Pruitt Handcrafts

Wordless Wednesday - End of the Afternoon Nap

2012-02-29T03:00:00.001-08:00

Cute new Product!

2012-02-28T03:00:00.006-08:00

I have lots of scraps, since I am a fabric artist and crafter. I had some flannel left over from making my oldest granddaughter's T-Shirt quilt, so I decided to make a small one--quilt, that is--for some of my younger grandchildren! This one is a doll quilt done rag style. I have decided to add these to my shop for other little ones to enjoy. Will have them in several colors soon!

The thing I like about it, is that it can also be a cuddle blankie. Two of my grandchildren liked to take the edge of the blankie and softly rub their noses with them for comfort! This little blanket is soft and would work well for children who need their comfort blankie when away from home. It is much easier to tote than a full sized child's blanket.

That's what's new!

Spring Cleaning!

2012-02-27T03:00:00.004-08:00

I've known that I had a bit of Spring fever, even though here in the Pacific Northwest the winter hasn't been very severe--mild actually. All the storms have been missing us and going more to the North. Anyway, I still find myself longing for the freshness of Spring. I guess I further proved it to myself this weekend, with a furious bout of Spring cleaning! Seems like many friends have been giving me fabrics and notions and they had been building up in bags in my "studio"-- the end of my bedroom. It was getting me down, because not everything had it's place and I had to walk around 'stuff' in bags on the floor.

A friend said to me last week, "I love getting new clothes at Goodwill (thrift store) but I never seem to clean out my closets and get rid of the old clothes." That gave me an idea. I had plenty of old clothes in drawers that I never wear. So I went thru the drawers and was able to fill up two large bags of clothing that are headed to the thrift store. This left me with four empty drawers in my large dressers. I started going thru my stuff and organizing. Here's the finished product--a clean studio space.

Dresser top storage all arranged!

The dressers had been stacked with books and fabrics thrown in disarray! NOW, I can see what I need and get to it!

Fabric Storage!

This side of the dresser I couldn't even open, because of the boxes stacked in front of it! I got rid of what was in the dresser that I never use and now it holds my larger fabric yardage and a box of unfinished projects that I can easily pull out and finish!

Drawer full of felt and ribbon

Now I can SEE my ribbons and readily get to my felt supply! They were in a box with all kinds of fabrics stacked on top of them.

Desk top handy items!

On the end of the desktop, I have my Ott light, my pin bowl, my scissor caddy, thread storage and a little wire basket for fabric scraps. Oh, and my coaster for my tea cup! It was stacked with unfinished projects, which can get confusing when you are working on something. It was causing a lack of focus on my current project. This is much better!

And then there is my bulletin board! (I recently did this post about it.) I obviously didn't get to it yet! Oh well, there'll be another day.

You got Spring Fever yet?

Long Ago's Project Finished!

2012-02-23T15:41:00.000-08:00

I have projects that are unfinished, I know you do too. But I just had to tell you about this one project that I just FINISHED! Such accomplishment I feel!

I had a stack of fabric (and some trim), that I bought, actually when I lived in another state! It was intended for my daughter. She wanted a table runner for her newly painted living/dinning room. No problem! So I bought some fabric. But . . . . you know how it goes, life happens! Well, I finished her table runner today! Yay!

It's reversible, one side for everyday, and one side for special occasions. And you know what? When I got the stack down from the shelf, a receipt fell to the floor. You know what date it had on it? 03-15-2002! How do you like that? I hope she likes it after all this time.

And, I don't know what I was thinking, back in 2002, but I bought a ton of fabric, nearly three yards of each of these purples! Anyone else need a table runner? It might be done by 2020! hee hee! :-)

Start of Organization

2012-02-17T23:58:00.000-08:00

The organization of my "studio" space, which I have mentioned before is just the end of my bedroom, starts with this bulletin board. It is hung over my bedside table. It's the first thing that I see when I awake or get ready for bed. It's easy to pin up ideas of the day. I keep my reading books on the table along with a tablet for writing and of course, my eyeglasses, and a few quilt magazines. But the basis of my organization starts with this bulletin board. I have a list of my current orders, and hang my shopping list there. At other times, I pin hand drawn ideas to pursue later--so I won't forget my ideas; and most of the time, I hang pictures from magazines that inspire me. I haven't learned, nor tried, to use pinerest yet, so my bulletin board will have to do!

Oh . . . and the decoration at the top of the board? I made it years ago and just like the look of it.

Oh, oh . . .and I linked up with Erika's Friday 'Embrace Inspiration Workshop' over at Artful Rising blog.

Where does your inspiration and organization start?

February Team GiveAway

2012-02-16T03:00:00.000-08:00

As I have said before, I am a member of an awesome blogging team, a group of Etsyians called Blogging Business Artisans. We are having a team wide giveaway in February--we have one each month--that is truly awesome! What you can win is not just from one team member, but from nine of them! You have to see it!

Here's a sneak peak:

one of nine gifts!

This is the blog post that tells you how to enter.

Please visit and enter.

Good luck!

P.S. Enter before February 25th

WW Little Sister's Birthday

2012-02-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

Me and my sister, DeLynn

Valentine's Day Treat

2012-02-14T18:43:00.000-08:00

Today, Valentines Day, I have tried a valentine's treat recipe that I found on KittysKozyKitchen blog. I wanted to show you how they turned out!

Mine aren't presented a beautifully as Kitty's but they sure do taste good! Happy Valentines Day Everyone!

Sunday Afternoon Avatar

2012-02-13T15:31:00.000-08:00

Many of my customers and blog friends may have wondered about the avatar that I use for my Pruitt Creations Etsy shop. We (Etsyians) are usually told to make our avatar representative of what we sell. We are encouraged to do this to increase our brand presence. Although I believe this is good advice, I have taken a different path.

My avatar is representative of who I am. I am my brand. My crafts and creations are all inspired by my own favorites--things that I like. Maybe that is not a good selling tactic, but it is true to who I am. It's not so unusual; people in my circles know when they see quilter, Alex Anderson's picture, what she does and the quality of her work. She is her own brand.

I love the outdoors, and, at my age and stage of life, I cannot get outside enough to be pleased. So my avatar helps inspire me. It's from a picture taken on a Sunday afternoon when hubby and I went for a drive up the canyon to Mt Hood. We stopped creek side and spent some time. Hubby snapped this picture while I was sitting on a log looking up at the winter bare treetops. He cropped it into a panoramic view, which I really like. It is also now a part of my shop banner, if you look closely.

I have cropped it further and use it for my avatar.

Maybe I will change it someday, but I like it.

A blog friend of mine once said: "I'd know that chin anywhere!"

P.S. Here's a sample of how this day has inspired me:

Winter Twig throw pillow

How do you keep yourself inspired?

Cooperation?

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

Sandwich Practice

2012-02-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

One new technique that I am trying is machine quilting. I have only used my old Singer machine to quilt small projects, up to this point, i.e. table runners, small quilted wall hangings, a baby quilt. But never a large quilt. One reason is because the feed dogs do not lower on my machine. I have to cover them with a home-made plastic plate to do any quilting with free motion design. So I have mostly stuck to 'in the ditch' or straight line quilting, if I have done the quilting myself and not sent it out to a quilt studio.

I was recently at my friend's house, who has a good free motion quilting machine, and I did some practicing. After I practiced free motion meandering, I was a little disappointed in my work, since it is not easy to do. I had heard that it takes practice, and that is right! So I wouldn't show you that particular practice piece--it doesn't look very good! I decided to stick to straight line quilting, until I have more practice time finished.

Then, I decided to make a sandwich. No, not the kind you eat! A quilt sandwich. This is a small square of the materials that you are using in your current quilt project, approximate 12 inches by 12 inches, including a piece of the top, a piece of the batting and a piece of the backing. With this you can practice stitches with free motion, even different threads and thread combinations, and sizes of stitch lengths.

Since I wanted a look of water, I tried parallel wavy lines . . . .

and . . . overlapping wavy lines. I tried some different colors of thread, but it doesn't show very well in these photos.

My current quilt project has a scalloped edging, so I cut the sandwich with a scalloped edge and tried two different stitching patterns along the scallops. I had originally thought that I wanted wavy lines there too, but hubby suggested straight lines going out from the center. I didn't like his thought very much, until I tried it.

My thought:

His thought:

I think his idea makes the scallop's look like seashells . . . and I like it better! It doesn't look so good here, since there is no edging to define it. Anyway, I think that this sandwich practice has helped me decide how I want to quilt my large project. The only thing left to decide is how I am going to quilt the patchwork portion that I haven't shown here. Decisions, decisions! Oh . . and I decided on a name for the quilt . . .
Stay tuned for the progress on the "Antique Bubble" doily quilt.

Goal Progress?

2012-02-06T11:35:00.000-08:00

I've been inspired by a blog friend, Edi of MemoriesforLifeSB to revisit my goals for 2012 to see how I am doing in the first month. Edi's goals were all VERY specific and mine were more of a general nature. (Here's her post about her progress.) Anyway, I had to go back and read my goals, then evaluate.

In my supply shop, I had determined to purchase more vintage fabric, if they were available. It seems that I have not been shopping as much as I would have liked to find these at estate sales. NO shopping, you say? Well, I think that the weather has had a little to do with that. It hard to tramp in and out of houses where sales are with the weather dreary, cold and wet! But I will do better! Spring is coming! :)

Madison

As to my Creations shop, I have been weeding out those items that have not been favorites, (and have been in my shop for a long time.) Thus pruning my shop items, getting ready to add some new items to an existing line. I have given some items away as gifts and plan to let my granddaughter, Madison, sell some of them at a school garage sale. She is raising money for her 8th grade school trip to Washington DC. She is excited about this trip and is working very hard toward this project! (My other granddaughter, Courtney, now a senior, went on this trip in her 8th grade year.) This should clear out more items. Then, the plan was to expand the coaster and cozy line with new types of fabrics. I have not done this in the month of January, but once I have cleared out the old, new items will be in order!

Mostly I have been working on my own personal creativity goals. I will save this discussion for tomorrows post. See you then!

How have you been doing with your goals?

Friday Finds!

2012-02-03T03:00:00.000-08:00

Lavender picks for Friday!

Lavender in June by meganrhodes

When I first saw lavender fields in bloom on the Washington Pennisula, I was enthralled with the look of them! They are gorgeous plants growing in a field, all manicured in long rows!

Goat's Milk and Lavender Soap by OwensAcres

I love goat's milk soap and I found this one with lavender all etched and beautiful!

Lavender Sachet by MeadowValleyLavender

I love sachets for my clothing drawers and I love embroidery. This french knot lavender is gorgeous!

Tennis Bracelet by Beadedtail

Lovely simple bracelet with Lavender beads! Simple, elegant, and the right color!

What do you think? Got a favorite?

Swollen River Photos

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

Our day looking at the swollen Willamette River. The falls are almost not there, since the water level is so high! Grandma and grandsons enjoyed the day!

Studio Guest

2012-01-31T21:58:00.000-08:00

This week and part of next, I am a "studio guest." I get to work in my friend's studio!

I've been "going on and on" to my Etsy team buddies about my current house sitting and pet sitting for my friend who has a large sewing studio in her home! I get to use it when I am here and so I thought I would show why I have been talking so much about it! You must remember, my "studio" is in a one bedroom apartment that utilizes part of my bedroom for the sewing machine; the kitchen table for the serger when it is not set for dining; and an ironing board in front of my living room easy chair for fabric cutting and embroidery handwork supplies (not to mention ironing and pressing!) Thus, I love creating when there is soooooo much room! Enjoy your tour of my friend's craft room:

There is a large home made light table that my friend uses for tracing patterns for rug hooking. (That's her work on the wall above the table!) I imagine using the table for photography! In the corner is a storage chest and the ironing board.

Sewing/Quilting machine and serger (hard to see in this picture) near the window for natural light and more storage!

Another shot of the sewing machine and the embroidery machine next to it. Beyond the machines are the fireplace, love seat (with sleeping black cat, Griffey) and the reading/library area.

Another shot of the library shelves and reading area.

View from the reading area showing, from left to right, the serger, sewing machine and embroidery machine . . . and MORE storage! (I never touch the embroidery machine! It's too complicated for me!)

And back around to the large cutting table and MORE storage!

So . . . how do you like that! Drooling yet?

Wordless Wednesday - Squirrel

2012-01-26T12:41:00.000-08:00

P.S. I did an earlier post of this squirrel.

Friday's Coloring Box

2012-01-20T12:23:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and time for Friday Favorites! Today I've themed my picks after my little box of eight crayons. One pick for each color. These are all items that I not only picked for the specific color, but that I, personally, would pick spending my hard earned money to purchase a little gift for myself. Enjoy!

Black . . . . not the shoes . . . . . . the anklet . . . . . I love tatting!

by Decoromana on Etsy

Green . . . . . I love nature!

by myfusedglass

Blue . . . I love art quilts!

by ColorQuiltsbyCarolyn

Violet . . . . again, I love nature and great art!

by FleurBonheur

Red . . . . more great art!

by ChristineKrainock

Orange . . . . . .Watercolor . . . .

by splodgepodge

Yellow . . . . I love tea time!

by TeaTimesCreations

Brown . . . . journals and sketchbooks in leather!

by Miffable

So . . . there they are! Got any favorites?

Coming Soon Valentines Day!

2012-01-19T12:43:00.000-08:00

When you walk thru the stores, even the grocery store, lately, you see all these Valentine's Day products. They are bright red, so they reach out to you, like they are saying,

"You need me to spice up your love life!"

But do you? Yes, a card for my honey would be nice. But let's be honest---Specifically honest about our situations. My husband, specifically, likes cards for the sentiments. He likes reading the verse. He's not so keen on the look of the card or the artwork. So, for him, a store bought card that expresses the right sentiment will be fine, unless, of course I intend to write him a poem of my own; but, no, not this year.

Then there are all those teddy bears, flowers, and items with cute sayings on them----a whole industry for Valentine's gifts. Well, I say, it's the intent that counts. I would much rather get a little something from someone who was being sincere and honest about his or her feelings toward me than getting something right off the shelf and into my hand with no thought, just because it's a holiday. OK, I will get off my soapbox . . . . but do make good decisions this holiday, won't you?

So pick the right gifts for the right reasons. Here are a few from my own shop . . . . . . and make my day with your note to the seller that this is to be a "significant" gift of forethought!

How about a quick little surprise for him!

OR . . . . . .

a secret note tucked into her lunch bag

OR . . . . . .

a special pillow indicating "Tonight's the night!"

Whatever you do for your sweetie this year, make it significant and special!

Wordless Wednesday - Time Waster

2012-01-18T03:00:00.000-08:00

What do you think?

BBA Challenge!

2012-01-16T03:00:00.000-08:00

I belong to an awesome team on Etsy. Although it's members are blogger friends that I have enjoyed meeting over the three plus years that I have been blogging. It is a new team; Blogging Business Artisans support one another, and they host a monthly challenge. This first Challenge is hosted by Deb of Storybeader because she was always wanting to try new projects but she stressed about where to find the time. So this Challenge is to set aside time to work on a new project we haven't tried before. It could be within our field of expertise, but doesn't have to be.

I do a variety of crafts, i.e. sewing, paper crafts, beading, etc. I get bored doing the same things, so I had a hard time trying to pick something for this challenge. After thinking about it, I decided to pick a technique that I have been wanting to try, but hadn't had the time. I love embroidery and have tried ribbon embroidery and floss hand embroidery. But I had never tried to do a technique called 'couching.' This technique takes a cording, yarn or thread, and drapes it across the fabric in a desired position then adheres it with another stitch. It can be done on a machine with a zig zag stitch, but I first tried it on my hand embroidered art hoops.

I recently hand embroidered this hooded oriole which is native to Southern Texas waterways. I thought that the overall look of the hoop was a bit stark. So I decided to try the couching method to add a background of reeds.

After choosing two types and colors of threads, I draped them across the hoop to decide where I wanted them.

I sewed them thru the hoop fabric at each end of the desired length for each "reed." You can see some, in this next photo, are loose from the design and present a shadow on the fabric. Next, I sewed them down using a thin thread. You can see some reeds completed and some not completed in this next photo.

The couching technique has provided some texture and dimension to my hoop, besides completing my project, don't you think? And it is just so much more fun than machine embroidery, I think! (This art hoop and others available in my Etsy shop.)

Please visit the BBA blog to see what projects the other members have attempted for this Challenge! Thanks!

Vacation!

2012-01-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Beginning today, I am taking a vacation from the computer! Need some think time! Need to develop some new routines! For this type of thing, the beginning of the year is best for me. I will probably spend some of the time going to Seattle to visit my grands, and maybe even a little trip to the beach for the rest of the down time! So . . . .
I will be back again on January 16th

More Goals!

2012-01-04T11:45:00.000-08:00

Goals, goals, goals.

It takes a lot of time to think thru what is, what should be and what you might like. Yes, there are things that we want that are easy, we just know that we want them and that is that! But in business, sometimes the end result that we want is not so easy to come by, so it requires a plan to get there- much of which I discussed in yesterday's post!

As I said yesterday, I have three shops, one will close after today. The Pruitt Supply shop had a sale yesterday! Yay! Well for that matter, so did the Creations shop! Yay again! Anyway, goals:

Creations shop:

My number one best seller (Yes, Edi) was my coasters! With my cup cozies a near second. So, this year I want to add some new designs and some new fabrics. I have mostly used all cotton fabrics, but want to add a linen look coaster line to my offerings. Also want to add some novelty fabrics, since customers at shows have often asked for specialty fabrics. So the goal is to expand this line. I also want to do more of the double and triple types:

Supply shop:

One of my best sellers in this shop was the vintage fabrics. They are hard to find, but I intend to continue looking in all the estate sales that I can and maybe advertise for them. They are so fun to find; fun to sell; and I feel like I am providing new life for a forgotten item--sort of my way of re-purposing them!

Personal Goals:

Now, for my personal goal. I get a little bored making items for selling and then storing them until they sell. This is OK, but in doing that, I get caught up in the selling and neglect my first love--quilting! I want to make beautiful quilts. Art quilts! In the past, I have used what pieces of fabric and scraps that I had and made do---making utilitarian practical quilts. They turn our just fine with my creative abilities, but my heart longs to purchase fabrics specifically planned for a specific design! I have always been too practical and purchased fabrics on sale, fabrics that could double for my supply shop and my quilt making. Nothing wrong with that, but I want to go . . . .

. . . . . extravagant this year!

I'd like to try some new fabrics, not just cotton, for quilting. Something with a sheen that I can use for appliqued quilts, getting away from lattice and square designs. I want to try applique, curved piecing and textured trims couched on the quilt. I want to try using specialty threads for the actual quilting. I have so many ideas! I have already started a vintage doily quilt which I am excited about! Here's a sneak peek:

So . . . . Goal of the year! Ta Da!

Go extravagant, don't focus on the selling, focus on the vision of beautiful creativity! It will be much more fun!

2012 Goals

2012-01-03T12:15:00.000-08:00

Goals!

I've been thinking quite a lot about new goals for 2012. I always struggle with goals, because I think that I should be able to attain them if I list them. Kinda like they are not real if I don't attain them. Anyone else like that?

Goals shouldn't be like that. They should be what you would like to see happen, even if you don't know how you are going to do it. They should inspire you to work for the goals, inspire you to try new things, and inspire you to keep on going!

So what would I like to see? Well, since I have three Etsy shops I had to approach them differently. (You got your cup of coffee handy? This may turn out to be a long post!)

First, I am closing my Pruitt Design shop in two days. I have tried to sell jewelry, but really don't have much luck, no matter what I do. Last year I changed the look and emphasis, but still had no luck! Just too much jewelry out there to flood the market and jewelry making is not my passion. So, "C'est la vie" and "au voir"--I took French in high school! (BTW-everything is 60% OFF for these last two days.)

Goal: find another venue for my remaining jewelry, maybe a consignment shop or second hand store. Maybe even a charity fund raiser!

My oldest shop, which got a new name this year, called Pruitt Handcrafts, was changed to Pruitt Creations. It is kinda like my overarching brand shop, especially since my Supply shop sells my leftover fabrics, new fabrics, estate sale vintage fabrics and destash jewelry supplies and other craft supplies.

I looked carefully at the hearts (favorites) this year. Many Etsians click favorites when they find you in a treasury, sometimes not because they actually want your item, but as a favorite to put it in the activity feed for others to see you. That is nice, but it does not give me an accurate gauge of which items are really favored. So I looked at my shop favorites verses my sales ratio. This ratio was not as high as I would like to see it even though I am getting lots of views. So--

GOAL: Find a way to raise this ratio to about 75%. (A blogger friend of mine has a 93% ratio.) This is a huge goal, since I will have to Check my sold items for favorites, eliminate some items that have never sold, and generally get downright brutal with my inventory and then be creative!

This getting pretty long, and I bet your coffee is gone, so I will continue tomorrow, when I will wrap up and add a few of my personal creative goals!

See you tomorrow!

P.S. Do you know what my best selling item was in 2011? I'll share that tomorrow too!

2011 Review

2012-01-02T12:22:00.000-08:00

Some of my blog friends have done a review of the old year and listed their hopes & dreams of the new year. I loved Rose's review, and thought I should do much the same. Thanks, Rose, for the idea!

First, if you know me at all, you know that my year was filled with awesome crazy grandkids--25 of them!

Bella and Ada making a mess

Roman and Grandpa

And all those grands means that there is a lot of family! So my year was spent with lots of gatherings for feasting!

Daugher Jackie, SIL Terry (Suzanne's DH), and GD Courtney

The next thing that hubby and I like to do is be outdoors. We spent lots of afternoons eating our brown bag lunches at the riverside or taking our grands on a walk. That was fun!

Bird watching on the Willamette

Kellog Creekside--One of my favorite pictures!

Oh and there were lots of craft shows with my family:

And lots of Etsy stuff--shops & sales; forums & threads; promoting--tweeting & facebook; and lots of blog entries about the wonderful handmade world!

Custom order for an Etsy customer's Dad!

Lots of shopping at estate sales and finding awesome vintage fabrics:

Creativity from lovely estate sale fabrics!

And what now, for 2012?

Looking carefully to see what the future might hold.

See tomorrow's post for my list of hope and dreams.

Happy Birthday, Honey!

2011-12-30T15:34:00.000-08:00

Today is my favorite person's birthday! No, it's not one of my kids', it's my husband's birthday! Wasn't he a cute baby? He is the youngest child and only boy in a family of five children. Being the youngest, with four older sisters, his dad was careful to teach him to be respectful to girls and how to be a gentleman.

Yesterday, my daughter-in-law wrote on Facebook: "We are nearing our 7th anniversary and my husband still opens the door for me!" He learned it from my hubby, who still opens the car door for me after over twenty years of marriage. My hubby learned from his father, and grandpa Joe would be so proud of the both of them!

My hubby got his sense of humor and optimism from his dad too! Everything with him is fun, puns abound and life is enjoyable. I am blessed!

Hurricane Ridge at Olympic Nat'l Park

Happy Birthday, Honey!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T16:49:00.000-08:00

My entry foyer table

For my family and I, there is a meaning to Christmas--it's all about love and giving to those we love (and, of course, to our friends and those who find themselves in need.) Why? Because we were given an example by God Himself, when he gave us a saviour in the form of the Christ child. We didn't even know our own need, but God provided for us anyway. When we finally saw our need, we accepted a free gift of love and forgiveness. I, for one, am so grateful for the humble beginning of this day that we celebrate!

Angels, Mary and babe

our 30 year old artificial tree

However you celebrate,

I wish you a joyous day

and hope it is just wonderful!

Veggie Bags Anyone?

2011-12-20T12:24:00.000-08:00

Yikes! Has it been nearly a week since I posted? Where does the time go? But then, we all know where the time goes when it is Christmas Season! I've been baking, and finishing presents and wrapping packages and picking up last minute gifts, just like all of you have been doing. I even snuck in a party at my daughter's house!

Here's one thing that I have been working on: veggie bags for my daughters and daughter-in-laws. Some of them will love them, and others will say, "What's this?" I will explain, they are upcycled and made from recycled T-shirts into a bag to take to the grocery store or farmers market. They are for fruits and veggies. Here in the NW, both Portland and Seattle have outlawed plastic grocery bags, although I think not the plastic veggie bags yet-- and you have to take your own bags or pay a 5 cent fee for each paper bag. Anyway, I already have a listing in my shop for custom fabric grocery bags, and for the veggie bags, (I don't know if I will actually carry them in my shop because anyone can make them), I began by making them for my girls! Have a look!

An old t-shirt

sewn and cut like this

Handle portion

Bag filled with apples and veggies

another view

This are so handy! They are completely washable, when they get soiled, and then ready to re-use! NO more plastic! You can make them in smaller sizes if you like, and looks like I might need to make a few "smaller" holes too, so the apple doesn't slip out!

I made them for all my girls in every color in the rainbow, with the help of cheap t-shirts from the thrift store! I added a scrubbie to match from a friends shop on Etsy--Patti's shop--check it out!

Unique gift, eh? Don't anyone tell my girls!!

Wordless Wednesday - Inspiration?

2011-12-14T01:00:00.000-08:00

Ever get inspiration from floors? I do. Here's another one in this post.
What are you imagining?

Thanks Grandma!

2011-12-12T14:04:00.000-08:00

Recently I posted about a T-Shirt rag quilt that I was working on for my oldest granddaughter. It was for her graduation present. Well, it's done and here she is just loving it!

And a closeup for all of you who want to know how it was done! And for those who love Elvis!

How was is done?

I cut out the portion of the T-Shirt that I wanted for the square with another piece of the T-shirt exactly the same size. This second piece could be any piece, since it was the inside layer piece and does not show except to add to the fringe. Many times I was able to cut the exact piece as the t-shirt lay on the table flat and I cut thru the two layers of the shirt, front and back. The printed section of the shirt was then fused on the back with a very lightweight interfacing to add stability. I thought that this was needed since t-shirt fabric is so stretchy. Then a third piece -- backing fabric, in this case, a gray flannel with pink polka dots--was cut to the exact dimensions of the other two pieces. These three layers were then quilted together on the machine into a block. All shirts were done this way, until I had enough blocks to sew together in rows. Rows were sewn with the backing fabrics together, this insures that the eventual fringe will be on the t-shirt side of the quilt. After the top is all together, you will need to clip all the ragged seams with a rag quilt snip at about 1/8 to 1/4 inch intervals. Be careful not to cut the seam stitching.

I love this because nothing has to be exact. Cut t-shirts tend to curl at the edges, but don't worry about it. A friend of mine who made quilts all her life, used to say, "Don't worry, it will all come out in the wash!"

Anyway, this one will all come out just fine, after it is clipped and washed.

Anyone ever made a rag quilt before?

Santa Collection

2011-12-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

Don't ya just love Santa!

I've been collecting Santas for a good many years now, and at Christmas time, out they come! I love for my grandchildren to come over and see all the different ones. I love the wonder they create! I have whimsical Santas, musical Santas, traditional Santas, and . . . well, just take a look:

Tall ones . . . short ones:

Thin ones and bald ones . . . hanging on the entertainment center:

Santa shelf sitters . . . .

And . . . all round the Christmas Tree!

But my very favorite is exemplary of the true spiritual meaning that I feel about Christmas. It's not about material gifts, but about a way of life that I hold dear:

Have a blessed Christmas Everyone!

One of my daughters collects nutcrackers.

Do you collect anything for Christmas?

WW - Wishing you. . . .

2011-12-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

Do you see it? I'm wishing you . . . . this season!

Happy Wednesday!

BBA December Giveaway!

2011-12-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

I am a small part of an awesome team of Etsy Blogger friends! We are the Blogging Business Artisans! We are having a December giveaway and I want you to know about it! Deb of Storybeader's Bookshelf is our 'member with the mostest' this month! I had a chance to get to know Deb a little better, last year when we participated in a Journal swap. I learned so much about my museum curator friend from Oklahoma. Anyway, the giveaway is for some of Deb's beautiful cat beads, a cat necklace and matching earrings! You win it all--Maybe, if you enter!!

Here's the post for more info on how to enter.

Trip to the Tree Farm

2011-12-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hubby and I accompanied my youngest daughter and her family to a local Christmas Tree farm last weekend. We have an artificial tree that we have used for 30 years, but my daughter always comes to this family owned farm in Oregon to cut down a tree of their choice. It's their family tradition! This particular farm is on the hillside, not like some you may have seen that have row upon row of trees on flat land. The hiking over the hills makes it a fun experience that reminds me of stories of old.

My daughter's little family and their final choice!

Little Owen was curious about the saw and a previously cut tree trunk!

His dad began cutting the tree at it's base:

While his mom held it secure.

After a ride on the tractor back to the barn, paying for the tree, and enjoying some hot cider, we all went outside again for the pony ride. Owen was too shy to ride, but his older brother, Paddy had fun!

We all finished our day around the fire pit, the boys enjoying their grandpa and tossing dry leaves into the fire. They seemed to just make the fire smoke more, but it sure was fun!

Have you a Christmas Tree tradition?

A New Artisan Friend!

2011-12-02T11:51:00.000-08:00

At one of the Fall craft shows that I participated in, I met a vendor, Julie, that was two tables down the hall from me. I was not only intrigued with her artistic abilities, but that she has recently moved from Texas to Portland, where I live. Since I have lived in Texas and we are fellow Christians, I guess you might say I was drawn to her, although we really did not get much time to visit at the show. So, I chose to feature her today and I hope you will visit her Etsy shop and website.

One of my absolute favorites! I love Tulips!

You can get a great view of Julie's art at her website!

I asked Julie a few questions:

1) What is your studio/space like, where you do your work?

Currently I work at a studio that is Activ Space that is down in the Pearl District (Artsy district downtown Portland). I share a space with one my best friends who is a personal stylist with Stella and Dot. Our space is not real glamorous right now, since we just moved here from Texas and left all of our belongings behind to be retrieved in January. In time it will be beautiful. My space before moving to Portland was in our home in Houston, TX. It was a tiny precious little room. I painted it a soft colored blue and tried to make it feel very shabby chic.

2) What interesting exhibits, charity events or other, have you participated in?

Since I've just begun my little business, I haven't participated in very many events, exhibits, etc... I have primarily participated in smaller craft fairs this falls and last year I participated in a large one at my church in Houston where 20% of the profit made went to Living Water International. Living Water is an organization that my husband and I support and desire to be more involved. Their focus and purpose to provide clean water to those who have none. They are trying to end the water crisis as well as share about the true Living Water, Jesus. For more information go to www.water.cc/.

3) What is your favorite medium to work with, creatively?

My favorite medium I like to work with when it comes to painting is acrylic...I love how fast it dries! I also love music to paint over.

JulieChariee on Etsy

She went on to say . . . . In other creative works...I like so many things! I think vintage fabrics and lace are my favorite as well as old buttons and pendants. Most of my pieces that I make are reminders of my grandmother. She gave me all of her old laces and buttons and an old hymnal that incorporated in a lot of my art works. In using the things that she gave to me or things that resemble them, I feel like I'm reminding myself of where my family has come from and trying to help others appreciate the beauty of past generations. My grandmother shared with me that when their clothes wore out and they would turn them into rags, they would always take the buttons off to recover and reuse because buttons were expense. That story was such a reminder and challenge to me to respect the things that were valuable during that time in history and use them for something beautiful today.

JulieChariee on Etsy

Find out more about Julie on her Etsy shop profile as you take a look at her work there too! I'm so happy to promote a new friend!

Where have you met a new friend lately?

The best help ever!

2011-12-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

Recently, I did two craft bazaars.

I had the best help that was available--my granddaughter--Kayleigh!

Klee, as she likes to spell it, is a freshman in High School. She loves to come to the bazaars and she helps me set up and take down. She's a great salesperson, is wonderful with customers and does not get bored as the day goes on. I can depend on her to help keep the table in order, and I have thoroughly enjoyed having her company for the day.

But the best thing is that she loves to keep track of the books! She tracks the time of the sales, what sells, and the sales amount. Klee is always checking me to see if I right down my sales! She's working on a spread sheet and graph of the last two shows and I can't wait to see what she comes up with! Family is awesome--especially Kayleigh!

P.S. Check out the purple scarf that she bought from a fellow vendor at the first show that we did!

Tip: Notice the fanny pack that I am wearing. I keep my change and my phone, including my Square, right at hand in the little pack. That way I don't have to worry about anything getting misplaced!

Sunrise across the Columbia River

2011-11-30T03:00:00.000-08:00

photo by my oldest son Don

Black Friday PINK!

2011-11-26T03:00:00.000-08:00

Black Friday weekend!

Pink and Black!

It's the first shopping weekend of the Christmas Season! Everything in my Design shop has Free shipping! That saves you dollars on the bottom line totals!

Anything bags!

Everything in my Pruitt Creations shop is 25% OFF thru Monday! Coupon Code is on the first page in the info section just below the shop banner. Here's another pink item:

Coffee Sleeves! Enough for the office gang!

Coffee Sleeves in every color, not just PINK! Check it out in this section. Remember to figure the 25% Discount when you are thinking about a purchase. At check out, remember to put in the coupon code and it will figure the correct price for you! Happy Shopping!!!

And THANKS! for visiting my Etsy shops!

This is for Pink Saturday. Click the side bar button to look at other participants entries for Today!

Thankfulness

2011-11-24T03:00:00.000-08:00

More than anything, today, Thanksgiving Day, I am thankful to God for life, health, and family. These verses in the Psalms express my heart on this day:

A psalm of David.

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God.

It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;

His faithfulness continues through all generations.

Ps 100 NIV

WW - Canadian Geese

2011-11-23T03:00:00.000-08:00

Got an Imagination?

2011-11-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

I recently---last spring-- bought some decorator fabric to make a large floor pillow. I never made it, and the fabric just sat on the shelf. Anyone ever do that? Anyway, I decided to use it for something else. In the summer, I made myself a vest for the fall season, which I have worn several times this season. Sorry, no picture. But with the scraps, I made a couple of little zipper pouches. One with a wristlet strap and one without. I thought you might like to see them--they are available in my shop:

Zipper Pouch and Wristlet

inside fabric

Now can you imagine what my vest looks like? The front sections of the vest are made from the green fabric and the back is made from this beautiful cinnamony mauve fabric, as seen in the inside of this pouch. Maybe I will take my picture, the next time I wear the vest!

And the winner is:

2011-11-21T20:31:00.000-08:00

Winner of the lovely personalized wine glasses from the BBA giveaway is a blogger friend---Sharla of BeadedTail! She has an etsy shop and a lovely blog that you should visit, especially if you love animals!

Congrats Sharla!!!

Time is running out!

2011-11-17T11:34:00.000-08:00

I am a member of an AWESOME Etsy team: the Blogging Business Artisans!

We are having a giveaway!

You need to participate by the 21st of November to be eligible to win! Remember that is 11 AM central time on the 21st.

What can you win?

Customized etched wine glasses!

Here's the link. Quick! Go enter! Good luck!

mmm...mmm...Good!

2011-11-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

Grandson Owen and the chocolate donut!

T-Shirt Quilt in Progress

2011-11-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

Colleen's Life T-Shirt Quilt

I know, I know . . . . I did an "in Progress" post a few weeks ago . . . .and I never showed the finished project! Well, I'm like most of you, I think, and I have several projects going at one time. The quilted baby blanket that I spoke about earlier is not finished. The quilting being done is taking quite some time, and is difficult on my old sewing machine. I definitely want a walking foot for Christmas!!!
Interruptions of a craft show, my Design shop Birthday sale, house sitting for a friend, a giveaway, and choir dresses to hem--eight of them--have impeded my progress! I will get back to the quilt soon and show it to you! I promise!!

Anyway, I want to show another project that I am working on. I know . . I know . . . I've featured my oldest granddaughter in several posts lately, but I want to follow-up on one that I wrote about her graduation present. (You may have missed it, because it was also about the Last day of the Sale that I hosted--I think it got lost in all the sale hype!) I can finally show you the work in progress. Her Life T-Shirt Quilt:

Mind you, it is not finished, I will finish it when I am house sitting again at my friends house over Thanksgiving. She has an awesome huge sewing room and I will finish the quilt there. My friend recommended using this 'quilt as you go method.' The seams are cut in a fringe style and I really like it since t-shirt material tends not to fray and this makes a nice finish for the quilt.

This quilt has several layers. When cutting a portion of the front of a t-shirt, I cut an identical piece from the back side and used it for a batting. The printed portion is re-enforced with a thin iron on interfacing to provide stability for each design, and besides, it's t-shirt material, very stretchy. I needed to do something to limit the stretch. Then the backing, not shown, is a flannel. This quilt will be very soft and cuddly when it is finished! I can't wait to see it finished!!

What are you working on that may have taken a back seat to another project?

Pink Experiences of the Week

2011-11-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

Don't ya just love PINK?
I met a lady, last weekend, that didn't like pink. She wanted a pair of earrings that I made, but she didn't want the pink bead that was on the top of the design. So . . . I re-did them for her with a little green bead. Point being . . . . I do custom work.

At the same craft show I had people ask if I had a particular item in "------- color". . . or . . . "Do you have anything with flamingo pink fabric, I have a friend who loves flamingos." Of course, I didn't.

Then, my little granddaughter, LaRaya, wanted a dress in this pink fabric when I had already started sewing her dress in another fabric!

And my oldest Granddaughter made a face at the game, when . . . .#@!!##%@ . . .but her pink sweatshirt really looks cool!

I couldn't resist sharing this funny picture with you. Of course, my GD will kill me!!! Oh well. We all have desires, preferences and choices. We all have experiences, but I just thought I would share a few of this week's experiences in Pink! :-)

This is for Pink Saturday!

Don't forget to visit Pink Saturday on Beverly's blog and view some of the other submissions! Thanks!

The Square!

2011-11-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Recently I did a craft show, which I have done many times before, but this show I had a new 'gadget' to help with sales!!! Square is a credit/debit card reader that plugs into your android or smart phone and allows you to take payments! My son originally told me about this new device. The best part about it: it's free! Obviously you pay a fee each time you swipe for payment which amounts to 2.75 percent, which is less than most credit card processing companies charge. But to order the device, there is no fee. It arrives in just a few days; next you sign up for an account online; then you download the free app to your phone, sign in to your account, plug in your card reader and you are ready to go!

I used the device at my show, which worked fine and was a big hit with the customers. People are always interested in new gadgets and I had people standing around my booth just to watch!! The only problem seemed to be an older card that would not read, even though it was tried several times. But this is not unusual, since I have had this happen with one of my older cards at the supermarket! Anyway, my customer's daughter used her card and I still made the sale!

Another craft bazaar is coming up in a week and I plan to use it again. People only carry so much cash to a craft show and I am hoping that the ability to process credit card payments will enhance my sales, especially on larger items (like quilts).

Anyone else using the Square or planning to??? Love to know what you think.

Last Day of the Sale!

2011-11-08T09:20:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of my Birthday and EtsyAnniversary Sale in my Design Shop, but first, I wanted to tell you what I have been working on lately.

My oldest granddaughter, Colleen, who recently graduated with her bachelors degree, asked me to make her a quilt. She brought me a huge bag of her old t-shirts. During her school years she participated in softball,volleyball, & missions trips; she attended several schools and went to concerts, so she has lots of t-shirts for all of these activities. I had never made a t-shirt quilt before, so I had to find a way to put my GD's life together in a pleasing design on her quilt. A friend of mine suggested a way to handle it, and I decided to try her way. I am not finished, but it is coming together nicely, I think. I am house sitting right now, and don't have my camera, but I will try to show a picture in a couple of days on this blog. I'm excited about it!

Colleen and her mother,Jackie, the birthday girl!

Now . . .for the final day of

CELEBRATING . . . . . 50% OFF SALE

Today is my oldest daughters birthday! She thinks she's getting old, but what does that make me?????!!!Anyway, for the final day of the sale, I am offering anything, yes ANYTHING in my design shop for 50% OFF! Use coupon code BDA11.

Remember . . . . this is for today ONLY - November 8th! Happy Shopping!

Day 6 Daily Special

2011-11-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday and I am going to take the short route, just telling you about the Day 6 special in my design shop.

Sunday, November 6th, Daily Special is a truly original set of earrings: One-of-a-Kind! Jasper rounds, cat's eye rounds and Swarvoski bicones are offset with brass findings and steel earwires!! Unique!!

Remember . . . these are 1/2 OFF Today ONLY. Celebrating my Etsy Anniversary and my daughters' birthdays! Also two of my DILs have birthdays in November too! Last evening we went out to celebrate with the family girls--eight of us--celebrating with three of them:

D, D, DIL

I am blessed with a wonderful family! Do you have an awesome family????

Day 5 and Pink Saturday!

2011-11-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

It's turned off cold already in the middle of Autumn and . . . I remember Spring . . . especially since it is PINK Saturday!!!! **Smile** Thought you might like to "see" Spring! hee! hee!

These were growing in my daughter-in-law's yard. And I love the pink watering can, don't you! I just love gardening!!!!

Also . . . . DAY 5 . . . . . Remember, I am

CELEBRATING! ¤¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•`¤~♥ . . . my November birthdays and my Etsy anniversary!

by running a daily special in my Design Shop each day for the first eight days of November. The sale item will be 1/2 OFF and will be offered on a first come first serve basis! When it's gone, it's gone!

November 5th DAILY SPECIAL:

Nov 5th Special - Elaine Necklace

If you want to follow me on twitter,
http://twitter.com/thepinkgrammy

I will tweet the daily item in the very early morning (between midnight and 6 AM) to let you know what is new! I'll also tweet it during the day a couple of times. Should be fun! --(Also, the daily item will appear in the featured section at the top of the page for ONE DAY ONLY!)

Don't forget to visit Pink Saturday on Beverly's blog and view some of the other submissions! Thanks!

Day 4 and Craft Show Prep

2011-11-04T00:03:00.000-07:00

My daughter helping me at a past show

Today is my youngest daughter's birthday! She often helps me with craft shows. Bless her! and Happy B-Day Suzanne!

It's Friday and I am busy! Big craft show, a new one for me, on Saturday. I've been making sure that everything that I have is priced, so there will be no questions on my own part when several people are in my face and asking prices. I don't mean that customers "in my face" is a negative thing, but when you are by yourself, helping customers, holding conversations and watching for anything amiss, it is hard to keep everything in your head. I have made mistakes quoting prices under pressure, in the past and have cut myself short! Not this time!

I store merchandise in water proof containers with tight fitting lids. I don't always sort my items, AFTER a show, and so I spent time today sorting my merchandise, taking out those items that I do not want to display. I am leaving several types of items at home. It's kinda like "less is more." I have also been guilty of 'taking everything I own'. Not this time!

THIS TIME, I will be using a new item in my sales process. I have ordered a Square card reader, which my son recommended. He uses it when he does trade shows for his magazine. The same day I saw a blog post on it. When I did the research, I was sold. I'll let you know how it performs. I am hoping that it will give me the ability to make larger dollar sales, not just nickle and dime sales from customers on a strict cash budget. We'll see!

Enough of that! Today is also Day 4 of my 'Birthdays and Anniversary Sale' in my Design shop. Here's Friday's Daily Special:

Fancy velvet look evening pouch with long strap

Hurry, this half price item will only be on sale on Friday--Friday ONLY! When it's gone, it's gone!

Any tips for craft sales?

Day 3 and Rug Hooking!

2011-11-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Anyone interested in Rug Hooking??? A friend of mine has just started a blog and website to sell her patterns for rug hook design!! Her shop is called Rug Hooking Designs. This little rug hangs over her fireplace mantle in the living room and shows her love of the season and animals (she has 4 cats, one little doggie, and four birds!)

Sharon is also an awesome quilter. She loves to quilt for her family: baby quilts, lap quilts and awesome wall quilts! And . . . she has shown me a new way to quilt that I am using to finish a T-Shirt quilt for my granddaughter. I'll be showing it to you soon . . .watch for it!

So, If you know someone who is interested in rug hooking, please let them know about Sharon's new shop!

NOW . . . Day Three . . .


November 3rd Daily Special

I love this necklace! It's called Pebbles on the Beach. It reminds me of the sound of the surf on the beach while looking for shells and other lovely finds! It will be on Special for one day only---at half price---for my Daily Special on November 3rd!

Remember, I am
CELEBRATING! ¤¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•`¤~♥ . . . my November birthdays and my Etsy anniversary!

by running a daily special in my Design Shop each day for the first eight days of November. The sale item will be 1/2 OFF and will be offered on a first come first serve basis! When it's gone, it's gone for the day!
If you want to follow me on twitter,
http://twitter.com/thepinkgrammy
I will tweet the daily item in the very early morning (between midnight and 6 AM) to let you know what is new! I'll also tweet it during the day a couple of times. Should be fun! --(Also, the daily item will appear in the featured section at the top of the page for ONE DAY ONLY!)

Ever tried hooking a rug?

Day 2 - Daily Specials

2011-11-02T00:42:00.000-07:00

Before I get to the Daily Special in my Design shop for today- November 2nd, I would like to discuss another subject for just a bit.

********************************************
S.E.O.
Since Etsy just changed their searches to a relevancy basis, I have been trying to learn more about searches. For my customers to be better able to find me, I have been adjusting my tags. Thus, I have seen a jump in my views. A second thing that I am working on is learning about SEO. And a friend gave me some information that I am now devouring regarding Search Engine Optimization.
F. Y. I.
One thing I have learned is that inbound links are more important than outbound links to the search engines like Google, Yahoo, or Bing. It is more valuable to have other websites be giving out your link, than the links that you are placing in your content. Why? Search engines rate web sites. And if you are getting "references" from high rated web sites, you jump up in the ratings. It's kinda like the old high school social system; it's who you know and who you are seen rubbing elbows with, not who you say that you know!! Make sense? I'm still chewing on that one! Thought you might want to too!

Anyway--Day two November Birthday and Anniversary Sale--
(Sale info here.)
The daily special item of the day is:

Was $15 . . . . . . today only . . . . $7.50

Sale price is good only for Wednesday November 2nd! When it's gone, it's gone!!! Check it out!

OK, so do you have any tips for Search Engine Optimization?

Celebration!

2011-11-01T00:56:00.000-07:00

It was three years ago in November, that I started my experience on Etsy! I started with the jewelry that I had been making while hubby studied evenings for his bachelors degree. I wanted to not bother him, and I wanted to keep busy with something creative, so I started making jewelry. When I got enough of it for myself -- and everyone in the family too if they wanted it!--I decided to sell it. My daughter-in-laws told me about Etsy and so that was it! Three shops later, the rest is history!

November is also two of my lovely daughter's birthday's --one on the 4th and one on the 8th!

So, I have decided to . . . . .
CELEBRATE! ¤¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•`¤~♥ . . .

by running a daily special in my Design Shop each day for the first eight days of November. The sale item will be 1/2 OFF and will be offered on a first come first serve basis! When it's gone, it's gone for the day!
If you want to follow me on twitter,
http://twitter.com/thepinkgrammy
I will tweet the daily item in the very early morning (between midnight and 6 AM) to let you know what is new! Should be fun! --(Also, the daily item will appear in the featured section at the top of the page for ONE DAY ONLY!)

So join the fun--if only to see what is happenin'.

Here's the item for the first day of November--Novermber 1st ONLY:

Necklace and Earrings set for Autumn

You have any birthdays in November that you are celebrating?

Autumn Traditions

2011-10-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

Our family does not really have a Halloween tradition. We have never been a family that participates in Halloween activities, unless they were of the large group party type. Mostly when my children were young, we attended civic or church events that were designed for a safe, fun environment for the kids and the family together. I guess this got started when my children were little, because I didn't want them to experience the sadness, and the danger, of trick or treating that I experienced as a child.

My hubby helping with last year's Pirate Party!

That said, now I am older and the only tradition that I observe now, is to totally enjoy the autumn scenes as we travel outdoors in our car or on a walk. I am blown away by the colors in the trees, bushes and foliage! Such beauty! Thank you God for creating such an awesome world for us to enjoy!

Not just the beautiful browns and bright yellows . . . .

But the various reds . . . .

and combinations of colors; orange and brown, purples and greens, reds and yellows:

Gutter decorations!

Autumn Diversity!

So . . . .hubby and I invited our young grandsons to go for an autumn walk with us on Saturday! I not only loved the leaves on the ground, but the canopy overhead with the mix of colors . . . .

Grandma's Autumn walk with the grands

What is your Autumn tradition?

This piece is for Etsyblogger Team Carnival.

Sweetness in Pink

2011-10-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

Little toes dressed in Pink

This is for Pink Saturday. It's my grandchild, Vivi, outside in her yard. She had been using markers, inside the house--obvious from the stain on her fingers, when we decided to go for a stroll out in the yard. She was looking for bugs under every rock. Sweetness in pink!

Stop by Beverly's Blog and see what the other participants have to offer for Pink Saturday! Thanks!

Friday Blog Finds

2011-10-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Happy Friday! I usually do a 'Friday Finds' article about some cool items that I find on Etsy, but today I want to tweak that a bit.

I have found some great articles on blogs that interest me and instead of just enjoying them myself, I want to share with you what I have found. I hope you visit these awesome ladies and their blog posts too! Here goes:

First and foremost is a blog post written by my own daughter, Suzanne! This post is about the Get Dressed Challenge, and her own experience. I think you might enjoy it, especially if you are a young mother. Suzanne is a writer but only writes in her blog occasionally, since her boys are still little and she is busy with homemaking tasks. She has two blogs: one about her own musings about mommy hood and life--in fact, called "Musings"

. . . . .and one about her healthy food and recipes, called "The Housewife Chef". Current post is a recipe for Pumpkin Chocolate chip cookies! There is a another post about how to prepare a pumpkin, and 'tis the season!!! If you love food, this blog will be a delight to you! She's an awesome cook!

Another blog, which I recommend, is by my niece.

(OK, I know nepotism . . . but I do have an awesome family! I promise, next Friday Blog Finds will not be family ;-)

Kari (husband Jeff) is the mother of nine children, three by birth and six by adoption. She has recently had her life threatened because she was testifying in Haiti (she's been there several times, and has a child from Haiti) about orphanages that were trafficking children and (to remain unmentioned here) doing other horrific things to the orphans. She writes for an organized ministry in Colorado that promotes international adoption, and if you are interested in this subject, you might like to follow her. The Blog is called 'Welcome Child Orphan Ministry'. The current post is about a local fundraiser, but if you check out some of the older posts, you will glean some awesome information.

Challenge:
Get out of your box! We, Etsyians and crafters, sometimes get stuck in our genre, and only read blogs that are similar to our own. Read something new today!

Winner!

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

Danielle Parent Garcia is our winner of the GIVEAWAY happy pocket apron. And she will receive a free set of coasters of her choice!
Thanks everyone for entering, posting to this blog and my Facebook page. I hope that it was a good experience for you and we can all become online friends! It's been fun for me, reading all your comments, and seeing what you like in my shop. Thanks soooooooo much for the feedback! I am inspired to do this again soon, although the holidays are coming quickly, so I think that I will wait till, maybe, January. Make sure you are following this blog if you want to be notified of the next GIVEAWAY! Also, follow my Facebook page--if you like--it will also announce the next giveaway.

Thanks again to all who participated!

Last Day to Enter!

2011-10-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today is the Last Day to enter the GIVEAWAY for this happy pocket apron! See this post for info.

Good Luck!

A blast from the Past!

2011-10-23T23:59:00.000-07:00

Recently I took a trip to see my sister and my mother. We had lots of fun sight seeing, and visiting and looking at old photograph books. We also went thru some old books, old sewing patterns, and a huge stack of music from our childhood. I brought home some patterns and some of the sheet music. It brought back a lot of memories.

I don't write much about myself in this blog. I don't feel that I am a very interesting subject, but I do know that I am interested when a blogger friend posts pictures of her childhood life and family. So maybe someone is interested in the life I led----years ago.

No, that's not me--I'm not that old!
(Just threw that in for kicks, since I was talking all about 'old' stuff! hehe!)

When I was a little girl, my mother said that I loved watching the musicians play at church. At that time--a long time ago--there was a pianist, saxophonist, a percussionist and a couple of people playing accordions--I know . . you young folks probably don't even know what that is! Mom said that I was fascinated with the accordions. I was pretty little at the time, so when I got old enough, she decided to get me some lessons. Kids now days usually learn music at school, to start with. They play a recorder with their class and then graduate on to specific instruments of their choice, if desired. That not being available to me, she called an Italian gentleman that had a music studio teaching the accordion to kids.

I went for lessons every week, and practiced after school for 30-45 minutes every day before heading out to play in the yard with friends. My little sister also took lessons. We had "band" (all accordion) rehearsals with the other students and we learned to play solos, duets, and ensembles. We practiced for the BIG recital all year long.

(I was very shy and didn't like the thought of performing, but that is another story!)

Little sister DeLynn, Myron Floren, me and the band.

I found this picture among my mother's photos. It is of the year that our invited guest performer was Myron Floren. He was the man that played the accordion on television for the Lawrence Welk show. He was a very accomplished musician, although he mostly was only called upon to play polka's on the show. He played several music selections for us and the audience. Then he played with us when our "band" played a number. This particular year, he knelt down right between my sister (with the small black accordion) and me! As you can see by the picture, I was biting my lip, trying not to steal the show with a great big grin on my face. I was overjoyed that the TV "star" was so close and playing with us! And he was soooooo handsome!

Here's a video of Myron playing a song that I learned too! Bet he played it better than me!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqURmXMEGFI

Did you ever meet any celebrities when you were a child?

Pink Saturday!

2011-10-22T13:25:00.000-07:00

I have just found a new linky party that I really like! Pink Saturday! Since I am a Breast Cancer Survivor I am partial to pink! So here is my pink for today:

BC Apron available at PruittCreations on Etsy

Maybe from the picture, you can't tell, but it is an apron--a half apron! This picture shows the pocket decoration. I make these for festive activities, and give a donation to the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer program for every one that is sold! Since this is Breast Cancer Awareness month, I thought I would feature them again, in case anyone is interested. And if you are not interested in the apron, please remember to make a donation to the cause!

Susan B. Komen or American Cancer Society's Making Strides program links are provided for your participation!

Have a great Saturday!

Don't forget to visit Pink Saturday on Beverly's blog and view some of the other submissions! Thanks!

Nine days till Halloween!

2011-10-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

Only nine days left till Halloween day!

Several items left in my shop to make sure your halloween celebration / party is the BEST!

Holiday items on sale thru the 26th

Smily faced Pumpkin Table runner

Decorate for the holiday! I have a table runner on my foyer table with a couple of small pumpkins setting there. It's very festive and welcoming to my guests!

Fabric Coaster for the Season

Only nine days left till Halloween day!

What are you planning for your celebration?

Family Chaos

2011-10-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

Family is the better part of life! Recently we visited our two sons and their families in the Seattle area. Between them, my sons have seven children all under the age of eight! (Without the commotion of little ones, life would be sterile and one dimensional.) Chaos is not only tolerated, but is invited in these families because Chaos is creativity! Each person has their own perspective, whether they are two or thirty-two. We certainly celebrated an array of differences on this last trip.

Messy face!

Funny faces!

There were watercolor painting sessions; building block towers to be tumbled; Candyland games to be played; a reptile show to attend; split pea soup to be consumed; a neighborhood walk pushing the stroller and exploring; church clothing and play clothing and sweaters for the cool days; baths for messy babies; discussions and football for the adults; a library visit and finally a stroll on the Puget Sound waterfront.

Needless to say,
we had a wonderful time!

When was the last time you had a family gathering that you enjoyed?

WW Purple Tomato Leaf

2011-10-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

Like this? You'll like this too--A giveaway. Check out the link!

Sale and GIVEAWAY!

2011-10-13T16:38:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Halloween! Time to decorate for the holidays!

So I decided to celebrate! I'm having a GIVEaway! And a SALE!

Wizard of Oz pillow

Everything in my 'holiday section' of my handcrafts shop is on sale! This includes my halloween items and my Christmas items! Check it out!

Christmas Paper Bag Art

Right after the sale--- to help you get started with your gift shopping--- I am giving away

this Happy Pockets half Apron (wouldn't it be a great Christmas gift for someone in your family????? ) . . . . AND . . . one set of fabric coasters of your choice (check out the entire coaster set inventory in my shop)!

How do you enter? Visit my shop, check out the holiday sale section, then visit my Facebook page and leave a comment about which is your favorite sale item. Or you could leave a comment about your favorite set of coasters. (If you choose to "like" my page in the process, I would appreciate it!!!!) Winner will not be based on the 'like' process, but will come from the comments that are left on my page.

Here's my facebook page:

http://facebook.com/PruittCreations

On the 27th, I will randomly choose a winner and notify the winner thru facebook! Or you could check back here on my blog on that day, to see who won!

Good luck!

Making do! Part 2 of Baby Quilt in Progress

2011-10-11T00:23:00.000-07:00

I've been experimenting with my sewing machine. I don't have a quilting machine, nor do I have a walking foot for my regular machine, so I have improvised to actually quilt with it. It's an older machine, and the feed dogs are stationary and do not lower, so I made a plastic cover for them. The cover is taped over the feed dogs, and obviously, it has a hole in the plastic for the needle to descend down to the bobbin thread. This plastic plate allows me to move the quilt sandwich around easier, without the feed dogs trying to pull on the fabric. It is not the best way to do quilting, but it works. It does not give a "professional" look, but it does the job. I'm still working on the technique.

Here's an update on the baby quilt that I have been working on. (Earlier post.) I am using my sewing machine and the technique listed above to quilt this project. I have added some bright patchwork pieces to offset the subdued pink, lime, blue and yellow of the backing.

Quilting using Pink Thread

The quilt is not finished, needs the quilting and the binding to be finished. Also, I have enough flannel left to make a matching pillow case for a small pillow (toddler sized).

Backing is a fun giraffe flannel

This is for Fabric Tuesday over at QuiltStory blog. Please visit some of the other links to see some other wonderful quilt projects. Thanks!

A Good Report!

2011-10-10T12:47:00.000-07:00

Last week was a long one. Hubby had a seminar the first three days last week. I attended a seminar the last two days of the week. There was a doctors appointment in the middle and a lot of life in-between, like trying to keep up with my Etsy shops, promotion and sales-- not to mention my blog-- which all brought me to a place of exhaustion on Sunday morning! So . . . lost in the middle was a bit of good news that I want to share!

Breast Cancer Awareness Cuff by pruitthandcrafts on Etsy

I am a Breast Cancer survivor--5 years+-- and last week I saw my oncologist. I had been going thru a battery of tests, bone density, mamo, blood work, etc to see where my body was standing at this point in time. All the tests were good, except two that were expected results--not bad and not cancer indicators-- just indicators that my body is reacting as expected to the cancer meds--which we are managing. Anyway, my doc says that I now have the option to go off of the meds because I have responded well to the 5 year program. NO sign of any more cancer!!! YAY!!!! They had originally told me it would be 5-8 years on the meds, and as of now, there is no definitive testing to say that more than 5 years is beneficial . . .but . . . there is no definitive results that say more than 5 years is NOT beneficial. So . . . I have a decision to make. Do I stay on the meds a little longer, if they are doing me no extra harm, or do I quit the regimen that has become a daily habit for so long?

There are so many questions, lots of think about. Although I don't know what my decision will be, I write this so all of you can understand a part of the process that many, many others are going thru. When you support a cure, you are supporting people like me that deal with these questions everyday for the rest of their lives. So . . .
I thank you all for your support and your donations to the cause for the cure! Bless you!

Handmade Friday Finds

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

I used to like slick looking items for my home, but I have made an about face in my tastes!

Black Cat Hot Pad from BlueberryHillQuilts on Etsy

I really like things that are handmade and that don't look professionally done. I don't mean to be overly critical of all the lovely handmade items on Etsy, but I enjoy looking at an item in my home that I have purchased and thinking about the lady and the process of making the particular item. I think about the effort and time invested. I am proud to be supporting individual artisans. It makes me smile. Many items on Etsy, although handmade, look so polished, like they were made in an assembly line with professional machines. I know . . . I know, many of you own professional machines! I wish I did too! But what I am saying is, please do not discount the work of those wonderful artisans who may not have all the fancy tools and still have a passion for making lovely items. So . . . today I have chosen to pick items from Etsy that have that homespun, made from a comfy home look! I hope you enjoy today's selections and aren't offended by my comments!

Halloween tags by countryrouteprims on Etsy

These tags remind me of school days. I love the school child look! I guess I just love kids and their products, even if they are made by an adult! Just call me Grandma Moses! :)

Pattern from Brynnberlee on Etsy

Or buy a pattern, make your own, maybe for the kids or grand kids. Don't worry about how it turns out!

Handmade is best!

Wagon Dolls

2011-10-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

Recently, in a blog thread discussion, I mentioned wagon dolls. A friend wondered what they were. So. . . here they are. Although the picture is not the best and is taken from an old snapshot, maybe you can see what these cute homespun dolls look like. They were originally designed by Vicki Lauritsen out of Geraldton, Western Australia in 1994. She fashioned them after reading a library book about children's toys on the wagon trains. Thus the name!

These are lovely soft dolls for playtime. They stand about 22 inches tall. I made several of these for my grandkids some years ago. They are made of muslin with an embroidered face and the best part about them is their hair. It's strips of fabric and buttons. The strips are cut with pinking shears. The fabric strips make for a floppy head of hair and the most adorable part of the doll, in my opinion. (Although it takes a lot of time to finish this part.) Clothing is a simple dress of homespun fabric with cute little striped bloomers.

I originally found this pattern in an international quilt shop series book called The Calico House by Joanna Brazler. It features the creative talents of a group of women who work and frequent The Calico House quilt shop in Perth Australia. I have made several of the projects in this book and highly recommend the book (if you can find it--it was printed by That Patchwork Place in Bothell Washington, 1995).

Love Doves Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-05T03:00:00.000-07:00

This is for Wordless Wednesday link party at aquirann's the art tree and chatter blog. Lots of other WW posts to see!

New Baby Quilt in Progress

2011-10-04T03:00:00.000-07:00

Several years ago, I made a quilt for a child's bed. I recently found that I had quite a piece of flannel left from that project. One of my favorite animals in the zoo is the giraffe. The flannel that I chose was a colorful array of juvenile giraffes in teal, green and pink on a yellow background.

So, I decided to make another quilt, this time a smaller one--a baby quilt. It's not finished yet, but I thought that I might share with you the process that is going on now.

The new quilt's main block is the basic nine patch.

I have repeated the same colors of the flannel. I am quilting the sandwich now and will show it to you when it is done. I have a small space in my apartment in which to work, so a smaller project is easier for me to quilt with my sewing machine. Larger projects are sent out to my friend who has a studio and a long arm machine. Here's hoping the project turns out to be comfy and cute!

What are you working on?

This post is for Quilt Story's Fabric Tuesday meme! Please visit the link party on Quilt Story blog. Thanks!

WW-You sure you're in the right place?

2011-09-14T08:51:00.000-07:00

Remember - Sunday Sketches

2011-09-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

This is for Sunday Sketches. Visit BlueChairDiary for sketches from other artists. Thanks!

It's the Season for Pink!

2011-09-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

It's time to think PINK!! It's September! The Susan G Koman Race for the Cure Walk is the 18th here in my hometown. Do you have one scheduled in your city? Here's a link to find one near you. As a Breast Cancer survivor, I am always grateful when funds are raised to find the cure! Find a walk near you and participate!!

Also, that's why I am so excited to find Pink Saturday Link Party over at How Sweet the Sound blog

I make Breast Cancer Awareness quilts. They are made with a crazy quilt block with a white center sporting a pink ribbon. It is my hope that these quilts will encourage those battling the disease; or trying to remember to take care of themselves;, or remembering a loved one lost. They are available in my shop or at this listing.

Here's the link for the Saturday Pink Party. Visit some of the other participants, I'm sure they will appreciate a visit. Thanks!

Friday Finds for Kids

2011-09-09T03:00:00.000-07:00

I recently finished two sundresses for my granddaughters, Vivi age 2, and her sister LaRaya age 5.

They turned out pretty cute for a lady who hasn't made clothing for children in a long time!! It was a fun project, and the girls look so cute in them!

So I decided to feature children's clothing from Etsy sellers for my Friday Finds.

Tie Dye Shirt from SplendidLittleStars

Fancy Trim Socks by peacoxtoo

Cute sundress by LittleAndalucia

I'm inspired! Starting a new little dress for another of my grands! Wish me luck!

Str-e-t-c-h-ing the Budget

2011-09-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

Lately, many of us (actually, millions of us in the USA) who are underemployed or unemployed, are having to stretch our budgets. Money is in short supply and expenses are at the same level that they were when we were employed. In our experience, budgets now only cover housing (if we haven't already lost our homes), food, utilities and maybe a car payment (so we can get to interviews and also answer in the affirmative on an application that we DO have transportation!). Other debt payments are waiting to be resumed when jobs are obtained. Anyway, stretching our budget is the norm. We don't eat out anymore. We don't drive far, since gasoline is expensive. We get help from a food bank and our family. And we stretch our food budget. We have reverted to cheaper casserole recipes rather than a more expensive roast. I'm not complaining (just saying it how it is) and believe this is just a phase--how long we don't know--and know many of us will find work eventually. I am grateful--and I'm sure others are too-- for the many resources available to us.

Anyway, I just want to share this "stretching" recipe. Instead of having a single small steak for each person, and supplying several side dishes, like potatoes, salad, veggie and bread, you can make a one pot meal that is good for you and use the summer veggies in the refrig that you have on hand.

1 small top round steak (enough for Two servings)

2-3 teaspoons fajita seasoning

1/2 cup water

1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

various vegetables of your choice i.e. onions, carrots, broccoli, radishes, cabbage, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers

Cut steak in thin 2-3 inch long slices. Brown meat in a fry pan with the oil or butter until no pink remains in the meat. Add fajita seasoning and the water. Simmer till most of the liquid is gone. Add vegetables that have been cut julienne style and cook/steam and stir until vegetables are tender crisp.

Serve as a stand alone stir fry dish or serve with rice, if desired. Enjoy!

Any budget stretching tips to share?

Baby Ducks Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

Note: This is easier to enjoy, if you zoom in or enlarge it.

Labor Day!

2011-09-05T19:33:00.000-07:00

Today is Labor Day and a holiday here in the United States. Most of us have the day off, although in our house we are currently unemployed and home everyday anyway! So to celebrate, I decided not to do any housework--no cleaning, no making the bed, no window washing! Just being lazy on the couch and watching old movies! Since it is also the time for the Muscular Dystrophy telethon, usually hosted by Jerry Lewis, another channel celebrated by running a marathon of Jerry Lewis movies! We watched a couple of these slapstick, silly movies and enjoyed our relaxation! When I was young, I watched many many of his movies. (For those of you who are not an oldie like me, Jerry Lewis' humor was much like current comedian Jim Cary with facial expressions, antics and silliness!)

I just wanted to take the time to honor the man!

Do you have a favorite Jerry Lewis movie?

Afternoon Nap - Sunday Sketches

2011-09-03T23:37:00.000-07:00

From our vantage point on our patio, our view is straight into three pine trees about twenty feet up from the ground. Many times we have seen squirrels pick out a comfortable limb and sprawl out on it for a quick nap. Sometimes they cradle their head in their arms like a human. Other times they hang their arms down around the branch. This one, today, backed up to the trunk with his tail up, although we have seen them with their tails hanging straight down over the side. I decided to sketch this behaviour today. Enjoy!

This is for Sunday Sketches presented over at Blue Chair Diary. Have a look at all the other sketches, if you have time.

Misty Morning Fog

2011-09-02T03:00:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it is because it is early September and school is starting . . . or if I miss my hometown after visiting it on vacation . . . or if it is just my wishing for cooler weather, but I have been thinking about fog. Yes, FOG! I remember one of the only poems I memorized from my high school years:

FOG by Carl Sandburg

THE fog comes

on little cat feet.

It sits looking

over harbor and city

on silent haunches

and then moves on.

My home town was always filled with early morning fog in the fall and winter. I walked to school in the fog, except when it was really bad. On those days school didn't start for two or three hours later, waiting for it to move on. Anyway, I remember sitting in the fog in the quad at my high school waiting for school to start, after my dad dropped me off early on his way to work. Those were quiet solitary days that I will remember always. I guess, all this reminiscing has inspired me to post these Friday Finds from Etsy shops who feature items of a misty or foggy nature. Please take time to visit these lovely shops. You might find something that you like!

Misty Morning by pbphoto on Etsy

Morning Fog from impulseART on Etsy

In the Fog by theHourglassStudio on Etsy

And last by not least, (and not for sale), is my own painting of the mist in the morning. (Sorry, my photograph does not do the misty quality of the painting justice.) I share it for here for the first time. It hangs the my entry way of my home. I painted it in 1982, so might say that it is 'Vintage' :) Enjoy!

Bovine Dawn by Linda Easter Pruitt

How about you? Any memories of an early morning school day?

New Ways for Brussels Sprouts

2011-09-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

From my childhood, Brussels Sprouts have always been cooked whole, usually steamed in a little water. Some people then added a cheese sauce or butter and served. But my daughter prepared them a little differently, at a family function the other day, and I really like them better, cooked her way! She also prepared them roasted another day, which adds a new dimension to the flavor. So I got the recipes from her and present them for your pleasure:

Sauteed Shredded Brussels Sprouts

Cut Brussels sprouts in half and V cut out the core. Then slice/shred the sprouts like you would cabbage for a slaw. In a large fry pan or wok, drizzle a mixture of olive oil, a little butter for flavor and (optional) a tablespoon of bacon drippings/grease for flavor. Add sprouts and saute until tender crisp. Turn out into a serving bowl and serve hot.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Halve your Brussels Sprouts and V cut out the core as above recipe if desired. Drizzle olive oil on a cookie sheet before adding the halved sprouts. Cook under the broiler, stirring occasionally to prevent burning for 10-20 minutes (depending on how many you have) until they are caramelized and lightly browned on the edges. Serve hot!

Clematis Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T03:00:00.000-07:00

Vacation OVER!

2011-08-26T14:10:00.000-07:00

I'm back from vacation, and ready to start posting again! Although, I probably will not be consistent with this blog until later next week, at the start of September. I re-started my 'Jumping Off Places' linky party in my other blog. (You can see that post here if you are interested in writing.)

So, while I wind down from vacation and get started posting again on this blog, I thought I would leave you with a few of our vacation pictures.

Hubby, my mom and my sister at Availa Beach

DH hunting for sand dollars

One of my grands sleeping on the long ride home

The rest of the pictures were mostly poised pictures of family--not of much interest to you peeps! But it was a good vacation!!! How was your vacation?

Vacation!

2011-07-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

It's time for a break! I've been blogging for nearly three years now. While it has been fun and informative (for me, and I hope for you!) I will not be posting to this blog in the Month of August! I am taking a much needed vacation! See y'all in September (maybe late August!) with some new themes and fun tutorials for fall!

In the meantime, I have listed some of my favorite posts in the side bar, maybe you would enjoy reading one of those! Also, leave your email in the comments section if you would like to be notified when I return. Have a wonderful end to your summer, and see you in September!!!!!

Thanks to all my loyal followers!

Linda

Patterns while Waiting for my RX

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

Seal Antics

2011-07-25T18:13:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are the pictures of a seal at Yaquina Head State Park. We visited the Lighthouse, then an old quarry where we found several seals lazily relaxing on the rocks just a stone's throw from the human viewing platform. This one seal was not sleeping like the rest of them, but seemed to relish the attention of all the onlookers. I really don't know what he was doing, it looked like calisthenics and he just kept doing all these 'stretching exercises?' I just kept shooting to get these pictures.

Sorry, the pictures are not more crisp and clear. My photo program is not working well. Pooh!

Anyway, enjoy the seal antics!

Thursday Card Making Tutorial

2011-07-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

As promised, Thursday is Card Making Day!

Today we will be making a birthday card. This one will be good for the older person in your life, or, you can make it comical for a younger person. Start with a purchased card blank or make your own from cardstock (This one has decorated cut edges using a deco scissors.) Then gather some old photos of your family or whatever you have. We didn't want to cut up our photos, so I copied them on our printer, for a paper copy that I could cut up.

With a matching piece of cardstock or card blank, I cut out a simple frame. Started cutting in the middle of the paper, cutting out the inside of the frame. Round the corners.

Although I did not, at first decorate my frame, although you could stamp it like this one: (stamped with a Happy Birthday stamp.)

Cut the paper picture to fit the frame and glue to the back of the frame. For the background of the card, I gathered some wide lace, cutting it and fitting and pasting it to the card.

I added a simple bow to the top (because I like them) and finished the frame with some hand penciled coloring of scrolls and flowers for the finished product.

I used this card to send to my mother, on her birthday this week. She is 83 and I am a few years younger, (but old myself!), so I thought this would be appropriate for the both of us! I know she will laugh at the insinuated meaning of us both being old! :) hee hee!

Perspective Study - Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

Weekend Vacay Report

2011-07-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

I think I have just returned from the best little weekend vacation that I have had in a lot of years!

Went with my daughter and her family to the Oregon Coast to take in the sites! We first went to the Oregon Coast Aquarium at Newport.

Then we went to our hotel which was awesome, with a patio that looked right out to the beach. We spent time on the rocks looking in the tide pools, built a sand castle and got our feet wet in the sea!

We watched the ocean at night with huge resort lights shinning on the waves. Gorgeous!

Then the next day after visiting and picnicing at beach, we left for Yaquina Head to see the lighthouse.

We got a bonus, as the birds were in their mating season on the ocean rocks.

Then we went to a small cove, where we got some amazing pictures of seals relaxing on the rocks. One of them gave me a show with his antics . . . . but I will save those pictures for later in the week!

It was an awesome trip as we traveled up the coast past tourist towns and ending up with dinner and ice cream at the Tillamook Cheese Visitor Center! (A few more pictures are on my Facebook page.)

Padriac in the Baby Loaf Cheese Mobile!

Have you taken a mini vacation lately?

Friday Lighthouse Finds!

2011-07-15T03:00:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, my hubby and I are going with my daughter and her family to the southern coast of Oregon for a

weekend trip. We will visit the aquarium in Newport Beach, which is awesome--we visited once a few years ago--but the things that I want to see are the lighthouses at Yaquina Head. The first church that my hubby pastored was called, "Lighthouse Chapel." We have collected lighthouses, in various forms, ever since. My bathroom is decorated with lighthouse figurines and art. So Today I have chosen to feature Lighthouse Finds from Etsy sellers!

Vintage Brooch 5 Lighthouses Sailboat Buoy Pin by GrandmasVanity

Maine Statehood Vintage stamps by quilrdil

Monochromatic Seashore Seascape (including lighthouse!) by msink

Vintage Lighthouse Tile by LaVogue

This last find is a 'blast from my past.' I had a plaque much like this in my room as I was growing up!

He CARETH for You Plaque by FunkyGramma

Be sure to come back on Monday to see my pictures from the Oregon Coast!

Scrappy UPCYCLED Greeting Card

2011-07-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

I have decided to do a card making tutorial every Thursday throughout the summer! Follow me on Thursday's for ideas and inspiration in making your own greeting cards!!

If you are like me, in this present difficult economy, you are looking for ways to cut costs and still live a similar lifestyle, like you did before the recession. Many people save everything! I save scraps of sewing supplies, trims and fabrics; paper; anything that I think I might use later. I even use left over paint that is already mixed up rather than throwing it out! I recently was inspired to make a greeting card which started from left over paint from another project. I painted some old music paper randomly, with the remainder of some blue paint.

I also had some card blanks, that I picked up at the local craft store for a buck. You wouldn't have to use a pre-bought one, you could make your card from any color card stock paper that you might have. Cut the edges with one of your fancy cutters to make it look finished.

Next, I cut a random form from the painted music paper for a background. I also cut another random form from a leftover piece of floral paper from a previous project.

Pasted on the card, they look like this:

Then for the scrappy part! I went to my scrap drawer--yes, I have one in my plastic craft chest, top drawer! I pulled out a handful of scraps, including a piece of gold cording, yellow bias binding, ribbon, gold and bronze trim, and a little package of pressed flowers that I bought years ago at a craft sale!

And, voila! Here is the finished collage product, which I am quite proud! What cost me a few pennies, would have cost about $4.00 at the card store. And I am sure I will be happy to give this little card and someone will be happy to get it!

What have you done lately with your "scraps"?

Old Friendship Quilt Top - Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

Vintage Recipe

2011-07-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

When I was in high school, in the sixties, (WOW, am I that old?) I would often go to the cafeteria or the student lunch counter and buy flying saucers! What are those, you say? They are incredibly large oatmeal spice cookies--about five inches in diameter--thus the name! I loved them, and my mom, who collects recipes, happened to see the recipe, shared by the high school, in the local newspaper. Of course she clipped it and I have had this recipe for years and years and years--did I say that I am old now??? hee hee! Here's the 'vintage' recipe:

Flying Saucers

1/2 c. shortening

1 c. sugar

1 egg, slightly beaten

1/4 c. honey

2-3 T. milk

1/4 c. raisins

1 1/2 c. oatmeal (old fashioned)

1 3/4 c. flour

3/4 t. baking soda

1/2 t. allspice
1/2 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. salt

Wash and soak raisins in hot water, and set aside to drain well.
Cream shortening and sugar until light. Add egg, honey and milk and continue to cream. Combine oatmeal and reserved raisins to the mixture.

Sift together all dry ingredients; then add to the mixture. Mix well until well blended. Dip with No. 16 scoop (or 1/4 c.) onto well greased cookie sheet. Make sure you leave plenty of room around the mounds for flattening. With a glass dipped in water, flatten slightly. Bake at 300 degrees 10-15 minutes. Cool to set.

Makes 12 saucers (approx. 4 1/2" in diameter)

Note: These will be soft when you take them from the oven. This is what makes them so good, because the are a soft cookie--DO NOT over cook! I also increase the spices just a little bit, but I like them that way.

The Garden Gate

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

. . . . is it an entrance to a secret garden?

. . . . the alley entrance to the backyard?

. . . . the vegetable garden?

. . . . or a private garden for meditation?

for me it is . . . . a song:

In the Garden
by C. Austin Miles

I come to the garden alone,
While the dew is still on the roses;
And the voice I hear, falling on my ear,
The Son of God discloses.

Refrain:
And He walks with me,
and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known.
Copyright 1912, 1940

This is for Sunday Sketches. See the other participants entries at BlueChairDiary. Thanks!

Summer Kid Krafts

2011-07-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

Well, summer is officially in full swing! What are you going to do with the kids? Probably looking for play days to swap, locating the local water park, finding the children's story time at the local library, and stocking up on craft supplies.

Little Sister with the sparkly glue

LaRaya's turn!

Kids love crafts, especially because they love to get messy! Recently I did a craft with two of my grandchildren. It started when I found LaRaya who is five, and her sister who is two, nearly three, cutting up little pieces of foam paper. Pieces were everywhere. I ask LaRaya if she wanted to make a mosaic. She really didn't know what a mosaic was, but she was game for anything that I wanted to make with her. So we began. On a large sheet of paper, she wanted to draw a princess! No surprise there, everything that she does lately involves a princess! We drew the outline and I started pasting the little foam pieces onto the paper. LaRaya just wanted to use the sparkly glue on the princess' gown. I got the hair done, and started on the crown, before she realized what I was doing. Finally she joined in and had fun cutting and putting just the right sized pieces in the rainbow that she added to the picture. All the while, little sister had fun with the glue!

This is fun!

Finished product and proud artist!

The Day After - Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T03:00:00.001-07:00

WINNER!

2011-07-05T12:35:00.000-07:00

WINNER!
WE have a WINNER in my summer clearance and giveaway! See post

Dolly Madison has won a $15 gift certificate to be used in any of my three shops! Congratulations Dolly! Visit her lovely shop!

My summer discount sale is over, but there are still many, many items in my shop that are clearance priced. Clearing out the shop to be ready for the fall line.

I Miss My Patriotic Dad

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

(This post was from Independence Day 2009--I think it is worth reposting it!)

My dad was the most patriotic man that I know. He was a veteran who served in the Korean affair, and in WW II. He worked in other countries like Bahrain and Saudi Arabia from time to time. After working there, he spoke of his appreciation of the liberties that we have in this country.

I miss him. Especially on the Independence Day holiday. He traditionally had the entire family over to his house for BBQ, home made ice cream, good family fun and fireworks! Dad would never let us eat until he gathered everyone around the prepared table in the backyard. He would wait till everyone was gathered, even the little ones, then he would give his annual "speech" (encouragement) to appreciate our country and our freedoms! He would get a little choked up, (but don't you mention it!) and maybe a little teary eyed--we all knew it was heart-felt. He would admonish us to know that we lived in the greatest nation in the world and then he would pray over the food, our country and all of us. Then we would all "dig in."

Appreciating our country and our freedoms has been instilled in me as a value that I will always hold dear. I pray that you will celebrate today, and take time to think about what we have that needs to be preserved!

Note: The family is meeting today at my daughter's house. Five of my ten children and their families! And lots of friends! BBQ, swimming, yard games, homemade ice cream and fireworks!And there will be chaos, but the most fun chaos you every had! Happy Independence Day Everyone!