tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68737770970114983362024-03-19T03:35:55.051-05:00The Christmas GuyDonniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-75503964604922993292012-05-21T13:03:00.002-05:002012-05-21T13:04:11.737-05:00Mistletoe MargaritaI scored an amazing pile magazines while hitting garage sales with my mother this past weekend. There were two stacks of random holiday magazines all tied together with string. As I'm going thru them today I found a recipe in Family Circle for a drink that sounds like it would be really good. I host a big Christmas Open House every year to show off all the trees. For the last couple of years I've served a holiday cocktail. I'm going to have to try this one and see if it's in the running for this year's drink.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Mistletoe Margarita</span></strong><br />
1 ounce Tequila<br />
1/2 ounce Cointreau<br />
1/2 ounce Wild Hibiscus Syrup (www.wildhibiscus.com)<br />
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice<br />
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<b>Directions:</b> Shake all ingredients very well in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.<br />
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<b>Garnish:</b> 3 cranberries and a mint sprig (to give it that mistletoe look) and an optional salt rim<br />
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I dislike salt so I'll likely try it with sugar instead...CHEERS!!!Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-73221291858231075382012-05-05T10:52:00.000-05:002012-05-05T10:52:30.964-05:00Christmas 2011 - Tuscan Themed KitchenWhoa...I'm way behind on blogging lately. I've been planning a wedding for my brother and it has taken over my life. LOL <br />
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When it came time to finalize the decor plans for the house I decided to use a bunch of the stuff I had made throughout the year. I went with a Tuscan theme for the kitchen, using the colors brown, lime green and purple.<br />
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There are several parts of this room that include projects I made throughout the year. Here's a list of what made it into this room's theme.<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://christmasguy.blogspot.com/2011/09/go-aheadwine-little.html" target="_blank">Wine Cork Ornaments</a></li>
<li><a href="http://christmasguy.blogspot.com/2011/10/hand-stamped-ribbon.html" target="_blank">Hand Stamped Ribbon</a></li>
<li><a href="http://christmasguy.blogspot.com/2011/11/burlap-ribbon.html" target="_blank">Burlap Ribbon</a></li>
</ul>
Here's a look into my kitchen last year...<br />
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Those crates are not a part of my everyday decor in the kitchen. I added them just for the season to compliment the theme of the room. It's always more fun to decorate the whole room...not just put up a tree.</div>
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I always say that no space is safe from being decorated...LOL Notice that I even add a sprig of garland to the tops of my pictures and hangings, then decorate them to match the rest of the room.</div>
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I always decorate this old window pane that I have hanging from my ceiling year round.</div>
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I tried something new with the cupboards this year by lining the underside with garland. It was done by placing a few screws along the bottom of the cupboards and then wrapping a branch around the screw to secure the garland. It was kind of neat and different.</div>
<br />I should note...a lot of the lime green and brown ornaments are plastic "filler" ornaments that I've purchased for 75% and 80% off after Christmas each year.Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-61176406413905013362012-03-15T00:44:00.000-05:002012-03-15T00:44:33.786-05:00Christmas Krinkles: Greeting CardsPatience Brewster ,the artist who creates the Krinkles (which I absolutely adore), began as a childrens book illustrator and then moved into making a line of greeting cards. The Krinkles line was born after Department 56 discovered her through her cards. She continues to create cards in the whimisicle style that she is so well known for. <br />
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I love having the cards that match the figures that I own. I place the cards into a simple frame and use them to display along with my pieces. I think it's kind of fun to show the original sketch that inspired the actual piece that I've got on display. If you look closely you can see how I've got a few of the cards incorporated into the display of my Krinkle room from 2011.<br />
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I've included a few of her Christmas cards below for you to enjoy. I purchase most of my cards from an online store called <a href="http://www.fiddlesticksdallas.com/" target="_blank">Fiddlesticks</a>. Check out the great line of Brewster greeting cards they offer by selecting the Patience Brewster link on the left side of their store front.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAmmtkupHykr83B3jRz1IhS0wyrk-UNUTnJBR9zZIa4P2ScFGFReg979bPPCPBFsAvJ6roacxgfETwR0eftLdNnHXhm28yb0PwIOPePmuD_aeMxJagTLCYrbj-9OewuQlGH0Lc5oiMdI/s1600/CH020562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAmmtkupHykr83B3jRz1IhS0wyrk-UNUTnJBR9zZIa4P2ScFGFReg979bPPCPBFsAvJ6roacxgfETwR0eftLdNnHXhm28yb0PwIOPePmuD_aeMxJagTLCYrbj-9OewuQlGH0Lc5oiMdI/s320/CH020562.jpg" width="241" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-53282278536582525552012-03-07T22:48:00.000-06:002012-03-07T22:48:19.806-06:00Plastics...Cheaper & Easier StorageI am no stranger to the fact that Christmas ornaments can be really expensive. There are however ways to decorate that are cost effective. My trees are loaded with ornaments but a large amount of those ornaments are what I call "filler" ornaments. These are plastic ornaments that are sold in big packs for a decent price. It's even better if you can get these packs on clearance after the holidays.<br />
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These ornaments packs come in multiple shapes, sizes, colors, etc. There may be a few pieces in a pack that you aren't in love with (say the Santa boot shaped ornament in the box pictured below). If the price it right, you can pitch the four you hate in the box and still have a good quanity left to use as filler. <br />
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These ornaments are really easy to store because they aren't as fragile as glass and don't need to be wrapped before being packed away for the year. I store my plastic filler ornaments in the pop-together bankers boxes. They stack well and are really easy to get into by simply removing the lid. I sort these in the boxes by color (which I write on the box) so that I can easily pull the color I need for the tree I'm working on. <br />
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I start decorating my trees with the more expensive, more decorative ornaments (which I never buy unless on sale or with coupons) and then I grab my box of filler ornaments and start to fill the rest of the tree. These ornaments are also perfect for filling in any bare spots on garlands and wreaths or any empty places throughout the room. If your tv console needs a little Christmas love, grab a glass container or bowl and fill it with your filler ornaments. Remember...no space is safe from decor at Christmas. LOL<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXVfRqGDmb6b1AsiBAaHXkdTV-H7BJOiAB32jxrxOjdlG9ZToJJSZRulsZLQSsnuwhWO0JAm_CeQ4xwyvjDSKp0aToyr6jqM5sI_5S8az-iJJKQ2PgAMCVFMcos_WSfE8RLh08du_1_G8/s1600/fill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXVfRqGDmb6b1AsiBAaHXkdTV-H7BJOiAB32jxrxOjdlG9ZToJJSZRulsZLQSsnuwhWO0JAm_CeQ4xwyvjDSKp0aToyr6jqM5sI_5S8az-iJJKQ2PgAMCVFMcos_WSfE8RLh08du_1_G8/s320/fill.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-56066423980450175652012-03-03T07:34:00.000-06:002012-03-03T07:34:45.154-06:00Moss For Christmas?I have found an incredible medium that I absolutely love...moss! I was browsing the isles at my local Dollar Tree store and I found myself looking at the floral/vase section. They had a bag of what looked like moss covered stones. I had been brainstorming to think of how I was going to decorate my cool re-claimed greenhouse for all of the seasons of the year. These green moss stones got the creative juices flowing. I bought a few bags of the faux stones (for a whopping $1 a piece) and then my obsession began.<br />
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While I have originally made these ornaments to be used for my spring decor, they can still easily be used by some in their Christmas decor as well. These would be perfect used on a tree decorated with dried florals or even a garden themed tree. You read correctly...I've never had a garden themed tree but I've seen many who have.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDn1zXRvMTjDyLexM2PzCcg1C-DMmlrxJr4u0UAXj_LhODQqNhhoVrR9IRTzthvMRJ4ZR1ziyyg4YWiXPnRXJWgKKlRt6kFYSe-k_UUdZAq6wln_Hq4jG1ExcGDbPC8nUfqrM9WvDZK4/s1600/DSC07229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDn1zXRvMTjDyLexM2PzCcg1C-DMmlrxJr4u0UAXj_LhODQqNhhoVrR9IRTzthvMRJ4ZR1ziyyg4YWiXPnRXJWgKKlRt6kFYSe-k_UUdZAq6wln_Hq4jG1ExcGDbPC8nUfqrM9WvDZK4/s640/DSC07229.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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My search for moss ended at Hobby Lobby where I found moss in pre-packaged sheets. These sheets have a webbed backing that makes it super easy to attach to things. A package of this great stuff cost $6.99 but was a deal when I used my 40% off coupon (coupons for hobby lobby can be found online weekly at <a href="http://www.hobbylobby.com/" target="_blank">www.hobbylobby.com</a>). <br />
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I am in love with this product. I have intentions "mossing" anything and everything that I can get my hands on. What until you see some of the things I have done with this moss. I don't have pics of these ornaments in action. I'll post those after I get all of my spring decor put up in the living room. Stay tuned!<br />
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<strong><u>Supplies</u></strong><br />
Ornaments (old or new)<br />
Moss (I buy the sheets rather than a bag of just loose moss)<br />
Scissors<br />
Glue gun & glue<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNk_ld6SNj7o5BZBVlxXsU8szxjXVb59gv6Q3hVm5TQ_MG-lHaux1dXQOMPBayRChk4yXDy736-bx9xvyT9p0XJ_a8NOQgpgam0xzuea3AGYPW-j_yap1Tp5SIb5VcDAgG9UV8ehoUSaU/s1600/DSC07217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNk_ld6SNj7o5BZBVlxXsU8szxjXVb59gv6Q3hVm5TQ_MG-lHaux1dXQOMPBayRChk4yXDy736-bx9xvyT9p0XJ_a8NOQgpgam0xzuea3AGYPW-j_yap1Tp5SIb5VcDAgG9UV8ehoUSaU/s320/DSC07217.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<strong><u>Instructions</u></strong><br />
<ul><li>Start buy cutting some random pieces from your moss sheets.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YwONP72Ljj1Xnhl7M3mYU5H2_bTSA3-1IRnh03TcIdR-arujwRdePIYb4flFhNqDJpp53iNzfNS-eD4pjEq1Rw9K6FJ1jI4eg781HN1NKG6PeACx_ZxIwGWD9AmJH8ObeI5zO5KKr2c/s1600/DSC07219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YwONP72Ljj1Xnhl7M3mYU5H2_bTSA3-1IRnh03TcIdR-arujwRdePIYb4flFhNqDJpp53iNzfNS-eD4pjEq1Rw9K6FJ1jI4eg781HN1NKG6PeACx_ZxIwGWD9AmJH8ObeI5zO5KKr2c/s320/DSC07219.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li>Carefully apply glue your moss pieces.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTvrAoBrhojhRtow036NIdhdnRJ9OWTiFQEn1GIHupqsN4Cu0rGbBz6bPZBK5zv88ZnK3OgM5PjvB8gB6M8RDK5KGvPInz8W8khSFhpxlxsd5NQZqDV649UZ5lUtAaQCDbZjuzwQyosQ/s1600/DSC07220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTvrAoBrhojhRtow036NIdhdnRJ9OWTiFQEn1GIHupqsN4Cu0rGbBz6bPZBK5zv88ZnK3OgM5PjvB8gB6M8RDK5KGvPInz8W8khSFhpxlxsd5NQZqDV649UZ5lUtAaQCDbZjuzwQyosQ/s320/DSC07220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li>Apply the pieces to your ornament. You may need to do some creative folding but you'll find that these moss sheets are very forgiving. You'll need to start cutting specific sized pieces to fill in holes as you work your way around your ornament. The moss is very easy to use.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCF5ls0NDFJKNC3SUUdugUmC3QANYjRn5gM-5VTDBiITwKVglB-f44zz6-DWGod7ZVFEeo7YmXh0q8Sho2Xf1Z5UyIF_syk-YgayLlcw86DbiCTtAqS_88d1f6EuF2cuNfCpE5fxQvcHw/s1600/DSC07221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCF5ls0NDFJKNC3SUUdugUmC3QANYjRn5gM-5VTDBiITwKVglB-f44zz6-DWGod7ZVFEeo7YmXh0q8Sho2Xf1Z5UyIF_syk-YgayLlcw86DbiCTtAqS_88d1f6EuF2cuNfCpE5fxQvcHw/s320/DSC07221.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These moss ornaments would be perfect additions to the following trees.</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/AVvXsEipgdBh9ubTLRr3552aSVwsqhtsZzoVuYcKcyhsgohZ8i6bC8HPJVtUtz38VWJeHdZfYd7fGOpkLgGFS9Kz2iBk8xVEYem7l2UKBAjqHfOzjWpv4Bwyt4jxutLAeN2Vq4SB_1qJm5-5IUY/s1600/4052077848_2efeb462b4_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipgdBh9ubTLRr3552aSVwsqhtsZzoVuYcKcyhsgohZ8i6bC8HPJVtUtz38VWJeHdZfYd7fGOpkLgGFS9Kz2iBk8xVEYem7l2UKBAjqHfOzjWpv4Bwyt4jxutLAeN2Vq4SB_1qJm5-5IUY/s320/4052077848_2efeb462b4_o.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4667vAPRc-X1xef-DN3pduc1-VZPV5v6FETvlK_4UggJWFK2CVL9ENrN83yo5WL2giVKPOEuRGGNWkQsTU62HBXLl7V-MN0V-_vy9fksf83ue09Zd8grBVrzyIegBUpi18e-fkPY0mrE/s1600/garden+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4667vAPRc-X1xef-DN3pduc1-VZPV5v6FETvlK_4UggJWFK2CVL9ENrN83yo5WL2giVKPOEuRGGNWkQsTU62HBXLl7V-MN0V-_vy9fksf83ue09Zd8grBVrzyIegBUpi18e-fkPY0mrE/s320/garden+tree.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifiLViAtyaVDXvdApBbpkrP5cQ8i6XI8TnJLkoksYEzM1i3hLcf_EPzO3NKv4p74GXEViRanb7lcTyizhieAxPvB43TpSIOeImkl-zV15S8imWChub-QNtBYuJrLnB6IwrKxt8l2LM1fM/s1600/floral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifiLViAtyaVDXvdApBbpkrP5cQ8i6XI8TnJLkoksYEzM1i3hLcf_EPzO3NKv4p74GXEViRanb7lcTyizhieAxPvB43TpSIOeImkl-zV15S8imWChub-QNtBYuJrLnB6IwrKxt8l2LM1fM/s320/floral.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKuRLQ8tB07nSIainEzzmucOMfzCMYitddbFaZPdvaNDkFP4eH0J0BXjEA1v7i521lpmlCSkSYZbu5iE9OKuzttosv5TkNKDmqCwzaAwg0zrkomu6uHStHngaed_YB9RlxKeuEzTU5m8/s1600/floral4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKuRLQ8tB07nSIainEzzmucOMfzCMYitddbFaZPdvaNDkFP4eH0J0BXjEA1v7i521lpmlCSkSYZbu5iE9OKuzttosv5TkNKDmqCwzaAwg0zrkomu6uHStHngaed_YB9RlxKeuEzTU5m8/s320/floral4.jpg" width="192" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-36331382289516927632012-02-20T10:29:00.000-06:002012-02-20T10:29:18.611-06:00Sewn Paper Garland & OrnamentsI was cruising around craft sites one day and I ran across something that I had never seen or ever imagined to be possible before...sewing paper on a sewing machine. Of course I had to give it a shot and see if it was really possible. Low and behold, it worked. I had a lot of fun experimenting with it and ended up making a very simple garland and dangling ornaments. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3NsTB-krZfQ58OtNcNgKqf6sWE51zcgUGRYcHBaIjTMpW6MXbDGoxZ_DleMqBgT9Yp6NRqpw9dJXVYMU2E6YjHyumdTfH7MaOFHc3Ks4RHo_kEfe-T-krwP6zZCmwii9vB38qLdsgSw/s1600/DSC06436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3NsTB-krZfQ58OtNcNgKqf6sWE51zcgUGRYcHBaIjTMpW6MXbDGoxZ_DleMqBgT9Yp6NRqpw9dJXVYMU2E6YjHyumdTfH7MaOFHc3Ks4RHo_kEfe-T-krwP6zZCmwii9vB38qLdsgSw/s640/DSC06436.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is my sheet music garland.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgER_qmfL5sN4YK9Brs6cwHMTHe9q8r5iEWjaX8bf9y7Eupd4LLKZPXl2NfwhoIFsRsbTNqrs9D8oQnUcjXkNrB6e5ssoqNX3W1U2-zglydCe8KYPXeea2K9C-N6g22NRA-PIuVX3SbP-w/s1600/DSC06440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgER_qmfL5sN4YK9Brs6cwHMTHe9q8r5iEWjaX8bf9y7Eupd4LLKZPXl2NfwhoIFsRsbTNqrs9D8oQnUcjXkNrB6e5ssoqNX3W1U2-zglydCe8KYPXeea2K9C-N6g22NRA-PIuVX3SbP-w/s640/DSC06440.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div align="center">Here is the sheet music dangling ornament.</div><br />
Being a musician, I typically always test the things out of printed music. I had my trusty vintage hymnal close by when I began this project. You can make these out of any type of paper you wish. Be creative with your paper selection and make something to use for a birthday, baby or bridal shower, of course Christmas and any other holiday. As you can well imagine, you can do much more intricate things with these sewn paper garlands and ornaments. I stuck with the basics for this but will definately be trying some variations in the future.<br />
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<strong><u>Supplies</u></strong><br />
Paper of choice<br />
Scissors<br />
Pen<br />
Circle pattern (I just used two different sized lids off of spice bottles)<br />
Sewing machine & thread<br />
Hole punch (if making ornaments<br />
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<strong><u>Instructions for Garland</u></strong><br />
<ul><li>Cut circles from your paper. I chose to cut two different sizes for some added interest.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpuajo2UO4mo57x1ElvN8c4AEDD9lazANWiKCBbbr2lYVS_S9OUJwVyFt3Z434O3eCJRw9pZTB2A9VaGkLDUdaG9C-ud6VSwe8wivnz0UzPtNCu-PCLq62NnEXtMpfiD9lrd1486i8OSU/s1600/DSC06427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpuajo2UO4mo57x1ElvN8c4AEDD9lazANWiKCBbbr2lYVS_S9OUJwVyFt3Z434O3eCJRw9pZTB2A9VaGkLDUdaG9C-ud6VSwe8wivnz0UzPtNCu-PCLq62NnEXtMpfiD9lrd1486i8OSU/s320/DSC06427.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>Begin by having an ample length of thread pulled from both the spool on top and the bobbin. This will give you something to grab and pull your garland through the machine while sewing. </li>
<li>Run one piece of paper through your sewing machine at a time. You can either choose to sew the pieces end to end (pieces touching) or leave a random sized space in between each piece. </li>
<ul><li>To add space between pieces simply sew through one piece completely. When you get to the end of the piece, continue pressing the pedal on your machine while pulling the sewn portion of your garland through. This will cause the thread to twist together. When the desired amount of space is achieved, slide another piece of paper under the presser foot and continue on.</li>
</ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsF_SRp2FgwVJ3mbrXXl7FMZO6jdzMc3LoAPs0-r4hcFRdCQ_bFEjpiD-fmSdSI-2ideFvmMylzQCN-pHw80vF3Bg8u0u_MPKFGp7ghbbolydyqMCRBnQyk_PaXKE0nRQ4BmDCPDqStvo/s1600/DSC06428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsF_SRp2FgwVJ3mbrXXl7FMZO6jdzMc3LoAPs0-r4hcFRdCQ_bFEjpiD-fmSdSI-2ideFvmMylzQCN-pHw80vF3Bg8u0u_MPKFGp7ghbbolydyqMCRBnQyk_PaXKE0nRQ4BmDCPDqStvo/s400/DSC06428.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTGwUt9upczp-8Un-mI12cOb-uiwEGGAhowUNiJrgeUH2wCIiidFZWrfQccDeIh37fDTknJeqKyW9UcBiIP3KZEHVKiaARhX_3_QQ6Rvma8lKbbA9Y8OMpqDlaoezQO_6VBB5VSuVGgI/s1600/DSC06432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTGwUt9upczp-8Un-mI12cOb-uiwEGGAhowUNiJrgeUH2wCIiidFZWrfQccDeIh37fDTknJeqKyW9UcBiIP3KZEHVKiaARhX_3_QQ6Rvma8lKbbA9Y8OMpqDlaoezQO_6VBB5VSuVGgI/s400/DSC06432.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmAn_NtEM6dqpvJz2fUN0FtNy2v2SvRQkxGC0lKQpLHACzdYkitcH1UcCjOsLgDpOoKiIzWcoiXdKoGSNF-9l456r4dEBsYjn2Qqk9ETOXhcpYgzbtTbZlVUDR5jYcCvV6vXd0ZCNniOI/s1600/DSC06435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmAn_NtEM6dqpvJz2fUN0FtNy2v2SvRQkxGC0lKQpLHACzdYkitcH1UcCjOsLgDpOoKiIzWcoiXdKoGSNF-9l456r4dEBsYjn2Qqk9ETOXhcpYgzbtTbZlVUDR5jYcCvV6vXd0ZCNniOI/s400/DSC06435.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Showing the process of pulling the piece through to add a gap.</div><ul><li>When you have reached the desired length for your garland, run the machine a little further (without adding any paper pieces) to give you thread to hang your piece from. Both ends can be trimmed back after you decide where and how you will hang your garland.</li>
</ul><strong><u>Instructions For Ornaments</u></strong><br />
<ul><li>Follow the same basic sewing instructions as above with the following changes.</li>
<li>Select your starting (top) paper piece and put a whole in the top using a paper punch. this will provide a place to hang using either ribbon or an ornament hook.</li>
<li>Begin sewing right under the punched hole on your first piece. Continue sewing pieces together as instructed above until you have reached your desired ornament length. </li>
<li>Trim threads from the top and bottom. Your ornament is ready to hang.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNr4RkyK7dWL25rXotINwPJE_GacVTwWrx-2ZTOu2Wlmad8cmBPQUuuNY6b8khcqxsnw0tiNWKvk6msxZkWlMov9PoqUitLVWcLcs5fta3s438rMpjnCX85SgIXjfLz9Bz5YJkbZzYDmo/s1600/DSC06437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNr4RkyK7dWL25rXotINwPJE_GacVTwWrx-2ZTOu2Wlmad8cmBPQUuuNY6b8khcqxsnw0tiNWKvk6msxZkWlMov9PoqUitLVWcLcs5fta3s438rMpjnCX85SgIXjfLz9Bz5YJkbZzYDmo/s400/DSC06437.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-35324568937511743422012-02-04T11:50:00.000-06:002012-02-04T11:50:39.705-06:00Christmas 2011 - Country White & BlueMy stairway is decorated year round with a few reclaimed pieces from my family. For Christmas this year I decided to deck the pieces out in light blue (which is a first for me). I paired it with white and silver and really like how it turned out. Every decoration in this space was from 75% or more clearance after Christmas 2010. The ornaments and all trimmings came from about three different stores (mostly Walmart and Kmart). I love doing something brand new but super cheap.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzHVtosCCM2bqsBq4HA8PLR-Q2d3ottwdCYEpfGJknaPLIkwb9cM5IH8MGnh202NhJ-rW1rTQSV4G31Nf2R3aQ0pKoU7UKFacFQBni5QOkg5T22Kji-_Hlj4Pl_RrRoHz44OKAFGmHsA/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzHVtosCCM2bqsBq4HA8PLR-Q2d3ottwdCYEpfGJknaPLIkwb9cM5IH8MGnh202NhJ-rW1rTQSV4G31Nf2R3aQ0pKoU7UKFacFQBni5QOkg5T22Kji-_Hlj4Pl_RrRoHz44OKAFGmHsA/s320/1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCZY4XlI8brRjyJACmhJrXkJLhhh9OenUsnQLAvv-FTydmJjw1OFge1An1STrRfk9oAc4mnLAy0NqjIM0a3mEPvVDwrXdrQVcMN8t1WaKkGjxBm2tppGB7nLvvMuFzb2AB7g0o88O1ds/s1600/2.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCZY4XlI8brRjyJACmhJrXkJLhhh9OenUsnQLAvv-FTydmJjw1OFge1An1STrRfk9oAc4mnLAy0NqjIM0a3mEPvVDwrXdrQVcMN8t1WaKkGjxBm2tppGB7nLvvMuFzb2AB7g0o88O1ds/s320/2.5.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfh-H5nqh6ravyu8jicryRkif9huFMiYSZyIn6BbJ41uLzyoO911_gUhStiK6pQMKDibe4AcZjYifTGtARKFd7CrLFzRyzUefy2L0QpfF3_hFOetUL-WDSkWFiC3oT1WpwVtIr2m8mioY/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfh-H5nqh6ravyu8jicryRkif9huFMiYSZyIn6BbJ41uLzyoO911_gUhStiK6pQMKDibe4AcZjYifTGtARKFd7CrLFzRyzUefy2L0QpfF3_hFOetUL-WDSkWFiC3oT1WpwVtIr2m8mioY/s320/2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXRsMk6UfIR-tBj9uudnYFVlOFqmHdpM0GH9J_xEUCry-CfX1JGHa5mb0z_9ubotraMS-fJyVlrI1EoJVfHKbTMu33CdUpNLtFwxaX41XhBtfOG2f4RpqjUEDr8nJX4_ZEeFaeT_7Ans/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXRsMk6UfIR-tBj9uudnYFVlOFqmHdpM0GH9J_xEUCry-CfX1JGHa5mb0z_9ubotraMS-fJyVlrI1EoJVfHKbTMu33CdUpNLtFwxaX41XhBtfOG2f4RpqjUEDr8nJX4_ZEeFaeT_7Ans/s320/3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-14800600327052288892012-02-04T11:46:00.000-06:002012-02-04T11:46:21.916-06:00Salty OrnamentsI can't say enough about much how I love using the plain glass ornaments to make things myself. These salted ornaments are really cool and super easy to make. It's s very cheap project with great results. This would be a good project to include with kids. I will definetely be playing with some variations on this technique in the future...I'm thinking pastel colored cookie sugars for spring ornaments.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mYJxF_8xtr23VxX475yk9EIV1OODWb6TfTIYt8OMfOLcIHn6b0TkKPy3QNKrGFPNcPlsdHixPJohl_RSMYgysipU3MmdUNjmlMFIhdLEljVwr3JA24R4fGjGmec3lJQLE_4ZD2njAT0/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mYJxF_8xtr23VxX475yk9EIV1OODWb6TfTIYt8OMfOLcIHn6b0TkKPy3QNKrGFPNcPlsdHixPJohl_RSMYgysipU3MmdUNjmlMFIhdLEljVwr3JA24R4fGjGmec3lJQLE_4ZD2njAT0/s640/2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Supplies</u></strong><br />
Glass ornament<br />
Epsom salt<br />
Glue stick<br />
Bowl<br />
Tape (optional)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2q5pV5PMj6siP368yABzKIHtdQJ20rAem7LkWir3GtSng3hVuskNlDves-lHPFGBkPvifVgaJY4etNWSx8npq7-f8RpeaznhGrsYiAhqcKRNSJU39OHHkn_7et_CotPNbrvV5rSsEt4/s1600/DSC07232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2q5pV5PMj6siP368yABzKIHtdQJ20rAem7LkWir3GtSng3hVuskNlDves-lHPFGBkPvifVgaJY4etNWSx8npq7-f8RpeaznhGrsYiAhqcKRNSJU39OHHkn_7et_CotPNbrvV5rSsEt4/s320/DSC07232.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<strong><u>Instructions</u></strong><br />
<br />
Let me first explain the optional tape. I am a stickler for having anything handmade still look nice and presentable. That being said, I used the tape to divide off nice even spaces with straight lines. I have seen this technique used freehanded which results in a less precise finish. It all depends on the look you are wanting to achieve.<br />
<ul><li>Apply tape along your ornament as a guide to where you would like your salting technique to end. You may choose to tape in different patterns and/or formations. I simply divided the ornament in half.</li>
<ul><li>If you chose to freehand your design, simply skip to the next step and apply the glue straight on to any part of the surface you would like salted.</li>
</ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_tILggReqPfm01IrDpLiT5YtFIu8cCkOEfhyphenhyphenr4Ea161P8ylgil0W5jjPuqBo1ug0wWMNjg9hVWdsJ3o6VRD6LInG0XPqAJTd0q3Z-xZxqYQxT2QEDb3DMb6dbu0-T6O9QlAtv3FXxPgQ/s1600/DSC07233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_tILggReqPfm01IrDpLiT5YtFIu8cCkOEfhyphenhyphenr4Ea161P8ylgil0W5jjPuqBo1ug0wWMNjg9hVWdsJ3o6VRD6LInG0XPqAJTd0q3Z-xZxqYQxT2QEDb3DMb6dbu0-T6O9QlAtv3FXxPgQ/s320/DSC07233.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li>Coat the entire portion of the ornament that you wish to salt with glue using a glue stick. Be sure that you've evenly coated the area to ensure that salt will stick.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gslxT7iaPFTGed9IPlwZGi_QUdHMNHlcr_PmiD6E2wkfCqtIbEpmXzOTpzjG3ZIdwcXs2gR9fYC6feIiB-eN8ybqWh5hH_mcs0N9w4h04OBInPgun5RoacbAsODIx4R6jTsVACFpJm8/s1600/DSC07234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gslxT7iaPFTGed9IPlwZGi_QUdHMNHlcr_PmiD6E2wkfCqtIbEpmXzOTpzjG3ZIdwcXs2gR9fYC6feIiB-eN8ybqWh5hH_mcs0N9w4h04OBInPgun5RoacbAsODIx4R6jTsVACFpJm8/s320/DSC07234.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li>Dip the glued portion into the epsom salt. I poured the salt into a bowl and simply rolled it in the pile.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcn1n7z8V6_Ew3rqz1X0JSDUDmwYozSG6Jgcg8uYnyvjuJYXFDlCDkXerkU82VJvBtbZ0w_7tNXM-tyLtxIwzHirqPS3l6Oqe50AToqv9BVn-XUCI4YljZdNkcRSGKCz-sebJfiJZRkxY/s1600/DSC07235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcn1n7z8V6_Ew3rqz1X0JSDUDmwYozSG6Jgcg8uYnyvjuJYXFDlCDkXerkU82VJvBtbZ0w_7tNXM-tyLtxIwzHirqPS3l6Oqe50AToqv9BVn-XUCI4YljZdNkcRSGKCz-sebJfiJZRkxY/s320/DSC07235.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bq0-2aaLVA87BLhVCHRimnmSDO7hTXLn480i1YglGki5imm4SlFizSRWGvrU81FhrWpW_rFsTl0V3svrNUXS7ZQhhEpG033Mcn6HZZMXJjXUrIW37V6ZHeBEodf42O1Oo0x3jID9wNo/s1600/DSC07236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bq0-2aaLVA87BLhVCHRimnmSDO7hTXLn480i1YglGki5imm4SlFizSRWGvrU81FhrWpW_rFsTl0V3svrNUXS7ZQhhEpG033Mcn6HZZMXJjXUrIW37V6ZHeBEodf42O1Oo0x3jID9wNo/s320/DSC07236.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>Gently remove the tape (unless you chose to do the freehand method) and hand the ornament to dry.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ5CAy4BwjtLTGGiYVSD9EdulxGiiVhLhzG43ObpfHjyZ44rzNgchmI6rV4hbuVhNG1yp07LSJARZXspRI2d8_7vklR1-CxS7juN0pSJLKUQi-thUO0uH7ienYOdGmm6ac2W8ql864W4/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ5CAy4BwjtLTGGiYVSD9EdulxGiiVhLhzG43ObpfHjyZ44rzNgchmI6rV4hbuVhNG1yp07LSJARZXspRI2d8_7vklR1-CxS7juN0pSJLKUQi-thUO0uH7ienYOdGmm6ac2W8ql864W4/s320/3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje3RYEAPMdGhimwrCOMUIWHZ3F4fgAtJ0TME6CYxQKPXTdqRnNXzag2CRLl8Np04kNWGOOD0mBjnxCYTUl_TMfTm6QBsB_zrczNKsg1AEsBk1P93Cl7i3KVXhlIx9whHy8cySqWt9mU_0/s1600/DSC07258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje3RYEAPMdGhimwrCOMUIWHZ3F4fgAtJ0TME6CYxQKPXTdqRnNXzag2CRLl8Np04kNWGOOD0mBjnxCYTUl_TMfTm6QBsB_zrczNKsg1AEsBk1P93Cl7i3KVXhlIx9whHy8cySqWt9mU_0/s320/DSC07258.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">Here is a shot with the flash on so you get a better look at the salt and glue after it's dried onto the ornament. It really looks neat.</div><ul></ul>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-7965051371740477632012-01-26T06:16:00.000-06:002012-01-26T06:16:38.672-06:00If You Can Spell...I absolutely love the use of letters in decor. I have an additcion to letters which is evident by my initials all over my house in every font, size and color. I think it's a really fun way to incorporate something personal into your space. If you look in just the right places you can find letters everywhere. I love digging through the bins at places like Michaels to find letter items to give to friends (and of course for myself...since I can't ever seem to have enough around the house. LOL).<br />
<br />
If you know how to spell and find a bin of random letters then think Christmas. Here is what goes through my mind when I find that amazing bin of letter cut outs...<br />
<br />
I'm looking for...<br />
D, A or S for myself<br />
K for Kylie, L for Leah, R for Ryan...and so on.<br />
<br />
<strong>But then I start thinking...</strong><br />
<span style="color: red;"> JOY, NOEL, HO HO HO, MERRY, ...get it???</span><br />
<br />
Anything you find can easily be painted with spray paint or basic acrylic paints. Here are some of the things I've found recently.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinl9lMM4n0PP25_gfBnoZ0W7_G-Z6zd9zTaifZ3IqgiYwg-vxCN6GYkGAmbAP2Wd9ufS9ujD8EgrZsXAY7bCMTPU2s8GmSpLbqYVjkC2dnhHuqph_nreCGGaC6holUcg3vtlGEKV_uLP8/s1600/DSC07122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinl9lMM4n0PP25_gfBnoZ0W7_G-Z6zd9zTaifZ3IqgiYwg-vxCN6GYkGAmbAP2Wd9ufS9ujD8EgrZsXAY7bCMTPU2s8GmSpLbqYVjkC2dnhHuqph_nreCGGaC6holUcg3vtlGEKV_uLP8/s320/DSC07122.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These letters were $1 a piece from Michael's. They already have a nice finish and have hangers already installed on the back. These would make perfect tie-ons for a gift. I will likely string these together on a piece of ribbon using the hangers on the back and then swag them or hang in the center of a large wreath.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHXlAgSo_81bsSgTJ636nGnprkfiTWSN8j_u4xY71stCy1JiK2lIZyGvQl50g3rwD71ZMxMJ3j6896nbIlWjoce1TUy0XFZ0yQeXDfCO_Z_ig65LRm43DAR4Y9DeIFISnB65ulLPbQBA/s1600/DSC06243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHXlAgSo_81bsSgTJ636nGnprkfiTWSN8j_u4xY71stCy1JiK2lIZyGvQl50g3rwD71ZMxMJ3j6896nbIlWjoce1TUy0XFZ0yQeXDfCO_Z_ig65LRm43DAR4Y9DeIFISnB65ulLPbQBA/s320/DSC06243.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlqRCJncbe-13KX9ePewF3J43a3mnGigxHkDggTycUtJQ5SqztfaYYTYw-mZhA2_nI5F4WkiRkA6LMtt4sNLN_CnZr42TxEAZaPjBDXuqQZE1Rk4Gd5wrpr3TrJHJbiqHcFyBu20rK7U/s1600/DSC06244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlqRCJncbe-13KX9ePewF3J43a3mnGigxHkDggTycUtJQ5SqztfaYYTYw-mZhA2_nI5F4WkiRkA6LMtt4sNLN_CnZr42TxEAZaPjBDXuqQZE1Rk4Gd5wrpr3TrJHJbiqHcFyBu20rK7U/s320/DSC06244.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got these foam letters in a clearance bin at Barnes & Noble. I think all four of them cost me about $6. I will give these a matching coat of paint and use them on a shelf or worked into a centerpiece.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-85018217618584775872012-01-17T11:04:00.000-06:002012-01-17T11:04:30.042-06:00Another "Fill 'Em Up" Ornament...Pipe CleanersWow! The new year has gotten away from me and I'm a little behind. Here are the newest ornaments I've made.<br />
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I'm always excited to find new ways to make ornaments from the plain glass ornaments you can purchase at the craft store. These are super easy using basic pipe cleaners. They can be done in an endless number of colors and styles. I used the basic round ball ornaments but you can find other pretty cool shapes to work with. These could be fun to do with kids. Let them be creative with the pipe cleaners.<br />
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I apologize in advance for the picture quality. These ornaments are hard to get good shots of.<br />
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<strong><u>Supplies</u></strong><br />
Clear glass ornaments<br />
Pipe cleaners<br />
Hot glue gun & glue<br />
Pencil<br />
Scissors<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_jBrzIRt249u4V6PoRryKUPp1-YbMi5GQZUFXIz9KpbqbIQHEpQYXP1W-i2ZrpmfFhoXjTON9LustrXY8Lswg5ygzOXtUD6gpt5XlHNyLKOpsUq2gvkab_mwpPMlq-zsu0G5TvNlSFs/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_jBrzIRt249u4V6PoRryKUPp1-YbMi5GQZUFXIz9KpbqbIQHEpQYXP1W-i2ZrpmfFhoXjTON9LustrXY8Lswg5ygzOXtUD6gpt5XlHNyLKOpsUq2gvkab_mwpPMlq-zsu0G5TvNlSFs/s320/1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<strong><u>Instructions</u></strong><br />
<ul><li>Pull the hanger/cap off of the ornament. You'll be glueing the pipe cleaner to the inside of the cap.</li>
<li>Decide what you'd like to do with your pipe cleaner. I did mine two different ways. I wrapped one around a pencil and made a simple curl out of it. The other I bent and twisted to make it look like a tree branch. You can easily manipulate them into an form you'd like. </li>
<li>Wrap a tight coil at the top of your piece where you plan to attach it to the cap. this will give you a good place to secure the piece to the glue. </li>
<li>Remember that you must be able to get it through the opening of the ornament. Simply clip any excess pipe cleaner with your scissors.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-7QYITV7bNTwhuG72OmpwOXcIft_AKOLbLhjvbf1qS4t4D5tZqtdPRe8uXaMpQHtdufzn0nPm1ku0-0opAzQuL9_rmV6-sbckKF3dwf-D-tFsiaiK6lniZZ_BOodOIyrDZlrZupO4Y4/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-7QYITV7bNTwhuG72OmpwOXcIft_AKOLbLhjvbf1qS4t4D5tZqtdPRe8uXaMpQHtdufzn0nPm1ku0-0opAzQuL9_rmV6-sbckKF3dwf-D-tFsiaiK6lniZZ_BOodOIyrDZlrZupO4Y4/s320/3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDZA2-MFWKkebAD8NN58A-BkKHgoXGL2_9W72O7brbv5kQ6L655yyZwmVB4ayrTXyGaEyaxuTc6K29exFucyhdLAb06QvLgYG0jqEwCUIVACg480-OEhWIYwTxcYe8G8hJLb-kmEokx4/s1600/10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDZA2-MFWKkebAD8NN58A-BkKHgoXGL2_9W72O7brbv5kQ6L655yyZwmVB4ayrTXyGaEyaxuTc6K29exFucyhdLAb06QvLgYG0jqEwCUIVACg480-OEhWIYwTxcYe8G8hJLb-kmEokx4/s320/10.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The "ball" at the top is my "coil" to attach the piece securely to the cap.</div><ul><li>Take the cap and put a dot of hot glue on the center of the inside. Be sure to use enough glue to sufficiently hold your pipe cleaner. <strong>Be very careful not to get the glue too close to the outside edges of the cap. This will keep the cap from sitting correctly back on top of the ornament.</strong></li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3H5WD8ID-KiOn2myoe93ihube5kQZGG7MD71ej4h5jdA6PVmeLTxl4ZHdpMBzIzB3Oz3bg3Vj5V7G637TGT46xTFteiitxWJKWVKbHDWT3VPl6DkdtCTGkDyKPdO3_T41mEYwNAv_lik/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3H5WD8ID-KiOn2myoe93ihube5kQZGG7MD71ej4h5jdA6PVmeLTxl4ZHdpMBzIzB3Oz3bg3Vj5V7G637TGT46xTFteiitxWJKWVKbHDWT3VPl6DkdtCTGkDyKPdO3_T41mEYwNAv_lik/s320/5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>Once your glue is in place, quickly adhear your pipe cleaner to the cap.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFOLOyrZnUUzhzhbnDy_NKXLBoVf8C8itkL3nhcQFTkaAA9M5nt09HVMdvtCxK8CYA8L1KlbXmXYyPKSQhqYxCN5w9L48PVykzzYRAsfT1SjhF4CDHr09aiMZuTrtYnjcWRcfp8SrVAFU/s1600/6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFOLOyrZnUUzhzhbnDy_NKXLBoVf8C8itkL3nhcQFTkaAA9M5nt09HVMdvtCxK8CYA8L1KlbXmXYyPKSQhqYxCN5w9L48PVykzzYRAsfT1SjhF4CDHr09aiMZuTrtYnjcWRcfp8SrVAFU/s320/6.JPG" width="320" /></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/AVvXsEhFX1fkaCtOLMq4L_udoxwsKiIFRxs5Om6DyIve7qOSVbzyXVyP10-hZ5GbcglzDU79nBTVG-gvfqaEz6ZRTOljq9VjaHVbEwg6NWwLpIAgJynQgc2i2RowmaLbjOmkfdNDmaFbwNxDQsM/s1600/11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFX1fkaCtOLMq4L_udoxwsKiIFRxs5Om6DyIve7qOSVbzyXVyP10-hZ5GbcglzDU79nBTVG-gvfqaEz6ZRTOljq9VjaHVbEwg6NWwLpIAgJynQgc2i2RowmaLbjOmkfdNDmaFbwNxDQsM/s320/11.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>Once your pipe cleaner has had time to dry and attach to the cap, carefully place the cap back onto the ornament...inserting the pipe cleaner first. </li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuc5MuU58yFu-JXUF8wzFa5GnH9UJ2FApWXapDxSPlo7xluaT0SWjPuIGop-Z3z4GMf7r0uBZ1bnB4AeH7eeDSv-YTwihqvuS_sd6mikDAg2DyWlJDnxmGaj1ewuE9CUaTtS8alT1d-g8/s1600/DSC07163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuc5MuU58yFu-JXUF8wzFa5GnH9UJ2FApWXapDxSPlo7xluaT0SWjPuIGop-Z3z4GMf7r0uBZ1bnB4AeH7eeDSv-YTwihqvuS_sd6mikDAg2DyWlJDnxmGaj1ewuE9CUaTtS8alT1d-g8/s320/DSC07163.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhITCi8CD5aa3ubjWmoKlDpSlPJ5HZXUPmAd43AGAqkKq6V92g1lrzXF63EoL9XWr8MlWIcRCyysJnz8iBpOsFuji70ARrmIiQIjGt2GIBGSXdsnnh_gQRZskjAUeHvWoShL39FUmLJfLs/s1600/12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhITCi8CD5aa3ubjWmoKlDpSlPJ5HZXUPmAd43AGAqkKq6V92g1lrzXF63EoL9XWr8MlWIcRCyysJnz8iBpOsFuji70ARrmIiQIjGt2GIBGSXdsnnh_gQRZskjAUeHvWoShL39FUmLJfLs/s320/12.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>I did go one step further on a few of the ornaments and places a ring around the cap using coordinating colored pipe cleaner (shown in the pics at the top). I simply glued it on with the glue gun as well.</li>
</ul>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-44946133224445644112011-12-30T10:37:00.000-06:002011-12-30T10:37:53.327-06:00It's The Most Wonderful Time...To Be Buying For Next YearWow...Talk about a busy Christmas. I'm behind on blogging but back just in time to remind you that this is the best time EVER to be out searching for great buys on next year's holiday decor items. This is the exact time that I begin digging through the messy piles of leftover Christmas decor on the shelves. You can get amazing buys on things at 50% off or more. I rarely ever pay full price for anything that I use to decorate. Often times I start planning next year's color schemes based on new pieces I find on Christmas clearance. I found some cool new ornaments at a very unexpected store...I'll share them with you below.<br />
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I buy very little when it's only 50% off because I'd like a better bargain than that. Waiting for the discount to be higher usually means that the selection has been picked over BUT that's when you find some of them more random/not so traditional items/colors left on the shelf. This is the perfect time to buy something new and different that you normally wouldn't ever think to buy. People often don't ever think outside the box when decorating. Step out and try something new. You'll find lots of great things to use as a starting point because everyone leaves the more unique items behind.<br />
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Here's a perfect example of a great find. A friend invited me to join her on a trip to an outlet mall. She was on a mission to find a new coat so I went along for the ride. We passed by the storefront of Coldwater Creek. This store is primarily a more upscale clothing store for women. We hopped in, hoping she would find a coat. I wasn't aware that they sold much more than clothing but was surprised to find a small shelf that had 50% off Christmas items. Hanging right on the display was a grouping of really cool gold moon and sun ornaments. At half off they were about $1.25 a piece. It was a deal that I couldn't pass up. I usually buy ornament in groups of 3's or 5's but in this case I bought all they had on the shelf.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3kRcSSfbiNg/Tv3mszAOvKI/AAAAAAAAAjk/CQz4WqOnaLQ/s1600/DSC06985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3kRcSSfbiNg/Tv3mszAOvKI/AAAAAAAAAjk/CQz4WqOnaLQ/s400/DSC06985.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I'm never in a hurry to take down Christmas each year and I'll often come home after finding some great new clearance ornaments and put a few up them up. One of these moons made it up onto the mantel to enjoy a little time as part of Christmas 2011...LOL <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8cxZrmP1SZI/Tv3mve30FyI/AAAAAAAAAjs/umLLM6i8Fj4/s1600/DSC06988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8cxZrmP1SZI/Tv3mve30FyI/AAAAAAAAAjs/umLLM6i8Fj4/s400/DSC06988.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you're looking for something new to add to your decor for next year then hurry out and start shopping. I got some great deals while out yesterday. Check your local Kohl's...mine had Christmas 75% off yesterday. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Happy shopping!</div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-90858189792261726382011-12-21T11:52:00.000-06:002011-12-21T11:52:46.163-06:00Christmas 2011 - Jewel Tone BathroomI knew what my plans were for the bathroom way back in January. I purchased everything that I used in there on clearance from KMart after Christmas last year. It was all a part of the Jaqueline Smith line, in colors of gold, hot pink, rose, plum and purple. I purchased quite a bit of what was on the shelf but only used about half of it on this tree. I would guess that what you see in these pics costs about $15-20. Why was all of this great stuff still on the shelf at 80-90% off? Because most people can't imagine how they would use such color combinations.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOM-FbQ11HtBE9Y4v-0j2myHQv2p9bbDTYDMIaCDnpqz1PJ6iWp6G5lcynRaLxAz6vN9oeVevz2q4fTs2bRXTYRNrQHw_PYaQLrHp5Im5SL3FhUfgFyqGPXax-uyCd9EgupF4QM8ay7X8/s1600/DSC06555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOM-FbQ11HtBE9Y4v-0j2myHQv2p9bbDTYDMIaCDnpqz1PJ6iWp6G5lcynRaLxAz6vN9oeVevz2q4fTs2bRXTYRNrQHw_PYaQLrHp5Im5SL3FhUfgFyqGPXax-uyCd9EgupF4QM8ay7X8/s640/DSC06555.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This tree was purchased over ten years ago from Dollar General for about $20.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIOFZYspbPSrz1LHqnBurXTioy661H1zxOxYbO-QF0ieaO0vGKBrJ0j8q7y7kxXI8kIfLOy2aY4Idq-Qoh9a4B-WdTncloSCnPC4nafEHhkaUfqUqJ52MBkS7wUqTy7EVKc9LW5FSDpw/s1600/DSC06556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIOFZYspbPSrz1LHqnBurXTioy661H1zxOxYbO-QF0ieaO0vGKBrJ0j8q7y7kxXI8kIfLOy2aY4Idq-Qoh9a4B-WdTncloSCnPC4nafEHhkaUfqUqJ52MBkS7wUqTy7EVKc9LW5FSDpw/s640/DSC06556.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUpC_zi86MO0JlVootFX0g8lvUKBmGfB9Hta1h5BClYULSA90QLTcp0pU_pHXMjLK3BjjT-wGX6-xF1hoB9iCRaB6-0xqpeGwVhrCsJXuVOlX1omd9WZ8zctc_R4yu0aynQqFopW5G2J4/s1600/DSC06560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUpC_zi86MO0JlVootFX0g8lvUKBmGfB9Hta1h5BClYULSA90QLTcp0pU_pHXMjLK3BjjT-wGX6-xF1hoB9iCRaB6-0xqpeGwVhrCsJXuVOlX1omd9WZ8zctc_R4yu0aynQqFopW5G2J4/s640/DSC06560.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I made the swag over the window (which also hides the cords to the lights) by twisting together left over branches from the tree.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmx6xuVP0HWEGXIxgzi_v1lG6HKxipBNkEIKVTgR6Wmba7eP5cf2l6ym7kE8ftj5-qZKAZ9d7Tee7o-5toiK9Vr8Qa4Jj_GNJuP54vVUcrUxcSGB7By3Pz-8kdfReJ69M3HsYf0KpoP4/s1600/DSC06562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmx6xuVP0HWEGXIxgzi_v1lG6HKxipBNkEIKVTgR6Wmba7eP5cf2l6ym7kE8ftj5-qZKAZ9d7Tee7o-5toiK9Vr8Qa4Jj_GNJuP54vVUcrUxcSGB7By3Pz-8kdfReJ69M3HsYf0KpoP4/s640/DSC06562.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Don't forget to save ornaments while decorating the tree so you can also decorate around the rest of the room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5vWhP71kLaLiRPH-0i5MC-Mmd0YbGJqZK6jiOHMFuwS3HuAjYQ4ocAJE0V-ycNS1ZEj028lSw9IRT40Go6Ydc4J1PJUhePKXt3g32m5gEGAtnrJcBqB2RahxpSYJvv4SmwhiLpjkCy4/s1600/DSC06345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5vWhP71kLaLiRPH-0i5MC-Mmd0YbGJqZK6jiOHMFuwS3HuAjYQ4ocAJE0V-ycNS1ZEj028lSw9IRT40Go6Ydc4J1PJUhePKXt3g32m5gEGAtnrJcBqB2RahxpSYJvv4SmwhiLpjkCy4/s400/DSC06345.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is a matching garland that I purchased with the rest of the set. I took wire cutters and cut of small sections and used them as picks in the tree and garland. I also purchased a matching wreath that I'll use some other year when I use these colors in a larger room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-4589484168032540482011-12-18T13:52:00.000-06:002011-12-18T13:52:22.422-06:00Fill 'Em Up...Easy OrnamentsI am always trying to find ways to create something new without spending a ton of money. I love to use the plain, clear glass ornaments from Hobby Lobby. One year I decided to decorate the inside of the ornament rather than the outside. You can fill these great ornaments with an endless number of things. I was going for the sparkle with these particular ornaments so I filled them with irredescent snow. They are really easy to make and look amazing with the lights from your tree, wreath or garland shining through.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfm81Xj49HxJdnxoV8_u9Jr7Qg_1mGloqj9i1-aX1SrIsL2-U5uzZwoHL18YhmMKqBf_KjJ-nOXZ4UO-ntUo_uk-YgPSNoCT_HUO6E3XC70yj7ffWA_8udKDJfiArj3n8JQp0g-bp79M/s1600/DSC06367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfm81Xj49HxJdnxoV8_u9Jr7Qg_1mGloqj9i1-aX1SrIsL2-U5uzZwoHL18YhmMKqBf_KjJ-nOXZ4UO-ntUo_uk-YgPSNoCT_HUO6E3XC70yj7ffWA_8udKDJfiArj3n8JQp0g-bp79M/s640/DSC06367.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<strong><u>Supplies</u></strong><br />
Clear glass ornaments<br />
Ornament filler<br />
Small funnel<br />
Pen, pencil, long nail, etc. (something to poke filling through)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtDpDWlUVM8awzn5usrj4Zvs36ZDXolhNOhMryjcnwnL2ZFJaplQUBLZ8qzlhxvNtRCapyka17tOM5C9Tbw1xuGGhIm4eywB82JmxFEL4Ob60Np6MXDZGYnoKMOs8vlXj-hQLYpzPczE/s1600/DSC06359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtDpDWlUVM8awzn5usrj4Zvs36ZDXolhNOhMryjcnwnL2ZFJaplQUBLZ8qzlhxvNtRCapyka17tOM5C9Tbw1xuGGhIm4eywB82JmxFEL4Ob60Np6MXDZGYnoKMOs8vlXj-hQLYpzPczE/s320/DSC06359.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<strong><u>Instructions</u></strong><br />
<ul><li>Remove cap from ornament</li>
<li>Insert the funnel into the mouth of the ornament</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpXdtVBFUajAYDalVcHytNyyyenCQz-b637QvO2zB2KLP9xB81x2nBDNSb9gS-vYSUFSrVvpRnbdl-PaGRRG8cKGAWVWlYGx637DJZ-fj7kkv5Jno8U2GONnhGUnedMkmk2Dl88mdJbrw/s1600/DSC06360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpXdtVBFUajAYDalVcHytNyyyenCQz-b637QvO2zB2KLP9xB81x2nBDNSb9gS-vYSUFSrVvpRnbdl-PaGRRG8cKGAWVWlYGx637DJZ-fj7kkv5Jno8U2GONnhGUnedMkmk2Dl88mdJbrw/s320/DSC06360.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>Pour filling into the funnel and down into the ornament. You can fill them as little or as much as you'd like.</li>
<ul><li>You will likely need some sort of utensil (pen, pencil, long nail, etc) to lightly force your filling through the bottom of the funnel and into the ornament</li>
</ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-Brg8lOO-4cstz2PCbPnEhCwhAADrrAZCPIgk1smYM-nw9ygQGtteyhQAKwf_SnT4AdG7goX4uF0YzDDP2qxtCwEt0aVT7KXgRwrzwolFPGrb4EpcceMZ80CqvahDc_RZs54J3ZU1KQ/s1600/DSC06362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-Brg8lOO-4cstz2PCbPnEhCwhAADrrAZCPIgk1smYM-nw9ygQGtteyhQAKwf_SnT4AdG7goX4uF0YzDDP2qxtCwEt0aVT7KXgRwrzwolFPGrb4EpcceMZ80CqvahDc_RZs54J3ZU1KQ/s320/DSC06362.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>Replace the cap and your ornament is ready to hang.</li>
</ul>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-67416301179650315012011-12-13T10:25:00.001-06:002011-12-13T10:25:36.627-06:00Featured CD - Martina McBrideI found a treasure this year as I was digging through the large pile of Christmas CDs that I own. I discovered Martina McBrides Christmas CD titled "White Christmas" in my collection when I started listening to Christmas msuic this year. I know that I remember seeing this CD before but I don't remember ever listening to it. I'm not a huge fan of much country music so that may be why. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepZegN368NYb0Ebk5XnwwnrJVqbt3SZzG_vfMqIKr0r2IJEdw7BY8zpIjWNxddN4tguqvAj2DOd9J5CoZYB8B6vTIj2GAGQbTUXK3vgEgj1iroT4MhCQhhG-SoRJRig2nLTzhTm_Otqc/s1600/martina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepZegN368NYb0Ebk5XnwwnrJVqbt3SZzG_vfMqIKr0r2IJEdw7BY8zpIjWNxddN4tguqvAj2DOd9J5CoZYB8B6vTIj2GAGQbTUXK3vgEgj1iroT4MhCQhhG-SoRJRig2nLTzhTm_Otqc/s320/martina.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Let me just say that I've come to realize that I have been missing out all this time. This CD has become one of my absolute favorites this year. I listened to it over and over in the house while I was working around on projects. Then I took it to work and ripped it to my computer to listen to it then. After that, it mades it's way to the car where it's been playing ever since.<br />
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I love the song "Silver Bells" and it's not one that many artists put on their CD's. It is on this CD and is one of the songs that I play over and over. I'm extremely glad that I accidentally started listening to this CD this year.<br />
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You can sample and buy this CD at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/White-Christmas-Martina-Mcbride/dp/B00001NFHH/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1323792369&sr=8-4" target="_blank">Amazon.</a>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-36033505475616832522011-12-12T07:36:00.000-06:002011-12-12T07:36:39.140-06:00Christmas 2011 - KrinklesI've blogged about Krinkles by Patience Brewster and the AMAZING Krinkle tree that I own. I like to keep things mixed up every year so I don't use the Krinkles every year. I haven't had them out in a few years and some people had been asking about them so this year is a Krinkle year. I own a large variety of Krinkles but don't display all of them. Here are some of the pics of the pieces that I used in this year's music room decor. There are more but I'll save those for later.<br />
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I apologize for posting such big pictures. I wanted to be sure you could see the detail of these fun ornaments.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhEL_197sn37aOmB4xCPwhG2D461YhJLA5I807YwH9m5IcKRvSw5feX3mrK_zlsH9n9E7-SFrMM3Nxzjp33oeaqKdLuyv3gCIRzoTALAIexCJoj0tYRtMJI7I9eC5v4RygHcDZ9WZDJQ/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhEL_197sn37aOmB4xCPwhG2D461YhJLA5I807YwH9m5IcKRvSw5feX3mrK_zlsH9n9E7-SFrMM3Nxzjp33oeaqKdLuyv3gCIRzoTALAIexCJoj0tYRtMJI7I9eC5v4RygHcDZ9WZDJQ/s640/1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG_wLLtkSZFS7upcPgPeOGdqgOkDIBeQx6LflMiY4CYurHUxRl_4xrI2phO_XdwvNYsxffbyrLf6r1VvbzH1K1Rgk37P1LksE_B-sqxHrgvrW2rHN66RknWjttp-OqM4MaKrZXnwGS1h4/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG_wLLtkSZFS7upcPgPeOGdqgOkDIBeQx6LflMiY4CYurHUxRl_4xrI2phO_XdwvNYsxffbyrLf6r1VvbzH1K1Rgk37P1LksE_B-sqxHrgvrW2rHN66RknWjttp-OqM4MaKrZXnwGS1h4/s640/2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiCd9iPHSSG2KigSoseQLNDgdL5oZbkbL3TgO7nSmg4plVIq7RYdAvghGB24dIb4FKBiwQ_8zOJBNbtnklF4DhrFANfMlHlG5MMk6cqRYPdK56LmOKahruG_3SM8lwL11mF0XYNzibbys/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiCd9iPHSSG2KigSoseQLNDgdL5oZbkbL3TgO7nSmg4plVIq7RYdAvghGB24dIb4FKBiwQ_8zOJBNbtnklF4DhrFANfMlHlG5MMk6cqRYPdK56LmOKahruG_3SM8lwL11mF0XYNzibbys/s640/3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3ZW_e8sEbEFxp3N-L-SYGx8aMybdTRnyiQ5Pl1X_Zf3q7KOQkFypIpTwzOE64fv2TvQ5hv2BR0DloVC90nn_a9XFfRdXmV2NsXYyORyOY-xzmMGPyXDe6haP1ecpx_Z2ztYmFgGv-F8/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3ZW_e8sEbEFxp3N-L-SYGx8aMybdTRnyiQ5Pl1X_Zf3q7KOQkFypIpTwzOE64fv2TvQ5hv2BR0DloVC90nn_a9XFfRdXmV2NsXYyORyOY-xzmMGPyXDe6haP1ecpx_Z2ztYmFgGv-F8/s640/4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are the cute cake plates I had blogged about earlier. They may great platforms to display some of my collection. Aren't they adorable with the little shoes?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJrdXX-7nnDVPNcQdTxYt-DgAFMkcOgQSJZ5JwYDPSCGiEPqt5BRIENNIwfTICyY2SsmTLecXOe7eIe-TXDm1Y6mv80aUkNG2_6tqswjKYNzL1LCezSE6vaggGsbyMElD5W2uuQfjg3M/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJrdXX-7nnDVPNcQdTxYt-DgAFMkcOgQSJZ5JwYDPSCGiEPqt5BRIENNIwfTICyY2SsmTLecXOe7eIe-TXDm1Y6mv80aUkNG2_6tqswjKYNzL1LCezSE6vaggGsbyMElD5W2uuQfjg3M/s640/5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I love these little ornament people. They are new for me this year. I think they're perfect on this long serving tray.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-18bfg-1_nXjmv5pzf6a3DcNjZdOqOGsdAhh2n7kCclLbX26LxVfP_C3Uz0AOjweBKA8MamHRrouJ3ShIjzKhylwdwifNo_Q2LfWgTp3a3uPS_P5Kdl41W-jTTOr8tuIhUweIHHi4Y9o/s1600/7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-18bfg-1_nXjmv5pzf6a3DcNjZdOqOGsdAhh2n7kCclLbX26LxVfP_C3Uz0AOjweBKA8MamHRrouJ3ShIjzKhylwdwifNo_Q2LfWgTp3a3uPS_P5Kdl41W-jTTOr8tuIhUweIHHi4Y9o/s640/7.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Krinkle drum table and shelf. The shelf has a cute head along with arms and legs. I decided not to use the entire shelf this year.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvtYCRIDe7zqbG5_mlK5QBImfIa2dywCFh6ro4v3ZwndhzSY71Kdl-nB6Z-gtkhRJSs63Za6j8xyFTX5f-Dbp7Qi51ADFODCkSAjDufJdI-eppk28TuicyKo_pAIX-yqxHkI4cg8O9Lg/s1600/8.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvtYCRIDe7zqbG5_mlK5QBImfIa2dywCFh6ro4v3ZwndhzSY71Kdl-nB6Z-gtkhRJSs63Za6j8xyFTX5f-Dbp7Qi51ADFODCkSAjDufJdI-eppk28TuicyKo_pAIX-yqxHkI4cg8O9Lg/s640/8.5.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This display piece was inspired by one of the first ornaments produced by Department 56. I've owned the table for some years now but the ornament was long retired when I purchased it. I was very lucky to find the ornament on eBay this year and added it to my collection.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2-tp8TZ8o43_MUYB2OJS125DPMFjPKc6XS0dtasmrwT_oBaz2yjDTqkd0McrMktmQzPxSC-t8dvKMjo1akiXnyc3PH2Hw9tas7gB5Jud8u36Cbi_22bChUtVcg1TTSu28Yq334gWiDA/s1600/20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2-tp8TZ8o43_MUYB2OJS125DPMFjPKc6XS0dtasmrwT_oBaz2yjDTqkd0McrMktmQzPxSC-t8dvKMjo1akiXnyc3PH2Hw9tas7gB5Jud8u36Cbi_22bChUtVcg1TTSu28Yq334gWiDA/s640/20.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Isn't he cute? LOL</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlCx-n6bE0iJcKN0xbo32OpyRhcjFt8cWRY-uKOd7GAZLUgP2wYLc2OUZbSgUpmyj8Sx2SGYrMPtFxNSXfG1SSR4qSPfbEuxBMHI6qMJ9WVdLjR_OGphGiwK2FHrJQNcWGMWyO0HSIO4/s1600/9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlCx-n6bE0iJcKN0xbo32OpyRhcjFt8cWRY-uKOd7GAZLUgP2wYLc2OUZbSgUpmyj8Sx2SGYrMPtFxNSXfG1SSR4qSPfbEuxBMHI6qMJ9WVdLjR_OGphGiwK2FHrJQNcWGMWyO0HSIO4/s640/9.JPG" width="640" /></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/AVvXsEiB-rGyw-pdUHsMXV-Wr6_Iel3UHN0xwhtKYSmtLxYTJnT6tZQy96iUsaCqsXAHy6CJrbVhs0p_LRKrfNNDQo86-pXLQAF4kBW3fYgCHuZYz_mze5fJmhWAes9SGgi-Y0l5ZKAGIXvneEM/s1600/12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-rGyw-pdUHsMXV-Wr6_Iel3UHN0xwhtKYSmtLxYTJnT6tZQy96iUsaCqsXAHy6CJrbVhs0p_LRKrfNNDQo86-pXLQAF4kBW3fYgCHuZYz_mze5fJmhWAes9SGgi-Y0l5ZKAGIXvneEM/s640/12.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Close ups of the Krinkle tree.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_TpTkIU8Ooi4rrTWe2vSHTcNDuQMxQ8ZL_ooDBgEti-cMPIcQTIJ0FFcqziAJaWTVuWH1kk0CxpNsnofvSSz55DpAOAtbAeU61r9ZUdr8fZuM8T-IGUe2wS_TtFQOTzpVnphTZzZjGc/s1600/13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_TpTkIU8Ooi4rrTWe2vSHTcNDuQMxQ8ZL_ooDBgEti-cMPIcQTIJ0FFcqziAJaWTVuWH1kk0CxpNsnofvSSz55DpAOAtbAeU61r9ZUdr8fZuM8T-IGUe2wS_TtFQOTzpVnphTZzZjGc/s640/13.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Close ups of the Krinkle tree</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8PhNBA3XMISpCc1M23yL5QFkc3nq53RC-Qh8O_-adY-pnHYAnLyVZk_HLey2Ii16ryz61Q5PBbz3XScue3G_IlmXEe_vvdBkv4iDA33YVa26AXTLV9yfcDV2BiNnvE7pYwhFbwxNsx0/s1600/14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8PhNBA3XMISpCc1M23yL5QFkc3nq53RC-Qh8O_-adY-pnHYAnLyVZk_HLey2Ii16ryz61Q5PBbz3XScue3G_IlmXEe_vvdBkv4iDA33YVa26AXTLV9yfcDV2BiNnvE7pYwhFbwxNsx0/s640/14.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Close ups of the Krinkle tree. Notice the cute shoes!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-szmxeSYW2tROy8B6BKY7sCRVFVUadzKxL1bcqLQQjfwrE8cXu4o9v2oNqDeLJNDq8FQk3dZc-kGilUhLddT_kL-d0ZKNrO5DFtTeO25FfTVJd716k7xHsrw5fXgFuiRkyic726Jz_8/s1600/15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-szmxeSYW2tROy8B6BKY7sCRVFVUadzKxL1bcqLQQjfwrE8cXu4o9v2oNqDeLJNDq8FQk3dZc-kGilUhLddT_kL-d0ZKNrO5DFtTeO25FfTVJd716k7xHsrw5fXgFuiRkyic726Jz_8/s640/15.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Close ups of the Krinkle tree. Notice the cute shoes!</div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-10159676999679102642011-12-11T03:00:00.001-06:002011-12-11T03:00:09.267-06:00Christmas 2011 - Black & White BedroomMy bedroom has been painted five different times since I've owned my house. There wasn't a white room in the house until three years ago. After four other color schemes had graced the bedroom walls, I caved and painted white just to be different. I love it and haven't touched it since. The first year I did all clear glass and last year the tree itself was black (to compliment the new black crystal chandelier) with clear glass and silver. <br />
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This year I went with my chandelier tree (upside down that hangs freely from the ceiling) with everything black and white. I used feathers in this room. I'll blog later on how to incorporate them into your holiday decor. Enjoy this year's Black & White bedroom! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eYTbvL1FXUQphO9kV4ri76TOR-u9Ps448FQp77zOfl4Y6LE647dtzTk77UVTs1DCJbTg9dW1rlDx_xNgvt8pdelEbz9TyOKe197RM28FpJhGjdyeHG8_9dk9Rv8JFY8dWAwXTYb414k/s1600/DSC06539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eYTbvL1FXUQphO9kV4ri76TOR-u9Ps448FQp77zOfl4Y6LE647dtzTk77UVTs1DCJbTg9dW1rlDx_xNgvt8pdelEbz9TyOKe197RM28FpJhGjdyeHG8_9dk9Rv8JFY8dWAwXTYb414k/s400/DSC06539.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Upside down tree, suspended from the ceiling to compliment the chandelier.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGxl9TvGbODcbWvVIo-VP-YYAS5PoIaL9v3TsERegLD-3X4gxYTU9hUL9xbGjVjZOJPxQXqLXl6RQ5WyLLVcuDM7GtCMuQrwvdfDWsWFrY8mdpKIoUh4IEM-XmD-zkSESWiaUdkJobpY/s1600/DSC06542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGxl9TvGbODcbWvVIo-VP-YYAS5PoIaL9v3TsERegLD-3X4gxYTU9hUL9xbGjVjZOJPxQXqLXl6RQ5WyLLVcuDM7GtCMuQrwvdfDWsWFrY8mdpKIoUh4IEM-XmD-zkSESWiaUdkJobpY/s400/DSC06542.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I added wreaths and ornaments, hung with ribbon in my empty frames.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl1a2fZ4_lZk6dNfFBDINkn6fHHGIl1Tx_Oe0uPsyre7hE0sx3kdPrM8oWEcl0q_JtW0E2OKsmSNU2kQy-oySlAMhrMNJsRMWFSWtE1n1rD7uaqi6ZSYDvMJyUBx_ELA_NrFiJQ6rVGS8/s1600/DSC06543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl1a2fZ4_lZk6dNfFBDINkn6fHHGIl1Tx_Oe0uPsyre7hE0sx3kdPrM8oWEcl0q_JtW0E2OKsmSNU2kQy-oySlAMhrMNJsRMWFSWtE1n1rD7uaqi6ZSYDvMJyUBx_ELA_NrFiJQ6rVGS8/s400/DSC06543.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LnxX9TnTEN9nhI8ZSKkP7pPVV0nZGUrHOcRQkLieWxeD_QXy3OMy3_ktQ872RAoiw3xDhKwX3P2f13CPcbwQL3t4RmbVfbSOtbldzT6Xbs1DY10fbEMlBmpq5cIyCC7UKDwcnRWGyYQ/s1600/DSC06545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LnxX9TnTEN9nhI8ZSKkP7pPVV0nZGUrHOcRQkLieWxeD_QXy3OMy3_ktQ872RAoiw3xDhKwX3P2f13CPcbwQL3t4RmbVfbSOtbldzT6Xbs1DY10fbEMlBmpq5cIyCC7UKDwcnRWGyYQ/s400/DSC06545.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Beads can be used in a different way when on an upside down tree. Because they hang freely, I often hang them in single strands, downward instead of swagging from branch to branch.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiD-jty_9GvkJaYlOD4sCFtzL5b04LIhFilkvGVkPd_grAGm1Hzbt3Ltb8CNxl4fFtJKmB05R3Y_qS4WvKutVL2xPqel_dhbW0FDgYYGgRg61RWQlLVA2apRyzGbXH_sW5xcieTTh0X1Q/s1600/DSC06546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiD-jty_9GvkJaYlOD4sCFtzL5b04LIhFilkvGVkPd_grAGm1Hzbt3Ltb8CNxl4fFtJKmB05R3Y_qS4WvKutVL2xPqel_dhbW0FDgYYGgRg61RWQlLVA2apRyzGbXH_sW5xcieTTh0X1Q/s400/DSC06546.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7nrAbJokHFSWSKCFXw2NRcJaiYgXXtQqkgfDkH16j4lfJ7lv2uN6eOg6lHHD3q7QHePYUj-dnbVfjGMqVgEn1eDibge2Wg0PJ8hI5FDYqzQCFHeTHEmXqvI2H-DKuXkGeYZxhzNU_1g/s1600/DSC06548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7nrAbJokHFSWSKCFXw2NRcJaiYgXXtQqkgfDkH16j4lfJ7lv2uN6eOg6lHHD3q7QHePYUj-dnbVfjGMqVgEn1eDibge2Wg0PJ8hI5FDYqzQCFHeTHEmXqvI2H-DKuXkGeYZxhzNU_1g/s400/DSC06548.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNKsi3UNgTqnEaH5CijVVYR_XLDgex_YLyVMmjV3gNegm077aOtl6sjQq9w4aZ2nS5fL3DKihLjJNSu0F9HR9fgJq6QJ0AcEWoUw3kWxjkvT_7452OvzHegJ8g5p4S1rCvJedtNXGeXGw/s1600/DSC06552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNKsi3UNgTqnEaH5CijVVYR_XLDgex_YLyVMmjV3gNegm077aOtl6sjQq9w4aZ2nS5fL3DKihLjJNSu0F9HR9fgJq6QJ0AcEWoUw3kWxjkvT_7452OvzHegJ8g5p4S1rCvJedtNXGeXGw/s400/DSC06552.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-68191721364772578752011-12-07T12:35:00.000-06:002011-12-07T12:35:43.530-06:00Decorate With Memories<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnivRV8sOFzobOJLaUaP5histBCoFYt4ei8QcdrdW2Gu12TGVt5HjWc_1b0jKXwGcO6kr4swBpEtC5VC3pFaEaJ2SbVY6PVUq_EdeS0zZMfFSu7YWJ_k2-xBrRL4YZI1uEFVg8iSaCbpQ/s1600/DSC06180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnivRV8sOFzobOJLaUaP5histBCoFYt4ei8QcdrdW2Gu12TGVt5HjWc_1b0jKXwGcO6kr4swBpEtC5VC3pFaEaJ2SbVY6PVUq_EdeS0zZMfFSu7YWJ_k2-xBrRL4YZI1uEFVg8iSaCbpQ/s200/DSC06180.JPG" width="150" /></a>Several years ago I was surfing around eBay for Christmas decorations and ran across something very close to my heart. I found a box of vintage ornaments that had about six blue glass bells in it. My eyes teared up because there was something very significant about those particular ornaments. I was instantly reminded that my grandma once had these same blue bells. I was suddenly flooded with memories...things that hadn't crossed my mind in years.<br />
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As a kid I would help my grandma put up all of her Christmas decorations. She and I were very close and had the most amazing relationship. It hadn't been all that long before this eBay find that she had passed away. All of the sudden, something as simple as an ornament from the past had stirred my heart. Of course I paid whatever price necessary to win that box of blue bell ornaments. That began a new love for me...vintage ornaments.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBRNDJkoW9FOviQ12gSL24hyNOSm5tP6VRZ6G_3ERdXQWMBUvx6AvSbWXsXuH77Ol2mS7cu8GJafRLhjmH-02EOYw1xxFtSlF0FgzSlNIVYAJCmMcjYDkn6sXcLl3TaLTBKM5Mh5eG-sg/s1600/grandma1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBRNDJkoW9FOviQ12gSL24hyNOSm5tP6VRZ6G_3ERdXQWMBUvx6AvSbWXsXuH77Ol2mS7cu8GJafRLhjmH-02EOYw1xxFtSlF0FgzSlNIVYAJCmMcjYDkn6sXcLl3TaLTBKM5Mh5eG-sg/s400/grandma1.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My tree...Just like grandma's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>That year I was determined to recreate grandma's tree in one of my rooms. With a little help from my mom I was able to find a picture from years back with grandma's tree in the background. I went on another eBay shopping quest and was lucky to find nearly every component of her tree...even down to the satin wrapped ornaments that ALWAYS came unwrapped. <br />
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I accessorised the room with other reclaimed Christmas items from my childhood. It was a pretty amazing room...if to no one else but myself. Standing there, gazing upon that tree was almost like sharing one more Christmas with grandma.<br />
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From that year forward I have placed one blue bell somewhere throughout most rooms in my house...whether is matches the rest of the decor or not (which if you know me you know that is against anything I'd normally ever do...LOL). In fact, there are a couple rooms where you'll find that special bell hanging all year round. It serves as a wonderful reminder of someone I love and miss so much.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGlcdYvzGfoKRkTOZVT5DzATlxLltyOCiOC8DKM6i7PYORKnMoDIPfiJSB2fO68d9zbzRhIs-TNVxWxzTO1cgEqh0Xkbcm9HRJmPq7D4wq6ToJICYRSZ9NdNhDqcd9ruUl8eUEyajXHQ/s1600/grandma+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGlcdYvzGfoKRkTOZVT5DzATlxLltyOCiOC8DKM6i7PYORKnMoDIPfiJSB2fO68d9zbzRhIs-TNVxWxzTO1cgEqh0Xkbcm9HRJmPq7D4wq6ToJICYRSZ9NdNhDqcd9ruUl8eUEyajXHQ/s640/grandma+collage.jpg" width="615" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-80966735821404693582011-12-05T04:29:00.000-06:002011-12-05T04:29:53.193-06:00Christmas 2011 - Silver & Gold Living RoomMy Open House has come and gone so now it's fair game to post pics of the house. I'll post each room in a seperate post. These pics are of my living room. I went with a gold and silver color palette and added in some handmade ornaments made from sheet music. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOQjvdxxSCzpGT1So0LhtdyoJI_wDmgIK2IxmJs5hp2SJlD_MaCQEg_Bc0sGn79iYtFSOe2TRvg0kZS3Wvkkdik_5sBPVnyR4OODK5eZ5ebX-wxHGUa2aJCZRfCvG11GxNoHoQHF1iZU/s1600/DSC06522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOQjvdxxSCzpGT1So0LhtdyoJI_wDmgIK2IxmJs5hp2SJlD_MaCQEg_Bc0sGn79iYtFSOe2TRvg0kZS3Wvkkdik_5sBPVnyR4OODK5eZ5ebX-wxHGUa2aJCZRfCvG11GxNoHoQHF1iZU/s400/DSC06522.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The tree is the new Jim Shore display tree that I purchased this year on eBay. I love the individual rings that allow you to see through. I placed ornaments inside the tree, hanging from the spokes of each ring.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TeOfp_tOeLCOoSXX5TtG-rHqvKQM7RZhcENS8aR6eCVy877cX3siThh2XOiRyI_IWpC9LuiUV_FWx4_Muz5v8fo2avkxM3DH3gLtt22xwV3mcZSuPsdRkee4FWzzGYAb2yq4gTOabmQ/s1600/DSC06523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TeOfp_tOeLCOoSXX5TtG-rHqvKQM7RZhcENS8aR6eCVy877cX3siThh2XOiRyI_IWpC9LuiUV_FWx4_Muz5v8fo2avkxM3DH3gLtt22xwV3mcZSuPsdRkee4FWzzGYAb2yq4gTOabmQ/s400/DSC06523.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The pine spray above the round mirror was made by piecing together branches from an old artificial tree.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWSJaQQdTFp4pvtw3oPUdCadiGYA2b33XuDsXntdPYAEiGl89H17XgxswQa5UWXmhJiOv1mVPpGfnjzX0R9vZ_Q5xOs_rhIsOJ2vUbUJeXngEvqW0OlFEoEYgahBB4Mw87GP1Pokh3oY/s1600/DSC06524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWSJaQQdTFp4pvtw3oPUdCadiGYA2b33XuDsXntdPYAEiGl89H17XgxswQa5UWXmhJiOv1mVPpGfnjzX0R9vZ_Q5xOs_rhIsOJ2vUbUJeXngEvqW0OlFEoEYgahBB4Mw87GP1Pokh3oY/s400/DSC06524.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbN5PB0g4a-4vG9W1eF7A14d51crcCBtOMb6jNs803nLfInl4A8HURdp8SdPrTvAwRhyhR8x527XSPE0dr74j_tOLrTe223N7xafwiYWKciCfjqMm9uzen_od5iHClYHy0jshdI95ytk/s1600/DSC06529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbN5PB0g4a-4vG9W1eF7A14d51crcCBtOMb6jNs803nLfInl4A8HURdp8SdPrTvAwRhyhR8x527XSPE0dr74j_tOLrTe223N7xafwiYWKciCfjqMm9uzen_od5iHClYHy0jshdI95ytk/s400/DSC06529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Notice all the gold picture frame thoughout the room. Most belonged to my aunt. I saved them from being put into an auction when she passed away. Places like Goodwill and Salvation Army are great places to find similiar things. Pitch the picture and save the frame.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjoLGlSHKuz8icwHn95LFd1HcVulUvYJqmDEjyS4MZmSqgluU9UwrTWiItM3WKTB3hbwqrLRymqRYNBUnbQ0bJXp8tJGsjL6P_pN9NxHW2BC9r1-H2w1Te_Pa1pHQDAXJnJImdnURCBM/s1600/DSC06530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjoLGlSHKuz8icwHn95LFd1HcVulUvYJqmDEjyS4MZmSqgluU9UwrTWiItM3WKTB3hbwqrLRymqRYNBUnbQ0bJXp8tJGsjL6P_pN9NxHW2BC9r1-H2w1Te_Pa1pHQDAXJnJImdnURCBM/s400/DSC06530.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPf32EyU0aJnITfi9b-UOAUnXzGtk_GOC5vJdAfnu2IoHHUE2AF8XIKXmF-rKd4TidfHyGlFvaMRDiHqgpUbpT7Sg-iN4_SEBralyOU9c8fT_OhESoeL3ZsKnqJJ4wqb84qXTrDbx304/s1600/DSC06532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPf32EyU0aJnITfi9b-UOAUnXzGtk_GOC5vJdAfnu2IoHHUE2AF8XIKXmF-rKd4TidfHyGlFvaMRDiHqgpUbpT7Sg-iN4_SEBralyOU9c8fT_OhESoeL3ZsKnqJJ4wqb84qXTrDbx304/s400/DSC06532.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The large cardboard books and paper light up church were great finds at my local Marshall's and TJ Max. Those are usually things you can find on the shelves on clearance after Christmas.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOVZATb55zH9a4tER-g6C3vl7QfC5BYwl3sHcxQkyQUWs0dQZFPYzb7gEwk1NRR2ULpgZUwm_YlFC7HR0ADJqQtzhUNrXKqi8dr1LCbXXVcq4ICyo4Z64IqnzE6t67u1bxGopmW40qbs/s1600/DSC06711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOVZATb55zH9a4tER-g6C3vl7QfC5BYwl3sHcxQkyQUWs0dQZFPYzb7gEwk1NRR2ULpgZUwm_YlFC7HR0ADJqQtzhUNrXKqi8dr1LCbXXVcq4ICyo4Z64IqnzE6t67u1bxGopmW40qbs/s400/DSC06711.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love this piece. It is a greenhouse made from a reclaimed window.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZHXmhixfCtZAI9bik3hDYCunE2GQBtZegoufaQxUnElzBtX4AQlRw5xSfIR1u9-eQOzltRw3SbUZ1ea1IZVxkJBEqF6-1PciKprhx4cPFDhSC-D78PNtqoA-VyYLEJqlBVV3xyQaf4Es/s1600/DSC06713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZHXmhixfCtZAI9bik3hDYCunE2GQBtZegoufaQxUnElzBtX4AQlRw5xSfIR1u9-eQOzltRw3SbUZ1ea1IZVxkJBEqF6-1PciKprhx4cPFDhSC-D78PNtqoA-VyYLEJqlBVV3xyQaf4Es/s400/DSC06713.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I slid a dowel rod through the top and then used curling ribbon to tie and hang ornaments.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgrFWT_jBfNJIXODdvR5V88QHxQRm3c-IlreBvqGwJ3NL2LCHFb-Xt9i4GSTO2wYvY4hPV073_mkHVVlzIFeYRJS3kjFengLQcOmytYYmyb9_lbhxOOISRRx0mxK4FNtxzBPDPppZg90/s1600/DSC06714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgrFWT_jBfNJIXODdvR5V88QHxQRm3c-IlreBvqGwJ3NL2LCHFb-Xt9i4GSTO2wYvY4hPV073_mkHVVlzIFeYRJS3kjFengLQcOmytYYmyb9_lbhxOOISRRx0mxK4FNtxzBPDPppZg90/s400/DSC06714.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Mi-sPE2KNbFHS65dwS9eZjrXvgOk-74mu6p2cwUhnrOKnFKpIE2QvMVMbjAu3NzcLc5oJDUGxudVBTDyWJ2C_g4OC7kGOwSGMkK1aMSlzNo5kDzcfe1CY7pwg6edqmXWoX-3r-C8zAQ/s1600/DSC06715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Mi-sPE2KNbFHS65dwS9eZjrXvgOk-74mu6p2cwUhnrOKnFKpIE2QvMVMbjAu3NzcLc5oJDUGxudVBTDyWJ2C_g4OC7kGOwSGMkK1aMSlzNo5kDzcfe1CY7pwg6edqmXWoX-3r-C8zAQ/s400/DSC06715.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4IkFBerDDoiPJKeew3n5lD7t5nwUtC97ru-wIpPUiCxK3wrkDZ9V_8pR88i8AU_c4Z4CsXBZ2T3XpHTF31TIs9ewLpQ8knJL_haeyNySIz8qnDWfzsMmqctV0XOyuP-D1B3qTrUm5WE/s1600/DSC06716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4IkFBerDDoiPJKeew3n5lD7t5nwUtC97ru-wIpPUiCxK3wrkDZ9V_8pR88i8AU_c4Z4CsXBZ2T3XpHTF31TIs9ewLpQ8knJL_haeyNySIz8qnDWfzsMmqctV0XOyuP-D1B3qTrUm5WE/s400/DSC06716.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82BHi6607Bl1b0uX2yOSrLg8ANZRZL-HIfDwbeJJdESvaTXojqMPe5kK8ZsEZp3zd6szHb8gHj0gAaDmjOjFoX_py9ogfCqKhH1vnYSGc8HhzI5ONf054zq-0hanvD_PK9SgsaQtXOWM/s1600/DSC06717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82BHi6607Bl1b0uX2yOSrLg8ANZRZL-HIfDwbeJJdESvaTXojqMPe5kK8ZsEZp3zd6szHb8gHj0gAaDmjOjFoX_py9ogfCqKhH1vnYSGc8HhzI5ONf054zq-0hanvD_PK9SgsaQtXOWM/s400/DSC06717.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I always decorate above my windows in the living room. Notice the large ornaments hanging from beads. Most people are afraid to purchase such big pieces but they are great when used in the right places. These particular ornaments were purchased at Menards after Christmas a few years ago. They were probably about $2.00 a piece.</div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-88035778697101139712011-11-30T23:59:00.001-06:002011-12-01T00:01:34.116-06:00Christmas Krinkles: TablewareOver the years the Krinkles line has evolved beyond just ornaments. You can also purchase things like embroidered tea towels, trinket boxes, stockings, etc. Also a part of the Krinkles line is are really fun tableware. There are some fun ceramic pieces that feature the typical Krinkle high heal shoes as the base. A few of the pieces that I have fallen in love with are the cake plates, serving trays and cupcake holders. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Us426pe_hjr_3nJRGYmXFFzZNOhALypkyKdqFqhz8GE9XRHieDRGhpkZgnjKjgVtRn9RZMps_naB4Vlqv1D2eDnfk8PSWSDcV2B003vL2vQ8untUlPo7mxoo8LK85_bIfI6QsX96KF8/s1600/krinkles+cake+plates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Us426pe_hjr_3nJRGYmXFFzZNOhALypkyKdqFqhz8GE9XRHieDRGhpkZgnjKjgVtRn9RZMps_naB4Vlqv1D2eDnfk8PSWSDcV2B003vL2vQ8untUlPo7mxoo8LK85_bIfI6QsX96KF8/s400/krinkles+cake+plates.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMA9-0xYsRydsb_08OCkLDoQtGp5KZWs8S_w9iKheVobg-oDt0aHI8b7NR8AALgWcvwzJ_rp91Vq5O70jiujkqCke7MT7CECltUYd3YymIFOH7n3MTeI8JlpmtwJN1HxY8J5ADGQz51s/s1600/krinkles-cupcakeholder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMA9-0xYsRydsb_08OCkLDoQtGp5KZWs8S_w9iKheVobg-oDt0aHI8b7NR8AALgWcvwzJ_rp91Vq5O70jiujkqCke7MT7CECltUYd3YymIFOH7n3MTeI8JlpmtwJN1HxY8J5ADGQz51s/s400/krinkles-cupcakeholder.jpg" width="332" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cupcake Holders</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I will likely never use these to serve food but will use them to decorate in a heartbeart. <br />
I rotate my design schemes each year and only pull out a mix of the Krinkles every few years. This happens to be one of those years. I plan on using my cake plates as the platform to display other Krinkle pieces. Check back after my December 2nd open house to see pics of my cake plates in action.<br />
<br />
While some of these pieces are retired, others can be purchased from places like <a href="http://www.angelicdreamz.com/" target="_blank">Angelic Dreamz</a>, <a href="http://www.grandinroad.com/" target="_blank">Grandin Road</a> and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/" target="_blank">eBay</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09aOFVuObVp309Dd_XP32IXeksxFchQQO1eNguN0M-2v9VUPJRw-kmQ_V6I6uOMS8nTCJEKfWVFa6CLV0oRBN2Bo2pf2DWj0M2Wg3Jyy-q6LCrPofY447_ITRkW_0GJY6bqTOZfAsDU4/s1600/salt+pepper+combo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09aOFVuObVp309Dd_XP32IXeksxFchQQO1eNguN0M-2v9VUPJRw-kmQ_V6I6uOMS8nTCJEKfWVFa6CLV0oRBN2Bo2pf2DWj0M2Wg3Jyy-q6LCrPofY447_ITRkW_0GJY6bqTOZfAsDU4/s400/salt+pepper+combo.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><div align="center">Salt & Pepper Shakers</div><div align="center"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintr8S8napaTB7pN1MUo1R6rN2KZTSY39E-dqKT5i4fwzFPIFoZztCcl8uZcj8P9FxeHxkt6bxRMWiXK_fh9LH709fCt0yQNYm6hgzMA1iM7ErSwBSDcbrZgHawxeSZEyYP0WA7ZpuW3w/s1600/cake+duo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintr8S8napaTB7pN1MUo1R6rN2KZTSY39E-dqKT5i4fwzFPIFoZztCcl8uZcj8P9FxeHxkt6bxRMWiXK_fh9LH709fCt0yQNYm6hgzMA1iM7ErSwBSDcbrZgHawxeSZEyYP0WA7ZpuW3w/s400/cake+duo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-45831605242595661322011-11-28T23:08:00.000-06:002011-11-28T23:08:51.645-06:00How Many Lights Should You Use?Striking a balance between the size of your tree and the number of lights is important. Part of the charm associated with Christmas trees comes from the glow of the lights. A tree with too few lights can seem bare and underwhelming. It is said that as a general rule, you should have at least 50 lights per foot of tree.<br />
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Here is a breakdown of what might be considered adequate for specific tree heights.<br />
<br />
<strong>Tree Height Number of Bulbs</strong><br />
2 feet 100-150<br />
3 feet 150-250<br />
4 feet 200-350<br />
6 feet 300-450<br />
7 feet 350-550<br />
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I personally like to error on the side of having more than I need as opposed to having too few. I'm not known to do anything halfway so on my trees, the more lights the better.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvoPeKzUr9Pfmrt8ke364Ca8pk_VdqEbVKFGQcAVL3E_bSs2WCCmy2P2IdOH1j8LtaUakgFa_2947LSoWaC33Dqk0r69gCkBmd5GjJAW5Pkr5j8YjWcD99ymhXgFbXeOgHCKzGckbYuYY/s1600/lights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvoPeKzUr9Pfmrt8ke364Ca8pk_VdqEbVKFGQcAVL3E_bSs2WCCmy2P2IdOH1j8LtaUakgFa_2947LSoWaC33Dqk0r69gCkBmd5GjJAW5Pkr5j8YjWcD99ymhXgFbXeOgHCKzGckbYuYY/s320/lights.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-12095158962680059992011-11-27T08:57:00.000-06:002011-11-27T08:57:23.434-06:00How To Choose The Right TreeThe long standing tradition of going out and cutting down your own Christmas tree is likely a thing of the past for most households. The convenience and savings of using an artificial tree has changed that tradition. I do not use live trees because of both allergy issues and difficulty keeping the tree in good shape for the long span of time my decor is up. Here are a few things to consider if you decide to use a real tree.<br />
Tree Size<br />
<ul><li>Determine where you will place your tree before shopping. Measure the height of the space to know how much room you have to work with.</li>
<li>If you don't know the height of your space, buy taller than you think you may need. You can always trim back the top or cut back on the bottom.</li>
<li>If your planning to place your tree in a window, it's a good idea to measure the width. This way you can purchase a tree that fits the proportions of the window.</li>
</ul>Tree Quality<br />
<ul><li>Be sure to check that your tree is fresh. Signs of a tree that is already drying out are simple to spot. It's a bad sign if the tree is already loosing a large amount of needles. You can also bend on the bottom branches to see if it's flexible. If they are dry and break, the tree isn't all that fresh.</li>
<li>Trees that are pre-wrapped in netting are dangerous buys. You want to be sure and see the shape of your tree. Buying a pre-wrapped tree could lead to disappointment when you get it home. You may find it has an odd shape and even sections that are already dead and dried that you were unable to see.</li>
</ul><br />
Other Useful Tips<br />
<ul><li>Trim 1 inch off the bottom of the tree just before putting it into the stand. This will cause it to absorb more water quickly. Give it plenty of water when you first put it up and remember to water it daily.</li>
<li>Before bringing your tree into the house, give it a firm shake to get the loose needles to fall to the ground. Then, you won't have as much to cleanup.</li>
<li>Use hot tap water (not boiling) to water the tree. This melts the sap and keeps the tree from creating a "scab" over the end.</li>
</ul>Types Of Trees<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpbwpZXR_WUjGqy0a4uP15YJUaKRJGs6RTJOJNaZxr6cPhfqXa1CNXAiTzyTnk8ocmRohB-c9o-s6DBGxCC0JpjMuSfM8RIRsMbp9GzxT9_s4u-I89Apb37XQi1EV3gPRb_-cu0yyFWc/s1600/noble.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpbwpZXR_WUjGqy0a4uP15YJUaKRJGs6RTJOJNaZxr6cPhfqXa1CNXAiTzyTnk8ocmRohB-c9o-s6DBGxCC0JpjMuSfM8RIRsMbp9GzxT9_s4u-I89Apb37XQi1EV3gPRb_-cu0yyFWc/s320/noble.jpg" width="317" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Noble Fir Christmas Tree</strong></div>This tree has fairly slim branches, which are easy to decorate and the needles are relatively soft, not prickly. It is usually quite a deep shade of green.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_im1Aj7E5atQG0i_oRvX89vZpbZ44ZuA2m2j61D0oKmmRYmomTkUfYRy4sW6MdM8pPTVezzsNd7lFd-S8WcZvn5j4H_lJfKXElj0HfyIbVjt2lhAf8Z1CJaIqqvHtc85D1sygvLDiNiE/s1600/norway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_im1Aj7E5atQG0i_oRvX89vZpbZ44ZuA2m2j61D0oKmmRYmomTkUfYRy4sW6MdM8pPTVezzsNd7lFd-S8WcZvn5j4H_lJfKXElj0HfyIbVjt2lhAf8Z1CJaIqqvHtc85D1sygvLDiNiE/s320/norway.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Norway Spruce Christmas tree</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">This tree tends to be slightly cheaper than other varieties as the needles will drop more easily. Keep well-watered to help keep shedding to a minimum.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp5d7wyBw_XrV3NMyXb_m4bZhHaUMoQLLowL4AL7ICr4KLRkDYd2WTw5_gx39jvECaoweHYYEwwmXSkMaDa5vp2QI4a1cn18KmYFpxc-uTQn-VcPMKDFyIjLH3K9_8L1tKDTwVaZNuxI0/s1600/scots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp5d7wyBw_XrV3NMyXb_m4bZhHaUMoQLLowL4AL7ICr4KLRkDYd2WTw5_gx39jvECaoweHYYEwwmXSkMaDa5vp2QI4a1cn18KmYFpxc-uTQn-VcPMKDFyIjLH3K9_8L1tKDTwVaZNuxI0/s320/scots.jpg" width="319" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Scots Pine Christmas Tree</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">A popular choice, this tree does hold onto its needles, but should be handled with care as the needles are very sharp.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8shrJpPm4qKnCTm_GJcqmNB8TCg4s710ZVIA_RoYCgkoJV4cWnJlZE8TbrkDHry4o2-sZJiIA-DltOm2_ihzZaS1QrGOacRsEoITw1jJRacs_2KniddT2Nq4dlB5KolhQUcCqcZI_Kg/s1600/nordman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8shrJpPm4qKnCTm_GJcqmNB8TCg4s710ZVIA_RoYCgkoJV4cWnJlZE8TbrkDHry4o2-sZJiIA-DltOm2_ihzZaS1QrGOacRsEoITw1jJRacs_2KniddT2Nq4dlB5KolhQUcCqcZI_Kg/s320/nordman.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nordman Christmas Tree</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">This lovely bushy tree retains its needles very well and, with its upwards-pointing branches, decorations are in no danger of sliding off.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VWGhFgdOSij3jPfSJ72TEnjhHHcGffznbSqNuhlFv298AdW795r510BUrU_vwAH1w5Aex9pkrXDDwgHqAM60Mu713dlYtgVw611rZDtx-N8fSKG8VhmSy37mDoEPVkJIZPKdyu9ZS5U/s1600/blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VWGhFgdOSij3jPfSJ72TEnjhHHcGffznbSqNuhlFv298AdW795r510BUrU_vwAH1w5Aex9pkrXDDwgHqAM60Mu713dlYtgVw611rZDtx-N8fSKG8VhmSy37mDoEPVkJIZPKdyu9ZS5U/s320/blue.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Blue</strong> <strong>Spruce Christmas Tree</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">A good tree for planting out in January, and the blue-tinge looks as striking in the home as it does outside.</div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-79840591680783425342011-11-20T14:08:00.000-06:002011-11-20T14:08:14.305-06:00Decorating For Just CentsI am the king of hitting Christmas clearance to get a deal on stuff to use in the future. I may not use it for a year or two but you had better believe I'll use it someday. I don't often buy much when it is only 50-70% off. I like to get it when it's 75% off or more. Here are a few steals I've gotten when I grab things that everyone else has left behind.<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/AVvXsEjS9MaR6JWDwH8fGRrCBCxOsJQ2WnUl3Z7FbNOzllKMAhyphenhyphenD3agIn0xTJuRrg7kxe7T073yBFFg0Jv6QnKlxa8nb4ykTnY4zEY8iWvpyoOUmjHq9oBNc-gELlFOtBtrLQQ1QSg_URPy8vJQ/s1600/DSC06457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9MaR6JWDwH8fGRrCBCxOsJQ2WnUl3Z7FbNOzllKMAhyphenhyphenD3agIn0xTJuRrg7kxe7T073yBFFg0Jv6QnKlxa8nb4ykTnY4zEY8iWvpyoOUmjHq9oBNc-gELlFOtBtrLQQ1QSg_URPy8vJQ/s320/DSC06457.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I got these sets from Target. They were still on the shelf at 90% off. I paid $0.50 a piece for them. I knew that I was going to use purple and light blue in 2011 so they were a steal. Plus, you can never have enough silver and gold to add to any other color scheme.. Ornaments this small are perfect for filling glassware and other containers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-_LYeXwXIxtupASUjT3DZ2TNIVbrkdoCvpe6UtUgyVucE0gdEQNuXq9EIfK5nCL-EYXTP1-sF6Cq8bBoI5UURHK9K03HR27yEUa5U2Nc75hKjg5iTLtcVHIfZyOu6aciAhTO0hvm9g0/s1600/DSC06458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-_LYeXwXIxtupASUjT3DZ2TNIVbrkdoCvpe6UtUgyVucE0gdEQNuXq9EIfK5nCL-EYXTP1-sF6Cq8bBoI5UURHK9K03HR27yEUa5U2Nc75hKjg5iTLtcVHIfZyOu6aciAhTO0hvm9g0/s320/DSC06458.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I have seperated all the pieces by color so that I can take each color to the room that it's intended for. It saves me tons of times from sorting when I start to decorate. I don't need any silver in the room where I'm decorating with purple. Why add to the clutter by sorting it while using it?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqm6BBgk2NH8iZJo-2fnKfyC0tYoQ7WZHxzabZvOuMpvu4I_PQqCS0bqiL0tIssPfSwD5lkk6pDxX5ABwyVfb9yeUl_6iZIkNshUmp0oVAix31l3lSCxKLNqwegWgxZBhS8mPrtLjiIuo/s1600/DSC06459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqm6BBgk2NH8iZJo-2fnKfyC0tYoQ7WZHxzabZvOuMpvu4I_PQqCS0bqiL0tIssPfSwD5lkk6pDxX5ABwyVfb9yeUl_6iZIkNshUmp0oVAix31l3lSCxKLNqwegWgxZBhS8mPrtLjiIuo/s320/DSC06459.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I grabbed these at Dollar General for $0.20 each. Again...small ornaments make great filler. I used these little gold balls with the little purple as filler for my Wine/Tuscan scheme in the kitchen. Even better...the container I filled was a wine glass. It's the perfect accessory in the room!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlXtF3PRFoSee1p8t-rUHmSjhCmpSnlNe2_neUYVAKnrhGn39mDqEo6OdnL6pbQw6-nkO-LapKSNww-w4yr2m1n_iYI1y6K_Q7V65vs94QakItOBEbWrgs628I7MrodLYJ6Xyuv8OI_aM/s1600/DSC06461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlXtF3PRFoSee1p8t-rUHmSjhCmpSnlNe2_neUYVAKnrhGn39mDqEo6OdnL6pbQw6-nkO-LapKSNww-w4yr2m1n_iYI1y6K_Q7V65vs94QakItOBEbWrgs628I7MrodLYJ6Xyuv8OI_aM/s640/DSC06461.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-84719823891077801122011-11-18T16:29:00.000-06:002011-11-18T16:29:19.485-06:00Burlap RibbonSome time ago a co-worker saved wine bottles for me that I had intended to use to decorate in my kitchen. I never ended up using the bottles and decided one day to pitch them. While doing so I found that inside the boxes were a bunch of the wine corks. I kept those with the intent of making something with them. I finally used them this year and made ornaments (which I blogged about earlier).<br />
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After making the ornaments I decided to go with a Tuscan, rustic wine theme in my kitchen for Christmas. My kitchen is decorated in that theme all year so that meant I could incorporate what I already had out instead of packing it up for the season. In an attempt to make things more rustic I decided that I'd add some burlap.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01ekI_Tw4CD7H7_NgDG-0dNVzOUI_JDFQd4iwqBWStm9U-E1rfPy3I-P6KliXt7mlZ-4QTSbiYP5sYkPpiTmH0YIHMs0Bo5cQ0XZ9TuwJ5YZcc1lf_h8i5OsW_RGpRAwFdJc5pO4yqpw/s1600/DSC06453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01ekI_Tw4CD7H7_NgDG-0dNVzOUI_JDFQd4iwqBWStm9U-E1rfPy3I-P6KliXt7mlZ-4QTSbiYP5sYkPpiTmH0YIHMs0Bo5cQ0XZ9TuwJ5YZcc1lf_h8i5OsW_RGpRAwFdJc5pO4yqpw/s640/DSC06453.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I did some searching and never found exactly what I was looking for in terms of a burlap ribbon. So...as with most things I decided to make my own. It turned out exactly how I had hoped and looks great combined with the stamped muslin ribbon I posted about earlier. I took a few pieces of my ribbon and tied them up into bows. I must say that they look pretty good as well.<br />
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I have decided that I may go one step further and attempt some easy burlap valances and a throw pillow so that all areas of the kitchen tie in to the decor of the tree. Check back to see how that all turned out.<br />
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<strong><u>Supplies</u></strong><br />
Burlap<br />
Scissors<br />
Tape Measure<br />
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<strong><u>Instructions</u></strong><br />
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1. Decide what width you want your ribbon. Measure out and score several sections.<br />
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2. Cut the length of the fabric. It's best if you carefully follow allow the thread path. This will make it easier to frey the edges.<br />
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3. To frey the edge, start pulling a thread at a time, starting with the outermost thread.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6RAjoA7bzLDfdZs2EQFDFy0h_cGN04a7yHttoogQlQp7kZlhL8RVipALyVvTqP64dZvOBZealVHS3VrG5aLYdhkogbCYCAshzEFM2p0PB6rxrTOcy_Kb3jeu2L0l5z2yN2_NQtx2h81Y/s1600/DSC06352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6RAjoA7bzLDfdZs2EQFDFy0h_cGN04a7yHttoogQlQp7kZlhL8RVipALyVvTqP64dZvOBZealVHS3VrG5aLYdhkogbCYCAshzEFM2p0PB6rxrTOcy_Kb3jeu2L0l5z2yN2_NQtx2h81Y/s320/DSC06352.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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4. Continue step 3 until you have pulled far enough to get the desired amount of frey.<br />
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NOTE: The salvage edge (finished edge from the bolt of fabric) is likely looped when manufactured to keep the burlap from freying. You will need to trim a small amount along that edge if you wish to frey it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqiZPIxg9tMhm-W-o0kQf4bYehRzVKtEghhMvNCURvvsVQqkoIo6QjbZEx_7dqeup_ImtPHBtQK469ZxdMdPODdvJ_a87cpb12WN5ZlTU3moto6tsuLKvnNvjPl8G1J3oR1l4fpFpqJac/s1600/DSC06355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqiZPIxg9tMhm-W-o0kQf4bYehRzVKtEghhMvNCURvvsVQqkoIo6QjbZEx_7dqeup_ImtPHBtQK469ZxdMdPODdvJ_a87cpb12WN5ZlTU3moto6tsuLKvnNvjPl8G1J3oR1l4fpFpqJac/s320/DSC06355.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-58455325844021662782011-11-17T03:44:00.001-06:002011-11-17T03:46:09.743-06:00Christmas Krinkles: The First TreeIn a previous post I talked about Krinkles...one of my favorite line of collectibles by the artist Patience Brewster. I shared how my love (or obsession) with them began the first year that I worked for Bergner's, setting up the Trim-A-Home department. That year they had purchased the Krinkles display tree. I fell in love with the tree as I was unpacking and hanging the ornatments on it. The tree is supported at the base by four large red high heel shoes...which are a trademark feature for the collection.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaR5vZGP9fvEugpW-d9DJ0-PJFsWnGVdfTz2FFVtNJDT0q1jcr22hY71cwyrOa_3kMGD8CA0mPbYMz5zhGqv_tqTZp1ZYPq0HYNCSuc9gBZPIqTW7qOjDqzEf5Iw2wHlNPPrRJ9KXWHDM/s1600/Krinkle+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaR5vZGP9fvEugpW-d9DJ0-PJFsWnGVdfTz2FFVtNJDT0q1jcr22hY71cwyrOa_3kMGD8CA0mPbYMz5zhGqv_tqTZp1ZYPq0HYNCSuc9gBZPIqTW7qOjDqzEf5Iw2wHlNPPrRJ9KXWHDM/s640/Krinkle+Tree.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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I was very lucky to be able to purchase the tree at the end of the holiday. It has been quite a conversation piece and something that a lot of friends look forward to seeing. I don't use it every year but when I do, I typically decorate the rest of the room that it's in with other pieces from the Krinkle collection. The tree hasn't been out for the last two years so I decided that this was a good year to use it again. I'll post pics after the open house (December 2nd) and also feature some of the pieces that I'll be using this year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8LnPgmAOVfnuGhKYpNK9UUeMw8TpHFo66dAMkM84SntuChOeUGjCofUd88hUhxv2o8uil-9HKfoplilYPdXY-4wuAvAKDCJLx43t7q9OfeiwyIfBicqHhH3NxRCxAkjVcUE6-PRzDgs/s1600/krinkles+mini+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8LnPgmAOVfnuGhKYpNK9UUeMw8TpHFo66dAMkM84SntuChOeUGjCofUd88hUhxv2o8uil-9HKfoplilYPdXY-4wuAvAKDCJLx43t7q9OfeiwyIfBicqHhH3NxRCxAkjVcUE6-PRzDgs/s400/krinkles+mini+tree.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Krinkles Mini Ornament Display Tree</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6873777097011498336.post-48121386348117066132011-11-12T14:49:00.000-06:002011-11-12T14:49:59.889-06:00Feather Topped OrnamentsA few years back feathers made their way into my arsenal of decorating supplies. It all started by these very cool but simple ornaments I found while searching around online. My Christmas decorating has never been the same since. Here is how is all started...<br />
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This ornament that I found online was a very simple glass ornament...solid colored with a band of feathers wrapped around the top. Of course the site I was surfing around wanted some ridiculous amount of money for a set of two of them. There was no way I would ever spend that kind of money for something like that BUT it did get the wheels turning in my head about how I could make them myself. <br />
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I made a quick dash to Hobby Lobby and was lucky enough that their feathers and boas were half price (keep an eye out because they are usually on sale every 2-4 weeks). I grabbed some plain siver ball ornaments, a rope of black marabou (a thinner type of feather boa) and headed home to make my own ornaments.<br />
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It only took a few supplies that I already had at home and Ta Da...I had made really neat ornaments and found a new material that changed the future of my Christmas trees. I started using feathers in ways I would've never imagined. Check back because I'm going to show you the many other ways I have incorporated feathers into my Christmas designs. You won't wna to miss it!<br />
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<strong><u>Supplies</u></strong><br />
Ornaments of choice<br />
Marabou (color that you choose to coordinate with your ornaments)<br />
Scissors<br />
Hot glue gun & glue<br />
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(I suggest having a vaccum close to minimize the flying feathers. Trust me...they will be EVERYWHERE...Ha ha)<br />
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<strong><u>Instructions</u></strong><br />
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1. Grab an ornanment and your marabou. You'll need to cut a piece of marabou that is just big enough to wrap around the cap & hook of the ornament.<br />
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2. Run a ring of hot glue around the cap<br />
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3. Attach the marabou piece quickly, before the glue dries. Press is firmly into the glue so that it can grab onto the marabou tightly enough to hold it around the cap.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. Add a hook and your ornament is ready to hang.</div>Donniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10846105213955784053noreply@blogger.com0