It's all in the little things...

I love transforming our home into a cozy retreat for my family. I'm always looking for new ideas to add 'that special touch.' Whenever I visit somewhere particularly comfortable I try to analyze just what it was that made me feel that way. I've come to the conclusion that the secret is in the little things. That attention to detail that's so easy to let slip by in today's busy world. One thing I like to do is infuse our home with a welcoming aroma. Because of our allergies I don't care for commercially scented candles, sprays, or potpourri, so I opt for something all natural. I take bits of whatever I have in my fruit bin~apples, oranges, cranberries~whatever strikes my fancy. I combine everything  in a crock with some water and a spice or two from my cupboard and simmer them on my stovetop. Our home always smells like something scrumptious is baking in the oven, even on the days I don't bake! I'd love to hear your inspirations for creating an inviting atmosphere in your home if you wouldn't mind sharing them. I'm so happy you stopped by my blog today! I send my best wishes for a day filled with joy, love, and fun surprises! 

Simple Pleasures

Our 7 year old grandaughter spent the night with us on Saturday. The sweet girl that I love with my whole heart. Another treasured moment to tuck away and remember, because just like our children, she's growing up in the blink of an eye. When it was time for breakfast her face lit up as she asked me if I could please make 'that toast.' After thinking a moment I realized she was referring to my cinnamon toast. Something so simple makes her so happy. A few wholesome, natural ingredients. Something my mother made for me and I made for my children. 

While cinnamon toast may not be considered a balanced meal the memories we made while sharing it are priceless. My little angel helping mix the cinnamon and sugar together. Accidently opening the 'pour' end of the cinnamon instead of the 'sprinkle' and dumping in half the bottle. Her sweet self saying 'That was unexpected!" How she convinced me it is just as healthy to have lemonade for breakfast as orange juice. The smallest moments in life often become our fondest memories. I feel so blessed to have shared this time with my grandaughter. I wish you many special moments with the people you love!

 

More Ephemera from my collection!

Hi to all and happy Saturday! I'm working hard in my craft room preparing orders to ship out but couldn't resist taking a moment to share another image from my collection with you. This sweet trade card makes my heart happy. I just adore the soft vintage tones and nostalgic image. I hope it will bring a little inspiration and smile to your day as well. Best wishes to all for a fun and crafty weekend!

My Favorite Things!





Hi! I hope everyone is having a great day! I had an especially wonderful day because I had a phone call from my friend Su all the way from France! We got to catch up and talk about all things crafty. Her calls always make my day extra happy. We're under a bit of a cold spell here in Charleston and I'm still getting over this respiratory infection so I'm hibernating a little this week. I've got a pot of  corn chowder simmering on the stove and some cornbread in the oven for our supper. Our home feels so cozy. I just love being able to give my family something warm and comforting at the end of the day. 

I've spent some time in my craft room as well. Today I pulled out this book that I purchased some time ago but never got the chance to look through.

I'm a long time fan of Spellbinders dies and this book from Annies Attic is filled cover to cover with fresh ideas from several designers. It includes easy to understand instructions for each project, several special techniques, and the photos are absolute eye candy! It showcases the versatility and layering possibilities of the dies, letting you put your own spin on the designs found in the book. Well, I'm off to change another load of laundry~the gift that keeps on giving. Best wishes to all for a fun and crafty day!

Sweet Little Cupid

Today I have another vintage image to share! With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I thought this sweet little cupid might add some inspiration to your projects. Lots of love and happy crafting to all! Nancy

What are you reading?

"I enter a nightmare from which I wake repeatedly only to find a greater terror awaiting me." -Katniss Everdeen....Hi again and thanks for stopping in! Have you read any good books lately? I just finished The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I can't believe I didn't come across this book sooner. I purchased it as a Christmas gift for my son but after looking over the first page it was obvious he wasn't getting it back until I finished. And once I started reading I couldn't put it down! 

The novel transports the reader to the Empire of Panem (the United States in the not-so-distant future) and is the first book in a trilogy detailing the conflicts of Katniss Everdeen, a 16 year old girl residing in District 12. Katniss must overcome impossible odds to survive when she is forced to compete in a 'kill or be killed' reality tv competition known as the Hunger Games. If you haven't picked up this brilliant and fast paced novel you have a real treat in store! So get the book, find a cozy chair, and in the words of Claudius Templesmith, "Ladies and gentlemen, let the seventy fourth Hunger Games begin!"   

Our Family Adventure!

Hi and thanks for coming by! We just returned from our trip to Disney World. We spent a fun filled week playing in the Disney parks with our children and grandchildren, eating too much of the great food, enjoying our resort, and having an all around wonderful time. We celebrated New Year's Eve in Hollywood Studios--they throw an awesome party! The only downside is that in the beginning of the trip I came down with a bad respiratory infection so I had to spend a day in the ER and another day resting the room. But I had a lovely view, ordered room service, and read an entire book, so I made the best of it. We miss Disney already so I can't wait to start scrapbooking every magical of memory we brought home with us. It really is the happiest place on earth! Unfortunately I have to work off those pineapple floats they sell in Magic Kingdom--they're my weakness. After all the excitement of vacation I'm really happy to be back in my craft room. I've got my Ebay auctions back in full swing and soon I'll share a few new winter projects that are almost ready to go. My biggest news is the giveaway that started on New Year's Day! If you haven't entered yet there's still plenty of time. Just hop over to yesterday's post and you'll find all the details:-)) 

I'm ringing in the New Year with another 'Bag of Tags' Giveaway!

What better way to celebrate the new year than with a super fun giveaway for my wonderful subscribers here on my blog! The winner will receive 5 sets of my handmade vintage inspired gift tags. The choice of design is yours! Just hope on over to my Ebay auctions by clicking on the title of this post or the Ebay link on the right sidebar of my blog, click on 'see sellers other items', then start picking your favorites. Entering is simple~just subscribe to my blog and leave a comment under this post (along with your email address so I can contact you when you win!) This is a 2 week event with the winner being drawn on Sunday, January 15th, at 10am EST so be sure to check back for the results that morning. I truly appreciate everyone who follows my blog. I hope your holidays have been filled with love and joy and that the year ahead holds wonderful surprises and many blessings! My love to all, Nancy