tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3360719068995806912024-03-13T14:48:00.439-04:00Karen's Garden CottageSentimental Enchantments by the SeaPieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-36975997222519267652011-03-03T12:52:00.011-05:002011-03-03T15:10:14.176-05:00Blogging Return - Spring Inspired Pink and Green Primitve chest<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFKMcrfzjRY/TW_0blUhKHI/AAAAAAAAA68/XfbVakw8HiQ/s1600/pink%2Bchest.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579947218047150194" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFKMcrfzjRY/TW_0blUhKHI/AAAAAAAAA68/XfbVakw8HiQ/s320/pink%2Bchest.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#990000;"></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">I’ve been gone for awhile….Not only from blogging, but from my home, business, family and friends, here on the Cape.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">It’s been a long journey through the ravages of the tongue cancer experience with my fiancé’s mother, Marge. What this brave soul has been through, you can’t even imagine. The condensed version: Marge went through radiation and suffered through all the painful side affects. Then, just as we thought she was on the road to healing, the cancer in her tongue started to cause unbearable pain. A biopsy was done and the heartbreaking news of the cancer’s return was delivered. Doctor after doctor and opinion after opinion, led us out of New York and into Mass. Eye and Ear in Boston. We thought she would be getting up to two thirds of her tongue removed. However, because of this cancer’s quick growth, she ended up loosing her tongue, voice box, and having a chest muscle pulled up through her throat to create a flap. She has a stoma in her neck and all her breathing is done through that. She will also be fed through a feeding tube for the rest of her life. </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">We've been from Mass. Eye and Ear, to Hebrew Rehab (outside Boston) and now, she is in a rehab on the Cape…Finally! This 87 year old is brave and strong. I salute her! And as for Wayne and I, we can care-take and work, right on our own turf!</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">So, as you might be able to imagine, getting back to everything let go for so long, is overwhelming! My shop had such a mish-mosh of the seasons in it, I didn’t know where to begin. But, we did have a few days of warmth and managed to get some spring cleaning done, both inside and out. It’s actually beginning to look like a fresh breath of spring in there!</span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><br />Below are pictures of my newest piece, a pink and green primitive. I love the enhancements of time gone by, and the warm color and finish that the glazing (mocha by Valspar) adds to the piece:</span><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Here's the piece, all sanded and ready to go!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ekHY4QuFb-g/TW_n5isfrsI/AAAAAAAAA60/5N_TXi2oo5k/s1600/primpine4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579933439087324866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 274px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ekHY4QuFb-g/TW_n5isfrsI/AAAAAAAAA60/5N_TXi2oo5k/s320/primpine4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">And, these are the tools I use to prime my pieces.</span></div><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zjhr78WP7IY/TW_n5XYu2MI/AAAAAAAAA6s/e0ej9W1N5Eo/s1600/primpine5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579933436051642562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zjhr78WP7IY/TW_n5XYu2MI/AAAAAAAAA6s/e0ej9W1N5Eo/s320/primpine5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">What I do, is dip my roller directly into the primer/paint and then blot it on a piece of card board. Then, I apply a smooth finish.</span><br /></span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p297JyK-ePk/TW_n5SgedHI/AAAAAAAAA6k/EG09J3pgBbk/s1600/primpine6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579933434741945458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 294px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p297JyK-ePk/TW_n5SgedHI/AAAAAAAAA6k/EG09J3pgBbk/s320/primpine6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">When I am finished, or have to take a break, I slide my roller off into an air tight plastic bag.</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bBCEoOUItdg/TW_nOtwiSdI/AAAAAAAAA6c/4uC4D7yRWcw/s1600/primpine7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579932703322687954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bBCEoOUItdg/TW_nOtwiSdI/AAAAAAAAA6c/4uC4D7yRWcw/s320/primpine7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">The great thing about the Zinzer Bin primer I use, is that it is a wonderful stain blocker. It's lacquer based and therefore, broken down by household ammonia. When I am ready to clean out my roller, I fill the bag with ammonia, let it soak, and then clean and rinse the roller out with water. (If you don't use the ammonia and skip right to water, your roller will turn to muck!)</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CI7PdE1hlrk/TW_nOWEYRbI/AAAAAAAAA6U/kz0ebh6bDjo/s1600/primpine8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579932696963466674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CI7PdE1hlrk/TW_nOWEYRbI/AAAAAAAAA6U/kz0ebh6bDjo/s320/primpine8.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">These are the original handles for my primitive piece. I've sanded them, and punched them thru card board (using their hardware).</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E2w48mzCYog/TW_nOJBhI1I/AAAAAAAAA6M/6bKGyPCkCjc/s1600/primpine10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579932693461803858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E2w48mzCYog/TW_nOJBhI1I/AAAAAAAAA6M/6bKGyPCkCjc/s320/primpine10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">I've sprayed them black and let them dry. Later, I will be shabbying them off.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VIM3h1A_sHU/TW_nOF5JY9I/AAAAAAAAA6E/n8gzBb1MPnw/s1600/primpine11.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579932692621386706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VIM3h1A_sHU/TW_nOF5JY9I/AAAAAAAAA6E/n8gzBb1MPnw/s320/primpine11.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">My piece has been base coated in Ben Moore's, "Dried Parsley", with the drawers painted a pink I mixed up myself. I've ruffed up and shabbied off the appropriate places, enhancing the piece's years of wear. I've glazed the piece with Valspar's "Mocha", using Windex to help move the glaze around. (Sometimes, places dry when I am trying to remove the glaze and the Windex helps me to keep things moving.)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uU9hpKIBOII/TW_nNwpo-7I/AAAAAAAAA58/WsIwUddvrNU/s1600/valsparrollerwindex.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579932686919203762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 314px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uU9hpKIBOII/TW_nNwpo-7I/AAAAAAAAA58/WsIwUddvrNU/s320/valsparrollerwindex.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Here, I am applying glaze to the drawer.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKwSoc6XtUM/TW_kt9F8ukI/AAAAAAAAA50/4G1C93Lu4sY/s1600/rollerandtray.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579929941480094274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKwSoc6XtUM/TW_kt9F8ukI/AAAAAAAAA50/4G1C93Lu4sY/s320/rollerandtray.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Here are some close-ups of the distressed places and the glazing.</span><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a5ojOR9nxHs/TW_kteuTN9I/AAAAAAAAA5s/BwOHJqkRI8U/s1600/dresser3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579929933327841234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a5ojOR9nxHs/TW_kteuTN9I/AAAAAAAAA5s/BwOHJqkRI8U/s320/dresser3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">More, distressing.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_siaPmbDX8/TW_ktJEwQmI/AAAAAAAAA5k/eShtWlWIUsg/s1600/dresser5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579929927516439138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_siaPmbDX8/TW_ktJEwQmI/AAAAAAAAA5k/eShtWlWIUsg/s320/dresser5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">I'm finished with the piece and the drawers are drying. My piece will be sealed with a matt finish by Behr.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cH5iZleBX74/TW_ks6jCwOI/AAAAAAAAA5c/2pWj5s1LoMQ/s1600/dresser.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579929923616948450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cH5iZleBX74/TW_ks6jCwOI/AAAAAAAAA5c/2pWj5s1LoMQ/s320/dresser.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Finished and displayed in my shop....All ready to find a new home!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0suPF-GEyn4/TW_ks2GyykI/AAAAAAAAA5U/vEpwXOVEOFg/s1600/display%2Bcase1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579929922424719938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0suPF-GEyn4/TW_ks2GyykI/AAAAAAAAA5U/vEpwXOVEOFg/s320/display%2Bcase1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Happy Spring!</span><br /></div></div><div><div><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span></em></strong> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-71503550708785899622010-09-22T19:58:00.006-04:002010-09-22T21:00:57.121-04:00Tea Cups and Saucers ~ Where Will They Show Up Next?<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJql3dLyWWI/AAAAAAAAA5E/9fNaGi41vBI/s1600/pumpkincraft6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519906665441417570" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 202px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJql3dLyWWI/AAAAAAAAA5E/9fNaGi41vBI/s320/pumpkincraft6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJql3G2r--I/AAAAAAAAA48/AAux622C8s0/s1600/ped3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519906659447340002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 231px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJql3G2r--I/AAAAAAAAA48/AAux622C8s0/s320/ped3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Don't you think everything presents a little better when displayed upon a pedistal?</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I make these sand candles and sell them in my shop. However, especially on a humid day, I found the need for something to display them on. I also thought it would be nice to offer a type of candle holder to complete "that perfect gift" idea, for my customers. I have been saving odd tea cups and saucers for a while, just waiting for the perfect thing to do with them. Pictured below are some of what I came up with:</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZXbtTjtI/AAAAAAAAA4k/YsWz2itOGM8/s1600/ped7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892921149787858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 287px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZXbtTjtI/AAAAAAAAA4k/YsWz2itOGM8/s320/ped7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">The sand candle holder was made from a tea cup saucer atop an old Sandwich Glass candle holder. The votive candle holder was made from a demitasse saucer and an old milk glass salt shaker.</span></div><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZXEpfNYI/AAAAAAAAA4c/rldl_fJmJjw/s1600/ped4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892914959758722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 183px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZXEpfNYI/AAAAAAAAA4c/rldl_fJmJjw/s320/ped4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Basically, this is what I did. My dear friend, Estelle, brought me this milk glass salt shaker, missing its peppery mate. I have chosen to use this particular glass glue, that dries hard, permanent, and with a slight amount of flexibility....Done!</span><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZWhOWbvI/AAAAAAAAA4U/G3rvaXq0GEA/s1600/ped5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892905450696434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 236px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZWhOWbvI/AAAAAAAAA4U/G3rvaXq0GEA/s320/ped5.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">The hardest part is making sure the chosen pedistal is centered. Make sure you let them dry thoroughly and on a level surface. You laugh, but I didn't know that my mother-in-law (to be) had an uneven table and my pedistal kept moving!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZWLh-e_I/AAAAAAAAA4M/ksW8pjl-pq4/s1600/ped1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892899627432946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 294px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZWLh-e_I/AAAAAAAAA4M/ksW8pjl-pq4/s320/ped1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I like the fact that these little beauties have many uses...</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZV689glI/AAAAAAAAA4E/VRIA3yyu0pY/s1600/ped8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892895177212498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 273px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqZV689glI/AAAAAAAAA4E/VRIA3yyu0pY/s320/ped8.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#006600;">...Nice soap dish, don't you think? Also, can you see this on your dresser holding jewelry? Or, how about setting a lovely table with one of these little cup cake holders at each setting? Cute!</span></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY4jL4nDI/AAAAAAAAA38/6HJsf5fv6GI/s1600/ped2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892390581148722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 315px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY4jL4nDI/AAAAAAAAA38/6HJsf5fv6GI/s320/ped2.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I just think they are so pretty. And next, is a project I have been meaning to get to for a while...</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY3z3QrXI/AAAAAAAAA30/RHp-S9Ckz0w/s1600/tealamps1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892377878179186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 274px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY3z3QrXI/AAAAAAAAA30/RHp-S9Ckz0w/s320/tealamps1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Tea cup and saucer lamps! About a year ago I ordered little candle lamp parts from the CWI outlet I get my glass knobs from.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY3c-pSfI/AAAAAAAAA3s/950eFKlVbvI/s1600/tealamps2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892371735136754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY3c-pSfI/AAAAAAAAA3s/950eFKlVbvI/s320/tealamps2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I had this idea after watching Wayne repair old lamps. I thought I would cut off the plug and temporarily remove the switch. Then I get a ceramic drill bit to drill a hole in the cup and feed the cord through.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY2TXQg-I/AAAAAAAAA3k/3odyVbhDPwc/s1600/tealamps3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892351974147042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY2TXQg-I/AAAAAAAAA3k/3odyVbhDPwc/s320/tealamps3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Wayne helped me drill the hole in the cup. Here's a tip...Keep dipping the ceramic drill bit in water...works like a charm! Then we fed the cord through the hole, replaced the in-line switch, attached a new plug and glued everything together.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY1xA6_mI/AAAAAAAAA3c/NN9U0W8G32k/s1600/pumpkincraft8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519892342753656418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TJqY1xA6_mI/AAAAAAAAA3c/NN9U0W8G32k/s320/pumpkincraft8.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I am so happy with the out come of this project. I think they will go just perfectly in my shop!</span></div></div><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Speaking of my shop, I am not there right now. Both Wayne and I are in Long Island caring for Wayne's Mom. She has just completed 8 weeks of radiation and a form of kemo. Since we are treating tongue cancer, her mouth is in terrible condition complete with painful thrush. Although the burned skin on the side of her face and neck is better now, it was quite distressing a week or so back. She has a feeding tube and we are doing our very best to pump lots of protein and freshly juiced fruits and vegetables, while keeping a nagging fever down. Please keep our dear Marge in your prayers.</span><br /><br /><div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Sending out all our best, to all of you!</span><br /></div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-55178836837229847002010-09-03T10:28:00.007-04:002010-09-03T11:46:41.263-04:00Quick Fix ~ Quick Post ~ Twig 'N Vine Window Treatment "How To"!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEWKCvlTSI/AAAAAAAAA2s/2o4qR_XZfwM/s1600/twigwin3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512711780669148450" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 206px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEWKCvlTSI/AAAAAAAAA2s/2o4qR_XZfwM/s320/twigwin3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Here on Cape Cod, we are bracing for an uninvited guest...His name is Earl (Wayne calls him "The Duke of Earl"). This means potential victims of this force of nature, will have to go around to all their properties, picking up and storing anything that could become a potential projectile....Tediously annoying!!!!</span></div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span><div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">However in doing just that, I found some great twigs graciously dropped from my favorite tree, just perfect for creating my shop's, back bedroom window treatment. Now that I have sold the pink and green dresser (slotted for pick-up after the storm), my vision for this bedroom will have to be adjusted slightly. But, there is good news! This window dressing will go with all my ideas!</span><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Here's a quick "How To"!</span></div><div><br /></div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEHLnNCM7I/AAAAAAAAA2c/RiJTj5CVBSI/s1600/twigwin1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512695314961806258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 156px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEHLnNCM7I/AAAAAAAAA2c/RiJTj5CVBSI/s320/twigwin1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Gather and wire twigs together that measure slightly beyond the window on either side.</span><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEHLEEoXBI/AAAAAAAAA2U/FFYP6R8PNTQ/s1600/twigwin2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512695305531317266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 118px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEHLEEoXBI/AAAAAAAAA2U/FFYP6R8PNTQ/s320/twigwin2.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">This is a close-up of the wiring. Notice that I wired an additional branch on the right side for balance.</span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEHK6qrX5I/AAAAAAAAA2M/p1n2ixZxmc4/s1600/twigwin4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512695303006543762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 163px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEHK6qrX5I/AAAAAAAAA2M/p1n2ixZxmc4/s320/twigwin4.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#006600;">Next, I added this floral garland that I had from the other shop.</span></span><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG3qhA0HI/AAAAAAAAA2E/WqaSSikUozI/s1600/twigwin6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512694972253524082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG3qhA0HI/AAAAAAAAA2E/WqaSSikUozI/s320/twigwin6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Before I added the lights, I hung these curtains. Actually, if I had been that good a planner, I would have hung the curtains before putting everything else up. When I stood back, I thought the window needed something to mask the fact that I didn't want to paint the window at this time. So, I opted to hang four panels so that I would have the option of changing how I tied them back. Then, I wove the lights in and out of the twigs and vines. I am very careful to intertwine the lights so that the wires are nicely hidden. Why don't I put the lights on first, you ask? Well, trust me when I say that you will regret not doing it this way, if and when your lights burn out!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG3TDprTI/AAAAAAAAA18/uXjGrOR5bao/s1600/twigwin7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512694965956357426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG3TDprTI/AAAAAAAAA18/uXjGrOR5bao/s320/twigwin7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">As you can see here, I have made tie backs from sections of garland.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG3GvwmpI/AAAAAAAAA10/wfHzojYzVWQ/s1600/twigwin8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512694962651699858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 247px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG3GvwmpI/AAAAAAAAA10/wfHzojYzVWQ/s320/twigwin8.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">And here you have it! All tied back and lit up. Notice from the picture that all the lights are within the vines and not straggling down the side.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG27bS_uI/AAAAAAAAA1s/bWE47QByWnI/s1600/twigwin10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512694959613083362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG27bS_uI/AAAAAAAAA1s/bWE47QByWnI/s320/twigwin10.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Here's the trick. Get a short extension cord and using cup hooks, lead the cord up to the top. This way your lights are where they are supposed to be.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG2fLL8gI/AAAAAAAAA1k/cROZ4HYpJkk/s1600/twigwin9.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512694952029319682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 166px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TIEG2fLL8gI/AAAAAAAAA1k/cROZ4HYpJkk/s320/twigwin9.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">So, we have softened a harsh look and since there isn't any overhead lighting in this room, we have solved a lighting problem (especially since, all too soon, it will be dark at 4:00 pm) and added ambiance to the room!</span> </div><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">It's just started to rain (sigh)! Time to go to the shop, work on some furniture, and hope for some customers. If people aren't fleeing the Cape, I am sure they will be buying up supplies at Stop and Shop. I'm probably the last stop on the list, but one can hope!</span></div></div><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">To answer some of my commenting bloggers...Yes, I will be posting some furniture painting tips in the near future. So! I'm off to work, with camera in hand, sending out wishes for safety and happiness to all!</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-45541220410959046732010-08-24T17:45:00.010-04:002010-08-24T19:17:52.311-04:00A Week In "The Cottage Life" ~ Part Two<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRR3QL-YmI/AAAAAAAAA0s/jxczIhfVx1U/s1600/doily1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509118253860807266" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 262px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRR3QL-YmI/AAAAAAAAA0s/jxczIhfVx1U/s320/doily1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRR3MbNqBI/AAAAAAAAA0k/23TAYtYxUVI/s1600/week2tbls.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509118252850980882" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 204px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRR3MbNqBI/AAAAAAAAA0k/23TAYtYxUVI/s320/week2tbls.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRR230nxmI/AAAAAAAAA0c/pk8sKU3GpsE/s1600/beforepics3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509118247320405602" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 184px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRR230nxmI/AAAAAAAAA0c/pk8sKU3GpsE/s320/beforepics3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Well, what do they say about the best laid plans? I really did intend to post earlier, but the week I had last week was extremely busy and complicated. For some reason, business really picked up this month...kind of like an explosion. And, although it is something we all pray for in this business, the mad scramble to keep up with inventory can really prove exhausting. Lucky for me that Wayne and I do this together. We share the work, treasure hunting and the total experience, making us very in tune with one another.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">We have also had family visiting while we work. All I can say is, they have been very patient and understanding. The pictures below somewhat capture the changes in my shop during this past week:</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRAP3uhsSI/AAAAAAAAA0U/K8oin4ll6C8/s1600/weekvanityclose.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098885582270754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRAP3uhsSI/AAAAAAAAA0U/K8oin4ll6C8/s320/weekvanityclose.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I was just starting to get the back room set up and the pink striped vanity and chair sold. Luckily, Wayne found and painted this lovely wicker one, from the 1940's.</span></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /> </div><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRAPoqp39I/AAAAAAAAA0M/60J7lwy1dAM/s1600/weekwickersetee.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098881539497938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 233px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRAPoqp39I/AAAAAAAAA0M/60J7lwy1dAM/s320/weekwickersetee.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">He also found, rebuilt the bottom of the seat, and painted this lovely <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">settee</span>...Already sold!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRAPeZ10iI/AAAAAAAAA0E/iFLabdIMbCw/s1600/weekwicker6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098878784623138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 228px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRAPeZ10iI/AAAAAAAAA0E/iFLabdIMbCw/s320/weekwicker6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Another new lovely addition is this wicker chair is from the 1940's...This chair has six legs!</span><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRAO1jGs-I/AAAAAAAAAz8/gaNb2VMGeBc/s1600/weekvictable.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098867817624546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 165px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THRAO1jGs-I/AAAAAAAAAz8/gaNb2VMGeBc/s320/weekvictable.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> <span style="color:#006600;">Wayne also found and painted this lovely old <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Victorian</span> wicker table...Already sold!</span></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_0yaaEQI/AAAAAAAAAz0/zsEZvkd5BEc/s1600/weekbench.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098420299239682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 254px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_0yaaEQI/AAAAAAAAAz0/zsEZvkd5BEc/s320/weekbench.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">We had this solid iron bench (<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Victorian</span>) for two days. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Every time</span> we get something special like this, it really brings people into the shop...We like that!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_0irZKjI/AAAAAAAAAzs/bUKgJE0OLz8/s1600/weekblkchest.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098416075516466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 198px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_0irZKjI/AAAAAAAAAzs/bUKgJE0OLz8/s320/weekblkchest.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Wayne also painted this black chest. It hasn't sold yet, but it's sparking a lot of interest...</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_0IIXY5I/AAAAAAAAAzk/vLHT9yE4waw/s1600/weekblkopen.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098408949277586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 209px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_0IIXY5I/AAAAAAAAAzk/vLHT9yE4waw/s320/weekblkopen.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">...And, here's why. It has this little writing desk inside the top drawer.</span> </div><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_z4a5GDI/AAAAAAAAAzc/-msTHqGvDNk/s1600/weekvicbc.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098404732016690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 209px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_z4a5GDI/AAAAAAAAAzc/-msTHqGvDNk/s320/weekvicbc.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">We got this <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Victorian</span> bird cage at the same yard sale we got the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Victorian</span> bench. That surely was a sale worth stopping at!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_zSdYVGI/AAAAAAAAAzU/n4ESMBj8fuM/s1600/weekpainting2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509098394541904994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 274px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_zSdYVGI/AAAAAAAAAzU/n4ESMBj8fuM/s320/weekpainting2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">We were able to get our hands on two Jerry <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Howes</span> paintings. His artwork is incredible. You can just about pick those cherries off the table!</span> <div><br /><br /> </div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_GmebdKI/AAAAAAAAAzE/7li7hSSc-2U/s1600/weekpainting1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097626820900002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_GmebdKI/AAAAAAAAAzE/7li7hSSc-2U/s320/weekpainting1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">This is the second Jerry <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Howes</span> painting. Wayne and I just love his work.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_GY1pwKI/AAAAAAAAAy8/Ay-s-mm4xJA/s1600/bluehydrangea1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097623160209570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_GY1pwKI/AAAAAAAAAy8/Ay-s-mm4xJA/s320/bluehydrangea1.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Remember this table from the previous post? Here it is all dressed up with the hydrangeas.</span><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_F_9p0UI/AAAAAAAAAy0/4Nk4mm9qn3o/s1600/bluehydrangea2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097616482881858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 230px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_F_9p0UI/AAAAAAAAAy0/4Nk4mm9qn3o/s320/bluehydrangea2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">This is a close up of the top of this piece.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_Ft4dVTI/AAAAAAAAAys/imjayicWuMg/s1600/bluehydrangea3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097611629253938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ_Ft4dVTI/AAAAAAAAAys/imjayicWuMg/s320/bluehydrangea3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I love folding the artwork over the side of my pieces.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-ubmbG_I/AAAAAAAAAyk/yanygYm0Mhw/s1600/piecesofdreamshydrangea.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097211584781298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-ubmbG_I/AAAAAAAAAyk/yanygYm0Mhw/s320/piecesofdreamshydrangea.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">And, this is a close up of the hydrangea I painted on the bottom shelf.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-uEV9eDI/AAAAAAAAAyc/fHhvjwWTdVo/s1600/bluehydrangea4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097205341714482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 254px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-uEV9eDI/AAAAAAAAAyc/fHhvjwWTdVo/s320/bluehydrangea4.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Yet another view of this piece. I try to make the artwork make sense and look attractive from every angle.</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-thcSgWI/AAAAAAAAAyU/iZISc5qqvcE/s1600/weekyeltblprocess.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097195973017954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 262px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-thcSgWI/AAAAAAAAAyU/iZISc5qqvcE/s320/weekyeltblprocess.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Remember this piece from the previous post? Before starting the artwork, I dry-brush striped and created a dry-brushed doily on the top of the piece and drawer. Here is a picture of the piece in process.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-tRr-laI/AAAAAAAAAyM/uxgI_eZ8ErU/s1600/weekyeltbl.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097191743853986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 222px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-tRr-laI/AAAAAAAAAyM/uxgI_eZ8ErU/s320/weekyeltbl.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Here it is with all the detail work added to the flowers and vines.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-s-V5gnI/AAAAAAAAAyE/-FFaeEdbce4/s1600/weekyeltblside.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509097186550973042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-s-V5gnI/AAAAAAAAAyE/-FFaeEdbce4/s320/weekyeltblside.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Side view.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-MwFDTaI/AAAAAAAAAx8/O0RpZ1JWvPs/s1600/weekyeltblclose.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509096632966401442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-MwFDTaI/AAAAAAAAAx8/O0RpZ1JWvPs/s320/weekyeltblclose.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Close up of the left top and front.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-MgKcX5I/AAAAAAAAAx0/qgmX4wTi-uU/s1600/weekyeltblclose2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509096628694048658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 236px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-MgKcX5I/AAAAAAAAAx0/qgmX4wTi-uU/s320/weekyeltblclose2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Here's a close up of the top on the right side.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-MatkbfI/AAAAAAAAAxs/iVwV_t1kYd0/s1600/weekyeltblclose3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509096627230764530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 259px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-MatkbfI/AAAAAAAAAxs/iVwV_t1kYd0/s320/weekyeltblclose3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Hydrangeas, ribbons and vines tumbling down the other side of the piece.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-MKpeE8I/AAAAAAAAAxk/-M62epuFWlo/s1600/weekyeltbltop.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509096622918603714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 185px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-MKpeE8I/AAAAAAAAAxk/-M62epuFWlo/s320/weekyeltbltop.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">This a view of the top of this piece. I put this piece outside while I tried to figure out where to display it. I never got the chance because it sold immediately.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-L8n1-mI/AAAAAAAAAxc/2ktbczZPgIA/s1600/weeknextup.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509096619153685090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/THQ-L8n1-mI/AAAAAAAAAxc/2ktbczZPgIA/s320/weeknextup.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">So, now we are back to needing new inventory. Pictured here, are some of the "wanna-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">be's</span>" that are next. My focus for this week is the table turned upside down on the vanity, my custom ordered bookcase, and the vanity.</span></div><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">We are having much needed rain on the Cape this week. Since we are not having "beach days", I will be entertaining my customers, while I try to squeeze in some work. Our customers are great! They completely understand my being covered in sanding dust and paint.</span><br /><br /></div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Wishing all of you a happy, creative and productive week!</span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-67531030210591902622010-08-09T09:53:00.006-04:002010-08-09T11:28:40.365-04:00A Week In "The Cottage Life" ~ Part One<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAcDwa-1tI/AAAAAAAAAxU/WOyrpai1Y_o/s1600/beforepics2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503429595510003410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAcDwa-1tI/AAAAAAAAAxU/WOyrpai1Y_o/s320/beforepics2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Since I was about 7 years old, it was always my dream to live on Cape Cod and have a business where I could create a little shop offering "sentimental enchantments", (being lovely treasures from yesteryear), unique smalls/ accents (usually something made from something else), and have a place to display and sell what has now become, "Pieces of Dreams" hand painted, chic-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">tique</span> furniture. All these years later, I'm here, on the Cape, and doing just that.</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Although I am very thankful, it's not as easy or glamorous as it looks. Of course, anyone who does something similar knows the lugging, sanding, priming, painting and time involved. I, for one, am usually a complete mess (nice fingernails...what are they?), while all the vacationers are on the beach or getting dressed up to go out to eat and shop. I find the book work to be very tedious and spend long hours during the day being "on", to keep the dynamics of my shop visitors positive and pleasant. I have to constantly worry about getting the right inventory and keep the shop full and looking nice. Since, I don't order my offerings out of a catalogue, I have to hunt it or create it...And here, within these words, we've come full circle...hunting, creating, displaying, decorating, etc....(happy sigh!) I'm doing what I've dreamed of doing!</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">So, here's part one of "The Cottage Life" ~</span></div><div></div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAJHFhHFfI/AAAAAAAAAxM/KbL0ExgX-Ww/s1600/beforepics1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503408761991534066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 238px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAJHFhHFfI/AAAAAAAAAxM/KbL0ExgX-Ww/s320/beforepics1.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Here, we find the back bedroom formerly closed last year to the public. We needed it for storage and eventually, the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">overflow</span> of moving out of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Chatham</span> location. It's really important to have this open for <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">keeping</span> the shopping flow interesting, so as to capture the attention of my visitors. Along with finishing up with some trim painting, I had to get going with my backlog of "wanna-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">be's</span>". Pictured are some recent inventory projects that are in the brown, ready-to-be-sanded form, as well as some pieces that have been sanded and primed.</span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAJGTjW2TI/AAAAAAAAAxE/Q-RQCCZrX8k/s1600/beforepics3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503408748579182898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 184px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAJGTjW2TI/AAAAAAAAAxE/Q-RQCCZrX8k/s320/beforepics3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">These two pieces have already been painted (the yellow one has been striped and taped off for more detail). I had this blue piece in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Chatham</span> house and didn't feel it was necessary to repaint the whole thing all over again, so I gave it a quick sprucing up of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">dry brushing</span> on the legs, and here it waits for some stripes and artwork.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAJFxqBa8I/AAAAAAAAAw8/ge-duWz8ho4/s1600/step21.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503408739480333250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 210px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAJFxqBa8I/AAAAAAAAAw8/ge-duWz8ho4/s320/step21.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">So, for the past week while no people are in the shop, I've been busy painting the room and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">base coating</span> some of the primed pieces.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAIuIxdu5I/AAAAAAAAAw0/-s4FulNP0iA/s1600/step22.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503408333368703890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 216px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAIuIxdu5I/AAAAAAAAAw0/-s4FulNP0iA/s320/step22.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I've picked up some nice bedding at a tag sale and am trying to re-create the pink and green theme in the bedroom I had before. The dresser was done previously, but the matching nightstand, with the drawers and body done opposite of what is on the dresser, was sold. I found this cute little piece and thought it would do the trick as a replacement.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAIt1KD3xI/AAAAAAAAAws/_jv96g4qgZA/s1600/step23.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503408328103157522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 232px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAIt1KD3xI/AAAAAAAAAws/_jv96g4qgZA/s320/step23.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">It's painted and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">shabbied</span> off in this place and that. You can really see how charming the piece is, now that it is no longer brown and scratched...<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Shabbied</span>, Yes! Scratched, No!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAItW9n-zI/AAAAAAAAAwk/pgb41zKsT6M/s1600/pinktbldone.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503408319997934386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAItW9n-zI/AAAAAAAAAwk/pgb41zKsT6M/s320/pinktbldone.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">And, here is a table I had that used to be a shade of yellow. When I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">shabbied</span> this one off, some of the yellow paint and white from the primer show along the "shabby line". I love pink and yellow!</span><br /><br /><br /><div></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAItC7dveI/AAAAAAAAAwc/NlkqkJl4CJ4/s1600/newroom1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503408314620165602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 291px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAItC7dveI/AAAAAAAAAwc/NlkqkJl4CJ4/s320/newroom1.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> <span style="color:#006600;">Although it's not quite a bedroom yet, the room is open and sales have improved! Perhaps this week, I can get the bed I painted in here. In the meanwhile, I have placed furniture and wicker around so that it is presentable enough to be open. Now comes the fun of filling it and keeping it that way!</span> </span></div><div><br /></div></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAIs-QtaLI/AAAAAAAAAwU/f67YQsVFCRE/s1600/newroom2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503408313367095474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TGAIs-QtaLI/AAAAAAAAAwU/f67YQsVFCRE/s320/newroom2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Before I could get all the pictures taken, I sold the Victorian what-not that I had in this corner, so I had to do something make-shift with the chair.</span><br /></div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">It's the beginning of a whole new week. Let's see what can be accomplished for "part two"!</span><br /><br /><div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Wishes of peace and happiness to all,</span><br /></div></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span><br /><div><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-58673994087067460542010-08-01T09:55:00.006-04:002010-08-01T11:08:14.672-04:00With A Little Paint and Magic Brush, We Have the Solution to the Decorating Problem!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFWLLbtPsNI/AAAAAAAAAvk/SGCcDoMdkLE/s1600/finchest1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500455548435280082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 201px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFWLLbtPsNI/AAAAAAAAAvk/SGCcDoMdkLE/s320/finchest1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">"Summer Time....And the living <strong>ain't</strong> easy! But, that's how it is when you own a business on Cape Cod within the height of the season. (And, we are thankful for that!) Streams of sunny people visit us at our shops. Some shop friends are new and some are people who care enough to come back year after year, to shop and catch up on "what's new". All in all, it's a "good tired" when we reach the end of the day.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Along with running the shop, I've been working on a custom order for someone with a home in....you guessed it....<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Chatham</span>. She had a pine blanket chest, previously finished in a dark brown stain with a picture of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Chatham</span> band stand painted on it, along with "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Chatham</span>, 1712". Since her room is done in yellow, blue and white, with a hydrangea theme, the dated dark brown just wasn't getting the decorating job done.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Below are pictures of the solution! (Remember to double-click on the pics!)</span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV-L4zmd6I/AAAAAAAAAvc/1yKX8Xlqhok/s1600/chest3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500441262595405730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 303px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV-L4zmd6I/AAAAAAAAAvc/1yKX8Xlqhok/s320/chest3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">I apologize for being so bad at not starting my photos at the very beginning. Here we have the piece, which has already been sanded, primed, base coated in the chosen yellow, and striped. As you can see, I am starting to lay out my design with my trusty fan brush and sponge.</span><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV-LmAiPFI/AAAAAAAAAvU/flp0bCtcx7Q/s1600/chest2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500441257549380690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 232px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV-LmAiPFI/AAAAAAAAAvU/flp0bCtcx7Q/s320/chest2.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">My client wanted the a free-form design.</span><br /><br /></div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV-LRmhRmI/AAAAAAAAAvM/ZivLCFNjbFE/s1600/chest4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500441252071556706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 229px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV-LRmhRmI/AAAAAAAAAvM/ZivLCFNjbFE/s320/chest4.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">She also wanted the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Chatham</span> band stand put back the way it was, along with the lettering. I was lucky enough to find a stencil the exact font and size that was previously on the trunk (probably, because the first decorative artist used the same one). The first band stand design was also free handed, but did not have the flowers and surrounding grasses.</span><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV-LAHpX-I/AAAAAAAAAvE/61N4nGI1piM/s1600/chest1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500441247378661346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 161px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV-LAHpX-I/AAAAAAAAAvE/61N4nGI1piM/s320/chest1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">So, here we have the basic design lay out and now we are ready to have some fun!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9XPPc4oI/AAAAAAAAAu8/HLI-9BtBPOs/s1600/chest5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500440358084731522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9XPPc4oI/AAAAAAAAAu8/HLI-9BtBPOs/s320/chest5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">The above shows the lay out of the ribbon (which, when complete, will match the reverse side fabric of her comforter and window treatments). I've also hand painted the large leaves and added the shading and high light detail.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9W1S-vxI/AAAAAAAAAu0/E8-csVtmBYQ/s1600/chest6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500440351120211730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9W1S-vxI/AAAAAAAAAu0/E8-csVtmBYQ/s320/chest6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Here, I've added the vining and shadow leaves, along with the detailing on the ribbon and first of three layers for the hydrangea petals.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9WXvHQyI/AAAAAAAAAus/cnABpzSG8hU/s1600/finchest3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500440343185146658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 244px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9WXvHQyI/AAAAAAAAAus/cnABpzSG8hU/s320/finchest3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Close up of finished design.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9WAeNV7I/AAAAAAAAAuk/n8tYXvWKAo8/s1600/finchest4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500440336940226482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 278px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9WAeNV7I/AAAAAAAAAuk/n8tYXvWKAo8/s320/finchest4.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">More details within a flowing ribbon.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9Vuv8QGI/AAAAAAAAAuc/VFNygp0--lA/s1600/finchest2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500440332182765666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 187px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFV9Vuv8QGI/AAAAAAAAAuc/VFNygp0--lA/s320/finchest2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Signed, sealed, but not yet delivered. (Still in the barn workshop.)</span></div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">I have another project due for the same client. When I deliver that one, her guests will be gone and she says I can take pictures of the pieces I have done for her on site.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Until then, it's back to visiting with shop customers and covering myself with paint, as I work on projects for reopening the back room of my shop.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">I wish all of you out there in blog land and wonderful, wonderful week!</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Pieces Of Dreams</span></div><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-25373657662438957722010-07-27T12:39:00.010-04:002010-07-28T12:12:50.324-04:00Cushy Creations (Sewing Tutorial)<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFBOlVetBOI/AAAAAAAAAtk/RmfME0etuJE/s1600/seat+cover+complete+top.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498981548347426018" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 246px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFBOlVetBOI/AAAAAAAAAtk/RmfME0etuJE/s320/seat+cover+complete+top.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFBOlPWpDXI/AAAAAAAAAtc/Xz3qoskaq9Q/s1600/covered+seat+in+chair.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498981546702998898" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TFBOlPWpDXI/AAAAAAAAAtc/Xz3qoskaq9Q/s320/covered+seat+in+chair.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I love to save money by creating a treasure out of something I already have!</span></span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">When hosting our recent party, we found ourselves without proper outdoor furniture. In order to solve this problem, we immediately hit the yard/estate sales and hunted down the tables and chairs needed to get the job done (see previous posts). However, they were lacking cushions for the seats. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">In my business, Karen's Garden Cottage Antiques, I specialize in creating "Pieces of Dreams" hand painted furniture, "chic-tiqued" vintage pieces, and refurbished vintage wicker. Therefore, I am always coming across cushions and pillows that are clean, but in need of a face lift. Since I don't want to display my creations with forlorn seats, I find myself doing a lot of recovering to get the look I am trying to achieve. This time, I needed some cushions for our own furniture. And lucky for me, I had a large selection of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">cushions</span> to choose from, along with beautiful bolts of coordinating fabric purchased at <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">yard sales</span> for 5 and 10 dollars each. (Especially the red and white-checky plaid!)</span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Below is a step-by-step of what I did and how I did it! (You can double click on my photos to get a better view)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NnYZtymI/AAAAAAAAAtU/aJ3mdoLSUZo/s1600/seat+cover+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628640259033698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 166px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NnYZtymI/AAAAAAAAAtU/aJ3mdoLSUZo/s320/seat+cover+3.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#006600;"> <span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;">As you can see, I have a cushion that needs recovering. I made a pattern out of some old wrapping paper that I had handy. I placed the cushion onto the paper and traced around it, being sure to leave about 3/4 ths of an inch around to allow for the puffiness of the cushion, as well as the seam allowance. After I traced the pattern and cut it out, I folded the pattern piece in half and trimmed the pattern piece so that both sides would be even.</span><br /><br /></span><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NnIhissI/AAAAAAAAAtM/EHCzI5tScvA/s1600/seat+cover+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628635996893890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 218px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NnIhissI/AAAAAAAAAtM/EHCzI5tScvA/s320/seat+cover+2.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"><span style="color:#009900;">What you will need is one top piece and two pieces for the reverse side of the cushion. Please notice that when the two reverse side pieces are put together, they are larger in length than the top piece. I have allowed about 2 1/2 inches on each piece so that when they are put together, they overlap to form the pocket for putting the cushion into the cover. (You can see the overlap shown in the picture above.) I've carefully pinned the pattern pieces to the fabric and cut it out. (When I did this, I was working with the check/plaid material and lined up my pattern pieces on the fabric so that when sewn together, the fabric patterns would match up</span>.)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8Nmjoe3cI/AAAAAAAAAtE/2F8obcvC3d0/s1600/seat+cover1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628626093891010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 157px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8Nmjoe3cI/AAAAAAAAAtE/2F8obcvC3d0/s320/seat+cover1.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Here is what one of the bottom pieces looks like. I am going to iron each bottom piece and prepare it for being sewn to the top cushion piece. (Once again, I have added 2 1/2 inches to the straight edge on the top of each of the bottom pieces.)</span><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NmcjYtOI/AAAAAAAAAs8/ZIQlQ_WiYEA/s1600/ruffle+for+seat+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628624193467618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 170px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NmcjYtOI/AAAAAAAAAs8/ZIQlQ_WiYEA/s320/ruffle+for+seat+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Because I want to get all my cutting and prep work done, I am hopping over to the ruffle preparation (if you choose to add one). The size of the ruffle is up to you. What I wanted was about a 2 inch ruffle, so I cut strips of material 4 1/4 inches wide. The length of the strip measures double for the area you to add the ruffle to. Here, I needed to put two strips together. ALWAYS IRON YOUR SEAMS OPEN!</span><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NR8THidI/AAAAAAAAAs0/tU8LG1j0U8E/s1600/ruffle+for+seat+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628271937915346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 119px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NR8THidI/AAAAAAAAAs0/tU8LG1j0U8E/s320/ruffle+for+seat+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">After I put the two pieces together and ironed the seam, I have folded the ruffle strip in half and ironed it. My strip is done and ready for ruffling!</span><br /><br /></span><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NRu_Vr_I/AAAAAAAAAss/YQjyRFq-E14/s1600/seat+cover+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628268365295602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 165px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NRu_Vr_I/AAAAAAAAAss/YQjyRFq-E14/s320/seat+cover+4.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#009900;"> <span style="font-size:130%;">I am back to the two reverse side pieces and I am turning the top edge under 1/4th inch once, ironing it, turning it under once again, and ironing it again.</span><br /><br /></span><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NRROS_oI/AAAAAAAAAsk/PJMD0qRrzL8/s1600/seat+cover+5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628260374969986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NRROS_oI/AAAAAAAAAsk/PJMD0qRrzL8/s320/seat+cover+5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I've chosen to use the zig-zag stitch to make a nice clean edge to the top of my two reverse side pieces.</span><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NQ4L5DsI/AAAAAAAAAsc/BlqcLAcmxNQ/s1600/cover+and+ruffle+ready.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628253653995202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 254px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NQ4L5DsI/AAAAAAAAAsc/BlqcLAcmxNQ/s320/cover+and+ruffle+ready.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#009900;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">The ruffle and reverse side pieces are prepped and ready to go!</span><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NQlV6msI/AAAAAAAAAsU/PSCWkGfsGAw/s1600/finger+pleat+ruffle+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628248595765954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8NQlV6msI/AAAAAAAAAsU/PSCWkGfsGAw/s320/finger+pleat+ruffle+1.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I am at the machine and have it set on regular straight stitching. I fold and stitch as I go, creating "finger pleats" (I really like the look and process of this type of ruffling). If you have a ruffler on your machine, you may prefer that.</span><br /></span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M6FxW15I/AAAAAAAAAsM/pz4m8uOONsQ/s1600/finger+pleat+ruffle+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627862163806098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 188px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M6FxW15I/AAAAAAAAAsM/pz4m8uOONsQ/s320/finger+pleat+ruffle+2.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">For this project, I am not ruffling all the way around the piece. I have marked off the area I want to add the ruffle to and am now pinning the ruffle onto the right side of the top piece of the cushion. Notice that the ruffle is facing IN. That is so when the whole thing is sewn together (right sides together) and turned right side out, the ruffle sticks out the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">proper</span> way.</span> </span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M5bPQk5I/AAAAAAAAAsE/pKeVIIiIIUs/s1600/finger+pleat+ruffle+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627850746499986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M5bPQk5I/AAAAAAAAAsE/pKeVIIiIIUs/s320/finger+pleat+ruffle+3.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">This is a close up of the completed pinning down of the ruffle.</span><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M5PN995I/AAAAAAAAAr8/ZhfJR6jWnss/s1600/complete+inner+ruf+pinning.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627847519860626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M5PN995I/AAAAAAAAAr8/ZhfJR6jWnss/s320/complete+inner+ruf+pinning.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#009900;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">The pinning of the finger pleating is complete and with right sides together, the piece is ready to be pinned together and sewn.</span><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M4-H1ysI/AAAAAAAAAr0/xq9TSdrxgH0/s1600/seat+cover+7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627842930756290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M4-H1ysI/AAAAAAAAAr0/xq9TSdrxgH0/s320/seat+cover+7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Once again, right sides together, with the two reverse side pieces overlapping, it's all pinned together and ready to be sewn!</span><br /><br /></span><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M4nCTMLI/AAAAAAAAArs/Pjqfb7hG7P0/s1600/complete+with+back+view.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627836733501618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8M4nCTMLI/AAAAAAAAArs/Pjqfb7hG7P0/s320/complete+with+back+view.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I've sewn it together, turned it right side out and ironed it. It is done and ready for the cushion to be inserted into its new cover! Notice how the pocket pieces on the reverse side of the cushion overlap and the pattern matches up.</span><br /><br /></span><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8McriXfRI/AAAAAAAAArk/B0JQ5KdUQBA/s1600/seat+cover+complete+open.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627356905405714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 209px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8McriXfRI/AAAAAAAAArk/B0JQ5KdUQBA/s320/seat+cover+complete+open.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Peek-A-Boo! It's all put together and neatly covered with something fresh and new. I've gotten the custom look I want, using things I already have, and fabric I got for a song! What could be better than that?</span><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8McU6VgnI/AAAAAAAAArc/McS44MyvyYQ/s1600/morecush1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627350831923826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8McU6VgnI/AAAAAAAAArc/McS44MyvyYQ/s320/morecush1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">So, not only did I make all the cushions for the outdoor furniture (you can see it all in my previous two posts), I also mixed and matched other coordinating fabric (Country Fair Check by Waverly) and made pillows and other cushion covers. I had a lot of that checky-plaid and sewed and sewed...</span><br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8Mb3dbnKI/AAAAAAAAArU/pjJMX-ODq08/s1600/morecush2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627342926060706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 272px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8Mb3dbnKI/AAAAAAAAArU/pjJMX-ODq08/s320/morecush2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">...and sewed!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8MbdKLwiI/AAAAAAAAArM/ZGm-q7QrYW4/s1600/val1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627335866008098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 194px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8MbdKLwiI/AAAAAAAAArM/ZGm-q7QrYW4/s320/val1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">We have a country sun porch in the old family farm house. Since there was fabric to spare, I made two styles of lined valances.</span><br /></span><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8MbBsTAZI/AAAAAAAAArE/g9juDh65oDg/s1600/val2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498627328492896658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 136px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TE8MbBsTAZI/AAAAAAAAArE/g9juDh65oDg/s320/val2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#009900;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">And, now that I have completed these projects and have gotten everything ready for summer and family visitors, I am back to work and painting. I will share some of those projects next!</span></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-81977719688466022752010-07-13T12:25:00.000-04:002010-07-13T21:03:40.424-04:00Table Setting Logic...Think: Who, What, When, Where and Why!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDy0ifOBfFI/AAAAAAAAAq8/Gq282vyPBDs/s1600/partytable1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493464150074031186" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDy0ifOBfFI/AAAAAAAAAq8/Gq282vyPBDs/s320/partytable1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDywYLukPjI/AAAAAAAAAq0/3BZ8IJ4PeB0/s1600/partytable2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493459574996614706" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDywYLukPjI/AAAAAAAAAq0/3BZ8IJ4PeB0/s320/partytable2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDywXtLyi8I/AAAAAAAAAqs/E7D6Y0lWd_o/s1600/nap1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493459566797687746" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDywXtLyi8I/AAAAAAAAAqs/E7D6Y0lWd_o/s320/nap1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">In early March, we received a rash of e-mails proposing the idea of a family reunion/birthday party for my now 87 year old mother-in-law (to be). We had, and still have, a great deal going on in our family this year...Babies have been born, family members are retiring and joining us as residents of Cape Cod, distantly located family hadn't seen loved ones in a while and, sadly, Wayne's 87 year old mother is battling tongue cancer</span>. <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">So, we decided to come together at the two houses on the Cape (the family farm house and a nearby, newly built house) to celebrate life and rally our healing powers and prayers.</span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I was cooking and freezing ahead for weeks because approximately 30 (give or take) people were coming to spend quality time together. In addition, Wayne and I are in "The Season" and shops don't run themselves. Food preparation aside, we also faced challenges with making changes in the house, so that we would be able to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">accommodate</span> our guests for the party, and for future, expected summer visitors, in a somewhat organized and comfortable manner.</span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">As we rolled up our sleeves to begin, I began to think of ways I could accomplish this creatively, economically, and without becoming too overwhelmed. I began with "who, what, when, where and why" and you wouldn't believe what thoughts and ideas easily came to mind.</span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Wayne's mom is extremely thrifty. I knew I was going to have to use things that were always in the house (like the blue and white dishes) and ease my compulsive need for a certain type of presentation (this has to match that, and that has to match this and it all has to be hand/home made), while sticking to a reasonable budget...Let me rephrase that...The cost had to be cheap, cheap, cheap! So, "who"?...Wayne's frugal Mom and lots of hungry people. "What"?...Birthday party/reunion (so, it had to be very special). "When"?...Summertime, heat, near 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> of July, and right in the height of our business time. "Where"...Cape Cod, beach, sand, etc. "Why"? Because we love each other and sometimes you just have to stop your busy lives and make the people you love feel special!</span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Even though we all pitched in and contributed for the 5 days full of meals and activities, Wayne and I were to host the "Lobster Reunion/Birthday Party". Below are some sample pictures of what and how I came up with the place settings:</span></div><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyVK7GoEsI/AAAAAAAAAqk/5GJVbV8JFlw/s1600/partytable2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493429660381876930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyVK7GoEsI/AAAAAAAAAqk/5GJVbV8JFlw/s320/partytable2.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Luckily, I had a large amount of these plates. I decided to go with summertime/traditional "lobster dinner" colors not only because of the time of year or the fact that we had the plates, but also because of a yard sale I had been to that offered up large amounts of coordinating fabrics, for cheap prices. Also, Lobster is a "sit down" dinner and can be quite messy, so I chose to help the environment and try to save on the use of paper products.</span><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyVKr2Z63I/AAAAAAAAAqc/M2GGsG3uy_Q/s1600/lobsterbib.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493429656287308658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 262px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyVKr2Z63I/AAAAAAAAAqc/M2GGsG3uy_Q/s320/lobsterbib.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I made cloth napkins by simply ripping 2 of the coordinating fabrics into squares (View sample in my previous post to see the other napkin fabric. I set the table every-other). I made the napkin rings by cutting toilet paper roll centers into 4 pieces, wrapping them with torn, frayed strips of fabric and gluing them to the roll. I then ripped other fabric into strips and made bows, glued the bows onto the ring and glued an antique button on each bow center! After that, I folded and fanned the napkin, slipped the ring over it, slid the utensils and a plastic lobster bib into the center and we were good to go!</span><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyVKUESi9I/AAAAAAAAAqU/AMpxIPzk9vc/s1600/nap2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493429649903094738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 247px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyVKUESi9I/AAAAAAAAAqU/AMpxIPzk9vc/s320/nap2.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Close up of wrapping.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyVKDx1sfI/AAAAAAAAAqM/2Aa9gamltWw/s1600/nap3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493429645530739186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 301px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyVKDx1sfI/AAAAAAAAAqM/2Aa9gamltWw/s320/nap3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Yet another close up!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUP-jSvHI/AAAAAAAAApk/tiH0dDYBVhI/s1600/partytable5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428647695137906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 285px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUP-jSvHI/AAAAAAAAApk/tiH0dDYBVhI/s320/partytable5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I used some fun paper napkins for the horsdeovres' table. I got these cement birds out of Wayne's dollar box outside his shop. They helped me keep the napkins from blowing away!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUPjjd-7I/AAAAAAAAApc/DcSHvm6ddDY/s1600/partytable4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428640448117682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 218px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUPjjd-7I/AAAAAAAAApc/DcSHvm6ddDY/s320/partytable4.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I found these cute tin pails at Christmas Tree Shops and put extra utensils in them. And shown in front of the pails, is a sample of the favors I made for each person.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUPen3ooI/AAAAAAAAApU/RN7tHiv41bc/s1600/favor2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428639124398722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUPen3ooI/AAAAAAAAApU/RN7tHiv41bc/s320/favor2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">People love to take home a little <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">memento</span>. This was so simple, but meant so much. I got little clay pots for each and filled them with a little red candle. I wrapped the rim with a fabric strip (to match the napkin rings), and added the bow and button. With a blue paint pen, I wrote: "Marge's 87<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">th</span>" on the back and "Family 2010" on the front. I filled each small cellophane bag with red and white confetti mixed with peppermint Cape Cod taffy. (Their wrappers were red, white and blue!)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUO-cAwyI/AAAAAAAAApM/x_LefQyLun8/s1600/favor1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428630484730658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 294px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUO-cAwyI/AAAAAAAAApM/x_LefQyLun8/s320/favor1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">All tied up with raffia and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">ready</span> to go!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUOlFQM5I/AAAAAAAAApE/If-csBeRlw0/s1600/versatile.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428623678387090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 206px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyUOlFQM5I/AAAAAAAAApE/If-csBeRlw0/s320/versatile.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Here's a place setting for yet another party in another season. So you see, I haven't wasted anything. I have all my napkins laundered, my rings stored, and I am all set to entertain again, but perhaps with a different theme!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTwzKpoiI/AAAAAAAAAo8/mNqGa1Xaj6g/s1600/geraniumteapot.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428112063046178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTwzKpoiI/AAAAAAAAAo8/mNqGa1Xaj6g/s320/geraniumteapot.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I made these arrangements for two of the food tables. Once again, Wayne's dollar bin came in handy. Isn't this aluminum tea pot cute with the geraniums and vinca? When Wayne saw the pots he said, "Hey! You owe me $2.00!" I said, "Well, I spent the rest of my money at the grocery, so I will have to pay you in grilled chicken!"</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTwig5g9I/AAAAAAAAAo0/1-Sa4qYIHi0/s1600/partytable3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428107592958930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 206px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTwig5g9I/AAAAAAAAAo0/1-Sa4qYIHi0/s320/partytable3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">The eating tables had these sand candles on them. I used the dessert size blue and white plate as a candle dish and put the taffy and confetti around them. If you would like to make some of these candles for one of your parties, please refer to my previous post, "Come Play In the Sand", for the basic sand candle recipe.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTwRAXJ0I/AAAAAAAAAos/yYDOPgP7D3A/s1600/colored+sand+candles+supplies.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428102893086530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTwRAXJ0I/AAAAAAAAAos/yYDOPgP7D3A/s320/colored+sand+candles+supplies.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Pictured here are the supplies for making the sand candles with dyed sand. I used 1/4 tsp. of tempera paint, per cup of sand. I added just enough water to spread and whisk the color throughout the sand.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTwL41W1I/AAAAAAAAAok/A4ph1mI04qc/s1600/colored+sand+in+tray.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428101519334226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTwL41W1I/AAAAAAAAAok/A4ph1mI04qc/s320/colored+sand+in+tray.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I spread the sand on a cookie sheet to let it dry and later use it to roll the candles on.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTv9YWj4I/AAAAAAAAAoc/hUFY-JraUMw/s1600/drying+colored+sand.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493428097625001858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDyTv9YWj4I/AAAAAAAAAoc/hUFY-JraUMw/s320/drying+colored+sand.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Keep a good thought while waiting for the sand to dry! When it does, break it up fine and you are ready to roll!</span></div></div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">When I post again, I will show you how to make the cushion covers! In the meanwhile, be happy!</span><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span></div><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-22821130828398816012010-07-09T11:55:00.000-04:002010-07-09T21:26:56.140-04:00Jumping In With Both Feet!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDe2RblyH0I/AAAAAAAAAmc/qgpjlQZ09E4/s1600/lobsterpot2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492058681181871938" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDe2RblyH0I/AAAAAAAAAmc/qgpjlQZ09E4/s320/lobsterpot2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDe2Q-wJaOI/AAAAAAAAAmU/Fs8KhTLvcIM/s1600/summertable6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492058673440712930" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 176px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDe2Q-wJaOI/AAAAAAAAAmU/Fs8KhTLvcIM/s320/summertable6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Any of us familiar with the personality of Cape Cod, know of the perks, quirks and little surprises it has to offer throughout the year. An example? We have the long haul of dreary, gray days that never seem to warm up. And then, here comes the blazing heat and sun. So, depending upon how organized you are with your seasonal clothing, figuring out what to wear is the easy part. But what I can never get used to is standing before the beautiful bay or sound, the heat zeroing in upon your newly exposed skin, your mind picturing the joys of a refreshing swim and then, BLAMMO! One toe goes in and that water is so cold it makes you run back up to your towel and join the rest of your friends who are shaking their heads and saying, "I'm not going in!"</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">But, what were we thinking, anyway? It's a huge body of water...Warm water is going to take time! However,there are those of us who want to be in that water so badly, that we jump in with both feet and let summer begin!</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">So</span><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">, that's what I am going to do here. I haven't been posting for a while, but I haven't been lolling around on the beach, either. Since my last post in June, I have been working in my shop and preparing the Chatham house for a large family reunion/birthday party and general summer living. I've finally taken some pictures and organized them. Now it is time to "Jump In With Both Feet" and get some of the activities for summer, 2010 posted!</span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span> </div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdKdZ_3uwI/AAAAAAAAAmM/BndcCCuIKGo/s1600/covered+seat+in+chair.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491940139657050882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdKdZ_3uwI/AAAAAAAAAmM/BndcCCuIKGo/s320/covered+seat+in+chair.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Let's start at the beginning, shall we? First, we had to find the outdoor furniture at yard sales . Next scrape and clean....Then paint. I had gotten a lot of fabric at yet another yard sale. Everything was good quality, color coordinated and cheap!!! I made these chair pads (tutorial to follow in another post) from old chair pads that were clean, but in need of some help!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdKcxTjDhI/AAAAAAAAAmE/WArhNpOORwc/s1600/seat+cover+complete+top.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491940128733728274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 246px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdKcxTjDhI/AAAAAAAAAmE/WArhNpOORwc/s320/seat+cover+complete+top.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Here is a completed pad. Notice how the "finger pleat" ruffles go around the front. I like the look, but I also like what it does...Saves discomfort on the back of the legs! (Pretty Tricky!)</span><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdKcjFP85I/AAAAAAAAAl8/IgGVKGGwfWs/s1600/seat+cover+complete.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491940124915659666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdKcjFP85I/AAAAAAAAAl8/IgGVKGGwfWs/s320/seat+cover+complete.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">We are not all perfect! I need chair covers that can be removed so I can wash them. Thus, the handy-dandy pocket.</span><br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdHpz73Q7I/AAAAAAAAAk8/6H1meK-YkEw/s1600/chairpad1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491937054243111858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 284px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdHpz73Q7I/AAAAAAAAAk8/6H1meK-YkEw/s320/chairpad1.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">This set was an ugly, faded, rusted yellow. I saved the foam and base board. Then, with fabric, glue gun and staple gun in hand, I went to it. When we finish using them, I just pop these out and bring them into our storage area.</span></div><br /><div></div><div></div><div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdHniLwlJI/AAAAAAAAAks/kimxvGIzJgA/s1600/chairpad2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491937015118206098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdHniLwlJI/AAAAAAAAAks/kimxvGIzJgA/s320/chairpad2.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">This was the rusty green set. The chairs came with a thinner pad, design type. I repainted the table and chairs, then covered these seats along with the rest. These pads also get popped out and brought in.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdG2F7y0OI/AAAAAAAAAkk/6oEQ51OIjqo/s1600/summertable3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491936165721460962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 245px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdG2F7y0OI/AAAAAAAAAkk/6oEQ51OIjqo/s320/summertable3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Cute and perfect for summer entertaining.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdG1CTJmkI/AAAAAAAAAkc/PmdAULhSOm4/s1600/summertable1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491936147565812290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdG1CTJmkI/AAAAAAAAAkc/PmdAULhSOm4/s320/summertable1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Yes, yet another table and chairs to scrape and paint ( yard sale treasures). These are my most favorite chairs of all. I made the cushions with the pockets for these too. (Note that I am still using the bolt of check/plaid fabric that cost me $10.00.) (Also note, I am obviously not at the beach!)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdG0L134xI/AAAAAAAAAkU/yMuzh1FstOc/s1600/summertable5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491936132947501842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdG0L134xI/AAAAAAAAAkU/yMuzh1FstOc/s320/summertable5.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I changed my umbrella color to red, this year. I got 2 of them at the Christmas Tree Shops for $39.00 each.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdGzbiEx0I/AAAAAAAAAkM/pPS-lIF-Yy4/s1600/summertable4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491936119979558722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 304px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdGzbiEx0I/AAAAAAAAAkM/pPS-lIF-Yy4/s320/summertable4.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">So, we have 4 coordinating tables placed on the deck and around the yard. We can move them together and switch them around any way we want or need, in order to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">accommodate</span> our guests and the food, (usually very large vats of food).</span> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">For our party, I had to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">accommodate</span> 27. And since it was a lobster dinner, it had to be "sit down". I borrowed some extra folding tables and put red and bone-white toile' cloths on them. But, the table setting is a post for another day...I am late for the shop!</span></div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdGyb_I09I/AAAAAAAAAkE/qD6-0Z-dtrs/s1600/alternate+placesetting.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491936102921589714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 269px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TDdGyb_I09I/AAAAAAAAAkE/qD6-0Z-dtrs/s320/alternate+placesetting.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I close my blog for the day with the above "sneak preview" of the place settings for the party and for summer entertaining. (What! Did you think that after all that scraping, painting and sewing, we weren't going to have something to eat? Not in this family!!!!!)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-6663054699798401702010-06-13T21:50:00.000-04:002010-06-13T23:27:35.289-04:00The Family Farmhouse, Chatham, Cape Cod<span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">It's Sunday night and a bit moist and chilly, here on Cape Cod. In a previous post, I wrote that Wayne and I live in our "home space" in the back of and above Wayne's Antiques, Brewster during the winter. Well, thank goodness it is no longer cold, so we have moved to the family farm house in Chatham. Since it is a "three season" house, we shall be staying here until the cold weather graces us with it's presence, once again. (I don't even want to think of that, right now!)</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Our shops are open, and as Wayne would say, it's "full tilt rock 'n roll" for business on Cape Cod. Our days are long and exhausting as we treasure hunt for inventory, work on one project after another, and engage with our much appreciated customers. All is well and as it should be.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">This time of year also brings on an overload of home improvement projects. The family farm house is like a dear old friend that has a rather <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">persnickety</span> side to it's personality. As much as it is very much appreciated and adored, in all honesty, I would have to classify it as one of our "needy" friends. Don't get me wrong, I really love tackling things around here, especially if I get to tap into something that brings out some sort of creativity. But, as with any old house, not every thing we take on can be called "a fun project". And, more often than not, there are unforeseen surprises in store and we end up opening a whole new can of worms. Our challenges can drag on and on, with the two of us muttering, "It will be nice when it's done!" (Trust me, repeating that over and over, seems to work better than cursing all over the place!)</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Below are some pictures taken in early spring, last year. The house, at that time, was used to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">accommodate</span> both renters and family, for their vacationing stay. But, now that it is no longer being rented, Wayne and I stay here so that we can share quality time with our visiting loved ones, after they spend the day beaching it, and we run our shops. The good news is that when we are here alone, we can decorate and equip the house with a bit more personality, making it more comfortable and efficient to our needs! So, I guess you could say, these are our "before" pictures, (keeping in mind that some of the "after" pictures are years away from being taken)....I wonder what kind of photo technology will be in use then? </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Pieces of Dreams</span></div><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;"></span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWL-oZvI8I/AAAAAAAAAho/zBbeiwNeW6g/s1600/chathouse1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482442029506962370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWL-oZvI8I/AAAAAAAAAho/zBbeiwNeW6g/s320/chathouse1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#009900;">Our family's wonderful Greek Revival. "Be it ever so humble, there's no place like HOME!"</span><br /></span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLyStne0I/AAAAAAAAAhg/fT6Mzd40TGM/s1600/chathouse1b.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441817526336322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLyStne0I/AAAAAAAAAhg/fT6Mzd40TGM/s320/chathouse1b.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">We love cooking together in this kitchen.</span><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLx8MITiI/AAAAAAAAAhY/ofoA7mGum9U/s1600/chathouse1d.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441811480301090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLx8MITiI/AAAAAAAAAhY/ofoA7mGum9U/s320/chathouse1d.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">The living room.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLxeXSp1I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/Vw1rMu2rLto/s1600/chathouse1e.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441803474052946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLxeXSp1I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/Vw1rMu2rLto/s320/chathouse1e.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#009900;">The dining room, with a little glimpse (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">thru</span> the doorway) of the sun porch/family room.</span></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLw9VPNxI/AAAAAAAAAhI/9orJH4rGQro/s1600/chathouse1f.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441794607068946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 221px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLw9VPNxI/AAAAAAAAAhI/9orJH4rGQro/s320/chathouse1f.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Front entrance foyer.</span><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLwt8Ln9I/AAAAAAAAAhA/DdYqZ5WmkwQ/s1600/chathouse1g.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441790475444178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLwt8Ln9I/AAAAAAAAAhA/DdYqZ5WmkwQ/s320/chathouse1g.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Front bedroom with the crazy wallpaper...It has to go!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLYLQteDI/AAAAAAAAAg4/SnBMU_u_O9U/s1600/chathouse1h.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441368849446962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLYLQteDI/AAAAAAAAAg4/SnBMU_u_O9U/s320/chathouse1h.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Upstairs nook.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLX8f6TtI/AAAAAAAAAgw/tkYYKyw7PPU/s1600/chathouse1i.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441364886671058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLX8f6TtI/AAAAAAAAAgw/tkYYKyw7PPU/s320/chathouse1i.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">One of the upstairs bedrooms. There is another room next to this and a bath, not pictured. There is also a downstairs bath and an outdoor shower.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLXc2yAaI/AAAAAAAAAgo/05mhRhw3DCo/s1600/chathouse1a.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441356392661410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLXc2yAaI/AAAAAAAAAgo/05mhRhw3DCo/s320/chathouse1a.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">The bedroom where Wayne and I stay. (Our little hide-a-way, when the rest of the house is noisy and we have to sleep to get up for work the next day.)</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLW5GGl8I/AAAAAAAAAgg/s7EkyV6_DJQ/s1600/chathouse9b.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441346793248706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 176px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLW5GGl8I/AAAAAAAAAgg/s7EkyV6_DJQ/s320/chathouse9b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Outside view of the back of the house and sun porch.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLWT7-l5I/AAAAAAAAAgY/us-QqEhlCuU/s1600/chathouse9c.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482441336818669458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 279px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TBWLWT7-l5I/AAAAAAAAAgY/us-QqEhlCuU/s320/chathouse9c.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">This is an actual "scallop house", taken from one of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Chatham</span> beaches. Wayne's Mom named it "Tiffy's". They still have scallop houses at some of the harbors. The fisherman would come in with their catch and some would go to the fish stores and restaurants and some would be sold directly out of these little houses. Talk about FRESH!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-22354361118859052342010-06-05T10:47:00.000-04:002010-06-06T08:23:44.929-04:00Catching Up with Signs of Summer, On Cape Cod...<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TAsf0GnhsdI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/TScIwJ8knP8/s1600/primesunset1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479508351616397778" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 231px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TAsf0GnhsdI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/TScIwJ8knP8/s320/primesunset1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TAsfz5REc6I/AAAAAAAAAgI/TvzM6HIiB_M/s1600/doublefootprint.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479508348032545698" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TAsfz5REc6I/AAAAAAAAAgI/TvzM6HIiB_M/s320/doublefootprint.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Due to an <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">avalanche of events and commitments in my life, I have been on an unexpected blogging break. Really! It seems at times, and without warning, these unforeseen, time sensitive, demands come upon you. And, they are so unforgiving! I know this happens to everyone...The only thing we can do is dig ourselves out the best we can, and try to move on. Hopefully, a tad bit of dignity remains, enabling you to pull it all off without becoming too haggered.</span></span></span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Wayne and I are in the same business, so besides being the most patient and understanding human being I have ever met, he is an outstanding partner with regard to creating the very necessary support system, we have both come to rely upon. (Especially when we are in "the 100 day countdown"...prime business time on Cape Cod...Memorial Day thru Labor Day!)</span></span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected">In my upcoming posts, I will share and journalize some of what we have been up to lately (catch up), as well as highlight some of our adventures for "Summer - 2010". This is truly a glorious season, making life on Cape Cod a wonderful experience. It tingles all the senses with sights, sounds, tastes, smells and feelings, all its own.</span></span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Last year, I was not in such a good place...I was very stressed out with being over extended with the businesses and had to get thru each and everyday not feeling well. Thank goodness all of that has changed. And because of these changes, I feel as though I went from a wilting plant with many issues, to one that has been repotted, watered, and ready to bloom again...And, we <strong>all </strong>need to go thru periods of our lives where <strong>we get to bloom</strong>! </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#009900;"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected">One thing that I am doing each and every night after work, is a walking routine. My friend Christina, and I, reserve "our walking time" and keep each other motivated (no matter how wiped out we are). Our routine takes us to several of our precious bay beaches, here in Brewster. It's been beautiful! The weather has been outstanding for this time of year...The flowers and trees have been in full bloom...The fragrances have provided us with the ultimate in aroma therapy....and the sights, magnificent!!</span></span> <span style="color:#009900;">So, let me do some catching up, by sharing some of the sights and "signs of summer, on Cape Cod"!</span></span> </div><div><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Pieces of Dreams</span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkgLEr08I/AAAAAAAAAgA/Y4u9_jBcW9s/s1600/bay+boat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479302400540660674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkgLEr08I/AAAAAAAAAgA/Y4u9_jBcW9s/s320/bay+boat.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Early evening at the bay, with the receeding tide.</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><div></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkf56RMLI/AAAAAAAAAf4/1WOJJYqG4B8/s1600/earlybirdspecial2.jpg"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479302395933569202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkf56RMLI/AAAAAAAAAf4/1WOJJYqG4B8/s320/earlybirdspecial2.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#009900;">As the tide goes out, our cheerful sea birds gather for the "Early Bird Special".</span> </span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkfYwg8RI/AAAAAAAAAfw/_vNEMrh0_bs/s1600/lateafternoonbay.jpg"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479302387034288402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 203px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkfYwg8RI/AAAAAAAAAfw/_vNEMrh0_bs/s320/lateafternoonbay.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="color:#009900;"> <span style="font-size:130%;">Waterfront dining? More like "in the water" dining!</span></span><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;"></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkfE_NBvI/AAAAAAAAAfo/R952KmOu_q0/s1600/lateafternoonbay+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479302381727188722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 190px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkfE_NBvI/AAAAAAAAAfo/R952KmOu_q0/s320/lateafternoonbay+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">More feathered friends gather, as the bay empties and the sun goes down.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkBZ1t0VI/AAAAAAAAAfg/b62rNTzFXmc/s1600/pinkandbluesunset.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479301871928463698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 193px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkBZ1t0VI/AAAAAAAAAfg/b62rNTzFXmc/s320/pinkandbluesunset.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#009900;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Shimmering shades of pink and blue.</span></span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkBC9j7-I/AAAAAAAAAfY/ODl6Q-pvgcA/s1600/majestic+pink+and+blue.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479301865787355106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkBC9j7-I/AAAAAAAAAfY/ODl6Q-pvgcA/s320/majestic+pink+and+blue.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">More magnificent sights and hues upon the water and big sky.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkAhk3LiI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/kjbE2AjosdA/s1600/earlysunset.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479301856825388578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 251px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkAhk3LiI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/kjbE2AjosdA/s320/earlysunset.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">This is where, two people in love, can litterally walk into the sunset and live happily ever after!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkATogQwI/AAAAAAAAAfI/QWQXKtGr2ns/s1600/sundown2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479301853082567426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApkATogQwI/AAAAAAAAAfI/QWQXKtGr2ns/s320/sundown2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Magic...</span><br /></span><br /></div><div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApj_xiJCBI/AAAAAAAAAfA/hxwC_sKzo-c/s1600/sundown.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479301843929073682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 186px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/TApj_xiJCBI/AAAAAAAAAfA/hxwC_sKzo-c/s320/sundown.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">...And, God's Peace!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-28279355407575838082010-04-21T13:26:00.000-04:002010-04-21T22:51:58.309-04:00Come Play in the Sand...A Tutorial on Making Sand Candles!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S89SRLJxElI/AAAAAAAAAeM/pu8hm50Sg1U/s1600/sandcandles5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462675328028709458" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 262px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S89SRLJxElI/AAAAAAAAAeM/pu8hm50Sg1U/s320/sandcandles5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S89SAT7EFlI/AAAAAAAAAd8/K4otqcGoW5o/s1600/sandcandles2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462675038325184082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S89SAT7EFlI/AAAAAAAAAd8/K4otqcGoW5o/s320/sandcandles2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">It's a beautiful day on Cape Cod. Since it's spring break for many schools, people are here! (As a matter of fact, we have family visiting.) It seems as though the dull gray curtain of winter is going up, there's a full cast of players, and the director, Mother Nature has yelled: "Action"! And what is Cape Cod to those who only come during the warmer, sunnier months? For many, "SAND" and "SEA" head up the items on the list! In celebration, I bring you my tutorial on creating SAND CANDLES! I hope you enjoy the craft and my step-by-step, (hopefully easy) instructions. So, follow me and "Come Play in the Sand"!</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">Pieces of Dreams</span><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><br /><div align="left"><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;">Let's start with our list of supplies...You will need:</span></div><br /><ul><li><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">pillar candles of choice</span></div></li><li><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">painter's tape</span></div></li><li><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">clear drying craft glue, such as, Crafter's Pick, Mod Podge, or other glue of choice, so long as it sticks to plastic, metal, glass etc.</span></div></li><li><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">sand</span></div></li><li><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">Minwax Polycrylic Sealer</span></div></li><li><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">3-ply jute or waxed raffia (It really has to be the waxed!)</span></div></li><li><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">sea shells (small) and having flat areas for gluing</span></div></li><li><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">scissors, flat tray or cookie sheet, nylon brushes, glue gun, water, paper towels</span></div></li></ul><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;"></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S888Fu0k6XI/AAAAAAAAAd0/uy1dllvujxc/s1600/candle+tutorial1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650942189267314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 284px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S888Fu0k6XI/AAAAAAAAAd0/uy1dllvujxc/s320/candle+tutorial1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Gathering of supplies.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S888Ffm1rUI/AAAAAAAAAds/0W0p_ZxiHZA/s1600/candle+tutorial+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650938105113922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S888Ffm1rUI/AAAAAAAAAds/0W0p_ZxiHZA/s320/candle+tutorial+2.jpg" border="0" /></a>Are you ready for some fun?<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S888Ev65HXI/AAAAAAAAAdk/jjfyWSj4i80/s1600/candle+tutorial+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650925304323442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 306px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S888Ev65HXI/AAAAAAAAAdk/jjfyWSj4i80/s320/candle+tutorial+3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Wipe your candle clean and evenly tape off the top of the candle. (Part you want exposed)...We don't want sand, glue, or sealer too near the top and flame!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S888EVM6ITI/AAAAAAAAAdc/-uROS2BQxbE/s1600/candle+tutorial+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650918132130098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 270px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S888EVM6ITI/AAAAAAAAAdc/-uROS2BQxbE/s320/candle+tutorial+4.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Put some glue into a dish and load your brush. </span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887oONFhDI/AAAAAAAAAdU/dJBzqMO3wi0/s1600/candle+tutorial+5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650435217490994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 246px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887oONFhDI/AAAAAAAAAdU/dJBzqMO3wi0/s320/candle+tutorial+5.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Paint a nice, thick, even coat of glue onto the candle.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887npUMhYI/AAAAAAAAAdM/RhJfbuVuGuU/s1600/candle+tutorial+6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650425315198338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887npUMhYI/AAAAAAAAAdM/RhJfbuVuGuU/s320/candle+tutorial+6.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Notice the thick, even coverage.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887nfAWXfI/AAAAAAAAAdE/bCOyj9Tb3Fo/s1600/candle+tutorial+7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650422547602930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887nfAWXfI/AAAAAAAAAdE/bCOyj9Tb3Fo/s320/candle+tutorial+7.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">If your glue coverage is spacey, like this, or beads up and drips off, you are either not using the right glue, you have not properly loaded your brush, or you have watered your product down. PS: Do not use spray adhesives!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887nCPZIvI/AAAAAAAAAc8/bS_pVitqels/s1600/candle+tutorial+8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650414826070770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887nCPZIvI/AAAAAAAAAc8/bS_pVitqels/s320/candle+tutorial+8.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Press and roll your glue coated candle in the sand.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887m7Wnr2I/AAAAAAAAAc0/9hgiQHpXlpw/s1600/candle+tutorial+9.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462650412977336162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S887m7Wnr2I/AAAAAAAAAc0/9hgiQHpXlpw/s320/candle+tutorial+9.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Repeat!...Get a nice heavy coat of sand on your candle.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886-CQMCSI/AAAAAAAAAcs/5Soi34zNKLY/s1600/candle+tutorial+10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462649710454769954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 273px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886-CQMCSI/AAAAAAAAAcs/5Soi34zNKLY/s320/candle+tutorial+10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Let it set for about 5 - 10 minutes. It will be tacky and set, but not thoroughly dry. If it becomes too dry, it is hard to pull the tape and get a crisp line.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8869p2qsgI/AAAAAAAAAck/tMi07pTlUYI/s1600/candle+tutorial+11.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462649703905276418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8869p2qsgI/AAAAAAAAAck/tMi07pTlUYI/s320/candle+tutorial+11.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Carefully, pick up the candle and hold upside down.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8869em2quI/AAAAAAAAAcc/GwUdDLrAFrc/s1600/candle+tutorial+12.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462649700886162146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8869em2quI/AAAAAAAAAcc/GwUdDLrAFrc/s320/candle+tutorial+12.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Carefully, pull the tape off, with a downward and on the diagonal, motion.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8869HBtaRI/AAAAAAAAAcU/-_s8d7f8xyw/s1600/candle+tutorial+13.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462649694556350738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 290px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8869HBtaRI/AAAAAAAAAcU/-_s8d7f8xyw/s320/candle+tutorial+13.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Now your candle needs to set and dry for at least 1 - 2 hours.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8868wTXKbI/AAAAAAAAAcM/WxO4Vmrjqtg/s1600/candle+tutorial+14.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462649688456374706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 318px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8868wTXKbI/AAAAAAAAAcM/WxO4Vmrjqtg/s320/candle+tutorial+14.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So, here is your candle with the sand glued onto its base, all set and dried. It is now ready to be sealed. Give it a gentle little tap for luck and loose sand.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886L1dOw4I/AAAAAAAAAcE/qFJhfA-D8G8/s1600/candle+tutorial+15.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462648848026354562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886L1dOw4I/AAAAAAAAAcE/qFJhfA-D8G8/s320/candle+tutorial+15.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Here we have the Polycrylic, nylon brush, and prepared candle.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886Lp7RGuI/AAAAAAAAAb8/fRlQKqtfqP0/s1600/candle+tutorial+16.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462648844931111650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886Lp7RGuI/AAAAAAAAAb8/fRlQKqtfqP0/s320/candle+tutorial+16.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Gently</strong>, "dab-paint" the sealer onto the dried sand. Once coated, you can take your brush and go around the candle, gently wiping off the excess. Place your sealed, still wet candle down on wax paper. I like to let it set about an hour, pick the candle up, gently wipe excess off the bottom of the candle (being careful not to pull off any of the bottom rim of sand) and place it back down on a clean piece of wax paper to completely dry, for several hours or overnight.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886LXW6jFI/AAAAAAAAAb0/I66Bw8QnUmU/s1600/candle+tutorial+17.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462648839946800210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 311px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886LXW6jFI/AAAAAAAAAb0/I66Bw8QnUmU/s320/candle+tutorial+17.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">On this dried and sealed candle, I have chosen the 3-ply jute for my rim-of-sand decoration. Here, I am measuring a doubled strand, before cutting.</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886LDi4P5I/AAAAAAAAAbs/bIC61bNA8yU/s1600/candle+tutorial+18.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462648834628272018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 317px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886LDi4P5I/AAAAAAAAAbs/bIC61bNA8yU/s320/candle+tutorial+18.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">While my glue gun heats up, with the loop on one side, and the ends of the doubled strand on the other, I twirl it into a rope!</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886KxkOkgI/AAAAAAAAAbk/jMpM9DZkc3g/s1600/candle+tutorial+20.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462648829802091010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 291px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S886KxkOkgI/AAAAAAAAAbk/jMpM9DZkc3g/s320/candle+tutorial+20.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Starting with the cut ends, carefully glue your jute roping down and around the rim-of-sand, ending with, and slightly overlapping, the loop onto the starting point.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882qjcLI7I/AAAAAAAAAa8/6yMViQVZN90/s1600/candle+tutorial+22.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462644977719518130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 313px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882qjcLI7I/AAAAAAAAAa8/6yMViQVZN90/s320/candle+tutorial+22.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> Pick your shell and coat the underside with the hot glue, (please don't burn your fingers) making sure the parts of the shell that touch the rope and candle have enough glue to secure the shell to your lovely sand candle. WONDERFUL!</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882qS8b6FI/AAAAAAAAAa0/9Y9tCC7pGOQ/s1600/candle+tutorial+23.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462644973291432018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 206px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882qS8b6FI/AAAAAAAAAa0/9Y9tCC7pGOQ/s320/candle+tutorial+23.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">If you've chosen the waxed raffia. Take a measured piece of a thicker strand of raffia, and carefully/evenly, glue it around the rim-of-sand. </span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882p4YcZ-I/AAAAAAAAAas/y_7KI0Ec7Lk/s1600/candle+tutorial+24.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462644966161147874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 255px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882p4YcZ-I/AAAAAAAAAas/y_7KI0Ec7Lk/s320/candle+tutorial+24.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Gather a few more strands of the waxed raffia, (long enough to tie an attractive bow with sufficient ends) tie the bow and attach your shell with hot glue! (Wow! You just made another one!)</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882pVl2XfI/AAAAAAAAAak/xd9S83qD0BU/s1600/sandcandles7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462644956822134258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 285px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882pVl2XfI/AAAAAAAAAak/xd9S83qD0BU/s320/sandcandles7.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Great Job!</span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882pOJsu9I/AAAAAAAAAac/5Gqz-syvPbs/s1600/candle+tutorial+25.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462644954825014226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 229px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S882pOJsu9I/AAAAAAAAAac/5Gqz-syvPbs/s320/candle+tutorial+25.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Here we have one all a-glow...But wait! You've got it!...It's one of those delightful battery operated candles that last and last! And, if you do this project with children, like I may be doing this week, this would be the kind to use. It's no fun having a candle in your room with the danger of fire. All they do is flick the switch and light it up! (Just like their proud little faces!) </span></div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Think Mother's Day and Summer! These will be a big hit!</span><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-52375643766578929342010-04-20T01:51:00.000-04:002010-04-20T03:22:43.262-04:00Cha-Cha, Cha-Cha, Cha-Cha...Changes...<span style="font-size:180%;">A fond "Hello", to all of you out there!</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">This is just a short note, yet one of big recognition and thanks to my friend, CAPE COD RAMBLING ROSE, for coming into my shop and meeting with me <strong>in person. </strong>(We live and work in the same town...Can you believe it?). Anyway, not only was this woman warm and welcoming, she gave me an EXPLOSION of blogging tips! I am still in awe!...(Kind of like seeing the Fourth of July fireworks for the first time!) As the result, I have changed many things about my blog presentation...(Never in a million years did I think I could have done anything like this.)</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Meanwhile, I've been busy preparing my next post which, I am excited to say, will be my <strong>first tutorial</strong> for all of you! (Guess you'll just have to wait and see what the surprise project will be!)<br /><br />So, while you're at the edge of your seats, might I suggest that you check out my friend, CAPE COD RAMBLING ROSE...I think it will "tickle" your "shabby" fancy!</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Many Smiles to you, Pi<span style="font-family:verdana;">eces of Dreams!</span></span>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-46195374211653899822010-04-12T10:28:00.000-04:002010-04-12T13:14:23.834-04:00The Full Swing of Spring<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8M17SDp1_I/AAAAAAAAAZc/hpPPVobHN7s/s1600/newsign1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459266465878890482" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8M17SDp1_I/AAAAAAAAAZc/hpPPVobHN7s/s320/newsign1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8M17AjfxUI/AAAAAAAAAZU/ujMK63rfQWc/s1600/mydoorisopen.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459266461180609858" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 173px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8M17AjfxUI/AAAAAAAAAZU/ujMK63rfQWc/s320/mydoorisopen.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">A few days ago, my fingers fumbled with a key that I eventually pressed into the door knob of my neglected Brewster shop. Upon entering, an overwhelming vision hit me in the face! Picture this…a dwelling owned by someone, who for some reason, was not able to keep up with things and suddenly had to leave the place abandoned. So, I stepped through the door and experienced a stale, winter and Christmas holiday flashback. Not only that, due to the closing of the now deceased, “Karen’s Garden Cottage Antiques”, formerly located in Chatham, there had been one of Wayne’s famous “drive-by dumpings” of stocked inventory. All this was accented with such a film of cobwebs and dust, that <strong>anyone </strong>would be inspired to whisk their finger threw it, and ponder the collection of residue. So, where on earth, does one begin?</span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></div></span><div><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">With some help from two very kind people, we waded through the confusing maze, cleaning, unpacking, sorting and repacking. For the time being, it’s necessary to close off the back bedroom display area and use it for storage. So, I was really having difficulty with my visions for display. Everyday, I would come home feeling frustrated. Happily, by the end of this past week, the interior of the shop started to “sing spring”!</span></div><div><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">The following pictures show the “rebirth” of my original, Karen’s Garden Cottage Antiques, located in Brewster. (Kind of like the very meaning of spring!) Thankfully, we have made a great deal of progress, during the past few days. The Brewster shop now has the new and improved sign, originally designed for Chatham. In addition, my wonderful Wayne created the most charming little picket fence, surrounding the base of the sign. Even though we haven’t gotten the flowers into place yet, it cheers me up just to look at it!</span></div><div><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Today is another beautiful, sunny day on Cape Cod. And, to all of us living here year ‘round, an increased traffic flow is obvious. Yes! The “snow birds” are returning to their Cape Cod nests, bringing activity and hopefully, business amongst the spring blooms! It’s time for the shop to be “OPEN”! To all who ride by, my new flag will wave, “Hello! Come on in!” And, as my sign swings gently in the fresh sea breeze, I too, find myself in “The Full Swing of Spring!" Happy springtime wishes to you all!</span></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><span style="font-size:180%;"><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Pieces of Dreams</span></span></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8MyYLONw5I/AAAAAAAAAZM/QG5TNa_8HYE/s1600/springoutside.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459262564213834642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 246px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8MyYLONw5I/AAAAAAAAAZM/QG5TNa_8HYE/s320/springoutside.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;">Wayne hit on some great new pieces of wicker to display outside...He says, "Bring those customers in!"</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8MyXvb-hUI/AAAAAAAAAZE/quiKCbL1I9Q/s1600/newspring3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459262556755363138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 280px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8MyXvb-hUI/AAAAAAAAAZE/quiKCbL1I9Q/s320/newspring3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;">Walking into the livingroom area.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8MyXTuzC0I/AAAAAAAAAY8/bdJd_xrHtLg/s1600/newspring2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459262549318110018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 280px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8MyXTuzC0I/AAAAAAAAAY8/bdJd_xrHtLg/s320/newspring2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:180%;"> The shop's nice and full with cheery spring colors.<br /></span><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx72L-9HI/AAAAAAAAAY0/DkMOt5G_LHA/s1600/newspring4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459262077530993778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 271px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx72L-9HI/AAAAAAAAAY0/DkMOt5G_LHA/s320/newspring4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Perky pinks and lovely florals dance upon delicate dishes.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx7aOcYkI/AAAAAAAAAYs/DJLBuwPGfkQ/s1600/newspring5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459262070025118274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 308px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx7aOcYkI/AAAAAAAAAYs/DJLBuwPGfkQ/s320/newspring5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">About a week ago, this vignette was still wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx6_gxjtI/AAAAAAAAAYk/Wf2GS2VGSXo/s1600/newspring1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459262062854246098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx6_gxjtI/AAAAAAAAAYk/Wf2GS2VGSXo/s320/newspring1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;">Lot's of great new finds from treasure hunting this week. We found the Nippon dish one place, and the vase in another...They look so pretty together!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx6SEdnpI/AAAAAAAAAYc/nd4iFXx7-4E/s1600/newspring7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459262050655903378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 228px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx6SEdnpI/AAAAAAAAAYc/nd4iFXx7-4E/s320/newspring7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Around the corner, into the next room, the vignettes and colors change. This is called, "making the best out of what you have".</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx50U0QZI/AAAAAAAAAYU/5V0Hnxw0XDA/s1600/newspring8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459262042671432082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 216px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mx50U0QZI/AAAAAAAAAYU/5V0Hnxw0XDA/s320/newspring8.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;">Something new for this season...A classic antique pine dresser and one drawer stand. They've been sanded, primed and painted this "beachy" aqua and then "shabbied off" to the white primer and wood. The glass knobs really do the trick! This project was a lot of fun to do because the "shabbying off" turned out so interesting. (It doesn't always work that way!)</span><br /><br /><br /><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mw1eNcqvI/AAAAAAAAAX8/DD8HU_IgBzQ/s1600/newspring9.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459260868503841522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mw1eNcqvI/AAAAAAAAAX8/DD8HU_IgBzQ/s320/newspring9.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Close up!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mw1O0rfyI/AAAAAAAAAX0/DmosECpIEXE/s1600/newspring10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459260864373423906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mw1O0rfyI/AAAAAAAAAX0/DmosECpIEXE/s320/newspring10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Vintage wicker vignette.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mw0lAzn_I/AAAAAAAAAXs/vSBhsGc57ak/s1600/newspring17.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459260853149999090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 226px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mw0lAzn_I/AAAAAAAAAXs/vSBhsGc57ak/s320/newspring17.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;">Hand painted rose chest.<br /></span><span style="font-size:180%;">The tecnique for painting this little chest is called, "dry brushing". It gives a nice weathered, yet clean look. </span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv7d5aE7I/AAAAAAAAAXk/6TBg7B78vnE/s1600/newspring16.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459259871987372978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv7d5aE7I/AAAAAAAAAXk/6TBg7B78vnE/s320/newspring16.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Hand painted rose wreath table...There are those stripes again!</span></div><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div><div><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv656sGnI/AAAAAAAAAXc/h7iUFiUvRZU/s1600/newspring15.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459259862329072242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv656sGnI/AAAAAAAAAXc/h7iUFiUvRZU/s320/newspring15.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Pink and white stripe little vanity. This was dark and boring when we got it...Now it has a new charm!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv6uuHgxI/AAAAAAAAAXU/BUwJxzr7H5M/s1600/newspring18.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459259859323552530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv6uuHgxI/AAAAAAAAAXU/BUwJxzr7H5M/s320/newspring18.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Here we go into the next room.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv6F3FNyI/AAAAAAAAAXM/y8-Cyl2eJBw/s1600/newspring14.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459259848355297058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 282px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv6F3FNyI/AAAAAAAAAXM/y8-Cyl2eJBw/s320/newspring14.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;">Hand painted English pine mixed with vintage wicker...Interesting mix, don't you think?</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv565oD6I/AAAAAAAAAXE/Z6FlY7UAYlc/s1600/newspring13.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459259845413179298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 272px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mv565oD6I/AAAAAAAAAXE/Z6FlY7UAYlc/s320/newspring13.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">More views of this room.</span> <div></div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu9uVWF2I/AAAAAAAAAW8/iwTecX6kX2Y/s1600/newspring12.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459258811247630178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu9uVWF2I/AAAAAAAAAW8/iwTecX6kX2Y/s320/newspring12.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">I dry brushed these stripes onto the back portion of this</span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;">corner cabinet. I think the stripes really enhance anything that gets displayed in it.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu9JgUX7I/AAAAAAAAAW0/im_KIrmMuQ4/s1600/newspring23.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459258801361543090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 274px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu9JgUX7I/AAAAAAAAAW0/im_KIrmMuQ4/s320/newspring23.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Close up of a pink and yellow mix of treasures.</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu8zoE8YI/AAAAAAAAAWs/RRHlDP9eomM/s1600/newspring19.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459258795488506242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 250px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu8zoE8YI/AAAAAAAAAWs/RRHlDP9eomM/s320/newspring19.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Continuing into the hallway...</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu8tSYP8I/AAAAAAAAAWk/1CgDDRtajq0/s1600/newspring20.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459258793786884034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 194px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu8tSYP8I/AAAAAAAAAWk/1CgDDRtajq0/s320/newspring20.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Little hallway display. I'm looking forward to once again, going beyond the door to display a bedroom. But for now, this works and we can be <strong>open</strong>!</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu8Z4nWII/AAAAAAAAAWc/hf_r5Lt9BT8/s1600/newspring21.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459258788578547842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 228px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S8Mu8Z4nWII/AAAAAAAAAWc/hf_r5Lt9BT8/s320/newspring21.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">In conclusion, this is a close up of an oil painting of the cottage. A local artist (who has other works displayed in my shop) came over to the shop, set up under the arbor, and painted this lovely landscape scene!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-46140643543138017472010-03-27T12:24:00.001-04:002010-04-09T19:46:04.406-04:00Junkin' In My Jammies!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S65Ov36MneI/AAAAAAAAAWM/bObgubNr5AY/s1600/shop5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453382783161114082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 190px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S65Ov36MneI/AAAAAAAAAWM/bObgubNr5AY/s320/shop5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S65OvZwfYwI/AAAAAAAAAWE/bSSzFvYlVj8/s1600/shop8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453382775067337474" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 181px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S65OvZwfYwI/AAAAAAAAAWE/bSSzFvYlVj8/s320/shop8.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">In this day and age , known for it’s advances in the type of technology that allows us instant gratification as well as convenience, going to work, taking a course, and shopping in your pajamas, is not a rarity at all. As a matter of fact, it’s become something we can rely upon and often take for granted.</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><br />“Previously, on Karen’s Garden Cottage”, I shared the fact that we live on Cape Cod in an old antique farmhouse during the mild and hot weather months, and during the winter and dreary cold, live in the back of our store, Wayne’s Antiques, located on Rt. 6-A, Main Street in Brewster. On this day in March, it seems winter is still fighting spring, tooth and nail. We all know that eventually, spring will win and winter will be blown away by our warm sea breezes, until next year. But as of today, it is still too cold to go “turn on” the farmhouse.<br /><br />And, that brings me to the subject of “<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Junkin</span>’ in My <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Jammies</span>"! I so appreciate the fact that, with cup of coffee in hand and still in my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">PJ</span>’s, I can browse around my wonderful love’s shop, appreciating all his treasures, his unique style of presenting the art of “treasure hunting” to all who visit, and “cherry-pick”, things that might go well in my shop down the road. The whole arrangement works out so well…While he likes to present “it all”, (Oh, you may have to search and dig, but it’s all there), my presentation is different. I like to create vignettes that make statements about “a look” or “a theme”, as well as providing people with ideas they can apply to their own home. The method is also a <strong>must</strong> for marketing my Pieces of Dreams, hand painted furniture. (You have to be able to see it.) In short, what do we tell people who visit us at both shops? “Wayne has the treasure hunting shop (a little more manly) and Karen has the “<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">girly</span>” shop."<br /><br />So, with spring trying to get sprung, it’s time for me to go looking around to see what I can trade with Wayne (or grab), to give my shop it’s spring/summer transformation. What a blessing, since the yard and estate sales, right now, are few and far between! And, guess what? Through my pictures, dear friends, you are welcome to come with me and go “<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Junkin</span>’ in <strong>Your</strong> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Jammies</span>”, too!….Don’t forget the coffee!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Pieces of Dreams</span></span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S640Wr-MA1I/AAAAAAAAAV8/JUCESXiDHg4/s1600/waynejunkin20.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453353763157574482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S640Wr-MA1I/AAAAAAAAAV8/JUCESXiDHg4/s320/waynejunkin20.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> Here's Wayne's counter/cases, filled with vintage jewelry, silver, etc.</span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S640We0Ff9I/AAAAAAAAAV0/3hVilY9jIds/s1600/waynejunkin11.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453353759625543634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 238px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S640We0Ff9I/AAAAAAAAAV0/3hVilY9jIds/s320/waynejunkin11.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Welcome to Wayne's! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">OMG</span>, where does one begin?)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z3SkruwI/AAAAAAAAAVs/3Tzr2zit92M/s1600/waynejunkin1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453353223763770114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 237px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z3SkruwI/AAAAAAAAAVs/3Tzr2zit92M/s320/waynejunkin1.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">The cases are open! You are always welcome to browse within!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z29KYVBI/AAAAAAAAAVk/2_FhzP0a5YY/s1600/waynejunkin2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453353218016302098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 246px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z29KYVBI/AAAAAAAAAVk/2_FhzP0a5YY/s320/waynejunkin2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">See something nice?</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z2crNxnI/AAAAAAAAAVc/d79Q6Qkr0zI/s1600/waynejunkin8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453353209295652466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 235px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z2crNxnI/AAAAAAAAAVc/d79Q6Qkr0zI/s320/waynejunkin8.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">His motto: "Items of Interest, Bought and Sold!"</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z107tGwI/AAAAAAAAAVU/qXSo_t0M9Lk/s1600/waynejunkin7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453353198627396354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 215px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z107tGwI/AAAAAAAAAVU/qXSo_t0M9Lk/s320/waynejunkin7.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Often, this would be a spot where you find the men.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z1cV8YRI/AAAAAAAAAVM/sjOAHnkBka4/s1600/waynejunkin16.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453353192026562834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 253px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64z1cV8YRI/AAAAAAAAAVM/sjOAHnkBka4/s320/waynejunkin16.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I see something I might be able to use, hiding in here!<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zD1q_NCI/AAAAAAAAAVE/zmo5v3gbnXQ/s1600/waynejunkin17.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453352339832255522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zD1q_NCI/AAAAAAAAAVE/zmo5v3gbnXQ/s320/waynejunkin17.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Feminine and looking like spring! We are getting warmer!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zDYIrN7I/AAAAAAAAAU8/uOr0AS5O-RA/s1600/waynejunkin18.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453352331903711154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zDYIrN7I/AAAAAAAAAU8/uOr0AS5O-RA/s320/waynejunkin18.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Don't forget to look up, down and all around (even in the drawers). And it's Pink! Hooray!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zCsgqawI/AAAAAAAAAU0/jw3aIE61BHA/s1600/waynejunkin15.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453352320193161986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zCsgqawI/AAAAAAAAAU0/jw3aIE61BHA/s320/waynejunkin15.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Let's see, pink and yellow and just perfect for a large space.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zCTsOQQI/AAAAAAAAAUs/zlgjNlwtaRs/s1600/waynejunkin5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453352313530761474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zCTsOQQI/AAAAAAAAAUs/zlgjNlwtaRs/s320/waynejunkin5.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">I spy with my little eyes, some Easter colors!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zCPfSzWI/AAAAAAAAAUk/InlDc2FZ288/s1600/waynejunkin19.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453352312402791778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64zCPfSzWI/AAAAAAAAAUk/InlDc2FZ288/s320/waynejunkin19.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64yTbHjk3I/AAAAAAAAAUc/3KAjd6M6qCY/s1600/waynejunkin12.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453351508070601586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64yTbHjk3I/AAAAAAAAAUc/3KAjd6M6qCY/s320/waynejunkin12.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">And, would this be the Easter Basket?</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64yTL4ib_I/AAAAAAAAAUU/LnUOz3aHYjQ/s1600/walkin1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453351503981080562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 294px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64yTL4ib_I/AAAAAAAAAUU/LnUOz3aHYjQ/s320/walkin1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">This just "walked in the door" yesterday. Wayne brought everything back to me to wash and said, "Your shop". (We know each other so well!)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64ySuaR6XI/AAAAAAAAAUM/IuDSd7U_Q_4/s1600/walkin4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453351496069540210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 306px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64ySuaR6XI/AAAAAAAAAUM/IuDSd7U_Q_4/s320/walkin4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64yRWncmnI/AAAAAAAAAT8/n2dRSWt7QYg/s1600/walkin3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453351472502446706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S64yRWncmnI/AAAAAAAAAT8/n2dRSWt7QYg/s320/walkin3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">A collection of beautiful china and hand made ceramic basket from <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Italy</span>. I love the delicate pink and yellow roses. How lucky that they are in perfect condition!</span></div><br /><br /><div></div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">We are just beginning our season...I hope you've enjoyed your first shopping trip!</span><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-21983924462630897642010-03-22T17:43:00.001-04:002010-03-23T12:22:39.223-04:00A Time and Place for Healing<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6hR9O6fxsI/AAAAAAAAAT0/3Hxa0LWi3eM/s1600-h/karenhouse19.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451697461349304002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6hR9O6fxsI/AAAAAAAAAT0/3Hxa0LWi3eM/s320/karenhouse19.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6hR8hJZ73I/AAAAAAAAATs/7lGczkvHzC8/s1600-h/karenshouse18.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451697449063804786" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6hR8hJZ73I/AAAAAAAAATs/7lGczkvHzC8/s320/karenshouse18.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div align="left"><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:180%;">The whole thing about “<strong>The Concept of Time</strong>” is funny. You have “<strong>actual time</strong>” (“What time is it?”)…You have the “<strong>passing of time</strong>”, with what it appears to be as it slips by…And then, you have "<strong>the past</strong>" and what it actually represents and feels like<strong>. </strong>So, when you have a significant event in your life, one so shattering that it has major, rippling effects upon your whole being, the “<strong>concept of time</strong>” can become blurred.<br /></div></span><div align="left"><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Ten years ago, my family and I experienced the “Big D”…Divorce. And, although there were hints, we really didn’t see it coming. So now, with the recent arrival to of my dear friend to Cape Cod, and the new proud owner of the "Big D", I find myself reliving past hurts residing close to my heart. Naturally, I draw upon my experiences to see how I can relate. </span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:180%;">Suddenly, it hit me! Flashing through my mind, was the scene from “You’ve Got Mail”, where Tom Hanks and Dabney Coleman (father and son) discuss the very subject, while Tom Hanks shakes up some sort of mixed drink. He shakes and shakes with a distinct defiance and rhythm, while listening to his father and looking up to God for answers.<br /></span></div><div align="left"><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">So it dawned on me, while caught up in the midst of the divorce with everything swirling around me, <strong>I was</strong> <strong>that mixed drink!</strong>I had been shaken up with defiance, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">syncopated</span> into a very calculated, precise rhythm, and been poured out into a glass, with pieces of my very soul sloshing out over the rim! And, up until a very short time ago, I felt as though I desperately needed to blot up my spilled guts, and squeeze them back into the glass!<br /></span></div><div align="left"><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Where am I now? Well for one, <strong>I can tell time. </strong>And, it's funny, sometimes, because the whole saga <strong>seems like</strong> “just yesterday“…But, because of the mourning and healing process, that part of my life is much easier to accept and has taken a back seat into <strong>the past</strong>. Surprisingly, the debilitating hurt I felt, has become numbed, as well as seeming not so long lasting. In the end, for me, some of the “guts runneth over” is old news. I have actually been able to be selective of what needs to be re-absorbed, and what needs to be left spilled out upon the counter! Could this be what they mean when they say, “Time heals all wounds”? (Dear readers, what do you think?)</span></div><div align="left"><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Thankfully, during my time of pain, my Dad and Amy offered something that helped me survive…The cottage on Country Lane. Now, I have the opportunity to offer the "the healing place" to someone who is incredibly special to me…One who stood by me when I was in pain. I hope she can do something on Cape Cod with her creative and talented photography. I hope she finds the same peaceful healing I did. And, I hope she can experience the strength of mopping up her “sloshed- over-the -glass" self. For it is only with strength, that she can squeeze what she <strong>needs</strong> back into the glass, and dare anyone to take a sip! </span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><p><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:180%;">Pieces of Dreams</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:180%;"></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:180%;"></span></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;"></span></p><p></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fozCgccMI/AAAAAAAAATk/KLBlZpGYxUY/s1600-h/karenshouse7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451581837499199682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fozCgccMI/AAAAAAAAATk/KLBlZpGYxUY/s320/karenshouse7.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a>Country Lane<br /><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6foyXC_XDI/AAAAAAAAATc/g2bPaxTOPYk/s1600-h/karenhouse16.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451581825832934450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6foyXC_XDI/AAAAAAAAATc/g2bPaxTOPYk/s320/karenhouse16.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Welcome to my cottage at 22 Country Lane</p><p><br /></p><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fncy5ldqI/AAAAAAAAATU/jrg0pGbrGa4/s1600-h/karenhouse17.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451580355840931490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fncy5ldqI/AAAAAAAAATU/jrg0pGbrGa4/s320/karenhouse17.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Small, but comfy and quiet!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fncDEIdFI/AAAAAAAAATM/TQ0syIjdCbI/s1600-h/karenhouse2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451580343000265810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fncDEIdFI/AAAAAAAAATM/TQ0syIjdCbI/s320/karenhouse2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Just enough! Everything you need ~ Leaving complication behind.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fnb9ddAII/AAAAAAAAATE/M_hjDisrHNA/s1600-h/karenhouse8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451580341495857282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fnb9ddAII/AAAAAAAAATE/M_hjDisrHNA/s320/karenhouse8.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Science Kitchen (LOL)<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fnbRe2Q3I/AAAAAAAAAS8/ovp0-8Is4wQ/s1600-h/karenhouse4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451580329690547058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fnbRe2Q3I/AAAAAAAAAS8/ovp0-8Is4wQ/s320/karenhouse4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Snuggle in at night and have a peaceful morning!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fna-7mBAI/AAAAAAAAAS0/8VBvEcqf5Ms/s1600-h/karenhouse5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451580324710843394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fna-7mBAI/AAAAAAAAAS0/8VBvEcqf5Ms/s320/karenhouse5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This is the second bedroom...I used to call it my den/<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">family room</span>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmLSKysUI/AAAAAAAAASs/LxPVEZJDK1M/s1600-h/karenhouse6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451578955485327682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmLSKysUI/AAAAAAAAASs/LxPVEZJDK1M/s320/karenhouse6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmK80CcYI/AAAAAAAAASk/vFMqtNXSrr8/s1600-h/karenhouse7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451578949752746370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmK80CcYI/AAAAAAAAASk/vFMqtNXSrr8/s320/karenhouse7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmKYSkeLI/AAAAAAAAASc/JmA1O0lQOzc/s1600-h/karenhouse15.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451578939948693682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmKYSkeLI/AAAAAAAAASc/JmA1O0lQOzc/s320/karenhouse15.jpg" border="0" /></a> Entrance to our beach ~ You should see the beach roses when they bloom!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmJ5tenGI/AAAAAAAAASU/eQ8OmlyJFDo/s1600-h/karenhouse14.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451578931740056674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmJ5tenGI/AAAAAAAAASU/eQ8OmlyJFDo/s320/karenhouse14.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmJfH9L8I/AAAAAAAAASM/QgQCJz__IvQ/s1600-h/karenhouse13.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451578924603355074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S6fmJfH9L8I/AAAAAAAAASM/QgQCJz__IvQ/s320/karenhouse13.jpg" border="0" /></a> A VERY <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Short</span> walk from the cottage to paradise.<br /><br /><br />I got better here...I think she will get better here, don't you?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><strong></strong><strong></strong>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-57033263783914757142010-03-15T20:23:00.001-04:002010-03-15T21:05:14.502-04:00I Had No Idea What Was Out There!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S57QwNVYhfI/AAAAAAAAARc/Cd7duv-TgNU/s1600-h/w+and+k+at+moms.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449022125796525554" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S57QwNVYhfI/AAAAAAAAARc/Cd7duv-TgNU/s320/w+and+k+at+moms.jpg" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Hello from Wayne and Karen!</span>
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<br />Just returning home from surgery, I tapped into a wonderful gift from my father and Amy…<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Netflix</span>! (I am sure you all know about it…I apparently, was one of the last to know.) Anyway, the first movie I ordered was Julie and Julia. Since I had just completed our family cookbook, the movie inspired me to use the concept of “blogging”. It seemed to be a very practical way to expand the book. However this time, I would not only offer recipes, but family history, a diary of our shops/ “Life with Wayne”, and tutorials on how to make things, etc.
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<br />So, I began the “blogging” process by following, “How to Make A Blog” on Google.
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<br />At first, I tried to be very generic, highlighting specialties aimed at our family. At that time, I had no idea what a “follower” was (and still, by the way, don’t exactly understand “links”) and other things that hurl you into the Blog-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">osphere</span>. All I knew, was that I enjoyed writing, creating, teaching and sharing. (I had a Grandmother that taught me a great deal…almost EVERYTHING. Boy, would we have a good time if she was still with us and “blogging”!) I wanted to pass that along.
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<br />Therefore, I hunt, peck, look and learn. What happened? I became a part of a wonderful community, where you don’t have to be “generic” and find myself making friends!
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<br />So, this leads me to a blog I feel is especially inspiring, “LUCY’S LOUNGE” at, Tuttichic.typepad.com. She offers everything!…Wonderful taste and creativity, mixed with family, complimented with an absolutely “wicked” (we say that in New England) sense of humor. If you haven’t visited, please do. At the very least, it will give you a laugh for the day. (By the way, “I Love Lucy” lighting her nose on fire, is my absolute favorite!)
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<br />She recently shared the birth of the precious, Giana Lorraine! My gift to share, is Baby Giana’s picture layered upon a hand painted background (a close-up of my “Pieces of Dreams“, hand painted furniture.)
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<br />Thank you, Chris, at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tuttichic</span> for sharing such a beautiful family moment. And, thank you all for visiting my blog and becoming my new friends…I Had No Idea What Was Out There!
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<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Pieces of Dreams</span></span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;">There are so many gifts from God...Treasure Every One!</span>
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<br />Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-33853199633257024682010-03-06T17:11:00.000-05:002010-03-06T19:53:13.470-05:00...And, I Leave You With the Romance of Pink and Green<div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LaXQDaE0I/AAAAAAAAARE/KMNBRlmLIVU/s1600-h/cottages.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445654992425456450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LaXQDaE0I/AAAAAAAAARE/KMNBRlmLIVU/s320/cottages.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Well, for some reason I had to do my text this way. I still don't always get everything about uploading my pictures. I also don't do the thinking backwards thing very well. Maybe that's why I didn't have much success with water color. Anyway, thanks for spending all this time with me. Wayne was opened today, so I have been back here with you, sharing the memories of my Brewster shop and planning a new look for spring.</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LaXPiSszI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/ZgNbn9TPmb8/s1600-h/cottage+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445654992286561074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LaXPiSszI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/ZgNbn9TPmb8/s320/cottage+2.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Above is a picture of the back room. It's done in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Benjamin</span> Moore's "Dried Parsley", which I am very pleased to say, compliments every color...It makes decorating and displaying a breeze.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><span style="font-size:180%;"></span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXLr8GcCI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/lskT9m3c8-I/s1600-h/miss+marshmallow.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445651495217688610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 234px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXLr8GcCI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/lskT9m3c8-I/s320/miss+marshmallow.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Let me introduce you to this lovely young lady...I present to you, Miss Marshmallow! This was one of my most favorite finds. We went to an estate sale and found her in the basement art studio. She belonged to a lady that specialized in hand painted china. Miss Marshmallow was an actual classmate of the artist. The photo was blown up to poster size, mounted on a custom cut board, and enhanced with a hand painted dress and marshmallows. She's just so much fun! I hope the new owner treasures her magic for making people smile!</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXLYa22aI/AAAAAAAAAQs/4Tv81TML-Zo/s1600-h/miss+marshmallow+close.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445651489977981346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXLYa22aI/AAAAAAAAAQs/4Tv81TML-Zo/s320/miss+marshmallow+close.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">This is a close-up of our contest winner!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXLPId5FI/AAAAAAAAAQk/55KdI-6-CjA/s1600-h/hallway.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445651487484929106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 286px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXLPId5FI/AAAAAAAAAQk/55KdI-6-CjA/s320/hallway.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">As we continue on, we go down a short hallway into the bedroom.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXLNVHOJI/AAAAAAAAAQc/JI2eBNZc_SI/s1600-h/new+bedroom+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445651487001098386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXLNVHOJI/AAAAAAAAAQc/JI2eBNZc_SI/s320/new+bedroom+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">My store display used to end with a decorated door at the end of the hallway. The bedroom was used for storage and as an additional area for me to fix things up. When I needed a quick bedroom for an impromptu guest, we quickly fixed up the room, complete with a brand new <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">mattress</span> and bedding. After our guests left, we opened it up as an additional room for display. It's funny. People always say they want to take a nap in there. One time I went in there and I saw an imprint on the bed! (I knew they were in there a long time!)</span><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXK1GJhaI/AAAAAAAAAQU/hkRruiXwTbU/s1600-h/bedroom+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445651480495883682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LXK1GJhaI/AAAAAAAAAQU/hkRruiXwTbU/s320/bedroom+4.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">As time went by, things continued to change in the bedroom, just like the rest of the store. And, as time went by, others stayed in the room as a guest, when we needed to handle an over flow of visitors. My brother stayed in here once and said he didn't need a TV because he enjoyed reading my tags..."Lovely black painted table....Wonderful walnut bed...Charming reverse painted mirror", etc. He told me I should rename the shop, "The Lovely Shop", because most of my tags say, "Lovely"!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWUuxmVyI/AAAAAAAAAQM/gjnClyqiUoY/s1600-h/store+pase+2+roses.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445650551086143266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWUuxmVyI/AAAAAAAAAQM/gjnClyqiUoY/s320/store+pase+2+roses.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Close up of something "Lovely".</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWUeU8EvI/AAAAAAAAAQE/Hpbt9av-_ec/s1600-h/bedroom+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445650546670965490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWUeU8EvI/AAAAAAAAAQE/Hpbt9av-_ec/s320/bedroom+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color:#006600;">Ahh</span><span style="color:#006600;">! Pink and Green...Makes my heart sing!</span></span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWULEbPkI/AAAAAAAAAP8/nmJhtdbJppU/s1600-h/pink+and+green+chair.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445650541501431362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 242px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWULEbPkI/AAAAAAAAAP8/nmJhtdbJppU/s320/pink+and+green+chair.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">When I got back to being able to hand paint, I added this chair to the pink and green bedroom.</span><br /><div></div><div></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWT-NuOzI/AAAAAAAAAP0/noAAvG9s0Mc/s1600-h/more+pink+and+green+chair.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445650538050763570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 254px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWT-NuOzI/AAAAAAAAAP0/noAAvG9s0Mc/s320/more+pink+and+green+chair.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Close up of the back of the chair with the roses and plaid ribbon.</span><br /></div><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWTuPrIYI/AAAAAAAAAPs/XkQonzHyS2M/s1600-h/pink+and+green+set+back+of+chair.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445650533763981698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 148px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5LWTuPrIYI/AAAAAAAAAPs/XkQonzHyS2M/s320/pink+and+green+set+back+of+chair.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">And we finish with a close up of the back of the chair.</span></div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">So we end our tour with shades of pink, green and the romantic feeling these ribbons, roses and colors leave you with.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Thank you for joining me...We'll see you next time!</span></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div><br /><br /></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-70574326331318249652010-03-06T11:48:00.000-05:002010-03-06T15:33:34.164-05:00Inside...Stage Right!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KbfsYb7_I/AAAAAAAAAPk/zvTWUsycH9w/s1600-h/dress+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445585868236255218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KbfsYb7_I/AAAAAAAAAPk/zvTWUsycH9w/s320/dress+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KbfbxwtfI/AAAAAAAAAPc/8dggojtUzl4/s1600-h/white+on+white+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445585863779071474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 309px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KbfbxwtfI/AAAAAAAAAPc/8dggojtUzl4/s320/white+on+white+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I'm so glad you decided to stay! </span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">So, we were really excited that the owners gave us permission to change some of the colors in the cottage. I feel that it makes the staging of what you are trying to sell that much more effective. The pictures below will show you snippets of how the middle room began and evolved. It's such an adventure! Wayne and I go out on house calls, attend auctions, as well as scope out yard/tag and estate sales. You never know what we will come back with, if anything at all. Then we get to divide up all the stuff and set the stage. Some of it works out so perfectly, you would think we special ordered it from a catalogue. Other things end up in the palm of your hand as you walk around placing it here and there, shaking your head "no" and then trying it somewhere else. (That's the easy part.) What creates difficulty is the neurotic moving of the furniture. It's like when someone wants to become a member of a club, refuses to get along or cooperate, and the rest of the members won't sit next to the newcomer...And they all come complaining to you! But some how, like magic, it works!</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Hope you enjoy this portion of my little tour. Just come on in and take a right! (Remember to click the pics!)</span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Pieces of Dreams</span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ-4VFoBI/AAAAAAAAAPU/ymPq3jSV0oc/s1600-h/insideshot10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445566612810080274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ-4VFoBI/AAAAAAAAAPU/ymPq3jSV0oc/s320/insideshot10.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Once again, inside the door.</span><br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ-X5RL_I/AAAAAAAAAPM/Vd_oCjVLOEM/s1600-h/Ivy+chair+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445566604103462898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 186px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ-X5RL_I/AAAAAAAAAPM/Vd_oCjVLOEM/s320/Ivy+chair+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;color:#006600;">This was an old chair that someone had completely stripped and left. I did a finish called "Dry Brushing" for the background and hand painted ivey vines and berries.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ-BVgFEI/AAAAAAAAAPE/tiPHOBc-v-o/s1600-h/insideshot1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445566598047863874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ-BVgFEI/AAAAAAAAAPE/tiPHOBc-v-o/s320/insideshot1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">One of our opening day vignettes ~ To mention a few highlights: English pine farm table, wall lamp created from old Fiesta Ware and Theorem paintings.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ9wiRZKI/AAAAAAAAAO8/f0Jw-mszSnY/s1600-h/tiebacks.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445566593538024610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ9wiRZKI/AAAAAAAAAO8/f0Jw-mszSnY/s320/tiebacks.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I created these tie backs by combining some left over pieces from the floral vines used in the front window treatment, antiqued silk roses, scallop sea shells and antique punch bowl cups. They were the first things out of the store on opening day. I wasn't going to sell them, but a friend begged me. They were one of a kind, but the good news is, I can visit them!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ9qiI2VI/AAAAAAAAAO0/ZVeGUX6Y9jQ/s1600-h/insideshot2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445566591926851922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 185px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJ9qiI2VI/AAAAAAAAAO0/ZVeGUX6Y9jQ/s320/insideshot2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:180%;"> <span style="color:#006600;">Opening day vignette...So empty looking compared to how it is now!</span></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJBl6mwyI/AAAAAAAAAOs/_HdYphW7JeQ/s1600-h/insideshot3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445565559895147298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJBl6mwyI/AAAAAAAAAOs/_HdYphW7JeQ/s320/insideshot3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Okay...There! Now, nobody touch any thing! One false move and that layer of purses will look like a mess in a teenage girl's room. (Like they would really have a flower purse with gloves and tea cups!)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJBWhMMoI/AAAAAAAAAOk/XU_K_Ey3l4s/s1600-h/yellow+room+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445565555762016898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 289px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJBWhMMoI/AAAAAAAAAOk/XU_K_Ey3l4s/s320/yellow+room+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes! (Remember that song?)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJA33R_fI/AAAAAAAAAOc/AWllMyzQkBg/s1600-h/Yellow,+blue+and+Pink.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445565547533172210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 203px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJA33R_fI/AAAAAAAAAOc/AWllMyzQkBg/s320/Yellow,+blue+and+Pink.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">"Yard sales are like a box of chocolates..."</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJA_9uTFI/AAAAAAAAAOU/lxgf5FoZIKg/s1600-h/wagon.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445565549707676754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJA_9uTFI/AAAAAAAAAOU/lxgf5FoZIKg/s320/wagon.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">So, this picture and the one below, give you an idea of how it all goes.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJAjlsRvI/AAAAAAAAAOM/-vy2mqiLzCc/s1600-h/breakfront.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445565542090688242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5KJAjlsRvI/AAAAAAAAAOM/-vy2mqiLzCc/s320/breakfront.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:180%;"> </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">I loved finding this breakfront, display case. I still have the pink and cream dessert set (occupied Germany). I love them and really don't care if I end up with them or not!</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">There's still some more fun to come...Wish I could offer you something sweet to eat...If you haven't treated yourself to something nice today, go ahead and do it! Meanwhile, I'll get busy with the next part!</span><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-19778908508870208242010-03-05T15:38:00.000-05:002010-03-05T19:59:51.604-05:00Oh, Hello! Would You Like to Come In?<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5GZg0toipI/AAAAAAAAAOE/5MSEk0oYvHA/s1600-h/insideshot7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445302213652548242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5GZg0toipI/AAAAAAAAAOE/5MSEk0oYvHA/s320/insideshot7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5GZgkpgkcI/AAAAAAAAAN8/T37MmMMvm2w/s1600-h/insideshot10.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445302209340281282" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5GZgkpgkcI/AAAAAAAAAN8/T37MmMMvm2w/s320/insideshot10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;">Welcome! Welcome! For those of you who have followed along, you have seen the beginning transformation of "Karen's Garden Cottage Antiques", from the outside. You also might know that I am recovering from surgery and am taking this time to play "catch up", so that when I am on the go again, the updates will be timely. (Let's hope for an "all clear" on March 30<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span>)...Then we can really get down to business!</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;">I really miss my shop, but should be thankful that the timing is right for being "hold up" in the house. I've been able to snuggle in, catch up on things, finish crocheting intricate doilies and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">fillet</span> crochet (which were projects I started and put down, due to becoming busy with work), avoid the damp cold, and enjoy the pretty snow without experiencing some of the hastles it undoubtedly brings. Wayne has treated me like a queen, as Boo Boo Kitty lays at or on my feet to make sure I don't go any where. (He's been cuddled and kissed so much, I feel like we are having an affair!)</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">So, here's a little blog by blog tour, starting with the front room and some of our beginning inventory. For me, the challenge is not only making creative use out of what we find, but displaying it in an effective and creative manner. It's a never ending process. In the beginning, when I would get a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">vignette</span> just so and someone would buy something from it, I would get sad and happy at the same time....Oh, alright! I would get annoyed and even tried to talk someone out of something once, because I had just gotten it set up about 10 minutes before. Wayne would always say, "These aren't your things! Enjoy the hunt!"</span><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Hope you enjoy our beginning!</span> (Remember to click on the pictures to get a better view!)<br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FuTuLT1eI/AAAAAAAAAN0/2a8tMI2XDac/s1600-h/store1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445254709559678434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 244px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FuTuLT1eI/AAAAAAAAAN0/2a8tMI2XDac/s320/store1.jpg" border="0" /></a> All this came from one house call and two yard sales. We had just gotten the front room done, moved these things in, placed them around (you should have seen me doing that! "Should we put it here? Or, should we put it there?) I was so excited! I gathered twigs from a tree we have to start the window treatment, found this wonderful table (which I later sold for $600.00) and fell in love with the flow blue platter and vintage rose water color. Come to think of it, everything in this picture is gone...I miss the clock...Its chime reminded me of my home in TN.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FuTeH8jdI/AAAAAAAAANs/VzgSlXsYRnw/s1600-h/half+commode+close.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445254705250602450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 250px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FuTeH8jdI/AAAAAAAAANs/VzgSlXsYRnw/s320/half+commode+close.jpg" border="0" /></a> Since I spent all my days working on the rooms and treasure hunting, I didn't have any time to hand paint my furniture. I was able to do this piece and it ended up in my Dad and Amy's bathroom! They let me keep it displayed in the shop for a while as an example of my work. I refer to the design as "Amy's Berries and Vines".<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FuTAarrvI/AAAAAAAAANk/dd2OxCWmvqA/s1600-h/half+commode3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445254697276124914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FuTAarrvI/AAAAAAAAANk/dd2OxCWmvqA/s320/half+commode3.jpg" border="0" /></a>Close up of top. The body is "ragged on" (not off) to give it a nice textured background.<br /><div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FsteDGh6I/AAAAAAAAANU/Cm-OVzFbfe0/s1600-h/green+scroll+6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445252952883627938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 297px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FsteDGh6I/AAAAAAAAANU/Cm-OVzFbfe0/s320/green+scroll+6.jpg" border="0" /></a> I wish I had the before picture of this piece because it was quite the challenge.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FstFnOFnI/AAAAAAAAANM/_DnD90qq2xY/s1600-h/green+scroll+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445252946324231794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 217px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FstFnOFnI/AAAAAAAAANM/_DnD90qq2xY/s320/green+scroll+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Since I painted the scrolls on these doors off the cabinet, I got such a pleasant surprise when I attached the doors, stood back, and saw what they looked like put together.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5Fss6fA6UI/AAAAAAAAANE/ybDyWP3kju0/s1600-h/insideshot8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445252943337023810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5Fss6fA6UI/AAAAAAAAANE/ybDyWP3kju0/s320/insideshot8.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Well, we hunted, gathered and created. With the window treatment complete, created from several floral vines I had to take apart and put together so the colors would come out in the right order (pink, blue, and yellow), twigs from the outside curly tree, mini lights and three single crepe sheer panels ($6.99 per panel), we were ready for opening day.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FssR6lRpI/AAAAAAAAAM8/6AlRun5AyUo/s1600-h/insideshot9.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445252932446799506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FssR6lRpI/AAAAAAAAAM8/6AlRun5AyUo/s320/insideshot9.jpg" border="0" /></a> The vintage wicker in this picture came from the porch of the famous <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Chatham</span> Bars Inn, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Chatham</span>, MA. The painting above the fireplace was part of a trade Wayne made with one of his customers. He had it on the outside of his shop, leaning against the Antique truck he has in his parking lot. It's painted on board and silk. You never know what I am going to find out there when I come home!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FssDmx1oI/AAAAAAAAAM0/8WgdBI-5IiQ/s1600-h/new+brewster+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445252928605640322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 199px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S5FssDmx1oI/AAAAAAAAAM0/8WgdBI-5IiQ/s320/new+brewster+2.jpg" border="0" /></a>In celebration of our opening, someone was nice enough to donate this vintage wedding dress to my shop. So, as we turn the corner, my next blog will continue with your tour!</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>I hope you all enjoyed coming in...I enjoy having you! So please, stay and visit for a while!</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;">Pieces of Dreams</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-56552068615147448762010-02-26T17:45:00.001-05:002010-02-27T11:22:09.213-05:00And They All Stood By and Watched...<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQ7ozvGTI/AAAAAAAAALc/F-L58zfFxT0/s1600-h/close+up+front.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442689135174162738" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 204px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQ7ozvGTI/AAAAAAAAALc/F-L58zfFxT0/s320/close+up+front.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />So continuing on, here sat both a dream and a nightmare. If you look past the blemishes and physical tragedies due to such neglect, I think the dream is easy to see. The nightmare was the actual elbow grease, unforeseen costs, and hours of labor when getting down to the nitty-gritty required, in becoming Fairy Godmother to this Cinderella.<br /><br />Everyday we got tangled up in one challenge or another. One day, might be a battle with a mold problem, sucking up water in the basement, or sanding peeling paint off the walls and ceiling. Another day, might be filling out forms and paying money to the Conservation Committee, for permission to cut away the enormous amount of bittersweet, as it strangled its way through everything in sight. It also didn’t help that we had an overwhelming situation with getting all the stored things out, so we could fix things up and move our stuff in. (7 years of neglected stuff...Nobody wanted to deal with it.) I already told you about the water in the basement, right? Can you even imagine what became of all the stuff stored down there? I can describe it in one word….Hazmat!<br /><br />As far as the decorating and painting was concerned, at first I had to keep the colors the same. So, I started in the living room and asked permission to sponge the blues, creams and whites that were present in the room. After they saw the job I did, I was able to change the colors throughout. We also had to get special permission for painting the outside. The first yellow the Historical Society approved, based upon a sample I presented, came out all wrong! It looked like a cheap, artificial daffodil. I hated it and shed a lot of tears. As you get to know me, you will find that nothing upsets me like the wrong color! So I went to my friend at the Historical Society and showed her the swatch. Well as it turns out, their color sample booklet was more than 17 years old and the lady at the store couldn’t get a correct match with what they gave her. So, with Memorial Day weekend approaching, we came up with a plan. I was to get out there and paint like a wild woman throughout the weekend, while all who would express concern attended their picnics! I was to get the entire front done and if anyone questioned me, I was to say that the first (and incorrect) coat was the primer!<br /><br />Below are some photos of the transformation as it began. The people in the town drove by, beeping and cheering us on. Sometimes, as they went on their walks, they would simply stand by and watch.<br /><br /><div align="center">Blogs to come will illustrate an evolution of changes. Then, we will be up to date and entering into the changes for this season. I’m so excited!</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><div align="center">Get out there and paint! (May, 2008)<br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQYF_nwhI/AAAAAAAAALU/rYcqARQB5Jc/s1600-h/outsideshot7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442688524533350930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQYF_nwhI/AAAAAAAAALU/rYcqARQB5Jc/s320/outsideshot7.jpg" border="0" /></a> I remember leaving, this particular day, exhausted but feeling good!<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQIu4uiYI/AAAAAAAAALM/Ch8Nel8T9lE/s1600-h/outsideshot8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442688260632381826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 176px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQIu4uiYI/AAAAAAAAALM/Ch8Nel8T9lE/s320/outsideshot8.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The day worth waiting for! I made the mosaic boxes and Wayne came and put them up!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQIcjoNaI/AAAAAAAAALE/lEHPDBWO6wY/s1600-h/outsideshot3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442688255712048546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQIcjoNaI/AAAAAAAAALE/lEHPDBWO6wY/s320/outsideshot3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />He even brought all the flowers for the boxes and all the flowers in containers!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQIA7EcMI/AAAAAAAAAK8/_94IG12H43I/s1600-h/outsideshot4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442688248294174914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQIA7EcMI/AAAAAAAAAK8/_94IG12H43I/s320/outsideshot4.jpg" border="0" /></a>The awning poles were still up...What a pain to get down. I don't know how Wayne did it!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQHvhm8gI/AAAAAAAAAK0/wgTdNf5p91Q/s1600-h/view.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442688243623981570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQHvhm8gI/AAAAAAAAAK0/wgTdNf5p91Q/s320/view.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />It just got better and better!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQHXFQ1UI/AAAAAAAAAKs/sFh6-DzeinQ/s1600-h/Wayne%27s+flowers.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442688237062640962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4hQHXFQ1UI/AAAAAAAAAKs/sFh6-DzeinQ/s320/Wayne%27s+flowers.jpg" border="0" /></a>A bit of a difference...No wonder they beeped and cheered!<br /><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-80237933271451334592010-02-26T09:54:00.000-05:002010-03-08T14:13:40.537-05:00It Was A Clear Case of Cottage Abuse!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4frb0SpKoI/AAAAAAAAAJs/0sF8K8RWnzk/s1600-h/retail26.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442577537826368130" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 229px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4frb0SpKoI/AAAAAAAAAJs/0sF8K8RWnzk/s320/retail26.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;"></span><br /><br /><br /><br />Once upon a time, this classic Cape Cod cottage made a visual statement of style and grace, as it stood at the intersection of Route 6A and Underpass road. Well-known for its lush plants, flowers and garden arrangements, this one time flower shop, provided both townspeople and tourists alike, an inspirational place to purchase garden pleasures, as well as a warm welcome into the town of Brewster.<br /><br /><br /><br />In the year 2005, I moved onto the Cape. Even though I settled into a family owned cottage in South Chatham, (the “Sound Side” of the Cape), because of strong childhood ties, I often visited the town of Brewster (the “Bay Side” of the Cape). My heart would sink every time I saw what happened to this little place! And, as I made new acquaintances and friends, I discovered many people would be saying the same thing I would be thinking and saying to myself…“Why doesn’t someone do something with that place?”<br /><br /><br /><br />One day Wayne and I drove down Underpass Road, discussing a storage place he was considering renting. It was <strong>brown</strong> (ick!) and had garage bays. Well, he thought it had great potential for storage, a much needed work area, and the ability for use as a sales/flea market venue. “Oh! And you can sell your furniture here!…Just paint it up and sell it!” Well, that was very nice, but his enthusiastic vision made me highly annoyed! As my eyebrows became knitted together, I could feel I was making another major investment in wrinkles! As we neared the end of the road and intersection, I said, “Why can’t we ever rent something like that? (And I pointed across the street to the little woe begotten, abandoned cottage.) Surprisingly, Wayne said, “We can!” How could this be? It wasn’t even for rent!<br /><br /><br /><br />Let's fast forward past all the hours of waiting to hear if the owners would rent it to us, the town meetings to see if they would allow the property to be an antique business, the presentations we had to make to the Historical Society, the Conservation Committee, the Police and Fire Departments, (even the Shell Fishing Department)! Everyone had some type of input and something controversial to say about it. "The intersection it's at is too busy...It's too close to the wetlands...It's been abandoned for years; why can't the owners donate it to the town?"<br />However, we won and then, REJOICE! The little abandoned treasure, which once fell victim to a clear case of cottage abuse, was about to be rescued.<br /><br /><br /><br />We began by rolling up our sleeves and the rest, with more to come, is history! Personally, I’m really looking forward to how it evolves this year! Please enjoy these photos from the past…Then, watch it blossom!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Here are some "before" pictures of our journey.</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><br /><br /><br /><p></p><p align="center">March 2009<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4fpHxYNp8I/AAAAAAAAAJk/uFe5Am8Gh7k/s1600-h/rental7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442574994423785410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4fpHxYNp8I/AAAAAAAAAJk/uFe5Am8Gh7k/s320/rental7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4foBbK-gxI/AAAAAAAAAJc/jgl0Nhq9cO4/s1600-h/retail35.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442573785871844114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 229px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4foBbK-gxI/AAAAAAAAAJc/jgl0Nhq9cO4/s320/retail35.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4foBYE0_EI/AAAAAAAAAJU/GFXvpOJb-34/s1600-h/retail17.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442573785040747586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4foBYE0_EI/AAAAAAAAAJU/GFXvpOJb-34/s320/retail17.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4foAzfA15I/AAAAAAAAAJM/FgVMQIYgY6Q/s1600-h/retail18.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442573775218464658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4foAzfA15I/AAAAAAAAAJM/FgVMQIYgY6Q/s320/retail18.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4fm3BJY1pI/AAAAAAAAAJE/Za0cHaiP3y8/s1600-h/retail30.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442572507575539346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4fm3BJY1pI/AAAAAAAAAJE/Za0cHaiP3y8/s320/retail30.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><div align="center">Sometimes it's really good to look back and see how far we've come!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4fm19dg3uI/AAAAAAAAAIk/wYsdno1URNg/s1600-h/rental2.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-7023179765692213072010-02-21T16:15:00.000-05:002010-02-22T01:07:48.444-05:00The Good Fairy Came Last Night!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GlzXvjFOI/AAAAAAAAAIc/x3Wq8Uwwg4w/s1600-h/1st+blogger+thank+you.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440812126805628130" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 227px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GlzXvjFOI/AAAAAAAAAIc/x3Wq8Uwwg4w/s320/1st+blogger+thank+you.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">It must have happened while I was asleep...If I knew "She" was coming, I would have stayed up, like a child waiting for Santa on Christmas Eve! I have no idea how she got here, or if in fact, you could have seen her shadow magically moving across the starlit sky. All I know is that when I woke up this morning, I received a gift. Several people who are new to me, and one dear friend, left messages in response to my latest blog, "Another Bend in the Road"! All that writing, correcting and fiddling around with the posting of pictures (frustrating) reached some new blogging friends, out there in the blog-es-phere. Thank you so much!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So without further delay, I hope you enjoy the little "Thank You" card, created just for you. Once again, the "notepaper" background came from a stored picture of a piece of my painted furniture (pictured below). The directions for this little computer ditty, lie within the blog, "That was Then, and This is Now".</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Today my spirits are high, because the Good Fairy came last night! I believe! I believe! </span><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">Pieces of Dreams</span><br /><p></p><p></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjUBCP5MI/AAAAAAAAAIU/jcAneIeHbp0/s1600-h/customrose+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440809389110846658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 221px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjUBCP5MI/AAAAAAAAAIU/jcAneIeHbp0/s320/customrose+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;">Custom Order ~ Ribbons and Roses on Yellow Stripe</span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjRLPveXI/AAAAAAAAAIM/xswWmhSySOo/s1600-h/customrose+5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440809340312189298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 303px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjRLPveXI/AAAAAAAAAIM/xswWmhSySOo/s320/customrose+5.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Side View ~ Note the dry brushed legs</span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjOfLFRbI/AAAAAAAAAIE/3Ss7lkHSmYg/s1600-h/customrose+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440809294121747890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 297px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjOfLFRbI/AAAAAAAAAIE/3Ss7lkHSmYg/s320/customrose+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Top front view<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjLj2Bj2I/AAAAAAAAAH8/282oKki0eow/s1600-h/customrose+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440809243835993954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 264px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjLj2Bj2I/AAAAAAAAAH8/282oKki0eow/s320/customrose+3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Close up of chosen area</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjIhEcdGI/AAAAAAAAAH0/OfT9veZzwK0/s1600-h/custom+rose+note+paper.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440809191551562850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 227px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S4GjIhEcdGI/AAAAAAAAAH0/OfT9veZzwK0/s320/custom+rose+note+paper.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Cropped piece ~ Now it's my Notepaper!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-58795253649210743352010-02-18T15:51:00.000-05:002010-02-20T15:55:18.724-05:00Another Bend in the Road...<div align="left"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32zK43pIwI/AAAAAAAAAGY/R5er19ISMPo/s1600-h/summershop+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439700924579259138" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 314px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32zK43pIwI/AAAAAAAAAGY/R5er19ISMPo/s320/summershop+3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32tPNSa5EI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/xWRJbXQFrZw/s1600-h/summershop+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439694401709990978" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 172px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32tPNSa5EI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/xWRJbXQFrZw/s320/summershop+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">The minute I woke up on this sunny, but crispy cold, Cape Cod morning, I knew that Wayne and I would be forced to close a chapter in our lives (and I am not usually very good at that). So <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">hopefully</span></span>, this blog creation will provide a little therapy for me, as well as some interesting information for you. As a matter of fact, Wayne is at the shop we have...rather...shop we <strong>had</strong>, as I type along with my trusty assistant, Boo Boo Kitty. (We have a system, I get the ideas and Boo nudges my arm and makes clumbsy attemps at adding his two cents by "paw typing".) <strong></strong>Any way, the shop really is a sweet little place! But, like many of us, </span><span style="font-size:130%;">it has issues and a story...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">One very snowy day in February, 2009, we treated ourselves to a break and went on a quick drive. As we pulled over to answer the cell phone, we noticed that a quaint little charmer had come up for rent! We suddenly became overwhelmed with excitement because, since finding out some very threatening real estate status changes regarding the cottage we were renting in Brewster, it seemed as though instead of snow falling upon us, it was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">sparkly</span> little pieces of God's fairy dust. This had to be too good to be true! Are you kidding? We began counting all the reasons on our fingers...A few doors up from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Chatham</span></span></span></span> shopping hub, which is a big draw, especially in the summer... located next to a busy restaurant with the popular <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Chatham</span></span></span></span> A's baseball field behind...abutting a public parking area. The place seemed guaranteed to be bustling with car, bicycle and walking traffic!</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So, here we are, about one year later. As yesterday's light snow becomes dirty in some places and melts a little in others, Wayne is moving out of the place that we painstakingly repaired, painted and charmed up with creative gardening <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">vignettes</span></span>, just brimming with all the cheerful flowers Cape Cod is known for. It seemed as though each little bloom held another high hope. But as the flowers began to fade into fall, so did a business that never really blossomed into the bouquet of success it was supposed to be. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">One fall evening, I returned home with a heavy heart, after spending all day at the shop, feeling as though I had been put into an isolation booth. Since the summer help we had in our Karen's Garden Cottage Antiques shop in Brewster, had returned to her home in Colorado, my original plan was to split my time between both shops for the slower, off season. But rather than putting myself through all of that, I had (with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Wayne's</span></span></span></span> help) the presence of mind to realize it was time for me to return to my original shop, prepare for the holidays, and say good-bye to a place that disappointed me so deeply...Kind of like discovering you've been betrayed by someone you thought to be a friend.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So, you say, Karen what have you learned? Well, it's true when they say, "Things aren't always as they seem." We thought we had location, location, location. But when the trees grew full with leaves, it seem as though someone snuck in and set our scape on automatic "zoom-out"... It created problems with visibility. Also, we trusted the landlord who was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">adamant</span> that he would never sell the property. <strong>Always</strong> negotiate a lease that states that the lessor will not be able to put up a "For Sale" or "For Rent" sign until the last 30 days of giving notice for terminating your stay. In our case, the sign went up during the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">crucial</span> time we were trying to establish our business. We can't beat ourselves up over that. Also, although a bad economy can provide you with lower rent and other benefits, don't fall for it unless you are selling some sort of survival staple, i.e. food, energy, etc. Trust that little voice whispering some sort of warning in the background...If you can hear it, it's worth listening to! We should have never been two people with three shops. Somehow we forgot about a common phrase we hear and say almost everyday..."You do the math"! </span><span style="font-size:130%;">And most importantly, if you dare <strong>not </strong>to<strong> </strong>be a "Monday morning quarterback", as Wayne would say, you opt to take that opportunity to reach for the stars and it doesn't work out, don't consider it "failure"...It's a "learning curve". For after all; what are we if we aren't willing to learn?</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">In closing, here's a quote worth mentioning: "The bend in the road, is not the end of the road, unless you refuse to take the turn" ~ <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Anonymous</span></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected"></span></span></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Pieces of Dreams</span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong> </div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="left"><strong></strong></div><div align="left"></div><div align="center"><strong></strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Below is a quick little tour and a forever memory!</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32sJuB-6CI/AAAAAAAAAFw/mrhGCUO2JJM/s1600-h/summershop+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439693207908575266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32sJuB-6CI/AAAAAAAAAFw/mrhGCUO2JJM/s320/summershop+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32sJRkH-eI/AAAAAAAAAFo/uMlJ-ur6Iuk/s1600-h/aqua+furniture.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439693200267147746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 312px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32sJRkH-eI/AAAAAAAAAFo/uMlJ-ur6Iuk/s320/aqua+furniture.jpg" border="0" /></a> We repaint all the vintage wicker we find.<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32sJIpU4KI/AAAAAAAAAFg/wr7TQoXzS20/s1600-h/new+garden+cottage+6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439693197873045666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32sJIpU4KI/AAAAAAAAAFg/wr7TQoXzS20/s320/new+garden+cottage+6.jpg" border="0" /></a>Twig and floral window dressing - This was fun to create!<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pFgi3vEI/AAAAAAAAAFI/5DAbZGpFqGQ/s1600-h/shop+pics+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439689837034060866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pFgi3vEI/AAAAAAAAAFI/5DAbZGpFqGQ/s320/shop+pics+3.jpg" border="0" /></a> Sweet pieces of green and pink, including hand painted lamp shade. </div><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pFx0wiRI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/KIB72tNDApo/s1600-h/wakefield+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439689841672489234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 288px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pFx0wiRI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/KIB72tNDApo/s320/wakefield+2.jpg" border="0" /></a> Haywood Wakefield Wicker, 1870...Rare find.</div><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pFTiY69I/AAAAAAAAAFA/tXLJZcf3dS4/s1600-h/fall+chatham+7.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439689833542380498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 312px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pFTiY69I/AAAAAAAAAFA/tXLJZcf3dS4/s320/fall+chatham+7.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pFHZiA3I/AAAAAAAAAE4/WqYWzlkBL78/s1600-h/fall+chatham+6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439689830284002162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 246px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pFHZiA3I/AAAAAAAAAE4/WqYWzlkBL78/s320/fall+chatham+6.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Hand painted, yellow and white stripe corner cabinet, with various pieces of vintage wicker.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pE5_lRyI/AAAAAAAAAEw/KiBf1mhvqsI/s1600-h/fall+chatham+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439689826685503266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 259px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S32pE5_lRyI/AAAAAAAAAEw/KiBf1mhvqsI/s320/fall+chatham+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Fall 2009 </div>Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-336071906899580691.post-7342336179177693282010-02-15T18:02:00.000-05:002010-02-16T09:16:50.162-05:00That Was Then, and This is Now...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S3nXYLLyjWI/AAAAAAAAACY/zh-eNlmXneQ/s1600-h/Rilynn+Heart.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438614835345657186" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 265px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S3nXYLLyjWI/AAAAAAAAACY/zh-eNlmXneQ/s320/Rilynn+Heart.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Since discovering that I wanted to start a blog, </span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">I have spent the past few days relentlessly, fiddling around with the computer. If those of you who have really come to know me, had a crystal ball view of my compulsive struggling, you would do a double-take and think my surgery and resulting hormone changes, had left me completely mad. But guess what? In my own awkward, yet determined way, I have navigated around, learned so much, and have actually become very excited about it. A few days ago, I didn't even know how to do many of the techniques in this post...I'm actually showing off for you, and most likely you don't even know it, because I am doing it by using many of the things of you and your children use every day. But that's okay. Wayne's Antiques is open today, and I am back here in our living space, so very amused. Sort of like the cat with the tinsel, kind of thing.</span>
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<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">So, let me tell you about these latest creations of mine. The featured top photo is something that I created out of something else, which is something I love to do.</span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">It's actually a picture of a new arrival in our family, imposed upon a picture of a piece of my hand painted, Pieces of Dreams furniture. With photo programs being so different, I won't get into too much detail of how it was actually done. But perhaps this could inspire you to do something similar. You could even take a close up photo of fabric, wall paper, a bouquet of flowers, what ever tickles your fancy. After saving your photo in your computer, you pull it up and crop it into a desired shape. Then you go to another stored photo, copy it, and paste it onto your cropped creation. After that you look into your program for the "Insert" tab, hit text, pick a font and a script color, type it into the box and place it appropriately onto your photo and background. And, there you have it.</span>
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<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#006600;">You know, it's all part of a journey. Long ago and far away, I had been an administrative assistant, armed with a state of the art electric type writer and white out. Then I became a stay at home mom. My then husband was the computer genius in our family and credibly noted for his knowledge at work...The "Go to" guy. Anyway, one day I heard this alarming bit of news. It was about this terrible computer virus that was ripping its way through the New York/New Jersey area. Well, I ran to the phone and left him a voicemail. "There is a horrible computer virus going around. And, with the amount of time you are on that computer, you are going to get it and bring it home! <strong>You better spray your computer with Lysol! </strong></span><span style="color:#006600;">Please tell everyone about it, because you are all going to get sick!" There! I did my wifely duty and beyond. I have now saved the lives of my husband and everyone in his office. Later, my husband called everyone into his office, called me on the phone and said, "Okay, I want everyone to listen to this!" Much to my surprise, as my message was being played, there was an overwhelming roar of laughter, rather than cries of gratitude. Needless to say, I was better known at his office for my dinner parties and baked goods, rather than my computer expertise. But, <strong>"That was Then, and This is Now!" </strong><span style="font-family:verdana;">Pieces of Dreams</span></span></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S3nVABS3WDI/AAAAAAAAACQ/oVN3hAmP8E4/s1600-h/pansie+5.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">
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<br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438612221350860850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 207px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S3nVABS3WDI/AAAAAAAAACQ/oVN3hAmP8E4/s320/pansie+5.jpg" border="0" /></span></a></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#006600;">This is the piece I chose for its design.</span><span style="color:#006600;"> </span></span>
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S3nTbbToReI/AAAAAAAAACA/PoZv_pKMFgw/s1600-h/pansie+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438610493166601698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S3nTbbToReI/AAAAAAAAACA/PoZv_pKMFgw/s320/pansie+3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">T</span><span style="color:#006600;"><span style="font-size:130%;">he corner design of this piece is what I thought would work best.</span>
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<br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S3nTbIGaOrI/AAAAAAAAAB4/cKc0yQsXav8/s1600-h/floral+heart.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438610488010881714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 265px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-oP9OuX8dCk/S3nTbIGaOrI/AAAAAAAAAB4/cKc0yQsXav8/s320/floral+heart.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"> I used the auto-crop option in Microsoft</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Picture It, placed the shape over the</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">design, and like magic, there it was! </span><span style="color:#006600;">
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<br />Pieces of Dreamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08480325398238300929noreply@blogger.com0