Sugah Beez

A little surprise from the Patriot Girl Sugar Refinery

2012-02-14T07:13:00.000-08:00

One of my very dear friends, Rosalyn-Sue Smith of The Patriot Girl Files, and her son Coe, sent me a sweet valentine surprise.

I know I gasped out loud.

Rosalyn-Sue is one of the most compassionate and thoughtful women I know.

And, her son Coe follows in her footsteps - he is such a sweet boy whose clever commentary always cracks me up!

This is a lolly from the Patriot Girl Sugar Refinery.

(some incredibly delicious things come from that refinery!)

Look at all of the delicious paper and sweet treats!!

It is like having Christmas in February!

Darling buttons - {sigh}

Pretty paper tags with yummy tulle and ribbon

Neopolitan bits - eep!

Sugar rations - seriously, a girl needs these in a pinch!

My heart is filled with gratitude for such a sweet surprise.

Thank you dear friend!

I love you to the moon and back!!

xo's ~ Heidi

Valentine Tussie Mussies!

2012-02-14T06:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day friends!

Cheryl was hosting a valentine tussie mussie swap and I couldn't resist participating!

When I received Molly's cone, I was blown away with vintage sweetness!!

I love the music sheet paper and her gorgeous ribbon work.

She even tucked a sweet glittered valentine card inside.

The brooch and beaded velvet leaves make little heart go pitter pat.

But wait, there is more!!

Look how she spoiled me - gaaah!!

Everything was so thoughtful and treasured.

Thank you Molly for the gorgeous cone and sweet gifts!!

One of my very favorite things she sent was this toast stamp.

This has been on my wish list of frivolous things a girl would love to have.

I can't wait to make "french" toast - j'adore!!

Cheryl was so kind and sweet to give us a love letter mail bag.

Isn't it gorgeous?!!

I love the idea of having a pretty bag to tuck sweet love letters in.

Here is the cone I made that was given to Kelly Gibbs Lamb.

A peek at the millinery blooms and tulle

Vintage flocked wallpaper yumminess!

Sweet treasures for Kelly!

Dyed crinkled crepe paper

Has anyone ever seen little baskets made out of cards and yarn?

I came across a stack of these and thought they were just darling.

Thank you for stopping by ~ get out there and spread some love today sugahs!

xo's ~ heidi

Soul nourishing

2012-01-17T10:34:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was spent doing alot of soul nourishing.

Spending time with people I love

Working on projects around the home

Cleaning off my desk and getting my art out

Large or small, those moments of time are needed to refresh

and recharge our batteries.

Today, I am making one of those moments lunch.

Not just standing at the counter, crossing off my to-do list while haphazardly consuming a meal. But,

savoring the moment,

being still.

Yes, I did shoot these pics today but that was before I sat down so that kind of interference doesn't count, hehe.

Give a little gift to your self and take a moment to recharge your battery today sugah.

We take care of the world. Our spirit needs to be included in that care too.

xo's ~ Heidi

A Cinderella story

2012-01-12T11:15:00.000-08:00

Our story begins with a mirror.

A mirror that was covered in grit and grime with a chippy, faintly gilded frame.

What I loved most about this mirror was the fantastic deteriorated patina of the glass. The frame still had wonderful, intricate detail.

I could be a fairy godmother and wave my diy wand of paint over it.

Here she is with a good cleaning, some primer and some fresh coats of white paint.

I have started putting some Valentine inspiration on my mantel.

A pink chippy cherub holding some of my favorite seashells.

(I use seashells year round because I would happily go to the beach year round)

Some petite tea rose bushes and pink mercury glass.

I am such a sucker for that mottled patina of the aging glass.

At night, the tealights dance against the glass . . . soothing perfection.

I am joining these fun ladies here:

Stay warm friends!

xo's ~ Heidi

The little things

2012-01-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it is the little things that bring so much joy.

I save bits and bobs of little things that I might use to tie on a package, mix in a collage or use in another crafty project.

A few sparkly bits which have been tucked away have found a new home in some new jewels.

A broken rosary, a random earring and some vintage glass beads are a few a my favorite things.

{tell me if Julie Andrews is singing that song from the Sound of Music in your head - haha, me too!}

My daughter went to an estate sale with my honey and brought me a surprise rhinestone necklace.

{I love my family, they get my love of quirky, vintage things}

I took apart the necklace and used it as part of the centerpiece along with a Mary medal for the repurposed necklace.

A little scatter pin was added to the longer necklace.

A little bird charm and sparkle magic.

Using found magpie objects and repurposing them into something new brings me joy.

Ever since I dicovered jewelry artist, Amy Hanna and her book "Rejuvenated Jewels", I have been smitten with repurposed jewelry.

I adore the wonderful objects she finds and the way she weaves them into something breathtaking.

Thanks for stopping by dear friends - have a beautiful day!

xo's ~ Heidi

Happy New Year!!

2011-12-31T10:03:00.000-08:00

Happy NewYear!!

Time to renew, refresh and jump start a brand new year.

Normally, I might have some inspiring words or a bucket list this time of year.

Hmmmm. Nope. I have been to pre-occupied with other kinds of buckets.

Like these for organizing and decorating . . . :D

Cool huh?! I might swap the paint for white. I found this on pinterest (and a million other organization and crafty tips!). Click the pic to go to the pin on pinterest. Mission organization, homemaking and fluffing our nest have me ringing in the new year.

If you have not discovered the fun (eh um, addiction) of pinterest, you really must!

Imagine bookmarking all of your favorite tutorials, recipes and things you want to surf back to on the internet with visual pictures that you "pin" to boards you create. "AND" you can follow your friends pins and repin those too!!

Pinterest is set up so you need an invite to join (why I have no idea - seems silly). But, if you would like an invite, please email me and I will send one your way.

Well, I am off to go move a few more mountains around here (like maybe some laundry, haha!).

I hope you have a safe and wonderful New Year!!

xo's ~ Heidi

Apron Adoration

2011-12-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love the most about the holidays is making gifts and decorations.

Ornaments and gifts made by my children, family and friends are among the things that make the season magical.

When my friend, Cheryl of Nouveaux Portmanteau, asked me to join her holiday apron swap (here) I thought it was a fun way to celebrate the season with handmade treasures.

None of us knew which apron we would receive. They were all so darling - I would be smitten with any one of them!

When the apron box arrived, I had sugarplums dancing in my head, lol!

Cheryl had beautifully packaged everything and included a gorgeous tote bag which she had made for each of us. I was so delighted to receive Cheryl's apron (which I am completely smitten with!!) and package of vintage and handmade goodies!! She had included wonderful vintage ephemera, a brass stencil "H", vintage ornaments and cookie cutters and a soldered ornament made by her.

Cheryl had used the most gorgeous fabric and trims - some were even dyed to match.

Whether I am serving cocktails or cookies - Cheryl, your apron makes me feel like a vintage princess!

Golly gee, piles of satin and lace - heaven!

Here is a closer look at the rosette on the pocket of Cheryl's apron.

So pretty and frothy!!

In the midst of holiday mayhem, I forgot to take pics of the apron I made (ack!).

This is a pic I borrowed from Cheryl.

(photo by Cheryl)

Please stop by Cheryl's blog to see pics of the other beautiful aprons.

Thank you again Cheryl - I had such fun with this swap!!

I would be delighted to know your favorite handmade gift your either gave or received.

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season! xo's ~ Heidi

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-23T17:13:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas dear friends

May your holidays be filled with joy and blessings.

xo's ~ Heidi

Popping in to say hi!

2011-12-16T06:26:00.000-08:00

The beginning of our holiday break starts today.

{woo hoo!}

I am soooo thankful - it has been so hectic with wrapping up school and extracurricular activities!

I just wanted to take a moment to grab a cup of coffee, snag a few moments of bliss and wish everyone a merry week.

There are still packages to be wrapped, ornaments to be hung, baking to be done, parties to attend, "to-do" lists to check off and family/friends to see.

When you step back from all of the hustle and bustle, it is a pretty beautiful time of year filled with some of the greatest joys.

xo's ~ Heidi

ADD and a creative soul

2011-11-28T13:51:00.000-08:00

How many of us crafty people have craft ADD?

You know what I mean . . . a kabillion ongoing projects and different types of crafts you like to do, sometimes simultaneously.

It's ok, we are all friends here - raising my hand, lol.

Recently, I have been on such a jewelry making kick.

I dunno what has gotten into me. If it doesn't move, I bet I could make jewelry out of it.

This is a pic of necklace I made for my Mom for Christmas. She doesn't not surf the internet much so I am taking a chance this will still be a surprise.

She wanted something with a longer length and more neutral colors. I added some pink in there because that is the kind of girl she is. {hey, I get my girliness honest}

Twisting wire like a bead fiend, I also made this lovely.

Seriously, I think I am addicted to rhinestones.

Even addicted as I am, I don't think I could pull off this pendant as an earring (in its prior life) so the earring was repurposed as a pendant.

Switching gears, (because we are talking ADD, right?) I was making coffee last week during the flurry of holiday activity and as I poured coffee into my cream, a darling heart revealed itself in the cafe bubbles.

No joke!!

Look! There it is!!

It was a sweet moment, a gentle reminder . . . Love is good.

I hope everyone had a beautiful Thanksgiving week with lots of love and blessings.

xo's ~ Heidi

Champagne kisses

2011-11-14T05:30:00.000-08:00

In the midst of decorating for Christmas, I have also been making a few things for the holiday season.

I decided to repurpose a vintage brooch into a necklace. Some of the rhinestones had turned a champagne color. I used the color as an inspiration for this piece.

There are fire polished Czech beads, freshwater pearls and mother of pearl beads to add some bubbly sparkle.

A little close up - I love the shimmer!

The length is approx. 18.5" and has a toggle clasp.

It would be darling with a cocktail dress or jeans and a tee!

The price is $40.

Message me if you would like a little elf to send it your way!

Have a beautiful day sugahs!

xo's ~ Heidi

I am dreaming of Christmas!

2011-11-13T13:49:00.000-08:00

It seems every year I get in the Christmas spirit early.

Is now too early?

Seeing all of the Christmas decorations displayed in the store had me longing for a little celebration of the season.

This weekend, as our family was hanging out, I put on some Christmas music.

Yeah, it had me . . .

hook.

line.

and sinker.

I started pulling out some Christmas decorations and suddenly, our home starting to become a winter wonderland, lol.

This season goes by so fast. I don't mind enjoying it a day (er week? or two?) early.

Have a wonderful weekend! xo's ~ Heidi

Fairytales do come true

2011-11-08T10:54:00.000-08:00

This October has flown by with some wonderful fairytale memories.

Here are some pics from Jennifer Hayslip's beautiful fairytale event, Once Upon A Dream in Asheville, NC.

I have included a few pics of the event on this post.

If you want to see some truly beautiful pics of the event, please check them out on Jenn's blog:

Part I

and

Part II

It was a dream come true to attend this event with one of my besties, Tracy.

See that backdrop? It was breathtaking to create in such an enchanting location.

One of the cutie pie "sisters", Robin, joined us to strike a pose.

Tracy and the sweet and talented Sylvia.

Sylvia has a genuine soul through and through.

Our sensational instructors, Dee, Natasha and Andrea!

{aren't they darling in the photo booth?!}

A little of the flora blooming.

Sherry, Natasha and Tracy

Our day at the Biltmore House.

(peek at the landing - you might be able to spy us lined up there, lol.)

Sweet girls, Cheryl and Grace, enjoying the majestic views.

Tracy under the arbor

Sylvia, Tracy and Sonia

Marian and Rebecca

Shelley and Rosemary

Grace was my swap partner for the fairy laurels.

I love my laurel and all of the treats Grace!!

Thank you sweet girls for such fun memories ~ it was such a treasured weekend.

Don't forget to check out Jenn's pics!

xo's ~ Heidi

Tag - you're it!

2011-10-30T09:53:00.000-07:00

These past few weeks have flown by with magical and fun events. I am working on the blog posts to share. In the meantime, some bloggy fun . . .

I have been tagged! Tagged by sweet AndiBee at Brown Bee Studio. Thank you AndiBee for some bloggy fun!

The instructions are:

         1. Post the button.

         2. Tell 10 things about yourself.

         3. Tag 5 bloggity sugahs you'd like to know some fun facts about.

1. When I sew, I have to sew barefoot. Weird, but true - better control over the presser foot.

2. Cats and dogs, I love them both. Hence, "a dog person" or "a cat person" doesn't apply to me. A "fur baby" person sounds more accurate.

3. I am a Georgia girl with roots in Lousiana, a peachy crawfish of sorts.

4. As a kid, I would make furniture and clothing for my dolls from random things I found around the house. Sometimes, to the chagrin of my parents.

5. I love the 1940's era - the music, the fashion . . . all of it.

6. Both coffee and tea for me - although, I tend to drink coffee the most.

7. Can a girl be a collector of shoes? When I wore out my favorite leopard mules, I purchased another pair and maybe have worn them once or twice. Sometimes I take them out, adore them and place them back in the box.

8. One day I would love to have a cottage by the sea - ocean air is good for the soul.

9. I tried to surf once . . . . once.  I think I would have benefited from some lessons but I was head strong and determined to just "go for it". Some things never change.

10. I would rather have sour candy, like Hot Tamales, then chocolate. Yes, I know this may be shocking to my chocolate loving friends, lol.

I am tagging these sweet sugahs! It will be fun to learn more about them. :D

             Tracy at Creative Cure

              Nancy Maxwell James at Sugar Lump Studios

              Sylvia at A Pink Heaven

              Lisa Campbell at Dollies Daughter

             Grace at Pink In The City

One of the joys of blogging is discovering all of the neat people and wonderful things out in blogland. Please stop by and visit each girl and show them some bloggy love!

Thanks for stopping by sweet friends. Have a great weekend! xo's ~ Heidi

Spellbound

2011-10-25T03:17:00.000-07:00

I have been keeping a secret.

A while ago, I saw an invitation to contribute a project to Creating Vintage Charm magazine for their fall issue. With a menagerie of tart tins, crochet and glitter, I decided to cast a spell for tutorial on how to create a vintage inspired Halloween ornament and submit it to the magazine.

I am so excited to say they decided to publish it!

It is such an honor to have the opportunity to contribute to this beautiful publication.

The stern lady image was found on The Graphics Fairy blog.

For a simple Halloween tree, I gathered some branches from our back yard and nestled them in an ironstone pitcher with some champagne tulle. I think I may utilize this tree again for Thanksgiving.

Please check out Creating Vintage Charm's beautiful publication and all of the inspiring artists and designers within HERE.

Wishing you a magical fall season ~ xo's ~ Heidi

Fairytale Cottage Condos

2011-10-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

One of the swaps for the Once Upon A Dream art event was a fairy house.

Inspired by a bird house I found, I decided a fairy cottage condo would be fun to work on.

Of course, it would be a cottage made of bits and bobs found along a fairy path.

The first cottage condo was made using vintage ledger paper, crepe paper and vintage millinery.

I loved the sparkly knobs too!

Each cottage condo had an address (number) cut from the bottom of a book page.

I did not get a close pic of the numbers.

The second cottage condo was adorned with vintage lace, ribbons, vintage button and a splash of rhinestone.

Fairies like things that sparkle you know.

The third fairy cottage condo was covered with a dictionary page, German dresden scrap, hand tatted lace and a sparkly bauble.

I had such a wonderful time with my fairy friends!

I can wait to show you more pics of our fairytale weekend!

xo's ~ Heidi

Junk Queen

2011-09-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

My flea market cart, Stella, sometimes gets a bad rap. Some of you may remember my post about her here. Since then, I have a liner in the making. Also, I thought it would be fun to add a little swag to her liner.

She hauls around my junky finds so I thought it would be most appropriate if she were crowned the "Junk Queen". Her talents include being steadfast and hardworking during the long junking days, caring by hauling goodies for friends and multitasking by being my impromptu table when a junkin' girl is grabbing an on the go meal.

I love pale blue, especially mixed with white and tan.

Some vintage lace tossed in for good mojo.

When her liner is complete, a little glam can be added too, lol.

Happy junkin' trails to you sugahs!

xo's ~ heidi

Creating Vintage Charm giveaway winner!

2011-09-26T06:05:00.000-07:00

Yay! We have a winner for the Creating Vintage Charm anniversary drawing!

With the help of one of my lovely assistants, we drew a name out of a vintage hat {quite literally}.

and the winner is . . . . .

Sonia!!

Congrats Sonia and thank you everyone for the entering the fun!

xo's ~ Heidi

Fairytale memories

2011-09-19T08:48:00.000-07:00

Fairytale memories need a place to be recorded and treasured.

For the Once Upon A Dream art retreat memory book swap, I made some prairie fairy memory books using vintage foiled and flocked wallpaper which I distressed.

Then, I layered a few more distressed and glittered {have I said I like glitter?} papers.

The darling prairie fairy image was covered with Wheatfields Glimmer Mist {and more glitter}. I struggle with getting photographs which reflect the beautiful shimmer glimmer mists create.

The prize ribbon rosette was made from a gorgeous taffeta ribbon, foiled art paper, and snippets of trim.

The paper flowers were also inked and sprinkled with some Platinum Stickles.

If I had to list one of my favorite "go to" supplies, Platinum Stickles would be high on the list!

Thanks for stopping by sweet sugahs!

Have a beautiful day ~ xo's ~ Heidi

Calling all Good Stellas

2011-09-14T15:54:00.000-07:00

Whenever we are creative we allow some of heart to show through our hands.

I am so excited to share with you the new blog, Good Stella, by Carol Spinski which celebrates creative women supporting other women in their creative dreams.

Its all about the good stuff and paying it forward.

Please join me in supporting all of the Good Stellas out there!

xo's ~ Heidi

Fairy slipper

2011-09-13T12:02:00.000-07:00

The air has a crispness to it now on these Georgia mornings - a hint of the coming fall.

Fall brings so many festivals and fun here.

I am so excited to be attending the Once Upon A Dream art event held in Asheville this fall.

And, I have been busy working on some wondeful swaps for this event.

The fairy slipper swap is one where we were asked to alter a shoe and fill it with artful goodies.

I had some pointe shoes from my daughters old ballet school which seemed like the perfect beginning for a fairy princess slipper.

A hand-coiled, tulle rose with sprinkling of champagne glitter adorns the toe.

I dyed the shoe with a tan wash to give the pink a more earthy feel.

Then, I added bits of crochet and trim.

The inside is lined with vintage flocked wallpaper.

More sprinklings of lucious ribbon and tulle. . .

waitig to be filled with some prairie fairy goodies!

Wishing you a magical fall season ~ xo's ~ Heidi

Birthday party and giveaway!

2011-09-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

Creating Vintage Charm magazine is celebrating its first birthday, 5 issues later.

Filled with inspiring projects, art design and decor, Creating Vintage Charm magazine, is the vintage girl's dream.

To help them celebrate, I am offering a giveaway which will be drawn on September 25th.

For you, I have two sheets of glittered German dresden scrap of beautiful babies, storks and cherubs,

Two rolls of my hand-ruffled crepe paper,

Vintage lace tied with a millinery flower,

Soft crochet flowers,

and a stash of buttons with a sparkly vintage earring.

These would be so sweet added to a card, gift tag, precious gift or mixed media art.

I love working with ruffled crepe paper. Add a strip to a gift bag, card or mixed media art or wrap a cupcake for a little frill.

Having more pretties to add to your stash is always good right?

Please join me in celebrating with them by clicking the Creating Vintage Charm banner at the top of this post to visit the other party goers and toss your name in for some fun!

Good luck everyone!!

Happy Birthday Creating Vintage Charm!!

xo's ~ Heidi

Seeking organization one pretty project at a time

2011-09-04T14:46:00.000-07:00

On a recent archaeologcial dig through my cabinets, {insert giggle here} I found an old recipe box.

This wasn't any ordinary recipe box.

It was once a domestic administration box (my personal chore chart in a box).

This is a story of the upcycling of that box and my journey toward organization.

Well, "pretty" organization. {because I like pretty}

Here is what my heart wanted.

Here is where our story begins:

This was once what I liked - pretty different than shot above, huh?

I was determined put my chore cards back in action fluffed up with the kind of pretty that makes me smile.

Some sanding, a can of spray paint, Mod Podge and pretty paper later . . .

*b l i s s*

"Don't forget" -- I have a set of index cards with monthly and daily dividers inside.

The index cards in between hold the daily, weekly, monthly things I want to get done. When I am finished with the task, I move it along to the next day, week or month.

I want to keep this box out in my kitchen on a daily basis so that it will be easier for me to use.

{and maybe not end up in the next archaeological dig, haha}

"Live Today" - embrace the day, it could be the best one yet.

I wanted some pretty tags on the top

like the one that says you are perfect.

I know I am not perfect but I am perfectly . . . me.

This quote by Mark Twain is one of my favorites.

This box is not only about doing chores {blah blah blah} but also about making the most of each day.

{family time, creative time, business time, soul stretching time}

Here is another shot of the sweet pearl buckle of this tag.

It is from Cerri of the Little Pink Studio. I just love all of the sweet embellishments she has!

Another tag with one of my favorite papers (and nothing else - just plain paper love).

With my new found inspiration, I created a hub for the daily menagerie of life.

A sweet place for cell phone, planner, keys, purse and

all the other accoutrements of shuffling from point A to point B.

The table was from a friend.

A repainted tiered stand plays the organizer

Bavarian dish (holds keys and the occasional pocket contents)

Handpainted creamer (wrangles cell phone charger cord)

A silver sugar dish (plays cell phone holder)

I need to look around and find something to cover that awful black cell phone charger.

The darling "fly" tag is from my friend Tracy.

I've got some creative muse set to make a cover for that planner too!

Was is the best thing you have found {or found again} to repurpose or reuse for organization?

I love to hear new and inspiring ideas!

I am linking up with Amaze Me Mondays

Thanks for stopping by sugahs!

xo's ~ Heidi

Write it on your heart . . .

2011-08-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

"Write it on your heart that every day is the best day of the year." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

There is something about vintage albums, scrapbooks and paper that makes my nostalgic soul stir.

When I go to estate sales, I love to seek out vintage pictures, albums, books and ephemera.

One such album was laying sideways on a shelf, binding dilapidated and falling apart.

Looking at the detail on the outside, I was hopeful about the treasure that might lie within.

Wondering how old this book must be, I flipped to the next page and saw this . . .

Copyrighted 1883. . . .wow.

This book did not disappoint.

The most gorgeous fonts and graphics throughout - a vintage ephemera junkie's dream.

Look at the detail on the "P" in the word "Presented".

A minature piece of artwork tell the tale of times past.

Nancy, o' keeper and protector of the ancestors, I thought of you when I saw this page.

A simple title and a sheet filled with lines to record ones ancestors.

I wish the family had made some record of the people within their family.

There were several wonderful photographs pasted over incredible graphics.

Some looked to be victorian era, some late 40's.

Marriages.

A pristine and luxurious marriage certificate.

In addition to the intricately styled titles, quotes spouting poetry and pearls of wisdom were sometimes included on the page.

A family record lithograph.

Here is a closeup of the amazing color and graphics.

{I promise I didn't drool on it, well . . . maybe not much}

Sprinkled in were a few more random pictures.

I can only guess that maybe these were two brothers of one proud mama.

In the very back were frames which could be used for larger photographs.

I think these are begging for some sort of mixed media alteration, don't you think?

This set of frames was my favorite!

The page behind it was pasted with quirky antecdotes and poems clipped from newspapers.

I am thinking of pasting the two pages together because the backdrop seems perfect to me.

Thanks for stopping by sweet sugahs {and fellow ephemera junkies! ;) }

xo's ~ Heidi

Fairy slippers

2011-08-14T14:10:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about art events is the opportunity to participate in swaps to create something special for a new or old friend.

This fall, I am delighted to attend the Once Upon A Dream art event hosted by Jenn Hayslip. The event is themed around prairie fairies in magical meadows.

There were so many swaps to choose from!

One swap is an altered shoe theme. We are challenged to decorate a shoe fit for a fairy and fill it with some magical treats.

Here is a little sneaky peek at the fairy slipper I have been working on.

I chose an old ballerina point shoe that would have otherwise gone into a thrift store donation bin.

{oooh, I can't wait to show you the final pics when I get it finished!}

Have a great day sugahs!

xo's ~ Heidi

A Charming Giveaway!

2011-08-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

The summer issue of Creating Vintage Charm is being released!

Filled with sweet cottage pics, tutorials and all things charming, you will love this issue!

And if you weren't already excited enough, Sonia is giving away a copy of Fifi O'Neil's Romantic Prairie Style!

Stop by and enter sugahs!!

xo's ~ Heidi

Happy Summer!

2011-08-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

***cricket noises***

Hey, is anybody still here? I promise, I am still here ;D

I put the pause button on the regular schedule for a little bit of this

and definitely some of this!

With a whole heaping cup of this . . .

Here is a pic of William and Alex slowing down to taste the sweet life at Back in the Day Bakery in Savannah, GA.

If you are ever in Savannah, you must make a trip to Bull Street to visit Cheryl and Griff's scrumptous bakery! The red velvet cupcakes are too die for!

The ambience is enchanting and vintage inspired.

Strolling through the parks and squares.

Thanks for stopping by sugahs! I hope you have had a great summer filled with doing the things you love.

I have some fun things in the works. I will post some pics soon!

xo's ~ Heidi

Strawberry Lemonade

2011-07-08T15:44:00.000-07:00

Hi friends! I hope everyone has been having a wonderful summer. There is nothing like an icy glass of strawberry lemonade to quench this humid Georgia heat.

Between cool drinks, poolside fun and bbq's, I have squeezed in a few moments to kick back with the girlfriends for some girl time. On one such occasion, I made a little packet of junkin' necessities for my girls inspired by refreshing strawberry lemonade (hand sanitizer - always, lemonade packets for H2O - it is too hot here y'all, small candies because southern girls know sweet right?, and some bubble gum because it was pink - my husband laughed at this but you get it, right?).

I am still playing and learning my photo enhancing software and don't always know how to get the colors to feel or to translate the way I want. The glitter ribbon is more of a bright pink and less red. Here, it reads more red than I want but I did not want to lose the dots on the paper.

The poms are super easy to make. Take a circle scallop punch and punch 7 times. The first one will be your base. Fold the remaining 6 scallop circles in half and in half again. Adhere and overlap them as you go around. It may look a little flat - you can either adhere a flat back button or brad or open the petals up a bit like I did to make it look more like a pom pom. If I am being to confusing, you are welcome to email me with any questions - I would be happy to help.

Wouldn't bigger circle scallops be cute for party decor? You could adhere two together to make them look like a complete circle while sandwiching ribbon inbetween to make a garland.

Back to strawberry lemonade. ;)

Don't you just love this strawberry lemonade wedding?!

photo from Enchanted Dreams Weddings

Recently, on Pinterest (a recent addiction of mine), I found a recipe for strawberry lemondae bars that I really want to try. If you have never heard of Pinterest, it is a website to post and organize your bookmarks visually. You can also follow the bookmarks of your friends to share links and fabulous finds.

Aren't they pretty?!

You can find the recipe from K&K Test Kitchen here.

I hope you are having a beautiful summer ~ strawberry lemonade cheers to you!!

xo's ~ Heidi

Swamp Princess

2011-06-30T08:28:00.000-07:00

My best friend informed me a while back that she was going to become a swamp princess.

My head whirling with images from the show Swamp People, I asked her what do you mean, exactly?

Her husband is taking command of the Army Ranger swamp school in FL.

Now I understand the meaning behind "swamp princess". The proflic gators, snakes and spiders had me cringing just thinking about the natural wildlife surrounding miles and miles of this remote camp.

Being in the armed service also means supporting the families connected with your service.

My girlfriend had asked me if I could make some notepads with the ranger logo that she could give as gifts.

Of course, I was very happy to help not only her but make something special for the families that make sacrifices in ways we may not realize - all to protect what we hold dear.

The swamp school I mentioned is an elite ranger training camp in which the soldiers must endure harsh swamp conditions, sleep and food deprivation with the expectation that they must perform both mentally and physically, as expected of an elite soldier. I only experienced the biting flies and ants while I had the honor of attending the change of command ceremony. I cannot imagine being up to my neck in swamp water, thwarting water moccasins and who knows what else while maintaining a level head - nope, not me.

God bless them for their service.

Romancing the summertime whites

2011-06-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have been rearranging some of my favorite finds and treasures. Some things I put away for a season so that it will seem fresh and new the next time the season comes back around.

I adore a calming fresh palette of whites.

Mixed with some seashells, I tucked my whiteware and McCoy pottery here and there.

{the white ruler crown is one of my very faves lately}

I found this sweet bust while thrifting.

For mere pennies, the treasures that are out there waiting to be found amaze me.

Here is a close up of my unbottled time.

{if only it could be that easy, right?}

Maybe it would be need to tuck a little sea inspired scroll in the neck of the bottle.

There are two sides to this story.

I also love the look of handpainted china. {hence the next shelf down}

I am so fickle about what I want to display in this cabinet. I know it will come together one day.

As a result, both styles are remain displayed for now . . . on different shelves, of course.

I am linking in to Faded Charm's White Wednesday for this post.

Happy White Wednesday everyone!

Sending you happy summertime wishes sugahs!

xo's ~ Heidi

Aged Ancestors

2011-06-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

Many people have probably heard "when God closes a door, He always opens a window".

(sometimes I have trouble seeing the window - it must be the tinted glass)

It's true though - it may not be on the timeline you planned but it will happen - have faith and keep looking, you WILL find it.

Recently, a friend of mine, Kim Purcell (genuine soul and artist extraordinaire), opened an art studio and gallery in Senoia, Ga. called Creative Canvas. There, she offers painting classes (and you can bring your favorite beverage) for any skill level and even if you have never painted before. Kim is an enthusiatic and encouraging teacher. She really loves helping people bring their inner artist to the surface.

In the spirit of living fearlessly (pushing aside the "who the heck am I to be teaching an art class?" - just keeping it real folks), I decided to go through that window and ask her if she might need some people to teach some classes. And, by the way, have I thought of any classes to teach yet? Um . . . no (go through the darn window - you will figure it out later - stop over thinking it). Does anyone else ever over think it? I sure do.

Well, Kim said yes. Yes?! Yes?? Oh gosh - now I do have to figure out what I am going to teach!

I am so honored and excited to have this opportunity.

It is such a blessing to be able to share what I love in a way that gives immediate gratification while bringing enjoyment to someone else.

So . . . I decided my first class would be a simple mixed media class with enough elements to, hopefully, keep it interesting enough. I am calling it Aged Ancestors.

The base is a cover from an old hardback book which I adhered ephemera to and washed with ivory paint.

I am going to bring an assortment of new and vintage goodies for people to play with.

A little dabbling of the charcoal pencil as inspired by the work of Sally Jean.

{Sally Jean Alexander has always been one of my favorite "rock star" artists - her book "Pretty Little Things" resides on my bookshelf and I adore all of the wonderful projects within).

This piece would not escape being adorned by some textile love.

If you know me, you probably saw this coming.

Also, I wanted to share that if you are interested in having an art party, workshop or just a girl's craft night out, Creative Canvas is a quaint venue backdropped by the charming, little "Mayberry", town of Senoia, Ga. Just give Kim a call and she can schedule your function or a few hours of bliss for your group. ;)

Thank you for stopping by sweet friends!

Keep looking for those windows . . .

xo's ~ Heidi

Basketful of inspiration

2011-06-13T17:25:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be attending Jenn Hayslip's event, Once Upon A Dream, in October! It is a prairie fairy theme which is sure to be dreamy and enchanting!

Swaps are already being established which means it is time to pool together some inspirational goodies to fuel my muse.

When I have some projects floating around in my head, it helps to have a place to gather some elements of inspiration to help me formulate where I might go.

For this basket, I have been inspired by pale blue and tan with worn white, tattered and prairie elements. What colors are you loving lately?

{that is my sweetheart's framed gift in the background - we share a craft room - that could be a whole other blogpost ;) }

The little baby with the bonnet is me {I wasn't born on a prairie, though my kids may think so, lol}. I love vintage baby pics - the darling clothes, funny expressions and sweet cheeks.

See that prairie inspired millinery on the left?

I purchased those from Linda Marcov of the Willow Nest when she and Ludmil came to the Country Living Fair last year. (you can read about it here). She had the most enchanting booth!

Sometimes I {hoard} hold onto things until the perfect project beckons their use. You know what I mean?

By the way, the Country Living Fair has decided to return to Atlanta.

The speakers, vendors and events will be backdropped by the majestic Stone Mountain Park. You won't want to miss it!!

I LOVE this "QUEEN" ribbon which I got from Cerri of Little Pink Studio.

I love her assortment of vintage and romantic finds which inspire many projects.

She also makes the most darling art kits!

One day I would love to make a beautifully framed inspiration board to perch my pretties on. Even then, I think I will probably still have baskets filled with inspiring goodies when I am perculating over a project.

Where do you love to find inspiring color palettes?

{the hardware store, paper napkins, nature, vintage fashion mags}

I wanted to share with you some websites that might be inspiring when you are tossing around future projects.

The Color Room - love their color palettes and layout challenges

Color Collective - their focus is fashion - TONS of color inspiration

Design Seeds - I love how their palettes evoke a feeling in addition to a color palette

What colors are you loving lately?

Have a wonderful week Sugahs!

xo's ~ Heidi

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day!

Many of us might be enjoying a day of barbeques, friends and family. Those are the best kind of days.

I wanted to take a moment to remember those service men and women who made the greatest sacrifice to protect our freedom.

God Bless them.

My heartfelt gratitude to the men and women who have served and are currently serving.

xo's ~ Heidi

Celebrations

2011-05-29T07:40:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy month of May with school and various activities winding down - definitely the month of festivities and celebrations!

One such celebration I have enjoyed preparing for is a Quinceanera for

one of my friends daughters. For those of you who may not know what a Quinceanera is, it is a Latin celebration for fifteen year old girls which symbolizes their journey from childhold to young womanhood.

Her Mom asked if I could make some accessories for the celebration. I was very honored to contribute to such a wonderful tradition and moment in a young lady's life.

Pictured here is the special young lady, Monica, and her damas (attendants).

The hair rosettes and dress rosette were some of the items I made.

It was a beautiful Quinceanera!

When her Dad made a speech about giving his daughter wings, it was the absolute sweetest. I don't know if he shed a tear but he managed to make it through.

(I would be too gushy - I am such a sentimental girl)

There was lots of dancing, wonderful food and a great time had by all.

What a beautiful tradition! I love that it places importance and responsibility on becoming a young woman.

I am sorry I don't have more pictures ~ I forgot to snap some before I delivered all of the items!

Have a wonderful day!

xo's ~ Heidi

Laundry lines and feedsacks

2011-05-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

There is something completely comforting and nostalgic about laundry hanging on a line to dry.

In the moment of modern suburbia, I am glad to have memories of playing and hiding in my grandmother's laundry line.

It is that memory that popped up when I saw this image of school girls lined up in white dresses just like my grandmother's clothes on a line. It reminded me of feesacks, tiny buttons and faded lace. This is an ATC which I created with that inspiration.

It was calling for a little grundge and sparkle.

and a little bit of cluny lace and millinery blooms.

I would love to have a laundry line today, complete with feedsack clothespin bag, of course! However, I think my homeowner's association would have a fit, lol. One day, if I ever get a farmhouse, a clothesline will be at the top of my list.

What is at the top of your wishlist?

Have a great one ~ xo's ~ Heidi

New rosettes for strolling on the beach or through the prairie!

2011-05-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have been playing with some wonderfully supple linen.

I love how beautifully it gives both body and softness.

Here is a sweet beach cottage rosette I made using an off-white linen.

Pefect clipped in upswept salt-kissed hair or pinned to your favorite sundress!

I have it listed here on etsy.

A two-tone tweedy black linen may be just the thing for a prairie girl.

(beach or prairie - I could spend a lovely day at both!)

The black linen is listed here.

What locale would be your favorite place to spend the day?

Don't forget to scroll down and enter my giveaway!

xo's ~ Heidi

Vintage laces ATC swap and a sweet nest giveaway

2011-05-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

Recently, I participated in a vintage lace ATC swap hosted by Kimberly of ArtJoyStuff.

Given my textile obsession, I was completely smitten by this swap!

Here is the vintage lace ATC I received from Kimberly.

It was so beautifully packaged too! When I opened it I know I gasped out loud.

I love the way she combined refined lace with tattered fabric, sweet buttons and a darling image.

Thank you Kimberly!! I adore it!!

Sweet vintage image

What a great message for this metal tag!

Today I was reminded that some people define happiness by a destination in life they want to get to.

Why wait? You can choose to find the good things where you are now and embrace the journey.

{wow, I didn't realize I would suddenly get that deep here}

I have never offered a giveaway until now.

I thought the appropriate day would present itself when I would reach something monumental like my first 100 posts or a blogaversary.

Why wait? For me, it is not about the number of posts or time ticked off in a calendar.

For me, it is about YOU.

This blog experience has opened up a wonderful community of people who inspire me, make me laugh, cry and woo hoo right along with you.

I have an extra sweet nest bookmark from my sponsorship of Karla's Bird Song event.

There are no complicated hoops or upticks in followers.

Leave me a comment and I will draw a name next Friday, May 13th.

The sweet nest image is compliments of The Graphics Fairy!

I simply printed the image out on paper backed cotton, stitched and sandwiched with lace onto a linen bookmark.

I am linking to The Graphics Fairy Brag Monday.

Have a wonderful weekend sugahs!

xo's ~ Heidi

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

"For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." John 3:17.

Happy Easter!

Wishing everyone a day filled joy and peace.

xo's ~ Heidi

You had me at vintage laces

2011-04-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

While visiting one of my bloggerette sisters, Kimberly, I discovered she was hosting a vintage laces ATC swap. Do I even I have to tell you that it was a swap I could not pass up, lol?

I did not realize the swap was closed but Kimberly was so sweet to squeeze me in anyway. ;)

You meet some of the sweetest gals in blogland ~ it's true.

Any opportunity to play with one of my favorite mediums is a joy.

I used tone on tone colors and added some champagne beads, baby buttons and a heart with key charm.

This one I aptly named "My Dearest Love" - not only for the feel of it but laces are one of my dearest loves so it seemed to be a perfect fit.

Here is a close up of the chippy frame {a Stampin' Up hardware frame painted with white picket fence crackle paint and sealed with some Ultimate glue - which I highly recommend by the way}, "LOVE" lace and the darling heart with key charm.

Instead of using brads to adhere the frame I just covered the holes with vintage baby buttons and adhered everything the Ultimate glue.

If you love making ATC's, Kimberly hosts some great swaps weekly so check her out!

Thanks Kimberly, making this was a blast!

I am also linking this to Common Ground's Vintage Inspiration Friday

Hope you are having some fun getting your art out sugahs!

xo's ~ Heidi

More Easter fun

2011-04-21T06:01:00.000-07:00

Here is another Easter postcard for you to use.

I love the purple background on this one -- it would make a beautiful tag for an Easter basket.

A little flocking on the chicks and clear glitter on the buds would be so cute!

xo's ~ Heidi

Beach cottage Juliette

2011-04-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

Hi sweet friends! I just wanted to pop in and share one of the projects I have been working on lately.

Joy at Snazzie Drawers sells some beautiful patterns for rosettes and clothing for little girl couture.

This is the rosette I made from her Juliette pattern. I was in a beachy mood and paired a nubby linen style fabric with an aqua floral. Clipped to either my pool bag, beach bag or hat, I will enjoy its sweet charm this summer!

I was digging through some old postcards I have collected over the years in search of some Easter theme ones I that I would like to use to decorate with.

Here is one you are welcome to right click and use for your Easter crafting projects.

For a quick Easter tree ornament:

Punch a hole in the corners, set the holes with eyelets, add a ribbon hanger and maybe some millinery, glitter or other goodies. Voila! You have instant ornaments!

Have a wonderful week sugahs!

xxoo ~ Heidi

I brake for spring

2011-04-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

Spring break could not come at a better time. All of the hustle and bustle of school activities and life in general had me longing for a little respite from the normal routine. With plumes of pollen and suddenly summer temps, spring has arrived in Georgia. At least we have the awesome thunderstorms to keep the pollen tamped down a bit.

How have you been enjoying spring? Any favorite spring inspired projects?

I have a few things to share from the past few weeks.

As part of a swap and after much trepidation, I created an ATC (I have only made one before).

The small space ATCs require really makes me conflicted over what to use {silly really}. I guess the more

ATCs I make, the more I will warm up to it.

"Queen of Spring"

I loved using Tim Holtz's tissue tape. It accepts distress inks and embossing beautifully.

{of course, it would not be complete for me without a little sparkle ;) }

Projects in process . . . shhhh

In an old sewing box, I found this incredible glass {yes, glass!} perscription bottle filled with tiny black snaps.

I wish I could say I came up with this idea myself. This is as I found it. It is amazing the inspiration we get from the generations before us.

"FLY" card.

The little birdies are wild around the bird feeder here at our house.

I was definitely in a "Henry David Thoreau" mood.

My challenge was to use wire. Wire? Wait a minute . . . what?

I am not fond of wire, really. {challenges are meant to be challenging . . . pressing on, I worked it out with the wire}

A little close up of the wire bird nest.

Here is a tag I made while having an art night with the girls. Such fun to prop the feet up a bit, share laughs and get my art out.

It was the silhouette and designer paper that inspired me.

I loved layering some vintage bits with icy glittered blooms a faded trims.

I can't get enough of those polka dot guinea feathers!

{smitten}

Thanks for stopping by for a visit my sweet sugahs!

Have a great week! xxoo ~ Heidi

Linking up to:

Forever flower garden

2011-03-31T12:22:00.000-07:00

Vintage hats make me wonder about the fashions of yesteryear - the colors, styles and details

Their sweet blooms and faded colors inspire my creative muse.

I adore this little pale aqua number.

Don't gasp - I have already plucked some blooms for my friend Tracy at Creative Cure to use on a vintage wallpaper tag. {I told you not to gasp}

I can't wait until she posts the pic! It is GORGEOUS! I love the way she mixed different vintage elements colored in pale aqua with ecru and tan.

The blooms are so frothy - I love to craft with these.

The velvet violets on this one make me swoon. ;)

Sometimes it is hard for me to pluck the flowers but creating pretty things with them also make me happy.

{I am a fickle girl after all}

Couldn't you just imagine someone's sweet grandma wearing this one with her Sunday best and white gloves?

A bouquet of tempting taupe.

Ooh those velvet berries are to die for!

This one I cannot pluck. In fact, I may wear this one someday.

It's soft crushed rose is simply beautiful.

I supposed you can tell I have been picking this one over for a while.

(trying to hide some of the bald spots)

One of my favorite things about this hat is the velvet leaves.

{I guess by now you have figured out how much I love velvet roses and leaves, ha ha}

Is there an interesting art supply you love to craft with? I would love to hear your favorites ladies!

Thanks to stopping by to visit ~ xo's ~ Heidi

linking to:

Modern Marie

2011-03-22T18:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes going out of your comfort zone is a good thing -- explore different possibilities.

Orange Black Aqua Pink, hmmmm . . .

Anyone have a favorite or "go to" palette?

Here is my modern Marie card in which I was trying to achieve a sort of modern vintage look.

{yes, modern and vintage can reside most peacefully}

It is hard to tell but I glimmer misted the card base with Vanilla Breeze glimmer mist.

The Marie image was part of a digi set that I purchased from Cassi here.

She produces wonderful digi sheets which are exceptionally priced.

Of course, I had to add some grundge and sparkle because it just makes me *happy*. ;-)

I am linking in to Moxie Fab World's tissue/crepe paper challenge.

Hope you are having a wonderful evening{or day}!

xo's ~ Heidi

Tidying teacups

2011-03-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have been able to squeeze in a few minutes here and there to tidy some teacups and a few other random things like this curvy mirror.

It measures about 5x7 inches which makes me wonder if it was used as a shaving mirror

or maybe for a vanity.

The mercury glass tealight holder splashes light against the mirror when I light it at night.

At a recent trip to TJ Maxx, I scored this super cheap and super chic wire basket.

I knew I could find something to corral in it {like our pile of napkins}.

And, there were other sizes too!

If you need a pretty basket to hold towels, art supplies, toys, get over there quick!

{sidebar tip -- their reusable shopping bags are usually cute only cost a dollar = cute gift bag for cheap}

Many years ago, I found some German morning glory placecard holders.

They are just too pretty to keep in storage. Not only do they make sweet placecard holders for a tea but they also make beautiful beverage or dish markers.

I have been culling out alot of what I don't use {yay Goodwill and some happy friends} and trying incorporate what I love and use more in my decor.

While some people may love a china hutch filled with chintz, I think my love would be Limoges.

{pale, delicate pastel flowers, and curvy designs}

A petit Limoges tureen and some butter pats - the butter pats have also served as tea bag rests.

One of my dearest and best friends, Kelli, gave me this soup bouillon cup (my first one!).

The pale green wash is a perfect backdrop to the handpainted flowers.

Wouldn't a shrimp bisque be pretty in this one?!

Here is a closeup of the handpainted flowers and gold flourishes.

What spaces have you been tidying up that you love?

Thanks for stopping by sweet friends!

xo's ~ Heidi

The way I like dirty dishes

2011-03-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

Everyone has chores to do.

Some can be relaxing, like gardening or vacuuming (yes, I said vacuuming).

Some can be revolting . . . well let's just say between the pets and people living in our home, there are options on the revolting part.

My favorite dirty dishes are the kind that are

ummm . . . in the dirt.

I cannot take credit for this idea. I know I have seen this done somewhere before along with a million other ideas I have filed away for one of those "a-ha moments" when I remember it again.

The winter flower beds at Ms. Wendy's were looking a little barren.

I decided they needed a facelit for spring.

Quirky and different was what I wanted. And, I love the idea of recycled garden adornments.

Another thought hit me while I was writing this post.

What about spoons and forks?

Wouldn't that be the cutest?!

Thanks for stopping by Sugahs!

xo's ~ Heidi

Shaping up and paper love

2011-02-26T09:54:00.000-08:00

This year I have been more devoted to making better lifestyle choices like exercising and a swapping out junky foods for healthy ones.

Life is busy. I get distracted (yes, really, it's true). Sometimes I need to refocus or up my game.

Rhonna Farrar has kicked off a new Six Week Shape Up challenge. What could you commit to for six weeks that would be better for you? Me - FOCUS. Really commit to walking the walk of a healthier me.

Rhonna has such wonderful artwork on her blog to motivate us toward our goal. I decided to take her challenge and create a healthy lifestyle journal to help keep me accountable.

This process has helped me discover that having something pretty to work with helps the chronically distracted (me) to be aware and joyful about journaling.

(inside front cover)

There are times when my "healthy" day does not go perfectly. Again, life can get in the way.

What is important is that I keep going, keep moving to being a healthier me.

I am proud to say I no longer need high blood pressure medicine.

I have traded that expense for a gym membership, happily.

(inside back cover)

Friends, if I can do this . . . you CAN do this!!

We have everything we need in us to do it.

Expect miracles . . . they happen every day.

On a different note, I wanted to share some vintage paper finds I have picked up lately.

Are you as smitten with vintage paper and ephemera as I am?

It is a love/hate thing. I love to use it but I hate to use it too because I love to hoard it, lol.

Vintage bingo cards - love the colors!

Can you see a patriotic mixed media piece done with the blue or red ones?

Alphabet Flash cards.

The graphics on these are awesome!!

I especially love the bees and the queen.

{hmm, queen bee, be queen}

I told you I get distracted.

More alphabet flash card goodness. ;-)

I also blog for Liz at Cydney's Alley in Senoia, GA.

While working on a recent project, Liz received a package of German scrap.

When she opened the box, the sparkle of glitter and the lush vibrancy of color grabbed my eye.

The word barter immediately entered my mind.

"Why yes, Liz, I would LOVE to barter with you!"

Done! She nestled my package in her signature black bag with lime green polka dot tissue.

I love Liz. Purveyor of fine junktiques, she totally gets my love for anything vintage and divine quirky.

Aren't these parrots awesome?!

I wish I could effectively show how vibrant and sprinkled with glitter these die cuts are.

Cute toads of summer and spring.

So glad you stopped by sweet friends!

I hope you have a wonderful week!

xo's ~ Heidi

Vintage Valentine Swap

2011-02-10T18:06:00.000-08:00

Danielle from The Vintage Dragonfly recently hosted a Vintage Valentine swap.

How fun to pull out some of my favorite things for this one! Danielle asked us to use soft colors. Dove grey has been very inspiring to me lately so I paired it with pale pink. I especially liked using the blush pink fabric from a dress my daughter has long since outgrown as part of the ruffle.

Here is the vintage valentine heart I made.

I loved working on this project!

Using many elements of my favorite things, such as, crepe paper, dresden scrap, trims and german glass glitter, I had a fun time playing with paper.

I also decorated the back with a few laces and baubles.

Treat bags filled with stamped ribbons, paper treats and other goodies to be sent to my swap partners.

How many of you get giddy when your postal carrier delivers a box?

(yes, I was giddy ;-), especially when I saw the box was from Danielle!)

I was over the top giddy when I opened the package to find a vintage valentine made by Danielle!

Paper awesomeness!!

The layers of vintage papers, tinsel trim, crepe paper and lace are so beautiful!

My favorite part is the sweet dove she tea stained and bejeweled.

Thank you Danielle! I will treasure this always!

I was so excited to receive such fun and wonderful treat bags from my talented swap partners!:

Thank you ladies for all of the goodies and treasures!

Thanks for stopping by - wishing you a great week my sweets!

xo's ~ Heidi

Sweet hearted friends

2011-02-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there are cherished moments when we can pause and soak in a few moments with friends who nourish our soul and bring joy to our hearts.

One such dear friend is Rosalyn-Sue Smith.

She is one of the most caring, sweet and kind-hearted women I know.

We recently caught up with each other for a visit (we had not seen each other since before Christmas).

What a surprise when Rosalyn-Sue gave me this handmade stocking filled with goodies!

I love the sun washed, cottage style fabrics she chose - so beautiful!

Then, I opened a cherub box only to reveal a handmade desk folio.

I know I gasped out loud.

I love the sweet vintage button and delicate ribbon.

Look at the inside!

A shabbilicious pen, romantic notecards and a notepad.

I just want to perch it on my desk and swoon over it!

Thank you RS for such sweet gifts!

Your friendship is the sweetest gift of all.

xxoo ~ Heidi

Sister of the heart

2011-02-03T15:49:00.000-08:00

As a kid, I was only in Girl Scouts one or two years. I don't remember much about it but I do remember the retro uniform and beanie cap.

As an adult, I have loved being a troop leader for my daughter and all of the sweet little girls in our troop.

It has been fun to live vicariously through these girls all of the fun things Girl Scouts have the opportunity to do. Crafts, sports, making s'mores, adventure, friendships (young and old), serving our community - I enjoy it all.

One of the lines of the Girl Scout law is to be a sister to every Girl Scout.

(photo courtesy here)

I have some sisters outside of Girl Scouts - my girlfriends!

One such friend was not in Girl Scouts but was in 4H when she was a little girl.

Her sons are now in 4H too.

Are you seeing a pattern here?

Life always seems to come full circle.

Andrea and I are definitely sisters of the heart.

We love our family, anything handmade, antiques and the well worn.

What a surprise I received from her!

Vintage Girl Scout buttons!

When I opened her card and saw these sweet buttons my heart skipped a beat.

How precious and thoughtful - she is such dear friend, a sister of the heart.

It is funny how time and traditions bring people together.

It makes me realize how much we might all have in common and may not know it.

Sending you xo's my sisters! ~ Heidi

The librarian's lament

2011-01-27T07:01:00.000-08:00

Pull up chair, grab your fave beverage . . .

(I am having Diet Cherry Coke, love love love)

Do you ever notice that anything tastes better when sipped from a vintage glass?

The Dutch girl is one of my favorites.

What have you been up to?

And me? I have been upcycling (torturing) some books.

I needed some decorative books but have not had time to go shopping for the right color.

(funny, but yes, I shop books for either content or decorative properties, I can't help it).

In the spirit of "getting things done", I decided to makeover my books with a swipe of the paintbrush.

Yeah, I could have just covered them with paper but I didn't want to go shopping for that either when I have a paint brush and paint right here.

Here is what I had to start with.

(not quite the look I was going for)

By the way, these are also my project books.

Project books? Yes, the ones I . . . um . . . tear pages out of for any random project.

Have I mentioned I love storing art supplies in the open if I can make it look pretty?

Gesso, I love you.

Even though gesso is a prep medium, I love it as a paint.

(a little more toothy and rough)

I gessoed both books.

You will notice the gesso could not keep some of the dye in the red book from seeping through.

I don't mind though, I love pink! (this is more of a peachy pink)

As I am writing this post, a thought occurred to me.

You could stamp or paint words on the binding to coordinate with your decor.

Or for each season even. Gesso, paint, repeat.

Much better, don't you think?

Wishing everyone a great week!

xo's ~ Heidi

Decisions, decisions . . .

2011-01-11T14:48:00.000-08:00

A new year, a fresh nest!

I so enjoy all of the beautiful Wednesday Whites posts from Kathleen's blog Faded Charm and I am linking my winter whites there.

Stop by Faded Charm to see other dreamy white inspirations!

I am also linking to Romantic Homes' Show and Tell Friday.

I am a textile junkie. I don't know that there is a twelve step program for that.

I do love to use what I have in various projects though.

A moment of inspiration hit me ~ why not create some vignettes with vessels to hold the many laces and crochet pieces blossoming in my craft room?

Storage and decor all in one - I love that!

I gathered a few other things like this small bottle I found one day junkin' and an old watch face which I thought would be a cute nod to a Father Time and a new year.

Hmmm, what about a textile bouquet?

The vase is a thrift store find.

Some of crafty girls might like to receive a bouquet like this.

{you know I would ~ wink, wink!}

Cloche added, here is what I had so far.

Still, it looked like it needed a little more.

Hmmm, what to add, what to add?

More pretties?

The sweet brush I found in Linda's booth of Willow Nest Farm when they came to the Country Living Fair, HERE.

I love its diminutive size and patina.

I received this sweet ornament from Cheryl in the post HERE.

I know its a Christmas ornament but it also makes a great winter ornament too!

The colors are soft and creamy vintage.

I have a strand of pearls that I bought from a friend who sells Silpada jewelry.

Why not include them? Open yourself up to possibilities, anything outside the box ~ that is when magic can happen.

This is where it is so far ~ it is starting to look just right.

Cloche added, winter whites adored!

Speaking of adoration . . .

what fun valentine decorations are you smitten with?

Another storage and decor project.

I piled laces and crochet pieces into a glass jar.

{I love using my craft supplies as decor!}

*Librarians cover your ears.*

I cut a heart out of a random book I use for decorating and sandwiched it between the glass.

Then added a sepia picture of a woman.

As I am putting this together, I wonder, who was her first love?

What were the treasured moments in her life?

I think my love for antiques and vintage finds also comes from the stories and possibilities that are carried with them.

A large jar of buttons with a random valentine couple would be sweet too.

For now, I love the layers of crochet and lace with their dreamy whites this winter.

What are your favorite projects for the new year?

Thanks for stopping by sweet friends!

xo's ~ Heidi

Furbaby, spoiling served daily

2011-01-07T16:15:00.000-08:00

Our eldest furbaby is a cat our kids named Bradley (it's an army tank thing).

He came into our lives as a stray 6 years ago and won our hearts from day one.

This is no ordinary cat.

In fact, he thinks he is a dog. His furbaby dog brothers and sister don't think he is a cat either.

This special kitty seeks out his people for affection, begs actually, likes to be cradled and will wrap his arms around you as you hold him.

It is the darndest thing you have ever seen.

Of course, his peeps (William and Alexandra) are happy to oblige him with affection and carry him on their daily adventures.

This boy has the good life. Really good.

He knows how to wrap everyone around his paw.

He will even use his charm on some of us {cough, cough} to slip him a bit of his favorite scrambled eggs or chicken. {theory, not proven in a court of law or anything}

We are blessed he came into our lives as one of the most unordinary {extraordinary} furbabies we have had.

Yep, spoiling is served daily here!

Thanks for stopping by sweet friends!

xo's ~ Heidi

Shabby Sweet Sunbonnet Sue

2011-01-06T13:47:00.000-08:00

Shabby sweet Sunbonnet Sue stocking!

{say that 5 times fast}

This is the adorable Sunbonnet Sue stocking I received from Cheryl for Joli Paquet's Vintage Stocking swap!

I was blown away by the sunwashed colors and delicate details! Cheryl has a way of using infusing enchantment into her beautiful creations.

Vintage millinery with a touch of glitter - I think she is trying to make me swoon.

I just love the sweet basket charm she sewed to Sunbonnet Sue's hand!

A sweet rosette with the right amount of bling

I love the layers of lace and taupe pearls droplets - just smitten with the peachy pink roses!

This will be so sweet hanging in my craft room to store vintage paper treats or lace scraps.

As if that didn't drop me to the floor like a feather, Cheryl also included more treasures that made my heart skip a beat, or two, or three, or four.

I cannot begin to tell you how much I was touched by all of the wonderful treasures Cheryl sent.

It was as if she knew exacty what would make my heart go pitter patter.

She REALLY spoiled me - I will not be the same, I will not I tell you!

An adorned burlap sack filled to the brim with precious paper treats, ornaments and beloved baubles.

A shabbilicious cuff with soft crochet lace and rosettes.

Here is another pic of the adorned burlap sack.

Isn't the vintage pin with creamy bead the cat's pa-jams?

And hand dyed lace too people! It makes smile just to look at it!

Lucious trims, millinery, crochet pinned with blingy pearl pins on a vintage bobbin.

Oh, gosh! Let me just lay my cheek against it and sigh.

Shut - the - front - door!

Isn't this the cutest container for treats?!

Let's take a look inside . . .

A sweet cherub {Cheryl}, vintage wallpaper treats, a sweet looking glass with ribbon and more enchanting baubles!

She must have known she would make me faint.

- a bag filled with vintage millinery complete with clip on earring as a closure.

Then the most adorable ornament in creamy colors and silk ribbon.

{Yep, I fainted, hit the floor in a vintage treat induced coma}

Mr. Glittery Reindeer with millinery won my heart.

Rolls of vintage wallpaper tied with ribbon and a sweet wedding bell.

Cheryl, I cannot thank you enough for such thoughtful and dear treasures.

I adore my stocking and your sweet heart that you put into everything!

Thank you for stopping by to visit sweet friends!

xo's ~ Heidi

Happy New Year Sugahs!

2010-12-31T16:45:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year dear family and friends!!

Time to start anew, wipe the slate, rev the engines and ponder what 2011 may hold for each of us.

{courtesy of photographer xxxrmt here}

Cheers to you with some pink champagne!

{If I could transport you to lovely Paris, I would do that too!}

{courtesy of Graphics Fairy}

I am not really into resolutions for 2011.

But I am into inspirations and motivations.

My bucket list:

Keep working on the lifestyle change {the word diet makes my skin crawl. I like a healthy eating mindset and I am starting to enjoy the gym - who knew?}

Striving to improve on the whole life balance thing - family, work, creativity all into synergy

{can you feel the synergy?}

Be more diligent about letting the people I love know I love them.

{I am terrible at remembering to send cards but I think of the people dear to my heart often}

Continue to cultivate the "brave girl" persona {it's a love thang and check out the Brave Girls if you get the chance. I have not been to one of their camps but I would love too sometime}

Put more time into my relationship with the Lord {carve out more quiet time for reading my Bible and nourishing my soul, less sloughing off going to church}

Be more focused about making time to be creative by being more organized with my time. {thank you Tiffany for your kind words and inspiration on how to achieve this -- some days I wish I could just clone myself to get everything done. I need to be content that not everything will get done every day}

Less volunteering for this busy Mom, wife, friend, individual so I can focus on all of the above things.

{I am sitting on my hands instead of raising them - using my auction going skills for this one}

I am sure in the days ahead I will be adding a few more things to the list.

These are just a few things I have been reflecting on as I anticipate the new year.

Are there any resolutions or inspirations you want to share?

I love reading other people's lists {like Sadie Lou's post - love everything on her list} - they inspire me to edit my own.

Thank you for stopping by to visit sugahs!

Sending you the best of wishes for a wonderful 2011!

xo's ~ Heidi

Snow day in Georgia

2010-12-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

Hi sweet friends ~ has everyone been having a good holiday break?

Recently, we had a snow day here in Georgia!

We do not get the beautiful, powdery snow drifts as our friends might up north (at least not this year, haha).

Grass and snow angel ~ a little rustic, lol.

The one inch plus sprinkling was pretty though, especially since it began snowing on Christmas eve.

While "snowed in" (I can't even say that without laughing), I was able to spend a few precious hours in the craft room here and there.

The honey and I actually had a craft date one night ~ him working on model airplanes at his table and me tossing ink and ruffling crepe paper at mine. I think this is one date we will have again! ;-)

a little birdie inspired notepad

I didn't have any light blue crepe paper. What is a girl to do?

I spritzed some Tattered Angels glimmer mist in Hydrangea (blue with a golden sheen) onto white crepe paper.

I love how the colors were mushy with lighter and darker places. This inspires me to glimmer mist my crepe paper more!

a little feathery goodness and a corsage pin

The burlap texture against the velvety ribbon - yum!

Are there any color combinations you love lately?

A bubblegum birdie with crochet trim and yummy ribbons!

I decided to use some Melissa Frances chunky glitter in aqua on this one.

I {heart}anything Melissa Frances!

Love the Maya Road leaf corsage pin on this one too!

French inspired sweetness fit for a queen!

If you would want to take this one home, I have listed it in my etsy store here!

I think I would welcome more snow days, with a snuggie and hot chocolate, of course.

Did you have a "snow day" lately where you did something fun?

Thanks for stopping by sweet friends!

xo's ~ Heidi

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

2010-12-25T03:27:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

and

Happy Holidays

my dear family and friends!

Wishing for you a time of peace, joy and love.

xo's ~ Heidi

Pastel peppermint bark

2010-12-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

In between wrapping gifts and Christmas festivities, I came across a neat post by Such Pretty Things for pastel peppermint bark. {instructions here}

I have made red and white peppermint bark in the past but had not considered making a pastel version.

What a pretty idea and so simple to make!

I scooped up some white candy melts and gel food coloring.

Here is the pale aqua and white version.

Those of you who know me know I love glitter!

Would it surprise you that I have some edible glitter?

Here is a pic of the bark sprinkled with glitter.

(just a vertical and horizontal pattern made with toothpicks)

I think my bark was still a little too warm because the glitter was not as "fluffy" as it would normally be on cupcakes.

Here is the pink and mint version.

(I got a little swirly with the toothpicks ;-) )

The colors I used were Wilton Leaf Green, Soft Blue and Pink.

The edible glitter is also made by Wilton.

What a pretty hostess gift or tea tray treat!

Thanks for stopping by sweet friends! I hope you are having a very sweet holiday season.

xo's ~ Heidi