MINXDEN

Bye Bye Pink Hair...

2012-01-27T14:28:00.016-06:00

Anyone recognize this?? it's from another blind box, this is what I got, and it's a cell phone carm, but I converted it....

To this!!! a cheeky lil hair clip! all I had to do was cut off the stretchy string and glue on an alligator clip! love it!

But sadly, this will be the last time you readers will see me with pink hair, it t'was short lived, for only a month I had hair so pink, pinker than the pinkest of cotton candy! A major sacrifice must be made for a promising new employment....sigh.

But the lack of pink hair won't stop me from sporting cute barrettes and kawaii hair bows! no siree!

My newest blind box surprises! the ice cream scoops were one of my top wanted! so happy!

And lastly, the newest MPD posts, I especially love the deer barrettes! I almost want them for myself, but I am sure they will sell fast.

A Pink Haired Lady Prepares To Sew Yet Again

2012-01-24T14:55:00.011-06:00

First off, I will start this post by showing off the new goods in MPD! Here are the cat suit hello kitty rings! My fave I think is the light pink on right here in front!

Then here is a pair of orange-ish pretty bows, fairy kei style! I love these!

And lastly, I have a 3 pack of pearly star earrings! these are my newest items posted, many more will be posted the rest of this week as more cabs are expected to flutter into my mailbox!

My grandma's 79th birthday is coming up soon, and I promised a pillow for her in these fabrics that she dearly loved. We were going through my vintage fabric stash last summer, and these were her fave! I just have to figure out some measurements and then assemble them together!

Recently, I have been getting into these blind boxes...for those of you who don't know what that is, let me explain...it's a little box of something kawaii related and you don't know which one you will get until you open it, and I got a blind box "yummy dessert" and a blind box "yummy breakfast" and they are keychains...well, I got the doughnut breakfast one, which I was really happy about, and the dessert one was the mystery item which is a chocolate bunt cake with icing! I love them both, and I may go to the book store and get some more, this is fun!!

Not too long ago, I got a 50 cabochon order and was surprised with these tiny cupcake cabs, but they didn't match so I couldn't make a pair of earrings, but I did have matching bow barrettes, so I cleverly glued them onto the bows and couldn't be any more happier with the results! I just ordered more cabs from this same gal, hope to get more of these to play with!

Say hello to my pink hair cousin "it"! lol just kidding!

Showing off my new yellow bow, I have a couple more bows in transit to me from another fine etsian, can't wait to show you! Today is a quiet cold cloudy day in my world, I am spiffing up the house (it tends to get somewhat out of hand when the mister and I are sick) I am at 90% from my upper respiratory infection I had, still a little stuffiness in my nose, but that is it...chao!!

New In Shop, Havin Fun With The Animals!

2012-01-20T10:43:00.012-06:00

New in my shop, these 3 cute Rilakkuma style bear rings, I cleverly named them after ice cream flavors, Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla...cute huh?

Also brand spankin new are these cute bunny studs, I think I am getting way ahead of myself with the Easter themed jewelry and it isn't even Valentine's Day yet!

Having fun with my beanie buddies my grandma gave me like 18 months ago! I love stuffed animals, even now going on 30! I think adults should be allowed to cuddle with soft stuffed plushie friends! Why do we have to grow up so fast? what's the rush? Hope you all have a great weekend, this is a cold weekend for me, so I will be snuggling indoors with my stuffed animals, live animals, and my warm hubby!

New In MPD!!!

2012-01-16T19:01:00.032-06:00

All these and many more goodies are up for grabs at www.minxdenpartdeux.etsy.com

Today And A Cool Giveaway!!

2012-01-16T08:54:00.003-06:00

Today is super busy, but I always have just enough time to check out my favorite blog sites, and low and behold, one of my favorite places to visit is having a super cool giveaway!! (go to this link: http://www.twinkiechan.com/blog/2012/01/13/lil-giveway/ ) I have already entered of course, her stuff is so adorable! Anyway, I am running my man to the doctor again, hopefully they will give him something stronger to fight this crud. I am just a little cranky and tired today since I didn't get much sleep...I will be posting most likely tomorrow because I am expecting some cool goodies in the mail! AND another blog site is featuring my minxden part deux shop and She will be doing a giveaway from something in my shop!!! So excited!! Anyway, have a great day y'alls!

In My Life Lately...

2012-01-15T17:51:00.009-06:00

Wow, I realized that my blogging has been next to non-existent for the last 2 months! Shame on me!!!

But to get you all up to speed, I have been busy busy busy!!!

Ordering cute cabs in the mail, making more jewelry...

Of course every now and then a few etsy purchases are for fun, like this squishy donut cell phone charm that smells kind of like strawberry bread!

One of the best memories of my xmas alone with the hubs in 2011 was assembling this gingerbread house on xmas afternoon while watching die hard starring bruce willis...we wanted to destroy it on new years day with a baseball bat, but we just couldn't bulldoze it! so we decided to keep it intact until it starts to "go stale"....hahaha sigh.....it was a good quiet Christmas.

All of my kawaii bows and jewelry...

My finger having a happy moment, (don't worry I wasn't flipping the camera off...)
now I am here with a very sick husband, he is so sick in fact he actually took FLMA time!!! I seriously think he may have bronchitis, or some other nasty infection in his lungs, praying it's not the start of pneumonia...he had it twice already in his lifetime....pray for his quick recovery. I was sick too, but somehow pulled out of it and very quickly too!

Foodie Eraser Rings....FAIL!!!

2012-01-04T15:24:00.010-06:00

I was shopping the other day, and came across these cute sweet treat kawaii erasers, and a thought popped into my head....why not use these for your next MPD project? how about....wait for it.......KAWAII FOODIE ERASER..... R I N G S?! I loved the idea, in fact it was quite ingenious considering the convenience of having an eraser right there at your disposal when writing things down on paper with a pencil, no prob, you just take off your ring and erase away! but when I got to gluing these bad boys up with the metal ring backings, THE HOT GLUE CAME RIGHT OFF THE ERASERS! arrrrrrrrrg! if there is any way I can assemble metal and erasers together, this could still work, but for the meantime, I have to remember my chemistry and get back to the drawing board and see what binding substance marries erasers and metal...sigh....would of been epic awesome!

anywho, I shrugged my shoulders and moved onto the next couple of MPD projects...this goth valentine's ring for instance!

and these yummy looking mini microscopic ice cream scoops turned into cute earring studs! I am only charging 2 bucks per pair! and these scoops came all the way from Singapore! I AM GOING GLOBAL!!!

One of my latest etsy purchases...the cute fairy kei star bracelets! my favorite ones ever!!!

My sweet little wise old lady kitty, "Ashes" giving me well deserved lovins...

Still goin pink, still goin strong.

Kawaii Time All The Time!!!!

2012-01-02T12:59:00.009-06:00

Even though the last couple days my hair faded drastically from a purple fuchsia color to this bright neon pink with cotton candy pink highlights, I really like this more faded look actually! That and I use the dove brand color treatment shampoo/comditioner.

Haha, the only purply part you see left is the small section right below my hair bows I am wearing!

I am just loving the look I am sportin today, jewelry and all!

Here's my various collection of cabochons I use to make my minxdenpartdeux kawaii jewelry! I have quite a bunch! I knew that pyrex dish would come in handy!

How many of you love happy ice cream cones? I generally don't care too much for ice cream. I found out I may be in fact lactose intolerant...sucks!

Strawberry ice creams scoops, anyone?

But I am never Hello Kitty intolerant! Hope my readers had a great new years! How did I spend my new years you all ask? well, it wasn't the greatest, got real tired new years eve and seriously fell asleep at 8pm! and the next day we went to cracker barrel, but had to drive straight home immediately thereafter due to "digestive issues" and then proceeded to stay in all day napping and watching movies, at least my hubby had new years day off...he doted on me all day yesterday. This morning, marks the 5th anniversary of my grandpa's death, I still and will always miss him, was a little sad while getting a few groceries, so my sweet dear hubby got me some cheery hearts and rainbow stickers (I love me stickers) and some cute barrettes. Hopefully tomorrow will be a little better, but I always wonder what my gramps would think of me if he saw me today 5 years later? well he probably would of chuckled at my pink hair! hehe Love you gramps and miss you!

2011-A Year Of My Life.....

2011-12-31T11:25:00.004-06:00

Me....A year ago today (12/31/10) So much has happened in one year's time, I go from this....

To this!!! I can't believe it myself, how much I have changed no only on the outside, but on the inside as well....let's sum up 2011, a crazy year of my life, shall we?

January 2011:

Was really into pyrex/antiquing...was off my cane and got to take off that huge boot (had a damaged tendon in my right foot) Minxdenpartdeux was born on January 18th! (my other etsy shop)

February 2011:

My hometown saw record high temps (75 degrees on valentine's day)

March 2011:

Worked part time at a retail store, started to feel sick with extreme pains in my chest/sides...

April 2011:

Started making vintage fabric pillows and posting them in Minxden...

May 2011:

My pains and illnesses were getting out of hand and the culprit was my gallbladder, so on May 16th, I went in for my very first surgery and got it removed, recovered as normal...my niece and nephew were later baptized at the end of the month.

June 2011:

Celebrated my 3rd wedding anniversary, on my wedding anniversary the temp in my hometown reached 100 degrees, a new record was set!

July 2011:

One of the hottest heat spells in my home town started in July, lasted for almost 2 whole months! my cooling bill was through the roof!

August 2011:

My cat was real sick, almost died...started having major problems with my car.

September 2011:

Became a foster parent to my cat Ashes...saw the blue angels at an airshow for the first time on 9/11 very breath taking and yes got one of the worst sunburns of my entire life!

October 2011:

Turned 29. Started looking for a new home to live in.

November 2011:

Moved into my new awesome home in a new town too...started the kawaii jewelry in minxdenpartdeux...became kawaii myself!

December 2011:

Spent my first xmas alone with the hubby, dyed my hair pink!

What a crazy year, wonder what 2012 will bring me? we'll see I guess! Happy new year everyone!

And Winter Came...

2011-12-16T17:40:00.006-06:00

Sorry I haven't been blogging so much lately, I have been so tired from this recent move, slowly putting things away where they belong, updating both shops, aiding my hubby's bad back, preparing for the holidays, so much to do! I did find some time to capture pretty pictures of my first snow at my new casa! hope you all are having a great holiday season, I will be spending Christmas alone this year (my hubby is working that day)...it will be a tough rough xmas, but I am sure I will manage, maybe I can actually try to sleep in that day, who knows?

New In Minxdenpartdeux! (MPD)

2011-12-01T14:01:00.013-06:00

Happy Panda Rings

Pink and White Lollipop Ring

Cute Kitschy Deer Rings

Curious Fawn Rings

Candied Resin Bunny Ring

Pink Haired Girl Ring

Yummy Popsicle Rings

Hello Kitty Rings

Mini Heart and Bow Pink Ring

You Have A Big Heart Ring

Strawberry Cream Cake Slice Ring

Assorted Sweet Treat Rings

So many to choose from! I have been busy all morning making these and posting them on etsy! There will be more where that came from, I am hoping to make barrette sets soon!

Bits And Pieces...

2011-11-30T14:59:00.013-06:00

I am now in my new home. Here are glimpses of it! Hope you all enjoy!

More Pillow Lady Facts! These Are Really In Depth!

2011-11-17T22:49:00.002-06:00

AHHH!!! so my hubby disconnected the TV so I am now obviously going through a netflix withdrawal. So to cure my boredom, I will leave with you all some more really interesting facts about me, the pillow lady and creator of minxden!

1. I once had pink hair, my next color choice soon may become aqua!

2. I once choked on a biscuit when I was 8, but I was able somehow to swallow it.

3. I am currently considering joining a roller derby team, since I have over 20 years of roller skating experience under my belt...you all want to know my "bad girl roller derby name"? "Knitter The Hitter"! haha! love it!

4. I have fostered my first cat and love being a foster cat mom!

5. One of the last posts like these with previous facts, I stated that I was a surgeon's virgin (no surgeries performed on my body) well folks, I lost my surgery virginity last May with a cholesysectomy (gallbladder removal) I now have 4 small laproscopic scars along my torso and the biggest one is an inch long just inside my belly button.

6. My most favorite sushi food type is salmon roe! I love the texture and saltiness!

7. I am a closeted kawaii freak! I love all kawaii things since I was in high school, like hello kitty, kero keroppi, badtz maru, you name it!

8. I have made and sold over 1500 pillows in 3 years time for minxden!

9. my new favorite tea is oolong tea, aiding in my very sensitive digestion

10. I am no longer a night owl, I now can't stay up past midnight anymore.

11. I still don't eat my pizza crusts!

12. I have the phobias as follows: fear of snakes, mice, spiders, death, losing loved ones, and my biggest one which is called nictophobia- the fear of pitch blackness or the dark. sudden power outages at night is my absolute arch enemy!

13. I believe that cats that sleep next to you actually protect your dreams by giving you good ones. well i read that in a book.

14. seeing a black cat cross your path on any given day is bad luck, but i read that if a black cat is seen on a bride's wedding day then her marriage is destined to last a long time and full of good luck, and guess who saw a black cat on her wedding day? ME!!! It was a stray near the church where I got married! yay!

15. Grandfather clocks used to scare me when I was little.

16. My new dream vacation is Tokyo, Japan!

17. I have feet problems, every now and then my tendons get over stretched and I have to walk with a cane and a huge boot on whichever foot is giving me problems!

18. People have nick named me and my hubs "the next hank and peggy hill" because we physically resemble them both!

19. I love it more when my hubby grows a beard every november for "no-shave november" maybe it's because the men in my family have always been clean shaven.

20. If anyone sends me a card for any occasion, or a hand written letter, I save it and I have a huge box full of them!

21. I love to eat raw oysters on the half shell but i absolutely hate them cooked!

Dwell La Minx; My New Dwelling Unfinished

2011-11-15T08:17:00.009-06:00

Welcome to the new Minxden! I thought I would share some more pictures of my new place, a place I can truly call home since I left my parent's nest several years ago! This is my nest, I am the queen of my castle!

Here is the living room, very big and spacious! my parakeet boys will be living in here.

Of course the minxden studio, I said before the walls will go from "1980's neon purple" to a bright cheery color of what is called "Banana Peel Yellow"...I will be spending 80% of my time in here.

Here is our bedroom...the color will change from Peach to a light blue...

Here is the laundry room/mud room, the color will change from a polar ice blue to a darker grass green, still working out the kinks of the exact color though...

Here's my kitchen!!! very big too! the color will be a slate grey!

And here is the lovely bathroom, the color will be a pink of some kind, not sure what shade to go with yet, I have always wanted a pink bathroom.

Hope you all have fun touring my new pad! just to forewarn my readers, the next 2-3 weeks my posts will be very few and far between since we are moving in 10 days, my internet will be shut off and I will have to go with a completely new and different internet provider, this may take a while...buh bye! (for now)

Kawaii Days, A Special Birthday Shoutout, And The Future Of Minxden!!

2011-11-13T13:50:00.014-06:00

Salutations to all! I want to share with you my "Kawaii Day", which was last Friday...Kawaii Day should be pretty self explanatory, it's my one day a week where I do everything "Kawaii" or indulge in my favorite cultures (oriental cultures)...After eating a nice hot bowl of Fu (Vietnamese noodle soup) at Pho Nugyen, we hop over right next door to the Vietnamese Food market to get some yummy goodies from their side of the globe! Since I am not cooking o much right now (most cooking stuff is packed in boxes) I am taking on a mover's diet of fast easy convenient snacky foods, so I chose all that you see here! They are generally low in calories and very high in flavor! Plus, in high stressful times, my appetite always diminishes, so these small portions keep my tummy pretty happy! Let' break down the goodies I got!

Ahhhhh oolong tea.....aids in digestion (I have many digestion issues since I am sans a gallbladder) I was very shocked to find this tea at the very cheap price of $2.99! Oolong tea is usually very expensive, like 25 bucks per ONE OUNCE! So by golly I got me a box, and it tastes great! for those who have digestive issues, had their gallbladders taken out, drink this tea, it does wonders for me!

Of course if anyone knows me well enough, seaweed is my version of crack! I can never get enough, never eat enough! What you see here are dried seaweed strips in regular and in barbecue flavor...mmmmm so so yummy!!!

These are really good, does taste strongly of strawberry, and they are alot smaller than appearing in the picture, maybe no bigger than the palm of my hand...

This is flower candy....yes they have floral notes with a slight sugary taste. They are surprisingly not bad at all!

An old time favorite, you can get these pretty much anywhere, and pink strawberry is my favorite! mmmmm gotta love strawberry icing covering a biscuit stick!

I absolutely went nuts for these!! little biscuits filled with either strawberry (pictured here) chocolate (already demolished through) and vanilla which I haven't tried yet...but warning, they are very filling, just a few will go a long way!

Had these many times before, they are crab chips! they do taste of seafood, slightly spicy and salty....they are like pringles, you can't eat just one!

Tapioca pearls! I love these in bubble tea, but I am knownto savour them with honey and/or yogurt. They only take 5 minutes to cook in boiling water!

Peace to all of my readers! hope you all enjoyed raiding my kitchen cabinets!

Here is a sneak peak of the new minxden studio in my new house! I will be completely moved in in about 12 days! The walls will be changing to what is called "banana peel yellow"...can't wait!

A very special birthday shout out goes to none other than my baby sister, Ally who gave me the title of a sister 19 years ago on this very day! She has been a part of my life for 19 years and I cannot fathom the thought of being siblingless! I love you Allycat, my ray of sunshine!

It's Raining, It's Pourin' Everything I Ate Today Was Foreign!

2011-11-08T15:58:00.004-06:00

Today was a cold dreary rainy day, the rain will turn into 1-3 inches of snow tonight! I am debating on braving the elements tonight to get some boneless bourbon chicken nuggets (something I really crave right now) but I don't really feel like leaving and I am so not in the mood for greasy pizza, can't seem to handle it well anymore now that I am sans a gallbladder! But today was very productive with the mister, we set out to pay the car/renter's insurances, went xmas shopping for the little girl we selected (the needy children of lincoln) she wanted hello kitty stuff and art supplies! how fun! and then my hubby took me out for some yummy sushi, and of course I had to have some salmon roe! love it! And we popped next door to rocket fizz to pick out some yummy/yucky treats! one of said treats you see pictured above! I also tried some bacon flavored soda, and wow, that was disgusting! then we went grocery shopping and picked up my P.O.S. car and drove home! now I am sitting in a quiet house, hearing the winds howl outside and distant trains blowing their horns, enjoying my ramune soda, and prosciutto slices.

I haven't been very productive as far as packing today...I really could use a day off from it, and do I really have to go outside and get those boxes out of the trunk of my car?? it's damn cold outside!

Hectic In The House Of Knitter....

2011-11-07T14:06:00.002-06:00

I will come out and say it now first off, I apologize for my absence and lack of photos! If you just tuned in, all you need to do is refer to the last post before this one...I am now in the heap of it all and moving into another house....Everything was finalized as of last Saturday, the lease was signed, deposit was paid, and paint samples were chosen. Really the only color my hubs and I argued over was what kind of yellow to make the #2 bedroom....We finally agreed on "Banana Peel Yellow". I finally selected the perfect shower curtain! whew! glad that was overwith too! But of course, being me and the queen of not so good luck, my car is giving up the ghost! PERFECT TIMING! So now instead of dropping 2K to fix it (which in a few short months, we will turn around to fix it again) we decided to scrap it for parts and wait till February or March to put down a down payment to finally get that new car we so desperately needed! So from now until then, I will be without a car! ahhhh! the last time I was without a car was before I started driving at 16! well, I still have my trusty pink electra townie bike, and my hub's truck....but I will be moving to a small town outside of Lincoln and I may need to find at least a part time job there or at least within biking distance....thank the good lord there is a post office there in this small town I am moving to, just 4 blocks from where I live...a grocery store 5 blocks away, and the police station is only a block away! what great comfort! And also, my father in law and bro in law are coming up the weekend after thanksgiving to help us move, since we are not short one car, we do need all the help we can get! Now all i really need is more boxes! ahhhhh! you wouldn't recognize the inside of my house right now, boxes everywhere, things all strung about, and I am going nuts since I put my crafting supplies away in boxes....EVEN NOW I NEED TO CRAFT!!! But right now I have Nat King Cole's Christmas album playing, and all 3 of my furry lady feline friends are sound asleep. I envy them all. Oh how I wish I could sleep like they do since the last few nights have been very restless and very little sleep was had.

The Den Switching Shall Commence!

2011-10-28T12:02:00.011-05:00

Well, let me get right to the knitty gritty of things...yes, I am moving, and yes I found a home! It's that pink house I was telling you all about a couple week ago! Everything is finalized, and the house closes on the 3rd, and that's when we can sign a lease and start the moving process! However, I have 32 days to get everything in order and packed for the hopefully smooth transfer. So I obviously have my work cut out for me!

So I will be saying my goodbyes to this minxden studio and soon enough you will see pics of the new and improved minxden studio! (please excuse the clutter!)

My newest book find, this one has so many projects, I could be forever occupied during the upcoming winter months to come!

Oh how I wish I could get my hands on these fabrics! Look how purdy! The photographer did a great job shooting these, this was on the inside cover of the book!

And look! this book came with these lovely decals!

What's this???? new fabric???? look again!

It's my new chair! (well old, but repurposed with newer flowery fabric!) I have always wanted a small chair like this, now I finally got one!

It's very comfy too!

So much on my mind....

However, I am so happy to be upgrading to a lovely 1950's rancher style home THAT'S PINK!! On my deathbed someday, I can officially say that I once lived in a pink house! (That is seriously on my bucket list) I can't wait to take pictures of it and show you all! I think I finally have a place to proudly call home after 7 years and 4 different residences later...and yes, it's in a small quiet town just outside of Lincoln, it's not a far move, but just far enough to feel that I am escaping the loud noises of the city and settling in a quiet sleepy town...I need the peace and quiet.

On This Sunday...

2011-10-23T12:39:00.010-05:00

Can it be?????

Oh me oh my! I tried at making my very first yoga mat bag and it turned out great! I used no pattern at all, and it only took about 30 minutes! So tonight as I go to my yoga class with my friend, Casey, I will be proudly showing off my new craftsmanship! weeee! and yes, I used all vintage fabrics to make this!

Just to show you, yes the entire yoga mat fits, with 2 inches to spare! I just got the mat too, my color of choice was a pretty plum purple!

Also spoiled myself with some more bird ornaments! I sent some also to my mum and sister! they loved them! I will be making many more of these in the next few weeks to post in MPD!

Ahhhhh.....vintage fabrics.

I can't believe it, I JUST CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!! I am now a proud new owner of the traditional Kit Kat Klock! I have always wanted one, even it was a new model based on a vintage one...I had a grand opportunity to purchase one back in Manhattan almost 10 years ago when I was a freshman in college, A VINTAGE AQUA ONE, but decided against it, when I though 30 bucks was too much money for a clock...now I would kick myself in the pants, but oh well, I have this one now, and my hubby surprised me with it for a belated birthday present, (took a while to get shipped here) thank you knitty kitty!!!

My real live furry warm "Kit Kats" hehe

Have a good blessed Sunday!

It's Cold Outside, But Warm Inside...

2011-10-18T16:47:00.002-05:00

This post isn't full of photos today, but I did want to share this one, got some really cool paints last night, and decided to give a few of my birds a face lift! (well the cutesy ones anyhow). It is pretty chilly out and of course the October winds are howling fiercely outside, making the air feel even cooler! Took a trip to the craft store last night and stocked up!! And a pair of knitting needles, and some reproduction vintage fabric later, I am crafting away on these chilly fall days! Its times like these I am happy to not have an outside job, but to be locked and tucked away indoors, crafting till my heart's content. Tonight will pretty much be the same scenario, only I will also be officially on the clock as I am to complete 2 etsy pillow orders as they are shipped out tomorrow. I will also be crafting in the kitchen trying out a Tuna Mac and Cheese casserole recipe! I have been craving more of the heartier dishes lately anyway. Hope you all are enjoying this week, I sure am! Chao!

The things that make me feel warm and cozy!

1. my slippers!

2. Tuna Cheesy Casserole!

3. Hubby took me to Pepe's for some vegan Mexican!

4. Ordered 3 more vintage fabrics in the mail!

5. My hubby bought me something special for my bday, can't wait to see what it is when it arrives!

6. Hanging out with my furrbabies tonight! meow!

Welcome To The World Of Fabrics!

2011-10-16T15:38:00.016-05:00

WHAT A WORLD, WHAT A WORLD! LOOKY WHAT I HAVE HERE!!! This was one fabric order, believe it or not!

I love them all, and will have many uses for them in the future indeed! so many pillows to be made, maybe some aprons perhaps? definitely a cheeky bag or two, or 10! I am so in love with vintage fabrics, I never knew how much I would love them until now! As little as 2 years ago, if I took a quick peek into my future in 2011, I wouldn't have recognized this love affair I have with these beauties! 2 Years ago, I was on the hunt for new designer polished cotton prints, and now I find myself rummaging through flea markets, antique stores/malls, yard sales being the huntress that I am searching for that fabric at the end of my own rainbow!

Which brings me to my next subject matter at hand, BIRD ORNAMENTS! it is that time of the year, the colder air has arrived, the snows not too far in the not so distant future, I make the never ending decision to select the one bird ornament to purchase from another great etsian. So pictured above is my choice of 2011 to hang onto my tree this year for Xmas! She was born in the U.K. and flew all the way over here to the USA to live the rest of her days with me in the cold northern plains. The added bonuses? she is filled with yummy smelling lavender and made from a vintage fabric! (squeal!) I am very satisfied with my choice!

Let's not forget about the closest holiday coming up, Halloween! My 29 year old body has some wear and tear in it, but I still possess the child in me that still loves to buy the clever little gourds sold every year, and of course gives them personality! 29 going on 10.

These goodies are the flea market finds from yesterday, 2 matching vintage pillowcases AND a butt-load of this one print of vintage heavy weight fabric! all of this for only $1.50!!!! wow!!!!

TASSELS!!!

Ashes says "whaddup!" the first cold snap is on it's way from good ol' Canada and will be here by the mid week! the low will be 28 degrees, the high only 48! that's heater weather! If any of my beloved readers are in this cold snap as well as me, please stay warm!

In October's Crisp Day, Some Birdies Flew In To Stay!

2011-10-14T16:32:00.008-05:00

Gee, what have I been up to lately?

Making these of course! my newest design of bird ornaments! I will sell 3 to a set for maybe a dirt cheap 4 bucks? and I also made some for myself too, I know Halloween isn't even here yet, but I am already looking forward to Christmas and making the ornaments for MPD!

Thus, this fabric pile is about to get a whole lot bigger since I am expecting a huge vintage fabric order in TODAY!

Wanted to get some good shots of my 3 babies...(top to bottom) Sabrina, Ci-Ci, and Ashes. Late afternoons are the greatest since I get to watch them basque in the sunlight, and sleep! hope you all are having a great start to the weekend!

UPDATE!! The house hunt is going good, found a real good one in Waverly, AND IT'S A SALMON PINK COLOR!!! how awesome!! I call it "The Salmon House"...

Ashes is pretty much completely at home, she now tries to play with her new sisters, she sleeps pretty much anywhere she desires, she is such a joy to have here with us!

Sabrina's ear is pretty much healed!

Happy Tuesday To Me!!!

2011-10-11T16:57:00.013-05:00

What a happy Tuesday indeed! My mailbox was full of birthday goodies from friends in 3 different countries! So tonight, I will be sipping some yummy dragonwell green tea, and enjoy my new goodies, and maybe order a pizza. Heck, why not! you only live once, right? Today was a pretty tranquil day, here are the good things as follows:

1. slept in this morning until 10am!

2. hubby took me out to Grateful Greens Bistro and I got a yummy fresh healthy salad!

3. expecting 4 more etsy orders in the mail!

4. hubby will have a 3 day weekend this week!

5. another omaha day trip coming up in 2 days!

6. volunteering at the Meow and Chow bingo night for The Cat House this weekend!

7. creative streak is back in full swing!

8. My friend gets back this Friday from Ohio, missed her!

9. Currently surrounded by 3 sleepy purring warm kitties!

Fun In The Studio!

2011-10-10T15:41:00.010-05:00

Had some one on one time in my studio today!

This little pillow I am holding will be posted in Minxden soon, it's very tiny and dainty!

Finally completed the first few bird ornaments, they are actually more time consuming than you realize!

Here is my most interesting exotic rare treat! These are rice cakes, but very different since they are Vietnamese, they taste like strawberry of course, but the texture threw me as I bit into one, it's like a cross between a marshmallow and already chewed bubble gum! The filling's texture was even more hardcore with the texture of vasoline! Strawberry flavored vasoline that is! There are 6 to a box for $1.79 and was shocked to see that they are pretty high in calories, (360 each) they aren't that big!

Pretty Ashes!

Giving her a kiss.....

HAPPY MANIC MONDAY!

Here We Go Again!

2011-10-09T12:52:00.004-05:00

Here we go again......IT'S MOVING TIME!!!! The mister and I are planning another move, only to another house in a different part of town, time for upgrading! Although, moving is very stressful, time consuming, and all that packing! grrrrrr!

So now I have to go to my drawing board and think of ways to gather cardboard boxes, make a system, decided what goes with us, or what goes to goodwill, so much to do in these next few weeks to come! wish me and my hubby luck, and pray for our sanity, we need it!

No Hiding From 29 Now!

2011-10-07T17:04:00.012-05:00

All glamified and ready to celebrate my 29th year!

The table nicely set courtesy of my man! what was on the menu? a very hearty wild mushroom Hungarian soup, rolls, danish cheeses, and cherry pie! it was all so yummy!

Here are some birthday goodies! On the far right, was a basket of goodies my friend, Casey put together for me, her own home made lavender soap, incense, knitted face wash cloths, an eye pillow for my barometric pressure headache which I get frequently, and a lil bag of lavender! from my Mum, Dad, and sister: a cheese plate set complete with a cheese knife! some Mexican hot cocoa, stationery, and old navy gift card, and some of the cutest and sweetest cards ever! Thanks mom, dad, ally, and casey!

Remember I said in my last post I was making a project with these 2 fabrics, well for once, it was not a pillow....here have a closer look...

I stitched out this phrase! It was revealed to me by another good friend's blog, and it really got to me, so I wanted to make something out of it! One of my most favorite proverbs to date!

My newest boots from Old Navy!

More fabrics are on their way to my mailbox, this stack will totally increase in size!

Newest Halloween decoration, a day of the dead skull candle holder from Earthbound! My hubby picked this one out! we will put this outside closer to Halloween and hopefully it won't be as windy like it is right now! Also severe thunderstorms are expected to make an encore appearance tonight and into tomorrow!

Now I am looking 29 for sure, I remember at 19 looking so young and in my prime, now I just look older and wiser too...hope you all have a good weekend!

The first goodies of being 29 are as follows:

1. Mint chocolate wall flower plug ins from Bath and Body Works, they seriously smell like girl scouts thin mints!

2. lots of etsy purchases makin their way to me!

3. rain!!!

4. new cool fall/winter clothes!

Happy Birthday Eve To The Young Woman Who Knits, Sews, And Frolics With Her Cat Kids

2011-10-04T13:37:00.011-05:00

The hardest part about being the owner of Minxden?? The moment, I finish with all of these beautiful pillow creations, I have to detach myself from loving them and giving them my own home...but with these vintage fabric pillows especially, it has been so hard to set them in a lonely dark box and have them make a flight/bumpy truck ride to their new adopted homes. Most are highly appreciated and instantly loved in their new homes, some are given as gifts to other loved ones and friends of theirs, but there are those select few that were sent back to me, which is ok, but I have heard that very few unfortunate lady pillows get thrown out in the trash, unloved and unwanted. This makes me so sad, my creations being thrown out. The vintage fabric pillows I have been so attached to, if they don't get sold in a 4 month time frame, then they either get adopted by me, or given as gifts to others I know. This one pictured above is my favorite one, it's been in my shop for 3 months now, even though she has been featured in many etsy treasuries, no one wants to adopt her, so I am very tempted to just keep her here among all of my other pillow friends and vintage notions, of course being snuggled with my cats as they rest on top of them in the lazy afternoons! What do you all think? should I just keep her, or have her stay in my shop just 4 more weeks until her listing expires in hopes that someone out there fancies her and wants to love her?

Looks like my t-shirt with vintage fabric on it has fared well over the months...

October is the month that officially kicks off the cold season here in Nebraska, that also means knitting season too! Although, the temps usually climb into the mid-high 80's right before or on my birthday...every year, never fails.

My next new project, it involves sewing and needle pointing! Hint: this project was inspired by an Irish proverb I recently read on another dear friend's blog, can't wait to finish it!!!

These pillow ladies await a new home!

Some of my handmade bird ornaments I bought from many other etsians!

Thinking of being 29...

Just one more year in my 20's....

Trying to hide from 30....haha

Unbirthday, schmun-birthday!!!

1. haha my 29th birthday is tomorrow!

2. It's also a dear friend's birthday tomorrow as well!

3. My kitties are behaving well!

4. Expecting some packages in the mail from friends and family!

5. Ordered some yummy vintage fabrics from the UK!!!

6. Hubby has three days off starting tomorrow!

7. Excited to get a bunch of happy birthday phone calls!

8. Spending tomorrow night with friends too!

9. Hanging out with the cool cats at the cat house!

Wowzers! what a day planned out for me tomorrow! Thursday may be used to sleeping it off all day!!!

The Month Of The Hunter's Moon

2011-10-01T17:38:00.005-05:00

October is here. Oh how I love the month of October! That means cooler weather, my birthday, a friend's birthday (which is also on my birthday!) Halloween, pumpkins, apple cider! I am so glad I was born in October! Well my birthday is originally in 4 days, I will be turning 29. I still am very excited for my birthday to arrive every year, I love the phone calls and cards I receive, and the occasional care package. My hubby already gave me my present, it's a necklace with an "L" on it! (L for Lauren) I love it! My hubby got the day off, and the next 2 days after that!

UPDATE! Ashes is going so well adjusting to the Knitter household, all of the cat house staff showed their appreciation to me, it really got me choked up when they all nick name Ashes "The Miracle Cat" they think I am an angel swooping Ashes off her feet and giving her the home and love she deserves, and rightfully she does!

I am currently sick with a nasty infection in my digestive tract, had a shot of antibiotics, doing a little better now, but not yet out of the woods...

Sabrina (my tabby kitty) had her most recent vet visit last Thursday and the tumor shrank, but her ear is still infected, pray that she gets better please!

Time To Play Catch Up!

2011-09-27T15:33:00.014-05:00

Me oh my! so sorry for my lack of posting lately! I have been busy as a bee, accepting a new family member, sick (and still am), and sewing away till heart's content. I would like to introduce this sweet kitty pictured above! This is Ashes. She is 13, but full of life and energy for her older age. I have never in my life (except for the old kitty, Scarlett living at home with my parents and sister) have seen such a humble grateful cat like her! At the shelter, she would always hang her beautiful head low and never made eye contact with anyone. But now, I see her beautiful face all the time as she looks up at me with loving eyes. I feel like I did God himself proud by taking in one of his helpless creatures. Her previous owner, from what I understand, just surrendered her after 12 years. To me that's sad, like if I let go Ci-Ci and Sabrina after a 12 year companionship! I could never do something like that. But little Ashes now has a second chance and will get the love she deserves!

She loves hanging out in my studio! That's where she sleeps!

Here's my Ci-Ci! had to get updated pics of my babies!

And my Brie Cheese! keep her in your prayers again cause she now has a tumor in her ear, it was infected, but antibiotics have dramatically helped the swelling and infection go down, so her next check up is this Thursday, hopefully the tumor itself shrunk in size and may not need to be operated on for a little while...

My newest pillow made! An autumn themed pillow! I love the colors, and it's so soft!

These vintage fabrics will become pillows in minxden soon!

This piece of vintage fabric was another freebie! I love it!

Made these new curtains also for my studio!!!

What's that draped across Ashes's back? well stayed tuned, it will be my next new project!

Of course here is my new haircut, my hair is a little messy since I didn't style if after my shower, but I like it, and I dyed it back to my normal hair color too...I have been sick with a pretty bad bladder infection, and today developed a raw sore throat, even on antibiotics too...hopefully this sore throat is just a cold thing, nothing more since my birthday is 8 days away, I have a lot planned next week for my birthday!

Despite being sick, the good things for me lately:

1. First visit to Teavana, an authentic chinese like tea shop, got some dragonwell green tea leaves (3 ounces for about 15 bucks) it's so good and only steeps 45-60 seconds!

2. My 29th birthday coming up!

3. In kitty heaven!

4. working on a 3 pillow order tonight!

A Little Lady In Waiting Will Finally Come Home...

2011-09-18T11:23:00.008-05:00

As of 9pm last night, my world was turned completely upside down, but in a good way! (hmmm, maybe I should say right side up?) As I was sitting on the couch with the TV softly on, working my blanket stitch on these lovely birds, my cell phone rang...an unfamiliar number was showing on the caller I.D. was I decided to answer anyway, and it was indeed the phone call I had expecting all weekend! So my good news is this...I AM A NEW FOSTER MOM TO A SWEET LITTLE CAT NAMED ASHES! This is excellent news as I was ever so eager to have her a part of my life! She is a 13 year old domestic shorthair very sleek attractive smokey grey cat, thus the name "Ashes"...Back in May, I stopped by the Cat House for my volunteer orientation, I look in this space where Ashes was living in and we locked eyes and instantly had this unbreakable bond. After our orientation was overwith, we were told that we could pet some of the kitties and I went straight for Ashes. She hopped into my lap and I held her for a good half hour...so for the last 4 months, she has endured a lot! But her health has steadily increased and is ready for home life! now I was told to prepare to have her for the rest of her life (could be only a couple years to a few years) I could ending up giving her hospice care, I am prepared for that. My purpose was to give her the love she so much deserves, a loving home, peaceful environment, a windowsill to sit upon and look out of, and snuggles at night time with the TV on. Every cat deserves that! I am so blessed to meet her, fall in love with her, and now finally taking her into my home! Thank you God and The Cat House Staff!

At first, she will be crashing in my work studio...I was told she likes many cozy spots to sleep, so I made my office chair one of those designated spots...but after a few days, she will have full access to my whole house but the studio will be her sleeping/relaxing chamber.

Here is a little feeding mat I made for her food and water dishes (which I still have to acquire) she is on a raw food diet and I need to get several glass dishes for that...

Here is another bed for her to sleep in, however, my Ci-Ci will get a little jealous I am sure...they will all have to learn that sharing is caring! Something my parents taught me and my sister...

And I have to add personalization too! She is going to know that from the very start, she will belong here and that she is loved.

Here she is!!! Sweet little Ashes! Isn't she beautiful?! This is a picture of her off the cat house website! but in the very near future, there will be many pics of her taken by me!!!

It's pouring outside, the weather is outstanding! so I will continue to finish cleaning and "nesting" for my new foster furrbaby! Hope you all have a blessed Sunday!

The Young Woman's Feet Are Frozen, But She Doesn't Mind

2011-09-16T16:38:00.011-05:00

I'd like to open this post by showing you all one of my most favorite textile pieces in my collection that my friend made! This one reminds me of Autumn...Autumn is indeed fragile, the conditions have to be just so for her to be set in motion...the trees are many of colors here in my part of the world, the air is indeed equipped with a chill, and my home is full of the intoxicating smell of pumpkin spice via candles...

See what I mean about the turning trees? now it's visible! I love fall and that season is always welcome for an early visit!

I brought my maisons downstairs and set them nicely into my studio...

What a surprise these were, my grandma gave me a bunch of cake decorating supplies last year in the summer and just now opened the last box and found these doilies pinned onto Styrofoam "mock cakes" so I unpinned them and took them upstairs. I'm not so sure what to do with them yet, but I always come up with a solution!

These unfinished pillows will make their way into minxden sometime soon!

Did I mention that it was cold enough to wear socks around the house?? here are my knitted socks, the poor dears haven't been worn since March!

One of my most favorite parts of an art piece my friend made for me....

Remember the pom-pom garland I made? remember when I placed it on top of my parakeets' cage? yeah well one morning in the not so distant past, I was unpleasantly surprised by shreads of the pom poms all over inside their cage, especially the lime green one...the little buggers tore some apart! so now it hangs on my studio door, out of reach of critters who walk and fly alike!!!

UPDATE!! I have some very good news to share with you all, but I don't want to say it yet, something has to be finalized first! I am soooo excited!!!!! (and no, it's not a baby....I probably had some of you going there for a second, I know my aunt is an avid reader, she probably held her breath for a second! haha!) but I promise you, the news is great! happy weekend everyone!

God Bless The USA!

2011-09-12T18:06:00.008-05:00

On September 11, 2011 I went to an airshow. I saw many great sights that day, while in the back of my mind knowing thousands of innocent Americans died on this day 10 years ago. So much has happened in the last 10 years, if I saw this very picture 10 years ago, I wouldn't been able to recognize myself, but I would recognize that plane behind me, Me and "FiFi" reunited once again after almost 17 years! First saw her at 12 years old with my dad, mom, and sister...now with my husband in a different state.

For the first time, I saw The Blue Angels soaring overhead...it almost took my breath away.

"FiFi" the B-29 resting and seeing this plane reminded me of a time of peace, a good economy...

I watched an F-18 Hornet break the speed of sound...

But when this happened, my heart pounded with rage towards those who took all of the innocent 10 years ago, I watched so many people die on TV, THOSE LEAPING TO THEIR DEATHS WHEN JUMPING FROM THOSE BUILDINGS. That flag still flies in the wind, we are still here, we prevailed, and we all came together and promised those souls lost on that day, that they didn't die in vain. We sent brave men and women overseas to fight and defend us, for our freedom, our right to live, our right to persevere. When I saw this flag and singing loudly our national anthem, I wept warm salted tears. I felt my husband grab my hand, and then a perfect stranger next to me grabbed my other hand...I looked around me and everyone was holding hands with someone. We were one and united. Americans with the same hurt, rage, and pride flowing through our red hot veins. That stranger next to me holding my hand was no stranger, he was a fellow American, a brother, a friend. We are all Americans. In a free country.

God bless us all, everyone.

As The Grass Grows, The Grasshopper Scopes Out A Broken Toe...

2011-09-08T16:41:00.009-05:00

Sorry for my longer absence, but I am back posting! I have made 3 more sets of these mini letter lavender sachets! 5 sets total posted in MPD!

As I completed my most recent order, I came to a brilliant idea of re-posting some sold pillows (these I do not have on hand but can get the fabric at my 3 local fabric stores at anytime), I charge more for these by adding the price of the one fat quarter onto the base pillow price, this way I always have a huge variety in my shop! hope this works! But these 5 pillows pictured above are going to a dear friend!

Mr. Grasshopper stopped by for a visit, and he was sunning himself, keeping warm on my deck...he had the right idea, so I sat with him for a little while to soak in the rays on this mild day!

I usually suck at growing things (never had the green thumb), but the oat grass for my kitties is growing nicely! just a few more inches, and I will bring this inside for my girls to have a savory greeny treat to munch on! Speaking of cats, Sabrina is doing splendid! her appetite is in full force, and her energy is out of sight crazy!

My Ci-Ci lounging among some of my vintage fabric pillows, she loves them!

My Sabrina sunning herself on one of my windowsills!

BREAKING NEWS! Literally "breaking news" yesterday I stubbed my toe real hard on my bed and heard this sickening crack, and now it's been confirmed by x-ray that my toe is indeed broken! AHHHHH! that's bone number 3 in my body broken (broke my ankle over 6 years ago, and my tailbone over 3 years ago) so now my poor little toe is bruised (very black and blueish) and "clicks" everytime I try to move it..plus there isn't much any doctor can do for broken toes, just like tailbones...

in spite of a sore achy toe, everything is great here!

The goodness of lately:

1. sushi for lunch!

2. 2 pillow sales lately

3. Friend gave me some fabric!

4. 9 years as a couple with the hubs as of yesterday!

5. cleaned pillow cases!

6. chicken noodle soup tonight for dinner!

Snow White Lives In The Rugged Lands And She Makes Lavender Sachets!

2011-09-03T11:21:00.009-05:00

The rains of early fall has arrived, cooling the air, making it easier to breathe in...things are slowly getting better, my cat is feeling better and stronger everyday. Her vomiting has subsided to just every now and then (and only furrballs) so she is keeping her food down, had many suggestions from family and friends on what to feed her, and everything is working in some way, along with the intense prayers rising up for her from at least 2 different states. My hubby bought some cat oat grass as suggested by my mom to see if that's what she wants to eat on the side, the grass is currently in it's growing phase, I may have a nice harvest in a few days to a week... My car is running fine too, so everything is sorting itself out, like what my nonie always told me "this too shall pass..." I am so super excited about what I have pictured here! any idea of what they are???

Well...these are something I made up on a whim, while writing a letter to my mom, I made one of these and thought, they could go great inside hand written letters! they are real small, only about 1 inch by 2 inches! and they are stuffed with a teeny tiny bit of Nebraskan lavender! You know how some people spritz their letters with their perfume/cologne? these tiny sachets are along those same lines...so one is on it's way to my mom, so I have decided I may have something great going here, so I produced 2 set of 8 to sell in MPD!

FEEDSACK FABRIC!!! found a yard of this at Simply Bungalow here in Lincoln, not sure what to do with this beautiful fabric yet, but another idea will come to mind I am sure!

The pink hair and blonde highlights were fun, but I got tired of them real fast, so I transformed myself into the "modern day Snow White" Jett black hair!!!!! I have never been happier with my hair until now, I never went this dark, but since my natural hair color is a dark brown, I think I can pull this off, plus my dad had black hair when he was younger, but I am just sick and tired of my brown hair, I always change myself like this on a whim...I may keep it like this for a while...I think my cats like it, they always want to sniff it and check it out! My hubby calls me his snow white now! hehe!

Have a great labor day weekend everyone! And happy birthday to my Bro in law, John!!!

On This Day Part 2

2011-08-30T15:27:00.021-05:00

On this day one year ago, was the last day ever setting foot in my grandparent's former house. I must have taken over 200 pictures of every angle in and out of that house. Not a day went by that I didn't think about that place and/or miss it immensely. As I sift through the pics I took, memories flood and spill over in my mind and I just can believe that it's been one year exactly since I have been there. Now all I have are these pictures, pictures of a place I called my second home.

Also on this day 5 years ago, 2 of God's little tiny creatures just sort of fell into my life...this is the great story I wanted to tell you all, on the 29th, I was at home with my family, just suffered the loss of my cat, Contessa and fresh with grief, my aunt Susie calls me and informs me of this ad in the paper, advertising free kittens...So the very next morning on the 30th, I call this number and a lady with a very raspy voice on the other end told me that there were 2 left of the 5, so I told her I was on my way now...so I arrive at this lady's house and she leads me to her back screened in porch and I saw this tiny little tabby kitten dart across the porch. And she darted again and ended up right at my feet (this was Sabrina) and looked up at me and locked eyes with me, I picked her up and (of course checked her backside to see the gender) and I said, I think you and I will do nicely...and then I look up and see this poor little grey kitten sitting in the corner, hanging her head low, thinking that she wasn't going to go home with me, so I walked over to her and picked her up, scoped her out, and told her "don't worry little one, I will take you home too!" so I scooped them both up in a cardboard box and drove them straight home to my parent's house....I walked into my dad's office and my mom and dad were both chatting and they heard some commotion coming from a box, my dad says, "what cha got there, pood?" (pood is my nick name) and i opened it up and 2 little kitty heads pop out..."2 of them?" "yep, something told me to get them both" So later on that day I was browsing the internet for kitty names, and I chose Colette and Sabrina. From that day on, I was to become their "human momma" and raise them into polite young ladies, and that's what they are! So this picture above is the first protrait of the 3 of us together...they were about 6 months old there...

First portrait of me and my Ci-Ci taken on 8/30/06...

First portrait of me and Brie Brie on 8/30/06

Ci-Ci, 5 months old at her first xmas!

Brie Cheese, 5 months of age on xmas 2006!

My Ci-Ci age 18 months

Brie-Brie age 18 months

Ci-Ci, 20 months

Brie-Brie, 20 months

My girls, age 21 months

Me and Ci-Ci on 8/30/11 present day

Me and my Brie Brie on 8/30/11 present day...

God has blessed me with creatures to give my human love to....they say the luckiest animals on earth are the ones who receive human love and companionship.

Also today, I want to say happy birthday to my uncle Randy!

On This Day Part 1

2011-08-28T15:10:00.007-05:00

Remember those pom poms I made? well I strung them in a cute garland and place it on top of my bird's cage! I think they like it!

I suddenly had this huge urge to re-read all of my old paper back novels from my grade school days, I have so many, and these here are just my top favorites...

These 2 kitties are the loves of my life. Stay tuned in 2 days for the part 2 of this post, it involves them and it's such a great story that I would like to share with you all!

This part is sad though, get ready for some kleenexes...On this day 5 years ago, this sweet little kitty I was holding here slipped the bonds of earth and went into heaven. Her name was Contessa. She was very young (only 5 months old) when she died. I was 23 at the time, still in college, I was actually at my classes and when I returned home, it was a sight I did not want to see, she had strangled herself with her fishing pole cat toy around my dining room chair. My heart sank. So I called my parents and my dad made the hour drive to come get me and that he could bury her next to my Cleo (who passed seriously 10 weeks earlier). Contessa came after Cleo, I got her about a month after her passing hoping to mend that hole in my heart, but at the time of her death, my hole got even bigger. She was a sweet kitty, she meowed so much, and kept me company...I only had her for roughly a month, but she stole my heart and is still so badly missed even 5 years later. I love you Tessa, you are missed everyday.

On a lighter note, I would like to wish my cousin, Megan and her hubby Daniel a happy 1 year wedding anniversary!

Click

2011-08-27T10:30:00.008-05:00

You know when seasons change, you almost hear that "click"? well, I think the click happened overnight literally...I have been so consumed with stress that I forgot to look up to see the world around me. Here it is, late August and I am seeing the tips of leaves turning yellow (it's hard to see in this picture), a few leaves falling from the trees, and I saw a maple tree yesterday during my errands with red/pink leaves ALREADY! The nights are cooler, the humidity has subsided, and I put my summer sheets away and in exchange took out my somewhat heavier blankets for the even chillier nights to come. It won't be official Autumn status until sept. 22nd, but I think she wanted to arrive a wee bit early.

And of course, my back yard never looked better! The grass feels like carpet!

Been busy in my shop lately, these 6 pillows will be completed and then posted in the shop later on today!

Had a mishap with one of my grandma's old vintage pillowcases she gave me, this is almost 60 years old and as I was taking this off a pillow, the darn thing ripped just with the force of my own strength...my heart sank as I heard a loud "rrrripppp" sound, so I searched through my fabric stash and chose this one to help repair it...the pillowcase's fabric is very thin and worn to it's last legs...I have to be very careful with it from here on forward!

My new vintage tablecloth I found at a yard sale, for only 5 bucks! and it's HUGE! my cats love the tassels around the edges!

In addition to working today, I will be savouring this local treat! Colby Ridge's yummy popcorn! This one is flavored as caramel apple! mmmmm!

UPDATE! 600 dollars later my car is fixed, the problem? the key cylinder went bad and had to totally be replaced....ouch!

Sabrina coughed up a huge hairball last thursday, she is still puking, but I now think she has heaps of furr in her belly, my poor baby! But she still eats and drinks and plays normally thank God!

I maybe switching my hair color again, getting tired of the pink already, so I may end up dying the whole thing black or dark espresso brown.

I am taking meditation classes to help me relax, my friend, Casey is the instructor!

On 9/11, I will be going to an airshow here in Lincoln, and the blue angels will be there! I have always wanted to see them, that is one check off my bucket list!

2 days ago, my beloved grandpa "Papa" turned 87 years young and still going strong, as that man is in exceptionally great health! love you papa!!

Have a great weekend!!!

In The News Of Minxden...

2011-08-23T18:10:00.015-05:00

Minxden is in a store front! This is my friend, Casey's soap shop and she is letting me display some of my items here and she will try and sell them for me locally! hope this works as I unloaded about 25 pillows on her!

And here are some vintage scrap garland sets! she really thought they would do well in her shop!

And here are some garlands on display in her shop!

I thought, well as long as we are on this vintage route, I unloaded several vintage fabric pillows to see if I can get rid of them there. Don't worry, I still have several more in my etsy shop too! But I think she did a great job displaying my items!

Since the last several days have really been awful, I have been shutting myself up in my house, creating away, making a few knick knacks for myself, I think I really needed it. My next huge project involves this vintage pillowcase I found in my home town's goodwill, no hints! you will have to be surprised!

Made 3 more lavender sachets only this time used leftover vintage fabric squares from when I was making my quilt...

Finished some more hoops too, love them all! Ok, earlier in this post I said I was having an awful week? well, awful it was indeed! my cat had a relapse of her vomiting, so took her in to get blood work, and she was then put on prednisone. So for a few days I kept a vigil for her and watched her like a hawk. It was rough, but slowly she started to gain her appetite back, and now it has been a week since she vomited! the prednisone really helps I think, she even gained a couple of pounds! My other cat has been so grumpy and in this foul mood, so I had to deal with that. And 2 days ago, my car has really been having some issues, I have boiled it down to an electrical problem (sometimes it starts, and there are times it decides it does not want to start) I have had everything checked from the ignition switch to the starter to the fuel line to the battery...THEY FOUND NOTHING AND COULDN'T RECREATE THE PROBLEM!! So yeah, I am very leery on driving my car, it could have a day to where it doesn't want to start and I could be stuck clear across town! And- took that assessment test for that job I was applying for, I didn't pass, evidently my "computer skills" were not up to par? whatever.....I have only been dealing with computers more than half my life...so that really made me angry and felt a sense of worthlessness. They wouldn't tell me what part of the assessment I failed at, or what I needed to improve on, or if I failed by a landslide or just barely! So yeah, that's that! a bad week up to today...what else could go wrong if I am at home laying low right? Crap, I probably just jinxed myself, so I just now knocked on wood hopefully Ms. Bad Karma is done with me for at least one day.

YAY! I DID IT!

2011-08-17T16:13:00.010-05:00

I learned a new crafting skill, and I am hooked! I promised you pom-poms, and you got 'em!

Aren't they clever and cute little guys? the first few took a while, but once I got the hang of it, they multiplied like bacterium! If only bacteria looked this cute!

Posted 32 fat quarters of my unused fabric in MPD, most are amy butler fabrics too! hope they sell, I don't need this fabric anymore!

As most of you may have known, my cat, Sabrina has been sick with an upset tummy, but after giving her laculose and prednisone, she is starting to feel better! Of course I have a pretty hefty vet bill, but she is worth every penny I have! Thank you for keeping her in your thoughts and prayers! But that been said, I am needing prayers for something else now, I am taking this huge assessment test tomorrow for a job interview, from what I heard, it is pretty tough and if I don't pass, then I can't reapply for 6 whole months, and I need this job! please and thank you!

Pink Hair, Yarn, And Such

2011-08-14T12:03:00.006-05:00

Good day to you all! What gorgeous weather we have and I finished my newest hoop!

I bet you all don't know what I am planning on making with all of this very color yarn! Oh alright, I guess I will tell....I am planning on making pom poms! I have seen a bunch of these cute pom poms posted on etsy lately, so I got to thinking, I should make some for myself, I may end up posting some in MPD, but we'll see how they turn out first...I found a great tutorial on youtube too!

My babies!

Notice anything different? I got the underside of my hair dyed pink and blonde! I love it! My true colors are showing now! hope you all have a blessed Sunday!

Life Gets Ya Sometimes...

2011-08-13T13:29:00.008-05:00

It's finished!!! well, for now that is...I still have to find a solid fabric for the back, backing, and the trim too, but the tough time consuming part is overwith, it only took me 10 days!

I must say, I am quite happy with this! some squares don't align perfectly, but for a beginner, not too shabby!

Everyone knows me as a multi-tasker...I always simultaneously work on multiple projects, here is my latest hoop work, got a "creator's block" on this one, I know it needs something else, like some buttons or something...hmmmmmmm....

Just got this fabric in a couple days ago! LOVE IT!

Here's my little miss grumpy...my other baby, Sabrina just came home from the vet's (severe constipation, not fun) and everytime this happens, Ci-Ci gets real mad at her sister, maybe because she smells like other pets? but here she is growling AT ME! but don't worry, she may hiss, growl and scream at me, but her bark is worse than her bite....

Hope y'all are having a great weekend, I still have to nurse a sick kitty back to health and calm down a very pissed off kitty too! I'm now going to fix some tea and enjoy some red strawberry licorice bites, Cheerio!

Progresso Perfecto!

2011-08-08T16:29:00.006-05:00

Greetings everyone! The storm has cleared, the sun is out, and I am quilting...

Yes, you heard me right, quilting! I am venturing into the world of quilting and this is the start of my very first quilt, just a simple lap quilt made entirely of vintage fabrics! here are the first 5 rows...need to sew on 6 more!

Sitting next to "Steam Punk", my angry hot headed iron, these rows are awaiting attachment!

Finished the vintage scrap garlands for Casey! oh my how purdy they look!

Just got these beauties in the mail, all the way from Canada!

Monday good day:

1. my friend is dropping by for a visit in about 2 hours!

2. VERY clean house!

3. Awaiting another fabric order (this ones gonna be good)

4. Hubby made me my favorite breakfast this morning!

5. Only 83 degrees today!

Scary Night!

2011-08-07T09:43:00.004-05:00

In my corner of the world, a scary severe thunderstorm hit, and it sure packed a punch! this is my next door neighbor's home, and a huge branch from a huge tree fell right onto it! some of that branch scraped up against my house, which you see a tiny bit of my roof on the far right, it barely missed one of my windows and my a/c unit! this was taken last night just as the storm was ending...I also lost power for 3 1/2 hours too!

When daylight hit this morning, I went outside to survey the damage, and any possible damage/debris on my property...

Well I know one of my tasks for the day, instead of sewing till my hearts content, I will be picking up branches and debris....(sigh)

Catching Up Yet Again...

2011-08-06T09:46:00.011-05:00

Been so busy these last few days since my return from Kansas...did a lot of catching up too, I FINALLY finished this skinny scarf/belt! It took me forever to finish it, I kept putting it off, seriously started it last January, and here it is, 8 months later! Shame on me!

Also started on my very first quilt! it's a simple vintage fabric lap quilt...only have 2 rows done so far, this project will take a while too....

Also, I am scrambling to finish up 7 sets of vintage scrap fabric garlands for my friend, Casey to put in her shop, she wanted to sell some...3 down, 4 more to go and I have 48 hours left! ahhhh!!

My hubby made this origami kitty for me while he had down time at work! I love it!

My Ci-Ci minx...

My Sabrina minx...

With my morning coffee, I was thumbing through my vintage sewing book and came across this awesome dress! I think I should make me one like this!

Now give this little lady some bangs and add 50 pounds or so (maybe more?) and add one more kitty, you have me to the T! hope you all have a great Saturday!

Many Pictures, Many Finds, Many Great Times!

2011-08-01T12:55:00.017-05:00

Back safe and sound from Kansas, had a great time seeing my family! I came back to my parent's house and my mummy gave me many goodies, for starters, this amazing vintage sewing book! I spent at least a half an hour looking through it! I know it will come in handy for any vintage projects! I love the cover too! Thanks mom!!! :)

Visited my aunt and in addition to a bottle of micro-brew, she gave me this heart ornament! I love it! it now hangs in my studio! I also made her a vintage fabric pillow, she loved it!

And I visited my grandparents (Nonie and Papa) and spent the majority of the afternoon thumbing through my vintage fabrics, I brought a few down with me to show my grandma, she loved them! and so I raked in the loot! she gave me all of these vintage pillowcases! 8 in all, she embroidered a couple of them, and one of them was given to her as a wedding gift! (the purple one) and that wedding took place way back in 1955!!! I almost felt bad taking them, but she reassured me that she no longer needed them and she knew I would enjoy them for many years to come! THAT I WOULD! and they also took me and my hubby out to lunch at this great mexican restaurant!

Of course I had to go on my own thrifting hunt, and found these 3 pillowcases!

My mom gave me these! 2 matching sets and one singular pillowcase, ALL FLORAL CHINTZ! like I said, I hit the jackpot!

The japanese (or chinese) symbol sheet came from my mom, and I found the pink one...

My nonie gave me all of this lace too! WOW!

This is part of the antique quilt my mom owns that my great grandma made...this part of the quilt pictured is my favorite part!

oooooooo my pie bird!

Awwww there's "Bust-A-Must" (Buster), my mom's cat...I missed him and he is such a stinker! And he was my alarm clock by getting me up before 6am!

Here is Turk the love bird, he is sooooo sweet and likes to show off!

me and my dad, his birthday was celebrated that weekend I was visiting!

My dad eagerly awaiting his birthday apple pie! my hubby is on the right serving up some! it was really good pie my hubby whipped up, the best I ever had!

My hubby's 10 yr. high school reunion was last weekend too, here we are at the event! a lot of orange was worn that night!

A blast from the past! my grandma gave me this picture, if you can guess who this little girl is....THAT'S ME!!! I was 9 years old here, this was taken 19 years ago in April of 1992! I was indeed a cute little minx! hope your weekends were great!

Before A Long Journey...

2011-07-27T14:15:00.010-05:00

My newest stationery set I found at Target, last set of these too! I love them, especially the goldfish ones, I have always been fascinated with goldfish, I had dozens growing up, and the last ones I had were my 3 musketeers! (Prothos, Athos, and Aramis) they died right before I got married when trying to transport them into my newer apartment (sad face)...but anyway, I think these are neat!

My newest etsy purchase, 2 fat quarters of Joel Dewberry's newest line, Heirloom...these are my faves! I knew chintz was coming back, only with a twist!

Found some rare prints of Heather Bailey's pop garden collection, never had these 2 colors of the wallpaper roses before!

I can now say that the first time in so long, my hair is now long enough to braid in pigtails! my hubby thinks they are adorable!

So I close this post in saying I will be on the road tomorrow towards my home town to visit family, and then to my hubby's hometown to visit his, and on to attend his 10-yr. high school reunion! GO TIGERS! I won't be posting for a few days, but when I return sunday, I will rest off my traveler's fatigue and post some lovely pictures! Hope you all have a fantabulous weekend!

Today...

2011-07-26T12:56:00.006-05:00

Remember a couple days ago? I posted this pic and said it was a new project featuring a new idea??

Here it is in all it's glory! I call it the balloon vintage fabric pillow the first! it's now in my etsy shop! What's next? I'm thinking buntings!

But most importantly, today is my dad's birthday!! 56 years young! This is me and my daddy here pictured above! A lot of people say I look alot like him, well....I am his daughter afterall! So in less than 48 hours, I will be there in person to see him and my mom and sister! Happy birthday daddy, love you!

Mountains Of Pillows!

2011-07-25T15:23:00.008-05:00

My sweet Brie Brie hanging out in my studio this morning as I was ironing...

Now that is one happy kitty! my Ci-Ci took over my newest etsy houseware buy, that cute vintage terry cloth rose pillow....she loves that thing so much! She always rests her head on all the vintage pillows I make, but she claims this one now...hehehe!

My sweet boys in the afternoon...they usually wind down between the hours of 2-6pm...today was a slightly stressful day, and today would of been a perfect day to kiss them and smell their feathers...parakeets have a certain spicy smell to them that I love, and it's too bad they aren't tame enough to let me have that tiny luxury.

Look at all of those vintage fabric pillows....they are running over me at times!

These 3 pillows are new and will be posted shortly! I haven't thought of clever names for them yet...

That's More Like It!

2011-07-24T09:27:00.006-05:00

Now that's a work space I can work with! Haha look at my cats, they like it too!

And the fact I can use my ironing board in here instead of it being in my bedroom! (I work best when standing any way!)

I may change my minxden avatar to this picture....this is the print on the chaise lounge my Nonie gave me!

My next project in the works...what do you think it could be????

Sunday Funday!!

1. My hubby is making me my favorite breakfast! (oven baked crisps with black forest ham, eggs, sour cream, shallots, tarragon, and mushrooms! mmmmm!!)

2. A vintage fabric order journeying to me abroad from Canada! (2 beautiful shabby prints!)

3. finishing up my work space...

4. much cooler today! (only 85 degrees!)

A Vintage Fabric Kind Of Day

2011-07-22T16:39:00.009-05:00

Oh how I just love it when I make a few vintage fabric orders on etsy, and they all arrive in my box the same day!

this one is awesome, and now my collection of this print is complete!!! I have a pink, blue, and now yellow!!!

This one is quite unique too, very bohemian!

This print seriously matches my living room lamp shade! HA! I was happy to find it!

This one I was searching for a couple of months, I also have this same print in yellow too!

Of course I like the vibrant ones

And these 2 are freebies from 2 orders, the one on the right is from a dear etsy friend! Thank you Jennie! you are awesome and soooooo generous!

T.G.I.F!!

1. Another Omaha trip today!

2. seaweed salad tonight for my dinner!

3. Watching True Grit with my hubs tonight

4. overloaded with fabrics!

5. snuggle time with my baby minxes!

Christmas In July!

2011-07-20T15:37:00.010-05:00

Indeed I have been having the Christmas/winter fever for this very hot month of July! So to give myself cooler thoughts, I whipped up these 3 cheeky xmas trees made out of vintage fabrics, they are cute, my technique could be better, these are just a practice run for what I will be posting in MPD this winter for xmas...

Made these 5 hoops last night, in pinks hues, my signature color!

My next vintage fabric target? this one above with the blue roses and blue background! I love this print, I have some in pink, and just ordered the yellow one, (I have a pillowcase in this same print in the pink color) but sadly I do not have any blue, just this sample I got from another fabric order....I haven't had much luck in finding this one, if any of you readers of mine know what I can get my claws on some, let me know where to find it pleeeeeeeeeeese!

I have got a small collection of skinny hems going on here for various other projects!

Well this set up isn't working out for me so well, the table is too low and the chair is too high, thus in resulting bad back pain, even for my age! I need a different solution and fast! I have a couple ideas in mind...

Just posted these beauties in my minxden shop this afternoon, have a more closer look! I feel my migraine headache making it's debut from yesterday, so I will be keeping it quiet and dark in my house. Happy Hump Day peoples! (Wednesday)

Hump Day Goodness Just For Me:

1. The Cat House today with some awesome kitties! and even more new kittens arrived! lots of play time!

2. Had a bowl of vietnamese soup at Pho Nguyen!

3. 3 fabric orders to visit my mailbox soon!

4. Omaha again in 2 days!

Blanket Those You Love

2011-07-19T12:12:00.008-05:00

Are you all ready to see my next completed project??? CONTAIN YOUR EXCITEMENT PEOPLES!!!

It's a sewing machine blanket!! I used a pattern from a book I have, and put my own twist onto it! So now Mizz Trudy Elna has a blanket to sleep with during those times she is not in use and especially at night time! (not to mention keeping all of those pesky dust bunnies from hopping onto her!)

Here it is up close!

I think Mizz Trudy Elna likes it!

Hope you all enjoyed my newest post and my newest sewing project!

The goodness that Tuesday brought for me in her basket:

1. Hell's kitchen's season premiere!

2. Working hard to spruce up my new work space!

3. How can I contain all of this creative mojo?! it's volcanic!!!

Back To The Light!

2011-07-18T12:06:00.008-05:00

My freshly dressed up chaise lounge my Nonie gave me last year! And of course, Ci-Ci loves me for laying my pink rose antique quilt on there! She will have many sleepy afternoons on this!

These are all of my vintage fabrics...every last one! It adds up, doesn't it?

Mizz Trudy Elna resting in the sunlight.

A hanging neighborhood with birds all around.

I had to show off my new red organic cotton v-neck tee I got for dirt cheap at whole foods the other day, I also have a aqua one too! Happy Monday everyone!

What made me happy as a lark:

1. Omaha again this friday! wooooo-hoooo!!

2. hubby and I made our first granola batch this morning, turned out great!

3. new space to work in!

4. 2 vintage fabric orders due to arrive any day now!

5. finishing up a few pillows to take down to KS with me to give as gifts for some family members!

Great Etsy Finds, Lovelies From The Land Of Omaha!

2011-07-17T16:12:00.008-05:00

Let's start out with the first great etsy find, and oh behold in front of my eyes, AQUA vintage fabric! Aqua Dreams here I come again! this was ordered from a friend who has such a great etsy shop! this fabric I could not resist from, it had to be mine!

What a cute chic vintage pillow this is! I actually featured this pillow in one of my treasuries, but it was such a great price, I couldn't resist in adopting this lovely lady pillow and giving her a good home, and surprisingly but happily, my furry feline friends leave her hot pink yarn tassels totally alone!

I also got this lovely lace remnant pack too! They will be put to good use as this lace and my vintage fabrics would marry great together, don't you think?

Ventured to Omaha again last friday for another whole foods adventure! and of course I had to slip into Anthropologie for another visit, and walked out with this cool shirt...

And this cheeky aqua themed table runner, now dressing my recently thrifted dining room table + chairs!

My stack still awaits fresh ideas!

A quaint little corner in my home!

Many Aqua Dreams turning into these great things:

1. got some yard work done VERY EARLY this morning!

2. anxiously awaiting another etsy vintage fabric order with 2 yummy prints!

3. right now at this moment, hearing a clever amtrak train rolling through my neighborhood's train tracks! (they have a silly funny whistle!)

4. seaweed salad hunted down from whole foods! yumm!

Houses And Such...

2011-07-14T17:46:00.013-05:00

Today I visited my vacation house...

I needed an escape...

I needed color to be all around me!

A quiet place to think and collect my thoughts.

I bet none of you knew I had a vacation home, did you?

I did 100% of the decorating...

haha, well ok....this house does literally exist, but the problem is this: I have to shrink down to 4 inches high to live here...but this house came from my mind and I visit it whenever I want to and just simply daydream.

My aqua dreams house, inspired by my dreams...this house (maison) is a newer version of my actual house, all covered in flowers and drenched in happiness! (Even my front door is almost a spot on match!)

My pillows runneth over again!!!!! ahhhhh!!!

Oh Miss Thursday, what goodies did you bring me today?

1. pre-purchased our harry potter 7.2 tickets for tomorrow!!!! so excited!

2. five guys burger today!

3. a 3 hour nap

4. a movie watching marathon this evening with the mister.

5. unearthed my old no doubt return of saturn CD and listened to them this morning!

Wowzers Of A Wednesday!

2011-07-13T15:13:00.012-05:00

Salutations! How are we all doing on this wacky wowzers of a Wednesday? Well remember on yesterday's post I showed this picture of my next big project in the works (right above)? well I completed late last night with heavy weary eyes, but finished none-the-less! (scroll down!)

It has dainty soft fluttering butterflies on it....

And some vintage lace.....

Oh what could it be???

Oh wait....keep going!

There it is!!! my newest pillow made for myself! Here she is in all of her shining glory! Another spectacular pillow was born in minxden last night, a birth from my mind and my own 2 hands!

And yesterday I checked my mail box, and I got another order in the mail! my newest addition to my fabric family! how bright and cheery this fabric is, so summery! I am expecting another great fat quarter of vintage fabric ordered from a friend, some lace remnants, and a small terry cloth chintzy pink rose pillow for myself (got it for only 7 bucks! what a steal!) and it has an added bonus of bright pink yarn tassels all around the edges! That should be interesting when keeping my naughty feline companions from attacking and chewing on it! But I always love a challenge!

Whipped up these cute vintage fabric coasters! After watching a tutorial on making these, I realized just how easy and quick they are to make, a 30 minute meal would of taken longer to make! haha! I might make some sets of these and post them in MPD!

Practiced on some macro shots with my digital camera! I can say I am getting better with this concept! this is a close up on my vintage crocheted pot holders!

In my bedroom, I walk by these beautiful vintage fabric garlands all the time, and they always lightly caress me every time I walk on by, like they are reaching out, trying to get my attention! Hope everyone is having a great day like me!

A great day in the making:

1. An addition of 12 mewing playful kittens arrived at the cat house today (animal shelter) it's euphoric laying on the ground and having 12 tiny soft 10 week old kittens crawling all over you, I almost fell asleep!!!

2. Hubby has next 2 days off!

3. Lots of completed projects!

4. Creative mojo is racing at 200 mph!

5. Kansas bound in 2 weeks!

6. Vivaldi filling my ears with his music!

Chilly Feet, Warm Heart

2011-07-12T15:51:00.009-05:00

What a productive 3 days it has been! Been cleaning, cooking, and creating! See these scraps of fabric taped up on my wall? well I thought I could used an "inspiration spot". It seems like everyone I know has one, so I will too! over time this area with change over and over again, but right now my inspiration are blue vintage fabrics, or even aquas and purples!!

Remember in my last post I showed a certain pic of pieces of fabrics? well here are the finished results! I made 2 fabric bags! They are reversible and I am quite pleased with how they came out! I will be using these 2 on grocery runs, library runs, or light shopping runs! my hubby likes them too!

Here's the little pillow I made for myself....it's soooooo dainty! not sure where she'll be placed, but I will figure something out!

Another project in the works, not telling what it is yet until it's finished....stay tuned yet again!

Decided to play with my camera again today with my newly made bags....

And yes, I had to throw in a funny pic of me....attractive, I know!

Hope everyone has a terrific Tuesday!!!

O happy day! What's makin my day happy today!!!

1. Seaweed salad with my home made dressing! mmmmm!

2. finished lots of sewing projects!

3. quite a few orders lately!

4. It's finally cooling off outside!

5. Tomorrow morning I hang out with some feline friends at the Cat House!

6. Wearing one of my newest dresses, so soft!

Sewing, Birthdays, And Fun!!!

2011-07-09T18:36:00.011-05:00

I bet y'all have been wondering what happened to me these last several days??? I have been a busy little bear, sewing several pillows and putting them together, taking a trip to Omaha, celebrating a couple of birthdays, basement diving from tons of severe t-storms, yard work, grilling, I could go on for months it seems!

I mentioned the pillows right? well these 2 will be posted in minxden soon once they get stuffed with polyfil that is....

These go to various family members (well the first 3 made, I have maybe 3 more to make for the ladies in my family) but I won't say which go to whom as my mom and aunt are avid readers of my blog! lol

But with all of this hard work, this one will be for myself....

This is my next project....can anyone tell what's in the making?? Stay tuned for a later post in the not so distant future!

In Omaha yesterday, my hubby and I stopped in from the heat into this Indian novelty store and looked around, and I came across this beautiful paper mache trinket box.....my heart almost stopped because my dad got me a box from his travels in India very similar to this one! (this was 21 years ago) only the box my dad gave me was more of a square shape and deeper red, but the flowers and gold paint was just like on this new one! well, the box my dad gave me is still at my parents home somewhere and I would still like to find it because not only it's something special my dad gave me, but it still holds (to my knowledge) some currency from other places around the globe my dad went to, and stamps as well...that way I could have both boxes, one from my dad and one from my husband...tears literally fell from my eyes as I clutched this little box close to my heart, and my hubby told me "this box belongs to you." and he bought it for me! I am one lucky lady...to have a husband like mine, this box did not come cheap!

Another blast from the past moment, unearthed this box from a box in my basement, this is another trinket box, only bigger, and made of wood....does anybody remember the clothing/novelty/bath beauty store called "Oilily"? I love that store, I don't even know if it still exists anymore, but anyway, back in the mid-late 90's my mom and I went nuts for Oilily! This box was a gift from my mom and dad at xmas of 1994, I was a 12 yr. old 6th grader, and I remember opening the wrapping paper to this box! I can't believe that after almost 17 years, I still have this box! And I love the painted birds on it! Birds weren't so popular back then in '94, but this box would be the rave now! So this houses my sewing supplies, how handy!

I wanted to take this time to wish my beauties a happy 5th birthday!!! (36 cat years) meow!!

The good stuff:

1. had the best ever new york style slice of pizza yesterday in Omaha!

2. A trip to whole foods in Omaha, love their groceries, so healthy!!

3. My kitties' birthdays today!

4. farmer's market this morning! it was hoppin!

5. my creative mojo is like a raging river right now!

Silent And Still

2011-07-03T19:37:00.009-05:00

Ha Ha looks like I woke up a sleepy kitty!

Nothing wakes up this kitty, once she's out....she's out!

My Brie Brie gives me a soft kitty kiss on the hand....

And I give a kiss to my sweet Ci-Ci....told ya nothing wakes her up!

Did a difficult thing today, I noticed when I glanced over to my 100 some beanie babies that they were covered in dust, and cleaning them all off like every 1-2 weeks would be grueling so I decided to clean them off and them gently place them in double plastic sacks and store them away until I can figure out a better dust free shelving system....most of these came from my grandma Nonie and they are precious to me, I wouldn't want them to get so dusty all the time...but I allotted myself to keep just one out for display, so I chose my favorite, "Peace" the tie-dye bear....she has been my favorite for a very long time!

Vintage fabrics await my brain's creativity....they are all like ladies in waiting!

I took down my fabric banners that used to be on this white wall here behind the garlands, I thought a white wall looked better against these, I am trying to clean up and spruce up my place...simplify it a little bit.

The good things to come:

1. Cherry pie with my hubby!

2. 4th of July tomorrow

3. firecrackers!!!!!

4. grilled yummies!

5. made a sale in minxden today!

6. clean house!

7. upcoming trip to Kansas soon!

8. A trip to Omaha soon as well!

Happy Independence Day Everyone!!!! Remember....alcohol and fireworks DO NOT MIX!!! ;)

On This Day...

2011-06-28T15:33:00.006-05:00

Made 4 more! these are now posted in minxden and they all look ever so lovely! I will be making maybe a couple more tonight, and I will also be cleaning a little, and more laundry to do of course....that seems never ending! I am thinking on going to the store to pick up a few things to make me dinner for tonight. I also want to take this time and wish my parents a happy wedding anniversary! On this day, June 28th, they have now been married for 31 years! Love you mum mum and daddy! Today is all about you two! (I like the fact that my mom, my nonie and I are 3 generations of June brides!) I got married on the 6th, Nonie on the 18th, and my mum on the 28th! June brides rock, and my mom looked ever so beautiful on her wedding day!

What's making my day almost like my anniversary!

1. been making many new pillows

2. got the lawn mowed

3. had a nice chat with both my parents on the phone long distance today

4. hubby is making me home made chicken noodle soup later on this week

5. expecting a nice hand written letter from my mummy (we believe in the exchange of letters over email any day)

6. excited to go to the cat house animal shelter tomorrow to take care of kitties in need!

More And More Newbies!!!

2011-06-27T17:51:00.008-05:00

"Golden Floral" Pillow made from vintage fabrics and lace! One of my favorites!

This one I named "Green Blue" Pillow, but this title has personal meaning, this one is dedicated to one of my closest friends from high school, I nick name her "green blue" after her first and middle name (Jade Skye) I will keep the last name under wraps though ;) but several years ago, we parted ways and went in different directions, but just recently, our paths merged again, and we reconciled our friendship, and that makes me so happy! And to find out, time indeed can change so many things, I learned that she has been happily married for 6 years to a great guy whom I had the pleasure of meeting and gave birth to a beautiful baby boy that's just turned 2! I am so happy for her and her beautiful life with her new little family! This pillow I worked hard to make is dedicated to you, green blue! buddah!!!!

Well to get you all up to speed, the last 2 days have been interesting, had a real bad, well ok, make that plural...thunderstorms that came through my area and let's just say I ended up in the basement twice in a 6 hour span! and losing power for 2 hours on top of that! Got my very last fabric order from the down under (Australia) and now that I have all of my new (old) fabrics in, I will be mass producing many of these pillows like pictured above! I will be working on an orange themed one, then a purple themed one! This is so exciting! This week is turning out to be much better than last week was (knocked on wood just now for luck)...happy manic mad Monday everybody, although it's a good Monday!

New In Minxden!

2011-06-25T16:50:00.007-05:00

"Many Of Roses" Pillow for sale in Minxden priced at $24.00 (USD)

Long Time!

2011-06-25T14:16:00.002-05:00

Sorry for my absence, haven't been much in the blogging mood lately, nothing much to post about, well that is until now...last Wednesday as I was cooking dinner for myself, I had a mishap with a knife whilst cutting Parmesan cheese (hubby told me I was using the wrong knife later on that evening) well, the knife went straight into the base of my thumb and caused a deep laceration thus another trip to the ER was in order...I somehow managed to drive myself with a tea towel wrapped very tightly around my left hand, so the ER nurse went ahead and cleaned it up (that actually was more painful than the cut itself!) and instead of stitches, I got skin glue onto it so it would heal faster...called my hubby while he was at work, told him what happened, he drove straight to the hospital. He went ahead and took the rest of the evening off and he actually resumed cooking what I was making for myself earlier. That and severe weather every single night for the past 8 nights in a row keeping me awake is not fun either, since I do not like sleeping during the day, but have no choice in the matter...This week has not been the best week for me, and I am ready for another week to start. On a lighter softer note, I have been getting all of my fabrics in the mail that I ordered, only 3 left to go! I have a nice stack on my table in my studio, not sure which ones to start off with first on making new pillows...I currently have a creative block and can't seem to get out of this funk, I look to other websites for inspirations, but nothing seems to work for me at the moment. My hubby and I are hosting a 4th of July party at our house, and inviting some friends and their kids over for a big BBQ and fireworks shoot off in our back yard. We are trying to get a menu planned, so far only thought up of grilled hickory smoked chicken drum sticks and home made baked Boston beans...of course we are telling everyone to B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Beer). This is our first huge 4th of July shindig we are throwing by ourselves for the first time since moving from Kansas (we always had big parties with our families) but now it's just the 2 of us and our close friends we don't want anything to go wrong! Just alot on my mind, alot to do these days, and I feel so dang tired all the time, not even sure why, I'm thinking my iron levels are just so dang low, but other wise not sure. I sleep 12-16 hours in a day now for the past week, and my arm hurts like hell from that tetanus shot I got at the ER. Like I said, not a fun past week, just want this week to be overwith! I am sorry I have no pictures to post, giving my hard working camera a break these days. Hope everyone's week has been better than mine!

For The Love Of Fabrics

2011-06-17T18:53:00.007-05:00

In the last 2 days, my mailbox has been somewhat on the full side, full of vintage fabrics and vintage notions that is, this is a result from my business loan I took out...I now possess at least 50 new fabrics, some lace, but I also had to get my kitties and parakeets a little something. I am still expecting more packages yet, 14 more! woo-hoo! it took me about an hour to refold my fabrics that I have already! Once I get all that I ordered, I will be a busy bee working on the new pillows!

The good stuff:

1. happy pets with their new toys!

2. hubby is making home made mannicotti!

3. looking forward to 14 more packages!!

4. Bike ride to the farmer's market first thing in the morning!

5. making more fabric grocery bags!

My Newest Minxden Beauties!

2011-06-15T14:58:00.003-05:00

The newest additions in minxden awaiting adoption! They are so chic! Some of my best work yet....I price these around the 22-23 dollar range since more work and older fabrics go into them....I just ordered ALOT more vintage fabrics with my business loan! I may get a couple of fun purchases just for me, not sure what to get though, I will be shopping around today for that, I did already get a couple of inexpensive vintage pillow cases for myself, but i want to get some more expensive! I put in 2 hours of my time today at the Cat House (a no kill animal shelter for cats) and made a new little kitty friend! Her name is Stara and she is so beautiful, reminds me of my deceased feline companion "Cleo", whom I lost 5 years ago yesterday from being hit by a car....very tragic day, but this new kitty at the shelter is an exact look alike, and such a sweetheart! shhhhhh......don't tell anyone, but I am seriously considering adopting her into my loving home and family.....I will have to have a serious discussion with the Mister tonight and see what he thinks about having a third furrbaby in the house,,,,hope you all are having a great day!

It's Yard Sale Season!

2011-06-13T10:15:00.006-05:00

This dining set I got was the absolute steal of the year! ONLY 9 DOLLARS FOR THE WHOLE THING!!!!!! And my cats love to lay on it, but now I have to break them of the habit of them begging us for tasty morsels of food!

Only 10 cents, this vintage canary clip-on ornament was meant to come home with me!

Found this kitschy momma and baby deer! the red bow tie is so adorable I think!

For only 50 cent each, I found some more beanie babies to add to my collection! and "Legs" the green frog is one of the original 9!!!!! score!!

Had to get a pic of my sweet boys! Hope you all have a great work week!!!!

Sunny Saturday

2011-06-11T15:02:00.009-05:00

Made a new pillow posted in Minxden today! it's sooooo dainty!

These other 2 pillows will be posted soon!

My Ci-Ci

My Brie-Brie

And me!

Good things happening lately:

1. New dress I got on sale at old navy!

2. A successful trip at a yard sale!

3. Farmer's market today!

4. Anxious to order ALOT of vintage fabrics!

Down A Different Path...

2011-06-07T16:20:00.006-05:00

I am standing at the ultimate fork in the road when it comes to my small etsy business.....and I chose my path........I have decided (but not lightly) to up my ante by using 95% vintage fabrics in my new items to come, yes I will still sell pillows, and the what I now call "oldies" pillows are still for sell, but I won't be posting anymore of them since I feel they are losing popularity, so time to move onto a new market niche, vintage fabrics and I feel optimistic about this one. I have tried jewelry, that didn't work, tried artwork in the infancy of my business, that didn't work too well either. Pillows always worked for me, but people crave something more I sense.....So, I am taking my very first small business loan, along with the help of my hubby, and I will be making many purchases in etsy the next few weeks to provide myself resources to make the beautiful items that are dying to escape my brain and into beautiful creations! I should say my shop is evolving....I took the time to improve on my craft and sewing techniques, and now I feel ready for minxden to become the young lady that she is and show her extreme floral/chic/mature side. Wish me luck everyone, I sure need it, help spread the word for me that my shop will be bigger and better than ever before! Changes must be made!

What else is making my day serene:

1. hubby made hickory smoked chicken from our new grill! mmmm it was good!

2. my creative mojo is sure raging like a wild flooded river!

3. down 23 pounds as of yesterday! and my swimsuit is baggy in the deriere!

4. got beethoven serenading me in my studio!

5. The sight of my sleeping girl kittens!

3 Years....

2011-06-06T10:22:00.002-05:00

3 years ago today.....we became man and wife. We have gone through alot in this duration of time, a big out of state move, a surgery, but in the midst of it all, I have a great marriage that I am so thankful for.

On These Walls And In This Studio

2011-06-04T18:32:00.010-05:00

Been working on some more wall hoops only with vintage fabrics....

Here's what I have finished so far....

Some more garlands hanging in my studio...

My fabrics runneth over!!!!

This tattered nightlight has been mine since I was a wee little one. I have been scared of the dark for the longest time (still am) and I remember this night light illuminating my bedroom on those dark nights as a child. Over the years, this blessed mother night light ended up on the floor in the closet nearly crushed by some heavier things, so I rescued her, replaced her light bulb, hoping it would still work after 25 years and she does!!! This brought me great comfort right before my surgery, having her light my dark. I may end up restoring her flowers on her head and hands, not much I can do for her missing fingers, but it still holds so much sentimental value.

My pyrex dishes have been serving many purposes for me, from holding my small fabric scraps, to my recent get well cards....

Hope everyone is having a great weekend, my 3rd wedding anniversary is in 2 days, my hubby and I are just chilling at the house this weekend!