Abounding Life

I'm here with a gorgeous gift

2011-04-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Hope life has been awesome toward you since I've last been around. Thank you for your patience and kind emails asking what's up with the long silences over here. Well, the truth is that since I got back from Michigan, I've been deeply involved with an ongoing and rather intense project (work kind of stuff.... boring and frustrating). I had hoped to post earlier this week, but someone decided to work from home all week which means no computer for me. More delay and well, you get the idea.

Sooooo, on a much happier note, I finally have an opportunity to show you what I received a couple of weeks ago from a very talented and generous soul who sent me my Pay If Forward Gift. I was so excited to get this.... truly the spirit of Christmas as a small child. I had no idea what it would be, but I knew it would be awesome. The heart behind this gift is Danielle over at My Blessed Serendipity Life.

Don't you just love how she wrapped it in a vintage dress pattern and made the perfect touch with the newspaper flower? I sure do!

It's the perfect necklace for me! I just love it! As I told Danielle, if I had all of the necklaces to choose from, this is exactly the one I would choose. Did you notice the small heart dangling from the bottom of the charm with the words "spread love" over lace.... love that!

Thank you Danielle! I truly am loving this beauty and even more knowing that you made this work of art. Ya'll go over and say hi to Danielle and be sure to tell her what an awesome creation she made, ok? Hopefully I can soon get things more uh, organized and back on track over here and have some time to go a visitin' over at your place. It's on my calendar... somewhere amongst all the other behind stuff gotta do ~~now should have done already.~~ ya'll pray for me..... ;)) Have a most awesome weekend, see you soon. xoxo,
Ellen

Amazing store

2011-04-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

While I was in Michigan for little Sophia's birth, I made a quick trip over to Marshall, MI to visit the children's clothing boutique there. Directly across the street from the children's boutique is the most amazing antique store called "Amazing Grace". I have been there several times and every time I just drool over all the amazing stuff in there. Wanna see?

Being there just inspires me to want to redo my entire house with this just fabulous vintage finds!
Hope you all have great success in your treasure hunting this weekend, can't wait to see what you find!

xoxo,
Ellen

Hello World!

2011-03-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!! I finally have a minute to introduce you to my newest Baby Love Two! Our little pink bundle of precious baby love finally made her arrival on March 16th. Here's our little Sophia Ellen,

Yes, my Baby Girl and Favor'est Son in law blessed me with the honor of naming little Sophia with my name. And yes, I did tear up as any joyful Nana would. Little Sophia was almost born in the backseat of her parents car which would had been just like her Nana being born in the back of the car! She took her time in getting here, but when she was ready, wow! A few pushes later, and here she was. Perfect, healthy and just beautiful. Mama and Daddy are just over the moon and can't stop smiling as they exude pure joy.
Sophia is tiny and oh so quiet. Her birth weight was 7 pounds, 2 ounces. Doesn't she look even smaller with her Daddy's hands around her? Baby Love One, Jackson, is not so sure about his new little sister as he told his parents to "put back" and "stop it" with Baby Love Two. Whada' ya' expect from our little Baby Love? ;))

The family has adjusted very well and all are doing great. Little Sophia is moving right along on her growth chart and even Baby Love One is adjusting to having her around.

Our visit with them was of course, entirely to short, but I'm thankful to have been there with them to adore and love on them all. Welcome to our Family Baby Love Sophia!

xoxo,

Nana

We have a Giveaway Winner!!

2011-03-16T13:12:00.000-07:00

Hi Girls!! so hope that you all are having a great day. I'm writing from the hospital where Baby Mama & her baby girl are doing well Details later with pictures.

I wish that I could give something to each of you, but well, you know how that goes. So on with the winners name!! the name is, Jane at Janes junk!

Congratulations, Jane !!!! Yay! The Giveaway is yours! I so hope that you enjoy it! I will have to wait until I get back to Tennessee to mail it to you, but consider it on its way to you! Soon, you'll be able to serve tea for your friends in this beautiful teapot!! Woo-hoo!!

That's a wrap, ya'll. I have to scoot off of here and get about the business of Nana. Thanks everyone, have a great day!

xoxo,
Ellen

It's a milestone Giveaway!

2011-03-14T10:31:00.000-07:00

I had this post ready for several days now, but am adding a bit of news to it as we have had excitement over the weekend. My Baby Girl has been in labor since Friday night. She left the hospital under doctors care and was at 3-4 centimeters along. She has a doctors appointment today and I'm waiting to find out when the doctor is going to induce labor. So either tonight or early tomorrow, I'm outta' here for Baby Loves' birth that will be scheduled for either Tuesday or Wednesday!!! Praise God!!

Before I do, however, I did promise a little celebration because you really are special to me. If it was not for all of you who take the time to pass through here everyday, well, what's the point of having a blog. I have met so many amazing, creative, thoughtful and personality plus people since I started blogging. You all make life so much more interesting to say the least. To celebrate reaching 100 people who have signed the Wall of the Beautiful and Chic, I'm giving away a little something.

The giveaway includes the teapot which is from the Flea Market Collection of Home Essentials, the Willow Tree picture frame and a little plate with its own stand, which reads, "We get by with a little help from our friends".

It's been a journey getting here. So often I've asked myself, what's the point. Then along comes the most unexpected comment of whom the writer of the comment directly encourages me to keep going - and I never told anyone about my doubts.

So when I found this plate, I knew I had to include it as well.

To participate in the Giveaway is really easy. Leave a comment to throw your name in the hat for the drawing as I will be drawing a name on Wednesday March 16th.

I won't twist your arm to follow, but if you do add your name to the Wall as a new follower, that'll get you the bonus of your name in the hat twice. If you blog about the Giveaway, well that'll get your name in the hat again as well. Because I've got ~~a mountain to move , I'm going to be out of state~~ , a few things to do, like cuddle Baby Love One & Two, I kindly ask that you comment for all of the above so I know who and how many times to add your name to the hat.

Easy enough right? I'm off of here, got much to do before getting on the road. Have a wonderful day!

xoxo,

Ellen

Faith & Friends Friday, 4

2011-03-11T08:29:00.000-08:00

Good Morning to all! I hope that everyone is having a good day. I don't know about you, but my heart is rather heavy this morning with the news of Japan and the potential threat to Hawaii and our West Coast. So please bear with me. I'm distracted in my thoughts as my heart is with those in this situation. Let's not forget to pray for them.

Thank you to ALL of you who visited me in this past week and especially thank those of you who slowed down long enough to leave your most amazing, funny and encouraging comments!! I really appreciate you letting me know you were here! A special shout of thanks to those of you who signed the Wall of the Beautiful and Chic who are now following me on this journey of life. Thank you! In celebration of reaching 100, I have a giveaway that will start on Monday so you'll have to tune back in for that Celebration!

I also want to thank Denise at The Pink Postcard for featuring my bed this week! I introduced you to her in last Friday's Faith & Friends episode and was pleasantly surprised by her choice of featuring my bed make over!! Every week she host the Transformations & Treasures linky party. If you've not been there to link in or visit, you have gotta go. There's some pretty amazing stuff over there!

Someone else to be sure to visit and say hello to, is Laura Lynn over at Enjoying the Simple Things. Yes, I've talked a few other times about Laura Lynn, but if you've not been there or haven't been lately, you are really missing out. You have to read what she wrote yesterday (Wednesday quotes on enduring life's trials). Her writing talent will take you right into the moment she is writing about with such detailed visuals. She writes with and about substance and integrity with such a pure heart. After reading her post yesterday, I was literally in tears. You'll have to read for yourself. It was THAT great!

Someone else to go and say hello to, is Sherrie over at Vintage Affaire. She has a love of vintage things and has the lovely blog to prove it. Her blog has lots of pictures with her vintage finds that she picks up from a variety of places. She's like so many of us, loves the "junk" stores. She set a beautiful table earlier this week with her stunning finds. You'll swoon over it, really!

For more chippy paint and vintage treasures, you'll not be disappointed over at Alaina's house, Arbor House Lane. Her home is comfy and well loved with things from yesteryear. Lots of chippy, happy paint, creative ideas and a few how-to's abound over at her house. She generously throws open her door and welcomes you in!

While your out and about, stop in and say hi to Bonnie, The Hopeless Romantic. Her blog title very accurately sums up her homes' look. She has wit & humor that flows throughout her personality. Her home is hopelessly romantic with it's shabby chic look, ruffles, pink and if you love cherubs, she has that too. I don't know how she did it with a house full of guys, but Girl Power to her shabby chic home!

One more thing. Earlier this week Danielle at My Blessed Serendipity Life answered the call to join in the Pay If Forward Challenge. When I read about it in Danielles' posting, I signed up to join in. I really love and am excited to be a part of something bigger than myself in Paying It Forward. It's a challenge. Really something we should make a part of our daily lives anyway. Not to receive anything back. Not to receive attention or credit. Unselfish love, simple as that. I love that, don't you? I am making this challenge to all who read my blog, but the FIRST FIVE PEOPLE who comment on my blog to accept the Pay It Forward Challenge, will receive a handmade gift from me. In return, you must FIRST write a blog post explaining Pay It Forward 2011. Then you in turn, send out a handmade gift to the first 5 visitors who leave a comment.
It's like ripples in the water, the love is spread & spread & spreads more by paying it forward. Who wouldn't want to be a part of the rippling effects of love?

So, even though 5 committed people need to comment that they accept the challenge, it doesn't mean you can't leave a comment just to say hi. 'Cause I love hearing from you and going a' vistin' over at your place too.

Well, that's a wrap for today. I hope to hear from all of you and see you again soon. Don't forget to come back Monday and be a part of the 100 Celebration! Have a great weekend. Love to you all!

xoxo,
Ellen

Happy Anniversary to Baby Girl & Favor'est Son in law

2011-03-10T06:58:00.000-08:00

Today marks a big milestone in the lives of my Baby Girl and my most Favor'est Son in law.
It's their 6th wedding anniversary!!

As Baby Girls' Mama, I can hardly believe it ! Baby Girl and my most Favor'est Son in law are the most precious couple I know. Six years ago today, they joined their lives and have blended together beautifully. They have achieved many milestones in just these short six years. Some of which is, they both have their Degrees, bought their first home a few years ago after moving from NC to MI (courtesy of the Marines), had Baby Love and are due any day with Baby Love Two.

It has been nothing short than wonderful and amazing to watch these two grow in their marriage and lives. They are truly an example of what faithful, committed love should be and reap the fruit thereof. They learned early on how to respect and regard each other with kindness and mercy. I praise Daddy for answering this Mamas' prayers from way back when Baby Girl was a pre-teen, in regard to her future husband. Everything I prayed for, my Favor'est Son in law was and is. They have been and are growing to be. Favor'est Son in law lives out what a Man should be in loving and caring for his wife and family. Baby Girl lives out what a Woman should be in adoring and regarding her Husband.

Together they have made a life that would literally take your breath away in awe. It was not all easy, but they worked together through the hard times and have come out on the other side as much better people and a stronger couple for it.

I truly give thanks to Daddy for this precious couple, precious family. May the love they have only grow deeper and more fruitful for the next 60 years as Daddy continues to pour out His rich blessings into their lives.

Happy Anniversary Baby Girl & Favor'est Son in law

xoxo,

Mama

The coffee table lives on

2011-03-08T07:13:00.000-08:00

My endeavor of transforming my bedroom to the old Hollywood Glamour is still a work in progress as I have finally finished working on a corner of my room. It is a corner that I was not unhappy with, but it was to shabby chic nostalgic for the room to really emphasize the old glamour I'm trying to achieve. So,with that in mind, I took the coffee table top from the same table that I cut and used on my bed previously and transformed it as well. The same friend who gave me the table had also given me a full length mirror, so I used them both to make a glamorous corner. After browsing hundreds of internet pictures of Hollywood starlets of the old days, I noticed that their dressing areas and dress shop areas had these fabulous tufted sides added to a huge mirror all of which sat on top of steps. Keeping this in mind and on a much, much smaller scale, I duplicated the look.

Because the location of my now dressed corner, it was slightly challenging to get a decent full picture, but I think you get the idea, 'cause you be smart that way!

I inherited my Mothers first vanity and dresser she had after my parents married so the new / old mirror is in the corner of the two pieces of furniture.

Directly over the top of this new glamour is my sweet chandelier.

I added some detail to the sides and the "mirror frame" to mimic the idea of old Hollywood as I saw the same wood carved details in their furniture. Oh yeah, the padded sides are actually covering two old chippy paint shutters I had set up in the same manner in the "before" transformation. Sorry, I was so anxious to get this project going, I forgot the "before" pictures!

It's not complete, as you know I'll keep tinkering with this little project to get it just right. But for now, here it is, coffee table turns old Hollywood Glamour mirror. So, what do you think D'haling?

xoxo,

Ellen

linking to Trash to Treasures, Nifty Thrifty, Faded Charm, Transformations & Treasures, Wow Us Wednesdays.

Faith and Friends Friday, 3

2011-03-04T08:10:00.000-08:00

(photo courtesy of Dino De Luca's portfolio)

Can you believe it's Friday already!?! Yeah is all I can say about that 'cause my Baby Girl is another Friday closer to having Baby!! It's also time for Faith and Friends Friday spotlight to shine on some visit worthy fellow bloggers. First, however, I want to say thank you to those of you who signed the Wall of the Beautiful and Chic, to follow my journey in this life. I also want to thank all you who are so thoughtful and kind to take a moment and leave me such awesome comments. I do read them all and am encouraged by your thoughts, wit & humor, and just outright thoughtfulness. Thank you!!

Now, I'd like to introduce you to Tete who recently gave me an award of which I am most gratefully humble for her choosing me to pass it onto.

It's an award for bloggers who are not ashamed to post about praying, faith and are the first ones to leave kind words and prayers for those in need. About shining your light without boasting, for being a prayer buddy without asking, for going the extra mile to hug someone with your words, those who inspire faith, hope and love in their posts.

Hence, the gratitude and humility for receiving such an honorable award. Thank you Tete for your kindness and thoughtfulness in choosing me. Back at you, Girl! There are no rules to this award, other than to pass it onto others who inspire by faith in their blogs. Immediately a few people came to my mind.

Karen at Glass of Sweet Tea, Danielle at My Blessed Serendipity Life, and Sandy at Farmhouse Chicks.

Tete is the blog author of Beyond the Garden Gate. She is the daughter of a Baptist preachin' man and married to the son of a Wesleyan preachin' man. She has a fantastic blog filled with humor, insight, personality and just an all around uplifting place to visit. Almost daily there is something posted at her place that will make you smile, giggle and out right laugh about. Like the rest of us, she too is working on beautifying her home. If you've not been to visit her, you gotta go meet her!

This week I'm talking about these afore mentioned Girls and would like to also introduce you to a few other Girls whom you may not have yet met that I've had the privilege of meeting recently. Again, in no certain order, first is Jane at Jane's Junk and Treasures. Talk about innovative! This Girl has it going on in that department! Her beautiful home is decorated with the vintage treasures that'll she has on display in a way that each piece can be appreciated and make sense- not to forget, added humor to the decor as in her chicken coop. Yep, she also has chickens! Say hi to Sweet Pea & Pearl for me, ok Jane?!

Next is Ann over On Sutton Place. Ann's blog has some fantastic floral pictures happening lately! She is keeping us current on the home trends while giving a view into some of her rooms in her beautiful home. This Girl knows how to create a table scape and you should see how she has her decorative plates arranged in her dining room, oh and let's not forget the toile on those fabulous lampshades! Creative, crafty and just well put together.

Last, but certainly not least, is Denise at The Pink Postcard. Denise has a beautiful home too. Currently, she is remodeling her bathroom and you have to see her inspiration picture. Swoon!! She has an artful way of creating vignettes using treasured old with new stuff & it looks great. She is handy with tools and a sewing machine. Which means, the Girl is creative and can produce some very ideal re-purposed stuff, like her gun rack. Don't ask, just go see for yourself. If you're looking for a new linky party, she's the Hostess of Transformations and Treasures, much fun to be had at her party!

Alrighty then! Now you have a list of Girls to go say hi to, so off you go!! Have a fantastic weekend ya'll!! Come back and see me soon!

xoxo,
Ellen

The bed is finally made!

2011-03-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

Yes, I have finally finished making my bed so to speak. It took several days in between everything else I have going on. BUT, it - is - done! I can finally put my bed to bed, sorry I couldn't resist that! Ok, here it was before the make over:

I had already posted the starting stage of the make over last week, so I'll skip that and get to the final presentation of the bed. Ready? ok, here she is all made up and finished...

I opted to go with the French twist on the Old Hollywood Glamour by adding a wood frame to the head and footboard simply because I really wanted to mix the fabric and wood. My bedroom has so much wood furniture and I love linens, so this option seemed best. What do you think?

I really wanted the detail of the wood frame to be added to the bed. You won't believe what this "frame" was in it's previous life... a coffee table! Yep, that's right, a coffee table. You should have heard the comment from my friend who gave me the table. She was just a tad bit astounded that the trusty table she gave me was now a bed frame! However, at the time she pass it off to me, she clearly had more faith in my carpentry skills than I did, because she said, "I know you can do something with this." I was not so sure, but took it anyway....So here it is after I tore the table apart and fired up the table saw to "stretch" it out to fit the bed. Needless to say, my friend asked several times, "you did what with the coffee table?"I am relived to announce that she is happy with the outcome of her former coffee table.

While I was at the artful creative mindset to change things, I also did a little tweaking on the mantle in an attempt to mix the old with glamourous, but trying to keep it simple at the same time.

I found these old books and had to use them for props in the bedroom too. I also brought back some of the worn love pieces.

The sun is shining brightly, the birds are singing, little girls are riding their bikes, the trees and plants have buds AND I spotted blooming daffodils in a neighbors yard..... Let's all do the Spring Happy Dance!

Have a wonderful day!

xoxo,

Ellen

linking to Faded Charm, Wow Us Wednesdays & Brambleberry Cottage, Happy Housewife Show Me, Home Sweet Home, Transformations and Treasures parties.

Time Marches On

2011-02-28T07:22:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know that it is still a few hours away from being March on our calendars, but time does seem to be March'ing away from me more so lately than in previous weeks. In case you have not noticed, I do not seem to blog or visit so much over the weekend. The truth is, I am rather busy as most of you are as well. Finding time to write a decent sentence is rather challenging at that time.

So first out of the gate this morning is Good Morning to all and Welcome to my new friends who signed the Wall of the Beautiful and Chic. I'm so glad that you signed onto following my journey through life. Stay with me, it's about to become rather interesting.

I spoke with my Beautiful Baby Girl over the weekend and she told me that the baby's head is down and in the birthing position---- and she has been spring cleaning..... Our precious new Baby is not due for three more weeks. However, she had Baby Love two weeks early and this Baby is acting as though she / he will not be out done. So I may be taking off to Michigan just any day now. YEAHHHH!!

I really need to focus on packing my own suitcase to get ready for the trip. It's hard though, because I'm rather distracted these days by the the Holy Spirit's nudging in my soul. I feel as if I'm racing against the clock and I don't know "what" I'm racing "with" or "toward". We are all given the same measure of 24 hours a day, but somehow, it just does not seem like enough time for whatever it is that I'm getting ready for. I'm excited about the new Baby and yet, I find myself looking beyond the birth day trying to see into the gray area of life. His Grace is sufficient for the step we are on and His Light is enough for what we need to know in our moment of time. I know and yet, I'm wrestling within my own spirit for "something". Jesus said in John 10:10 that the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full, abounding life. The journal of life by our calendar has yet to be penned with the days events. So I am expecting and looking forward to writing of His Wondrous and breathtaking works in all of our lives.

With the birth of the new Baby will come new changes. My little family is growing and being so far from my Baby Girl and her children, well, lets just say, I'm praying to be able to see them more and not less. I'm also praying under the direction of the Holy Spirit about unnamed situations that are stirring. I say unnamed because I'm not really sure "why" I'm supposed to be praying as I have been. It seems strange and yet, in all honesty, I do know. I'm searching for answers. I'm looking for the plans as promised in Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

I have a strong sense that life is indeed about to become very interesting. Changes are coming. Hope will be realized and life is about to turn in a direction that I never dared to dream or hope for (Eph. 3:20). I am not afraid, for Daddy said 365 times throughout His Word, "be not afraid". 365 times He said this- 365 days on our calendar. Coincidence? Hardly. In the years of walking with Him, I have always found Him to be faithful and True. If He promised it, then He will deliver. So regardless of what is going on in the unseen, I can not wait to meet our newest Baby and be able to hug and kiss on Baby Love again! I can not wait to see my beautiful Daughter and handsome Son in law blossom into even more loving parents than they already are. They have been absolutely amazing with Baby Love and have so much more love to give. This new Baby will lack for nothing and for that, I am grateful. I'm thankful that Daddy has blessed them greatly in many way's. Mostly I'm thankful that Daddy has blessed them with beautiful babies and hearts overflowing with love. Change is good and Daddy is awesome and Faithful! His timing is always perfect for our life's events and changes.

xoxo,

Ellen

Faith and Friends Friday Too

2011-02-25T07:26:00.000-08:00

It's Friday -- again!! Wow! I was MIA yesterday because, as I posted the other day, I'm on a mission to change my bedroom to more of the old Hollywood Glamour. I've been doing a little internet studying on the subject and have decided that I'm going to have to somehow artfully mix what I have (old) with the new appearance of Old Hollywood Glamour. Above is my bed as in the before state. Ok for everyday, whatever. Since I made my bed out of Red Oak, I just can not bring myself to paint it. My tiny budget will not allow for me to buy a new one and even if I could, where to store the old bed??? So what's a Girl to do?! Well... remember my dining room table dilemma and how I fix that one? So, I did it again!! I thought long and hard about this and finally figured a way around the roadblocks. Now, keep in mind, I'm the kind of Girl that keeps working on stuff until I REALLY like it. This is not the finished product, but I'm still studying on its final presentation.

Yep, there she is in all her dressed up glory. I had to use fabric to wrap around the post of the bed and I see I need to go back and pull it a tad tighter for a smoother appearance, but what a change, huh?

I'm sure that you can see some of the details that still need to be detailed, but I'm just so thrilled to actually be on the mission and have the bed at least, in the works.

It all started with the gathered champagne colored pillows in the picture above. Just had to have them. And yesterday, I was out and found the duvet with the same colors, muted leaves and flower background with the reverse in a complimentary satin. It was an absolute-perfect find for mixing my old linens and stuff with the new Old Hollywood Glamour look. I just knew that Daddy was saying, Go Girl, this is for you! Hope is alive!

Ok, now on to the other fun stuff. As I promised last week, here are three more Girls I'd like to introduce you to that you may not know just yet.

In no certain order, first is Danielle over at My Blessed Serendipity Life. Danielle has a soothing kind spirit that is so inviting into her everyday life. She is creative, like most of us, loves the thrift shopping and she shows her finds. And what finds they can be! She has a well stocked studio that is truly drool worth, so go ahead and drool. She created her studio table from an old door with glass on top, took out the door insert panels and created a display. Simply amazing!

Now this next Girl, just a few of you I know already know her, but her kindness and sincerity is truly noteworthy. Sherry at The Charm of Home. She is so innovating, that she took clothes and created the most amazing Union Jack tables skirt. Actually, come to think of it, her creativeness inspired what I'm about to do to my bedroom chair.... Thanks for that Sherry~! She creates the most amazing table scapes and the food she has out, oh my! Tea Time with Sherry is always sure to show you some of her beloved finds or buys. Guaranteed to make your heart swoon, I tell ya'. She also host the Sweet Home linky party.

Enter Susan from Evelyn and Rose. Susans' blog has such a soft, serene look, I bet you could spend a lot of time over at her place. She has a flair for decorating with the thrifted finds and buys that she brings home. She shares her journey of her homes re-do, space by space. It's all beautiful and just like her blog, soft and serene. Her home is flowing with lots of whites and chippy ooey eye candy. Lots of soft old linens, just the right touches of silver pieces, and all of it artfully displayed.

Ok, now, go say hi to these amazing Girls and of course all the participants of Vintage Inspiration and Feathered Nest Friday !

xoxo,

Ellen

Lovin' the sunny cold day

2011-02-22T08:52:00.000-08:00

The sun is out but, it is deceitful. Baby, it's cold outside! Burr! We've had spring like temps for the last several days, people have donned their shorts because it's been in the lower 70's. Not today! So I'm inside working on my mantle which is in my bedroom. The transformation has been a slow one because I just can't decide how I want to finish it. On one side of my bedroom, it's old glamour. The other side is more traditional old, if that makes any sense at all to you.

The sun has been streaming in so camera perfect, that I was distracted with taking pictures rather than focusing on the mission at hand. Can't relate at all can you?! ;))

I spent the better part of the weekend rearranging some things in my bedroom. Cabin fever, bored, ready to move, change everything - take your choice of what is fueling this need for a different view.

I have discovered, however, that I am going in the styling direction of the old hollywood glamour and farther away from the traditional just old stuff. I'm trying to lighten the look, less stuff, if you will. My problem is I want everything out on display - what to put away???

It's a slow process of moving things around and trying different looks in new spots. But I'm having fun and it is coming together.

I'm also finding that I'm slightly over this covering every single surface, tables, walls, shelves. The down side of this is our rooms are small. Wall space is limited so it does not take to much to make it look "full".

This is the space between the fireplace and window to the left of the room. The hair comb was a yard sale find from a former booth owner who was emptying her booth via yard sale. The comb is old rhinestones and magnificent!

Someday I'll find a better mat for it, but for now, this will do.

I've had this hook for ages and thought it would be perfect for holding my Mothers' beautiful "robe". Go with me on this, it's my Mothers' after all.....

The sun is really beaming now. The day is slipping away and I've much to do, yet again.

So warm wishes and creative dreams to you all as we are another day closer to Spring!!

xoxo,

Ellen

Linking to White Wednesday

Faith and Friends Friday

2011-02-18T07:01:00.000-08:00

I was up before the sun this morning with lots on my mind. Nothing is wrong so much as I just needed to talk to, rather, hear from Daddy. My mind traveled over so many things going on with people that I know, that it caused me to stop and give thanks for those who have made such a positive impact on my life.

I try to let my family and friends know just how important they are, not only to me, but to others as well. Blog friends are no exception. There have been 3 Girls in particular that have been nothing short than amazing to me. They have been with me longer than, well, I can't remember how long 'cause it's been that long.

They are each unique and impressively different in their own blogs, but all have strengths and faith that simply inspires me and I know, for a lot of you too.

Time and time again, as I visit them I am encouraged to strive to be better in all that I do, remembering The One Who gives us all talents and gifts which are meant to be shared with kindness and sincerity. These Girls are so unique in their inspiration, I don't think they know just how inspiring they really are. That is what makes them simply amazing.

In no certain order for no unspoken reason: The first one is Sandi at Wayside Treasures. When I first started looking for blogs to inspire me for the shabby chic purposes, it was Sandi I kept coming back to. Over time, I have found her to be a true friend, faithful to her word, talented and simply understated with a pure heart, as are all of these Girls. Sandi has kept me grounded in the pursuit of shabby excellence by way of sharing her finds, creations and life's joys. Whenever I need creative inspiration, to Sandi I go because she is so talented with her artful creations and decorating. I so admire her ability to take the "wayside treasures" that have been discarded by others and transform it into a new thing of beauty. So much like what our Daddy does with us when we let go and let Him.

Next is my sweet Sista' Karen at Glass of Sweet Tea. Nothing short of Daddy's Grace speaking to her and by way of her unfailing faithfulness to Him, she always writes a Word in due season. No matter what I am going through, I can go to Karen and she has already written just what I needed to remember and focus on that day. Her personal testimony encourages me to practice humility, patience, forgiveness and seek Him first - no matter what. I love her strength to live out loud as a testimony to encourage others to keep fighting the good fight of faith. By example of her own life, her testimony reflects the truth that regardless of what is trying to change our course, hold onto His Promises because He is faithful and just to bring everything about for our good and His glory.

Finally, is Laura Lynn at Enjoying the simple things. Her writing talents have strengthened and developed in such a way, that she truly causes one to stop and reflect deeper than just the superficial surface of life and every day events. She makes me laugh with the antics of her outgoing, personality plus family of 5 children. Her patience and insightfulness into even the most trying of situations is nothing short than astounding. She has such a perspective into things that ordinarily would not be noticed or evaluated, but she noticed and evaluated with simplicity and selflessness. She has a way of writing about the everyday happenings with such a positive flair that you can't help but to smile with her and feel that lift in your own spirit.

Last and certainly not least, a shout out to all my newest Girls who were kind enough to sign the Wall of the Beautiful & Chic. Sorry, I have a hard time calling you "followers". Thank you all for your kindness and repeat visits. Next week I am planning to make time to give dedicated shout outs to some of you as well. Just hang in there until next time, ok?

Have a blessed and wonderful weekend!

xoxo,

Ellen

All things new again

2011-02-17T08:49:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that we are already approaching the end of another week? Where does time go?? It's probably just me, but it seems as if I no sooner get up than it's already two days later... The good news about that is, we are speeding closer to Spring - Thank You Daddy!!!

Yesterday was absolutely gorgeous here so I took advantage of the lighting and had a full day of photography for a multitude of reasons. The best reason was for the fun of it all!

I also worked on the Etsy store and unearthed a few things left over from my booth so I photographed them too.

I also got busy working on another set of chalkboard tags and I gotta tell ya', it was just slightly hard to list these. Let me know what you think of them, ok? I so appreciate comments and your thoughts - it helps in more ways than you know.

On another note, I recently received this precious award from sweet Rosetta over at The Romantic Rose.

Thank you Rosetta for your thoughtful kindness of passing this on to me. If you have not met Rosetta, go visit her in her lovely home in Italy. She is fragrant with love and dreaminess all throughout her beautiful home. She has developed quiet the creative eye in her displays.

I'm supposed to pass this along to other bloggers and this is always the hardest part. So here goes:

Patti over at The Shabby Chick Vintage Chic & Hand Me Downs

Heidi over at Sugah Beez

Kelly over at Till Death Do Us Part

Maggie over at The White Farmhouse

In addition to passing I'm to tell of that one day when blogging clicked for me. Well, that is actually much harder to specify because it just evolved through a series of events and others.

Before I close, I want to leave a rose for all of you who are so kind to stop in for a visit and for all the thoughtful comments you leave. It really does make my day, so here is to you - Thank You!!

xoxo,

Ellen

joining in the linky party over at Brambleberry Cottage and Very Merry Vintage Style and of course, Vintage Inspiration Friday with Debra as well as Debbiedoos Newbie Party.

Outside the box

2011-02-15T10:22:00.000-08:00

Hi Girls!! Happy Day to you all. I hope you all are having a great day. I must confess, I'm in a dry creative well today. So I think this will be a good time to go visit so many of you creative souls and see what's happening out there. In the meantime, I did manage to inspire myself enough to create a little sheet music box and embellish it with lace and a paper flower.

I also whipped out this paper mach e star wand. I made these last year for the art show and sold out. Funny thing was, "older girls" bought them in droves! Lots of Girls bought them for birthday favors and just because. A few of them actually was used for props in upcoming Spring plays. Who knew?

This was a quick and easy little project that was lots of fun to create. Now if I could just get everything else I need to do to be just as quick and fun...... ;)

Have an amazing day!

xoxo,

Ellen

linking up to White Wednesday, Get Your Craft On

Baby Love on V- Day

2011-02-14T10:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day to one and All!! I hope you all get lots of hugs and love not only today, but everyday!!

Well, my Dear Baby Girl and adorable Baby Love, Mr. Jackson, have come and gone. We had such a great time and soooo many laughs 'cause of this little one...

Jackson is truly LOADED with personality. I really did not know that it was possible to pack so much personality into such a little person!!

He was constantly making faces and tilting his little head for effect - all the while keeping us in stitches.

Every time someone would walk into the room he would yell in a very excited voice, "heyyyyyyyy" and do his happy dance!!

He was so good while they were here. His mama said he's like that all the time.

We had snow twice while they were here and one day he got to play in it for a few minutes. He didn't like it at all. Funny thing is, they're from Michigan! Can we say "snow"?!

For as much as I have truly enjoyed their company, I must now dash off here to catch up in all that I ignored last week.... and it's still Valentines day- gotta' go get some stuff for that don't cha know?!

Have a wonderful day!

xoxo,

Ellen

Fun with numbers

2011-02-03T07:37:00.000-08:00

Good morning Girls!! I pray that this day finds you safe and well. I'm just dropping in to show you what I've been up to for the last few days. I have been making these oh so fun chalkboard tags for the Etsy store.

I just could not resist the dual purpose of these mini chalkboards. Numbers on side and a mini chalkboard on the other. How Fun! Perfect for gift tagging or organizing. Speaking of gift giving, I've gotta go now - my Baby Girl called last night to tell me that she is driving her very pregnant self and my Big Boy G'son down to spend the week with me. They'll all be here tomorrow and I've much to do ;o))

Take care, be safe! Thanks for the visit and comments, by the way! It really does make my day!!

xoxo,

Ellen

linking into Brambleberry Cottage for Time Travel Thursday & Debbiedoos

More true confessions

2011-02-02T07:13:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd give you a quick look into yet another addiction I have called dishes aka, china.

I tell ya', I had not acknowledged just how much of this I had until I tried to figure out what to capture for todays posting and started walking around with the camera.

Then I began to see....

I have only given a small glimpse of what I have out because of the limited real estate we have in this little house.

But I have managed to display a few pieces of my favorites such as my Ironstone, Keystone International and Wedgwood. This particular set of Keystone International (the butter dish) is exactly like my Mothers and I have a complete set that I found this past summer. Never used, mint condition. Funny thing is, it's still "never used, mint condition" because I favor using other pieces that are tucked away in the kitchen cabinet.

However, my favorite has to be the Ironstone pieces. The simplicity of design or the more complex designs made subtly because its all white. I love mixing the different pieces which is really easy since it's white, shocking I know.

I have way to many pieces stored away on shelves and continue to buy pieces as I find them. It's an addiction seriously. But it works well with the fabric addiction, or so I think.

Each piece is unique and has a history all unto itself. Much like my FiestaWare collection that I've had for many years. What I particularly enjoy about my dishes whether it be Ironstone, FiestaWare, or other china is that I use it daily. With the exception of the Keystone International china, we actually use china everyday. My thinking is "why wait for special occasions?" Isn't everyday special, if you want it to be? I'm just sayin'.

Well thanks for the visit and I hope that each of you have a warm, safe and creative day!

xoxo,
Ellen

linking to Faded Charm White Wednesday and Vintage Inspiration Friday & Feathered Nest Friday.

Gettin' my Girlie Glam on!

2011-02-01T12:24:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make. I once upon a time, used to dress like a real Girl. I used to wear the latest fashions in such a timeless fashion, I had style - or so my Mama told me ;)) Thennnn, I met my tablesaw and Ryobi changed my wardrobe to paint stained tee's and ripped jeans.

But it seems that the desire to be a Girl has revisited me yet again- and I think I like it!! I have noticed that with the honing of my home, so goes my wardrobe.

I am seeing more and more of the likeness of home and clothes quietly slipping into every aspect of my life. (Grinning here) And yes, I do like it.

I have noticed that a tremendous number of you Girls seem to reflect the same, so I'm pretty sure you can relate. I have drooled endlessly over the jewelry, bags, and clothes you've made- all shabby and tattered.

I've noticed that you have your bling singing in everything along with the gorgeous rosettes and ruffles, bows and oh my - have you Girls got creative talent. All I can say is "thank you" and "more please"!

xoxo,

Ellen

Playing inside today

2011-01-27T08:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we awoke to find more of this outside, yeah for us...

So the Mr. stayed home to work, yeah for me.....

There is just something about when he is home, it's as if a child is hanging on my hip again... There is so much I could say here, but really, you know.....

Moving on....

Have I ever told you I have a fabric addiction? Well, I do and have had for as long as I can remember. There has to be a support group for addicts like me. I just can't seem to resist fabulous fabrics and linens.

I have a linen closet packed to the rafters with great linens. I have a shelf packed with fabrics. I have a locker basket packed with fabrics. I have fabrics spread out in the guest room. I have an addiction.

I've always loved French Toile Fabrics. Something about the story that the pictures tell and make me wonder about. This fabric combination is for my latest box I made. I had the inspiration from a client who wanted something very similar, so as I was making hers, I was planning my own.

Yep, that's really burlap mixed with the French Toile fabric. I love it. It actually turned out slightly different than I envisioned, but better too. By the way, have I told you I "make" the boxes? Actual tablesaw cut, luann, measurements, and all? Well, I do. These are not cardboard or paper mach e boxes. These are challenging little wood boxes that I get a thrill out of covering with many fabrics and dressing up.

I have a small collection of the French Toile going on lately.. more than usual, is a better way of putting it. I love to mix the different prints and kinds of fabric to make an unexpected yet winning combination.

I have this tan toile on my bedroom curtains mixed with a burlap fabric. It looks great. To bad I can't get a decent picture to show ya', sorry.

The toile is popping up all over the house since I've been housebound thanks to the weather. I'll bet that the Mr. will be glad when it is decent outside and I can go OUT to play ;))

But until then, I'll have to entertain myself with all of this fabric loveliness.

I'll show you later the latest fabric project I've been working on. It has ruffles, toile, 'n all.... ;))

Have a great day Girls,

xoxo,

Ellen

Checking my list

2011-01-25T08:13:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Girls!!! Can you believe the date for today?? Only a month ago,.... oh my.

While I was having my morning coffee and mentally making my to do list, I was staring outside to the now usually gray wet dreariness of the day that I'm becoming used to seeing. In my estimate, I have calculated that we have about another 10 weeks to go until Spring springs! Yeah!

First things first: A Huge Welcome to all of my newest peoples' that have joined the Wall of the Beautiful and Chic!!!! HI!! I am so glad to have your company and look forward to your many visits back!

Time has once again slipped past me in these last few days, but I have it on my to-do list to be sure and get around to each of you who have stopped in for a visit and signed on the Wall.

I have to confess that I have enjoyed reading all of your comments more than opening Christmas gifts! I can tell that you are all generous of heart & special in your own uniqueness. So I am looking forward to visiting you and being in awe of more of your talents!

How do you like my chandelier? It's amazing to me how Daddy will answer even the simplest, unspoken hope that we hold deep in our hearts.

A few years ago now, I had been drooling over all the chandeliers in other peoples' blogs and in magazines, but never really thought I'd have one of my own. It was just one of those quiet hopes, ya' know what I mean? Then one Friday morning, I literally stumbled across a estate sale of which was under the supervision of only one of the homeowners children. (Note: the said homeowner was and is very much alive. She just packed and moved only what she wanted and left the rest of her many, many things for her 3 adult children to divide, sale and deal with. Oh yeah, she went to vacation on a sunny beach while this estate sale was happening!). I happen to be the very first person to this under advertised sale.
Which was more than ok with me and he as I pretty much cleaned them out! This little beaut was on the far backside of a heaping table and I kept looking at it. I honestly thought the man was going to quote some outrageous price for it when I finally asked "how much". But instead, he seemed annoyed as he told me he trashed it until his wife yelled at him to dig it out and sell it. I got it for ..... $2.00 and it works! Well, it did work. I painted it white & hung it in the trees in my backyard that year and had candles in it. It is really pretty, especially with the candle light glowing through the crystals.

It now hangs unwired in a corner of my bedroom and is one of the first things I see every morning. Rather fitting reminder of the beauty of Daddy's promises. He is a Promise Keeper and He promised that He delights to give us the desire of our hearts. So I wonder just how Delighted He was and is to have given me something that I see everyday and it provokes me to say a simple heartfelt, Thank You because I know He hears the quietness of my heart when no one else hears me.

I'm just sayin'.

Well, here's a sneak peak at what I've been up to in this past week. Well, at least one thing anyway. I was about town last week, in between snow

flakes ;o and saw a few handtowels that I really liked with it's nice trim 'n all. Because I just can not bring myself to pay ~~extortion~~ higher prices for what I can do for myself, I promptly set about to make my own. Wanna see? ok!

My bath is sage, cream, white and purple. Yes, purple :) I took the colors of nature a few years ago to figure out what color to compliment the sage green tiles that we are not replacing as they are original to our 1951 home.

Not to bad, huh? You may recognize the green dotted trim as being the same fabric that is on my Baby Girls' Baby Memory Box from last week 'cause it is the same fabric. It was the perfect shade to compliment the bath. Love it!

Well, I've got to get going, lot's to do and not much time to get it done. But here's another look-see at what I'm working on today amongst the many other things to be done..... Just a look ;))

Have a wonderful day Girls! Stay warm, at peace and in the high creative gear of life!

xoxo,
Ellen

linking to Faded Charm for White Wednesday, Savvy Southern Style and Brambleberry Cottage and Boogieboard Cottage, Common Ground Vintage Inspiration, Feathered Nest Friday

Thank you and Look at how cute is this!!

2011-01-20T11:18:00.000-08:00

Thank you precious Girls for helping me with your creative thoughts about the Baby Box. I'm not closing comments and am still open to hearing any and all input as I have not officially decided which way to go. Although I am narrowing it down, but please drop down to the posting from yesterday and let me know what you would do to finish this box off. Thank you again.

I also want to send out some love to Ms.Kay Ellen for the Sealah Tape that she had sent to me earlier last year...

Because I used it in this Baby Memory Box and am loving it!!! Normally I have to glue or stitch my ruffles together and boy is that time consuming!!! But not with Sealah Tape!! I am loving this tape now!! Wham, bam - Done!

You gotta get this stuff!!

Ms. Kathy of Delightsome Life left me the most unexpected comment that I could not let pass without saying thank you to her on my own posting. I was humbled to say the least, when I read that she was highlighting my little blog on her beautiful and thoughtful blog. Wow! What an honor to be chosen among the other inspiring blogs and of any other blog she could have chosen. All I can say is Thank you Kathy, all the glory goes to my Father. Please go visit Ms. Kathy and see how beautiful her blog is. She has a pure and generous soul that pours out of her blog. You won't be disappointed!

How adorable is this for my baby GrandSon Jackson!!! I could not resist getting this for him and his big boy self to wear to see his Mama and new sister / brother (?) in the hospital!! And because he is constantly kissing and hugging his Mamas' big ole belly, I had to get this for him to give his Mama. Don't cha just love that!!

In case you want to know, I found these little treasures at Best Baby Shower.com. And I am thrilled with them!! I was not to sure about ordering from an unknown company, but they are speedy, communicate every step of the way and the quality of these to precious things is excellent! I can't wait to see my Baby Girls' face when she see's this!! Don't tell her about it though, she doesn't know! ;o

xoxox,
Ellen

Finishing Details -Help!

2011-01-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, creative Girls. I need your input here. I make these little 12" x 12" boxes a lot and usually the finishing details are not such a big deal. However, this one box is for the soon to be GrandBaby and Babys' mama is rather finicky so I need some input here.

I have the inside detailed and finished with fun and complimentary ribbon, but the outside top is the stumper.....

I have no problem with repainting the "H" if needed. I have had clients who love their boxes decorated this simply with their initial or as in the next picture, with a large simple item, such as the flower.

But to me, it is just a little too plain. So I thought of trimming the edges with ribbon.....

But which ribbon? I really like both of them and can see either of them being pleasing to my Baby Girl. That really helps, right ;o !

This is getting better, but still not convinced that this is quite the look.

Paint the "H" and add the fabric background??? Too much now??

Thank you for helping me out with your thoughts. Every thought is appreciated and needed. Hopefully I'll get this finished and post "The End" soon!!! Have an awesome day!!!

xoxo,

Ellen

linking to Between U & Me & Time Travel Thursday

A few of my favorite White Wednesday things....

2011-01-18T09:44:00.000-08:00

Oh my , it's soon to be Wednesday again... wow has time been flying! First off, Hi and Welcomed to all of my new followers!!!! Thank you for signing on to check into my little corner of the world. That means soooo much to me!!! Thank you and please come back often!!

Todays pictures are just a random collection of some of my favorites from this past year or so. Some of you may recognize the pictures, but hopefully they'll present themselves as being renewed in some way to you all.

As we hop through the pictures, I thought I'd answer a couple, few of the most asked questions I received last week in comments and in the sweet emails.

Yep, that profile picture of me is current as of last August. I really am a Nana. My daughter and I have, all her life, been mistaken as sisters. I thank God for giving me my mothers excellent genes!!

Our little fur face, Tuffy is 11 years old this past November. She came to us as a tiny little puff ball of cuteness when she was rescued at the age of 8 weeks old. She's my constant companion. Don't know what I'd do without her!

Oh, now how did that picture of her slide in here? Oh well, That's a face you gotta love!

yes, I miss my booth- some days. After I closed back at Thanksgiving, I narrowed down the singular aspects I most liked and was successful in by way of my booth. Now that I have a more defined picture, I am aiming more specifically in "that direction".. More to come on that later ;)

Yep, I'm still fasting. This is the last week and well, I'm not entirely sure I'll be stopping with everyone else as I have a great need for an even greater breakthrough in a few areas of my life...

My latest project?? Wellllll...... It's been really small stuff as I have not physically felt up to the task of the bigger projects that I've completed in years past and I'm actually out of room here in the house to show anymore of my carpentry skills. :o

Yes, I feel some what better and have been in and out of the doctors office since the fall. My final diagnosis is due next week as I have officially finished all my tests. My kidneys are still screaming as is my heart and lungs from all the inflammation. Turns out, my doctor has been looking to confirm SLE Lupus. It's pretty much a confirmed deal.

But no tears here. I've been in this rodeo more than a few times. It's time to saddle up and strap in!! Besides, I've got waayyy to much to do! My precious GrandBaby is coming!

I've gotta pack, plan, buy a gorgeous girls dress and a boys suit. No, she's not having twins. She's just a smart Girl who listened to her Mama with the first child and is repeating with the second, to wait until Baby is born to find out the sex. She and her husband so enjoyed the pregnancy journey with Jackson, they wanted to repeat with the 2nd Baby. So we don't know what she's having!! YEAH!!!

So if I seem a little slow getting around to you all, forgive me. I'm just a little side tracked with much to do ;0 Later this week, I'll probably post the Baby Memory Box that I've been working on for the past week. It's something that I need your opinion about in regard to the final details. I make these boxes all the time for clients, but this one, well it's such a special one that I can't seem to finish it. Tune back in and vote later this week ok?

xoxo,

Ellen

This post will be linking to Faded Charm White Wednesday, French Country Cottage, No Minimalist Here, Vintage Inspiration Friday, Show and Tell Friday.

First White Wednesday

2011-01-12T07:39:00.000-08:00

It's still snowing.....

Well, at least Tuffy is having some fun in it! She actually does like to play in this wet, cold stuff.

I tried to make a little snowman for you, but the snow is to powdery. Great for skiing, not so much for making snow people. So I got busy with the camera to take pictures so I could play along with Kathleen's White Wednesday party. After yesterdays rather lengthy post, I'm a bit talked out so today I'll be your quiet tour guide and let you just browse.

This frame is purposely empty. Isn't it gorgeous!! It has stunning Austrian Crystals and pearls all around and even in the clips on the back. It's waiting to be filled with the picture of my new Grandbaby due in March !!! Nana is trying to contain herself as she writes this, really!!

Speaking of Grandbabies, the new Baby's Big Brother, Jackson (1 year old at the time), painted this picture for my birthday last year. See the creative talent he has!! It runs in the family I tell ya'.

And just for fun, how about a look back to last spring and summer to remember what is yet to come...

ah, can't you just feel that fragrant spring breeze.....

The End!

xoxo,

Ellen

Linking up for Linky parties with Frugalicious Friday and Vintage Inspiration Friday, Show and Tell Friday and Feathered Nest Friday. So be sure to go and mingle with these other creative ladies as well!

Spring Fever and More!

2011-01-11T10:43:00.000-08:00

Good Day my Best-est Girls! I pray ya'll had a great weekend. I've much to tell today and could hardly wait for Mr. to leave and go back to work so I could have the computer back... anyway, I've much to show.
First off, here is one of the projects I tinkered with over the weekend. As Marty so accurately put it recently, I've got cabin fever, spring fever, some kind-of-get-me-outta-here fever! So I've been daydreaming of spring days. Remember those days?
I found some left over silk flowers from another project that I'll show you on another day and played around with them trying to figure out something useful to do with them.

Just so happened to be an empty paper towel roll ready for the recycle bin, so I snagged that and cut it to size around the way to skinny stems of the flowers. Something to really grab a hold of, ya' know?

Then I hot glued burlap fabric to the very end of the tube to cover the opening.

To the very top of the tube, I added a strip of lace to cover the not so pretty plastic holder things for the leaves and to cover the little gaps at the top of the tube.

Then I covered the entire tube with burlap and added another strip of lace around the middle.

I also added some of the decorative filler ( that was part of the floral bunch) to the top of the tube to fill in there as it looked kinda' missing something. Looked ok, but overall kinda "blah". So I added a few lengths of lace and 3 rhinestones to the front top.

Once I was done, I was almost content with it, but something about it just did not set well with me and thee against my decor. The flowers were to white. Now, around here, everything is aged, old, classic and timeless. This newbie was too new. Sooooo....

Tea Bath Time... What do you think about it now?!! Huh - Huh?? Yeah, mucho' better!!

Who'd uh thought Dollar Tree silk flowers could look so lovely?

This little beaut is going on display over at Coastal Charm for Nifty Thrifty Tuesdays and the Happy Happy Housewife and Trash to Treasure Tuesday linky parties.

Now for the news to be shared, (I'm so excited and blushing too) -

See this award:

Sweet and thoughtful Heather over at The Other White House gave this to me! I almost fell out when I received this from her! What an honor! Thank you Sweet Girl!

Now I am to pass it along to some more stylish bloggers as well. Rules to play along..

1. Thank and link back to the person who gave you this award.

2. Share 7 things about yourself.

3. Award 15 recently discovered great bloggers.

4. Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award.

Ok, 7 things about me-self....hummm...here goes:

1.) I'm an organizational spaz - gotta have everything in place or else my world is out of order. I think it goes back to my corporate days as a VP of my company and had to juggle, juggle and juggle and juggle my staffs stuff too... so don't miss that.

2.) I can not sit still- my poor Mother! in looking back at my childhood, it's no wonder she kept me busy with soooo many extracurricular activities when I was little.

3.) don't tell anyone, but I thrive on change - I get really bored with the same-as-as-same- does routine. I have to have foundational routine, but in the grand scheme of life, I actually like "planned, purposeful, positive change". I detest negative, unplanned life changes. I really like "new". Maybe that's why I'm always moving stuff around in my decor, giving things away and bringing stuff in.....

4.) Speaking of bringing in - my "new" desire is less is more. I am really tired of living under the weight of stuff, so I've let go of lots and lots of things - and I LIKE it!

5.) I love meeting new people and keeping up with old friends - not so easy these days, but you Girls make it easier through Blogworld - thank you , thank you and thank you!!

6.) I'm an old black and white movie addict - Katherine Hepburn, Spencer Tracey, love them!

7.) Last but not least - I'm not and I actually refuse to give way to being on a strict schedule. I'm not a set in stone kinda person. I'll get there when I get there, know what I mean? Sure I abide by appointments and the time that Church starts, but otherwise, unless it's life or death -forget it, if I don't feel like blogging, cleaning, going - it ain't happen'. Life's a journey, not a race, mean't to be enjoyed and appreciated.

Now, for the Passing of the Award. This was REALLY challenging as I've met so MANY awesome and amazing Blog Girls out there and you all deserve an award just for being you!

Ok, Blog Roll please....

Karen at Glass of Sweet Tea - Karen has been an unquestionable confirming word direct from Daddy every time I've needed to hear from Him. She's my real life Bloggy Friend too, who has lifted many peoples spirits with her realness and humor.

Laura Lynn at Enjoying the Simple Things - Laura Lynn makes me wish I was related to her just so I could hang out with her family 'cause they're always up to something. Humor and her real life self = her way of combining the two is endearing. She has an amazing photogenic eye too!

Sandi at Wayside Treasures - Sandi has this incredible way of giving the warmest hugs over the web... I dunno' how she does it, but she does! I love, love, love her decorating style of mixing the ~~old~~ much loved with the functional everyday pieces.

Kay Ellen at Kay Ellen Design - You've heard me talk about this amazing, decorating multi-talented woman before, but I have to nominate her as well. She has that perfected balance of mixing the mediums in the homes of her clients. And she is so generous, she lets us in on her family life too!

Marty at A Stroll Thru Life - Marty has such unique and inspiring decorating tips and how to's. Her home is soooo warm and inviting the way that she has it all pulled together. Not only does she invite you into her home, but her life happenings too.

Sandy at Farmhouse Chicks - Sandy is another woman of faith that keeps me encouraged as she takes us all on her journey of life whether it be the inspiring book she is reading or the healthy food plan she is on. She's also got humor!

Kim at Cheap Chic Home - What can I say about Kim?! She literally stole my heart when I found her blog back before Christmas with her realness and humor. She lets us in on everything from what's for dinner to what the glue gun has she done now!

Rondell at Something Nice and Pretty - Rondell is alive with enthusiasm and creativity all throughout her home and life. She'll take you on the journey of her home in its transformation and her amazing thrifty finds.

Julie at Saltbox Treasures - Julie has a beautiful family and home of whom I just discovered a few weeks ago as well. She too, lets you know whats for dinner and keeps you in the know of her decorating achievements and thrifty smart craftiness.

Ok, that's it! Wow what a post! Thanks for hanging in there with me. Now Go Visit These Amazing People and have a Wonderful day!!

xoxo,

Ellen

Watcha' doin?

2011-01-07T14:59:00.000-08:00

Seriously ya'll, watcha' doin'?

I am just a little wound up now that I've ~~drank a whole pot of coffee~~ almost finished the upstairs purging and well I just don't wanna do any more cleaning right now.

Sooooo, I tried to get Tuffy to play with me. You know a simple game of hide and seek can be really fun!

But somehow she just kept finding me or could not get the whole concept of "hiding" even though she has perfected hiding some of my shoes. ( Note to self: must move couch in family room)

Needless to say, this idea did not last to long. So I had a brilliant idea of working on some more creative fun projects cause I'm like getting waaaaay behind in that.

But somehow that seems to have lost its luster lately as well. Must be because it's so depressing outside. We're supposed to have more white wet stuff flaking out of the sky at some point today. yeah

Well, I guess I'll just go and do a little of this now

So I'll leave you with a joke and you leave me a comment - ok? Ok, here goes:

A man was driving down the road with twenty penguins in the back seat. The police stop him and say that he can't drive around with the penguins in the car and should take them to the zoo. The man agrees and drives off.

The next day the same man is driving down the road with twenty penguins in the back and again. He is stopped by the same police officer who says, "Hey! I though I told you to take those to the zoo."

The man replies "I did. Today I'm taking them to the movies."

xoxox,

Ellen

Photo Credit to FreeDigitalPhotos.net

My word for 2011

2011-01-06T08:22:00.000-08:00

My goodness, this is the first day I've stopped long enough to even think seriously about posting. I've been slightly busy. I could hardly wait to have the house back to myself and get on with the business of purging.

I have cleaned and organized virtually every space in my house. Tossing, bagging for others and GW, cleaning and rearranging anything and everything, and boy, don't it feel GOOOOD !!

During the purging and cleaning process I noticed that in my spirit, I seem to be getting ready for something, something very different, something new. Something that is not yet ready to manifest, but is very close to being complete for presentation. I seem to be lightening my load so to speak. I was also thinking about the number of blogs I had noticed were talking about their "word" for 2011.

I had zero plans of joining in and am not - exactly, however....

Every January I participate in the Daniel Fast and this year, my church started the Daniel Fast on January 2. I however, started preparing to fast a week earlier. Not so much by choice as my health has dictated that I have to, once again, make a life long dietary change which, funny thing, is actually like living on a Daniel Fast. Coincidence? Ok, so you're asking what does this have to do with the "word" choice of 2011. Just this. As I was asking Daddy a direct question about my mission for Him for this year, my eyes lifted to the plaque hanging above my door and this is what I saw -

What I heard in spirit though is to take a closer look at the word Bless. Being one who has for years entertained myself with the mental game of trying to make new words out of one word, this was appealing to me. Here is what I saw.

Bless = BlEss (be)

bLESS (less)

BLESs = (drop the bottom of the "b" and open the top to make an "f", spell backwards and you have "self "

Bless = Be Less Self

Following this was the verse 2 Corinthians 9:7

⁷ Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Yes, this is a highly referenced verse for tithing, but Giving is all inclusive of your inner most being; your heart and motive = blessed to be a blessing. Everyday you can tithe / give your smile, encouragement, positive outlook, a much needed hug. Bless others by Giving your best for their best benefit.

So this is literally my word - my promise, my 2011 focus, mission, and purpose.

With that having been said, consider yourself hugely hugged and may you have a greatly blessed day!

xoxo,

Ellen

Last post of 2010

2010-12-30T12:42:00.000-08:00

Can you believe the last hours of 2010 are upon us? Where has this year gone?? Before this year ends, allow me a moment to express my thankfulness and gratitude for each and every one of you. Without you, I don't think I would have been so encouraged and brave to have gotten through the year. It's been rather difficult to say the least and I for one can not wait for 2011!!

I am so excited to see what everyone does in this new year as I know that in this past year of getting to know you all, that you are going to do great things. Thank you so very much for sharing so much of yourself with me and the rest of blog world. Thank you for your visits, humor, and comments. I so appreciate each and every one of you.

I pray for Daddy's best upon each and everyone of you. That you will experience His love and peace in a greater way and in a deeper and newer sense in 2011. I hope that all of your dreams are realized in the year to come.

Just to back up for a moment, we here in Middle Tennessee had a white Christmas. That is not very common for us so it was actually a very magical touch to the entire setting of Christmas. I have to admit that I rather enjoyed seeing everything covered in a soft white blanket of snow. Changed everything, ya' know what I mean? Made the ordinary look rather special.

I am very much looking forward to the new year. I am soooo ready to put behind me the "old" and get on with the new. Guess I'm like my Daddy in that way. He's always up to the new stuff of life and reminding me, at least, to get over the "old". Maybe that is partly why I'm so anxious to pack up the Christmas decorations (although I LOVE them being out). But I realllllly want to scale back and "simplify", find balance, focus on the priorities of life and just appreciate all that life has to offer.

No matter what my dearest Friends, May this new year bring much love, peace, joy and everyday be Christmas somehow for each of you.

Happy New Year!!

xoxox,

Ellen

Last of the details...

2010-12-20T10:58:00.000-08:00

Ready or not, here is the last hours before the most anticipate day of the year is here! Wow!

I'm not sure if we are as ready as we like to tell ourselves we are, but...

I'm finished with all the shopping, wrapping, decorating, shipping, baking... done! I'm so done, in fact, that I'm already working on projects that I had planned for after the new year! Maybe this will be a sign of the year to come - working ahead instead of behind. I'm likin' it! So, are you done too?

xoxo,
Ellen

That's My King!

2010-12-19T09:19:00.000-08:00

I had been thinking on a Christmas Video Card to post here to wish you all the warmest and most loving of Christmas wishes. But somehow, everything just seemed to fail to truly capture the heart of Christmas because of the Santa's and the over done commercial aspect. Don't get me wrong, I've got a lot of Santa's around here and gifts to give as well. But surely Christmas has a greater, longer lasting purpose, Right?

Maybe this is it.

I believe that the ultimate Christmas Gift is best said via this video. Have you seen it? Do you know?

This is my Christmas gift to all of you, my family and dearest of friends. The real Reason for the Season.

Merry Christmas and lots of love, hugs and blessings to you all,

Ellen

It's WHAT Day!?!

2010-12-17T07:49:00.000-08:00

Is it really true? There are only a few days left until, until, until Christmas??!! How can this be? It's so strange how I've been looking and counting the weeks and SUDDENLY I realize that "it" is almost upon us!

Really, I do know how to count weeks and days, got to be pretty good at that in these last few decades. But seriously, how does this keep happening to me? Am I alone in this??

The last gift to be sent out finally ~~fell out of the sky~~ was delivered last night. So today I can make another trip to the post office to overwhelm those folks some more. Don't cha just love 'em!

I feel as if I need to stuff in as much Christmas stuff as possible in these last hours. I think I'll skip sleeping for the next week or so. Maybe then I can get my fill of the Christmas happenings!

Or maybe I'll do what I do every year. I'll keep ~~all~~ ~~most~~ a few Christmas decorations out until Spring. Just blended in, ya' know? And I'll not pack away the Christmas movies or CD's for, well, who am I kiddin' - I never pack those away! I watch Christmas movies and play Christmas music all year. Yeah, I'm That kind of Girl.

Now, please go over and visit our friends Courtney at the French Country Cottage and Sherry at No Minimalist Here and Gina at The Shabby Chic Cottage . They are hosting fabulous parties that you'll not want to miss!

Have a Merry, Merry Weekend!

xoxo,
Ellen

Merry Wednesday!

2010-12-15T07:13:00.000-08:00

Merry Wednesday!!

xoxox,

Ellen

Christmas Past memories

2010-12-14T13:47:00.000-08:00

Merry Monday!

2010-12-13T10:34:00.000-08:00

Seasons Greetings my Blog land Friends! I just this weekend cruised around the blog world visiting so many amazing, creative and oh so talented blogs to see what you all have been doing by way of Christmas decorating.

It is truly my favorite time of year to go visiting blogs because the talents of people really seem to shine through more so during this season than any other. Wow!!

In my travels around the world visiting new and familiar blogs, I did notice that there are a number of people who have confessed to having a hard time getting into the Christmas Spirit of the season. I can relate. It shows in my Christmas decorating this year as well. Rather on the slim and quiet side, unlike my usual splash from the front yard, throughout the house all the way out to the back yard. I finally perfected the blended Christmas decorating, if you will, of my everyday decorating being enhanced with the complimentary Christmas decorations. This year has not been as full and enhanced for a number of reasons. But I truly have enjoyed the lavish abundance of all of your blogs displaying your Christmas decorating! Stunning, just stunning!

I am trying to keep my focus on the true reason for the season and am encouraged by so many of you who are as well. Last Sunday our church service was hosted by the Children's Choir. It was nothing short than absolutely amazing!! The children really captured the focus of the reason for the season and what a delivery they had for the rest of us! It really was a soul lifter that had me rejoicing for the real meaning of the season.

Our weather has taken an unusual turn for this time of the year. We've already had snow 3 or 4 times. Yesterday it finally stuck and turned into an icy mess! We don't usually have this kind of brutal freezing wind and snow AND ice until February! The great thing about it though, is that for the first time in many, many Christmases, hot chocolate and dessert coffee is a welcomed touch to the Christmas season- in front of a blazing fire.

So on that note, I shall leave you with warm wishes, much love and appreciation for all of you!

xoxo,

Ellen

Tis the Season

2010-12-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

Warm wishes and lots of hugs for you my dear blog land friends. I hope that the Christmas season is bringing you much joy and happiness. May you be surrounded by the presence of your loved ones, relative or friend of choice, all year through.

xoxox,

Ellen

Happy Friday

2010-11-19T13:50:00.000-08:00

Have a wonderful and warm weekend my Dear Friends! Sending you all love and hugs!

xoxox,
Ellen

Just sending love back to ya'll!

2010-11-01T14:03:00.000-07:00

I have to apologize for my long absence here, but in all fairness, I've been less than focused and able to hold a singular thought for any length of time. Today I actually feel better and I'm trying not to over do it and set myself back. I do want to send out many, many hugs and kisses to you all for being such amazing Girls of prayer and encouragers to this weary soul!! Your comments and emails have been such a tremendous source of encouragement and rays of positive hope during this less than shiny time. Some of you have asked what the physical illness is, truthfully the short answer is, what is right..... I have a extremely broken immune system that is reacting horribly to all of my other stresses of life and now the only way it knows how to react to such elevated stress is to have debilitating pains and reactions. I'm currently caught between doctors visits and insurance dilemmas. Recently, I had a big upset with my kidneys and pains in my lungs and heart. My hair is falling out and I have a crazy skin rash. Great, just what every Girl wants when she needs to feel better about herself, huh? ;) I'm trying to find some humor in this not so funny mess. I'm not sharing this for "poor pitiful me" so much as I share because you cared enough to ask. I know for some of you, it's a power point for prayer and it's working! THANK YOU!! Praise Daddy, today is actually the first day I have truly felt somewhat, dare I say, normal and not so dismal and hopeless. My skin itches like crazy and my head is still not clear, but my heart is lighter with hope and I have you to thank for that. I really, really do thank Daddy for each of you! So please forgive me for not visiting so much lately and I will do my best to very soon. I just love you all and am missing you so much!!!

xoxox,
Ellen

New plans

2010-10-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

"We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps."
Proverbs 16:9

Just stepping back to get a running start forward into a new adventure :)
Have a peaceful Sunday my dear friends!
xoxo,
Ellen

Bye bye Booth

2010-10-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

I went out to my booth earlier this week and gave my notice to close my sweet little booth. It was not an easy decision so much as it is simply the beginning of letting go of those deep intimate dreams that I've held for so long in my heart. I gave my notice to my dearest fellow booth owner who happened to be working that day. She has known some of the things that I've been dealing with and as she asked questions, she found out the rest of the story. She teared up and made me tear up too. However, the other side of this bittersweet story is that I've known deep down that this day was coming. In an odd way, it's a relief to have a defined date ahead rather than some dark mysterious "some day" that weighed in on my heart so heavy. I can make this confession rather easily after hearing Joyce Meyer confess the same thing about a job she had in ministry for 5 years and one day, suddenly, Daddy said it was over. That is a very similar experience for me with the booth. There is a part of me that is not only relieved and sad, but a part of me that is ready for a rest and a new adventure. While the booth was fun, these last few months have been physically difficult for me to maintain it because of increasing health issues, but it was mentally draining as the creative outlet seem to become the brook that dried up. Even though I loved the life as a booth owner, it seems that something is missing; that there is supposed to be something more. I don't know yet what it is. But I do believe that this is just one aspect of what He told me must go in order for something new to come.
Thank you so very much for your encouraging thoughts and words! I can tell the difference over here, thank you for praying for us. We are in need of all the prayers we can get. We are not nearly as bad off as some people, but our little world is still shaking and it's an all new tribulation to us. There are still several other greater changes yet to be faced in my life. When this will be, I don't know. I just know it's coming. So again, thank you for being you and praying for us.

xoxo,
Ellen

Life's trails and trials

2010-10-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference. Robert Frost

The crown of life

2010-10-15T13:40:00.000-07:00

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

It seems that there is no shortage of trouble from all sides for a growing number of people in these days and I have not escaped it either. Lately, my life has just turned upside down and my whole world is shaking. I tried to pretend even here that all was well, but the truth is, it has been anything but. I have turned inside out and had to face some very hard facts about myself, others and life overall. But because of this shaking, if you will, I am learning in a much deeper sense what our Psalmist meant in the multitude of verses regarding praising Daddy no matter what. I'm trying to, really I am. Through tears and brokenness, I really am trying. Sing praise with me, maybe that'll help. I know that the promises of Daddy are true, I've been a witness to much to not believe now. I'm having to let go of some very intimate dreams that have been in the center of my heart for a long time. I'm having to face choices that frankly I never thought I would. Trying to hear Him above the noise and confusion that pounds at my life, is difficult at best some days.

I'm not trying to draw attention to myself or be overly dramatic. I am ,however, letting some things, a lot of things, go in my life. I'm beginning to understand better and better what all of these conversations between me and He have been leading up to. All of this has opened my eyes to some very hard truth about lots of thing in me and others. I am grateful for much, that list would be long if I were to write it out and you probably have the same things to be thankful for. So instead I'm going to make a wish list. Maybe you can relate to some of these: I wish I could hug and kiss away peoples hurts and problems so that pain would not be passed on to others somehow either purposely or blindly. I wish that I had a time machine to take people back to the defining moment that changed their lives for better or worse. I wish that I knew why some peoples prayers seem to be answered and others seem to not be heard. I wish that I could give more hope to the discouraged and broken hearted who hurt so deeply that it seems Daddy's Word must still be working through the brokenness and we have not yet seen the deliverance of wholeness. I wish that I could turn back time to the Ozzy and Harriet life and days so families would not be torn apart by the crazy un-reality of today. I wish that we all could remember that were just one "Jesus" away from eternal separation. I wish that we could be as wise as our elders and youthful as our children and grandchildren. I wish that truth was always spoken with the temperance of love. I wish our hearts were not so fragile but full of peace, joy and praise.

I share this with you so that you understand my silence and absence and yes, if you think about it, I would appreciate your prayers. Pray for my family, marriage, future, health. And I shall pray for yours.
I'm going to change the blog slightly to fast one picture posts for a while because I don't want to lose touch with ya'll nor you with me. All of you really mean so much to me. Please just "patiently endure" my testing and temptation.

xoxox,
Ellen

Look what made my week!

2010-10-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Remember my recent posting that I won a fabulous prize over at Kay Ellen's blog?

Well - I was browsing through my pictures to do a post and was not too excited about what I had to choose from when the PostMan rang my bell, literally!

He had this FABULOUS box in his hand and it was for me!!

I could hardly wait to open it and when I did, here is what I found:

The Sealah "no" sew tape and in the BEA-U-TI-FUL box was this:

A gorgeous flower ring, Eiffel tower crystal magnet, letters that spell my name, tulle and flowers.

Stunning, just stunning. Made me cry, no joke. It was just the kind of picker upper I needed today-this week. So thank you again Ms. Kay Ellen, I love it!

xoxox to all,

Ellen

Just a Girl and her power tools

2010-10-04T12:43:00.000-07:00

The other day when I posted the story about covering my cherry dining room table, I realized that I have new readers who do not know something very important or not, about me. I have power tools. All of the the needed power tools to make furniture. See the table saw up there to the right of the picture? Yeah, that is mine and has been for oh, I think 11 years ago when Husband Mark bought it for me.
Uhumm. So here is a quick tour of some of the furniture 'n stuff I've made over the years.

Not the rocker, but I have made a number of children's chairs and tables.

This bed was my first piece. I made it with a drill and skill saw. That was all. Not one screw or anything metal in this bed. All mortise and wood dials. My own custom design too.

So that is the quick tour of my stuff and woodworking abilities. I am showing you this instead of what I got in KY last week. I had already put everything away in the black hole of the inventory room and then I thought "pictures of stuff", but it was too late. So sorry. I'm not so great with the camera some days.
Hope this was an ok substitute!

oxox,
Ellen

KY Roller Coaster Yard Sales Event

2010-10-01T14:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the first day of KY's Roller Coaster Yard Sales Event that winds around for over 150 miles into TN. I was up and gone before the sun had risen so the above picture is after the sun began to rise on my way to KY.

Once off of the interstate and onto the right "highway", this curvy winding, up and down

over the dell we go kind of ride began, hence the name - Roller Coaster. It was rather fun, at least, for the first 6 or so hours of it..

Finally I arrived at the first yard-to-yard-to-yard-to-yard sales. It was yard to yard on both sides of the street and continued this way throughout KY.

one view of the same area.

another view of the same area... getting the idea?

Here are a few things I found (but left there for someone else).

It was an event for all ages. This older man rode around on his little motor scooter checking the sales. He was just too cute.

Then back to the truck to curvy, wind around,

up and down road through some more dells..

The scenery through the country side was really picturesque.

I almost expect Grandpa Jones and LuLu to pop out of the cornfield!

This is Freedom, KY I think... lots of small towns...lots of names...

some more of my finds that I left just for someone else to have and to hold.

Back into the truck. Repeat. And repeat all day long.

Here at last is the sunset through my now bug splattered windshield. Overall, it was quiet an event to experience.

Thanks for riding along with me. I wish you all a wonderful weekend filled with peace, laughter and joy.

xoxo,

Ellen

What a Wednesday this is!

2010-09-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

When I woke up this morning, I thought I had my usual day planned out and would be participating with a few pictures in White Wednesday. However, when I opened my blog I discovered that this very talented and thoughtful Girl had left me a surprise in comments.

Meet Kay Ellen over at Kay Ellen Design. If you have not been to her blog, you are missing out! Kay Ellen not only has a really ultra cool name, uhumm, but she has amazing design talents that make me drool. I so want her to come to my house and

pull it all together with her creative talents.

Kay Ellen is not only interior design talented, but she travels to some very amazing places that are equally drool worthy. She also has the creative talent to make really great bags like this one even better with her embellishing touches. She is blessed with a large and close circle of family and friends.

Go over and say hi to her. She has a really engaging blog that I just know you'll love too. Oh and she host giveaways. I know 'cause that was what her sweet comment to me was regarding. She was letting me know that I won her giveaway by the literal luck of the draw!!

How cool is that! Thank you Kay Ellen!!

Ok - here's the rest of my pictures for white wednesday

(the above pictures are of talented Ms. Kay Ellen).

I have a few changes coming to this blog in the very near future. You, my faithful ones, are not going to want to miss this 'cause it'll be all about you!

Ok, back to the garage to finish the other white wednesday I have going on with all the painting 'n painting 'n painting....

xoxox,

Ellen

Catch me if you can!

2010-09-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

Hi Girls and you too, you Old Geezer ;) I just had to drop in to say hello and let you know I'm still here and hope that all of you are well. It has indeed proven to be one very whirlwind of a month and I'm not done yet. I have much to share and am anxious to be able to do so, but kinda under time constraints for this week. Geez, are you as tired of hearing that as I am writing that.... just askin' 'cause it really is all good!
One thing I will take the time to show you so you can get a visual as to why I am so spotty in my postings lately. I have been working on a number of projects racing against our crazy weather and diving in and out of other obligations. But first a question: How do you make a cherry dining room table disappear?

Well if you are anything like me, you won't sell, won't even consider putting paint on such gorgeous wood and have no room in which to store or repurpose this beauty. Yet I REALLY wanted a white farmhouse style table. What to do?? So the answer is this:

Break out the power tools and make a facade to go over the cherry dining table!! Ta-dah!! yep, I did. And you are gonna see quite a few pictures with this new beauty in the background. I love it. Every time I see it, I have to smile. I had quite a few giggles with Mark when he got home from work that night after I did this. He had a hard time trying to figure out where our cherry table went ;)

One more thing, this is the week of Kentuckys' blow out yard sale weekend : The Roller Coaster! http://www.rollercoasterfair.com/ I so can not wait for this one!!! Yeah!!

Ok, I'm outta here yet again. I'll try to slow down enough soon to do a fly by your roost to say hello this week. I know that a number of you are having the same busy life as I am so please know that I so appreciate your visits and each of you and truly can not wait to stop in your place to say hi. Take care Girls and Old Geezer.

xoxox,
Ellen

Thank you for being you

2010-09-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

I had a quick minute and so I wanted to pop in and tell all of you awe-inspiring Girls how much I so very much appreciate each and every one of you. You all truly make my day with your uniqueness and thoughtfulness toward others. What a desirable combination - and you all have it!

Thank you for your visits, kind, funny, encouraging words. Thank you for your enduring stories, sharing your how-to's and what-up to's, your life happenings with the rest of us, & for being uniquely you. All of you keep life very interesting!

Here is an endless supply of oxoxox's for all you!! Have a sunshine kind of day!

xoxox,
Ellen

Good Morning Girls!

2010-09-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

Wow, is it really a week later?! Oh my. This is the first time I've sat down in front of the computer in days. Seriously. Days. ~~Mark and~~ I have been scurrying about trying to get those annoying smaller details done around here. Which of course always seems to take much longer than originally "suspected".

I have been working on a number of other booth and home projects. One project in particular I hope to share within a couple of days.

But until then.... ;)

I hope all of you have been well and enjoying your projects and days.

I am also hoping to stop in to see each of you later today just to visit and catch up. Can't wait!

Until then, enjoy the feast of life!

xoxox,

Ellen

linking to http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/ for White Wednesday- hope you have a chance to go visit these other creative girls!

"Fall" for thought

2010-09-15T07:28:00.000-07:00

It seems that with the change of seasons, there is a need to re-organize and clean around my house. But there is something different about the process this year. I can't quiet explain, but my soul feels restless and unwilling to settle for "the usual".

I have been on a very long journey trying to evaluate what is really worth holding onto and pursuing in my life from every angle. I'm believe that I'm ready to soar past the dreaming stage and move up to the living stage of life. However, I have to keep reminding myself that I have to wait on Daddy's timing to bring things together "for my good, and His glory". That is the hard part. Waiting.

I strongly sense that He wants me to "turn from this mountain and move". He promised that He would make all things new again. With Him, everything is new and in the today for our tomorrow. I've been having a lot of conversations with Daddy lately. It seems that I'm easily overwhelmed these days. He has shown me that I'm trying to hold my yesterdays while "dreaming" of my tomorrows. Something has to go for something else to arrive.

So, while I wait, I will sing a New Song for it is the sacrifice of true heart felt praise that He most desires and that is the very least I can do for Him after all He has done for me and mine.

He is amazing isn't He? After all we have done, and He is still here with wide open arms to forgive and love. I want to be like that and yet seem to be so far from it. Just as my Associate Pastor said to husband Mark and I in church picnic conversation this past weekend, His children are just "walking on grace". Think about that one for a moment.

May you have a lit up, peaceful, joyful day Girls.

xoxox,

Ellen

linking to Faded Charm for White Wednesday. Be sure to visit these other talented ladies there!

Hello? It's for you!

2010-09-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Girls!!

So sorry for the long pause since the last post, but husband Mark and I have been all over the place doin' all kinds of stuff and working like Christmas elves trying to get our deadlines met on the work load. I'm hoping to have all of my out of house commitments taken care of today so I can spend the day in my pj's tomorrow while I take care of the loads of computer work piling up on me.

Anyway, such is life right? ;)

I pray that the days have been well with you and hope to get around to y'alls place really soon and read what you've been up to. So know for now that I am thinking of you all and hoping that these last awesome days of weather are hugging your hearts with peace and inspiration.

xoxox,

Ellen

A little Tired, A lot Happy!!

2010-09-10T09:42:00.000-07:00

Traveling the quiet road of Highway 31 through Kentucky yesterday was not only successful for a Thursday (not many people participating until Friday, Saturday & Sunday), but it was scenic. See the house up there? Yard sale. I had an open invitation to go to many homes like this one. Here is a close up of this old beauty.

Check out this other house that I got a close up visual on during the yard sale trip.

The really funny thing is, these homes are so not the nicer, antebellum Kentucky homes. Not even close. This is the down side of traveling alone. I saw the really stunning antebellum homes to late to grab my camera and there was ALWAYS someone driving right behind me on this 2 lane highway.

I would be driving along enjoying this country view,

and Bam!! There stood a magnificent beautiful old Kentucky Home! Stunning behind the grove of trees that hides her from the highway until you are right upon her. Oh well. Here is quick glimpse of the little town that I spent the better part of my afternoon in.

So ya wanna see what I got do ya? Ok, but this is not all of it. This is only what is in the house. The rest is in the garage waiting to be cleaned, refurbished and stuff. So here ya go....

I wish that you all could have been with me. It was quiet an adventure to put it mildly;) Oh, and FYI for anyone interested, at the end of September (30th and October 1,2) this area of Kentucky will be pouring out for the final yard sale blow out. Apparently it is such a major deal, that everyone participates in one way or another. The locals call it the "Roller Coaster" because it is on highway 63 and this highway dips, curves, swerves like a roller coaster. A large number of locals were quiet a buzz about this event! So on my calendar it goes!!

Well, that does it for me for now. I am just slightly tired from all of yesterday and this morning treasure hunting. I hope that you all are having a wonderful day and I will see you all later...

xoxox,

Ellen

guess what I'm doing tomorrow?!

2010-09-08T20:02:00.000-07:00

Click here to see a map of this historic corridor.

Mark your calendars now for the upcoming 31W Treasure Hunt/Yard Sale.Thursday - Sunday, Second Weekend in September from Louisville to Nashville and beyond for food, fun and adventure. Call (270) 670-3741.

There is another side of Kentucky and Tennessee. It lies along roadsides little traveled since the interstates cut a furrow through the countryside in the middle of the 20th Century. The old places still exist along US31W and US31E, where you will find our heritage alive and well.

Revisit the early settlements of the nation's heartland and some of the most contested grounds of its Civil War.

Discover natural wonders, timeless antiques and national and state historic sites.

Come and take the roads less traveled . . .

US 31W

This is an old, old road. The buffalo started it, following the easiest path, and the Indians followed them. Settlers found the path ready-made and by 1826 stagecoach wheels rolled where your tires roll now.

Highway 31W was the first paved highway in Kentucky and the first toll road. Travelers have referred to it as the Post Road, the Shipping Port to Salt River Road, the Valley Turnpike and the Louisville to Nashville Turnpike. But mostly, folks calls it the Dixie Highway.

Discover this road for yourself. From the Farnsley-Moremen Landing in Louisville to the Civil War battlefields of Munfordville to the historic stations of Tennessee, US 31W threads through the heritage of the American heartland.

US 31E

Once a buffalo trail, Highway 31E later became known as Pioneer's Trace, Old Kentucky Turnpike and then Jackson Highway following the political career of Andrew Jackson. This historic road system, from Louisville to Nashville, was also a major route for General Bragg and the Confederate Army invading Kentucky. When Interstate 65 was built, this road traveled at a relaxed pace.

Revisit the past and see historic homes, museums and timeless treasures. Tour Lincoln's birthplace and boyhood home, My Old Kentucky Home, "The Hermitage" and many other sites along the way. See breathtaking views and beautiful countryside, old country stores and historic downtowns. Ride a passenger train and enjoy dinner in a dining car.

Uh, yeah, this is what I'll be busy doing... I soooo can not wait!! Geez, this is better than waiting for Christmas morning to happen!! Don't cha' just love being a grown'up n' all!!

xoxo,
Ellen

More about Franklin, TN

2010-09-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, y'all really like Franklin don'tcha!! Well alrighty then!! That's good because I had mean't to take a walk around for the sake of pictures to share with you, but ended up spending almost 6 hours in my little booth the other day. But 'cause I'm there in my booth every week, I have plans to walk around tiny Franklin and snap pictures of some of the most amazing and historical homes in the area. Franklin is famous because of its role in the in the Civil War. It was named after Benjamin Franklin. Yep, that Ben Franklin. The true heart of Franklin is tiny. Really, tiny. Not much bigger than a postage stamp. So it is not a big deal to park and walk. Daddy in His infinite wisdom, has worked it out, I think, that by the time I do have the opportunity to walk around for your viewing pleasure, fall will be showing off around here. It is quite stunning against the back drop of these beautiful historic homes.

It really does take a couple of days to see it all if you actually plan to come visit. This is not some place that you'll want to race through. You'll miss way to much if you do. I suggest finding a bed and breakfast to stay in order to really heighten the whole step back in time trip. No you won't find horse and buggies here, but the entire "downtown" is nothing but historical.

My little booth is right in the heart of antique district - I love that! That is why I choose this particular mall after shopping there for over 20 years (geez, did I just type "20, years!! Excuse me for a moment. I have to go check my drivers license for my REAL birthdate and do some math!!!) .
Franklin just printed these new fangled maps for those of us who just can't seem to get enough of the good 'ol stuff.

See that blurry mess just right above here?

Yeah, if you can make it out, number 6 is my home away from home, The Franklin Antique Mall. Yep, right in the heart of antique district! Love that, thank You Daddy for such a privilege!!

When you step outside the mall, this is the view you'd see. Uh, that is numbers 5, 7, 8 on the above map.

Yep, uhhumm. This is why I love coming to Franklin and lose about a day in doing so.

Tuffy wanted me to tell you that she is working on a tutorial for y'all 'cause I don't really make tutorials, so she is doing this for me. I'd love to have the patience to make a tutorial for y'all, but seriously, that is not my area of expertise. I love to read along with those who have such patience and talents, but sorry, I am not good at that. So here is a quick look at how far Tuffy has gotten with her tutorial on making a silverware wind chime. And she can drill too!!

She's choosing her pieces to use for the wind chime.

Now, she's getting ready to drill, but first she has to make sure that this is "the right piece 'n all".

Look'a there, the Girl can drill now!!

Ok, she's done all she's a'gonna do for today 'cause it's nap time obviously! And, oh, sorry no autographs at this time please. The queen is nappin' after all!

Have a great day!

xoxox,

Ellen

Here's hoping

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

I've been slightly distracted doing this for the last several days. Hope, Faith, Dreaming about well, everything. I purposely left the camera home while reconnecting with family and friends. Definitely a new sense of purpose and a large dose of clarity has been received by me. I and my husband do not know how we are going to accomplish some of these plans & hopes from our married dreams, but the awesome thing is, that is where faith in Daddy comes in. All we have to do is Believe and continue to Dream.

Matthew 6:33-34

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

What have you Girls been up to or have planned for the week? Can't wait to hear!

Wishing you all a wonderful and productive week filled with laughter and peace. Until later,

xoxox,

Franklin Antique Mall tour

2010-09-03T16:58:00.000-07:00

I made to my little booth and back with some really great pictures to share. So be my guest and enjoy a inside tour of one of the oldest antique malls in Franklin, TN.

The Franklin Antique Mall is over 12,000 square feet of pure history. It used to be a flour mill before becoming the Franklin Ice House when it was built in the early 1900's. Be sure to check the walls and ceilings in some of the pictures as you should see the original brick and wood beams.

The Girls have been redecorating the mall to welcome fall and our Labor Day guests. This is their handy work at the counter.

Now I'll let you just wander around and be quiet while you tour.

Well, that last picture bring us all the way around to the front door where we started. I hope you aren't to tired from all that lookin'! Thanks for going through the the old ice house with me. Until next time, y'all have a wonderful evening.

xoxoxo,

Ellen

2010-09-02T15:47:00.000-07:00

Finally can stop for a minute and say Hello. I have been working against the calendar to get things ready for the booth since this will be a long weekend which translates to more than usual number of shoppers. I love that!

My little hallway is full of things to go into the booth. See the big suitcase to the back of the picture? That hefty guy is packed to the gills with all the smaller items. There is more in my little truck too. This is just what is left that honestly, I'm too tired to deal with just now. All of these things and more is what I have been working like a mad woman to sand and paint for this particular weekend.
Anyway, it's gonna be a busy one this weekend is. Yep. So with that, I wish you all a wonderful and relaxing evening.

xoxox,
Ellen

Happy Wednesday

2010-09-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

I hope this posting finds you all well. First off, thank you for the numerous well wishes regarding our little Emma. She and her Mama are continuing to recover and are doing well.

Secondly, a huge hello, hugs and kisses to those of you who recently signed the wall of Beautiful and Chic! Thank you for signing and coming to visit! I love guests so please come back often.

I went out to say hi to my little booth a couple of days ago and was overwhelmed at how bare it was!

This is a "before" picture: before I brought more things in, that is. I had no idea that so much was gone and did not bring nearly enough to fill the gaps; so sorry, no after pictures are available. I forgot to take any because I was mentally trying to recall what I have at home to bring in the next time.

Anyway, most of the furniture I had in there has sold- YEAH!!

Remember my little cabinet I re-worked a couple of weeks ago and had sheet music on the back of the wall of the cabinet?? Yeah, that one. It sold the day after I took it in last week! Somebody out there really likes my kind of stuff!

So on that note, I'm outta here and back to the garage to work on more booth furniture, pictures, shelves, frames, you know, stuff ;) Gotta paint n' paint 'n paint. I'll probably have to make a late night run to see my guys at the home store to buy more creamy colored paint because I have that much more to do. But that is way ok for me, I just thank Daddy for it all.

Oh, before I forget; don't you forget to sign up for the free museum day happening across our land on September 25th. You have to sign up in order to get your free ticket which is good for two people. The address is smithsonian.com/museumday . I want to see and hear about your trip to the museum so I'm going to be looking for the postings about it. September is shaping up to be one very busy month - yeah!

xoxox,

Ellen

I've been absent because of this little girl

2010-08-30T04:58:00.000-07:00

Don't think I've disappeared! I have a very good reason, uh, long list of reasons actually, for my silence in blog world. At the very top of the list, however, is this tiny little baby girl who decided to arrive about two weeks early. After 27 hours of labor, a C-section was finally performed and this tiny baby made her way into our family and waiting arms.

I'd like to introduce you to our newest member of the family born to my stepson and his lovely wife just after midnight on August 27, 2010 , Emma Grace, 6 pounds and 19 inches long.

Isn't she just so precious? A living doll she is. Don't you just love babies, they are like living dolls aren't they? Everyone is doing well and Emmas' parents are also doing well ;)) So is my absence forgiven now? Thank you...
I promise that very soon I'll make it around to your blogs to catch up with you and your happenings. Just give me a ~~minute day days week~~ to catch up here in my own life. Wait, me catch up??? Sorry, I'm laughing way too hard in this thought of "catching up" to my own life. Who am I kiddin'!
Ya'll have a wonderful day!!

xoxox,

You Girls are the Best!!

2010-08-25T13:10:00.000-07:00

I am truly blessed to have awesome women such as all of you! Your responses to my need for decorating input have been outstanding to say the least! Thank you, each and everyone of you!

Not only were the suggestions refreshing and on target, they were simple and creative - I love it! I was amazed at the response in comments and my emails, you are the best, Thank you!

I hope to soon be able to complete that particular decorating project and share, however, I received a phone call today that may very well change a few things in my life within the next few days. It was not a bad call, just unexpected and yet, so like my Heavenly Daddy to be rather timely in answering other concerns.
Thank you all again. You truly are the best, most thoughtful and helpful women out there.

xoxoxo,

Need your input on this..

2010-08-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

Remember this picture from last week and I promised out loud that I would re-do the shelves? Ok, moment of truth, I'm procrastinating again and am working on these shelves for a new look. Some of you ladies have me going on the Fall kick here.. Combine that with our cooler weather in the Mid South which, I know, is only a short lived teaser before the heat and humidity spring back with a fury. But, I am wanting your input as this is as far as I have gotten today using picnic baskets.

Do the baskets yell "spring / summer" too much? I know some of you use your picnic baskets year round, but I want to hear your thoughts..ehum, please leave comments as I really am on a creative drain and need a boost. Thank you so very much for your participation with your input!!

Also, a huge hello to those of you who have "signed" the wall of the Beautiful and Chic!! Yes, I have noticed and am throwing huge hugs and kisses your way! I promise I'll be making my rounds to all of your blogs later and can not wait to read what you have been up to today and I hope you all come back to visit regularly!

xoxox,

Girls about town

2010-08-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

Good Day Everyone! I was thinking that a little diversity would be good for this blog today so I'm going to take you on a really quick tour of Downtown Nashville, TN. You'll see the true heart of what our little town was built on, or at least, a tiny, tiny glimpse. These are pictures of just one block of downtown. I promised the Girls that I'd behave with the camera and "just a few of downtown".... So being true to my word, here are just a few pictures...

Nashville is loaded with tons of historical buildings which drip with awesome architecture details everywhere you look...

Here is the famous Ryman Auditorium. For those of you who don't know, the Ryman was the former home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943-1974. It is still used today as a forum for some of the best music and live performances you could ever hope to experience. Every time I attend a concert here, it never fails to exceed expectations of greatness. The Ryman is also referred to as the Mother Church of Country Music because of its intertwining history of starting out as a church in 1885, moved to being the Union Gospel Tabernacle and throughout our history, finally landed upon present day Performance Hall.

( I was not on the front side to capture the more appealing side, but it is still the Ryman)

Tootsies Orchid Lounge and the Bluegrass Inn are only a couple of the more historical must see and hear joints downtown. Long history of The Most Famous Old Country Stars got their starts here. Along with this next place, Roberts. Roberts is very interesting as it started out and continues to this day as a shop for boots! Take a look,

Now and as in the past number of years, Roberts has evolved into being a Honky Tonk Grill with live music. Some of the best of the best have been on this tiny stage... and it's open to the public nightly for free. I have seen a lot of stars pass over this stage and watch their music careers take off from here, wow!

Let's drop in for a quick spin at the Legends Corner to see their take on the music world.

How about we stop over to say "Hello Dolly", before her, uh, enlargement of reputation? Ok, here she is in her very early years:

Now we'll go over to the other wall and say hello to the "after" Dolly shall we? Helloooo Dolly!! Good Golly!!

Here is a guitar for the dog lovers. It's made from a metal box. Now there's a creative challenge for those of you in the mood to make music...

Here is a sign that I really wanted to follow me home...

Here is our famous Bat Man building.

And I'll leave you with a colorful row of historical buildings which house just as much entertainment and history.

Well, that concludes our one block tour of downtown, thanks for coming along and I hope you enjoyed our little night out on the town. Come back and see us now, ya' hear?!

xoxoxox,

Enjoy your Sunday

2010-08-22T10:06:00.000-07:00

Peace and joy to you all on this Beautiful Sunday. I hope that you are having a wonderful weekend with family and friends.

xoxox,
Ellen

Dropping in to say hello

2010-08-19T12:39:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd try to squeeze in a quick post before my guests arrive, not sure what time that is suppose to be, but here goes none the less. Remember yesterdays post about wanting to rearrange a little? Well, I did get some areas done. Here are the more noted updates. This is the cleared top of my window cabinet I made for my tiny hallway, so pardon all my pictures - working in small spaces here.

And this is what happened after I played around for awhile with some of my old-new favorites:

Here is a full shot from across the tiny hallway so you can see the whole cabinet better, pardon the glare of the lamp, still working on my photography skills;)

Here is the dining room table cleared and ready for "Da Guys" to land. Clear of any "clutter". Yawning..

Now after restraining myself to keep it "guy simple", here it is just slightly dolled up,

Here is a longer shot for a better full view,

and here on the other side of the dining room, the buffet before shot,

This is the after and yes the lampshade is the same, so just imagine it in right proportion to the lamp and hopefully a more neutral color. Not many changes so much as to the top of the buffet, I'll deal with the rest of it later when I have time (she suppresses more snickering...time, what's that?)

Does the chalkboard look familiar? I apparently was so caught up in my mental decorating yesterday, that I actually thought that a large chalkboard would look great over the buffet, too bad I don't have one.... Then I caught myself and had to laugh hard at my absentee thought. Yeah, it was a true "duh moment". I mean, I make chalkboards..... Moving on, here is the Girlfriend radio cabinet now guest room bedside table. Again, remember I have a small house, so work with me here, ok,

I like to keep the guest area on the light side since I expect my guest to bring their own stuff and their stuff needs a place to land. The books however, are humorous and light reading with a vase filled with fresh flowers suitable for the Guy who will be staying in here.
Here is my favorite corner of the living room fluffed up with more "guy like" flowers.

I have to go now as I'm ~~baking~~ faking my baking of cookies and brownie bites, shush don't tell the guys.... it's Toll House ready made ;) Well, that does it for us Girls today. Tuffy said to tell you all Hi as she is ready for me to start on her, uh, their cookies.

Have a great day!

xoxoxox,
Ellen

A day off to play at home

2010-08-18T07:40:00.001-07:00

It has been rainy since yesterday afternoon. Which on top of already feeling rather blah, I really did not want to do much of anything today - except maybe do some moving stuff around here at home.

I was at my booth yesterday (forgot my camera again) and packed that little space to the rafters. I had a rather challenging time fitting everything in so that it was not precarious for buyers to see it all without moving to much stuff.

Being there always inspires me to want to clean my house and start with a blank canvas, so to speak, for moving things around here at home.

Sooo, that is what I think I am going to try to work in today. You see, I'm suppose to be the good hostess and clean house today for my bro -in- law and his college age son to be here tomorrow for the weekend. They are taking my husband to a baseball game in Chicago this weekend. Can I get a shout of rejoicing here!?! Oh Yeah! All girls weekend! Ok, that means at least one night and the girls, well, me and my four legged shadow, Tuffy - she's always up for a girls "whatever", just bring food and her bed and she is so in!

Ok, back to the subject at hand, moving stuff around today. I have all the right elements a.k.a decorating treasures, but for some reason, I have been suffering seriously from "duh, whatta I do with dis?" and have fallen into that dreaded creative void.

Part of the problem is that I am the only one here who actually appreciates this kind of "decorating art" if you will. My husband thrives on new and modern. Pleassseee! So not me! I do appreciate that preference - from a distance, with binoculars and knowledge that it is not coming to my house. In all seriousness, I do try to compromise and keep in mind that I have to share this space with a man who is in need of, shall we say, refining? He is actually pretty good about letting me just do what I want in here - he can be trained, yesss!

Currently, I am torn between just really letting summer whites have their last hu-rrah all over the place, or begin that subtle transition to fall which is still a number of weeks away. (did I really just type that word "subtle"? Note to self: look up definition of "subtle".) Oh decisions, decisions.... Any input would be greatly appreciated! Meanwhile, I think I'll just play around and see what happens.

Oh, does this above picture look somewhat familiar? As in the transformed radio cabinet recently? Humm? Yes it is the kissing cousin to said transformed radio cabinet. This is also a radio cabinet that I happen to score this past Saturday while helping my best Girlfriend clean her attic and garage. It was tucked away in a corner, all covered with garage kind of stuff and so not appreciated. I passed it a couple of times and almost had a happy dance right there, BUT I restrained myself and said not a word. Sometime later, my Girl asked if I would like to have it - Are you serious? "Like"? More "like" LOVE" to have it!! So this is now going to be the new bedside table in the guest room. Yeah, that guest room I am suppose to be cleaning, oh right about now.

Have an awesome day,
xoxoxo,,
Ellen

Chasing the White Rabbit

2010-08-16T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good Morning everyone! I do hope everyone had a fabulous weekend. I have to be honest, I'm kind of glad it's Monday after this past weekends' activities. First, I did finish the first round of painting and refurbishing projects. Tomorrow, ~~Wednesday,~~ one day this week, I am planning to start round two.
Here is a quick before and after of a adorable wall cabinet I reworked..

I replaced the broken mirror that was being used as the back with a sheet of luann and glued sheet music to the wood after I aged the paper.

I finally got around to painting the chalkboard for my big frame and finishing it off.

And last but not least of the pictures for the painting endeavors, is the bookcase and bench,

There are other smaller items that could not escape the painting process, but apparently no pictures. Oh well. I did make it out Saturday to a few estate sales after I dropped breakfast off to my dearest friend and her sons who were busy cleaning out the garage and attic of her house. They were without a working kitchen (had to move the appliances for kitchen remodeling and were waiting for their projects to thoroughly dry). So what are friends for if not to be the food delivery person?? ;)) I returned to bring them lunch and this time I stayed to help them empty out the very, very hot attic. My dear friend has a huge lake side home filled to the rafters -literally, with her things and her parents things, and other peoples things. She is finally at that "letting go" stage with her home and all of its contents and she cleaned house. I mean, she c-l-e-a-n-e-d house!! I stayed as late into the night as I could and they were still working when I left and the next day. Whew! Ok, end of their story, they are done and the house is beautiful! Again, no pictures. Sorry. However, I think this picture sums up our best Girlfriends - dirt and all!

I have to take a moment here and thank all of you who visit my blog and especially are thoughtful enough to comment. Thank you for stopping by and letting me know you were here with your words of kindness and humor. It means so much to me and is very much appreciated. I have been overly busy since the long project ended last Monday and in the process of trying to catch up, I have not been able to respond to all of the comments left here or in my email. But please bear with me and know that I have been reading and yes, sometimes weepy because of your thoughtfulness in what you write to encourage me and make me laugh;

I, at times, am feeling more than overwhelmed right now as I seem to be slipping farther behind in my life and must finish my to do list before some major changes happen in my life. In other words, I feel like I'm chasing the White Rabbit and sometimes am frustrated because I keep falling into the rabbit hole.
It will all be ok and well with not only me, but all of us - just breathe, right?

Well after this rather lengthy post, I better let you off with some humor, eh? Ok, here goes:

After arriving at the family home to deliver the family's eleventh child, the country doctor said to the father, "I almost ran over a duck out there. Is it your's?"
"That's no duck, " sighed the father. "It's the stork with its legs worn down."