thejoyof

What I've Been Up To!

2009-10-15T07:46:00.005-04:00

Oh my gosh, you're probably wondering why I have been soooo mia lately! Well, Janet and I have been busy with moggit and can now talk about the top secret project we've been working on...

We've been working with hgtv.com on a fun new web video series!! So exciting-- come and check it out here!

August Update

2009-08-05T08:37:00.009-04:00

How is your summer going? Here we have been inundated with rain, rain - and hey, you might as well throw some more rain in for good measure!

However, having said that, we just recently celebrated my parents 50th anniversary and we were so thankful that we had a sunny Saturday for it (after literally 5 straight weekends of rain)

(Why this picture was taken at the end of the day, I don't know - but I look like I've been through the wringer! Well, it was 100+ degrees that day...)

We had a huge outdoor party for them and fed approx. 100 people! My parents had such a lovely time and that was the icing on the cake for us...:)

In other news...

My bff and I have been so blessed with our new project moggit! Guys, we have such exciting news to share - you won't believe it! It's top secret for now but soon we will be able to spill. I can tell you that we just got back from Toronto where we embarked on a completely new adventure. Here is a teensy hint:

Also, we were interviewed by one of Canada's largest newspapers and that should be out in print in a few weeks. The readership of this paper is somewhere aroud the 6 million mark so that should definitely bring some more readers to our site.

It has been a whirlwind for us lately and we are so grateful for all of the opportunities that have presented themselves. We simply couldn't be happier!

Life is good... :)

xo

p.s. My nephew Colin is doing great!

Woah, Time Flies!

2009-05-27T18:40:00.007-04:00

It's been sooo long since I've posted that I don't even know if anyone will see this! ('cept for Sandy - thanks for the note!) Things have been crazy here what with my new website moggit and so much more. Also, I turned the big 4-0 on May 23rd and got the best present ever - a new step granddaughter!

Her name is Olive Lily - isn't she sweet?

Wilbur says "hey" and is still a going concern. The squirrels keep him busy and he is lovin' life!

Thought you'd enjoy a pic of the new Oma and Opa! lol

Hope all is well with you and yours...xoxoxoxo

More Polyvore....

2009-04-01T15:10:00.002-04:00

I've always wanted to go on safari!

Safari by moggit girls featuring Sam Edelman shoes

If You've Got 'Em, Use 'Em

2009-03-07T13:42:00.003-05:00

I came across a huge stash of old millinery flowers at a flea market last summer and decided to not just tuck them away but to use them...

I had to go to a baby shower today so I used this fab crushed velvet gift bag... (from the Dollar Store!!)

And paired it with this large Carrie-like blossom.

The were destined to be together!

I love it when it doesn't cost a fortune to make a present look extra special. That's priceless. :)

Lovely As it May Be....

2009-03-04T17:34:00.002-05:00

There's no place like home! (I'm happy to be back)

The Joy{s} of ... Going on Holiday!

2009-02-15T09:45:00.014-05:00

It's that time of year again...when we take off for some fun in the sun. For the past several years we have been travelling with family and I tell ya, that's the way to do it. It is so nice to be surrounded by the ones you love on holiday.

Even though my Dad suffered a stroke last October and is still a bit weak, he was bound and determined to get out of the cold. So, Mom and Dad booked a vacay and we followed suit. For the past few years we have travelled like this due to weddings and we always have a blast. A lot of our extended familiy members also join us. Here are my parents a few years ago waiting for a flight...{the couple that reads together stays together - they will be married 50 years this July!}

You meet the nicest people on holiday! We met Betty and Dalmer on our first family trip 9 years ago in the Dominican. They are from Sakatchewan and are so much fun! We've kept in touch over the years knew we would someday meet up again.

This is how small my kiddies were on that first trip - Ellie was just 2! They have always been fabulous to travel with, we are lucky. Were they not sweet? :) I could eat them up!

Finally we were reunited with Betty and Dalmer 9 years later for my brother's wedding in Punta Cana in 2007. We had an absolute blast with them and they fit right in!

This is the whole crew that travelled with us that year....

One year later my Uncle got married in Puerto Plata and we all joined in for that too... (Ellie's 4th kick at the can for being a flower girl)

Betty and Dalmer joined us again for that - they really are like family now...

There's always such fun to be had on holidays...this is hubby and Jack having the time of their lives!

And of course a couple of cold ones never hurt, right?

And a night out alone with hubby is always fun - with all those built-in babysitters, why not?! I even got lucky that night. {head out of the gutter - I won $300 at the black jack table - lol}

People always ask me if I am scared for taking the kids out of school for two weeks...I say they will learn more in a different country than they ever would sitting at their desk. But, we do bring homework as evidenced below. This is Ellie and hubby getting down to the nastiness of math. Doesn't she look thrilled? ;)

So, we are off early next week for another adventure. I promise to send lots of sunshine your way!

Hola amigos!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T18:14:00.003-05:00

Wilbur and Girffin share an Eskimo kiss...

Back by Popular Demand

2009-02-09T15:58:00.005-05:00

{this is a repeat of a post I had done last year...}

Things I Know For Sure...

· If you think the plate in the microwave is too hot to handle, it is.

· The scissors are never where you left them. They lead a double life in Duluth.

· Just because they're cute, you should not wear your fabulous, new high heeled brown boots to the flea market.

· Kids are like dogs, they can smell hesitation. And you know what they say about 'he who hesitates'...

· Do not put down your keys when you are distracted. And already late to pick up the kids.

· The day you throw out that item you thought you would never use again? Yes, you will need it.

· Dollar Store items can add up real fast.

· When you turn on your hot glue gun, resign yourself to the fact that you will end up burning yourself before your job is done.

· "Just a minute" coming from a kid means they're not listening.

· Buying fancy underwear always seems like a good idea at the time but you'll always end up wearing your favorite good 'ol Hanes.

· You can count on the phone ringing during your fav show. During the really good part.· When you're bored out of your mind and really want to talk to someone, no-one answers the phone.

· If you're going to drive the kids to school in your p.j.'s, make sure you have enough gas.

· If the jeans you are trying on the in fitting room don't feel exactly right, they never will. No matter how 'on sale' they are.

· The moment you hop into the bathtub for a nice relaxing soak is the exact same moment your household will fall apart. All at once.

· Even if you live in a large house, if your dog throws up, you will end up stepping in it.

· When you find a great bra that you love - buy 20 of them

.and finally,

· If you're tired, and I mean REALLY TIRED, when you go to bed and your husband wants to "spoon" don't fall for it. "Spooning" only leads to one thing...

Forking.

One of Those Days...

2009-02-03T10:32:00.006-05:00

I'm having one of those days. A blah day. A 'meh' day. Ever have one of those? They suck.

This is all I've got today. Random shots from my house...

I'll be better tomorrow....

My Fav Superbowl Commercial

2009-02-02T07:57:00.002-05:00

It doesn't get better than this!

The Sartorialist...

2009-01-30T08:53:00.010-05:00

My new web obsession. A blog that celebrates fashion in a very simplistic, pure way. Scott Schuman is The Sartorialist. He started his {now famous} blog simply to share photos of people that he saw on the streets of New York, Milan, Paris - everywhere!

I have to say, as much as I am drawn to decor, I am drawn to fashion. The way it evolves, the way it is individually interpreted...

The Europeans have it in spades. They ooze fashion. They are born with it.

This blog is an ever-evolving feast for the eyes...

I just love the way fashion affects different people. This outfit would make me look like a dowdy 65 year old from Wisconsin. (no offence, Wisconsin) But somehow on her, it works. Why?

Because she believes in it.

In my younger days I used to chuckle under my breath when I saw a strange outfit on the street-- something beyond my realm. Now I appreciate it as art. It may not be art that I want hung on my walls but I can appreciate it nonetheless...

Even the very young get in on the action! (rock those hot pink leg warmers!)

Seriously, this is how I want to look when I am 50...

To check out this uber-fabulous blog and get lost in 'on the street' fashion simply click here.

*All photos courtesy of The Satorialist, Scott Schuman. (used with permission)

Shades of Silver

2009-01-27T07:27:00.003-05:00

My gosh it has been cold here lately! Not much else to do other than walk around with my camera and try to get inspired!

These are some shots from my bedroom where shades of silver abound...

I try to find beauty in the everyday...if you don't slow yourself down, you'll miss it.

It calms me down to try and see things in a different light or perspective...

The sunlight was streaming in my room that day and it cast a special glow...

Even though it was a nasty -31 with the wind chill I somehow felt warm and toasty.

Lose yourself in the everyday!

Happy Birthday Wilbur

2009-01-26T08:27:00.005-05:00

Three years old today!

My how he's grown - click here!

Are YOU Your Own Best Friend?

2009-01-23T19:52:00.006-05:00

I have been thinking...why are we women so tough on ourselves? Why can we not be our own best friend?

The thought occurred to me the other day when I was applying my make-up. I leaned in to the mirror for a closer look and didn't like what I saw...wrinkles, blemishes and more wrinkles. When did they become so apparent? Is my over-priced 'miracle' wrinkle cream even working? Ohmigosh, I am going to be 40 years old in May. I quickly finished 'painting the battleship' and went on to other things.

The dialogue continued in my head - it was negative. Why do we as women concentrate on the negative so much? Why are we so critical on ourselves? I thought of the outburst I had with my kids before they left for school. I felt bad for losing my cool and quickly wondered "Am I scarring my kids for life? Are they going to hate me?" Why, out of all the good that I do for my children do I concentrate and focus on these small bad blips on the radar?

Why can we not be our own best friend?

Why don't we comfort ourselves and dwell more on the positive like our best friend would do for us? If I was standing beside my best friend in front of the mirror and she voiced her concerns over her wrinkles the first thing I would do is try to make her feel better. Why can't we give ourselves that kind of support? I have called my best friend after losing it on my kids and she very prophetically 'talks me off the ledge'. She listens, commiserates and then assures me that I am in fact still a good mother. She also 'sees' my freak-out and 'raises' me an unruly conniption fit. That's what friends do.

The next time you are hard on yourself for whatever reason, try and be your own best friend. Get rid of those negative thoughts and concentrate on your positives. Don't needlessly pick on yourself...

Find a new wrinkle? Don't sweat it, there will be more. (Who wants to look like Joan Rivers anyway?) Yelled at the kids until your throat was sore? You won't scar them for life, promise!

No-one is perfect. Love the best friend within you. I assure you - she 'has your back'.

A friend is one who believes in you when you have ceased to believe in yourself.
Author Unknown

The Domino Effect

2009-01-23T10:00:00.007-05:00

Got lost in the web today! Domino magazine delivered the goods...just some design inspiration to get me through another cold dark day...

*all photos courtesy of dominomag.com

Can't wait for Spring!

Colin Update

2009-01-22T10:14:00.007-05:00

I was digging through my pictures the other day and found this one of me and my nephew Colin. (yes, I had big hair - courtesy of a perm, what of it?)

He was two years old here and a goin' concern! Every Sunday afternoon when the kids were little we used to go to my parent's house and sit outside on the porch. All of my siblings and their children would come and looking back now, I realize those were some of the best times of my life. I remember vividly Colin coming up to me that day reaching for my coffee as I was taking a sip...

"I lika cold coffee Aunty Joy!" he exclaimed.

"Yes, but this is hot Colin." I replied.

"Oh, I lika COLD coffee!" and off he skipped.

That was 16 years ago and I remember it like it was yesterday. Here we are two years ago...

My poor pet is STILL in the hospital in Edmonton battling Wegener's disease - an autoimmune disease that attacks the body from within. I flew out to Edmonton in early December to visit with him and his Mom and he is doing much better but still is battling this disease in a "one step forward, two steps back" kind of way.

A few days ago he had to have both of his lungs operated on and he is doing better - our goal is still to get him well enough so that he came fly home to Ontario. He will still need 2-3 months of hospitalization and therapy when he reurns but at least he won't be so far away and we can all visit him. We are hoping he can be transferred within a couple of weeks.

This child inspires me! I am so proud of him and his will to survive. He has been in intensive care since October 24th and rarely complains. I am in awe, truly. I want to thank everyone again for their prayers - it means the world to all of us....

My Dream Job!

2009-01-20T08:23:00.007-05:00

SYDNEY, Australia (AP) — Position: island caretaker. Duties: lazing around the Great Barrier Reef for six months. Salary: $100,000.

It sounds too good to be true, but the position is real. Calling it the “best job in the world,” Australian tourism officials say they are seeking someone to spend six months relaxing on Hamilton Island, part of the country’s Whitsunday Islands, while promoting the destination on a blog.

In exchange for the pay, a free stay in an oceanfront villa and airfare from the winner’s home country, the employee will be required to stroll the island’s white sand beaches, snorkel, maybe take a dip in the pool — and post photographs and videos of the experience on a weekly blog.

Want to apply? Here's where you do it!

Happy Birthday Sweetie!

2009-01-19T09:33:00.004-05:00

11 years old today - my how time flies. Seems like only yesterday I was screaming at your father on the way to the hospital to "DRIVE FASTER!!!!!"

She's such a card my Ellie. This photo was taken last year.... I was at my computer when she came into the room behind me with this mess in her hair. She always makes me laugh - I just love that about her!

With This Ring...

2009-01-16T09:15:00.005-05:00

Seriously, how cute is this?...

Source: perpetulakid.com

We featured it in That's So MOGG today. It's known as the 2 carat cup. Best of all, it comes packaged in a box that makes it look like you're actually getting a ring.

Looking at this ring reminded me of how my hubby proposed....

We were going away for the weekend and truth be told, I was hoping to be proposed to. On our way out of town we stopped for a coffee at our local Tim Horton's. (Starbuck's would be the U.S. equivilant) I was edgy and nervous and certainly not myself. Hubby got out (this is pre drive-thru days) to grab us a couple of coffees while I waited in the car. A few minutes later he returned with two coffees in hand, opened the driver's side door, fumbled with the coffees, suddenly dropped to one knee - half in/half out of the car - and thrust a beautiful box with a diamond ring in front of me. Needless to say I was surprised! And very, very happy.

We laugh about it now. I was proposed to in a Tim Horton's parking lot. Now that's romance people!

I love it though, it makes me smile every time I think of it. :)

That's A Lot of Blue!

2009-01-14T15:00:00.004-05:00

You either love this room - or you hate it...

Source: dominomag.com

See what Janet and I have to say about it here.

The Evolution of an Poster

2009-01-12T07:59:00.010-05:00

I loved these posters when I first saw them... they are reproductions of the original Keep Calm and Carry On posters produced by the English Ministry of Information in 1939.

Good advice, right?

Of course when you can never get too much of a good thing...why not make branch out and make other items while you're at it? This one might be a good reminder when you walk out the door to start your day...

Source: pedlars.co.uk

Ahhh, but then people got clever and mixed it up a bit...think the folks at Louis Vuitton would mind? It was very prophetic for 2008 I think...

Until the sh*t hit the fan. Clever artist Olly Moss decided to design another take on it...

Via: threadless.com

Hope this isn't what 2009 shapes up to be!

Bad Dog!

2009-01-08T09:27:00.005-05:00

Marley's got nothin' on Wilbur.

It hit me today when I was driving the kids to school. Wilbur hadn't run to the front door when we were leaving. What would keep him from trying to fandangle himself into getting a car ride? "Oh, no..." I thought. "Please, no." (Truth be told, I actually said "Oh, shit." under my breath.)

I remembered that I had left the garbage open. And I had just thrown out some mangy meat - meat that had well past its due date. I had also tossed out some jelly...and then there was last night's dinner scraps from the plates...

I knew it as soon as I got home and opened the door - he didn't jump on it like he usually does. A guilty face stared back at me and instantly I knew. (The dirty, sticky mess around his mouth was an obvious clue as well.) I stomped into the kitchen and he knew the drill - outside he went.

This dog KNOWS when he has done bad and hates it when I am cross with him. As I write this he is sitting on the couch behind me...

This is his "I am guilty - please forgive me Mom - I swear will never do it again" face. (I can't tell you how many times I've seen this.)

All I can say is - it's a good thing you're cute! Off now to prepare for the worst...I'm sure the best is yet to come. (This is where I remind everyone that Wilbur has a very sensitive stomach...)

Fav Projects from 2008

2009-01-07T08:57:00.008-05:00

The lovely Rhoda from Southern Hospitality is hosting a blog party - and features her Top 10 Projects from 2008. What a great idea! I thought I would share some of my favorite little projects from the past year...nothing too complicated cuz that's the way I roll!

"A Place in Time" - this is a fun way to display vintage photographs. Just gut an old clock - be sure and save the workings as you'll need to put them back in place to secure everything.

All those cast-off clock faces needed somewhere to go so this metal film reel case got a quick makeover...

I used old price tag stands to display my favorite ephemera...

This old stamp holder became a quirky vase once I found the test tubes to fit it...

I lined the inside of old sewing drawers with vintage ephemera and used them for storage on my desk...

These are also great in the kitchen!

An old chippy grate became a impromptu collage with the insertion of old photographs...

This old film reel got ready for its close-up with the simple addition of satin ribbon and a vintage clock face...

And finally, this old cardboard sign was a bonus in an auction box lot. I loved the old script and decided to frame it in a large ornate frame. Antique doctor's prescriptions became the matting and I used a paper tape measure to further set it off...

Hope you enjoyed these "romantic rescues" - have a wonderful Wednesday everyone!

Now We're Talkin'!

2009-01-06T08:29:00.005-05:00

Does this photo make your heart go pitter patter like it does mine?

Source: marthastweart.com

Click here to see it featured on *moggit's "If These Walls Could Talk"...

Bye Bye Twinkly Lights....

2009-01-05T08:24:00.006-05:00

It stings every year!

That feeling you get when you look around your house after taking down all of the decorations. Glitter, gone. Vignettes, gone. Tree, gone. Twinkly lights, gone. My husband, who can't stand clutter even looked around yesterday and announced "It's so bare in here." That hurt.

I decided the sparkly would be replaced with silver and shine...

My step daughters bought me this lovely Eiffel tower for Christmas. I love it!

And my 'deal of the day' this past weekend? These two {very chunky} mercury glass candle sticks - they were already reduced to $10.00 and $8.00 and when I got to the cash, the clerk surprised me with a further 70% reduction! Now THAT'S what I call a sale!

So, the twinkly lights may be gone but the silver and shiny mercury glass remain...

I can't go cold turkey! Off to buy some more candles...

As Seen From A Couch...

2009-01-02T14:48:00.004-05:00

Camera in hand, this is what I see from my couch...

And of course:

It's A Dog's Life

2008-12-29T10:02:00.009-05:00

It really is! Wilbur has it soooo good. A typical day during the holidays at home? First you pose for some obligatory Christmas photos...

Then, you drool over your Christmas stocking...

Play a little bit with your new toy...

Play a little hide-and-seek...

Watch a little 'Dog Whisperer' with Cesar Milan...

And top it all off with a big fat nap!

What could be better? Life is good - Happy New Year!

2008-12-23T19:44:00.006-05:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to my blogger friends!

I hope 2009 is filled with family and friends, an abundance of love, good health and cherished moments!

Love,

A Year of Wonder

2008-12-22T10:29:00.012-05:00

I have been keeping this secret for a long while but now I can finally let it out!

I have had the wonderful fortune of being featured in this month's Romantic Country magazine. A big thanks to Fifi for having me. :)

Wilbur was so thrilled that he finally made it to the big time!

I was also very fortunate to have some of my photographs featured in Disney's Wondertime magazine. We don't get this magazine here in Canada but I was really impressed with it - it's geared towards parenting and kids. The editor found me through Flickr - how cool is that?!

It just goes to show you...you never know where your heart will take you! Dream big! I had no idea where 2008 would lead me and now I'm really excited for 2009 especially with Janet's and my new adventure *moggit. We're having a ball over there and hope you enjoy the shenanigans! ;)

Easy Holiday Decorating Idea

2008-12-20T14:03:00.008-05:00

First off, I must say I stole this decorating idea from my bff Janet!

When I walked into her house the other day she had a similar set-up but she used a wire desk tray - so beautiful! I used an old wooden drawer that I had picked up this past summer at a junk store.

Here's all you do:

-add garland or fresh greens
-add twinkly lights
-dress with pine cones and your fav ornaments (I used gold stars and pine cone ornaments)
-add a "Merry Christmas" sign or vintage postcard

Too easy!

On a completely different note, check out the lovely wallpaper in the next photo. It is not a photo of my house - it's one we've mogged. You know, I think there is a very fine line of pushing the limits when it comes to wallpaper. I also think that when you choose a wallpaper to adorn your walls, you'd better make sure you're gonna love it for a while. Re-wallpapering a room is not my idea of a good time. This room is truly a lovely room, save for the wallpaper! Click here to cast your vote on it!

Source: AD

My nephew Colin is doing really well. We just got great news that they may be able to Medi-Vac home back to our home province of Ontario - what a wonderful Christmas present that would be!

Hope this last weekend before Christmas is a happy one for you. :) Take time to enjoy the moments - they do fly so quickly...

Holiday Gingerbread Cookies

2008-12-18T19:06:00.011-05:00

I really love no fail cookie recipes...

There's nothing I hate more than taking the time to bake a cookie that doesn't turn out. That's why I thought I would share this 'Holiday Gingerbread Cookie' recipe with you. It's a no-brainer and so good, especially at this time of year with a BIG glass of milk!

Holiday Gingerbread Cookies

Mix together--
Wet Ingredients:
1 cup brown sugar, packed
3/4 shortening or butter
1/4 cup molasses
1 egg

Mix together--
Dry Ingredients:
2 1/4 cups flour
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cloves

Add dry mixture to wet, mix. Roll into balls - roll ball in white sugar, place on baking sheet and then squish with the bottom of a glass. (this is what they look like after you've flattened them)

Bake for approx. 10 mins at 375 on an ungreased cookie sheet. Remove to wire racks, cool.

Pour a gigantic glass of milk - or make a nice hot tea - and enjoy!

A Christmas Card From My Aunt

2008-12-17T15:50:00.006-05:00

I think she's referring to Juergen...

A Pretty Little Christmas

2008-12-15T07:31:00.010-05:00

I've joined in on a fab party today! (although Wilbur doesn't seem overly thrilled)

Heather's Pretty Little Christmas!

A chance to peruse other blogger's Christmas decorations - what a wonderful way to get inspired! The feather tree shown above I bought last year, I was thrilled with it being cream in color!

My sister in law is German and so talented at decorating and crafts. She made me this German style ornament as a gift one year.

This is a decoration I made in memory of my dear brother. It's fashioned from an old intricate grate and features a vintage German angel dresden. I have learned from experience, no matter what life hands you, you must always have hope.

I just think these little pixie elves are so cute in their pastel coats!

These are old 45 records! Aren't they the sweetest? The graphics are divine and you can actually play them!

I can't remember where I found these old Christmas milk caps but they're so fun to decorate with! That reminds me, I have a jar FULL of vintage 'Egg Nogg' milk caps that I really should put on my site. My bad...

I like this 'chunker' Santa - he's had one too many trips to the buffet I guess. ;)

And finally, here's a shot of our tree. I just love leaving lit all day long. I really get sad in January when I have to take it down because I miss having all of those twinkly lights on throughout the house. I love the twinkly lights!I think I'll start a new line of home decor that feature twinkly lights for anytime of year. I can see it now...frames with twinkly lights, plants with twinkly lights... :)

Romantic Rescue

2008-12-13T09:24:00.010-05:00

Sometimes we ladies need to give a trophy to ourselves - just because, as L'Oreal says

"We're worth it!"

Although this may look like an original shadow-boxed trophy, I assure you it isn't. I found the trophy at the flea market this past summer and paid a whole dollar for it. It's on the smaller side and is perfectly tarnished, just the way I like them.

The shadow box is the perfect shade of cream and looks very vintage. I found that at a yard sale on a rainy Saturday morning. I remember it was raining because the person holding the sale didn't care whether his items were getting wet or not. (typical man!) I was immediately drawn to this glass box - even though it had the most hideous dried flower topiary inside of it. I picked it up and noticed it had a "Home Sense" sticker on the bottom and an original price tag of $19.99. I asked the man how much he wanted for it and apparently he thought is was as ugly as I did because his response was "25 cents!". SOLD! I promptly took it home, removed a few nails and slid up the glass to remove the topiary. Too easy. I then used some sort of magical epoxy to adhere the trophy and added a few old millinery flowers to disguise the mess. Not bad for $1.25, huh? I'm worth it!

It has come to my attention that I am a bit of a ornament junkie. Like an addict, I can't get enough. Well, no more! I am proud to admit that I walked into one of my favorite thrift stores the other day and passed by a table with old ornaments in their original boxes. Well, I have to admit, I didn't really like their shape - but still! The old me would have scooped them up and dragged them home anyway. Apparently I am not the only one who knows about my obsession... the mananger of the store said she though of me when they put them out and was flabberghasted that I wasn't buying them. Come to think of it, so was I...

In other news...

Over at *moggit ... Janet and I have tackled this lovely room in "If these wall could talk"...

Seriously, you will never guess who this room belongs to. Click *here to find out!

Oh! Cathy at Avalon Rose made us a new blinkie which we think is really, really cute. A couple of wonderful people have asked to put it on their blogs and websites and we thank-you! It's free for the taking if you are interested. :) Just email me for the code.

The Big Fake-Out!

2008-12-11T08:36:00.005-05:00

I love those vintage bottle brush trees but they can be very hard to find, not to mention, expensive. Last year I got a tip that the green bottle brush trees from the Dollar Store can be bleached to achieve a time worn look. To me, the best news since sliced bread! I bought a handful of these babies, stuck them in my kitchen sink with a lot of hot water and a little bleach, and whamm-o prest-o ... they look like the real deal!

Photo Credit: Bob Marshak

We're having a blast over at our new website *moggit Thanks for all of your support and visits!

Under one of our categories "If these walls could talk" we become flies on the wall in this wonderful living room from the set of "Something's Gotta Give." I loved that movie. Could watch it over and over again. We are changing content up daily over there so we hope you stop by for a chuckle. :)

Don't want to scare you or anything but - two weeks 'til Christmas!

I Love You But-

2008-12-09T09:57:00.012-05:00

Found this funny site while surfing the other day:

I love you but

So here are some of my additions: (they all relate to someone I know and/or love)

I love you but, you say 'youse'

I love you but, you play with your false teeth (no, not you Dad)

I love you but, you send me annoying email forwards

I love you but, at 40+ years old you wear running shoes with velcro straps

I love you but, your bedhead is legendary

I love you but, you wear snow pants in public

I love you but, you take 'stretching the truth' to a whole new level

I love you but, you tell too many jokes

I love you but, there are hairs growing out of your nose (not you Dad)

I love you but, you can't load a dishwasher

Now let's just see if I get any calls today.... ;)

Over at *moggit we have updated our "If these walls could talk" feature - one of our very favorites! Click here to see what we have to say about this seemingly lovely celebrity bathroom....

Source: Architectural Digest

(All in good fun of course!)

Hope you have a lovely Tuesday!

And Breathe....

2008-12-08T13:23:00.008-05:00

I had made this ornament mirror two years ago with vintage glass balls. Last year it fell and smashed into a million pieces. No biggie. I try not to sweat the small stuff...I took a big healthy dose of "don't cry for things that can't cry for you" and felt immediately better.

On Saturday as I started to bring up my Christmas tree from the basement it seemed everything I touched went wrong. First off I could not for the life of me find my Christmas tree lights - or the lights that are to go on my garland-infested stairway. I was going through all of my decorations and felt TOTALLY overwhelmed. I didn't want to drag it all up. My heart wasn't into it. My patience started to wain. My anger started to rise. And then I took a deep breath and brought myself back into reality. It's not about the decorations, it's not about the presents. I just had to remember the real reason for the season. Lord, help me stay on track because it's so easy to get overwhelmed at this time. I decided I will not stress myself out and over-decorate this year. I can still make the house look lovely and cozy without ALL of my decorations up-- best of all, with my sanity intact. (bonus!)

In other news...

Woke up this morning to find out that someone had stole my credit card number and put $9,000.00 worth of furniture on it! (well, Merry Christmas!) Apparently the culprits broke into a store and stole all of their Visa receipts and that's how they got my number. (btw, this is the 2nd time I have had to deal with credit card faud in the last 6 months) Thankfully, I am not responsible for the bill. Just a warning - keep an eye on your credit card bill, your card doesn't have to be stolen for the bad guys to get a hold of it...

I wanted to give a shout-out to our fabulous web designer of *moggit - Cathy at Avalon Rose. Seriously, she is soooooo fabulous to deal with! Thanks Cathy for all of your wonderful support these past few months. You are incredible!

My Christmas Journal

2008-12-06T10:02:00.006-05:00

With Christmas fast approaching I thought I would share one of my favorite things to do on Boxing Day. (the day after Christmas for us here in Canada) I get out my Christmas Journal and write. I write about Christmas Eve, Christmas morning and Christmas day. I have a video camera but I have to admit I am not big on it. Invariably, you tape everything that happens and you are not in the moment because you're behind the camera and then when you sit down and watch your home video it drags on and on forever! (learning to edit would be a good thing for me)

I have to admit I am not a big diary or journal writer either - it's not something I do every day like Oprah does. But on Boxing Day I take the time to recall the magical past few days. I think it's easier for my children to just pick up the book and leaf through it. What did they get for Christmas in 1999? Oh yeah, a Pokeman Gameboy for Jack and a doll stroller for Ellie. What was the funniest moment on Christmas Eve 2000? When Ellie was caught in my parent's bathroom applying the reddest lipstick I have ever seen, all over her lips - and I mean all over! (she was almost 3 years old at the time)

I like to think of this journal as a treasured family heirloom. One they don't have to cue up, or sit through hours and hours of watching shoddy camera work. :) It's all there in black and white.

Things Are Lookin' Up

2008-12-05T08:47:00.008-05:00

First of all thanks Janet for taking over the reins while I was in Edmonton visiting my nephew. I so liked the left-had justified post that you did that I decided to stick with it!

The picture above was taken in 2006 when Colin was 16 years old. Isn't he a cutie? Gosh, I love him! As you may know, he was diagnosed with a rare auto-immune disease called Wegener's and has been in the hospital in Edmonton, Alberta. (a 4.5 flight away from me here in Ontario) I flew out to see him last Friday and stayed for 5 days. I am so happy to report that he is doing so much better! He has been extubated and now is on a trach but his oxygen levels have been lessened and he is constantly amazing his doctors and nurses. They are soooo wonderful to him and we are thankful for their amazing care.

Colin and I were able to communicate through lip reading and he was so happy that I was there. My heart was full. The good Lord blessed me with an absolute wonderful time with him, he got better every day while I was there, the weather was nice, and my sister in law Jackie got to re-connect after not seeing each other for 11 months! (she now lives a 4 hour drive from me here in Ontario)

By the way, she says thanks from the bottom of her heart for all of your prayers and good wishes. They truly have helped!

In other news....

Janet's and my TSP project was finally revealed on Monday - moggit. Thank-you all so much for dropping by and checking it out. Janet and I have been bff's for 35 years now and have always liked to poke fun at design and decorating - it's like sport for us. (Not that we're professionals by any sort but we do think that sometimes the whole industry can take itself a wee bit too seriously) We change content up daily so we hope that we will become your "guilty pleasure". For instance, hop on over to the category "Oh No You Didn't!" to see what we had to say about this lovely chair...

Source: www.horchow.com

And don't forget to vote!

p.s. Be sure and click on "That's SO Mogg" on the front page - lots of great gift ideas there.... :)

Launch Day!

2008-12-01T14:20:00.009-05:00

First of all, I have to confess-- it's not Joy writing this blog, but Janet (whom she may haven mentioned a time or two here...)

Joy is in Edmonton, having a wonderful visit with her nephew, who has been through so much these last couple of months. The good news is that he is getting better-- the bad is that it will literally take months before he's able to function like a normal 18 year-old boy should.

The other bit of news is that we're both so excited because today is Launch Day for our new website, moggit.com, which in a nutshell, is 'the guilty pleasure of the decorating world'...

It's a complete departure from anything either one of us has done before-- a cross between a blog and online magazine... the content a tongue-in-cheek, slightly irreverent look at decor, decorating and design.

The shocker?

We're not selling anything!

Nope, we're there solely for entertainment purposes. And while we realize that this new direction may not be everyone's cup of tea, we're also hoping you'll all come along for the ride just the same! Who know where it will lead us?

So please, check us out at www.moggit.com. If you click on the 'And that's what WE said' thought bubble on the homepage, a more detailed explanation of what we're all about is available. So have fun, click around, and don't forget to read our fab interview with Claudia Strasser of The Paris Apartment fame when you click on the 'that's what SHE said' speech bubble on the homepage! And check back often, content will be changing quickly!

(and Janet, too!)

A World Away

2008-11-30T11:47:00.003-05:00

Well, it certainly feels like I am a world away. I am actually in Edmonton, Alberta. I flew out on Friday to see my nephew who is still very sick with Wegener's auto-immune disease. My sister-in-law Jackie was soooo very happy to see me (we've haven't seen each other in 11 months as she moved away last year)

No matter how you prepare yourself, seeing Colin in the hospital with a trach in his throat threw me for a loop. I thought I had prepared myself but not so much. It was shocking to see my beautiful nephew hooked up to so many tubes, with so many bells and whistles. I actually almost fainted and had to leave the room. I am happy to report that I can now enter the room and not feel so overwhelmed.

We have been truly blessed with small mercies like a smile, a wink, and some mouthed phrases including "I love you." This kid has literally been through hell and back and still worries about the rest of his family and how they are all doing. He amazes me.

His oxygen requirements are down to 35% which is very good (compared to the 100% oxygen he was on only a few weeks ago) He still has 5 chest tubes in his chest however.

I ask all of you wonderful bloggers for your continued prayers. Colin will remain hospitalized for many, many months to come and our goal right now is to get him well enough to fly back to Ontario where he can be closer to our family.

I return home Tuesday evening. Don't forget - Moggit launches on Monday!

The Runner

2008-11-24T18:08:00.004-05:00

There it was laying in the glistening sunshine at an outdoor antique fair. An antique runner that I knew I couldn't live without. It was a whopping 18 feet long. Incredible! The dealer had laid it out in front of his booth proudly displaying the vibrant colors. The price was fair, perhaps in part because we knew the dealer, and it was lovingly rolled up and taken home with us.

It served it's purpose for many years, laying in between the livingroom and kitchen. It is the main drag in our home so it saved a lot of foot (and paw) traffic off of the hardwood floor.

When we changed our decor this past Spring, the runner no longer fit in. Because my Mom was working at an flea market, I brought the rug to her house and asked her to add it to her booth whenever she had space.

Here is where the trouble starts. Can you feel it?

My father (and I say that holding the rrrrr) decided one day that he needed a little carpet is his hangar where he keeps his plane.

Yes.

A little carpet.

Near his plane.

Why, I do not know.

Knowing my mother likes to hoard stuff (sorry, Mom) and not quite up to snuff on his knowledge of antiques, my father, alone one day, found the rug and decided it would be perfect for his little project. So, out came the scissors and he cut that baby like it was, well, a rug.

My mother was of course mortified, but my father, still oblivious to this "old rug" called to tell me the news. Which by the way, he thought was quite funny-- until I regained my composure and told him just how much that "old rug" cost.

Let's just say the conversation didn't end well - something with me grumbling "I have to go scream into a pillow now - goodbye..."

We both laugh about it now. I soon got over myself - and the rug - and told him he has one 'snazzy' hangar. Which by the way, I haven't been to see since he dressed it up- the photo above was taken 'before' his flair for decorating old hangars emerged.

I think he may have a future in it in fact. After all, there's still some 12' left of runner left to work with... ;)

Trying Not To Feel Inadequate....

2008-11-20T10:56:00.006-05:00

After making a really crappy lunch for my kids this morning I came across this brilliance on flickr.

It's Bento, baby!

The creator somehow makes me love - and yet hate her - at the very same time. ;)

O.K. Back to my mediocrity...

Launch Date!

2008-11-19T14:49:00.011-05:00

O.K. Life seems to be getting back to normal around here again (I hope I haven't jinxed that by writing it) and Janet and I have a launch date for our new website *moggit.com...

Monday December 1st!

We seriously cannot wait to show you just what we've been up to!

O.K. and now for something completely off topic....

Having come from an advertising background I have to bow down to the folks (did I just say 'folks' - man, I must be gettin' old) at Apple. Their Mac commercials are BRILLIANT.

Seriously, whoever thought those up deserves to be very, very rich.
(p.s. hubby's cousin looks exactly like the pc guy - exactly!)

I have been having error problems on my pc for a while now which I have put up with because we all know what a drag it is to unhook your computer tower, drag it down to the computer store and then let them hold it ransom for as long as they so desire until they decide to tell you that:

a) why on earth did you let the problems go that long

and

b) you were soooo very lucky it wasn't worse

and finally,

c) you owe us a kazillion dollars

Yup, that's pretty much how it goes.

The error messages DID get worse and I DID end up taking my 'tower of terror' in for repair. Apparently my ram was damaged- andIdon'tevencare. Why? Cuz hubby bought me a Mac! Yes, my 'jaw-wired-shut-hubby', the sweetest man in the world, just bought me an Mac laptop for being - and I quote - "a terrific nurse maid" (heavy on the 'maid' part I say)

I am just getting to know it and have to say I am in love. No worries over spyware, no worries over nasty viruses, very cool features...shoot, I should be getting paid for this post!

O.K. back to my *fab* hub - the wires come off this Friday! Solid food - watch out - here he comes!

My Trusty Steed

2008-11-12T17:53:00.008-05:00

Well, he doesn't look to happy here but actually he just came back from the groomer's after a wonderful wash and trim. What a blessing this pup is. Always there for me (sometimes too much so!)

I feel so disconnected from the internet right now. I have had no time, or desire to blog with all that is happening to my family. My nephew Colin is still in critical condition in Edmonton and I may be flying out in a few weeks to see him. The doctors say his recovery will take 3-4 months.

Hubby is doing well and will have his wires removed from his jaw next week - he has been a model patient in the fact that he has been very patient throughout this whole ordeal. Never again does he wish to eat through a straw or syringe.

My father is at home now after his mini-stroke and is still working on getting full use of his left hand again. He has a great attitude!

To add insult to what seems like a lot of injury, my son Jack broke his arm last Thursday at school. No cast but he must wear a sling for 3 weeks and can do no physical activity (soccer/gym class) til the new year.

I do have some good news in all of this....are you ready for it?

I am going to be a grandmother.

No word of a lie! I'm not even 40 yet! My 25 year old step daughter Tarah is due in May - the month her father and I both share a birthday!

Tarah - Summer '08

We are very happy and looking forward to spoiling a grandchild.

A parent's best revenge. :)

Time

2008-11-05T12:12:00.002-05:00

In some ways it seems to stand still.

This coming Saturday will mark the 2 week stay of my nephew Colin in intensive care. There is no change. Minutes and hours crawl by as we wait to hear news. He is still acutely critical and so therefore I ask all of your to continue your prayers. Again, thank-you from the bottom of my heart.

Surreal

2008-10-30T07:23:00.004-04:00

I can't believe I am writing this but I am desperate for prayers once again. My sweet 18 year old nephew Colin is in critical condition with a rare auto-immune syndrome called Wegener's which makes the body attack itself from within. He is in the hospital in Edmonton, Alberta which is a 4+ hour plane ride from here. I may be heading out on Tuesday to be with him and his mother who has also flown in.

Please, please pray for Colin. We need all the prayers we can get.

O.K Time for Some Funny...

2008-10-25T11:14:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I went to the chiropractor because in stressful situations I tend to carry it all in my shoulders and seize up. When the pain started moving down my arm I knew it was time to get adjusted. Luckily I was able to get an appointment right away. I sat down and Dr. B started investigating my neck and shoulders in between my "Owches" and "Ughs". I knew it was bad when I heard him mutter to himself "Holy Crap!" Things went downhill from there.

Let's just say I have to go back Monday.

***

My sweet sister-in-law Sharon sent me this funny email today and it made me laugh - had to share some of it with you all....

1. A friend of mine confused her Valium with her birth control pills... she has 14 kids but doesn't really care.

2. One of life's mysteries is how a 2-pound box of chocolates can make a woman gain 5 lbs.

3. My mind not only wanders, it sometimes leaves completely.

4. The best way to forget your troubles is to wear tight shoes.

5. The nice part about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you are doing, someone else does.

6. The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight because by then, your body and your fat are really good friends.

7. Amazing! You hang something in your closet for a while and it shrinks 2 sizes!

8. The trouble with some women is that they get all excited about nothing and then they marry him.

9. I read this article that said the typical symptoms of stress are eating too much, impulse buying, and driving too fast. Are they kidding? That's my idea of a perfect day!

Hope you all have a lovely weekend!

I'm Cheating

2008-10-22T07:57:00.004-04:00

This is NOT the display that is sitting on my front porch this year. It is the display that sat on my front porch last year....

But last year I didn't have a care in the world at this time! Funny how life gives you twists and turns but somehow we muddle through. Decorating to me is obviously not as important as taking care of my guys.

Speaking of, do you know how much work it is to keep a 200 pound man full with only a diet that consists of blenderized food? Ohmigosh, it is a full time job! I liken it to feeding twenty 10 pound babies. Hubby felt bad last night as I had been in the kitchen for a while blending up a storm. I told him I am THRILLED to do it. His accident could have easily fatal and I could be bringing flowers to his grave instead. I blend away happily - and thankfully.

I don't know where the past 2 weeks have gone - it all seems a blur now. Janet and I just got back on track with our TSP and it has re-ignited my creative spark. Our web designer Cathy at Avalon Rose has brought our dream into a reality. We both have worked with her in the past and if you ever need any website or blog work done she comes higly recommended. Our new website is a departure from what she usually does and she knocked it out of the park!

Our launch is coming soon! (could we be more vague?)

Happy Birthday Dad

2008-10-20T10:07:00.007-04:00

Today is my Dad's 77th birthday and he is lucky enough to be be able to celebrate it in the comfort of his own home. We are so thankful for that. Love you Dad!

(classic socks with sandals)

Both men in my life are doing much better - thanks for your all of your prayers and well wishes. Hubby goes for a check up today and my Dad will start rehabilitation soon for his hand which he should get full recovery of.

Oh My

2008-10-14T22:30:00.005-04:00

Ladies, can I ask for more prayers? Please keep them coming. My Dad suffered a small stroke today (exactly one week after Juergen's accident) and was ambulanced to the same hospital in Ottawa. They are keeping him in for a week. The out patient procedure he had last Friday involved stopping and restarting his heart. That seemed to go well until this happened today. He has no feeling in his left hand but they think it will come back.

I love my Dad with all of my heart and just want him to get better. His 77th birthday is on Monday.

So again, thank-you so much ladies for holding me and my hubby up in your prayers this past week. I can truly feel it and am overwhelmed by the care and compassion. I am throwing out the biggest cyber hug to you all.

xoxox

Truly Thankful

2008-10-13T10:15:00.007-04:00

This Thanksgiving means more to me than any other. Last Tuesday my husband was in a very serious accident at work and had his head pinned between a JLG lift cage and a steel purlin. The machinery's arm got stuck and would not stop booming out leaving my husband with no room to move or escape. His hard hat saved his head from being crushed but after the outer edges of the hard hat took some pressure his jaw broke in two places - at his chin and top right of his jaw. He also had quite a few stitches behind his ear where the hard hat and safety glasses subsequently dug in. How, we don't know (miracle I say) but the unit stopped booming out and he was able to wedge his head out.

We spent the first day at the hospital in our small hometown but he needed surgery and only Ottawa hospitals could do that. (one hour away) The next day we went to Ottawa but had to wait 14 hours for a bed to be available. Surgery was not do-able as the hospital surgery rooms were very busy and dental surgery doesn't take precedence. Hubby had to sleep sitting up as his jaw was so loose. The next morning he had to fast again to see if you he would be lucky enough to get into surgery after 4 p.m. We got the wonderful news that they would take him in at 7 p.m. barring no other extreme accidents would come into the hospital.

The surgery was successful and his jaw must be wired shut for 6 weeks. For any of you who personally know my husband you know just how much he loves food. This will be a very difficult time for him. Everything he eats must be drank through a straw. If you have any wonderful tasty soup recipes please send them along if you get a chance. I can blenderize anything.

So, this Thanksgiving means more to me than any other ever has. My husband is alive and I thank the Lord so deeply for that. Also, both of my dear parents had out patient surgeries on Friday as well - and they both came out with clean bills of health too. Thankful, indeed.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my Canadian friends.

Wanna Win?

2008-10-06T08:36:00.005-04:00

Who doesn't love a good giveaway? Better yet, one with pretty good odds...

My fellow Canadian blog buddy
Linda over at Restyled Home has teamed up with the uber-talented Matthew Mead for another fabulous giveaway. You could win of of 20 books (shown above) and ten extra lucky winners will win a gift certificate to Home Goods!

As Matthew puts it, "Entertaining Simple is about restoring sanity to entertaining, without sacrificing style." To me, Matthew's ideas and recipes are attainable, do-able. (unlike that other entertaining maven who has the uncanny ability of making me feel that no matter how hard I try, my recipe will NEVER turn out like hers)

Just look at some of the fabulous-ness in this book...does this not look soooo yummy?

To learn more, just head over to Linda's fabulous blog by clicking *here. (You don't need to have a blog to win.)

Can't wait for this delicious page turner? Matthew's book "Entertaining Simple can be purchased at book stores throughout Canada and the U.S - and by clicking right here!

You may drool uncontrollably when you hit this page. Don't say I didn't warn you....

Another TSP Hint!

2008-10-02T17:59:00.003-04:00

Ohhhh, have Janet and I got a fabulous hint for you with regards to our "TSP" - aka Top Secret Project!

Here goes....

Click *HERE for the juicy hint!

...more coming soon!

For the Love of Bloggers

2008-09-30T12:21:00.006-04:00

It's hard to explain to a non-blogger...the love you get from bloggers. The people you meet in blogland that you've never met face-to-face but yet you know. My husband doesn't understand it when I say "...my friend from the internet.." His standard reply goes something like "Well, they're not reeeaaaally your friend...." My defiant response - with hands placed on hips - "Ummm, YES, THEY ARE! "

Sometimes you bloggers know more about what's going on in my life than the people who are actually physically present in my life. The love and connected-ness (I just made that word up) I feel is extraordinary. You share with me my ups and downs and in turn, open that window for me to see into yours. What a gift.

Whenever I have time, I catch up on my blog reading. I don't always leave a comment but rest assured I am there. I think we are all like that to some degree. Take for instance when a fellow blogger is having a hard time or asks for a prayer....watch the comment section and you will see a sudden mass of them. We swoop in when we are needed - and happy to do so. It is a community filled with people who have the ability to connect without the benefit of a hug, or a familiar voice or sometimes even a face. It is a connection that cannot be defined by physicality. It is much deeper than that.

Thank-you for being a friend!

Who Knew?

2008-09-25T16:19:00.009-04:00

Talk about coincidence!

I picked up a copy of Romantic Country today and when I was flipping through it my heart stopped! My bff Janet's very first written assignment was in it! She was approached a little while back to write an article for the mag and we thought it would be in the next issue. Low and behold, it's in the same issue as my featured "Dinner Party Bottled Fortunes". Janet is a fabulous and talented writer and I am *SO* happy to see her name in print!

My bottles are featured on the very last page - "The Finishing Touch"....

We are both thrilled to be in the company of other bloggers that we admire including the lovely and talented Karla Nathan, Carol Spinski and Heather Bullard!

This issue also features 'Shabby Chic' style-maven Rachel Ashwell's new home. Amazing!

*****

O.k., the above has nothing to do with our TSP project. It is in full swing - high gear! And no, it has nothing to do with sunglasses, although Janet and I are certainly slaves to them. :) (Our first priority - they have to be good hair holders) Another*hint for you all - we are working with a uber-talented web designer!...

Top Secret Project Teaser

2008-09-24T09:38:00.009-04:00

Out "TSP" is well under way. Thought I would give you a teaser as to what Janet and I are up to...

It's fresh, it's hip - it's nothing like you've seen before!

Between me and you - it will be your new guilty pleasure! ;)

*****

O.K. in other news....

A couple of people have emailed and have seen my product(s) in the magazine I have been hinting about. It is

"Romantic Country"!

Even I haven't seen it yet but they tell me it looks good. :) Just flip to the very last page and you'll see it!

The Jig Is Up!

2008-09-20T09:31:00.008-04:00

Well, almost!

So here's the scoop. I am finally going to spill my secrets. A couple of very exciting things have been going on here. First off, one of my products is going to be featured in a national magazine which should be out early next week! Can't say which one 'til it's actually out but needless to say I am over the moon! As soon as it hits the stands you know I will be scanning it into this here computer...

And somehow in following my dreams, a new adventure has plopped into my lap. I was contacted by someone at a certain Disney magazine (through Flickr) and they want to use quite a few of my photos for their *Christmas issue. I was floored! Obviously I can't get into too much detail about that but will keep you posted. :)

Doors are opening up for me into a whole new world and I am beyond thrilled. Ladies, (and gentlemen) I know some of you must feel this way too.... A couple of years ago when I started out selling on ebay, and then I started blogging, and then when I finally opened my website I was always left with the feeling - what am I supposed to be doing? What do I really love to do? I would watch Oprah and see these ladies who had their light bulb moment and think "What is my LIGHT BULB moment?"

...Would somebody please turn on the light for me?!

Well, the light has gone off. Well, at least it has started to. Much like the new energy saving light bulbs when you first turn them on - it takes them a little bit of time to get fully lit. :) That's where I am. But I now know what I was meant to be doing. Janet and I are still hard at work at out TSP (Top Secret Project) and let's just say that we are lovin' every minute of it. We have, in a way, created our own jobs that allow us to do what we love - stay at home and talk on the phone to each other! (and no, it's not telemarketing) lol

I seriously cannot wait for you to join me on this wild ride. Because hopefully you will all come along! :)

Behold the Power of Homemade Baked Goods...

2008-09-17T10:15:00.010-04:00

Do not underestimate it! It can work wonders...

This is a batch of cinnamon rolls I made yesterday. This recipe is the closest thing to a "Cinnabon" that I have ever come across. Seriously yummy!

I am bringing some to my accountant this morning to soothe her soul as she is doing hubby's year end and let's just say that I am not the most organized person in the world. That's where homemade baked goods come in. Somehow a simple cinnamon roll will make this kind lady forget that she hates me.

Homemade baked goods also do a world of good for my poor hubby who had a terrible day at work. Amidst his grumbling of what went on, I whipped out this plate of goodness out and - poof! Instant smile. Bad day eradicated.

The power of homemade baked goods...I'm tellin' ya - magical powers here! (maybe I should make some for the Republicans and Democrats?...)

*UPDATE:

Ask and you shall receive - here is the recipe!

Cinnamon Rolls

ROLLS:

1¼ oz. pkg. yeast

1 c. warm milk

½ c. granulated sugar

1/3 c. melted butter

1 t. salt

2 eggs

4 c. all-purpose flour

FILLING:

1 c. packed brown sugar (or more if you like)

2½ TBS. cinnamon

1/3 c. Butter, softened

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 400° F.

1) Dissolve yeast in milk.

2) Mix in sugar, butter, salt, eggs, flour. Mix well.

3) Turn dough out onto lightly floured surface. Knead into a large ball. Cover - let rise 1 hour.

4) Roll dough into a 21" x 16" wide rectangle. Spread the softened butter all over the dough and then load it up with the brown sugar and cinnamon. Pinch the ends.

5) Using a very sharp serrated knife cut into 1 inch wide rolls, making sixteen. If want fewer, bigger rolls, cut them wider. (having them squished up against each other is alright)

6) Grease an 11"x 15" baking pan. Place rolls in pan and let rise for another 30 minutes.

7) Bake until the rolls are slightly browned and not doughy. This will vary according to your oven. Just don't overbake. (approx 12-15 mins)

*OPTIONAL ICING:

7 TBS. butter, softened

1½ c. confectioners sugar

¼ c. (2 oz.) cream cheese

½ t. real vanilla extract

(this makes ALOT!!)

*Enjoy!

The Assemblance of Junque

2008-09-15T08:31:00.007-04:00

Or as my husband likes to call it:
"Puttin' out junk!"
(I think my phrase has more of a ring to it personally)

Yes, as most of you know decorating with 'junque' - as I like to call it, is common place in my home. Items which would be normally cast off take centre stage and often garner more interest than the hoighty-toity antiques. Hmmpphh!

Why do I have an old clock face leaning up against an empty frame?

Why NOT?!

It really is as easy as surrounding yourself with things that make you happy. Things that spark an interest in you - no matter what they are...

It's thumbing your nose at those oh-too-serious decorating magazines who dictate that everything should be perfect...

...And have a designer label on them.

...Oh, and of course, a huge price tag.

(just to prove to your friends that yes, you do indeed have money and yes, you have more money than brains)

Ooops, did I just use my outdoor voice on that one? ;)

Just walk around your house and look at old things in new ways. Mix it up. Get funky. But most of all -

HAVE FUN!

Nie Recovery

2008-09-13T12:34:00.008-04:00

The wonderful and caring Kim from Today's Creative Blog is hosting a silent auction for a great cause. As she said on her blog:

"One of our wonderful creative bloggers and her husband were in a horrible plane accident. Stephanie is burned on 80% of her body........her husband Christian has also been terribly burned. They have 4 small children. The story is so tragic. They need help."

I have donated 5 Hope Jars to the cause and there are many more wonderful items that are being auctioned off to help this family. Just click HERE to check it out!

Slow But Sure...

2008-09-10T09:43:00.008-04:00

The creative juices are returning...slowly, but surely. Gosh, this has been a dry spell! I haven't even been frequenting my favorite thrift stores.

What I have been doing is working on my secret project with Janet and cleaning house. With the fresh start of Fall approaching, it was time to tackle the kids closets - boy, how they've grown! I also have been cooking and baking up a storm which hubby loves.

I've also made up some new "Dinner Party Bottled Fortunes". These two sets are made up of a nice eclectic mix of old bottles.

Oh, one more thing! If you get Romantic Homes this month be sure and check out the letter by none other than my talented sister Melody! Silly girl, she had forgotten she had even written in....her letter is titled 'Beauty on a Budget' and features a picture of a cute display cabinet that she re-worked.

And finally, to toot my own horn, I was featured on the lovely Modern Vintage Designs website. Too cool, huh?

Have a wonderful Wednesday everyone!

Yearbook Yourself!

2008-09-07T14:50:00.010-04:00

I just recently saw someone due a similar blog post (can't remember who now) on this site called "Yearbook Yourself" and I just couldn't resist doing it myself! All you do is upload a picture and they insert your face into different yearbook photos from the past.

Here is what I would look like in 1952...aren't I lovely?

And here I am rockin' out glasses in 1960...

Just check out my beautiful bob in 1966....

And in 1974 my hair had a mind all it's own!

Ahh, I always wanted to have long, flowing hair. This was taken in 1980...

Wilbur decided he would like to know what he would look like as a human. I obliged, of course. Here he is all dressed up in a suit and skinny tie in 1952...isn't he a handsome devil?

And here he is with big hair and glasses in 1960...

In 1974 he looked very mod with his long hair...

And finally, my fav - Wilbur with a mullet, circa 1990!
(all business in the front - party in the back)

I think Wilbur faired out better than I did! Owch!

Sharing the Love....

2008-09-04T13:12:00.008-04:00

This award truly makes me smile! Is there any greater compliment? I think not!

The wonderful Denise from My Vintage Gardens and sweet Jenn aka Shabby Miss Jenn both gave it to me. I am honored - thanks girls! So now I am to give this most prestigious award to 7 other blogs that I love (besides the girls who tagged me of course!)

Here are the rules:
1. If you've been tagged, you can put the logo on his/her blog.
2. Link the person from whom you received the award.
3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
4. Put links to those blogs on yours.
5. Leave a message on the blogs you've nominated.

and because I hate rules I will add a #6:

OR, you can do nothing at all and just enjoy the fact that you got an award!

O.K. So here are my pics...

The fabulous Ruth from The Beautiful Life. This woman knows how to write! We met only a few months ago in cyber space and she is like my long lost twin. Too weird!

French Gardenhouse. Lidy's blog is always a delight - as is she. And her photos are always drool worthy.

The Paris Apartment. Oh Claudia, j'adore. Need I say more? She is, and always will be the "pièce de résistance"!

Karla's Cottage. This woman never ceases to amaze me. She does it all! And that includes blogging almost every day with tons of fabulous pics!

Shabby Fufu. I love this blog and Janet is such a sweetheart! She is uber talented and I know she is working on making herself an empire!

Margo from Margo's Junkin' Journal. I just love seeing what junk she's transformed.

Gathering Dust, Beth's blog. Seriously, that girl and I need to go shopping together. Stat. :)

THESE ARE THE BLOGS THAT KEEP ME FROM DOING MY HOUSEWORK.

Thanks ladies!

Lost in Thought

2008-09-03T08:17:00.005-04:00

My head is swirling with ideas. So much so that I get lost and caught up in it. And I wonder where the time went. Kind of like that feeling when I watch "Deadliest Catch". Suddenly sixty minutes have flown by and I don't really know why I sat there so engaged watching men in rubber rain suits run crazily around a boat that makes me sea sick. My ideas come in waves, just like the ones that crash into their boats. And if the idea is good, it is like hauling over a pot stuffed full of king crab!

I've been thinking alot lately (dangerous, I know) and it has occurred to me that dreams need nurturing. And dreams take work. But if I am to relieve my husband of working so he can be a stay-at-home Dad (HA!) then I need to get my butt in gear.

You know when you see people who LOVE their job? I was always envious of those people. I mean, life is hard enough and if you hate your job it can be even harder. So, I took some mental notes of what I really want to 'be'. I'm turning the big
4-0 next May and I really want to fulfill goals and follow that dream that I've been chasing. Although it's not clearly laid out I can certainly make it up as I go along.

You can only watch "The Big Idea" with the ever charismatic Donny Deutsch for so long (and think to yourself - why is he always yelling?) until you 'get' it. You have to be passionate about what you do.

Here's to unlocking some dreams. You in?

Dancing in the Streets

2008-09-02T10:07:00.003-04:00

...yes, the most wonderful day of year! It is now 10:33 a.m. and I am still in my grubbies. My kids were up at 6:00 a.m. so excited to get ready for the first day of school. Had to laugh because that excitement will only last for a day or two. And then I'll be back yelling at them to drag themselves out of bed.

Just realized that this is my 601st blog post. Who knew I had to say so much about nothing? (my husband is raising his hand right now)

Very exciting things are coming my way. But of course I can't talk about them yet. Oh, that is so annoying isn't it? Well, one item you will find out about in approximately 14 days. The other is a real 'work in progress' that my bff friend and I are tackling. I have decided to try and make some of my dreams become reality. To do what I truly love to do. What could be better than that?...

You Know Summer's Over When...

2008-08-31T08:54:00.006-04:00

The flowers boxes you so lovingly tended since May are now filled with dead and brittle weeds.

A bowl of hot soup is actually enticing.

The kids have become so lazy they seem glued to the couch.

The allergens in the air are so bad they somehow seep right through closed doors and windows.

The sight of barbequed steak actually makes you a little nauseaus. (yes, we overdid it here this summer)

Mowing the lawn is not so much fun anymore.

You can finally turn off the central air and save yourself some bucks!

You're dreaming of wearing your oh-so-fab brown leather boots.

With that oh-so-fab brown leather jacket. (sorry Ruth!)

And that oh-so-fab brown scarf!

Your flip flops are disfigured, dirty and worn. (yet you still wear them)

You dream of pot roasts and mashed potatoes.

You cringe at the thought of eating another ice cream cone.

The stores are quiet again.

And finally, the #1 clue that summer is really over ---

Parents everywhere have smiles on their faces!

Hope you all have a lovely last long weekend of summer!

Cleaning House

2008-08-28T09:58:00.007-04:00

When in doubt, clean.

And re-arrange.

Before...

I may not be creating up a storm lately but I'm cleaning and re-arranging furniture. That's creative, no? With the change of season looming I am itching to switch things up a bit. This is a shot of part of our kitchen that I tackled yesterday....
After...

I couldn't resist buying these roses yesterday at the grocery store. A dozen for $7.99. I like roses but never enough to pay $40.00 for them. This was a steal...

Your home can be your canvas when creating - what fun it is to mix things up...

I never thought I would like the couch pushed up against this old sign but somehow it works. You just never know if it will work unless you try it!

I scored this long old bench at a yard sale many years ago for $5.00. It tucks nicely under the windows and allows me to display all of my 'junque'.

Because we will NEVER move, changing the furniture around gives me a thrill. It's fresh and new until a few months later when the Gemini in me rears her fickle head and says "Time for a change." Sometimes it's just what the doctor ordered...

Thank-You

2008-08-25T17:51:00.004-04:00

Thank-you my wonderful and dear fellow bloggers for lifting up my friends in prayer. I am forever grateful. I hesitated blogging about the situation as it is very personal but I knew the power of prayer is great - and the need for it was greater. It truly never ceases to amaze me how supportive the blogging community can be. I thank every one of you from the bottom of my heart.

Creatively speaking I have been stuck in a rut with not much desire for new projects - or even yard saling. (gasp) But, that's o.k. - these things happen. You have to go with the flow....

Prayers Please

2008-08-22T09:05:00.002-04:00

It has been a rough week. Friends of mine lost their 20 year old son suddenly to heart failure. I look at this picture I took on Monday and I think of the title I chose for Flickr ... "Trying to Hold it Together". How befitting.

If you have a moment would you please pray for Steve and Nicole? It would be most sincerely appreciated....

Shades of Inspiration

2008-08-18T09:49:00.005-04:00

This week's "Shades of Inspiration" color is ...

Rust.

Well, there is no shortage of rust around this homestead. Here is a shot of a rusty old tin sign on one of our out buildings...

I found these rusty chains inside our old milk house...

To steal a quote from a B-52 song - "Tin roof, rusted..."

One of my watering cans that has seen better days...

And finally, me saying "Peace out" peeps on an old rusted barrel....

Time on My Hands...

2008-08-15T09:57:00.002-04:00

I'm still not exactly sure how this happened but last night during my team's volleyball game I got hit with the ball on my thumb and it must have bent back or gotten twisted . All I know is it hurt right away. But then it seemed to subside and I finished out two more games. Then it hurt some more. Yes, it would seem I wasn't the sharpest knife in the drawer to continue playing...but I'm a sucker for punishment. (thank goodness we won)

So then I woke up in the middle of the night with more pain (it had swollen and I had bonked it)

So my question to you is -

Do you know how much you actually use your thumb?

Wow, it's a pretty important digit - I had no idea! Especially on the hand that you favor. So, I've got some time on my hands - not much creating going on around here unfortunately. And being the opportunist that I am - hopefully not much cooking either! :)

More "Things I Know For Sure"...

2008-08-13T09:48:00.004-04:00

Since my last post of
"Things I know For Sure" was in June I figured I needed to do an update...

I go through magazines like an alcoholic goes through a mini bar. I can’t get enough. Make more decorating magazines – make them bi-monthly – editors of the world – do something!

The one day that I say I am going to start organizing my life is the day that I instantly become a procrastinator.

Cleaning out my clothes drawers and getting rid of a lot of stuff I don’t wear always makes me feel better, until I realize that I need to go shopping. Mental note - it would save me money if I DIDN’T clean my drawers.

Kids, above the age of 10 - although sweet as they may seem – always have an ulterior motive.

Ditto for husbands with sly smiles...

Getting old can get really old.

No matter how big your house is, the one pesky fly that got in, will torment you – and only you - while you sit down and try to have peace and quiet watching your fav show.

The ONE TIME that you actually swear out loud trying to get rid of that pesky fly is the exact time that your child will walk into the room.

If you park in a ‘no parking’ zone you WILL get a ticket. That’s why they tell you not to park there. (don’t say I didn't warn you hubby)

Investing in a good pillow can make you a happier, more well adjusted person. Continuing to try to flouff! and puff! your old feather pillow will only drive you mad – and very tired.

Having a good memory is over rated.

Waking up early is not for everyone. Morning people, don’t try to force your “good morningness” on others – especially if they haven’t had their first cup of coffee yet. (don’t say I didn’t warn you hubby)

No how busy they seem to be, a child will always find - and bug you - while you're on the phone.

Clean windows are a sign of a sick mind. (that's my story and I'm stickin' to it)

The five second rule of food dropping on the floor DOES NOT INCLUDE foods that are wet or moist! (that just makes them a sponge)

*******

Hope you all have a wonderful Wednesday!

More Vintage Finds...

2008-08-12T09:24:00.008-04:00

Although my housework was looming, I decided to ignore it (cuz that's what I do best) and work on some of my drawers.... now listed in the shop.

I started off with the front...(this stamp gets more action around here than the candy bar at a kid's party)

And lined it with original, old ephemera...

I love these in the kitchen for storing salt, pepper, spices, etc...

But, also in the office to keep the supplies from cluttering my work space. Although if you saw my desk right now you'd know I suffer from the "mechanic's car is always in the shop" syndrome. Funny how that goes.

I also listed some of these vintage plastic signs in the shop...I love the font on them.

I like to keep a CASHIER sign by my purse but now I'm thinking I should put the NO CREDIT sign there instead....

I also picked up some of these neat old fabric printing blocks from India on Sunday.

They're made out of a solid piece of wood with a handle attached. I just love the form and texture...

My gosh, it is already August 12th and I feel like the summer has flown by. (which is unusual because usually by now I am jonesin' for the kids to go back to school) We are having really terrible summer weather here. It has rained for a week steady and now the temps are quite cool. The kids haven't been in the pool for almost a week now!

O.K. here's a secret shout-out to my friend in the States who I sent vintage St. Patrick's ephemera to a couple of months back. Hugs to you!

Antique Show Finds

2008-08-11T11:29:00.003-04:00

Sometimes a night away can do you so much good!

We had a lovely time with the kids and the weather held out for the most part. It had rained quite hard on Saturday night so the outdoor antique show was quite the muddy mess on Sunday! Should have bought some Wellies...

First up on our finds - hubby's great score. I wasn't crazy about this one at first but when he told me where he wanted to put it I saw the light. Good one hun! He attached it to our front door armoire where we store bags, shoes and coats...

I couldn't resist this dog show trophy for "Canadian Bred Dog or Bitch in Show". I must have the mind of a 13 year old cuz that makes me laugh every single time I read it.

I have big plans for these old drawers...they will be going in the shop as soon as I am done with them.

And here's a sneak peak of some old awesome signs that will also be going in the shop. They are massive and quite heavy!

And finally, I couldn't resit buying these old tickets - my love for ephemera is more like a disease...(from which I do not not wish to be cured)

I've got some more goodies from the show but it's raining here AGAIN and the light is not so good for taking pictures. I curse the weather man for saying this was going to be a long, hot and dry summer. Really, it's been anything but!

Time Flies...

2008-08-07T09:08:00.007-04:00

I don't know about you - but this is how our summer is shaping up around here...

The kids seem to have no concept of time anymore and love to sleep in 'til all hours. Breakfast now seems to be at noon and lunch at 3:00 p.m. Very dangerous habits to get into!

Old film reels are my muse right now...the old clock faces I have been salvaging and hoarding fit nicely in the centers...

Another lock in the shop! ...

And here are a couple of more brown and blue shots for Shades of Inspiration...

I picked up this old wicker suitcase with leather strap for a song at Value Village!

This weekend we are heading to an antique show and sale in Odessa, Ontario which is just outside of historic Kingston. I can't wait to see the offerings! The kids are coming too so we have to make compromises - they put up with us at the show and we put up with them at the hotel pool.

Sounds fair. :)

Shades of Inspiration

2008-08-04T11:47:00.008-04:00

This week's
Shades of Inspiration color is a combo of pale blue and brown ...

This is part of a Cavallini folder that I have. A very, very pale aqua sets off the brown script...

Vintage seam binding...in the most fabulous aqua color. On my computer screen it almost presents as green - I wonder if it does on anyone else's?

Vintage bottles in aqua...divine!

This is a shot of a larimar necklace that hubby bought for me in the Dominican this year....

And finally, a shot from Saturday's dinner out...I had to include this one because Katie has the bluest eyes...

Even though the forecast called for rain and thunderstorms, the weather thankfully held out for our bbq yesterday. All of your positive thinking even helped the sun come out. :)

I gotta say I'm a little sad today. Remember when I first came out with my Sympathy Hope Jar and a well known online site dedicated to sympathy gifts decided to carry them? Well, the owner of the site - who is a lovely lady I might add - has decided not to carry them any longer because of freight, duty and custom charges. Her last shipment was over 100 jars and I just checked her site and she is officially sold out. I don't think she'll re-order. (even though her price on the jar was a lot more than mine) I wish more people knew that they actually have a home of their own on my site but her website is sooooo large and mine just gets lost in "Google-dom". It doesn't have anything to do with money for me and never has. My 'Sympathy' Hope Jar is the jar that is nearest and dearest to my heart, always has been. I created it after I lost my brother 4 years ago. In fact, I always get melancholy when I ship one out because I know that someone is in deep pain. I just hope they continue to help people....that is my true heart's desire....

Family Fun

2008-08-03T10:07:00.003-04:00

What I won't do for my blog peeps...here is a pic of my hair!

My two lovely step daughters now live in Toronto so we don't get to see them that often. Last night we had a lovely German dinner together at one of our favorite spots....schnitzel - yum! Here is a pic of my girls together - I am blessed!

And ALL of my kiddies together - wish this could happen more often than it does...aren't they a good lookin' crew?

Well, we are hosting a big bbq today and wouldn't you know it - it is overcast cloudy and expected to thunderstorm just about the time people are supposed to arrive. Have I mentioned how much rain we have been getting this summer? It's ridiculous - and starting to look like a rain forest around here!

I Broke Up with my Hairdresser

2008-08-01T10:15:00.004-04:00

I recently broke up with my hair dresser (he doesn't know it yet) and dragged my bff Janet to a girl we were hearing great things about. We both got new do's and mine is quite short! It's kind of edgy actually but the cut is a good one (she cuts hair dry) and I can't wait til it grows in a wee bit. Janet and I had been going to the same hair dresser for about 20 years and it was time for us to part ways. He's one of those hair dressers that really doesn't want to keep current. I think he has resigned himself to doing "old lady hair". (not that there's anything wrong with that) The final undoing for me? I showed him a picture of a hair cut that I clipped out of a magazine (and btw, now have) and he rolled his eyes. I couldn't believe it! He was sitting at the desk and looking down but I saw him do it. I unabashedly asked "Did you just roll your eyes at me?!" He sheepishly tried to deny it but his sly smile gave it away. So that pretty much did it for me. I passive-aggressively broke up with him right there in my mind (!) and will not go back. I just hope I don't see him out doing groceries or somethin'. Ladies, why do we continually put up with hairdressers we don't like? Well, I found out my loyalty has limits - I refuse to have old lady hair at 39 years of age! lol

On to bigger and better things...shop updates!

I just love this fab old Garden File - the perfect place to store all of your seeds and notes...

At first I thought it was a repro ... but no, it's original ...

I have finally replenished my old milk cap tags...

And this is just a 'part-and-parcel' preview of a new idea of mine that I'm really excited about...

O.K. Gotta go make hay while the sun shines...hope your weekend is filled with lots of it! (sun, not hay)

A Shop - and Wilbur - Update!

2008-07-29T16:23:00.006-04:00

Well ladies, I'm about as happy as my window boxes right now. Don't they look happy? ...

I don't know HOW this happened, or should I say, didn't happen but Wilbur did not explode! Not even a little bit! Now I know most of you have dogs that can probably handle a few smoked sausages with no problem, but Wilbur has such an extremely sensitive stomach that literally anything besides his treats or dog food will set him off. And it ain't pretty! Well, we braced ourselves all weekend long, but nothing really bad came of it. As I say,
"Crisis averted!".

I've got some new goodies getting ready to go into the shop. We went to a large flea market in Quebec today and hubby actually dragged all of us out of bed at 6:00 a.m. this morning so we could get there early. There is something about 6:00 a.m. that I just don't like. (and I'm pretty sure 6:00 a.m. feels the same way about me) Ugh. Anyway, I picked up this fabulous old lock. It's a large one - the largest I've ever come across and the colors on it are amazing. I literally did not touch this except for the stamp and the key.

I also picked up three of these old heater grates. They can stand alone and I love to stick old photos or postcards in them...magnets stick well on them too. (p.s. that photo is of hubby and his sister when they were young!)

I guess the cream colored items were following me home today...I scored two of these old French street signs....

And finally, old apothecary bottles. These are so sweet and would be perfect in the bath!

All of these items will be going in the shop tonight/tomorrow(ish). I can't believe I'm not keeping any of them! Well, like Wilbur, I can show great restraint when I need to...

;)

Big Trouble Ahead - BIG!

2008-07-25T10:04:00.008-04:00

I made the BIG mistake (I'll know exactly how big later) of leaving out a bag of smoked sausages where Wilbur could apparently reach them. And when I say a bag, I mean 10 smoked sausages that were each approx 12" in length. Please have mercy on my soul. (Although he doesn't know it, Wilbur has a rather sensitive stomach)

Thanks everyone for your kind words on the new look of my site! It's a little easier to navigate and I was able to use all of my own photographs throughout. I have added a few more items today including another 'Place in Time' clock. This one is very art deco in style and very heavy due to the solid lucite frame....

I just love these old metal clips - they make great bookmarks!

I made up another 'Dinner Party Bottled Fortunes' set - this one out of the sweetest mis-matched antique bottles...

Well, I guess I'm on poop patrol for the rest of the weekend.
What fun!

A Fab Score and a New Look!

2008-07-23T08:14:00.007-04:00

My little girl Elle and I were about to head home after running a few errands yesterday when I asked her if we should pop into Value Village. Being the easy going girl she is she happily agreed so in we went. At our Value Village, the back wall is lined with plastic bags that contain mismatched job lots - all the 'smalls' they they don't want crowding the shelves. You have to be in a good mood to peruse these babies because

a) most are filled with junk - bad junk
and
b) there are hundreds of them

One caught my eye. I couldn't believe it, it contained a cut glass stopper (which I collect) and it just happened to be a fleur de lis. (which I love) The rest of the bag was filled with junk (big surprise) including two other stoppers which had plastic sleeves on the stopper part. Ugh. I have learned not to drag this kind of stuff home so what I do is go to the cash, take the desired item out of the bag, pay for it - a whopping $2.99 - and then hand them back the bag with the rejects and say "Here, I'd like to donate this back!"

I could see there was some kind of a marking on the bottom of the stopper but my eyes are not as good as they once were. My detective work would have to wait til I got home. There were also etched numbers on it and I thought that was a good sign.

Feeling like I had just robbed the store, I wanted to tun screaming "Start the car! Start the car!" like that crazy lady from Ikea.

Upon closer inspection at home I discovered that the marking said "Baccarat, France."
Oh Value Village, I love you so.

It's a triple threat:

A cut glass/crystal stopper - in a fleur de lis design - made in France by Baccarat.

Divine!

As my husband would say, "It doesn't take much to make you happy, does it?"

~~~~~

O.k. Here's my exciting news...I have been collaborating with the uber-talented Cathy from Avalon Rose for a new look for my website. It was spur of the moment and rather serendipitous actually. The Hope Jar will make it's new debut today at 3 p.m. eastern! Because my shop has become more than just The Hope Jar, I wanted to change the look and feel of the site. Hope you will stop by and let me know what you think of it!

Shades of Inspiration

2008-07-22T12:34:00.005-04:00

This week, all that glitters is

Gold!

My sister in law gave me this pretty alarm clock for my "Place in Time" line. I took one look at it and said "It's too pretty, I can't dismantle it." She still let me keep it. :)

These are old die cuts I had hanging around. I have no idea where they came from...my memory is good - but it's short!

This is an old clock that I did alter into a "Place in Time". The base is lucite and very heavy....

And finally, an old bottle top...chippy and full of character...

Hope you enjoyed the photos....

I've got something really exciting in the works - I'll be able to show you very soon. It involves ch-ch-ch-ch-changes!

Show and Tell Sunday

2008-07-20T08:20:00.009-04:00

Sweet Cerri from Little Pink Studio is hosting another fab Show and Tell Sunday - this one featuring ephemera. Here are some of the stashes that I have around the house....

These old dye packets are classic cream and black. It's a wonder they never got tossed to the trash over the years...

These are the old ledger checks that I carry on my site. I love the font on the them...

And antique labels that I sell too...

This is a collage that I made with my all time fav piece of ephemera. I color photocopied it and then tore it into pieces to make a collage. (this is currently for sale on my site too)

I actually used some of my old doctor's prescriptions in it too...the hand writing is to die for!

I also love to collect and display old black and white souvenir postcards. Their simplicity is divine...

Another love of mine - old seed packets - the graphics are crisp and clean on these babies!

And price tags. They make me feel like a kid in a candy store!

This is a page from an old children's book. I can't remember where I got it, I just wish I had the whole book!

Ahhhh, old die cuts. So many uses, so little time...

This is where I love to stash most of my ephemera. I love to say 'most' because really, I'm not that organized. I read a funny quote once - "People who are organized are just too lazy to look for things." That would be me. Life would just be too easy that way! lol

Have a great Sunday everyone!

To Paris, With Love

2008-07-18T18:08:00.003-04:00

Junk. It loves me. I love it. So much so that it moves me. I was just sitting here at my (messy) desk listening to "When I Ruled the World" from Coldplay for maybe the, umm, 7th time in a row. My camera was beside me and I started moving some of the items on my desk. The lighting is poor because it's raining cats dogs and cows here but these items were directing me what to do...

The small brown non-descript book I picked up at a yard sale for 25 cents a while back. It has been patiently sitting beside my fax machine, feeling out of place. Published in 1864 I couldn't leave it there. Plus, I felt sorry for the yard sale lady. Her 87 year old father had just moved in with her and let's just say things were off to a rocky start. (that start including her selling off all of his old things!)

A stack of old postcards sat to my right. Fresh from an ebay auction win, I hadn't even really looked through them. My right hand grabbed the stack and the Eiffel Tower jumped out.

The 'art deco' metal X and O also came from ebay (ebay, can you cut me a deal here?) Hundreds of these metal letters are sitting in an old box beside my computer monitor. Inspiration hasn't hit me yet for these. The X and the O wanted to come out though.

Finally, an old tape measure that sits on my desk (to measure my patience level) wanted in on the action.

Poof!

A photograph was born.

When junk calls, I listen. Let your junk guide you! You just never know where it will take you...

Perfection is Over Rated

2008-07-17T11:18:00.005-04:00

The beautiful and talented
Linda from Restyled Home had this brilliant idea of hosting a "Perfectly Imperfect Week"... a chance for bloggers to show off our imperfect finds and what we do with them. Well, I am all over that one girls! ...

Imperfection is my middle name!

Take for instance these old costume pearls strands. I bought a whole lot of these at the flea market last summer. I sold some on my site but resisted selling any more because they were losing their lustre and were slightly imperfect. But imperfection = charm to me so I decided to display them on this old rack. I have to say they always get comments from visitors - some think I'm crazy and some think it's neat.

I couldn't resist transforming this old clock into "A Place in Time." Like I said before, each clock is different and presents its' own difficulties when taken apart. This one was nasty! As you can see, the frame would not sit back into the face so I whacked it with a hammer a couple of times. Imperfection indeed.

After a cleaning jag in my kitchen yesterday I pulled these old silver forks out of hiding. I hesitate using them because they are tarnished and I don't think they can be revived. I sure do love the look of them though...their imperfections only add to their character.

Remember this beauty I picked up at Sally Ann a few months ago? I did nothing to it. I hung it as-is and feel very protective of it. I just love that it wasn't thrown to the trash and even with it's perfections can go on to give pleasure.

Yard sale finds from last summer...everything in this box was slightly imperfect but after I arranged them all, I thought how lovely it all 'jived' together. The juxtaposition somehow worked.

There are so many woman out there who are making their own brand of antiques now. Not content to go into an antique store and spends oodles of money, they are re-purposing old cast-offs and relics and in doing so, creating a new antique - a 're-tique' if you will. The beauty of this woman is the fact that she can see past the imperfection and turn that over-looked cast-off into a treasured heirloom.

Now, that's my idea of perfection!

Pink & Green

2008-07-14T17:23:00.008-04:00

This week's color for Shades of Inspiration on Flickr is Pink & Green....

This was a fabulous find at the flea market a few weeks ago. I believe it's a trivet and it was made in Germany. The roses are divine...it will be added to my site this week.

Thanks to a friend on Flickr I finally found out what this plant in my garden is - 'astilbe'. It is HUGE and I swear every year I think it is a weed because it grows very tall and has no blooms. I almost dug it out this year. A few days ago it sprouted these beautiful cotton-candy pink blooms. I just hope my early onset Alzheimer's doesn't kick in next year and I forget once again! Where did I put my mind?...

I have lots of these old porcelain roses with chips in them. I think the chips give them character. Kind of like the wrinkles on an older woman's face - if you don't see any, you get suspicious!

Here's a shot of the echinacea by my waterfall....this plant is so tall, it reaches my chin!

And finally, my absolute fav wallpaper of all time from a swap I did with sweet Holly of Holly Doodle Designs. It's only a piece but really, I covet it like no Christian woman should!

O.K., Monday is almost over and I have to say I am glad for it! I'm thinkin' take-out - how 'bout you? ...

I am the Mother of a Teenager!

2008-07-13T19:13:00.005-04:00

Time sure does fly...

Saturday marked a milestone for my son Jack - he turned 13! We had a lovely warm, sunny day and he celebrated with some friends. Hubby provided the entertainment by letting them jump out of his construction lift into the pool. They loved it! (me, notsomuch)

Speaking of hubby, he had to unload the concrete clam shell out of the back of his truck so he just stick it into our front flower bed. I want it moved but have a feeling that in 5 years it will still be in this exact place!

Made some more of my 'Place in Time' clocks....I just love the unique design of this old metal one...

This one features a photograph of the 'Great Hall' in Warrick Castle - a very British Colonial look...

And finally another Champs Elysees photo with the Arch de Triomphe in the background.

It's funny because each clock is so different. Some can be easy to transform, others can be a nightmare! I always trying to leave the inner workings inside because I like the weight they provide and sometimes they will still 'tick' which I think is neat.

Hope you all had a lovely weekend!

Saturday's Yard Sale Steal, I Mean Deal....

2008-07-10T09:27:00.005-04:00

Last Saturday's yard sales were turning out to be a lunchbag-let down. Until I found this baby...

I spotted it through all of the clutter, sitting on a low-rise porch off the driveway in plain view. I pointed towards it and asked a rather leading question-

"The clam shell?......"

waiting for the obligatory -

"It's not for sale!"

response.

Instead what I got was a wonderful -

"Honey, you can have it for twenty bucks if you can move it off of there."

I was dumbfounded. Until I walked over and tried to budge it. It wouldn't move, not even a little bit.

Now this is where I tell you that I actually left that yard sale without buying it.

But wait! There is a method to my madness....

You see, I knew only hubby could help me with this one, I needed his strength to get that baby from her porch to mine. But I thought it would be better to make sure he liked it before I purchased it. What restraint on my part! Anyway, hubby did like it too and it actually took him and another strong brute to lift it into the truck - where it is still sitting until I make up my mind where exactly I want it to go. I am famous for moving things around but this clam shell is way too heavy for nonsense like that. It probably weighs close to 400 pounds!

It's missing it's pedestal but I think I may just lay it in the garden somewhere. The hole that you see is the place a pump would fit in so we could turn it back into the fountain that it was. Just not sure yet.

So Saturday's yard sales didn't turn out to be a bust afterall. Hubby is always amazed at the treasures I unearth. My favorite part of a Saturday has to be the look on his face whenever he sees what I have dragged home. :)

Vintage Finds & Shades of Brown

2008-07-07T19:56:00.004-04:00

My cousin and his family are visiting and I have been picking his brain regarding taking good photos. (he's a fab photographer) Today was fun as I put some of his great advice to use. I don't know about you but I learn much better "in person" than just reading from a manual. Here are some pics I took today...

These are vintage horse racing identification numbers that I just listed on my site.

I have such a thing for numbers!

Seeing that the new color for Shades of Inspiration on Flickr is brown, I thought I'd take some pics for that...this is a close-up of some vintage luggage that I have on display...

These are wonderful old thread packets that my mother picked up for me. Great eye Mom!

And this is my all time fav find - an antique ledger filled to the brim with old prescriptions....is it wrong that I love it so much?

And finally, some salvaged clock faces. I just love these. Making my "Place in Time" clock frames can be fiddly and sometimes very time consuming so salvaging these out of the clocks is my reward!

That's it for me...hope your week is off to a great start! :)

Shades Of Inspiration

2008-07-04T10:14:00.007-04:00

This week's color is PINK!

I know this photo is quite over-exposed...but I liked the way it made the butterflies appear ethereal...

This is an old beauty that my mother gave to my daughter when she was just a baby. I just love the delicate scrolly edges of it...

I just love dragging out my shells once summer comes, I miss them so during the harsh winter months. I'd have them out year round but really, shells just look ridiculous displayed in Canadian winter!

This is a vintage book cover that I framed, I couldn't resist. I always have a good chuckle when I walk by it. Good wives indeed! (wonder if there's a sequel entitled "Bad Wives"?)

And finally, an old clothes pin dress that I found at a house sale....covered in tiny rosebuds. Yummy.

Happy 4th to all my my American friends - hope you all have a lovely holiday weekend!

Vintage Finds & New Additions

2008-07-01T13:38:00.005-04:00

First off let me start by saying "Happy Canada Day" to all my fellow Canadians! It's such a gorgeous day here and I'm thrilled as the past few years have been yucky and raining - certainly not good for fireworks!

Thanks so much for all of your kind comments on my 'Place in Time' line, I really appreciate it....I will be listing them on my website tomorrow. This little one features bridges in Paris.

Got a chance to do some junkin' yesterday and scored two metal baskets as shown below. They almost remind me of a large strawberry basket - very similar in size.

Made some more of my vintage lock & key sets too - I just love the chippy colors on these...

I can never resist old liquor bottle tags...although I think these might be not as old as I had hoped...

And I have a new line of charm bracelets on my site. They feature the Eiffel Tower, etc. These make lovely gifts and of course come uniquely gift wrapped. :)

'A Place in Time'

2008-06-28T16:23:00.008-04:00

So excited about this!

I have an overabundance of clocks sitting around here (collecting dust) so I decided to take action. I took one apart to salvage the face and then thought of the idea of using the clock body as a frame for a photograph. I also have a quite a few souvenir photograph postcards laying around and decided they too should get in on the action.

So after puttering and creating I came up with the name for this new line - 'A Place in Time'.

I'll be adding these to the site very soon!

P.S. I will also be doing a more specific line called 'A Face in Time'. Just simply email me a loved one's photo and I can create a one of a kind clock frame just for you.

Kitsch or Cool?

2008-06-27T09:04:00.008-04:00

Last week I went to the Sally Ann and happened upon this vintage Syroco shelf...I originally bought it to sell but now that it has been sitting here it's growing on me. It's backed with vintage scrolly wallpaper and I have found a spot where I'd like it to hang. (it is still sitting there - directly below that spot for a week now after telling hubby I'd like it there. Hmmm...)

He thinks it's kitschy but I know if I accessorize it right I could pull him over to the dark side.

I concede that there is a fine line between kitsch and cool....and I may very well be off on this one. What do YOU think?

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I made the mistake of taking Wilbur to Ellie's soccer game Wednesday night. Of course the spot where we sat down on the grass was a mere 5 feet away from a Maltese with a very big attitude. Have you ever tired to subdue an excessively large and hyper dog who is DESPERATE to play with a diva Maltese? Wilbur - she's just not that into you! My arms are sore...

***********

I am starting a new feature on my blog today called:

"I'm a Sucker for Good Packaging"

If you package something up really beautifully, I will buy it. Doesn't matter if I need it or not. Cuz that's-just-the-kind-of-girl-I-am.

Case in point - I fell in love with these old bonbon boxes from France. (had them on my site but they're already all sold out!) Didn't they know how to do it back then? Just think - wonderful little candies nestled into these lovely card boxes with golden raised script and a glass button elasticised closure.
*Heart swooning*

This is 'throwing-the-gauntlet-down' good packaging! I may not be able to top it!

Have a great weekend everyone!

The Process...

2008-06-25T09:01:00.009-04:00

Every now and then I spot a diamond in the rough. I have walked by this certain trophy cup at my local flea market for months now. This past Sunday it finally came home with me.

I decided it needed a shabby makeover. I have been working so much in the cream and brown family lately that I thought I should go over the top with this one.... I decided to paint the base my fav shade of 'antique white'....

And added a pretty pink porcelain flower as well as some millinery...

And of course I had to add the *bling*!

Et voila!

She's ready for her spotlight Mr. Demille. :)
(now listed on my site - here.)

I never start with a plan - just an idea. The creative juices always get going better that way. Hope you enjoyed 'the process'!

Shades of Inspiration

2008-06-24T14:19:00.010-04:00

Can you guess what this week's color for our group 'Shades of Inspiration' is?:)
Yes, blue. But the only color of blue I seem to have around the house is aqua blue. Here are some photos I'd thought I'd share...

Last day of school for the kids today. Time to start my annual summer vacation prayer:

"Dear Lord, please help me through the summer without the use of meds."

JUST KIDDING!

More Vintage Treasures

2008-06-23T12:02:00.007-04:00

I've been making these old door plate hooks for a while now and just love them in the bath to hold towels or bathrobes...they're also great to hang your purse or your apron on too!

This one is chippy and the most fabulous shade of pink. Now in my shop - click here to view.

The door plates I had gotten from Carol a while back. I just love the fleur de lys detailing on them. The ivory one can be found here.

I tinkered around with this project on Saturday and I don't know if I can let it go or not...

It's a Dog Show Trophy from 1957 which I encased in an old cream display box. I added some millinery flowers to soften it up a bit. Still not sure if I will keep it or sell it!

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Remember this little guy that I blogged about here?

Well, I put him up on ebay and the auction ended today. Click *here* to see the final winning bid - I was FLOORED!

Vintage Finds

2008-06-22T09:19:00.008-04:00

Best deal of the day at yesterday's yard sales?

This vintage white chair. I had bought some fabulous old linens from a local real estate agent and then inquired about this lone chair which was holding a couple of Tim Horton's coffee's on the seat. (Canadian version of Starbuck's)

"Oh that?" she replied, "...You can have that for free. It was part of a desk set but the buyer didn't want it."

Well, thankyouverymuch! Free works for me. That was definitely the best deal of the day!

I picked up this old brass stamp holder at my last stop hoping these old test tubes I had at home would fit in it. I was thinking it would be neat to hold salt and pepper in them and cork the tops...

I just love this old beaded plant hanger. It just wouldn't be the same in other other color but pink. It has wonderful scalloped detailing with white beads on the sides. Currently on ebay...

This is a very old bottle that finally got a makeover with one of my old labels along with some millinery, bling and fringe....

I don't know if I can part with this old display stand or not. I purchased it on ebay and think I paid more for the shipping then I did for the piece itself! One of my old doctor's prescriptions found it's way inside. Very interchangeable though and I can see getting a lot of use out of it...for birthday's, holidays etc.

Hope you all had a wonderful and relaxing weekend. Now on to next week. My kids only have 2 more days of school left and I plan to use those two days to the best of my abilities!

'Bottle Beautiful'

2008-06-19T17:51:00.012-04:00

So this idea hits me in the shower....you know when you bring a bottle of wine as a hostess gift but you want it to look nice? I rarely ever use those wine bags, I usually tie a pretty ribbon on and embellish it in some way.

Well, it came to me that I would make a 'wine cuff' - a decorative cuff that turns an ordinary bottle of wine into a 'Bottle Beautiful'. I must say my sister came up with that name. (thanks Mel!)

They slip easily over the neck of any standard wine bottle. (or any other bottled drink for that matter, including a decorative soap bottle by the sink)

They are completely re-usable so the recipient can keep it and continue to dress up her wine bottles...

Or she can do the unthinkable - re-gift!
lol

They're now in my shop...

And so I leave you with this famous quote:

I cook with wine. Sometimes I even add it to the food.
W.C. Fields