REMNANTS

Tuesday Theme - Love

2012-02-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend making wax paper/melted crayon hearts! Brought me back to my childhood. I love making these! Speaking of childhood - I scanned a few photos of me as a kid! Lotsa love there! Have a great Valentine's Day!

wax paper/melted crayon hearts!

3 years old!

My mom (always hiding from photos) and me!

Me on a horse - my dad walking beside me!

Friday FYI - mini wheel barrel!

2012-02-10T12:03:00.000-07:00

This isn't really an FYI - but this little wheel barrel is so cute that I just thought you needed to know about it! It's only about 15" long, 9" wide. So shabby and adorable, huh? I got it at the antique store where I work!

Friday FYI - Ella Violet Giveaway

2012-02-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

I'm neglecting my blog again...but checking in for the Friday FYI to let you know about a great giveaway. My friend Eva from Ella Violet Antiques is having her first giveaway. Visit her blog to find out more info! Isn't this great?

photo courtesy of Ella Violet Antiques

Studio Sunday - 'Royal Crowns'

2012-01-29T22:16:00.000-07:00

We made these crowns for the Princess & Pea photo shoot. Found them in my studio today. Believe it or not we used Burger King crowns (the ones they give to kids) for the bases then added our own touches! Worked out pretty well! I've always been fascinated with crowns - it seems like a popular motif right now. I was fascinated by their history - read about them here!

Saturday Sojourn - Red Shoes - Michigan

2012-01-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

This past summer my youngest daughter and I flew out to visit my oldest daughter in Michigan. We had a chance to go to the Ann Arbor Street Fair and then I insisted on finding Red Shoes - a lovely little shop also in Ann Arbor. Here are a few photos of the outside - so adorable. I just read on her blog that the storefront has closed. How sad. I loved that place! Happy I got to visit! But she has more creative endeavors in store! Find her on facebook as well!

little fairy doors - photo & art by Red Shoes

Thrifty Thursday - Buttons, Lace & Quilt

2012-01-26T21:38:00.000-07:00

Some recent thrift store purchases!

tiny lace pieces

lace trim

I can never have enough buttons!

Have I shown this before? My $3 thrift store purchase!

Wordy Wednesday - Tif Fussell

2012-01-25T21:35:00.000-07:00

I am such a big fan of Tif Fussell - well known as Dottie Angel. When I read she was writing a book I was so excited. I was even more excited when I received it! There are lots of little handmade touches on the cover and back of the book - and as an early-buyer I got a little packet of fabric/thread goodies! Tif loves what she calls "granny chic" - doilies, vintage kitchen linens, sheets and fabrics. I highly recommend her book - order one here.

photos courtesy of uppercase

And because it's 'wordy wednesday' I thought I would let you know about my 'word' for 2012. I've done this for the past few years - i choose a word as a positive focus for the year. My word is luminous! I want 2012 to be light, shiny, bright and clear, as well as enlightening! Do you have a word for the year?

adjective

radiating or reflecting light; shining; bright.

lighted up or illuminated; well-lighted: the luminous ballroom.

brilliant intellectually; enlightened or enlightening, as a writeror a writer's works: a luminous concept; luminous prose.

clear; readily intelligible: a concise, luminous report.

Tuesday Theme - Thimbles

2012-01-24T18:04:00.000-07:00

Adorable thimble planters by DoodleBirdie

Thimble Print Bookpage by Winterberry Cottage

Vintage Thimble Necklaces by LovelyMusings

Porcelain Bunny Thimble from Idale's Etsy Shop

As a seamstress I've always been fascinated by thimbles. I have a few of my grandmothers but I've never really been a collector. Here's a bit of history from wiki -

A thimble is a small hard pitted cup worn for protection on the finger that pushes the needle in sewing.

The earliest known thimble was Roman and was found at Pompeii. Made of bronze, its creation has been dated to the 1st century AD. A second Roman thimble was found at Verulamium, present day St Albans, in the UK and can be viewed in the museum there.

According to the United Kingdom Detector Finds Database, thimbles dating to the 10th century have been found in England, and thimbles were in widespread use there by the 14th century. Although there are isolated examples of thimbles made of precious metals—Elizabeth I is said to have given one of her ladies-in-waiting a thimble set with precious stones—the vast majority of metal thimbles were made of brass. Medieval thimbles were either cast brass or made from hammered sheet. Early centers of thimble production were those places known for brass-working, starting with Nuremberg in the 15th century, and moving to Holland by the 17th.

Here are a couple of 'thimble' blogs -

http://www.thimble.ca/
http://thimbleanna.com/
http://therustythimble.blogspot.com/
http://www.camilleroskelley.typepad.com/

Monday Musings - The Handwritten Letter

2012-01-23T17:16:00.000-07:00

artwork by Mark Powell

I used to love writing/receiving letters. However, in this digital age I have sorely neglected any form of handwritten correspondence. I am going to change that! I spent yesterday afternoon attending a presentation at the local library on letter writing. They've set up a 'station' where folks can use an array of pens, pencils, stationary, envelopes, etc. to write letters. A fabulous idea! Our presenter is a letter writer, and also raises carrier pigeons/doves that compete in races. Very interesting! Check out her blog here . This has led me to a few other great resources - The Letter Writer's Alliance , Ginny's Small Studio, United States Postal Service and the National Postal Museum.

from Ginny's Small Studio

Anyone interested in handwritten correspondence? I will gladly write a letter to you if you will respond! Send me an email and I'll give you my address!

new stamp from usps

another new usps stamp...I have to have some of these!

Studio Sunday

2012-01-22T18:06:00.001-07:00

It was a really lovely day - spent a little time straightening the studio. I've been thinking about hearts! Made a few little stitched hearts and a bracelet from vintage buttons and beads

I tried to photograph some of my laces and linens on a fantastic drying rack I found at the Antique Market. I love this rack so much!

Saturday Sojourn - Princess & The Pea Photo Shoot

2012-01-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

This past November I had the privilege of assisting with a photo shoot! I didn't have to travel far, but I definitely traveled out of my comfort zone. I had never done anything like this before, but I was excited to help! I met photographer, costume designer/creator Tyson Vick through our Montana Camp store. He was taking photos of items to list on the store's Esty shop. He mentioned he was doing a photo shoot with a Princess and the Pea theme, and wanted some help. Great - I'll do it! My job was to gather as many mattresses, bedding items and jewels as I could find. I managed to rummage through all my stuff and found quite a bit. We then spent a long evening making paper and jewel crowns! Awesome! Tyson is hoping to get his photos published soon. I haven't seen them yet, but I know they will be fantastic! Here are some photos I took during the shoot! I want to say a big Thank You to Tyson Vick, the models, hair and makeup artists, Montana Camp, especially manager Jen for use of mattresses and her help, Halsey Bishop of Spunky Junky for the lovely hair accessories, and Mr. Libster of the Historic Belgrade Merchantile!

Computer Glitch

2012-01-19T12:10:00.003-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posts... having computer issues... back asap!

Monday Musings

2012-01-16T17:03:00.001-07:00

My Cozy Little Whimsy Nook - I just happened upon this lovely little blog and the artist, Marjorie Liucci. I am often drawn to whimsical drawings of girls and animals (I adore rabbits...) - so when I came across her blog I was hooked! I'm trying to decide which of her pictures to purchase - they are all so great. (All photos/drawings by the artist, Marjorie Liucci)

Studio Sunday

2012-01-15T21:40:00.000-07:00

Haven't spent too much time in the studio today. It's a snowy, wintery day at last! This afternoon I attended my Artist's Way group, which I love. It really helps me explore my creativity. In the studio I finished my embroidery project - I ordered the printed project from Charlotte Lyons. Here's the before ~

the finished project (below) waiting to be made into a pillow!

Saturday Sojourn

2012-01-14T21:45:00.000-07:00

so·journ/ˈsōjərn/

Noun:

A temporary stay.

Verb:

Stay somewhere temporarily: "she had sojourned once in Egypt".

Synonyms:

noun. stay - visit

verb. stay - tarry

I spent much of the day going through a storage unit I rent. My goal is for it to be completely empty by June 1! I live in a teeny, tiny dollhouse of a house so I've had to store a good deal of my things. I'm finding I don't need so much anymore. It's just my youngest daughter and I living here so we don't need a houseful of stuff! My Saturday Sojourn didn't find me drifting too far out of town! However, I am posting a picture I took on an outing this past fall to the Antique Barn. Don't you just love the look of the book pages covering the wall? And the chippy blue chairs and table?

Friday FYI - Extension

2012-01-13T13:51:00.001-07:00

photo by William Albert Allard for National Geographic

I used to be an Extension Agent (otherwise known as field faculty for Montana State University). I was the Family & Consumer Science (Home Ec), Community Development and 4-H/Youth Development agent for Toole Co and Park Co in Montana. What does that mean? Here is the wiki definition . Basically, I was an adjunct faculty member of MSU who took research-based information from the university and used it for education and outreach for folks in a couple of counties. There is probably an Extension Agent in nearly every county in the U.S. (just ask me, I'll tell you how to find yours). I taught workshops and seminars on nutrition, family financial planning, housing, gardening and parenting, to name a few topics, and I taught 4-H kids, prison inmates, homemaker groups, city officials, farmers, etc. Quite a diverse audience and quite a range of topics. I enjoyed every minute of it. If you want information on just about anything, Extension probably has the answer, or they know how to find it! Here is one very good publication - a timely bit of info for the new year - click on the title ~

Your Important Papers - What to Keep and Where - check it out...really. Great info - and most of the publications are FREE!

Now...why the National Geographic photo at the top of this post? I was just reading the January issue and realized that the last article in the magazine, which is titled "Riding Out Another Season" written by David Quammen, is a story about the place where I was an Extension Agent for about five years (Shelby, MT in Toole Co). I know many of the people and places mentioned in the article. Kinda cool! Read the article online here.

Thrifty Thursday - Angel Food Cake

2012-01-12T21:34:00.000-07:00

My grandma (Dad's mom) baked the best angel food cakes ever! I remember many birthday cakes with pink frosting and sprinkled with coconut or some nonpareil . I did not like the shredded coconut! Click on link below the cake for a yummy cake recipe. Below that is my inspiration for Thrifty Thursday. One of the vendors at our store bought these angel food cake pans from a local auction. We just had a new Safeway built so lots of things from the old store were for sale. I scored a cake pan from the vendor ... what can I do with it (besides make cakes?)... any ideas? Don't you also love the cart they are sitting on? Another auction item - I love it!

yum!

Wordy Wednesday - Frankie Pratt

2012-01-11T08:52:00.000-07:00

I read a-l-o-t so my 'wordy wednesday' will most likely feature some of my favorite books! I purchase very few, mostly using my public library. I happened across a book titled, "The Scrapbook of Frankie Pratt" (I tend to judge books by their covers). Read it in an evening - I couldn't put it down. Author Caroline Preston does a phenomenal job of creating an extremely unique book - all you creative types out there will love it - I promise. This is a book I will need to own. Check out the book 'trailer' on Caroline's website. And if you read the book, let me know what you think!

(photo courtesy of Caroline Preston's website)

Theme Tuesday - Jane Austen

2012-01-10T21:04:00.001-07:00

I needed inspiration for Theme Tuesday - my daughter suggested Jane Austen! Where does one start? You can visit the Jane Austen Centre in Bath, England and you can join the Jane Austen Society of North America! I'm sure I've read everything she has written and seen each movie! I am a big fan of Stephanie Barron's Jane Austen Mystery Series! Here are a few Jane Austen items I found on Etsy. What is your favorite Jane Austen book or movie? I don't think I can choose!

Click on item below for etsy link ~
postcard
pillow bookends
bracelet
ATC's

Monday Musings & My Birthday!

2012-01-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is my birthday today! Yippee. I never mind them, no matter my age! It's a gorgeous sunny day here in Bozeman - but I understand we are 80% below our normal snow pack for the season. Not so great. So the 'monday musings' part of my blog will be about new blogs, new ideas, etc. Today I'm going to mention a really special new friend - Eva. She and her family have recently moved to town, and she is a vendor in the Antique Market where I work two days a week. I adore her booth. Oh, my. Lots of shabby, wonderful, vintage pieces! Have a look! (photos borrowed from Eva - hope that's ok!) Find her blog here Ella Violet Antiques .

2012! Studio Sunday!

2012-01-08T17:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe three months have gone by without a post! I've decided that in order to keep myself on track with the blog, Facebook, Etsy, etc. I will need to have weekly/daily topics - as follows -

Sunday Studio
Monday Musings
Tuesday Theme
Wordy Wednesday
Thrifty Thursday
Friday FYI
Saturday Sojourn

Check in this week and you'll see what I mean! I will be adding a Facebook link as soon as I figure it out and I will have the 'promised' (like a year ago..) Etsy store up and running by this week.

So - to start off Studio Sunday here are photos of my 'studio'. Totally a mess, really tiny, but with lots of light and an inspirational mountain view! These are definitely before photos. Can't wait to show you the 'after' ~ Thanks for hanging in here with me! Happy 2012!

Autumn Inspiration!

2011-10-09T15:00:00.001-06:00

Practical Magic Blog Party

2011-10-09T14:51:00.000-06:00

Oh, my. Some kind of spell was cast on me and I neglected to post images for the Practical Magic Blog Party! I'm a bit late... 2 weeks I believe! Yikes. I will do my best to catch up!

Petite Inspiration Swap

2011-10-02T21:32:00.000-06:00

I have joined this swap and will soon share photos of the treasures I have received!

2011-09-11T09:32:00.003-06:00

Going To Michigan!

2011-07-13T13:11:00.000-06:00

My oldest daughter, Amber, lives in Michigan. My youngest daughter, Liv, and I will be traveling to visit her on Monday! I'm so excited! I get to catch a Tiger's game, go to the Ann Arbor Art Fair, plus whatever else she has planned! Can't wait. If you have any suggestions for places to visit - near Canton, Plymouth, Ann Arbor area, please let me know!

4th of July Weekend Art Fair

2011-07-13T12:51:00.001-06:00

Spent the 2nd of July in Livingston, MT. There is a great art/craft show during the 4th of July weekend. I stopped by the Paris Montana booth. I adore her lovely things! Check out her blog/website!

Exciting Sunday!

2011-06-20T12:18:00.000-06:00

We spent the day at my parents - not a long drive. My sons decided they wanted to jump out of a plane so we spent part of the day watching them! Neither of them had ever been in any type of plane so they wanted to jump out the first time they flew. I know they don't get that adventurous spirit from me! We then spent the rest of the day at the creek by my sisters place with my parents. Awesome day!

Son Zack in the air

Zack after the jump

Son #2, Nick, with daughter #2, Liv, before his jump

Nick in the air

Nice place to BBQ - by the creek!

Collage Workshop

2011-06-13T14:09:00.001-06:00

Had a blast last week with these gals at Montana Camp. I taught a workshop on collage/painting! We had so much fun. I love when my 'students' take a bit of my knowledge and run with it! I usually end up learning more from them - than they do from me! I have a few more workshops coming up in July! If you are in our area let me know. I'd love to have you join us!

We prepped our canvas'

Finished art!

Flower Frenzy!

2011-06-08T16:41:00.000-06:00

Just a glimpse of a few flowers in my garden!

Published in Art Quilting Studio!

2011-06-01T19:36:00.000-06:00

I am overjoyed to be published again - this time in Art Quilting Studio! My little quilty is in the Patchworks section toward the back! I will soon have these little quilts for sale. My Etsy store is nearly ready! Please check back...!

Lacy Things

2011-05-30T15:09:00.000-06:00

I stopped by the antique show and sale at the fairgrounds a few weeks ago. At one booth there was a sweet older couple who had several beautiful lace bonnets. I thought they were lovely but couldn't afford the price. As I spoke with them about lace and such, the woman pressed this bonnet into my hand and said that I must have it! She gave it to me! I refused, but she insisted. She said her sister in France often sends lacy items and she thought I would appreciate it! Oh my goodness. It's just beautiful! Click on the photos for a more detailed view! I am so lucky!

Another bit of lace I found.

These pillow covers aren't vintage but they will look lovely next to the antique quilts I have on the sofa!

Updating Remnants!

2011-05-23T13:59:00.000-06:00

I'm experimenting with some blog changes during the next few days so you will definitely see a difference - hopefully for the better!

Brooch Swap

2011-05-18T15:13:00.000-06:00

I received these beautiful pins/brooches as part of a recent swap I participated in! I was partnered with Sharon of Pretty Pink Pins ... she sent two brooches, a lovely vintage hankie and fabric! Love it!

Still working on a few glitches for the Etsy store and Blog re-do! Thanks for your patience!

Still here!

2011-05-04T16:30:00.000-06:00

I've been working with a wonderful local antique and gift shop - Montana Camp - to organize upcoming workshops and an open house! I'm so excited! I met an elderly gentleman there who is going to be selling some of the little trinkets he's found with his metal detector during the last 40 years - oh my goodness! I was able to purchase a few items before the sale. I got a really fantastic deal. Wow. Can't wait to use some of this in my projects! I have been promising some blog changes and plan to deliver by May 15th! I am soon to be published in the upcoming issue of Art Quilting Studio and will have some of my little quilties for sale on Etsy as well. Please check back soon! Thanks for your patience!

Spring is Here!

2011-03-21T13:02:00.000-06:00

I am happy to say that spring is here - even in SW Montana. Our snow is nearly gone here in town - still a lot in the mountains. The gophers and robins are out, and I see my tulip bulbs peaking through the mud! Recently I signed up for a giveaway at To Dwell in Primitive Thymes blog and I'm a winner! I won this beautiful 'spring' banner from Melissa of Wings and Paws Whimsies! Lucky me! I know right where I'll display it!

Eco Colour

2011-03-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

I've been dreaming of this book by India Flint for quite awhile and it just arrived in the mail today! I have dyed my own fabrics for years - I love experimenting with different flowers and plants from my garden. This book contains some beautiful 'eye candy' and it also has great info on how to dye your own fabrics! I can't wait to plant my garden (June, I hope?!) - and I'm envious of you who already have a garden growing!

Busy, Busy!

2011-03-09T17:13:00.001-07:00

I've been neglecting the blog again! Sorry about that. Lots of exciting things coming up! I will be selling some of my quilties soon on Etsy. I am going to be selling them as well in a local Antique Store, and teaching vintage crafty workshops - so excited about that! I am also gearing up for the annual Junk Fest which will be held in June - I did some craft demos last year, but I think this year I will have a booth - so that means I need to create a lot of goodies to sell! I am also delighted to hear that I will have one of my quilties in the next issue of Art Quilting Studio! More on that later! I had a great time in Arizona - more on that later, too! (Picture by Cori Dantini - I love her artwork! Check it out here ...

A Swap for All Seasons!

2011-02-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

I received my beautiful quilty yesterday from Terri - it is so pretty! I love the blues, I love the buttons and the quote! I think I complained enough about how cold it was in Montana that the quote seems very appropriate! Thanks, Terri! I have already found a spot for it!

These photos are of the quilt I sent to Terri! This was a great swap!

Out of Touch

2011-02-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

The past month has been a whirlwind of activity! Lots of good stuff! Lots of changes in the near future~ I am even contemplating a move if I don't find a job here soon! I am in a position to go wherever I want - provided I can find a job there! If you could choose, where would you go? I would like to stay in the western part of the U.S. for sure. I am thinking I'd like to be in a warm climate for most of the year....! Who knows? I have lots to think about. I am taking a trip soon to Lake Havasu, AZ (photo above) for some r & r! Looking forward to that!

A Few Swaps For the New Year!

2011-01-11T12:43:00.000-07:00

I was going to ease up on the swaps, but I really can't help myself! I enjoy 'meeting' new, creative ladies and I usually end up with some fantastic artwork! So here's the first - It's the a mini fabric collage swap - right up my alley! I'm excited about this! Just waiting for confirmation from Linda at A Swap for All Seasons - I believe she's taking sign-ups until January 15th!

Next is the Easter Egg Swap hosted by Cindy at Thimbleprims Studio... can't wait for this one!

Happy Birthday To Me!

2011-01-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last year was a major birthday; I am now (happily) one year past a half century!

New Book!

2011-01-01T17:04:00.001-07:00

I don't shop much, but I love a bookstore! I found myself in Border's today - I have a membership there and saw on an email message that I had $10 in Border's Bucks! And I also had 50% off! Yippee! So I find this new book, Sharing Stitches by Chrissie Grace. It looks great. So when I went to pay I got the 50% off and I actually had $15 in Border's Bucks, so I got the book for FREE! How about that? I've chosen my word for 2011 and it's GLORIOUS! Free book = great way to start the New Year = GLORIOUS!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T17:18:00.000-07:00

Here's to a 'GLORIOUS' new year! I am looking forward to all things wonderful... Here's a recent Christmas photo of my four kids. It was early morning so they will say they look a bit 'haggard'... i couldn't get them all to 'behave' at once, so all of the 20+ photos I took of them look kind of goofy~ I am fortunate that I had them all here for Christmas!

Snow Lady!

2010-12-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

I neglected to highlight the Snow Lady gifty from Cindy. She made this beautiful doll that was tucked into my stocking package and I absolutely love it. Though Christmas is over, I plan to keep my stocking and snow lady displayed all year long. They are just so wonderful to look at ~

Stocking Swap from Cindy

2010-12-27T15:11:00.000-07:00

I was so excited for this swap and it didn't disappoint! Cindy, you have

outdone yourself. My goodness! Thank you so much, new friend~

First, I get this really fabulous vintage stocking which Cindy trimmed with lace and old jingle bells!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!

There is an assortment of wonderful goodies - vingtage childrens books, wooden spools, Christmas tissues,
lovely little tags and two really beautiful vintage dolls! I love the dolls so much.

Close-up of the dolls... I'm contemplating names for them at this point!

More awesome goodies - she knows I love lace and textiles! Plus Cindy sent vintage Christmas cards, icicyles for the tree, more tags, pearl trim, Chrismas hankie and cherry decor!

As if all that wasn't enough, some gorgeous vintage linen napkins, a lacy little baby bonnet and some lovely bird/nature-inspired fabric!

Still more.... some old dolly clothes -

and lastly, an absolutely exquisite baby dress to add to my collection! Wow. This truly made my Christmas!

Check out Cindy's blog for more photos!

2010-12-24T17:39:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! Photo shows the stocking swap I received from my new friend, Cindy! I am just thrilled with this. I'll share more later!

Snow Angels

2010-12-20T17:09:00.001-07:00

It's nice to have my oldest home for a Christmas visit (from Michigan) and she's having a blast with her sister (the youngest). The two boys spend enough time working in the snow so I rarely catch them playing in it!

Christmas Helper

2010-12-19T17:07:00.000-07:00

I'm getting help decorating the tree whether i want it or not! Our cat loves it!

I also got a lovely little coffee mug in trade from my friend/superb artist, Carl Sheehan. Carl was the resident potter at Old Faithful Inn at Yellowstone Park for many years. Check out his beautiful pottery here!

I'm So Lucky!

2010-12-12T13:40:00.000-07:00

I just found out that I won a copy of Sandy's new book - Artful Adventures. I'm so excited because I've wanted to do an art retreat/workshop here in Bozeman for quite awhile. This book will help me make it happen! I'm so happy!

Into the Christmas Spirit!

2010-12-10T13:16:00.000-07:00

My college final is complete - classes are over for the semester! Now I'll have a little more spare time!? Today I received the most gorgeous Christmas Inchie Swap - a lovely little tree made by Marylin for our Christmas Inchies! I love it. Everyone is so creative!

I also started making a hexagon-pieced banner to string across something -- I don't have a fireplace!

I found this cute little 'homespun' ornament - I think I'll try to figure out how to make a few more of these!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

Enjoy your day!

Too Cold

2010-11-21T22:20:00.000-07:00

This is the time of year when I decide that I'm moving to Arizona! The snow is lovely, but the bitter cold is getting on my nerves. Supposed to be temps of negative 15 degrees by mid-week!

Stop the (Vintage Textiles) Madness!

2010-11-12T23:38:00.001-07:00

Here I go again! More vintage treasures from the local Senior Center Boutique! I found these two cloth thread holders. I have never seen these before! I'm not even sure how the thread got into these tiny little spaces! Does anyone know how these work? The thread is Royal Society which was manufactured by a company in New York from the 1890's to 1930's. Very cool.

I also found more great doilies, lace, and this great coral-color grosgrain ribbon! Can't get enough!

Facebook | Montana Christmas Wreaths

2010-11-11T19:35:00.001-07:00

My friend Erica and I are making beautiful "Montana" Christmas wreaths for sale! We can deliver locally or let us know if you need us to ship out of area! These are the real deal! Check out our Facebook page for more information! Click on link below!

Facebook Montana Christmas Wreaths: "Montana Christmas Wreaths"

Winter Preview

2010-11-02T20:25:00.001-06:00

No snow on the ground yet! It was 65 degrees today! I'm happy about that but I know it will be here soon. So I purchased a few wintery fat quarters the other day! Love the silver colorway! Maybe a tablerunner or mini quilt? I haven't decided yet. These are from Anna Griffin for Windham Fabrics.

New Embroidery Projects

2010-10-30T09:38:00.000-06:00

I recently purchased (online download) Charlotte Lyon's cute little stitch book ... can't wait to make this! And I am getting ready to buy Rebecca's latest stitch sampler - chain stitches! I really like that she's having them screenprinted on different colors of fabric. Really awesome! (photos by Rebecca Ringquist and Charlotte Lyons)

Halloween is Almost Here!

2010-10-29T23:58:00.001-06:00

I remember that 12 years ago, on October 31st, I got a little Halloween 'treat' - Child #4 - Olivia! I love this time of year!

Halloween Inchies

2010-10-28T19:55:00.000-06:00

I belong to the Fiber Inchies Yahoo Group and we recently had a Halloween Inchie Swap. I just received mine today! I love them all! Gigi came up with a great idea to put them on a length of spider web ribbon! I couldn't get a great photo of them all but you get the idea! A great way to showcase these little works of art! We're having a Christmas Inchie Swap as well.

Autumn Joy

2010-10-19T22:21:00.000-06:00

I think we had snow about this time last year... but this year we are still hanging on to the last remnants of summer! Nice warm, weather and the leaves are taking their time to change color.... love it!

A Long Break

2010-10-17T19:54:00.000-06:00

Who knew that going back to school would take up so much time?? I'm only taking one class to get re-certified to teach but I feel like I'm taking a whole load! It's been a beautiful and warm autumn here in SW Montana and I've been enjoying the outdoors as well! I had my kitty here for a visit for about ten days while my parents went on vacation - she lives at their house most of the time and loves it there!

I also attended a really fun workshop at Quilts on Broadway which taught us about Promise Stitching. It's quilt-making but all done by hand! I had a great time. Here are a few photos of examples we were shown ~

Do you love miniatures? I do. I found this adorable little bed at the antique store. I'm going to make a little quilt for it. Right now I just have a few little things stacked by it!

I promise to post again soon!

Did I Mention My Love of Books?

2010-09-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

And now I get to add another to my collection! For awhile I have been thinking about purchasing this book, Journal Spilling by Diana Trout. I have been spending more time on stitching and fabric art, and less time on journaling but I think this book will inspire me to journal again! Thanks to Lyric Kinard, and her fantastic giveaway, I will be able to! I am the lucky recipient! Looking forward to it, Lyric! And by the way, check out Lyric's website and her books! I have been a fan for years!

I Love Books

2010-09-15T23:01:00.000-06:00

It was a wonderful 70 degree day here in Bozeman, so I decided to walk downtown for awhile! I had stepped into the local independent bookseller - The Country Bookshelf - and found two wonderful books that I thought I really needed, but, being temporarily unemployed, decided against it! I then went down the street to the library, and believe it or not, there was one of the books I had been looking at - right there in the 'new book' section! Great way to start the day! The first book is Patchwork for Beginners by Sue Prichard. The second book is Pocketful of Posies by Salley Mavor, a fantastic fiber artist, who just happens to tell lovely stories with her beautiful artwork!

Vintage Lace Curtain

2010-09-12T14:30:00.001-06:00

I have just begun to design/decorate my new studio/art room. I found the most gorgeous vintage lace curtain. It's a bit long for the window but I think I'll keep it there anyway. Don't you love the detail? More studio pictures to follow as soon as I get everything in its place!

Stitching

2010-09-09T13:25:00.000-06:00

Here are my latest pattern acquisitions! I am hooked on good ol' fashioned embroidery! This first one is a sampler from Rebecca Ringquist. Love it! Can't wait to practice all my stitches! Order your own here .
(Photo courtesy of Rebecca Ringquist)

I've always been a fan of The Prairie Schooler cross-stitch designs. This is going to be a Christmas gift!
(photo courtesy of The Prairie Schooler)

This pillow design is from Kathy Schmitz. I love anything with a rabbit! (Photo courtesy of Kathy Schmitz)

A Different Design

2010-09-06T18:48:00.000-06:00

I want to update my blog a bit - so I'm checking out a few options. You may see a few changes here and there. Photos seem kind of crooked...hmm... trying to change my banner, etc. We'll see how it goes! Here are a few photos of our recent Quilts on the Lawn outdoor quilt show.

Trip to Yellowstone Park

2010-09-06T18:41:00.000-06:00

What can I say about Yellowstone Park? It was a beautiful day - and a quick trip for us - we only live 90 miles north of the park!

Back to School

2010-08-31T12:32:00.000-06:00

My youngest daughter has started 6th grade this year (the other 3 are out of college) - and believe it or not, I am back in school again! When I took a position at the University I let my K-8 teaching certification lapse (I've taught grades 5-8). That was 15 years ago ~ I'm still unemployed as of June 30 so I decided to take one class at MSU to regain my certification. I'm really excited to be a student again. I'm taking an upper level class - History of the West (US)... technology has certainly advanced at the university level since I graduated. Looking forward to expanding my knowledge!

Vintage Fabric

2010-08-20T14:49:00.001-06:00

I am obsessed with vintage fabrics/linens. I try to control myself but it's nearly impossible. I limit myself to fairly small and inexpensive pieces. At some point I may even make something out of them, but for now I'm content to place them on a shelf or on my worktable to just touch and to look at! Here is a stack of recent purchases. I wish I could have found a bit more of that beautiful salmon-colored velveteen!Soon I will share a little project I'm working on - I might use a bit of these fabrics!

KC Willis

2010-08-18T21:50:00.000-06:00

I have also mentioned one of my favorite fabric artists, KC Willis, a time or two. I just recently purchased one of her "KC In A Box" DVD sets, which also includes a collection of goodies and a beautiful little fabric collage on the box! A great deal, really! She will only have them available until August 25th, so please visit her blog for more info and a chance at a fantastic giveaway!

You may also want to visit her here - http://studioretreats.ning.com/ to see what tempting workshops she has to offer, both in her awesome studio (in Colorado) and at various locations around the country! Check it out.
I'd love a chance to dig through all her fabric stashes!

Also - you may take an online workshop with KC - Collage Camp - which looks great. Learn more about it here - http://www.collagecamp.ning.com/

Lovely Artist

2010-08-18T21:32:00.000-06:00

I have mentioned Cori Dantini in a previous post. I really love her artwork and just purchased this wonderful piece. I'm sure I will add to my collection soon!

Busy Summer!

2010-08-12T17:44:00.001-06:00

Where have I been? What have I been doing? Not quite sure myself... We just recently moved to a new house so that's taken up most of my time! But it's been great going through a lot of stuff, tossing things I no longer need. Making space for more....! I will share photos of the new place soon, but until then I am busy working on a presentation for our local summer quilt fest - Quilts on the Lawn . Our Museum of the Rockies lets us present some of their antique quilts (from their collections that very rarely get seen by the public). It's a wonderful opportunity to learn about local history and see some fantastic quilts! Then there is the wonderful outdoor quilt show - with new and old quilts! Quite a wonderful display. I'm so excited. Here are some photos of last year's Quilts on the Lawn - it's held at an old elementary school that has been turned into an art center! I promise I'll have more to share soon!

Fire Near the Cabin

2010-07-19T12:43:00.001-06:00

As we traveled to the lake this past weekend, we were surprised to find huge plumes of smoke coming from the direction of our cabin! We sort of nervously chuckled at first - it can't be near us - but in fact it was within a mile or so! Many folks were evacuated but they got it under control by the following day. Very smoky, very scary! We still managed to get on the boat for a ride!

Back on Track

2010-07-19T12:35:00.001-06:00

Finally over the computer virus - hopefully. I don't like having my photos on the verge of being lost forever! I have been having a fantastic summer - lots of time at the cabin at the lake and finding vintage treasures but struggling to move forward as a 'jobless person'. I'm trying to see this as a positive - I'm certainly enjoying free time during our extremely short summers in SW Montana! I found the most wonderful vintage tablecloth, blue canning jars, old spool of thread, metal stencils (complete sets of numbers and letters!), jello molds, a beautiful silver serving spoon, and this incredible rusty muffin tin!! Now I just need a place to put all of this!

Quick Post

2010-07-14T14:02:00.001-06:00

I"m afraid I have a bit of a computer virus.... taking awhile to figure it out! Please check back really soon~ I have lots to share from the past few weeks~ Jamie

More Photos From Our Hike

2010-06-25T11:41:00.002-06:00

We walked near some houses on the trail that reminded me of 'secret gardens' - it's fun to peek into other people's yards!

Hike Around Town

2010-06-25T11:00:00.007-06:00

We live in a beautiful place - recently my daughter and I went for a hike on some trails in our town.

52 Flea Giveaway Prize

2010-06-23T15:49:00.003-06:00

I won the 52 Flea giveaway awhile back and I'm just now getting around to posting about it! What a treasure, indeed! Laura is a most generous person! I opened the box and inside was decorative box filled with all sorts of vintage goodies. She knew that I like sewing emphemera and my treasures did not disappoint. My photos do not do these justice! I unwrapped an assortment of laces and trims, a vintage pincushion ~complete with old needles, pins and threads still attached, a lovely handmade bow, vintage seed packets, a little quilting book, two vintage photos, some cute little handmade ornaments, an assortment of fabrics, a wonderful blue burlap and lace placemat, a little tin box (which is beautiful) filled with a vintage wooden farm animal/buildings set - I love the chickens. She even enclosed a copy of Jeanne de' Arc Living - a totally wonderful gift! Did I miss something? There were so many wonderful things. I couldn't be happier! Thank you, Laura. You are an inspiration!

Where Bloggers Create - My Studio!

2010-06-18T07:58:00.007-06:00

My studio/creative space changes often. I create at the dining table, laying in bed, at the cabin by the lake - on the deck in the backyard - just about anyplace! Many times I like to stand so I like having a tall counter! I am really into vintage fabrics/laces right now, but my studio is not really reflective of that. I really like bright colors and light as well - this is how it looks at the moment, but I see a major change in the near future! To see many more creative studios please go to the Where Bloggers Create blog and have a tour of hundreds of wonderful spaces!

Treasures From Dad

2010-06-12T17:03:00.002-06:00

My parents were town today selling old stuff at my brother's garage sale. My dad brought to me a small box of goodies from their house ~ lovely old bottles, cool old beer can, my grandma's tea pot, a bunch of vintage door knobs and a few rusty nails! Lucky me!

"Granny Chic" Style - Doily Bowls

2010-06-12T13:05:00.008-06:00

I got this idea from Tif at Dottie Angel... not sure how she did it but I figured out a way myself. Lace doilies turned into bowls - "granny chic" at its best. I think for the next batch I will add fabric and ribbon. Aren't they adorable? Not super strong but I can put threads, candy, etc. in them! I'm addicted!

Addendum - Do you know the history of a doily? I didn't - so Wikipedia says "A doily (or doilie) is an ornamental mat, originally the name of a fabric made by Doiley, a 17th-century London draper.

Yet another website gives the following history, which I like better - "Robert D'Oilly (Great Britain) was given his Barony on condition that he gave the king three shillings' worth of linen table-cloths per year. Since lace making was one of the specialities of the region, and because Robert wanted to show off, these table-cloths were beautifully embroidered by the D'Oilly ladies, and were reserved by the king's household for great occasions. They were known as "D'Oilly's linen. But, by the nineteenth century, these "doilies" had shrunk to fussy plate-sized circles of lace. Three bob didn't go as far as the old days".

SNOWY Friday

2010-06-11T06:46:00.003-06:00

Not a very good photo, but as I look out my studio window this morning I see SNOW! It's June 11th, right? It is still snowing (actually now building up quite a bit) and about 32 degrees. I really, really want to see some sunshine soon! aacckkk!

Second Hand Rose Revisited

2010-06-10T19:46:00.002-06:00

Dropped in to Second Hand Rose for a quick visit, where I found vintage pillowcases, doilies (why do I like doilies so much?) and a lovely old tablecloth. I then found some red/white/blue fabric at the quilt shop for a project I'm doing for JunkFest! Only about a week away - I better get busy!

Rainbows and Ruffled Tulips

2010-06-07T23:24:00.002-06:00

Sometimes only pictures are necessary!

Cross Stitch Revisited

2010-06-04T16:46:00.003-06:00

Many, many years ago I cross-stitched. I collected all sorts of books, patterns, floss and needles! I'm afraid I've been hooked again! My first new project in the works!

May Dress

2010-06-03T17:55:00.003-06:00

April Dress

2010-06-03T17:53:00.002-06:00

Dress Challenge Update

2010-06-03T17:49:00.004-06:00

I got so far behind in my dress challenge! Here is January through May all together! I'm working on something a bit special for June! See more of the challenge here at Alice and Camilla! Feel free to join in!

Finally, The Flowers!

2010-05-31T14:01:00.004-06:00

This just makes me a happy (Montana) gardener~ I took these photos the other day

on a trip to Wagner's Nursery...

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T13:24:00.004-06:00

Memorial Day is about remembering those who have died in our nation's service. None of my family died while in service but I still like to remember them on this day, and they are all still living. My dad served in the Air Force in the 50's but never had to be in a war; my guy Jim served in Vietnam with the Air Force 1964-1968; my nephew Tyler just graduated from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs a few days ago and my Uncle Bill served in the Army during World War II! In my collection of grandma's treasures I have a stack of letters my Uncle Bill wrote to my grandparents and mom while he was stationed in Europe in WWII. I have read every single letter. My grandma had them tied up in this bundle. They are so awesome! The one on top is dated 1945. He was 20 years old at the time!

Vintage Baby Clothes

2010-05-23T18:00:00.003-06:00

What do you think? I have all of these vintage baby clothes from my grandma's trunk and I want to display them. I thought hanging them in the window of my studio/bedroom would look kind of nice. I don't think they can fade much more so I'm not worried about the sun. I'd rather use them than keep them in the trunk... Just an idea!

For the Love of Books

2010-05-23T16:31:00.003-06:00

Have I mentioned I LOVE books? Since I was very small I have been obsessed with reading and books (give me Nancy Drew anyday...). My mom was a librarian. I took library science classes in college but they had no degree in it at MSU so I got my degree in Elementary Education. I have lots of children's books (I still buy them, though my kids are not so young anymore), lots of other books I've collected, both new and vintage. So - I pretty much never pass up a university library book sale. Really had to control myself yesterday, but I walked away with three vintage books - a story on rabbits (my other fav), one on snowflakes, and the other gorgeous one on growing violets~ I don't have a scanner so the images aren't that great, but the violet book has lots of beautiful pictures~

Vintage Treasures

2010-05-22T16:38:00.003-06:00

The other day I went to the Senior Center for lunch with my guy's 89 yr. old mom and her friends. I loved it. I really enjoy their company. Little did I know, but downstairs in the basement of the center is a place called Second Hand Rose... oh, my! Why didn't anyone tell me about this place? We have very few thrift stores or antique stores in this area, and we never have flea markets like I see all of you blog ladies going to. So when I went down to this place I was pleasantly surprised! Lots of vintage linens, laces, crafty things, and so much more. I only spent about 10 minutes in there. I was overwhelmed. I found this really cool gingham apron, vintage cotton fabric, and a beautiful vintage tablecloth with blue flowers~ I have lived here 23 years and I had no idea this place existed! I'll be back!

JunkFest 2010

2010-05-21T09:19:00.004-06:00

I'm so excited that we are going to have the 2nd Annual JunkFest right here in our area on Saturday, June 19th! There will be lots of vendors, food, music, "junk hunks" to carry your purchases out to your car, and 'trash-to-treasure' demos by me! I'm really looking forward to this. If you are in the area stop by! Go here for the Antique Barn website and here for the Antique Barn blog. Photos courtesy of Antique Barn.

View From My Backyard!

2010-05-14T19:27:00.003-06:00

It is such a beautiful day I really don't want to be inside... I've snapped a few photos to share with you and then I'm on my way back out! Have a wonderful weekend!

What My Boys Did (For Me?) On Mother's Day!

2010-05-11T09:13:00.005-06:00

No - none of this is me! I wouldn't be caught hanging dangerously off of cliffs! But apparently my boys would. It was a great day for climbing on Sunday so they took advantage of that. Gives me the 'willys' everytime they tell me they've been climbing. Often they'll send me a photo or video while they're in action - it scares the bejeezus out of me!

Nice Mom That Quilts!

2010-05-08T20:30:00.003-06:00

My friend Pat, who's in my Art Quilters group, submitted this fantastic quilt to Quilting Arts magazine. There's an online article that tells her story on how the quilt was designed and made for her son who was stationed over in Bagdad. So very proud of you, Pat! Go here to read this fantastic article!

My Mom

2010-05-08T16:38:00.003-06:00

My mom, Susan, is one special person! This is her high school graduation picture - 1956! She still looks much the same! She has been through a lot - heart attack at age 58; full recovery; stroke at age 71; pretty much full recovery! She's doing well. I attribute it to her being the original 'health food' guru and healthy lifestyle lady... no white bread, soda pop, or sugared cereal for us as kids. I think it's served her quite well. I am very happy to say she is still with us and enjoying life! I love my mom!

New 'Zine

2010-05-08T16:23:00.002-06:00

I love 'zines and I ordered a great one the other day from Lee at The Way I See It. It's called Twigs and Feathers. There are a lot of great ideas and creativity! I think the first run has sold out but I believe they'll be making more issues available. (Photo courtesy of Lee's Esty).

Who's the Winner?

2010-05-07T11:59:00.004-06:00

Sorry I'm a day or so behind. I ended up getting a job interview in Helena so was out of town for a day or two! Went to our cabin at the lake while we were there. Still pretty cold here in Montana! Speaking of Montana, I have a giveaway winner - can you believe it is someone with a Montana connection? The Random Number Generator picked #2 and that was KarenSue of Sue Bee and Butterflies . Congrats, KarenSue. Please email me your address! I have a few surprises already to send but will be hitting the antique stores, etc. this weekend so I'll probably pick up a few more things! Thank you all for your wonderful comments. I really appreciate it! Hope you'll continue to check in and see what's happening here!

REMNANTS

Tuesday Theme - Love

Friday FYI - mini wheel barrel!

Friday FYI - Ella Violet Giveaway

Studio Sunday - 'Royal Crowns'

Saturday Sojourn - Red Shoes - Michigan

Thrifty Thursday - Buttons, Lace & Quilt

Wordy Wednesday - Tif Fussell

lu·mi·nous

Tuesday Theme - Thimbles

Monday Musings - The Handwritten Letter

Studio Sunday

Saturday Sojourn - Princess & The Pea Photo Shoot

Computer Glitch

Monday Musings

Studio Sunday

Saturday Sojourn

so·journ/ˈsōjərn/

Friday FYI - Extension

Thrifty Thursday - Angel Food Cake

Wordy Wednesday - Frankie Pratt

Theme Tuesday - Jane Austen

Monday Musings & My Birthday!

2012! Studio Sunday!

Autumn Inspiration!

Practical Magic Blog Party

Petite Inspiration Swap

Going To Michigan!

4th of July Weekend Art Fair

Exciting Sunday!

Collage Workshop

Flower Frenzy!

Published in Art Quilting Studio!

Lacy Things

Updating Remnants!

Brooch Swap

Still here!

Spring is Here!

Eco Colour

Busy, Busy!

A Swap for All Seasons!

Out of Touch

A Few Swaps For the New Year!

Happy Birthday To Me!

New Book!

Happy New Year!

Snow Lady!

Stocking Swap from Cindy

Snow Angels

Christmas Helper

I'm So Lucky!

Into the Christmas Spirit!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Too Cold

Stop the (Vintage Textiles) Madness!

Facebook | Montana Christmas Wreaths

Winter Preview

New Embroidery Projects

Halloween is Almost Here!

Halloween Inchies

Autumn Joy

A Long Break

Did I Mention My Love of Books?

I Love Books

Vintage Lace Curtain

Stitching

A Different Design

Trip to Yellowstone Park

Back to School

Vintage Fabric

KC Willis

Lovely Artist

Busy Summer!

Fire Near the Cabin

Back on Track

Quick Post

More Photos From Our Hike

Hike Around Town

52 Flea Giveaway Prize

Where Bloggers Create - My Studio!