The Adventures of Gigi

In the Kitchen Pt. 5

2008-11-22T18:59:00.013-05:00

It has been a little while since my last "In the Kitchen" addition, and all I can say is I'm sorry. I really have been cooking and baking up a storm these past couple of weeks, and I even took pictures of the food, but... There have been a couple of events that kind of took my mind off of posting. Things including the Phillies winning the World Series, which of course being a suburbanite of Philadelphia, you know I was down there partying it up at this place the night they won, joining in the crowds on Broad St. afterwards, and then traveling downtown once more on Friday to take part in the amazing parade. And then there was the Election and of course the stresses of preparing a Thanksgiving dinner. Finally, after my evening run with Metayo, I found some quite time to sit down in front of the computer and share a few of my cooking ventures with you. I now present you with an amazing cheesecake recipe by the incredibly talented and always dependable Dorie Greenspan. Being the first cheesecake I have ever made, I was quite proud at how it turned out, and so was everyone who tasted it. Since it is not a recipe of my own, I thought I'd take another photo of a Roasted Garlic and Butternut Squash Penne I conjured up for my sister, who always asks me to whip something up for her on Tuesdays. The recipe for the Penne dish is as follows, but you can find the cheesecake recipe here, and I do suggest that you try it immediately!!

Roasted Garlic & Butternut Squash Penne
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed.
5-6 whole garlic cloves
1 shallot, chopped or diced
6 sages leaves, julienned.
1 tbsp. E.V. Olive Oil
3 tbsp. butter + 1 tsp. E.V. Olive Oil
1/8 tsp. Anchovy paste (Incredibly subtle, nutty NOT fishy flavor)
Red Pepper Flake to taste
Pinch of Nutmeg
Salt and Pepper
1 Box whole wheat Penne

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a bowl, combine 1 tbsp. oil with butternut squash, garlic, salt and pepper. Pour onto baking sheet and place in oven, mid rack for 10-15minutes until golden. If needed, you can broil them for a few minutes to get the tops nice and brown. Take out and and allow to cool. In a saute pan, add butter and 1 tsp. oil, anchovy paste and shallots. Allow butter to brown slightly, and add red pepper flakes, salt and pepper to taste, and sage leaves. Cook whole wheat penne until al dente, and add into saute pan, along with a splash or two of pasta water or white wine. Slice roasted garlic into thin or thick slivers, and add that and butternut squash to pan. Heat through and serve. (* This is the perfect dish for fall; nutty and comforting. You could also try adding a green such as broccoli rab or spinach as well!)

*Sorry for the not-top quality cheesecake photos, darkness had fallen by the time it chilled and I don't like using the flash.

All I Want for Christmas

2008-11-07T22:44:00.002-05:00

Okay, I give in.. It is merely the start of November and already I have caught a bug. Now this bug, although mind/time consuming as it may be, is not painful nor dreaded. This bug bites me every year around this time, sometimes sooner and sometimes later; I like to call it the Christmas Bug. With less than two months from the big day, my mind has be taken over by all thoughts of Christmas. I must admit that for the past three weeks I have checked the isles of Target, Home Goods, and Kohl's just to see if they had received their seasonal shipments. Obsessive, perhaps just a tad, but I couldn't help it. Even with the present state of our economy all that I can think about are ornaments, snowstorms, Christmas music, hot chocolate, and gift wrap. Typically I don't decorate for Christmas until the day after Thanksgiving, but I think that this year, Christmas might come just a little bit early, at least in small doses. You will no longer hear the radio playing in my living room, no sirree, you will now hear Christmas Cd's blasting their joyous tunes through the walls of my chilled Autumn home. Ella Fitzgerald, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, just to name a few. I even began creating a Christmas list for myself, how selfish is that? I normally don't ever make a Christmas list, but I have just encountered so many "good things" that I "have to have." Although I will do much needed revisions to the list before I hand it over to my loved ones, it is still nice to wish, so I guess it would be more appropriate to call it a wish list (*which I currently have on Amazon, Anthropologie, and J.Crew.com ;) With that said, I decided that I would post up a few of the items that have caught my eye, since by the looks of it, many of my fellow bloggers have also started in with their Christmas spirit. Enjoy!

*It's funny to me how our Christmas lists change as we grow older. As a child all I wanted was baby dolls, kitchen toys, and a cash register (yes a real cash register, but that's a whole other story ;) Then, into my tweens and teens, I wanted cold hard cash, perfume, clothes, shoes, and makeup. Now that I am a little bit older, I find myself asking for home supplies, home supplies! Of course there's still always room for shoes!

Baby it's Cold Outside

2008-10-29T09:39:00.005-05:00

Though it is almost the first of November, I am proud to say that South-Eastern Pennsylvania has already accumulated some small amounts of snow. Now of course, the location of your home dictated how long those feathery flurries lasted, but it was sure fun (at least somewhat) while it did. Yesterday we experienced 20-40 mph winds, constant showers, hail, and of course snow, that lovely lovely snow. With hints of what the day would entail from the big game the night before, Tuesday, October 28th was just one of those days where you wanted to sleep in all day, surrounded by comfy down pillows and warm blankets, watching through your frosted windows what mayhem sweeped across the land. But we are not all so lucky, and I had to venture out into the mess, with umbrella in hand, and boy let me tell you it was quite an experience. Inverted umbrellas, icicles in the rats nest which now made up my once straightened locks, and brush burns from being slammered in the face by sleet and snow always make a woman feel her best don't they? It was a long day but I was so glad to come back home, put on a pot of homemade chicken noodle soup and sip a nice hot cup of cocoa. Luckily, the Nor-Eastern which brought all this horrible weather about is finally passing through, and come Halloween it will be sunny and warm-er than yesterday or today (currently 38 degrees.) If I don't get to tell you then, I hope you all have a wonderful Halloween!

In the Kitchen Pt. 4

2008-10-21T16:44:00.013-05:00

Come the middle of October I am completely enthralled with cooking; baking especially. I conjure up ideas in my head, gather the ingredients, and make tasty comfort food for my family, friends, and loved ones. I DVR all of my favorite cooking shows, watch them when I get the chance, and then use their recipes as the inspirations for my own creations. Seasonal magazines are also a must in my kitchen, such as Country Living, Martha Stewart Living, and Gourmet. The pictures alone get my creative kitchen juices flowing and I often times find myself jotting recipes on anything within reach, such as receipts, junk mail, etc. Just yesterday I felt like baking, so I made an apple crisp pie. Using, ehem.. store bought crust and store bought apple crumble, I used up all of my past-their-prime Macintosh's, added some pumpkin spice and cinnamon, and piled up the ingredients. There is nothing like compiling a recipe on a whim, simply based on whatever is stocking the kitchen shelves. I try not to waste food, so if a few apples begin to go bad I'll make apple sauce or if the tomatoes have reached their peak, "sun dried" tomatoes. Last night I brined some pork chops, and made a roux out of white wine, butter and flour, tossed in some thyme, dried cranberries and sauteed onions, and voila! Parmesan thyme risotto accompanied the dinner along with steamed broccoli florets, and dinner was served in no time. The chill in the air makes people crave those feel good foods that not only make your house smell amazing, but they taste amazing as well. Here's to using simple accessible ingredients to serve up delicious comfort foods!

Apple Crumble Pie:
1 store bought pie crust (or homemade if you're so inclined ;)
1 box T. Marzetti Apple Crumble Mix w/ 5 tbsp. unsalted butter
1 pound sliced Macintosh apples (or whatever you have on hand) about 2.5 cups
2 Tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 Tsp. pumpkin spice or all spice
1 Tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 Tsp. Lemon Juice (to preserve apples)
1 Tbsp. flour
Pinch of salt
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lay pie crust in round pie pan, poking the sides and bottom with a fork as well as creasing the edges. Bake in oven for about 10 minutes until crust is golden. As crust bakes, cube 5 tbsp. cold butter and incorporate into Apple Crumble mix (or use a food processor.) Place in fridge. Mix apples, cinnamon, pumpkin spice, flour, salt and vanilla and fill pie crust. Top with chilled crumble topping and drizzle with maple syrup. Brush an egg-wash onto the crust prior to placing in oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until apples are tender and crumble topping is golden. Let slightly cool and enjoy!

Ps: Sorry no post-baking photo, my camera fell in Metayo's water bowl and I was frantically trying to save it ;) But it still works thankfully!

Fall Premieres

2008-10-03T13:10:00.010-05:00

Has anyone caught the Food Network commercials that have announced a BRAND NEW season of Barefoot Contessa, as well as an all new series from Giada DeLaurentiis, called Giada at Home? Being that the two above are my all-time favorite show hosts on the channel, I am uber-excited. Not only does the fall bring new sights and smells, but also new shows! I have been watching these two cookin' ladies for several years now, and although I can only really say I've attempted a handful or so of their recipes, I love the way in which the shows are filmed, and the fresh ideas that they take on common grocery items.
Now that it is officially Fall, I have been bitten by the cooking bug and have been whipping up concoctions all week long. Last night at 9:00 P.M. I decided that I would make sweet potato pie. How do you make sweet potato pie you ask? Well I wouldn't be able to tell you, but I knew I had some ginger-snap cookies that were going to go to waste as well as a can of sweet potatoes, so I figured why not? After a few additions and mistakes, I whipped up a Sweet Potato pie which my family all loves, just in the knick of time too (10:30 P.M.) ;) Today, I saw some button mushrooms that needed to be used, so I figured that I would whip up some Chicken Marsala for my sister who has been asking me to make her a "creamy pasta dish." Theres something about fall, and that cold nip in the air that makes you crave comfort foods, and makes me yearn to be in the kitchen, creating some new dishes that will entice my loved ones senses and of course make their belly's happy. Please do tune onto the Food Network on October 18th @ 1:00 P.M. if you hadn't already planned, or of course set your DVR to record for the two lovely new shows. Heres to Falls new beginning and the start of some comforting kitchen creations and celebrations!

ps: How could I forget, Food Network has also created a new Magazine!! Check it out here

Fall Fix Up

2008-09-17T09:12:00.006-05:00

The season is changing, and with every seasons change I always tend to get into the mood for some inspiration early on. So this past weekend, while attempting to reach for October and November issues of my favorite magazines from years past, I found myself covered with at least 30 pounds of paper-inspiration. The closet shelf which neatly holds all of my magazines fell and poured over a hundred different copies of Country Living, Country Home and Martha right ontop of me. Angered, annoyed and a little bit bruised, I decided that it was finally time to de-clutterize and organize.
Completely skipping the whole "Spring-Cleaning" period this year, some areas of my home never received a thorough cleaning. I say areas, but truly just mean my crafts room. Full of magazines, paper scraps, glue bottles, glitter flecks and all other sorts of loveliness that would have looked great in containers, it was time for a serious clean-up. You see I have the tendency to collect things (ie: magazines and clothes) and when I find myself surrounded and overwhelmed by the vast quantities of each, I still have a hard time letting go. I have never liked to clip pictures out and discard the rest of a magazine, especially Holiday issues and Spring, Winter, Autumn, oh well pretty much all of them. But it was time, so I selected some of my old Martha's (keeping the holiday and autumn editions of course!) Gourmet, and some Country Living, and clipped and recycled. I still have quite a large supply of magazine inspiration, but it's a start. Once I was done with my clippings I organized them into folders labeled for each theme, and now I can just open the folders whenever I need some "Kitchen" inspiration or delicious recipe. Now that my crafts room revamp is over, I am planning on looking through all of my Autumn editions, lighting some of these lovely candles and sitting back to watch one of my fall favorites "Practical Magic." (It always get's me in the mood for chilly Autumn nights and hot apple cider. ;)

To Autumn

2008-09-03T13:45:00.001-05:00

Every year, typically weeks before the official start of Fall (September 22,) the heavy summer air takes a vacation for a few days, teasing us with what beautiful weather is to come. Although these wonderful days last only a week or so, I am always so thankful to have them. Not only do they remind me of how much I love the upcoming season, but they also act as a breath of fresh air, after a summer stuck indoors, air conditioning on high, and a slight case of lethargy. Today is one of those days, morningtime and a mere 63 degrees with the bright sun shining. Had it not been a weekday, today would have been the perfect day for a yard sale run or an outdoor antique market visit. Alas, it is still Summer, and I still have a few more weeks until pumpkins and mums begin to pop-up at my local farmstand. Fall may not officially arrive for a few more weeks, but who says we can't start early? Feeling the "Autumnal blues" I thought I would look up some inspirational eye-candy for all of the creative bloggers who adore the season as much as I do, since the October issues of my favorite magazines do not come out for at least another week. Enjoy the little pieces of joy below for now, but remain patient, because Fall will soon reward you with all of its loveliness!

PS: *Site still UNDER CONSTRUCTION*

Un-announced Summer Hiatus

2008-08-26T11:35:00.005-05:00

Hey there!! I'm sure those of you who still had it in their hearts to check back to my blog every so often must have thought I vanished off the face of the Earth, but I am still here!! I decided to take a long needed break, take some time for myself, and take some time to get some things finished. I give you now dear blog readers a proposal; If you have even the slightest ounce of hope for me left running through your creative veins, please do stick around and check back soon, because I promise it will the best "Adventures of Gigi" you have seen in a while! I'm tackling some long needed changes to the layout, so pardon any of the construction you may see.. I cannot wait to get started soon!

Springtime & The Living is Easy

2008-03-20T07:20:00.013-05:00

Okay, so I know I said "more coming soon," but you know me and "soon" simply means a minimum of a week ;). Sorry about the long departure, but I am kinda feeling good about this whole spring blogging thing. You see last year when I created my blog I couldn't stop making new posts or visiting new sites. But now that its been over a year, I pretty much have thoroughly looked at most of the blogs I love, and now I am left with occasional daily check ups to see who updated theirs, while mine sits here dull and lonesome. I think that happens to all of us in blogland at one point or another, I know that when I first discovered blogging by googling "Shabby Chic" and winding up on one of the queen of bloglands sites, I was utterly amazed and couldn't believe the world in which I had just ventured into, and now I feel as though that excitement has blossomed with the coming of Spring once again, and hopefully as a benefit to all of my dear blog readers, you will be seeing a whole lot more posts, with all things crafty and inspiring!
Off the topic of my blog and onto the Flower Show, I know you have been waiting for these, so here they are. Students from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia were to make their debut to the public by creating beautiful dresses out of recycled items. My favorite would have to be the one above, made of old film. The orange plastic barricade one is also very nice, but I did not snap a photo of the one made of rubber gloves with imprinted faces because it was really creepy; I mean silence of the lambs creepy ;) Below the dresses are pieces of jewelry made of natural items such as leaves & twigs, etcetera. I personally think that the artists included in this years flower show totally blew the arrangements out of the water. Very very creative people out there might I add! And scattered throughout are some more vignettes of New Orleans streets, and close up shots of a floral alligator, cherry blossoms & of course roses!Perfect post for the first day of Spring huh? Enjoy!

Swingin' into Spring

2008-03-10T19:08:00.013-05:00

So yeah, I kind of just left you hangin' on my last post didn't I? Sorry about that, I was kind of in a rush and had wanted to add a little linkage to a previous post but I was about to leave to go to the bah da da da *2008 Philadelphia Flower Show.* Yep, I had been waiting all month long to go, and especially being stricken with Spring Fever, it was the perfect remedy for my winter blues. Again, this year did not disappoint, and I was pleasantly suprised by all the glorious flowers and innovative designs that artists from around the country had made.
I am going to share a different segment on the Flower show in my next post, but for now this post is all about flowers! (as it should be.) This years theme I believe was "Big Band," with hints of Louisiana, the bayou, and of course Jazz music. Greeted by a giant piano entry way and musical instruments made of intricately placed carnations of all colors, the views were amazing and the aroma was out of this world! I won't babble on anymore, I'll let you decide! Enjoy!!

Lets take a little tour shall we?

Check back soon... Lots more to come!!

Anatomy of a Rose

2008-03-05T16:53:00.005-05:00

Ahh, how wonderful that soon-to-be Springtime breeze feels today!! I'm tellin ya, I have been in the mood for Spring all this week and last, and today I thought instead of just letting my blog sit for yet another week, I would share a few of my favorite things. Roses have been one of my favorite flowers since I can remember, much like the rest of the world, but certain roses catch my attention more than others. Billowy petals, and pastel colors automatically make me look twice. Since my all time favorite flower is the Peony, roses that resemble the peony in any way shape or form always make it to the top of my list. Since I have been in the mood for Spring lately, (although I wouldn't mind a couple more snow storms ;) I decided I would put together a little visual aid for all of you dear readers, since I am sure that most of you are dealing with Spring Fever as well.
I went online to the Queen of Good Things website, and of course found an array of beautiful images and plentiful information regarding all sorts of plants and flowers, of course including roses.. So here it is my friends, just a short list of a couple favorites on Martha's behalf. Hope you enjoy it as much as I have, and hopefully you'll check back tomorrow because somebody I know (ehem...) is going somewhere tonight that fits in perfectly with this post and Spring of course ;)

Wishes Granted

2008-02-13T17:35:00.006-05:00

Coming home on this rainy and slightly snowy afternoon, I was pleasantly surprised by the red white and blue box that was sitting in front of my door. I have been waiting for over a week for this package of goodies to arrive and finally today of all days it has come! When I reached the door, and picked the box up I was appalled to see that it was soaking wet and slushy all over. "I cannot believe this!" I screamed out loud, luckily no one hearing, and I rushed inside, found a pair of scissors and cut the box open. I thought I was going to find a pile of mushy papery mess, with soaking seam binding and drippy glue. Instead I was thrilled to see that everything had been gorgeously packaged by that crafty Andrea, and not only that, it was all gently protected by gorgeous pink and brown tissue paper. The tissue paper had soaked up all of the wetness and left me with a feeling of pure joy.
My heart skipped a beat when I opened up all of the individually wrapped seam bindings, and vintage ledger papers, and my nose was delighted by the almondy sweetness that those Cocoina glue sticks emit. "WOW" were the words that crept out of my mouth as I opened up the elegantly packaged glass glitter bottle and the Flea Market flash cards. Today has been a wonderful day, despite the rainy muck that encompassed the package and the rest of PA. Beauty rested inside, and now my craft room is full of a whole lot of pretties. I cannot wait to use these new supplies, and order some more in a couple of days. Won't you head on over to One Hundred Wishes, you wont be disappointed!! PS: Happy Valentines Day to all, perhaps tomorrow I will share a little treat with you, since all of you are so deserving of some craft love!

Im Sorry, So Sorry

2008-01-25T13:05:00.001-05:00

Where on Earth has the month of January gone?!? Last thing I know I'm tellin ya the next time you'll see me is sitting in front of a present piled tree sipping a nice hot cup of chocolate and bam! January 25th. I have no specific excuse, many things have been happening in my life, and along with them alot of stress as well. I have been piled up with responsibilties, a sometimes inbearable workload, and to top that off the stress of the new year and my resolutions (which I have decided to start in February ;)
So now that I have found some time to relax, and take a couple pictures here and there, I decided to craft. Craft is a word that I have not thought of in over a month, not since wrapping my presents (which by the way were super snazzy, but all were unwrapped ;( So anyways, January has rushed through and I feel as though I have had no time for myself. So today, I decided that I was going to craft up something for the coming Holiday, seeing that all of my recent magazines are filling me with Valentines inspiration. I'm only showing a few snippets of the pieces, since I still have not decided what I am going to do with them. I just love the red sequins and the glitter, and that green I felt just went so nicely with my "Love Potion" that I'm cooking up. As for now, I have some events lined up ahead such as the Philadelphia Antique Show, Redners Antique Show, and the Spice Girls Concert (*yeah, I'm goin ;) So hopefully I'll have pictures to share with you of my future adventures. Right now, I think I'm gonna go keep working on my valentines projects and perhaps purchase a few crafty items online. Until next time, wishing you love and inspiration!

The Final Countdown...

2007-12-20T10:06:00.000-05:00

WOW, just 5 more days until the big one!! And is it that horrible for me to say that I still have yet to go Christmas Shopping!?!? Yes my friends, it is true... I am a procrastinator, and this is one of the worst cases for me. I cannot believe that I have waited until five days remain to buy a load of presents that wouldn't even fit on Santa's sleigh!! To make myself feel a little less anxious, I have bought a few presents for my mom, but that is all. I do have lists upon lists of present ideas for people, so I've gotten the "What to get?" question dealt with, now I just need to fight the traffic and the lines at America's second largest mall. I am usually a shop-a-holic, visiting the mall at least once a week, but I... haven't... been there in.... 2 months!! How have I been able to live?? Just kidding, but you would think that for someone who loves shopping so much that they would go and get it done and over with. Well, I am going today my friends, venturing out into a world of Christmas Chaos and last minute shoppers (ehem...) and getting it all finished. This is not just another one of those "half promises" of mine, this is a fact! ( You see I must tell myself that so I don't totally have a Christmas Breakdown.
Anyhoo, I am going today, meeting my sister for lunch, then perhaps shop with her for a little bit, see what extravagant new items she's been eyeing up, and see if my pockets don't burn holes in themselves by the end of the night. I also have to get wrapping paper, probably brown kraft paper with luxurious ribbon or raffia and tea stained tags. I am still unsure; I bought this really pretty blue plaid print at Target, with brown velvet ribbon, but I am unsure if it is matte or shiny. I like to use matte finished papers, don't ask why, I just think it looks better. Alrighty, well I am going to finish up here, since I do have a ton to do today, and hopefully the next time I post, you will see dozens of beautifully wrapped gifts with a nice cup of hot coco and The Grinch playing in the background! Wishing you timely holiday shopping and wrapping, as well as cups of frothy hot chocolate!!
ps: Today is my 50th post, somewhere in the near future, you will be seeing a suprise for all of my dear readers... Make sure you stay tuned!!

Rockin' around the Christmas Tree...

2007-12-14T22:07:00.000-05:00

That good old Christmas clock is ticking away and there is just about 10 more days until Christmas!! Meaning that in the next 10 days I must finish all of my shopping, give my own "Wish Lists" out and finish up decorating and of course wrapping presents. Never has a Christmas been so hectic as it has been this year, and although it has been nerve wracking at times, I still cannot wait until the big day! I have been uber busy this entire month, and I am quite surprised that I even had the time to get a tree let alone decorate it! I have not forgotten about you dear blog, just ignored once again, and I am sorry once again, and I hope you understand. We are all busy women and I know that everyone's life gets hectic at times.
Alrighty off of the bad topics and onto Christmas!! So last Saturday I went to the local Nursery and picked out my tree, a frasier fir like every other year. I also enjoyed my annual cup of apple cider that I always get while the tree is being drilled and I picked up a beautiful wreath for the front door. I then proceeded to wait a week, stock piling ornaments and garlands for the past month in my living room, and finally tonight I found the time to decorate my tree. I also decorated my bay window a couple of days ago with lights and different sized and shaped ornaments floating at different heights from ribbon. I admit that this is not how I planned I would decorate, all in one crazy night, but thats how it happened and now I can finally enjoy it all. I'll post some pictures of the tree in a couple of days, and maybe even the silver tinsel tree I set up in my guest bedroom/ studio. As for the decorations, well Target and KMarts stock just went sky high since Genevieve bought out most of their supplies. I'm tellin ya, the day after Thanksgiving, me and the other decorators were going head to head, "fighting" each other to get the last glass glitter snowflakes at Target (which I did ;) Lets just say that Target and Kohls did not disappoint with their wide selection of gorgeous glass glitter ornaments. I am sure you've already visited and gotten some yourself, so for now heres just some inspiration (as if you need it!) Enjoy!!

Brocante Home's Puttery Treat Challenge

2007-11-20T20:21:00.000-05:00

"Get up very, very early. Just you. Creep downstairs, light candles and drink coffee in the dark, melancholy silence of an early Winter morning."

Waking up in the darkness of the sweet, calm morning, I feel the icy breeze dash across my nose from the cracked window above me. Pushing myself out of my warm nest, I stretch to the new days beginning and slip on my fluffy slippers. Heading to the kitchen, I hear but not one noise, perhaps the yawn of Metayo as he adjusts his eyes to the darkness (for he is not used to waking up so early.) With the creaking of the kitchen door, I am happily awakened by the earthy aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Carefully swishing my feet across the dark kitchen tile, I base my direction on the flashing green light of the coffee maker. With my cup placed out from last night, with a slightly tarnished vintage family spoon acting as the stirrer of the day’s future, I pour in my hazelnut creamer, and mix in the sugar. I begin to light the tea lights which are placed in aged mercury glass holders amongst the windowsill, and peer outside to my backyard, which has been transformed to a snow covered wonderland overnight. I lean back on the kitchen counter with coffee in hand, and sip away all the worries of yesterday, and plan what delights await me in the day ahead. I am calm, I am silent, I am peaceful, but I am not alone. I soon hear the scurrying of Metayo’s paws on the floor and feel his side rub against my leg. He sits and stares at me, silently asking me to take him outside in the snow, to play in natures glistening beauty. I now tie up my snow boots, slip on my comfy down jacket and step outside with Metayo. The sun is beginning to rise, and the snow in all of its winters glory has blanketed the sounds of early morning. I stand in the icy blanket, with the mornings breeze wisping through my hair, and listen to the glorious sounds of nature, the sounds of winter, the sounds of peace.

*Image Courtesy of Creativty+'s

Do visit Allison's 'scrumptiously' lovely blog!! The Brocante Home Chronicles

Shes a sneaky one...

2007-10-24T20:56:00.000-05:00

Okay, Okay, I could not take it any longer... I must... post... my hat!!! I confess I did send it out later then the set due date because of some technical difficulties with some of the details, so therefore I have waited extra long to share the completed project with you all. Not that it is very important to your or anything, I thought I would finally post the pictures of the hat I made for Speckled Eggs Halloween Hat swap. Since it is just one more week until Halloween, and of course since I have been deserting you to the MAX, I thought I could quite possibly, make it up to you? I promise this is not the only thing that will come in the future. More "In the Kitchens" and perhaps even a few "Fashion Fridays" tucked in the schedule as well. I dont want to ruin anything, but hint.. hint.. my 50th post is coming up soon, just in time for the holidays!! I am going to try to make it to 100 posts before my blogs 1 year anniversary!! That is now my goal, and I promise I will try to reach it!!
Alrighty, now back to the hat... I took your basic party hat cone shape, made one out of heavy duty scrapbook paper, and then added some shredded paper, glitter, vellum, and all that jazz. A few squiggly eyes later, Voila! I was going for more of a vintage inspired Halloween, the classic colors, plus some sheet music and tea stained papers. I really love how it turned out, and I hope my partner Robyn loved it as much as I do. It was really hard to part with, and I believe that the UPS arrival date said Wednesday October 25th, so I'm patiently awaiting what she thinks. I also added a card (not shown) and a goody bag of some scrumptious candies.. Yummo, candy corn how I love thee!! Okay, now on with the rest of the pictures; enjoy the eye candy (pardon the pun!) Until next time wishing you goody bags full of candy corn and Halloween inspirations!

Thank you Mr. Postman....

2007-10-17T18:26:00.000-05:00

Hello all, yes I am still here, and no I am not going to appologize for deserting you once again because I know you are all tired of hearing about it ;) So on to why I made this blog, to keep in touch, inspire and be inspired by others! Okay, so the other day I am watching my DVR'd episode of Martha, when I hear the mailman come to drop off the mail. I pause my Martha, go outside, and as I turn around to go back inside I notice I large brown UPS box in the corner of my eye. I was soo excited and shocked that I dropped the mail and ran into the house for a pair of scissors. Once it was opened I found a sweet handmade card from Robyn, my Halloween Hat Swap partner. I also found a cute Halloween inspired ribbon and as I dug through the seemingly endless array of styrofoam balls, I spotted it. Orange glittery goodness in all of its glory!! I picked it up and admired the details, the fabrics she used, the vintage childrens hat, and the glitter. Not to mention that gorgeous 'G.' How had she known I had been wanting one of those? Anyways I am proud to say that it is now being displayed on a vintage urn with the rest of my fall decor. And might I add that it just goes so well!! I cannot thank you enough Robyn, and I can't wait for you to recieve mine!
I know I told you that I would share a few sneek peaks at the hat, but before I got to take some close up details, I had to ship it off to California. So I will wait until I get news that Robin's postman delivered it, and then I will show you because I want her to be surprised! Alrighty, well these past few weeks (ughh... has it really been that long?) have been very busy. My great Uncles came over from California for the first time in my life, and might I add they are super-fun!! I cannot wait to visit them, and since I'll be in CA, I might just have to travel to some of the great spots I read about in Blogland. As some type of payment for my time away I thought I share with you some pictures of the hat Robyn made. Until the next time, perhaps Saturday (when I buy some pumpkins and those flowers I've been talking about) I wish you beautiful fall days and some suprises in the mail!!
ps: Did anyone catch Wendy Addison on Martha yesterday?? And VICTORIA magazine is BACK!!!

Octobers Splendor...

2007-10-01T17:57:00.000-05:00

Ahh, the brisk days of fall have fallen upon us and the leaves are beginning to change color. I'm tellin ya, October 1st has got me all to excited for the fall (like I have said oh so many times before!) I have been working on getting out my Halloween/Fall decor out, but I still haven't found the time. I'm hoping that tomorrow will be the day that I unearth all of those annual goodies. Am I the only one who feels like its Christmas morning when I open up the fall decor box and see all of the goodies that I have long forgotten and sometimes even forgot that I had? If so, then call me crazy because I am crazily in L.O.V.E with Fall!! As you can see I am starting to get in the mood for fall, with my small purchase of 3 mini pumpkins and some of the scraps from my Halloween Hat swap project.
I did not want to show you too much, in fear that the woman I am sending it to might get an early surprise. I worked on finishing it up this weekend and I just have to add a few more details to make it beautiful. I'm starting to get orders for these hats now, everyone that sees the in-the-process Halloween Hat is always saying "Oh you should make one for so and so, she loves Halloween." So maybe that will be my new venture, a world in creating lovely party hats. There are just so many creative souls out there, that hold so much talent, and are an inspiration to me everyday! Anyhoo, back onto Halloween, I am hoping on getting over to the farm stand to pick up my pumpkins and mums and pansies. Ohh, I was there last week and they hat black and caramel colored pansies which I am hoping are not sold out by now. I'm thinking them along with some baby cabbages for the front, and of course some carved jack-o-lanterns! I promise, more fall adventures lie ahead, so dont miss out, and oh yeah Ill sneak a few more peeks of the hat for you as well! Wishing you crisp and beautiful fall days!

Bundles Of...

2007-09-24T16:48:00.000-05:00

Well, Fall has finally arrived and although the days are hot, the nights are nice and cool and I dont mind the warmer then usual temperatures. The trees have a slight auburn color which is slowly covering each tree with the brilliant palette of fall. I must apologize for my two week vacation from blogland. I did have things to show you (yeah, yeah, how many times has she said that?) I really did, but I have just been soooo busy. Busy with all sorts of things, especially work. Ughhh, anyways I have been waiting to post up my new blog header, made by myself for this fall season. I finally got Photoshop Elements, so I was able to start doodling in digi scrapbooking. Remember, I'm a newbie at this, so dont expect too much ;)
I have been soo excited lately for Fall, all of the events that happen, the hayrides, and mazes, as well as the trips to buy pumpkins, mums and gourds at the farm. I pass by my local farm stand every morning, and I just love it as the sun is rising and the ghostlike fog is still hovering over the remaining sunflowers and zinnias. I also drive by slow everyday, and even at seven o'clock in the morning, the workers are out their loading those beautiful cinderella pumpkins and the new halloween decorations. I'm tellin ya' these people probably think I'm crazy since I slow down to see what new items they are loading. Over the weekend they began to lay out the pumpkins for selection, and the rows and rows of soon blooming mums are waiting to be transplanted. Today I thought I would show you some books I found at the thrift store, from 1867 (top) to 1951 (bottom) these books along with their colors fit perfectly with the colors in my room. And of course I had to show you a collection of the ever-growing October magazine issues which offer tons of Fall inspiration. That reminds me, tomorrow I have to take out the fall decorations and start getting this place cozied up. Goodbye pastels and hello burnt orange and cranberry! I promise I will share some sneak previews of my Halloween Hat swap project that I am working on, I'll post them this week! Okay, well thats all for now, wishing you crisp fall mornings, and a tasty orchard fresh apple!

ps: How much do you enjoy fall?

Hats Off to You!

2007-09-11T19:38:00.000-05:00

I am just going to say that I am truly, deeply and completely sorry for deserting you once again. I do have some reasons as to why I took a "Blogiday" (ehem.. more like week(s)" but I know from some of the blogs that I read daily that even when they are busy, which is a much busier busy then mine, they still take the time share a few creations or inspirations. I not only ignored you for a week, but I also ignored my favorite blogs. Boy I'll tell ya, I have got some reading to do!!
Anyways, I promise I will try to update it at least twice a week, if not three times, especially now with the new Fall season coming up, and adventures for buying mums, pumpkins and ghourds, as well as finding the perfect Halloween candy and showing you the process of my Halloween Hat swap!! So, you know you are in for a treat in the next few months with all of the Holidays and get togthers. Ladies I just can't wait!! The images I am sharing with you today are of some of my Great Aunt's old hats full of vintage millinery flowers, and velvet ribbons, ohh and I especially love that pink one!!! I grabbed as many as I could hold, since she is planning on throwing them away. Now I can display them and whenever I look at them, I will always remember my Aunt Cida! Since today is a very important date in the lives of many, I am sending hats off to you, as well as to those who have lost a loved one on todays anniversary six years ago. I send my hopes and prayers to those who have lost someone, and many thanks to those who helped in the dismal weeks after as well as the many years fighting in the war. God Bless you all!!

9/11 Forever in our Hearts...
"Faith is the bird that sings when the dawn is still dark."
~Rabindranath Tagore

Sweet September

2007-09-01T20:39:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe that it is already the first day of September!! I am happily suprised, but Summer just flew by so quickly. I have been reading my daily blogs throughout the night, and I have discovered that today was a beautiful day all throughout the country. In my neck of the woods it was sunny, bright blue skies all day, with puffy white clouds and a cool breeze. The perfect entrance into Fall. I believe that Fall is my favorite season, since it's not too hot and not too cold, and the natural surroundings are glorious. The smell of apple cider and pumpkin pie entice your senses, and haystacks and pumpkins line every doorway. Fall is a time, that no matter what neighborhood your passing through, every house takes the time to spruce up a little bit. If I am not mistaken, I believe Fall is a world renowned favorite season of us bloggers.
Alrighty, well lets change the topic for a bit and travel on to craft supplies... Long story short, my Great Aunt is moving from the house that she has occupied for I believe her entire married life, and she is giving away all of the "stuff" that she has. Now, I like to collect things, pretty things, but my Aunt, well she is the hoarder of all things "vintage." Whether it's a plastic bag for a plaid comforter from 1978 or my Great Grandmothers writing desk, you can find it in her basement. She is planning on putting everything to the curb in a few weeks, and when I heard this, my sister and I drove over to her house to get as many family heirlooms as possible. I mean, I don't want the trunk that my grandparents brought over from Sicily getting picked up by some stranger. So we discovered so many things in that basement, and we even need to rent a storage unit to hold it all until we find more space. As for little things, I now have found the family culprit as to where I get my "creative gene." I know my gardening comes from my maternal Grandmother, maternal Great Grandfather, and paternal Grandfather. And my decorating/ housekeeping/ cooking gene comes from my two Grandmothers, but I never knew where I got that little crafty gene, even though my mom did enjoy sewing at one point in her life. And when I uncovered that old plastic sheet in a dingy corner in her basement, I unearthed countless numbers of mica flakes, glass glitters, buttons, and bags of colored glass which I took as well. Even though my Great Aunt was into knitting and crocheting, she still enjoyed Glitter!! I brought home countless goodies, such as old hats, my Great Grandmothers tea cup collection, family linens, etc. I am just happy to have these items passed down the family tree instead of into some strangers living room! The pictures today show the glitter I found and my method of getting the dingy smell out of old buttons... Good old soap n' water!! Until next time, wishing you fabulous "Fall" days and some family treasures!

In the Kitchen Pt. 3

2007-08-28T11:31:00.000-05:00

Line up my fellow blog readers, In the Kitchen with your host Genevieve is back for another segment!! This time we are focusing on the fruits of summer, which in a few weeks will no longer be at their prime "tastiness!" This recipe is simple, easy to clean up, and of course ohh so delicious!! You can substitute the fruits I used for the ones that you prefer such as strawberries, cherries, raspberries, etc, etc. I just chose to use what I always have in the fruit bowl and refrigerator. Whenever you come into my kitchen, you will see a beautiful glass fruit bowl overflowing with plums, juicy peaches, sweet nectarines, and crunchy apples. Not to forget about the fridge, as soon as you feel that cool blast as you open the door, you are greeted with all sorts of fresh berries, awaiting to be used in a delicious summer dish!
That is why, today my friends, I decided to use up some of this fruit including plums, peaches, nectarines, and blueberries, to create a simple Summer Crostata!! I followed no exact recipe, but I will share the steps with you so you as well can enjoy this tasty dish!! Start with fruits of your choice, in this case plums, nectarines, peaches and blueberries. Make sure you rinse them all off, and cut them into small slices (exclude berries.) In a bowl, mix fruit along with 1/4 cup of sugar. (* Please note, many crostata recipes call for more sugar, but I think that the juices from the fruit act just as well!) I also add a little dusting of flour to help thicken the juice that will be released as the fruit heats up. Now I know the next step is not very "Martha-esque" but since we all don’t have the time to whip up some homemade pie crust, I must admit I.... I used a pre-made crust!! That is what makes this dish soo easy, of course along with the cleanup as well!! Next, butter your cookie tray or pie plate, place the crust down and pile on the fruity goodness!! Pleat the crust into standard crostata form and place in a pre-heated 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes, or until fruit is bubbling, and crust is golden brown! I am soo excited to try this dish, since as I type this, it is still cookin’ away in the oven. As soon as it's done, I'll take a picture of it and load them up!! Well, that’s all for today, hope you ladies enjoy the recipe and pictures, and I hope you find the time to make one for your family!!

All Buttoned Up....

2007-08-25T13:58:00.000-05:00

Wow, I have desserted you once again and this time I don't have anyone or anything to blame. My computer was working fine, as well as my camera, and I do have a bunch of stuff to share with you. But, this week was kind of a drab, cloudy, humid week that pretty much sucked the life out of me once I stepped outside. With all of these hurricanes and cold fronts and warm fronts clashing, the last few weeks of summer have been gray and dingy. But, I found stuff to do, went on some flea market trips and found some more treasures to show you. I have also gotten myself nice and organized, so now my craft items and vintage pieces are'nt thrown around the house.
I would like to thank ALL of you who wished me a Happy Birthday, I did have a lovely one!! Your comments were all much appreciated and made my day and days after even better. Oh how I love having blogger friends, its soo interesting to know people from all over the world, all connected with creative souls. You are all too sweet, and soon I will reward you for every kind comment and wish you have given me, I promise!!
As for today's post, well lets just say "The French Inspired Home" has gotten me into a little bit of a collectors mode. After reading that book inside and out, I have been taking so many trips to the thrift store, and flea markets, and I have started my first collection of vintage buttons. I love the packaging so much that I don't want to take them off of it, so for now they will just be displayed in pretty jars or cases. Yesterday, since I was in the area (well sort of, not really ;) I stopped by the thrift store once again and spotted some vintage mother of pearl buttons and silver floral ones. I was soo excited, since I have never seen any buttons in there before. I am also planning on heading over there at least once a week, since they are starting to put out their halloween stuff along with Christmas stuff!! Ohhh I cannot wait, and even though you have to search through some junk to find the treasures, its always worth it!! The buttons in the milkglass vase are from a flea market I visited with my mother last Saturday and the mixed buttons are the ones I found yesterday. I am sorry for not posting all week, and I plan on making it up to you this coming week!! Wishing you beautiful sunny days and some inspiration to start a collection of your own!!

Happy Happy Birthday!!!

2007-08-17T12:47:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, like I had said in my last post, I have some exciting news!! As I am sure that you have already guessed since the title is what it is and the photos are of a party hat I made, today is my Birthday!! Born August 17th at 8:30 A.M. I tried to wake up before 8:30, and I did but... then I said just 5 more minutes and woke up an hour later. I always like to be awake, I dont know why, its not like I feel the transition into another year older or anything. Well anyhoo, in the morning my sister stopped over and brought me this bag with a gift certificate in it. Oh I was so happy, and she would have gotten me a certain necklace, but they are out of stock until September, I know bummer but September, I can wait!! I have been wanting that necklace for soo long, and I am finally going to get it. I then traveled to lunch with my dad and sister at the local restaurant I told you about in this post for a zep (an italian hoagie) and a basket of fries, shared of course!! Then we stopped at our favorite italian ice shop down the street for a lemon and watermelon waterice. Yummm!! As if that was not enough, when I came home, as soon as I settled in I heard a knock at the door, and guess who it was, yepp the mailman!! He had a big box in his hand with my name on it and I quickly grabbed it, said thank you and ran into the kitchen for a pair of scissors. Amongst all of the tissue paper was this book and this book. I have had them on my wishlist for months, and my mom knew the perfect present!! Thanks soo much mom, I love them!! Okay, well tonight I am going to go to dinner with my family, its a tradition, then maybe catch Becoming Jane. The pictures are of my birthday hat I made this past Monday, and I really like it. I especially like the curly cues, I am sure you do too!! Okay, well just wanted to do a quick post, because I have some books to read!! ;) Wishing you as always time with your friends and family and some special gifts just for you!!

Some Mix and a Match...

2007-08-15T20:22:00.001-05:00

Hello again dear blog, getting back into the swing of things as you can tell!! So I have some exciting things to show you, and that usually means some of my thrifty vintage finds!! So anyhoo, I have a thrift store right near my house, and for some odd reason, even though JoAnn fabrics is right near it, and I am always in JoAnn's, I never seem to walk on through those doors. I have donated things to them, been in there maybe once or twice when they first openend, but have not revisited for countless months. So, on Monday I decided that I would venture on over to that giant thrift store!!
Even though it was early Monday afternoon, that place was hopping!! I couldn't believe it, and I also couldn't believe how many little treasures that store had waiting for me!! I traveled through each of the isles which contained glassware ranging from the 40's up until present day, then made my way to the book section and of course magazine area!! My hands were so full by the time I reached the magazine area that I didn't even bother looking through everything. I did see some old Living magazines which I should have snagged, and a BRAND NEW decorating book which I have seen at the major book stores for thirty dollars!! Well, I think I'm gonna be heading up there at least twice a month, just to see what they have since they are always getting donations!! So as you can see by the pictures, I picked up a couple cute little vintage vases. On my way to the cashier I spotted that smaller dotted Fire King milk glass vase that matches my larger one as seen on my Flickr page. I also picked up a taller milk glass vase, a small dotted single vase, a vintage silver tray along with a composition book from the early 1900's for just a few cents!! I couldn't believe that find, and I was so happy when I only spent a few dollars on the entire purchase!! Oh how I love thrift stores, dont you too!?!? Okay, well I have surprise for you on Friday, ohh I cannot wait, I know you will enjoy it as much as I will!! Alright until Friday my blogger friends, wishing you thrifty adventures and vintage finds!!

I made that little vase full of cockscomb and goose-neck foliage for my grandfather who was in the Hospital with a urinary tract infection. He's doing good now, but his father always grew the cockscomb in his garden, so I knew he'd enjoy it!!

Little Gems...

2007-08-11T22:13:00.001-05:00

Hello again dear blog, how have you been?? I know I have deserted you once again, but I swear I had a good reason!!! You see, I knew that I would be heading up to an Antique/Farmers market this Saturday, so I thought I would wait to show you some vintage pretties. This past Thursday, while at lunch with my dear sister and our friend, we made plans to head up there for a little day trip with the girls. So, this morning I awoke bright and early, and when I say early, boy do I mean early, and got ready for our little adventure. Once I acted as the personal alarm clock for all who were going, we met up and got into my friends Jeep since it was such a beautiful day. With my hair blowing in the wind, we headed down to a favorite breakfast/lunch/dinner joint that we have been going to since we were babies to have the best breakfast and coffee in town. With our stomachs full and our blood pumping with caffeine, we turned up the music and took a beautiful drive past all of the farmers stands and yard sales and were finally greeted with a smiling farmer on the sign that has been there for years. Although, the girls had wanted to go here for no particular reason, really just to see what they had been missing for the gap in years since their last visit, I knew exactly what I was looking for, and I'm sure you know too. Greeted by the pungent aroma of roasted peanuts, and spices galore, we strolled through the aisles, stopping in candle shops and home good stands. Finally, after patiently awaiting the moment, we took our steps outside into the bright sun and headed towards the Antique area.
As soon as we got inside, I headed over to a little antique stand, and started looking through the vintage brooches and jewelry. To my amazement, the girls followed me and started expressing to me how much they loved the little gems. And I thought I was the only one who enjoyed antiques, but I guess I was wrong, and even though they do not share the same fondness of milk, jadite, and depression glass as I do, its a start!! So the images that you see are what I picked up, and since we were on a bit of a time crunch I did not get to peruse through the aisles as much as I would have liked, but I was very happy with my purchases! The brooches are art-deco styled from the late 40's to early 50's and the jadite salt and pepper shakers actually match my jadite cup and saucer. I saved another treasure for a different post, since I think it deserves one all by itself. And as for you my dear blog readers, I thought you deserved a brownie for all the times I have deserted you without prior notice. Okay, I'll stop blabbing on, and leave you with wishes of antique finds and some good old time with your friends and family!!

Bitten...

2007-08-04T19:58:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, sorry for the long departure of photos of my own, and of course of posts about what this blog is all about!! So, like I had said in my last post, I watched the movie again, and my creative spark was lit!! Although I have been quite busy these past couple of weeks, and theres tons of stuff to do around the house, I found some time to make things which I think you might enjoy. Firstly, I got out some of my pink vellum papers, and pink and clear sequins and went to town making these cute little scrunchies. I am not sure what the exact word for them is, all I know is I love em!! I have no idea what I am going to use them for, so for now, they are in a big hurricane lamp, which I plan on adding to, of course in different colors. I was thinking that maybe in the Springtime, or anytime really, that you could scatter them throughout the house in vintage or new apothecary jars, for a burst of color, and of course some inspiration!!
I have been online quite a bit lately, not so much on blogs, but looking at some of our favorite online shops. I find myself adding so much to my "Cart" that I have almost bought the entire store. I not only see beautiful things while online, I also recieve inspiration, and that is what the beaded wire, full of mirrored glass seed beads is for. I am not going to tell you what it is for, but I will deffinately post a picture of it, if of course my idea does not fail!! Oh yes, and all of these wonderful online boutiques from our fellow crafty bloggers are opened or are soon opening, and I am OH SO EXCITED!! I am excited for them, as well as for myself and the rest of us. It's kind of like getting your hands on some of their own personal style, since they wouldn't post anything that they wouldn't use themselves, at least I think ;)!! Okay, well tomorrow is my Church's feast day, and pork sandwiches and fried dough HERE I COME!! Yummo, I cannot wait.. Alright, well another quick post, since I have lots of stuff to do!! Until another day my friends, wishing you creativity and tons of inspiration!!

You've Got M@il...

2007-08-01T19:00:00.000-05:00

Indeed, "three very powerful words." Perhaps pertaining to your email account, but in my case, I am talking about the wonderfully charming movie. I am sure that many of you have seen it at some point since it came out in 1998, and I know that alot of you count it as one of your favorite movies as well. You may be asking yourself "Why is she talking about some movie and not some new craft or flower?" Well my friends, I have to admit, this past week has seen little crafting and little time in the garden. I did not want to bore you with another vase of zinnias, since that is one place I visited yet again (Farm Stand,) so I decided to present you with my love of a good hearted movie, that makes you want to go and move to New York City, or on a tad bit less extravagant note, go and buy the soundtrack. I am not here to try to promote or sell you this movie, I just wanted to share why I love it so much.
Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks if not in relationships of their own or for Tom's sake married, should have gotten married, at least after this one. I mean, "Sleepless in Seattle" was great, but how can you resist this movie!?!? Their on-screen chemistry really enhanced this movie, and made it even more light heartedly romantic then it would have been with two different actors. Based on "Shop Around the Corner", a classic with James Stewart made in 1940, (yep, not a coincidence that Kathleens bookstore was named that) it's just as fabulous! I admit to you, my dear readers, that whenever I find "You've Got Mail" on HBO, or on another channel, I always watch it, or if busy, I just leave it on while I'm in the other room in order to listen to the music. And although it may be pitiful that I know each scene, almost word for word, and even though I know what happens in the end, it just never gets old for me. It leaves me yearning for the fall, spent outside, or buying "school supplies" and then for the Spring, enjoying life at a New York farmers market. Not only that, it also makes me want to pack up my things, find a brownstone in New Yorks Westside, and also set up a little bookstore. I could go on forever talking about this film and all of its New York glory, but I thought that this would be more interesting than hearing about the very little that I have done all week which consisted of cleaning, cooking and sunbathing, NO crafting.. I know, I know, I need to get bitten with the creative bug again, but for now, I'm going to go watch it again ;) Until the next time my friends, wishing you a sunny August welcome, and some time to curl up and watch one of your favorites!!

*Pictures courtesy of Google Images and IMDB.com

A Zinnia for You...

2007-07-24T19:56:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I am SOOOO sorry for the long departure... I should have at least told you that I would not have my camera for a week, but I really didn't get the time to, plus I don't like to post without adding some interest with pictures. My sister had to borrow my camera for the week since she was going on vacation down the Outer Banks and doesn't have a digi camera of her own. I told her to get a disposable, but then I gave in. One week wouldn't hurt... well it kinda did ;) I have had soo many things in the past week to take pictures of and share, but I had no camera. So oh well, she enjoyed her trip and came back with amazing pictures.
As for todays post, its a quickie, since I don't have much time. For the past few weeks I have been obsessed with going to the local farm where they carry home grown fruits and veggies as well as flowers galore plus tons of other things. They have their own zinnia garden where you can pick as many as you want, just pay for a pair of scissors and get started. I must confess I did not actually go and cut these from the acre of zinnias, but I did pick them from a huge flower holder. For those of us who don't the time, as much as we would like to have, they go and restock that bin every few hours full of fresh colorful zinnias. I love zinnias, they're a happy flower, last long and the colors are amazing. You can see I found a use for those vintage jars in the previous post, and oh how I'm lovin them!! I got some more flowers at the stand, and plan to go back this week for more. Next post, is ummm... well we'll see on Thursday!! Wishing you garden bliss and summertime color!!

In the Kitchen Pt. 2

2007-07-14T19:55:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, how has everyones weekend gone by so far? I hope all is well, and I hope that you enjoy this post. As you can see, it's yet another session of "In the Kitchen" with your host: Gigi. You are probably going to think I am Martha Stewart obsessed (which I kind of am) but today I am showing you yet another Martha recipe aside from my Hazelnut blondies. This recipe was also in the July 2007 issue of Living, and Man Oh Man was it Gooooood!!! For a little summer kick, I added some light and colorful brown rice salad from this show, and enjoyed dinner. I was so happy with how they turned out, that I gave some to everyone I know, and bragged about them to those who didn't get the chance to try them.
Okay, Okay, so your probably just thinking to yourself "Get on with the recipe WOMAN!!" So I will... ;) If you did not recieve the July issue of Living , go here for the recipe. They are Eggplant Parmesan Stacks which are so easy to make that it's just amazing how quick they took and how great they tasted. Two of them is enough to fill you up completely, and they are not that bad for you either!! I started by cutting the pieces of fresh eggplant into 1/4" slices, seasoned with salt, and added to a pan with 1 cup canola oil. (The only thing with these is you must keep adding oil, I know, I know, and you must absorb as much as possible after with paper towels!) Let cook for 1 minute on each side and cool. While cooking the eggplant, also start the simple sauce by dicing one large fresh tomato, and adding, 1 teaspoon olive oil as well as diced garlic, along with some julienned basil from the garden. Add a sprinkle of parsley, onion powder and about 1-2 cups of canned crushed tomatoe's and simmer. This is my own recipe for a quick and simple sauce, which is not too overpowering for this type of recipe. Once sauce is simmering, and all eggplant is cooked, pat try slices and put large pieces on bottom of lined baking sheet. Then follow with some sauce, sprinkles of fresh mozzarella cheese, and some grated parmigiano reggiano. Repeat layering twice (3 pieces of eggplant) and bake in oven for about 12 minutes (* After 8 minutes on mid shelf, switch to top shelf to melt the cheese.) Serve up on a nice plate, and voila!! As for the brown rice salad, get the recipe here, its very simple and switch out the dressings for different tastes with different foods! Hope you all get to try this, you and your family will all be raving about how good it was!! Until next time my friends, wishing you fresh summer produce and no growling stomachs!!

Flea Finds

2007-07-12T16:16:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, how is everyone doing?? Well, it looks like I'm slackin' off again... But not to worry, I really did have pictures ready and posts to type up, but I wasn't able to get on my computer all week due to technical problems. Darn these electronics which we spend soo much money on, and then after a few years of working fine problems arise! Well anyhoo, like I had said in my previous post, I was going to the Folk Festival again!! Woo Hoo, Man was that fun this time around!! I walked around for a bit, grabbed a quick bite to eat, and then rushed into the antique's barn. That's really the reason I went for the second time, and I just could not wait to find some pretties! I was soo excited, and since this time I had plenty of time to make my way around to each of the dealers, I took my good old time looking at everything I could! (without getting pushed away by a fellow antiquer!)
As you can see from the photos, I did buy more then I brought back last week, and even with the hot and humid weather this past Saturday, I stayed and searched and searched. I was in there for such a long time, that I kept going back and forth to each comparing what I liked better. The dealers all looked at me as if I were crazy. Unfortunately the vintage hankies had been picked over, and unlike on the opening day when I was greeted by pretty florals and pastels, this past visit left me with a bin of brown and orange 70's flashback pieces. So I did not purchase any hankies, BUT!! I did get two new aprons, one that I did not see last week which is the really pretty turqoise and white one above. I couldn't believe I had missed it, and it is now my favorite among my ahem... "large collection ;)" (wow, 3 aprons in all!) I then traveled on over to this woman who had a bunch of old post cards, magazines, pins and textiles. That is where I picked up the Christmas postcards which I plan to use in my Christmas cards for future years, and those pretty rose "tie" pins. I highly doubt some man stuck them into his tie, since they are heavy and the "pin part" is very large. I believe it might have been a piece to a garden statue or something else. With bags in hand, I traveled on over to this very cheap glass dealer, where I picked up those two glass jars above. I love the old "Ball" jars, and even though I'm not sure what I'm gonna do with either of them, they will be used I tell ya!! Finally I went back to the "Apron Lady," poor woman, I should have asked for her name. She had some boxes full of old photos and calenders, and thats where I picked up the vintage winter photos from the 30's. If you could see a closer view , you would see it's the same family in both. I was also going to get this BEAUTIFUL picture of an old Hollywood German Shepard named Fang something from the 30's. But it was just a little out of my price range. Darn, I wish I would have gotten it, because now I miss it!! Oh well, I hope you enjoy the pictures and just wait until my next post, you will all be loving it!! Wishing you vintage finds, and some nice sunny days ( Boy, it's a beautiful day today!!)

Fashion Friday Pt. 1

2007-07-06T21:33:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I cannot believe that I am posting my third post this week! Wow, that's a new record for me!! Normally, the blogs that I read update at least 3 times a week, and I'm the one who only updates once or twice.... or none (I know, I know, shame on me!) So, you may be wondering why on Earth I named this post "Fashion Friday," well that's because, like I had said in one of my last posts I was going to post something different and interesting to add a little "kick" or some "spice" to The Adventures of Gigi, lol. Now, as you can see from the photos posted, they are not of pretty hankies, or crafty banners, but they are of some very pretty new finds that I thought I would show you. I'm not sure if I ever told you, but I also love clothes, and shoes and... clothes and shoes, lol. I am not addicted but I do just love when I find some pretty things. And since they are pretty, and I usually post things I find pretty, I thought I would add them to the agenda!!
The first image is a closeup of a blouse from Free People. Oh how I LOVE Free People!! All of their clothes, even though I do like their fall/ winter clothes bette and although a bit pricey, are soo unique and in their own little ways "crafty" and fashionable at the same time!! Whom-ever designs their clothes is a genius!! (As if it's only only one person ;) See that brooch and the lace trimmings, and the silk ribbon.. oh so heavenly!! The next picture is of the whole blouse, dont ya just love it?!?! I wanted to show you a close up of the details and lace but my darn camera doesn't take good closeups :(. The last image is of a skirt from Banana Republic which was on SALE!! Oh yes, I just love sales, especially at Banana Republic. Its silk and somewhat of a kelly green, perfect for these cute flats from Sam Edelman. Okay well I wanted to post this on Friday, since Fashion Saturday just doesn't sound as good ;) I'm going to post something like this once or twice a month just like my "In the Kitchen" posts to add a bit of "adventure" to the blog. Well thats all for now, until the next post my friends, wishing you fashionable finds and some SALE's at your favorite clothing stores!!

ps: I'm going to the Folk Festival again tomorrow!! WOO HOO!! Hopefully I'll pick up some more vintage pretties!!

Land of the Free, Home of the Brave

2007-07-04T12:25:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, hope everyone is having a Happy Fourth of July!! Unfortunately the weather isn't too nice here in PA, cloudy and overcast and just a bit chilly. I guess thats what I get for bragging all week about how nice the weather was ;) Anyhoo, I thought I would do a quick post about some of the things I bought while up at the Folk Festival on Saturday. A bunch of vintage pretties are what they are as you can see from the photos. After traveling through the stands, and with only 15 minutes until they closed I spotted the Antiques Barn. I was soo happy, I couldn't believe it!! So I walked in and was greeted by loads of vintage milk glass, ephemera, cameras, as well as hankies and aprons!! Oh when I saw those hankies I was soo excited. And with only 15 minutes left I didn't get to browse through as much as I would have liked to so I picked out two quickly, and then went over to the aprons since thats what I really wanted. Oh the beautiful aprons that woman had, and for only four dollars I picked myself up a pretty one. I haven't got to use it yet, but then again I'm not sure if I want to. I think I might save this one, and buy one from the talented Olive Juice & Co. I do love her aprons, and boy are they pretty!! Well as for today, thats all. I'm not sure what the plans are for today, might go downtown to see the parades and Pattie Labelle, or might go over a friends cookout and watch the fireworks at the annual viewing spot. Wishing you all a fun and family filled Happy Fourth of July and sending my prayers to the soldiers overseas!

Beautiful Day...

2007-07-02T18:54:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, sorry for the delay!! I had an unexpectedly busy weekend this past week,and when I say it was busy, oh boy was it busy, but it really helped that it was fun too! I planned on having a new post on Thursday, but... then I had a meeting for my friend Jeannette's fund. On Friday I had another idea for a post, (which I must say is pretty fun and will add some new interest) but... it never happened ;) ! Well Saturday came, and I traveled off to Kutztown, PA with my mother in the passenger seat, to go to their annual Folk Festival. It was my first time going there ever, and it was actually really fun. Lots of interesting PA dutch foods and crafts, and of course I got some cute stuff at the antique market (*show ya later!) Since we arrived there a little late, we recieved free tickets for another day, so I think I'm gonna head up there this week sometime. On Sunday, I was off to this
restaurant for my cousins birthday. Scrumdidilyumcious!! I'm tellin ya, when you bring a big Italian family to a big Italian restaurant, you get one funny sight. My Uncles, never learning how to properly speak in a low tone of voice were shouting across the table at each other. Now when I say shouting, I do not mean in an aggressive manner, but more so in a "it comes naturally" sort of way. You see, there has always been such commotion throughout my Grandmothers kitchen on Sundays ( along with every other day of the week) for all of our lives, that everyone just learned to talk over one another. We all had a blast, and of course our stomachs were very happy as well!
Today was an absolutely gorgeous day here in PA, and I decided to spend most of it outside since it felt like it was Spring again... ahh Spring!! I sunbathed for about an hour, got really tan (what can I say, I'm Italian!! ;) Then I watered my plants, checked on my greenhouse plants which seem to be doing pretty well except for those Bells of Ireland.. Darn those Bells of Ireland, they never grow for me, and Oh how I love them so! I then traveled indoors and started a creation inspired by this wonderful artist. I have seen them made by many bloggers, but I just love hers. She has such talent and a beautiful eye for details. Anyhoot, not having much, even though I went to Michaels again yesterday and I have closets full of craft supplies which I'm too afraid to use, I created this piece which I call "Bella" for my sister, who is a beautiful and talented woman. Once I realized the right way to make those little swirly thingy's and glued and glued and tore the paper, and cut the paper... I came out with this piece. (* Please note, credits go to khurst for the butterfly.) I am really pleased with how it came out, and when I told my sister I had made something for her, and then finally found the time to give it to her, she loved it! Okay well I hope you all enjoy the photos I took, and I promise I will update before the 4th!! Wishing you beautiful sunny days, and some crafty inspiration until the next time!!

Finsihed "Bella":

In the Kitchen Pt.1

2007-06-25T17:08:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, how is everyone doing this Monday? I hope all is good in blogland as well as real life with all of my readers! Anyways, I decided that around once or twice a month I am going to do a post on different dishes I make, and or find pretty. So today, having in mind that I wanted to do this post, I decided to make a fresh garden salad for lunch after I watched this show, and saw a delicious looking fresh and light dressing. I just love her show, whenever I find time to catch it I always feel like inviting people over and making some delicious Italian dinner. I myself love to entertain, and I believe I received that "gene" from my grandmother, who is an amazing cook as well as a lovely entertainer.
...duh.... I almost forgot, sorry for this quick topic change, but I just remembered how I was going to tell you about the graduation party on Saturday. It was hectic, like I had said, but everyone enjoyed themselves, and enjoyed the food. I myself only had to prepare the chicken, which I browned about 50 pieces in a pan with some white wine, garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper as well as EVOO, and then put it in pans to bake in the oven. It turned out delicious, and while that was cooking, I assembled the fruit kabobs, which had watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries, pineapples, and grapes. I also had time to make my hazelnut blondies, which were also a hit, and whose picture you can see at the end of the post. Okay, now back to my salad which I named L'Insalata di Estate semplice (Simple Summer Salad in Italian.) I started with a few leaves of basil, some EVOO, salt, pepper, thyme, Dijon mustard, and lemon peel for the dressing which I blended and put in the fridge. I then cut up a head of romaine, green peppers, onions, and tomatoes and added some pre-grilled chicken. Finally I assembled it all in a really pretty white bowl I have, chilled the salad for a few minutes as well as the dressing & then enjoyed it with a nice cup of cherry selzter. Yummmo!!! It was so light and delicious, that I highly recommend you try it! It’s very simple too, and easy to clean up, so even if you can’t cook (which I am sure you can!!) it will turn out beautifully! Okay, just wanted to do a quick post today, I'll tell you more about the party on Wednesday or Thursday. Until next time, wishing you some enjoyable time whipping up L'Insalata di Estate semplice!

Lemon Basil Dressing

Preparing the Salad

Hazelnut Blondies

Spring ehem.. Summer Cleaning

2007-06-21T19:19:00.001-05:00

Hello again dear blog, its been a while hasn't it? Well anyhoo, Today I have some interesting things to share with you about my hectic past week. So, this Saturday is my cousin's Graduation party.. Wow I cant believe she has graduated Highschool already.. The years pass by soo quickly!! So, as is usual, a graduation party entails, and my Aunt and I have been planning the whole entire thing for the past month and a half. We have had to do alot of planning with the food since most of my big Italian family is going to be there, and we are going to need ALOT of food!! My Aunt decided to not have it catered, so myself and my Aunt (who is not a very talented cook) are going to be preparing and cooking EVERYTHING, other then some baked ziti, cookies, and of course, the cake. I have no idea what I am going to be stuck with, I say that even though I do enjoy cooking! There are so many dishes I cannot even name them without writing a book! And of course not only cooking is involved in parties, setting up is going to be a nightmare, ughhh, tomorrow I am going to be stressin' out!! Not to worry, I do well under pressure ;)
I already know that I am going to be making some Hazelnut Blondies from this magazine, and since they include hazelnuts and Nutella, I am sure that my family is going to adore them!! I cannot wait to see everyone, since I usually only see them during our church's feast in August, where we have a big party at a cousins house. We used to have a family reunion, but thats a whole other post! Back to the whole party, this past week can be summed up into shopping, preparing, and cleaning. Since I live next to my Aunt, yes isn't that a coincidence, and our driveways connect, I also had to make sure my house was spick and span, including the outdoors. So that is why you will see the paint "can" above, with the white paint for the side of the garage. I also did some major cleaning of my veggie garden, which I call it that, even though it hasn't seen a veggie planted in it for years since it was soo overgrown. Hey, atleast now I might be able to get those raised beds I've been dreaming of!! Yesterday I tackled the kitchen, and today the living room and dining room. Right now my house looks perfect, I just hope it can stay that way for the next few days!! As I was cleaning, my pretty garden angel which is actually made of plastic was pushed off of its table by a curtain rod and it broke into tons of pieces. I took a picture of it, so that I didn't feel so bad throwing it out, and to show you how pretty it was! As for the last photo, its of some picture frames hanging in my kitchen which I revamped by adding some new paper. As for now, thats all I can write, in a little bit I'm off to go running at the track with my sister, and who knows what else I have to do with the party. I'm thinking for the next post something to do with cooking, since I am going to be cooking up a storm this weekend, and maybe a few pictures from the party? Okay, well until next time, Wishing you a clean and tidy house, and some good time cooking in the kitchen!

Back to the Stone Age...

2007-06-09T17:30:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, sorry for the long departure, but I could not find my camera ANYWHERE until today when I found it shoved in a couch cushion.. Isn't that where things always end up? Its like every couch has a "couch monster" who secretly "eats" all of the things sitting on the couch at night and the next morning when your rushing around looking for the keys or your phone, a lightbulb appears over your head and you go "oh yeah!" thats where they'll be! Anyhoo, you really havent missed much this week or the last since I have not been doing much other then gardening and shopping. Yes, more shopping, at the mall, at the bookstore and of course at Michaels!
This week I was deprived of my television shows that I record on DVR since my cable box "broke" and I had to take it back to Comcast to get another one, which also did not work. I was so angry when I found out it was just the wires, and that I didn't need to return my old box (which had all of my recorded programs)to Comcast. My Martha, Brando, Guys and Dolls, Gardening shows, Thats Clever's!, oh how upset I was! But, I realized that it did have a postive effect, and since I did not spend 2 hours in front of the TV watching my recorded shows for the day, I was able to go outside and get things done. Over the three days, I planted some more seeds, cleaned up my potting table, cleaned the house, my bedroom, as well as some of the garden beds which desperatley needed some attention. As for TV, I have decided that I no longer need it. Although it does provide inspiration and entertainment along with some educational information at times, it takes away precious time that I have to do other things, like enjoying the sunny weather, or the smell of the new lavender buds which are blooming. As for the pictures of todays post, the first is of some hosta leaves which I made a pretty little arrangment to fill the empty space in which my peonies once filled, and the second one is of some gardening books which I found time to read over my "TV free" period :) And the last is of a cute "Antique" sign I picked up at Michaels on SALE for a really great price. I plan on hanging it in my kitchen! As for today my friends, thats it, but until next time I wish you time to enjoy the outdoors as well as some good old fashioned silent time, with no TV or computer!! (lets see how long that lasts! ;)

Summer, Summer, Summer Time!

2007-05-30T16:14:00.001-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I hope that all of your holiday weekends and Memorial Day's were well enjoyed. Most likely full of rest and relaxation as well as some good time with family and friends, and of course good old summer cookin'! I always love when Memorial Day roles around since it always reminds me of what I have been missing all winter. The good time with family and friends and the food, that along with time at the beach and outside is what Summer is all about! And while talking about food, I am sure that many can agree that there is something different about Summer food, with the different types of salads, the hot dogs and hamburgers, as well as all the other "grill foods." Summer is the time of the year when food appearance and presentation doesn't matter (at least sometimes ), its just the great taste and the fact that someone you care about made it especially for you and your guests. Automatically when you invite people over for a cook out or barbecue, you know they're not going to show up empty handed, and whether they knock on your door with fruit salad or some hamburger meat, everything is greatly appreciated with our hearts as well as stomachs!
As for my Memorial Day weekend, well it wasn't so restful. Firstly it was incredibly humid out as well as above 82 all weekend, which made what I had to do even more horrible. Reinstalling a new shower and buying a new washer was on my weekend's agenda. So I spent my weekend cleaning up dusty drywall debris out of the bathroom, while also helping install a new washer which we needed to get. Finally on Monday, my family went over my best friend Karen's house since she was having a cook out. We enjoyed ribs, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, tomato pie, and loads of desserts. Yummo, that was a good time! I brought Metayo with me, and he was enjoying all the attention as well! Anyhoo, the images I am showing you today are of some GORGEOUS flowers I cut from my grandmothers garden on Sunday. I have been patiently waiting for her peonies to bloom for the past few weeks since mine are late bloomers, and finally those sweet smelling buds bloomed! The roses were a surprise, since as I was washing off the peonies to get the ants off, I looked outside and saw those beauties! I cut three, but unfortunately the one lost some of its petals, and the other one did as well. But not to fret, I was able to get a good picture of the last one (which was actually my favorite!) Okay, well as for now, that's all that I have, but I wish you some fun time out in the garden, and of course quality time with your family and friends!

Hearts of Palm

2007-05-23T16:44:00.000-05:00

Well hello again dear blog, I am starting to get back in the swing of things! Any hoo, I went to Michael's on Sunday yet again, and bought some more Martha supplies yet again, and I crafted yet again.... lol, well I just couldn't stop myself from picking up a few things, even if I dont have any use for them now (I know someday I will need them... really I will!) The last picture below is of the supplies I bought, nothing much really, but hey, if I could I would buy the whole line. Also, I have been eyeing up those tissue paper pom pom thingies for perhaps a party of sorts, so I think that's gonna be my next purchase... just in case they don't carry them next year! I also got those cute little place tags, which I only bought since I liked the shape, and I also picked up some little paper banners, which was the last pack left and I just had to have them!!! I am sure that my fellow blog readers who are reading this post can identify with me. That Martha isle makes us crafters CRAZY!!(In a good sense of course.) All those lovelies, the papers, the punchers, the supplies and pens, they get our creative ideas flowing as well as our wallets!! My adventure continued on in Michael's when I strolled through an isle that had these (above) gorgeous and fun little tea light holders which were so cheap and on SALE!! In the picture they look orange but they're more of a pinky/orange, and I just loved the glitter detailing, perfect for outside dinner parties!
The other image below is of the composition book I covered with some fun paper I purchased on Sunday as well. I "beautified" it by adding some colorful ribbon as well as punching out a cute little palm tree in the one corner. On Sunday, when I saw the palm tree punch, I just knew I had to have it, and it came in handy already!This journal is for my notes when I attend the meetings we have to discuss my friend Jeannette's fund. I talked about her and the fund in a previous post called "Meant to Fly" as well as the significance of palm trees. I chose the colors for the notebook, since those were some of her favorites, pink especially! Perhaps if everyone likes it at the meeting, I can start making them and selling them to raise profits for the fund?? Fun to make, as well as inexpensive, and sooo Jeannette! Well, that's really all that I have thought up for today's blog, but I must add in that it has been a beautiful past three days in P.A., getting kind of warm outside, which means the perfect time for barbeques! By the way, that is exactly what were having for dinner tonight, hamburgers and hot dogs!! Mmmm, simple and good old home cookin' that reminds me of summers come and gone! Wishing you, until next time my friends, another trip to Michael's as well as some time to have a barbecue with your family and friends!

He's a Birthday Boy!!

2007-05-19T13:28:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I am very proud of myself for keeping my promise!! Anyways, today is Metayo's Birthday! He is three years old today, and as soon as I woke up this morning and checked in on him, he was up and ready for the celebration. He knew it was his birthday without me even saying it! He is just too sweet, and a very excited boy! So, when I woke up I danced and played with him, got him all riled up, and then took him out back so he could relieve himself as well as run around in the mornings beautiful weather. I then had some coffee and breakfast which was some eggs and toast, and then took the handsome boy for a morning stroll around the neighborhood. He was "strutting" along like he always does, but today he had an extra kick in his step. He was smiling and having a good old time. When we got home, my sister and I sung Happy Birthday to him and he sang along. Yes, Metayo sings, and I mean really sings. Such fun, now he's taking a mid-day nap, and pretty soon were gonna give him some "cake" and his presents.
Every year, we have had a little party for him, with some of his dog friends and my sister and I's fellow dog loving friends. We also make him a cake every year whether its out of dog food and treats or out of ground meat and cheese! Last year it was the ground meat and cheese, which was actually pretty good for humans as well as dogs ;) lol. I think this year I'm going to make him an ice cream cake with that doggie ice cream they sell at the supermarket. As for the toys, even though he has more then enough, I bought him some more chew and squeaky toys as well as rawhides and treats. The picture above is of him with his birthday hat that I made him using some scrapbook paper, ribbon, a star and some of my Martha glitter. I whipped it up in a few minutes and he loves it! He is now taking a nap with it on, and he looks just too adorable. Okay, now off of birthdays and onto yesterday. It was spent doing some crafts such as the picture frames which I showed in a previous post. Thats the image below, all I did was just add some pretty floral papers and green ribbon. Well folks, that was kind of a random add in, but I wanted to show some more pictures. As for now, I need to go and get the supplies for his cake. Until another day my friends, wishing you some magical time with our furry friends as well as some craft inspiration!

Stop to Smell the Roses

2007-05-16T16:33:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, again, I know, I have been away from you for almost two weeks. Yep, 2 weeks, thats a really long time, with alot of events intermixed within each and every one of those days. I do have some excuses for my, shall I say "hiatus" from you. As for last week, it was spent on finishing up some projects which absolutely needed to be done, for work and home. This week, well this week consisted of me lying in bed all day, with a cold pack on my head, and a splitting head ache. It turns out that I have a sinus infection and an ear infection, but luckily that is starting to go away and I am feeling much better. Last week I did have plans on posting up some new pictures of my adventures and creations, but I never found the time to do it. Believe me, those pictures waited in that camera patiently, and finally today, I found the time! I am sooo relieved that all that work is off of my shoulders for now, I am sure more work will pile up quickly, but for now I am enjoying the time I have. Now back to what this blog is all about, fun, creation, and adventure!
The picture above is of a bouquet of absolutelty gorgeous roses that my sister gave my mother for Mothers Day. By the way, to all of you mothers out there in blogland, Happy Belated Mothers Day. When I saw these in the vase, I just fell in love with them. And since Sunday, they have not wilted or died, its just like their some kind of "super" roses. lol. Anyways as for the picture below, its of my little Ikea "greenhouse" which I have lovingly talked about on this blog many times before. As you can see, some tiny little green sprouts are finally showing themselves after an earlier attempt to seed in mid- March. In those containers I planted some Sweet Peas, Bells of Ireland, and some Lavender, which is apparently not enjoying the conditions, since they havent seeded yet. I am very excited to transplant them into bigger containers, and plant some more of my growing collection of seeds. As for the below picture, its again of one of the roses from that beautiful bouquet, which I placed in one of my salvaged glass containers from a previous post. As far as gardening goes, I will not be seen in the garden today since it has been pouring down rain from the heavens since 3:30. I'm not complaining though, in PA for the past couple of days its been above 80, so we all needed a nice cool down and a good drink ;) Well, thats all for today, I have some chores to do around the house such as LAUNDRY. oh boy, hamper here I come! Until another day (Saturday?) my friends, wishing you sunny weather, and a chance to stop and smell the roses!

Garden Center Mayhem

2007-05-06T20:33:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I know I set a "date" for us to meet again yesterday at noon, and I am sorry I missed it, but I do have a good excuse, really I do!! ;) So yesterday I had plans to spend the day in the garden working on some raised beds to grow some of my vegetable seeds which have been patiently waiting. There is an area in the backyard which I now use for the compost pile, but due to lack of interest in actually starting a real compost pile, I never layed any weed barriers down, and I don't exactly think about what I throw in. Of course I abide the standard rules such as no raw meats, or any type of food that spoils, etc,etc. But I just throw in old fruits and veggies, dried leaves, and anything else I can think of such as weeds, sticks, spent flowers, and grass clippings. Never once have I thought of the ph or nitrogen levels in it, so I have not used it often and I rarely aerate it. So, a huge mistake on my part was throwing in those darn weeds, BIG mistake. I'm telling you it's like attack of the weeds over here,there poppin up everywhere and I just cant handle it all by myself!!! So I planned on doing what I could to control the weeds and taking my old tiller out of the shed and allowing it to amend the soil with all of that old organic matter. But I got side tracked and I started weed wacking instead, lol. Then, since I figured that I would never get the raised beds done in one day, I decided to take a trip to Lowes to see what plants they had in stock. Walking into the garden center, I was bombarded with people all over, (tip 1: never go to a garden or home store on a Saturday, especially when its beautiful outside!) and from what they had out front, it looked as though I was going to have a field day. After being sadly disappointed, I walked out with a few small trailers and two basil plants. So off on my adventure again, I travled to Sears Hardware where I left in about 5 minutes, finding all of but 3 varieties of the same plants. Then I went over to Home Depot, hoping that I would find something, but again I left with a few lavender plants and thats it. I was so disappointed, that when I came home, I didn't even feel like planting any of them, but I did :) So then, I decided that I would venture out once more, to see what Walmart had in store. Finally, more then 10 plants of the same species!! After I trailed along the paths, I ended up with some heirloom tomato seeds, mesculin mix lettuce, thyme, and some marigolds to keep those pests at bay. Now all I need is some more organic soil, which they did not have in stock. As for the rest of the day, it was spent doing indoor chores and watching some gardening shows. Now that I reminded myself of chores, I have some more laundry to do!! Until next time, wishing you pleasant weather, plant selection galore, and quality time with the family!

-Some of the waterproof books I purchased and a garden journal-to be. Hopefully I will order some Abraham Darby roses and some type of climbing rose soon, so I can start enjoying my garden!

Meant to Fly

2007-05-03T15:10:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, again sorry for the long departure, I have been extremely busy these past couple of days, and have not had time to get on the computer. Today, in PA it is 75 degrees and sunny, with a cool breeze, ahh!! The bright sun is shining and there is seldom a cloud in the sky. The smell of fresh cut lawns fills the air, while the sound of airplanes up above reminds me of summer. As you can see I am loving it! Now only if it could stay this way, because once it reaches 80, and then June comes, it's just too hot. But off the weather and back to my day. I decided that I would not dessert you any longer, and would take some pictures of what I have been up to! Firstly I would like to dedicate this post to a friend of mine that passed away 1 year ago on May 1st. She was a beautiful, kind and intelligent woman who would have made a big impact in the world. My sister and I met up with her family and friends at her aunts house on Tuesday to organize and plan some future events for the fund which they are setting up in her name. The fund will benefit different childrens organizations in our area, while raising money in fun ways such as Halloween Parties and Poker nights! I was soo glad that everyone came and celebrated her life togehter instead of thinking of what could have been. It was unfair, but it was her time to go, and I know she was there with us, and I am sure she is happy with what we are doing. The above picture I took is of a palm tree, you see she was obsessed with them and dreamed of going to California one day. I am sure she has already made her way there, and is sitting on the beach with her feet in the sand enjoying the warm weather.
My job in this whole fund is an event coordinator/decorator/bracelet maker. We are making these cute bracelets with her name on it for those who knew her and others with the fund name on it for those who didnt know her in order to raise money for the fund. As of now, my sister and I are thinking up ideas on tags that we will tie to the bracelets which will explain where the money is going to and give the person an idea of what kind of person Jeannette was. As for the rest of my adventures, the picture below shows you some of the finds that I purchased from Michaels this past Sunday. If you have not already visited, you must immediately get in your car and rush to Michaels! ( After you've finished reading this post of course! :) Martha Stewarts line is amazing, I must have walked up the isle a hundred times, making sure I did not miss anything. I'm sure I'm not the only crazy person who has done this! Her items are simple but so innovative, and oh how I love those kits she has! I cant wait to get the paper bouquet kit and some more glitter! Love, love love Martha, and now I can watch her show and know where to get the supplies for the creations she makes! Lastly, the picture below my fabulous finds, is of a few sprigs of azalea which has just started blooming its coral colored flowers. I am also patiently waiting for my wisteria to bloom! I went past it the other day and saw some of the buds starting to open; ahh the sweet smell of those periwinkle flowers is glorious!Okay, I think I have said enough for today, I'll keep you posted on Jeannettte's fund and on my garden, lets set a date for Saturday, perhaps around noon time? Ill see you there (hehe)! Wishing you bright and sunny weather, craft madness and some cherished time with your friends and family!

-Look at that glitter!! Do you see this glitter and those garden labels, lovin it!!

Green Gardening

2007-04-21T19:36:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I am writing you today sitting in a room with its windows open, listening to the beautiful sounds of the birds conversing with one another (my bet about how nice the weather finally is!) Ahh, Spring has finally come, and it took a week of snow, sleet and rain for all of us in my area of PA to be blessed with some nice weather. There was not a cloud in the sky today, which I must tell you were the bluest blue! A nice cool breeze was out and the warm sun was just hot enough where you weren't sweating. I spent most of today and yesterday outside, mainly working in the garden and working on some crafts which desperately needed to be done, since my living room was becoming a Michaels with all of the crafty items I was buying and piling in! Yesterday I worked on removing the patches of grass from my garden bed and planting some peonies next to my potting table, which I had potted a few weeks back. I was glad to find the peony, which I had purchased last year at Lowes and thought was dead is shooting up some of its long stems! And to think I was going to throw it into the compost pile or even worse, the garbage! After doing that I took out my bag of moss, grapevine wreaths and pasta strainer ;) and went outside to work on these moss wreath's which I had been thinking of making for the side and front doors. I used the smaller wreath for my kitchen door, and wrapped some green ribbon around it and the larger wreath is now hanging on my front door. I added some foe white cherry blossoms to it to give it some contrast. I ended up loving them, and hopefully they will last all season! As for today I spent my afternoon running some errands and then again removing grass, sweeping the pavement and dividing some gardenia plants which weren't looking too good! As of now I really need to clean my house and do laundry! I always wait until saturday night to do this, dont I?
Anyways in my last post I said I would be talking about Mothers Day, and so here it is: I have been thinking about making my mom a journal full of inspiring quotes and vintage finds and pictures of mothers and children. She is very important to me, and I love her with all my heart, and so I think instead of buying her something, I will make it and pour my heart into it. I still have a few more weeks to work on that, and hopefully I will and I will deffinately show you! As for other topics, tomorrow's Earth Day, so celebrate it by cleaning up local parks and streams, anything that you could possibly do, even if its using one less napkin *(OPRAH) I suggest that you also tune into the full day Marathon of Planet Earth, it has touched my heart. From watching them and all of the other shows that have been on this week, I am going to make a difference, however small it may be, its still a step into a brighter and greener direction for everyones future! I urge and wish you all a Happy Earth Day, and a greener approach to everyday living!

Some of the supplies for my wreaths!

April Showers

2007-04-18T17:41:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, yet again I am so sorry for not posting a new post in almost 2 weeks! I have abandoned you, but you did not miss much, just a few shopping adventures and some snow... yep, I said snow in APRIL! I thought it was bad in March, but now April 16th, in Pennsylvania there was snow. April 16th was a very sad day in many ways, firstly it was a friend of mine who passed away last years birthday, with which I attended her birthday mass, and then spent the day with her family. I did not find out about the VT shootings until I came home later that day, and I must say that I am greatly saddened, and I send my prayers to all of those who have been affected in any way, especially those who lost a loved one and those who were injured. It is a true shame that this may have been prevented. On to a better topic, how about that I am posting some new images of some pretty things and salvages. The image above is of two glass containers which I rescued from my grandmothers recycling bin. I couldn't believe that she was throwing them out! Well, they would have been re-used but why not use them in their original state? The taller bottle says Schenley on it, I believe a whiskey company from several decades ago (?) and the other one has no labeling on it, the only problem with that is that it has a small crack in it, but thankfully it does not leak! The images below are of my gardenia plant which is flowering some beautiful and deliciously fragrant blooms and of my fave, Country Living Magazine with a sprig of "cherry blossoms."
I have been really busy lately and have not had much time to create, but I promise that I will hopefully make a new sign for my kitchen door, which as of now says "Potting Shed". I will probably use the same saying, but I want to change the paint and put some paper on it, vintage perhaps? I also wanted to attend a flea market this past Saturday, but I was not sure what time it opened, and it wasn't such a nice day since there was a Noreastern headed our way and they skies were gray and it was chilly. Hopefully this Saturday I will be able to attend another flea market, which I believe opens at 8 am, and I will try to take photos and share some of my finds with you! As of the rest of my week, it consisted of 3 hours of constant spring cleaning, and listening to music. By the way, I am really enjoying Michael Buble,so handsome and talented (self taught!) Listen to "Save the last Dance for Me" or "Sway." I have also fell in love with the Double Tree commercial which has Dinah Washingtons song "Relax Max." Every time it comes on I start dancing around, so I downloaded it and you will find me constantly singing it ;) . As for now thats about it, I have a few other things to say but I dont want to ramble on different topics! Next post, I promise soon, will contain things on Mothers Day and Spring plantings! Wishing you sunny spring weather and time with your families!

Good Friday

2007-04-06T14:41:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I am ashamed at myself for having deserted you this week. I am so very sorry! And last Friday in my last post I said that this week I would be updating more! Once again I apologize, but to give you some hope I did stay up to date on my favorite blogs, which contained some very inspiring spring creations this week! So, lets get back to the usual and tell you about what my week consisted of ( of course only telling you of the semi-interesting days ;) ) On Tuesday my sister and our best friend went to her house and I made blueberry ricotta pancakes (which I saw on Everyday Italian)and they made sausage, home made home fries, and scrambled eggs. Yummy, that was delicious! That night I went to Michael's and bought lots of Spring-inspired items which made me turn into a crafting feen these past couple of days! The image above is of some terra cotta pots I painted white and stuffed with some moss, and foe narcissus bulbs which I bought for just a dollar at Michael's. I saw something similar to them somewhere (maybe Target?) and decided instead of paying 30 dollars for the container of 4, how about I just make a few myself! So for the two it cost me under 3 dollars, but I do plan on making more since they're just too cute! As for the image below that is of some other items I bought such as that adorable tin container which was on sale for three bucks, and some "Kerr" jars which I plan to start some seedlings in on my kitchen windowsill ) perhaps some more lavender?)
Like I stated above, I have really been in an "Easter Mode" these past three days, but yesterday the weather kind of threw me for a loop. For the past couple of weeks we've had some above and below average temperatures such as 82 all the way down to 30. But this week especially, mother nature was out of whack yet again! Monday and Tuesday it was 78 degrees and sunny, Wednesday it was about 55 and raining, and then yesterday it was 30 and snowing! I know I have said many times that I love the cold weather and especially the snow, but I have already made the transition into Spring and I just want to go outside and enjoy the weather and my garden! Off the topic of my "Springtime" blues, yesterday my sister, Karen and I made breakfast yet again. This time it was Apple Fritters, hash browns, broccoli, eggs, and bacon. Wow, we really need to stop eating breakfast and start going to the gym! Lol, but I say enjoy the time and company with the ones who you care about and the ones who make you laugh, every moment that you can! And since this week was filled with a lot of free time for myself, it was the perfect opportunity! As for today, nothing much, just some cleaning that desperately needed to be done, ;) and taking pictures for my blog and flickr. I'm telling ya, my neighbors must think I'm crazy since I'm always going outside or in the bay window putting up different items like the narcissus and tin container. Oh well, who cares right, I'm just taking them for my blog, being a little creative! As for this weekend, tomorrow I may go shopping for an Easter outfit, and Sunday I have plans for Easter lunch and dinner with my family. If I do not speak with you tomorrow, I'm wishing you a fun and family filled Happy Easter!

And a sneak-peek of the thank you card I need to send to Amber, , since I made it last Friday and it's just been sitting here!

Mail TIME!!!

2007-03-30T17:22:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, so sorry for the delay. I know, I know, I promised in my last post that I would start typing up some more posts and sharing some more adventures and creations with you, but I have been waiting all week for the mail. Yep, I said the mail. All week I have been coming home and the very first thing I do is get the mail. And everyday I have been sadly disappointed. But today, yes today, I opened up that mail box and the first letter in there said it was from Oregon. I knew it had to be it, who else do I know in Oregon? So I opened it up and found an abundance of ephemera and a handmade ATC by Amber, a very kind lady who sent me it after I was a runner up on her One World One Heart Giveaway. I am soo delighted that I won these wonderful pieces, especially that beautiful ATC that she made. I just left her a comment, and I was rewarded with this. It was so kind of her, and I am going to send her a thank-you letter ASAP. Visit her site, you'll deffinately love it, she's always sharing her creations and inspiring stories.
Now off to what I did after I got my mail.. I entered my room to find Metayo, once again on my bed. He managed to "tuck" himself under my comforter someway and was enjoying the warm sun and the cool breeze coming from my cracked window. I just had to snap a picture of him, even though he was on my clean sheets, I did just give him a bath yesterday and he was just too adorable and comfortable that I let him be. He looks kind of mad at me in the picture for making him wake up, but he was happy to see me. Wagging his little nub! I just love him.After a while of reading the mail, watching some recorded That's Clever! shows, and having some tea, I took Metayo out back, hooked him up to the run I have for him since it was such a beautiful day, and I decided to start my sowing of the latest collection of seeds. So I went to my potting bench, for the first time since fall, and started "dusting" it off and cleaning up the terra cotta pots and such that I cleaned in fall but never put away. Happy to find none of them cracked, I got my little Ikea green house, and some plastic containers and planted Bells of Ireland, Sweetpeas, and some more lavender. I cant wait to see how they come along! So pretty much that was my day so far, hopefully I'll write you another post tomorrow as well! Wishing you warm and breezy Springtime weather your way!

Not too Shabby!

2007-03-24T20:43:00.000-05:00

Hello again blog, long time no see! Just kidding, I am starting to get used to updating this now, although for now, do not expect more then 2-3 times a week of updates. I started quickly, but then of course, I also had lots of interesting things in my schedule, such as the antique show (which I never told you about!) and the flower show, etc. Now-a-days I am trying to find my creativity spark again, and some things to do and places to see. I just don't have much time anymore, I have so much work to do including all the things I say that I need to do around the house, including spring cleaning, planting new flowers, continuing to decorate the house for spring, cleaning up my old flower beds since I didn't do that in the Fall, etc. (Believe me the list could go on forever!!) Anyways off the topic of my time maintenance (he he) I am going to share with you some of my creations that I have made out of some inexpensive, and at a time not so attractive pieces.
The image above is of two IKEA frames that I bought unfinished for like 2 dollars (can you tell I have a love for IKEA?) which I then painted a green color and then crackled it, but didn't like it so painted it brown and then redid the crackling finish ( I just should have put the crackling medium on the unfinished wood!) The images below are of a dollar store (YES 1 dollar) plastic shelf which had a hideous fake wood image on it, that I painted and sanded to give it the worn effect, and of a mirror which used to be bronze that my sister was going to throw out. After a range of color selections I finally came out with the finished product (even though the rim of it still needs to be painted :) ) Anyways I thought I would show you that since today I visited Home Goods and saw lots of inspirational pieces, which I did not buy since I have no room for them, but I did see a bunch of Apothecary jars which were surprisingly inexpensive. I love the fact of finding antique pieces, but sometimes in Pennsylvania, with a lack of Antique shows around my area, I find it hard to get some treasured pieces that I see so much of on others blogs. As for that, it has been a pretty productive day, got some chores done, and after this I am hopefully going to finish laundry, yay!!! Until another time my blogger friends, wishing you some rest and relaxation for Sunday!

* Taken with my new camera!! Cloudy today, so not very good natural light :(

Springtime

2007-03-21T18:30:00.000-05:00

Hello again blog, Happy Spring!! Once again I am sorry for not writing frequently, I just got a new camera, and have spent the last couple of days trying to figure out how to work everything and especially how to import them onto my computer. I got a Canon Power Shot A560 on Sunday, I know its not the best one, I would have liked to get a rebel or some other camera I was eyeing up, but that was 850 dollers too much. But when compared to my old canon power shot from like 5 years ago, this baby does a much better job! So I am happy with it, I took a few pictures that I thought I would share with you to show you's what I have been doing the past couple of days. The image above is of an Ikea clock that I fell in love with, and some of my craft paper in the background while the one below is of a necklace I made with my "Book Wish List" I created while searching crafty books on Amazon today. I am sure that that page is going to get filled up very quickly, I just love craft books, they're always there when you need a little inspiration or a kick start, and of course when you do read them, you get on a kick, whatever the topic may be about. Such as, when I start reading Rachel Ashwells books, or even Country Living, which is most of the time at night, I always feel like getting up, and starting a redo of my house, painting the walls, getting new furniture, etc. It's just like when you go to the nursery and buy a bunch of plants, you just want to keep going back and getting more, even if it is not a realistic idea. Anyways, I hope you share the same thoughts on books as I do, I just love them!
As I was reading my regular blogs, I noticed that alot of them are having "tea parties." Unfortunately I posted my cup and saucer a little too early, so enjoy that picture of the jadite cup and tea, because I sure did! As for the snow, which was the main topic of my last post, most of it has melted.... a sad ending for winter, but a bright and sunny outlook for spring! Oh well, I just wanted to stop by and say hello, and remind you that I did not forget about you! And with that note I leave you with wishes of Springtime beauty!

And lastly a picture of the box, since I couldn't take a picture of my new camera with my new camera!!

Winters Abundance

2007-03-17T16:57:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I haven't written in a while, really busy, and really not much that was interesting either. So today I stayed inside most of the day other then when I took the dogs outside, and shoveled the snow. Yes, I said SNOW!!!! I am soo excited for it, all day yesterday it was sleeting, and I mean all day, the roads were bad, the skies were gray, and most were stuck at home since all of us do not drive big SUV's with four wheel drive. I enjoyed the tattering of the ice on the windows, it was a change from the sounds of rain weve had recently. The weather system is totally out of whack, just a few days ago it was 78 degrees here, in the middle of March!! I have already said that I like the cold, and I truly do adore snow. Its soo peaceful, especially if you wake up early enough and peek out the window or go outside, the usual sounds of cars and trucks dissipate,and the silence of snow surrounds you. Ahhh, well that was fun to type, it brought back fond memories of when we use to get at least 12 inches, maybe even a couple of feet, but now we only get about 4 inches every storm. I believe we got about 6 inches, some has melted, but its still there. Anways so off the snow topic, lol, I didn't do much,even though Saturday is my typical laundry day, I pretty much just drank tea, watched romantic comedies and read a few of my favorite magazines and books. The tea cup and saucer above are some Fireking jadite pieces I picked up a few weeks ago at an antique mall, oh how I do love it, and I also love the red rose emblem on the tea bag.

I also found some time to go through a few of my cluttered craft drawers, and thought I would share some of my pretty papers with you. This week I finally put away the winter and Christmas decorations that were still up and put out my spring decor. I am excited for spring, and I cant wait to plant the many flowers that await to be potted or planted, that are currently enjoying the view on my bay window seat. I wouldn't mind being them today, constantly peering out at the beautiful sight of the wintery abundance casting bright light all over the neighborhood! Wishing you a Happy St. Patricks day with warmth and inspiration on such a cold day!

Lazy Sunday

2007-03-11T12:10:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, hope all of you have had a wonderful asnd creative weekend. Last night I was so happy that I finally figured out how to change the html for the layout to show the header(above) I made on Friday night. I like it for now, but Ill change it soon. Anyways so yesterday was full of adventures and headaches. I woke up with a horrible headache and even with ibuprofen it didnt go away, plus for some reason I felt groggy all day, so I was in somewhat of a bad mood ;) Anyways so lets see what I did, first I went shopping for a few pieces of clothes, which I had been eyeing up. After that I ventured to Ikea to get an end table that I saw a few months back, which did not fit in Ikea since their pieces are usally on the modern side which I dont like, but this end table was an ivory metal base, with a scalloped edge around the circular glass top, it was so pretty and only 20 dollers, but of course they didnt have it in stock then or yesterday. I did end up buying a stuffed dragon toy which is ment for kids but I gave it to my dog metayo, and a lily. Let me warn you to never go to Ikea on a saturday, especially when the weather is nice out, it was a madhouse, and made my headache even worse. I then went to Walmart (I am obssessed with them!) and went on a gardening binge where I bought 2 gardenia plants, tons of pots, around 6 packets of seeds, a organic dirt galore! That made me happy, and by the time I came home, it was almost dinner time. So that was my day yesterday, but today, after coming from outside since it is such a lovely day, I discovered this (the picture above) and thought it was soo adorable, so I thought I would end my post with that, since it is still somewhat early. Until next time I wish all your clocks are correct :) and hope your creative juices are flowing!

What a sleepy head!

Floral Abundance

2007-03-07T17:36:00.000-05:00

Hello again blog! As I had promised before today I am posting up the pictures from last nights Flower Show. I cannot even explain in words how beautiful it was. Flower shops and nurseries from all over the country I believe, got to set up different scenes depicting something which brought the dewy hills of Ireland to their minds. Fresh flowers and amazing scents filled the entire convention center. I traveled throughout the winding pathways and snapped pictures whenever I could. I am going to appologize in advance with my pictures since it was so unbelievably crowded I didn't take so much time getting the right shots. My pictures do not do this even justice. I wish all of you could have seen it, I know you would have loved it. It was great though, since my Uncle is a Philadelphia Police Officer we got free parking right next to the center. We spent about 2 hours roaming around viewing everything there. They had gorgeous arrangements and pieces of natural art made from people from all around. Every nook and cranny was packed, and there was live music and celtic dancing too!!! Ohh my, I cant wait till next year! After we finished seeing the displays we traveled onto the other side where there were the vendors and loads of garden items. I was going to get 25 roses for only 9.95 but I couldnt find any bouquets that I really liked. Now that I think about it, I should have gotten them, but its too late. I didn't buy anything (surprising I know) but everyone else did! After we left we went to Geno's for a "wiz wit" meaning a steak sandwich with cheeze wiz and fried onions. Yummm, I haven't had one of those for more then 1 year!! Anyways I am glad to share this with you and I am also going to share my pictures. Wishing you happy viewing!

ps: May be some random ongoers in my pictures, sorry about that!

A Gorgeous pond in the mystical lands.

Yes, they even had dinosaurs!

This setting was actually "floating" on a real pond!

The Wishing Tree

A lovely arrangement!

One of my favorites!

Simply Beautiful!

A quaint little cottage with a trickling pond.

A tiny garden shop.

This arrangement and chandelier were soo beatiful, the picture just doesn't do them justice!

The picture I took last, and its my favorite!

Had to throw this one in, show some Philadelphia pride while letting you take in a little bit of south philly!

La Bella Flora

2007-03-06T16:05:00.000-05:00

Hello, happy tuesday blog! Today is quite a happy day for me, for tonight in a couple of hourse I am going to be attending the Philadelphia Flower Show!!! No, I have never been to it before, and YES I am excited!! I hope that I will be able to share some photos that I take with you blog, so when I am feeling a little down, all I have to do is look back at this hopefully, marvelous event! I believe that it is Ireland themed this year, and although I am not Irish, oh how I do think Ireland is so beautiful! Okay, okay enough of the excitement, I have just been waiting for it all day. After the show we may stop down at Genos steaks and pick up a real philly cheese steak. Anyways I just wanted to share with you my exciting news, and if I do not get back to you tomorrow then you can count on Thursday. Wishing you the happiest gardening!

Beautiful Sunday

2007-03-04T22:21:00.000-05:00

Hello again dear blog, I am posting you just a tad bit late today since I just recently got home. So last night I fell upon some beautiful vintage ephemera that I adored and that got me creating again... this has been a great weekend for that, too bad it wasnt the cleaning bug that bit me since I really need to do that ( although I did a little yesterday :) so I started just scribling out some pieces of the ephemera, vintage wallpaper, and photos and created a new favorite of mine. It is something that holds a quote from one of my favorite poems by EE. Cummings. It is such a lovely poem and can hold many meanings for each who reads it, I saw it in a movie once and fell in love with it. soo the picture to the left is what I created, i hope you enjoy it too. I think I will be in a collage kick for a little while now since I have gotten the hang of doing on (yes I know very ancient) my computers paint program. Hey, it works and its free so two bonuses in one! I would like it to have this one tool that I have used on Adobe photoshop where it automatically traces the image without leaving any white backgrounds on them, but I think for these collages it leaves a sense of realness, as if the papers were really torn off. Anyways off to some of my adventures for today, lunch with the family, kohls, walmart (yet again!) and then sushi. yum, california roll and green tea ice cream!! So that was my day, this week I dont have much planned other then attending the Philadelphia Flower show on wednesday, which I am very excited about, hopefully I will be able to share some pictures that I take if they allow them. Okay well its getting late, and I must go, until another day, wishes of creativity and fun sent your way!

ps: heres the full poem, Ill know you'll enjoy!

I Carry Your Heart
I carry your heart with me(I carry it in my heart)I am never without it(Anywhere I go you go, my dear; and whatever is done by only me is your doing, my darling) I fear no fate(For you are my fate, my sweet)I want no world(For beautiful you are my world, my true)And it's you are whatever a moon has always meant And whatever a sun will always sing is youHere is the deepest secret nobody knowsHere is the root of the root and the bud of the budand the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which growsHigher than soul can hope or mind can hideAnd this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart
I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart)

-EE Cummings

Sunny Saturday

2007-03-03T14:27:00.000-05:00

Hello again, just posting some updates on what I did and have planned for this coming week. So last night I was in the creative mood and was rummaging through my scrapbook papers ( which I have never used!! :( So anyway I bought some last week at michaels and had some other ones which I thought would go together and I started creating a header for this blog. About an hour and a half later, after dilligently trying to get it done and making many mistakes, I finally mastered the art of edging out images and finished the header. Now the only problem with that is I dont know how to put it on this page as the header. Dont worry, Im pretty good with computers and html so Ill figure it out someway. Today I ran some errands (dry cleaners, post office, walmart and then got an ice coffee. yum! I was planning on making a few things such as this great idea for a flower holder door hanger and a garden seed planner. In the past month I have bought about 10 packets of seeds for the garden, but thats a different post. With all these new magazines, including the new country living that I just got yesterday and BHG plus all the flower seed catalogs I get, Im really in the mood for spring, although I wouldnt mind a couple more snow storms and 28 degree weather (what can I say, I like the cold!) Sometime in the next week I have to take down my winter decor (a little late) and put up my spring stuff, just to get everyone in the mood for spring cleaning!! just kidding although I do love when the house and everything in it is clean and crisp. Okay well enough venting and imagining spring for now, its only the beginning of march. Until another day, I will bid you adue (sp?) and I hope your day(s) are full of beauty and creativity!

New Beginnings

2007-03-02T15:26:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone, I am Genevieve and this is my very first post on my very new blog. I am venturing out into blogland, so I can hopefully share some of my creations and adventures with you while also viewing others inspiring blogs. I really enjoy nature, shabby chic, beautiful pictures, gardening, decorating, jewelry, music, friends, singing, and lovely creations. I just wanted to say a quick hello, and hopefilly we will be able to inspire one other!