She Can't Decide

vintage fabrics in bright!

2012-01-14T08:59:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a few vintage fabrics to brighten a winter day. Each of these table cloths will be available in the shop this weekend!

Vintage Oil Paintings of Flowers

2011-12-29T11:41:00.000-08:00

I forraged these fantastic floral oil paintings a few weeks ago and they are finally hitting the shop. After a lovely Christmas, it is nice to lay my eyes on something so springy. The set is painted on cardboard and comes unframed. Each painting is signed. They are bright, beautiful, and perfect for a small space on a collage wall. Find them [here]

Industrial Wire Baskets

2011-12-18T14:25:00.000-08:00

These fantastic vintage wire baskets are hitting the shop this evening. They come in a set of three and are just great for office storage of files, paperwork, or mail.

Vintage Ice Tea Spoons

2011-12-14T17:53:00.000-08:00

Another find from a great weekend of thirfting. These long handled spoons are great for stirring mixed drinks or a tall glass of ice tea. [one of my favorite places to find yummy cocktails is Shutter Bean, check the list out here] Perfectly mismatched and wonderfully full of character. Find them in the new home . decor shop section of ItsBella.

Sparkle with Gold.

2011-12-13T19:04:00.000-08:00

There are a few nice items coming to the shop this week. Two of my favorites are these gold themed jewelry pieces. Each is sweet and perfectly fantastic for holiday wear. The earrings are a fun sparkle to add to a black dress this New Years and the Equestrian theme necklace is just too darn cute for any time of year.

Find the horse [here]

the last of fall.

2011-11-30T18:10:00.000-08:00

I snatched up some great fall flowers on the street last week outside of the Target in DC. Most of them were pink themed and had lilies. I thought these were perfectly pre-Thanksgiving. I rearranged them in a glass cracker jar.

Washington DC Tweed Ride

2011-11-20T19:12:00.000-08:00

Since moving to Washington DC I have found myself enjoying the city in such fun ways! Last weekend the city had a Tweed Ride, where people dressed up all old timey and hopped on their bikes for a ride around the city. My friends and I were with the "music bike" most of the time, enjoying ragtime music and the streets of DC in our tweeds!

Here is a link to the site Dandies and Quaintrelles and an entire flickr of photos. Everyone looked great!

New linens in the shop!

2011-11-20T19:04:00.000-08:00

To brighten your day, a fresh stock of vintage linens are hitting the shop within the week. Granny style throws, linen napkins, scarves, and pillowcases. I always love a good vintage linen, but I love a great vintage linen DIY project too. I am completely inspired to make these vintage linen cocktail napkins that I spied on Design Sponge. Check out the DIY project here.

fantastic furs...

2011-10-29T08:21:00.000-07:00

They're back...fur collars! In the shop this weekend will come a great selection of fur collars that have been forraged from vintage coats and jackets. These collars are great as an accessory to a high neck dress or winter sweater.

There is also a stunning rabbit fur headband available. It is so soft and sweet. Very woodland and cute.

New Costume Jewelry

2011-10-18T19:18:00.000-07:00

There are going to be three new necklaces added to the shop this week. They are all so sparkly and pretty, perfect for an evening event or to wear with a feminine lacey top. The vintge necklaces are full of lovely, clear rhinestones and romantic details. Be sure to check back for them hitting the shop in the next few days...

Autumn is Here!

2011-10-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

It has been a long, long while. I have moved to another city and my life is evoloving. I have missed my shops and updating them very, very much! This weekend I worked on some new jewlery listings for ItsBella, as well as the new addition of some granny blankets to the mix. Enjoy!

vintage sewing destash.

2011-08-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

I am going to be listing a few vintage sewing items from my stash this afternoon. I just can't resist a cool button card or vintage graphic. However, it is time to clear out for some new space! I had a helper this morning while taking photos..

Just Like Goldie..

2011-08-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

I just listed this adorable 1960s ruffle night gown in the shop and it reminded me of Goldie Hawn in Cactus Flower. Such a fun movie with ooldes of vintage eye candy.

Black Lattice.

2011-07-16T07:02:00.000-07:00

This set of black metal shelves is in the shop now. They are perfect for the cottage style home.

fresh vintage linens!

2011-07-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

sometimes the simplest of photos can relay how beautiful a vintage item really is.

1970s Vintage Lamp

2011-07-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

I have been updating the shops a lot in the last two days. I spent some time traveling in June and sort of fell behind with my listings. This great hanging lamp has been sitting around the house for over a month! Enjoy...

Bright Colors.

2011-07-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

I just love the bright colors of summertime fun! This 1970s straw hand bag is in the shop now...

pair with these beauties...

Vintage Wrapping Paper

2011-07-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

I came across a large collection of vintage wrapping papers this summer. [well, my mom actually spotted them!] The collection is all folded pieces of a light weight / textured printed paper. Some are children oriented and lots and lots of florals. The pieces are hitting the shop this morning....

Tri Pod Planter

2011-06-17T12:57:00.000-07:00

Coming to the shop soon...what a beauty! Now if I could just get that plant back into healthier shape...

I love when something comes together...

2011-06-04T07:03:00.000-07:00

This is a little corner of my bathroom. I just love it as a functional space. The wire stand, pink dandelion tray, and flour canister were found all separately over the past two years, but they work so well together!

Farm Style.

2011-05-30T15:46:00.001-07:00

Lots of farm style items are coming to the shop this week! Enjoy...

Unusual Containers...

2011-05-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

I just love, love, love when my peony bush is in fill bloom. It is my favorite flower. I love how tightly they begin and then open to a cascading layer after layer of beauty. I enjoy cutting them and bringing them inside to make my rooms smells nice. In the last two weeks I have collected some unusual containers for flowers. Here are two of my favorite, a glass baby bottle, and an old glass milk container.

Weekend Sneak Peek

2011-05-21T12:17:00.000-07:00

This weekend I rounded up some fairly decent vintage finds! Lots and lots of vintage full aprons that are in pristine condition. The prints are so feminine and bright, it is breath taking. I also came across a full set of 1950s bullet lights. Two for the bedside and one to hang on the bed board. Wonderful, never out of the box condition! Check the shop this weekend for updates! [and as usual, you are welcome to email me if you are interested in something before it hits the shop]

Spring white update...

2011-05-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

It is all about the white update in the shop this weekend! Three lovely white spring handbags are available. Each one is sweet in its own way. Can you tell I photograph them on different days?

Rain, sigh.

2011-05-14T06:01:00.000-07:00

Quite a rainy, rainy day here in Pennsylvania. The week was incredibly beautiful and then I wake up to a dull, gray, rainy Saturday morning. While it is good for the flowers and trees it is no good for yard sales. [my favorite thing to do this time of year!] However, one sale was indoors and I scored two vintage tulip drinking glasses and a cute green and yellow planter. [I have a ton of planters, but I love them so!] Not bad for $1.00 total.

A little customer love...

2011-05-13T13:52:00.000-07:00

I had a lovely customer in my shop last week. She purchased one of my favorite dresses to ever be in my shop; the Lava Dress. She throughtfully sent me a photo of her in her new dress. How cute??

This is Sandy. She also has an etsy shop! [what fun] It is called Sam Milly Vintage and she carries vintage wear for the entire family, baby included! Make sure to check out her shop, lots of vintage aprons, handbags, and toddler clothing.

A gathering of vintage winged creatures...

2011-05-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

I had the most fun time photographing these vintage artificial birds. They are a bit worn, but I really feel that it ads to their character...in the shop now.

Discovered Lace...

2011-05-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

Lot and lots of beautiful vintage lace is coming to the shop today! A brightly colored collection, a woodland color theme, and a gathering of cream and white antique laces.

2011-05-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

Here they all are, cleaned up and in the shop! So nice to have color in the shop again.

Soaking and hanging to dry...

2011-05-01T10:39:00.000-07:00

These beauties will be arriving in the shop some time this week. There are three summer day dresses, a sleek 1960s shift dress, a plaid jumper, and a baby doll nightie. So sweet.

New Vintage for May

2011-05-01T10:11:00.000-07:00

Happy first day of May! Here are some updates coming to the shop this week:

A few new paintings...

2011-04-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

I have a few new paintings coming to the shop this week. Sweet, simple landscapes.

That Old Blue House

2011-04-21T15:40:00.000-07:00

Lisa, from That Old Blue House, creates the most lovely, understated jewelry. Her unique pieces are created with well-loved but forgotten pieces of vintage lace, quilts, paper, buttons and found objects.

While I find it difficult to narrow it down to one favorite, I do really love the crazy quilt pins. Visit her shop [here] or follow her twitter [here]

Dresser Set

2011-04-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

This was a pleasant Saturday morning discovery...

Olivesomeday Update!

2011-04-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

A long, very long, over due shop update! Olivesomeday is now carrying hand painted, rustic berry baskets. Perfect for storing desktop items or organizing craft supplies.

Wouldn't they go perfectly in this kitchen?? Oh yes...

Found Via: Love Made Me Do It

Smoothies!

2011-04-09T11:41:00.000-07:00

My husband and I have been drinking smoothies for lunch fairly often lately. I really enjoy how healthy they are. I would never eat this many servings of fruit a day if it were not for a smoothie! [and I always add a cup of plain, non fat yogurt to add protein and calcium]

Foodies sites, like Shutterbean, have posted about green smoothies that use green vegetables. [like kale and such] I have never had a smoothie with vegetables in it, I am not sure I would like it. I did find some some pretty interesting books on line with recipes for super energy and healthy green smoothies. Inspiring, but I am still not sure I could do it...

I'll stick to my all fruit smoothies for now...

Weekend Collections...

2011-04-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some collections or gatherings that I stumbled across this weekend. I love the brass colored and very worn curtain hooks. There are also mini birthday cake candle holders and a half used box of candles. Hitting the shop soon...

Still in love with this dress...

2011-04-09T10:27:00.000-07:00

I love this 1940s sailor girl dress. It is made from a heavier fabric, beautiful buttons and a fantastic collar. Cute cap sleeves and a versatile gray / black that goes with anything! It is in the shop now.

Secret Garden

2011-04-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

I found another amazing handmade vintage granny square blanket / throw. These are some of my favorite things to come across. I imagine all of the hard work and effort and love that went into each piece. It is in the shop now.

Daisies...

2011-04-07T10:39:00.000-07:00

This vase used to be a white bathroom light cover. I paint taped the front and spray painted the light cover a bright aqua blue. Then I removed the tape, filled with water and bright white daises. Instant spring!

And a little tribute to Ms. Doris Day

Vintage Oil Paintings...

2011-04-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

I sold a tiny oil painting a few years ago on etsy and really have regretted it. It was so bright and pretty...small and cute. Often I think about starting my own collection of small sized, vintage oil paintings. This morning I hunted down some really great vintage oil paintings. [of all sizes!]

For source links you can click on the images.

Another Project Restyle.

2011-04-02T12:41:00.000-07:00

I had fun with this simple project. I was going to put this house dress in my shop, but I just loved the pattern too much to let it go. I detached the sleeves and cut them into squares for frames. It was super easy, super cheap and looks great!

Have a look at more great Project Restyle photos [here]

Inspired Color Palette

2011-04-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

I thrifted this vintage plate yesterday for .50 cents. I just fell in love with its subtle color palette. Smooth mint green, soft pink, and a smidgen of sunshine yellow. My downstairs powder room is very blank at the moment, I think this plate is a great place to start for color inspiration.

Wall Organizer.

2011-04-01T10:25:00.000-07:00

This salved wire grate has a new life as a wire wall organizer. Find it in the shop now.

Bronnie Betty

2011-03-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

Oh, I absolutely love this woman! Bronnie Betty, hula hoop circus performer, reminds of days gone past. I love the music, her costume, and her moves!

Oh a Little Pyrex Love.

2011-03-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this vintage mixing bowl set from Pyrex this morning. The pattern is called Town and Country and I think it is super classy! It is not my normal taste in colors, but I cook a lot and I know I will get much use from this set. [and not bad for $5!]

I also joined the flickr group Pyrex Love this morning! What fun...I can't believe all of the pretty patterns there are out there.

Shop Update circa 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s.

2011-03-24T15:43:00.000-07:00

Some very cute dresses, in a span of centuries, coming to the vintage clothing shop this week!

1940s Sailor Style Dress [here]

1950s Stunning Black and Gold Party Dress [here]

1960s Light Blue and White Shift Dress

Because she makes me smile...

2011-03-23T13:08:00.000-07:00

I present; Bella, my Boston Terrier.

When the days are cold, she just wants to cuddle. When other dogs are around she just wants to play. She loves special "people food" treats and snorts and snots a lot. I love her, she is mine.

Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-23T07:13:00.000-07:00

February 27 1932 – March 23 2011

You will be missed.

It was feeling like spring...

2011-03-20T09:34:00.000-07:00

I was tempted with 70 degree weather on Friday and now it is 37 degrees on Sunday. Sigh. Looking forward to more consistent spring days...

March Shop Update

2011-03-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

Lots of fun things are coming to the shop this weekend. Metal organizers, vintage pyrex, destash wrist watches, and a bit of Easter.

March is for green, no?

2011-03-19T10:59:00.000-07:00

These are so beautiful. Simple.

springtime bows...

2011-03-12T13:58:00.000-08:00

Some of my spring themed pin bows are in the shop now. Bright and colorful!

Vintage Swim...

2011-03-12T11:40:00.000-08:00

I always love coming across vintage swimwear photos. I love the different styles and eras that these images share. Who says that a one piece isn't sexy? I am glad they are making a come back.

source

I found this darling this week, and oh if it only fit. Le sigh. It is in the shop now.

Forty-Six at Grace

2011-03-10T07:49:00.000-08:00

I came across the blog Forty-Six at Grace this morning and just wanted to share some images from it. Nikole, from Canada, posts the most lovely and beautiful photographs of landscapes, food and wood crafts. There are links for the Saturday Sandwhich [which look amazing] and the famous shortbread "button cookies" that have been floating from blog to blog this year. Take a peek in her shop as well as her blog. It is all styled with such precision that comes across completely natural.

Thank you Parsley Theif!

2011-03-06T13:51:00.000-08:00

I have been following a food blog for some time now called The Parsley Thief. The writer / photographer is named Katie and she puts forward some really great, family friendly recipes. My husband and I tried her tomato sauce and we have not made it another way since.

Our current favorite which I have been making on a weekly basis is her Cashew Chicken Curry. It is delightful, homey, and comforting. The only modification I have made to her recipe is instead of three tablespoons of curry, I put in two hot and two regular tablespoons of curry. [and a bit more cayenne, as we love heat around here]

Try the recipe out, it is not only easy, but really, really tasty.

p.s. I just noticed that Katie has a recipe for homemade fresh mozzarella. Hum, it would be more of a challenge, but probably most rewarding...

Spring in a cup...

2011-03-06T09:49:00.000-08:00

I picked up some tightly closed daffodils three days ago and today they are just gorgeous! However, it is ugly and raining outside so my photos are not brightly lit. I do say though, these lovely blooms do light up a room!

I have two cable knit sweater sleeves from the recycled sweater project that I posted before. I was inspired by Dottie Angel's crocheted jar covers and decided to see what a sleeve would look like slipped over the container I had the daffodils in. [it is a cocktail shaker!] I think I love it...pretty sure I will cut the sleeves on the rest of the sweater this afternoon and hem it to fit the shaker.

Recycled Sweater Pillow

2011-03-02T13:46:00.000-08:00

This is another submission for the flickr group Project Restyle! I only completed one recycled sweater pillow this afternoon [the goal is three] but I am very happy with the results. I have two more sweaters, one black and one white, and I hope to do one side black and one side white for the remaining two pillows. Then I think my bed will be oh so much more cozy!

Cook Books

2011-03-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

Since I shared my favorites for March on etsy, I also wanted to share a few of my items from my amazon wish list. Oh, I throw things on my wish list all of the time, but rarely allow myself a purchase. Here are some cook books that I have been eying lately...

Power Foods- From the Editors of Whole Living

Viva Vegan- By: Terry Hope Romero

Clean Start- By: Terry Walters

Appetite for Reduction- By: Isa Chandra Moskowitz

I do have two vegan cookbooks on my wish list even though I am not vegan. I think it is beneficial to eat vegertarian eat least one meal a day, then why no vegan one meal a day?

I did allow myself one purchase recently and I decide to get the Food and Wine's Best of the Best Vol. 10 cookbook. It has good reviews and I thought that it was a great idea to feature the best recipes from a year's worth of cook books. [and it was A PENNY used] I hope I like it! [anxiously waiting for it to come in the mail]

Food & Wine Best of the Best Vol. 10

Favorties for March.

2011-03-01T07:22:00.000-08:00

I think it is so interesting that every so often my favorites list comes across with a unique color theme. I really love my March hearts so far...

Sources:

1. Blue Pitcher [here]

2. Tin Tea Cups [here]

3. Kaj Franck Finel Bowl [here]

4. Coffee Scrub [here]

5. Trio Succulents [here]

6. Crochet Bowls [here]

7. Sunshine Girls [here]

8. Bird Planter [here]

Teapot, Teapot!

2011-02-27T10:16:00.000-08:00

Oh, now I am wishing for spring so much more...

source

Vintage Linens...

2011-02-27T09:36:00.000-08:00

I came across this adorable vintage tablecloth this weekend. There are two small spots on the white boarder that had stains. I soaked and soaked the tablecloth, but the stains had only faded. Debating if I should put this in the shop or not. The red is so bright and the daisies so cheery!

[and boy am I ready for some leaves on my maple tree...look at the skeleton branches...]

Just some things around the shop...

2011-02-25T11:58:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a few of my favorite things from the shop this week...

Pssst...there is also a few new items in the sale section. It is time to make room for the spring line!

Bathroom Before & After

2011-02-25T11:18:00.000-08:00

I have shared photos of my bathroom's before and after previously, but not since my husband and I painted the woodwork. We discussed it for THREE years and finally decided to just go through with it. We are thrilled with the results. Two coats of primer and two coats of antique white. We can not wait to see what the rest of the house will look like!

Way to go Ikea.

2011-02-24T08:42:00.000-08:00

I just came across these images, from an Ikea cookbook, at Craft.com [via: Charlotte's Fancy] What a creative way to style the ingredients for a recipe! I love how straight the lines are and how the stylist, Evelina Bratell, made something so organic look so geometric.

Ojos de Dios [God's Eye]

2011-02-21T08:49:00.000-08:00

I have never really been a fan of the summer craft God's Eye or Ojos de Dios. However, recently I have been attracted to fibers and this craft's simplicity. It makes me think of hunting for sticks in the woods and creating fun patterns in yarn on a hot summer afternoon.

I was curious if anyone on etsy was making God's Eyes and a few people are. Camp Smarty Pants, from Portland, has the cutest God's Eye pins in her shop.

I also came across the artist Jay Mohler, from Myrtle Beach, making these amazing, breath taking Ojos de Dois. He has been making them since the 1960s and has a shop full of beautiful God's Eyes.If anyone has changed my opinion about the simple nature that this craft can be, it is Jay. What intricate work!

Green.

2011-02-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I visited my local nursery and picked up a few small house plants for $1.00 each. Last weekend I found this white ceramic planter at my local thrift store for .75 cents. So, for a total of $1.75 I find much joy in this pop of green.

So yummy...

2011-02-19T12:52:00.000-08:00

Saturday afternoons are the best time for a tea and cookie break. It is nice to slow down and take a moment to enjoy something I miss out on during the busy week. It was an especially nice, warm treat on this windy and cold day in Pennsylvania.

Shop Update- Rhinestones.

2011-02-18T14:29:00.000-08:00

I have some beautiful vintage rhinestone pieces coming to the shop this weekend. A stunning four row clear rhinestone bracelet, two smaller pins that will go together as a set, a round scarf pin, and a bright aqua blue stone pin. They have great sparkle and shine!

Hindsvik- There's No Place Like Here.

2011-02-17T07:54:00.000-08:00

I am sure every is re-posting this video from etsy's blog, but I just enjoyed it so much that I am re-posting it on here. This couple is inspiring. I only wish they had before and after images of their home in Canada.

There's No Place Like Here: Hindsvik from Etsy on Vimeo.

Glass Terrarium Dome

2011-02-15T16:18:00.000-08:00

Funkey Finds Vintage- $21.00

This glass dome is in the shop now. I just love these glass pieces to encase little secret treasures or small special finds from nature. I found some very nice and unusual ones on etsy.Ethan Ollie - $60.00

Dovetail Vintage- $26.00
Jacquierae- $18.00

Project Restyle.

2011-02-12T10:53:00.000-08:00

I decided that it would be fun to be a part of Rachel and Elsie's Project Restyle! I found this vintage wooden jewelry box on a dusty shelf at the thrift store. I passed it up a few times before, but this week decided that it was worthy of a make over.

I cleaned the box and then painted it a fresh, bright white. I also painted the drawer knob pulls a lovely aqua blue green that matches the wall paper sample that I cut for the top shelf. I think the results are so pretty indeed!

View their Flickr pool [here] and see the box in the shop [here]

New Vintage...

2011-02-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

A few new vintage finds are coming to the shop this week. I love, love, love this tiny basket. I can tell that it was handmade with love. I also found two great wooden boxes.
I also came across some great ceramics! I love this mid century, Scandinavian tile design. One has to love a good peacock design. I also found two ceramic mini pots from Mexico. They are worn to perfection...

Valentine's Love.

2011-02-05T07:23:00.001-08:00

Maybe it is a bit early, but I wanted to share some of my collection of vintage valentines. They range from the Victorian era to the 1950s. Here are a few that I love.
I scanned each of these with a vintage book cover as a background, so fun! My favorite valentine is the first one because it reminds me of me and my husband. He is blonde and I have dark hair. It is just so sweet too, with that boarder and die cut edging. I remember framing it and giving it to him in his first apartment. Now it is in our first home together.

Happy [early] Valentine's Day!

Re-Style Nightgown

2011-02-04T11:59:00.000-08:00

I have been seeing a lot of re-styling projects on blogs lately. This one I wanted to share because it is such a great transformation! Abi, from vanilla and lace, re-styled this granny nightgown into a cute, simple springtime dress. I love that she made a belt to go along with it. Belts really do tie everything together. Read about how she did it [here]

Winter Print Bows...

2011-02-02T09:26:00.000-08:00

It has been a pretty snowy winter here in Eastern Pennsylvania. In the past few days I have made oodles of bow pins. Most of the fabric comes from vintage men's shirts. They are perfect to pin on a sweater or handbag for a wintery accessory.

Find them in the shop this week.

Organizing Jewelry...

2011-02-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

I let such a mess form on top of my dresser that I didn't even remember what great jewelry pieces I had! Many of them are "borrowed" from my mom. She had an antique booth for years and now has a small weekend only shop. She has come across such great jewelry finds. [some of which I begged for] Here is a before and after shot of my jewelry area. Things are now in some what of an order, but not necessarily organized. That will come another day...
The white box was my grandmother's. It is filled with the prettiest blue and pink lining. The small wooden hexagon shaped box was made for me by my grandfather. He inlayed an "A" initial on it for me. It is very sweet. Maybe some time in the future I will share my favorite pieces, but for now here are some over all photos.
My mom does have an on line shop too if you are interested. She showcases a lot of unique costume jewelry pieces. Find her [here]

These are two of my favorites that have already sold from her shop. So simple, so pretty.

Restyled Shoe Shelf

2011-02-01T08:33:00.000-08:00

Oh, I always see these dark stained wood shelves while thrifting and I never thought to do something like this! The brightly painted aqua blue shelf is from Her Library Adventures. Sophie thirfted both the shelf and the vintage stool for under $15.00! I love how well they go together...

Vintage Betty Crocker...

2011-01-30T09:25:00.000-08:00

I came across two vintage Betty Crocker cook books this week. They were each .99 cents. I grabbed them right away with a jump of joy in my thrifting heart. These books, though the recipes are very much dated, contain the best line illustrations! I am always inspired by the small, fantastically unique illustrations that dot the pages.

One is a calendar style book with a special dish for EVERY special occasion. Each month section tells you what that month's flower is as well as birthstone and how the month's name was created. It is written simply, but is wildly interesting, filled with things to do on each calendar day or a sweet sentiment or quote. January 30th: "Home is where the heart is." Elbert Hubbard.

The other cook book is a party themed one. It too is filled with dated recipes, but also fantastic drawings. It also contains how to tips and decorating ideas for parties. Make themed recipes that span from Washington's Birthday [on my, really?] to Halloween party treats!
You can find the Party Cook Book [here] & [here] and the Calendar Cook Book [here] & [here] as I can not part with mine!

C-O-Z-Y

2011-01-26T11:35:00.000-08:00

This winter I have been coming across some lovely handmade blankets and throws. They are usually made from such hideous colored threads that I often pass them up. However, this winter has proven that there are some real artists out there.

My particularly favorite one HAS to be the black, white, and yellow throw. It is a geometric pattern and an unusual find! [and very anti granny like the others] It strongly reminds of of sweet Anna, of Door 16.

Some of these are are still available in the shop.

New Hope

2011-01-25T12:31:00.000-08:00

I tried something new today. I gathered my paints and sketch book and a nice fresh piece of wood as a canvas. These fun little triangles began to gather so naturally.The front one it titled: "Hope" as it represents a new beginning for me in 2011. The second one, the pink, orange, and white one is titled: "Kitten Teeth" well, because it looks like kitty teeth. Find them in the shop now.

Studio Choo Flowers

2011-01-22T06:54:00.000-08:00

Oh, I wish I lived in San Francisco just for the reason of being able to buy fresh flowers from Studio Choo.
The modern, but rustic way their bouquets are designed fits my tastes perfectly! It is literally 10 degrees here in Eastern, Pennsylvania today, so I thought it would be nice to share these colorful and warm images from Studio Choo. [my favorites are the ones in the mason jars!]

The ladies of Studio Choo also have a lovely blog. Recently they posted about their little dog, hanging out in their front window! How cute? My goodness, I want to go to their shop, pet their dog, and play with flowers.

Marked Jewelry

2011-01-21T11:36:00.000-08:00

Many great vintage jewelry pieces will be coming to the shop this weekend! Some are marked; Monet and Sarah Coventry. Most of the pieces are necklaces that include double stands and one very long. There is a bracelet with peal accents and [my favorite] the geometric cube pendant. I love their simplicity.

Anthropologie Wall Paper

2011-01-18T06:44:00.000-08:00

Oh, le sigh. I love this wall paper from Anthropologie. It is so sweet! I would love to have it in my bathroom or a little girl's room. I am tempted to take a sharpie to the wall and just draw bird cages on myself. Heh!

And I should never look on that site too long. Oh these hanging lamps are so great!!

Fun Original Art Giveaway...

2011-01-17T12:36:00.000-08:00

What an exciting and fun giveaway over at Hearted Girl's blog. The artist Zoe Pawlak is giving away not one, but two of her original paintings!Here is a video of her creating one of her oil paintings. I love the way she creates such a flow from the woman's hair to the beating of horses' hooves. So lovely and what delicate colors...one would be SO lucky to win one of these! Enter by Jan. 23rd!!

Zoe Pawlak creating a Stampede from Zoe Pawlak on Vimeo.

Just become a follower of Heart Girl's blog and leave a comment to win. Her blog is simply cute and full of interesting little tid bits. [like this fantastic post about a mobile taco stand-yum, yum, yum]

2011-01-17T07:33:00.000-08:00

Last year I was lucky enough to come across this book for my collection. I have a tenancy to want to rescue vintage books, mostly for their illustrations. I love to page through them and become inspired by them. This one is an ex-library copy that was not taken out since 1984! The poor little book hasn't been loved for over 25 years, until now.

Nibble, Nibble Mousekin By: Joan Walsh Anglund [here]

Granny Square

2011-01-16T13:50:00.000-08:00

I am not sure of the official term of this lovely crocheted throw, but to me it looks like a giant granny square. This throw is a sweet find. So soft and comforting. Perfect for a freezing day.

And if I do say so myself, it looks darling on my aqua kitchen chair. In the shop this weekend.

Movie Mondays!

2011-01-12T07:50:00.001-08:00

The Shop Around the Corner -1940

I know it is Wednesday, but I wanted to share a blog feature that I have really been enjoying on Amanda Johnson's blog. [Here's Looking at me Kid] She has a Movie Monday feature that recaps plots of movies. She shares images from the movies that showcase amazing style, set design and great actors.

Carefree -1938

Valley of the Dolls -1967

Clara Bow -Silent Film Actress

I love that I can enjoy fashion and be inspired by settings that span some 80 years! I love the 1920s era of fashion, long silhouettes and feminine details. I adore the bright bold punches of floral patterns in the 1960s. [and certainly everything in between]

Also, I just had to share this photograph of Jimmy Stewart, amazing! Look at that personality.

Silver and silver plate...

2011-01-08T13:36:00.000-08:00

New silver and silver plated utensils in the shop this weekend. I really love the way these images came out, I may tinker with them and try to get a print. They would look great in my kitchen.

Calivintage

2011-01-08T11:26:00.001-08:00

Oh I just came across the blog Calivintage. I am in love, love, love. Miss Erin could not be more cute! I am really digging her haircut as well as her great sense of fashion and style! Just a few of my favs from this morning.

2011 for me will definitely be my year to dress better! I thrift so many great items and just wind up placing them in the shop. Time to keep some for myself!

Thinking of Spring...

2011-01-08T09:01:00.000-08:00

I know it is only January, but I am already thinking about spring. My husband and I went to a greenhouse yesterday and really soaked in all of the living plant life.

I have had this lovely mid century modern white ceramic planter with no plant for so many months now, I decided it was time to pick one up. The greenhouse we went to had all of their house plants 50% off, so this little plant that I chose was only $1.00!
It brightens up a room, looks great in the planter and makes me not feel so bad about the inches of snow falling outside the window right next to it.
and I picked up another tiny plant for this planter too...trying to find a new spot for it...

Oh, darling!

2011-01-07T13:03:00.000-08:00

Here are some fun pretty jewelry pieces coming to the shop this weekend. Girly!

I love lamp.

2010-12-31T13:45:00.000-08:00

Oh my my, what a find indeed! My family and I went thrifting this morning to my local downtown thrift store and fund this beauty. I have always noticed vintage arc lamps in other blogs and such, but had never come across one myself.

Since it was the store's half off all tags day, it become mine for a mere $7.50! I can't wait to take some photos in day light!

fur collars

2010-12-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

Lots and lots of vintage fur collars are coming to the shop this week.

Vintage Garlic Smasher

2010-12-23T07:32:00.003-08:00

Such simplicity. A vintage garlic crusher, made in Italy.

Currently in the [shop]

I haven't a clue...

2010-12-23T06:31:00.001-08:00

I can't understand a word, but I do know that this site is a lot of fun to look at and be inspired by. I really love this bedroom and the creative way the owners used fabric for a headboard. It is hung from a heavy curtain rod attached to the wall. You could change it all the time!

So Cirtus!

2010-12-19T08:09:00.000-08:00

I love this necklace! Vintage beaded, triple strand necklace. Full of citrus color! Lime, lemon and grapefruit! Yummy...

The clasp is made from metal and thoughtfully detailed with a beaded adjustable closure. Find it in the shop now.

So Sweet...

2010-12-17T13:12:00.001-08:00

Such a lovely granny square lap blanket. In the shop this weekend...

December Favorites

2010-12-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

Sometimes my favorites tend to run in the same color scheme. Here are some new favorites for December.

1. Sweater Pin -Brooklyn Rehab
2. Beaded Chain -Rafya
3. Desktop Calendar -Michelle Brusegaard
4. 1930s Black Ring -Jean Jean Vintage
5. Chevron Jotter -Whit & Whistle
6. Rhinestone & Filigree Pin -Rebelyun

Frosted Cranberries via 10cookbooks

2010-12-08T16:32:00.000-08:00

Do these not look delicious?? I saw them on the blog 101cookbooks a few days ago and have been dreaming about them ever since. Perhaps a Christmas afternoon treat??

Sparkling Cranberries

For the simple syrup, raw cane sugar or real brown sugar lends a nice molasses flavor to the cranberries, but regular granulated sugar (or a blend of brown/white) will work.

2 cups cranberries, picked over
2 cups water
2 cups sugar (see head notes)

More sugar for coating: I do a mix of medium-grained organic sugar for the first coating, and then a second toss with regular granulated white sugar. You don't want a huge grain for that first toss, just something larger than standard sugar, smaller than most turbinado sugars. You can sort of see the different grain sizes in the third photo in the main write-up.

Place the cranberries in a medium glass bowl and set aside.

Make a simple syrup by bringing the water and sugar just to a simmer in a medium saucepan. Let the syrup cool for a couple minutes and then pour it over the cranberries. If the syrup is too hot the cranberries will burst, so be careful. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

The next day, drain the cranberries and toss them with larger grained sugar until they are well coated. I only use a scoop of sugar at a time, and small batches of cranberries, so the sugar doesn't get too damp. Place the coated cranberries on a baking sheet to dry for a few hours.

Do a second toss with the regular granulated sugar, this typically takes care of any sticky spots on the cranberries. Let dry another hour.

Makes 2 cups of sparkling cranberries.