN30 Color Challenge...

Time to bloom...new beginnings

2011-05-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my creative life. For as long as I can remember I have been the crafty girl. I hate to admit it but this has not always been received by me as a compliment. There are times when I'm sure it was not (is not) meant as a compliment. Somewhere along the way being crafty took on a negative connotation in my mind.

Thanks largely in part to creative bloggers this is no longer the case. Being creative, even crafty, is finally being given the credit it deserves. Papercrafting, sewing, beading, mixed media and countless other handcrafts are now being thought of as an art form and rightfully so. The humble sewing room is now the craft studio and often the most beautiful room in the house.

So this brings me to the purpose of the reinvention of this blog.

This year marked my 50th birthday and with it a desire to live life without regrets. To live each day fully, love without fear of being hurt or disappointed and embrace who God made me to be.

This blog will chronicle my life in my ~~sewing room~~ craft studio and hopefully, inspire and challenge you not to wait till your next milestone birthday to really live your creative life.

Creatively yours, Patty

little dresses...

2010-09-21T05:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever forgotten how much pleasure something brings you...

only to rediscover it years later?

That's what sewing has been like for me lately...

It has been years since I had the urge to place pins in a pattern and begin the process of carefully cutting out the required pieces...

positioning and repositioning each piece so as to utilize each precious fabric to it's fullest...

Cut two of piece A and place B on the fold...

Lining up notches, snipping at curves and pressing open 5/8th inch seem allowances...

and marveling at how such simple steps, followed precisely...
can turn into these...

Sweet, sweet little dresses for dear Emily.

Shhh...their for her second birthday in a few weeks...

If gramma can wait that long!

Happy Tuesday,

Patty

morning walk...

2010-09-20T05:17:00.000-07:00

I woke up to a beautiful, crisp morning...

the sky was such a brilliant blue.

Since I'd been promising Bear (and my blogging behind) that we'd start walking...

I put on my tennis shoes, grabbed my camera and his leash...

And we set off...

It was still early enough that the streets had a stillness about them...

The morning shadows holding the promise of a beautiful day...

I love the hint of fall in the neighborhood...

The cool morning air...

and first hint of color in the trees.

Isn't it funny how you seem to notice your surroundings more when you walk by...

than when you're in a car, rushing here and there...

Adirondack chairs just begging for company...

The beauty of my humble surroundings...

I was smitten all over again.

Happy first week of fall,

Patty

Saturday afternoon...

2010-09-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

My local quilt shop is having a 30% off sale this weekend....
Quality fabric at 30% off...Who could resist, right?

I couldn't...

Isn't it purdy?

I'm such a weak, weak girl...

That's it...

no more...

unless...

I come across some Bliss from Moda Fabrics or Red Rose Farm from P&B Textiles...

But other than that...

No more!

Have a wonderful weekend,
Patty

lunch break...

2010-09-16T19:40:00.001-07:00

I'm into my last few days of empty nesting and I've survived...

I have to admit I cried a little...

but surprisingly, I also thrived a little, too.

I've enjoyed hanging out with my honey, even if it was just running errands around town.

I have fallen in love with my sewing machine again...

Caught up on some unfinished projects with deadlines looming...

completed two quilt tops...

Got some practice quilting with my wonderful Janome 6600

(a very generous gift from my folks)

got the front porch decorated...

did some organizing of my craft room...

cleaned a little and even rediscovered lunch breaks...

I have to admit I'm excited to have my little guy back but it's good to know that when the time comes...

I'll be okay...

No wait, better than okay...

Thank you all for your encouraging words...they mean the world to me.

Blessings,

Patty

Vintage sheets...

2010-09-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest, never in my wildest dreams would I have ever considered buying someone else's old used sheets if not for blog land.

Had I not seen them laundered, hanging on the line, blowing in the breeze and then neatly folded in piles of softness, I would not have looked twice as I passed them in Thrift Stores.

Now that I know, that's the first place I head...scouring through bedspreads and coverlets, afghans and bumper pads, hunting and searching for that hint of color and design that speaks to me.

So now, I have a growing pile of my own. Waiting to be used in a new dress for sweet Emily, an apron for a friend, a vintage quilt, a pillow or even as a soft, freshly laundered sheet to snuggle under.

There is an unmistakable beauty in vintage that cannot be produced in the new...

Just as there is a loveliness that comes with age...that has not been earned by the young.

Hope your day is filled with vintage loveliness,

Patty

I've linked up to Simple Pleasures...

Sorry PW...

2010-09-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

Don't ask me why but I've been having this ongoing infatuation with Chicken Fried Steak...

I mean, how can you go wrong?

You mix the best part of fried chicken...

With steak.

I first indulged in this fantasy about a year ago at a well know Chicken Restaurant in the area. I dare to admit that I'm really not that fond of their fried chicken (heresy I know), so I thought I would try their chicken fried steak.

I took one bite and almost lost my lunch...

How could something that sounds so perfect end up so wrong? (Sounds like a few of my pre-marriage relationships. lol)

Still not satisfied that my infatuation was doused, I knew when I saw a recipe in my Pioneer Woman cookbook I would give it a try myself...I mean, PW wouldn't steer me wrong...She said every cowboy would fall in love with me if I made it for them (loose translation, not a guarantee)...

So last night, under much protest from dear hubby, I rustled us up some Chicken Fried Steak...

Sorry, PW...
I'm sure it was not your recipe but...

The infatuation is definitely over...

If the first few bites didn't convince me, then my rumbling, up all night stomach did. I think I even felt Bear tossing and turning more than usual last night.

Sometimes relationships are just like that.

Feeling better about letting go,

Patty

Completed snowball quilt top...(yeah)

fall porch...

2010-09-12T15:48:00.000-07:00

I took a little break from my sewing (I've been a tad bit obsessed with it lately),

to play on my front porch...

I love the change of seasons...unpacking all my fall goodness for the front porch...

Pouncing the dust out of the pillows and fluffing them up...

Arranging the pumpkins and signs and saying, "hello" to Mr. Scarecrow...

It's still too hot for real pumpkins and much too soon...

These fakies will do fine for now...

Welcome fall...

After a long hot summer...

We've been waiting for you...

Brisk Autumn wishes,

Patty

I'm linked up to BNOTP for Metamorphis Monday...

Saturday morning...

2010-09-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Saturday...

I hope with your cup of coffee this morning, you are enjoying the fall like temperatures we are experiencing here.

I debated whether or not to do a 9-11 post this morning.

Not because I wasn't sure it was worthy...

as proud Americans, that morning is forever etched in our minds...

but because the news surrounding it this year is so filled with hate.

I prayed for something to share with you and as is my routine, while my coffee was brewing, I opened up one of my favorite blogsites Living Proof Ministries, to find the most beautiful post on Compassion International.

I was reminded that while there is much anger (rightly so at those who terrorize) and hate (unjustly so) toward those that are different, there is also much to be learned and gained in helping those less fortunate and in need.

My devotional this morning is from John 13:4, 14-15,

"So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples' feet, drying them with the towel he had around him....And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other's feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you."

In My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers says, "Ministering as Opportunity Surrounds Us. This does not mean selecting our surroundings, it means being very selectly God's in any haphazard surroundings which He engineers for us. The characteristics we manifest in our immediate surroundings are indications of what we will be like in other surroundings."

He goes on to say, "The things that Jesus did were of the most menial and commonplace order, and this is an indication that it takes all God's power in me to do the most commonplace things in His way. Can I use a towel as He did?"

What does your "towel" look like and are you using it as Jesus did? Are you using it right were you are and not waiting until you go on a "mission" trip?

Can you help a family in need in your neighborhood?

Can you sponsor a child in another country?

How can you lighten someones load or bring a smile to a child's face?

Ask God,

be still,

and look around...

I'm sure He will reveal it to you.

Blessings,

Patty

Spiritual Sundays

goodbye summer garden...

2010-09-09T18:39:00.000-07:00

I went out after work today to do a little trimming before the green waste comes tomorrow...

It's always a little sad when the cutting back and pulling out begins...

My garden started out with a bang this year but ended with a putter...

These are the last of my blooms...

a few lonely zinnia...

This weekend I will prune and pull in earnest and ready the porch for fall...

Already planning my winter and spring gardens in my mind.

Even is Southern California, there is beauty in every season.

Blessings,

Patty

Be careful what you wish for...

2010-09-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

Isn't it funny how you wish and wish and wish for something...

Then it happens and you wonder why you wished for it in the first place?

Having that kind of moment in life right now...

My house is too empty and too quiet...

I wonder why I ever complained about the noise and interruptions...

Just me and hubby for a couple of weeks...
I know I will adjust...

In time.

Patty

Can you spot it...

2010-09-07T17:50:00.000-07:00

Oh, what fun I had exchanging blocks with my mom and sister in law this past weekend.

It was so neat to see the fabric that each of us chose and to marvel at how well it all kind of meshed together.

My sis in law and I each did twelve blocks to share and my mom, ever the over achiever, did eighteen.

When I got home I had to touch them all again and recount what we each shared...

twelve of mine...

twelve of Elsa's...

and 19 from my mom?

Hmmm...how'd that happen? After a quick call to my mom, she agreed I must have picked up an extra from her but no big deal as she had some extras to give.

I was so excited that as soon as I had a free moment (okay, a free four hours) I spread them all out on the dining room table and started arranging...

and arranging...

Once I was certain I liked the outcome, I started adding the sashing until all the rows were complete...

I stood back to admire my handiwork and that's when I noticed it...

Can you spot it?

Yup, I have two of one kind in there...Turns out my mom didn't give me an extra...that's one of mine. I must have given myself two by mistake. It only took a little rearranging and one block unsewn to correct it.

Now I have all my rows ready to be sewn together, but that's for tomorrow night!

Happy sewing,

Patty

road trip...

2010-09-04T22:15:00.000-07:00

We had dinner this evening with my sister in law and brother in law to plan our upcoming road trip...

We will be hitting the road cross country next month to visit family in Delaware...

Two weeks...

nothing but the open road...

a loosely planned itinerary...

and a bumper sticker that says,

"We brake for junkin' and golf."

Sounds like the perfect getaway...

In sweet anticipation,

Patty

My own Persian Pickle Club...

2010-09-03T18:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks to your suggestions and the City Public Library...

I just finished The Persian Pickle Club by Sandra Dallas.

This was my first time reading Sandra Dallas and I love her style of writing and her quirky, small town characters. It's centered around women and their love of quilting, so how can you go wrong.

The heart of the story centers around a diverse group of women who call themselves the Persian Pickle Club. They are true friends who, despite their differences, stick with each other through thick and thin...

It made me long for my own Persian Pickle Club...

Who would that be for me?

Who shares my love of crafting...

love of family...

and love of God...

Of course my mom...my sister...my sister's in law and my dear, late mother in law are the first to come to mind...

Then my core group of bible study ladies...

A precious long time friend...

And believe it or not...YOU!`

Don't ever let anyone tell you that online friends are not "real" friends. They are some of the most encouraging, prayerful, funny, loyal and generous bunch of women out there...

Speaking a Persian Pickles and quilting...

this is my block exchange weekend with my mom and sister in law...

We each have 12 of these snowball squares to exchange.

I'm so excited...

The only requirement was the size and the fabrics must be reproduction...I'll be sure to share my stash with you on Monday.

I'd love to hear who's in your Persian Pickle Club?

Have a wonderful weekend from your fellow Pickle,

Patty

vine pumpkins...

2010-09-02T05:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, can you believe it's September?
The days are shorter, there's a little nip in the night air and the pumpkins are beginning to take residence on porches all over town...

I know I said it about Spring...
but this is my favorite time of the year.

Remember these vine pumpkins?

I had some time to play this weekend and turned them into these...

The "clay" pots are painted paper mache that I picked up on clearance for 34 cents each...

I started with a dark green base coat and just started adding color until I got the "patina" I was after...

I added scrapbook paper and a little distressing to the paper stars, finished them off with a button and hot glued them to the side...

I can't decide whether I like this burlap one with the Harvest banner...

or this one with the pretty floral fabric...

I think they'll make a pretty focal point to a harvest centerpiece...

I have a few more things started that I hope to share later in the week.

Till then...

Happy Hump Day,

Patty

fresh from the oven...

2010-08-31T07:01:00.000-07:00

This burst of cooler weather has me thinking about baking...

A few weeks ago I saw this post from Kim over at Daisy cottage, on a scrumptious looking banana nut bread...

I don't know about you but it seems we always have a banana or two a little on the too ripe side...

This weekend I snagged three of them and decided to try out the recipe...

I love it when I have all the ingredients on hand.

It wasn't long until the house started smelling heavenly...

And before you know it (okay...an hour later) this is what came out of the oven...

And yes, it tastes as good as it looks!

Happy Tuesday,

Patty

a bounty...

2010-08-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

This world of blogging is wonderful...

I have met some of the most amazingly generous women out there and all from the simple stroke of a keyboard and the snap of a picture...

A few weeks ago one such lovely lady mentioned that she had some extra zinnia seeds to give away...

I had seen her gorgeous blooms so I was quick to raise my hand...

Last week an envelope arrived in the mail and I thought "Yeah, my zinnia seeds are here". I didn't rush to open the envelope because my life is kind of frazzled right now and I didn't want to lose them.

Today I sat down and opened up the envelope...

All I can say is thank you Becca at A Southern Garden by Becca you are too kind.

Just look at them ladies...

Aren't they beautiful?

Oh, now I'm longing to go out and til that soil and get ready for next years bounty.

I'm determined that this is what the back of our pick-up will look like next year!

I'm so glad I started blogging...I can't imagine not visiting with my new friends. And this bounty of seeds...well, that's just a bonus!

Blessed again,

Patty

Saturday morning...

2010-08-28T08:03:00.000-07:00

There's such a nice crispness in the air this morning...

We've had a 20 degree dip in temperature in the last 48 hours and I can actually feel the change of seasons coming on.

It seems I won't be "willing" fall much longer...

This weekend is all about miracles over at Kadillac Shack... Go over and read the beautiful story of Colette Gauthier, watch her makeover video and leave a comment. You will blessed and you will bless others.

My devotional this morning had me in Luke 11:2-4...that portion of scripture where Jesus teaches us to pray.

"Father may your name be kept holy.

May your kingdom come soon.

Give us each day the food we need,

and forgive us our sins,

as we forgive those who sin against us.

And don't let us yield to temptation."

Most Christians have memorized this as the Lord's Prayer at some time in their lives and it has become almost too familiar...we just say the words without thinking about what we're saying.

As God's word can do...

It hit me fresh this morning.

It dawned on me that it had been a while since I truly asked God these things...

I couldn't recall the last time I asked to keep His name holy or for His kingdom to come soon. Jesus asked these things because He knew God intimately and new his omniscience should be revered and kept holy. He knew God's kingdom as home, so he asked that it come soon...

I don't think I've ever asked God to give me enough food for the day...it's always been there, but today I was reminded that God is the provider of my food.

Oswald Chambers says, "It is not so true that "prayer changes things" as that prayer changes me and I change things. God has so constituted things that prayer on the basis of Redemption alters the way in which a man looks at things. Prayer is not a question of altering things externally, but of working wonders in a man's disposition."

Prayer changes how I look at things...

This is so true.

When I pray I look at the obstacles in my life as being under the watchful supervision of God. I remember that He is faithful to provide whatever it is I need. I remember home is in His kingdom and I remember Him as the Creator, capable of anything. If He is for me than who can stand against me?

Prayer changes relationship with God...It provides an intimacy that is only earned through conversation.

What have you neglected to ask God for lately? What have you taken for granted that God has continually provided?

Tell Him today...Not because he doesn't know but because you need to say it.

Have a blessed weekend,

Patty

Spritual Sundays

Willing fall...

2010-08-26T22:10:00.000-07:00

Okay...maybe it was not clear from my last entry but we posted a record 108 degrees yesterday...Not exactly fallish weather.

So I'm willing fall...

Inside with the AC cranking...

A cinnamon pecan swirl candle burning...

And enough fall inspiration laying around...

I got my fall on!

Call me the eternal optimist...

Patty

fall inspiration...

2010-08-25T20:12:00.000-07:00

I've been so inspired by all the wonderful fall goodness I've been seeing lately...

And since some of you thought I was rushing Christmas a bit...

I started pulling out the fall things I purchased last year at Michael's after season sale at 70% off. I usually hate to store things a full year but at such a great discount it's hard to resist.

I found a couple of new things at 50% off to add to the pile.

Just seeing it all gathered together really gets the creative juices flowing...

Wait till you see what I have planned for these three tiered pumpkins...

And these twig pumpkins and berry sprigs...

I did splurge on this Graphic 45 - Halloween in Wonderland - paper...

Isn't it scrumptious...

I just love these paper mache stars I covered in scrapbook paper and distressed...

Oh...the possibilities are endless!

Are you inspired yet?

Happy Creating,

Patty

strawberry preserves...

2010-08-23T18:01:00.000-07:00

What's that old saying...When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. I've definitely been having a lemon kinda day. But instead of lemonade...

I made strawberry preserves...

Aren't these strawberries the cutest?

I found the pattern in Tone Finnager's Sew Pretty Homestyle book...

They were sew easy and sew fun to make. I'm going to pick up some strawberry essential oil next time I'm out and give these as little package ornaments for Christmas...

I know, I know I said Christmas...

Now that schools back in session you know the holidays are right around the corner. Have you started thinking about them yet?

You better start soon...

Ho, ho, ho!

Patty

close calls and life's reminders..

2010-08-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

I'm kind of a mixed bag of emotions this Saturday afternoon...
I'm reflecting on the joy of celebration and the worry of what might have been.

My youngest daughter graduated with her AS in Medical Assistanting last night...A natural scholar she is not. She scooted her way through each grade by the hair of her chinny, chin, chin. Her natural talents lie elsewhere.

She is wonderful with sick people, the underdog and just about anybody who doesn't seem to fit in. She never wanted to be one of the crowd...even made me put three ponytails in her hair (instead of the standard one or two) in first grade...

My parents made the hour drive in to be apart of the celebration...On their way home, last night, they had a very close call on the freeway...I'm convinced God's angels kept them from a potentially bad accident...They were badly shaken up and their car sustained some damage but thankfully, they were not hurt.

I share this in praise of God, (the alternative to them being safe is beyond what I can wrap my mind around right now) and as a not so gentle reminder that this life is short.

The outcome could easily have been very different...

It could have been anyone of us...

"Look here, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit." How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog. It's here a little while, then it's gone. What you ought to say is, "If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that." Otherwise you are boasting about your own plans, and all such boasting is evil. Remember it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." James 4:13-17

Celebrate today for the gift it is...Do some good for someone in need...Thank God for the chance to live another day!

Thankfully blessed,

Patty

Spiritual Sundays

the joy of ice cream...

2010-08-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the suggestions on books to read...I will be getting to you all individually to ask for one author and a favorite book so that I can start a list for my next library visit. It's the thrill of the hunt without the price tag! lol

The summer heat has finally found us here in Southern California. We’ve had a week of near triple digit temperatures (I know some of you have been that way most of the summer but somehow we've escape it) and I’ve been trying to find ways to keep my grandson cooled down.

His favorite way is filling up his little swimming pool with water…not the swimming part but the filling part. He loves to have control of the garden hose! The only way I can convince him (okay, bribe him) to go inside is with the promise of a bowl of ice cream.

Reality check…while that bowl looks mighty inviting it just doesn’t convey the pure joy of really enjoying an

ooey…gooey…tongue smacking, spoon licking bowl of ice cream…

I thought I’d let Andrew show you how it’s done, lest you've forgotten…

Now that’s pure enjoyment!

When was the last time you enjoyed a guilt-free bowl of decadent Rocky-Road ice cream?

I think I’ll go dip me a bowl,

Patty

the library...

2010-08-17T21:10:00.000-07:00

A few more craftroom pictures to share...

Once upon a time I was an avid reader…I could actually become so obsessed with finishing a book that my kids would roll their eyes when I brought a new one home.

I used to love to go to the library…

The endless possibilities that all those books provided…

I ventured into our city library a couple of weeks ago looking for some history books on CD for my husband to listen to while driving.

I was a little afraid that with the onslaught of things available online that the library had become somewhat of a dinosaur institution…

I’m pleased to say that is not the case in my city at least. It took me a while to feel my way around (and no, I didn’t expect index card files…I’m not that archaic, although I do remember using them) but once I became acclimated…woo…heee…it was like going home again.

Just stepping in there brought back such a pleasant wave of memories. I began to wonder why I stopped going…why I stopped reading for pure pleasure?

I pulled a couple of books off the shelf to bring home (you know they don’t stamp the due date in them anymore) so I’m off and running.

Now I need to form a new list of favorite authors…Any suggestions?

Giddy about catching up,

Patty

I'm linked up to It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday...

craftroom and squares...

2010-08-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

I thought I’d show you pictures of my rearranged craft room as we chat this week. I know it still might look a little chaotic to some of you but it’s the environment I create best in.

After church yesterday I headed out to my folks for a quick visit and then a planned movie excursion for my nieces birthday.

My niece had an emergency come up so the movie date was postponed and it turned into a nice leisurely visit with my mom and dad. I took my fabric with me so mom and I spent some time cutting fabric squares and talking…

just the two of us…

a simply wonderful, time together.

I had a chance to sit and watch a little TV with my dad and to hear his childhood memories all over again. We even braved the triple digit temperatures and they treated me to a nice lunch at Mimi’s Café.

It was one of those afternoons that I knew even in the moment, I would always cherish.

A time destined to be a beautiful memory…

It was nothing special…yet it was everything.

I don’t ever want to take for granted time spent with the people I love.

Have a wonderful, memory making week,

Patty

Spiritual Sunday...

2010-08-14T22:30:00.000-07:00

Fair warning...God has me working on discipline, never anyone's favorite subject. So if your a bit squeamish you might want to high tail it out of here right about now...

"And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, 'My child, don't make light of the LORD's discipline, and don't give up when he corrects you. For the LORD disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child." Hebrews 12:5-6

Oswald Chambers writes, "It is very easy to quench the Spirit; we do it by despising the chastening of the Lord, by fainting when we are rebuked by Him. If we have only a shallow experience of sanctification, we mistake the shadow for the reality, and when the Spirit of God begins to check, we say-oh, that must be the devil."

That last sentence really got me thinking. As Christians aren't we quick to say when things go wrong, "Oh, that must be the devil at work". What Chambers is saying is not to be so quick in that assumption. First examine your life and your heart...Is this particular hardship in an area of your life that you require discipline in? Has the Lord been trying to get your attention in more subtle ways and you have chosen not to hear or worse yet have you been ignoring the warnings so long that you are now deaf to Him?

Have you not been paying attention to your marriage, ignoring the warning signs and then blamed someone else when it falls apart...

Have you spent and spent on credit, justifying your purchases and juggling the bills and now the balls are crashing down because of job uncertainty?

Have you been the "cool" mom, being your child's friend instead of parent, allowing more freedom than you should have and now are shocked at their attitude and promiscuity?

Have you gossiped at work or with your girlfriends and now been ostracized and labeled untrustworthy?

Have you ignored changes in your health, not exercising, eating and drinking what you know is not good for you and then been surprised with a diagnosis of diabetes, high blood pressure or achy joints?

Please hear me...

There are some things that happen in life that are totally not our fault, we did nothing to deserve them. They are just what comes with living in a fallen world.

Sometimes...

Spouses cheat...

Job's are lost...

Children are prodigals...

People talk...

Illness happens...

Through no fault of our own but just because we live in this foreign land...this sinful world.

To those, I encourage you with Isaiah 43:1-3,

"But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior..."

The amazing thing about God is that even those of us who ignore God's warnings and require his loving discipline; he is still the same God of Israel...He still calls us by name, we are still his...He still was ransomed for us...and he still wants to use us to further his kingdom...

"No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening-it's painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong." Hebrews 12:11-12

Change your ways...so that, others who are weak will not fall but become strong! Don't you love the Word of God. Even when we mess up, we are his, we can begin a new and we can encourage others.

I know this was a very long post...

It was meant to encourage not discourage.

Our God is full of grace and mercy...His forgiveness knows no bounds...

Take a new grip of his powerful hand...he desires to lead you.

Starting anew,

Patty

http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2010/08/welcome-friends.html

Saturday morning...

2010-08-14T06:26:00.000-07:00

I stayed up late last night finishing up a couple of little projects in my craft room...

As you know I started reorganizing my space a couple of weekends ago and one thing lead to another, just like it always does.

I've been wanting to replace the plastic storage bins that house the majority of my crafting supplies so when I came across a small desk and hutch at Goodwill for $40.00 I jumped on it...

After painting and distressing it a bit, I moved my computer and library of books onto the new desk. Like most repurposing projects, there were a couple of issues with the set up...The hutch was too low to accommodate my screen and the messy exposed cords were driving me crazy.

So what's a crafty girl to do?

I found some 1 x 2's in the garage and cut them to fit under the hutch which raised it up just enough to fit my computer and I repurposed a water bottle cardboard box to hide the cords.

After pushing the furniture from one side of the room to another, looking for just the right set up, I actually ended up with pretty much the same layout that I had when I started...
go figure.

Now my built in bookcase houses my fabric and paper crafting supplies in a much more organized way and I have eliminated the wall of plastic storage drawers.

I'm happy with it and at long last I can start crafting again...

I saved these converse shoe boxes because they are sturdy and I liked the folding lid. I knew they would be cute and useful storage covered in scrapbook paper and last night, since I had my modge podge out already, I tackled this super easy project.

I think they came out pretty cute...

Don't know what will go in them yet but a girl can never have enough storage, right?

This morning after my coffee and a little bit of housework, I'll be heading back into my craftroom to tackle a sewing project that I'm way behind on.

It's so good to be crafting again...

Have a wonderful weekend,

Patty

creative strips...

2010-08-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

I actually made the time to sit at my craft table today and cut some fabric…

It’s been my plan for a couple of weeks now but something always comes up.

Before you know it one day turns into a week

and then another month rolls around on the calendar and still no crafting.

It feels so good to accomplish something…

Even just pulling out the fabric and the rulers…

Dusting off my cutting board and popping open my rotary cutter…

can put a smile on my face and make the world seem brighter.

What project have you been putting off getting started on?

Organizing a closet?

Rearranging a room?

Refinishing a piece of furniture?

Starting your fall crafts?

A sewing project?

I dare you to take just 15 minutes today to get started…
You’ll feel better, I promise.

Finally on my way,
Patty

me time...

2010-08-10T07:02:00.000-07:00

I knew even as I was making this apple dip that I was going to put some away for my "me time" this week...

You know, that time when everyone is taken care of...

The dishes are done...

The house is straightened...

And you finally have a chance to

take a deep breath...

Put your feet up...

and relax for a minute or two.

Maybe you pick up the book you've been reading...

or that magazine that you haven't creased the cover of yet...

or maybe you take time to visit with your favorite bloggy friends...

When I was in my early 20's, my sister in law would take me to visit her mother in law...an older woman, (in her 40's I'm sure)...

She would serve us wine with apples and cheese.

The height of sophistication in my impressionable mind.

To this day my "me time" usually involves a glass of wine and a salty snack. It always makes it more enjoyable when I put my simple meal together on a pretty plate.

I found this incredibly yummy apple dip in a Gooseberry Patch Quick and Easy cookbook...

Cream Cheese Apple Dip

8 oz. pkg cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1 t. vanilla extract

1/2 cup toffee baking bits

apple slices

Blend together cream cheese and sugars, mix in vanilla. Stir in toffee bits. Serve at room temperature with apple slices. Store in refrigerator. Makes about 2 cups.

I'm telling you I could eat it straight from the bowl with a spoon, it's so good...

Do you have "me time"? If you don't, you should...

You're worth it!

Enjoying the moment,

Patty

smelling the flowers...

2010-08-09T06:50:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but I often look at the sweet and tidy homes in blogland and wonder how in the world they keep it all looking so fresh and inviting...

Just in case anyone might (for some unknown reason) wonder that same thing about me...

Here are my freshly picked zinnias one day and one rambunctious two year old later...

I really can't scold him cuz he's just like his mom-mom...he loves to smell the flowers.

His little toddler hands just get a little over zealous. This particular flower was a gift to his mommy...I know, aint he just the sweetest little thing!

Made me remember chubby little hands bringing me freshly picked flowers. By the time they got to me the fragile stems were usually broken but I always pulled out a little vase and proudly displayed them for all to see.

I bet you have those same kind of memories, too.

Thank goodness there are more just for the picking outside my backdoor.

Thank you all for the heartfelt comments on my last post. The funeral service was probably the nicest celebration of home going that I have ever been to. What a beautiful testimony this gentleman's life was...I came away blessed for having gone.

Hope this week affords you plenty of opportunities to stop and smell the flowers and to thank the ONE who gave them.

Blessings sweet blogging friends,

Patty

Saturday morning...

2010-08-07T07:13:00.000-07:00

Another Saturday morning...

much the same for me, as any other...

and yet while I rest in the comfort of it's sameness...

my heart is heavy with the burdens of friends for whom their world has been shaken...

I will be attending the funeral services of a dear friend's father this afternoon...

He leaves behind a wife of over sixty years...

How will she go on?...How does life resume any kind of normal?

I've recently read of a dear blogging friend's heartbreaking news about a loved ones illness...

How will she pick up the pieces when her beloved mate is no longer her anchor in this world?

I feel helpless to offer any tangible comfort...

so I pray...

I pray for their strength to go on...I pray for peace when peace does not seem possible...I pray for hope that comes only through faith in the resurrection...and yes, I even pray thanksgiving that their loved ones know Jesus and have professed him as Lord and Savior.

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. " 2Corinthians 4:16-18

Life is such a gift...
embracing normal,

Patty

http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2010/08/spiritual-sundays.html

rise and shine...

2010-08-05T18:39:00.000-07:00

It's Rooster party time over at Bella Vista...

A time for us to dress up our fowl finery and strut our stuff...

As I was thinking about gathering my chickens and roosters to share, I decided on a nice, leisurely breakfast stroll...

I set up our kitchen table for a nice, Sunday country breakfast...

I'm thinking eggs, bacon, fried potatoes, a nice side of fruit and toast or biscuits with honey...yummo

My weekday breakfast bar...

always starts with a cup of coffee...

just a bowl of cereal and juice will do...

When it's time for Saturday morning coffee...

I gotta have a comfy chair to settle in a while...

You know, until sweet Barb put out the call, I hadn't realized how many roosters I had around the house...

They're everywhere...

On plates...

In prints...

Even on aprons...

Such a fun party. Thanks Barb, for inviting me. I can't wait to go mingle with your other guests.

See you at the party,

Patty

facing facts...

2010-08-03T18:03:00.000-07:00

You know that little project I started on Friday night? That brief moment of insanity that suggested I do a little reorganizing of my craftroom. Well here it is Tuesday evening and I'm still folding fabric and sorting craft supplies.

I've come face to face with it ladies...

Yep, there's no denying it...

The proof is everywhere I look...

It's official and it ain't pretty...

I. am. a. hoarder.

There, I said it out loud. Isn't that the first step to recovery?

No more buying stuff...I mean it, I'm through. I have enough supplies to craft away till the cows come home and back again.

All kidding aside...Is there a support group for this?

Excessively yours,

Patty

Spiritual Sunday...perfection

2010-08-01T06:32:00.000-07:00

"For you know when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing." James 1:3-4

I mentioned in yesterday's post that God was teaching me about slovenliness in any area of my life. My devotional, Oswald Chambers - My Utmost for His Highest, reminded me that every aspect of my life is under the scrutiny of God. There are not some areas that I can choose less than perfection in...areas that I can say, "Now that will do for now."

My pastor defined perfection in this verse as , "being perfectly aligned for our individual purpose".

What a worthy calling that kind of perfection is. Each test of faith brings us closer to complete perfection.

We cannot leave any area untended and expect to live the purpose filled life that God intends for us.

Just something to ponder,

Have a blessed week,

Patty

Spiritual Sundays

Saturday morning...

2010-07-31T08:18:00.000-07:00

You know I'm all about a peaceful Saturday morning...

Coffee in hand...feet propped up...sweet bliss...

Not today.

As we speak I am playing hooky from the biggest, messiest craftroom you can ever imagine...

Last night in the quiet of the evening, I had the bright idea to start rearranging, reorganizing and dare I say purging my craftroom...

What was I thinking?!!!

So this morning I snuck out of bed, crept past the trail of plastic bins strewn throughout the hall and dining room, made my coffee and found a nice spot on the couch (out of view of the rest of the house) and had my quiet time with God...

He spoke...

on slovenliness...of course!

Just like him, huh!

So now here I sit, summoning up my mojo to get started. Wish me luck! I'll share pictures as soon as I can find my camera in all this mess! AGHHH!!!!

Have a wonderfully productive weekend,

Patty

bird poop...

2010-07-28T22:30:00.000-07:00

My hubby was outside doing some watering as I was rushing out the door to work this morning (nothing unusual there). I stopped to chat for a second about the usual day to day stuff and started to get in my car to leave…

That’s when I noticed it…

Right there, front and center, smack dab in the middle of my windshield was a special delivery from a fine feathered friend. As I said, I was running late and there was no way I had time to go inside and grab some paper towels and Windex. So I did the next best thing…I frantically started hitting the windshield wiper fluid button and wiping away.

You know that never works…

Just as I am backing out of the driveway resigned to the fact that I will be making it through the day staring at bird poop spread across my windshield, out comes dear hubby waiving a towel…

He noticed it, too.

I gotta tell you…seeing him come through the back gate in his flip flops, faded jeans and T-shirt made my heart flutter. Isn’t it the littlest things that remind us of why we stay together through it all?

Anyone who’s been married a while knows what I’m talking about. Marriage takes patience (by both parties), forgiveness (by both parties) and a whole lotta prayer (again, by both parties).

I’m just curious, what has your man done lately that made your heart flutter? And remember, this is a family show…lol!

Blessings from this old married woman,

Patty

June gloom in late July...

2010-07-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

We've settled into what Californian's affectionately call June gloom...

Overcast mornings in the 60's...

Mild afternoon's in the 80's...

It's nearly August so I'm definitely not complaining...

and neither are the flowers as they enjoy a little reprieve from our triple digit temperatures of a couple weeks ago.

My hubby even managed to put in a new orange tree...with a peach and a plum to follow in the weeks to come...I think I heard him even say something about a chicken coop...Be still my heart!

I did manage to catch a few things blooming...

What's blooming in your neighborhood?

Blessings,

Patty

imprinted in my mind...

2010-07-25T22:13:00.000-07:00

I met the loveliest woman yesterday...

I am on a committee with her and fell in love with her can do, generous spirit...

She is bright, articulate and full of this amazing energy...

She is one of those ladies that you know instantly has an intimate, loving relationship with the Savior...

She knows Him...

And it shows in her very being...

After the meeting was over, in closing, she mentioned she has stage 4 bone cancer...

I would have never know it...

She definintely was not defined by it...

I am in awe...she is not afraid...she fights the disease and wants to live...

but she truly believes God.

I can only pray that I have the faith and grace that this beautiful soul possesses.

She is forever imprinted in my mind and on my heart.

I'm sure you know people like that...

I desire to be a person like that...

Drawn near to Thee,

Patty

Saturday morning...

2010-07-24T06:05:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here pondering my options on this peaceful Saturday morning...

Isn't amazing the number of things we can choose to do each day...

Of course, there's always the chores...

I think I'll call it freshening my nest today...that's sounds so much nicer.

And the groceries need to bought...Hmmm...How does nourishing my family sound?

There's always plenty of laundry...keeping my loved ones warm and cozy.

When you think about there's nothing hum drum or mundane about keeping our home is there?

How blessed I am to have the opportunity to show my family love today...I might not have it tomorrow!

Just something to think about...

Have a wonderful weekend.

Blessings sweet friends,

Patty

For such a time as this...

2010-07-22T22:37:00.000-07:00

I volunteered to help at our Women's retreat this year...

The theme is, "For such a time as this".

I created this little pocket with bookmark and scroll as one of the little gifts planned for the event.

I love everything about Women's retreats...

the study, the friendships, the food, the worship...

I come away tired but renewed, if that makes sense...Physically tired from lack of sleep but spiritually renewed to take on whatever life has in store.

Blessings,

Patty

snowballs and distractions...

2010-07-21T06:22:00.000-07:00

I started this snowball quilting project with my mom and sister in law a couple of months ago (my idea of course) thinking it would be so easy to get a couple of quilt squares done a week and then by the end of summer we could have a little quilting party and exchange squares and assembly our quilt tops so that we would have them all finished when the weather cools this fall...

Clever thinking, huh?

I got off to a gang buster start but somewhere in June I got distracted (no surprise there)...

I don't know if anyone else noticed but it's mid-July...

I'm even starting to see Christmas posts!

So I've decided I better leave my decorating ideas brewing in head for a bit and start sewing...I pulled out my reproduction fabrics...stacked them all pretty and now I'm inspired.

Sometimes that's all it takes for me.

What about you...what inspires you to get going? I'd love to hear...

Blessings,
Patty

cottage style meets crafty girl...

2010-07-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...it's Monday already. Thank goodness for coffee...

I had a chance to work on my dining room this weekend.

I was able to redo a wall grouping that was past it's prime.

When we moved in I put up things from our old house until I knew which way this one was calling me...

I'm thinking cottage style meets crafty girl...

I'm trying to repaint and reuse what I can and fill it all in with Thriftstore finds...

I've had these plates for a few years and they still make me happy...

I fell in love with Kim at Savy Southern Style's buffalo checked curtains but they just aren't in my budget right now, so I found this gingham fabric at 50% off and made a couple of simple panels...the lace in the middle is just a runner and two placemats that were given to me by a friend in a bag of old lace that her mom had given her...

I still have the buffalo check on my wish list but for now these will do...

Isn't this daisy lace adorable? At $5.99 a yard, it was probably the most expensive thing in my makeover...

Of course, I used my 40% off coupon, but I'm just saying...

So what do you think? I still need to recover the chair cushions and hang a few plates but it's getting there...and the best part is...

It makes me smile...

I hope you find something in your home that makes you smile today!

Blessings,

Patty

I'm linking up to The house in the roses for Show off your cottage Monday,

Southern Hospitality for Thrifty Treasures...

and Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphis Monday...

Saturday morning...

2010-07-17T07:13:00.000-07:00

It's my absolute favorite time of the week...

Nothing beats a Saturday morning with a nice hot cup of coffee, a little something sweet and time to dream about the weekend...

I'm thinking about all the fun I'm going to have with what the mailman left at my door...

I just love getting goodies in the mail...don't you?

Even when I'm expecting something that I've paid for, I still get giddy...

So you can imagine how excited I was when I received not one...but two boxes that I knew would be filled with crafting goodness from two sweet ladies, Alli and Gina, who I was partnered with in a jar swap at Kids Napping, I'm Scrapping ...If you have a minute go over and visit their sweet blogs and tell them Patty said, "Hey!"

Just look at all this loot!...

Hand made scrumptious flowers...

adorable vintagey tags...

beautiful vintage lace and buttons...

brads and glitter and stickers and old wooden spools of thread...

Just so much crafty loveliness for this crafty heart to play with...

It's way too hot to play outside so I think I'll get comfy in my craftroom today and see what I can create with my new stuff.

Oh yeah, my dining room is coming along...

I just thought I'd leave you with a sneak peek of what I'm working on...

I can't wait to reveal it to you on Monday...

Have a wonderful weekend,

Patty

I'm linking to A Few of My Favorite Things Saturdays...

breakfast for one...

2010-07-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

One of the things I like most about blogging is the inspiration I get from all the wonderful blogs out there. I have just been loving all the beautiful yellow tablescapes I've seen, so I took a stroll around my house looking for yellow to create a sunshine tablescape of my own. I added a quick trip to the Goodwill store to fill in the gaps and this is what I came up with...

I started with a round placemat that was on clearance at Kohls and added this yummy sunflower yellow fiestaware...

I layered the yellow setting with a white salad plate from the Goodwill store just to break it up a bit.

A napkin ring was wrapped with this pretty daisy ribbon that I had in my stash...

I embellished a plain white napkin with this cute lemony ric-rac...

The adorable little polka dotted planter was another Goodwill find...

The clear juice glass and the daisy candy jar, filled with lemon drops, again...Goodwill...

It's always fun to enter a Thriftstore with something specific in mind and just kind of close off any other color. In my case this made everything yellow or daisy related just stand out. For $5.00 I found five things that really helped to put the finishing touches on my table.

Now I'm all set for my morning coffee, and a nice leisurely breakfast...

Have a wonderful day,

Patty

I'm linked up to Treasures and Trinkets at My Cottage Charm

BNOTP for Tablescape Thursdays

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday...

do ya like it...

2010-07-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to show you my progress in the dining room. I've had such fun gathering little oil paintings, mirrors and frames for my grouping from this Thrift Store and that...

Nothing on the wall cost more than $5.99...

It is so freeing to gather what appeals to me...not my neighbor or my best friend or even my mom...(love you mom)...

At one time it would have freaked me out to leave the frames all mismatched and the gold tone ones...no way. But now...I love them just the way I found them.

Even my husband didn't say he hated it...or "You're not going to leave those like that, are you?"...

That's high praise coming from someone who measures and measures within an inch of his life...

I hope you love it, too...but you know what, it doesn't matter because it's my dining room...in my house...and that's all that really matters, right?

(But do you like it, don't you?) Ahhhggg!!!

Blessings,

Patty

Coastal Charm for Todays Thrifty Treasures,
Nifty, Thrifty Tuesday,

Ruby Tuesday,

2nd Time Around Tuesday,
It's a Very Cherry World for Rednesday...

You can't take it with you...

2010-07-11T07:17:00.000-07:00

I thought this post was worth sharing on both blog sites...

"Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him. Though while he lived he counted himself blessed- and men praise you when you prosper -he will join the generation of his fathers, who will never see the light o life. A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish."

Psalm 49:16-20

All my life I have heard that saying..."You can't take it with you," never knowing that is was scriptural based. What a vital scripture for us to remember, especially here in the U.S., where compared to the rest of the world we are definitely that rich man. And doubly so here is blogland with so much creative inspiration that appeals to the aesthetic.

I love to visit the blogs of so many amazingly talented women...I am inspired to make my home more beautiful because of them. I thoroughly enjoy sharing my home and latest finds with any who visit my blog, too.

The Psalm is not saying to not enjoy beauty...to not create a beautiful home...It is saying to not be overawed...It is saying that, riches without the knowledge of who the giver of all good and perfect gifts, will cause a man to perish.

I am blessed not because of where I am fortunate enough to worship God from...I am blessed because I can worship God...that I was chosen and adopted by the One True God to come into his presence whether it be here in my lovely sunroom, outdoors in his beautiful creation or from a prison cell. I am blessed because I can...not by where I am.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow...Praise Him all creatures here below...Praise him all you heavenly hosts...Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost...Amen.

In awe of Him,

Patty

I'm linked up to Spiritual Sundays, I Owe it all to Him Retreats, Tea Time Tuesday and Gratitude Wednesday...Be sure and go over and see what beautiful things await you...

Saturday morning...

2010-07-10T05:30:00.000-07:00

This is my first Saturday morning on my sunporch...I got up early grabbed my bible, my devotional, something sweet and started fresh coffee in my little coffee pot...

Shhh...hear that? I love the stillness...just the birds scurrying about...bathing in the birdbath and the sound of the little waterfall in the pond...

Such a perfect setting for reflection, giving thanks and counting my blessings...

This adorable collection of strawberry's was a "just because" gift from my sweet sister in law. She knows they've caught my fancy of late and has been collecting them along the way...

Some old, some new...

but all perfectly, perfect.

One more person in my life to be thankful for...

I hope you take a minute today to count your blessings.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Patty

I'm linked up to A Few of My Favorite Things Saturdays...

peek a boo...

2010-07-06T22:34:00.000-07:00

I keep reading posts about sweltering heat, and those dog days of summer but I gotta tell ya, not here in Southern California. In fact these 70's and 80's the first week in July have me kind of worried about what our September and October are going to be like.

Needless to say, the weather for the weekend of the 4th was absolutely perfect.

This is my beautiful mom and my sweet SIL, enjoying a visit on the front porch...

Stay with me through these next few...indulge this smitten granny for a minute or two...

I made this patriotic throw from some fabric I found in the remnant bin at Joannes...the pillows were clearance at Walmart. I thought this might be a nice place to sit and visit after dinner. You'll notice the two small chairs for Andrew and Emily...

Doesn't Emily look mighty comfy as she watches Andrew start a game of peek a boo...

Never one to be outdone by her older, (by 7 months) cousin, she joins in...

To which he says, "Hey, all this playing has tired me out...follow me, let me show you what grandma made us."

"Now this is what I'm talkin' bout..."

"What'll ya give me if I jump on him and wake him up?"

To which Bear replies, "Everybody off...you know she made this for me!

Hope you all had a blessed, family filled (including canine) holiday.

Patty

I'm linked up with A Southern Daydreamer for Outdoor Wednesday...
and It's A Very Cherry World for Rednesday...
Home is Where My Story Begins for Home and Family Friday...

red spray paint...

2010-07-05T19:43:00.000-07:00

I love reading Laura's blog, White Spray Paint...I thought of her today as I was out back with my familiar can of red spray paint. I had such a wonderfully productive day. The weather here is still in the low 80's and just heavenly...I know that I should have stayed inside and put things away from yesterday's BBQ but...it was just too nice a day.

I decided to tackle cleaning out my sunroom and I couldn't resist showing you my work in progress...

I wish I was brave (or secure) enough to show you the before but I'm not...so lets just skip right to the after. Ha! Ha!

I found this little side table at Goodwill last week. I know it's Early Americana looking but it was only $14.00 and I had a vision...

I love the flip top lid for easy storage...

I thought that it would be perfect to store toys in but when I ~~snuck~~ brought it home, I realize it just wasn't practical for it's intended purpose.

Hmm...what's a girl to do?

Spray paint it my favorite Walmart red, of course and see what happens. (Excuse the sunspots, it really is an even paint job.)

I love it tucked in here next to my wicker chair...

After cleaning up, I so enjoyed my glass of wine and a few moments of quiet reading. The chair and cushions will be painted and recovered eventually and I haven't accessorized but for now...it's just perfect.

I hope you find yourself a quiet place of retreat this week.

Blessings,

Patty

I'm linked up to A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday...
Coastal Charm for Nifty Thrifty Tuesday...
Ruby Tuesday...

Celebrate Independence...

2010-07-03T15:17:00.000-07:00

I've been out front most of the morning cleaning and decorating the front porch in anticipation of our company tomorrow. I just love the 4th of July, don't you? It's such a no fuss, stress free kind of holiday. Easy paced BBQ, good times with friends and family...good food (on paper plates)...grandkids running around...add a nice bottle of wine and how much better can it get!

I thought I'd share a few pictures of my front porch all decked out and ready to welcome one and all...

I just love these white rockers...

It's so easy to change out the pillows and they become perfect for any holiday...

I made these simple pillows last year with some fabric that was given to me by my SIL...

add a few patriotic picks...(I told you I'd been shopping)...

and some red and white flowers...

and we're ready for you to stop by and sit a spell...

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, whatever you do...

and remember to pray for those who help ensure we can celebrate our freedom each and every year.

Blessings,

Patty

America, America...God shed his grace on thee...

I've linked up with Between Naps on the Front Porch for Metamorphis Monday and

A house in the roses for Show off your cottage Monday...

vegtable seeds...

2010-07-01T22:12:00.000-07:00

Okay, seriously...someone needs to stop me. I have been bitten by the red, white and blue bug! I just can't seem to stop buying 4th of July decorations. I have hit every Michael's, Target, Walmart and Joannes within my driving sphere over the last couple of weeks. Tomorrow is the day I spread out all my loot and start playing, arranging and getting ready for our annual 4th of July BBQ. (I know, I know, another BBQ!)

We've had our share of hot dogs and hamburgers over the last few weekends so we are going with Mexican food. Carne asada on the BBQ, Mexican rice, beans, corn salad, pasta salad, fresh salsa and guacamole, a vegetable platter and for dessert Apple pie a la mode and chocolate cake...Mmm...mmm!

Now on to Tootsie's Fertilizer Friday...

My husband built what I hope is the first of many raised bed planters this year. We got a little bit of a late start putting in seeds but lucky for us we live in California and the seeds didn't seem to notice. Ha!

The first row is green onions...followed by radishes and in the back a couple of (store bought) tomato plants, cucumbers vines and peppers.

Never one to check labels too closely...I bought what I thought was a bell pepper plant that actually turned out to be jalapeno peppers...lol. So instead of spaghetti sauce we'll be tasting fresh salsa!

I have a couple more tomato plants that went in earlier in the season mixed in with my cutting flowers, that are producing tons of cherry tomatoes already.

That's it for today. Can't wait to show you what I have planned for the 4th!

Blessings,

Patty

an unexpected treasure... (and Monday's Encouragement)

2010-06-29T22:58:00.000-07:00

I've been collecting things here and there for my latest project, the redo of our dining room.

I had $5.00 burning a hole in my pocket and a few minutes after work so I thought I'd make a quick stop at my local Goodwill to see if I could find another small mirror for a grouping I have in mind. (It seems my car can't drive past the entrance to the parking lot without turning in lately!) I didn't really have the time to browse the isles in the order I normally do so I just headed to the frames and mirrors in the back. As I started moving stuff around I came across this adorable oil painting for $3.99...

I just love the colors...they are absolutely perfect for my dining room.

I wasn't sure about the frame...my first thought was to paint it but now that I have it next to some of the other items in the grouping, I kinda like the ~~tacky~~ gold color and black velvet inner border...seriously, I do.

Now the small gold framed mirror is definitely going to be painted in the same red as the large picture frame I painted a couple of weeks ago.

I paid $4.99 for the small frame and $5.99 for the large one...

I have an idea brewing in my head...If it looks the way I envision it you'll be the first to see it. I just love a good treasure hunt...

I still need one more mirror and now I gotta find me a couple more little paintings.

At least I don't have to worry about my car not cooperating...

Happy hunting,

Patty

I'm linked to It's A Very Cherry World for Rednesday...

and My Cottage Charm for Treasures and Trinkets...

My Romantic Homes for Show and Tell Friday...

Leave a comment here for Monday's Encouragement card...

beach trip...

2010-06-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

My sister and nephew are in town from Houston and my parent's treated us to a nice little weekend beach getaway. Even though the temperatures never made it out of the sixties, we still had a wonderful time just being together. With five adults and five children under the age of ten, I thought I would have a chance to uncork a bottle of wine and browse through a couple of new magazines...ha! ha! No such luck, it was non-stop action...a day at the county fair...a late night dip in the hotel pool...too much pizza, way too late in the day and counting heads in the ocean as they ventured out a little too far for my comfort. I need a little vacation from my mini vacation...

Of course, I did manage to snap a few pictures to share...

Creating family memories for the next generation...a feeling of belonging...new stories to share...safety...security...absolute love...makes it all worth it. Thanks mom and dad!

Have a wonderful week.

Blessings,

Patty