thepaper-roSe

GOD IS WORKING IN UGANDA

2011-09-24T08:55:00.000-07:00

I am SO happy for this beautiful family.....Trey, Trenner and Bridgette. They are increasing their family......with the adoption of a precious little one from Uganda! They have been matched with a 4 month old baby boy. You may remember that a portion of my spring sale went toward the adoption. Please pray, as Bridgette is leaving September 30 flying to Uganda to meet him, meet with the attorney. Our friend Jade is going with her. What a blessing that is as this will be Jade's third trip. She and her husband Nathan were able to bring their adorable son Ezra home a year ago. It is a long trip, please pray that they have a safe, restful(if that is at all possible) flight and that Bridgette's time spent with her child is sweet.

ANDDDDDDDDDDDD. Speaking of Uganda....I am beginning to share the exciting news that I too am going! The same amazing friend, Jade is leading an all ladies mission group in March! We will also be staying in the sanyu babies home volunteering for a week. It is an unbelievable opportunity. I have a heart for those adopting. Our own children, Missy and Tyler had actually started the process to adopt when they discovered Maryn was coming!!!! I know that Rich and I are past the age of adopting but my heart tells me to help those that are! There are 10 of us traveling. Most I did not even know. But as we are meeting together and praying for each other and the fears that each of us have, I realize how different and yet how alike we all are. God has given each of us the desire to serve there. It is not a vacation....I have no expectations of that. I know (but also know I do not fully understand) that I will changed. It is exciting and scary at the same time. I just know that I am suppose to go. That God has a plan for each of us.

Our verse is I John 3:18...".dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with ACTIONS and truth." We will be going with that in mind LOVE IN ACTION

Each of us are working together and seperatly with fund raisers. ugghhh...the dreaded word. The thing that is always so difficult to bring up. Another reason I find this a God-thing. The finances have not put the fear in me that I thought it would. I know they will come. I realize it involves sacrifice on my part. I have already been blessed by friends that want to be a part of this journey.

The following are pix of some beautiful hand-rolled paper beads that the women of Uganda made. I love them! The colors, the detail is amazing. I have tried to make paper beads....think I made it through 3...and they did not even look like beads!

These are avalable for each donation of $15.00 We will also be taking orders for t-shirts (donation of $20). Also (sorry forgot to picture) a hand-stamped copper cuff bracelet with the words LOVE IN ACTION ($15 donation).

God is working in Uganda......I can't wait to see how He is going to use me....ME??? I am looking for ward to the time I can talk about it without getting emotional. or maybe not....maybe that is a good thing.

TO LIVE IN HEARTS WE LEAVE BEHIND IS NOT TO DIE

2011-09-21T13:49:00.000-07:00

This is my daughter's friend, Erin. A beautiful, talented, loving friend. Gone much too soon.

Sara and I had gone to Columbus Ohio last week for the Country Living Fair. Our plans were to meet Erin for dinner on Thursday evening. Sara talked to Erin on Monday and she said that she had been to the dr. for sinus infection the previous week. She left her office at 5:30 on Monday. When she got home she experienced breathing problems and called 911. It took 30 minutes to revive her. When we reached Columbus on Thursday, Sara went straight to the hospital.

She called me crying saying that there was nothing that could be done....she was taken off life support Friday morning. My heart breaks. Someone so young, so full of life. I know Sara is left with so many questions. She just kept saying she did not understand. I am so thankful that I was with her. We are reminded again just how precious life is.

As friends gather tomorrow evening for a celebration of Erin's sweet life may be gain comfort in sharing their memories.

Isaiah 61:2....He will comfort all that mourn.

SEPTEMBER 10 SALE....

2011-09-08T14:25:00.000-07:00

Pearl gray desk

sweet little dressing table with mirror

It is hard to tell, but this little night stand is painted gray pearl.

Lots of chalk boards.

oops! Did not get the paint scraped off the glass yet!extra large mirror and chalk board

ok. Have so many more images I want to add.....for some crazy reason it is not letting me load. urggggh. So, guess I will have to do another post....................maybe that will give you a reason to come back!!

SEPTEMBER 10......NEXT POP UP SALE!

2011-08-14T11:44:00.000-07:00

My next one day sale is coming up fast! Saturday, September 10 from 10-3. I am super excited as the shop is full to the brim! In fact, we have decided to stop working on things for a while because we are running out of room. If you came in July you do not have to worry about looking at left overs.....we have been painting ourselves crazy.

A .couple of my trusted shop workers hard at work!

Miss Sadie

not very good lighting, but the chair is white...the seat is done in yellows and grays

Believe it or not.....when you next see this piece is will be a kitchen island. Painted black with a galvanized metal top.

I have been working on a couple of shorter dresses or tops.....cute with little ruffled diaper covers!

This piece we re did and it is sitting in our den. It was in pretty rough shape. I think it had been left too close to a fire......

now it looks like this!

A client's family house rulesDoes it look like a potting bench?

Now a kitchen island!

Before.....boring, sad shape dresser.

And after.....I love it! It is hard to tell in this picture, but each of the drawers is a different shade of pink.

I AM INTO FLEAS

2011-07-16T16:44:00.000-07:00

Love all the colors in these vintage sheets. Won't they make adorable dresses? I picked them up a flea market this past week.

We bought this piece a couple of years ago. I sooooo love the detail on this piece. I have not decided on a color yet. Inside is drawers.

A waterfall style dresser. I actually finished this today......turned out beautifully. I painted it a pearl grey. Found some cute vintage wallpaper in greys that I plan to line the drawers with.

I LOVE a good flea market. We went to Strawtown last Thursday. We got there about 10 and people were packing up at noon to leave! After asking around we found out that they actually open up about 5 a.m.! We did get some great deals since people were wanting to leave. One of my best deals was locker baskets.....I have wanted some of these forever......great for storage....

One of my favorite finds of the day! Someone had covered a board in bark cloth and hand painted flowers on the top. It is hard to see but there are nails at an angle.....I hung it in my craft room in my sewing area for thread spools. I LOVE IT!

really.......this had to be from the 70's....

Finished and ready for the sale! We had to do a little repair work on this desk....Rich added beadboard to the ends and cream and black knobs that I picked up at Hobby Lobby.

Ready for the beach house!

This is a storage/cube table.

I am still on a sewing spree. I think that I becoming addicted to fabric. I love sewing these little dresses. It is such a sweet pattern.

the paper-roSE one day sale is next Saturday, July 23, 10-3. Could I not have picked a cooler time of year to do my first "pop-up" sale????? We started sanding and painting this morning at 7. I know our neighbors love us....We have a good assortment of chairs, small table and dressers. Hope you come and check it out!

GOING TO THE BIRDS

2011-07-08T17:58:00.000-07:00

I am still having this thing for little birds.....these are made using old yard sticks for the wings and vintage jewelry pieces for eyes on on the wings.

I think I am becoming a fabric addict. I need help. There are just so many cute prints out there! I am loving making things for Maryn.

This is such a sweet little dress pattern. I have made a couple for Maryn and Missy has paired it with leggings. SO CUTE! Guess I should get a picture of that for advertising!!

I having been making dresses and skirts in sizes 6 months-3T.

I love the vintage print on the sleeves... This one is 12-18months

Size 2T

Skirts are priced at $12 and dresses are $20.

COUNT DOWN TO JULY 23 . . .

2011-07-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with this little desk. I LOVE it even more now! I painted it in a soft pearl gray and glazed over it with black and then dry brushed white on it. Added some vintage glass knobs....sweeeeeettt!

This will have to be a total remake. The bottom of the cabinet is barely standing. Sides and back are out. But, I fell in love with the color and the top piece.

Thinking of adding this to the desk top. Love the little cubbies.

Sewing, sewing sewing!

Sweet sweet Maryn. Missy and Tyler took Rich and I out for father's day and then we took Maryn to the Ft Wayne Children's zoo. I think she will enjoy it much more next summer.

a salmon burger from "The Deck" in Ft Wayne. waaayyy yummy!

FACE OF INNOCENCE?

2011-06-29T15:12:00.000-07:00

Is this the sweet face of innocence? My sweet Sadie-girl. I was working in the shop today and Rich made me an iced latte (yumm his are the best!). I had set it down on a drawer and continued painting.

mmmm, don't really remember taking a drink yet......and I thought it was full when I set it down. But, why are there splatters everywhere??

Is this a guilty face?

Those are not freckles my friends..... GUILTY! Another one hooked on caffiene.

And not to gross you out......but, yes...I did finish drinking it. Don't they say a dog's mouth is cleaner then a humans? Didn't i read that somewhere????

JOY

2011-06-21T16:27:00.000-07:00

JOY 1. intense happiness

How do you describe the joy that you feel the first time you see your son (or daughter) with their first child? It is so hard to put into words. We have now been blessed with 2 grandchildren. The first in November with the arrival of Maryn Rae.

I will never forget walking into the room and seeing Tyler holding her. Intense happiness. That definition does not even come close.

November 11, 2010. Maryn Rae and her proud daddy Tyler.

June 10, 2011....Welcome to the world Harrison Andrew! Proud daddy Jason.

Another moment I will never forget. Jason walking through the doors into the waiting room to tell us that Harrison had finally decided to make his arrival. Jason was so emotional and could not stop crying. I hope that he will always hold onto that moment and the joy he felt.

Great-grandma Mayberry meets Harrison for the first time!

My sweet Maryn is growing so fast! OMG! She is such a joy.....I love every moment with this little girl! When you walk in the room, her face lights up. She is such a happy baby. No matter how bad my week is going....just knowing that I get to spend time with her each Friday makes it better.

In case you have not figured it out...I am definitely one of those obnoxious grandma's who think that her grandchildren just happen to be the most beautiful babies in the world. But, looking tat these pictures who can argue? Seriously, children are such a blessing. I love being a mother....but I think this grandma thing just may even be better!

Thought I might as well throw in a little advertising, too! Slowly but surely I am working on items for the July 23 sale. These are a couple of button bracelets that I did. Fun!

Loving the sentiments here.....plan to do more of these. This one already has a place in my kitchen.Everything is so green and lush right now! Thought I would take you for a fast walk through some of our garden.

IT'S ALL ABOUT LAUREN

2011-06-07T11:12:00.000-07:00

My beautiful niece Lauren is getting married July 9th in Fisher's. Sunday, Missy and I hosted a family shower/luncheon in her honor.

These are some pretty important ladies to me. My sister-in-law Sharon, daughter Sara, niece Marissa, Lauren, me niece Shelby and daughter (in-law) Missy. I love spending time with all of them. Because we are so scattered....some live in Michigan, it does not happen often enough! They are all so special to me! I know it meant a lot to Lauren that we were all able to get together for a special afternoon.

This is Lauren with her sister Kiersten and mother Kelly.

Here comes the bride.....I know this is kind of hard to read. I painted it on an old window I hung at the back door.

I am sure you are not surprise to find a picture of Maryn . She loves her cousin Lauren!

It is so exciting watching someone you love grow up! Just does not seem possible that Lauren can be getting married. She has always been very special to me. I still remember going to Richmond the day she was born, her spending time at our house. We are all so proud of her. She graduated from Purdue University (her uncle Rich is SOO proud of that!) and works in Indy. She and Kraig began dating in high school. They are just a really neat couple and I cannot express how happy I am for them! Looking forward to the big day.

SALE(ing) ON. . . . .

2011-05-30T07:43:00.000-07:00

Thank you for everyone that came out for the sale! I know I have said this before, but I have met the most amazing people through my sales. I look forward to re-connecting with many of them at sale time.

Two of those amazing people.....my daughter Sara. She is my greatest supporter....always encouraging me....with her is one our dearest friends....Ken. We love he and his wife Belinda....she is not in the picture because she is shopping......always like that! Ken comes for the iced lattes and cookies......(only kidding Ken....love you!)

Our celebrity spotting!! This is Lisa Velthouse. She is an author and was in Marion for a book signing. I am reading one of her books right now..."Craving Grace". It is a story of faith, failure. and her search for sweetness. Love it!

Me and my hard-working crew.....my daughter Sara and my friend Bridgette.

Last Thursday Sara's best friend from college flew in for the weekend. Alison lives in Dallas. She is like a daughter to Rich and I. We love her to pieces. She is also a newly wed. We met her and Sara for lunch at the Rusty Dog in Huntington. YUM YUM. They have the best food....and great atmosphere.

My next big project! This Sunday I will be hosting a wedding/shower luncheon for this beautiful girl. My niece Lauren. She and Kraig have dated since high school. They now live in Fishers. Love this girl! She is sweet, smart......beautiful on the inside and out!

Missy and I are giving the shower and have decided on a "vintage Paris theme". (I love themes!)

We have lots of things planned and I am busy decorating....I will post pictures next week. I have family coming in from Michigan and looking forward to the weekend.

Lauren had asked me several months ago to do boxes for her to give to her wedding party. Her colors are black and white. It has been a fun project to work on and I am anxious to give them to her. I hope she likes them. There are 7 total....each one different. Her one request was that each person's monogram was on them.

Each one has a special little pocket on the inside of the lid with a card that Lauren can write a little note on.

I am also working on the next sale. I have decided to do a couple of "pop-up" sale dates. The first one will be on Saturday, July 23. So, I am busily working away!!

1 DAY UNTIL SALE

2011-05-19T16:13:00.001-07:00

Lots of little hair pins from VictoriaGene (aka. Bridgette Boswell)

In the bebe bird boutique there are several new things. How cute are these little skirts?

assorted blocks

If you do not find the letter/color you like...let me know and I can make it up for you!

bebe burp cloths

How sweet are these little crocheted mary jane's? Bridgette did these. I love them!

What a great way to help your little ones with their prayers. These are on glass and you just use a dry erase pen.

Gift tags galore.........

There is so much more, but to be honest I am tired of loading. I worked in the shop all day trying to get everything ready. So hopefully it is enough to make you curious enough to come out tomorrow! Tomorrow is 3-8 and Saturday 10-2.

COUNTDOWN

2011-05-13T12:26:00.000-07:00

How sweet is this little wooden box?

I think this little table was originally used to sit a telephone on.

This is on the back on one of the many chairs I have.

Rich surprised me with a window shelf! Love it! It replaces the window box that was falling apart.

I sooooo LOVE the smell of lilacs! I just wished they lasted longer! A sure sign of spring.

I am keeping super busy getting ready for the sale. I cannot believe I only have 1 more week. There is still so much I want to do. Painting, sewing, jewlery. It is impossible to ever be done.

I have decided to do a couple of Saturday sales this summer. Right now I am thinking a date in July and September. In November I will do a big holiday sale. If you are planning on coming next weekend I will have the dates then....if not just please watch my blog!

SALE WITH ANOTHER CAUSE.....

2011-05-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

Post cards are mailed. I hope that you received yours! Really beginning to go into work mode. Painting whenever possible, sewing during my lunch break and in the evenings. In another week I will begin to question myself if I really have 'enough' for a sale (always, always do). Then the following week I will start questioning if anyone will really show up, because I probably picked the worse possible dates for a sale..... All the doubts begin to set in as to what I was thinking. But at he same time I LOVE doing it all! I look forward to seeing new and old friends. ( not referring to age, by the way). That is one of the things I so love about this crazy 'hobby' that I have started. I have met so many wonderful people and many that I now call friend! I guess shabby chic /vintage people are the best!

This is a really special sale. I am donating a portion to the Adoption Fund of Trey and Bridgette Boswell. Please check out her blog at bridgettevictoria.blogspot.com to read about it. They are an amazing couple. Bridgette is one of those special people that I met through my sale that I now call friend. God has really put it on my heart to want to do something to help. This is one of those times in my life that I wish I were younger....to be able to adopt. To be able to open our home and our hearts to a child that so desperately needs both. As many of your know, our son and daughter in law were in the process of adopting from Ethiopia when they learned that they were pregnant with Maryn. Adoption is still very much on their hearts. They feel that God would not have put it so heavily on their hearts just to take that desire away when Maryn was born.

Missy started a blog OurJourneytoThree.blogspot.com that chronicles their journey.

I know that some question the practice of fund-raising for adoption. I guess I see it as a way of Bridgette and Trey sharing. They are allowing us to be a small part of their remarkable journey. Do I think I will ever go to Ughanda? No, not really. Would I love to? ABSOLUTELY. But, by supporting Bridgette and Trey in such a small way I feel that I am being blessed! I will see Ughanda through them. I will be able to help a precious child through them. They are not asking for money as much as support. What a responsibilty they have...God has put it on their hearts to open their hearts to child hundreds of miles away. A child they have not met, but already love.

It is kind of hard to tell in this photo. But this is actually a set of 3 wooden trays. I painted them in "beachy' colors....light blue, cream, soft green....

I told you there would be lots of chairs! And in all colors. I love love love wold wooden chairs.

Wooden magnetic birds.

dish cloths in springy colors

Love the soft blue of this table. I keep wanting to work it into my living room somewhere.

I was trying to go with beach colors on this dresser. Soft blue and a vintage green. Are you detecting a beach thing going on here.....oh, I would so love to be walking on the sand, with the sound of the surf and have warm sun on my shoulders.......

sofa table in peppercorn gray

light blue polka dots on chocolate....yum

A fun little aqua side table

I fell in love with this sweet sweet vintage looking fabric!

A fun pillow made from a grain sack.

YOU JUST GOTTA LOVE SPRING!

2011-04-26T08:55:00.000-07:00

sample of toddler skirts that will be in the sale.

I am so blessed cuff bracelet

PURITY bracelet.... real love waits

Just finished another pair of shoes for Maryn. I started 3 other pairs for the sale! These pictured are 6-9 months. Also doing smaller and larger sizes.

JUST A TEASER. . . . . . .

2011-04-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

the wacky birds have found a place to roost

Loving the colors in these fabrics.......will definitely be using them on some chair seats...

For those who have questioned if I will be doing any furniture for this sale.....ha! Plenty of it! I don't know if I will ever get to the bottom of our stockpile! But, we are working, working working! With nice weather finally here, we are able to do alot of work outside.

interesting piece we found....

literally stacked to the rafters!

an old radio cabinet. I love the detail on this.

This is so much cuter in person. Vintage green wall cabinet. The knob is a pink glass butterfly.

There will be lots of little side tables.

Just had to add a picture of sweet Maryn that was taken yesterday at her papa Rich's birthday lunch.

Post cards are ready to be mailed out for the spring sale.....May-20-21! Last sale I added the 'bebe bird' boutique. I am hoping to have some of the baby shoes made! There will be burp cloths, skirts, pillow-case dresses, hair bands.

These Shoes are made for walking.........

2011-04-23T05:43:00.000-07:00

Not really. Maybe for crawling. I just finished them for Maryn! I finally found a pattern that actually made sense.....and I have already started another pair in a lite gray polka dot! Hopefully will have some made for the upcoming sale. This pair has a little pair of vintage buttons on the side! Tomorrow is Easter. Probably my favorite holiday. My mind has been on the cross alot lately.....and all that it stands for. To know that someone loved me......ME......enough to die for me...that I might have eternal life. I thank God for a risen Savior!

A LISTENING HUSBAND...........

2011-04-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

Super excited to share. When I came home from Ft Wayne last Friday it was to this surprise! I know it may look kinda 'tacky' to some......but it a vision realized to me! I had mentioned to Rich a few months back that I would love to remove one of the sets of garage doors and have double doors......... he was listening! A set of double doors that swing out......a vintage window with part of an old door at the bottom! We have primed and still need to paint. But, I am loving it! So much more light! Now I am anxious to finish it up on the inside. And have a super neat idea for a curtain for the window. It involves postage letters......hmmmm what could it be?

SUNSHINE AND SPRING

2011-04-05T14:51:00.000-07:00

I am loving this spring weather!! When I packed my winter coat and sweaters away in mid-March I vowed they would not be coming back out. It is the principal. I really think spring may be here ! Positive thoughts. I am ready to bring out the flip flops....but, the thought that I just might be wearing them in the snow is a little too much. I only wish that spring lasted a little longer. I really think that it is my favorite time of year. But, then Rich will remind me that I say that at the beginning of each season. Guess that is why we live in the midwest. This little girl is growing! I have been watching her 3 days a week for the past 3 weeks. She is such a happy little baby! She wakes up smiling. She has the sweetest temperment. She makes me laugh. She is such a little ham. I think she looks so much like her Daddy's baby pictures......and then she smiles.........she is SOOOO her beautiful momma! Almost 5 months already! Does not seem possible that it was a year ago April 1 that we were told that she was coming!! She is at that age where she is changing weekly. I am just so thankful that I get to spend so much time with her! I have been putting my sewing machine to work. I made this little skirt last week. I tried it on her....perfect!

So, tomorrow when I go....I am taking this one that I sewed up last night.

I have also been making flower pins for the up-coming sale

and another Bible cover....my third in 3 weeks. Once I again on a roll......I love teaming up the different fabrics I have.

A couple of before and afters. This is an ottoman in our den. Love the print but it really did not go in my apple green den.

Voila! Slip-cover to the rescue. Love polka dots.

This is a piece that is ready for pick up. The client was going back and forth between cream and vintage green.

So, she is getting both! After priming I painted it a vintage green followed by cream. Then distressed it so that some of the green is showing through. Finished it off with a set of vintage green glass knobs and a little "doo-dad" distressed green on the bottom. A very sweet piece! I hope that she likes it.

FISHING LURES, SHOES AND MORE......

2011-03-26T09:09:00.000-07:00

I found these fishing lures at a flea market and loved the bright colors...thought they would make cute necklaces.

This is my first attempt at making a shoe. Missy had seen some adorable ones on etsy. But $42 seems just a little high. Ok. Or so I thought until I attempted this one. I did inform Missy mine would be $50 a pair. I will of course keep trying until I get a pair that we would actually put on Maryn. Plus, somehow, what I thought started out as the right size ended up being like a newborn size. Back to the sewing machine. I am determined to get this right.

I made these two bracelets last night. I love a simple bracelet. Ask my daughter.....she hates it when I start piling them on. This does not really show the detail. They are swarovski crystal chain that I wire wrapped onto leather cord. The top one is turquoise and the bottom one is olivine crystal. I plan to do more using pearl chain and crystal.

I love anything turquoise. So, I will be keeping this one. The the other bracelet was a birthday gift from my sister in law and brother . What a surprise. It is a Pandora with a heart charm! I did not ever consider myself a pandora kinda girl......but love the simplicity of this one! Sharon you are the best!!!!!

working on several of these for the sale. Last year I did only one and it did not make it through the first hour! Making several versions of this for the May sale.

Just finished reading this book! LOVED IT! I am not great at keeping a journal other then the one that I am keeping for Maryn. But, I have a little mini journal that I have started my 1000 gift list in. Forget the bucket lists about once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I want to be about finding joy today, right now in the everyday things. I want to be found guilty of having radical gratitude!

I find myself looking at life differently. I truely do want to find joy in the bad times as well the good. It is a book that dares you to live fully.

And of course, right at the top of my list is this sweet little one! Her momma is in the process of beginning a new job. So, I am staying with Maryn 3 days a week for the next three weeks. And of course loving every single second. It has been very easy to add to my joy list each day!

I just knew you would be disappointed if I did not slip into gramma mode...... Hope you are having a great week!
Almost forgot.....this is one of our 'grand-dogs'. Peaut. He belongs to Maryn. He is 175 lbs of lovable. He may look intimidating....but, is such a good boy!

PUT ON A HAPPY FACE!

2011-03-19T07:10:00.000-07:00

No post.....but, I love daisies! These were part of my birthday bouquet. What a happy face!

60 IS NOT FOR SISSIES!

2011-03-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

What can always make a gramma smile for her birthday????

Maryn definitely made the day complete! Turning the big 60 was actually perfect! I always

try to celebrate "birthday week". I say milk it for all you can!!! Sara came for the weekend and we had a great time of junking. She is treating me to a little trip first of May! Can't wait. Missy and Tyler came on my actual birthday. I have an amazing daughter-in-law....she made a fabulous dinner....bruschetta chicken, green beans, wild rice....pumpkind /chocolate chip cookies! This is the kind of take out delivery I love!! And the birthday goes on.....our entire family is meeting in FT Wayne for dinner this Saturday. Sometimes it is not so bad getting older....

The dates for my spring sale have been set for May 20-21. I have been asked if I am giving up the furniture line......NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. But, due to the cold weather I have not been able to paint very much. So, trying to work on other things.

For example this necklace........

bebe burp cloths........

rings using vintage earrings

also using vintage buttons that are layered

another little mirror

necklace made using vintage earring

oops....think you have seen this one............

a wreath with rosettes

little ruffled pillow made using a blouse that I had planned to send to the mission..

"H" stands for Harrison......our newest addition due in late June.

ruffled journals

MY BIRTHDAY GIFT FROM HUBBY!!! I have always had re-built sewing machines....which is fine...but, my old one bit the dust last Saturday....right in the middle of a project I was working on for a customer. Rich surprise me with this beauty!!!! I have been having so much fun! It even has an automatic threader....ok, haven't figured that one out yet....but I am content just to

keep threading the old way. It is a dream to sew with!

How cute is the print? I loooovvvvee cute little monkeys! This was burp cloth I did for Maryn.

My first attempt at a Bible cover......I see alllllll the things that could have been done better.

This mornings completed Bible cover. Much, much better. This is going to a new friend at our church. She is actually the one that first asked me about doing a cover. I plan to drop it off this afternoon...hope that she likes it...flaws and all! The wonderful thing is though, as many flaws that can be found on this cover...how fortunate for us that what it contains is give to us without any flaws

Want to do some more.....keep improving on my technique!

I LOVE SPRINGING EARLY

2011-03-07T10:06:00.000-08:00

A THING CALLED GRACE

2011-02-27T09:40:00.000-08:00

Alot of you know that I have been spending more time then I like at the hospital....and the 45 minute drive both ways is very tiring. Last Sunday as I was driving home about midnight, I was listening to a christian radio station. To be honest, as first I am thinking to myself....oh my goodness, this guy talking has to be 100 and I hope that I can stay awake. I know.....not very christian like, huh? Anyway...he was talking to this woman and she was explaining how each year she has a word that she embraces......that she tries to live and 'take-in' thoughout the year. You know how you sometimes hear things that you just cannot get away from? Well, this was me. It was like I just could not stop thinking about it.....a word that I wanted to 'take-in'. I thought of so many over the coming days.....but, the first word that popped into my head and that I just kept coming back to was "forgive and forgivenes". wow. Believe me, I kept trying to think of other words (this woman's word was authentic). Always, these words jut kept repeating themselves to me. Ohhhhh........such a word! Something I love to receive, but is sometimes so difficult to extend. I sob when I think of what God has so graciously extended to me......without me even having to beg (which I sometimes need to do). I have so many issues that I seem to be trying to work through right now. And this is the word that can take care of so many of them. Forgive.

It can be so hard when there are so many deep hurts involved. Forgive. This is the word that I want to embrace......that I truely want to 'take in'. Not only to receive but to be the one that is graciously extending.....with no strings attached. I take comfort in the fact that the Lord knows my heart......I believe He understands that it is a process that has humans we sometimes struggle with the fact that we have to be right....there has to be remorse from the person that offends, that we want fairness. But, it scares me to think where I would be if God had the same attitude and I got what I deserved......praise God for a thing called grace.

I know that this is not my usual post. But, it is something that has been on my heart all week. From the time I listened to the guy I thought would put me to sleep. Do you have a word?

LOOK WHAT I DID......

2011-02-23T13:18:00.000-08:00

Do you know what this is???? My last post I mentioned that I was going to wade out into the snow and cut some forsythia branches to bring in to force.....LOOK!!!! Little green buds......I will soon have those first signs of spring right in my dining room! I do this every year.....and every time I am amazed! I love spring....like a new beginning. I really needed to do a wider font.....but, this as my first attempt at sub-way art. It is hanging in our living room. These are all names of towns that Rich and I have lived in over the years.

Hard to tell in this picture.....but, this is actually a pale gray.

this colorful ring was made using an earring that belonged to our cousins mother in law. Hope that she likes it!

vinage button ring

another vintage button

Surprising one of Sara's friends with a little goodie package. There just may be a little surprise in this little box.

for example this vintage pink earring ring.

a fun magnetic message board. The buttons are magnets!

a cute little mirror........

more of those monogramed blocks that I cannot seem to get enough of.

LOOKING FOR SIGNS OF SPRING

2011-02-15T08:53:00.000-08:00

Like so many others I am soooo ready for spring! We have already spotted a few robins and our magnolia bush is covered in blooms. I plan to venture out in the yard tomorrow and check out the forsythia bush to see if there are any buds. I want to cut some and bring in to force bloom. The little yellow blooms are one of my very favorite signs of spring!!! I know we have some time before spring is really here.....but I am loving the 50-60 degree weather, no matter how short lived it is. In Indiana we could have blizzard like weather next week!

This is a necklace I have done......loved the little velvet flower.......... love, love, love

A girl has to take time out for a coffee break once in a while. Plus, love the sentiments on this mug........love what you do!!

I had a group of lovely ladies over last week for a felting class. Actually, I had done the felting ahead of time....we did felt flower pins. What a great evening!

so many colors to choose from!

How cute is this little count-down calendar? The ends are chalk. They will be available with different color lettering. Also, some are made to be hung on the wall. This could be fun for a child to count down the days until their birthday.....Christmas....vacation.

isn't it the truth?

"Home is where you can scratch where it itches"

Inititial block.................

Silly birds..............

funny, silly looking little birds.....

when in doubt, give a gift certificate! When someone buys a certificate it is put into a decorated vintage bottle.....a double gift!

this is a little wooden bank that reminds me of a treasure chest. I have painted and distressed it in pink. I think I will add a little vintage frame to the front that you can personalize.

February - LOVE MONTH

2011-02-12T09:39:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is Monday. I think immediate thoughts go to heart related things. I started looking through my house to see what I could find that had hearts. ummmm. I used to collect all heart related things....guess I have moved on. It was tougher then I thought. So I began to look for heart related things from a different angle......Valentine's Day....hearts=love.
Doesn't it always start and end with family? Those that mean the very most to you. I started at our "family wall".....our children, Jason, Tyler, Jenny and Sara. Oh my goodness, where does time go. Jason is now 37 about to become a father for the first time and Tyler is 31 and is daddy to our sweet Maryn.

Don't laugh......I guess Rich and I are old then we thought from the looks of this picture.
FAITH, HOPE and LOVE

A part of our heritage.....my parents, Rich's dad and step mother and Rich's mom and step father.....

my dad's parents. This was the only grandparents I ever knew.

Missy and Tyler= LOVE

love birds?

this was a valentine surprise from Rich one year. While vacationing in Hilton Head he had written this message in the sand (yes, he calls me Da......long story....). So, for Valentine's day he printed it with a pink tint, cut it out and put it on my pillow. How sweet is that? I love it.

more of those crazy love birds.....

sweet Maryn and the necklace that I made for her momma....

ok. use your imagination on this one. It was some felted pins I had done for class the other night. Kind of looks like a heart though...right?
I found a few heart pieces in my jewelry box.

February is also "Red Dress" month.....heart health for women. This is dear to me as
I have had heart problems. It is so important not to ignore symptoms you may have...racing heart, skipped beats. I did. For years I would have episodes when my heart would begin to race. Lasting usually just minuets. Over time it might race for up to 30-45 minutes. At Christmas time 1999 my heart began to race. Once again I put it off as anxiety, hormones (all things I had heard in the past as a reason for racing heart). After 3 days it was still racing. I had got to the point where I actually had to sit up to sleep. That is when Rich finally over-rode my denial and took me to the emergency room. When we reached the hospital my heart rate was 265. They could not even get my blood pressure. I could hardly hold my head up, but I was still insisting it was prob. just bronchitis. Ha! I had gone into congestive heart failure. I was admitted to the hospital and that is where I spent the next week....through Christmas. 3 months later I had a heart ablation. We were told it would be an hour procedure......10 1/2 hours later the doctors said that they had the problem fixed. 3 months later as we were watching television I felt my heart again. But, once again I ignored it for 3 days....I mean I was told that I was "fixed". So, I knew it had to be my imagination.

Another trip to the hospital....another heart ablation. This time after 4 hours the doctor comes out to tell Rich that they did not get the results they were wanting as they had cut a nerve and my heart was not beating on its own. At least not fast enough that I would be able to function. So, early the next morning I was scheduled for a pacemaker. I was only 47! Much to young for all this. It was so hard for me to accept at the time. Even knowing it was the only answer to keep me alive I was still so angry.

But, here I am 12 years later....on my second pacemaker. Grateful to be alive and so thankful for modern medicine. All this to say... I did not go to the doctor because I did not want to be embarrassed because it was "nothing". I waited until it was almost too late. My problem was actually something I had had since birth . If you experience rapid heart rate, tell your doctor.

Women's heart disease is on the rise. And not always diagnosed, but put off as anxiety or change of life. It is up to you to take care of yourself.

AND THE SNOW CONTINUES TO FALL.....WHAT IS A GIRL TO DO????

2011-02-05T09:49:00.000-08:00

First, I fix myself a cup of peppermint mocha......with an added dollop of whipped topping and chocolate sprinkles....ahhhhh...and it just happens to be in my favorite mug.... then I start looking for projects. Like this....Rich's hospital bracelet from when he was born. This is going into a project that I have been working on. Wonder who that could be for??

I force my poor Annie outside into the elements for a photo shoot. Actually, she likes it out there. You have to make her come in. Silly girl.

Hopefully I will get Maryn's valentine box to her before spring! We had planned to visit her this evening....but now there is a travel advisory in effect and the snow is still falling.

it is filled with goodies for my favorite little Valentine this year.....

I am looking around for photo shots of ANYTHING......

I organized my jewelry center.....I can actually find things again!

Yesterday I decided to "paper" the wall in the hall using pages from old books.

love the way it turned out. I had done a wall in my shop last summer. Easy, fun and free!

Yes, we actually do bring snow into the house for our dogs to eat. Sadie loves it. We really try not to bring the yellow kind in....

I have been busy making more rings. So much fun to wear!

a wooden bangle covered with little pennents....so summery

I have been gathering together all heart related things.....thinking of doing a junky heart necklace.

Sadie tried out the new bench.

I decided to put the risers back on the bed. Sadie and Maggie decided they couldn't jump that high. Which might have been a good thing......we could have re-claimed our bed. But, being the good parents we are, decided we needed a bench. So, Rich made with using the legs of an old end table. Perfect! Sadie thinks its makes a pretty good bed, too!

I'M A WINNER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-02-01T09:09:00.000-08:00

Yeah! Did I mention that I won a give-a-way last week from thecottagenest.blogspot.com
It arrived today! I love love love the fabric....a linen with grey/tan. And Cabbage & Roses book. I am thinking of fixing myself a peppermint/mocha latte with whipped topping and spending some serious time pouring over this book. What is it about winning......ANYTHING! I know it made my day to open up my email and read the news. Thank you, Jen! Totally excited. Please check out her blogsite. She is a talented lady!

2011-01-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

BRRR. Ok. I am totally over the cold weather. Single digit tempertures do not thrill me. Guess on the plus side it keeps me at home where I am managing to get some projects done. I am trying to work on things for my spring sale. Every year I say that I am not going to wait until a month before. And OMG....I am actually doing it this time! I love working on mixed media things. Canvas, books, etc. So, I am trying to work on something every day. Today I have actually been felting all morning. I will be doing a class here in a couple of weeks. We are making felt rosette pins. I have been buying up old wool sweaters at thrift stores and getting them ready. Should be fun!

Waiting for this necklace to be picked up by a client. It was made using an earring that belonged to her grandmother and I added a vintage crystal on one side. This is the same girl that I did the rings for her cousins for Christmas. I love this piece. She wanted to keep it simple. Hope she likes it.

This necklace was made using a vintage butterfly. My husband's cousin Betsy loves butterflies so I wanted to surprise her with an early birthday gift.

I made several camera straps as gifts for Christmas. My son is sporting a Chicago Cubs strap.

I know that I said NEVER EVER was I going to attempt a slip-cover again. But I decided to bite the bullet and try again. Using a couple of painter's drop cloths I went to work.

alot of pinning and cutting.....

getting there......

Sadie thinks that the drop cloth is for her...guess she wanted a jump on leaving dog hair on the furniture.

DA DA.....finished! Ok. So maybe I will do it again. But, I am going on record as saying that I will NEVER EVER do another t-cushion. How do you sew a t shape and then get the cushion back into it?? I am not a seamstress. Just the last part of that word....stress. Above the chair you can see the corner of a sub-way style board that I did. I put on it all the towns that Rich and I have lived in. 16!!

this is an adorable little vintage table and chair that I did for a client who is expecting her first little princess February 14. Her nursery is done all in pink, so she wanted to bring in some vintage looking green to match a quilt she had.

The chairs are so unusual...love them. I think I should start looking for Maryn a little set. Tea parties are in that girls future!!

another subway style sign in our bedroom

oh I wish that this were all I had to do......................................

Some more things that I have been making for my spring sale. Little notebooks

decorative little wooden boxes

small mirror

did I already post this????

Did you really think I could post without adding a few pictures of the most beautiful little girl in the world??

On January 16 we had the privledge of attending baby dedication services at the Chapel. I am so proud of Missy and Tyler for this decision to raise that precious little girl in a christian home. And knowing they have a church family that will stand behind them and support them. It was a special morning with all the grandparents there. Followed by lunch at Biaggi's.
What a handsome family!

Love this picture of Maryn holding onto her grandpa Rich's thumb.

Just looking at this face makes me smile.

THINKING SPRING!

2011-01-03T15:09:00.000-08:00

I know it is only January 3.....is it too early to start thinking spring? After the tree and all the trimmings are put away I am ready to move on. I decided to work on the living room and dining room. Moving things around...moving things out....moving things in .....
I brought this dresser in from my shop. I did one a couple of years ago for my daughter's office and always loved the look of the numbers. This is in the corner of my living room. I am already finding it is great for storage of games, candles. I am sure it will not take me long to fill the drawers! I am also thinking ahead to my spring sale. This is a gift box. I always think the packaging should be a gift in itself!

Some more rings using vintage earrings and an old watch face.

Inspire Good in Others.....wouldn't those be great words to take to heart....

Dining room looking in from the living room.

I love the look of "chippy" wood.............

Sara gave me this pink bowl for Christmas.....I just had to leave out some of my vintage Christmas ornaments....the colors were just too perfect.

I painted my mother and grandma's silverware boxes.....love them so much better then the dark wood.

have you guessed that I love old watch/clock faces??

I am still having fun playing around with my new camera.....

I am trying very hard to remember these humble words of Corrie Ten Boom

WRAPPING UP DECEMBER 2010

2010-12-28T05:50:00.000-08:00

It is so hard to believe that we are about to enter 2011. Is it just me or does that sound so strange? It is that time of year that we begin to reflect on the past, looking forward to the future and what it holds. I know I have so much to be thankful for. The arrival of Maryn Rae Romine on November 11th. tops the list. So hard to believe that last Christmas Missy and Tyler told us that they felt that God was shutting the door on having a baby and after much prayer they had made the decision to adopt. They had begun the process of adopting from Ethiopia. Their home studies had already been completed but God had other plans for them. We all feel so blessed with this amazing gift! I am so grateful . Tyler and Missy are both amazing parents. I know that I will never, ever forget the day Maryn was born . The faces of Missy and Tyler are forever in my memory.

And, next Christmas we will have another little one to welcome into the family. Jason and Leonda are due June 21st. Just in time for Jason's 38th birthday! Can't wait. I love that our family continues to grow!

This was probably one of my favorite projects to work on for someone. I had a call a few weeks before Christmas from a girl that wanted to share her grandmother's vintage earrings with her cousins. I made 10 rings that she gave to them. I loved the whole thought that went into this gift. And the earrings, instead of being packed away in the back of a drawer are now being loved and enjoyed by grand-daughters. What a special gift packed with memories.

nathan and jessa.....will always be close to their mother's heart with this sterling necklace.

This was another fun piece to work on. This client had someone that was very special in her family's life. She asked me to create a necklace with items that represented things she loved.

Family, mermaids, birds, playing dominoes, etc.

Such a fun piece to work on! I hope that she enjoys it.

Grandma found a coupld of hats while in Columbus. I thought they were so sweet...

this is made out of felting and it has a little bird on the side.....

I have LOVED this part of the holidays.....FAMILY...........

This is a piece that I decided to surprise a friend with at the last minute. This hymn was played at her Mother's funeral and holds a special place in her heart.

Christmas was special this year because of this little girl. We celebrate on Christmas Eve morning with our kids with a brunch. I loved the time with them. No rush to get somewhere else. Very layed back.

Miss Molly grabs grandpa's chair when he gets up!

Can never get enough of this face.

Sara....Happy Birthday baby girl!!!!

What a handsome couple! I know women are suppose to glow when they are pregnant...but, I swear, Missy has the afterglow! She radiates!!!!

Maryn and her auntie Sara

And as time is winding down on this year.....we are stilling enjoying those last days of 2010. Sara is here until the 29th. Which means we have been to the movies twice (Little Fockers....ummm you can pass on this one...and True Grit............SO GOOD!)

We are eating, watching old movies, eating and playing games.

Wrapped up watching old movies Christmas day.....Sara checking her text..........lots of birthday wishes!

Looking forward to July when this beautiful couple will marry. My niece Lauren and her guy Kraig. This is an amazing couple. They have been together since high school. They are a neat couple. And our family continues to grow.......

Tonight, will probably be another phase 10 challenge to establish this years "Grand Puba" (this is our title for winner).

maybe watching another old movie. We still have not pulled out "Holiday" or "Christmas Vacation" (did I hear a gasp??)

And there will probably be a little more eating....what is more comforting this a rice krispie treat?

Looking forward to 2011 and what it holds. I have so much to be thankful for this year. God has brought us through another year.....and our blessings are many! Have a very blessed New Year!

MISSING DAD

2010-12-18T04:56:00.000-08:00

I miss my dad. December 17, 2002 was THE saddest day of my life and also one of the happiest. My dad left his earthly home and is now enjoying his heavenly home...seeing his mother and father again...brothers and sisters that had gone before him, even a great grandson that he has now probably held for the first time. There are days that I miss him so much that it is like there is a weight on my chest. Other days I think of him and it just brings a smile to my face. It is still so hard to believe that he is gone. I am beginning to forget what his voice sounded like and that scares me. Even though I know I would recognize it instantly if I heard it. My dad was a very strong force in our family. He was the one that we went to in times of trouble and decision making. He was probably the smartest man I ever knew. He only finished school through the 8th grade......but he held a phd in life. He was such a wise planner, kind hearted, fun-loving. He was all about family. He loved when we were all together. He was so proud of his grandchildren. In the time he has been gone, he had 1 great great grand child born, 2 great grandchildren and another on the way, a grandson married and. a grand daughter about to be married. Oh, how he would have loved being a part of all of that! One grandson is working in the very facility that my mom , the love of his life, is now in. He sees her daily. I think so often how proud Dad would be to see Jason finally happy and in a job that clearly God wants him at. He has a granddaughter that travels all over the united states with her job. Dad loved to travel. He would plan the most amazing vacations. He had visited every state. He would love knowing that she is now traveling to new places and seeing new things. He was all about that. He has a grandson that has graduated videoagraphy school and is now has his own business along with his wife shooting weddings and other occasions. One of my Dad's passions was photography. He would have loved that!! We just celebrated our family Christmas with mom last weekend. We still come home for Christmas. We had so much fun together laughing, playing games. Dad would have loved that! Family. He loved it all.
I know this has been a rambling post. But, I woke at 4 this morning and kept thinking about Dad, as yesterday was the anniversary of his death. I miss him. I miss him alot. I am so thankful for the Dad that I had. I am thankful that because of his decision to ask Christ into his heart, that I can live with that hope....knowing that I will seem him again. Merry Christmas Dad. I am missing you alot.....and I love you so much.

WEEKEND OF FUN

2010-12-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

We celebrated the Mayberry christmas on Saturday at Heritage Point with my mom. This was a new experience for all of us. But, it felt right. My mom has been through so many BIG changes this year. The fall, hospitalization, move into a nursing facility. But, thankfully she realizes it is the right choice for her. She has adjusted well. She is making friends, she is in a good enviroment. It is good just knowing that someone is taking care of her and that she is safe.
We decided to meet there for Christmas. My brother and all of his family came from Michigan...our kids were all there. We had a great time! We ate, had gift exchange....and our white elephant exchange (which will explain the next picture). And at my mom's request, we played bingo! Who knew that bingo could be so much fun?? Of course, mom has become the bingo queen so she had a little more experience. We had prizes for everyone! Lottery tickets etc. Everyone played. Rich and Sharon were quite the team. I think Rich may have been a 'caller' in a previous life. And Sharon....kind of worried about her....she seemed to know just a little too much about making the game exciting.

Is this a good look or what? It lights up and dances. Everything a hat should be and more! Actuall, Rich ended up loosing it to Jason. Jason plans to wear it at work....the patients will LOVE it!!! I am sure he will bring a smile to many faces!! Sorry Rich...

My niece Marissa and her boyfriend, Sarafin

Mom gets a new sweater!

Shelby and Aaron...first Christmas as a married couple

mother and child........

My brother Terry and wife Sharon.....don't think he looks very enthused..

awwww

My niece Marissa and Maryn

Aaron and grandma

Daddy love.............

Our son Tyler, the daddy to our beautiful granddaughter

I think Sara hears something....

Great grandma Mayberry meets Maryn for the first time..........

Grandma B finally gets her chance ...........have I mentioned that this is one beautiful baby???

This is Captain....my brother's little cock-a-poo.

Tyler, Missy and little Maryn....it was her birthday..1 month!

My daughter Sara, nephew Aaron and Leonda.

This is my son Jason and his girlfriend, Leonda. They brought Leonda's daughters with them...it so good having little ones around again!

This is Emma. She is 5....what a sweet face. She and her sister are smart, funny little girls!

This is Shelby.....

more of the vintage glass beads from my childhood...

I soo love this Santa. My mom and dad put it out every year for as long as I can remember. And I know this sounds crazy, but it has a 'special' smell to it....and it always brings back memories.

DECKING THE HALLS......AND THE DOGS!

2010-12-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

Goes without saying....we love our little fur balls. They are an important part of our family.
This is our little cock-a-poo....Maggie. She always looks so serious. Sadie......always has a smile on her face. Sadie is always under the assumption that everyone loves her.

Annie.....sweet Annie....she is like a big old teddy bear....

and this is Sara's Molly.............what a face. Molly is a real snuggle bug.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this tub! I found it in my mom's shed. She told me that it was her and my dad's first bathtub! How neat is that? Looks more like a big food spa.......cannot even began to imagine trying to cram into this thing.

One of the things I found when we were cleaning out my mom's attic was a box of vintage Christmas ornaments. I love all the glass beads. And the colors are so perfect.

more glass beads and pink ornaments...

yes.....I totally love mercury glass...............

hope Maryn is not peeking..........

old photograph of 2 of my brothers and I with Santa

two things I treasure....one is the little bible my dad got when going to war...metal cover to protect him....the other a small bible that was given to my dad from his mother.........

i love the coat I am wearing in this picture.....

Weekend in Columbus

2010-12-06T06:08:00.001-08:00

My daughter Sara and I spend the weekend in Columbus, OH. I had been invited to do a trunk show at Lottie Da's. I have posted about this amazing children's store before. If you have not checked out their site....you should. And, Amy now sells ons Etsy. If you are looking for something unique for your child.....this is the place! Amy did the bedding for Maryn's nursery. Layers of ruffles in vintage looking fabrics! The little lion below is one of the shoppers that was in on Saturday. Her name was Collette....Her mommy tried this sweater on her....too too cute. It even has a tale in the back! There was also one that looked like a little mouse, a sheep... Meet Charlotte! Her mommy, Amy, owns Lottie Da's. She is one of the most beautiful little girls I have ever met ( after Maryn, of course). Her personality matches this little face.

Part of mylittle show area...

If you are in Columbus....after visiting Lottie Da's you need to stop at Bloomsbury Loft. Sara and I had visited their booth at the Country Living Fair..but they always close the store that weekend. So, this was our first opportunity to actually shop the store. WOW! Lots of fun things.

Another neat little shop....but rather pricey. Still, fun to look

Those who know me well...know I am a sucker for vintage bird cages. How cute is this?

A super yummy lunch at the 'Black Olive'. An amazing bowl of tomato basil soup along with a grilled cheese that was beyond good!

It was such a fun weekend. I always love going to Columbus. So many things to see and do. And of course I always look forward to time traveling with Sara. We always make it fun! We did manage to sneak in a visit to Sugardaddy's. Had to pick up a few of those world-famous brownies to bring back to Missy. Yummmm. I am still sticking to the chipolte-cinnamon. It is to die for.!

RANDOM SHOOTING

2010-12-01T06:05:00.000-08:00

Definitely just some ramdom shots today! I am not a photographer. Rich has always been our picture taker. But, I just invested in a canon rebel.....and I can't stop. I am sure it has nothing to do with Maryn. But, I am having alot of fun just snapping whatever!

WHAT A FACE!

"Maryn's Heart"..I did this sterling necklace for Missy. It has a little pink pearl attached. I love it. Sweet.

doing a little spoiling...

I am soo loving my new canon rebel. OOPS...think I chould have removed the "china" tag.

These are all vintage ornaments that we had when I was growing up. LOVE LOVE LOVE the colors! I found 3 boxes when we moved my mom.

Thanksgiving with my mom . Rich, Sara and I drove to Warren to spend the afternoon with her. No cooking, no clean up. And the food was great!

LOVE NOTES TO MARYN

2010-11-20T08:49:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be fun for Missy's mom, Milly, and I to keep a journal that we could give to Maryn in the future. So, I made us each a little journal.....they are alike, but different. Milly will be able to journal some of her memories of raising Missy, while I will do the same about Tyler. Plenty of room to write and add pictues other mementos. There is a page for the proud grandpas to write about the first time they saw Maryn...... It is just a simple journal, but, I hope that we can both record alot of wonderful memories and will tell Maryn a little bit more about her amazing parents and what it was like for her us to our children become parents.

the day we found out that Maryn was coming.....

love notes about Maryn's daddy

I AM IN LOVE

2010-11-14T17:11:00.000-08:00

MARYN (*sounds like Karen) RAE ROMINE has arrived!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thursday, November 11 and 1:58 pm. 7 lbs 8 oz and 19 3/4 long! And SO worth the wait!

She may be little but she has us completely wrapped around those precious fingers! Maryn is the first grandbaby for both families. A year ago we would never have imagined this moment.

Missy and Tyler had been praying for a baby for 4 years and had actually began the process of adopting from Ethiopia. God answered their prayers...........but in a much different way then what we were all planning..............a precious miracle named Maryn. .

So love this picture. To see Missy with Maryn in her arms.....touches me. Missy will be a wonderful mother........

Proud Momma and Dad with our precious Maryn.

We all feel so blessed. Most of our friends are already grandparents......and I guess I never fully understood. And as corny as it may sound...it is like the world seems brighter! It is true...you walk around with your heart on the outside. So, just in case you have not got the point ......

I AM SO SO IN LOVE with this little bundle of beauty. We are all so thankful to God for this precious gift......and what a blessing it is to know that Maryn will grow up in a home with parents that will not only let her know every day how very much they love her but that also has a heavenly father that loves her even more!!!

LAST DAY OF SALE

2010-11-06T05:09:00.001-07:00

We had a fun busy busy Friday night! It is always so much fun to see people that I have not seen since last sale! We had alot of fun. I had plenty of help this year. My daughter Sara always comes from Ft Wayne to help. This year, my very very pregnant daughter in law Missy was on hand to help! She made no bakes and baked some yummy pumpkin and chocolate chip muffins for the sale. And this year we were joined by Bridgett from VictoriaGean's. Love love love this talanted lady! She did all of the cute little hats, baby pods and eternity scarves. And some amazing hair clips.

Hope you can visit us today. We are open from 10-2. We still have alot of fun things !

we still have a couple of rings left......these were very popular! FUN!

**SOLD**

mommy and me aprons....

eternity scarf made by my good friend Bridget......SOLD....but she is taking orders.

Chalk board tags. Sold alot of these, but still have a few left. Great used on packages, storage baskets, as a napkin ring. I am sure you can think of several used. Fun

2010-11-03T12:22:00.000-07:00

Almost ready. One more full day to get things in place. I wanted to share a few things that you will find at this year's sale. Just a reminder...this Friday 3-8pm and Saturday 10-2:00.

the bebe bird boutique

so so SWEET! This is a baby pod and hat. This one is actually sold. But, Bridget will be taking orders.

love the simplicity of this one

block letters

love love love this necklace. Really thinking of keeping this one......

rings for every finger!! These are done using vintage earrings

bracelets

this cute little knob can be found on

this cute little red desk!

Small cabinet/table top chalk board. Keep your grocery list handy or post tonight's special!

A small wall cabinet

Don't you love the cute little porcelain knob.....

and the inside is lined with old sheet music.

A little side table...top is done in old yardsticks.

how cute is this? Wish I had thought of something like this when my kids were bringing home their daily artwork. Four clips along the bottom will let you display in style. The top is actually a blackboard....so you can personalize.

SOME RANDOM PICTURES & TRYING TO PLAY CATCH UP

2010-10-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that my sale is next weekend! Where has the time gone....I wanted to post some pictures of some of the things that will be available. Hopefully will get some of the furniture posted this weekend! I have also posted some pictures from the Vera Bradley breast cancer event. I had forgot to load them! Oops!

Wall hooks done with old yard sticks

Sorry for the not so good picture! This is a little square wooden mirror....it is actually done in a crackled pink.

Sorry...some of these pix are a little blurry....I have also done some quotation cuffs...forgot to do pix.

Walk in Faith

Live Love Laugh Inspire

God's grace is immeasurable

Life is a Promise

NEW*** Monogramed Necklaces.....

serving tray using old yard sticks

a vintage theme wall hanging

Early October I attended the TICKLED PINK event at Vera Bradley. This is the breast cancer foundation night. Always a fun fun evening for ladies in pink! Nearly $54,000 was raised that evening that will all go to breast cancer research. $2o, 000 alone was from the silent auction! I had posted a necklace earlier that I did for the event. This year it was truely a family event....My sister in law, nieces came down from Michigan to join my daughter, daughter in law and her mother..It was such a fun evening!!!! And for such a wonderful cause.

Sara, Shelby and Stacey

Ryan Star was the evening's entertainment. WOW! Besides being a real cutie.....sounded just like Neil Diamond....

sister-in-law Sharon and Missy

Sara and my nephew's wife, Shelby

My cute niece Marissa......

ALL ABOUT MISSY TODAY!!!

2010-10-21T05:59:00.000-07:00

OK....so it is pretty apparent....I AM DEFINITLY going to be one of THOSE kind of first time grandmothers! Just had to post these pictures from last night. Especially since it might the last pictures I get before Maryn makes her appearance! Missy is glowing.....I have never seen her more beautiful!

Rich thought he was being so clever with this......I love this girl! And knowing she is going to be the mother of our grandchild. We feel so blessed. She is as beautiful on the inside as she is the out.

SOMETHING TO CROW ABOUT....IT'S FALL! ! !

2010-10-10T14:02:00.000-07:00

JUST A QUICKY TODAY

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

This is just a quick update. I have been so busy. We have recently had to put my mother into a health care facility . The Lord has been working behind the scenes. We had someone call asking to rent the house! So, at least it will not be sitting empty all winter. But, that does mean alot of stressfull work in just a few number of days. We are having an estate sale this Saturday. My brother his coming from Michigan tomorrow. Even though I am not emotionally attached to the house...as they moved there after I had left home. It is hard going through their things and deciding what is important...what goes to mission, what goes to the curb. Very, very hard...

BUT...... did want to introduce you to an amazing, creative friend of mine....Bridgette Boswell. She creates under the name VictoriaGene. Victoria is Bridgette's middle name and Gene is her mother. Together they sew, crochet and create amazing things together. A mother-daughter team. Besides being ever so cute....Bridgette is very talanted as you will see in the pictures of just a few of things from her line.

If you have been to my sales, I think you know by now that I am very particular, and try very hard to offer you unique things. I have always wanted to see my shop grow by having some other artisians participate. But, to be honest...I am very picky. So, I am thrilled that Bridgette is going to be apart of the paper-roSe this sale. I think you will love her things. Bridgette totally 'gets it'.....if you know what I mean. She has a vintage heart......

A little peacock feather.....how chic is that!

OMG! So, just how cute is this? Baby is not for sale.......but the cocoon and hat set are! And it will be available in other colors. Oh, yes.....baby Maryn will be getting her picture taken in a pink one....oh yes!!

just how cute is this apron??!! And some will be available in mommy and me. Great Christmas gift... and did I not tell you that Bridgette is a cutie?? She models too!!!!

IT IS ALL ABOUT MARYN....

2010-10-03T10:51:00.000-07:00

I am sure I will be using that heading again...IT'S ALL ABOUT MARYN.....in just a few short weeks! Maryn Rae Romine is due to make her appearance November 22nd (Maryn is pronounced 'mair-in'). Rich and I will be sharing grandparenting with Missy's parent's Milly and Larry. First grandchild for all of us.....so maybe just a little bit excited! I know Rich and I feel so blessed to have Missy as a daughter in law....I know that Milly and Larry feel the same about Tyler. They are just a super neat couple and I know they will be amazing parents. If you have followed Missy'sblog "Our Journey to Three" you will know that they had begun the journey of adopting a child from Ethiopia when they learned they were pregnant. Maryn is definitly a miracle baby!!! On Saturday I had the privledge of hosting a luncheon for Missy and Maryn. My battery died somewhere in the middle of the shower.....thus no people!!! But, will find someone's pictures to post later. Just wanted to share a little part of the special day.....

no way could Maryn NOT be a beautiful baby with these two for parents...

seat of honor

everyone recieved a gift box with a pair of earring with little silver birds

are you picking up on the theme??

Miss Maryn's beautiful mama

how cute is she????! She has a smile that lights up a room!!!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR...AGAIN

2010-09-19T17:15:00.000-07:00

I feel as if I have been MIA. This has been a very busy fall. I am getting ready for my fall sale. I won't bore you with all that involves. But I am changing the date . It is positively going to be held the first weekend in November. We are expecting our first grandchild in mid November. So, I was going into panic mode....I knew Maryn Rae could not make her arrival without me being there. So PLEASE mark your calendars for November 5-6. I have so many great pieces.....along with an added bonus.....some amazing pieces from VictoriaGene. I promise I will get some pictures on my site this week.
Sara and I are leaving early Thursday. We are going to Columbus for the Country Living Fair. Can't wait! We splurged on the early bird tickets this year. If you ever get the chance..GO! I will try and remember that I have my camera in my purse this year and take lots of pictures.
But, until then I wanted to share a few things I have been working on.

This oh so sweet lamp will not make it into my sale.......because it is going.....................

in this little girl's room! Our grandbaby that is due November 22nd.

yes....more flower pins.....do I ever stop with these things????

key to unlocking all those wonderful memories.....

A couple of pillows. I have discovered the most amazing method of doing a transfer on fabric.

Before

After

This is a necklace that I have been working on for Tickled Pink. Tickled Pink is a special ladies night out sponsored by Vera Bradley for the Vera Bradley Breast Cancer Foundation. It will be held October 1. What a fun evening for such a wonderful cause. 500 women dressed in pink....There is a silent auction held throughout the evening. I had been asked to design/donate a necklace. It is copper with vintage pink pieces. It has a hand-stamped copper disc with their theme "Hope Grows". I am so excited. This year, my sister-in-law is coming from Michigan, along with her daughter, daughter in law and her mother. So they will join my daughter, my daughter in law and her mother and I for the evening. So , it will truely be a special girl's night out for us!

a fall wreath I put together this afternoon for the back door. I will stick a rosette on anything!

TOOTING MY OWN HORN....just a little

2010-09-01T14:49:00.000-07:00

Ok. So, I want to do a little boasting. I found this chaise at a yard sale. They had it marked $20...ended up getting it for $10. I have said it before.....I do not do serious sewing....BUT...decided to attempt to make a slip cover. So, using a drop cloth this is what I ended up with! I am pretty proud of myself! Will I ever make slip covers for a living?? NEVER NEVER EVER!

(oops, need to snip some threads.....)

I love these glass doors. Decided to use them for a headboard.

A couple more dresses for the sale. The first one was made using a vintage pillowcase.

Cute little choker.....

Remember this little piece? It went from this.....

to this! Thank you to my friend Cassie....she had used this color on a piece and I fell in love with it. It is called 'peppercorn"...a deep gray. Love the little glass knobs. Found them at Anthropolgie...yellow butterflies.

sorry....kind of blurry....wanted to show you the detail.

COUNT DOWN BEGINS...

2010-08-25T11:53:00.000-07:00

Where has the summer gone?? September is almost here. Which means I need to start kicking it into gear for my fall sale. Right now I am thinking the dates will be November 12-13. So mark your calender! That gives me 2 months to paint, sew, decopage, paint, make another necklace, create, paint, glue, make another pair of earrings, paint....you get the idea. I need to get busy! I am super excited about my sale this year. There are going to be some new features.....a baby section "bebe byrd". I told you that I am going crazy with this sewing thing. So you can expect little dresses....sizes 6 months-5T. AND, the thing I am SUPER excited about is I have a super creative person contributing some awesome items! I will be sharing more about that later..... introduce you to her and share some of the amazing things that she makes.
Here are a few of the items I have been working on. Not a lot yet.....but lots of new things to come!

I have some special plans for this little piece....

I love this piece. It a metal cart with a drawer. I have one very similar to this in my kitchen. It is on wheels.....easy to use for an extra serving space....just roll it where you need it!

remember these little cuties that I picked up last spring? they were short, grey metal stools. So cute....so industrial!

a burlap runner with muslin ruffle

explosion of yellow!

A FEW NEW THINGS IN MY SHOP

2010-08-16T16:49:00.000-07:00

OK. So I never did enjoy playing monopoly as a kid. My brothers always ganged up on me and believe me....this would be a card I would need to put back. But, I do love it as a necklace....a fun piece. I have been wearing one that says I won second prize in a beauty contest....$20! I have been getting alot of comments about it...so, thought I would make another.

flip side

I love to spoon..........

a couple of more flower pins....

This is a baby memory box that I made for a client's god-daughter. I love the name Bella.....and that was before Twilight!

Remember how I said I was on a roll with the sewing and can't seem to stop.....well I these are two more things I made. This was with all the cute little owls is actually for my friends granddaughter......cute with little leggings and long sleeved tee....

made from a vintage pillowcase

KEEPING BUSY

2010-08-02T15:07:00.000-07:00

Is it really possible that it is already August 2?! Where has this summer gone? I must be getting old....I don't think I am a summer-loving girl any more. I just do not enjoy the heat. I am looking forward to fall. I enjoy the cooler weather. Today I ordered tickets for the Country Living Fair that is held in Columbus, Ohio at the end of September. Sara and I went last year and loved it! We knew this had to be a yearly trip for us. I will try and remember to take more pictures this year to share.
I am working on setting a date for my November sale. Along with that I am trying to work on a few things. Just wanted to share a few things

a hand - stamped heart full of love...

a spoonful of goodness!

a few shabby pins...

this little tin box slides open !

This is a sweet little pearl choker with a simple silk flower on the side.

This was done using an acid-etch technique...

My first attempt at making a pillowcase dress. Still have some tweaking to do on it.

How cute are these fabrics? I love all the bright colors.....when my daughter was little everything was pastels

"Bebe Burps"...ok. So maybe I am getting carried away. I am not a sewer....but, when I get in the mood I have to go with it. I thought I would sew a few burp cloths for Maryn....So 2 dozen burp cloths later.....but, new babies spit up alot...right?

WELCOME TO THE WORLD ETHAN CAIN!!

2010-07-29T14:48:00.000-07:00

How cute is this family! My friend Julie and her hubby Nick welcomed their son, ETHAN into this world early this morning! 7 lbs. 14oz., 21 inches of beautiful baby!

Proud Mommy!

I have to say...in all honesty....this is the most beautiful baby I have seen in a long time.....well, at least until November! Maybe we can arrange a play date with Maryn in a few years!

Congratulations Nick and Julie! I love him....he is so perfect!!

BEST WEEKEND EVER!

2010-07-25T15:19:00.000-07:00

Whew! Home. Tired and in my jammies and it is only 7:00. Just spent a wonderful weekend with 2 of my very favorite people in the world. My daughter Sara and daughter-in-law Missy. Our ultimate destination was Columbus, Ohio to visit the Lottie Da shop. Missy was making the the final selections for fabrics for custom bedding for Maryn's room. OMG! They are unbelieveably sweet. I cannot wait to share some pictures. Amy Routh, who is the owner of Lottie Da's is amazing! Her shop is birth through age 6 and everything has a vintage/retro feel to it. I have posted several pictures, but they really do not do it justice. It is such a fun shop.
Our weekend actually began on Thursday when we met for pedicures and dinner. Followed by a pj party at Sara's. We left early on Friday returning home Saturday evening. We crammed alot in to our trip. I love spending time with these two! They are so much fun. I am just so thankful to have family that are also friends.

Our destination! Eye candy everywhere you look in this place!!

My mother celebrated her 85th birthday on Friday, July 23rd. My brother Terry and his family came down from Michigan and we all gathered for a party on Sunday. Mother is adjusting so well to her new home. We brought in pizza and cake and celebrated her special day. I think there were 20 of us. I love my family!!! We had such a good time.

Happy 85th Mom

Son Tyler and beautiful wife Missy.....and of course...baby Maryn.

My daughter Sara, Sharon, Shelby and me.

Proud grandma with her beautiful grandkids!

How cute is this guy? Our son, Tyler

Brother Terry and his wife Sharon. I am so blessed to have such a great sister-in-law!

3 generations. My baby brother Terry and his handsome son, Aaron with Mom.

My handsome son Jason. I am so proud of this guy. He works as an activities director at the facility that my mother has moved in to. What a gift he has working with elderly people. It touches me to watch him as he interacts with patients....the way they react to him. He loves what he does...and I know so many appreciate the things he does for their loved ones. And, mom is over the top with pride because she is there with her grandson! He begins his day by visiting her room. She loves it! I know this has made the transition for her so much easier...for all of us. THANK YOU, Jason...for all that you do

Also wanted to share a necklace that I did for a special friend. She invited me to go through some storage sheds are her property. OMG! I felt like I was the t.v. show "Pickers". It was so much fun....crawling over, digging through...finding amazing things! It is kinda hard to read, but the heart has her children's names. I just wanted to say THANK YOU for an amazing afternoon!!

JUST SOME RANDOM THOUGHTS AND PICTURES

2010-07-14T16:44:00.001-07:00

I know I have been MIA......so much has been going on in my life.....3 weeks ago today, I found my almost 85 year old mother lying in her garage.....she had been there for over 6 hours. Praise God, there were no broken bones, but she did had lost alot of blood because of a head injury....it been 3 weeks of ups and downs....twice not thinking she was going to make it. But, yesterday she was transferred to a health care place. She will begin therapy and our hope is that she can eventually make it into the assisted living wing. My brothers live in Michigan and Texas....so that makes the situation even harder at times. She turns 85 on July 23......please say a prayer for mother that she continues to grow stronger. This has been very traumatic on her.

BUT.......with that comes wonderful news!.....

So, just how cute is this couple??!! Our son Tyler and his awesome wife, Missy....and please take note of the little "bump". That little bump has a name......Maryn Rae....due the end of November! Our first grandchild!!!!!!! OMG! We could not be more excited. I think I have become "one of those" people! And she has not even arrived yet! Missy and Tyler were actually in the middle of adopting from Ethiopia....and SURPRISE! A true miracle baby! I am so happy for them......a perfect example of God's perfect timing. This baby had been prayed for for several years..... Along with Missy's parents....we cannot wait to welcome this precious child and start spoiling her....

the "S" in the paper roSe.....my beautiful daughter Sara! I always call her my cheerleader! She encourages me to do what I do! I love spending time with her. Sara is my very best friend....I am so proud of her...

With my wonderful husband.....this is the man I could not function without! He garage sales with me (and has been known to even go on his own), repairs furniture, builds, has even helped me with painting, and just supports me every step of the way! I know I could not do what I do without him!

Newest addition to the family.....I LOVE LOVE LOVE this! And it is perfect for hanging things on that I am working on! Trying to come up with a name for her......

This is a wall hangin that I did for my friend Julie's nursery. It is done on 4 12x12 canvases. Julie and Nick's initials are 'carved' on the tree. Julie and Nick are expecting their little one any day.....and they did not want to know the sex. My bet is a boy.....but, boy or girl....this is going to be one cute baby! Nick and Julie are such a cute couple......

a necklace that I did for a friend of my daughters.......

SHOWERING JULIE WITH LOVE!!

2010-06-28T11:27:00.000-07:00

Julie is a very special friend of mine. She and her husband Nick are expecting their first baby in July. It has been so much fun planning a special luncheon/shower for Julie . I just wanted to share a few pictures from her special day.

How sweet are these faces? They all wanted to be a part of Julie's special day. They helped me serve and were great helpers!

Emma, Roslyn Grace, Katelyn and Emily all love Miss Julie! They are in her awana group.

Julie with her sister Paula, mom Betty and sister Amy...What a cute group!

WHERE DOES TIME GO????

2010-06-18T18:17:00.000-07:00

I just got home from having dinner with 7 friends from high school. Where does time go? It was 41 years ago that we graduated! You wonder how that is possible when you are thinking you are only in your 40's! Tomorrow night our high school is having it's first "60's) alumni re-union. 1960-1969. We were the class of '69.....we will be the youngest ones there!!!!!! We don't hear that too often, anymore. (I am pictured 3rd on the left side of the table) It is funny how you can not see people for 40 years and immediately pick up right where you left off! You may not recognize each other at first, and after you are together 10 minutes the person looks just like you remembered! It was a fun evening....I am looking forward to tomorrow.......we will be the youngest there you know!

JUST A FEW OF THE THINGS YOU WILL BE MISSING

2010-06-11T05:27:00.000-07:00

if you don't come to the sale! Today 4-8 and Saturday 10-3! There is alot more then pictured here....but I have to get back to work! Please Mr. Sunshine....stay out all day!!!!

oh yeah.....loving the jewlery.....

what can I say...loving the numbers this year....

How cute is this? I did one for Sara's office. Would work great in a family room, child's room

pub table and 3 stool

STILL SO MUCH TO DO!!!!!!

2010-06-02T07:16:00.000-07:00

4 of these babies! i am loving the look of metal this year. so industrial looking. will definitly put numbers on the top.....but, i am thinking different colors, what do you think?