mother daughter day

Some cute finds

2010-09-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a few things I saw today that I really enjoyed. Now I have never seen anyone do this before with lights but with the right country kitchen, it could work...The blue stripe one is cute to me.

I am going to make this little cutie for a door stopper for Annabelle's new room when we finally get moved in. even the mushroom too.

I am a Texas gal...and when I am mad..this says it all.

source: Junk Gypsies

The bed I missed out on craigslist.....sad.

A quick note...

2010-09-27T22:14:00.000-07:00

I am in the middle of moving so I just have time for a quick note before I am off to bed. SO tired. Here is a picture of the sweet little chair I got Annabelle today. Such a great find for $10.00.

Pretty detail on the seat

...and nice legs too..lol. I will be back soon and hopefuly full of energy!

Along the way

2010-09-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I forgot to show the pictures of our stop just before my loveman took me to Anthropologie yesterday. I just had to stop. But this fella didnt really care much who was taking his picture. He posed for the picture and just went right back to eating. The field was so full of flowers! It was just beautiful.

Brian and I both agreed that we want fenching like this around our home too. I love the look of it. Being in the country is nice.

I love how the vines had creepd up the post. I am going to have to take Annabelle and Andrew back and get a photo shoot out of this spot. It was perfect.

She didn't really care that I was there either. She has the perfect home so I guess I wouldnt care who was looking either.lol.

One of each...

2010-09-19T18:16:00.000-07:00

Thats what I want from Anthropologie. One of each of everything! I just cant walk into that store without finding an armful of things I want to take home. But they can be a bit expensive though. At least the furniture is. This chest was about $2,300. But I found some awsome little green planters for just $6.00! And yes I forgot to take a picture of them..lol.

This little blue chest won me over too. It looked great as a bedside table. I love to use the odd things in places people wouldnt think to use them too. I dont think I have ever owned a normal nightstand and actually used it as a nightstand. I have two small chests as nighstands now. And I am about to change one to a gate leg table I got from my sister over the weekend. Just waiting to paint it.

Now this BIG piece was just amazing. Amazing. And you would have to have a pretty big kitchen to fit it in too. It's sweet little price tag of $22,000 will make you do some DEEP thinking before buying it.. thats for sure. But I did like the big wooden knife just above it too. More in my price range too I'm sure.

This cabinet was super sweet too and I knew just where I was going to put it in my kitchen too till...yes...the price. $1,200. Ouch, my heart. I guess I will just have to be inspired today to find things just like them at the fleamarket. I will keep you informed in my search. Oh.. by the way.... I still LOVE Anthropologie. And I love my sweet hubby for taking me there today.

Off to the Market !

2010-09-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

World Market that is. Last week my loveman took me for a quick walk through World Market ( which we all knows means an hour ) and I found a few things I want. Shocked? I know! Me too! See this table...I love this table. Alot. I actually have a tall skinny antique version of this that I use as a hall table. So I really want this one too. And I love the color too. So simple.

The these tea towels could certainly be added to my collections. They were my favorite find there and the art work is so great, it has inspired me to sketch some veggies for my kitchen. I would LOVE to design my own tea towels one day.

Chair love. Perfect

I could use about two dozen of these. Mercy...I need to just stay out of that store!

Selling it all

2010-09-08T22:10:00.000-07:00

Okie Dokie. I am going to make a quickie post because it's so late, and I just had a full day with my Estate Sale. Yep..thats right I am having a sale! Yeah! Sort of. It's ALOT of work getting ready for one of these suckers let me tell ya.

This is a teensy tiny ity bit of my shabby chic that I am letting go of. You would have a small stroke if you saw the shabby chic linen pile! Four tubs full...two banquet tables and an industial garment rack full. Whoo that hurt just saying it. And all the little things. Glassware, tins, and everything in between. I know what your thinking. I said it was a short post? lol...I tend to ramble when I talk about stuff..lol

See my pretty blue metal file box. Bye bye...gonna miss ya.

Ok I had far to many of these tins. But they are all so cute. My living is so full of stuff. I could just wake up and go shopping in my own house! Hey I would save gas and I know I would find something I love!

Mmmm.

2010-09-05T19:25:00.000-07:00

I found these lovely little outfits at a local antique mall of all places. They had an area set up like a boutique. It was quite nice. This pretty little lacey blouse was only $32.00. Not too bad.

I really need this garment rack. I REALLY need this garment rack.

A nice change from the old coat and hat .

This one is ALL me. I would live in this sweet little dress and coat. You would have to tell me to change clothes because I would never take it off. With some pearls , one of my vintage purses...and my hair puled up...or curled. Hmmm what shoes? I am thinking Anthropologie..........

Love. Love.

2010-08-31T14:27:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had our "last fun day" as the kids put it, because school was starting back. We had a full day at the Zoo , and I got some great pictures I will share soon. Then we decided to make a few stops on the way home. I am not sure what they were the happieset about...the shopping or the air conditioning. I am siding with the cool air. Brian and the kids decided to go to Barnes and Noble ...so I walked on down the strip to Pottery Barn.
I really did love this floral bedspread ,but I am changing to a different style now in the bedroom. Sadly they didnt have my beautiful bird duvet I was wanting. Dang! I did get caught changing the pillows on the bed they had for display. She just smiled and walked away..lol...oh well they just didnt look right the way they were.! Shame on me!

I have this chair but it is in need of a pretty new slipcover like this one. I dont like the pillows on it though. I would have changed them too but the manager was stocking this area. Next time...

I have never been one to care much for floor lamps but I did LOVE LOVE this shade. I am going to have to have this one. Maybe two of them. Oooh I think it would also look nice hanging over a big, amazing farm table too...hmmmm. Now if they had just had some small sizes I would have been in heaven. I did see it in a throw pillow too. Love.

One of my favorite finds were these curtains. Love. Why does Pottery barn do this to me?

Softie LOVE

2010-08-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

This is Daniel by rabbitrabbitsofties

I ADORE softies. Homemade goodness just full of love waiting for little hands to hold them. Can you just see it in their eyes? So sweet...I want some for me too! lol. There are some VERY talented people on Etsy.com ....You should go by and look searching "softies" and see how many you think you can say no too. Not easy let me tell ya. These are just a few of my favorites.

She needs me too......

                                                          bitofwhimsyprims

                              Such pretty little ladies just waiting for a home. Over here! Pick me!

Fixer upper

2010-08-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

I have had this little gem just sitting around, wainting so patiently for me to give her a makeover. Well it finally happened. Today I painted it white. Almost pink....but then a last minute change of plans...Mmmm it turned out pretty sweet so far....I still have the drawer front and the inside shelf to do ,and then I will show you the final results. Hope you like it. Tell me about one of your makeovers! I would love to see them!

Can't get enough !

2010-08-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

I have always loved looking through my magazines. Thats why I have way too many tucked into every bookcase in our house. Now....blogs have changed it all for me. Now dont get me wrong I still love a great magazine but I find myself hooked on reading those great blogs first. Annnabelle even mentioned that I saving the planet now from not buying more....she is so smart! Did I mention that yet? No...oh..well she is. lol.. She told me yesterday she was thinking of a sofa that she wanted to design herself. Thats my girl!
Well, now I just love to go up to Barnes and Noble and spread out those magazines and pick and choose which lucky little winner will get to go home with me. Hmmm...so hard to decide....have you seen them lately? They just get better and better and now they are talking about great blogspots and the wonderful people behind them. Great...now I have to buy more. So much for saving the planet. But maybe ..just maybe ...one day I will get lucky enough to be mentioned in one!! Crossing my fingers......

Tara Frey's lovely new book- Blogging for Bliss

I need both of these!

Time for change...

2010-08-24T22:45:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I guess as you can tell it's been awhile since my last post....and I am sorry about that. Getting my personal life in order ....and getting the kids ready to get back to a routine just takes it out of you. Stress can kick ya in the butt thats for sure. But I have really missed posting and I am going to do my best to post every day!! I certainly take enough pictures to fill my blog for a year!..lol.

Alot is changing right now, my kids are just growing up waaaay to fast. Now back to school I am home alone again. A mixed blessing. They need it and I need them..lol. But the time by myself is good too, and I know all moms deal with this everytime their little one starts back. Andrew is a junior this year and is such an amazinly handsome man. I am so proud! He is starting acting classes soon so prepare to see him on the big screen one day. Step aside Tom Cruise....Andrew will handle it from here on!
Annabelle started second grade!! My little baby girl is so big. I took her inside and walked her up to her class....... and then...a tear...then a few more ...it turned into sobs.....and then hanging onto the leg saying "No No! Dont go pleeeeease!" ....Then her teacher said I should get a up and stop crying because people were starting to stare.....lol.. Just kidding...but inside my heart...it all happened just like that!

See you tomorrow with lots of new pictures and stories!

Walking with Brian

2010-07-18T00:03:00.000-07:00

My handsome loveman and I took ourselves a little road trip and spent the day together. We went out to Grapevine and walked the main street and the neighborhood. It was much cooler walking through the neighborhood being shaded by those trees let me tell you. Texas heat can get to ya. I just adored this little house's perfect white picket fence. How many people has it seen walk by, and run their fingers across it as they pass? Many I am sure. I added myself to the bunch.

This home was pretty big. The family has done an amazing job restoring it. Not quite as old as some in the neighborhood but just as pretty.

This is the side to one home that has always been my favorite in Grapevine. I love the little gate and I have wanted for years , to just go open it up and see what is hiding back there. My imagination says...a wonderful little gueat house and a perfect garden. With more rose bushes than I can handle. I always go by it when we are in town hoping to see a for sale sign in the yard. Sigh....none again. I guess I will just allow them to to stay a bit longer....lol

This cutie trellis was on the front porch of a home and I liked it too. I would also love to see something like this down the side of a house, in a much larger version. All covered in vines and to cover the cars as we drive through.That would be just lovely.

It was such a wonderful day with Brian. He took me too Jason's Deli afterwards and we had chicken and dumplins for lunch. I am so lucky to have a husband that wants to spend so much time with me. No matter what we are doing. We make such a great pair!

Eye candy

2010-07-15T21:21:00.000-07:00

My sweet husband took me by the antique mall, on our way home from running errands. I havent been to one in soooo long. So I made sure my camera battery was charged up and ready to go! Sometimes they dont like you to take pictures ,not sure why, so I snapped them pretty quick. And of course I found tons of stuff I loved. I used to collect little perfume bottles so I still like seeing them grouped together like this. So girlie.

The powder boxes are also a love and I still have a few myself. This one was pretty sweet with the ladies dancing around it.

Now this was all the same boothe as you can see ....a very fru fru theme going in it. I love the shade of blue on this desk. It's becoming a favorite of mine. I am actually about to paint a stool and table the same shade. Mmmmm.

As far as displays go...the little window awning was a very cute idea to me. I could almost see that over a bed, with curtains draped down, in a cute little farm house. The dress makes me glad to be a girl, and makes me wish I had gone to prom too. And I was quite ticked that the pink irioning board was just "display"only! Grrrr. I want it. Maybe I can sweettalk her into selling.....I think I will have to go back and have a little chat with that dealer! ;)

So pretty

2010-07-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

This picture make me love being a woman

I am seriously wanting to start collecting these iron doorstops.

I love the next one more than the last..lol

I am also very inspired to start making these little strawberries...and turn them into pin cushions. My grandmother has these and little red tomatoe ones and I loved playing with them. I watched sewing and she never stopped me from touching anything. I miss her.

A day in the country with friends...

2010-07-07T20:59:00.000-07:00

The past fews days have been so relaxing. We went out to spend some time with some friends, that we dont get to see near enough. Sue and Daryl. It was wonderful. All I could hear was the bugs ,the birds and a few low flying planes. The neighbors have thier own landing strip so that was fun to watch all the little planes come in for a landing.

We had a wonderful cookout too. Sue can cook some mean potatoes and Daryl is good at the steaks too! I roasted the corn and it turned out pretty nice. We had such a nice time and can't wait to go back next week again.

The horses are so sweet and funny.

This guy was NOT shy at all. He would follow me all over. I liked him best.

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

I love the country

He loved at the attention

crazy roadrunners...they are fast! And bigger than I expected too.

mmmm lunch...

2010-07-04T14:33:00.000-07:00

Spending the fourth having my homemade chicken salad. Yummy for my tummy.

Happy 4th of July !

2010-07-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

I hope you and your families have a safe and wonderful holiday!

Sitting Pretty

2010-07-03T01:20:00.000-07:00

Do you love chairs? I love chairs. Yes, I know , I love alot of things, but I really love chairs. I need a room just for them. Yep , a sitting room. Homes today aren't built for those and I dont know why. They have media rooms and game room but not those old fashioned sitting rooms. I would like a nice big room for nothing but all the pretty chairs I can fit and my books. Because I know this family sits way too much in front of the television. Would'nt that be a wonderful change? We need to go back to having sitting rooms. Just to be there and talk...or read. That would be just lovely.

Do you like the idea of a sitting room?

soooo pretty too.

I missed out on this one on craigslist. It had just sold when I replied. It will be missed.

Love thy neighbor....

2010-06-29T22:11:00.000-07:00

....and love her flowers more! Ok it doesnt go quite like that but I cant help it. She has the prettiest little bushes in her yard.

I love to see little creeping vines.

These white flowers are all over the side of her house.

Sweet find

2010-06-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share this sweet little chocolate box I found awhile back. I have enjoyed using it as a jewelry box too. I think I paid just a couple of dollars for it and it has been one of my favorite things on my vanity. But now I am changing stuff again so off to craigslist it will go!

Making plans ...

2010-06-16T21:47:00.000-07:00

I have always been making plans. I used to think it was a motherly thing, but I can remember as a little girl , making plans for things. I think it's a big part of being a girl. When your little its planning your summer....making new friends. In your teens it's meeting a special boy. As a woman...for me...it's being a loving mom, wife. And making us a memorable homelife. So I make plans. I may not be able to buy what I want right at that moment,but it just makes me more appreciative when I do get it. I love fixing up our home.
Annabelle really enjoys doing the same thing now too. I am rubbing off on her quite a bit I think. She , like me, makes plans for our home. What to do in a certain room...how we are going to decorate it. She LOVES being a part of that decision process, and she's getting good at it too. lol. When we are out she makes comments about material, bedding , lamps. She saw a lamp the other day and said..."I think it's really really cute..but it doesn't go with the couch. Lets move on." She is turning into me! I love it! She certianly has my creative gene thats for sure. Her brother Andrew too. He just turned seventeen yesterday..and has been aking plans to be an actor. Oops..a FAMOUS actor. He is starting classes soon. My childhood dream! He is so much like me too that way, but has his dads extreme kindness.

Annabelle and I are making plans this week. We are changing her room to a cottage look. She is wanting bedding just like the one in the picture.

We are planning on having a staircase in our future home..just like this one. :) And painted floors like the next picture.

And an adorable sofa like this.....her choice too! Not gonna argue on it though. Its perfect!

Me oh my....

2010-06-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

........I want pie !

I will just take what's left of this one!

Just the perfect size for a snack huh....maybe two....

Pecan. Need I say more?

I believe in my heart that ALL pies are fat free! It's true, really! I promise.(wink wink )

http://Countryliving.com/

Country Charm

2010-06-13T13:36:00.000-07:00

I am going to treat myself to this book very soon !

http://thefarmchicks.com/

I love my vintage cherry prints. They look so great in the kitchen and the nice thing is..when I change my theme...they still go with almost anything.

Hmmmm...more dish towels? Can one have too many? I think not you silly girl!

Beauties ...

2010-06-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

My little beautiful girl Annabelle wanted to share some pictures we had taken this spring. She is so crazy about flowers like her mommy, so we tend to take alot. I just forget what we have shared sometimes. lol.

Well these are of the tulips that were planted near her big brothers school. Its a garden center so are always ready for us! The second she saw them she screamed " get your camera mommy!" My little sweetie knows me so well.

A gifted woman

2010-06-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

I want the chance to show all of you some of the work of an amazing artist. Janet Hill. I recently discovered her art by accident and I am so happy I did. I am pretty picky with my love of art and she definitely has taken a place in my heart with her work. It is so amazingly beautiful. With that lovely vintage style.....it just takes over my sences.
She was so kind to let me show you some of her things on my blog. I spent some time in her online studio and her blog just when I thought I found "my favorite " , I saw another. Then another and on it went..lol. I realized I need a bigger home with more wall space. I turn forty at the end of the month and I know what to ask my hubby for. Well please stop by and take a look through her studio....but do me a favour.....leave the "The Italian Bakery" for me.. ;)

http://janethillstudio.com/

Vintage Valentines...

2010-06-08T23:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to my first Estate Sale this year and found a nice little group of Valentines waiting for me. It was the last day of the sale so I was pretty suprised that they were still there. I always seem to miss the paper goodies. It was a large stack of vintage greeting cards and a bigger collection of someones valentines. Alot were glued to the front and back of each sheet ...but I also found a about twenty of them loose. I got everything for $5.00! Yeah! I was so excited. The lady seemed to think I was strange for wanting someones old used Valentines. She even asked what I was going to do with them...lol. Well I think I am going to scan them and save them for next year. They are so cute and unique. I dont understand why the companies dont reproduce them? I would love to see them in the stores wouldnt you? Well... Now I am ready for Annabelle's school party next year!

Thrifty buys...

2010-06-08T12:31:00.000-07:00

I just got these cute bangles for $1.00 each!

I got this sweet little Mermaid sketch for just .25 cents

This nice material only cost me $2.00! Yeah! I am going to recover a lampshade with it.

It's good to be a girl !

2010-06-07T21:29:00.000-07:00

I have always adored Crabtree and Evelyn. It is such girly store. I cant go in without buying something either. I mean just look at the pictures! Now you understand why, and then theres the amazing scents.It's been awhile since my last visit. ... I love that they still sell dusting powders too. Its such an old fashioned thing and I guess not too many people use them. I just have sweet memories of my grandmother and her powder boxes. She always let me use them... and never fussed about it when she caught me in them. She said a lady should always smell lovely. I guess she is to blame for my love of perfumes!

A wonderful evening

2010-06-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

Annabelle was so excited for us to share more pictures from our walk a few nights ago. Her cousin Tiffany had stayed the night and went with us. First off we discovered this little guy peeking out at us. And with just a little more sweet talkin' from Annabelle, we might have taken him home with us. But he was pretty big and she realized he would be happier in the creek than with us.

I loved how this picture turned out. Annabelle noticed the little bug in the middle. can you see it?

This little mommy duck and her sweet baby actually followed us around thinking we had more bread, but we were out. I felt so bad. Annabelle said she wished she could speak duck so she could let them know we would be back with more tomorrow. My sweet girl.

Well the thrill of the evening for us was seeing a beaver! A first for all of us too. He swam off before we could get a picture though. Darn it! But the kids seemed to be content with the smiley face rock they found. It brought gigles all the way home.

Perfect for the porch

2010-06-06T12:55:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting something really cute for my back porch actually. Since I don't really have much of a front one. There are so many wonderful choices out there tochoos from .... but my heart always leads me back to a vintage style. I loved my grandparents old metal chairs, like the one in the last picture. I would give anything to have those again. But I am leaning towards a bench though. Like the little church pew. That would be just too sweet. And the the yellow folding chairs would be amazing to have for when company is over. Great. Now I want them all. As if you hadnt figured that out already huh?!

Cath Kidston rocks

2010-06-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

I love and need everything Cath Kidston makes I think.

Like this cute little laundry bag.......need it !

I already have this notebook.....love it!

Who knows when there could be a sudden down pour....need them!

Second chances

2010-05-31T12:19:00.000-07:00

I love the way a collection of hankies can still be used instead of just being tucked into a drawer somewhere.

These curtains would cheer up any room

Pillows... A new life for old sheets

No need to toss out the old luggage....just reuse

Evening at Lowe's

2010-05-25T17:41:00.000-07:00

We had a nice little stroll through Lowe's this evening and I guess you can see my love.....Hydrangea's. Any color. I want them all.

Not sure what these little red ones were but Annabelle grabbed them first thing!

This flower should be stuck up...it's so beautiful!

2010-05-25T17:37:00.000-07:00

Topiaries are a favorite for the front entry ways....

Lovely..............

Our sweet little Vinca's ....in the cute bucket and planter I got at a sale last weekend for .25 cents each!

Annabelle is so proud of the flowers...she picked them out herself! She couldnt wait for me to post a picture of them for you. That's her handsome big brother Andrew in the background. He wants to be an actor. Enough said. Oh she wanted me to ask our readers if you would tell her your favorite flower. Thanks !

Gimmie Gimmie

2010-05-24T19:35:00.000-07:00

Ok I could use two of these

and this in a Full size...........and a twin set for Annabelle

both baskets and the rug

....and how did Ms. Rachel Ashwell know I needed one of these? How sweet of her to design it just for me.....Ok...maybe she designed it for everyone....but I do think she knows me oh so well!

Flowers from the gardens

2010-05-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

I also wanted to share a few of the pictures I took of the beautiful flowers in those gardens. So lovely!

A walk in the gardens

2010-05-22T07:03:00.000-07:00

I forgot to show you these lovely little ladies that were at the flower gardens, when we went a few months ago. I have always loved garden statues. They bring a special quality to gardens. And what an honor to display your art... to anyone just passing by. When I was a littl girl I felt they looked over and protected the flowers. Maybe they still do.

My yummy afternoon

2010-05-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, by now you have seen enough of my cooking to know I'm not on a diet. With that in mind...here is my lunch. Hotdog with fried onions, fried sauerkraut ( yes fried) mayo and mustard. And in about an hour I will have a rolaid for dessert! :)

The house that Belinda built.....a sweet little story

2010-05-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

If I lived in this house .....

I would wake up in this bed every morning

Get the kids up too

Walk down the stairs..checking my perfect hair, that I just had to run my fingers through ...heading to the garden...

2010-05-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

I would pick these flowers .....

Have breakfast here every morning.....

...while leaning on these cushions ..while flipping through my favorite book...

And it would be ME on the cover !

~ The End

Shabby chic clearance

2010-05-19T20:53:00.000-07:00

This is my clearance...lol. I am clearing out my goodies to make room for new stuff. It is amazing what you collect over the years. I like to switch things around alot to but I tend to go back to my classic style. Shabby Chic.

Mornin'

2010-05-18T06:33:00.000-07:00

Yawwwwwnnnn. Morning everyone. Mmmmm homemade blueberry pancakes! Ok they were out of a box. But they were wonderful and the kids loved them too. And we actually didnt have them this morning...lol...they were dinner yesterday! We had donuts this morning.
Well, I got the kids off to school. Brian off to work and now my day consists of organizing, laundry and picking up the new couch I got yesterday. I guess we will see how it all goes. Keep ya posted! Have a great day!

~Belinda

Yummy

2010-05-17T18:24:00.000-07:00

Howdy! How has everyone been? Great I hope. Today was quite a day. I cant wait to post the goodies I got while out today! We ended the evening with my homemade oatmeal chocolate chip cookie. My best yet that's for sure.

I made two big batches

Oh ! And lets not forget the dinner! LOL. Enchilades! Yeah chicken with green sauce and beef with red. Hmmm it was so good.

Vintage Inspirations

2010-05-14T02:02:00.000-07:00

I saw this little beauty online, and it has made me long for a large version of it. Perfect for above a dresser. I adore alot of detail around a mirror or frame.

This dresser is new but made to look old. I can respect that. I love the chippy style to. I could use three or four of these babies! Or at least two for nightstands.

My favorite thing to find in a dresser drawer other than a sachet. Pretty paper liners. Rachel Ashwell always does it good. I have even photo copied my favorite vintage pillow cases and used the paper to line tiny drawers,boxes and mattes for shabby chic frames.

This was one of Rachel Ashwells Target line that I loved too. I actually got the shower curtain in a swap from a friend! I love to swap out goodies with my sisters and friends. Your not out any money and you both get great stuff.

Laundry love

2010-05-08T15:46:00.000-07:00

I may be the rare gal who absolutely loves to do laundry. I love sorting, Ironing, and the smells of the softner. Laundry baskets are great but I do love laundry bags alot too. I have one bag that is really large, made from a Ralph Lauren sheet. I actually use it inside my wire pull cart for the flea market. It looks great and it keeps the small items from falling through.

I would really love a soaking sink in my laundry area.

I still like the old fashioned way of drying too. Line drying is wonderful. I have so many happy memories of helping my grandma hanging the laundry. I loved those wooden clothes pins. And her clothes pin bag....I would give anything to have that today. .......Now if I hang things I do keep the undergarments indoors to dry. I am sure my/your neighbors dont want to see anyones bloomers flapping in the breeze! lol. Plus you cant get much greener than that for our planet & it helps on your electric bill too. Plus you get to show off all those fantastic Ralph Lauren sheets to the neighbors! (shame on me I know!)

A lovely walk

2010-05-02T12:45:00.000-07:00

Well, by now you know how I love to write and show pictures from our evening/daily walks. Here are a few we wanted to share with you today. The weather was so wonderful and I guess nature agreed! The magnolia tree was starting to bloom, but just had the one blossom..weird. And the bugs were out like crazy too. Caterpillars were all over the reeds by the creek. I am sure the birds were just thrilled though. Annabelle brought home four caterpillars and gave them names. Three were returned to the trees last night but.... One is still roaming the house somewhere.

A mommy duck and her precious babies were happy to see our bag of crackers. They stayed a long time and we were able to get some video too. I hope we see them again today.

(more pictures from the walk below)

2010-05-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

I dont know what these trees are but they smell wonderful! Just like honeysuckle!

smallest rose bush in history

I love homemade birdhouses

Something sweet

2010-04-30T15:38:00.000-07:00

I havent baked in awhile so I decided to make some strawberry cheesecake muffins....mmmmm. Yes, they were wonderful wonderful ! The only mistake I made was just making six. They were all snatched up as soon as I got my pictures..lol. Oh well I'm glad the kids and Brian like them so much. Alright...I had two...but hey I baked them, right!? I always put a little Coolwhip on the side to dip it in. Ok, alot of Coolwhip! I bought a bottle of French Berry soda yesterday and it was perfect with it! You should really try it. I love it ice cold. Well, I guess I should go make dinner now....

~Belinda

Walk in....or walk out

2010-04-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

       Today I have been thinking all about wardrobes. I know everyone seems to be so inlove with the walk in closet...It always seems to be the big desire for a new home. Well.... it has become my enemy. Its like a black hole..lol...everything goes in and is gone forever. Now I love storage as much as the next girl but I am really wanting to keep it simple. With my walk in closet...I keep shoes in boxes and clothes all crammed together and on shelves. Half never worn it seems. My vintage purses have a shelf just for them. Papers and photos stored in pretty paper covered boxes stacked up high...... I forget about the stuff! I think a wardrobe would be just perfect for me. Simple. When I open the door....what I see is what I get.
       I am going to try to go with the spring cleaning motto....If you haven't worn it in six months....TOSS IT! well...recycle! Give it away or have a sale. I do think its fine to store a few favorite off season things...like sweaters. Two for me, but thats it, and in clear bags. The next season always brings something much cuter anyway.
        I would like to hear about some of your storage solutions and what Spring cleaning rituals have. What do you toss and when? Is your closet your friend?
                                                                                  ~Belinda

  (photo: Country Living )

Swap meet

2010-04-25T04:39:00.000-07:00

My little sweetheart just makes my heart swell with so much love.

So you can see in the pictures of her room why she is so spoiled! lol...But the other purpose of showing her room is to show just how thrifty I can be when needed. And what great deals I have found this past year. Well I will start with the headboard. FREE ! Well I met a gal on craigslist, a few years ago, that has now become a great swapping buddy and friend . Dont worry we met at a Home depot and my hubby came for safety! )She has the skill of making furniture look amazing! Well I have the skill of finding AMAZING deals. So its a nice ballance. She swapped me the headboard for some household items...pillows, frames, vase, and etc. Not alot compared to what this would have cost me new. And Annabelle LOVES her bed. (forgot to attache to rails for pic..oops) We have done several swaps like this. She redid my daughters antique vanity to match the bed, and a nightstand. We swapped her for flowers, a mirror, and linens for her daughter. Not that I could'nt spare any huh..? Such a great way to save I think.

The euro pillowcases were bought at a clearance store, new, for $1.00 each !! NO LIE ! ( alot of ladies going crazy that day ) The pink trimmed one is even a Kate Spade and was originaly $115.00! The Rockstar set is I think the only thing I paid more for..new at Target, (50.00) . The shabby chic quilt..$10.00 new at a big fleamarket.
As for the toys...Her two American girl dolls were gifts at Christmas, yeah! All the stuffed animals were from a local thrift store...most were new with tags....75 cents and under each. One day they had a sale..20 for $2.00....Big score there. So as you can guess...the other 50 or so animals are crammed in the closet!

Now this is her bedding that is stored in my closet. Not all of it either. Mercy. Well I already talked more than once on my linen love so the pictures explains it all..lol.. I have been weeding through it all for days now and are getting ready for a sale. Long overdue I'd say.

Happy Earth Day !

2010-04-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Dont forget to step outside today and take a look at our big beautiful planet!

And all the amazing things it has to show us..........

Let's try our best to love the Earth

I Need a new Camera ! Do you?

2010-04-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

Ok my blogging buddies...here is a great chance for one of us to win a really nice digtal camera! The Shopping Mama is offering a giveaway for a CASIO EXILIM High-Speed digital camera. This is a cute website also with lots of great information for those mommies on the go!. So boogie on over and enter!

theshoppingmama.com

Elegant Mattes

2010-04-19T18:09:00.000-07:00

skiptomylou.org

Hello again! I am showing you and everyone at Skip to My Lou what I have made! It is their MADE IT BY YOU Mondays , and I wanted to share my linen looking matte that I made.

I have a large group of antique prints from the 1800's and I wanted to make some of the mattes for them , look a little more elegant. I have red in my kitchen with a French country look so I wanted something to go with this......I wanted a linen/fabric look...but this isnt linen at all though. It is tulle ! Like the stuff that fluffs out prom dresses....weird yes...but it turned out great! Now my tulle was very thin red pieces ,that I had bought in a large group at a flea market for .50cents. I layered several pieces to make it darker and then traced the matte size. I cut ..then glued .. DONE! I loved the finished look.

Mixed up

2010-04-19T17:07:00.000-07:00

I love a nice mixture of patterns in quilts. I think they are for people who want every pattern at once for the bed, but cant decide..lol. They are nice for just that reason...you can add so many more elements to the room because of it. Stripes, florals and solids give you so many choices.

My favorites are obviously the vintage materials grouped together. And the little touches of lace and trim added in are just wonderful! Then little buttons on top of that ! Fabulous!

On top of pillows like this is such a great idea. It pulls it all together without having to use all the materials and be overpowering.

With old tablecloths and dishtowels...you can get a "new life" from them. If they get stains or holes you dont have to throw them out. Make laundry bags, stockings, basket liners, sachets, and pillows. And pillow case trims with embroidery, for extra detail. It is a great way to recycle too.

I've got the blues.....

2010-04-14T22:00:00.000-07:00

and the pinks....

and the whites.............

and the crackled yellows......

all ready to create my perfect little farm house.

Sleepovers

2010-04-13T17:11:00.000-07:00

Now isnt this the sweetest little sleepover buddy. I found the little vintage, rabbit pajama bag, in the bottom of a big bag of material that I got for a dollar! I was so thrilled because of all the vintage material I got for a buck. But I was thrilled when I pulled this out. The back of it zips up to hides your jammies, with a cute little cotton tail. I bet some little girl slept better with him there.

Back in the Gardens

2010-04-12T21:55:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my favorite pictures I took this past weekend. I am loving the Gardens right now.

This one could not have turned out any better!

The sun peeked through at just the right time

I love the little lily pads.

A GREAT win !

2010-04-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

I love to sometime let my readers know about great chances to win GREAT prizes! Soooooo.....With Spring in the air and all the dust and allergies that come with it...you have a great chance to win this! The Electrolux Versatility Cleaner..(valued at $299.99)....you can also win with it the Arm & Hammer Spring Cleaning bucket. It will be full of the ten great products you see in the picture. All you have to do is visit ....3kidsandus.com (three kids and us dot com) ......You will also be finding a wonderful website that I visit daily.
About the Author:
Cat is the author of 3 Kids and Us Mom Blog, sharing her life as a mother to three children and all of the craziness that life brings her while working from home. In her writing, you'll find a eclectic collection of humorous "mommy moments" along with family recipes, product reviews and more. Visit...you will enjoy it!

Good Luck everyone !

Tree Hugger !

2010-04-11T22:00:00.000-07:00

Look at this little cutie we spotted this weekend. He was just laying there hugging that tree....without a care in the world. He stayed there and posed for the picture before he decided to move on up the tree. Then he just and watched us until we left. I think we were HIS entertainment. I love squirrels.

A great deal ? Oh yeah !

2010-04-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

I visited my fav thrift store and found me some great deals. I got five of these beautiful plates for almost eight dollars......Not a chip on them! We had dinner on them already. I think it made the food taste better!

Now my favorite finds were the two large clear vases. LOVE them. Only four dollars for the pair! Now the glasses were on sale 10 for $2.00. They were trying to clear the shelves. I only found six of the clear ones, so they let me have four sets of the coffee cups! Score! The are from Spain. And very very cute.

This little set of three measuring cups were only a dollar. Another love.

I am serious need of a large hutch now.

Soak it in.....

2010-04-07T11:56:00.000-07:00

I think we could all use an hour out here just relaxing

The most wonderful little tub ever ! It's just missing the bubbles...

This is so welcoming too......

more pretties..

2010-04-06T11:04:00.000-07:00

This is the cute jewelry box I got at the fleamarket....I love the little bird and the colors

Nice details too...

Even the inside is enamel. I got both boxes, the bird and butterfly for five dollars. I payed only a dollar for the pins, and .25cents each for the earrings. Cute!

For the birds ..

2010-04-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Pottery Barn I am having a serious crush on all bird items in there catalog. Now I have alway been a serious bird lover. I have a sweet little zebra finch named Romeo. On a sad note.. we lost our Juliet on easter morning. It broke Annabelle's heart.... sigh. ...Well , I have been talking for abit now on fixing my bedroom from the shabby chic style, to Birds ! I have been finding some cute things too. I have framed a few of my , copies of vintage bird cards. They are about two inches ...so I blew them up to 5x7 , framed them and they look lovely. I found a nice silver wall hanging, a metal sculpter styled thing..lol...it looks like Pottery Barns black one too. I have my old tin lamp with birds...a new little enamel jewelry box that I will show next.

I need this bedding really badly...can you here me Pottery Barn?!

HAPPY EASTER !!

2010-04-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

We all hope you have a wonderful Holiday !

sweet Easter wishes................

Picnic at the Park....

2010-04-03T17:33:00.000-07:00

Pretty little flowers everywhere......

Good lookin men leaning on the fence posts. Thank goodness this ones my hubby...I slapped his rear !

They tried there best to talk those duck s out of the water...lol..... This picture just fills my heart with love.

Two levels of swinging...high and real high.....she picked REAL high ! I will never forget her laughing. When I tried to grab her feet she yelled out..." You cant catch me...I'm the gingerbread man !" LOL....from the mouths of babes!

2010-04-03T17:22:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day it was for us at the park today. We went and had a small pre-Easter picnic. And look at the wonderful suprise we found! A duck had laid her eggs inside of the opening of a tree ! We counted a dozen. This was the first time I had ever seen this. we are going back and check on them next weekend. Brian said he hopes they arent discovered tomorrow during an egg hunt....and mistake them for the Easter Bunnies !

This fella loved to pose for the camera and wasnt afraid of a thing. Looks like he uses too much hair gel if ya ask me. One cool duck.

My beautiful niece Candace, and her beautiful daughter Carmen, came with us too. We had sandwiches , chips, and fresh strawberries. Iced tea and strawberry Koolaid ! Yum ! Annabelle and Carmen picked the pretty flowers for me.

Koolaid tastes sooooo much better in a pretty bottle.

Farm living is the life for me....

2010-04-02T15:54:00.000-07:00

Well, it could be...if someone would just be kind enough to give me their farm! I need myself a nice big house on a cute piece of land...with the perfect little garden that I planted myself. A cow, ducks, bunnies and all the wild flowers I could ever want. Then....we start INSIDE the house..lol...hmmm....how would I begin ? Like this ! Hardwood floors , screen doors that slam when the kids run through and an unending supply of cute furniture.

I would have to have a fabulous farm table right? A really big one so family and friends could fit when they are over. Great art, slipcovered sofas and a cool breeze every evening.........

I think I would be pretty simple when it comes to the kitchen though. A marble top island with country stools.... and lined baskets full of linens. Milk glass and crystal light fixtures. And a large hutch full of ironstone dishes. A lazy old dog on the floor. Baskets of antique silver, Iron skillets and vases of flowers on the window ledge. See. Simple. Thats just me.

Last but not least....an old old truck.... drivin by my man - who would constantly be wearing his black cowboy hat ( ummm )...the kids in the middle, and my fleamarket goodies in the back. Yes, farm living is the life for me.....

Some many pretty flowers

2010-03-28T23:06:00.000-07:00

These little lovely ladies are my favorite ones of the day. Just so dainty and delicate. Do you know what they are? Please let me know.

Bright orange poppies.....they can brighten anyones day.

The bees in the garndens wouldnt leave these pink beauties alone.....I almost didnt get a picture...lol...oh well I was invading there paradise.

A Poppy waiting to bloom. "It's ok , the snow is finally gone. You can come out! "

The Flower Gardens.....

2010-03-28T22:56:00.000-07:00

We went to the flower gardens yesterday and had a wonderful time. There were soooo many people out and enjoying the wonderful weather, just like we did. There were red birds, squirrels , bees , butterflies, and even a couple of Brides. They were posing for there wedding pictures. Very sweet.

This little rose bud was the size of a dime. So much beauty in such a small size. Tempted to pick it but didnt.

ad to grab a few pictures of these...my best friend Lisa's favorites. I cant see them without thinking of her!

Even the trees were in bloom. I just wish I were more educated on trees so I knew what each one was....

More beauties from our walk

2010-03-26T19:16:00.000-07:00

It looks like the trees are ready for Spring too.

These were lining the walkway... just for us I think !

Annabelle found this little sweetie on the ground. I didnt even have to zoom in. It just sat there and posed for the picture unafraid. I think it wanted to show off its beauty a little too.

Annabelle's view.....

2010-03-26T18:48:00.000-07:00

These are pictures that Annabelle took all by herself ! The words below are all hers too. (She even typed it herself! ) such a big girl! She wants to share her pictures and stories with you once a week. We hope you enjoy!
( I am so proud !)

I did see the flowers and a butterflies. I played with my big brother. Frisbee. I saw A bunny today to. At our family walk. We saw pretty things and. We came home. annabelle

Can't wait for the weekend !

2010-03-25T12:54:00.000-07:00

                          It seems like forever since the weather has been decent enough to go to the flea markets. Texas weather will just throw you for a loop...like on the first day of Spring. Snow. Crazy I know.....but this weekend is going to be great ! Nice and sunny! I have my little pully cart ready to go, lined with my rosy Ralph Lauren laundry bag. So nothing small falls through. Can't loose the goodies now can we?! Then Annabelle's school is having a carnival later in the day...whoo..busy, FUN day. Finally! I love to be busy. Go go go. Now Annabelle is at the age to really want to keep up and do the mommy things. I must make a list for the search...
                                                   1. Wicker basket
                                                   2. Ironstone platters
                                                   3. Fabulous material
                                                   4. Vintage jewelry
                                                   5. Old bird prints
                                                   6. Linens
                                                   7. Sewing machine
                                                   8. Farm table
                                                   9. sand paper
                                                 10. Large mirror

                                 Hey if I get one out of ten....that's great with me !!!

I am going to sew things...

2010-03-25T01:00:00.000-07:00

Well....attempt it anyway. I have been looking at so many wonderful pillows online and in the magazines...I am just dying to make some. Something ! I guess I need to buy a machine first huh?! Now I have hand stitched some cutsie heart pin cushions last week and they turned out nice. I think I may include one in my giveaway pack ~that I am taking forever to get together~ I hope it is liked. Well back to the pillows. I have always wanted to do this mixed material pillows. Something pretty and delicate in front , backed with black and white ticking. I love the linen and burlap look too.

Now Pottery Barn had the most adorable little pillow that I had wanted , but was a bit out of my budget. $40.00 out of my budget...ouch. Worth every penny mind you but like I said.... Not in the budget right now. So. I found at a thrift store....two material selections. The first one was a very large piece....( only $2.99 )I believe it was an original twin , feather bed mattress cover....... thick, heavy, black ticking ( yes I love the ticking). So lots to work with there. The second..was a pair of curtains..($1.99) ....with an old farm scene on it in a toile style. Somewhat like the Pottery Barn pillow I love! Faded and a nice length too. I could make ten pillows with it easily! I cant wait to get started on them. I will do a before and after picture too. Any tips on pillow making with be cherished !

Wish me luck ~ Belinda

Sooo cute giveaway

2010-03-24T15:58:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Easter ! 3 Kids and Us .com is having a wonderful giveaway ! You can win a $25.00 giftcard from Build-a-Bear ! Plus you get to see a Wonderful website that I love... 3 kids and us ! I just LOVE that Blossom Bunny for Annabelle for easter! I happen to love the Chick for myself ! Hurry on over and comment to get your chance to win !

3kidsandus.com

The search is on....

2010-03-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

I am wanting to change the style in my living room to a relaxed,old French cottage feel. It didnt really have a style to begin with so I guess the change will certainly be for the better. I love old ironstone platters and I love little painted wicker items too. And dont get me started on the bedding! I am moving the roses from the bedroom to the living room, but in a very delicate way. I dont want to over do it. I am redoing the bedroom in a natural feel with leaves and birds. Lots of birdie items. Vintage prints and more. A HUGE change for me considering I have been shabby chic/vintage for over ten years and counting. A sweet goodbye. But a very welcomed change. And just in time for Spring!

~ Belinda

My farm table

2010-03-22T03:43:00.000-07:00

This is my adorable farm table that a friend made. I even got the wicker chairs from her too! We did this all in a barter ! Can you say oh yeah baby! I love them. But now , as I have told her, I need another one. Did I mention I love furniture? Well I am wanting to put this one behind a sofa and get a new,longer table for the dining area. Not sure on the chairs I want though. still thinking on that one. I will let you know soon.

~Belinda

2010-03-22T01:22:00.000-07:00

I'M BACK !!

2010-03-22T01:21:00.000-07:00

Yeah can you believe it ! I am back online after a far too long break. And by break I mean my computer. Yep it went KAPUT! Along with my 14,000 pictures on it! Can you say ouch? ! I cried. Someone hit a lightpole buy my house and made , I guess, a power surge, and it killed my sweet little computer. So sad. I can tell you what....a girl can go crazy with no way to blog. I dont think people go to the neighbors anymore borrowing a cup of sugar.......in todays world we just need to borrow an internet connection! Hey I dont need sugar for my morning coffee...or coffee for that matter........It's all the boost I need in the morning thats for sure. lol. I have been walking around like I didnt know what to do with myself. Then something really strange happened...my housework got done. .....

Well I would love to say these pictures are the ones I took of our first day of Spring.....but nope. They are from the week before. Can you believe we had SNOW yesterday? ! Crazy Texas weather. Well I got these shots from one of our family walks. Turned out real nice too. I just could'nt tell ya what the trees are though. Tell me if you know. I am hoping to get a better camera this week so I can really zoom in on the birds and little flower blooms this Spring. Annabelle says hello to everyone and we are soon going to devote one writing a week to HER! All in her own words and her pictures that she has taken. Well it is mother daughter day huh?! LOL....She is very excited to share her thoughts with you too..not just through my eyes.

I am just talking up a storm because I have missed this and you all so much ! OHH I also realized that on my last post..it was my 100th posting! Wow..that shocked me. Well with that I am getting a really nice group of things together for a giveaway!!! Sort of like a gift basket! Oh I think you will like it too. I hope I will have it all ready for you to see by the weekend. Get ready! I will also be posting/bragging once a week on new blogs that I find and love. Hey we all need a little help getting our blog out there right? So leave me a comment on yours and I will spread the word!

Computer is down...so sad....

2010-03-11T18:49:00.000-08:00

Hello to my readers ...just a quick little note to let you know that my computer is down. It is just driving me crazy not being able to post and post pictures. Well I am hoping to be back on this weekend or the next at the latest! Beware ...I have alot to talk about and many new pictures to post. Miss you all and see ya soon!

Everything Etsy blog party Thursday...I made it !

2010-02-25T15:58:00.000-08:00

This is another little lampshade that I have made. I found the shade frame for less than a dollar. I tore off the existing material and cut up a maternity shirt from Target, and a vintage pillow case. The rose material was nice and stretchy, and the dainty lace trim was from a vintage pillow case thats had holes in it. But the trim was still too pretty to just toss. I like how the roses show in the evening when its lit up. Now dont forget to drop by Everythingetsy.com to see all the other posts. Plus its a great site to add to your favorites like I did....or subscribe!

~ Hope you enjoyed it too ~

Oh yummy...

2010-02-23T15:46:00.000-08:00

Blame William -Sonoma if you have a sudden gain in weight. They have these little pastry cutters and I just want to go crazy! Heck...a few pounds can't hurt huh?

Pottery Barn love......

2010-02-23T15:36:00.000-08:00

I think Pottery Barn loves me as much as I love them. Or they would'nt just create these wonderful things for just any reason..? Nope. They did it ALL for me. So sweet of them.

I could just rip out my sink right now and put that sweetie in.

and I could certainly use more baskets......

and then there is my deep love of dish towels. Oh Pottery Barn..(sigh)....I love you too.

Neighborhood Watch

2010-02-22T22:14:00.000-08:00

I guess you could say I am a member of the neighborhood watch....I walk around and watch the neighbors! I am a devoted member of this group thats for sure. I love to see how some of them really love their homes. Heck I love their homes. Cute little flower beds, window boxes, shutters. I would love to come over one day for tea , coffee, laundry day.....anything to get a peek inside. Maybe I should leave a note on the door asking them to start a blog. ?hmmm...what to do. Well anyhoo , I bet she has amazing linens and is a fabulous baker. We could be such good friends. I only saw one house with a really really BAD choice in curtains. The kids bed sheets pinned up ! I gasped ! ....I considered calling crime stoppers. But my hubby snatched the phone from me and said they would laugh at me . Like he did. Well on to the next home..... I'll be watching.........

Work stations...& your curtains

2010-02-22T16:18:00.000-08:00

I love my work station at home. I call it that because it's not an office, but a corner of the living room. lol. If I say work station it sounds prettier and more adult. More organized. (not) I certainly have a nice group of decorating books and far too many magazines. About 500+. No joke. And I recently weeded through them and got rid of half so I am actually down to 500+. It has always been my form of therapy I guess..lol...and if you have this many then you know what I mean. They are just the best escape into other peoples worlds, but hey! Now we have blogs! And I must say I am just as addicted. Sitting at my desk , peaking into your homes ,without getting arrested..... and just dying to have your curtains! And those slipcovered sofas...ahhh..you people are just killing me! Now now...remember..God says to share . What? You will let me have them?! Oh how sweet of you........such a good friend...(wink wink)

so dainty.....

My ever changing boards...and clutter

A few more finds

2010-02-20T20:21:00.000-08:00

I forgot to show the other pictures of my goodies. The cute little button with a bell was only a .29 cent find.

My favorite thing was this tiny little iron that fits in the palm of my hand ! The cute red leather case says made in England and the best part is that I got it for only .95cents and it works! Score!

I got two of these little yellow pots for .25 cents each. They are only about three inches high. I got alot of tiny stuff for tiny prices...lol. Not too sure what I could actualy plant in them because they are so small..hmm..Maybe I could let Annabelle start some Ivys or plant a bean like in school. I guess we will find out this spring.

We have mice !

2010-02-20T13:47:00.000-08:00

Well I was sitting at the computer and I heard a little noise by the window. It sounded like a cheer. "Raw raw ree-kick'em in the knee..Raw raw rass ..kick'em in the other knee! " Yep I looked over and there she was, right by the window. A cheerleader mouse in red. Such an attention getter. And as we all know , where there is one mouse there are more. The country mouse and her sister, the nurse, appeared next with the cute baby in pink! Must be all this cold weather driving them inside.

Cath Kidston quilt lampshade...made by me

2010-02-19T12:50:00.000-08:00

I have always loved Cath Kidston materials, well anything by her really. She has such a gift for that old fashioned look in the home. I made this lampshade actually a few years ago. I would send for swatches so I could get ideas on the material for other projects and then I ended up having the left over swatches. Well..ta-da! ..I cut them up and just covered the shade. SOOO easy. The biggest problem was deciding where to put each pattern..lol..I also used pinking shears to make the edges cute too. It has traveled from my room to Annabelles ,and once to the living room. Its a nice thing to do when you cant find that "perfect" shade in the store and a great way to recycle leftovers. Hope you like it....

Also... Join me at a BLOG PARTY! Once a week on Everythingetsy.com ......they will be hosting the I MADE IT - BLOG PARTY ...... Yeah ! This is such a wonderful website and blog! I will be linking this to her site so go and take a look and see mine and all the other great ideas from these amazing bloggers! Hey maybe link one of your great ideas too! Tell them Hi from Motherdaughterday !

Enjoy !

~ Belinda

The loot !

2010-02-18T12:42:00.000-08:00

Oooh my spode mugs...yum

See...I left the tag on to show you....50 cents !

Drying and ready for hot chocolate....

My cute Fiesta pitcher I got last week for $1.99
I'm gonna tease my sister with this one....great for swapping

To-Do or not To-Do ?...that is the question

2010-02-17T19:58:00.000-08:00

Ok, I can tell you right now that only one thing on this list has gotten done today. And it's nothing above number 8 and nothing below number 8. Thats right, call me Miss Slacker today. I just cant get motivated to get those things done. Thank goodness for other people in the family huh?! lol. I did get some awsome thrift store shopping done. Hey a girl has to do what a girl has to do...lol.....It was a half price day at my local Goodwill and I got a few cute things. CHEAP !! Eight Spode mugs for .50 cents each!! They are so pretty, I love them....I mix my dishes like I mix my furniture.....Nothing matches. I also got Annabelle a brand NEW ,Gymboree turtle purse for .35 cents too! A cute little green apple coin purse - .35 cents, A brand new coat with mittens for $2.25 ! YEAH my best find for her I think. Also a like new sweat shirt from Justice.....all glittery......Two new striped dish towels with the tags to .25 cents each. (LOVE dishtowels! wierd I know, I cant get enough!) A cute shirt for me , and two for Annabelle. WHOO! All in all it was a great day for deals thats for sure. I'll show a picture of my loot soon. Well I guess I should get busy around the house (yeah right). Chat with ya soon!

~ Belinda

a.k.a. -the bargain hunter

My Valentine Sweethearts

2010-02-14T10:01:00.000-08:00

My beautiful Annabelle Rose

My handsome Brian..........

And below...my Andrew

2010-02-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

My handsome little man!

He is getting big way too fast ....

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

2010-02-14T08:17:00.000-08:00

Oh , Valentines Day is my favorite Holiday! All the love and romance ,and the excuse to buy chocolate and flowers! Instead of buying flowers this year I made Annabelle tissue paper flowers. She LOVED them! The large pink one is about twelve inches across and turned out looking like a carnation. Annabelle gave the large dark pink one to her teacher. A big hit ! The small ones turned out nicely too ,with pretty layers of a rose. I love to make them and they take maybe a whole five-ten minutes each.

When I was little my two sisters and I used to make kleenex carnations and we took them to the ladies at the nursing home, near us. They were a big hit then too. And I love that memory I have with my sisters too. I hope Annabelle remembers them and it stays special to her. I think homemade gifts are always nice. Oh I did get a box of chocolates for Annabelle and Andrew too ! Hey its not Valentines without the sweets,huh? !

Have a wonderful and loving day! oxox

Snow day !

2010-02-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

I am LOVING the snow today !

pretty trees iced in snow

the branches look so fragile this way...

Jacket weather

2010-02-07T01:01:00.000-08:00

I think these little cuties are a reason I would pray for cooler weather. lol. That, a sewing machine and some serious skills. I would be making every little girl I know one. My favorite one is the one with the vintage hankies on it. I could use my grandmas instead of them just sitting in a box. so sweet.

2010-02-05T03:10:00.000-08:00

I love these dreamy rooms.

dont you just want to take a nap?

I could sleep for days .....

A GIVEAWAY !! at TWIG.....get over there !

2010-02-01T02:12:00.000-08:00

Good gravy this clock is cute! And if you just so happen to think so too, well then you should get yourself over to the fabulous blog....TWIG.....I am a new follower and I love love love it. I hope you browse her blog awhile .....go and enjoy it as much as I do, because if you win the clock, well thats just a perk! GOOD LUCK ! Let her know that her fans over at Mother daughter Day adore her too!

We love rocks...

2010-01-31T00:32:00.000-08:00

As I have talked about before, we had gone on one of our evening walks together a few days ago and I got a few pictures. I love these, cabbages I believe. And Annabelle was thrilled to find her egg shaped rock. She is always picking up rocks when we are out. When we go to the park she is always wanting to load up a bucket full from the play ground. Somehow she manages to make off with a pocket full at least. So funny. We have a few jars full and many laying around on shelves. She will even remember where she picked them up at too. A kid thing I guess. Now if kids would only ask for them at Christmas we would have it made huh? !!

2010-01-30T01:01:00.000-08:00

My finished chick !