What? A Trophy? For Me??!

I've been looking for vintage trophies forever, ever since I saw awesome decorating ideas featuring these beauties. But none were ever coming my way! Sure, I'd find some online here or there, but they were always way too expensive. I found TWO the other day at awesome proces and I snapped them up. Of course my hubs thinks I am nuts, but hey - you understand, right?

Hoppin' John

I'm not sure why John was hoppin', but I'm not asking! My husband had a great idea: an homage to his southern routes with a traditional New Year's meal for good luck! He also wanted to take some to share with his employees who are working on New Year's Day, so that of course called for some crafting! What better symbol to use than Baby New Year? Best wishes for a wonderful 2012!

Are you stressed and overloaded yet? Never fear, I know the feeling. I've spent the last few weeks with a seemingly insurmountable to-do list and not enough time to accomplish it. But never fear, there is light at the end of the tunnel!

Today I'm delivering some gifts, going to my son's holiday program and hopefully getting some time to take a deep breath. See how I've already stopped by to say to you?! So I'm turning up the heat in the craft room and challenging myself to take a few minutes to something else. It all can wait!

Fall Beauty

A few weeks ago we decided to take some time out to enjoy Longwood Gardens.
So much beauty to be seen...

...in flowers and in architecture.

From Pinterest.

Perfection!

I am a big fan of the 'non-traditional" rose. To me, ones like this one that Hubby managed to somehow grow to perfection amidst all the funny little bugs and the torrential downpours we've had, are the best kind of all.

I've been trying to take advantage of the time I have left this summer....

ahh, it goes so fast!

Today I jazzed up this Target clipboard portfolio...

...so cute!

The CK Convention!

Holy cow, was I excited to get to the CK Convention in PA. I am not really a 'class' kinda person at this point, so I was more than happy to get to stroll the vendor faire.

I could hardly contain my excitement when I went to get my ticket!

Would it live up to my expectations?!

It sure did! I am so appreciative of all the people who entered videos and other blog entries about their CK experiences. It sold me on going, and I am glad I did!

Plenty of great eye-candy.

I loved this idea of storing odds and ends in the clear shoe hangers.

I know some other bloggers and crafters do this, too.

If you ever have the chance to go to the CK Convention and Vendor Faire, it is definitely worth it!

Lest You Think I've Not Been Up To Much...

Haven't been blogging about my craftiness the past few weeks. Busy enjoying the summer and all it's opportunities for relaxation. But I've still been busy. Made the box above for a friend's birthday - full of trinkets and treasures.

I've tried to keep my hands of etsy lately, but I couldn't

resist this small vintage set of drawers. To me, the warn look of it

makes it all the better.

Made a special card for a friend using some vintage advertisements.

Who wouldn't be honored by a Clever Hostess Award?

Lastly, this summer scented candle was the perfect project for a 'happy summer' gift. I especially love old beach photos and here was a perfect chance to use one.

Hope your summer has been full of inspiring projects, too!

Happy Birthday, Baby Girl

Today was my daughter's 14th birthday. I hate to be cliche, but where does the time go? No, seriously. I am not being rhetorical. Where does it go? She left for Field Hockey camp this morning before I got up (thanks, Hubby!) and wasn't home til almost nine o'clock. I went to see the last 30 minutes of her game. Watching her in the land between little girl and, well, bigger girl. I thought about the days to come when I may not even see her on her birthday. I'll just leave pathertic messages on her voice mail. Or worse, texts. (sigh)

Happy Birthday, Baby Girl.

A Boy's Heaven

After visiting my son at boy scout camp, I understood why he decided he wanted to stay another week and skip coming home. It's pretty much heaven for a boy. I was thinking it's a shame we don't all get some time away at our own version of 'summer camp'. (Everyone's life preserver hanging on the line.)

I liked this little peg board sitting by the tree. It has two sides: "In the water" and "Not in the water". You move the little key ring that has your name on it to the proper side. I was thinking the world would probably be a better place if we all had such a look-out system for each other.

Peaceful...

...wishing you your own idea of summer camp...

Camping!

No, not me, silly! I can not believe that my son is staying for a second week of scout camp! I honestly was doubtful about his staying the first week, so this was a big surprise! We are going to head out there tomorrow for "Family Day", so of course I decided to take some goodies with me. I packed some of his favorite cookies inside this camping-themed box. It's so cute! I'm sure he'll be really impressed - lol!

"Guard well your spare moments.

They are like uncut diamonds.

Discard them and their value will never be known.

Improve them and they will become the brightest gems in a useful life."

~Emerson