"What's On Your Desk?"

And you thought I was ridiculous to begin crafting my Garland Along in May! I am so glad that I did because I just knew I would be inspired by the abundance of creativity found right in this very neighborhood, and I wanted to leave plenty of time to make everything!
Today's post is about YOU and the ways in which I interpret your creativity into my own work. Inspired by Mrs. Twins abundance of crocheting, enamored of England, and Dutch Blue's post about the cutest tea cozy ever, I spent this rainy past Saturday evening amalgamating my own little tea cozy. I am NOT a crocheter, but I can single and double crochet, and just let myself figure it out as I went along. Give it a try, not hard at all!
Inspired by the wonderfully folksy embroidery of Dutch Colours and her sister Dutch Blue, ornaments begun, hours in the making!
I am most excited to share my "Countdown to Friendship" calendar! Soooo many of you have inspired this project!
First spied in a craft book at JoAnn's my most favorite childhood Christmas book came to mind, "Eloise at Christmastime". An apartment building of friends to visit!
A pink and red garland for Two Crazy Crafters, a felt poinsettia for Joy's Thoughts and Things, little tags with vintage images for my paper galls Scrap for Joy and Paula Clare, and more to come, just wait and see!
I know, I'm wearing you out. Just a little more to go. Itty Bitty Birdy has inspired me to create one of my mini albums filled with photos of pastel glass and favorite ornaments.


Yes my desk is crowded. You should see the one inside my brain! Creative Breathing is what I call this. There isn't a time line or a hurry, my thoughts are just imagining the long winter days ahead, and..... I want to leave room to be inspired by my friends in this community come spring!!!

"Love Those Crazy Crafters!"

Raise your hand, don't be shy, if you are having the best time ever with Twyla and Lindsey of Two Crazy Crafters Sugar Kissed Christmas celebration. This duo knows how to throw a party that you want never to end.
Wonderful collections and how-to's and giveaways galore! Don't you just love the Santa mugs? Lindsey offered a tutorial on making her adorable altered journal which I have always wanted to try.
Paula Clare was so kind to send me a journal book that I am using to organize and preserve my tag swap memories. (Note the wonderful trim sent to me by Joy's Thoughts and Things - a must visit!)
I chose Basic Grey's Nook and Pantry collection which Lindsey had told me I would love. She was right!
I only used two colors. Pink for the "sky", green for the "grass". I added a rub on to the top left corner, and my title on a punch out. I trimmed a bit of brown and glued to the original binding, lastly a button. You have to have a button!
On the inside cover, one more sheet of paper cut to sized and glued. One more journal card to express my thoughts.
Lindsey showed how to use a business envelope to create a pocket for things to save. Mine is glued to the back inside cover and holds the wonderful business cards that have come my way. The little girl baking was cut from a new greeting card.
The back of my journal I left as it came to me. It expresses a wonderful sentiment and reminds me that my journal is from Paula Clare.

Thank you Twyla and Lindsey for your beautiful celebration and all that you share with us. I love my journal and I'm CRAZY about the TWO of you!

I Love Christmas Red!

Christmas red calls to mind the precious few years of childhood where make believe holds every possibility of coming true.
Caroling with neighbors, construction paper booklets. Follow along carefully, a chance to be with grownups. Invitations to hear another round, crunchy snow and snowflakes seen in the glow of street lamps.
Christmas the year you are nearly grown. Lipstick and nail polish, romantic novels and clothes. New Year possibilities eagerly awaited, a place for every new thing in a room no longer that of a child.
Mittens and scarves, sleds of every type. Waiting your turn, bravery not at all your own. Crowds at the bottom, heart full of cheer, turn around and go again. The day not long enough.
Home from school, pick up friends. Fogged windows and excited chatter. Everyday plans always the same. Hoped for romance planned in detail.
Graceful and swift, confidence in circles. Colors blurred all but red. Take my hand, music slow and soft. Let the moment never end.
Hunt for boxes, Shiny Brites. Childhood ornaments hidden out of sight.
Presents not from Santa, curling ribbon bows. Anticipation waits, cold breath greetings warmed by a kiss.
Every present opened, all but one. So small a box, nearly not seen. All the joys of all my Christmas contained within. "Elizabeth, will you marry me. Will you be my wife?"
I love everything about Christmas, but most of all I love Christmas Red. My husband's red jacket worn the first moment I saw him still hangs in my closet. I can close my eyes and nestle my nose close. Wintertime love all year long.

Honeymoon Thanksgiving

Did you enjoy your Thanksgiving festivities? I will always remember how sweet this year's celebration was as two families joined together for the Honeymoon Years of our children. New china and cookware, too many mothers in the kitchen, not enough room on the couch for the men.
Wedding photos for all to enjoy, missed moments captured by another. Vows still so knew displayed openly for all to see. Silver rings, "May I introduce you to my Mrs."
Gathered around tables meant for two, squeeze in close, there's always room. Cranberry with lines, eggs sprinkled red, favorites brought, nothing forgotten.
Contented reflections catching the breath. Plans already made to join again in the celebration of two families joined during these Honeymoon Years.



Inspired by the Pink Glitter Girls and Mary Lou of House of Whimsy, I created this very simple scene in my craft room to recall our most special Thanksgiving.

Collected milk glass, not any more than $2.00 at the thrift store. Half price sales and a very fast moving line at Jo Ann's brought this sparkly church, $10.00 and glittery reindeer ornament, $6.00 home with me. The little snowman ornament was $2.00, the jingle bells $3.00. I have been asked about the beautiful hand crocheted and starched snowflakes. Gooseberry Patch many years ago.

"One of Our Dinosaurs is Missing!"

Going to the movies is a religious experience for me. I believe this is due in part to "Youth Mass" after Catechism being held in the movie theater of Andrews AFB. The bus would pick my brother and I up at our classes and deposit us at the theater. My father would give us each 50 cents to stay for the matinee after Mass.

The only way I could tell that Mass had ended was the drawing open of the massive navy blue curtains and standing for the "Star Spangled Banner" as the mammoth screen filled with the waving image of the American flag. Youth Mass was filled with folk songs and guitar playing, standing and sitting; so you can see how a child might meld the two experiences together.

Being at the matinee was like being on Noah's Ark without any of the people. Being at the matinee with your brother and his cohort in crime, Greg, was like being on Noah's Ark on day 40. I didn't allow those boys to sit anywhere near me! They were always sticky and smelly and up to mischief.

Mickey Mouse, Popeye, Buck Rogers serial played to allow the crowd to settle in. Front row seats for the rowdy boys surprisingly well behaved. Backseat Bobbsey Twins as sweet as angels on the ride home. "Dad, do you think we can stay after Mass next week? They're playing the same movie. Greg wants to come. Can we huh, can we?" Something just had to be up with these two...

Stand in line for Communion, stand in line for Jujube's. "Michael Row the Boat Ashore", "Ohoh, Say Can You See." Rowdy boys nowhere to be seen. Museum and hidden clues, dinosaur bones and kidnapping. Something seemed to be terribly wrong with the sound. Everything seemed to have an echo. "I'm kidnapping you and taking you to a Chinese restaurant where no one will find you." "I'm kidnapping you and taking you to a..." Heads turning, complaints made to management, the movie restarted, and still the echo.


Backseat Bobbsey Twins unable to contain their giggling. "I'm kidnapping you and taking you..." The boys had managed to sit silently through the movie the Sunday before tape recording on John's Cassio Cassette Player. On this Sunday they played back the movie just a few beats behind the sound on the screen. Like I said. Going to the movies was a religious experience for me; but like Noah I am sure, there were times I wished to be the only one on that Ark!

Happy Thanksgiving to my wonderful brother John whose childhood adventures still bring a smile to my day!

"Over the River"

Welcome, and Happy Thanksgiving to you!
I thought I would share with you the bounty of my thrift store forays. Could a table look any more beautiful for under $20.00!!! The lovely table cloth is from JoAnne's, $5.00! They have the best sales. Do you see my little elves nestled around the pumpkin?
My Dear Friend has shared a new recipe with me that I thought I would pass on to you. Pumpkin Cookies that will melt in your mouth! I will be taking these to pass at my son and daughter-in-law's house who are hosting their first dinner for the two families.

Pumpkin Cookies

Cream: 1c butter softened, 1c sugar, 1t baking powder, 1t baking soda, 1/2t salt, 1/2t cinnamon, 1/2t nutmeg, 1 egg, 1t vanilla
Add: 1/2 of 15oz canned pumpkin
Add: 2c flour (Mixture will resemble a tick mousse)
Drop: by teaspoon on baking sheet.
Bake: 35o* 10-12 min, remove to cool (tops will be set)
Icing: Small saucepan melt low heat, 1/2c butter, 1/2c brown sugar Cool slightly
Transfer to mixing bowl, add: 1/4c milk, 1t vanilla, 2 3/4c powdered sugar. Beat until smooth. Frost cookies, dust with cinnamon. NOTE Icing is enough for original cookie recipe which is doubled the given amounts. Doubling yields 60 small cookies

I look forward to visiting after the Thanksgiving rush. I am abuzz with holiday creativeness and will most likely post every day. I can't help it - T'IS THE SEASON TO BE CREATIVE!!!!!

"Kitty Bartholomew, I Love You!"

Do you recall this past summer that I attempted to replicate my favorite designer's style by giving my house a fresh coat of paint? Do you recall that I didn't read her section on color choice before choosing?
After painting my kitchen the butteriest of yellows, I noted Kitty's advice. "Never paint your kitchen yellow! While it may seem sunny at first, it will cause anxiety over the long run."
I scoffed at Kitty's words as I enjoyed breakfast with the summer sun making my yellow kitchen even sunnier. Fall very colorful with an orange pumpkin or two. Christmas drawing near.... oh my gosh .... Kitty was right! I am completely filled with anxiety. Who on earth has a yellow kitchen at Christmas time?
Thanksgiving preparations in progress, and I feel the urgent need to give Christmas a trial run in case I need to repaint!
Every thing in place. A call to my husband in the other room, "I don't think the kitchen looks too bad. In fact, I think I kind of like it. There is a vintage charm about red and yellow and minty green."
A quick run to the store for last minute forgotten items. Perusal of the magazine rack for my favorites. EAK!!!!! Do I see what I think I see? Is that yellow, red and minty green on the cover of Country Living????
Satisfaction Action, home in a hurry. In the door, magazine in hand. Startled husband just where I left him, "Don't I always say I'm ahead of the trends? Well look at this. Country Living - right on the cover. RED, YELLOW, and MINTY GREEN!"
Kitty Bartholomew, you are still my favorite designer; but I am so glad Country Living has no anxiety over yellow! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Mouse in the House!

I found my Christmas Mice! Where do you suppose they were? Waiting patiently for me in their hot chocolate station tucked away for me to discover. What a happy surprise!
Is your hot chocolate station ready? All I need now is to fill my big glass canister with marshmallows.

Don't forget to have the cookie jar close by!
Put away my blue check? No need! I just add in some red. These are the colors of my Christmas tree.
I can't wait to visit all of you and peek at your holiday preparations. Can you just feel the growing excitement! I love the holiday season!

Christmas Mice Ornaments for You!

I was so excited to see a long forgotten craft book on Lisa's Always Home blog. She was kind enough to post a most favorite mouse ornament that I remembered. I have ordered a copy of the book myself on E-Bay to make again the teeny tiny mice I love. In the meantime I have created a larger version and have dressed them as Choir Boys. Here is the pattern for you!

Just click on the image to render it full size. (So sorry! Cut 4 arms, 1 base)

Directions:
1. Two strands white floss, whip stitch front side of mouse body stuffing with fiberfill as you round the head.
2. Whip stitch larger of the rounds for the base. (You may have to trim away a little to fit your opening)
3. One strand black floss, 2 black beads for eyes. Two strands pink floss, nose and mouth.
4. Fold ear circle in half taking several stitches to close half of the bottom of the circle. (Creates crease in ear) Open flat, and whip stitch in place. (You can "blush" on cheek and ear color with a very dry brush dipped in paint)
5. Circle red dress around neck - will be tight at neck, overlap towards bottom. Two strands red floss whip stitch close. Dress will be longer than mouse.
6. Flat eyelet can be purchased at different widths. I cut mine to size. Gather with loose stitches across the top to fit snugly. Whip stitch close back seam.
7. Glue black collar and pearl in place
8. Use 2 strands of white floss to sew one edge of paw, filling with fiber fill as you round curve.
9. Cut small slits in eyelet for armholes. Insert arms. (I used a little hot glue after positioning to glue arms to red dress.)
10. Attach tail. (I twisted embroidery floss and attached, you could have a felt tail)
11. Attach hanging cord.

I promise you that these are VERY SIMPLE ornaments to make and would make the cutest gift tag ornaments for a special package.

Thank you Lisa for posting the book's mouse ornament. I can't wait to make those as well. Did you know that all of the ornaments on my tree are mice? Drives Mr. Kits nuts!

Caroline Johnson

Caroline Johnson came into my world the ninth year of my existence wearing a poor-boy dress in psychedelic lime green and hot pink and white Go Go boots. Her blond hair hung to her waist and moved like a sheet of notebook paper when waived back and forth by fingertips at the corners.
She lived several floors above my apartment. Her bedroom was tucked underneath the building's central staircase. It was the bedroom of a teen aged girl who kept her treasures in a cigar box.
I longed for invitations to Caroline Johnson's apartment because, 1. She had three of the cutest Martain brothers known to mankind, 2. I thought it would be so romantic to be the sister to three such cute Martain Scottish brothers (I would be adopted; so it would be okay for all three to fight over my affections) and 3. Caroline Johnson might tell me the stories behind the treasures in her cigar box.
It held notes passed to her by boys in class. She would remark so casually about this boy that wanted to sit by her at lunch, or that boy who wanted to carry her books. I couldn't imagine myself ever having such a box filled with such sentiments of adoration, but day dreams about such a box would fill the moments before sleep in hopes they would become the threads of my dreams.
How I came into possession of a cigar box I cannot recall, but there it was at just the moment I needed a place to keep every single thing that would become my life's treasures.
I fell in love with a man who was always far away making each moment together so very precious.
The smallest of items held blossoming love to be relived over and over until we would see each other again.
I never revealed my treasure box to him in fear he might laugh at my young girl's heart. A lunch shared, the label from his favorite dessert.
Faded Polaroids of a girl with a disastrous permanent at her first party.
A young girl too shy to say how much she was in love.
A young bride, a new mother. Still saving every small token of love.
Years have passed without thinking about my little box or Caroline Johnson. I have a housed filled to the brim with every little thing recalling to mind my husband's love.
By just a chance I came across my little box while straightening out my dresser drawers and noticed the lid of my box did not lay flat. I looked into my treasure box for the first time in thirty years to discover that my husband had placed his old wallet in a place I didn't think he knew existed.
Opening his wallet for the first time since I have known him brought tears to my eyes to discover that it was filled with little love notes left by me and photos of all the years of my children's lives. Caroline Johnson, I am so glad that you came into my life.

For the Love of Illustration!

Another heart in the mail! This one is so extra special to me because it is from a most talented and lovey woman, Dee of Lulu at Home. I had a most difficult time opening her beautifully presented bundles.
It is because of Dee as well as Jenny B. of Allsorts that I came to be aware of vintage childrens book illustrations. Both have generously shared their images with all of us. Dee transforms images into the most charming keepsake art that I have ever seen! This button card is calling for a frame and a special place to hang.
Dee hopes to have a blog to share with us in the new year. I hope it will feature her exquisite sewing skills. This heart tells such a sweet story, I just love it!
Dee is also very special to me because, like myself, she became overwhelmed with the social obligations we place upon ourselves in the Flickr community. Worry about not responding to every kind comment, worry about offending others, it all becomes too much. My hope for Dee is that she will find a way to share her remarkable talent with us while finding the right balance for herself. This has been my journey, and I am so thankful to still be here.

If it were not for Dee and Jenny B. I would not have known that this cast aside book selling for $2.50 held treasures beyond imagining.








Dear Jenny or Dee, If either of you are missing "The Sugar Plum Tree and other Verses" by Eugene Field, illustrated by Fern Bisel Peat MCMXXX, it would give me such pleasure to send this to you. You can contact me at elizabeth.andrus@yahoo.com

"Silver Bells"

Have you heard your first Christmas carol of the season yet? Feeling the hustle and bustle of passersbys as they hurry home with their packages?
The Christmas spirit has definitely come to my craft room after receiving Paula Clare's beautiful inspiration book filled with vintage images of the holidays. It is just what I needed to create my own book. These snowmen remind me of my favorite holiday song, "in the meadow we can build a snowman...".
Green! It won't be long before I'm on the hunt for my Charlie Brown tree. The more holes in it the better! Balsam trees are the most fragrant and rare to come across in the Midwest, but I'll search high and low (or at least as far as my husband will drive)!
I love getting appliances for Christmas, but not so my son. He will never let me forget the year he was in high school that I gave him a blender. "Oh yeah guys, I got a blender for Christmas. It has three speeds. MOM! What were you thinking!"
Oh our Christmas trees of my years in the Neighborhood with Hills! My mother's artist years saw white flocked trees whose fumes nearly killed us. Trees with blue silk balls only one year change to gold the next. Folksy trees, European trees, paper only trees. Bubble lights and tinsel, snowball lights and house lights with reflectors. Our trees were never the same!
Midnight Mass and candle light. "Oh Come All Ye Faithful". A first present hoped to open waits until first morning light.
Belief! In all things good coming our way if we keep the spirit of the season alive in our hearts throughout the year.
Thank you Paula for your wonderful gift that helped me create my own. It was so much fun!

Here are images for you to create your own Christmas Book. Many images can also be found on my flickr as well as black and white photos in my favorites page.




NOTE: These images are for personal use only.

Thankful Moments Every One!

A personal thank you to each and every one of you who were so kind to share "Your Moments that are the Same." It seems Thanksgiving Day more than any other holiday is the one we treasure all of the littlest of family moments. From lines on canned cranberry sauce to watching the Macy's Day Parade. From gravy to stuffing and filling ourselves only to make room for more. I love this holiday and all of it's moments.

I chose Sarah of ColorKitten to win my giveaway because her post reminded me of moments with my mother that I had forgotten. The settling on couches and floor space, the loosening of belts, football cheers and contented sighs. In the background the tinkling sound of my mother washing the "good china and the good crystal" the very last items left. I was always drawn to the kitchen at this moment knowing that I would not be allowed to help. At least until I was old enough to understand the importance of these items handed down from mothers past. Recently I asked my own son to get out this very glassware from my china hutch, and he looked at me in surprise. "Are you sure! I've never dared open that cabinet before." The time was right, the memory passed on.


I wish each of you the Blessings of Thanksgiving for those gathered at your tables and at tables past. The Moments that are the Same make this a most wonderful day!

Celebrate with a Giveaway!

I love the holidays because they are the days filled with "Moments that are the Same." My son who is hosting his very first married Thanksgiving called to be sure I brought cranberry sauce in the can! "Don't cut it Mom, I have to see the lines!"
A call from Twirly Swirly Girl, "Mom, I hope you are bringing blueberry bread. Make sure it's extra crumbly on top!"
I absolutely live for these "Moments that are the Same." Our lives are busy with our own day to day patterns, but during the holidays it are these tiny details that bring forth the gladness of all the days we have lived. These are the moments I am most thankful to have.
I hope you will share with me that one small detail on Thanksgiving Day that freezes time for just one moment, the moment that is filled with your blessings.
A little pegdoll elf with her dog Snoopy. A candy cane heart ready to hang on the tree. I will choose one "Moments that are the Same" to receive this small token of friendship this wonderful holiday season. I will announce the winner this Friday and post your package on Monday. (Please have a blog that I can contact you through)

I hope you enjoy my banner for this holiday season. I had such fun creating our Block Party blocks it occurred to me that I could create a new one for each season! Such fun!

"Paper Place"

The pattern of my Jr. High School days was always the same. Homework right away, the television tuned to the afternoon movie classic. My personality was shaped by the theatrics of Hollywood. No wonder I am so dramatic! The autumn splendor of "Peyton Place" and the heroine's love of writing became my own.
The Half Way Woods my Vermont countryside. Romantic daydreams in the crook of silver maples for hours on end.
Gingerbread cookies made perfectly so by Doris Day in "Young at Heart" for Frank Sinatra. The hope of someone to love all my own.
A Christmas tree with tinsel, the table beautifully set. Loved ones in their holiday attire, kisses underneath the mistletoe.
Little did my husband know that he was marrying a bride filled with the romantic notions of brides not her time. I was embarrassed to tears that my husband did not wear pajamas when he went to bed. The men in the movies always did! I, however; always wear slippery nightgowns.
My Days with Children found a mother always dressed beautifully, manners at the table learned from three to five. My children thank me now for what seemed so silly to them at the time. They can thank "Cheaper by the Dozen" for my strict ways!
Truly, when I married and began my own family, it was the images of the afternoon cinema that I longed to create for myself.
My brother will tell you that the stories I tell are the "romantic" version of our childhood.
Yes, they are. I do not think I could have survived my childhood without the safe haven of make believe and the hope that my life could be as I saw from three to five.
My life is a simple one. It is constructed from from all the of the movies I so loved as a child. I have never traveled far from their happy endings,
but my children who were raised in this secure cacoon have now blossomed into the lives I always dreamed to have.

Hearts A' Plenty!

And still they come! My new mail carrier isn't sure what to think about the continuous stream of packages that come to my address. I answered her inquiry, "No, I don't order anything.", "No, I don't sell anything." "They just seem to come on their own!" Her response, "Well, they sure seem to make you happy!"
Yes Sally, your heart makes me very happy! A bluebird in a nest? I love it, of course I do! I have just the spot to hang such cuteness.
Very close to my bluebird heart received from Julie of Pieceful Bits.
Julie is my Glitter Go To Gal! Everything she makes brings a smile to the holidays! Her heart looks so sweet next to my yellow gingham bowl and TSG.
I hope you all are visiting Mary Lou at her House of Whimsy on Wednesdays to share in her mother's beautiful life. M.L.'s work is also very special to all of us who know her. Every detail is just exquisite!
My Friendship Garland is spreading out! Her heart is stitched with my colors and looks wonderful hanging near my Dutch Tulip bowl.
Mary Holcomb's heart is so her! Cute in every way. A little garden girl in her galoshes and rain slicker.
I have hung her heart near the pink netted wreath she made. The "Silver Bells" are the perfect nostalgic touch!
Dear Friends, How can I ever repay the kindness you have bestowed upon me? (Yes Mary, I did have blond hair as a girl, and this is a sheepdog whose story has yet to be told.)
The strength of friendship has allowed me the opportunity to struggle through such embarrassing moments of panic and return again to this creative community that I love so very much.
One Bluebird twittered to another that a friend had left the nest. Jane, of Wyldhare, I hope you will accept this gift of friendship for reminding me that that I am not alone.

I wish that I could make each and every special one of you a heart in appreciation for all that you have given. I am working on a Thanksgiving giveaway that I hope you know you have inspired! Elizabeth

NOTE: So much has happened this weekend that I have had to post multiple times to express what joy has come my way. I hope you will scroll down to share in my happiness.

O K L A H O M A !

When I was in my teen years, I had a little white music box that opened to the tinkling strains, "Oh what a beautiful mornin', oh what a beautiful day. I got a beautiful feelin', everythin's going my way." Tonight my husband and I are going to visit Ralph's teen in her school's production of this beloved play. It is in this frame of mind that I write my post today. Glorious!
Heleene of Dutch Colours sent me a wall quilt made from the 1930's reproduction fabrics that I sent her to make herself a kitchen quilt. This is most unexpected, and most appreciated. She and her sister are such talented quilters both. I am thankful now that I didn't repaint over the vintage green I chose for my bathroom because her quilt makes this small space charming.
True to the spirit of the 1930's, not a bit of fabric was left unused. She included a pincushion which matches my sewing basket perfectly. I just love it! My little pegdoll for my Giveaway awaits her hair!
Visiting both sisters' cheerful part of this world through their blogs is like "the wind come rushing down the plains." I always leave feeling uplifted and light of heart.
Heleen also included this calendar book the likes I have never seen. She calls it a "Pip". It is so beautiful, I hope I can bring myself to write on it's pages!
Heleene, You may not know of this American musical, but on this day, this wonderful day, your beautiful quilt perfectly captures it's glorious feeling! Thank you so very much! Elizabeth

Constitutional Ammendment

It's official! Passed into law today across this great land of ours. No dissenting votes. One hundred percent in favor. A national Paula Clare Day!
Just look at the tags she has made. No two alike because they are made especially for each of us. Our names are on them!
One by one unwrapped from their Christmas green tissue, each cuter than the next.
Don't think I am spoiling your surprise, because the backs of each tag is as cute as the front!
It is so much fun to be the hostess of our swap watching each of our piles grow.
I don't think anything could be better except the thought of each of you experiencing the same joy upon receiving them. But wait, there is more...
Paula has sent me the altered book that I have been gushing over after seeing it on her blog. I can't tell you what a kindness this is.
I can't imagine how she ever parted with all this wonderfulness.
I have visited her blog dozens of times taking in every small detail wanting to create something like this for myself.
Paula instinctively knew that I would need help coloring outside the lines and sent me her treasure to inspire. But wait there is more!
It seems that Paula was in on Jane of Wyldhare's Friendship Garland. How cute is her perfectly perfect paper Scottie dog!
It is right at home along with her beautiful Christmas Book on my shelves that seem to be filling themselves up again.
I am so glad I voted; and I hope you are, too. Horray for Paula Clare and her special day!

NOTE: Please stop by Paul Clare's to read about her Canned Ham adventure while creating our tags. They are always my favorite!

Half and Half

My sister-in-law MaryJo of the House With Glass Door Knobs fame is one of those rare people who possesses exactly half the personality of her father Cy and her mother Ruth. They have amalgamated so perfectly that her parents refused to lay claim to the half they are responsible for creating. The result has been a lifetime of poking fun of Ruth and Cy through the antics of their daughter, completely unawares to them.

Thanksgivings together too many to count. Rotation among siblings, seven in all. Sign up sheets for food to pass, MaryJo making up her own category. Always a new recipe to share for the first time. Always an ingredient missing, a step forgotten.

Thanksgiving Before Marriage, breakfast the morning after. A fabulous new casserole that will feed the minions. A dozen eggs, a pound of cooked sausage, two cups of cheddar cheese, one bag of..... RICE? "It won't make a difference?" she claims, "Hash browns and rice are both white. The store was out of hash browns." Crunchy egg casserole hid beneath napkins on the plate, "Just think of them as nuts." Always the deluded optimist. "Do you know how many starving children in China this casserole could feed?"

Thanksgiving as a Newlywed, breakfast prepared the night before. A fabulous new recipe for the children to help, Monkey Bread for many. Thirteen children each popping their own fresh container of dough, one Bundt pan for the sugary quarters. "Pile them high, we'll have lots to go around." Strength needed to lift the pan.
Long after the children had gone to bed, long after the parents too, layer by layer by layer removed as they rose to the top browning one by one. Dozens of plates filled before the children's wide eyes.

Thanksgiving as a Mother, a home of her own. Turn sideways to move about, she's added her own. Sign up sheet passed, tinfoil greeted at the door, "Just set that on the bed, the beginning of the line." One by one we filed past the head board, a little of this a little of that. Arm rest chairs, floor space aplenty, "Not a bad meal, what did MaryJo make?" A proud mother who never saw a roll she couldn't burn, "MaryJo made rolls, they're in the kitchen. theyarealittleburntontop,shhh."

Tears brought on by laughter are our Thanksgivings with MaryJo. Each half of each parent so perfectly there to see. "I don't know where she leaned to cook." whispers her Mother, "I don't know where she learned to be so funny." whispers her Dad.

Thanksgivings with Children Grown, houses far apart. Sign up sheets are many, traditions passed along with parents who travel far. Bow our heads for blessings drawing close each and every one. "Bless this food we eat, Dear Lord, Bless us all."

"Sleepless In Seattle"

Do you remember the scene in "Sleepless In Seattle" where the mailman catches Tom Hanks on his rainy dock just as he is about to enter his boathouse? He hands him a small bundle of mail, Tom Hanks exclaiming that it's quite a bit. "That's not all of it!" responds the mailman as he points to a huge mail sack overflowing with letters.
I adore movies with mail, and today I was lucky enough to have my own "mail moment!" An actual tote filled with the hearts of friends.
It seems Jane of Wyldhare twittered to a few of our mutual Bluebird pals and asked if they would like to send me a heart that they would make.
All the years that my mother and I would sew and send hearts in the mail, we never owned a heart ourselves. What a wonderful gift! Lisa of Craftyless made this adorable cuckoo clock heart! How perfectly cheerful. I love the vintage colors.
My dear sweet Chelsea Ann of Itty Bitty Birdy sent along sunshine which is the essence of who she is to me. "Shine" says the back of her heart.
Vivian of Viv out on a Whim is my crafting hero! I aspire to be as creative and as productive as her. We have actually met each other in person and found kindred hearts over Halloween pincushions immediately!
Her heart rests among pearls. Very fitting, I think!
Laura of Lallee's Cottage took a moment away from her Pet Patrol to make me a heart after my own hope and desire. One day I WILL own a Scottie dog, but until then I can enjoy this heart with it's adorable Scottie button.
Elizabeth of Beth's Bagz! EAK! The Queen of Dimestore Chic sent a heart that is so her - so me! Colorful and fun and just lovely. Note her postcard! What a character! Love her!
Natalie Jo of Piccalilli Days, what can I say? I have long admired her intricately quilted hearts. Sigh. How special.
Lastly today, a heart from Lisa of Barncat - Always Home. A place to "go country!" Can one person ever have too many bluebirds in their life? I don't think so.
A remembered scene again from a favorite movie as Tom Hanks pulls down a classroom United States map while making his son hamburgers for dinner, "Do you know how many states there are between Seattle and Baltimore?.... Well, a lot! That's how many!"

A lot. I have a lot of friends with a lot of talent who live in a lot of different states who sent me a lot of hearts that arrived on my doorstep in a mail tote. Thank you one and all for this happiest of days! Elizabeth

The Cold War

As a child growing up in Turkey during the height of the Cold War, I didn't comprehend the adult philosophies of governmental rule, but I did have fear of one word, Communism.
In my child's mind Communism meant you could not go to church. There may have been many a Sunday I begged to stay home in my warm bed, but the thought that I couldn't go to church if I was Communist was frightening.
Living next door to the East German Embassy was terrifying. Everything about it seemed evil from the imposing black iron fence to the guards and their German Shepards we could spy through the bows of the thick pine grove within.
When my mother traveled with the Girl Scout's to West Germany to meet the father of Anne Frank, I thought for sure she would never return. I can remember vividly begging her not to get too close to the "Iron Curtain" for fear it would come down on the wrong side of her keeping her from me forever.
The ravages of World War II were still very much a part of daily lives in the early Sixties. Countries were not developed, poverty lay naked on the streets of the capitol city, Ankara. Men without limbs on rolling platforms would find their way to our door begging for change. Children should not see the ravages of war, and yet they always do.
Do you think it is coincidence that I should marry a man who has stood in front of my very apartment building and could witness for himself the stark environment that holds my child's heart?
I married a man who traveled behind the Iron Curtain before it was lifted and came home to me each and every time.
I married a man who was there to see the Iron Curtain come down forever. Yesterday was a joyful day in celebration of all of the young children who do not have to live in fear of the Berlin Wall. Still there are still children who should not see the ravages of war, and yet they do. My prayer today is for those children.

These photographs were taken last month by my husband on a business trip to Berlin. He has vivid memories of Check Point Charlie during his time in the military. The sight of the American flag and the soldiers guarding the point of entry were reminders of our freedoms at home.

Back In The Swing!

So many Dear Friends have left comments expressing that I am "Back in the Swing" of things again. They can tell by my posts that my spirit is joyful. I am myself again, but what happens to cause such a meltdown? Insecurity!
During my Block Party days I felt as though I was on a swing behind school on a summer day. My craft room filled with the labors of a year's work, walls hung with the garland of creative women. Happiness wherever I glanced.
And then the yearly visit of my sister-in-law who comes to my small town to compete in Dressage with her beautiful horse. A brilliant and lovely woman, a successful engineer by profession, not a word upon entering my beloved craft room. It was a most horrible moment.
Until I discovered this creative community, I always kept secret my love of crafting. Just as I thought my feet could touch the sky, the ground felt as though it had been pulled out from underneath the swing set.
Ashamed of childish excesses including my shame before my husband, in my mind everything had to go. It is here that I must make apologies to friends I unknowingly have offended. I may have only sold items I created, but I gave away many items I purchased from my favorite crafters. In my mind I wanted the creations I so loved to find good homes. Many of you received items made by the Dutch Sisters, Itty Bitty Birdy, Saturday Finds, She's Sew Pretty, Beth's Bagz, Piccalilli Days, many more, so many more. And most of all, many of you may have received items that I copied from Jenny B. of Allsorts. I am heartily sorry for not realizing at the time that I had no right to give or sell those items.
Those dark days are in the past now, I am back in the swing again; but still my swing has that moment where just as you swing too high, the chains will buckle and bolt you from your seat. During the wedding weekend I was so excited to show our oldest daughter my craft room, and again, not a word.
Hearts in the mail. This beautiful heart comes from my favorite pincushion creator She's Sew Pretty, Betty. She has been saving this little plane with angel just for me! I may not know a single person in my own life that can understand the cuteness of my craft room, but in this community I am forever grateful to be accepted.
My craft shelves will fill again, of this I am now sure,
and I promise solemnly to respect friendship given and the labors of their hearts.
These wonderful tags arrived for our Christmas Tag Swap from Joy's Thoughts and Things. How can you not have a smile on your face at the glittery sparklyness of these! "Reindeer Games", how clever! I love them!
For my Tag Alongs, I have just yellow feathers to glue to my November tags for you! NO you do not have to make one for me, it is just my way of saying hello to new friends and hoping you will participate in future swaps!
A final reminder to include your name and blog name, if applicable, on the back of your tag to identify it as yours!

Well! such a long post. Thank you for listening. I would very much care to hear if any of you have experienced what I have when someone knows you "craft", and what do you do or say to boost your own confidence in such situations. Elizabeth

Please Excuse My Tears

Weekdays off from work are my very favorite day of the week. I look forward to them by staying up as late as I can the night before enjoying my crafting solitude knowing that obligations for the next day are of my own making.
But this morning I woke up with the undeniable knowledge that I was sick. How inconvenient on my day off! A trip to the store for cold medicine, my bill came to exactly $20.00. How unusual!
Determined to keep my germs to myself but still make the most of my day off, a visit to my Poor Baby Store to scout for odds and ends for the giveaway I am working towards. I love when I am lucky enough to arrive on a day where you can tell everything has come from one person's house. The items are all of the same time period. Today was a treasure trove of 1960's glassware!
Luncheonette sets like these are wonderful to use for a little girl's birthday party. I will lend these to Ralph's mother! When I paid for my treasures, my bill came to $20.00 exactly. How coincidental!
The "Coming Home from the Poor Baby Store Routine" is always so much fun! It is the only time that I fill my sink with sudsy water and wash by hand. There is just something so perfect about this moment. Orange and Yellow California pottery to add to Twirly Swirly Girl's growing collection. Charlie agreed to model with them! Glowing in my good fortune of washing and drying and taking photos to share, I was interrupted by the mail man with a package for me! This is where I begin to cry.
A heart in the mail for me! A heart from Jane of Wyldhare. "A group of bluebirds twittered among themselves..."
Dear Jane and Dear Friends, Kindness always comes as an unexpected gift to me. Why me? Jane says that "in sharing of ourselves we bond each other in friendship and sisterhood." "In her heart she knows there can be balance and darkness can be displaced when she creates something filled with love and happiness."
Yes Jane, this is true. The darkness has now passed, and I have a new found courage to reach out before it comes again. A new binder to fill with the inspiration of this creative community, and
"a heart to be linked with others into a garland of friendship."

Jane, What a lucky day this has been!

Brothers!

As a young man my brother was as handsome as could be with a voice to draw women close, magnetism to keep them there. Girlfriends, he had many, drawn in by his charm soon exasperated at his ability to always be the center of attention.

The 1980's ushered in girlfriends of the Yuppie type. Twinsets and pearls, flats and long skirts. Careers to to be nurtured in the competitive Washingtonian social scene.An invitation to a la de da event where the girlfriend's peers were moving up the social ladder while she remained on the bottom rung. "John, don't you dare play the piano if there is one there, and don't you dare let anyone know you are just a teacher!"

Drinks in hand, mingling begun. The girlfriend drifting toward the in-crowd. Her circle of peers drawn to the handsome man left alone. "Hi, I'm Muffy of Ambitious,Moving-up&LeavingYouBehind Law Firm. What do you do?" In his deep silky voice my brother replies, "I am head of product development for the Kotex company. Close by peers drawing near, "Isn't that an unusual job for a man? What have you developed?" My brother responds, "Well, on a recent vacation to Cancun I watched a school of sting rays swim past. You're familiar with "Wings"? That's all mine." A larger group still. "Do you like your job?" A hesitant reply, "Well, I do except for our soft ball league. I hate wearing the pink tee shirt and ball cap that says Kotex."

A piano in the corner, the holidays drawing near. The strains of White Christmas reaching his girlfriend's ear. "John, didn't I tell you NOT to play the piano; and why on earth did you tell my friends you work for Kotex?????"

My brother rises from his position at the piano. "I'm not ashamed that I am a school teacher, but you are insecure about your own position within your group of friends. Enjoy the rest of your evening. I'm sure one of your friends will drive you home."

At one point towards the end of the wedding evening, I asked my brother to play for my family in the lobby of the theater. Slowly, one by one, the entire wedding party was drawn to the beautiful and joyful music. I am so proud that my brother uses his amazing talent to grace the lives of children.

It's Official!

I can't wait to wee what all of you create now that the holiday season has officially begun! Glittery houses and snowmen, bears and banners, pincushions and garlands. I know it felt wonderful to pick up needle and thread and begin to craft again. The perfect starting point? A heart, of course! I will soon be working on another as a give away - it's about time!
I was over the top when I spied these Victorian inspired Christmas images at Michaels from K&Co. Scrap for Joy adores altered images, and I knew these would be right up her crafting alley. I can't wait to see what she is inspired to create.
Short and sweet, but gosh darn it's official now! Let the merry making begin!

Saying Goodbye

I absolutely love every detail of saying goodbye to someone you love who has spent time in your home. Checking the bathrooms for wayward toothbrushes, fluffing sofa cushions for misplaced eye glasses. Leftovers to hold you over, "Call us when you get home!"
Side by side at the apron's edge, arms about the shoulders. Waving until tail lights can no longer be seen. Slow walk towards the house, always the statement, "I miss them already."
Room by room returned to order. Laundry piled in the hallway. A joint effort to return to the familiar, but not quite yet. The day after our son has married,
an evening for two.
Cloaked in well wishes and farewells, the heart is vibrant in it's happiness. Images to share with this one and that one the next time we meet.
Programs and souvenirs urgently purchased as the crowd surges underneath their own murmurs.
Every detail committed to memory.
I wish they could have stayed one more day, one more moment to share this evening with us made all the more special
after saying goodbye.
A thank you to our family who traveled so far to share in their nephew's special day.

"Good Grief, Charlie Brown!"

It is said that there is one special person for everyone in this wide world that we live. Upon reflection of a life you can see clearly the steps taken that created the very moment where your heart identified itself in another person. My son's first step towards his intended began on Halloween night while Trick or Treating.
A yellow shirt, a black zig zag, a three-year-old's head barely covered in hair. Mom and Dad curbside prompting the Golden Rule. "A rock? You gave me a rock? Not another rock!" House by house our son repeated the same phrase.
"Little boy I gave you candy, not a rock!" Slowly he turned, head down, dejectedly walking back to Mom and Dad. A story told, a love of the dramatic begun.
The first week of college, a dream come true, a theater department to realize his goals. A girl in black sorting screws, "I think you're kind of cute.", "I think you are too!"
In this world, to find the reflection of yourself in another. Shared passion and kindness. To love and to honor.
A holiday to celebrate, "Good Grief, Charlie Brown!"
The boy in a zig zag shirt finding a girl in a zig zag shirt.
How perfectly clear that a first step taken, (TSG)
would lead you to the rest of your life!


Thank you to everyone who was there to help me celebrate this joyous occasion. My brother who spun the magic of our mother through his wonderful stories.
Family and friends who got into the "spirit" of the day.
My sweet little grand-daughter who was the hit of the party.
My dear son Chris who was convinced on his first Halloween night of Trick or Treating that everyone gave him a rock bought 60 pounds of candy to be sure EVERYONE went home with memories to last a lifetime of the holiday they witnessed the first step of a new journey. Congratulations, Chris and Tammy! Love, Mom and Dad