Independence Day

I am so grateful that I have the privilege to live in the United States.
I am so grateful for the freedom that I have.

Sandcastle Sirens Retreat....

Beautiful, wonderful weekend.

Please take a peek:

http://sandcastlesirens.blogspot.com/

Two Singers, Jane & Me.......

Click on images to see detail Sweet Madyson, she sat so patiently for almost eight hours, never a peep, not a complaint. I am so blessed to have such a precious child.
Jane and I spent all day, sitting at our Singer sewing Machines, Jane sewing silk roses, while I created a soft white summer dress for her to "Dress up" with her new roses. I forgot to snap a picture of the dress, but I'm sure that Jane will after she has added the finishing touches!

A Day With Jane......

Click on images to see details Uhhhhh.....The front door to Jane's Down Town San Diego penthouse is an elevator.....Very movie like...Tee Hee

Upon entering Jane's penthouse, you'll see this beautiful, massive mantle. Jane purchased it at La Maison rustique

Jane is a proud creator of a silk rose!

Jane's Art Supply Armoire.....it is very Large, and very Beautiful!

The view from Jane's penthouse is spectacular! You can see the stunningly beautiful Museum of Man. Balboa Park is one of the most beautiful sights to visit in San Diego...a must see!

Jane has these beautiful awnings hanging above the door

This sweet doll is very comfortable in Jane's bedroom. Jane bought her from me last year, and has loved her ever since.....awwwwww

Jane's TV room, it is so beautiful! The most calming shade of Aqua Blue.

I spent the afternoon with sweet Jane, we had the best time making silk roses, and chatting about all the ideas that we have for the future. The futures so bright, I need to wear shades!

Tomorrow is custom sewing at Jane's, stay tuned for what I will make Jane to wear when she takes her trip to Nebraska........

Royal Denim.....

Click on images to see detail

I've decided to sparkle up some of the many denim jackets that I have laying around, waiting to be altered and embellished.

I hand applied each brilliant swarovski crystal to the crown on the back of this denim jacket.

I have only started, wait to see what other alterations I apply to this piece.... ;-)

Lunch With Friends......

Dana, Val, Patty & Tamerie

Lunch above the boats and the water, really was a beautiful setting!

Dana blending up some margaritas

Tamerie finally shows off her natural curls

PRECIOUS Sarah....what a funny character!

Dana's grandmother made these many, many years ago for her grandfather, these are FANTASTIC!

Tamerie took this opportunity to catch some rays

Silly Sarah! Her crossed eyes and bon-bon face

We spent Thursday having lunch at Sweet Dana's beautiful water front condo!

Wonderful food, conversation and laughs!

I sure am blessed to have these terrific women in my life.

Thank you Dana!

Summertime & Rosebuds....

Click on images to see detail

I created this soft & sweet summer dress for my precious friend Linda.

Dresses like this are perfect from Spring thru the Fall, just add a time worn denim jacket, some great cowboy boots, and you've got the perfect ensemble ;-)

La Maison Rustique June '09

Click on images to see detail Beautiful Linda, the hardest worker, and most talented decorator I know! I love her so very much!

Linda and her sweet, sweet son Chandler, made me steak and homemade fries for dinner, YUM!

My dresses and tees

I created this one-of-a-kind dress from all vintage textiles

Sherry's yummy Glam goodies

More of Sherry's pieces

Linda's pieces, I LOVE, LOVE the pink desk that she restored!

This doll purchased one of Rita's soldered charm necklaces. Beautiful!

Rita's pieces

Dyanna Cooley's beautiful embellished "havaianas" flip flops, she sets each swarovski crystal stone by hand! You can contact Dyanna at "PEEPS"

# 619 287 9072

Momma Duck taking her babes across Linda's Driveway! I LOVE it!

More of my dresses, bags, and tees

Dyanna's hand embellished card boxes, pocket mirrors, etc.

This last weekend spent at La Maison Rustique was so relaxing and nice.

Linda gave of herself once again to all of us.

I love you Linda, you are a special woman, a true friend, and blessing to us all.

Thank you.

A test from God.......

I believe that when we as humans encounter those who are different.....different than what we believe to be "correct", or "normal".....
I believe we are being tested.....
Tested by God.....
How will we treat those people that are different, non-correct, non-normal to our belief system?
Will we treat these people with kindness, non-judgement and acceptance?
My mother always taught us......
"What would Jesus do?"
The true definition of a Christian..........." behave in a Christ Like Manner"......

Yes, God is testing us......
This is why God creates those of us here on earth who are different.......
I believe this.
I hope that I recive a pssing grade.

An Inspirational Message From A Friend........

Do It Anyway
People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, people will forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God.
It was never between you and them anyway.
( Author: Mother Teresa )

Enjoy! Sheila

The Universe Sent Me A Message Today..........

Sandcastle Sirens Event.........

Click on images to see detail Just getting started

Jane's Art Exchange

Jane's special gift to her retreat attendees

Getting ready on Friday night

Julie Haymaker Thompson....such a vibrant soul! I adore her!

Sweet Jane and April....April is so wonderful!

Sandra Lee....beautiful, colorful girl!

Jane's husband Blaine....such a kind and generous man.

Sweet Lorie, Julie's sister.

Sandcastle Sirens Bags....Sea Shell Collectors for the girls

Julie's workshop

Linda did the most AMAZING job decorating for this event! I love you so very much Linda! You are a special and true friend.

Beautiful Linda!

This weekend went off quite well!

My first time ever helping to plan a large event, Jane placing her trust in me.......

I was able to take some pictures before the crowds came, I would estimate at least 500 people!

I wish that I had more images of this wonderful weekend to share with all of you.

The proceeds went to such a wonderful cause, "Art Takes A Village", and I know that the women involved were so happy to contribute to such a worthy cause.

So much gratitude fro my heart goes to Jane, Linda, April and Melanie.

I love you Jane, you are a special human.

Thank you.

Counting Down The days......Artisans to sell in the garden..............

Please join us for the "Market In The Garden"
On romantic Coronado Island, Ca.
Sunday June 7th '2009
This Big, Beautiful Event to benefit Jane Pollock's Charity "Art Takes A Village".
Shop for beautiful antiques and handmade artisan pieces.
This beautiful beach front home will be the setting for a day filled with shopping, friendship and delicious food.

This is a Catered, No-Charge Event. You don't want to miss this!
1:30 pm to 6:00 pm
#1110 Coronado Ave.
Coronado, Ca 92118

Matilda Mouse.......a little piece of Heaven in Valley Center, Ca.

Click on images to see detail

Every inch of this multiple acre estate is somehow bathed in magic......

From the entry gate, the home, the barn, and the landscaping, this is a place of sheer happiness.

The owners are those of kindness and warmth, and went out of their way to bring a smile to every customers face.

Thank you so very much!

La Maison Rustique.....

Click on images to see detail

Sunshine On My Shoulders........

I got some more bright Tees & Tanks late yesterday afternoon, and added my roses....
I LOVE the roses on the yellow, it just makes me smile.

Rita & Dean....Good Friends

Always homemade cappachino when I arrive at the Read's estate

Beautiful Rita, I love her sooooo much!

The ever handsome Dean, such an amazing chef!

Dean's homemade Salsa...Yum!

This rice salad was wonderful, Dean's homemade canned veggies, and his fresh caught tuna!

Dean's Home Canned Veggies....both Sweet & Spicy!

Dean refurbishes antique & Vintage stoves....beautiful sight....ahhhhh

Rita's happy place, her work studio.

One of the Mama Hens comes in to lay her egg....how terrific is that?!!!

Rita & Dean get fresh eggs daily!

This mama is gettin busy.........

Rita is a wiz with the power tools! This is where she creates her AMAZING Bird Houses.

Tamerie is leaning how to solder, she's getting the hang of it.

Rita is an expert solderer.....always creating something beautiful.

Tamerie and I took a drive up to Rita and Dean's wonderful estate in Rainbow yesterday.

We were treated like princesses, and are so thankful to these wonderful friends!

I appreciate you Rita and Dean!

XOXO Deb

My Roses Are Brighter.......

click on images to see detail

Okay......

My silk roses are my favorite, but with Spring and Summer amongst us, I have made them using these bright & brilliant Sis Boom prints.

I found these bright colored tees, and had to add my roses.....so happy!

Jennifer's Sis Boom...Madyson's Happy Legs ;-)

Click on images to see detail

I missed my sweet daughter Madyson June Bug's 12TH birthday because I was in AZ at the Bohemian Bliss Festival. But I picked up some of Jennifer's Sis Boom Fabrics and altered Madyson June's jeans.

I did a whole slew of these jeans several years back when they first became quite popular with all of the EBAY seamstress~Sellers, I'd forgotten how much work they really are to make......

But...........A handmade birthday gift is something special to Madyson, as Mom is always to busy sewing for customers, never getting to my own daughter.... :-(

Jane & Blaine....A Day on The Bay

Click on images to see detail

Friday was magical!

Jane and her husband Blaine took Me, Mary and Joy out on their amazing Boat...."Devine Intervention" is her name...sigh

We had such a wonderful time!

It was truely mental medicine for me...the water, the San Diego Skyline, the feeling of just being calm.....

Jane and her husband are truely beautiful humans, so caring, generous and genuine people. I am so blessed to have stumbled across these two in my life. It is God's way.... bring us gifts that can bring us true joy. I mean this from the bottom of my heart, my soul.

Thank you Jane and Blaine. You brought a smile to my face, happiness to my heart, and faith that good people do exist, and God works in mysterious ways......

XOXO Deb

Us girls ventured out to Miguel's on Coronado Island last night, such great food and wonderful friends!

We went back to Jane's beach house, had lots & lots of girl talk, then went nite~nite in the amzing suites in the house....ahhhhh what a wonderful night!

What a wonderful morning...cappachino on the veranda, in front of the beach! Doesn't get any better than that!

Thank you sweet jane, you are an angel sent to so many women....

XOXO Deb

Pixe Fairies and Miss Mary smilove......

My Sweet Miss Mary taught a class today at Paper Tales, Little Pixie Fairies!! So ADORABLE!

I am so happy to know that my dear friend will be here in San Diego at least once a month to teach, I am ecstatic!

Mary brought little Liza Lou this trip, and she made the day even better.

Miss Maija......

How much do I love Miss Maija???

More than all the stars in the sky......ahhhhh

Miss Maija Lapore opened up her home and her heart to myself, Mary, Joy and Sherry this past weekend, and cared for us as though we were her family.....She is my sister, and I love her so very much.

Classes at Blissfull Living Studio.......

Click on images to see detail

Sweet Mary and I taught our classes at Blissfull Living Studio in Mesa, AZ on Saturday, we had such a blast!

I will get the hang of it eventually girls, I promise!

Next classes will be tees!

Bohemian Bliss Festival.....AZ

Click on images to see detail Some of my Tees

Some of my Bags

Mary's Booth

Joy & Sherry's Booth

Joy & Sherry's Booth

Gina's Booth

Mary & Cindy

My Talented sister Patty's crocheted bracelets

Little Jessi

GORGEOUS Minnie

Sherry is in a hurry to shop! Tee Hee

Sweet beauties, Sherry, Joy & Mary

The Bohemian Bliss festival in Mesa AZ was such fun!

The beauty and friendships made these two days simply unforgettable!

Thanks Kristin!

Topas Party!

Joy, Maija & Sherry

Trichia, Julie, Joy, Sherrry & Mary

Mary, Jessi & Maija

Maija threw a Topas Party for us girls on Saturday night!

Thank you for being there for us!!

I love you Maija!

Kristin's Happy Place.....

Click on images to see detail

I am so blessed to have met Kristin from Domestic Bliss....

If it wasn't for her, I would not have had this wonderful experience of the Bohemian Bliss Festival.

She opened up her BEYOND BEAUTIFUL home to me, and I had to share some of it with you.

These pictures don't even begin to capture the magic of this home....sigh

Thank you Kristin! I can't wait to get back!

I fantasize about relaxing on the porch, margaritas, chips, salsa and friendship.

XOXO Deb

A Gift From Canada......

What a great suprize!!!

I got a package from Canada at my doorstep today!

My adorable friend Sandy sent me these yummy goodies, and made me the most wonderful pillow! I'm so in love with it!

Thank you sweet Sandy! I love you!

XOXO Deb

Soft & Shabby Bag

Click on image to see detail

You can now order my Soft & Shabby Bag directly from here girls!

Each bag is handmade by me, with the softest chenille, silk velevt lining, and raw silk top detail. The burlap strap adds just the right amount of shabby to the bag!

Bag measures roughly 13" x 14"

Red or Pink combination avaiable.

Please note: vintage accessory will differ from one shown due to its' one-of-a-kind nature.

Please allow me 10 days to complete your order.

$75

Personalized Photo Bag

Click on images to see details

These Personalized Photo Bags are my latest pieces.......

Each is personalized with any photo that you would like, and avaiable up to 15" x 15"

Just E-Mail me your JPG photo file, and I will reproduce it as a beautiful, unique, one-of-a-kind bag!

I use the softest silk velevt to line each bag, and top detail made from beautiful raw silk.

Each bag has a burlap strap, hand made silk rose brooch, and matching Soldered Charm. Charms are handmade by Rita Reade.

These Bags are made to last a lifetime, no iron-on images, I promise.

Please allow up to three weeks for this custom bag to be completed.

Bag shown is also for sale "Coronado Island 1906"

$70

Laguna Niguel........

Erin's Bags

Rita Reads Bird House

Sweet Erin Berraza

Erin's Mom Eloise's home, just beautiful!

We stopped at Christie Repasy"s shop to take her to lunch, but sadly she wasn't there.... :-(

Mexican for lunch in Laguna....Yummy margaritas

We don't know this sweet girl, but she was so precious that I had to take her picture!

Tamerie got to hold this beautiful girl!

Tamerie and I took a short road trip up to Laguna Niguel today, we wanted to attend the Garden Party at Sweet Eloise's home .

Everything was so beautiful! What a Lovely Spring Boutique!

We headed out to the beach, stopped by to see our dear friend Christie, but unfortunately missed her. We went to lunch, walked along the board walk, and ended the day with Gilatto.

Great day!

Need To Smile? He's a "Happy" Drug......

Whenever I feel sad, my sweet friend Tamerie sends me pictures of her long time love,....I can't stand it! He just makes me smile :-)

They met when they were 30 yrs old, while both modeling in Europe.

This man just gets better with age......

Thought that maybe some of you girls out there in Blog Land needed a "Smile" today.....

He is serious Eye~Candy!

Road Trip.....

Me and my beautiful Miss Mary are off to Arizona with our dear girlfriends Joy and Sherry!
We will be staying with our Adorable Miss Maija in her beautiful Chandler home for Four.......Yes! I said Four Days!!
Miss Mary Smilove and I will be teaching on Saturday, May 15th at Domestic Bliss Art Studio.
Friday night will be filled with amazing fun and art at the Bohemian Bliss Soiree.
I can't wait girls!

Click on image to see detail Need a Fantastic Custom Cover for your tent?
This lady does a spectacular job!
E-mail her for your custom canopy cover today.
$300-$350 (Labor Only) Client provides the fabric.
Elizabeth Dixon
dixondomain@verizon.net

Marche' dans le jardin

Click on images to see detail

Please join us for the "Market In The Garden"

On romantic Coronado Island, Ca.

Sunday June 7th '2009

This Big, Beautiful Event to benefit Jane Pollock's Charity "Art Takes A Village".

Shop for beautiful antiques and handmade artisan pieces.

This beautiful beach front home will be the setting for a day filled with shopping, friendship and delicious food.

1:30 pm to 6:00 pm

#1110 Coronado Ave.

Coronado, Ca 92118

Bohemian Bliss Soiree...Mesa AZ

Click on image to read details

This event is worth the trip girls!!

Pack up your car and get ready for the "Road Trip" of the year if you are not located in or near Mesa Az.

So many friends, fabulous Artists and Fun to be had!

Some of the Vagabond Vendor Links:
Cami Wright
Bella & Gracies
My Three Sons
Shabby Rose
Nostalgia Organic Soaps & Toiletries
Mosaic Cottage
The Swanky Bee
Whippycakes
Laura Ingalls Gunn
Julie Haymaker
Adorn Style Lounge
Meg Harper
Paris Montana
Blissful Living Studio
Fat & Sassy
Domestic Bliss
The Vintage Rabbit
Glamarella Junk
Vintage Bliss
Sweet Peas & Snapshots
Shelly Beson
Breathing Beside Us
Beth Quinn
The Vintage Rabbit

Memories......

1968....me and my sisters.......

1966.....me & my cousin Michael. My Dad took this picture.

1995, my daughter Brittany, Step daughter Crystal and little Davey........

1990....My Mom was doing well with terminal cancer, she loved her Brittany Rae Rae......

1998....Brittany & Madyson June

1998....Madyson June Bug...she ruined the carpet...tee hee with her sippy cup and bottle.

1997.....Madyson June Bug was born.....Brittany Rae and big brother Davey.

I rescued my storage unit today that I thought that they had auctioned off....

Thanks to Linda and her Barn, I made some $$ to save my family treasures....sigh....

I love you so much Linda!

I was going through my paper work, and came across these pictures...

Brought tears to my eyes....times were happier, my kids were so little, so Innocent, so sweet.

My sisters loved me.

I thought that I would post these, share them with all the girls that I love so much, that I am so blessed to have in my life.

I know how much I love to see my friends past in pictures....ahhhhh

A Gift from the heart......

A gift from Tamerie.....ahhhhh
A gift from the heart, made especially for me, with love, respect and moreover...Kindness.
Thank you doll, I love it!
Love you bunches!

Silk Roses Tees & Tanks

Click on images to see details

These new Tanks & Tees are available to purchase directly on my blog.

Each Rose is handcrafted by me, using a beautiful Raw Silk, and Czech Rhinestone Crystal.

Avaiable in both Short Sleeve Tees and Tank Tops.

Sizes: XXS-4X

Please notify me of "Size, Color & Style" at time of purchase.

$45

La Maison Rustique......

Click on images to see detail Linda.....God sent this angel to me. I love you Linda!

La Maison Rustique....Linda's Barn, that she shares so graciously with all of us.

More from the Barn......

La Maison Rustique Treasures.

My Sweeties.....Alice and Mary.

Big Smiles........ Sheila, Sherry & Linda.

Yippeeeeee! Tricia from Arizona is here!

http:www.vintagebliss.typepad.com

Beautiful Patsy and her baby.....

SO CUTE!!! Sherry & her Little girl

Absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Christie Repasy's Famous paintings......

http://www.christierepasy.com/

My Sweetie Pea Rita!! She is the "Bird House Bella".....

One of the most talented women I know!

http://www.mammabellarte.blogspot.com/

Rita's creativity..... her amazing Soldered Jewelry.

More of Rita's creations.

One of Rita's many Beautiful Bird Houses.....this one is a "Hotel"....hehehehe

Adorable Gina......

This girl makes the most wonderful, unique Antique Spoon Jewelry!

Antique Flatware bracelets & Charms..... Gina is so gifted.

Gina's Typewriter Bracelets.

Sherry http://www.glamarellajunk.blogspot.com

Joy http://www.thevintagerabbit.typepad.com

I adore these girls.

Joy's Treasures...check out her blog for sales and information.

Sherry's Dip Dyed Slips.....ahhhhhhh

Check out her online boutique to purchase these beautites.

Miss Mary Smilove I love you very much! You're gonna make it sweetie!

http://www.sweetpeasandsnapshots.typepad.com/

Mary's treasures. Buy them online at:

http://www.sweetpeasandsnapshots.com/

Mary sells the most wonderful Vintage Clothing!

My new Bags......

I do "Custom" bags as well! E-mail me your Favorite Photo, and I'll create a personal piece, just for you!

Bags are lined in the most amazing Silk Velvet, top details in Raw Silk, and a custom Soldered Charm to match, hand made for the bag by "Rita Reade"

Bags are offered @

$70

Please E-Mail Me to order:

nantucketnursery@yahoo.com

More of my Handmade Bags.....

I love this bag I created....it reminds me of my wonderful friendships....my beautiful, talented girlfriends.

My Mother would have loved this bag.... I created it with love in my heart.

My Place Mat Bags..... so much fun to create!

These are also offered for sale @ $45 each.

Some more my Tees and Tanks.

My "Coronado Island" Bag....ahhhhhhhhh

This "Coronado Island" Bag comes with a custom, handmade Soldered Charm by; "Rita Reade"

Charms look fantastic dangling on Bag's Side, or worn personally, as jewelry.

Mary Smilove.......

How adorable, talented and amazing is Miss Mary Smilove?????
Mary has created some of the most beautiful Feathered Hair Pieces, reminiscent of the 1920s, 30s & 40s.....
You can purchase these treasures at La Maison Rustique this Friday and Saturday, April 24 th & 25 th.....
Its gonna be a PARTEEEEEEEE!

Bags, Bags, and more Bags........

Click on images to see detail

Fresh new bags, so simple, and deliciously luxurious and soft on the inside.....

Vintage Photo..... New Beginning

Click on image to see detail

I have created about a dozen new Soft & Shabby Bags, using beautiful, turn of the century photos.......ahhhhhh

The bags are lined in the Softest, Brown Silk Velvet, soooooo yummy!

And top detailed using a beautiful cream Raw Silk. I will be adding my signature Burlap Straps very soon to each bag.

My talented friend Rita has made some amazing Soldered Charms to match the bags, and they will dangle wonderfully from the burlap straps. Can it get any better?!

Miss Maija Lapore.........

Click on images to see detail

I got back from the printer to find a little box of LOVE on my porch.........

My sweet friend put so much love into these gifts....... I feel that Maija is the biggest gift of all!

I will smile every time I look at my new treasures.

Thank you!

I love you Maija!

Place Mats aren't just for the table.......

Click on image to see detail I was at Target this weekend, and knew that these black place mats would make fantastic bags.
All I need to do is add the burlap straps, and they are good to go!
I'll be selling these bags at La Maison Rustique April 24th & 25th.
If you are interested in buying these or any other of my bags shown on this blog, please feel free to e-mail me, I can send you a Pay Pal Invoice.
These bags are offered at $55
nantucketnursery@yahoo.com

Springtime and Roses.......

Click on images to see detail

I love roses, and raw silk....

These soft and romantic tanks & tees will be for sale at La Maison Rustique ( AKA The Barn ) in Temecula April 24th & 25th.

( If you are interested in purchasing a Tank or T-Shirt like these, but are unable to attend the Barn sale, please e-mail me, and I can send you a PayPal Invoice. The cost of the Tank or Tee is $45.

nantucketnursery@yahoo.com

Ocean Front Artists Retreat.........Coronado Island, Ca.

Click on images to see detail

Hey Birdie....Julie's Work Shop

Time Flys....... Julies Work Shop

A view of Jane's home from the beach....sigh

An ocean.... just step across the street

What you'll see when staying in Jane's beautiful home.....ahhhhhh

A rose garden entry........

A beautiful gormet kitchen for laughing and friends to gather

An entry way to happiness.......

Relax in a warm and peaceful sunroom

One of six beautiful bedrooms suites

A weekend to remember girls.........

Sand Castle Sirens

June 6th & 7th '2009

Jane Pollock is responsible for the event of the summer here on Coronado Island. Jane is so passionate about helping others to heal through art, and her charity "Art Takes A Village" is helping women of abuse, to change their lives.

There will be shopping on Sunday June 7th, with amazing artists offering their beautiful works.

The wonderful Julie Haymaker Thompson will be teaching these two projects:

Hey Birdie ( $90) (single class rate)

Time Flies ($110) (single class rate)

Time flies will be offered on Saturday along with a gourmet lunch, bonfire and seaside photo op:

Hey birdie will be offered on Sunday along with a continental breakfast and after class we are hosting a vendor sale in the garden of the house.

Classes can be taken singly but there is limited space to 10 attendees per class.

Bedroom Suites for the night of June 6th are no longer available, as all have been reserved.

200.00 per person this includes both classes , Saturday lunch, Sunday continental breakfast, treats for bonfire- pictures- Pre vendor sale admission and attendee giftee
(beverages and concierge service)

Please contact Jane:

arttakesavillage@aol.com

To My "Heart's" content......

Click on image to see detail

Bags, Bags, Bags....

I'm seeing bags in my sleep girls. I have been BEYOND blessed, orders are coming in from the Heavens, and Shops are requesting them as well.

I am truly grateful to God, my friends, and my peers.....ahhhhhh

God is true, the Universe is responding, and my life is taking a new turn......

Portrait of a bag........

Click on image to see detail I started this bag this morning.
I see something beautiful, and I immediately find myself seeking the proper textile to affix it to.....
"It Needs To Be On A Bag" I tell myself!
This little portrait blends itself beautifully with the soft brown chenille, and shimmery silk velvet.....sigh
This bag will be available for sale. Look for her at the Barn Sale in Temecula's Wine Country April 24th, 25th.

Italian Bella.......Rita

Click on image to see detail

Oh......

How much do I love little Rita??!!

SO MUCH!

This beauty made me some AMAZING gifts, and gave them to me this morning!

The Birdie House is so beautiful, painted my favorite Robin's Egg blue, with vintage rhinestones to boot!

The Charm is beyond charming, and is a perfect fit!

Thank you my sweet Rita!

Pssstttt....

a little birdie told you girls.....

Rita and I are collaborating on a couple of pieces together that are gonna be ADORABLE!

I'll post when we are finished. You don't want to miss this!

Such A Doll........Maija

Maija Lapore is one of my three Pay It Forward Girls!
I LOVE this girl, and think that she is such a doll!
So.....I decided to make this Doll a Tee with a tiny little Doll Dress...tee hee
She wears it well, and I thank her for posting it on her blog!
I love you Doll!

She's Finished........

Click on image to see detail She's finished..... sigh
I love this bag, so soft, sweet, sparkly and summery!
I've used a soft creamy chenille on the outside of the bag, and a fabulous crushed silk velvet on the inside lining. The vintage rhinestone brooch adds just the right amount of sparkle to the raw silk starfish.
She's for sale, offered at $85
Email me if interested, and I will send a Pay Pal Invoice.

Soft & Shabby Starfish........

Click on image to see detail I'm making a new bag today......
I think that my Starfish Design looks delightful & fresh! So on the bag front she goes........
Chenille, Silk, Velvet, Burlap and Sparkling Vintage bling..........
My Favorite things!

Sunday At Paper Tales.....

Patty was a sweet suprize!

Tamerie....sewing perfection at work

Cindy....How ADORABLE is this girl!!!!!

Cindy's beautiful finished Bag

Jennifer...what a beautiful soul..really.

Today I taught my "Soft & Shabby Bag" at Paper Tales in Point Loma.

We were deep in conversation about women's Issues, all important, and came home feeling renewed and refreshed! This was a good day........

Thank you my sweet friends!

Saturday At Paper Tales.......

Darling Diane and My sweet sister Patty

Dana....what a precious human......

Beautiful Joy, such a pro!

Saturday was my "Crowned Tee" class at Paper tales in Point Loma.

What a wonderful day, it was spent with laughter, girl talk, and busy little hands, sewing away....

Doesn't get much better!

Bohemian Bliss Market....Domestic Bliss, AZ

Bohemian Bliss Market.......
May 15th & 16th '2009

Bonnie Hunt Show.......

Monday was spent in Culver City, CA at Culver Studios....

Tamerie, Alice and me were playing Hooke from work.....hmmmmm

We LOVE Bonnie, and had so much fun attending the taping! She is SO beautiful, Warm and REAL

Cameras and Phones were not allowed, so I went through serious Picture taking withdrawal all day.

Miss Mary and Linda couldn't make it, but will be DRAGGED next time for sure.......

Chic & Shabby Bag.....Ahhhhhhh

Click on image to see detail My latest Bag design.....
I bought the most wonderful pair of antique wall sconces from cutie-pie Sherry at the Barn this past weekend, and knew that they would be just perfect for my bags! These sconces are so light-weight, and make me smile from ear to ear! Big too, about 10" high.
I've added some vintage rhinestones, and based the bag with shabby Burlap! Oh.....the possibilities are endless!
This will be a good sized Bag, about 16" x 16"
I will line the bag with a beautiful crushed silk Velvet....maybe Gold.........
So simple, yet amazing!
I'll post the finished product when it's completed.

Margaritas at Miguel's......

Sweet Val and Nancy!
Darling Linda! What a great time that we had at Miguel's here on Coronado Thursday!

Lunch and margaritas were just second to the good conversation, laughter and fun that we shared....

Tamerie and I were also there, but I'm starting to run out of gas, and only got to two pics......

We missed our sweethearts Dana, Joy and Jane! :(

Next month for sure, and Miss Mary Smilove, Alice, Sherry and Rita will be coaxed into coming ;)

Kreativ Blogger Award....

Breathing Beside Us has received the Kreativ Blogger Award!

I am so excited to have recieved this wonderful award from The Chateau of Remnants blog.

Now we have to list 7 things that we like, enjoy & love...*

I love my kids!

I love my friends!

I love God & Spirituality

I love creating while I'm alone

I love the ocean!

I love the smell of the Forest

I love Turquoise Blue & Red together!

The second part of this post is a little harder, because you need to pass this award on to 7 blogs you consider creative. Not an easy task, we are surrounded by creativity in Blog Land! I had to stop at seven.... :(
Here are my Picks!

Mary Smilove http:www.sweetpeasandsnapshots.typepad.com

Tamerie Shriver http://www.alittleofthisthatandtheother.blogspot.com/

Rita Read http://www.mamabellarte.blogspot.com/

Tricia Samsal http://www.vintagebliss.typepad.com/

Sherry Welch http://www.glamarellajunk.typepad.com/

Joy Gabler http://www.thevintagerabbit.typepad.com

Maija Lapore http://www.maigirlz.typepad.com

La Maison Rustique....The Barn

Click on images to see detail The girls drove down on Sunday after their big day with Kim!

Some of my new Tees

One of my Sacred Heart Bags

My Sacred Hear Bag

More of my Bags

Sweet Linda & her sister Patsy. I love you Linda!

Wow! Sherry's Slips are popular!!

Little Whitney, she was loving Wilson Creek's Almond Champagne......hehe

Cutest couple I know! Adorable Rita & Dean

Beautiful Joy!

Sherry, what a cutie-pie!

Wow! Christie is beyond talented! Her paintings are so beautiful! Rita....

I love you doll!

This past weekend was so much fun!

La Maison was hopping, Friday, Saturday, and yes! even Sunday!

The girls from Culver City ( Kim's Soiree ) took a mini road trip down on Sunday to see the Barn ad share good food, laughter and champagne.

We missed our sweet Mary and Alice so much, and will make sure they are with us next month!

Thank you Linda! If it wasn't for Linda, there wouldn't be a Barn for us to congregate, Celebrate, and dream.....ahhhhhhhh

Easter Eggs and Robert Mahar

Robert Mohar, adorable man!

Mary, I love you!

Precious Alice and sweet Sabrina

Queen Tamerie

Darling Shiela

My Silk Dyed Eggs

Robert at work

Lovely Linda

Saturday morning was an Easter Egg Soiree with the wonderful Robert Mahar!

We all gathered at the charming cottage owned by my favorite girl, Mary Smilove, in beautiful Santa Monica, for a lesson in Silk Dying Easter Eggs, a divine champagne brunch, and an Easter Egg Hunt at Sweetpeas & Snapshots.

Thank you sweet Mary and Robert for a beautiful day!

Beautiful Women....Awards

Sweet Maija Awarded me, and I love her dearly! Ahhhhhhhhhh “These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.”

Beautiful Women

Mary Smilove ~ Sweetpeas & Snapshots

Tamerie Shriver ~ A Little of This That and the other

Rita Reade ~ Mammabellarte

Sherry Welch ~ Glamarella Junk

Linda Carpenter ~ La Maison Rustique

Dana Erickson-Chaisson ~ Tutu Monkey

Tricia Samsal ~ Vintage Bliss

Jane Pollock ~ Art Takes A Village

Oh, Maija is so right! It is definitely difficult to stop at Eight..........

Pay It Forward Challenge........

I have decided to join my sweetie Tamerie, and post the "Pay It Forward" Challenge on my blog.
( I have copy & Pasted her post, hoping that she won't notice...hehehe )
The first 3 people who leave me a comment on this post only will receive a handmade item from me sometime in the next 3 months. Just one day, out of the blue, at no cost to you, a special something will arrive in your mailbox. (Be sure to leave contact info so that I can get your mailing address.)
The turnabout is that you must choose to participate in this round robin of giving by giving yourself and posting the "Pay It Forward Challenge" on your blog.

Margaritas at Miguel's

Calling all Blooger Girls in the San Diego area!!!!!
We will be meeting for Margaitas & Lunch, at Miguel's on Coronado Island, Thursday, March 26th, and would love to have any girls that are interested in attending to send me a comment, so that I can put you on the list.
I will be contacting Miguel's on Wed, Mar 25th, to reserve a table, so I need to know who will be attending, by Tuesday evening at the latest.We will meet at 11;00 am and have Lunch and Margaritas, Laughter and Fun! I can't wait! Please, leave a comment, so that you are included in the reservation.

23 Years Old.......

So...........
I came across this picture of myself when I was 23 years old.
I realized that I was the same age that my Brittany is now.....ahhhhhhhh
I did some bad photo shop work, to show Me & Brittany together in the picture.......
OK, my bad 80s hair and pale makeup isn't exactly what the Britt would do..... I can see a little resemblance.... I can wish, right??
It seems like only yesterday she was my baby, and today she's all grown up....only in years though.....as Brittany will always be my baby.

Maija's House.... PartOne.....Fun!

Cindy, Maija & Sandy

Tamerie & Tricia

Tricia & Mary

I LOVE to see Mary Laugh! I adore Mary!Maija & Mary

Sweet Maija

Maija, Cindy & Tamerie

Maija's Men.....Hubby and Alex. They tolerated us girls invading their Movie Time, while we drooled over Maija's bathroom.

Beautiful Wendy, Diane's duaghter

Me & Kristin (Owner)

Mary, Tamerie and Myself, took a road trip to Phoenix.....

We spent Friday thru late Saturday with the warmest, kindest, giddiest bunch of women! We were honored to be Maija's guests for a Mexican Fiesta, filled with great food, mango margaritas, Napa Valley Vino, and the most fun ever!

From the moment we arrived, we were treated with such kindness, love, and lots of hugs! I finally got to meet Sandy, what a precious doll! She traveled all the way from Canada, and we all adore her!

Maija's home is unbelievably beautiful, and her art collection is TO DIE FOR! Really. She has the most beautiful studio I have ever seen! I can't belive it's not been published by Stampington. Jenny Doh would be in heaven in this room!

Saturday Maija drove us all to Domestic Bliss, where I had the pleasure of meeting the owner, beautiful Kristin! I will be traveling back to Phoenix soon, to teach in her wonderful store.

Then, we were off to Melrose Vintage, where we met up with the owner, beautiful Diane and her adorable daughter Wendy. It was fabulous! This store is fantastic!

I will be teaching at Melrose Vintage as well! I am so excited to start on this new journey of mine!

These tuely are THE MOST BEAUTIFUL stores that I have ever been in!

We stopped at Rust & Roses, where I met Chief Junkster, Shelly Session, and discussed her selling my Gilded Shrouds Tees.

What a fun place!

This trip was a bridge to my new life, a life where I have a chance to find success doing what I love....creating beautiful things for beautiful women. A chance to finally be happy.

I want to thank all the kind girls that I spent these two days with, Mary, Sandy, Tamerie, Tricia, & her Mom, Cindy and most of all.....Sweet, Wonderful Maija.

I love you!

I am so looking forward to our next get together!

Winged Heart T-Shirts for sale.......

click on image to see detail

This is my latest T-Shirt.....

Linen, Silk and Velvet.....

Just like LOVE, it's center is soft, but sometimes it can be rough and tattered.

Long Sleeves available in size SM only.

Short Sleeves XS thru XXL

"Cap" & "Regular" Short Sleeves available

"Slim" or "Regular" Fit

Color Choices: Brown Black Pink White

Please notify me of size & Shirt~Sleeve Style & Color needed at time of purchase.

I'm offering this tee @ $65

Sweet Rita....The Barn

click on images to see detail Beautiful Rita

Sweet Patty

Girls just wanna have fun!

Don't burn those fingers!

Tamerie and Deb's Finished Pens

Sherry's beautiful tye dyed Slips

Sherry's Baby Girl, Sophia Rose.....ahhhhhhhh

Who's that little face peeking through the stairs?

Two of a kind!

Wonderful Linda

You'll always be able to find Tamerie's car........

Wow! Today we had a blast at the Barn in Temecula, as Rita taught us to make these wonderfully, beautiful Soldered Pens. They turned out so pretty!

Thank you so much Rita, we appreciate you!

Margaritas at Miguel's....Fun!

We all went to Miguel's for Margaritas and lunch, it was wonderful!

I wish that more of our Blogger Girls could have shared this with us, but there is always next month!

My dear friend Tamerie, sweet Dana, and beautiful Joy and Jane, met my Brittany and me at 11:00, and we chatted and laughed for far too long....hehehehe

( I wish that I had a picture of Joy to post, but it won't upload....grrrrrrrr )

Guilded Shrouds.........

click on images to see detail

Unique, hand stitched Tees available at Sweetpeas & Snapshots in Marina Del Rey, CA

Please stop in to find these and other beautiful & edgy tees.

The Blessed Mary......

My beautiful friend, Miss Mary, gave me this precious piece the other day....ahhhhh
I love the Blessed Mother, and I love you Sweet Mary!

Margaritas Get Together at Miguel's on Coronado!!!!

Calling all Blooger Girls in the San Diego area!!!!!
We will be meeting for Margaitas & Lunch, at Miguel's on Coronado Island, Thursday, Feb 19th, and would love to have any girls that are interested in attending to send me a comment, so that I can put you on the list.
I will be contacting Miguel's on Wed, Feb 18th, to reserve a table, so I need to know who will be attending, by Tuesday evening at the latest.
We will meet at 11;00 am and have Lunch and Margaritas, Laughter and Fun!
I can't wait!
Please, leave a comment, so that you are included in the reservation.

Valentine's Day...Lil' Sarah.......

A BIG suprise arrived in the Mail today!

As you all know, I am in LOVE with Little Sarah.....ahhhhhhh

The MOST BEAUTIFUL baby on the planet!

I opened the mail box, and found the SWEETEST card ever!! and a Valentine's Pin that was made especially for my Madyson June!

Boy!! I can't tell you how good it made Madyson feel, to recieve such a loving gift.....

Thank you Sweet Dana, from the bottom of our hearts!

We love you both!!!

http://www.tutumonkey.etsy.com/

Workshop At Paper Tales!....Lill' Bird Apron

Click on Picture os Michelle to see detail

Click on images to see detail

I'll be teaching a Class at Paper Tales Saturday April 28th, '2009

10:00am to 1:00pm

We'll be making this fun Lill' Bird Apron!

You can register for the work shop at Paper Tales

http://www.papertales.typepad.com

or Call: 619-222-2510

Its gonna be Fun!!

We give them wings....we must let them fly.

Tattoo....Part One

She's a grown-up now....23yrs

Shes my little helper....3yrs

Shes my Baby....1 yr

There comes a day when we as Mothers need to let our babies go....fly away using the wings that we helped to form....

My oldest, Brittany, sent me this picture of her new tattoo today.... Hmmmmm

I guess that I have to embrace the meaning of this permanent work of art on her little arm.

The image has deep meaning to me as well....My Mother's Name and her love of Nursing...My love of sewing....

My other children's birth dates, and the Sacred Heart of Christ.....

Boy.....Let me tell you....its hard to let her go......

But if I want to keep her close, I will let her fly.....