tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9903050665244531492024-02-19T07:58:56.552-05:00A Bird in HandThe antics of a woman in search of peace in her life, home, and garden.Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-88800845738797291412012-02-21T23:16:00.000-05:002012-02-21T23:16:08.304-05:00Is it Love or Lust??Hello Faithful Followers....I have been remiss, I know. Please bear with me...or is it bare? It's too late for me to get the dictionary to check....you know what I mean though.<br />
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I am in love, love, love with the vintage Shasta camper. I....must....find....one.... Is it love or lust that keeps me searching? To me, lust gives way after a while, so it must be LOVE!! I love the vintageness (I may have just made up that word) of the light fixtures, the scalloped cabinets, the appliances.....and the WINGS!!! Must, must have those too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4l7-C6rTgcRWY9qyCqPB7RRPhW30efbQ6Z0E7mKj4OvoJg7w7_PE6ou9SusUbLY4SvLpeyvWsJ9tkvaU45VU14MZhNHCVSu_lvQ81rVWM-vOgk3FCpP6_QwpEe5CJNPzOE8TERkUDHM/s1600/Shasta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs4l7-C6rTgcRWY9qyCqPB7RRPhW30efbQ6Z0E7mKj4OvoJg7w7_PE6ou9SusUbLY4SvLpeyvWsJ9tkvaU45VU14MZhNHCVSu_lvQ81rVWM-vOgk3FCpP6_QwpEe5CJNPzOE8TERkUDHM/s400/Shasta.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I first fell in love when I saw them at the Country Living Fair and then hooked up with <a href="http://www.sistersonthefly.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><strong>Sisters On the Fly</strong></span></a>. I recently read their <a href="http://www.sistersonthefly.com/sotfstore/cowgirl_apparel_books.php"><strong><span style="color: #b45f06;">book</span></strong></a> and it has just been a crazy search since then. I have found this one (above). It is a bit far away and a little pricey (for me anyway), but I think it may also be sold now. Although....my research tells me that for a lovey in this condition, the price is actually quite reasonable. Except for me, I must factor in travel costs...either for me to pick it up (in Missouri) or to have it delivered. Now it becomes a bit pricey.<br />
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So meanwhile I will lust after these blogs I have recently come across: <a href="http://vintagecottagecamper.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><strong>Nora Pearl</strong></span></a>, <a href="http://littlevintagetrailer.com/"><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">Little Vintage Camper</span></strong></a>, <a href="http://thevintagehousewife.blogspot.com/"><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d;">The Vintage Housewife</span></strong></a>, <a href="http://getcampie.com/"><strong><span style="color: #990000;">Get Campie</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #990000;">.</span></strong> They call it "glamping" you know. New term for me. That could also include tents (not your average tent, mind you), but it is the vintage camper that has stolen my heart. Every visit to Etsy has me searching for vintage mint green melamine to use (instead of my beloved jadeite which I think would not travel well). Every trip to the fabric store has me searching for the fabrics I would use to recover and remake (you know I must!) to make this little palace on wheels my own. I have it bad. I stay up late looking at sites like <a href="http://www.tincantourists.com/classified/showcat.php?cat=3"><strong><span style="color: #741b47;">Tin Can Tourist</span></strong></a> and <a href="http://amysvintagetrailers.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><strong>Amy's Vintage Trailers</strong></span></a>. I know she is out there for me....my <span style="color: #134f5c; font-size: large;"><strong><em>Nest.</em></strong></span> She will be minty green and maybe the very softest butter yellow...almost vanilla. Vintage details will abound. I will change out light fixtures to these from <a href="http://www.rejuvenation.com/"><span style="color: #351c75;"><strong>Rejuvination</strong></span> </a>(or similar...they have a great selection in my favorite green). How wonderful!! I can see it. Really. <br />
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I am on the hunt and will keep you posted! I would show you more pictures if I could figure out how to get on Pinterest!!! What is with that? It seems so easy. I have accepted my invite, but I guess I did not choose a sign-on or something. I can't log on. Anyone else have that problem??<br />
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I'll be back soon.....Maybe with camper in tow! Wouldn't that be grand????<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><strong><em>Happy Hunting for Happy Trails</em></strong></span><span style="color: #38761d;">......Carol</span></span>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-3334260259769910632011-12-14T22:46:00.000-05:002011-12-14T22:46:28.843-05:00I've Been a Crafty Lady!!I have been having a blast lately getting to know a few new vintage jewelry creators by studying their work on Etsy, purchasing a few new/old items to either get organized or to create with, and organizing my work space. In addition to that, I've been working on making my granddaughter some little cradle bedding (oh so cute!!) and decorating a little bag for my gift exchange at work tomorrow. Here are the pics...<br />
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I absolutley <span style="color: #274e13;">LOVE</span> this little metal cabinet that will house many treasures. I lined the drawers with suede cloth and was amazed that I had picked almost the exact shade at the store before I even received the cabinet. I ordered it from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBountifulBird?ref=af_you_favshop"><strong><span style="color: purple;">The Bountiful Bird</span></strong></a> on Etsy. I see a few other metal boxes and such that I may have to get from that great shop in the future. I really want to store my goodies in boxes, cabinets, etc., that have had a previous life....no plastic cases for me. At least that is my intention at this early juncture. Isn't she a beauty??? She already houses some glass and crystal rosary beads I got from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BirdSongStudio?ref=seller_info"><strong><span style="color: purple;">Bird Song Studio</span></strong></a>....also on Etsy. Both of these Etsy shops have been added to my list of favorites. I want them handy so I can visit them often!! I already have a second order in with Bird Song Studio....such wonderful findings there!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9x_G1-ARCidP4D6JeouERUXV895pEgRHvNN7GTPSvcJAO-saA91Diq6fWK-hZ46zNW5m4iAOJyuZz1aVIxYABbdqA12b4AbuMNXM5mhk8EG7ORdwahiGvf9KK1eW5dpW1Vaan-4kqAe8/s1600/metal+cabinet+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9x_G1-ARCidP4D6JeouERUXV895pEgRHvNN7GTPSvcJAO-saA91Diq6fWK-hZ46zNW5m4iAOJyuZz1aVIxYABbdqA12b4AbuMNXM5mhk8EG7ORdwahiGvf9KK1eW5dpW1Vaan-4kqAe8/s400/metal+cabinet+1.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9zJc8SKCOXysCYWk81yxUC1op_mi228qzO2xZ0Dtr0uQOjzr44msWJ4bMq0QdXkreFpSk6uuFGDnkjSHfLu1FTOySZPOR3JaCV7Vgb2_lIBQ1wSjJl-AJxzwS4CmQPZpdgLvcMRmXGM/s1600/metal+cabinet+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9zJc8SKCOXysCYWk81yxUC1op_mi228qzO2xZ0Dtr0uQOjzr44msWJ4bMq0QdXkreFpSk6uuFGDnkjSHfLu1FTOySZPOR3JaCV7Vgb2_lIBQ1wSjJl-AJxzwS4CmQPZpdgLvcMRmXGM/s400/metal+cabinet+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
As for the little bag I decorated for my office gift exchange.....here it is. I took a plain brown sack and added a free downloadable Christmas picture, added a few stamps, a WISH ticket (for the receiver's special Christmas wish), a little funky ribbon, and some Distress Ink Vintage Photo stamp pad rubbed around a bit to give it an interesting look. I topped it with a little ring tag that also got the Distress Ink treatment. Add a pinecone ornament and a couple of vintage shoe buttons and it is complete. Oh...and the gift...a wonderful big candle in a decorative sleeve. Just what the receiver was hoping for (seriously...we had to submit a list of our five favorite things under $20...it was an awkward endeavor). Hopefully my colleague will like her gift. She will receive it tomorrow at our office luncheon.<br />
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Oh, and to add to this list of projects, I have been painting an old wicker and wood desk for my oldest granddaughter. It is actually part of her birthday gift from last May that I am finally getting to (how bad is that??!!). I am determined to give it to her before Christmas so she doesn't think it is part of her Christmas gift too. I ordered a piece of glass for the top so she can slide photos of her and her friends. She is nine. I know she will love that part!! Pictures to follow. <br />
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Lastly...as I mentioned earlier, I have been so incredibly inspired by some new-to-me jewelry artists. Please check out their shops and their incredible work. I am awestruck by a few of their pieces. You will love visiting <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Opaline1214"><strong><span style="color: purple;">Opaline 1214</span></strong></a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheFrenchCircus"><strong><span style="color: purple;">The French Circus</span></strong></a>. Such talent, such artistry....I'm blown away!!<br />
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Did I really say "lastly?" This is really my "And finally...." I have a very special package arriving any day from my most favorite <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ChristineWallace"><strong><span style="color: purple;">Christine Wallace</span></strong></a>. I'll say no more until it arrives and I can share it with you up close and personal. I'm doing a mini happy dance in the mere anticipation!!!<br />
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So that is all for this evening. I have been enjoying a cooler evening in what we Floridians call winter. The windows of the sunroom are open, the breeze is pretty strong out there, and the wind chime in the tree is singing to me. Lovely.<br />
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Hope you are enjoying a lovely evening as well. Until next we meet.....CarolCarol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-92227928584761444062011-12-06T22:34:00.000-05:002011-12-06T22:34:39.560-05:00The HuntThe hunt for cool vintage findings has started for the jewelry line I hope to create one day. I scoured several yard/garage sales this past weekend, and man....do I have a lot to learn. Has it really been that long since I bargained for <u>anything</u>? I found myself taking at face value the price either written or offered, and honestly did not even think to negotiate a lower price. That, my friends, is the result of too many years of retail shopping! I found one very cool item that I really loved.....a very old and very large silver framed charm. The price was originally $300 (at a yard sale folks....really??) and the seller said I could have it for $100. Still too rich for my blood. My husband asked why I didn't offer her $25. I have no idea why! Because that was the price she told me it was, I guess. Then for the rest of the day I kicked myself for not at least trying to get a lower price. And you can see that close to a week later, that piece is still haunting me. Because the family was selling just about everything in preparation to move to Hawaii, they just might be out there again next weekend. I think I will try to find them one more time to see if their prices are lower and if I can muster up the courage to offer a lower price. Wish me luck!<br />
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I did find a few lovelies though. It is a start for what I hope will turn out to be a great collection of treasures and then incredible one-of-a-kind, wearable pieces of art.<br />
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Here is what I found...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgxZ7p5ZPM20j66rd4mRF0zqLzhnRs-1S208nzBlzzff-edyGNa_e0AR-T40CZUOXNRP0jpU1F-5QhiNnEkjb3SkjElBcoGxneasyFfnxyDl1pEaqHP5lQ8D98xkmCD2NQf4BL0gBj0Mw/s1600/garage+sale+finds+120311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgxZ7p5ZPM20j66rd4mRF0zqLzhnRs-1S208nzBlzzff-edyGNa_e0AR-T40CZUOXNRP0jpU1F-5QhiNnEkjb3SkjElBcoGxneasyFfnxyDl1pEaqHP5lQ8D98xkmCD2NQf4BL0gBj0Mw/s320/garage+sale+finds+120311.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6UiSs8z0BrJEDDZyySKlikoMIvSQu0K_sJ2rxeF5AFSG1LeSflZGBBw0eEwqi6tabXp17z0-TIuooFyAN6oZJfi37fSvaPSx49o_zB1jeI9LfrIf8KHXm7NVgxZpi0Fwa646fyDPwoE/s1600/garage+sale+finds+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6UiSs8z0BrJEDDZyySKlikoMIvSQu0K_sJ2rxeF5AFSG1LeSflZGBBw0eEwqi6tabXp17z0-TIuooFyAN6oZJfi37fSvaPSx49o_zB1jeI9LfrIf8KHXm7NVgxZpi0Fwa646fyDPwoE/s400/garage+sale+finds+2.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am not crazy about these porcelain beads, but I love the little<br />
brass caps. I'll be taking this completely apart so I can <br />
look at it from a new standpoint.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56tmGpmi1cOIYP10MB85avAf8RhzdMfN8_8iXgd0ZCx5-82Hcn9aW9chiRPq563dQxcHVx6ywB2ZMUTHOFcWKwGfmpiaTOIjJ3ENVjaesfAaBqAOE_1X66nvW3PdjHJ1s7xgNbnXIPHI/s1600/garage+sale+finds+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56tmGpmi1cOIYP10MB85avAf8RhzdMfN8_8iXgd0ZCx5-82Hcn9aW9chiRPq563dQxcHVx6ywB2ZMUTHOFcWKwGfmpiaTOIjJ3ENVjaesfAaBqAOE_1X66nvW3PdjHJ1s7xgNbnXIPHI/s400/garage+sale+finds+3.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was thrilled to find these older rhinestone pieces.<br />
Love the disco ball beads!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>While visiting my mother over the holidays and sharing this new venture with her, she was off to her bedroom to gather some old pieces. Some of this stuff I haven't seen in years. We had a great time reliving some of the treasures we found in her jewelry box. I don't think she had even been in it in years. But from that trip, she and my grandmother shared these items with me. Yippee!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1noGnJwcpykfCP0RNgEpgB9SJugIHLRvupvwFpsCRLrS4iJLtBLrR9cmCH-Hi62yBChJnTyST7bP3WLZBpngcR6r7qlN0Op78kBrLlAFFAS15q_KITRKOCHog0IjnbeWQ3ehFJ64F_VU/s1600/jewels2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1noGnJwcpykfCP0RNgEpgB9SJugIHLRvupvwFpsCRLrS4iJLtBLrR9cmCH-Hi62yBChJnTyST7bP3WLZBpngcR6r7qlN0Op78kBrLlAFFAS15q_KITRKOCHog0IjnbeWQ3ehFJ64F_VU/s400/jewels2.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a great collection! I'm so excited to add these<br />
pieces. Some will just be pieces of chain, while others<br />
will be for their baubles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4da9sF03D3AyiXIt2Po_9hqTnZjVMNWH10f0GNX3mtJJiYeE3I0fTUzd0w78Vk19hjX4CWTDx7rHWmmAv8hX3R2VvXuILTDZZnSkVOgj7-nRZ-vUep2TwBPU4r1eKUtI1rnISdsqfOcw/s1600/jewels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4da9sF03D3AyiXIt2Po_9hqTnZjVMNWH10f0GNX3mtJJiYeE3I0fTUzd0w78Vk19hjX4CWTDx7rHWmmAv8hX3R2VvXuILTDZZnSkVOgj7-nRZ-vUep2TwBPU4r1eKUtI1rnISdsqfOcw/s400/jewels.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'll have to take some time to see if this awesome necklace <br />
can be dismantled a bit so I can just use sections at a time.<br />
I'm new at this, so the only way to see if it works is<br />
just to try it....right??</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0uq-U_s6bUVvrH8mZEfhMPipGJZDYYsgdc1xImm63_OEvIr3duj9UgVdoLhORRKnFlOEr40ujfskDu_-gfdgH8hiw0PXFoFrh7C4bBStDoT_Xg34jGYGbDTP_4-7G7SKa_w9FvIQuTQk/s1600/lind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0uq-U_s6bUVvrH8mZEfhMPipGJZDYYsgdc1xImm63_OEvIr3duj9UgVdoLhORRKnFlOEr40ujfskDu_-gfdgH8hiw0PXFoFrh7C4bBStDoT_Xg34jGYGbDTP_4-7G7SKa_w9FvIQuTQk/s400/lind.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am so in love with this set! However, it's days as a "set"<br />
are over, baby!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I have noticed that religious metals, rosaries, and crucifixes play a major role in many of the jewelry pieces I am loving these days. I have my own collection of rosaries from growing up Catholic, and have acquired a few metals and such over the years as well. I am really struggling with the taking apart of rosaries to use in my future pieces. I know it is being done by others and honestly, I love the look. I have asked a few people who know what a rosary is supposed to represent and mean, and I am getting a mixed bag of feedback. Because I am using them in what I hope will be cherished pieces that ladies will hopefully wear in pride, I don't feel that I am being blasphemis. One friend suggested I never take apart the ten bead section where one prays ten Hail Mary's, but otherwise did not feel it wrong to take apart the rest. I think I can live with that. I would love to have your input. What is your opinion?? Please, please share it with me. I really love the look these pieces add, but want to feel good in my heart about doing it. I'm going to need your help though.<br />
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Here is my collection of rosaries and metals....<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq4s0OzCcicSxCLQAvg1VJP04r9u_zg-Dmj2GL76CQqcwYyspqDPUphoxWfPr8VOLdK3wg9WFNXencUi43fClWyDP0zOARWkFbE8dfIAe2hMXIcaQK9D2P3jT18L4xXcPL7HxtWUuak8o/s1600/rosary4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq4s0OzCcicSxCLQAvg1VJP04r9u_zg-Dmj2GL76CQqcwYyspqDPUphoxWfPr8VOLdK3wg9WFNXencUi43fClWyDP0zOARWkFbE8dfIAe2hMXIcaQK9D2P3jT18L4xXcPL7HxtWUuak8o/s400/rosary4.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgR5U3feSWP9pNSvzX6fca7djucU5mfKhlPfvOMBPKde5mie3lA6qf9U_LTtGST_tN-Zkz-dJC6tMPUqi_sB6TmInp_LdM5VBIrS4z4I_83aqLW3GeEmqInnWvLB2lGKPYZyNQZC16K_A/s1600/rosary2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgR5U3feSWP9pNSvzX6fca7djucU5mfKhlPfvOMBPKde5mie3lA6qf9U_LTtGST_tN-Zkz-dJC6tMPUqi_sB6TmInp_LdM5VBIrS4z4I_83aqLW3GeEmqInnWvLB2lGKPYZyNQZC16K_A/s400/rosary2.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulaCvdNC6HRTPpT0gvpmG3Z6gZbS-lmaNJYnPzzFgGDmsYYoKHhiy7t-Az67KjQ3ZWUJii2V7RQhtz4eSAi2Lgu1hJ_D-R99cicTKlbeO1Eh0s3fmiKD_lnlJ_sLCPLzy5MF1XkyFc_E/s1600/rosary3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhulaCvdNC6HRTPpT0gvpmG3Z6gZbS-lmaNJYnPzzFgGDmsYYoKHhiy7t-Az67KjQ3ZWUJii2V7RQhtz4eSAi2Lgu1hJ_D-R99cicTKlbeO1Eh0s3fmiKD_lnlJ_sLCPLzy5MF1XkyFc_E/s400/rosary3.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the back of this Virgin Mary piece. <br />
A little dap of "terra" from Jerusulem.<br />
I've never seen that in a rosary before.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> And finally, here are a few of my own personal pieces that I've had on hand for awhile.<br />
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This pin is truly one of my favorite vintage pieces that I am hoping to include in a repurposed piece soon. In fact, I love it so...I think I'll wear it to work tomorrow!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAGEroxO_YDJValKWbHEXsO7hVFOJPWZ9JVrBfg9dVgFVsJPSVJe9PwBdoBdzNG8PogxfuNE_yuTzLdsl8BuitJa-rZT814dS_u1rzU4n-NXTm5gCxe3cC24D8EKNJEtnaXfOSmxfXYY/s1600/favorite+pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAGEroxO_YDJValKWbHEXsO7hVFOJPWZ9JVrBfg9dVgFVsJPSVJe9PwBdoBdzNG8PogxfuNE_yuTzLdsl8BuitJa-rZT814dS_u1rzU4n-NXTm5gCxe3cC24D8EKNJEtnaXfOSmxfXYY/s400/favorite+pin.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> This old Paris souvenir bracelet is so very cool. I picked it up at a local antique store a few years ago, but the clasp sticks so I don't really wear it. However, it will really be beautiful taken apart and used in several pieces or a few in one Paris-themed piece. Can't wait!! Also included here are some of my Brownie and Girl Scout pins. Not sure if I will use them, but thought their truly vintage look is great. Did any of you feel what just happened???? I said something from my childhood is now considered "vintage." Uh....how did that happen? Also included here are two older cameos....will look lovely combined with some pearls I thinks. (Sorry for the sideways view here.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tkeAYToQawQ5kVmZA5jGoqsTH9JiLRuNmqAWAsQPNGSO64QuHVFcSQvSzZ3HUEJsXg6a88EymTcYT8YKdQ4znu7gfGMjId8Kav6b_rUQwv74Nh7ly4xK37EKRgwi4q0gRToi4lxQGc4/s1600/paris+bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tkeAYToQawQ5kVmZA5jGoqsTH9JiLRuNmqAWAsQPNGSO64QuHVFcSQvSzZ3HUEJsXg6a88EymTcYT8YKdQ4znu7gfGMjId8Kav6b_rUQwv74Nh7ly4xK37EKRgwi4q0gRToi4lxQGc4/s400/paris+bracelet.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
As the weekend is fast approaching, I am already thinking of the neighborhoods I want to scour for new finds. Then it is time to get my workspace organized. I'll share that process with you also. I feel I am ready to try a piece or two. We'll see....<br />
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Wishing you all a wonderful rest of the week.....<br />
Carol<br />
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P.S. I forgot to mention....Adorn Me 2012 in Houston, TX at the end of February has been cancelled. I am more than disappointed, but hope to go wherever it is in November. Maybe I can find something similar to enjoy before then.Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-77177235251842767352011-11-21T20:58:00.001-05:002011-11-21T21:06:50.574-05:00Where Oh Where Have I Been??That is a very good question. Where do I start? Job frustration....I think that is where I left you all. Talking about being moved from a position I liked (not loved, but I liked it a lot). Well, much has happened on that front, but I no longer want to focus on that. <br />
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Then the ever popular technical issues. Blogging was cut from my work computer and my little home netbook was a challenge. We just got a handle on that so I feel like I am creeping my way back into the blogosphere. I have SO much catching up to do!! Can't wait to visit all my favs again.<br />
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And then there was my decorating work. I recently finished work on a 64 foot Hargrave yacht. A total redo of furniture, accents, and softgoods. I am very proud of the entire process....had a couple of firsts for me as a decorator as well. I will share more on that soon (with pictures!).<br />
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So, I'm considering this a blog do-over! Yay! Don't you wish we could "do" that more often....a "do-over?"<br />
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What I am hoping to do from this point forward is some new things...a new focus. I had lost interest in my artful self for a while. I guess disappointments can allow that to happen. However, I attended the Country Living Fair this past October in Stone Mountain Park, Georgia again and started to feel the flicker of the flame start again. I didn't even take any pictures. Remember all the posts and pics from the 2010 show? I almost felt guilty that I was strickly indulging my own personal whims and fancies, and not taking pictures or getting business cards or talking to the artists. That is, except for Shari Replogle. I knew where she was situated last year and held out that she would be there again. I was not disappointed. Plus I got a beautiful treasure from her as well.<br />
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I found I had a common interest throughout the show. It is not completely surprising that I love jewelry. I know my taste is not right for everyone. I love the funky, the chunky, the vintage, the unusual. I am often told "Only <em>you </em>could wear that." I'm not sure exactly what that means, but I tell you, I'm starting to wonder if I am surrounded by really <em>boring</em> people (and I don't mean that in an ugly sense) or if I am just really <em>strange</em>! I like to say <em><strong>different</strong></em>. Some use the word <em>artsy</em>. I don't know. When I was walking around the Fair, these words popped into my brain more than once that day...."These are MY people!!" I felt like I was with my true kin (and I was figuratively as well), but I felt it spiritually too. My experiences over the past eight months or so keep driving home the message to me that I must stay true to myself, to my style, and to be who I am. So that is going to be my focus. Doing what feels right to me. I know you know what I am talking about. It feels right to be in your own skin when you are following the right path for yourself, be it artistically or otherwise.<br />
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So since that show I have been consumed with finding a purpose and the creation of my kind of jewelry keeps floating to the surface. Remember the Magic 8 Ball of our youth?? When I shake it and turn it over it says.....Make Some Awesome Jewelry! I have been studying the works of <a href="http://www.playswithpaper.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #990000;">Shari Replogle</span></a>, <a href="http://dianafrey.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #bf9000;">Diana Frey</span></a>, <a href="http://amyhanna.typepad.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Amy Hannah</span></a>, <a href="http://christinewallacevintagejewelry.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #134f5c;">Christine Wallace</span></a> (oh my!) and my <strong><em>extreme</em></strong> favorite: <a href="http://www.somethingsublime.typepad.com/"><span style="color: #741b47;">Deryn Mentock</span></a>. I am truly enamoured. I am hoping to attend <a href="http://www.artunraveled.com/">Adorn Me! 2012</a> in late February in Houston, Texas to take an all day workshop entitled The Alchemy of Objects with Deryn Mentock. That will truly be an awesome experience! I have some money to save, some equipment to gather (how does one fly with all one's tools?), some vintage goodies to gather. I am so psyched!! This is where I want to start leaning....with my work and with my life. It feels good in my skin and in my head to even think it. I long for the quiet creativity that I anticipate it will bring. I must make time to do this....for my sanity, if for nothing else. <br />
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So I hope you will like the subtle changes my blog will bring. I hope you will still want to follow along with me through my little transformation. I am praying it will be interesting for you and that I will still feel as strongly about the choices that I feel are forthcoming as I do right now.<br />
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For this upcoming Thanksgiving holiday I am most thankful to live in a country where I can actually undergo this metamorphosis. I am thankful for the family I will see and spend time with this coming holiday, and I truly wish you all the most incredible blessings a holiday can bring. I have so much more to share....the ideas are really starting to go from a mere simmer to a low boil. I think they are going to keep growing. Hope you to find you there along the way....<br />
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Wishing you a peaceful Thanksgiving...<br />
Carol<br />
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P.S. I just ordered this great book and sprung for the overnight shipping so I would have it for the long holiday weekend. Can't wait to get it tomorrow!! I will read every word and study every picture. Plus I couldn't have a totally pictureless post!!!<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23889136" title="Order your signed copy today!"><img src="http://amyhanna.typepad.com/Rejuvenated%20Jewels%20Book%20Cover.jpg" /></a><br />
Order it <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23889136"><strong><span style="color: #134f5c;">HERE</span></strong></a>.Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-91386851827377301162011-04-08T10:11:00.000-04:002011-04-08T10:11:21.462-04:00Vintage Inspired MemoriesIt is Friday, and a <a href="http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot.com/2011/04/vintage-inspiration-friday-32-magazine.html"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong><em>Vintage Inspiration Friday</em></strong></span></a>, at that! I haven't played along in awhile. Crazy times of late....adjusting to new schedules and such. However, I was going through some old photos in my computer hoping for something to inspire me and thought I would plug them in and play along. I know you've seen them before, but I just couldn't help myself.<br />
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They are all from the Country Living Fair I went to this past October in Stone Mountain Park, Georgia. They are coming back this coming October as well. I'll get the 3-day pass this time so I can relax, take my time, enjoy it at a slower pace, shop, shop, and shop some more!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX-eCwNgh2p_ufH4-GKFKfr7USUfZJRUsmDhsm9XdOtY2Y6yT3COlPpHamAJQrumhaSXtC8L6GVMoWt8OOS71fPAxQdjAhiteSIENiSb0bv3qIOfZyAljQkiXq6si1M_D8fmTwPCi4SMo/s1600/country+living+fair+042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX-eCwNgh2p_ufH4-GKFKfr7USUfZJRUsmDhsm9XdOtY2Y6yT3COlPpHamAJQrumhaSXtC8L6GVMoWt8OOS71fPAxQdjAhiteSIENiSb0bv3qIOfZyAljQkiXq6si1M_D8fmTwPCi4SMo/s400/country+living+fair+042.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYBr00ugajymCOTLKIKDTZ_XDKS4xMJzU6VadUzOH74-PP6VglpjE894d3UR39oP-ZEKQi9bA2JYNnqu9eh1SzN8oFOBX7wTyis46e3DZXquEsf0XJCEWrWl19gR2NdmqoR5LdKxRPVs/s1600/country+living+fair+038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYBr00ugajymCOTLKIKDTZ_XDKS4xMJzU6VadUzOH74-PP6VglpjE894d3UR39oP-ZEKQi9bA2JYNnqu9eh1SzN8oFOBX7wTyis46e3DZXquEsf0XJCEWrWl19gR2NdmqoR5LdKxRPVs/s400/country+living+fair+038.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cZtXH07kwmYr0H3ovns9M8IUySDxhbis402XXC5631IPgTKlihNrJNVuj1S8Rm8f0k1iN3dhe32Tz-PM6wTWv9X6Kv0ZWpAeln6BortrSYoQ1tY5Jufl7q9qi-atjl8V9XoeHRfb6qY/s1600/country+living+fair+054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cZtXH07kwmYr0H3ovns9M8IUySDxhbis402XXC5631IPgTKlihNrJNVuj1S8Rm8f0k1iN3dhe32Tz-PM6wTWv9X6Kv0ZWpAeln6BortrSYoQ1tY5Jufl7q9qi-atjl8V9XoeHRfb6qY/s400/country+living+fair+054.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Spring wishes to you all! <br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-57833140609184530812011-03-27T22:20:00.000-04:002011-03-27T22:20:59.178-04:00Desperately Seeking Carol<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3IxhW-PsNjnfsCY-gYRJAupTYwRz55OJNBY064iN5fZcg4-adj55I5FK6qI4lC_Rcf0c9Ek1Fqps3GqV1JwgHKUl6MvxE409f-sawK5LQZA29Tte0m27AmRejko2MXs6pMWz_11ROsvA/s1600/Ocean+kayaking+82309+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="0" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3IxhW-PsNjnfsCY-gYRJAupTYwRz55OJNBY064iN5fZcg4-adj55I5FK6qI4lC_Rcf0c9Ek1Fqps3GqV1JwgHKUl6MvxE409f-sawK5LQZA29Tte0m27AmRejko2MXs6pMWz_11ROsvA/s320/Ocean+kayaking+82309+004.jpg" width="0" /></a></div><br />
Do you remember that '80's/'90's movie: Desperately Seeking Susan? Well, I know it was about a girl looking for a girl she saw or thought she saw or something like that. I am in search of myself. I need to make some time for myself without feeling like I am slighting someone else in the process. How does one do that?<br />
<br />
I've spent the better part of the last week stealing moments with my dear mother. Lunch here, shopping there. She leaves for Georgia in the morning. I will see her again soon and will start thinking of when I will make my next journey there. I've seen her more in the past few months than I have in recent years....her trip here at Christmas, my surprise visit to GA in February for her birthday, and her "tax trip" here this past week. I know I will be in ATL in October for the Country Living Fair, but will make it up there long before that, I'm sure. Thank you, Mom, for still being my mom. Even at 48, I feel like a little girl sometimes who longs for her "mommy." Maybe we never outgrow that. I know I am blessed to have you. <br />
<br />
My Aunt Claire came over from the west coast this past weekend too. I was so happy to see her and will have to make the 3 hour drive to see her new haven. Lake Susie....how "dreamy" does that sound??<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I am feeling taken advantage of, of late. I need to get a grip on that and find time for me. I vow, this week, to take care of the things I feel I need to...feeding and bathing my sweet granddaughter, but maybe letting her daddy put her to bed as I venture out to the shop to work on a dresser a dear friend has entrusted in me. Yes....that will make me feel that I am using my time wisely, accomplishing a goal, and doing what I love. I longed for time in my garden this weekend, but did not find it....or make it. At some point, I need to make time for me.<br />
<br />
Maybe this week? How do you steal moments for yourself? I could really use your advise.....<br />
<br />
<a href="about:blank" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-48726547045778407022011-03-22T14:00:00.001-04:002011-03-22T14:05:08.635-04:00End of Book Remorse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4PewfQau0P3VngAZ9xZZrjDAiYECEF_Gby-sdnFAMIAjJHWaIkD6JXiUjF3ZriRK5YjY8VluxDbDgPMjIGNi-3eW5xeNSmua59IxV6PadBF2SM7UMm0l8kpdZyRi5zc_37g87dRCkFg/s1600/book240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4PewfQau0P3VngAZ9xZZrjDAiYECEF_Gby-sdnFAMIAjJHWaIkD6JXiUjF3ZriRK5YjY8VluxDbDgPMjIGNi-3eW5xeNSmua59IxV6PadBF2SM7UMm0l8kpdZyRi5zc_37g87dRCkFg/s1600/book240.jpg" /></a></div>Do you know what I mean? You spend time really enjoying a book......and then it is over? That is where I am today. I just finished <strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><a href="http://awaytogarden.com/book/">And I Shall Have Some Peace There</a></span></strong> by Margaret Roach of <a href="http://www.awaytogarden.com/"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">A Way to Garden dot com</span></strong></a>. I mention her and her site often. If you garden at all, hers is a must read and visit site. Even though I am in a Zone 10 garden and she in a Zone 5B (or A....can't recall at this moment), and our gardening is so very different, sometimes it really isn't. I gleen tidbits here and there, and truly just enjoy the visit. If you don't garden, just enjoy the beautiful pictures in her many slide shows. Did I mention the wee bit of envy I have over how Ms. Roach escaped the big city to dwell in the country? Her home and garden are her life's work now, and I find the idea of that absolutely wonderful and peaceful. <br />
<br />
Hopefully, you also saw her bird article in last Sunday's <a href="http://awaytogarden.com/book/inspiration-birds-my-teachers-from-on-high/"><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Parade</span></strong></a>. There are so many of us bird lovers out there. I know I do not take advantage of seeing and searching for the many different birds that are still in my neck of the woods. But, if one more of my friends tell me a Painted Bunting visited their feeder.....!!! I may have had a quick sighting of one last spring, but not the many that some of my friends get year after year. I must make my yard more inviting for them.<br />
<br />
I failed to mention that I read Margaret's book on my NookColor. If you have one, I encourage you to download it there as there are beautiful bonus pictures that the regular book does not have. You will love them as much as I did, I know. (I believe it is on the iPad version as well.)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2EjX5Ks1WbJ68xXaao6RWJClf-bNqpKiBTIBW3PIEV_CC5lvgWttNSeoXMo64FOH3OKLkVl4jQjyqZPdRmHwNvxnc6MxL7LebYBkozSHQyG5iC3wT8STzaGYUWOR9DLG4daL-0-_LfOE/s1600/a+way+to+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2EjX5Ks1WbJ68xXaao6RWJClf-bNqpKiBTIBW3PIEV_CC5lvgWttNSeoXMo64FOH3OKLkVl4jQjyqZPdRmHwNvxnc6MxL7LebYBkozSHQyG5iC3wT8STzaGYUWOR9DLG4daL-0-_LfOE/s1600/a+way+to+garden.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
"<em><strong>Did you ever just want to walk away</strong></em>?" asks Margaret Roach in her newest book. <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">YES!</span></strong><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-82815033769556404282011-03-18T14:22:00.000-04:002011-03-18T14:22:31.909-04:00Late Irish Blessings to YouIt is late on Thursday, March 17....St. Patrick's Day, that I finally have a few moments to finish a post I started earlier in the day. It has been a pleasant and productive day at work. After having been in my new job for a month now, I am feeling like one of the family. This feels good. And so....I will continue with my post....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7zaMh8Vj7tmjXEhLKs8TNlu-zQCo4A4CSlZDrzs568IH1Twp5iBp6vbBHupgMkPyfP73BWbbGIfg5mNpOkib8g1GJWnB2L36LL7eUIzDttDGt0JvoeHx9Heq_HPT-_49TXAgXybtsso/s1600/sammakko_header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7zaMh8Vj7tmjXEhLKs8TNlu-zQCo4A4CSlZDrzs568IH1Twp5iBp6vbBHupgMkPyfP73BWbbGIfg5mNpOkib8g1GJWnB2L36LL7eUIzDttDGt0JvoeHx9Heq_HPT-_49TXAgXybtsso/s320/sammakko_header.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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With a maiden name of Schmitz, not many would ever know I have Irish blood in me. I am proud to say that I do though. Actually, more than I thought. With a paternal grandmother whose name was Marie Madeline McQuillen, there is no denying it. She was born in Canada, but her father and grandfather, both named Mathew McQuillen, were born in Ireland. Even with my Ancestry.com research, I know not where in Ireland. But I recently learned that my mother's kin...the Davis', were Irish too. We always thought they were English. So more Irish blood.... With green eyes and natural blond hair (at least it used to be) and fair to medium skin, I would appear to lean towards the Irish. (And a sweet granddaughter with big blue eyes and red hair!) That pleases me. As proud as I am to call myself as one with Irish decent, I know the Irish were not looked upon too highly when they first came to America. I will have to brush up on some historical facts before I misquote myself, but that does sadden me. However, today I have enjoyed perusing some Irish blessings, toasts, sayings.... Here are a couple that I am particularly fond of:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Like the warmth of the sun</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>And the light of the day,</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>May the luck of the Irish</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>shine bright on your way.</strong></span></div><br />
and then there is...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>May joy and peace surround you,</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Contentment latch your door,</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>And happiness be with you now</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>And bless you evermore.</strong></span></div><br />
I know many are familiar with the "May the road rise up to meet you" blessing. I enjoyed reading many others. As the Irish have a history of being happy and mischievous, and sometimes inebriated....here is toast I thought was funny:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Here's to our wives and girlfriends: May they never meet!</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>My work week is over. It is Spring Break for our school district, so the 12-month employees work four 10-hour days. Coupled with daylight savings time....it was torturous. I'm glad to see the week come to a close. <br />
<br />
My mother is traveling from Georgia tomorrow (Friday) for a visit. I am looking forward to seeing her. She will enjoy seeing her great-granddaughter walking and talking up a storm!<br />
<br />
I will start on a dresser that I am refinishing/painting for a friend. I wish I could work as fast as <a href="http://missmustardseed.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: large;"><strong>Miss Mustard Seed</strong></span></a>, but I don't. I know I take more time than is needed, but it is a labor of love. I will take pictures along the way to share. (She has finally revealed the secret paint....click the link to learn more.)<br />
<br />
I got my Country Homes and Gardens magazine in the mail today. I have been non-renewing all my magazines this year....boo hoo, but it is time to scale back financially and spatially. However, I will renew this magazine as I love it so. It only comes a few times a year. I am enjoying a beautiful article on <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><strong><a href="http://tovahmartin.com/">Tovah Martin</a></strong></span> and her Connecticut garden. She lives in a converted barn! How cool is that? It has low ceilings and windows that do not pose a problem for her as she is under 5 feet tall. I did not know that. And....she only gardens in vintage dresses and owns no jeans. I like it! Anyone who truly stays true to his or her own style appeals to me greatly. <br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I invite you to enjoy the journey of one of my favorite blogs: <a href="http://storiesfromhome.wordpress.com/"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><strong>Stories from home</strong></span></a> by David Patterson. He and his eldest son are in Ireland at this very moment....his original homeland....for St. Patty's Day. He is an incredible photographer who lives with his family in Maine and the pictures coming from this trip so far are fabulous. Please stop by and follow his journey. You will not be disappointed.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I wish you all a wonderful night....be it with green beer (not for me, personally), corn beef and cabbage (again, no thank you), or just a quiet evening at the end of a long week. I say to you....<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Erin go Bragh</span></strong>. One interpretation of that phrase is <span style="color: #38761d;">"May I go back to Ireland forever." </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>May flowers always line your path and sunshine light your day.</strong></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>May songbirds serenade you every step along the way.</strong></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>May a rainbow run beside you in a sky that's always blue,</strong></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>And may happiness fill your heart each day your whole life through.</strong></span> </span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">P.S. I am finally getting this post out as my computer kept losing its connection last night. Talk about frustrating!! I know we've all been there. Happy Friday!!</div></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-38451033529509228252011-03-09T14:54:00.001-05:002011-03-09T14:57:47.477-05:00White Wednesday ~ I Want to Play!It's been 14 days since my last......<em><strong><span style="color: #6aa84f;">post</span></strong></em>....<span style="font-size: x-small;">almost said <em>confession</em>....a childhood flashback!</span> <span style="font-size: x-small;">It is Ash Wednesday, after all.</span> Anywho......it's been just <em><strong><span style="color: #6aa84f;">too long</span></strong></em> ago since I found (made?) the time to visit. I am settling into my new job pretty well, I think, and have so incredibly much to learn. I am eager to do it, which helps. <br />
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<a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2011/03/white-wednesday-90.html">White Wednesday</a> is one of my favorite linky parties <span style="font-size: x-small;">(along with Vintage Inspiration Friday),</span> so I had to rumage through some of my pictures to find some whiteness to share. In no apparent order.....<br />
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwriv6nal8Y-Y9IvAL_ow3-VZ2RbdGl7ZHczi2_Puu2pBg3P0S88ibdX7P8iyqSYVBvO7DHCHEHmuRySNH3y1Ye1X1BnvgMG7X-dMVh69VfbMTJ0pz9tRv9cKfx0m7a1LZGMzbs6SJCt8/s1600/housebeautifulslipcovers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwriv6nal8Y-Y9IvAL_ow3-VZ2RbdGl7ZHczi2_Puu2pBg3P0S88ibdX7P8iyqSYVBvO7DHCHEHmuRySNH3y1Ye1X1BnvgMG7X-dMVh69VfbMTJ0pz9tRv9cKfx0m7a1LZGMzbs6SJCt8/s400/housebeautifulslipcovers.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An odd entry, I know, but look at these<br />
SWEET slipcovers! Never would have thought<br />
that one up on my own, but am loving it<br />
(and needing it in my own vehicle).<br />
If I brave this activity, you'll be the<br />
first to know!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnUXkRC0mYO8puYcUF0ohBHKvQ4_jXiwMRhhyCaHzuCDeQSlkvpW6Xo_h530OtGYkM1FnBgcDnE43x3sZBP66H6V38A3_GDqv-7WHADR9VQGmrxmtBCkhkCjpTy41bR54ErmrYKrjz0o/s1600/HBwhitebedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnUXkRC0mYO8puYcUF0ohBHKvQ4_jXiwMRhhyCaHzuCDeQSlkvpW6Xo_h530OtGYkM1FnBgcDnE43x3sZBP66H6V38A3_GDqv-7WHADR9VQGmrxmtBCkhkCjpTy41bR54ErmrYKrjz0o/s400/HBwhitebedroom.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the hints of green in this lovely<br />
white bedroom....and that ceiling - LOVE IT!<br />
So peaceful...<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05_0FygxyFDOolayxHKpGUys652MrqsPBEuakSc-Eqv4hz__jhqKWP0rY7BT3hP4ts-BY1TCTQC7ER9EIjjhumH5pcQXMwjfQ76fKHY0ryu7kUhVdIDQU0Zs5XKfgT5XBhu_zPNfHcyc/s1600/sissinghurstcastle1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05_0FygxyFDOolayxHKpGUys652MrqsPBEuakSc-Eqv4hz__jhqKWP0rY7BT3hP4ts-BY1TCTQC7ER9EIjjhumH5pcQXMwjfQ76fKHY0ryu7kUhVdIDQU0Zs5XKfgT5XBhu_zPNfHcyc/s400/sissinghurstcastle1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQaTJ5WENmOo4RF7AtpD-Q9LSlnoHCVKJuu96tAX5tCKFfj02AIW7bgt2xWb31ejBMh_-P2JqKRwTqLslU6oIzA2dxZH4nua4esrZLpXbAa1W_Ij8ePXYBxJ6CJgacBxks2xIfA730zDc/s1600/sissinghurstcastle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQaTJ5WENmOo4RF7AtpD-Q9LSlnoHCVKJuu96tAX5tCKFfj02AIW7bgt2xWb31ejBMh_-P2JqKRwTqLslU6oIzA2dxZH4nua4esrZLpXbAa1W_Ij8ePXYBxJ6CJgacBxks2xIfA730zDc/s400/sissinghurstcastle2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These two pictures are of The White Garden at<br />
Sissinhurst Castle in England.<br />
I have gardening fever these days, so I took<br />
a lovely stroll through this one today.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6hpYHFpvjzoCAhjzs-B4cBHlEqU2YaCaEXQ3KC_TvIfyQLwT7VmTl5P0FE5MSLHWF5d8Gq3M7TQr8wocHv2SqhRkxh7P7xgVVM6sQbxbyDiE2nI3dulcgvqVBG0j-0yDrfLu_N3SMag/s1600/Hannah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6hpYHFpvjzoCAhjzs-B4cBHlEqU2YaCaEXQ3KC_TvIfyQLwT7VmTl5P0FE5MSLHWF5d8Gq3M7TQr8wocHv2SqhRkxh7P7xgVVM6sQbxbyDiE2nI3dulcgvqVBG0j-0yDrfLu_N3SMag/s1600/Hannah.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White clouds, white shirts....it qualifies!<br />
My neice, Hannah, with Tim Tebow, taken<br />
last week at the Honda Classic here in Palm Beach Gardens.<br />
She is beaming!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3OJ_-MzNzSOB8GKtKSnVtfjuoRtlBFR2UU_0TxsMOXggStBHNpN5dxcD3Jd3InVolQOfeuzk6bkp6Fp3p-S-4MnY4gUWb_I5Cs4oZnOwwgKbcOg-aR_acWTsnUonjYXVBgOobVBIxyc/s1600/mom+dad+jerry+carol+60s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3OJ_-MzNzSOB8GKtKSnVtfjuoRtlBFR2UU_0TxsMOXggStBHNpN5dxcD3Jd3InVolQOfeuzk6bkp6Fp3p-S-4MnY4gUWb_I5Cs4oZnOwwgKbcOg-aR_acWTsnUonjYXVBgOobVBIxyc/s320/mom+dad+jerry+carol+60s.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Does <em>black and white</em> count??<br />
That's me in the striped top and chubby cheeks<br />
being held by my mom. My dad and older<br />
brother here too. I'm guessing this is around <br />
1966 or 67. It's one of my favorites <br />
and I just had to share!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Hope to be back before another two weeks pass. I got the go-ahead to start a new garden in my backyard....can't wait to start planning and taking pictures! I'm in the search of the PERFECT garden gate! Enjoy your Wednesday...<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. Top two pictures from House Beautiful.</span>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-66599071482525939172011-02-23T12:40:00.000-05:002011-02-23T12:40:18.403-05:00~~White Wedding~~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQmPfeZng0X_1MwllCqSAtPIhFwe9E-LMzVFjaY1bVAar4_OJy_TtwN3LJMEziFdgUEOkjP5IIwms3xVaB0laCNM9mk1xsUQNHsXEvAp9kIfO2mc-Juq73gEMhnDq1RN7Dnl1bFV3RXo/s1600/P1011465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQmPfeZng0X_1MwllCqSAtPIhFwe9E-LMzVFjaY1bVAar4_OJy_TtwN3LJMEziFdgUEOkjP5IIwms3xVaB0laCNM9mk1xsUQNHsXEvAp9kIfO2mc-Juq73gEMhnDq1RN7Dnl1bFV3RXo/s400/P1011465.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73sAnIWg-vQzb7ODIDLLz5Z03AqtykHJXLOL1Z0Uuugt5CGi33UlsRhnBM9q6qSbG8URCc_04Gx0w1j_MrhXBhJvZW53M2d64vsMPK7vf0Q7bnzwo7sF4TVUw2Q89Fi6_H7Kqy-C7KMc/s1600/P1011481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73sAnIWg-vQzb7ODIDLLz5Z03AqtykHJXLOL1Z0Uuugt5CGi33UlsRhnBM9q6qSbG8URCc_04Gx0w1j_MrhXBhJvZW53M2d64vsMPK7vf0Q7bnzwo7sF4TVUw2Q89Fi6_H7Kqy-C7KMc/s320/P1011481.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>What could be better to play along with Faded Charm's <a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2011/02/white-wednesday-88.html"><em><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">White Wednesday</span></strong></em></a>, than a <span style="color: #990000;"><em>beautiful</em> </span>wedding dress? How gorgeous my new daughter-in-law looks in her <em><span style="color: #990000;">beautiful </span></em>dress. I only wish I had gotten some close ups of the <em><span style="color: #990000;">beautiful</span></em> beadwork. (Word of the day: <strong><em><u><span style="color: #990000;">beautiful</span></u></em></strong>!!)<br />
<br />
Sending <em><span style="color: #990000;">beautiful</span></em> wishes your way...<span style="color: #45818e;">and special birthday wishes to my sweet hubby...</span><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a><br />
<br />
P.S. Please stop by Margaret Roach's <a href="http://www.awaytogarden.com/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><strong><em>A Way to Garden</em></strong></span></a>. It is publication day for her! Congratulations Margaret!!!! (I've already downloaded my pre-ordered NookColor version and can't wait to jump right in.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnP1KOz_3sPYJ6poIGJgKy1jZs6M7f94MiBM10fYw6FA9CgiuwR-ZW4TF6vxzucJ1McsA4UkJgHcY1gOzISDR8HBhr_QGpnx2DL19WakEybRKmb_5cl_0no-8SJOlzAHasmDQXw7J4kD8/s1600/book240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnP1KOz_3sPYJ6poIGJgKy1jZs6M7f94MiBM10fYw6FA9CgiuwR-ZW4TF6vxzucJ1McsA4UkJgHcY1gOzISDR8HBhr_QGpnx2DL19WakEybRKmb_5cl_0no-8SJOlzAHasmDQXw7J4kD8/s1600/book240.jpg" /></a></div>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-40136870066604436972011-02-21T12:58:00.001-05:002011-02-21T12:58:49.592-05:00Who Moved My Cheese??<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVlGAPVc5jTuaUw0a9Fre0xsaemk0Iqp0LtNKOrIsSYHr6ha0WUJwvH9FnwOiBn0AHLPdVVTYGyguID6MT_wkGLWyADylxDkkXGqjb0FiYlK1vTQSJkGPo8U6RHwhbAjwfYChBDrs8b8/s1600/whomovedmycheesedotcom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVlGAPVc5jTuaUw0a9Fre0xsaemk0Iqp0LtNKOrIsSYHr6ha0WUJwvH9FnwOiBn0AHLPdVVTYGyguID6MT_wkGLWyADylxDkkXGqjb0FiYlK1vTQSJkGPo8U6RHwhbAjwfYChBDrs8b8/s1600/whomovedmycheesedotcom.jpg" /></a></div>Do you remember this book that came out some time ago? I have not read it, but it may be a good time to get it. Ten days ago, I was told my job would be eliminated in the department I had worked in for the last seven years. While my boss (and best friend) worked hard to find me a new home prior to her breaking the news to me, it was and has been a bit of a hard pill to swallow. Not only was I being moved, I was loosing my Sanctuary. That is what I called my office.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigdk8QmJwyAD7LOygIdG1WTWGQp11-3SH9fJTPWRCASTk-nJqr-vlTarwnZwVSR5_1VP5_oa_Nte1pn3SPgVF7Ey6Q6b7Rmmv3wtaIBKbJGV6LsrTp6TPbhvIUyvYneM945AYvFV0BbdU/s1600/office+pics+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigdk8QmJwyAD7LOygIdG1WTWGQp11-3SH9fJTPWRCASTk-nJqr-vlTarwnZwVSR5_1VP5_oa_Nte1pn3SPgVF7Ey6Q6b7Rmmv3wtaIBKbJGV6LsrTp6TPbhvIUyvYneM945AYvFV0BbdU/s320/office+pics+002.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggL0icAI3hI4rJ19NwERscKoBfWOjYxSF1VeS0RN7R_O7izWfxlllJweD-KK8SvEO4BB_1YENyFAS_iFnVxNXCgjJ564tWN_86L8JNdROhc7sBHLMFWnOINd_wwyO1lG4YvwObTaOltUs/s1600/office+pics+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggL0icAI3hI4rJ19NwERscKoBfWOjYxSF1VeS0RN7R_O7izWfxlllJweD-KK8SvEO4BB_1YENyFAS_iFnVxNXCgjJ564tWN_86L8JNdROhc7sBHLMFWnOINd_wwyO1lG4YvwObTaOltUs/s320/office+pics+006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-6ke5NJC_z7tlA6vbt3XjMhU3O2cbMwbe9bnLa2sGSgvBaRVFIPySMb5cqPFlBLlczVjoYwyIi_hcqxY9aGB7QLXRI1g_5GIDYeyar_2wZI4VxL2di6mkMt0jFVb_bLWR3kzVKlmI88/s1600/office+pics+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-6ke5NJC_z7tlA6vbt3XjMhU3O2cbMwbe9bnLa2sGSgvBaRVFIPySMb5cqPFlBLlczVjoYwyIi_hcqxY9aGB7QLXRI1g_5GIDYeyar_2wZI4VxL2di6mkMt0jFVb_bLWR3kzVKlmI88/s320/office+pics+007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcUSng139qpphQohZ2_oF25mKOGXHQv-B8atMAkt9uvPIzIck6FmYNDOjzRBuT6T6c4H6Xv8MDQIjpGqI4-XlPOw4ewAEiIVdQo5Sjuo3tjUIT0PO8sngRfePiwW1pF55578qsXMCdP0/s1600/office+pics+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcUSng139qpphQohZ2_oF25mKOGXHQv-B8atMAkt9uvPIzIck6FmYNDOjzRBuT6T6c4H6Xv8MDQIjpGqI4-XlPOw4ewAEiIVdQo5Sjuo3tjUIT0PO8sngRfePiwW1pF55578qsXMCdP0/s320/office+pics+012.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
That news was delivered to me just as I was leaving for a surprise trip to my mother's in Georgia. My older brother and I made a very quick, but wonderful, trip to visit my mother for her 70th birthday. I now got to carry this new heavy burden with me on the trip. It was a wonder the plane got off the ground. (The trip to my mother's was wonderful, however. We've never surprised her so!!)<br />
<br />
When I returned, I came in and started deconstructing my work haven. I had some big items....a large picture (my last official purchase while at Ethan Allen), a chair, a cabinet, mirror, pilaster, plants, etc. It did me a bit of good to come in on a Sunday, when no one was there, and spend some time in control of my situation. (pictures above)<br />
<br />
I find it funny.....as in interestingly quirky.....that I am brought back to reality by movie lines. Let's go back to one of my favs. We've visited here before, but I just had to go back again....<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyaxYRsUpiw-ix6mzAbeTCCN9GmJSP-8IrkfIqm5xgczHH2gJ4R4JZ082bkz1lA0MqoZJAfFzq4uFXTd-8wI6fXcCs0NFC9nqGCDU-dj11kTeBJ8HYCbMZnSuoxSKqRE3V6ciiMaCvVM/s1600/ivcbdsqbc88ycvd8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyaxYRsUpiw-ix6mzAbeTCCN9GmJSP-8IrkfIqm5xgczHH2gJ4R4JZ082bkz1lA0MqoZJAfFzq4uFXTd-8wI6fXcCs0NFC9nqGCDU-dj11kTeBJ8HYCbMZnSuoxSKqRE3V6ciiMaCvVM/s320/ivcbdsqbc88ycvd8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
"<strong><em>People are always saying that change is a good thing. But all they're really saying is that something you didn't want to happen at all....has happened</em></strong>." Kathleen Kelly (aka Meg Ryan) in You've Got Mail.<br />
<br />
Here is one more. It came crashing into my brain this very morning when I had to go visit my old department only to see a former co-worker's daughter playing on the computer in my now empty office. Ouch! Many other changes are still happening and will continue to happen for the next six months or so. In the course of conversation regarding some of the upcoming changes, I said I wasn't sure if "they" would want me in one of the supposed new positions, I was told, "<em>Of course they would. This wasn't about you personally. It was just the position." </em>Maybe so....but it feels personal to me.<br />
<br />
<em><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Joe Fox: It wasn't... personal. </span></strong></em><br />
<em><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;"></span></strong></em><br />
<em><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;"></span></strong></em><br />
<em><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Kathleen Kelly: What is that supposed to mean? I am so sick of that. All that means is that it wasn't personal to you. But it was personal to me. It's *personal* to a lot of people. And what's so wrong with being personal, anyway? </span></strong></em><br />
<em><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;"></span></strong></em><br />
<em><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Joe Fox: Uh, nothing. </span></strong></em><br />
<em><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;"></span></strong></em><br />
<em><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Kathleen Kelly: Whatever else anything is, it ought to begin by being personal.</span></strong></em> <br />
<br />
You got that right!! So....here I sit in my new cubicle, with all my favorite things surrounding me, with not a clue of what to do. I've been told I will be trained, but so far....no. So I will write to you instead. <br />
<br />
Blessings do abound here. I know. This could be a wonderful change, to a new office, possibly even a new career path. I know I am one of the lucky ones. There will be many in the months ahead, who will not have a place to go and will be jobless. I am thankful.....really I am. <br />
<br />
I even clipped a tiny version of this little picture to remind me what I should be doing and concentrating on: <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5tsX6Z7tPT0iAxhyphenhyphenYxDbdXudbYyfjHgQWyKK811p3a7gQdts2S2DFT2ajt4aBx5bg3Ttkd2dyUXBG37jUSNFyaWFZunXwNUzDnCIe1460vWqXKRoROc0qkHyeo9o9jfsB6t3kNCnRZE/s1600/maryengelbreitdotcom.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5tsX6Z7tPT0iAxhyphenhyphenYxDbdXudbYyfjHgQWyKK811p3a7gQdts2S2DFT2ajt4aBx5bg3Ttkd2dyUXBG37jUSNFyaWFZunXwNUzDnCIe1460vWqXKRoROc0qkHyeo9o9jfsB6t3kNCnRZE/s1600/maryengelbreitdotcom.bmp" /></a></div>I'll work on it.<br />
<br />
So between getting canned <span style="font-size: x-small;">(I mean moved); </span>a whirlwind trip to see my mother in Georgia; moving my office to a cubicle; running around from fabric store to tile store to workroom for two projects I am working on; keeping abreast of my husband's neice who, out of nowhere, became gravely ill; to learning of an old friend's sudden passing; I have not made it to blogland in a while. As a nice turn of events, however, I spent my birthday (this past Saturday) at a lovely wedding aboard a yacht in Ft. Lauderdale. My husband's youngest son, Todd, married his sweet Lisa aboard the <em>Caprise</em>. The weather-incredible, the scenery-magnificent, and the company-full of love. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYpC6DgsZTQ7o-0VHsY7JkoqcNqruajgHJmq21rFb6LxFxXzW4-aVX2CX3s2G3x4E3NysBiLJPCbG1RTUct04HSUddidXwJrmrrNOorxEczHwxIBn68KL229fBozjoASbxhXWwmBd7X4/s1600/P1011431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYpC6DgsZTQ7o-0VHsY7JkoqcNqruajgHJmq21rFb6LxFxXzW4-aVX2CX3s2G3x4E3NysBiLJPCbG1RTUct04HSUddidXwJrmrrNOorxEczHwxIBn68KL229fBozjoASbxhXWwmBd7X4/s400/P1011431.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture was taken from the hotel balconey<br />
where everyone gathered to get ready prior<br />
to boarding.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrt7_izn7Nkho5J9hXhf4Z4K9PQrENPH1yNlBMQnpxNrWbH2kGkV6p7nNEcc7d9boYe2vwaN4mczZcG2DRMB5n5U-2orfJmqNhxqewg3EmvGqXoWSYYIWIrVSwfHJbccAqhefV3tPOJo/s1600/P1011434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrt7_izn7Nkho5J9hXhf4Z4K9PQrENPH1yNlBMQnpxNrWbH2kGkV6p7nNEcc7d9boYe2vwaN4mczZcG2DRMB5n5U-2orfJmqNhxqewg3EmvGqXoWSYYIWIrVSwfHJbccAqhefV3tPOJo/s400/P1011434.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All five of my granddaughters in one shot!!<br />
From the left: Brianna, Reagan, Taylor, Kennedy<br />
and Kloe (in the stroller). That's me in black behind her.<br />
The groom is the man on the left. My son in the middle<br />
and my son-in-law on the right.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oji-dky0UBo1trfQYFgiBQqSn6s6v-R9HxmBuRNoXKmqqjKr3RiTzVc0Q-Bnj3OMFXTNUGcFj2mFQbGXEDCEopZuzVSB2B1L6hGJ3kLCci0tWavDE6LppofW22W8mQFcIRU3lwwS1A8/s1600/P1011479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oji-dky0UBo1trfQYFgiBQqSn6s6v-R9HxmBuRNoXKmqqjKr3RiTzVc0Q-Bnj3OMFXTNUGcFj2mFQbGXEDCEopZuzVSB2B1L6hGJ3kLCci0tWavDE6LppofW22W8mQFcIRU3lwwS1A8/s400/P1011479.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. and Mrs. Todd Bass</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6M3FvgSNFTyj8fKS2LC6nAYm7qXzGoLrpnu8e6uVc1fHfOL4KEtgPcPcbuCst9OIl7jDrzKc1hQwtHO80JptZfwWdETs5X7gNBJ8fXjBmJ7MFVxZttVh457A6mxzl_oIOPMIW16gHh2o/s1600/P1011482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6M3FvgSNFTyj8fKS2LC6nAYm7qXzGoLrpnu8e6uVc1fHfOL4KEtgPcPcbuCst9OIl7jDrzKc1hQwtHO80JptZfwWdETs5X7gNBJ8fXjBmJ7MFVxZttVh457A6mxzl_oIOPMIW16gHh2o/s400/P1011482.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Todd and Lisa.<br />
Beautiful homes on the water in Ft. Lauderdale.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Hopefully this will start an upward swing and things will begin to settle. I'd like to catch up with my favorite blogs and even throw a couple of posts out there myself. I promise to be much more entertaining in the near future! If you've made it this far, thank you!! No more wallering for me!!!<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-55011577035018172672011-02-08T22:24:00.001-05:002011-02-08T22:24:47.694-05:00White Wednesday ~ Florida Style!!I've been tossing this idea around for a few weeks now. Living in South Florida, as I do, I have a LOT of shells in my house. Many of which are basically white. The perfect thing for a <a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2011/02/white-wednesday-86.html"><strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">Faded Charm White Wednesday</span></em></strong></a> entry. Here are some pictures I made tonight in my home. Please take into consideration that I don't have one of those fancy cameras that so many other bloggers have these days (though I love them AND the beautiful pictures they take!!); <em>AND</em> that I probably don't know how to take advantage of the settings that my little Olympus Stylus TOUGH (shockproof/waterproof) camera has. I had to get this one as I dropped our last camera in the water on a kayaking trip. I'm a little rough with cellphones and cameras, but that is another blog post.....<br />
<br />
Please enjoy my little pictures....<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNXOrxtCgWwTcPKm1jeM19kcL5BJSXY0P8xbMqRPemhy9Til_pucEQspYINKCMPHYUjDqeTjZ_5aNG0lylMfKQJ0anAoAMO5y8_lmbjScr-71N18olynY-Mg9_hxLvKlDCRQgxI-N3tXU/s1600/shells+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNXOrxtCgWwTcPKm1jeM19kcL5BJSXY0P8xbMqRPemhy9Til_pucEQspYINKCMPHYUjDqeTjZ_5aNG0lylMfKQJ0anAoAMO5y8_lmbjScr-71N18olynY-Mg9_hxLvKlDCRQgxI-N3tXU/s400/shells+002.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a picture that I gave my husband for our anniversary one year.<br />
If you've ever been to Key West, you may recognize Pepe's.<br />
It is one of our favorite restaurants and where we ate our first meal <br />
as a married couple years ago. It looks EXACTLY like this...<br />
down to the graffitti and bike.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0UqsLWSEABDy7ca38aaBFxHylOKu4bkL8-ehcfcL9X-x5xbt9c7pcNiNQgqz3Vn1eShZXmZ57LIOEjKwRrSopSgsXcuX56HcDZA4d1jUcpUds7kmPXKYPf9UVKrm35QNM9HeeO8FeXI/s1600/shells+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0UqsLWSEABDy7ca38aaBFxHylOKu4bkL8-ehcfcL9X-x5xbt9c7pcNiNQgqz3Vn1eShZXmZ57LIOEjKwRrSopSgsXcuX56HcDZA4d1jUcpUds7kmPXKYPf9UVKrm35QNM9HeeO8FeXI/s400/shells+007.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got this at Pottery Barn a few years ago.<br />
I know it isn't real, but I like it just the same. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbs51Lmd3iRQMq9FyUNrOd1qdq_651t3tZ0dt_1QjVsPzXxmU1NTuvYmrk4pOq9cMLOyp6VJSKpLEDv8FKoTa_0nLmiRQmiZBD5AbYCAvhbvblxkG0da3o58272-kaBrCffskABbJns4/s1600/shells+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbs51Lmd3iRQMq9FyUNrOd1qdq_651t3tZ0dt_1QjVsPzXxmU1NTuvYmrk4pOq9cMLOyp6VJSKpLEDv8FKoTa_0nLmiRQmiZBD5AbYCAvhbvblxkG0da3o58272-kaBrCffskABbJns4/s400/shells+008.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White shell frame.<br />
This is my older brother, Jerry, with a prized tarpon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji1fg2JO4KRQmw0KtJLuXuzPVDwsmIZt9PsJoDUpdW2ElyLnW-QE0iqDso4NTJ7f_5aWazW16wDECnT1Rz1vAPiNeHQjSOc3_QkPwSkY0HmpkablI5kZbXJlINBzaUfLSksTLsDSEH2uc/s1600/shells+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji1fg2JO4KRQmw0KtJLuXuzPVDwsmIZt9PsJoDUpdW2ElyLnW-QE0iqDso4NTJ7f_5aWazW16wDECnT1Rz1vAPiNeHQjSOc3_QkPwSkY0HmpkablI5kZbXJlINBzaUfLSksTLsDSEH2uc/s400/shells+010.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are lots of bowls of shells here in the Bass household!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8456Gy8UH6QR0-i5aV6fxhQqvOfO6uezOPxb8Y_GJucA0zGLO9yclK6tZy8-65AloBhEEWZf6aVF-1ndg94ohrXBUW6ImJpr2rLzSVQa1pdGXAi0aEfBhmUxQoqZTa61hBC4TMEBR-Y/s1600/shells+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8456Gy8UH6QR0-i5aV6fxhQqvOfO6uezOPxb8Y_GJucA0zGLO9yclK6tZy8-65AloBhEEWZf6aVF-1ndg94ohrXBUW6ImJpr2rLzSVQa1pdGXAi0aEfBhmUxQoqZTa61hBC4TMEBR-Y/s400/shells+012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I live in a little historical Florida house....<br />
lots of little nooks and crannies....<br />
perfect for a conch shell!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvw2rF3UO02M839T3f4HAOv-6vp-fStYFjDZxTYx3rQ-y3iTfc5EAQv6N4RZ_W5qDAiyM_AurjZV6-YDSV0P-5LK2WAJ03w0fVBDGZkpJBJnuO3IRxlZ4kxIFsvX2j27i30_hP-mOXBDY/s1600/shells+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvw2rF3UO02M839T3f4HAOv-6vp-fStYFjDZxTYx3rQ-y3iTfc5EAQv6N4RZ_W5qDAiyM_AurjZV6-YDSV0P-5LK2WAJ03w0fVBDGZkpJBJnuO3IRxlZ4kxIFsvX2j27i30_hP-mOXBDY/s400/shells+013.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Speaking of nooks and crannies....<br />
I believe this once housed an ironing board....<br />
<em>IN </em>the dining room!!<br />
I wallpapered sea charts in the backgound<br />
and added MORE shells!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcCP2rliKTkuaKHFIcLsmo5N1gG-kV8txUoMpN5BktilriIvy2CMbrxmVDlrQin_656zRFR9loIAYh02h9YInP3CYRgVQTgERJs27_HlZjOayp7lTHb2-PiG67-3254M-mwer0hIxY4E/s1600/shells+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcCP2rliKTkuaKHFIcLsmo5N1gG-kV8txUoMpN5BktilriIvy2CMbrxmVDlrQin_656zRFR9loIAYh02h9YInP3CYRgVQTgERJs27_HlZjOayp7lTHb2-PiG67-3254M-mwer0hIxY4E/s320/shells+014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJW55NUQNp9lka9Grh7yWBncysavRkb8uHGv17msydl46uXk2mHJAzwDA5pVLWBQXVTr6a6BWUNlQyOHNYTcC9BSzM0HYkJ5t46qEh872yjhfNKC0LxlBf8SXTApkNM7CLNzlvaNGZG2o/s1600/shells+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJW55NUQNp9lka9Grh7yWBncysavRkb8uHGv17msydl46uXk2mHJAzwDA5pVLWBQXVTr6a6BWUNlQyOHNYTcC9BSzM0HYkJ5t46qEh872yjhfNKC0LxlBf8SXTApkNM7CLNzlvaNGZG2o/s400/shells+016.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More shells in the kitchen...<br />
When we go to the beach and pick up little<br />
treasures, it gets dropped into this vase.<br />
The Madonna & Child ceramic once lived<br />
in my Grandma Schmitz's kitchen window.<br />
If the house sets afire....I run to the kitchen to save<br />
this (after getting my Kloe-Angel, of course!!).</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOqnwRI16QfouPpDGhVLGHtMrda7mwY3-HZnMjMthnjtznu0T2znSx4lYmYxORC8Hcr2zdBrxwkMxrJPxNFvig8aPXDO2ZHAKkIITJQ9i3vPIno4TcFJnR16_0hk-uU-Hhyphenhyphenhv7IiMBw0/s1600/shells+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNOqnwRI16QfouPpDGhVLGHtMrda7mwY3-HZnMjMthnjtznu0T2znSx4lYmYxORC8Hcr2zdBrxwkMxrJPxNFvig8aPXDO2ZHAKkIITJQ9i3vPIno4TcFJnR16_0hk-uU-Hhyphenhyphenhv7IiMBw0/s320/shells+021.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shells in the bathroom!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3KhKceAYqMTCFKjSstQpxeRe2L4eYMcSvxUvxbeBPSBHZ5tctltSV8UnVEW4AIGz9Xu7Fu6Vyqu0u6i7cZKV9_nOxD3r3Zq6OtAkPtWCIgZ1ujPZff9R1wRpBSzXkNBE8rBKbEIrnkw/s1600/shells+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3KhKceAYqMTCFKjSstQpxeRe2L4eYMcSvxUvxbeBPSBHZ5tctltSV8UnVEW4AIGz9Xu7Fu6Vyqu0u6i7cZKV9_nOxD3r3Zq6OtAkPtWCIgZ1ujPZff9R1wRpBSzXkNBE8rBKbEIrnkw/s400/shells+030.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little vignette I put on my dining table.<br />
My favorite things....an old silver tray,<br />
pink depression glass salt and pepper shakers,<br />
beautiful flowers and herbs from my garden,<br />
a clear footed dish full of....you guessed it....<br />
SHELLS (and purchased seaglass).<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table> I hope my Florida-style whites fit the bill for this week's entry. Can you believe there have been 86 White Wednesdays???? Incredible. I am getting this prepared tonight as I expect a busy Wednesday at my work tomorrow. I pray your day and the rest of your week is MOST wonderful!!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-51077442345949681902011-02-04T17:47:00.002-05:002011-02-06T12:43:02.270-05:00VIF, Early Birthday Present, Little Changes to ComeI received an early birthday present from my husband last Sunday when he said to me, "<i>I think I'm going to make your potting bench today.</i>" I said, "<i>Really???"</i> He said, <i>"Yes!"</i> I said, <i>"Okay! My only request is that we only use material we have on-hand and not buy anything."</i> Off to work we went....<br />
<br />
I stumbled across an old iron country kitchen sink a while back. And when I say "stumbled across" I mean I saw one in someone's trash pile, made a quick u-turn, and asked my strapping son of 23 to "Quick...throw that in the back of the truck!" Okay.....I'm not proud!! The owner of the house in which we raided her trash pile even gave her blessing!! So off I ran with a very cool sink. <br />
<br />
A day or two of hearing "What are you going to do with that thing?" from my son and husband had me envisioning a lovely potting bench. Truth be said, I never even got a good look at it. My son put it face down in my truck. It went face-down in a cart in the backyard by the shop. It went face-down in the yard while my husband and I worked on bench. Little did I know that it needed a good scrubbing. Of course it did....why wouldn't it? <br />
<br />
Okay....back to Sunday. Here are pictures:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3xRaB8pNRpaDbUWMo2ubYNWY1kYdseiR9-hKc6w9Ua-0SwUmYfdLM_0tmUY-JxBfDLLMSm-AAEub2YSGkcHiTpljoxKuUjhY1_URkvPJMfnxKkm2e8e_4fnvQm60JqXmyGotkx4plhGQ/s1600/potting+bench+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3xRaB8pNRpaDbUWMo2ubYNWY1kYdseiR9-hKc6w9Ua-0SwUmYfdLM_0tmUY-JxBfDLLMSm-AAEub2YSGkcHiTpljoxKuUjhY1_URkvPJMfnxKkm2e8e_4fnvQm60JqXmyGotkx4plhGQ/s640/potting+bench+002.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One can't get started without the proper<br />
foreman. My Kloe-Angel was really the<br />
one in charge!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRR6iFVDhuByFpPxE3rZB8Cc8OoUp57peMJmOkFLVCmyO_7VjxmKzWvygSmyvF6c4p9_PLqH4qs-PNUy9IJA3rTftVl8-u7GC9fMXjtKDh8kF5M1SyDhSyblTXbn57gsdYYtQnyBlIDg/s1600/potting+bench+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRR6iFVDhuByFpPxE3rZB8Cc8OoUp57peMJmOkFLVCmyO_7VjxmKzWvygSmyvF6c4p9_PLqH4qs-PNUy9IJA3rTftVl8-u7GC9fMXjtKDh8kF5M1SyDhSyblTXbn57gsdYYtQnyBlIDg/s640/potting+bench+003.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scrap wood from building the chicken coops,<br />
hen houses, and sunroom was used.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTIa3QWFxVzaarqLPATaxIZhYw2aUKWOI_uzv1ah-EYepdDyA7bpYMzMnbt8uoavIGzlpUDgdKFQRtU90GQ4wv6p2WxXEy5Am54t8IP4B1jD2GG1cBeTdcVANgIyJINChK2VW7AHhyphenhyphennA/s1600/potting+bench+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTIa3QWFxVzaarqLPATaxIZhYw2aUKWOI_uzv1ah-EYepdDyA7bpYMzMnbt8uoavIGzlpUDgdKFQRtU90GQ4wv6p2WxXEy5Am54t8IP4B1jD2GG1cBeTdcVANgIyJINChK2VW7AHhyphenhyphennA/s640/potting+bench+004.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to stop <i>Mr. Handy Hubby</i> before<br />
he got too far so I could paint!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDyKrKaHuLbQjb-vQ_YXu2EI2whM4mxUxBjHCrCsemItefkjJO5l37tLpPN_kKTZE7wF-FFQ-hac6LNDwE7xedY9-N0ZaNX-dGnj5Hr7t6BRHAMSjv6WwnwviYYDemVPrLajIKBFt4rs/s1600/potting+bench+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDyKrKaHuLbQjb-vQ_YXu2EI2whM4mxUxBjHCrCsemItefkjJO5l37tLpPN_kKTZE7wF-FFQ-hac6LNDwE7xedY9-N0ZaNX-dGnj5Hr7t6BRHAMSjv6WwnwviYYDemVPrLajIKBFt4rs/s640/potting+bench+005.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leftover exterior house paint. <br />
Brushes already on-hand.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZPTQZAf7ttN4V4lIaYDylw9thyvQfxdd1KRDZCY49BcISgs6AgaPw3iIlYo_0C0donwAXf5JVWNRtEqaX82rKsH2M6rmDSisi5WyA9lbuzOXpXDcptcmjnxq1SzSKZ7IwaSd752JCYuk/s1600/potting+bench+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZPTQZAf7ttN4V4lIaYDylw9thyvQfxdd1KRDZCY49BcISgs6AgaPw3iIlYo_0C0donwAXf5JVWNRtEqaX82rKsH2M6rmDSisi5WyA9lbuzOXpXDcptcmjnxq1SzSKZ7IwaSd752JCYuk/s640/potting+bench+006.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of two cast iron brackets/corbels.<br />
I've had these for a few years now.<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">I.love.them.</span><br />
My husband does not as they each<br />
EASILY weigh 150 pounds!<br />
What in the world could they have been<br />
originally used for??<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">(Did I tell you I.love.them???)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqhN3UGibqz1fAXd9gVOCCX-NHhdsqqWNFyAtn3YLGCitYhEVCjSNFoKf_X3Ri7TiegzMhhUxCduf_AD5GGdqg8fjufbFFjB9XV4igbqG6mPOyyEkfyiqVWp5EMDRuvQA1BQTrFClVlM/s1600/potting+bench+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqhN3UGibqz1fAXd9gVOCCX-NHhdsqqWNFyAtn3YLGCitYhEVCjSNFoKf_X3Ri7TiegzMhhUxCduf_AD5GGdqg8fjufbFFjB9XV4igbqG6mPOyyEkfyiqVWp5EMDRuvQA1BQTrFClVlM/s640/potting+bench+008.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my worst-off stained glass window....<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(did that make sense??)</span><br />
one I would not be too upset over seeing it age<br />
some more being out in the weather. Plus I liked<br />
the green panes with the green paint.<br />
I did put some clear poly on it to seal it a bit though.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnhIV40wjFxq-2WqM7yxyWWDuW23OydjSAr4q-TVPYHmOFzoVqCo1tOryAoPLX-lRSVGx4rF9oA5yIpaijdpB6fFxVJL2FyxO3uWYKCA5GP0mzwe7gE5PyjHeqTCRaLUDRk2qgSpnrH0k/s1600/potting+bench+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnhIV40wjFxq-2WqM7yxyWWDuW23OydjSAr4q-TVPYHmOFzoVqCo1tOryAoPLX-lRSVGx4rF9oA5yIpaijdpB6fFxVJL2FyxO3uWYKCA5GP0mzwe7gE5PyjHeqTCRaLUDRk2qgSpnrH0k/s640/potting+bench+009.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It had to be moved into its new position<br />
before we could tackle adding the brackets and<br />
sink. That cool backsplash is actually the<br />
footboard of a bed I bought during my first <br />
trip to Maine several years ago. I use the<br />
headboard in my son's room, but have had<br />
this out in the garden. I happened to walk by it<br />
while we were out there and said, "Hey...I have a <br />
great idea!" It is absolutely perfect!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteN4RvSBZltL9X8CSuZJWw2fHwpkERqmwoEiwA3YhZYI0-c25vyq7DofsvoSvUxjQzu6LDyujBGgCwF2LynItfLQEN6oIAhVWJ99pUEy8qxSmnbfuND-T4DT97u1YAkty_LmoJvfvjDo/s1600/potting+bench+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteN4RvSBZltL9X8CSuZJWw2fHwpkERqmwoEiwA3YhZYI0-c25vyq7DofsvoSvUxjQzu6LDyujBGgCwF2LynItfLQEN6oIAhVWJ99pUEy8qxSmnbfuND-T4DT97u1YAkty_LmoJvfvjDo/s640/potting+bench+016.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sink in place and looking exactly as I had <br />
hoped. Gracie is giving it a once-over.<br />
We had to make one purchase....the metal<br />
bands that are holding up the brackets.<br />
Not bad!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczDk2YafE1_J7aS1HvvdXJebqSn7diyLpJ0Bdh6EqWkL4rV3ZOVbL-fCxvi5so99DgndgZNnm37d9h94-GBQ9SL2MAN3AtaDLAc6xyiWo5D2y_GGn3olx8XC9aeUc5WVyWj81UW0m7eU/s1600/potting+bench+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjczDk2YafE1_J7aS1HvvdXJebqSn7diyLpJ0Bdh6EqWkL4rV3ZOVbL-fCxvi5so99DgndgZNnm37d9h94-GBQ9SL2MAN3AtaDLAc6xyiWo5D2y_GGn3olx8XC9aeUc5WVyWj81UW0m7eU/s640/potting+bench+021.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And here she is....<br />
my beautiful <span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>New/Old/Vintage Potting Bench</i></span>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3RLnPRy81OCnbKU66OvHJ6_fdttaM6AyC4GNimf0yf-rnuEnKvxbyjtufEw_NMugYDz5qKn_6vpjiX06hqEDqiwaOoSpGB2NcLkDySDbXpdQtCKMC3p0rikWFJ85P9kdgQCpjRUL3pg/s1600/potting+bench+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3RLnPRy81OCnbKU66OvHJ6_fdttaM6AyC4GNimf0yf-rnuEnKvxbyjtufEw_NMugYDz5qKn_6vpjiX06hqEDqiwaOoSpGB2NcLkDySDbXpdQtCKMC3p0rikWFJ85P9kdgQCpjRUL3pg/s640/potting+bench+025.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishfzsBh9fy2ScvAvyQpjxzLA4505T0V5ooYCs4-T0YeWgQqGf92rnoAV2_XxgdLDf3z4qKkQmqCpbPV5ZaR9r75LZPjwHcRI0ebDBTkBkV_OPap67Pu087mE0iZ0r2JQnCUWkWYhMnyA/s1600/potting+bench+043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishfzsBh9fy2ScvAvyQpjxzLA4505T0V5ooYCs4-T0YeWgQqGf92rnoAV2_XxgdLDf3z4qKkQmqCpbPV5ZaR9r75LZPjwHcRI0ebDBTkBkV_OPap67Pu087mE0iZ0r2JQnCUWkWYhMnyA/s640/potting+bench+043.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCEbYzDBr2EE4TRWuM2FB4bWPYnLy0QhX_EsC9WnfTPf26Zify_7rrZcn2g4e8I1zpSLzycThAX8NzDZJslYHAGiQr2TjDA4Pt5Ft5yFaVtXwDA2BKuucACgugOMaUDimEsCPUrg7rDA/s1600/potting+bench+052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCEbYzDBr2EE4TRWuM2FB4bWPYnLy0QhX_EsC9WnfTPf26Zify_7rrZcn2g4e8I1zpSLzycThAX8NzDZJslYHAGiQr2TjDA4Pt5Ft5yFaVtXwDA2BKuucACgugOMaUDimEsCPUrg7rDA/s640/potting+bench+052.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some lovelies from the garden....roses, rosemary in bloom,<br />
marjoram, and a jalapeno pepper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Every night I go out there just to gaze at this lovely creation. I can't wait for this weekend to start so I can continue tweeking it. I want to add more old brass hose nozzles (as I collect more over time) to the top shelf and collect old watering cans (to join the lovely plastic one) to add to the bottom. I have another storage container that is housing still more pots and supplies. That will all be added as well. Then at some point, I will actually put a stopper in the sink, pour a bag of potting soil in it, and pot something! How cool will that be???<br />
<br />
And with that....I am linking to Debra's <a href="http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot.com/2011/02/vintage-inspiration-friday-23-valentine.html"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Common Ground Vintage Inspiration Friday</b></span></a>!! Please stop in to see her beautiful Valentine's Day inspired porch. I am in love with the bulbs in the red/white transferware.<br />
<br />
As for the little changes to come....I'm making a few changes to my blog page with the help of <a href="http://www.karenvalentinedesign.com/"><b><i><span style="color: #45818e;">Karen Valentine</span></i></b></a>. I've been wanting to make some changes here and there now that I've lived here in this room for a little while. That's what we designers do, right....rearrange and then rearrange again? Who better to give this tech-challenged blogger some pointers than Karen, who did my page design in the first place. So I've started cleaning house a bit to make some room. Please let me know your thoughts as you start seeing the changes. I value your opinion!<br />
<b><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Wonderful weekend wishes to you!!</span></i></b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-12135702975039290962011-01-31T17:19:00.000-05:002011-01-31T17:19:17.614-05:00Stokes AdditionI have mentioned friend-turned client, Susan Stokes, to you before. <em>And</em> I have made little mentions here and there of a project I am working on. This weekend, I went to her house to capture the work in progress. Susan is newly married (congratulations!!) and an awesome new master suite is being added to her already beautiful home. <br />
<br />
Here is where we are right now.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8iUxjnyKkcEyzfHhSyfuxToELI6ZkefxPvUn-3ACMuCbcPuAJPYPlfVP4ryzVVWgWJCGueaPDam93G5XbOM6lFP1ryZcBCW_B-GZFKODZ4bfSe357uzCJxItyjIYkA_-ax1UpUmKtsM/s1600/stokes+addition+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8iUxjnyKkcEyzfHhSyfuxToELI6ZkefxPvUn-3ACMuCbcPuAJPYPlfVP4ryzVVWgWJCGueaPDam93G5XbOM6lFP1ryZcBCW_B-GZFKODZ4bfSe357uzCJxItyjIYkA_-ax1UpUmKtsM/s400/stokes+addition+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The plumbing is in, slab poured, and the walls are up.<br />
Wow....this guy works fast.<br />
And yes...that is really what the sky looked like this past<br />
weekend here. It was truly a gorgeous.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KGRsas_9WChWClkvqQ8vO-wPjeTDuHoLVHrWxSfEv6kKuPv7vv3cdk5R0chrXpkZHAZ1c-RaTTe6m0YF-lSbaikXiWNONJsHf-ong2c_JrQEcn42m4ejXr54PnwHEOLiGycoqpwCwvg/s1600/stokes+addition+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KGRsas_9WChWClkvqQ8vO-wPjeTDuHoLVHrWxSfEv6kKuPv7vv3cdk5R0chrXpkZHAZ1c-RaTTe6m0YF-lSbaikXiWNONJsHf-ong2c_JrQEcn42m4ejXr54PnwHEOLiGycoqpwCwvg/s400/stokes+addition+002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It might not look like much now, but soon<br />
this will be a swoon-worthy, spa-like<br />
master bathroom. Sorry, Shelby....your<br />
doggy door is no longer!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4enIM9y-WI86mNX0tt6xhazURWoc_7_KsTz1fDZ0-iioyp6DPWi8Q_Gvo3EZ2S1o0sGJOMnUai_Byy72NiLVacJFHNkJsyysrmvwnaaszSDTOrZBM0Jn9p8LgGBNPEDt4T1E181ctE4/s1600/stokes+addition+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4enIM9y-WI86mNX0tt6xhazURWoc_7_KsTz1fDZ0-iioyp6DPWi8Q_Gvo3EZ2S1o0sGJOMnUai_Byy72NiLVacJFHNkJsyysrmvwnaaszSDTOrZBM0Jn9p8LgGBNPEDt4T1E181ctE4/s400/stokes+addition+003.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I believe this is going to be the best part....<br />
not counting the bathroom and big walk-in <br />
closet/dressing room...<br />
This left corner will be a beautiful sitting room<br />
off the bedroom with big picture windows<br />
and a cupola-styled roof.<br />
We'll have to add Plantation shutters. <br />
You'll see why in just a sec.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU4anpBCbkHLeBHBWmIvWUYLSod0XxrIB0WtLeog4YDCCdAXJ7h6s7Iakfsb9JN-j86xq90Ti1phs4gfxEEJtFJe2Ao2-8GYRibg3DKvvnyMGtcHj1JArc9B3W9STMsk2STbbwIMwc5vQ/s1600/stokes+addition+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU4anpBCbkHLeBHBWmIvWUYLSod0XxrIB0WtLeog4YDCCdAXJ7h6s7Iakfsb9JN-j86xq90Ti1phs4gfxEEJtFJe2Ao2-8GYRibg3DKvvnyMGtcHj1JArc9B3W9STMsk2STbbwIMwc5vQ/s400/stokes+addition+006.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pool to the left.<br />
We demo'd the back a while ago.<br />
A space I like to call <em>The Lanai</em>.<br />
A new summer kitchen/grill/bar area<br />
is part of the addition plan.<br />
Even a water feature is being discussed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrO-FdF3U_nP9Hxi-KvaZy86vRH-lwCpcw6CXGJmq0JdKc_pHdIs7b1uDQ0uo7CPL7q4cCORwvc6c_PTO76IGygrIkYVPPUNs8w5kyCInXPklmyXBYogRn1KyGT1rMXpyvG_4Gc0qdMA/s1600/stokes+addition+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrO-FdF3U_nP9Hxi-KvaZy86vRH-lwCpcw6CXGJmq0JdKc_pHdIs7b1uDQ0uo7CPL7q4cCORwvc6c_PTO76IGygrIkYVPPUNs8w5kyCInXPklmyXBYogRn1KyGT1rMXpyvG_4Gc0qdMA/s400/stokes+addition+008.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is the real water feature, however,<br />
and the reason shutters are needed.<br />
Here is Susan and Robert's beautiful view.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1e-Jk8L9inT7tzeeFsQcFgAlcjN990BFxfFiVUvlPkSTsCoONXayns9adeWH9fnMm5mFqtmZojexpfM88GYklAc-W2kovLlrt3p5Us1_ICmOgvJr_yaXoYEpYSZCEox4Sc3-Ci_-6PY/s1600/Stokes+After+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1e-Jk8L9inT7tzeeFsQcFgAlcjN990BFxfFiVUvlPkSTsCoONXayns9adeWH9fnMm5mFqtmZojexpfM88GYklAc-W2kovLlrt3p5Us1_ICmOgvJr_yaXoYEpYSZCEox4Sc3-Ci_-6PY/s400/Stokes+After+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some pictures of my previous work<br />
inside Susan's home.<br />
This is the main room of the house....<br />
living, kitchen, dining room in one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKakVHEBIo0QokRz4wF_v3amZDlhzE6iowqi7IyI9d8h5T4jMyVgB7UA_jUB4OFH1HwDq3jeLSuRvHYBmmWpfINAQyGSMQZcRJaSpwL-D-xmKqy_9ScNhXuSnq3qgBz7iZvqWigxC2GWY/s1600/Stokes+After+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKakVHEBIo0QokRz4wF_v3amZDlhzE6iowqi7IyI9d8h5T4jMyVgB7UA_jUB4OFH1HwDq3jeLSuRvHYBmmWpfINAQyGSMQZcRJaSpwL-D-xmKqy_9ScNhXuSnq3qgBz7iZvqWigxC2GWY/s400/Stokes+After+012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This used to be a two-level, angled island.<br />
We found the most incredible granite for the<br />
island and all the counters. It looks and<br />
feels like petrified wood. I've never seen anything<br />
like it before or since. Luckily, we<br />
nabbed the last two slabs for the summer kitchen.<br />
The single height island opened the space beautifully.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4Otk0PLeku_6rMgUUPNPvmfwDGjSB4IfN3zCjLri-V-srfagmqLS-OUqEGTJ7J-sx0O_0jo00li-CTLiFD10jGahfK1JSOaNc5zxzFIuLKnjFyjzkWib9zKwNW1cj9IU-2n0LN-dh_Q/s1600/Stokes+After+026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4Otk0PLeku_6rMgUUPNPvmfwDGjSB4IfN3zCjLri-V-srfagmqLS-OUqEGTJ7J-sx0O_0jo00li-CTLiFD10jGahfK1JSOaNc5zxzFIuLKnjFyjzkWib9zKwNW1cj9IU-2n0LN-dh_Q/s400/Stokes+After+026.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We also removed a knee wall that was at<br />
the entrance. Opening the space even more.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaTtxi17hmZJx0I26kGx3yd1Mp2U_PIa0fPdLVZzjnp6_cdSjCGQRSHdcXmG8MNpfsCKWvyyFuNfp0YwIbtVEKlQx0Q4flkvJcswz2_tNCbBtLh6gxNJHVj06uFjKbucLnehvZ_FZ_zIE/s1600/Stokes+After+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaTtxi17hmZJx0I26kGx3yd1Mp2U_PIa0fPdLVZzjnp6_cdSjCGQRSHdcXmG8MNpfsCKWvyyFuNfp0YwIbtVEKlQx0Q4flkvJcswz2_tNCbBtLh6gxNJHVj06uFjKbucLnehvZ_FZ_zIE/s400/Stokes+After+016.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom shower curtains, vanity, sink, etc.,<br />
in the guest bathroom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dqj-0BNH9xP8u2CZjplfA-2geMZketIRpnupV9xNEDX1Xh5K-I1FMLQEII8-VuREZ9P7MMLIKZaOuwQc3GlYXJxsVNxgVBwwplpfB5usQ9WPoityvW0O6_IKobRwz_4_-cwXSAK6E4g/s1600/Stokes+After+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dqj-0BNH9xP8u2CZjplfA-2geMZketIRpnupV9xNEDX1Xh5K-I1FMLQEII8-VuREZ9P7MMLIKZaOuwQc3GlYXJxsVNxgVBwwplpfB5usQ9WPoityvW0O6_IKobRwz_4_-cwXSAK6E4g/s400/Stokes+After+017.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table> These last few pictures don't mean a thing unless you can catch a glimpse of BEFORE....<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazXxdx-YQSLyTDLCicmMPujHqFerumsT2y84dtG55lbbIM34tCN3j9a-r1IWuYkA2OSjOeanbPOL-ne6a3aN_OXE6Xy2BChpAekcaLlglw4N5-6PZj1UjVhPHUx-H79Ivu5c3-cBiask/s1600/stokes+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazXxdx-YQSLyTDLCicmMPujHqFerumsT2y84dtG55lbbIM34tCN3j9a-r1IWuYkA2OSjOeanbPOL-ne6a3aN_OXE6Xy2BChpAekcaLlglw4N5-6PZj1UjVhPHUx-H79Ivu5c3-cBiask/s400/stokes+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's that knee wall. OUTTA HERE!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHP2HcHerTo22aMvSzNhfSmka7_cBBBwxPmDtv8VrLcswybQHkHThzWKqSYgBnpWPcb9CuavK840w74p7sXHKz5UdqtV59fUTG4502UFJe1fWdAZjUODxjzXjAiB_hgv9Kr5eK62akzZY/s1600/stokes+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHP2HcHerTo22aMvSzNhfSmka7_cBBBwxPmDtv8VrLcswybQHkHThzWKqSYgBnpWPcb9CuavK840w74p7sXHKz5UdqtV59fUTG4502UFJe1fWdAZjUODxjzXjAiB_hgv9Kr5eK62akzZY/s400/stokes+005.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some A/C issues got the ball rolling.<br />
Check out the tile backsplash. <br />
OUTTA HERE!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGQQCLFDD8B8GIAD1xVgK7PRL2R7b_0J1_zZIARmPEIPk3gbpNynaMP5A1XSzDCH2AN1Y4-AihQCBOCUPNZCDNIq5ApOKW3pSLLxObncwno7tw01ErfvBRfZ18vgd21nkyajKDukR2mEg/s1600/stokes+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGQQCLFDD8B8GIAD1xVgK7PRL2R7b_0J1_zZIARmPEIPk3gbpNynaMP5A1XSzDCH2AN1Y4-AihQCBOCUPNZCDNIq5ApOKW3pSLLxObncwno7tw01ErfvBRfZ18vgd21nkyajKDukR2mEg/s400/stokes+008.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here you can see the two-level island.<br />
OUTTA HERE!<br />
End-to-end cabinets give her so much<br />
more storage on the new island.<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>So I will continue to share pictures of how the addition is progressing. I can only say that the bathroom is going to be so incredibly awesome. We are waiting for the tile <span style="font-size: x-small;">(and I use the term lightly....would I really call it tile?? I'm not sure.)</span> to arrive from Australia!! <br />
<br />
I also worked on a couple of other little projects at home this past weekend that I can't wait to share with you. They need a little tweaking before their reveal!! More to follow.....<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-15185163485762090272011-01-28T21:50:00.000-05:002011-01-28T21:50:21.864-05:00Late to the Party!I hope I'm not too late! This day has truly gotten away from me. I knew if I didn't stop everything right now and get this post out, it would not happen today. I've been really enjoying linking up to <a href="http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot.com/2011/01/vintage-inspiration-friday-22-morning.html"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #e06666;">Debra's Common Ground</span> <em><strong>Vintage Inspiration Friday</strong></em></span></a>. I love seeing everyone's inspiration and have met many new friends as a result. And this evening I'm experiencing some computer....well, let's call them "challenges" as I keep losing my connection. So really....I hope I'm not too late.....<br />
<br />
I found this old secretary top a few years ago and initally planned to sell it. Uhhhh...that won't be happening now. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Tell me I'm not the only one who does this!!)</span> It is truly one of my favorite pieces. I am pleased to finally have found a place where I can really enjoy it. When we enclosed our back porch last summer and made it the <strong><span style="color: yellow; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">sunroom</span></strong>, the perfect spot opened up. I don't know how old it is, but I do know that it is old. She came complete with this old chippy painted iron fish tank stand (that I really should spray with a clear coat). I think they make a perfect match.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJqphaEDeTfXvcwkG3QRQM-9t5s-YGSRm6in-fxhf32u9AO7f9Rnn4Wz9QHf_GMjpFAjrUVJofsrZ5iM82Dt6Jm6mat5-g8A7bwmLXoca7M1nDr8la42Oiv_jdsUnQjPLb3klwoPsABjg/s1600/corner+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJqphaEDeTfXvcwkG3QRQM-9t5s-YGSRm6in-fxhf32u9AO7f9Rnn4Wz9QHf_GMjpFAjrUVJofsrZ5iM82Dt6Jm6mat5-g8A7bwmLXoca7M1nDr8la42Oiv_jdsUnQjPLb3klwoPsABjg/s400/corner+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here she is...in her own special corner.<br />
I love the leaded glass windows as a<br />
complement.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFttfE6XWWNo2dKK4Yz185_wqhv33lFaMBqF1HHDvUmqVmRpB-RR9Oi-m6HYnjAP8SE_DXovhIcpNOB-MDXpHAVksqMrbkSU_iRefBOYC7eeOZrGMhIeSpggNL5OXRcjUeR3SA8uJjRNc/s1600/corner+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFttfE6XWWNo2dKK4Yz185_wqhv33lFaMBqF1HHDvUmqVmRpB-RR9Oi-m6HYnjAP8SE_DXovhIcpNOB-MDXpHAVksqMrbkSU_iRefBOYC7eeOZrGMhIeSpggNL5OXRcjUeR3SA8uJjRNc/s320/corner+022.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are a few more things stuffed<br />
into this basket by now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Fb7EeETXxxHL9ULBUtyrfK9JmmxNitscqAyqZmuVJpwczGKUq7rK6WF6U8tMmUnZ_2OX79Tkj_FNditA81pQWdfYPMQQtPVMa-NlQItfKyGbLVILyluiTeqEHXg7HB5RWRQeOyUl8_o/s1600/corner+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Fb7EeETXxxHL9ULBUtyrfK9JmmxNitscqAyqZmuVJpwczGKUq7rK6WF6U8tMmUnZ_2OX79Tkj_FNditA81pQWdfYPMQQtPVMa-NlQItfKyGbLVILyluiTeqEHXg7HB5RWRQeOyUl8_o/s400/corner+004.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is home to my art supplies.<br />
That sound funny to me.<br />
I have never thought of myself as someone<br />
who<em> has art supplies</em>, but<br />
here they are, nonetheless.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2QuAXnuzAZoMdiHhgdv1kxqdsnFvKNalRnjQ0F45Sm0QaUjN9EMzpAzZwx_-UYroA3y-1RCjZq0WZKo69Npams3FnEMFxcIYpPLiIKcAuu7WstcRlNvKyO_QcC1XSorHqXvaOH1oIrt4/s1600/corner+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2QuAXnuzAZoMdiHhgdv1kxqdsnFvKNalRnjQ0F45Sm0QaUjN9EMzpAzZwx_-UYroA3y-1RCjZq0WZKo69Npams3FnEMFxcIYpPLiIKcAuu7WstcRlNvKyO_QcC1XSorHqXvaOH1oIrt4/s400/corner+006.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGSTqz0tZ0SShPGIrSJ2maUyyI63JuzZne7QadJq9RImLw9SAXdmc5Ah1m_5dKZ-SO7izDQ_g1YLXIvVaHmQlEXU7KJWm7HIBHxbGKDIzFW1Idnou5m96yaaokqEh1xDJbnxt8_FWksk/s1600/corner+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGSTqz0tZ0SShPGIrSJ2maUyyI63JuzZne7QadJq9RImLw9SAXdmc5Ah1m_5dKZ-SO7izDQ_g1YLXIvVaHmQlEXU7KJWm7HIBHxbGKDIzFW1Idnou5m96yaaokqEh1xDJbnxt8_FWksk/s400/corner+008.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4FeyBURO3BEUXNZZc-ibkD06czYzBUvGqBxhMbh6hb1BowYr4QSe1gr5VGLn2BDLeHGAaBO__xJo5df9xVD6ta4Oz2F4MMEgSGjnDTavsHzK-ND_PFjQSs49P5BY_5OuJcoHdbe8Pfo/s1600/corner+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4FeyBURO3BEUXNZZc-ibkD06czYzBUvGqBxhMbh6hb1BowYr4QSe1gr5VGLn2BDLeHGAaBO__xJo5df9xVD6ta4Oz2F4MMEgSGjnDTavsHzK-ND_PFjQSs49P5BY_5OuJcoHdbe8Pfo/s400/corner+018.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what I found once I started sanding.<br />
It was just what I had wanted to add so I did nothing<br />
but a little more cleaning and sanding.<br />
I love it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcIYlM1WNAfe8AfdpkwGS0wtDlKecFq-768n3hkSqegjX7qZMWUqt0TTGuUIq1NQHWP5RfRsPia-LcMD58Wop3nQMMqLWh6a4GcUzCMoIf0IfxGyEt3D1bXpHVo5eXIaGZrXBvMmnfsUA/s1600/corner+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcIYlM1WNAfe8AfdpkwGS0wtDlKecFq-768n3hkSqegjX7qZMWUqt0TTGuUIq1NQHWP5RfRsPia-LcMD58Wop3nQMMqLWh6a4GcUzCMoIf0IfxGyEt3D1bXpHVo5eXIaGZrXBvMmnfsUA/s400/corner+024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is truly my favorite spot in the house.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I've shared these pics in an old post, but they spoke to me again today as <em>vintage inspiration</em>. My sunroom has really evolved with the addition of a small vintage kitchen work table as my little desk and lots more "art supplies." I'm th<a href="">inking</a> of adding it to the new <a href="http://gypsyfleamarket.blogspot.com/2011/01/welcome-to-my-porch.html"><strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">Gypsy Brocante</span></em></strong></a> porch party. Have you visited Jill before? Love her style so much! I so wish I could get away with wearing her style, which is so <strong><em>my</em></strong> style as well, <u>every day</u>. How would the women in their business suits at my work react to that???? I have been told that I have a "style" before. I say, "Really?" Hmmmm....interesting. I'll have to ponder that some more.<br />
<br />
Many wonderful weekend wishes, my dear bloggy friends!<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-26560872890180170152011-01-27T10:24:00.001-05:002011-01-27T10:24:10.148-05:00Cute KittyMy new bloggy pal, Jane, from <a href="http://floradoora.blogspot.com/2011/01/cute-kitty-thursday_26.html"><strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">Flora Doora</span></em></strong></a> has introduced me to a new linky party: <em><span style="color: #cc0000;">Cute Kitty Thursday</span></em> hosted by <a href="http://lsartdesign.blogspot.com/2011/01/cute-kitty-thursday_26.html"><strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">LS Art - Design</span></em></strong></a>. <strong>I LIKE IT!</strong> <em>AND</em>.....I just happen to have one of those....a cute kitty. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Do you have a cute kitty too??</span><br />
<br />
Here is my Gracie... Her full name is <em>Gracie Allen Bass</em>. A play on the late star Gracie Allen (who my dad used to say I reminded him of....in a playful manner) and my husband's middle name Allen, and how when he was young and in trouble his mom called out, "Michael Allen Bass!!!" It just seemed to work for my Gracie kitty too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8p95U3G54Xdf5wdA9EIuqsf3Z-VTscfZQlYNoYkF0UuT6OVnChRtVRW5xhIbSbwvmNHQVfko_5Q_JGpJfT-c9FAoOW2gBpt-o5jHk0rDgY8ReWRlUzIdvDeIaIFvOV6gn2DJbO3ucAc/s1600/Gracie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8p95U3G54Xdf5wdA9EIuqsf3Z-VTscfZQlYNoYkF0UuT6OVnChRtVRW5xhIbSbwvmNHQVfko_5Q_JGpJfT-c9FAoOW2gBpt-o5jHk0rDgY8ReWRlUzIdvDeIaIFvOV6gn2DJbO3ucAc/s400/Gracie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>She loves to sit on top of the vine covered chicken coop. Here the door was open and she ventured out to have a look-see.<br />
<br />
~~~~~~<br />
<br />
And while on the subject of Gracie....or just plain <strong><em>Grace</em></strong>....I read these words last night. Wow...<br />
<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">"Grace fills empty spaces, but it can only enter where there is a void to receive it, and it is grace itself which makes this void."</span></em></strong> ~Simone Weil<br />
<br />
I had to read it several times to really grasp the meaning. Powerful... I would love to hear your thoughts on this quote.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a></div>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-37267239059895283992011-01-26T10:23:00.000-05:002011-01-26T10:23:08.891-05:00Just a Little White Today...This post officially marks 75 posts for <em><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">A Bird in Hand</span></strong></em>. It amazes me that I have felt the need to share thoughts/experiences/ideas 75 times! <br />
<br />
Today, I just have a couple of pictures to share for <a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2011/01/white-wednesday-84.html"><strong><em><span style="color: #0b5394;">Faded Charm's White Wednesday</span></em></strong></a>! Okay...I have to admit that this white stuff is starting to grow on me!! I'm finding it very peaceful. I may even try a room of it one day if the right home and room presents itself. That is MAJOR for this color-loving girl to admit!! I am especially digging the idea of a white painted floor. You must check out the gorgeous kitchen at <a href="http://pretty-pinksatinsashes.blogspot.com/2011/01/if-i-am-gonna-let-it-all-hang-out-i.html"><em><strong><span style="color: #e06666;">Pink Satin Sashes</span></strong></em></a>. The handmade cabinets....the white painted floor....really beautiful.<br />
<br />
I digress <span style="font-size: x-small;">(as I often do)</span>.....<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZny16_Im5AhnH56E6u2mu1zoEZLP7aSxxt23fLo0MbOXe_n3-ALrw60JZSsOIcvo4GUvc1ag8zs1vA0Xniwwd0BIWmj09zBvDJdtuBBEJudMMrpjjglcMOxIqrO5t8Q8l37ZDIoqOOls/s1600/blomsterverkstad+white.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZny16_Im5AhnH56E6u2mu1zoEZLP7aSxxt23fLo0MbOXe_n3-ALrw60JZSsOIcvo4GUvc1ag8zs1vA0Xniwwd0BIWmj09zBvDJdtuBBEJudMMrpjjglcMOxIqrO5t8Q8l37ZDIoqOOls/s400/blomsterverkstad+white.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From one of my favorite blogs...<a href="http://blomsterverkstad.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Blomsterverkstad</span></a>.<br />
Do you see that painted floor....and the<br />
ceiling? I like the dash of color here and there,<br />
like the green bench in the foreground.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDEqEp5S32SEOy6k5kvAUcnE-gYMcx4xqQRYK7WdRVVLpSg-nCKSLzD_pMumwoIWmm-QG1Wey0dekLLV20OSMVHzvcW0KlA_uzXwH2lQEE_-OKyQWt-6YmIeWdCxnp5dbQaPKYH80PBc/s1600/IMG_9808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDEqEp5S32SEOy6k5kvAUcnE-gYMcx4xqQRYK7WdRVVLpSg-nCKSLzD_pMumwoIWmm-QG1Wey0dekLLV20OSMVHzvcW0KlA_uzXwH2lQEE_-OKyQWt-6YmIeWdCxnp5dbQaPKYH80PBc/s400/IMG_9808.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another picture from the same website.<br />
Minna has such incredible style.<br />
How many of you, like me, long to fly to<br />
Sweden to take some of her classes?<br />
My bucket list is getting very long!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I had hoped to include pictures of my vintage secretary turned art supply storage, but it appears the pictures are in my home computer. I think I'll save them for Vintage Inspiration Friday instead.<br />
<br />
Many wonderful Wednesday wishes to you!! <br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-75526858799141394382011-01-25T10:59:00.001-05:002011-01-25T11:07:28.338-05:00Searching for a BlogLike most of you out there in bloggy-land, I often go from blog-to-blog, clicking on new blogs on others' blog rolls. You know how we can all get so carried away that we don't even remember where we started!<br />
<br />
Well.....I am longing to find one that I stumbled upon a few times and for some reason, did not "follow" or even make it a favorite. I know not her name, but I do know her subject. This lady (maybe even a husband/wife team) plants beautiful plants in the most unexpected containers.....hats, shoes, dishes, pianos (<em>I know</em>!), other musical instruments, etc. I admired her creativity as I had done a few myself and was so inspired to see her incredible work as well. She went so far beyond what I even imagined.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Does anyone out there know what blog I might be describing???</span> <br />
<br />
These are pictures of the booth I did a few years back. It was a great hit at this particular show. I always incorporate plants as I think they soften edges and bring peace to a room. They made me feel like this little booth was "me." <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWFaksTRCl96IR5AIYrlsrrxM11ctfAbRlUGo9Oz1zBAOcV-ZeFx5eCg3IK9_2R1hcDiG5rIZ_CIpxFV6OI3OIlpVRQZNsXII5-IMvZagRl7mfvziII-4j5a7SZyv_6Hgf5qIV8_9vK0/s1600/Carols+display+018+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWFaksTRCl96IR5AIYrlsrrxM11ctfAbRlUGo9Oz1zBAOcV-ZeFx5eCg3IK9_2R1hcDiG5rIZ_CIpxFV6OI3OIlpVRQZNsXII5-IMvZagRl7mfvziII-4j5a7SZyv_6Hgf5qIV8_9vK0/s400/Carols+display+018+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was really pleased with the overall affect.<br />
I feel it was unique compared to my neighbors.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGF4vrfQGxXpwTMct01tL1oo4WgtY6_ERV4dZig4T1dgxtSTVQO0AUaqJWV6nno9Ohcyg0X8lqa0KJ2yJJ26CKYeocVLMb-7IyKx-AxqBHDUt4oRGuJNbDmfUcHYm6fgXnAydkLlv1Ag/s1600/Carols+display+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGF4vrfQGxXpwTMct01tL1oo4WgtY6_ERV4dZig4T1dgxtSTVQO0AUaqJWV6nno9Ohcyg0X8lqa0KJ2yJJ26CKYeocVLMb-7IyKx-AxqBHDUt4oRGuJNbDmfUcHYm6fgXnAydkLlv1Ag/s400/Carols+display+010.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One can't have a garden gate without a beautiful vine<br />
to give it a hug!! I put plants in the barrel too.<br />
That architectural element in the back was the first<br />
piece that I had ever painted and sold!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhZx4xTg4628catyGbp6MXPsWNM5zj3IhEmuv_4pRu1uf7azAr-leLb5V_fHXzmoehqT-RJZLSuxyBxj8b6ehKlku_5lpTPdosI8ULjqflKZSLO-8yB40_pr7f7CRX_2hMVMnVc_likw/s1600/Carols+display+003+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhZx4xTg4628catyGbp6MXPsWNM5zj3IhEmuv_4pRu1uf7azAr-leLb5V_fHXzmoehqT-RJZLSuxyBxj8b6ehKlku_5lpTPdosI8ULjqflKZSLO-8yB40_pr7f7CRX_2hMVMnVc_likw/s400/Carols+display+003+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here....an herb resides in a French glass canister.<br />
This chest now lives in a cabin in the Carolina's.<br />
The door to the right is an old screen door that I painted and<br />
put a mirror behind. It lives at my friend, Dotty's, house.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoW-BO5ja4RBmngVCAwcv9aEYbO_4B6eX6VEMvuP3XCszi3jhmAFGn0Ig_qqGqmvzI-xYps1Np2sBYaz0fjLFOTe2s1mPPlk2WIFl558xwxy_BhD8bnrzvAnLVFk-BEnePpedpj_zrhE/s1600/Carols+display+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSoW-BO5ja4RBmngVCAwcv9aEYbO_4B6eX6VEMvuP3XCszi3jhmAFGn0Ig_qqGqmvzI-xYps1Np2sBYaz0fjLFOTe2s1mPPlk2WIFl558xwxy_BhD8bnrzvAnLVFk-BEnePpedpj_zrhE/s400/Carols+display+014.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pineapple mint planted in an old oil can.<br />
I really like that one!<br />
Charms hanging from faux apple blossom<br />
branches from <a href="http://simplethingssmalljoys.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;"><em><strong>Cathy Penton Designs</strong></em></span></a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> I also had plants in vintage plant stands too. For the back-drop of my booth, I copied pictures onto pages of old books (or left them plain), punched holes in the tops and bottoms of the pages (I had to use clear hole reinforcers as some of the papers were so fragile), tied them together with string, then hung them from the frame my husband made me from pipe. I was very pleased with the result. I really did not want to see my neighbors and wanted clear deliniation of my own space. The air conditioning blew them around gently. I was surprised how many people asked about it....even had a couple of offers/inquiries to see if it was for sale. It was not. I gladly shared my "how-to" though.<br />
<br />
Anyway....back to the blog search. If you have any ideas as to whom I am referring....please let me know!! Many thanks to you all.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a><br />
P.S. I have this verse typed on a little piece of paper at my desk here at work. It especially good for me and <em>where I am </em>today: <span style="color: #38761d;"><strong><em>"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path." Provers 3:5-6 </em></strong></span>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-83206086604006428172011-01-20T22:31:00.000-05:002011-01-20T22:31:04.805-05:00Dish LoveI love dishes. I could truly use a different set of dishes every day. I find myself always looking for little pieces to add to collections that I love. For years I have collected <span style="color: #e06666;">pink</span> Depression glass. My mom has a extensive collection of <span style="color: #38761d;">green</span> Depression glass in the apple blossom pattern. Personally, I love to mix-and-match all the <span style="color: #e06666;">pink </span>patterns. Loving <span style="color: #6aa84f;">green</span> as I do though, I would like to start adding a couple of <span style="color: #6aa84f;">green</span> pieces here and there. However, I <em>really</em> love <span style="color: #6aa84f;">green jadeite</span>. (There is that word love again....I think I need to get the Thesaurus out!!) I am very proud of the few pieces I have collected. All bowls so far....cereal, mixing and batter. <em><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Love them!!</span></em> And to all of that, add my fondness of transferware....both brown and green. These are just little ongoing collections that I like to mix in with my regular dishes. I really do use my things. I'm not one to just collect and gaze upon them. Why buy it if you're not going to use it....I say. That theory works for me, at least. <br />
<br />
I believe I got this adoration of dishes honestly. My mother has quite a collection herself. Books and dishes..two loves I have gotten from her. OH....<em>and shoes!!</em> (Don't get me started on those lovelies.)<br />
<br />
So to join in with <a href="http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot.com/2011/01/vintage-inspiration-friday-21-legendary.html"><strong><em><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Common Ground's Vintage Inspiration Friday</span></em></strong></a>, I proudly introduce to you (in no apparent order) just a few of my growing collections of dishes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtz5RI4rIaz_MecDESOWGXw-o5oBGchAwnmK6BRCcNwfmOQ4K9YSwTFRiNkcrSMw_dHRBFDFJRNYD95Qt8qsZuz1SndQCwpSEy1b26bwEhIdqSGh1I0TU4JIpoUrcMhfUSvY34hyrHmqI/s1600/dishes+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtz5RI4rIaz_MecDESOWGXw-o5oBGchAwnmK6BRCcNwfmOQ4K9YSwTFRiNkcrSMw_dHRBFDFJRNYD95Qt8qsZuz1SndQCwpSEy1b26bwEhIdqSGh1I0TU4JIpoUrcMhfUSvY34hyrHmqI/s400/dishes+004.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My lovely jadeite. It is an expensive collection<br />
to start, so I only get a piece or two a year, it seems.<br />
And the little green glass juice pitcher is a favorite<br />
of mine. I don't know if it is truly Depression<br />
glass, but it matters not to me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGkOfTiQfi6kDAr364wOorijOpnQ79nJ5TQYx4Vv8_RYiABnL8zz2JX5PQ8kg9bSxB32GBYeSjqSUwFbldhlRF2Dr17tpLT1ZbyyhPhmNp7OPmssQFS9D_iAy75KnYHWQXmHyLYUy2vM/s1600/dishes+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGkOfTiQfi6kDAr364wOorijOpnQ79nJ5TQYx4Vv8_RYiABnL8zz2JX5PQ8kg9bSxB32GBYeSjqSUwFbldhlRF2Dr17tpLT1ZbyyhPhmNp7OPmssQFS9D_iAy75KnYHWQXmHyLYUy2vM/s400/dishes+003.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you believe how beautiful this brown<br />
transferware pitcher is? My mother gave it to me<br />
for Christmas this year. It is safe and sound<br />
living on my chest of drawers in my room.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSNeVhwfj3CTi28aeF9UT8GQ-CtvzkEItl9VZgc4qcuGIz46z-nOrg75A6HlyXilGPM9tB_5WkQ2YWb5SaWK3pHXWxZJyPBK2NzZO4jPWB-20Ajhy-Oui2GFtRfFh4lMoeS5rcCep4U0/s1600/dishes+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSNeVhwfj3CTi28aeF9UT8GQ-CtvzkEItl9VZgc4qcuGIz46z-nOrg75A6HlyXilGPM9tB_5WkQ2YWb5SaWK3pHXWxZJyPBK2NzZO4jPWB-20Ajhy-Oui2GFtRfFh4lMoeS5rcCep4U0/s400/dishes+005.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown transferware plates....also a gift from<br />
my mother. Beautiful!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmjuQQtLK2ROE7tVqrGr_twZkDQVvPNIImoMnwAdqqwHICXCpzaAHYRpBvq-0pxkdJ9Jt4EDxUR6xcND_plL4cZ5-v_ueFCD-JxNtfCflRC5DoL9d9LzHv_N2t2w9Mvnc1fXSCCtRMsc/s1600/dishes+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmjuQQtLK2ROE7tVqrGr_twZkDQVvPNIImoMnwAdqqwHICXCpzaAHYRpBvq-0pxkdJ9Jt4EDxUR6xcND_plL4cZ5-v_ueFCD-JxNtfCflRC5DoL9d9LzHv_N2t2w9Mvnc1fXSCCtRMsc/s400/dishes+012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've shared this bargain green transferware platter<br />
in a previous post. Love it so much, it had to <br />
be repeated.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2Fevyu7bph2l3nHeAj29QK8jD5DIugi16MxT2xyVKSGi7b21wgXhTh056X2lm1vctqddJieeAEDQXFIOshp-a5k9VwKN15a8aCsv4IW9ndHxO5wpmuwjb-d_3he4sjGgSMTWIP8Umb4/s1600/dishes+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2Fevyu7bph2l3nHeAj29QK8jD5DIugi16MxT2xyVKSGi7b21wgXhTh056X2lm1vctqddJieeAEDQXFIOshp-a5k9VwKN15a8aCsv4IW9ndHxO5wpmuwjb-d_3he4sjGgSMTWIP8Umb4/s400/dishes+018.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A smattering of my pink Depression glass of<br />
random patterns.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26v1EIgxi4BWWiR4koanA7EIhy3_N9Idx50SMCMs8zMSRhtnQJB0tc8brCZqYeZ30x10ltzn92PI5-8-fNMc6AwNJtUCTRvH6jSNL-lCDqxYFMFiviHtDdLQjukbki1ttMqLQ8cjkezk/s1600/dishes+019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26v1EIgxi4BWWiR4koanA7EIhy3_N9Idx50SMCMs8zMSRhtnQJB0tc8brCZqYeZ30x10ltzn92PI5-8-fNMc6AwNJtUCTRvH6jSNL-lCDqxYFMFiviHtDdLQjukbki1ttMqLQ8cjkezk/s400/dishes+019.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And some more.....just a sampling.<br />
I use these pieces extensively.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUa_9W7csNBzikjSDglYfJs3pXUptWCHkRLynE0A_N17VxRR31enVv_rMPunlRWas6-3Z7XKABNRTizlXRvmXxcikFaRAYXp5QRbLqSnSVQg_eJrn1ZWzpANB9aObWgDH8B1dlyrH04c/s1600/dishes+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUa_9W7csNBzikjSDglYfJs3pXUptWCHkRLynE0A_N17VxRR31enVv_rMPunlRWas6-3Z7XKABNRTizlXRvmXxcikFaRAYXp5QRbLqSnSVQg_eJrn1ZWzpANB9aObWgDH8B1dlyrH04c/s400/dishes+021.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For years I admired this pattern at <br />
Williams-Sonoma. Finally, one year it<br />
went on clearance. I bought this lovely veggie dish, <br />
four dinner plates, and four salad plates.<br />
Little did I know that it was on clearance because<br />
they were dropping the pattern. Bummer!<br />
No worries though....I'll just mix it with other<br />
patterns as I collect them. I like that look better anyway.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMMPqSuuQtuMEBWf5D1qai_OKS-NOLRP-CH8wvJ09G0i34aDvhDnEj4Ebis8Y7PII0YNOzQTWwSC5QTIa6PVZ_sH7h_Jr0jsUekaUf66e2R41QOX040FrTRz1V_v1uDPPBLZ8Ac7dJx24/s320/dishes+022.jpg" width="320" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So yes....it kind of looks like I have collectoritis. Where to put it all in this little cottage? Much of it is stored in this lovely vintage piece. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEaC8iz-tE4t5y8sW74DMnft_J6ZrVlFmTYLROWK_E1rvUUCcYJ7iRVywg8fWRtC4USPXzUzxPEvUV3BpUM5ja3LCmihBCweJyzz242FQrd9MXir1pDKBujJzp6i_SPwR-iM_Jm48wEQ/s1600/kitchen+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEaC8iz-tE4t5y8sW74DMnft_J6ZrVlFmTYLROWK_E1rvUUCcYJ7iRVywg8fWRtC4USPXzUzxPEvUV3BpUM5ja3LCmihBCweJyzz242FQrd9MXir1pDKBujJzp6i_SPwR-iM_Jm48wEQ/s400/kitchen+005.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love, love, love this pantry!!<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thank you, Debra, for hosting your 21st Vintage Inspiration Friday. I'm so happy to play along.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I send my best wishes to all for a great upcoming weekend. There is an art show at City Place this weekend that I want to take in, a yoga day at the ampitheatre that I'd like to walk through, an appointment with a client and the tile/granite installer to start going over plans for her new bathroom (much more on that very soon....what an awesome project I am working on!), and I'm sure my family would like to see me stay home and do some laundry! Maybe I can morph into Wonder Woman and get to do it all!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-64185276846677933852011-01-19T11:30:00.000-05:002011-01-19T11:30:44.586-05:00Happy White Wednesday!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_BLANK"><img border="0" src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/dividers%20buttons%20etc/White-Wedneday-Button.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Even though there is no snow to be found down here in South Florida, we have been covered with a blanket of hot, sticky, humid fog for three days now. Where did our pleasant temperatures go? Word has it that it will burn off later to make way for 80 degree temperatures. Seriously?? So I guess I could have taken a picture of the scenery today to play along with <a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;"><em><strong>Faded Charm Cottage's White Wednesday</strong></em></span></a>. Instead, though, I chose these pictures to share.</div><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpAEpnBpzVMWgCcuIIymctt91nw0lPQBIPwDusVnFyIrm_bQTnO4F3uSD9cNB3YqkVBbh253b8rnwmFzrOo-jovw8-qTL2uXD63cp0lumQ5lCHi8whPPT30hBEpghsp8LTk2E8d5XmWlQ/s1600/apttherapy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpAEpnBpzVMWgCcuIIymctt91nw0lPQBIPwDusVnFyIrm_bQTnO4F3uSD9cNB3YqkVBbh253b8rnwmFzrOo-jovw8-qTL2uXD63cp0lumQ5lCHi8whPPT30hBEpghsp8LTk2E8d5XmWlQ/s400/apttherapy.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely entry. The painted floor is gorgeous.<br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: xx-small;">(from apartmenttherapy.com)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPb3K8u4UcDkChsT7e7uWlezuQB1YM3YtTjFion1ka4liQ0U779UahlPxkxyW1kWGtJTJqAI7X07tk4PmjocQhJypJIBGU1rwXXM6eSasY3ehvBfDmgRpoTfdsSRngRZg-3f0SAiJzeMo/s1600/designnotebookblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPb3K8u4UcDkChsT7e7uWlezuQB1YM3YtTjFion1ka4liQ0U779UahlPxkxyW1kWGtJTJqAI7X07tk4PmjocQhJypJIBGU1rwXXM6eSasY3ehvBfDmgRpoTfdsSRngRZg-3f0SAiJzeMo/s400/designnotebookblog.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a beautiful white kitchen, but to me,<br />
the rustic pantry and boards on the island<br />
make it.<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: xx-small;">(from thedesignnotebook.blogspot.com)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPDffOJpNvtNqXQIDPDQIe0yzsEyOsxUq99mrXTcsAoFxcHVYSNUPKYcXS2HNQxNYljzWmmevIEzcmcvqGE04SB8mSCD2RhQWcTnNl0iw66CtKt_54g4QwqR17kbfzoLihCPPQRhy8rA/s1600/eclecticrevisited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPDffOJpNvtNqXQIDPDQIe0yzsEyOsxUq99mrXTcsAoFxcHVYSNUPKYcXS2HNQxNYljzWmmevIEzcmcvqGE04SB8mSCD2RhQWcTnNl0iw66CtKt_54g4QwqR17kbfzoLihCPPQRhy8rA/s400/eclecticrevisited.jpg" width="388" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm so in love with white slipcovered furniture.<br />
I could grab a book and blanket and spend the<br />
day in this chair by the window. Ahhhhh!<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: xx-small;">(from eclecticrevisited.wordpress.com)</span><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSEQ3Ff8T3OLgDy3X5qB_mJ6nPLsomkLPXqZNcU1_2Ph1WdJ0eo7gQ26K_SF6ywd65QY6O6eBQ_VZdraCLQye6a7QgOAe7DFT_BT8dR_3SOMzIQAPYBcLUxTY2z2r17mCZaAdjrG6a5TY/s1600/milkandhoneyhome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSEQ3Ff8T3OLgDy3X5qB_mJ6nPLsomkLPXqZNcU1_2Ph1WdJ0eo7gQ26K_SF6ywd65QY6O6eBQ_VZdraCLQye6a7QgOAe7DFT_BT8dR_3SOMzIQAPYBcLUxTY2z2r17mCZaAdjrG6a5TY/s400/milkandhoneyhome.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best bathroom I've seen in a while!<br />
It's where you'll find me after I leave the chair<br />
by the window. Sounds like a lazy day, doesn't it?<br />
I could use one of those, truth be told.<br />
The barn wood ceiling and tub surround are perfect!<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: xx-small;">(from milk&honeyhome)</span><br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have been enjoying the music from <a href="http://jenniferrizzo.com/">Jennifer Rizzo's</a> blog today. Truly. While browsing my blog roll this morning, her music popped up. I minimized the screen and am just listening to her playlist. It is wonderful. My favorite is Sarah McLachlan's <em>Blackbird</em>. Thank you, Jennifer, for serenading me this morning!!<br />
<br />
Oh....now I'm seeing raindrops on my office window. I guess the fog is seeping! No worries. My plants and yard are most happy again today, so I will be too.<br />
<br />
Enjoy a beautiful Wednesday, no matter what you see from your window.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-6930874151611623802011-01-17T22:32:00.001-05:002011-01-17T22:35:10.331-05:00Special Delivery....The Reveal!Sorry to keep you waiting..... Here is my beautiful special delivery.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKMGfRE7MaZ6yKnKOv2K1AxSWBlHH1C6T6BfTpFyAa0-EHebMbr0HO3wd-vkeiGgt8vpQyb2al7N896QsRzXSD35L3DFW6-JXigImUji6p-CThpe8gfeanQoDniod9JzzjWYy-ug5Hzk/s1600/nest+038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKMGfRE7MaZ6yKnKOv2K1AxSWBlHH1C6T6BfTpFyAa0-EHebMbr0HO3wd-vkeiGgt8vpQyb2al7N896QsRzXSD35L3DFW6-JXigImUji6p-CThpe8gfeanQoDniod9JzzjWYy-ug5Hzk/s400/nest+038.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, how I love a beautifully made tag!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bnES_7-QLaGSB4C55tMSLj8lFp1-407JiBs4pu-UBsT8A7134qSt2PAuMKbY5MRGBuk4akZC1515SJ1S9wdv5h8Me0PSBypK3BiGqhwh9-dCGoyXP_Qh4eZOGF9cEuSvaZI3RS_2wwg/s1600/nest+039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bnES_7-QLaGSB4C55tMSLj8lFp1-407JiBs4pu-UBsT8A7134qSt2PAuMKbY5MRGBuk4akZC1515SJ1S9wdv5h8Me0PSBypK3BiGqhwh9-dCGoyXP_Qh4eZOGF9cEuSvaZI3RS_2wwg/s400/nest+039.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My special delivery came with<br />
special instructions. Remove the tissue<br />
in the center and give it a gentle fluff.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMfcsc5crrNF_Ag5nZTgpoMX33FsNdSrbGnoDi8BWewoxZIpMK9ZrlAAdiJMi05MpXiTyu3iRPg1VS9natjPtNBsJetTX21BXK93lqOezFQo8_aUsapJ166g0TymB9XlhJ3MIiHSM0pw/s1600/nest+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMfcsc5crrNF_Ag5nZTgpoMX33FsNdSrbGnoDi8BWewoxZIpMK9ZrlAAdiJMi05MpXiTyu3iRPg1VS9natjPtNBsJetTX21BXK93lqOezFQo8_aUsapJ166g0TymB9XlhJ3MIiHSM0pw/s400/nest+021.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfJSmUM-ZFUDrYzNIeJySSZ8bKdRr4yBXZYHFQ6uZUyPBORFh8SOwSDN9LtdmC538wJDO_EzJrpKf7Xey_NUSngeyOTB6FwKkAVVRGnnY4PGb4wvYwXtl8o19Si_miyuwllJEuGkaUm0/s1600/nest+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfJSmUM-ZFUDrYzNIeJySSZ8bKdRr4yBXZYHFQ6uZUyPBORFh8SOwSDN9LtdmC538wJDO_EzJrpKf7Xey_NUSngeyOTB6FwKkAVVRGnnY4PGb4wvYwXtl8o19Si_miyuwllJEuGkaUm0/s400/nest+024.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And finally....my GORGEOUS nest...<br />
made especially for me by <br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong><em>Vicki of </em></strong></span><a href="http://vicki-2bagsfull.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;"><strong><em>2 Bags Full.</em></strong></span></a><br />
(<a href="http://www.freckledlaundry.com/"><strong><em><span style="color: #134f5c;">Jami</span></em></strong></a>....you were right!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_7cjfgUzi58JGorUgUHSDPo9Uc-gzA-YVrdAufgfLYcjmYJZjwkIEnKfAgc23z3NJDhxeapJLp68x87flX665O9Ht4ruL7TcksPg4jiCe9X25DFJOsh96RP_GUxTOqUg1-jnJ2hTmc0/s1600/nest+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_7cjfgUzi58JGorUgUHSDPo9Uc-gzA-YVrdAufgfLYcjmYJZjwkIEnKfAgc23z3NJDhxeapJLp68x87flX665O9Ht4ruL7TcksPg4jiCe9X25DFJOsh96RP_GUxTOqUg1-jnJ2hTmc0/s400/nest+025.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And just like a sweet bird would do...<br />
tidbits added here and there...<br />
tucked in just so.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgA9OrZ-13mKIcYcBbJlmAGPmJEt820h_xLTT1xnWV9P9N8OW86VKPTbylobD62E5AfJO-EotoJzQCXPHAdBXGEhoS864gdj17wx3JE3mdgcZBID4M0VojcI_D6PUEx8bfIgQ1z3hyLM/s1600/nest+026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgA9OrZ-13mKIcYcBbJlmAGPmJEt820h_xLTT1xnWV9P9N8OW86VKPTbylobD62E5AfJO-EotoJzQCXPHAdBXGEhoS864gdj17wx3JE3mdgcZBID4M0VojcI_D6PUEx8bfIgQ1z3hyLM/s400/nest+026.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at these sweet details!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNjPyWaX1WocB7oJoCgHl1HBKRoRHbQFrydG8Heu1tRgqb4Qt52_JBvCyhW0IJp1WS1SBjPyWRB6AxqrMqj8atvgIZ1qoPai0COzHT0Dqhwx_Mu5arb-yHWfaUUy7RkVy_NG5wCQZ084/s1600/nest+027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNjPyWaX1WocB7oJoCgHl1HBKRoRHbQFrydG8Heu1tRgqb4Qt52_JBvCyhW0IJp1WS1SBjPyWRB6AxqrMqj8atvgIZ1qoPai0COzHT0Dqhwx_Mu5arb-yHWfaUUy7RkVy_NG5wCQZ084/s400/nest+027.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0p4ImPVOsWxrJwqNOILyaXECvleEN0xmzil1HfGDY5TjU9YgxH7lNSYRyZKN0fpwhz-NpX_QjiJJ9-iWdxd9fEsXNrHvprmZr1VnLi7cSVpcykCqpzqIMnCmrGIY53AmDYD_17Ko3jg/s1600/nest+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0p4ImPVOsWxrJwqNOILyaXECvleEN0xmzil1HfGDY5TjU9YgxH7lNSYRyZKN0fpwhz-NpX_QjiJJ9-iWdxd9fEsXNrHvprmZr1VnLi7cSVpcykCqpzqIMnCmrGIY53AmDYD_17Ko3jg/s400/nest+030.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It will live atop one of my<br />
old iron urns so I can give it a<br />
turn every so often to enjoy <br />
all its beauty.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1NhO9MdXpXerrZHORfS1l2cUEJz-ojTqJw4GxerbJKxKNDsahJqSTpn5uOdTIK2p55qAuWyXszqlUJCaWSrnLiBm0tpOGgW1OC_RF-Xh4f5rOKdg7SUl29toSxrXiEidZD9aA_GXB7gk/s1600/nest+034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1NhO9MdXpXerrZHORfS1l2cUEJz-ojTqJw4GxerbJKxKNDsahJqSTpn5uOdTIK2p55qAuWyXszqlUJCaWSrnLiBm0tpOGgW1OC_RF-Xh4f5rOKdg7SUl29toSxrXiEidZD9aA_GXB7gk/s400/nest+034.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I will continue to study it, inside and out, top and bottom. It appears to be knitted (or crocheted) then all the goodies added. I am in awe of its creation and its creator. Vicki....it is more beautiful than I even thought it would be. I will cherish it and your friendship for years to come! Many thanks to you again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~~~~~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made mention of a vanity I happened across that I picked up for my granddaughter, Taylor's, 4th birthday. I wish I had taken a BEFORE shot, but here is the finished product. I delivered it today and am very pleased how much she loves it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsVcWgZ5Va8w8G-0SC0O9ld9fXHq8D5zWpBDdLoikFT4lg0N-SmJ6n_gjUgRBQpbNm8kFGumpuDdi3eo3VJAuGYkqgrwn2yQIsGborfNItWL08UotyWd7dYk3AkWcdtypSvCss0YrOEY/s1600/Taylor+4+birthday+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsVcWgZ5Va8w8G-0SC0O9ld9fXHq8D5zWpBDdLoikFT4lg0N-SmJ6n_gjUgRBQpbNm8kFGumpuDdi3eo3VJAuGYkqgrwn2yQIsGborfNItWL08UotyWd7dYk3AkWcdtypSvCss0YrOEY/s400/Taylor+4+birthday+011.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taylor is truly a princess!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSh3cJJoSZzABHnSHntXhhpYpbOETMuF65fH2Kny_3FroD-09xH_b7Kby-YGN2nqhQEt-EiboyRxt6gF-zEcI2Oih5_vMWN4zF5I2SotxdxhIRjnk_sXZv-2f2rf25mqVW2lCJDq2kk8/s1600/Taylor+4+birthday+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSh3cJJoSZzABHnSHntXhhpYpbOETMuF65fH2Kny_3FroD-09xH_b7Kby-YGN2nqhQEt-EiboyRxt6gF-zEcI2Oih5_vMWN4zF5I2SotxdxhIRjnk_sXZv-2f2rf25mqVW2lCJDq2kk8/s400/Taylor+4+birthday+014.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once a cream and rose (and worn) painted vanity, <br />
it now wears Taylor's favorite purple.<br />
(Lavender actually to play off the purple<br />
walls in her room.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9xq4zTeO_KsjJHRpAa_UkmVjxvwbw4tjOIymZf4bGdQX5Bo10G379Fxh9OE2KEIHxdkAVYMbj1J-g72MsrHubZ43-QcGS8UD5NIUC5IewBy6T_BkyrYW27hgta0hTXiA50PwUPK6MS-g/s1600/Taylor+4+birthday+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9xq4zTeO_KsjJHRpAa_UkmVjxvwbw4tjOIymZf4bGdQX5Bo10G379Fxh9OE2KEIHxdkAVYMbj1J-g72MsrHubZ43-QcGS8UD5NIUC5IewBy6T_BkyrYW27hgta0hTXiA50PwUPK6MS-g/s400/Taylor+4+birthday+015.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am pretty proud of this letter T. I hand sketched it while <br />
looking at my computer screen, cut it out,<br />
traced it onto the vanity, then hand painted<br />
it. I am very pleased with the result.<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>So....what do you think? Good stuff is worth the wait, I hope. <em><strong>"Kindness is more than deeds. It is an attitude, an expression, a look, a touch. It is anything that lifts another person."</strong></em> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(unknown)</span> <span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>Vicki....your kindness has lifted me.</strong></span><br />
<br />
Sending blessings to you all for a great rest of the week ahead. I hope to talk to you again soon.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a></div>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-27143481893028420242011-01-15T21:49:00.001-05:002011-01-15T22:01:39.068-05:00Special Delivery!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuHTebOjIaFeG3Q5tmINbkVSazKYsBGYPwwQawXfGlEahMufW-JIKQ2S0NG9HJIxMYxaef-1vD7QZiQc4ZG3WsksEnMh2f-Lpxm-bGUpBCXoRMFGkDoXRQzWD-Nlopfy-_6eeW8IyfFk/s1600/spencenestgfairy005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuHTebOjIaFeG3Q5tmINbkVSazKYsBGYPwwQawXfGlEahMufW-JIKQ2S0NG9HJIxMYxaef-1vD7QZiQc4ZG3WsksEnMh2f-Lpxm-bGUpBCXoRMFGkDoXRQzWD-Nlopfy-_6eeW8IyfFk/s320/spencenestgfairy005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I received the sweetest, most beautiful package in the mail yesterday. Tomorrow....I will share pictures when the light is better and I can capture the nuances of this special delivery. Sorry to make you wait. I will say this....IT IS BEAUTIFUL! Beyond my expectations! The attention to detail is amazing!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Okay.....here is a hint: <a href="http://vicki-2bagsfull.blogspot.com/"><strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">2 Bags Full</span></em></strong></a>! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I know there are a lot of bloggy friends out there who love birds and nests as much as I do. You are the friends who will like this the most. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I promise....I'll be back tomorrow with the goods!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">And to Vicki...my dear, and you are so dear to me and to many others as well, I am sure. <em><strong>I am awestruck!</strong></em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a></div>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-19160777978031854342011-01-13T10:11:00.000-05:002011-01-13T10:11:38.923-05:00Borrowed Pictures and Feeling the Love!Yes, it's really me! Can you believe how long it's been since my last post? I simply cannot. AND....I only have a quick second to write this one and send it out.<br />
<br />
I saw this picture on one of my favorite blogs, <a href="http://www.inspireddecorating.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #e06666;"><strong><em>Inspired Design</em></strong></span></a>, and it really grabbed me. I had to just stare at it and figure out what exactly it was that attracted me so. <span style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-small;">(To be really inspired, visit Debby's Inspired Design blog daily. Her's is a most beautiful blog!!)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipI7ETqissC0ZhM1uTdY6A0hHj1CUCw4acT557juKNwHfKA1INyJWSNHFlZJ-H8LCLjrL-hWAkT1uZ4M6QY7x2t7tyCNnuhQGV2UHXlWQ11Sk_MAz1_HVINngnDPIkFGgUdku94PwuNGI/s1600/tumblr_ldo7upqVsb1qa0ps1o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipI7ETqissC0ZhM1uTdY6A0hHj1CUCw4acT557juKNwHfKA1INyJWSNHFlZJ-H8LCLjrL-hWAkT1uZ4M6QY7x2t7tyCNnuhQGV2UHXlWQ11Sk_MAz1_HVINngnDPIkFGgUdku94PwuNGI/s400/tumblr_ldo7upqVsb1qa0ps1o1_500.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am <span style="color: #e06666;">loving</span> the wallpapered accent wall. I would especially <span style="color: #e06666;">love</span> it if was a stamped/colored grass cloth. Notice that it doesn't go all the way to the ceiling, which tells me this room has a gorgeous vautled ceiling. I <span style="color: #e06666;">love </span>that there is a little molding cutting it off a bit and a curved wall, too. And <span style="color: #e06666;"><em>love, love, love</em></span> the shelving.....half open, half with a door. My books would be most happy there. The window seat is calling my name. I could even sit there in the dark as my new NookColor is back-lit (more on that later). Finally.....the bed looks so inviting in the natural linens and cottons. Clean, cool, soft...the makings of a good night's sleep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAYYX3sieRthjIb8yFWbFkIrzCBGfPOhuXJiwn-vAUTFeIzrZ6fbVzrKBxCoy8GqmmldlzP9CMhRV8fdLxxgW0ThUthGD6lywr_xyWM_i7isrTnw0sMaYARY_lno_LirztDB_UcXHZq3w/s1600/bittersweet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAYYX3sieRthjIb8yFWbFkIrzCBGfPOhuXJiwn-vAUTFeIzrZ6fbVzrKBxCoy8GqmmldlzP9CMhRV8fdLxxgW0ThUthGD6lywr_xyWM_i7isrTnw0sMaYARY_lno_LirztDB_UcXHZq3w/s200/bittersweet2.jpg" width="149" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I <span style="color: #e06666;">love</span> these two necklaces from <a href="http://www.bittersweetdesigns.com/"><em><strong><span style="color: #e06666;">Bittersweet Designs</span></strong></em></a>. I'm hoping to learn to make something similar from the classes I'm getting ready to take, however, I <span style="color: #e06666;">love</span> to <em>buy these sweets too</em>. In fact, I'm wearing one of my Bittersweet necklaces today. I really <span style="color: #e06666;">love</span> it! Thank you, Laurie, for always presenting such style! The pearls are so <span style="color: #e06666;">lovely</span>....I don't have one of those yet....maybe someday!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDW7PHh9xnFgThoG6GvpJcX3NrDaJPFzLkVhN5v_ydzNvJvcZJMWlo_HroypCYfNuch1OuOukcKCRR1Cl8erezBKW5JYr9IxSo_29I5lPIw2LRiQWjtKhRE6eYCMk7wBSXu5DjmRRh7gc/s1600/bittersweetdesigns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDW7PHh9xnFgThoG6GvpJcX3NrDaJPFzLkVhN5v_ydzNvJvcZJMWlo_HroypCYfNuch1OuOukcKCRR1Cl8erezBKW5JYr9IxSo_29I5lPIw2LRiQWjtKhRE6eYCMk7wBSXu5DjmRRh7gc/s200/bittersweetdesigns.jpg" width="132" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Well, I just had to share these quick thoughts and pictures this morning. It is back to work for me. I do have so much to share, too, but alas, it will have to wait. From the brown transferware gifts from my mother, to the jewelry making classes from my husband (and the Nook), to my granddaughter's first birthday, and the vanity waiting for a quick redo for my other granddaughter, Taylor's, fourth birthday today, AND my first trip to IKEA. Please hang on....I'll be back soon.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">P.S. I guess I'm in a <strong><em><span style="color: #e06666;">LOVE</span></em></strong> mood today. I used that word profusely today. Nothing wrong with that, I guess! <strong><em><span style="color: #e06666;">LOVE</span></em></strong> to you all!!!</div>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-79944971468166985532010-12-25T23:34:00.000-05:002010-12-25T23:34:44.314-05:00And to All.....a Good Night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbSvtUKeV-_kLC6pUtF5PYYqQP-30zjTEcCOyqhWK0_VgeMDlWhcfBCoL0ROkNjJiE26wMW3146iLlNVMKbS0M3HFUk2w6t9-bO7bCs8RC56_80-rIiZrD5q13JQ0Y6Okoq9OLCxJz-Q/s1600/Kloe+poinsettias+12+9+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbSvtUKeV-_kLC6pUtF5PYYqQP-30zjTEcCOyqhWK0_VgeMDlWhcfBCoL0ROkNjJiE26wMW3146iLlNVMKbS0M3HFUk2w6t9-bO7bCs8RC56_80-rIiZrD5q13JQ0Y6Okoq9OLCxJz-Q/s320/Kloe+poinsettias+12+9+10.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I am in a silent home this Christmas evening. It is wonderful. I'll be off to bed soon, but just wanted to wish my friends a most joyous sleep after what was sure to have been a most hectic, but wonderful day. We will off for day three of Christmas celebrating tomorrow as we drive an hour or so north to visit my husband's oldest son and family. Then my mother arrives from Georgia either tomorrow night, weather permitting, or Monday....and we'll have one more round. <br />
<br />
My sweet little Kloe angel, who turns one on the the 28th, has enjoyed her first Christmas immensely and has given us the most special moments. It is for the children, after all. I admit I had a bit of a time getting into the spirit this year. The spirit hit me straight on when I watched the faces of my niece and grandchildren open their presents spreading their pure joy throughout the room. Thank you, Lord, for that gentle, yet wonderful reminder. I needed it. (Oh....and Happy Birthday to you this day as well!)<br />
<br />
So this sleepy wife, mom, grandma (Mimi) is off to bed. I pray your day was filled with everything you hoped for...whether it be the beautiful view you gazed upon or the company you kept. <br />
<br />
Merry Christmas.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-990305066524453149.post-57478307505847443142010-12-13T23:38:00.000-05:002010-12-13T23:38:16.941-05:00Special DeliveryThat is what I received today!! My special delivery from <a href="http://playswithpaper.blogspot.com/"><strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">Shari Replogle of Plays with Paper</span></em></strong></a>. I was thrilled to see the package on the table when I walked in from a very long and busy day. Look at these beauties...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYqRDtX1Fa92HaSrWYSwOWshyphenhyphenJTozYA4D2kz1iCbgcgwA7_dNFLkqlMPVoXToaqVvwN3StKrsR33ligkJo0ih9gpztQh3Fs48Cp1w6yYijhy2vVHhd_Qj6t-rdKGFGSpKreR_DEREG-k/s1600/plays+with+paper+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYqRDtX1Fa92HaSrWYSwOWshyphenhyphenJTozYA4D2kz1iCbgcgwA7_dNFLkqlMPVoXToaqVvwN3StKrsR33ligkJo0ih9gpztQh3Fs48Cp1w6yYijhy2vVHhd_Qj6t-rdKGFGSpKreR_DEREG-k/s400/plays+with+paper+002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a sweet, sweet drawstring bag with an<br />
even sweeter tag!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQXOdx3JnuzAU6ShCtLmwb8unx2GcezTjlJzwCtnMzoHdGfXpwriLwKqj5nsvxp_Dghg0UKse22HLuMbnkr4raEZReoSuUr-Wz634UAqSytNHBAi8fii-IYdErWjg7J9Ws2t8hPTdCkA/s1600/plays+with+paper+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQXOdx3JnuzAU6ShCtLmwb8unx2GcezTjlJzwCtnMzoHdGfXpwriLwKqj5nsvxp_Dghg0UKse22HLuMbnkr4raEZReoSuUr-Wz634UAqSytNHBAi8fii-IYdErWjg7J9Ws2t8hPTdCkA/s400/plays+with+paper+004.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look what was inside!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2hw5qPL2FOESh2RLY2f9tZKwrjpRdGuOyAxMXXKGrJskbdnGxQe6BV2CnGMmpBIYKOlGte4EClUbQriMrCkv_1Wn2vSEb_TDkjF1e-rSUvGNV5GpRaZjMX4Phyphenhyphen6s3lcBkBe022G1UUo/s1600/plays+with+paper+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2hw5qPL2FOESh2RLY2f9tZKwrjpRdGuOyAxMXXKGrJskbdnGxQe6BV2CnGMmpBIYKOlGte4EClUbQriMrCkv_1Wn2vSEb_TDkjF1e-rSUvGNV5GpRaZjMX4Phyphenhyphen6s3lcBkBe022G1UUo/s400/plays+with+paper+011.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the flip side of the lovely neckace.<br />
To me, it now became something that could<br />
be worn year-round. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI75xgE0dzgO0pNpH7lyHoKrcFzqfARueesG04s0gM45oCgz-C6lZ74RVKiKW4lhLbgzVwYPEHxSPlhuLgAKp0ievlzOghzbSEbLzBUK7YJYxuotxJX3e_EN9lTQkI7u58dahOKpPnUAg/s1600/plays+with+paper+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI75xgE0dzgO0pNpH7lyHoKrcFzqfARueesG04s0gM45oCgz-C6lZ74RVKiKW4lhLbgzVwYPEHxSPlhuLgAKp0ievlzOghzbSEbLzBUK7YJYxuotxJX3e_EN9lTQkI7u58dahOKpPnUAg/s400/plays+with+paper+013.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But, I really love the Santa side too.<br />
I can't wait to wear this tomorrow to work.<br />
<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Thank you again, Shari, for sharing your beautiful work with me. Please see some more of her work in the Winter 2011 <strong><em><span style="color: #38761d;">Belle Armoire Jewelry</span></em></strong>. I picked it up and am trying to make my way through it. LOTS to see and learn from this gem. Right now it is my "red light" magazine. Yes, I'm one of those who has to be beeped at so I will put my book down when the light turns green. Annoying, I know. Sorry.<br />
<br />
I ran to one of my favorite local antique shops at lunch today to shop for a piece of pink depression glass for a co-worker whose name I drew. I didn't find the right piece for her, but I did find a sweet little bargain for me. I rarely see green transferware. This platter was marked only $10 "as is." I inspected it and didn't see any big chips or scratches so I was not sure why it said that. When I took it downstairs, the gentleman reminded me about that part. I said, "It looks good to me!" I did find a little chip under the edge tonight when I took another look, but I am really pleased. In my neck of the woods, bargains are pretty hard to come by. Take a look...<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNt4yH-I3LohtinyQetLP4M1fL9PVdyzLu_QXXCmRIBZ0dFkjUgJnG6B8FOIGUZcp3Y5iWRC7Qruuj9oHVW9RGQd6JRDawvEu08VMCVA4MfZ5j3iuotyyIn2bzJ_ZnypCyGEdxN6iQyA/s1600/plays+with+paper+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNt4yH-I3LohtinyQetLP4M1fL9PVdyzLu_QXXCmRIBZ0dFkjUgJnG6B8FOIGUZcp3Y5iWRC7Qruuj9oHVW9RGQd6JRDawvEu08VMCVA4MfZ5j3iuotyyIn2bzJ_ZnypCyGEdxN6iQyA/s400/plays+with+paper+018.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My table is covered with mail, wrapping paper,<br />
Christmas cards. And, I think I see my reflection<br />
in the plate. Nice. Isn't it a sweet find though?<br />
I almost forgot to mention that it was "on sale"<br />
for $8. SWEET!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSuHR_uAq7UXA3-FOiuVTcocJJ_AgNv-NviV37tSIXjOWq3oNwDgCZdrHtoS3tl6dJZMd8A8yjxghx2G6TUUVldrW9U15gyZWX9ic4kkugnPNw1xK0khzu6eQzCG1KrPLN-5TudVX5YI/s1600/plays+with+paper+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSuHR_uAq7UXA3-FOiuVTcocJJ_AgNv-NviV37tSIXjOWq3oNwDgCZdrHtoS3tl6dJZMd8A8yjxghx2G6TUUVldrW9U15gyZWX9ic4kkugnPNw1xK0khzu6eQzCG1KrPLN-5TudVX5YI/s400/plays+with+paper+014.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little blurry, but I was pleased with the markings<br />
on the underside.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTOf_MUqEAw33Ph-oQ-g4DXE8oLIUH8JeH9KK6CBwhxL4Thuu-ihmig2Mrws6jQHSK-iKw-ZNLvpOLWPHqK_4vXD3krYbll0fuuarBcMkGPcBjLsHCVz5XpWAfv32hzGlD80alJXO2o0/s1600/plays+with+paper+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTOf_MUqEAw33Ph-oQ-g4DXE8oLIUH8JeH9KK6CBwhxL4Thuu-ihmig2Mrws6jQHSK-iKw-ZNLvpOLWPHqK_4vXD3krYbll0fuuarBcMkGPcBjLsHCVz5XpWAfv32hzGlD80alJXO2o0/s400/plays+with+paper+017.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is something I am unfamiliar with. A letter "P"<br />
was pressed into the porcelain when it was wet.<br />
Does anyone know the significance of that?<br />
Very interesting...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>And finally, as it is getting late, and I'm in for another very long day tomorrow...I've been stealing moments to look at my new Barbra Streisand design book. I have one word for you....WOW! It has been written by her, and her alone. It is like she is sitting across the table from me and telling me all about her home. The majority of the pictures were taken by her as well. I'm not that far into it, but know I will continue finding special moments to read a few pages and examine the glorious pictures. For example, the first couple pages include a fold out panaramic picture of the front of her "elegant farmhouse" painted a deep red with white trim and black shutters. The next page unfolds to the entire back of the house....painted all white and looking like it belongs on Nantucket. Beautiful!!<br />
<br />
I bid you all a good night and wish you sweet dreams.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt108/valentinestudio123/Client%20Blog%20Design/Signatures/A-Bird-in-Hand-Sig.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Carol @ A Bird in Handhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03977520352903642595noreply@blogger.com5