FLOWERSHOPGURL

Learning some techniques using PhotoShop...

2012-01-18T18:19:00.031-05:00

I have been learning how to use textures and layers in Photoshop after following a tutorial I saw on a lovely blog called frenchkisstextures.com. Leslie provides instructions that are pretty easy to follow. I was so excited after a few attempts to be able to complete my project. The second picture was done using Leslie's image and texture and the first picture I did using a texture I found online layered with a picture I had taken of a centerpiece that I had made a few years ago. And the last picture is done using Leslie's image and texture with another texture added by me.

If you have a chance pop in on Leslie and see all the great tutorials she offers.

Just stunning...

2012-01-11T21:33:00.008-05:00

I took this picture of the moon last night with my new lens that I got for Christmas. I think it came out pretty amazing since I just grabbed my camera and took a few shots, nothing fancy!

Little Guest Room...

2012-01-08T17:20:00.012-05:00

A few simple changes to one of our little guest rooms...

Winter Blues...

2012-01-04T12:35:00.006-05:00

Although Christmas has past and I long for summer days I can't seem to get myself in the mode to design anything other than something for the Winter months or Christmas. Are you having the same problem or have you happily moved along to new things? I could use some inspiration because I seem to be stuck...

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T13:15:00.005-05:00

Wishing you all the best in the New Year!

What a wonderful Christmas...

2011-12-27T15:27:00.021-05:00

I made this red and white scarf by combining different yarns, I love the big white "snowball" yarn. This was made for my granddaughter for Christmas, I think they are sooo cute! And since this scarf didn't require knitting or crocheting anyone can make these!

I had a wonderful Christmas with my family and although I am tired from all the baking, cooking and ho ho hoing I don't want it to end... I still have some craft projects that I had started and didn't get to finish that were intended for gift for a special someone. I also started some projects were just things that I liked and wanted to do just because! Every year I intend to start to work on my crafts sooner but I am more apt to wait until Christmas draws near to feel the inspiration. Do you do that too? And of course with Pinterest and all you talented bloggers the ideas that come to me are never ending. My head is constantly a buzz with idea after idea... make all the noise in there go away, lol! So even though Christmas is over I'm really going to see if I can stay inspired and work on those crafts that I wanted to get done and then I'll be ready for Christmas next year! Ya right, good luck with that, huh?

I hope you all had a magical Christmas and hope that Santa was good to you too!

Merry Christmas...

2011-12-26T21:00:00.009-05:00

You Better Not Pout...

2011-12-21T11:19:00.010-05:00

I'm working hard to get through my list in time for Christmas. I hope I made it on Santa's Nice list and I wish the same for you!

Merry Christmas!

Don't Tell Santa...

2011-12-19T12:45:00.006-05:00

My great nephew Charlie... shhh don't tell Santa I've been Naughty...

Merry Christmas Charlie!

Hark The Herald Angel's sing...

2011-12-15T15:00:00.009-05:00

I made these faux pine window decoration's long ago and have enjoyed them season after season. The old fashioned candle adds a realistic charm to this piece. The little porcelain angel's were a find years ago at the Christmas Tree Shop. I love how they hold onto the candle and their little faces glow in the light. I tucked in some icy beaded picks along with some berry's and shiny red ornaments. The glow from this centerpiece inside and outside my window is very sweet and I love them more each year. It is so cute to walk up to my house and see them sitting in a frosty window.

I hope my window arrangement's will inspire you to try something different this year!

Red and Green Christmas Headstone Topper...

2011-12-14T12:02:00.012-05:00

Each year as we all begin to celebrate the Christmas season I always make wreaths or cemetery stone toppers for our loved ones who are no longer with us. I have always enjoyed making each piece special and this year was no different. I also had many orders for wreaths and stone toppers this year. When I take an order for a cemetery piece I like to ask each client to tell me a little about "their" loved one and what was special to them. I then create a piece that is unique, that also has meaning to the family and I like to add a photo of their loved one to the topper. It may take me a few hours to make a topper but I enjoy each moment of it knowing that this may be the only item that someone can give to a loved one that is no longer here. My customer's are so kind and usually are quite emotional when they come to pick up their topper or wreath. A little bit of me goes into my work and I think they can feel that as well. This topper was made for a dad, it was made to honor him for the Holidays. I used the traditional red and green Christmas colors for this arrangement. I really think it came out beautifully...

Cemetery Stone Topper for Christmas...

2011-12-10T18:06:00.026-05:00

Each year as we all begin to celebrate the Christmas season I always make wreaths or cemetery stone toppers for our loved ones who are no longer with us. I have always enjoyed making each piece special and this year was no different. I also had many orders for wreaths and stone toppers this year. When I take an order for a cemetery piece I like to ask each client to tell me a little about "their" loved one and what was special to them. I then create a piece that is unique, that also has meaning to the family and I like to add a photo of their loved one to the topper. It may take me a few hours to make a topper but I enjoy each moment of it knowing that this may be the only item that someone can give to a loved one that is no longer here. My customer's are so kind and usually are quite emotional when they come to pick up their topper or wreath. A little bit of me goes into my work and I think they can feel that as well. This topper was made for a mom and a dad, it was made to honor them for the holiday's. The blue used in this piece were the colors the couple had used for their wedding. I really think it came out beautifully...

I love the sparkle of the silver ornaments mixed with the silver poinsettia's blossoms. I also accented this piece with silver berries.

The back of the stone topper is as pretty as the front!

I joined in the Christmas Blogger Block Party, please stop by to see what the others are sharing today!

Pink Tree for a Little Fun...

2011-12-09T08:21:00.023-05:00

Every girl needs to have a little pink in her life, right? About 5 years ago my niece was going to be turning 16 shortly after Christmas. I thought this would be the perfect time to make a special tree just for her. I decided to purchase a small pre-lit tree that came in a pretty white ceramic container. I found all different kinds of make up products in miniature sizes; eye shadows, eye pencils, lip gloss, lip stick, nail files, etc. I glued some sheer pink ribbon to each product and attached them to the branches of the tree. I added a pretty pink ombre bow that I made with wired ribbon and for the tree "topper" I added a sweet sequined make up bag filled with pink make up brushes!
My niece loved her special gift and I had so much fun coming up with the design for her tree. I still have all the items that I had purchased knowing that I would want to make another tree for my granddaughter when she was old enough to enjoy it. I guess I should get busy and start pulling out all the girly items I have and make another tree. This would also be a perfect gift for a hair stylist or a nail technician to place in their shops. I have way too little time for all the ideas swirling around in my head. Have you any special projects that you are working on for a loved one this Christmas?

I joined Beverly for Pink Saturday and I also joined in at The Christmas Blogger Block Party, please stop by and see what others are sharing for the Holidays!

Frosty the Snowman "Hat" Centerpiece...

2011-12-04T22:19:00.008-05:00

Today I decided to join Susan at Between Naps On The Porch for Metamorphosis Monday it's been so long since I've been able to join in the fun. I am also linking up with Courtney at A Thoughtful Place for her Christmas Cheer Link party and with Terri at Artful Affirmations for her Deck The Halls Sunday party!

I found these adorable woven "Frosty" hat baskets and just had to make some centerpieces with them. If you are lucky enough you can find the baskets at Michael's but not in my area, as I bought every single one of them! Yep that's me when I find something I love I buy them all!
They really came out adorable, I used fresh pine, tiny bulbs on picks, snowflakes, sweet checked bow and a cute little snowman. I added lots and lots of glitter for the "frosty" effect and I am very pleased with how they came out. I'm sure they won't be around long... not because they are going to "melt" away but because my friends will scoop them up and buy them for gifts for their friends and family. So what are your favorite things to make during the Holiday Season?

Close up of "Frosty"...

Close up of "Frosty"...

Please be sure to visit Susan , Courtney and Terri to see what everyone else is sharing today!

Pretty Pink Christmas Tree for a Sweet 16th...

2011-12-04T00:16:00.029-05:00

Frosty The Snowman Hat Centerpiece...

2011-11-29T09:54:00.031-05:00

Today I decided to join Susan at Between Naps On The Porch for Metamorphosis Monday it's been so long since I've been able to join in the fun...

I found these adorable woven "Frosty" hat baskets and just had to make some centerpieces with them. If you are lucky enough you can find the baskets at Michael's but not in my area, as I bought every single one of them! Yep that's me when I find something I love I buy them all!
They really came out adorable, I used fresh pine, tiny bulbs on picks, snowflakes, sweet checked bow and a cute little snowman. I added lots and lots of glitter for the "frosty" effect and I am very pleased with how they came out. I'm sure they won't be around long... not because they are going to "melt" away but because my friends will scoop them up and buy them for gifts for their friends and family. So what are your favorite things to make during the Holiday Season?

Close up of "Frosty"...

Close up of "Frosty"...

Please be sure to visit Susan and see what everyone else is sharing today!

Wedding Photos...

2011-11-17T20:29:00.049-05:00

I thought I would share a few more photos from my daughter Paula's wedding this past August, we are still waiting for the Wedding Video. What a beautiful day we had, I wish we could turn back the clock and do it all again. What a beautiful couple, so in love, just like a fairy tale! The wedding took place at Lucien's Manor in Berlin, NJ in the Venetian Ballroom, when the curtain went up after the cocktail hour I was breathless. I really felt like I was in a Broadway production just watching the curtain go up and reveal the room to our guests. Pinch me, I think I'm still dreaming...

October 2011 Snow Storm...

2011-10-29T17:25:00.015-04:00

Winter Storm Warning, are you serious... it's only October isn't it?

The last of the apples are clinging to the tree, some how they remind me of "Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs"... eerily beautiful...

Moose on the Loose...

2011-10-24T21:46:00.012-04:00

On a recent ride up to Bennington, Vermont I shot a few pictures of a Moose sculpture at road side stand. You can also find these Moose sculptures along the streets of Vermont as part of an ongoing arts outreach and fundraising program. I would say these moose are a "must see" if you are in the Vermont area.

Rambling Along Country Roads in Autumn...

2011-10-20T13:39:00.038-04:00

Although the days are becoming shorter and shorter fall has always been my favorite time of year. The foliage that we enjoy in October, is visually stunning and we enjoy many colorful weeks of autumn that "Mother Nature" blesses us with!

During the colorful foliage season, the focus shifts to lazy days, cool evenings, weekend naps and the harvest of crisp apples. I love the "Pumpkin" stands that can be found along many of our country roads. Any and all of these are good reasons for me to take many rides to explore our beautiful countryside.

We have many rolling hills and beautiful lakes and this is a perfect time to visit the "Berkshires". Come jump in the leaves, carve a pumpkin, go on a hayride, eat a caramel apple and feel the crisp Autumn breezes.

State Forest...

2011-10-18T19:57:00.048-04:00

This picture was taken by my nephew recently.

Gorgeous waterfalls, babbling streams and flowering shrubs can be found in Pittsfield State Forest. There are about 65 acres of wild azaleas in pink blossoms in June. Fishermen love to frequent the scenic Berry Pond, one of the highest natural water bodies in Massachusetts at 2,150 feet. The vista from the top of Berry Mountain is a striking panorama, a good place to watch the sun set on any day. You will find around 30 miles of trails that will encourage you to escape into the stillness of the woods. Balance Rock is located in the northeast corner of Pittsfield State Forest. This 165-ton limestone boulder is balanced upon bedrock. There is an earthen dam at Lulu Brook which holds clear, cold spring water perfect for a brisk swim and I mean brisk. State Forest is a beautiful place for a picnic or even just to take a ride through to view the incredible scenery.

I hope to be able to take a recent picture of Balance Rock to share with you in the near future.

For the love of a Dog...

2011-10-17T19:33:00.052-04:00

This past Saturday I decided that the day would be all about my dog; Alexis. She gives us so much joy that I wanted to spend an entire day out hiking at three area lakes with her. The pictures I have shared today are of Onota Lake, the mountain views are breathe taking at this time of year. It was a perfect Autumn day, Lexi swam and played in the water and let me take many pictures of her. I'm not sure which of us enjoyed it more her or me.

Beautiful Autumn Night...

2011-10-13T23:14:00.012-04:00

It was a beautiful night here in the Berkshires. To really see this picture I would suggest that you click on it to enlarge it. I love the contrast of the dark sky against the colorful leaves.

Columbus Day Weekend in Vermont...

2011-10-10T22:18:00.041-04:00

On Saturday I took my mom for a ride through the Berkshires and up to Bennington, Vermont. We first stopped in Cheshire and enjoyed the view of Cheshire Lake and the surrounding mountains, the views where breathtaking and it was a perfect "Indian Summer" day. While in Vermont we stopped at the "Old First Church" where the Congregation was first organized in 1762. The Church was dedicated to Separation of Church and State and was founded by those seeking religious freedom.

The cemetery located at the Church was very fascinating to me, I love looking at old stone markers and there were so many interesting ones. The Author " Robert Frost" is buried at this very cemetery, however, I wasn't able to see his grave as my mom was a little tired, so we decided we would take the drive back up another day. I have been past that very church many times and never knew of it's history nor did I know that Robert Frost was buried there.

I really enjoyed taking pictures of the cemetery and the Church, the shadows at that time of day made the pictures even more interesting to my eye. On my next trip back to Vermont I plan to stop at the Bennington Battle Monument. The monument is the tallest structure in Vermont and commemorates the Battle of Bennington, a battle that lead to the turning point of the Revolutionary War. I have visited the Monument before but I didn't have the chance to take pictures.

This weekend was absolutely beautiful, the weather couldn't have been nicer and my mom and I spent a wonderful day together. We ended the day with a nice dinner at a favorite spot of ours where you can eat in your car or sit at a picnic table. We laughed and we sang our old favorites songs while driving along, what more can you ask for, a day spent with your Mother!

Jump In The Leaves...

2011-09-28T19:48:00.018-04:00

As I reflect on the past year I am amazed at how many things have changed in my life in such a short time. I am very grateful for all my blessings and for this little "jewel" of a home. As the sun began to set this evening and the air began to cool down thoughts of autumn drifted into my mind. I'm saddened that summer has just ended but autumn has always been my favorite time of year. I have always loved the crisp night air, taking evening walks with my dog and feeling the leaves crunch beneath my feet. Autumn is like a new beginning for me, I think it’s because of childhood when we would anticipate going back to school each September. I'd be nervous and excited at the same but it was the start of a new year and I always loved that. Although summer has ended I’m sure we will have many days of “Indian” summer in October. I am going to enjoy every moment of the changing seasons. I love the thought of "Mother Nature" taking her paint brush to the leaves. I can't wait to see her painted canvas in the mountain peaks and in her fields of gold. I want to ramble upon an old country road and happen upon a little road side stand filled with pumpkins and gourds. I want to eat apple cider donuts, drink in the autumn air and walk amongst the rainbow colored leaves. I hope you are enjoying this time of year too!

Family

2011-09-24T15:26:00.024-04:00

Like branches on a tree, we all grow in different directions yet our roots remain as one.

I'm Seeing Red...

2011-09-24T10:52:00.033-04:00

I have loved using red to decorate in my kitchen for the past few years. Red is the color of passion, but I'm careful not to over do it. Red can be very cheery and happy but can cause anger if you use to much of it (I'm told). So you need to keep that in mind when using red to decorate in a room, you have to know when enough is enough.

I like to use red as an accent color in everything from wall decor, clocks, candles, dishes and even my silverware. When you have accents of red it gives a punch to other things you might not even notice in your room. I think red can entice and invite you into a room and it's perfect in my kitchen/dining area. Food looks great on red plates and red works any time of the year and for any holiday.

So are you seeing "red" today too?

Fun with "TYPOGRAPHY" art...

2011-09-21T12:18:00.020-04:00

I am loving all the Typography art that I have been seeing on Pinterest lately and thought that I would play around and give it a try. It takes awhile to get the hang of it but I am really having fun. Have any of you given this a try? I'd like to print some to hang in my house and to give as gifts.

Here Comes The Bride...

2011-08-27T14:32:00.022-04:00

Our beautiful daughter was married on August 20th, 2011 at Lucien's Manor in New Jersey. I can't wait until we get to see all the professional pictures and video but I thought I would share a few photos now.

July 4th, 2011

2011-07-28T22:09:00.001-04:00

Scrapbooking design personalized with Smilebox

Fresh Crabs...

2011-07-24T18:38:00.007-04:00

After enduring many days of 100+ temperatures we had some rain this afternoon. Finally some relief from the sweltering heat, although yesterday at the beach was awesome. I got knocked down by the waves a time or two but I got back up and loved every minute of it.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope you had a great weekend!

Sketch Our Granddaughter Did Of Our Sweet Dog...

2011-07-20T08:26:00.024-04:00

This is the sketch that my granddaughter Samantha did for me yesterday in a few hours. She is self taught and very talented for an 18 year old. She does her sketches free hand, no tracing or anything like that. She will attending Becker College in August to be a Veterinary Technician. You can see her love for animals in this sketch of Lexi. Sami I love you and I am so proud of the young woman you are!

This is the original photo I chose for Samantha to sketch Lexi of. You can see how well Sami did sketching this photo. I can't wait to get the original sketch so I can have it framed and hung in our new house.

Curio Cabinet Before and After...

2011-07-18T18:59:00.025-04:00

Recently I had my old oak kitchen cabinets painted a pretty "linen" color. Yesterday I decided it was time to paint my cherry curio cabinet to match. I used Krylon satin spray paint in "Ivory". Two cans of spray paint later my curio cabinet has been updated to match the rest of our kitchen. It was a very easy project that didn't take much time at all and the results are pretty nice.

Thanks for stopping by, please be sure to visit Susan at "Between Naps on the Porch" for Metamorphosis Monday!

LEM Photo Challenge ~ Red, White & Blue

2011-07-01T14:05:00.013-04:00

I'm joining Tara at live every moment through a lens for her RED, WHITE AND BLUE CHALLENGE. I just found her lovely blog today and decided to join her party!

I have posted pictures of this table before but I thought I would show it again since I haven't had time to do much blogging lately.

My brother Henry Daniel Phillips II; Vietnam Veteran...

Come sit and have a cold drink or perhaps some fresh cherry's, watermelon or a yummy coconut cupcake!

White ironstone dinner plates from JC Penney.
Red scallop plates also from JC Penny.
Blue and white Royal Stafford plates from TJ Maxx, a few years ago.
Blue wine glasses are from the Dollar Tree.
Glass compote's from GW.
Glass basket from GW.
Cupcake stand from Home Goods.
Napkins from Home Goods.
Uncle Sam figures from Michael's.
Tall white candle stick with red candle from Home Goods.
Blue place mats from Big Lots.

I hope you enjoy my RED, WHITE AND BLUE table and take a few moments to reflect on all the sacrifices of our military, past and present. Happy 4th of July, thank you for visiting!

Please be sure to visit LEM Photo Challenge ~ Red, White & Blue

A Beautiful Day out in the lagoon...

2011-06-24T11:43:00.006-04:00

Love...Faith...Hope...

2011-06-21T21:03:00.010-04:00

"At the beach, life is different"...

2011-06-13T11:00:00.015-04:00

"At the beach, life is different. Time doesn't move hour to hour but mood to moment. We live by the currents, plan by the tides and follow the sun."- Unknown

Thank you for stopping by, I hope you find beauty in the simple things that surround you each day!

Happy Memorial Day...

2011-05-26T19:02:00.009-04:00

I hope you have a wonderful "Memorial Day" weekend, please remember to take a few moments to reflect on all the sacrifices of our military, past and present. Thank you for visiting! Your kind comments, are so appreciated!

Peony blooms...

2011-05-23T18:43:00.007-04:00

Hydrangeas are my favorite flower hands down, however, the peonies that bloom in early spring bring me so much joy. Wishing you a wonderful day!

It didn't start off as a fairy tale but she kissed the frog, she married a prince... and together they are living happily ever after.

2011-05-19T09:30:00.008-04:00

The Frog Prince is a fairy tale that I read while growing up, and the best known version is of the Brothers Grimm. In this fairy tale, a spoiled princess befriends a frog, reluctantly. The frog is magically transformed into a handsome prince after being kissed by the beautiful princess. In early versions of the fairy tale the frog turns into a prince when he is allowed to spend one night on the princess's pillow.
The Frog Prince is a lovely fairytale filled with hope and love. It is an age old tale of how things may not be what they seem, and how wonderful things may come in less than wonderful packaging. Don't we all dream of finding our prince and falling in love and living happily ever after?

Treasure your “life story.” When you stay together with someone you love, someone you grow with, someone you share a history with it becomes both of your stories. This “story” is something to treasure it's your life history. No other person will know you as intimately and personally for all the years of your life. The bond you share as husband and wife are like no other. I can't imagine anyone else who I would rather share all of my hopes and dreams with. Someone that knows my happiness and disappointments as fully as me, and who love me and my children the way no other could understand. We share the same memories of our children being born, growing, learning, their triumphs and their failures. True life is not really a fairy tale, nor is it a long romantic movie. It takes a great amount of love, patience, understanding, give and take to remain in a marriage. The bonds of a family should not be easily discarded when things are tough or not going well. I treasure our life history for what it is, a gift from god that has brought me tremendous pleasure along with some heartache. I'm not sure where the next chapter will bring me but I'm anxious to turn the next page, as my best friend will always be by my side, my very own Prince Charming!

I love your sweet comments! Perhaps today you would like to take a moment or two to share your story of you and your prince! Or perhaps, you're still waiting for him to come along...

Happy Anniversary Honey, I love you!

My Handsome Prince Charming...

I Love Little Baby Ducks...

2011-04-30T19:35:00.022-04:00

I woke up this morning and went outside to the dock to have coffee and to my delight I had 13 baby ducks swimming in my back yard. Of course momma duck was close by keeping guard over her sweet babies.

I love little baby ducks,
Old pick-up trucks,
Slow Moving trains, and rain.

I love little country streams,
Sleep without dreams,
Sunday school in May and hay.

And I love you too.

I love leaves in the wind,
Pictures of my friends,
Birds of the world, and squirrels.

I love coffee in a cup,
Little fuzzy pups,
Bourbon in a glass, and grass.

And I love you too.

I love honest open smiles,
Kisses from a child,
Tomatoes on a vine, and onions.

I love winners when they cry,
Losers when they try.
Music when it's good, and life.

And I love you too.

Lyrics by Tom T. Hall

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

My Granddaughter Casey when she was a bit younger...

2011-04-22T14:40:00.008-04:00

I miss the days when my children and grandchildren were little, they grow way to fast! I hope you all have a very Happy Easter!

Feeling "Pink" today...

2011-04-19T14:20:00.008-04:00

The Return of the Swans...

2011-04-05T22:46:00.024-04:00

I'm anxious to see if the same beautiful swans return to "Mirror Lake" cottage. Since this will be our first full summer owning the cottage I can't wait to see what will be in our backyard each day. I'm sure there will be many new baby ducks and a crane that we named "Monty" that loves to sit on the dock and fish from the sandbar. It will also be so much fun exploring Long Beach Island and all the little shops along the beach!

I'm linking up today with "Good Life Wednesday" which is hosted by sweet Sarah from A Beach Cottage. A place to celebrate all the good things in life!

Please visit Sarah, the lovely host of Good Life Wednesday, her blog A Beach Cottage is so inspiring you will be lost for hours dreaming...

Dressing up a wicker bench...

2011-04-04T23:12:00.007-04:00

Thank you for stopping by, I hope you have a wonderful day!

Sweet Cherub...

2011-04-03T22:41:00.011-04:00

This sweet cherub sits on my bathroom vanity. I love the contrast of the cherub against the blue of the venetian plaster wall behind it. Such a cute cherub holding it's little bunny so tightly.

Thank you for stopping by, I hope you find beauty in the simple things that surround you each day!

Lakeview Floral Bucket

2011-04-01T22:53:00.008-04:00

Welcome In...

2011-03-31T17:35:00.008-04:00

What a lovely way to welcome your guests with a pretty Basket on the front door. I picked this huge woven basket up at local store a few years ago. I tucked in some extra flowers, a cute bunny and a funky polka dot bow! Welcome Spring!

Atlantic City View...

2011-03-29T22:33:00.013-04:00

I'm linking up today with "Good Life Wednesday" which is hosted by sweet Sarah from A Beach Cottage. A place to celebrate all the good things in life!

A ten minute boat ride from our dock at "Mirror Lake" cottage to the beautiful sea view and skyline of Atlantic City... Life can't get much better than this!

Please visit Sarah, the lovely host of Good Life Wednesday, her blog A Beach Cottage is so inspiring you will be lost for hours dreaming...

Time to do some fluffing...

2011-03-08T10:59:00.006-05:00

Company is coming....

This is a close up of the sweet bird statue that I picked up at Michael's...

I also found this cute little jar with white roses at Michael's...

This is a close up photo of the bedtray...

Did you notice my favorite magazine on the bedtray? House Beautiful...

This is a photo over the bedtray...

I found this pretty blue and white teacup and saucer at Home Goods a few years back...

I just love the curves of the rod iron...

More curves...

This is a view of the bed, I just love it...

I love the quote over the bed "Joy Be With You While You Stay"! I hope you had a joyous visit with me today, thank you for stopping by. I just love it when you visit!

It didn't start off as a fairy tale

2011-02-13T22:55:00.009-05:00

Will my prince charming come? It didn't start off as a fairy tale but she kissed the frog, she married a prince... and together they are living happily ever after.

The Frog Prince is a fairy tale that I read while growing up, and the best known version is of the Brothers Grimm. In this fairy tale, a spoiled princess befriends a frog, reluctantly. The frog is magically transformed into a handsome prince after being kissed by the beautiful princess. In early versions of the fairy tale the frog turns into a prince when he is allowed to spend one night on the princess's pillow.
The Frog Prince is a lovely fairytale filled with hope and love. It is an age old tale of how things may not be what they seem, and how wonderful things may come in less than wonderful packaging. Don't we all dream of finding our prince and falling in love and living happily ever after?

Treasure your “life story.” When you stay together with someone you love, someone you grow with, someone you share a history with it becomes both of your stories. This “story” is something to treasure it's your life history. No other person will know you as intimately and personally for all the years of your life. The bond you share as husband and wife are like no other. I can't imagine anyone else who I would rather share all of my hopes and dreams with. Someone that knows my happiness and disappointments as fully as me, and who love me and my children the way no other could understand. We share the same memories of our children being born, growing, learning, their triumphs and their failures. True life is not really a fairy tale, nor is it a long romantic movie. It takes a great amount of love, patience, understanding, give and take to remain in a marriage. The bonds of a family should not be easily discarded when things are tough or not going well. I treasure our life history for what it is, a gift from god that has brought me tremendous pleasure along with some heartache. I'm not sure where the next chapter will take us but I'm anxious to turn the next page, as my best friend will always be by my side, my very own Prince Charming!

Dreaming of Spring...

2011-01-20T11:21:00.013-05:00
Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune without words,
And never stops at all.

Emily Dickinson

I designed a similar tablescape using these same three "Tweet" Birdhouses, A Little Cloche with a birds nest inside, ceramic crackled birds; sitting on grapevine nests and a few other birds scattered about last year. Since I needed a little pick me up I thought a table set for spring was in order!

The table cloth and napkins where purchased at Home Goods. They are Ralph Lauren in yellow and blue floral. The napkin rings are a pretty blue, with jewel like circles, I thought they were pretty and added whimsy to the table. The round yellow place mats were a purchased from Bed, Bath and Beyond. I like how the place mat makes the plates stand out from the floral table cloth. The wine glasses; also from Home Goods are Palm. The White ironstone plates are from JC Penney. I really love the cute blue and white polka dot plates with the little bead trim. I picked them up at Home Goods, and had to have them along with the square polka dot bowls to match! They are the sweetest set of dishes; I have really enjoyed using them in many ways.

I hope you enjoyed my "Dreaming of Spring" table as much as I enjoyed designing it. I hope your day is filled with wonder!

A Beautiful Day In The Berkshires...

2011-01-12T09:42:00.010-05:00

We are in the midst of A nor'easter here in the Berkshires with about two feet of snow already and we are expecting about 4-6" more.
Where ever you may be I hope you have a wonderful day!

When The Midnight Bell Rings Tonight...

2010-12-31T22:49:00.006-05:00

Hoping you find the beauty in each day's sunrise
and for the gift of today.

Surround yourself with the people you love, whom bring you the most joy.

Never forget who you are and and love yourself unconditionally.

Forgive yourself for your imperfections, as none of us are perfect.

Smile, it's a gift you can give a complete stranger, you never know
how many people you can touch with your smile.

Sing the song that is in your heart and dance, dance dance, for you
are truly beautiful!

Happy New Year!

What Christmas Means To Me...

2010-12-24T11:59:00.005-05:00

Christmas has always been very special to me, it's a time to gather with family and friends and share yearly traditions. Each year I love to bake with my granddaughters, decorate our home and exchange gifts with loved ones. For me it has never been about the gifts, it's about creating special memories with my cherished loved ones. Making gingerbread houses with my mom, decorating her whole house, taking her, my children and the grandchildren to see Santa Claus, spending time together with a cup of hot chocolate, crafting with my nieces both when they were young and then as adults, helping them make gifts to give to their friends and families. I love Tree Night when we go house to house to see sister's and brother's homes decorated for Christmas, it's a favorite yearly tradition, but the most precious time for me is Christmas Evening when we gather together at my mom's house to have something to eat and drink, watch the children open gifts from their gram and their aunts and uncles. We all gather in the living room and dining room and sing the "Twelve Days of Christmas", not once, not twice, but usually three times. It's the funniest thing you would ever see but we all love it so much and it makes mom so happy. This year as we gather together it will be a bit different, we won't be at our mom's house we will be at Berkshire Medical Hospital. But the meaning and the spirit of the evening will be the same, we will eat, drink, celebrate, perhaps exchange a gift or two and of course we will sing. We will sing like there is no tomorrow because truly there is no guarantee of a tomorrow, we will laugh, cry and be so thankful that we are together for another Christmas Evening to celebrate with our mom, she is the center of my life and my family’s life, she is the most precious gift I have ever had and that is what I'm going to cherish this year, my "MOM" more than any other year.

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and that you are able to spend time with your loved ones as I will this evening.

Merry Christmas, I am also thankful for the gift of you, if you are reading this you are a friend of mine and I love you as much as my family!

CANDY CANE MANTEL...

2010-11-30T14:16:00.016-05:00

Just a little glimpse of our Mantel decorated for Christmas last year. Since we are living between our old house and the new house there won't be much decorating done this year. My daughter now owns are old house so I can't wait to see what she decides to do for decorating.

To give my mantel added fullness I used two tear drop swags that I wired together and then I added lights, ornaments, candy canes and a few snow flakes. I love the lush look the swag gives the mantel. I can't wait to see how everyone decorates their homes. Wishing you all the best this Christmas "SEASON"!

Santa's Getting Ready... Are You?

2010-11-26T12:21:00.004-05:00

BLACK FRIDAY...

2010-11-22T15:38:00.007-05:00

Hi Dear Friends, Is it part of your tradition to shop on Black Friday? Do you love to hit the stores early for all the awesome sales or do you prefer to do most of your shopping online? I usually love to shop on Black Friday but I don't have that much shopping to do this year. I think I may just go out and look around and see if I happen upon any items for my new house.

Whatever your plans are I hope you have a great Thanksgiving and if you are brave enough to fight the crowds on Black Friday, be safe and go get 'em!

Honor Our Veteran's...

2010-11-10T09:14:00.007-05:00
My brother Henry Daniel Phillips II; Vietnam Veteran...

White ironstone dinner plates from JC Penney.
Red scallop plates also from JC Penny.
Blue and white Royal Stafford plates from TJ Maxx, a few years ago.
Blue wine glasses are from the Dollar Tree.
Glass compote's from GW, this week.
Glass basket from GW, this week.
Cupcake stand from Home Goods.
Napkins from Home Goods.
Uncle Sam figures from Michael's.
Tall white candle stick with red candle from Home Goods.
Blue place mats from Big Lots.

I hope you enjoy my table and take a few moments to reflect on all the sacrifices of our military, past and present. I also hope you have a wonderful Veteran's Day, thank you for visiting! Your kind comments, are so appreciated!

My Birthday Wish...

2010-10-12T10:44:00.012-04:00

I have a very special "WISH" this year.

My WISH is that each and every one of you has a magical day filled with GIGGLES, LOVE and LAUGHTER...

A day filled with sunshine and simple JOY...with lots of HUGS and KISSES...

and a DREAMY PINK cake!

Hugz from me to you!

Mirror Lake Cottage...

2010-10-01T21:43:00.074-04:00

Our new house is starting to feel like "home"! My honey and I have enjoyed picking out the paint colors, furniture, bedding, art, etc. While we still have a bathroom to remodel, flooring that needs to be replaced and other things that need to be done... we are enjoying this journey.

Since we purchased this home on a whim, and let the pull of the ocean draw us in we are in no rush to finish everything at once. All the little imperfections don't bother me at all, which if you know me... it is so unlike me. I have gone from having granite counters, cherry cabinets, tumbled marble backsplash, stainless appliances in my other home to formica counters, plain white applicances and oak cabinets in the new home and I just don't care. I love this house the way it is. It's not fussy, just a fun place to be and my little bit of heaven. Having the gateway to the Atlantic Ocean in my back yard is enough for me.

Everyday is exciting, I love having twenty ducks come swimming up to our dock begging to be fed. We also have frequent visits from the most beautiful swans, one in paticular likes hissing at our dog; Alexis, she is unfazed and doesn't even bark at him. We also have cranes that stop by, I'm amazed each time a crane takes off from the water, their wing span is unreal and it really is awesome to watch them fly!I hope you enjoy the pictures I have shared today, once we have more done I will post more.

Thank you for visiting, your kind comments are so appreciated!

Fall Is In The Air...

2010-09-21T23:31:00.012-04:00

Tomorrow is the first day of fall. Have you noticed that the nights are cooler and the air feels so crisp? This is my favorite time of year, while I'm sad that summer is over I'm ready for fall. I can't wait to see the show that the trees put on for us every year, truly magnificent! What do you love about fall? I love decorating with corn stalks, scarecrows and pumpkins. I always love to create fun wreaths and floral arrangements at this time of year. But I really enjoy having an Apple Pie baking in the oven, the scent of pie evokes many wonderful memories for me! Warm pie and vanilla ice cream isn't that the best? I feel truly blessed to live in such a beautiful place where the seasons change. Grab your sweater and head out for a nice walk in the evening, you'll know what I mean! I can't wait to hear about your favorite memories of fall!

My Blog is Possessed!

2010-09-21T09:36:00.012-04:00

Can anyone help me, I think my blog is possessed! My blog list, blog archives and profile are supposed to be along the right side of my blog but for some reason they are all at the end of my blog and are centered. No matter what I try I can't seem to fix it, of course it might help if I knew why it has changed, no clue! Is anyone else having this problem or is it just me? Please let me know if you have any suggestions, you might just save me from going insane!
I hope you are all doing great and I miss you dearly!

Wishing You Could Come For A Visit...

2010-09-15T16:52:00.021-04:00

I'm starting to get our new home looking warm and inviting! Although I still have a lot to do, I'm pleased with how much I have managed to get done amidst the madness of unpacking, painting and company! I hope you will continue to wait for me as I settle in and am able to get back to blogging again on a regular basis. I MISS all my blogging friends and appreciate all the support you have given me!

Thanks for visiting and leaving your kind comments!

Things Change...But This Is A "Shore Thing"!

2010-08-21T14:36:00.006-04:00

While my husband and I are not crazy about changes we bought a new house and are moving close to the Jersey Shore. It wasn't anything we could have ever imagined, it happened when we went away for a weekend two months ago... We were visiting family and saw a cute house on the same street and on a whim we went to look at it... the next thing I know we are making an offer to buy the house... we have totally turned our lives upside down and are moving to a new state. I could never imagine either of us doing this but we are and I'm embracing it fully. I am very excited to start this new chapter in our life and it shall begin tomorrow as we leave to close on our new home. Once we are settled I will share a few pictures with you of our Mirror Lake home. I hope you all enjoy the rest of the summer and stay safe and healthy!

Thank you for visiting, your kind comments are so appreciated!

Tablescape Thursday Is Celebrating 100 Weeks Of Tablescaping!

2010-07-21T23:10:00.027-04:00

You can view more photos of this table here!

Congratulations Susan on Celebrating your 100Th Tablescape Thursday! Each week Susan from Between Naps on the Porch host's Tablescape Thursday giving anyone interested in joining in a chance to show case their own uniquely designed tablescapes. I have had so much pleasure participating and meeting so many new friends each week and I owe that to our gracious host; Susan. She is truly one of the sweetest people I have met in blog land and I'm learning so much from her each week, I still have a ways to go but I'm enjoying my journey to becoming a good tablescaper. I really look at setting a table for dinner in a different way since finding Susan. I'm so thankful for that, as is my family, who has enjoyed sitting at quite a few lovely tablescapes I have designed for them. Please stop by and visit Susan and congratulate her! Thanks again Susan, it's truly an honor to share a little something with you when I'm able to participate!

Here are some of my favorite tablescapes I have designed over the last few months, I hope you enjoy them!

You can view more photos of this tablescape here!

You can view more photos of this tablescape here!

You can view more photos of this tablescape here!

You can view more photos of this tablescape here!

You can view more photos of this tablescape here!

You can view more photos of this tablescape here!

You can view more photos of this tablescape here!

You can view more photos of this tablescape here!

Thank you for visiting, your kind comments are so appreciated!

A Summer's Night...

2010-07-20T21:58:00.007-04:00

There is nothing like a nice slice of juicy watermelon for desert on a hot summer night.

What do you enjoy during the summer months, do you have a favorite place to visit, a tradition you'd like to share or a memory of yesteryear's?

I hope you are enjoying your summer! I'm joining Susan over at It's A Very Cherry World for REDNESDAY!

Breakfast In Bed...

2010-07-19T18:50:00.013-04:00

A beautiful start to a new day...
Sometimes I think we need to be reminded to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of the morning. Why not stay in bed and enjoy a nice cup of hot tea, some juice, a breakfast smoothie and read the morning news, sounds wonderful to me!
A no fuss way to start an ordinary day! I hope you have a great week and take a few minutes to enjoy your morning!

I'm joing Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for Table
Top Tuesday, please visit Marty and all her lovely participants and see what they are sharing this week!

Flower Power...

2010-07-15T10:14:00.027-04:00

I found this set of cute glazed flower pots that are for baking at Goodwill a few months ago.

I thought they were the cutest little pots and would could be better than filling them with yummy carrot cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting?

Come sit, and visit for awhile...

The pretty flowerpot with birds is perfect for a garden centerpiece for my table. I did this same arrangement a while back and loved it so much I decided to do it again! I picked some purple iris, added a few hosta leaves, a yellow day lilly and added them to the flower pot. I love designing floral arrangements and I love how this turned out and I think the garden tools add a bit of whimsy to the table.

If you look closely you can see the garden tools peeking out of the hosta...

I love all the different elements of this table, the blue in the tablecloth with the green placemats and yellow dishes look so pretty together...

The sun is just beginning to set...

The bird statues add a bit of rustic charm. I like how they look like they are very old and covered in moss...

The ivy topiary in the rusty flower pot adds another rustic element to this table...

Cute Frog and Flower Salt and Pepper Shakers...

Lace Bowl...

Garden Plate...

Glazed baking flower pots Goowill.
Garden dinner plates from Goodwill, $.49 cents each!
Yellow Lace Stoneware plates, bowls and teacups with saucers are from JC Penny made by Kennex.
Green glasses are from the Home Goods.
Mystique Flatware is Cambridge found at JC Penney.
Salt and Pepper Shaker frog and rose are from TJ Maxx recently.
Ella Tablecloth and Napkins are from Barwill Linens, purchased on Ebay.
Green place mats from Home Goods.
The Two Green Bird Statues are a recent purchase from Home Goods.
Robins Egg Blue flower pot with birds is a recent purchase from TJ Maxx.
The Garden Tools in my centerpiece are called "Garders Eden" and were a recent purchase from Home Goods.
Tall white candle stick with green candle from Home Goods.
Ivy Topiary is from TJ Maxx.
Bench Down Filled Pillows in Gold and Brown are from Home Goods and TJ Maxx.

I'm linking up with Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday and
Cindy at Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday, please be sure to visit both of them!

I hope you enjoyed your visit, your kind comments, are so appreciated!