Hopeful Home

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-03T08:33:00.001-04:00

Math Center Giveaway

2011-03-20T12:14:00.001-04:00

is giving a way an Easter Math Center unit. Be sure to check it out!

Nutella Cookies

2011-02-22T16:51:00.001-05:00

My Sweet Savannah

Lovely Tree Bench

2011-02-22T06:59:00.001-05:00

Design Love

photo display

2011-02-17T17:28:00.001-05:00

from:

Be Different Act Normal

click above for more details & photo credits

Better late than never…….Christmas ideas

2011-01-01T13:07:00.001-05:00

Alice Lane Designs

Caught in Grace

Tempo and Speed

Shopping Candy for my First Home

Family Photo Tic Tac Toe

2010-12-26T18:41:00.001-05:00

Photo Block Ornament

2010-12-26T11:39:00.001-05:00

with tutorial

Southern Inspiration

2010-10-17T15:47:00.002-04:00

Savvy Southern Style

DIY ornaments

2010-09-12T17:46:00.001-04:00

Toilet Paper Pumpkins

2010-09-11T10:20:00.001-04:00

Autumn Decor

2010-09-07T20:20:00.001-04:00

Daybed delight

2010-09-04T10:15:00.001-04:00

Pottery Barn Inspiration

Christmas Stockings

2010-08-21T18:59:00.001-04:00

Photo Blocks

2010-08-19T18:00:00.001-04:00

Rustic Table ~ Modern Sink

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Paint Chip Art

2010-08-03T09:31:00.001-04:00

Thank you note idea

2010-08-02T16:56:00.001-04:00

Porch Bed Swing

2010-08-01T14:39:00.001-04:00

Roll Tide Christmas

2010-07-28T11:11:00.002-04:00

Pineapple zucchini cake

2010-07-27T18:54:00.002-04:00

Summer Mantle- TLC

2010-07-27T07:43:00.001-04:00

2010-07-26T08:59:00.001-04:00

Banana Cream Pie

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Click picture for source, recipe and nutritional info.

Eggnog French Toast

2010-07-26T08:15:00.001-04:00

I can’t wait to try this!Click the picture for source, recipe and nutritional info.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

2010-07-25T19:57:00.001-04:00

Click the picture for source, recipe and nutritional info.

I mixed mine all together and put it in the oven for about 30 min. Delish!

Pop-top cans

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Personalized Family Trees

2010-07-25T17:44:00.001-04:00

Popsicle Soap

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This was a guest post. The original artist has their blog listed on the picture above. If you click on the picture you will go to the blog I found it on.

Surprise Balls

2010-07-25T16:04:00.001-04:00

Always click the picture to find the source.

Changing directions a little…

2010-07-25T15:56:00.001-04:00

When I started this blog, my intentions were to create a file of home ideas for when we are no longer renting and have a house of our own.

Along the way I have added crafts that I have done or found along the way, some beautiful items from Etsy, and a few of my ramblings. So I don’t know that I would really call this just a home ideas blog.

I know I have mentioned before how pressed for time I am, well things are about to get worse! I am getting ready to double or triple my course load in college but I really want to continue to blog. In fact, I would like to blog a lot more than I do.

I have noticed that I have been filling my computer full of links to ideas.

I have tried different ways to organize them, some on my computer, some through websites, but I think I am going to start doing it here.

So from now on, there is absolutely no telling what you may find on this blog.

but no matter what….it should be fun!

A moment of Silence…

2010-07-01T07:54:00.001-04:00

Laundry Love

2010-06-10T09:33:00.001-04:00

Because I am up to my ears in laundry…

Because I rent an apartment with no washer/dryer hookups…..

Because it is summer in Georgia….

AKA my least favorite time to go to the laundry mat….

I can’t help but dream of the day when I have will have one of these!

I love them all but this is probably my favorite!

Natural light

Folding area

Farmhouse sink

2 washers & 2 dryers!!!!!

But right now I would be just as happy with this…..

Off to avoid laundry some more………..

Eggstra Cute!

2010-03-25T18:24:00.001-04:00

From :Chez Larsson

A little piece of inspiration heaven

2010-02-20T18:26:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite blogs

My Sweet Savannah

introduced me to a little piece of inspiration heaven this week in the form of

Kelly McGuill

enjoy!

A girl can dream right?!?

2010-01-25T20:55:00.001-05:00

I love searching house plans.

Chances are I won’t build my first home but I think I am in love!!!

All Things Heart & Home Guest Post

2010-01-23T23:28:00.001-05:00

There are blogs that make you want to redecorate your home…

and those that make you want to try a new craft project….

those that make you wish you were a better photographer, cook, etc…

& then there are those that just stop you in your tracks & make you think!

I have been so blessed by Robin @ All Things Heart & Home since finding her blog.

Although she would never admit it Robin is so profoundly wise! And her wisdom comes from her honesty & speaking from the heart!

I have learned from Robin that we all leave a legacy & it is our choice what that legacy is. We must choose to be present & conscious of our legacy in the making.

If I could wish one thing for you in 2010 its that you follow Robin’s blog & be inspired to live your legacy!

I asked Robin to come on over and share some Legacy wisdom with you, so without further ado…..

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Living My Legacy~One Day At A Time

Robin Gay

All Things Heart and Home

“Every child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right”.

Proverbs 20:11

I believe that each one of us is living the legacy that we will one day leave. It doesn’t really matter if we acknowledge it. How we live today is how we’ll be remembered when we’re gone from this earth. It’s become my passion to be intentional about living my legacy. I wasn’t always this way though. My eyes were opened on a cold January afternoon fourteen years ago. It was a trip to the grocery store that changed my life…

Juggling the complex schedules of four teenagers was pressing in on my last nerve. Truth be told, something was always pressing on my last nerve. That day I still needed to grocery shop and do a mountain of laundry.

I left the kids at home and headed to the grocery store.

Inside the store, I pushed the cart up and down the aisles trying not to mow down the huge display of spam. Who eats spam anymore? How old is that stuff anyway? My mind was racing with nonsense when my buggy nearly hit the back of his heel.

I gasped and the gray haired man turned around.

“Hello, neighbor” he grinned.

Standing there, in a dark blue suit, crisp white shirt and a shiny red tie my neighbor Robert, looked completely put together.

“And how are you this fine day Robin?” He sounded surprisingly chipper for a man who’d just six months before lost his wife of thirty years.

“I’m okay Robert, how are you doing?” My voice dripped with pity. “I’m so sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you” he said looking down and stuffing his hands in his pants pockets. “ It was hard at the end. She put up a fight though.”

Suddenly, he looked right into my eyes. “It’ll probably sound terrible to you, but I’m kind of excited about starting over.”

Pregnant pause. What the heck do I say to that?

“Well, that’s good.” I stumbled. “So is there anyone in particular?”

“No, no, no. Not at all. I just know what I’m looking for this time. Please don’t take this the wrong way, but it would be someone exactly opposite of Sheila.”

Dear Father in heaven, could this GET any more awkward?

“I mean, I loved her” he added quickly, “but she and I had a rocky thirty years. She was, I guess you’d say, a little difficult.”

He forced a laugh. “She’d say the same about me. Anyway, next time, I want less drama. More peace. And more laughing.”

Time stopped. My chest felt heavy. I couldn’t breathe. This was a God Thing…

We said our good byes. I felt overwhelmingly sad. For them. And for my husband Mike and I.

The lights in the store were too bright. I looked at my feet. The floor was too shiny.

That’s how Mike would feel if I died tomorrow…

It was true and I knew it.

Uptight. That was me. Life as a rule overwhelmed me. Some days I went from drama to drama.

Finally getting to my car, shivering, I put my head in my hands and wept. Slowly the heater started to warm the cold air around me as I heard a clear message from God’s heart to mine.

If I die before Mike, I don’t want him to look for someone who is the opposite of me. Like Sheila, I needed, less drama. More laughter. More peace.

That very day I came home and wrote down what I wanted Mike to say about me when I was gone. What I wanted my children to say about me. The list has become my commitment to living my legacy.

*She loved God passionately

*She loved her family passionately

*We always knew she was praying for us

*She made our house a home. Peaceful and safe

*She supported us and encouraged us constantly

And for Mike to say…*She was my best friend

That’s a nut-shell version of the legacy I want to one day leave. I’m so thankful for that cold January afternoon when my eyes were opened to living my legacy~one day at a time…

Sarah Cain Designs Winner

2010-01-23T07:01:00.001-05:00

Congratulations Annie Shaw!

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 4 Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Brown Paper Packages

2010-01-17T12:18:00.001-05:00

Sweetpea & Angela @ Brown Paper Packages rock! Best friends since high school, these two ladies not only have 8 children between the two of them, they turn out some awesome projects!

I love their Holiday projects!

There simple home decor projects rock too!

And who doesn’t love ladies who know how to spoil a teacher rotten?!?

(I know this teacher does)

Go check out these ladies at Brown Paper Packages for many other inspiring ideas!

Don’t forget the Sarah Cain Designs Giveaway!

**All photos above are property of Brown Paper Packages**

Sarah Cain Designs Giveaway

2010-01-16T09:40:00.002-05:00

I came home this week with this beauty waiting in my mailbox!

It’s a stunning jersey knit scarf with a beautiful altered peony broach from

Sarah Cain Designs!

I love it!!!! It’s a little rustic, a little whimsical & a lot beautiful!

Sarah has graciously offered to do a giveaway for my readers for one Scarf & Broach set!

So to win your choice of a Scarf & Broach head over to Sarah Cain Designs and leave a comment below telling me your favorite set! (Be sure to leave me a way to contact you)

For a chance at extra entries….

~ Follow my blog & leave a separate comment letting me know!

~ Blog about this giveaway on your own blog with a link back to this post, then send me the link in a comment!

Giveaway will close 1 week from today!

Enjoy checking out the fabulous scarves!

Pantry Parade

2010-01-10T17:50:00.001-05:00

I am convinced the only way to have a neat, pretty kitchen is to have a pantry!

My small galley kitchen has 11/2 feet of counter space separated by a sink & no that isn’t a typo. I have one small cabinet under my counter that is usable and 4 above my sink, the middle two have no second shelf in them. About a year ago I purchased two of these…..

Great for use in a pantry but not the best looking thing for an organized looking kitchen. It just looks like shelving that I have piled stuff on.

But alas a girl can dream & pray that when I find my dream home, it will come equipped with a beautiful LARGE pantry like these…

www.womansday.com

www.orgoptions.com

http://thehomeexecutive.wordpress.com

www.visiondecor.net

www.mcivercustomhomes.com

Cozy Spaces

2010-01-07T21:47:00.001-05:00

I have always been a sucker for a little niche to snuggle in. When I was a teenager I had a pampasan chair that my mom would often find me huddled in instead of my bed. There is just something about a cozy space…

Photos from Coastal Living

Confessions of a non-foodie

2010-01-07T20:20:00.001-05:00

I love food…..

BUT

to say that I am a picky eater is probably a major understatement, especially when it comes to vegetables. My list of veggies that I like and prepare is limited..

corn

green beans

potatoes

sweet potatoes

butter beans

cabbage (usually only cook it about twice a year)

& lettuce.

Yes sadly that is about it. Every now & then hubs can talk me into some frozen broccoli, zucchini, canned asparagus or black eyed peas or carrots in a roast. So part of my resolve for health this year is finding vegetables that I like and are easy to prepare.

I have found my first one!

Acorn Squash!! picture via Food Network

I compared tons of recipes then ventured off on my own. Here’s what I did….

Preheat oven 375 degrees.

Cut the acorn squash in half & scoop out seeds.

Rub the inside of each half with 1/2 TBSP butter and sprinkle lightly with salt & then a little heavier with light brown sugar.

Place in a small casserole dish (to keep them from tipping over and spilling out the butter)

Cook for 45 minutes.

Turn oven up to 400 degrees and cook another 15 min.

Yummy!

Acorn Squash has a very mild flavor (great for picky eaters).

So what are some of your favorite easy to prepare veggies for picky eaters?

320 Sycamore

2010-01-04T05:47:00.001-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

As promised I am sharing my favorite blogs with you this new year. So first up is Melissa from

Melissa’s home is chocked full of inspiration, ideas & darling vignettes.

My intention was to share with you some of my favorite posts from 320 Sycamore, but folks, to do this I would essentially have to just repost Melissa’s blog but here are a few of my favorites from this past Christmas.

Oh and might I mention that her home was decorated this beautifully even though she was moving during Christmas!!!!!! Can’t wait to see how she decorates the new home!

Beautiful garland!

I LOVE this box of balls so much that I already have next years tree planned and I hope to get started on the decorations for it in January (Its ok…….go ahead call me crazy)!

Very classic & elegant! Love a little earth with my bling!

One of her darling vignettes I was telling you about.

And just incase Christmas decorating isn’t enough to entice you, how about a little DIY home reno before and after….

before….

After….

If you don’t go check out Melissa over at 320 Sycamore you are SO missing out!

**All of these photos are property of Melissa @ 320 Sycamore***

2010 Resolution

2010-01-01T08:27:00.001-05:00

Health

Hubs and I have been talking about resolutions for a few weeks now. During that time, Sarah @ Clover Lane had this inspiring post. Just in time to as my resolution list grows longer and longer. All of my resolutions seemed to revolve around a central theme luckily…….Health. Both my physical health & my spiritual health.

I have always been a “big girl” as long as I can remember. And probably 90% of the time it doesn’t bother me. But this year has been an eye-opener when it comes to health…..not size……HEALTH. At this point in my life, I don’t care if I ever get into a size 12…..yes that was once my goal, but I want to be healthy!!!

By the grace of God, I was born with a perfectly healthy body & over the years I have neglected that gift.

I think growing physically healthy will allow me to grow spiritually as well. Here are just a few verses that are helping me get a jump start!

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:1-2

May you all have a very healthy 2010!

Best of 2009

2009-12-30T10:24:00.001-05:00

I’m linking up to Blue Cricket Designs’ Best of 2009 Party!

Some of these you have already seen but there are two I didn’t post because I didn’t check my camera before I wrapped them to see if I got a decent picture. The first one was for our daughter, who first wanted to know where I bought it!!!! Talk about a compliment! She immediately began taking pictures of it to send her friends despite the pile of other presents she had sitting at her feet! It was still her favorite even after she unwrapped all of her presents including the Wii she has been wanting!

The others are for my nieces & nephews. They loved theirs too! But the look on our daughters face will stay with me!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T11:45:00.001-05:00

Imagine if you will traveling many miles away with no map, no gps, no radio, no coffee, no heat/air, no comfy seats on the back of a smelly animal with only the clothes on your back & the food and drink you brought along & no where to bathe (for days!). Hoping that the star will lead you to see a baby, who it is said will one day save you.

These days we don’t have to travel afar to see the Savior. Many of us have several Bibles on our shelves that tell us all about him and how we come to know him. Yet they collect dust and we let day to day life stand in the way of seeing him in all things and in all people.

So this year my birthday gift to Jesus is my time & my passion to know him more.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Merry Christmas to All of You!

Etsy Alphabet~ Z

2009-12-22T05:34:00.001-05:00

Z is for Zebra Wood

from A Mischievous Marriage

Z is for Zebra Stripes

From Heather Marie’s

Z is for ….well Z

From Gwen Delicious

Get all wrapped up with Eddie Ross

2009-12-19T09:31:00.001-05:00

If you still have gifts to wrap, head over to Eddie Ross’ blog! He has a video tutorial there for the above bow that simply falls apart as you pull the end of the ribbon & it’s super easy!!!

Merry Christmas!

Etsy Alphabet~Y

2009-12-12T19:35:00.001-05:00

Y is for You!

Some of my favorite Bloggers have fabulous Etsy Shops so I couldn’t rap up this alphabet journey without featuring all of you!

Sara over at Sara’s Art House is one of my favorite artists! I love her color sense, her whimsy & her expressions of faith! Sara’s Art is an amazing little shop with fabulous art!

Melanie @ My Sweet Savannah is a sweet little southern belle with impeccable taste. Look around her fabulous home at her blog or check out her shop for a little inspiration!

Jessica @ Living Better Together started her own stationary shop, J&Paper this year! She has a very unique style that I love!

Jamie @ Something To Do creates adorable Party Pennants! Check them out at Possibly & Perhaps!

Whitney & Ashley @ Shanty 2 Chic create these fabulous apothecary jars & so much more. Be sure to check out their Shanty Shoppe!

Sara @ One Blessed Mama has a shop full of these gorgeous flowers just waiting to adorn your winter scarf!

Kara @ Creations by Kara has a blog full of ideas & a great shop with these amazing pillows & some really cute hair bows for the babes.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints is a lady you must go check out! Not only a fantastic blog & fanciful mixed media art in her shop, and a fabulous photographer but an Extraordinary person too!

Amanda @ Imperfectly Beautiful is one inspiring lady! I love her blog, it’s full of ideas I want in my home one day & her shop is filled with goodies to make it happen!

Chrissie Grace is one amazing Chika! If she can make me love mosaics, this girl can do anything and her artwork @ Mixed Media Mama proves it!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I hope you enjoy these amazing ladies as much as I do!

Etsy Alphabet~X

2009-12-12T13:47:00.001-05:00

While I think that we (as a country) have gotten too far away from the real meaning of Christmas, I love to see the magic of Santa in a little Child’s eyes! My mom shared a beautiful prayer from Santa to Jesus the other day. It almost brought tears to my eyes… if I find it, I will share it!

But in the spirit of things…..

X is for ~~Xmas~~

Christmas!

This beautiful painting is from Stacy @ Prints of Peace! LOVE IT!

This adorable sign comes from Tracy @ The Homespun Raven! Go check out her fabulous signs!

Etsy Alphabet~W

2009-12-12T12:07:00.001-05:00

W is for Winter

This adorable snowflake is from LuLu Bug Jewelry! Cute & understated this piece although stunning pales in comparison to her other work! If you don’t go check out this art you are really missing out!!!

Wow! I am not a huge scarf fan but I want one of these!!! Go check out Ayca! They have a huge assortment of non-traditional cozies!

What a cute way to winterize your home! Shams and Cover-ups makes this cute little pillow in a neutral velvet sure to match any decor!

Enjoy!

Mary did you know?

2009-12-08T06:56:00.001-05:00

Mary has always been a figure that fascinates me and I wish there was more written about her. I can not even begin to fathom what a blessing and what turmoil it must have been to have Christ as a child. We are told so little about her but she must have been one amazing woman to have been chosen out of all to be the vessel that brought our Savior into the world. What a blessed woman!

Mary did you know? is one of my favorite Christmas hymns, so I thought I would share this with you.

Merry Christmas!

Mary, did you know
That your baby boy

will one day walk on water?

Did you know
That your baby boy

will save our sons and daughters?

Did you know
That your baby boy

has come to make you new?

This child that you've delivered

Will soon deliver you

Mary, did you know
That your baby boy

will give sight to a blind man?

Did you know
That your baby boy

will calm a storm with His hand?

Did you know
That your baby boy

has walked where angels trod?

And when you kiss your little baby

You've kissed the face of God

Mary, did you know?
The blind will see

The deaf will hear

And the dead will live again

The lame will leap

The dumb will speak
The praises of the Lamb

Mary, did you know
That your baby boy

is Lord of all creation?

Did you know
That your baby boy

will one day rules the nations?

Did you know
That your baby boy

is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding
Is the Great I Am

Merry Christmas!

** Most of these images are found on multiple websites, so I am not sure who to give credit to. If you happen to know please drop me a line. I would love to give these talented artists credit!**

Etsy Alphabet~V

2009-12-06T21:00:00.001-05:00

V is for Virgin

Mary did you know?

This beautiful ornaments are from Feel My Feet by Elaine Mary.

Simple & Stunning!

Etsy Alphabet~U

2009-12-06T20:19:00.001-05:00

U is for Unakite

I love this Unakite necklace from Karla Kraft!

U is for USB

Isn’t this cutie from Nif Naks just a doll!! Head over and check out her other wooly creations!

Peaceful Christmas

2009-12-03T21:37:00.001-05:00

All over blog-land, we have been drooling over these stunning PB peace ornaments…

So I thought I would share some other peaceful beauties I’ve found

www.alisaburke.blogspot.com

www.chiasso.com

http://nesting-instincts.blogspot.com

www.orientaltrading.com

www.peacefuljewelry.com

www.urbanoutfitters.com

Enjoy!

Christmas Gifts Part 2 &3

2009-11-29T18:15:00.001-05:00

These few days off for Thanksgiving gave me a chance to work on Christmas gifts I’ve been making. 3 down, 3 to go!

This one is for another niece!

And this one for our beautiful daughter!

Christmas Inspiration

2009-11-27T23:47:00.001-05:00

Some Christmas decorating ideas…

From Better Homes & Gardens:

From Coastal Living:

From Country Living:

From Martha:

From Pottery Barn:

From Room Envy:

Enjoy!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T09:25:00.001-05:00

This year has been a whirlwind of things to be thankful for!

I am thankful for God’s sovereign grace! For years I turned away from the face of God and sought other paths. I am so thankful that God loves me enough to love me even though I turned away. I am thankful that he loved me so much that he sent his son to die so that I may LIVE!

I am thankful to have a wonderful husband who loves me and supports me in all things. I am NOT the easiest person to put up with! But I can honestly say he loves me more everyday despite the gray hairs I put on his head (he will deny them)!

I am thankful for Sara, who came along with hubs as a package deal! Am I a blessed woman or what!?! She is an amazing young lady who is growing up far too quickly! She is an amazing student, a talented athlete & I can’t wait to watch her grow into a woman.

Last year I found a scraggly looking pup at our apartment that looked a lot like an malnourished hyena. She was so ugly she was cute. Hubs had been asking for a dog & I kept saying no & I definitely did not want a puppy (They are adorable but we don’t have the time one takes). I am so thankful we took her in. She is the most amazing pup! and I am thankful that we are finally over the puppy phase!

My family tree is full of nuts!!!! But I love those nuts & am so thankful to call them family!

I am thankful for our families health! This year has been an exasperating year when it comes to health. My Daddy spent months in the hospital not knowing what was wrong. We finally found out that he has Multiple Myeloma. Not the greatest news in the world, but after months of not knowing, anything was good news! He has had a series of MM related health issues and has been in and out of the hospital this year & is likely facing more time in to have surgery on a collapsed lung that doesn’t seem to want to heal on its own. Please keep him in your prayers! My mother has also had a lot of health issues and has had her share of time in the hospital also. She is home now and seems to be healing slowly but surely. It may sound strange to be thankful for such things, but we know what’s wrong & when you know you can start to fix it, which is why..

I am thankful for doctors! My Daddy’s cardiologist (he has high output heart failure as a side effect of the MM & it’s thankfully starting to clear up) is a young guy who has been practicing medicine for a few years but Daddy was his first cardiology patient. He said early on in the process that he thought it was MM, but none of the other doctors seemed to want to even look in that direction. Finally they listened and now we are on our way. So I am thankful for Dr. Hemphill who has been an amazing doc!!!! And more generally, I am thankful that we have doctors to go to. So many people in this world have no access to medical care! I feel blessed to be able to go to the doc when I need to.

I am thankful for our amazing friends. I have always been one who said I had many acquaintances but few friends! Never more have I believed that more. With my busy life, I rarely get a chance to spend time with those I call friend but they are ALWAYS there!

I am thankful that Hubs & I have a place to lay our heads at night. We fuss all of the time about the place, but we are blessed to have it. We just can’t wait till the day that we are blessed to have a house to call our own.

I am thankful that Hubs & I have jobs! We both work for the state & they are constantly laying off. I have had furlough days but we are so blessed to be among the few in the world that have a job & can afford a home, medical care & food.

I am thankful that we live in America. For all the reasons I can think of to complain about this place and its current state, we are really blessed to live in a land where we have freedom to live & worship as we wish & I pray that it remains that way!!

I am also thankful for the wonderful blog-friends who lift me up!

Thank you!

Weeding Complete

2009-11-24T23:36:00.001-05:00

Thank goodness that is over!!!

I had no idea how exhausting it would be to go through all of those blogs!

The great news is I cut down my list by more than half.

From 105 to 52!!!!!

Two of those are family & friends that I won’t be sharing with you in the New Year.

I can’t wait to share my favorites with you!

Etsy Alphabet~T

2009-11-22T20:09:00.001-05:00

Every day I have the privilege of working with an amazing group of teachers.

Teachers who are a huge inspiration for me as I finish my degree.

so today….

T is for Teacher

These darling note cards are from Laura @ Sweet Bella Cards. Laura creates beautiful stationary when she isn’t busy teaching 6th graders. Be go by and check her out….Teachers always need a little help supplementing their income :)

I am a huge fan of Dr. Seuss, so naturally I love this bracelet from Sophie’s Beads! Sophie has some other mouth-watering bracelets! Go check them out!

This adorable stationary is from Bevin @ Gracie Girl Notes. Tons of beautiful stationary at this shop!

I love this! It’s from Lisa’s Pieces. She has lots of creative & unique works! Love her stuff!

If you have been there, you know! Love this button!!! Be sure to check out Bean Forest for a bunch of really cute buttons!

Enjoy!

Weeding is harder than I thought

2009-11-22T13:18:00.001-05:00

Yesterday while Hubs was away watching football with his father, I was a busy woman.

*I pre-cooked 4 dinners for us to have over the next 2 weeks.

2 nights worth of vegetable soup

chicken for chicken & rice

and chicken for BBQ chicken sandwiches

*I studied for a math test on Monday.

*I started weeding.

There are so many great blogs out there!

This is much harder than I thought.

But I am down to 64 from 105!

and I still have about half a list to go through!

I can’t wait to share them with you!

Amy Marquis Designs

2009-11-21T17:40:00.001-05:00

Remember this ornament from my Etsy Alphabet~O post?

Well today I went to check the mail and received this!

Thank you Amy!

If you think this is amazing….you must check out her website! Somehow I missed it when I found her etsy shop. She has some painted canvases that I LOVE!!! I have several in my inspiration file and I didn’t even know it was her. I’ll be posting one before Christmas that I made with her inspiration. I just hope my painting skills are as good as hers one day!

Here is just a taste of her work…

Please go check out this Amazing Artist!

Weeding

2009-11-21T13:46:00.001-05:00

Where does all of my time go?

I work full time and go to school in the evenings, my father was recently diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and has been in the hospital a lot lately, I try to be active in my church and I am blessed to have an understanding husband that I spend way too little time with. In fact there are days that I spend more time in blogland than I do with him.

My list of blogs I follow has become quite monumental! You girls just simply rock!

But truth be told, I scroll through most of them glancing at pictures and stopping if something catches my eye. But there are a few that I read faithfully, even without pictures!

So I think I am going to do a little weeding.

While I was thinking of which ones to keep around, I decided on the following criterion….

1. Is is uplifting? Does it help me draw closer to God?

2. Does it help me draw nearer to my goal of being a Proverbs 31Woman?

(There are tons of blogs that would fit, but would I actually use most of their in my home and or classroom)

It will take a while to go through all 105 them, but I hope to share the keepers with you in 2010, so keep a lookout!

Etsy Alphabet~S

2009-11-21T11:55:00.001-05:00

In honor of our Christmas theme…..

S is for Santa

These gorgeous glass art pendants are from Betina @ WickedWorld. Personal disclaimer: there are some topics presented in her work that I do not agree with or condone. I am a huge supporter of free choice but I also stand true to my beliefs & feel I owe it to my readers to let them know if there might be something they find offensive.That said these were just to cute to pass by! Betina has other non-jewelry items in her shop & her photography is Phenomenal!!!

S is for Sleigh

This adorable Christmas card is from Bill Robinson @ Flim Flammery! His artwork is amazing! Please go check him out!

S is for Snowman (or woman)

This adorable personalized shirt is from Monkey See Boutique! If you have been living under a rock & don’t know about this Southern Gal yet please go check her out! Her shop is Amazing. She also has a blog to keep you updated on new arrivals!

Despite people thinking I am crazy, the biggest reason I put up my tree and get my shopping done so early is because I really enjoy spending the days leading up to Christmas reflecting on the miracle of our Saviors birth. I find it hard to do when I am running around to get decorated, shopped and wrapped!!!! Check out out this post at This Southern Girls Nest and grab your button!

Without further ado…..

The Real Reason for the Season

S is for Savior

This stunning card is from Karyn @ Karylu. When I look at this peaceful card, I keep hearing one of my favorite Christmas songs…..Mary did you know?

This beautiful print is from Kelly Lish @ Kels Etsy. Kelly is a mixed media artist who creates beautiful & quirky art. I love her style!

And for those of you who have called me crazy because I have my mundane Christmas prep done……there is one FAR crazier than I. I could have done this…….

courtesy of HGTV!

(the sad part is….I really like a lot of this!)

These are a few of my favorite things

2009-11-18T20:45:00.001-05:00

I’m participating in 320 Sycamore’s favorite things party!

LOVE my mtn dew!!!

& Iced Chai from Starbucks!!!

I love Mokey & her friends!

This comes HIGHLY RECOMENDED!!!!

Most lip care products make my lips peel but not this. It’s like silk on your lips, not greasy, not sticky, slightly glossy, doesn’t taste horrible kind of fantastic!!! You must try this!!!!

And last but not least my NEW favorite thing…

I have seen a few of these around but the one that I have tried is called Snap Capp. The first time I tried to put one on my can of Dew, I went at an angle, crushed my can and sent soda flying across the kitchen. Since then, I have ensured that I am going straight down on the can & I love it!!!!! I really do not like drinking out of cans. It’s almost a freaky kind of paranoia. If I leave the room for more than 10 minutes and leave a canned drink open, I won’t drink it. So this baby is saving me some money & I love anything that will do that. To get to top off just open the lid and crush the can a bit. I got mine at Walgreens but I have seen them a few other places. Great stocking stuffer idea!

For those of us who sang this the entire time we worked on this post :)

Christmas Gifts Part1

2009-11-18T20:44:00.001-05:00

****Melody if you are reading, STOP!****

People laughed when I put up my tree so early, but I’m the one laughing now…

When they are out fighting the crowd, scrambling to find the latest, greatest gift…

I will be sitting at home with all of my Christmas shopping done {and wrapped}, enjoying the real reason for the season!

& working on a few hand made gifts I have in the works this year.

Our family was blessed this year with a darling little girl named Reese.
My sister has decorated her nursery with pink & brown & cherry blossoms are on quite a few items.

This is the first monogram I have completed but there are more in the works so stay tuned!!!

Please excuse the poor photography skills!

I’m participating in

Etsy Alphabet~R

2009-11-13T20:48:00.001-05:00

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

had a very shiny nose

and if you ever saw it

You would say

Oh! I want one of those!

This cutie is from Wise Impressions. You must go check them out! They are all about 2 of my favorite “A”s……adorable & affordable!!!

You can’t forget Rudolph and friends Christmas Eve!

Don’t worry Cottage Joy has Santa covered too.

Plunkett Designs have these handsome gents and a few fellow “deers” as well. Be sure to check them out!

This little fella cracks me up! RiRi Creations has tons of fun and beautiful Christmas goodies.

Enjoy!

Etsy Alphabet~Q

2009-11-09T21:10:00.001-05:00

Q is for quotes

I have always loved quotes. I’m not exactly sure what the appeal is other than being able to sum up a ton of emotion in a single sentence. Art of Silver has these beautiful pendants with darling quotes as well as other fantastic hand stamped beauties.

Q is for quilling

Quilling has always fascinated me and Ensorcelled Minds Inc. doesn’t disappoint. Be sure to go check out these cutesy creations!

Enjoy!

Etsy Alphabet~P

2009-11-08T07:58:00.001-05:00

P is for Polka Dots

The Preppy Polka Dot has adorable dotted designs!

You can also check her out @ www.thepreppypolkadot.com

P is for Prayer

Renne’s Funky Country has unique mixed media designs. Her inspirational designs are fabulous & I love her eye for color! This pray cross has always been my favorite of hers.

P is for Pressed Flowers

I was introduced to pressed flower art when I was a little girl. There is something that has always drawn me to creating something with some of the most beautiful features of God’s design. I have dabbled with it a few times but achieved nothing that can compare to Designs in Floral. Her work is amazing! Sometimes you have to give a second look to realize it’s flowers you are looking at.

Enjoy!

2009 Tree Teaser

2009-11-02T20:29:00.001-05:00

My camera & I are not getting along tonight!!!

I wanted to share some pictures of the tree but I’m not getting many that I like, but here are a few that I managed.

The cute little baby on the right is Hubs & on the left is his Mom.

I got these last year for $1.

Our beautiful daughter

You may kiss the bride!

Dollar Tree!!! Love them!

Enjoy!

Some things fade far too quickly

2009-11-02T19:25:00.001-05:00

A dear friend of mine passed today unexpectedly.

He was one of the most uplifting people I have ever known.

Always upbeat & Always dedicated and determined!

ALWAYS the life of the party!!!

FOREVER loved!!!

Etsy Alphabet~O

2009-11-01T21:49:00.001-05:00

Call me crazy if you’d like, but I put up Christmas tree this evening. I’ll post pictures soon. In lieu of my Christmas mood…

O is for ornament

Here are a few I found around Etsy that I wouldn’t mind adding to my collection!

Brag About It has beautiful hand-stamped jewelry and recently added this stunning ornament to her shop. Simply stunning!

Nicholas and Felice support their adorable family though their work and it’s easy to see how they do it, their work is unbelievable! Felice also has a wonderful blog, go check out @ Wire Mom.

Serendipity Scraps has beautiful work! Please go check her out!

I have loved maka le wakan for quite a while now. Secretly ~~stalking~~ enjoying the shop while dreaming of a tree full of her bean balls.

One day I will have an Alabama tree and Amy Marquis Designs is helping make that dream a reality! What an magnificent ornament for an even more magnificent year!

ROLL TIDE!

Enjoy!

Another Fabulous Vinyl Giveaway!!!!

2009-10-31T23:47:00.001-04:00

Maybe this time I will win :)

Ashley @ Make it and love it is hosting a giveaway from one of her new sponsors…

Scribble it

Scribble it has a ton of vinyl that I have never seen before and it is afordable!!!

Check out just a few of the many ideas…

Enjoy!

Etsy Alphabet~N

2009-10-31T13:07:00.001-04:00

Sorry it’s been so long since my last Etsy Alphabet post.

N is for Nest

These adorable nests from sjENGRAVING are customizable for your own little nest.

I can not believe that I let “M” pass by without sharing with you guys my 2nd favorite stone!

M is for Moonstone!

otherwise known as

N is for Necklace

These beauties are from Otis B. Go check out his other stunning works!

Enjoy!

Gifts of Christmas past

2009-10-30T23:16:00.001-04:00

I’m in the Christmas mood this evening. We were supposed to go get our tree from my parent’s house this evening but decided to wait until tomorrow.The other day I tried making these fabulous ornaments. Let’s just say I am not Martha!!! I’ll post pictures of my little disaster soon, I’m just looking for a way to do them right so that I can post that as well.

I searched around looking for some fabulous Christmas ideas with little luck, when I decided I should go and look on the blogs that I love for their past Christmas ideas. Since I am fairly new to the blog-a-sphere, many of these ideas are brand new for me! Like opening gifts Christmas morning!

I hope you enjoy these gifts of Christmas past!

Melissa @ 320 Sycamore has a fabulous blog that I get many great ideas from. I loved these as soon as I saw them. Melissa got these little bells @ The Dollar Tree! Love a thrifty gal! What a cute way to add a little Christmas spirit.

Look what else Melissa did with these adorable little bells!

Chris @ Just a Girl makes all holidays fabulous! Christmas is no exception!

Adorable Advent jar! And space saving too!

I love that Chris sees paper and frames and creates amazing holiday decor!

I love her living room at Christmas! I could spend hours

And of course you can’t say Christmas Garland without thinking Nester! The Queen of beautiful seasonal decor, her style is classical yet whimsical.

Just a little sample of her famous garland!

Cute decorations atop the armoire!

Fabulous Feathered Fir

(well it is some type of tree anyway)

Even her bathroom gets a touch of Holiday love.

Layla & Kevin @ The Lettered Cottage have restored an amazing home. If you have been living under a rock and do not know about them yet you MUST go check them out! Everything I have seen them do I love & the two of them crack me up. Here is a taste of their Christmas decor. Nothing compared to their home.

Ragamuffin Garland for Baby Aiden

2009-10-29T16:48:00.001-04:00

One of the sweetest ladies I know and have the privilege to work with just had a bouncing baby boy named Aiden. I can’t even begin to tell you how lucky the little prince is!

She decorated his nursery in khaki and white. Very simple, very handsome.

I couldn’t resist making him and his parents this darling ragamuffin garland.

The close ups are SO much better!

See that monkey fabric! I LOVE it! I used if for a garland that I made for by gorgeous niece Reese. Her nursery is pink and brown & I wish I had taken pictures of it before I gave it to her. Maybe I can sneak some in the next time I visit.

Vinyl Giveaway

2009-10-27T05:50:00.001-04:00

Karla @ It’s the little things that make a house a home

is hosting a fabulous giveaway from

If you have not checked out Leen’s work, you are missing out!

Here is just a little taste of what you are missing…

Go over and check both of these amazing women out & enter for yourself.

This is no average give-away people!

You may choose anything in Leen’s store if you are the winner!!!!!

Now for what I will choose if I win…..

I love this cutie! My bathroom is in beach colors and I have wanted something for my bathroom wall for some time and just couldn’t find the right thing. Well here it is!

Enjoy meeting Leen & Karla!

Bathroom Beauties

2009-10-25T00:48:00.001-04:00

Just a little bathroom inspiration.

I love the natural light & refreshing feeling of each of these bathrooms. But most importantly I love how deep these tubs are. Our apartment has a very shallow bathtub. One of my first priorities when we find the home of our dreams is to take a nice long bubble bath because our dream home will have a nice deep bathtub!

countryliving.com

homebeautiful.com

these three are from myhomeideas.com

Enjoy!

Living Rooms to Love

2009-10-24T20:46:00.000-04:00

I know this last photo isn’t a living room but it’s lovely none the less. I L-O-V-E the weathered floors & the grey one the wall. Exquisite!

All of the images above are from Housebeautiful.com

Work in progress!

2009-10-21T21:57:00.000-04:00

Please be patient while I update my blog!

Hopeful Home Kitchen Inspiration

2009-10-21T13:40:00.000-04:00

Source: Unknown

Source: Coastal Living

Source: Country Living

Source: Home Beautiful

Enjoy!

Etsy Alphabet~M

2009-10-21T12:02:00.000-04:00

The letter M proved daunting at first, I have literally been working on this letter all week! Today it was if a door was opened and with it a host of memories came flooding through. Enjoy!

M is for Marriage

I love being married to by wonderful Hubs! Just knowing that he is always there for me is one of the most amazing feelings in the world. As I was looking through Etsy, I found this….

See those charms hanging from the bouquet? They are from Olivia Moon’s Shop. I had a charm hanging from by bouquet as well. We wanted a way to honor Hub’s mom at our wedding. I added a sterling silver frame charm that held a picture of her and after the wedding gave it to Hub's daughter on a delicate chain. I wish I had a picture of the bouquet with the charm on it but I don’t. I can add that to the list of pictures I wish we had gotten. But I thought I would share with you a few pictures more pictures.

This is a picture of me & my best friend/aunt, Marie. I know you can’t really see the bouquet but I wanted to give you an idea of the color since the other pictures on this computer are all B&W. My flowers were hydrangeas & orchids & if I could brag for just a moment, I made them myself!!!!

This is me & the girls.

And then one of my absolute FAVORITE pictures from the wedding…

Hubs and I walking out after the minister has pronounced us man & wife. Can you see that grip he has on my hand? It’s like he is scared to death that someone is going to take me. Ha! It also shows just how shy he is, he wouldn’t look up because he knew everyone was looking at us. Boy I love that man!

M is for Manatees

I adore Manatees! When I was a little girl, I went on a scuba trip with my Mother and her husband so that she could get SCUBA qualified. We went to The Devil’s eye caves in Florida.

If you look closely you can see the bottom. It looks like the water is only waist high but it is actually quite deep. One of the days that we were there the Manatees came up the river & I got to snorkel with them.

The two pictures above were snagged from the web. Unfortunately I was a bad blogger and didn’t note where I got them from, so if you know please send me a note so I can give credit where credit is due.

So today when I was on Etsy, I found a lot of really cute Manatee stuff but this was my favorite!

How cute! I love this watercolor from Poor Dog Farm! There is a bunch of other fabulously cute art there. Please go check them out!

Enjoy!

Did you know? Harvest of Friends Blog Party

2009-10-19T20:04:00.000-04:00

I am participating in Dancing Barefoot on Weathered Ground’s

20 Weird Questions That Will Give You a Little

Insight Into Who I am

1. What is your favorite thing to snack on while you're blogging?

OK so it’s not really a snack, COFFEE! On days like this when it’s chilly and I have been able to cut off the air conditioner, I love to curl up in the corner of my couch with a snuggly blanket, a warm cup of coffee and peruse blogland.

2. What is one thing you wouldn't want to live without?

GOD!

3. Beach, Mountains or Farm? Where would you live if you had a choice?

Most of my life I dreamed of living someplace where I could have the beach out the front door and the mountains out back. However, I don’t understand living somewhere that has a very likely chance of getting destroyed by a hurricane and I don’t want to be snowed in. These days I would say farm. Hubs and I plan to move to the country when I finish school. Can’t say that I want a full functioning farm, but a farmhouse would rock!

4. What's your least favorite chore/household duty?

Probably laundry since I have get it all together, carry it down the stairs, shove it into my little car, drag it into the Laundromat, spend an absorbent amount of money to turn around and repeat the process in reverse.

5. Who do people say you remind them of?

<fill in the blank> I guess I have one of those faces, I inevitably remind someone of someone they know.

6. Prefer parties and socializing or staying at home with the fam?

I love to hang out at home with Hubs and pup but I also love parties, as long as they are low key & small.

7. What's your all time favorite movie?

I am not much of a movie person much to Hubs’ dismay. I enjoy them, but I dread watching a movie more than once. One of the few exceptions is You’ve got mail. Not because of the sappy romantic comedy, but because of the fabulous Shop around the Corner!!!

8. Do you sleep in your make up or remove it like a good girl every night?

Guilty! If it doesn’t come off in the shower, it probably stays there.

9. Do you have a hidden talent or a deep desire to learn something that you've never had a chance to learn? What is it?

I don’t know about a hidden talent, but I come from a long line of quilters and have never had a lesson (at least since I was a little girl when I would sit up under my Granny's quilting loom and watch her stitches from underneath.)

10. What's one strange thing you're really good at?

Besides accumulating so much clutter…..nothing that I can think of

11. What first attracted you to your spouse?

Hubs and I met while I was being a DD for my rather tall, rather muscular, rather brooding cousin. Cuz and I grew up dancing together (our whole family loves to dance) and since he was trying to forget a woman & not find a new one, he and I danced together most of the evening. Hubs walked over from across the room and despite the rather large man by my side, asked me to dance. I have been in this situation enough to know that the only men who ever asked me to dance while Cuz is around is 1)when Cuz has a woman with him or 2)the guy asking knows that he is my cousin. Already slightly impressed that he was bold enough to ask, I was even more impressed that he talked my ear off the entire night (Later to find out that he is really quite shy and talks very little. I was however slightly put off that he asked me to walk outside so we could hear each other better and immediately walked over to his brand new sports car! What kind of woman did he think I was! I have never dated a guy because of his car, in fact most of the guys I dated didn’t own a car & now this guy thinks he can bring me out and impress me with a car! (I drive that car now so I guess I shouldn’t complain too much and I still tease him about this). What you should know is that when I met Hubs I was not looking and didn’t want anyone to find me either. I tried to run him off by telling him how awful I am & built up as many walls as I could to keep him out. He was kind of like the prince who slayed the dragon (asked me to dance despite Cuz’s presence) & scaled the (my)walls to save me. Who wouldn’t fall for Prince Charming!

12. What is something you love to smell?

Clothes fresh out of the dryer, patchouli, J&J baby lotion, spring rain, YC clean cotton, Nag Champa

13. Tell something about you that you know irritates people.

I complain too much!

14. When you have extra money (HA!) what's the first thing you think to do with it?

Buy clothes, craft supplies, or use it as an excuse not to cook!

15. Are you a silent laugher or a loud laugher? What makes you laugh the hardest?

Silent, Hubs hates that I don’t laugh at movies when he is laughing loud enough to wake the neighbors. Kids and animals make me laugh the most

16. Where is your favorite place to shop?

money no object…… Barnes & Noble (I could spend a fortune!), Pier 1, Avenue

frugal minded…… Dollar Tree & Big Lots

17. What's one thing you'd do more often if you had more time?

read for pleasure

18. Are you a big spender or frugal?

frugal but not completely by choice

19. Who is your favorite character of all time (from a movie or book)?

I don’t know that I could pick just one! I love the characters in Sherwood Anderson’s “Winesburg Ohio”

20. Would you want to be famous?

No! I love my alone time to much for Paparazzi madness.

~Janey

Etsy Alphabet~L

2009-10-17T17:02:00.000-04:00

L is for Lampwork

I love lampwork beads but Catiesblue makes them something a little more special!

L is for Labradorite

Labradorite is my favorite stone. It has become more popular over the last few years and as it does I have learned that there are two types of labradorite jewelry.

1. Jewelry that has just been put together as with any other stone.

2. Jewelry done by someone who has actually “listened” to the stone, they have studied it and searched for a way to bring out it’s beauty. This is how Sepia Moon works with Labradorite. Her stunning use of oxidized silver only enhances her work! Beautiful!!!

Enjoy!

Etsy Alphabet~K

2009-10-17T16:40:00.000-04:00

I am blessed to have been featured on

Thank you Leslie!

K is for Kyanite

I love kyanite, but you rarely see it in polished looking jewelry like you find at Sharon Clancy Designs. Go check out her fabulous jewelry!

K is for kitchen towels

I love these kitchen towels from The Mud Puddle would jazz up any kitchen!

~Enjoy

Etsy Alphabet~J

2009-10-13T21:15:00.000-04:00

I am in a little bit of a Christmas mood today. Last night Hubs and I agreed on a night to put up the Christmas tree. Last year it was up before Halloween. (Shhh don’t tell anyone) This year I got Hubs to agree to wait until Halloween night. I LOVE Halloween but where we live currently has no trick-or-treaters and well, It’s a little depressing not seeing the little ones in all of their cuteness. So if we make a tradition of putting up the tree Halloween night then at least we do something fun that evening. Last year our tree was beautiful…..

This year I am going to make these…….(from Martha of course!)

I only use white lights on my tree (I don’t have little kids, if I did they would be colored). So I was thinking these beautiful glittery ornaments and white lights and maybe some other white ornaments and that is it! I don’t know if Hubs will let me get away with it but I think I will try. But with the Christmas season in mind….

J is for Joy

I know wooden letters are all the rage right now, but there is just something a little special about Craft Junkie’s work.

J is for Jute

and a little closer

You might be asking what this has to do with Christmas?!? Well Funkyshique says think snowflakes! I’m thinking bedroom!

J is for Jesus

I love B&W photography but these are unbelievable. There are a few more in Eden Wilson’s shop. I really hope more will be coming. Some of her images are prints. The Jesus image above are cards. But I would love to have these on my wall along with her “prayer” & “love”. A proceed from these goes to benefit the Deaf community in the Oklahoma City metro area. PLEASE go see her shop!!!!

Pup says she can’t wait for Christmas but she is wondering what silly outfit Santa will bring her this year. Have you ever seen a more adorable reindeer. :)

Enjoy!

Etsy Alphabet~I

2009-10-11T17:31:00.000-04:00

I is for Iolite

The Big Blue Bead has some stunning jewelry and this Iolite bracelet is one of my favorite!

I is for Ivy

West Byron is a shop for truly unique sterling silver jewelry. She is discontinuing her personalized items soon, so if there is something you like make sure you order soon!

I is for Imagine

Simply Breathtaking! Punky Bunny has beautiful silver & brass jewelry with a rustic flair. I’m adding this to my list for Santa. Hope I’ve been a good girl!

Enjoy!

The Crimson Tide Man Cave

2009-10-10T23:57:00.000-04:00

In our dream home, Hubs will have his own domain.Yes that’s right the coveted “Man Cave”! I realize if this dream materializes, I may never see him. We’ll just have to make sure my craft room is right across the hall….maybe we’ll bump into each other on the way to the bathroom! Ha! While he was off watching football today I dug up a little inspiration.

This sofa folds out into a QUEEN size guest bed & comfy enough for Hubs to lounge while watching the game or playing his football games.

I love this grey! This is how I would like the walls painted. And on the walls would be……..

This Alabama A!

Floating shelves like these or something of the kind around the perimeter of the room to house Hubs collection of these….

and these…

Underfoot a nice shag rug (Hubs hates shag so I probably won’t win here)

I love these masculine grommeted curtains. I think they will look great against the grey walls.

But we can’t forget the other necessities….

Somewhere for his computer

A little decorative lighting

Probably the most important part for Hubs

And the one thing that may seal the deal on me never seeing him again…….

What Man Cave is complete without the mini-fridge!

Thanks for letting me dream!

Janey

Etsy Alphabet~H

2009-10-10T13:56:00.000-04:00

H is for Halloween

This delicate and whimsical pumpkin soap comes from Enchanting Soap Favors. Each of their beautiful soaps are so stunning you won’t be able to bring yourself to actually use them.

Check out these cutesy candy corn @ Vegancraftastic!

I love these candy dishes from Poppy Go Round!

Enjoy!

Etsy Alphabet~G

2009-10-09T18:56:00.000-04:00

G is for Gingko

I have said before how much I love Gingko trees. Joycelyn Merchant does a beautiful job capturing the enchanting spirit of these trees in her shop, Gingko.

G is for Glass Beads

I love these adorable glass beads from May Beads. The first two are soooooo cute all dressed up for Halloween and who can resist this cute lil’ worm. But by far the best bead in the box……

ROLL TIDE!!!

Enjoy!

Janey

Etsy Alphabet~F

2009-10-08T21:16:00.000-04:00

F is for Freedom

I thank Jesus for my freedom from an eternity without God and I thank the soldiers and their families for their unending sacrifice so that I may live my days on Earth free. I am an advocate for peace but I firmly believe you can hate the war and love the soldiers!

You can find these messages of freedom and others at Blossoming Joy.

F is for Ferns

I love ferns. Their delicate beauty has always had a magical aura around them. They evoke a sense of tranquility & restfulness. Find these beautiful ferns at the KainKain Shop!

F is for Fall!

Set a beautiful fall tablescape with this fabulous fall table-bling! Marywibi has more to offer for your favorite season.

F is for Felted

I have fallen in love will all the felted items out there and Missy and Me has some of the cutest around. One day I will have the time to learn how to do these. If any of you know, feel free to share!

Enjoy!

~Janey

Etsy Alphabet~E

2009-10-07T19:09:00.000-04:00

E is for Emma

& Earrings

These Earrings from Emma Alison Designs are absolutely gorgeous as is the rest of her work.

Enjoy!

Janey

Etsy Alphabet~D

2009-10-06T21:01:00.000-04:00

D is for Damask

Aren’t these damask picture frames beautiful! Onkie Bazoobie has plenty more to match your decor.

D is for Dragges

Remember those adorable little silver balls that used to grace your cakes & cookies as a child. Enjoy this grown-up but ever so sweet version of dragges from Julie Lake.

D is for Dragonflies & Dandelions

Two of my absolute favorite things grace the art of Mud Hutt Studio. Please go check them out! They have a little something for everyone.

Enjoy!

~Janey

Etsy Alphabet~C

2009-10-05T20:30:00.000-04:00

More drool-worthy alphabet love!

C is for Citrine

Katherine Sheetz has beautiful jewelry in her shop to include this fabulous citrine necklace.

C is for Cards (handmade)

I adore these beautiful cards! Find more of Leslie’s creations here and while you are at it, go check out her blog.

C is for Coffee (mug)

Nothing makes coffee just a little more special than a beautifully handcrafted mug. Check out these mugs and other pottery with a purpose at Just Potters.

C is for Canvas

Farmhouse Art for kids has adorable canvas creations ready to adorn your precious ones room.

Have fun browsing!

~Janey

Etsy Alphabet~B

2009-10-04T13:48:00.000-04:00

More etsy alphabet….. Enjoy!

B is for Burlap

31 Vintage Road has a few other burlap beauties.

B is for Baptism

Check out Art of Silver for tons of hand-stamped love!

B is for Beach glass

Sea Glass Designs has some simply stunning jewelry! A must see!

B is for browsing….. Enjoy!

~Janey

Etsy Alphabet~A

2009-10-03T22:38:00.000-04:00

Sometime last year, my dear friend Leslie introduced me to Etsy. Now I have become an Etsyholic. I love sifting through the pages to see what kind of new goodies I can dig up. So I decided I would share with you an alphabet inspired list of some of my favorite things I have found on Etsy.

A is for Acorns.

These cuties are colorful, felted & dying to be in my home somewhere. You can find them here!

A is for Amethyst

Simply stunning! These beauties can be found here!

A is for Aquamarine.

This whole shop is stunning!

A is for Amber.

This also includes another of my favorite things~ Lampwork Beads (But that doesn’t start with an A). In fact, this shop has a lot of my favorite things. Viki, the artisan that made these stunners also has a blog. Go check out more from Viki @ Orion Designs.

Enjoy my addiction!

~Janey

A few of my favorite things

2009-09-26T21:38:00.000-04:00

Notice anything new???

I owe a HUGE Thank you to Kimba @ A Soft Place to Land for her Linky Love post which sent me to see Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality who was sharing some tips for us new bloggers. One of her tips was Windows Live Writer. WLW makes this whole process so much easier for someone new to the blogging world.

Thank you Kimba & Rhoda!!!

So while I am sharing links with you, here are 3 of my new favorite blogs.

When I came across Marley & Lockyer, I fell in love with this Aussie’s blog. Here’s a preview but please go check her out!

I love the airy yet cozy feeling of this room. I love that it does not look over-designed. In fact, I love just about everything here.

Again I love the open airy feeling and the natural light and who could resist that view.

Wow is about all there is to say about this. This is the feeling I picture my future living room having. LOVE it!

I love these ceilings. Not quite cozy enough but elegantly understated and beautiful.

Another new site I love is Shanty 2 Chic. Whitney & Ashley, the two stunning sisters who write this blog together have the Midas effect. Everything they lay their finger on becomes…..well Chic! Head over to Shanty 2 Chic & let your creativity run wild. Here is a little to get your creative juices flowing.

See this stunning apothecary jar. I am dying to have one! You have to go see how they made them.

How cute would these be in a game room. Then again they would be cute just about anywhere. These sisters amaze me!

You must see the before picture! Love these!

And last but certainly not least is Katie @ Vinyl Vineyard. Katie is another amazingly creative woman with fabulous taste & even more fabulous hair. I may be sending a link to her blog to my stylist. Go check out her blog.

A tad too country for my taste but lots of inspiration here.

A simple yet elegant Fall decor idea!

I love that this woman keeps it real!

I’d love to hear from you. Who are your favorite blogesses now?

~Janey

Anxiously Awaiting Autmn

2009-09-19T19:49:00.000-04:00

I love Autumn!

Here in Georgia, Autumn brings about a welcomed relief from the heat, humidity and mosquitos. As if this alone wasn't reason enough to love the fall, I thought I would share with you a few of my favorite things about this time of year.

Fall foliage is a given, but there are two trees that almost take my breath away when Autumn begins to transform them.

On my college campus, there are several Gingko trees. Beautiful when they are bright green, these beauties are amazing when they turn yellow. They make you stop and look,

My other favorite is the Japanese Maple. Again these trees are beautiful all of the time, but Autumn seems to breathe a whole new life into them.

I love acorns! I have no idea what makes these little seeds so dear to me. I could ramble on about a little seed becoming a mighty oak...... but really I just think they are cute.

I have plans to use them for Christmas ornaments this year. Stay tuned to see how that goes.Pumpkins and Squash and Gourds Oh My!

I love their vibrant colors and I always look forward to seeing them in the grocery store.I love that the weather is turning cooler. Not only does this mean that I can start wearing all the fall clothes that I love so much, start taking deep breaths of crisp air as I walk the pup, and enjoy the lower electric bills.......It also means that baking is bearable in my tiny kitchen. Although I usually don't really get in the mood to bake until around Christmas, at least now if the mood strikes me I can bake without feeling like I am inside the oven. Autumn also means that Hubs and I will start sharing Hot Chocolate in the Evenings. Yummy!Whenever I can I LOVE to sit by a campfire/bonfire on a cold, crisp Autumn night.And what is a fire if you aren't roasting marshmallows!And I love that Crimson Tide Football begins! No I am not a yelling at the TV screen, team color wearing, die hard fan.

I leave that to Hubs!

But football season brings back lots of memories.

Hubs and I started dating during football season.

Our first date he bought me flowers and took me to dinner and a movie.

Our second date he bought me an Alabama Football t-shirt and Ipainted my nails crimson so we could go watch football with the guys & thier gals.

I should have known there that life stops when football rolls around!

But Football actually stopped for me.

Three years ago Hubs stopped watching a football game long enough to propose. :)

Some might not see that as very romantic.

But if you knew Hubs and his football, you would know that this was a very moving gesture on his part.

All of the excitement awaiting Autumn sent me looking for some fall ideas for my future house.

As usual, Martha dosen't dissapoint!

Enjoy!

2009-05-26T15:18:00.000-04:00

I went exploring kitchens today. I suppose because I am desperatley trying to add life to the drab galley apartment kitchen that we have. No storage!!! Less than 3 ft of counter space which is divided by a sink. I'll have to post a picture just to let you see. I have two chrome wire shelves that flank my refridgerator that I have been wanting to make a skirt for to cover the bottom two shelves of each to get rid of some of the clutter. I found fabric that I love @ Joannes. But at $8.99 a yd (I need about 6 yds) I am not about to get it. Today I was at Ross and found these adorable table runners ($2.99, I bought 3). They are a tan linen with squares made out of embroidered dots in mustard, turquoise, olive and chocolate. Then I got a queen size sheet set that goes with the linen ($9.99). Now I just have to get Marie to sew them for me! Yes yes I know, I could just do it myself but you see, if I get her to make them then I get to spend time with her :) So with kitchen on the brain I went surfing and this is what I dreamed up today.

Now if I just had a house to have a kitchen like these.