Mason Bay

Mason Bay Etsy Shop

2011-04-01T16:00:00.001-04:00

It has been a while since my last post, but my time has been very valuable, the last few weeks. Every minute I have to spare, I spend with my children.

Here is a little something, I would love to share with you. I will try hard this next week to post more.

I started making hair accessories as a way to justify watching television in the middle of the afternoon. I have been selling them at my Etsy shop Mason Bay.

A while back my sister and I had decided to start making necklace's, earrings, and rings. We finally added the new cargo to our store.

I love designing the necklace's, and I get to spend time with my sister, so what could be better.

These are just a few of my favorites, so head on over to Mason Bay and check out the amazing necklace's and let me know which on is your favorite.

Don't forget, I'm still waiting for 115 to give away something lovely!

Until Next Time,

Melissa

Cake Pops

2011-03-21T09:36:00.001-04:00

Once again, Im in a baking mood!

Im really not sure what is going on here, but I know my children and husband are loving it.

I love cake pops. I feel in love with these about 3 years ago. I made a red velvette one with cream cheese. Lets just say they were scrumptous.

This time I made Strawberry cake pops.

First you make a Strawberry cake, let it cool, and crumble it up. This is were the children come in. What child doesnt LOVE getting messy.

Next I added Strawberry frosting and mixed it up well. Roll into balls and put in the fridge for about an hour. I dipped the sticks into chocolate, and then put them into the balls. Next I put the balls into the fridge again.

Dip into white chocolate, and add sprinkles.

One blog that has amazing pops is Bakerella. You can do some amazing things. I was thinking a Veggie Tale pop would be awsome for a birthday party. Maybe for Mason party I will attempt them.

These pops are Strawberry delicious, and deffinitly worth all the work.

Parties Im linked to

Funky Polkadot Giraffe

Until next time,

Melissa

Spring Cupcakes

2011-03-16T14:12:00.009-04:00

Some months, I really get into baking. March has been that month.

Today I baked Chocolate cupcakes.

Spring colored frosting, looks so beautiful on the tops of the chocolate cakes.

In Martha Stewarts magazine, I seen some neat designs you can do with colored cupcakes. You could arrange them in different patterns for any type of occasion.

I put small chocolate chips on top of the frosting to top off the delightful cupcakes.

I can not wait for spring, so I am bringing it in with these wonderful colors.

Frosting Recipe,
cream together
1/2 c. solid shortening
1/2 c. butter
add remaining ingredients until well mixed.
4 c. powdered sugar
2 T. milk- I added a bit more.

I am still waiting to hit 115 followers, so I can give something wonderful away.

Parties Im linked to.
Night Owl Crafting
Someday Crafts
Somewhat Simple
Sew Much Ado
Moms Crazy Cooking
Remodelaholic

Until Next Time,
Melissa

Easy Cherry Cheesecake

2011-03-11T15:20:00.000-05:00

Let me first say, that my heart goes out to all the Tsunami victims. What a horrible event, and my prayers go out to them, that is all I can do, but prayer is something huge. We just have to remember that God is in control of EVERYTHING.

With all the snow today, I thought, I needed to make something fun and delicious.

Cherry Cheesecake in muffin cups sounded perfect. These amazing cheesecakes were so easy to make.

Recipe
2 8oz. Pkgs. cream cheese softened
3/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 t. vanilla extract
1 T. lemon juice
vanilla wafers
can of cherry pie filling
paper mini muffin cups

Blend first 5 ingredients together until light and fluffy; set aside. Place a vanilla wafer in the bottom of the paper lined mini- muffin cups. Fill each 2/3 full with cream cheese mixture; bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. cool; spoon cherry pie filling on top of each cheesecake.

According to my husband the cheesecakes were really yummy. So you really should try them. I'm not a huge dessert eater. But Im a huge fan of making them.

Until next time,
Melissa

Colored Postcards

2011-03-09T08:54:00.006-05:00

Mail Call!

Today Baylie and Mason delievered mail to Mr. Tiger, Pink Puppy, Tuck the turtle, and many other stuffed animals.

Felt mail was such a delight to make. I had several colors, which made the mail more exciting.

I used my sewing machine to sew around the edges and for the 3 center lines.

For the stamps, I cut out fun shapes out of fabric and felt.

I am having so much fun with the kids, playing mailman.

It is also a fun way to learn colors.

Now all I need is a awesome mailbag.

I am always looking for new ways to entertain the children, exspecially during the winter.
If you have any amazing ideas let me know.

Parties I am linked to.
Night Owl Crafting
Tea Rose Home
Beyond the Picket Fence
Sassy Sites
Somewhat Simple
Sun Scholars

Until Next Time,
Melissa

Clothesline Calendar

2011-03-07T15:18:00.006-05:00

It only took 2 months, but I finally had some time, to make myself a calendar.

I printed these adorable owl calendars off from My Owl Barn.

I attached the calendars to clothespins, and then clipped them onto a piece of hemp.

The best part of finally getting to a calendar, is that I am now motivated to get my desk area done.

Really, could these be any cuter?

I can not wait until spring, so I can start on my new desk.

I have amazing plans, that I can not wait to start on.

My sister and I, have also been working on my mothers dining room ,and I can not wait to show you the transformation when it is done.

Don't forget once I hit 115 friends I will be doing a free giveaway.

Parties I am linked to.
Polly Want a Crafter
Boggie Board Cottage
Making The World Cuter
Type A
Remodelaholic

Until Next Time,
Melissa

spring pots

2011-03-02T13:50:00.011-05:00

Spring is almost here, and it is time to start my plants.

Today, I started cilantro and basil. My children really enjoyed helping me. Mason really had fun spreading potting mix everywhere.

I really think these plants deserve a nice container.

Stenciled numbers painted white, look amazing on the terracotta pots.

I printed lovely printables out from Creature Comforts.

Nice flags poked through the dirt gives them a little something special.

These turned out so lovely.
Now I cant wait for the herbs to start growing.

Parties Im linked to
Night Owl Crafting
Not Just A Housewife
Sew Woodsy
Someday Crafts
DIY by Design
Katies Nesting Spot
Ladybug Blessings
Paisley Passions
Sassy Sites
Shabby Nest

Until Next Time,
Melissa

Lavender Sachets

2011-02-23T14:01:00.006-05:00

Lavender reminds me of Summer, and I am patiently waiting.

So, today I wanted to make some lavender sachets.

I made these scrumptious apples. The smell of lavender is bursting from them. I could maybe smell these all day.

I loved the first one so much, I made 8 more.

I'm sleeping like a baby, with these above our bed.

I also made one more out of an old arm chair cover.

This one is going in my clothes drawer, and maybe on some trips with me.

Who knows, maybe I will be giving these away soon.

Once I hit 115 followers, there will be something given to my awesome and amazing followers.

So tell everyone you know, so I can give something away already.

Parties Im link to.
Night Owl Crafting

Tea Rose Home
Type A
Beyond the Picket Fence
Sew Woodsy
Paisley Passion

Until Next Time,

Melissa

Cake Batter Fudge

2011-02-20T22:32:00.005-05:00

YUM, is the first thing I thought of, when I seen this yummy recipe.

I came across a wonderful recipe blog called Mrs. Bettie Rocker. How awesome is the name of her blog.

It took me about a second to decide, that I was going to make fudge for the first time ever.

So take 15 minutes out of your week, to make this scrumptious treat.

Ingredients

3 cups sugar

1 1/2 sticks margarine

5 oz can (2/3 cup) evaporated milk
12 oz chopped white chocolate chips
7oz jar marshmallow creme
3 or 4 Tablespoons yellow cake mix (just the powdered MIX, not batter)
1 teaspoon vanilla
Blue coloring
Rainbow sprinkles

Directions1. Line an 8 or 9 inch square pan with foil, leaving the ends hanging over the edges of the pan. Spray foil thoroughly with nonstick spray.

2. Place the sugar, margarine, and evaporated milk in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly, and let boil for 4 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Add chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, and cake mix, stirring until chocolate chips are melted. Add vanilla and mix well.

4. Working quickly, pour about 1/3 of the fudge in a bowl and add a few drops of blue candy coloring, mixing and adding until you achieve the desired shade. Pour white fudge into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Spoon blue fudge over the top, spacing it out. Using a sharp knife, draw swirls through the blue and white to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle the top generously with rainbow sprinkles before the top sets up.

5. Let store at room temperature until cool, then place in the refrigerator until firm.

Around here Fudge is so expensive, because it is "Amish made".

I have fallen into this trap, but no more.

If you have a great fudge recipe, please feel free to share.

Parties Im linked to.

DIY Home Sweet Home Project

Craft O Maniac

Its So Very Cheri

Boogieboard Cottage

Until Next Time,

Melissa

Lovely Lamps

2011-02-20T20:25:00.000-05:00

Today my Tree Trunk Lamp has been featured at Craft Gossip.

I love opening up my mail, and having such a delightful email to look at.

There are other beautiful lamps that you need to take a look at. So pop on over to Craft Gossip, and take a look.

Until next time,

Melissa

Almost a year ago

2011-02-18T15:29:00.001-05:00

While reading my sister blog, the The Wannabe Cottage, I came across this lovely post called ,Two of my favorite people.

Wow, have my two cuties already grown that much?

It made me want to cry and smile at the same time.

My sister was watching the children for the day ,and snapped some of the most lovely pictures.

I believe she has a great talent. What do you think?

The flowers make me want Summer so badly to come. It is in the 60's today.

But Ohio weather plays these little tricks on us. Next week there will be freezing rain.

Head on over to her blog, and check out the post, it is very adorable. Thanks Jenna for writing such a great post about my dear children.

Until Next time,

Melissa

sweater dress

2011-02-16T15:28:00.003-05:00

My first dress. YES!

If you read my last post, Cleaning the Closet, you would know, I was attempting to make a dress from one of my old sweaters.

After tons of redo's, I completed it.

What a beauty. I had to bribe my daughter to take a picture in it.

Safety was not my man focus today, but on top of the table, is the best lighting in our home.

I love the way it turned out. Now I am thinking I can make more clothing.

For the dress, I had to cut the sweater completely apart, and hand sew the dress back together.

I cut the sleeves completely off.

This is when I became worried.

I then cut the end part of the sleeve, and stitched it back onto the dress.

It took a lot of time, but I feel accomplished.

The best part of this accomplishment, is my daughter hates it. Notice the tantrum on the floor.

Its to itchy mom.
The zipper it touching me.
I cant get it off.
Its to long.

Hmmmm, do I force her to wear it to church?

Maybe some bubble gum will solve the problem.

Party link up
Paisley Passions
Beyond the Picket Fence
Type A

Until next time,
Melissa

cleaning the closet

2011-02-14T14:29:00.006-05:00

Shoving and pushing, to find a place in the closet was not happening anymore.

I decided to take everything out that I have not worn in the past 6 months, and donate it.

How did I forget that I had these beauty's?

After a few minutes, I decided to make a pillow.

I love how it turned out.

For the white sweater, I am attempting a dress for my daughter.

This project could take a while.

Now for my garage door headboard.

I think I have showed you my entire bedroom, but my headboard.

An old garage door. I seen the door, and had to have it.

I love the bolts and the chipped paint.

Now, I am looking for the perfect piece above the headboard.

If you have any great Ideas let me know.

Parties Im Linked to.
Polly Want a Crafter
Making the World Cuter
Sew Can Do
Faded Charm Cottage
The Shabby Chic Cottage

Until next time,
Melissa

Seat Cushions

2011-02-09T10:03:00.008-05:00

Seat Cushions finish off my daughters white table.

My plan is to slowly transform my daughters room.

As you have hopefully figured out, I LOVE color, and patterns.

What a fun challenge to combine patterns and colors together.

I quilted 4 different fun fabrics together.

I then stuffed with batting, and tied twine to the cushions.

The table was a gift, and was originally a light brown, so I painted it white.

I wish I would have taken a before picture, but of course I did not.

Baylie loves her new table, but she thinks the pillows are to sleep on.

Hopefully the whole room transformation will be done by 2012.

I am giving myself plenty of time.

Parties Im Linked to.
Sew Woodsy
Type A
Some Day Crafts
Blue Cricket Design
Seven Thirty Three
Paisley Passions
Beyond The Picket Fence

Until next time,

Melissa

Funky Junk Copy Me

2011-02-07T13:24:00.000-05:00

If you need some awesome ideas, these two blogs are where you can find just that.

Once these ladies hit 4000 followers, they put up a Copy me Challenge link party.

I added my Barn Door Table for Funky Junks Challenge.

My favorite piece in my home.

My thoughts were she will probably delete this picture. My confidence can be a bit low at times.

Instead She loved it. YES!

She actually had me on the front page today.

Check it out here Funky Junk Interiors.

There are some really great ideas that people are linking.

Until next time,

Melissa

Winter Fun

2011-02-03T21:29:00.002-05:00

Indoors has become very routine.

I am dreaming of digging in dirt, mowing the yard and walking to the park.

Until then, It was time to buckle down and get creative with the children.

Sock Puppets

Baylie and I made these two cuties. Miss Piggy, and Mr. Dinosaur.

They we so easy.'

All you need is a Big pair of socks, felt, and some stuffing.

We put on a puppet show for the men.

Mason just wanted to hit the puppets.

She could not keep her head below the table. She tried so hard.

Tape City

While looking through blogs I found this great idea from Not Just a Housewife

I used all of Chris's Electrical tape to make a huge city.

What a great Idea. It really did entertain them for hours.

We had a parking garage, and at the other end, I put a doll house.

I even joined in with the fun. My two favorite cars.

I enjoyed my time with my children this week.

I think God sends us weather, to slow us down and enjoy the little things.

Parties Im linked to

Crazy Domestic

At The Picket Fence

Until next time,

Melissa

Chair Revamp

2011-02-01T14:36:00.013-05:00

After months of searching for a great desk chair, I never found the perfect one.

Good thing I had this green greatness all along.

I was moments from sending, this green greatness to the dumpster.

When a grand idea came to me.

I love great ideas. The first thing was to see if I could take it apart.

It came apart just lovely.

I Reupholstered it, with some fabric I already had.

I then taped off strips and painted it a gray, blue color.

I sprayed painted the frame white.

I then painted it another coat with a cream white.

To think I almost threw it away.

I cant wait until I start on my desk. So my pretty little chair will have a great spot to sit.

Parties Im linked to.
Funky Polka Dot Giraffe
Todays Creative Blog
Tea Rose Home
Sew Woodsy
Faded Charm Cottage
Blue Cricket Design
Night Owl Crafting
Domestically Speaking
Beyond the Picket Fence
The Shabby Chic Cottage

Until Next Time,
Melissa

More Burlap table Runners

2011-01-29T21:22:00.001-05:00

In December, I gave a tutorial on a Burlap Table Runner.

This evening when I opened my mail. I had a picture of someone who made a burlap table runner.

She followed the tutorial ,and I want to share it with you.

Page from Pickin Peaches created this beautiful runner.

I absolutely adore the colors and design she used.

She is new to Blog land, so make sure to give her tons of nice comments.

I love seeing stuff like this, it makes my day wonderful.

Until Next Time,

Melissa

Pink Heart

2011-01-28T19:22:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, while at my sisters, Baylie was playing with her new Fiskars heart punch.

Jenna then decided to let Baylie take the heart punch home to borrow.

She put hearts in everything, even very important receipts.

I also fell in love with the heart punch.

I was watching X games and punching out purple and pink hearts.

I attached them to sting and draped them around my chandelier.

Pretty!

Hearts sprinkled on the burlap runner, adds a sweet touch.

I then went a bit overboard and punched my paper wreath.

Love is in the air at our home.

I could have punched all day long, but my family would have killed me.

Parties Im Linked To,
Remodelaholic

Shabby Nest

Kojo Designs

Craft O Maniac

Until Next Time,

Melissa

Lovely Gift Box

2011-01-25T21:28:00.008-05:00

What An inspiration Matthew Mead has been to me this year.

The Holiday magazine this Christmas, has my creative juices flowing.

There was an idea of using a tin, to put cookies, and pretzels in. They then used chalkboard paint to create a cute message

I figured it would also make a great Valentine's gift box.

I made a red, and white scarf for my brother.

Perfect Valentine's day colors right. These are actually the colors of one soccer team he really likes.

CHICAGO FIRE. I believe he has season tickets, so I hope he gets good use out of it.

This is the very first knitted project, I have done. I am very excited with the way it turned out.

Here is all you need to do the box.

You paint the lid with your chalkboard paint.

I had to do 3 coats.

Next you put a nice message, and you are done.

This was so easy, and it is reusable.

I am also so excited that summer with Matthew Mead is coming soon.

Parties I am linked to.

Tea Rose Home
Night Owl Crafting
Blue Cricket Design
The Shabby Chic Cottage
Beyond the Picket Fence

Until Next Time,

Melissa

DIY Project Party

2011-01-24T13:45:00.001-05:00

My children are finally sleeping, which gives me a minute, to sit at my computer and check my mail.

I was so excited to see that my Wood Chest has been selected at DIY Project Party as a Top 10 project.

The DIY Club

If you have time go check it out.

Until Next time,
Melissa

Tree Trunk Lamp

2011-01-20T21:48:00.009-05:00

As I lay awake in bed, this is when my ideas start flowing.

Some are great, and others come from a tired, and worn out brain.

When something awesome hits, I peek across the bed to see if my husband is still awake.

I just have to tell someone.

Here is one of the many ~~crazy~~ normal ideas, I have came up with.

A tree trunk lamp.

Sorry about the lighting in the picture. This was taken in my dungeon of a room.

My lovely before picture.

I use to love this lamp, but it no longer went with my decor.

So why not use some spackling, to revamp this lamp.

Just so you know I used my finger for everything. I'm not really sure why.

Yes I said everything, paint and all.

I first put a small smooth coat of spackling on and let it dry.

I then put a thick second coat on.

This is where I put in my texture.

Tree knots. I just piled on the spackling for these

Why not a little heart. It will be sitting next to the bed.

I sanded some down, so there was not any sharp pointy parts.

I told Baylie I was taking a picture. She of course wanted to pose beside it.

What a HUGE help she was.

She held the can of spackling ,and while I ~~wasn't~~ was looking, she stuck her finger in.

I painted my tree trunk a gray mixed with white color.

I used gray in some areas more then others to give more shading.

I love my new tree trunk lamp.

Also I love having one of a kind products.

Parties Im linked to
Paisley Passions
Shabby Nest
Katies Nesting Spot
Decor Mamma
Boogie Board Cottage
Its So Very Cheri
Faded Charm
The Shabby Chic Cottage

Until Next Time,

Melissa

Pillow Talk

2011-01-19T15:31:00.013-05:00

Right now, I am attempting a redo on our bedroom.

This seems to be a challenge, because of us trying to sell our home.

What is worth putting into the room?

Light fixtures, mounting stuff to the walls just does not seem cost effective at this time.

I'm itching to start doing something to our room.

So, I have decided to decorate with items I can take with us.

Pillows add so much to an ordinary bed.

My husband is not a huge fan. Pillows = more work.

This is one of my favorites. A monogrammed H with buttons.

Dark blue, light tan, and off white fabric rosette flowers adorn this pillow.

Every bed needs a burlap pillow. I loved the shape of this one.

An Ikea towel, is what I used for this stripped pillow.

Yes, I said a towel. I love finding unusual stuff to use for a project.

Last night around 5, My sister and I took a 2 hour trip to Ikea.

We dodged the fog, and pouring rain, to go.

How peaceful it was, to be almost the only people there.

I could actually think.

My sister did inform me that people are holding dinner parties at Ikea.

HOW fun, I wish I leaved closer.

Now I just need a few fluffy white pillows and I am good to go.

I cant wait to show you my garage door headboard.

There are just a couple more details to work out. Until my reveal.

Parties Im linked to
Tea Rose Home
Sew Woodsy
Blue Cricket Design
Night Owl Crafting
Beyond the Picket Fence
Some What Simple
The Shabby Chic Cottage
Paisley Passions
Shabby Nest
Katies Nesting Spot
Iron Violet designs
Freckled Laundry

Until Next Time,

Melissa

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-01-17T22:23:00.000-05:00

Today was such a special day. I received my very first blog award, and I hit 50 followers.

Yippee!!!

Many thanks to Lovely Crafty Home

I love her website, and if you have not been there yet, stop by. Lovely Crafty Home.

Thanks to everyone else who reads my blog.

This Award does come with some rules.

And who am I ,to not follow.

You must share 7 facts about yourself. Then you pass this award on to 15 awesome blogger's.

So let me get on the ball and start with 7 Facts about Me.

1. I feel lazy , when I just sit around and watch television. So I started making hair accessories, while watching television. I now sell them at my Etsy shop. Mason Bay

2. My husband and I are in the process of selling our home. I wish for a old farmhouse, with a small hobby farm. How nice it would be to bring in my own eggs, or raise an alpaca.

3. I am one busy lady, but I enjoy it. I work part time cleaning my church. I also work Saturdays selling wood burning stoves, and I'm a full time mother.

4.I live in Amish County. I'm not sure that this is interesting, but some people might.

5. I get a bit carried away in the cleaning department. My theory is ,what is the point of decorating your home if it is not clean? My husband claims I have a problem :)

6. I have two children, Baylie-3 and Mason- 15 months. I would have 10 but this decision is not up to me.

7. I really enjoy watching Hockey.

I hope you enjoy reading my 7 facts. Now on to the fun stuff.

The 15 deserving Blogger.

1. The Wannabe Cottage

2. 3 Sun Kissed Boys

3.BigSis LilSis

4. Boogie Board Cottage

5. Chipping With Charm

6. Down On Sanford

7.Little Prairie Baby

8.My Pink Life

9.Restoration Home

10. The Virginia House

11.Secrets of a Butterfly

12.Pieced Past Times

13.Forever Cottage

14.Daisy Pink Cupcake

15.Beach Cottage in the Desert

Check out all of these wonderful blogs.

Once again thanks Rachael at Lovely Crafty Home.

Until Next Time,

Monkey Pops

2011-01-16T16:29:00.005-05:00

One of Baylie's favorite things to do in the kitchen, is pick a recipe out of her cookbook.

Just like her mom, she loves her Gooseberry Patch Cookbook.

Such a Kid friendly book.

The pages are easy to wipe off, and the pictures are so great for kids.

Click Here to check out there website.

-Warning-

You will fall in love with there cookbooks.

This week she picked a recipe called Monkey Pops.

How great are these. The kids loved them.

Monkey pops would also make a great addition to a child's birthday party.

Here is how to make them.

First you make rice krispies.

Next cut them into oval shapes, and push a stick in them.

Use Chocolate frosting to adhere the face parts.

What I used for the parts.

Ears-Vanilla Wafers
Mouth- Nutter Butter
Nose- Jelly Bean
Eyes- M&M

For the mouth I used Black Gel.

The hair is chocolate frosting.

What fun we had making and eating these.

Parties Im linked to
Remodelaholic
Boogie Board Cottage
Funky Junk Interiors
Polish The Stars

Until Next Time,

Wood Chest Treasure

2011-01-13T22:16:00.017-05:00

Over the summer, I found an amazing treasure.

A wood chest with a few imperfections, that I could deal with.

My Jeep was full of strollers and other junk, but I did manage to shove this beauty in.

There were a few dark stains, which meant a white wash was not a great option.

The rope handles, and wire around it made my heart skip a beat.

There was a broken board on the left.

Unfortunately all I can do with it, is pretend it isn't there.

Here is what I came up with.

I painted the trunk, and now it is my new night stand.

A plus is that it stores stuff.

Here is how I did this.

I used paint, glazing, and water.

Eco-Gray was the color I picked.

The color numbers are below.

I mixed with a product from Americana, called glazing medium.

I then added about 3 spoon fulls of water.

The mixture was about the consistence of milk.

Paint the mixture on and then wipe off gently with a towel.

I really enjoyed the way the front looked.

I did not paint the wire, brackets or hinges.

I really appreciated the way the top looked.

Until I put the Chest in the bedroom.

It was not working for me.

Tears and sniffles.

So I decided to paint the door, without any water.

After the paint dried, I applied the glazing to a towel and rubbed it on the door.

I did this to get an antiqued look.

I jumped, when I seen the finished chest.

This pail clock was so easy, and it makes a great remote holder.

Im linked up here

Miss Mustard Seed

Shabby Nest

The DIY Club
Remodelaholic
A little Knick Knack
Mural Maker 1
Its so very Cheri
Funky Junk Interiors
Domestically Speaking

Until Next Time,

Peacock Banner

2011-01-11T21:44:00.005-05:00

Everywhere you look, you see these wonderful flag banners.

There are so many endless possibilities.

Since peacock feathers make my heart melt, why not add some to my banner.

How splendid.

To get this look, cut a triangle of burlap, off white fabric, a book page, and attached the peacock feather.

I hot glued everything. You could also sew all triangles together.

So simple, anyone could whip one of these out in a day.

Here are some banners I adore.

Cake Bunting,

How precious is this. She sells them at her etsy shop.

Fine Little Day

Yeah I could definitely sip some ice tea, and read a book in this cozy spot.

My Pink Life

There are no words for how great this flag is.

This is just one of many on her blog.

If you have an amazing banner please share your link I would love to see it.

Linked up here,
Vintage Pollyanna
Blue Cricket Design
Tea Rose Home
Beyond the Picket Fence

Until Next Time,

Featured

2011-01-11T14:47:00.000-05:00

Usually, I do not post when I am being featured on a blog.

Today however I am over joyed to be featured on Remodelaholic.

My Barn Door table.

Go Check it out and support my table.

Click here to check out my Barn Door Table.

Until Next Time,

Brownies with a twist

2011-01-10T14:18:00.008-05:00

My children love brownies, and almost everything else with sugar in it.

Today I thought, how nice it would be to whip a batch up, with a special surprise on top.

A chocolate flower filled to the brim with crushed peppermint.

What perfect Valentines day colors.

I'm such a big fan of Matthew Mead.

In the recent addition of holiday, he featured an amazing cake from Smeeks.

What a beutiful birthday cake.

All you need is a silicon cupcake pan and chocolate to form the cups.

I visited Ikea yesterday, and came home with this silicon flower ice tray.

This is so easy!

Melt the chocolate and place a nice coating on the inside.

Freeze and then carefully remove from your form.

Skittles, M&M's. peppermint, blue sprinkles, and pecans fill my Chocolate cups.

I think my children help, so they can lick the spoons.

We had a moment of play time while the molds were freezing.

What a wonderful gift from my sister.

This turned out to be my favorite.

I love the colors. Sprinkles and Pecans. YUM!

I knew they were yummy, when both kids snuck up, while I was taking pictures.

Can children have to much sugar in a day?

Linking up here
sumos sweet stuff
skip to my lou
Polish the Stars
Craft O Maniac
Making the World Cuter
Vintage Pollyanna

Until next time,

Valentine table for 2

2011-01-05T14:34:00.010-05:00

Sipping orange juice is simply better, out of a wine goblet.

Watching the snow fall as you eat your breakfast with someone special, makes me blush.

This to me is a perfect Valentine breakfast.

This year I'm staring early on planning the perfect breakfast for my husband.

Lucky for me he never looks at my blog.

I came up with this cute Valentine Girl

She is the perfect Valentine accessory.

I love how simple she was to make.

I found these old clothespins at one of my favorite local shops, a while ago.

I knew I would find something great to do with them.

I painted the pins white.

I put her game face on.

For the dress I used crepe paper. I sewed the paper to give it a ruffled look.

I hot glued the dress on and ruffled some behind her. I love how she turned out. Simple, but just right.

The eggs I painted with red paint.

I received the idea while reading Holiday by Matthew Mead.

He did Christmas eggs.

The napkins are actually old arm chair covers. They matched my style, so I snagged them up.

The silverware is Vintage. I painted them white, and rubbed some off.

I then bent them for nifty little napkin rings.

I cant wait to eat some delicious granola with my husband.

Here are some other great ideas for my Valentine girl.

Attach to a Valentine card.
hang a party of girls from you chandelier

I am sure there are some great things you could do with the girls.

I would love to hear or see your ideas.

Parties Im linked to.

The Thrifty Home
Its so very Cheri
Paisley Passion
tea rose home
Beyond the Picket Fence
Remodelaholic
Craft O maniac
making the world cuter

Until next time,
Melissa

decoupaged dresser

2011-01-02T15:46:00.020-05:00

What a excitement I had, when I seen this great idea at The Wannabe Cottage.

She decoupaged a desk, with a book.

Of course she is super talented and my sister.

I believe most of my inspiration is derived from her.

I came up with this dresser, using the same method.

This is my new and improved decoupaged dresser.

I used a book, and chalkboard paint on the drawers.

We have enjoyed this new dresser.

I love the special messages my husband leaves me, or I leave him.

Here is what The Wannabe Cottage had came up with.

I love how she put the chalk paint on the very top. How creative.

Wow Think of all the options, you could do.

Maybe a whole furniture line. Oh the possibilities.

Here are the supplies you will need.

Book/ or sheets of music
mod podge
paint brush
chalk board pant. I used Charcoal Grey to Fit my room
electric sander, or your muscle power.

This brown dresser was just to plain for me.

I worked in sections. I first would paint the dresser with mod podge, then apply the paper.

Next I applied more mod podge on top of the paper.

I tried to get all bumps and creases out.

I layered the book pages in different angles.

After some sticky fingers, and a whole container of mod podge, the pages were all in place.

The next step was sanding the dresser doors.

After sanding I took charcoal grey chalkboard paint, and gave the drawers 3 coats of paint.

The dresser turned out great.

The sweet messages are such a bonus.

I have some special plans for the window above the dresser. I cant wait to show you.

Parties Im linked to.

Its so very Cheri
The DIY Club
The Lettered Cottage
Crazy Domestic
faded charm cottage

Blue Cricket Design

Miss Mustard Seed
Domestically Speaking
Boogieboard Cottage
Tea Rose Home
Shabby Nest
Lovely Crafty Home
Freckled Laundry

Until next time,

Melissa

burlap table runner

2010-12-28T16:18:00.011-05:00

Here is the DIY burlap table runner. I appreciate how easy they are to make.

My sister and I actually came up with the idea.

She is one creative chick. Check out her blog The Wanna Be Cottage.

So here is how you achieve this runner.

You first will have to measure the width and desired length.

I have mine hanging down over my table 9" on both sides.

My width is 15". Once you have figured out what you want, CUT!

Next sew along the edges.

I enjoy the frayed look, so I didn't do this for mine.

The most important step is to choose a color.

Here are 4 that we thought would look really great.

The turquoise won my vote.

Tape and paint. Work in sections.

Here is where you creativity steps in.

I did two strips 1/2" w. The strips are 10" apart.

You could do one big strip down the middle with two smaller strips beside.

The Burlap will look great with almost anything you choose.

Let the paint dry, and peel the tape off. I did have to touch it up in some places.

One great runner, and I didn't have to break my budget.

If you try this send me your picture.  I would love to see your creativity.

Here is a party I joined

Todays Creative Blog          Remodelaholic

Vintage Wannabee           The Lettered Cottage

Blue Cricket Design         Crazy Domestic

tea rose home

Beyond The Picket Fence

lovely crafty home

Shabby Nest

Until next time,

Melissa

accessories for the outdoors.

2010-12-26T09:35:00.000-05:00

Treats everyone can enjoy , are always lovely to make.

Acorn bird seed treats sounded perfect, for our beautiful birds in the woods.

I seen this handsome male cardinal the other day. I will name
this one Craig.

That is when the wheels started turning.

Craig needs a gift, and some female friends.

why not try to attract some critters with these awesome acorn delights!

Here is how we made these beauty's.

Supplies you will need.

Peanut Butter

Bird Seed

Acorns ( I collected these from fall)

Jute

Hot glue

I put a dab of hot glue on top, and spun the jute around, to resemble the top of an acorn.

My father was super impressive and created this triple threat.

After many burns, we finally had all of the jute attached.

Apply the peanut butter anyway you want, finger, spoon, knife, I think you get the point.

I think my mother was having to much fun.

Roll the acorns in bird seed.

Now take a break, and eat spoon fulls of peanut butter.

Tie them to the trees. I would make sure to have someone tall do this.

Do not jump in the snow, you may eat it!!!

The treats look great hung all together.

I wonder if the birds will admire the view.

I adore the way the triple treat looks.

Im linked up here

DIY CLUB

DIY Showoff

Until next time,
Melissa

Forest of Trees

2010-12-23T15:31:00.000-05:00

I am on a last minute decorating frenzy. I quick ran to the store and picked up some supplies to make these.

Crepe paper trees, they are so much fun, and easy to make.

I found these darlings on a website called Creative Chaos.

She gives a very good tree tutorial.

Finished product.

I love how easy these were, and my children could help. I left mine simple, you could do anything your heart desires.

Spray on glitter, was the one thing I used.

Red, silver and white.

You sew the crepe paper to give them a ruffled look.

I set my sewing machine at 9 tension and 0 width.

Baylie pushed the pedal, and we were off and running.

I made tree forms in all different sizes.

It looks like a tiny crepe tree forest, in the middle of my table.

The grey turned out lovely. The glitter lays quite nice on the tree.

The one on the far left, Baylie made, notice the blue glitter.

Thank You creative chaos for my wonderful tree forest center piece, and blistered fingers.

I am linked up here

Until next time,
Melissa

Touch of Turquoise

2010-12-22T10:59:00.000-05:00

Chipped up Turquoise paint dresses up my ordinary white hutch.

I found this beauty with one door off, and taped up wooden handles. It was a steal, and I could not leave it out in the chilly spring rain.

I love the color of this pitcher.

What a challenge this was to bring it home. We loaded it in my brother ~~in laws~~ truck, and frantically hunted down a place to find a tarp. The storm clouds were rolling in.

A few stores later we found a tarp. Two wet shirts and my pearl was safely covered.

We celebrated with double downs from KFC. I felt sinful just looking at this thing.

I wish I would have taken a before picture, but I was filled with excitement when my husband put it in our dining room.

My determination was to doctor this treasure up as soon as possible

New hinges were needed to attach the doors.

A fresh coat of white paint gave this hutch new life.

Green and ideal, anthropologie knobs enhance this one of a kind hutch.

I added beloved accessories.

old door knob, my favorite accessory in the hutch.

The hutch is exactly what I had envisioned.

Check out these site Im linked to.

the shabby chic cottage

beyond the picket fence

house of hepworths

Funky Junk Interiors

DIY CLUB

Until next time,
Melissa

Barn Door Table

2010-12-20T15:11:00.007-05:00

Hinges, and latches adorn my kitchen table. An old barn door, attached to some legs, and perfection.

The door became a beautiful kitchen table.

The plain wood legs, and base needed something, so a white wash, and paint stained clothes was a must.

Looking at all the imperfection of the door, remind me how beautiful old and used items are.

The children especially love playing with the hinge, while they are sitting on my lap.

After a couple of months, and not being able to find any vintage folding chippy chairs ( I am still looking), I decided to paint the chairs I already had.

I sanded all 6 chairs and painted them fun, bright colors, red, green, purple, orange, turquoise, and yellow.

Thank you Martha Stewart paint samples.

The children love them , and it has helped Baylie with learning her colors.

I love how unique they are! It is not every day you walk into someones home, who has 6 different colored chairs.

I added a burlap table runner, with Turquoise strips (the DIY is coming on the runner.)

An IKEA white vase, with dried Hydrangea from my sisters garden, takes center stage on this one of a kind table.

Playing games around this table, and entertaining is so enjoyable.

Check out these links my table is linked up to.
The Thrifty Home            The Lettered Cottage

The Girl Creative        sew dang cute crafts

Funky Junk Interiors

Not just a housewife

blue cricket design

DIY CLUB

Its So Very Cheri

Krafty Kat

Crazy Domestic

Miss Mustard Seed

Until next time,
Melissa

Hung With Care

2010-12-17T15:40:00.000-05:00

When I see something I am smitten with, I rush home and attempt to make it.

Recently I was at a local herb show where there were many vendors. One of these vendors had some quilted stockings that I ~~needed~~ wanted.

So when I got home, I rummaged through my material scraps, and came up with these lovely stockings.

These suckers were so easy to make.

The most time consuming part was cutting out all the triangle pieces.

I added some vintage lace, I purchased while at the herb fair.

Attached to a old piece of barn wood and these are exactly what I wanted.

The Snowflakes are beeswax I made a couple of years ago and they still smell great.

I love the vintage feel they have, I just hope Baylie and Mason love what is inside.

Linking up here
The Creative Crate
The girl creative
tea rose home

Until next time,

Melissa

fire in the home

2010-12-16T15:18:00.000-05:00

Half dressed during the Winter in our house is not an unusual site. Warmth from our wood stove ,heats our whole house, and I love it. Being that I sell Wood stoves as a part time job at Lehman's, can tell you, I absolutely love fires in the home.Sitting in silence and watching the fire swirl around gives me such a calming feeling. Knowing that if the electric went out and we would still have heat gives me peace.The kids love playing outside in the snow, and then coming in for a sip of hot chocolate (loaded with marshmallows and sprinkles) by the stove.

Warming our boots by the toasty wood stove.

Speaking of hot chocolate here are some great ideas for you children's hot chocolate. Add a Candy Cane so you children can stir and lick.
Use Colorful sprinkles or crushed peppermint for a yummy topping.
Whipped Cream with chocolate shavings, and a sprinkle of cinnamon makes me even want to dig in.
Buy tiny marshmallows at your local bulk food store, and mound handfuls of marshmallows into your child's drink.

Baylie drinking her first hot chocolate!

I would love to hear what your favorite topping for hot chocolate is, so please share.

Until next time,
Melissa

rising dough

2010-12-15T23:02:00.000-05:00

While I'm in the kitchen, I always reminisce about my childhood, and the blissful food my dad always made. Waking up to the lovely smell of muffins baking in the oven, or homemade pizza dough rising. My love of baking and cooking is mostly derived from me trying to give my children those wonderful smells to remember. I enjoy trying new recipes, and adding to ones already perfected. Seeing the delight on my husbands face makes me want to live in the kitchen, and cook some of his favorite things. That is why today the children, and I made scrumptious bread sticks. They turned out great. Here are some pictures and the recipe. Try adding something new to this recipe, like drizzling with honey, or sprinkling with powder sugar, or maybe even wrapping dough around a mozzarella cheese stick. There is a plethora of things I could come up with that would taste oh so delicious.
RECIPE
1 pkg. active dry yeast
1 c. warm water
1 t. salt
1/4 c. oil
3 c. all-purpose flour,divided
cornmeal
Dissolve Yeast in water;add sugar
salt and oil,stirring until dissolved. Add 2 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Knead for 6-8 minutes or until smooth. Place into greased bowl; cover and let rise for 1 hour; punch down. Divide into 12 portions and roll into strips. Place on greased baking sheet and lightly sprinkle with cornmeal; let rise for 45 minutes to one hour. Bake at 400 degress for 10 minutes or until golden. While baking put a pan of water in oven with breadsticks.

Baylie will lick anything we make.

Fun ways to get you children involved throughout the day is to let them help in the kitchen. Get them a chic little

Until next time,
Melissa

Raise the Curtain

2010-12-14T15:14:00.000-05:00

As I contemplated what my first post should be about, I finally came across a beautiful idea. One thing I loathe is clutter, and in the corner of my kitchen, I have chaos. Our kitchen is a bit on the tiny side, so I store items where I can find room. We are talking about onions on the shelves, potatoes, even a whale of a pale full of oatmeal on the bottom of my butcher block table. I needed to find a way to hide this disorder. So why not a curtain? Here is what I came up with.

Before ( Clutter Zone)

Measure, and pin everything before sewing.

Turquoise paint is a must have in my household

I cut out my own stencil, and painted.

One of my favorite vases!

I love the finished curtain. So clean cut.

Here are my 5 top reasons why I absolutely love my new curtain.

1. The chich curtain cleans up the kitchen. Did I mention how much I dislike clutter?

2. I have been trying to find a way to bring color into my kitchen, so it flows with my dining room. I think this is a start.

3. I adore the numbers.

4. My 14 month old son no longer throws everything on the floor. I am finally relieved of cleaning up onion skins, and oatmeal off the floor.

5. This project only took me 1 hour. Just enough time for me to do when the children are taking naps.

If you have a reason you love my new cutting table curtain, please feel free to post.

Until next time,
Melissa