The Scarlett Rose Garden

It's Windie in Kansas!

2011-09-09T12:04:00.009-05:00

I'm sorry to announce that the

"It's Windie In Kansas" event has been canceled~

Hurry and reserve your package for the "It's Windie in Kansas" event,

this November 4-6, 2011!

Proceeds from this event will benefit breast cancer research. Hattie McDaniel, who played Mammy in Gone With the Wind, died from this terrible disease. Come and celebrate her life, her Kansas roots, and of course Gone With the Wind!

A fun filled packed weekend you won't want to miss!

*info directly from "It's Windie in Kansas" as follows~

Schedule of Events

Friday November 4th:

Opening Reception and screening of the movie Gone With the Wind at the historic Screenland Armour theater featuring an art unveiling by Joseph Yakovetic and local Kansas wine tasting.

Saturday November 5th:

Living History Activities at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop, a working 19th century living history farm on the Santa Fe Trail including stagecoach rides, 19th century cook stove demonstrations, historic house tours, and much more!

Panels with our special guests (see presenters page)

Saturday Evening, get dressed up and head to the ball at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop! Get your picture taken with our stagecoach or in our photo gallery, then taste some local Kansas wine and bid on items in our silent auction.

Appearances by our special guests, representatives from the University of Kansas Cancer Center, our sponsors, and live music and dancing from 19th century band the Gum Springs Serenaders! There will also be a costume contest!

Sunday November 6th:

Meet and Greet with some the special guests from the weekend

Take part in a “Twelve Oaks BBQ” on the grounds of the 19th century farm at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop

That evening, enjoy the play “misUnderstanding Mammy” that explores the life of Hattie McDaniel and her experiences in 1930s Hollywood.

Main website:

http://itswindieinkansas.webs.com/

Like their page on Facebook!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Its-Windie-in-Kansas/164750116917229

Will I be attending you ask? YOU BETCHA! Hope to see you there!

Pssst! Having trouble leaving comments on blogs? Try this! Worked for me!

Happy 75th Anniversay to my beloved Gone With the Wind!

2011-06-30T13:53:00.014-05:00

75 years ago today~ June 30, 1936 ~ Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind was published! I'm sure Windies everywhere are celebrating!
In the summer of 2003, my husband and I took a GWTW vacation. (Thanks again Kevin!!) We visited The Margaret Mitchell House in Atlanta, The Road to Tara Museum in Jonesboro, the Scarlett on the Square Museum in Marietta, and then drove on up to Savannah, GA.
Here is a slideshow of some of the photos from the trip~ minus Savannah~
It was so awesome to stand in the same room where Margaret had typed out her masterpiece.

Those smokey pics and hoodlums hanging out on their cars... that was at our hotel one night. The entire place was full of street racers. Long story~ but we got our money back.

I've been trying to cut back on my GWTW spending and collecting. Recently, I was SO excited to have won a blog give away prize! A 75th Anniversary edition of the book! YAY! I probably would not have purchased this for myself and am a very happy camper!

Thank you very much dear Kate! Please visit her at Southern Belle Simple~ a darling blog!

Peggy, we cannot thank you enough for your talent.

For more Windie fun, please visit the following sites!

Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind: A Bestseller's Odyssey

GWTW...But Not Forgotten

"It's Windie in Kansas!" (a gwtw event coming this November!)

Walter Plunkett, Costume Designer

The Making of a Masterpiece

Gone With the Wind Museum in Branson, MO~ JUST OPENED!!

...Next trip I'll bring you some green silk for a frock to match it~

2011-01-14T08:25:00.015-06:00

...Rhett says to Scarlett as she wears the green plumed bonnet he brought her from Paris.

As some of you may recall, I had Scarlett's Green Christmas dress made. To see the development and Scarlett's dress from the film, click here. Though no watered silk could be found, the fabulous jacquard made a lovely reproduction. It turned out beautifully! Thank you Christine!! Pics to follow!

I recieved it just in time for a Gone With the Wind event in St. Louis, MO. "Gateway to the Wind." Author Sally Tippett Rains wrote a book about Margaret Mitchell's GWTW titled, "The Making Of A Masterpiece". Sally put on quite a soiree~ In collaboration with actual stars from the film and many special guests, you were pea green with envy if you did not attend! Check out this recap of the three day weekend!

Day one was at White Haven, Ulysses S. Grant's home at Grant's Farm. Costume was not called for this day, but since I had spent the entire week previous to the event revamping a white ruffled dress I found on eBay; sewing on over 50 YARDS of lace... I had to wear it!
Here's a before pic of the dress as purchased~

I removed the red buttons and added white satin bridal buttons, adjusted the belt and added a vintage buckle, made a brooch, sewed lace to the bodice and tiers...

...added a hoop slip and voilà! Scarlett's white ruffled prayer gown~

On the eve of the second day, there was a charity ball for Rainbows for Kids. This my friends, is where I got to wear my green Christmas gown.... do you want to see?? OK!

Here I am giving that dyed hair woman Belle Watling a piece of my mind!

Hobnobbing with the guests...

Standing next to Sally Tippett Rains~ thank you so much Sally, for everything!!

Oooo, and a red taffeta petticoat!

I had a wonderful time and met so many new friends. SO much to tell!
This post has become quite *windy* so I shall share more later. Afterall, tomorrow IS another day!

A boudoir for all seasons~

2010-08-28T16:25:00.004-05:00

Well my blogging friends, I think I have finally completed my all season bedding collection! I just picked up a set that I had been hunting for, it was in JC Penny's years ago for over $400. I had searched the bay off and on, but it still went to high for my frugal self! Finally, yesterday I went to haunt one of my favorite resale shops and as I pulled up I saw it!! It was on the sidewalk with many other sets. I had a 10% off coupon and snagged it for $26!

This will be my spring set me thinks~ but of course I'm putting it on the bed now just to see it! Nova and I went to the laundromat today to wash it up in the big ol' commercial sized washing machine~
He had never been to a laundromat and was quite impressed. It cost a whopping $7.75!!

Of course what he was more impressed with was the snack machine since it's like the one on "Over the Hedge", lol!

Ok, ok... so here's the set, it's called Lucerne~ Gorgeous buttercream background with floral swags and rose bouquets, with a crystal pleated bed skirt.

SO~ that's Lucerne for Spring. Here is my summer quilt, Lucy by Armoire. I found the shams at Home Goods a few years ago on clearance. Didn't really want the quilt.... Until it was no where to be found. Searched and searched and finally found the last one left on the planet. A lucky find as it was not listed by name, I just searched for shabby chic robbin's egg blue. And it was NOT cheap. I choked as I hit the "buy it now" button.

Will have to wait till next summer for pics of that on my bed!
Let's move on to my fall ensemble... which you've already seen in previous posts. The Ralph Lauren Chaps Welbourne~ shown with vintage pink taffeta shams and a round accent pillow that did not come with the set. This was at Kohl's and I searched the net trying to find it cheaper to no avail. I did land it on clearance tho, but it was still steep at 60% off!

Ah, my winter set. My first REAL bedding set ever! Kevin bought it for me for our first Christmas in this house. This is also from Penny's, Romance Tapestry. I don't like matchy-matchy, so I only wanted the shams and the comforter. I use a burgundy bed skirt and draps with it. So rich!

I saw this set at the same resale shop last year for about $30 and it made me sick! I almost bought it for a backup, lol! Yes, I have a bedding fetish.

We recently bought some crown molding for a boudoir project, will post about it soon! Click here to see the original "before" bedroom post, and feel free to click on the labels below to see more~

Butterick 4790, only.... Not!!

2010-06-19T23:46:00.007-05:00

Ok everyone... I've been dying to get this finished so I could show you, I'm SOOO excited and I think you all will be too!:D

Lookie what I found! And how easy it will be for all of you to adapt your 4790 dress patterns to make yourselve's one! :p
It's nice to just see another option for the neckline and some sort of sleeve!!

All the fun of the 4790, but with only about 2 yards of fabric and less time!

I had some scrap gingham laying around, and *barely* got the pieces cut out, in fact~ I had to piece a section together but it's in the back wrap part so you can't see.
By the way, I could not for the life of me judge the right/wrong side of this fabric!

The pattern is a 32 bust and I'm a 36. I don't know how to up-size patterns, this is only the second garment I've ever made from a pattern, the first being the actual 4790.... (you can see that here)
So, I decided I would just cut the pattern a half inch larger all around, and could always take it in.
It also stated no hem allowances and I wasn't sure what that meant!
Anyhoo, I wish I had just cut it out as it was, I think it would've fit just fine. I have to tie it pretty tight to fit me. I'm going to sew it together under the arms like I did the dress.

This blouse cost me less than $5 all together, I found the eyelet at a thrift store and had to buy two packs of bias tape.

And here's the finished product~

Pink Saturday, Episode Seventeen~

2010-05-28T21:49:00.005-05:00

Welcome to Pink Saturday, hosted by Beverly at How Sweet The Sound.

This is a very special Pink Saturday, celebrating 2 years~

Congratulations Beverly and thank you for being such a gracious host!

Please visit her to enjoy all of the pink festivities!

Today I give you

~PINK STITCHES~

I have rounded up some of my favorite things that have been stitched in pink,

many hand sewn.

Let's start in the dinning room.

First up, a hand crocheted table runner

Another runner on the buffet, this one factory made... (pink teapot bonus!!)

glancing to the table we find hand stitched applique placemats~complete with napkins and holders,

Moving on to La Boudoir~I pulled a bunch of things together, some from storage. All shown on top of a vintage bedspread and a 50's quilted taffeta pillow.

A sweet dresser scarf and hankie, along with a needlepoint pillow~

Two crocheted doilies and a vintage hooked chair pad~ I'm lucky to have the set of 4, squeee!

Ahhh... pink stitched garden flowers...

These purses could tell a story~

Can you imagine this gentleman courting the fair maiden with bouquets and then walking her home to her quaint little cottage?
A cross stitch rose apron with embroidered pillow cases~

And let's not forget... one of my all time fave finds...

this incredible vintage chenile embroidered applique bedding set! To see more about this awesome ensemble, visit La Boudoir.

Happy Memorial Day to all.

I thank our soldiers and verterans

for giving us all we have.

Peace and Quiet~

2010-02-05T09:33:00.003-06:00

I've been enjoying some peace and quiet...

but I'm still around!

Such a beautiful snowfall today.

Just as you should stop and smell the roses, you should stop and watch the snow fall.

I have felt much too overwhelmed to blog lately. No time to visit, no time to load photos, no time to sit and wait for pages or pics to load. So I've actually been going to bed earlier than 1 or 2 AM. Or reading a book. Spending *real* time with my husband and son instead of *virtual* time blogging memories of them.
Just trying to get my priorities straight around here. But I will post and visit when I can. I do miss it so! I hope you all are well and hope to see you soon!

Hugs,

Nikki

Holiday House Tour #1, 2009

2009-12-10T23:45:00.004-06:00

Welcome to the Hooked on Holiday Houses Tour hosted by the lovely Julia at Hooked on Houses!

I'm participating, however I am CHEATING. Guess what... not MY house! But boy, do I WISH!!

A gorgeous Victorian home built in the late 1800's, with a fantastic partial octagon front~ Lovingly restored!

The first room we came to after the entry way was the dining room; filled with exquisite flow blue china! Keep an eye out for the pretty decorated light fixtures!

I knew right away that the owners had impeccable taste. Fresh greenery adds the perfect touch to
this beautiful table setting.

Candlelight dances across the buffet showing off the snowflake pattern of the china~

A swag decorated in blue rests upon the china cabinet,

Next we enter the kitchen~ where gingerbread "fills the air"...

The cabinets and countertops were built by the home owner. Phenomenal!

We then went into a sitting room~ I LOVE the green furniture and the window here...

After exiting the room, I heard someone say that carolers came to visit! How perfect! It was so magical~

We then stepped into the hallway... can you guess what was there? The staircase of course! Can you imagine moving furnture up that sucker?

Looking down from the top,

We then ventured into the parlor. Ah, what a sight!

Anyone else recognize that "Melissa" rug from Walmart? I have two of them, plus two runners!
What a mantel!

The Violet Bedroom upstairs,

Decorated vanity from another bedroom,

Nova's favorite spot in the upstairs hall~

Enchanting powder room!

Ok folks, this post is LONG and I do apologize! I know you have other homes to tour.
I suppose I'm making up for not posting in over a month, lol!
But I took over 100 pics of this beautiful home and if you would like to see more you can go here. You can play the slideshow there or enlarge each photo.

Be sure to stay tuned, as I plan to attend a big home tour this weekend! Bye y'all!

BOO!

2009-11-04T13:05:00.002-06:00

I'll get you my pretty, and your little dog too!!

I hope you all had a Happy Halloween!
Nova told me almost two months ago that he wanted to be a bat. So I got right on ebay and found this cute costume for only $10! It was a really chilly night, so it worked out perfectly.

He loved his wings!

It was also Nova's idea that I was to be a witch, and Daddy a ghost.

Cool.

Nice, cheap costume year!

Oooooo, creeeepy!

Glad I had this black vintage coat, I was cold! Had this nice hat to keep me warm too~

My son is really into skeletons. It's kinda making us wonder about him! LOL! He begged for this guy from Walmart, but I'm totally creeped out because it's "his" size~

I'm glad Nova shares my love for costuming! Unfortunately for him, he is just as anal about details as I am. He wanted me to look EXACTLY like the Wicked Witch of the West from Oz, and was NOT happy with my hat of choice. He kept showing me to pull my hair back like hers and that it should be black. Too funny!

The witch was fun to do. I'd never used liquid latex before, cool stuff!!
By the end of the night I couldn't stand it any longer tho... only because my nose was running inside the fake nose, LOL!

All good things must come to an end....

I can't believe it's been a year since we were Captian Hook, Peter Pan, and Wendy! WHEW! The time is flying by!

Pink Saturday, Espisode Sixteen~ Pink vintage dresses on parade~

2009-10-16T23:20:00.005-05:00

Hello and welcome to Pink Saturday,

hosted by Beverly at How Sweet the Sound.

Please visit her to see many other participants showing off their pink eye CANDY!

Today I thought I'd share some of my pink vintage dresses.

Since we're building a storage area in my craftroom, (no~ still not finished, weekends only and we've been doing other things instead), I wanted to have an area to hang some vintage things for show. Most of them are from the 30's or 40's, some 50's.

These first two are aprons. However, they meet all way in the back and I've been wanting to adjust the closures so that I can wear them for blouses. The pink and green one has such a cute rose motif.

You may click the photos to enlarge if you wish, just remember to hit the back button to return.

The dress on the left was a gift from a fellow collector. The one on the right is one of my faves with great PINK buttons! It needs a few repairs, I've worn it quite a bit.

Here's a closeup of the darling embroidered design on the one.

I may have featured this dress below on the left before. It is one of my all time favorite vintage dresses. I found it "new with tags". The dress on the right I got on my birthday, yet I haven't had a chance to wear it yet. Just haven't felt like styling my hair properly, etc. lately. I think as soon as I color my hair red again, I'll have my vintage "mojo" back, lol! I bought the dress at the Vintage Haberdashery in St. Louis.

I adore the coral pink shade of the 30's crepe dress on the left. And the texture of the linen dress on the right.

Ok, you caught me. The dress below isn't vintage. It's a $3 Walmart clearance cheapie. But it's one of my lazy day favorites!

I bought this coat, (probably circa 80's or 90's) on ebay to embellish into Rose's pink coat from Titanic. I've changed out the buttons but that's as far as I've gotten!

This plum colored dress is so cool because it's cotton, yet it's iridescent. Changes from plum to green. Just awesome.

Next to it is one of my oldest dresses, to too small for me... it's a teen or pre-teen's garment from about 1912. Just darling. Perhaps I'll do a Pink Saturday post on that one alone some time!

Ah... I HATE to alter vintage via cutting it up, unless it's too far gone with stains or rot. But this vintage 60's or 70's dress on the left is just TOO scrumptious to let go. I plan to cut part of the length off, and add it to the bust and waist so I can wear it. Incredibly selfish me thinks, but I just HAVE to do it.

I beleive the dress next to it is actually a dressing gown, made of nylon. It has some repairs to be made too... and I'm thinking of hemming it. I just love the dogwood pattern on it!

I hope you've enjoyed seeing these pink frocks!

I have recently shared some new pink in my life. In the previous post, the background on the table is actually a vintage full size bedspread that I bought for only $8!! I'm using it as a tablecloth for now.

And a few more posts back I shared a baby scale from the 50's. Wonderful, wonderful retro pink. WOOT!

Thank you everyone for your well wishes on my new ETSY shop!

Enjoy your weekend everyone!

Tales of a shoe hoarder, episode 12~

2009-10-15T20:37:00.011-05:00

Ok, ok.... so I'm still stuck on the pink shoes we wore in my sister's wedding. They are So freakin' cute!

I hope to resume my shoe hoarding posts to normal soon.

However, today's post is special.

~BECAUSE~

IT'S MY GRAND OPENING!!

I have joined Etsy to bring you The Scarlett Rose Garden Shop.

"A mixed bouquet of vintage fashoin & handmade goods."

Shoes are my main focus right now.

WANT SOME CANDY?!

These are some of the shoes that I have listed, or am getting ready to list.

They are either vintage or embellished.

When I got married over 8 years ago, I searched high and low for Marie Antoinette style shoes. I burned my eyes out on the internet and could only find shoes for $200 or more. I ended up finding a black pair in a thrift store, and I "reupholstered" them with the fabric from my wedding dress.

Today, they are still hard to find. There is really only one shoe that shows up for retail, and it runs between $50 and $70. And yet, the heel is too spikey and not so 18th century looking.

So I have decided to alter shoes to resemble colonial and victorian times, or a mixture of modern day with the past.

I'm having fun with it.

It has kept me quite busy lately!

And that vintage pink baby scale I showed you recenlty? It will come in handy to weigh things for shipping! Cool, eh?

You can click on the photos to enlarge them, or if you would like to view my listings please click www.scarlettrosegarden.etsy.com

I would love to hear from my fellow blogger friends who have Etsy shops as well!

Wish me luck!

*please note: if searching sellers for The Scarlett Rose Garden on etsy, leave off the "THE"*

Garage sale goodies!

2009-10-07T10:20:00.004-05:00

First up is a vintage baby scale~ TOOOO cute and perfect 50's pink!

I got this a few weeks ago for $5.
It will come in handy with a new endeavor I will share with you soon!
*NO, it's not a baby!*

Some antique flatware~ mostly from the 30's I beleive. Ten cents each.

My latest find.... two antique iron fireplace fronts!! I have wanted one forever, as we have a mantel to put in our parlor. I was so lucky to find these... and guess what~ only $10 each!

You can click to enlarge.

Such beautiful scenes!

I was so excited as I adore cherubs. That one is busted on top but I think it can be fixed. I'll probably paint it white later.

They have both been painted, the other has a great patina as is.

The other find was a sheepskin rug... I already had two, but it was so cheap I couldn't pass it up. I'll put it in the bathroom this winter!

I used one to take pictures of Nova when he was 6 months old.

These are some of my favorites!

Naturally, he peed on it~

That was some thick wool to wash!

He's wearing a vintage balloon outfit with trains here.

Cutting teeth and drooling like crazy!

He still sleeps with this elephant.

Melly is home and doing well~

2009-10-06T11:29:00.003-05:00

We brought her home yesterday morning.

She is eating and using her box.

She's happy to be home and is being her usual affectionate self!

Thanks for thinking of her everyone!

Back at the vet till Monday~

2009-10-03T13:56:00.002-05:00

Melly kept on a strainin' and didn't pee a drop at home. I didn't see her eat or drink either.

So back to the vet she went.

They had to sedate her and put in a catheter. The lovely cone collar is a must... and you know how they dig wearing those! She looks so forlorn and miserable.
She did eat some, and is getting fluids intravenously so they can really flush out the urethra, which is very inflamed. I'm thinking that's all it was this whole time, and possibly the surgery wasn't necessary. They said there were no real stones, just a lot of sandy grit that she could have passed. (Had she not been so inflamed for so long?!)

On a lighter note, I got some goodies at a garage sale Friday. Will share soon!

Eight hundred sixty three dollars and 60 cents later.....

2009-10-01T12:45:00.002-05:00

We have one P-Oed cat.

She does not like the vet.

At all.

But now that she's home she is getting back to her normal, lovable self.

The vet said she was urinating fine there, but since I've had her home for a few hours, she has tried to go several times and I see nothing in the box. I'm trying not to worry at this point, I'm sure she has some funny sensations going on. I'll be sure to monitor it though.

Other than that she seems fine, and is getting around well. Thanks for your concern folks!

Right now I think she is high on pain meds, and is looking for a mouse that isn't there....

Under the knife...

2009-09-30T08:57:00.004-05:00

As we "speak". I'm so nervous, I hope Melly is doing OK.
Thank you everyone for your well wishes!
She is always very affectionate, but seemed extra cuddly last night as if she knew something was up.

In other news, here is how my cabinet is looking in the craft room so far. Still need to do the right side shelves and trim it all out, but I am loving it already!

Also, the salon that I work at moved to a new location this past weekend. Yesterday was my first day working there. Saturday I got up before daylight (yawn!) and had to do a wedding party at the bride's house, then drove on to the new salon to help move and set up. It looks amazing. I love the colors. Here's a peek!

My station is to the right of the round mirror back there~

This is our lovely receptionist, Pat~

This is the left side of the salon, (from where you enter), and I'm waaaay over on the right side. That door leads to our breakroom.

Thank you Debbie and Cheri for creating this fabulous atmosphere to work in!

Busy, busy, busy here folks. I will visit you all as soon as I can!

This time it's for real~

2009-09-25T10:35:00.004-05:00

Melly will have surgery on Wednesday morning.

The prescription diet just didn't cut it. Though the mass of kidney stones looked better on the last x-ray, I think it's just too large to tackle. Perhaps if we had cought it a long time ago.

Poor kitty!

From what I've read, cats are better right after surgery and everyone was glad they went ahead with it.

I hope all goes well!

Ahoy Maties!

2009-09-21T16:17:00.009-05:00

As some of you may know, Saturday (September 19th), was Talk Like a Pirate Day.

Lucky for us, the Pirate Fest was going on in the St. Louis area.

First, the wee lads and lasses were to make a booty bag to keep their treasures in. Loot could be found throughout the day at various merchants.
Here I am tucking Nova's bag into his pocket.

Next up we saw some beautiful parrots and parakeets. This one was looking for a cracker, but Kevin's pocket was empty~

Isn't he pretty? I forget his name, but he is six years old. They can live to be 120, so they are a huge responsibility.

Shake a tail feather!

Avast! It is finally me turn at holding him!
The lighting is weird here and it appears I have no eyebrows... I look like a Muppet~

He liked to play and was a very good listener. He also liked to be scratched under his wings.

I wore me best pirate garb. I don't have a full shot, but I wore the same outfit a few years ago for Halloween, shown here~
Only I couldn't find my coin belt and it was too hot to wear anything on my head...

And instead of boots I wore my funky Demonia coffin heal shoes~ with striped stockings of course!

This couple had exquisite clothing! I had to go in for a closer look. I definitely wanted to sew a new frock after looking at so many fine garments all day.

We were to stop at the Leathersmith to pick up some booty. Here Nova got to stamp a small leather medallian with a scull and crossbones.

I had asked Nova if he wanted to wear his Peter Pan costume, but he turned me down... which was suprising. We looked for a pirate hat there, but no luck within our budget!
You can click HERE to see us dressed as Captian Hook, Peter Pan, and Wendy last year.

We enjoyed the music. These ladies did a fine job! The one sitting played various drums, and in this photo she is playing a sickle. (Some folks call it a kayser blade, but I call it a sling blade...) Err... sorry, wrong blade!

*Ahem*

They are Shillelagh Law.

Follow Me Up to Carlow was a good song.

The song I am playing for this post is The Queen of Argyll, a folk song. (The version playing is by Silly Wizard)
A group called 3 Pints Gone sang it at the fest and I just fell in love with it. They were really good!

Here are the lyrics,

Queen of Argyll
Gentle men it is my duty
To inform you of one beauty
Though I'd ask you of a favor,
Not to seek her for a while
Though I own she is a creature
Of character and feature
No words can paint the picture
of the Queen of all Argyll.

cho: And if you could have seen her there,
Boys if you had just been there
The swan was in her movement,
And the morning in her smile.
All the roses in the garden,
They bow and ask her pardon
For not one could match the beauty
Of the queen of all Argyll.

On that evening that I mention,
I passed with light intention
Through a part of our dear country
Known for beauty and for style
Being a place of noble thinkers,
Of scholars and great drinkers
But above them all for splendour
Shone the Queen of all Argyll

(cho.)

So my lads my needs must leave you,
My intention's not to grieve you
Nor indeed would I decieve you,
Oh I'll see you in a while
I must find some way to gain her,
To court her and to tame her
I fear my heart's in danger
From the Queen of all Argyll

From singing of Silly Wizard
RG
oct97

Here are some scurvy pirates enjoying the music,

We missed the belly dancers, but I've seen them several times during the Renaissance Fairs.

Nnotty Bits put on a fun little show. Two guys did lots of fun juggling tricks.
This guy was on stilts with a wooden spoon in his mouth. The other guy passed out bean bags and we were to *toss* them so that stilt man could catch them on the spoon.

Yeah, he got pelted.

Back home, Nova was eager to sift through all his loot~

....so were the cats...

It was a fun family day!

Arrrrg!!

Thank you~

2009-09-16T13:37:00.003-05:00

Hello Blogland friends~

It has been a very trying 6 months for me here at The Scarlett Rose Garden. Many things have happened in my life and I have chosen not to broadcast any of it here.

My stress level is very high, and something else happened Monday to top it off.

Last night I came home to find these gorgeous gladiolus from my wonderful husband Kevin~

And a beautiful berry tart~

Click on it... it WAS as good as it looks!
Thank you SO much Kevin. I am so lucky to have you in my life. I appreciate your understanding and being there for me in good times and bad.
I love you!

And thank you, my blogging friends for being "out there". Blogging has helped to keep my mind off of things and I enjoy your company!

I hope things simmer down around here and I can spend more time in blogland.
"This too shall pass."
Hugs to all!

A little corner of my world~

2009-09-14T10:32:00.008-05:00

Some of you may remember my 100th post, If Walls Could Talk. If you missed it, please check it out!

This is how the front bedroom looked when we moved in... and I mean exactly how it looked. Plastic and all.

It's a strange room, cut up into two sections.

Here's my brother helping Kevin tear out the lath a few years ago~

And how the corner pretty much looks now... except the room is A LOT more full of junk, piled high with no place to put it! We need new windows and trim yet, but that will have to wait for budget and time.

I wanted to have some built in shelves but wanted them to have some sort of old or architectural elements intead of just plywood. I got the idea to find two old panel doors, 36 inches wide. We could then cut them in half vertically and use them on the ends of the cabinet and for the main structure.

Well, no luck finding old doors, esp. ones that I would want to cut up!
BUT! I did find two sets of used bi-fold closet doors. They had the panels, and they were exactly the right size for what I had in mind! Only $8 per set, woohoo!

I showed Kevin what I wanted and he went to work~
(sorry, this is thru the screen!)

Not much to see yet, but I hope to have everything in this week. Yay! To be organized and have everything up and off of the floor. I cannot wait! Stay tuned!

Knock, knock!

2009-09-09T23:10:00.005-05:00

Hiya folks, come on in!
Help me to decide what color (s) to paint my front doors!

I'm pretty much set on a cranberry red, to match my mailbox. Before we painted the house I had planned on just stripping the doors. I know they would be beautiful. But I think they would get lost from the street and red would really pop.

And since the doors are already painted, it's no big deal.

The thing is, I can't decide if I like the swag white or not. And if I don't paint it white, what other option would there be? It would be boring to paint it all red. So, what do you think?

We just painted the exterior last year. It's Jersery Cream from Sherwin Williams. The new porch floor color is Storm Shadow from Walmart, (which is made by SW).

Oh how I wish it stayed shiny and mirror like after it dried!

Here's a before pic!

*EDIT*

I just did some quick rough virtuals.

Here's red with white,

and red with black,

red with Jersey Cream,

and what about red with a metalic gold? Probably NOT, but I'm throwing it out there anyway!

*EDIT #2*

A few of you have asked if the swag can be taken off.

NOPE. It is original and will stay.

I hope everyone enjoyed the Gone With the Wind Ball as much as I did! I so enjoyed everyone's posts and comments.
I will be drawing for the give away next Monday, so there's still time to get your name in the hat! Just leave a message at the party post!

Welcome to the Gone With the Wind Ball!

2009-09-06T16:02:00.012-05:00

Warning: My posts can be very "windy".... this one is especially long but I assure you I could go on forever! Much of my collection has been packed up or on the back burner for years, so I am thrilled to be getting everything out!

Thank you for attending, I'm so glad you are here!

Our dear Margaret Mitchell had no idea she would create such a stir with her incredible talent. We are celebrating 70 years of the film Gone With the Wind (1939), but the book was published in 1936.

If you have not read the book, you simply must. You don't know what you are missing. So much that they could never fit into a movie, and they tried their hardest!

We took a GWTW southern vacation before Nova was born. We visited the Margaret Mitchell House, the GWTW museum in Marietta, and the Road to Tara museum in Jonesburo.

It was SO amazing to stand in the same room that Margaret created the novel in. She sat in the corner by the windows. None of the furniture is orginal though.

While there I also got to see the front door from Tara, and the actual painting of Scarlett from Rhett's bedroom. This brought tears to my eyes. And for a long time, it had hung in an elementary school and has a lot of damage from kids poking holes in it, etc. WAHHHH!!!

In Marietta, one of the actual film gowns was displayed. I tell you, I was in heaven on this trip. It was the honeymoon/shopping spree outfit. Just phenomenal. So tiny, and such detail. The sleeves were amazing.

Margaret herself said that the film had the PERFECT cast. I love these photos of Margaret and Vivien Leigh~ both avid cat lovers. Just like Scarlett, Vivien was from French descent. Viv was so passionate about wanting to play Scarlett and it was an absolute miracle that she was discovered for the role.

I had to include a photo of Clark Gable without his mustache. Be still my heart...

I've been hard at work getting things ready for the Ball. Our home is 100+ years old and we have been working on it for 6 years. This is our stairway. We only recently took down the safety gate for our son. There is still much to do in this area. No trim around the windows but I just had to dress them up for the occasion!

I found the sage velvet drapery panels for $10 each. Here is Katie (Katie Scarlett), overseeing my progress...

I am the queen of cheap and when I saw this trim at a fabric store that was closing, I waited until the price dropped very low! It was originally $11.99/yard and I got it for $22 for 25 yards! It was fun to "pet" the whole bolt, so soft!

I just swagged the panels over the rod. I attached the fringe trim with safety pins. Yes, that's what I said.... it's just pinned on!

I went ahead and pulled the drapes to the side because I couldn't stand how dark the hall looked with them down. But I wanted to have something on the windows to protect my framed art.

These botanical prints are coming down.........

And my Walter Plunket costume sketches are going up!

These are each personally signed by Plunket, who designed the costumes for the film. He put out a 1000 copies~ my set is number 226. It is one of my most prized gwtw memoralbia. You can still find them sold separately, for around $125 or so each.

His work is amazing. He did a version of the velvet party gown in green as well, as it was described in the book.

There was another version to the drapery dress too, but it was deemed to exspensive to make.

There were also other variations of the BBQ gown... but this one won out. I'm so glad!

Now let's see.... whatever shall I wear for the BALL?

I've always dreamed of having a wardrobe like Scarlett....

And slowly, my dream is coming true! Let's go in for a closer look~

The drapery dress? Naw... much too bulky.

The blue mill bustle gown? Uh-uh. Too constricting.
And naturally I can't wear a red robe to a ball either!

(God's Nightgown!!)

White ruffles? Hmmm... too frilly.

Ahhh, the blue portrait gown. Nope, too heavy.

The jewel encrusted velvet?? My heavens NO!
Only a jezebel would wear such a thing!
Scandelous!

Green sprigged frock? YES, just right!

Mammy, be a "doll" and help me put on my dress~

I just took this Timeless Treasures Scarlett Barbie out of her NRFB state yesterday. What fun! Mammy is a World doll, they were sold in Cracker Barrel restaurants for the 50th Anniversary.

I had better get into my corset first~ custom made by Christine Hall.

This dress is actually a work in progress. The skirt is replica fabric from Pegee of Williamsburg and cost around $600 for the bolt, all of which is needed for the gown. I bought the dress pre-made from my friend Dee of Scarlett Online. She had had the dress made for herself many years ago and the seamtress butchered the fabric and made a very ill fitting garment for Dee. She wanted to have another gown made by a new seamstress, so I took on the task of fixing the frock for myself. I will have to make new ruffles for the neckline, the original gown from the film had over 1,000 buttonholes for the velvet to weave through! ACK!

Dee then found *the* GWTW seamstress extraordinaire and is very happy. If you want a screen accurate, museum quality garment, please visit GWTW4Ever, she does phenomenal work and is a long time gwtw collector.

So, for this picture I am actually wearing the Pegee fabric skirt with the top from this "naughty Scarlett" costume, LOL!

Most of my gowns need some sort of revamping. I need to find about 50 yards of lace to add to the ruffle gown. I have fabric stashed for the paisly robe and calico war dress. I need to finish the velvet party gown and the blue mill. All of these will be blogged about over the next several months! Christine Hall is making the green Christmas dress for me, which we put on hold for now. I have been learning how to sew and I'm anxious to tackle those BBQ buttonholes!

Scarlett wore 35+ costumes in the film. When the Franklin Mint came out with the 16" vinyl Scarlett doll years ago, I had to have her and all of her clothes. Some of the outfits I had made by Alana, as the mint didn't offer them at that time. Such as the wedding gown and the shanty dress; both of which the mint put out later.

Then in recent years, Tonner has come out with a GWTW line as well. Of course I had to buy one of their Scarletts! She can wear most of the mint's clothes and they have put out a fine wardrobe too.

The Franklin Mint Scarlett doll case was fashioned after the hat box that Rhett brings from Paris.

Here is Melly, (Melanie), laying on the bed while I took all of the ensembles out of their boxes and put them in the doll cases. (I have Rhett and Rose from Titanic too.) I don't even think Melly was full grown here. She has been doing fine, BTW. Still on the special cat food diet.

OY! This was before we redid the bedroom. I hated that Cookie Monster blue carpet!

Here's a collage of some of my dolls and the intricate little dresses~
click to enlarge, then click the back button

This is a 21" Madame Alexander Cissy doll, dressed in the red staircase robe made by Alana. She needs a new wig. I have the wig from the plaid mill dress, but not the dress.

I think I had better stop there, whew!

Here's a few links before I sign off. I run two yahoo groups if you are interested in learning more about the costumes or dolls, Gone With the Wind Garments and Scarlett O'Hara Vinyl Portrait. If you'd like to see more of my collection or better photos, click here. The tags at the end of this post will direct you to other gwtw posts here at The Scarlett Rose Garden.

Remember, I'm having a GWTW give away! So please leave a comment so your name can go in the drawing.

All of the GWTW Blogland Ball participants are below and in my sidebar, be sure to waltz on over and see them all! We are so glad you came!

(If your blog is not listed or you want it removed, please let me know!)
A Southern Rose
All the Queen's Chocolate
Angelic Accents
Beansie Babbles
Christine's Home and Travel Adventures
Colleen's Quilting Journey to Oz
Edie Marie's Attic
Fantasy and Fancy
Florence and Mary
Hooked On Houses
Loveleigh Treasures
Monkeyshine Business
My Enchanted Home
My Suzy Homemaker
Rose Vignettes
Rue's Peanut Butter and Jelly Life
Sassy Mini Dolls
Sherri's Jubilee
Simplistic Life in a Small Town
Soul Talk 777
Southern Sass
Tea With Miss Janice
The Pawsh Poodle
The Sunny Side of the Sun Porch
The Way We Are
Todas somos reinas
Unshelved Words
Yellow Rose Arbor

HAPPY 70TH ANNIVERYSARY GONE WITH THE WIND!

Bust a move~

2009-09-02T12:47:00.003-05:00

We've been moving furniture around here at the Scarlett Rose Garden.

Took one cabinet out of the parlor, needed to paint it and move it to my craft room... here it is:

I forgot to take a before shot before I tested the paint!

Note the center of the pediment is broken off, and there are drips from the previous finish. This cupboard was given to me~ a trash to treasure.
I painted it yellow, and plan to do some other embellishment on the doors. I know, I know... it's an old primitive cupboard but that finish had to go.

The inside... this will house most of my hoarded fabric!

Ok, so we took that cabinet upstairs to the craft room. Brought down a white pre-fab cabinet and put it on the back porch. Moved the black wicker chair from the back porch and put it on the front porch.

Then, we broke down the knock down French armoir that was also in the parlor, and set it back up in the dining room (for now).

Oops..... back up. I first moved a chair out of one corner of the dining room, then moved my library table to THAT corner, and now the armoir is in the corner where the library table had been!

Whew!

Next, we will move the small deco armoir that is in the dining room... upstairs in the hall by the landing.

Then, we'll bring in a china cabinet that a friend of Kevin's gave him, that just so happens to match my buffet. Woohoo!

Hope to get some storage built in my craft room, and the rest of the stuff moved out of the parlor. The parlor needs new drywall and refinished floors. But.......... we have to do the bathroom upstairs first. The plumbing for the bath goes thru the ceiling of the parlor.

Still with me? Got all that??

Ok... now don't forget, I'm also getting ready for the

Gone With the Wind Ball!

I hope you are too.

I've started a list of those who said they would participate under the button in my sidebar. If your name isn't there and it should be, please let me know! Some of the comments were vague and I wasn't sure, or I don't have your link.

There is still time to click here or click on the button if you are interested in joining the party; of course everyone is invited to attend whether you're participating or not!

I'm so excited to get all this furniture moved around. We've been so busy socially, etc.. that we're finally getting some time to get things done around here! We'll have to see how far the money stretches on the reno projects tho....

Down by the "crick"

2009-08-26T09:45:00.005-05:00

What a strange and beautiful summer we've had. The weather has been so unseasonably cool! Right now I have the windows open and I'm not even running the attic fan. Wow. This is NOT August. I'm used to 102 degree weather and the upstairs AC running non stop and still not getting down to what the thermostat is set on, lol!

Saturday we went for a drive. Nova loves things with "pinchies", and Kevin had promised to show him some crawdads. So down to the "crick" we went! It was a lovely drive, everything so green... wildflowers blooming... a few trees beginning to change hue. A perfect lazy day.

Sorry, this is the only creek pic I've got, since I went wading in it as well and didn't want to risk taking the camera. Wish I would have tho, it was so cute watching Nova try to get those little rascals! He was excited to see we had to drive through the water~

He wanted to take the crawdads home to show the cats. Melly was not too impressed.

She went for a second look tho. BTW, she seems to be doing fine. Still on the special food and the vet is not ready to take another x-ray yet...

Hi Mr. Crawdad! I think we had about 5 in there~ they were set free later in a near by lake.

I can't beleive it's been a year since my baby started "pretty" school. He started back to preschool on Monday. He sure has grown!

I had to laugh as I put these two pics together for comparison. He's being a little goof in both shots, ha!

I made a paint smock for him, it turned out pretty well. The fabric really annoyed me because no matter how you laid it out the print looked upside down. He likes it, that's all that matters!

I couldn't find a smock pattern anywhere, and time was short! So I ended up buying this cheap $2.50 Simplicity 4927 pattern for a girls dress. Left the sides open, and cut out the flare a bit. I cut off the length of the dress and used it for pockets along the front.

I thought I had some velcro at home, but couldn't find it. It was about 10 PM and I didn't feel like running over to Walmart, so I decided to sew some magnets to the insides. Seems to work and it's easy for him to get in and out of.

He loves school and couldn't wait to go back... and now perhaps I can catch up on blogging! : P

~O.E.O~

2009-08-22T00:34:00.006-05:00

Hello and welcome to the Wizard of Oz Gala,

hosted by

Twyla and Lindsey at Two Crazy Crafters!

To get the party started, let's have some wine~ shall we?
Back in April, we went to see a Wizard of Oz museum in Wamego, KS and next to it was a great little winery; Oz Winery. I just LOVE their logo, cool eh?
The wine was wonderful! I've never experienced such a good wine tasting, there was *something* special in each one.

Isn't the tin ceiling gorgeous!?

It was hard to decide which wine to take home.... so it came down to which bottle I liked best, lol! I chose the O.E.O. An incredible, flavorful dry red wine with a hint of vanilla. They all had cute names too, such as Witch in a Ditch~

Ok... let's get on down the yellow brick road... (just don't drink and drive!)
Here I am in my ruby slippers, ready for some candy a few years ago~
This was about the third time I had worn the outfit for Halloween. The dress is very special to me because my Grandma helped me make it. Not to mention I was huge when I first wore it... and had to take it in twice, woohoo!

Nova was only 18 months old! Doesn't he make a "dandy" lion?

I looked all over for a good tutorial for Dorothy's hair. These are the best two,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRoxdOPQvdE
and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wttn0HoLDrw
Both of them always have awesome hair videos.
I do my Dorothy 'do a bit differently, but much like the first video. I wanted to do a tutorial for you but didn't get around to it. Plus, it would've been alot better before I cut my long red hair and dyed it brown~

My hair was layered in that pic so I had no fluff to curl at the ends.

Being a hairdresser, I can't help myself but watch the hairstyles in movies like a hawk. I can always tell when scenes were redone, ect.
Look at how short and kind of thin Dorothy's braids/curls are in the black and white segment... and then notice how many times her extensions change during the scarecrow scene. Cracks me up! Her haircolor varies as well throughout the film; reds are notorious for that... Just like Rose in Titanic.

Before getting to Wamego, we stopped in Kansas City for a Wiz exhibit at Crown Center.

Nova liked pretending to be a tree...

And melting the Wicked Witch!

I made a special dress just for the trip, in Wizard of Oz fabrics. (Hi Colleen!)

The pattern is Retro Butterick 4790.

Help, help!!

Going into the haunted forrest inside the Wamego museum... ooooohhhh I DO beleive in spooks!!

I enjoyed seeing all the different books by Baum, such beautiful covers! Both the Crown Center and Wamego exhibits were fun, filled with tons of memoralbia. Lots of dolls, books, and info. I bought a book, "The Wizardry of Oz".

A must for Wiz collectors!

Next up.... you just won't beleive your eyes!

An amazing hand made quilt by Sarah Lassiter. She quilted every scene in amazing detail! I love how she used the sepia fabrics for the black and white parts.

Dorothy and Glinda's dresses were 3-D! These photos do not do her talent justice. I stood there in awe for quite a while! Click on the mosaic to enlarge~ just remember to hit the back button and not the X when finished...

I didn't touch it, honest! I just held my finger up to show the scale and unbelievable detail. Did you see the little hand stitched monkeys flying out of the witch's castle?

Do you know who this is?

Why, it's Billie Burke! She played Glinda. Isn't she beautiful? She was born in 1884, can you believe it? She was 55 years old when she played the good witch of the North~

I tried loading a copy of a cassette tape recording of me reciting the WIZ when I was 8 years old... er, almost 30 years ago. It is quite a hoot! But youtube rejected it for length, so back to the drawing board. I'll figure it out some time!

Thanks for "dropping in"! You'll have to catch a balloon ride or click your heels to get home. But before you go, be sure to visit the other participants in the Wizard of Oz Gala over at Twyla and Lindsey's!

You may also see my past posts on OZ, which include the Wamego, KS OZ museum, how I made my poppies dress, and how to make your own Ruby Slippers! Click here.
What's more, many photos can be seen and enlarged on all of the above in my flickr album.

Happy 70th Anniversary

OZ!

*And don't forget, the Gone With the Wind Ball is coming up! Click the button in my sidebar for details!

Some recent junque in my trunk~ all for about $50!

2009-08-18T10:52:00.003-05:00

You know times are tough when you have to save money to go YARDSALING. Geesh.

Yeah.

We had a town wide yardsale recently and I found quite a few goodies. I was SO excited because I hadn't been to a sale, fleamarket, or anything in a very, very long time.

First up we have a gorgeous little chandy, are you ready for this?

FIVE BUCKS. Yes. And to think I almost didn't even ask because I ASSUMED it was going to be more than the $35 I had with me!!

I was able to straighten the crooked arm. I found all but 6 of the crystals next to it.

Might go in my bathroom redo upstairs, but for now we hung it in the foyer as we didn't have anything there and it keeps it off of the floor~

LOVE this darling aqua vintage phone for only 75 cents!

Will be so cute with a floral motif added in the center of the dial~

These are hard to find where the receiver hasn't yellowed.

A darling little tin basket!! No lid but that's ok. The colors are so sweet!

Vintage clothespins for crafting...

And this gorgeous mug~ sorry, not the best pic!

Don't be scared! I needed another mannequin head for practice, was so glad to find her and the stand! She has since been shampooed and cleaned up rather nice~

Great vintage fabrics! There's enough of this cute butterfly material for a sundress.

A sweet cherub for a quarter~

I've been wanting to learn ribbon embroidery and found these at two separate sales, woohoo!

Gorgeous vintage bed that my sister and BIL gave me. Has a headboard too, not pictured...

Awesome vintage jewels and hairsticks.... FREE with the $5 CHANDY!!

And last, this beautiful old print. This was at a local consignment shop about a year ago. I really liked it but couldn't think of anywhere to put it. Plus, they wanted like $40 for it.

A few months later they marked it down about ten bucks or so. I thought about it.... but still too much $ and I'm trying to watch what I spend more than ever now.

Next time I went in it was GONE.

Well, of COURSE I wanted it then!! I pouted about it for a while and got over it.

Fast forward to the present... went in last week and it was BACK! I had $28 on my account there and the picture was now $24. SOLD. It's MINE. *wicked laugh*

It is in my dining room now, which is too green I think... will probably go in my parlor when it's finished.

I love the frame too!

Thanks for junkin' with me!

I've also been getting ready for my Gone With the Wind party, have you?

Check a few posts back or in my sidebar for details!

Take your hands off me, you drunken fool~

2009-08-14T00:54:00.005-05:00

Welcome to REVAMP IT,

hosted by Natasha Burns at Artistic Creations!

I'm going to cheat a bit here.... Natasha's party inspired me to finally finish a long overdue project. I began this robe years ago, but my machine broke. I got a new one but by then the robe was lost in a sea of unfinshed crafts. Um... all I had left to do was sew on the sleeves!! GEESH, how hard is that? LOL~

These mosaics will all enlarge when clicked upon, just remember to hit the back button afterwards and not the X~

I found a red velour robe with good "bones" on ebay. I liked the idea of velour so that I could actually wear this as a housecoat for every day use. It wouldn't have the bell sleeves, but who can cook breakfast in those?

I added a layer of tulle, then hand stitched on each row of lace. I cut the sleeves off at the elbow. Then ripped out the stitches and unrolled the amputated peices, which were then rectangles. Cut these into ovals, then cut out circles in the centers. Added tulle and lace to those as well to make new sleeves. Busted a vintage red beaded necklace to use for buttons.

I was going to make a velvet belt, but lucked out and found a vintage one! Voila!

While you're here I may as well show you a few more embellished costumes.

This is Rose's Jump dress, made from a Morgan and Co. prom dress. I added beading at the underbust, rhinestone buttons, and sequined trim. I made an underskirt with tulle and added two rows of beaded fringe there. I then cut the overskirt at the knees to mimic Rose's gown.

Rose's tea dress made from an A-line bridesmaid dress. I first cut off the sleeves. Then sewed down the sides of the dress to make it more slim on the legs. Bought some matching green fabric for a placket in front and back. Made an overskirt with a dotted lace, used curtain lace for the tiers.

This is my next revamp costume to be. All from a $2 vintage suit. It will be a rather 40's does Titanic version, that I can wear more often than I would a full length suit. I have bought a purple tie, reproduction earrings, and found a gorgeous antique brooch. I have yet to find the right shade of velvet.

...And yes, there's more where that came from but I have to stop somewhere! If you'd like more info or want to see more photos, click on my flickr badges on the right.

Thanks for visiting! Be sure to check out the other REVAMP IT bloggers on Natasha's link!

Don't miss the Gone With the Wind Ball!
Get details by clicking my sidebar button or going a few posts back. Hope to see you then!

We have a winner folks!

2009-08-12T11:37:00.007-05:00

I want to thank all of those who played along and left comments for my give away! It was fun to see which old posts y'all dug up.

Here they are~ Some were doubles...

(I hope the links work, blogger has NOT been cooperateive lately!)

And here are the names I cut out for the drawing!

Another view~

I let my little man "draw a straw"...

And he chose.....
Cat at The Vintage Housewife!

Congrats you "sassy kitten", swing on by and give me your info so I can get your package out to you ASAP!

Be sure to check out my upcoming Gone With the Wind Ball via the link in my sidbar, or the previous post. Would love to see you there!

Get ready, you're invited!

2009-08-10T16:17:00.010-05:00

You are cordially invited

to a Blogland Ball

to celebrate

the 70th Anniversary of

GONE WITH THE WIND

Please join your host, Nikki, here at

THE SCARLETT ROSE GARDEN

on Monday~ September 7th, 2009

(click the above link for the actual Ball post!)

If you plan to participate and

blog about GWTW that day

RSVP by leaving your link in a comment on this post

or emailing me with your info at

n2gwtw@gmail.com

I'll be having another give away

and will be anxious to visit your blogs as well!

So pick out a dress...

...don't show your bosom before 3 O'clock...

...and put on plenty of rouge!

This is my first blog party and I hope to see you then!

~*Feel free to snag the Ball Button in my sidebar*~

Gifts Galore!

2009-08-04T00:00:00.012-05:00

I am long over due in posting about some wonderful gifts I have recieved~

You can click on the photos to enlarge.

First up is a give away I won from My Big Mouth.

EEK! This was back in February! It arrived in a festive mailer with a beautiful card.

Inside was a yard of cute Valentine fabric with love quotes all over, a pearled initial "N", bath petals, a notebook, and a cool toy for Nova! He had a blast watching it "grow"!

Still thinking of what to make with the material. I love the "N", I had see them on other blogs and was jealous~ now I have my very own!

Next we have another give away prize from Rose Vignettes. This was in April.....geeeesh! I'm so ashamed for not sharing these earlier! As you might be able to tell, this cute package arrived as I was busy making my Wizard of Oz dress. Ever since I opened it I was craving beer bread! I finally got to make it recently. Dos Equis was all we had on hand from a big mexican feast we had, lol! I made pretty pancakes with the heart cookie cutter. The "gloveables" are SO cute! I pulled weeds and my manicure was spared!

The most recent gift is from my friend Dee. She has started a blog but has been very busy, so give her some time and check back! Some of you may know her from her VERY popular Gone With the Wind site, Scarlett Online. Just look at the package decorated in cute little Scarlett bears! Inside was some gorgeous fabric for La Boudoir. An adorable cottage pillow with a pink velvet back, a vintage Quick magazine with Scarlett on the front to add to my gwtw book collection, and a Scarlett/bbq shoe figurine. Boy do I wish I had some *real* shoes like that in my size!! The mag is from the 50's and is such a hoot to read.

There were a few other gifts but I wasn't sure if they were meant to be shared.... but you know who you are and I thank you SO much!!

*Now for the last gift!*

It's my bloggiversary GIVE AWAY!! I'm not going to tell you what the winner will get, all I'm going to say is that it has something to do with THIS: Just remember I'm new at sewing and it shows in the "prize"!

NOW~ in order to be entered in the drawing you must follow the rules!

You have to visit an old post and leave a comment there. So, please check out my label cloud and blog archives in my sidebar and see what you can "dig up".

I can't wait to hear from you!

Winner will be drawn on Tuesday, August 11th.

Good luck, and thanks for following along with me!

P.S. Many blogs are having trouble with their comment boxes lately. If you are unable to leave a comment, feel free to email me at n2gwtw@gmail.com. Just be sure to tell me about the post you viewed and leave your name and blog site so I know who to put in the drawing!

Rain, rain, rain...

2009-07-28T17:15:00.003-05:00

It's raining AGAIN today.

A few weeks ago I saw this adorable red and white gingham umbrella with eyelet lace trim and just HAD to have one!!

It was in Country Living magazine, and they said to go to http://www.totes-isotoner.com/. But alas, they were sold out!! WAH!

I didn't give up, and found them on Amazon. They even come in PINK!

A heartBREAKING Pink Saturday, episode fifteen~

2009-07-24T23:14:00.012-05:00

Welcome to Pink Saturday! Please visit Beverly at

How Sweet the Sound for more pink eye candy!

You may remember my Pink Saturday post #2, the dainty pink bossom china?

I got them on eBay in January of '07. My brother and SIL had gotten me a gift certificate and naturally it was burning a hole in my pocket! I came across the following auction and my heart skipped a beat:

Antique China Set Delicate Pink Floral Pattern

The auction description:

"My grandmother had these pieces that match her Haviland tea sets and platter (see other auction). These pieces have no manufacturer marks on the bottom, so I do not know who made them. They actually belonged to her grandmother so are very old.

The pieces are very lovely, almost transparent. The design is a delicate pink floral with green vines and leaves. Along the rim there is a very light, raised additional design; white raised frieze. The pieces show very little wear, *one tea cup does have a very, very small chip*. However, these peices of china are in good shape and there are no other cracks or chips. The serving pieces have most of the gold gilt intact.

In the pictures, there are sponge liners between the plates, that is the darker beige you see between them.

Shipping will depend upon location but I will have this packed carefully by the local shipping service. I also suggest insurance."

Sounded great, right?? She did have a low feedback number, but hey... everyone has to start somewhere right?? And it was 100% positive.

I covered all my bases and emailed for a shipping estimate.

Q: Hi there! How much for shipping and insurance to zip -----? Also, how will the set be packaged? Thanks!

A: The shipping and insurance should be around $60 to your zip. I plan to take it to a pack and ship store and have them package it properly. I am assuming they will use bubble wrap and peanuts to be sure it will not break. I am not sure how much they will charge for this service, but I will add that cost on to the shipping fee. I esimated the insurance at $100, but can up that if you would like. Enjoy Bidding!

Hmmm. Sounded OK, RIGHT?!!!

The asking bid was $50. That is how much my gift certificate was for, woohoo! I could handle the shipping.

Oh, did I mention this was a set of china for TWELVE??

TWELVE!!!

I was the only bidder, how exciting! Before paying, I emailed the seller and told her I wanted a copy of the reciept for the packaging, etc.

I waited impatiently for my beautiful set to arrive. Finally I heard the drop at the door. When I picked up the first box, my heart sank.

You could hear clanking china.... and I just knew it was bad.

Now mind you, I expected to have a broken plate here, a teacup handle busted there.... or a crack or two. But nothing prepared me for what you are about to see.

Please~ grab a tissue and perhaps the hand of someone you love and watch the following slideshow. Be sure to enlarge it by clicking in the botton righthand corner.

Ahhh... remember those "sponge liners" the seller talked about in her description? She failed to mention that they were DRY ROTTED. Not that a perfectly spongey 1/8 inch liner would've protected anything fragile what-so-ever from the UPS man!

Was this woman insane?!?!

No bubble wrap... Oh, I take that back. The large platter and small platter were spooned together and wrapped in one sheet of it. You saw how that turned out.

The bottom of each stack of plates was on the bottom of the boxes. There was china dust in the bottom of those zipped *ahem* china protectors. Each stack knocked against each other again and again within the mere handfull of peanuts inside. Oh, the agony.

So I email her and tell her I have broken china. I was trying to be as nice as I could, I was so afraid I would not get reimbursed.

To my surprise she reimbursed my money before I even sent her pictures of the damage. (She's something, huh?!)

She appoligized and wanted to call me to say whe was sorry. Oy, I did NOT want to talk to this woman. Seriously, how stupid could someone be?

I told her that each and every peice should have been bubble wrapped separately. Then she told me that the platter was bubble wrapped.

She was so totally clueless, what could I possibly say?!

Finally all I could muster was "I think we've both learned a lesson here."

It's been over two years and I'm still sick about it. I'm sick that she would even SELL precious family china in the first place. (If she was telling the truth). I didn't save the original photos from the auction, or if I did I cannot find them. But they were all there... perfect and in tact.

As I went though each dish I just prayed for a service for four. I barely got it.

Frankly I'm surprised any of it made it at all... especially the more delicate pieces such as the gravy boat and dishes with lids.

I left her positive feedback; how could I not? I wrote, "Gracious seller remedied issues with damaged goods received. Thank you!"

In the end I guess I made out like a bandit. I'm sure Penny of Lavender Hill Studio would've been rather happy to get a box like that, LOL!

I have saved the peices and do plan to do a mosaic of some sort.... just waiting for the right project to come along.

If anyone has any ideas, please let me know!

Thanks for "listening".....

OH! By the way... inside the box was a reciept from Walmart for bubble wrap and peanuts, totaling about $5.00.

Hair today, gone tomorrow~

2009-07-23T12:53:00.014-05:00

My sister and I had both been itching to cut our locks after the wedding. Here's a before shot taken at the bachelorette party~ Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, MO.

I cannot figure this picture out as I am actually a bit taller than her and we both had on flip flops with the same height... hmmm.... did you stand on your tippies at the last second Sis or is that old floor that warped, lol!

For those who may be wondering, we are 13 years apart.

Jonna knew she was going chin length. She liked the pic on the bottom right, only not so short around the face. (click to enlarge)

I was so excited to start cutting!!

Say buh-bye!
AYE-AYE-AYE-AYE-AYE!!!!

Jonna's hair is incredibly thick. I mean really, REALLY thick. I razored it quite a bit to soften, but if you razor or thin it out too much it can make thick hair even more poofy; and make the layers lay funny.

Cutting all the weight off unleashed some great natural wave. She'll be able to scrunch it and difuse it for a different look.

Here I dried it using a hot air brush by Conair. This is my old brush that she uses at home. The newer ones have soft bristles to help grab the hair. If you are able to use a round brush and separate dryer, that's great! But these are wonderful if you aren't that coordinated.

There's nothing like a big round brush for volume and lift. Use the largest one you can fit in your hair if you don't want any curl.

After I dried it I went over the bottom layers with a flat iron. (I use a Chi iron in the salon)

Ta-dah!

No more tangles!! LOL!

Here are some more befores of mine. I admit, I'm rather missing it now~ but I'm still glad I cut it. I really only liked it when I curled it... and had to sleep in rollers then sit under the dryer for an hour the next day!
So you can guess I didn't do it often.

Straight and natural~

Red fades so quickly, I wish it would stay like this!

See the diffrence in fading in a month? Geesh. This was taken on the 4th of July.

And here's the after. I lopped off about 8 inches too. I slept in rollers the night before this pic~

Dress is vintage, late 40's-early 40's. My pockets are stuffed with my cell phone and junk; can you imagine that back then? LOL!

You'll hafta click to enlarge if ya wanna see the back. Not that exciting. The same, just shorter!
Uh oh!
Bathroom snapper!

This is in the Japanese garden at the Missouri Botanical Gardens, or Shaw's Garden.

Be sure to stop by Sheila's at Note Songs for more
Bathroom Beauty Snappers!

I scrunched my natural wave here~

And threw in some victory rolls for this shot.

Whew, what a load off!

Orange and Fuschia Bridal Shower~

2009-07-14T12:07:00.014-05:00

Whew, being the Matron of Honor is a huge job! Helping the bride find her perfect gown was among the largest tasks, but once that was done things started to fall in place.

I had to get busy and make the invitations for her shower. This took forever because I couldn't decide what to do. I finally made up my mind; I wanted to shape the words on the invite in the form of a wedding cake. Ok, cool. Well, the programs I have would not let me do it the way I wanted. So I found an invitation online, (tsk, tsk!), and used that. I completely changed it tho. I had to first make it black and white, take some birthday candles off of the top, erase their fonts and wording, etc. But I am happy with the results. My sister loves glitter and bling, so I lined each cake with glitter and then sprayed them all with opalescent glitter spray. Made about fitty of 'em. I made sure to put Bridal Luncheon so guests would know there was FOOD and not just cake and punch.

I found orange and pink index cards to send to everyone so they could bring their favorite recipe for the bride. Sorry for the lousy pics, there were some better shots but I'd have to edit out the info again and I don't feel like it! :P

I thought it would be cute to have all orange and pink foods for the event.... except for the chicken salad sandwiches! Kevin made those for me~ SO good!

Thanks so much for all of your help sweetie! Couldn't have done it without ya~

Yes, those are nekkid butts on his apron. His parents bought it for him at Mt. Rushmore. Er, that's supposed to be the "back" of Mt. Rushmore...
Kevin added halved red grapes and dried cherries for color.

I made 50 pink and orange swirled cheesecake cupcakes. They were fun, but I will never try to make that many again!

A favorite fruit salad recipe of mine:
A can of peach pie filling and whatever fruit you want!

Cut the peaches up in smaller chunks and fold in fruit. So simple.
I used fresh strawberries, raspberries, and a can of drained mandarin oranges here.
But I love it with sliced bananas, pineapple, apples, kiwi, blueberries, etc.

Next to that I had port wine cheese with crackers.

Shown below is the lovely platter of chicken salad on croissants, and you can see the pink and orange salad dressings~

Used cherry flavored craisins and carrots for color in the lettuce salad~ radichio was also in the mix for a nice shade of pink.

Pink and orange punch anyone? Diet Cherry 7-UP and raspberry sherbert in one jar, Diet Sunkist and orange sherbert in the other~
Is it ok to get excited about plastic utensils?

The colors just looked so pretty wrapped around these! These centerpieces have really gotten some mileage. I made them for my wedding; adorned with wide lace and navy ribbon. Then switched out the ribbon to gold for my inlaw's 50th anniversary. Then took off the lace and added pink and black ribbons with rhinestone buckles for my sil's bridal shower. And now orange and pink beading!
I lucked out snagging these pink and orange wrapped candies. They are Hershey's BLISS~ Chocolates filled with raspberry flavor!

The deep fuschia geraniums were an awesome find. If you look closely, the centers are orange! I gave these out as prizes.

I found a cute shower game online. You need a peice of posterboard, markers, pens and paper. Place the posterboard on the floor. Ask each guest to come and trace around their hand, leaning over without bending their knees. (I alternated pink and orange markers between each player.)

While this was going on I had the other two bridesmaids jotting down everything that was being said during this time.

Once everyone had their turn, I announced to everyone that "you might hear the following coming from the newlyweds' honeymoon suite"... Unbeknownst to them, here's what our guests blurted out:

I'm not doing that!

It's easier if you spread your legs.

That wasn't so bad...Next!

Bend your butt that way!

Im not that coordinated!

What in the world did you think of this for?

Lets get this over with.

Don't rip your pants!

Aren't you glad you lost all that weight?

I have to take my shoes off to shrink~

It was hard when I went down.

Just bend your knees and go down!

My big butt in the air!

Is there a significance to the hand?

Nobody said she couldn't sit down.

Don't rip your pants, we didn't bring any extra!

It looks like a big elephant hand!

Leave it to Jonna to have asprin!

Going...still going...

There'll be no more of that!

It was hilarious! Lots of fun since no one suspected!

I think the bride enjoyed herself, and I hope the guests did too.
I especially liked how the veil turned out. Looked like sherbert!

It was fun putting it all together. Love ya Sis!

Orange and pink engagement photo~

2009-07-08T11:49:00.007-05:00

Here is my lil' sis Jonna, and her *then* fiance' Richie.

Richie is in the Missouri Air National Guard, (as is my brother), and is an Avionics Electrical Technician.

Jonna is a registered nurse, working in the NICU in one of Missouri's leading hospitals caring for infants born premature or with other complications.

Note the pinstriping/graphics on their Vue. This was hand done by a family friend; M.K. John Studio. He does fabulous work. Makes me want a new car so I can have something done!

If you squint or click to enlarge the photo, you can barely see the reflection of their son, Kolby, in the chrome underneath "VUE"...hee....

A few shower pics to come soon!

More cherry pie?!

2009-07-06T17:38:00.007-05:00

Do you know what that means?! It means I have totally missed my one year Blogiversary! I actually made my first post in May of last year, but Cherries Jubilee was one of my favorites and I can't believe the time has gone by so quickly!

Our cherry tree was nothing like last year. The weather and birds really took their tole. We didn't pick any. But that's ok, frankly I'm still cherried out! We had some in the freezer and I made two pies to take to our friend's house for their annual 4th of July party.

I never like how the crust edge turns out when I use my fingers/thumb/or a spoon. I was looking at my various flatware and decided to use the handles to make impressions. Yes, Pillsbury makes lovely pie crusts...

This crust turned out "ok", but you couldn't see the floral motif from the handle I used.

But I really liked how this one turned out. The rose impression is very tiny, but cute!

...if you squint you can see it!

Our friend's party was on the 3rd this year, so we had a quiet day to ourselves on Independence Day. That night, Kevin and I each had a piece of pie and he popped some pink champaign that had been in the fridge forever. Happy Birthday America!

And Happy 1st Blogiversary to me! I suppose I'll have to come up with a give away, eh?

In a nutshell, part deux~

2009-07-06T15:42:00.003-05:00

Ok folks... trying my hardest to catch up here. Just wanted to give you a follow up!

Melly did NOT have surgery. I took her in early that morning, and the doc called me after he did another x-ray and said that the special food had indeed shrunk the stones. He said we could go ahead with surgery if we wanted, but he thought that another month on the food would work.

The thing is, she still has blood in her urine and I know she must be in pain. But, we also don't have $1,000 to spend on cat surgery, tho we would do it if it is our only option. I've really been wringing my hands over this. I don't want her to suffer. But I also feel the doc wouldn't have called if he didn't think it would be ok. So, we decided to keep her on the food. He gave her another round of antibiotics for infection.

She seems better, a bit more active. I also bought a new litter box that she took right too. More on that later.

I was able to recover the lost pictures on my SD card! I was frantic that night, searching google about what could be done. I found Steller Phoenix Photo Recovery. I was able to recover all of the bachelorette party pics, along with about 100 photos that I had previously, (and purposely) deleted. I highly recommend the program if you are in need. It was worth the money! Plus, I plan to buy an external hard drive, and if loaded there I can recover anything on this pc if necessary.

The wedding was beautiful. I cannot wait to see the professional photos! I will share bits and pieces soon.

Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers!
Oh, and in case you're wondering; no~ the table was not returned.

...in a nutshell...

2009-06-22T01:09:00.005-05:00

Well, let's see...in a nutshell...

Saw my baby brother for the last time the other day before he left for Afghanistan. I'm worried sick already. He will miss our sister's wedding this Saturday, the 27th.

I'm PMSing. Bad.

My sister's wedding is this weekend. Dress was already too snug. Now I'm bloated. Great.

Melly was not getting any better, we have scheduled her surgery for Wednesday.

Had my sister's bachelorette party yesterday and took tons of pics. Now the pics have just "disappeared" from my SD card. Actually over a hundred photos, GONE.

Our downstairs AC unit is acting up. Already had the maintenance guy here once, will have to call back tomorrow. Did I mention it's REALLY hot here? And I'm PMSing?

Leg wax on Tuesday. Spray tan on Thursday. Rehearsal dinner Friday.

Yah. So. Hope to be back to normal soon! Thanks for your well wishes everyone~ I haven't gotten sick *yet*!

Hope everyone had a great Father's Day!

*EDIT*

Since writing this post in the wee hours last night, someone has stolen my black wicker table from our front porch! The one I just blogged about two posts ago. They even moved a plant and a candle to take it, and set them aside. How kind. It freaks me out because it has to be someone who drives by frequently, and it appears as if they actually pulled in our driveway.

I really, really liked that table. Sniff.

Please visit Nick~

2009-06-12T00:18:00.004-05:00

Hi folks! Just popping in to say hi. Been realllllly busy the last several weeks. Kevin was sick, then Nova got pink eye. Then Kevin got pink eye. Then Nova got strep! Everyone's been sick but me, (knock on wood!), including the cats....

Thanks to their new prescription food they are now consitpated and I'm supposed to feed them canned pumkin. Yah. That's going over REAL well.

Sooo, I'm just praying that I don't get sick for my sister's wedding. It's the 27th and we've been busy with prep!

I hope to be back in the swing of things after that!

In the meantime, take a trip over to Nick's place. You won't be sorry. We need to drum up some bloggy visits for him big time. Many of you may recognize him from Rate My Space. I just spotted a full page photo of his home in the June/July '09 issue of Cottages & Bungalows magazine, woohoo!

View his blog here, and his RMS page here! Lots of pics of his place on RMS, I just adore his landscaping and kitchen. Enjoy!

The metamorhposis of a porch~

2009-05-31T23:37:00.010-05:00

*WARNING~this post totally lacks enthusiasm*
I wanted to participate in the Porch Party but my PC is acting up as usual and I am SO tired sitting here waiting for things to load. I didn't want anyone to click on a party-less post tho.... so here's whatcha get, lol!

Welcome to Rhondi's Porch Party, 2009!

If you'd like to view last year's post, click here. We are just getting our hanging baskets and such on the porch now, so I'd love it if you come back in a month or so and visit again!

But since you're here....I'll show you the furniture I painted on Saturday. Just like the white wicker I had, these were all found in the trash over the years.

This is our house back in 1972. I was fortunate to find some previous owners and they shared these photos with us! This was before the *cough* siding was put on.

Here's a photo from a few years ago before we painted the house, showing the white furniture. I kept the chair on the right, but the rest went to the curb and has already been picked up, yay! Oh, I kept that table too.

This shows the new paint job from last year~I wish the floor would've stayed glossy and fresh forever. First up, Brentwood rocker. Yep. It's filthy and nasty, but I have a thing for them. I can't even remember where I picked it up, hmm...
This table was in the dumpster behind my work~

My friend Kim picked up this curb side beauty for me and I have used it in my office for years. Time to refresh it tho. (Thanks again Kim!)

So here's the *new* furniture!

The mandevillas are just getting started as well~

I'm looking for new cusions; something french country or Mary Engelbeit inspired.

Wish me luck!

There's plenty of left over swirled orange and pink cheesecake cupcakes I made for my sister's bridal luncheon this past Saturday.... help yourself!

Note the missing cupcake...*snort*
I cut a rose that was past it's prime, but couldn't bare to just toss it so I scattered the petels here. This is a rose that we transplanted from my late Grandmother's garden this spring. I had no idea what color they were, so it's very exciting!

Enjoy the rest of your tour, I'm going to bed, lol! I shall visit y'all tomorrow~

Happy Birthday Rhondi! Thank you for being such a gracious host.

Dinner in the diner, nothin' could be finer~

2009-05-10T23:10:00.006-05:00

While in KC, we wanted to be sure to take Nova to Fritz's Railroad Resaurant. We had heard great things and it sounded like fun for all.

A train runs around a track above the tables and delivers your order. Too cool. It drops your tray as it goes on by, and your food comes down on a hydraulic system.

The original restaurant was started by Fritz and Virginia Kropf in 1954. Fritz invented the food delivery system in his basement, mainly because of the shortage of help at the time.

Call in your order... a waitress will bring your drinks.

Wooo-Wooo~ there goes an order!

This is our food comin' down! It was less than 5 minutes, unbelievable!

Paper engineer hats were given out. I couldn't get Nova to wear his fabric hat for his birthday party, but he wouldn't take this paper one off! Kids?!

I think that's one customer who will be back!

He would not let go of that hat for anything. It's not like he thought the wind would blow it off, we had parked in a garage. I know he was tired, but he looked so uncomfortable holding it... forEVER....

Here's a little video to see the train in motion! (You may want to scroll all the way down and pause the background music.)

Poor, poor pussycat~

2009-05-05T01:03:00.006-05:00

I thought she was better, but she's not.

Poor Melly has gone back to the vet after finding blood in her urine once again. This time she got an x-ray, which shows she has a good size mass of kidney stones.

She got a shot and will get antibiotics for another 10 days. We'll feed her prescription food for at least 12 weeks, which is made to disolve the stones.

The doc has a good feeling that this will do the trick, and if not~ she will need surgery.

The surgery would cost close to a grand, so I really hope this special food gets rid of the stones! Not to mention the dinky little 4 pound bag costs $20.

Of course we'd do anything to help her, but geesh.... we ARE strapped for cash right now, as many of us are, eh?

Just be thinking of my sweetie, I'd appreciate it!

Meanwhile, I'm knee deep in my sister's wedding plans and other non-cyber things but I'll try to be in blogland when I can. I miss you all!

There's no place like home, there's no place like home, there's no place like home...

2009-04-27T16:02:00.005-05:00

We are back! It was a fun little trip. I'll start with the Wizard of Oz museum in Wamego, KS. I *thought* that it was a little farm house built out in the middle of no where like the film. But when we got into town, it was inside an old store-front building. This was their window display, very clever with the black and white look!

Once inside, I saw that they had built a little farm house for the exhibit. You pay at the window, then walk through the door to "OZ".

Here's the other side of the house, after falling from the sky!

The tin ceilings were awesome.

Who killed my sister? Who killed the wicked witch of the East? Was it YOU??

Lions and tigers and bears, OH MY!
I DO believe in spooks, I DO believe in spooks,

I do-I do-I do-I do-I DO believe in spooks!
*O*E*O*
Poppies!
That's it for today, I took over 400 pictures, EEK!

Today is my birthday and I'm just putzin' around the house.

Had to go get my driver's license renewed, woohoo....

Thank you for your warm comments on my first sewing project, this Butterick 4790 dress! Unfortunately, we were the only ones in the museum at this time, (it was near closing time).

We're off to see the Wizard!

2009-04-23T19:00:00.011-05:00

Poppies! Poppies will put them to sleep... sleeeeeeeep.

Now they'll sleeee-eep.....

We're taking a little trip to Kansas City this weekend to celebrate the 70th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz. (and my birthday!)

There is an exhibit at Crown Center, and then we will drive about another 100 miles to Wamego to the WOZ museum there.

I was going to post some more Titanic related stuff, but I got busy this week sewing my FIRST PATTERN ever! I decided to make a dress for the WOZ event when I saw all the great anniversary fabric they have out. I promise there will be more Titanic posts later!

So, I've actually made two dresses this past week, the first was a trial. I'm so excited that I've actually put a pattern together that I cannot wait to sew more!

The pattern is the famous "walk away" dress. The Butterick 4790 pattern. A re-issue of the original 6015. It has also been number 7500.

The following info is from http://vintagepatterns.wikia.com/wiki/Butterick_6015
Quick & Easy One Piece Wrap Dress. Here's the smartest idea of the season . . . a dress that has only back waist and shoulder seams, that has its back wrapped around to the front for a sheath-and-overskirt look. Binding finishes the edges. Wear it for any occasion. Made from just 3 pattern pieces, no facings!

Here's a look at the history of the Walk-away Dress:
During the 1950's, Butterick experienced a phenomenon it had not known since the 'Garibaldi Suit' of the late 1860's. It was pattern 6015, and it was dubbed the 'walk-away' dress, because it was so easy you could "Start it after breakfast... walk-away in it for luncheon!".

It's simple yet flattering wrap design and easy construction were what made it so popular. Sales of the pattern were so great, that at one point manufacturing of all other patterns ceased, and only the 'walk-away' dress was produced until all back-orders for this dress could be filled.
Fabrics - crepe, taffeta, faille, satin, velveteen, shantung, gingham, chambray, cotton prints, linen, pique, cotton broadcloth, light weight wool crepe, silk.

I read many reviews and have seen tons of awesome specimens of this dress!

Here are my notes on the pattern.... Now before I show you, let me tell you that it is quite obnoxious. I know the underskirt fabric is not "appropriate" for this pattern, but I don't care. I like it and wanted to use it~

Ok, I cut the shoulders at a size 14, but kept the neckline at an 8.I cut the rest of the dress to fit a 12. I sewed the breast darts at an 8, but the rest of the darts at a 10. Sounds crazy maybe, but it fits.It's a trifle snug in the waist, but I did that on purpose as I am up a few pounds right now.

I rounded off the skirt edges, which I now rather regret as I wasn't thinking it would hang like a jabot. Oh well. I also extended the waist line that wraps around the back as far as I could; all the way to the salvage edge of the fabric. Then I rounded off the edges on the bottoms there as well. After sewing the bias tape to the entire underskirt, it didn't ride up like it had before. I think rounding off the edges really helps to keep it from getting caught in the overskirt and causing it to ride up too.

I didn't have enough poppy fabric for the back bodice so I sewed two pieces together.

Oh! I also sewed the back to the front right where it crosses under the arms. Yes, I have to wriggle a bit to get in and out of it, but it's alot better than dealing with shifting all day long!

Soooo, without further adieu...

Nova told me I need snow for the poppies, lol! Too cute!

Yes, I could've just worn my "Dorothy" dress... but I've worn it so many times, and it would be expected right? : P

I bought the orange shoes at Old Navy. But they were $30. (I thought they were only $20 when I bought them.) I've decided I cannot do $30 for a pair of shoes and they are going back. They are VERY comfortable tho!

I like the green ones better anyway. I'll be on the look out for some yellow shoes!

Kevin actually likes my ruby slippers with it, but I don't want to be dropping red glitter everywhere all day, lol! I'm taking them along just in case.

To see more notes and pics on this dress, click here.

If you do a google image search for Butterick 4790 you'll see many of the wonderful versions out there, along with great reviews. Thanks to all of you out there who have made this dress, you made taking the plunge a lot easier for me!

It's been 97 years...

2009-04-14T00:23:00.006-05:00

...and I can still smell the fresh paint. The china had never been used. The sheets had never been slept in. Titanic was called the Ship of Dreams, and it was. It really was...

Just taking a moment to think about the lives lost and those affected by the Titanic tragedy.

There was a neat article in the St. Louis Post this past week. Close descendants of one of the late surviors live in the next county from me. You can read it HERE.

You can find more of my Titanic posts HERE. More to come!

It breaks my heart....

2009-04-11T19:15:00.002-05:00

To see children being neglected and/or abused. You may remember my post about reading A Child Called It... which still haunts me. Yet again, I am still glad I read it.

I was in Walmart today, and in front of me in line was a mother(?) and toddler son. Could've been grandchild, I have no idea. She was buying a high dollar outdoor game set, with horseshoes and such.

She says to the child, "Your sock is sticking out of your shoe!! Put it back in!" I look down at this poor kid, who is probably a year and half or two. He squats down to "poke" his sock back in his shoe. His dirty, filthy, shredded sock which actually looked dry rotted. Sticking out of shoes with holes in them that appeared to be about three sizes too small.

Then the mother said something to him about "I'm sorry, it's your problem~ not mine". Are you kidding me?! You're his mother, making sure your child has proper fitting shoes and clothing is your RESPONSIBILITY.

I never know what to do in these situations. I gave her the evil eye; the "you disgust me" eye... but I'm always afraid if I say something, then the child will only suffer more once they are in the car or at home.

Do I follow them out and get their license plate number?

He was also wearing a zipped jacket with his hood up. Hmmm. Too warm for a hood at that time. I can't help but think if she was hiding bruises.

I just don't see how people could be this way. I just spent two weeks searching ebay to find the perfect pair of shoes for Nova so he'd be comfortable. The kind with elastic laces that he can put on by himself and make him feel like a big boy. I make sure his shoes are made of breathable materials and prefer that they are natural and not man-made. I don't like crocs or most sandals because I think they're dangerous for his age. Over protective? Perhaps. But better than neglectful.

She could've bought a new pair of shoes and a package of socks for under $10. She could've gotten a used pair of shoes for a dollar. Go garage saling for crying out loud and get some for a quarter!!!! But something tells me that money isn't the issue... it's that she just doesn't care.

Just venting... again. What would you have done?

Party train, continued!

2009-04-09T20:57:00.006-05:00

Here's the birthday boy the night before the party~ showing us how old he's going to be!

I didn't want a "Thomas" party, but I had to get *some* stuff since Nova loves it all so much.

Cousin Kolby inspecting the cake~I got engineer hats and bandanas for the kids. Nova really didn't want to wear the hat. Party pooper.

Aunt Joyce's birthday artwork...

PIZZA!

We got the take and bakes from Sam's and I thought they were awesome!

Let the opening begin!

I told him he couldn't open presents unless he wore the hat... mean ol' mommy...

Here he is with Kolby, Aunt Joyce and Grandma Lucille~

Lots of great loot~ mostly train related of course!

The boys had a lot of fun. Here they are playing with Ramone's paint shop from Cars.

Can you hear them spray painting? Pshhh, pshhhhhhh! LOL~

One more look at the cake... I thought Nova would want the engine but he requested the caboose.

Make a wish!!

Ugh, black icing!

The destruction, I can't bare to look!

Ok. I had to post this. This was not planned. My dad asked for a piece with a tree. I cracked up when I saw it tho, and had to rotate the pic for ya...

(got wood?)

And guess who's feeling better? Yes, Miss Melly.... and she's giving me hugs.

Still more to come!! Thank you all so much for your wonderful comments on the cake, : )

All Aboard the Party Train!

2009-04-06T23:47:00.011-05:00

WHEW! What a busy week!

If you read my last post, you'll see that 4 years ago on April Fool's Day I was due with my baby boy. Alas, he did not make his debut until April 6th~ which also happens to be my MIL's birthday as well! We have 5 family birthdays in April, (including mine and not cousins!)

So I had been going non stop preparing for Nova's party. Here is what the invites looked like~

Thursday I baked cakes all day. I had a *vision* in my head for the birthday boy's confection.

I would need one huge 11X3" round base= 4 cake mixes.

One "Barbie dress" pan= 2 to 3 cake mixes

And these miniature train cakes =three different cake mixes for more color~

Friday I decorated~

Now I know what you're thinking.... after I had my nervous breakdown over the porcupines how could I possibly attempt to decorate another cake? Well, mom came over to supervise and step in when needed!

Here we have the slope cut, going up the side of the mountain~ also trying to decide where the actual mountain should go. I baked two because the first one wasn't tall enough to suit me!

This is the chocolate "mountain" being added to the base, and I had cut the "peaks" in waiting to be iced. Grey icing with coarse sugar on top for gravel, and graham stix for railroad ties...

You can click on the photos for detail~ I used chocolate for the mountain cake to give a tunnel illusion so I wouldn't have to cut the tunnel all the way through and weaken it.

I thought the track and tunnel turned out so cute I almost didn't want to put the train on it. But those little buggers gave me fits and they WERE GOING ON!

I started shaking like a leaf while piping the leaves on the trees (hmm, blood sugar bottomed out from not eating all day) so mumsie took over. But you know, that LARGE grass tip is the bomb! MUCH better that that hellacious tiny one that gave me so much grief with the porcupines. I was finished with the grass in seconds flat.

I've watched my mom decorate cakes for over 30 years, but being that this is only about the 5th cake I've ever tackled I'm pretty darned pleased with myself!

And it *only* took 6 hours to decorate! LOL!
Kevin came home from work and helped clean up the kitchen, what a man!!

Nova was super excited while watching. I'm surprised I got him down for a nap during the process!

I must plug Cake Wrecks since this is another cake decorating post. With Easter approaching, this post especially cracked me up.

Stay tuned for more party details!

April Fools!

2009-04-01T22:22:00.004-05:00

Four years ago today I was due with my baby boy!

Kevin was wonderful while I was pregnant. He brought me flowers~

And made wonderful food for me... in bed!! Mmm, seafood salad sandwich!

We walked in the park and
I watched as my feet puffed up over my shoes... lovely cankles too~

But alas, our boy did not come. What a cruel April Fool's prank, shame on you Mother Nature!

What's new pussycat?

2009-03-19T09:18:00.010-05:00

CATastrophe, that's what!

Pussycat, pussycat I love you~ yes I do.... but oy what a few weeks we've had!

I had been planning to do a cute little post bragging on my feline friends but that will have to wait... Though they are cute, right? Such posers! Katie on the left, Melly on the right.

A few months ago, I had promised to share better photos of my wedding dress. So I set it up on one of my double mint twins to photograph. The pictures were so flashed out that I never shared them... intended on taking more later.

Here they are in their ultra bright glaring glory~

If you're wondering what that rusty/chippy cabinet is... it's an old barber's cabinet!

Ignore my manniquin's bare derriere, I only tossed the pink apron on her so she wouldn't be completely nude!

A few weeks ago I went into my craft room and it hit me~ the strong offensive stench of cat pee. UGH! And it's oh-so-fun to have to sniff around to find just WHERE it is coming from. Well, it didn't take me long. The entire bottom of my wedding dress was soaked.

Now if you have had cats you probably know that they usually only pee outside of the litter box for a few reasons:

One, the box isn't clean enough to suit them.
Two, they don't like the litter you're using.
Three, they don't like to share with other cats.
Four, a urinary tract infection.

My cats get UTI's frequently. They eat the special urinary tract food, and I bought them a drinking fountain, (which helped immensely with my other cat!!)... but they still get them.
I could see a tinge of blood in the mess, so I knew right away what it was. Miss Melly is the sick one this time. She just had a UTI in Oct. so I'm thinking that the antibiotics didn't fully kill the infection at that time.

So it's been a ball shoving pills down a cat's throat for two weeks; I actually request pills over the liquid because they sling that all over the place! She is the sweetest cat, and I think she really understands when we are trying to help her. She is the one who would've died had I not brought her home from the pet store with her sister as kittens. She could not stand up on her own she was so sick~ she had a 106 temp! The vet said it was just a virus~ I think she knows I saved her.

Anyhoo.... back to the dress. First of all, I don't trust dry cleaners with anything vintage or sentimental. That was not an option. Besides, I'd be too embarassed to take in a pee soaked item!
The dress had never been cleaned since our wedding day. The bottom of course was black. I had intended on wearing it for Halloween once, so I didn't want to have to clean it till after that. And boy, was I dreading it!!

It's made of panne velvet and corduroy, easy to clean actually.

Just incredibly cumbersome!

This dress weighs a TON as it is, but soaking wet I could barely manage it in the tub. It took days of soaking and squishing and rinsing and repeating.... I drapped it across the jacuzzi tub to dry a bit, then finally hung it (on two hangers!) to dry the rest of the way.

Here it is going in... EEEK!

Sorry, that's Katies cat butt you see there...

Hey! At least now you get to see all the fine details! No flash, woohoo!

I was SO excited when I found this chenille and satin rope trim, it brought everything together!

I admit, I was freaking out a bit at this point. Eww.
Just look at the BLACK bottom edge! Yikes.

All clean! I'll have to put it back on the dummy for you later. I threw the hoop away!

It came out beautifully. WHEW. The hook and eyes rusted a bit but that's an easy fix.

A Valentine wedding~

2009-03-09T16:57:00.010-05:00

Congratulations to the happy newlyweds!

On Valentine's Day our friend Ku married his long time girlfriend, Kristin.
It was a gorgeous wedding! The bridesmaids wore classy black gowns with red sashes.

The tables at the reception were so pretty adorned with rose petals~ there were chopsticks for the guests and red fortune cookies, which I think were strawberry flavored!

Ku, Kristin, and their families took part in the traditional tea ceremony. I really enjoyed this.
Ku stated that if you dishonor your spouse you also dishonor your family.

Sorry for the crummy pics, but I didn't want to "intrude"~ I had to zoom in on this shot for you all.
Speaking of family, Ku's family has THE BEST hunan style chinese restaurant in-da-world! Their crab rangoon is to die for. We would go eat there and his mom would be making a batch of like 300.... yum.... I just wanted to take them all home!

Ok, so I totally LOVED the chopsticks. I knew as soon as I saw them I would keep them for my hair. There were many empty seats at our table so naturally I swiped some extras! Thank you Kristin and Ku, lol!

During the break between the wedding and reception, we did some shopping. We were at Whole Foods grocery store and I did some Bathroom Beauty Snapping for Sheila at Notesongs!
I totally got busted on this one, can you see me looking over to the side, (the door!) How embarassing. They must have thought I was nuts! It startled me, thus the blurry pic~
Re-take!

Besides, I wasn't in the Beauty Snapper "stance" in the first pic!

So anyway, this is what I wore and I had a major wardrobe malfunction. I had on a slip and my outfit was SO full of static! The slip kept riding all the way up and making a huge bulge. I tried wetting down the ensemble several times, only to have the same thing happen. I finally took off the slip at the reception, but then I couldn't get up to dance or anything because you could see through my dress....wahhh!

Just how does one use chopsticks in their hair? Well, I'm sure there are several tutorials on Youtube, but I did a quick one for you. It's rather dark but you get the idea... and you get another sneak peek at our bathroom redo! (Which I will be revealing soon, gee I might make you wait for the 1 year anniversary, lol!)

To see more of this dress, how I did my hair in pillow rollers... and one of my favorite posts, "Cherries Jubilee", click here and scroll down.

Now.... back to those fortune cookies! Surely you all know about adding "in bed" to the end of each fortune, right? Well, Kevin's "fortune" was a thank you from Kristin and Ku. Yah~ let's not go there, lol!

However, MY fortune was one of the best ever. At least in a romantic sense... because we've had some pretty funny ones over the years!

Ok, ready?

*ahem*

"Couples who love each other tell each other a thousand things without talking"...
(In bed.)

........................Awwwww.......................

Do you see what I see?

2009-03-07T10:45:00.002-06:00

Finally~ spring is in the air! It's been hovering around 70 degrees here the last few days,

just beautiful!

I cannot wait to see our crabapple and pink dogwood trees bloom that we planted last year.

Hope to catch up with you all this week!

Be back soon!

2009-02-27T16:23:00.003-06:00

Hi all! Sorry I haven't been posting much... or commenting much. I have been visiting but not always taking the time to comment.

I'm busy getting some spring cleaning and projects underway.

Also, since recently joining Facebook, I have found many people I know from school and it's been a blast catching up with them.
I'm also putting together a blog site for the salon I work at....
So, I have been putting a lot of my puter time into those two things!

I'm also dealing with an issue with my wedding dress... will try to post soon.

Just wanted to say I'm still *here* and I'm not ignoring you!

Have a great weekend everyone!

8th Wedding Anniversary~

2009-02-24T12:04:00.006-06:00

Happy Anniversary Kevin! I love you!

Today we celebrate eight years of marriage~

Our song is Beautiful by Gordon Lightfoot, are your speakers on?

You can read more about our wedding day here, but for now I thought you'd enjoy a slideshow~ there are some doubles in there and I apologize... should be 60 photos in all.
You can enlarge the slideshow by hovering the mouse over it and clicking on the four arrows in the square.

I had fallen in love with leonidas roses and pretty much chose our wedding colors to coordinate with those.

I designed and had my gown and bridesmaid dresses made. I was just learning to use the internet at the library... a few more months of research would've changed a lot of things I think! I had to have the Victorian/Antoinette looking shoes. Could not find them ANYWHERE. I ended up finding a black brocade pair at a thrift store. They were a bit too small but I didn't care! I covered them in the fabric from my dress, and my seamstress made new bows. The photo of them is a scan, and it was a few years after the wedding so the glue had yellowed a bit.

I was also heavier then, and thank goodness for corsets! I wore the whole sha-bang under my dress; chemise, pantelettes, and corset. My friend Lori and my sister Jonna were my bridesmaids... Jonna was only 15 at the time! My jewelry was from Victorian Trading Co.

I gave Kevin a pocket watch as a wedding gift, which gave a nice vintagey touch. His friend Greg and my brother (only 14!) stood up with him. In the slideshow you'll see my brother reaching for the garter, it's one of my favorite pics. The look on his face is hilarious, and it looks like he's in slow motion.

I see that you can have your vows renewed on the Titanic, the museum in Branson. Hmmmm..........Perhaps for our 10th Anniversary?

We are going to The Hill in St. Louis for pizza this weekend to celebrate, the BEST place to get pizza!

Tales of a shoe hoarder, Episode 11~

2009-02-23T15:48:00.004-06:00

This past weekend I went with my sister Jonna and her friend Lacy to get measured for bridesmaids dresses. (The third bridesmaid, Kristyn, had to work.)

Jonna picked up her wedding gown to take home~ squeeeee!

Sorry folks, can't show you that!

But I did get permission from the bride to let you see the bridesmaid dresses we will be wearing this summer! Well, I'll show you *most* of it...

As I mentioned in this post, the wedding colors will be orange and pink.

The dresses are cute, but the shoes we found are SUPER cute! My mom says they look "naughty", lol.... Well perhaps they do, one more reason to love them!

They have a sheer organza ruffled ribbon edge, which will look awesome with the sheer pink underskirt on the dresses. Jonna is going to wear pink shoes too!

We can wear them with or without the ankle straps~ Here's a closeup! They're comfortable too. I like them so much I may have to get a pair in black, hmm... maybe white... or...red???.... stay tuned!

Seeing sideways~

2009-02-17T23:43:00.004-06:00

Oh, my dear blogging friends..... I just about had a nervous breakdown! I'm tooling along on my computer when all of a sudden my entire screen went sideways!!!

Has this ever happened to any of you? I couldn't get the mouse to X out of anything, it was frozen. So, I unplugged it and rebooted.

OMG. Still sideways. WAAAAaaaaaaaaaah! Do I have a virus???

Is my computer FRIED???

I started to panic.

We have negative computer funds if we need a new one. I knew it couldn't be the "new" mouse, because it was from our old computer.

I don't WANT to have to go to the library!

What about all of my pictures and files?!?!

So, I rebooted again. This time it said something about my C drive was dirty. What?

Now I'm frantic.

I run down to get Kevin's lap top to google

"my computer screen just went sideways".

Hmm... must be a familiar issue, as it popped up before I finished typing the word sideways.

Oy, is that good or bad?

WHEW. Easy fix. Hit Ctrl, Alt, and the up button. THANK GOODNESS!!!

*sniff* All of this computer stress and no chocolate in the house!!!

(I still don't know what that C drive business was about!)

My little sweetheart~

2009-02-17T09:04:00.008-06:00

We ususally don't do much for Valentine's Day... Kevin and I think it's over rated and commercialized. Plus our anniversary is next week.

But it IS fun to decorate for the holiday!

He did get me flowers though, pretty huh! (they were prettier when I first got them but I forgot to takea pic!)

He and Nova made me a card with some $ inside so I can buy more plate hangers for my bathroom, yea!! I can't wait to finish it.

I really enjoyed getting the Valentines together for Nova's preschool class. I printed out some vintage cowboy greetings and glittered them up, then Nova signed the backs in red crayon. I attached them to little heart covered bags filled with candy.

There's glitter on the eyes, scarf, jeans, and dust cloud too~ but it doesn't show~

Then I couldn't find my Victorian scroll scissors to edge them. Oh well!

Ok, but now for the good part.

Last night I had one of the most memorable moments of my life!

We had just finished dinner and I took Nova into the bathroom for the normal routine; go potty, blow nose, wash face and hands. As I'm washing his face, he looked up at me and said, "I like you mom".

Gaaahhh! I get teary eyed just thinking about it! Sure, he says "I love you" when promted, or after we say it to him when we kiss him good night. But for him to just come out and say it....he melted my heart.

~one of my favorite photos taken on his second birthday~

Eeeeek! Dead mouse!

2009-02-16T16:06:00.004-06:00

Some of you may remember my complaining about my mouse shortly after I started blogging. It wouldn't scroll any more.

I blamed it on my new blog viewing obsession~
scroll, scroll, scroll.

Yes, there are other ways to make your mouse scroll, but the wheelie button thingy was my favorite!

Being that my desk is against the wall, and it has a back on it with holes cut out just for cords, I was not looking forward to getting back there and switching mice!!

Alas, my mouse was getting worse. It would jump all over the page, wouldn't highlight things where I wanted it too, wouldn't roll across the page. Bad mousy!!

So finally, I blindly reached behind my tower left handed and unplugged the old mouse. I am right handed, and trying to put the new cord into the back of the computer without seeing it was extremely frustrating. Took forever! Goodness knows I didn't want to accidentally knock another cord out of whack!

After what seemed like an eternity, I got it! Woohoo....

happy scrolling days are here again!

Get it Melly and Katie, get it!!

2009-02-12T23:32:00.002-06:00

Click to enlarge if you like!

~*~Have a wonderful weekend everyone!~*~