Oliver's

My spin on the Anthro dresser...

2011-06-29T06:22:00.000-07:00

Anthropologie

Oliver's home decor

In the blog world this Anthropologie dresser was a big hit! I love the concept of it but my clients often request furniture on the "dressier" side of decorating. I put my spin on it and used my favorite font to dress up the numbers, then a little distressing. I loved the outcome so much I almost kept it for myself. My price tag is also much cheaper than the anthro version at a whopping $1000.00!

Playing Catch Up....

2011-06-29T06:12:00.000-07:00

A few of my projects I am finally posting. My life has been a whirlwind the past 4 months but I am feeling like I can finally come up for air. I completed my "pottery barn" wall and did so with "shopping" things around my home. I had all of the frames pictured and made the No.5 plaque myself along with the wine cork push pin frame. I purchased the cookbook art from etsy and placed them in my frames. Excuse the pictures as this wall is across from my pantry so I had to photograph at an angle and with my iphone as my camera is on the fritz.

Valentine's Day and Falling.....

2011-02-14T10:51:00.000-08:00

falling off the wagon that is. January is known for healthy resolutions and then February comes along with it's hearts, flowers and chocolates and ruins it all. I love a great piece of chocolate just like the next girl but this V-Day I refuse to fall off of my little red wagon. (Not to mention my trainer will make me accountable for every unhealthy morsel I put in my mouth) If you have seen these cocoa roasted almonds in the store and wondered if they are any good, let me put your mind at ease....they are wonderful! Huge hit of cocoa, slightly sweet, with a nice little crunch...wow I believe that covers all the criteria for the perfect snack. Where the taste had me at hello...the label had me saying bye bye with modified food starch, artificial flavors, and sucralose. But low and behold my valentine's day heart I have stumbled upon a healthy recipe for these jewels, not to mention they can be made at home at a much cheaper price. So throw caution to the wind, stay on your wagon, and have a great cocoa filled Valentines Day! Enjoy!

Spiced Cocoa Nuts
1egg white
2Tbs high quality cocoa powder
3Tbs. xylitol
1/4tsp vanilla
1/2tsp cinnamon
1/4tsp salt
1/8tsp ground cloves
3cups raw almonds (or have a party in your mouth and use a variety of nuts to equal the three cups)
Preheat oven to 325 and line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl whisk egg white for at least 30 seconds until light and foamy. Add cocoa, xylitol,vanilla, cinnamon, salt and cloves, and whisk together until smooth. Stir in nuts until well coated. Spoon nuts onto prepared cookie sheet in a single layer. Bake 7 minutes and stir. Bake another 7 minutes and stir again. (be carful not to overcook, as they will scorch)Allow nuts to cool and break up if necessary. They will harden as they cool. Store in glass container in refrigerator.
Note: Xylitol is a naturlly occuring sugar found in berries, fruit, veggies, and mushrooms. It is lower in calories than sugar and does not require insulin to metabolize so it is a good choice for diabetics.
Almonds are a great source for calcium, magnesium, and folic acid. High in antioxidants and contains phyotchemicals to support cardiovascular health and prevent cancer.

He Really Gets Me....

2011-02-10T06:36:00.000-08:00

Newton Running Shoes

I could eat this everyday!

During a conversation with my husband the other night I mentioned that the brand of running shoes I have been wanting was offering a giveaway with every pair purchased. The catch is you have to purchase them by Valentine's Day. He looked at me and said "are you kidding? I planned for your Valentine's Day to take you for sushi and then to get you custom fit for the running shoes you have been wanting." I seriously found myself getting misty eyed. Not because I get the shoes I have been obsessing about, but because I married a man who really "gets me". I have found a love for running and so he too shares my interest and obviously listens to me ramble on about my time, gait, distance, injury prevention....he is my biggest cheerleader, and my best friend. Happy Valentine's Day!

The Big Fat Elephant.....

2011-02-07T07:45:00.000-08:00

pottery barn

Winterberry Cottage/Etsy

Google search

Google

RU Piper Designs/Etsy

The wall across from my pantry is like the big
fat elephant in the room. It is tucked into a hallway that guests rarely see so I have neglected it, I am afraid to say. When I was asked to be on the Holiday Home Tour this past Christmas I started looking around at all the little nooks and crannies that I have longed to embellish but because they are somewhat unseen I had never done. Well I was told to "get it together" because the Holiday Home Tour committee would be calling on me again this year. So I will be tackling my pantry hallway immediatley. This wall is a huge canvas so I turned to the masters....Pottery Barn. I found an inspiration wall and I am moving forward. These are my inspiration photos...my own will follow shortly...I hope!

Old World Christmas

2010-11-06T23:02:00.000-07:00

I searched high and low to find new items to offer my customers who clearly have a love for the old world look like I do. The garland that I found this year is probably the prettiest I have seen. Burnished silver, aged gold and a distinct old world feel. I have brought the angels back this year and added antiqued gold bayleaf garlands and wreaths. I love this color scheme as it works well with all decors. What is your favorite color scheme for Christmas decor?

Much Needed Fall Break

2010-10-23T19:21:00.000-07:00

With fall break here my youngest and I decided to have a cupcake bake-off. She loves to be in the kitchen and I love watching her work her "magic". We each came up with our own signature cupcake and had our family vote on their favorite. We had such a great time and I will cherish these memories forever. Her cupcake was decorated with the Oct. 31st pick and was a spice cake with a pumpkin flavored buttercream frosting (she created her own homeade frosting....I was super impressed). Mine was the crow cupcake and was a yellow cake with homeade chocolate buttercream frosting drizzled with caramel with a small sprinkling of sea salt (think chocolate covered pretzels). She loves photography so we staged our cupcakes and photographed them while pretending we worked for a major magazine (think Country or Southern Living). Hope you are all having a fantastic fall season!

Joe Spencer....I Count the Days!

2010-09-28T07:02:00.000-07:00

I count the days until I can bring out my Joe Spencer Halloween/Fall decor. I am carrying Joe Spencer in my boutique this year and clearly...everyone loves him as much as I do.

Whew!

2010-09-09T14:37:00.000-07:00

Done! Stocked and ready for Fall Open House. If you are in the area stop by The Market for beautiful fall decor, refreshments, and door prizes every hour.

14001 Joel McDonald Dr. (west of Quail Springs mall)

Oklahoma City, Ok 73134

Under Pressure!

2010-08-24T06:22:00.001-07:00

I just ordered my fall decor for my boutique last week....nothing like good ol' procrastination. Truthfully when I went to market in January and again in June...I was disappointed to say the least. Nothing reached out and grabbed me. I was beginning to think that maybe I am just a "hard sell" and was setting my expectations way too high when....these gems made their appearance. I knew immediately they were "Oliver's worthy". These wonderful pumpkins made with genuine pumpkin stems and the most wonderful velvet you have ever seen. All shapes and sizes and dozens of colors. I cannot believe I actually said the words "I think I will skip fall this year and invest my money in everyday decor". What was I thinking? I refuse to be the reatailer that carries the same lines as everyone else in town and just cross my fingers in hopes that my displays and price tags will intice someone enough to chose my run of the mill pumpkins over my neighbors. No...I refuse! Even if it is at the 11th hour I strive to bring my customers and clients the unusual and the unique. I will be introducing my fall this weekend at The Market and truthfully am thankful I ignored those voices in my head that were ready to boycott the wonderful season we call Autumn.

Chalkboard Paint...Makes Me Swoon!

2010-07-27T06:38:00.001-07:00

Looking for ideas for my next home project has left my head spinning! I may just add some chalkboard paint to everyroom...the possibilites are endless. Thought I would share a few ideas I can across.

Yummmmy!

2010-06-16T05:28:00.000-07:00

Yummy is the first word that came to mind when I found this fabulous fabric. I love all the printed burlap that is floating around out there but often wondered why someone hadn't thought to print on a more "refined" fabric. My house is not fancy by any means but I do love me some (inexpensive) dupioni silk when I can afford it. This fabric is a piece of art all on it's own. Go here to read the story. I am dreaming of the silverware fabric for my dining room. Which is your favorite?

Everything I Love In Home Decor!

2010-05-05T06:16:00.000-07:00

Gerard Butler's loft is a dream! The patina, the rich colors, the warmth....I wouldn't change a thing. I had to share this incredible space. If I won the lottery today...I would by it "as is". Enjoy!

Comfort Zones and Spring!

2010-03-30T09:25:00.000-07:00

I stepped out of my comfort zone and I feel a sense of calm about it all. I decided to start selling my painted furniture in my boutique and I couldn't be happier. This turquoise piece is the newest to date...everything else sold before I could photograph it. Finally spring fever has broke loose here in Oklahoma. After a successful spring open house I am finally able to take a breather and do some reordering. I ventured out and purchased some different things for the boutique like the cake stand you see in the photo and it sold within hours along with the metal perpetual calenders that are displayed in the drawer of the dresser... those went even quicker! I am always a little leery when I place an order, as one never knows what people will spend their money on... especially in these times. I was reluctant to purchase a lot of spring but I am learning to just follow my instincts and have faith that success will follow. Like my husband says "the good Lord has never let us down" and he will provide. Amen!

It's Been A While...

2010-03-13T08:11:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe it has been so long since I have posted! I have come to the conclusion that I am not much of a multi-tasker but I am working on it. Too much too soon. I have been training for a half marathon and it requires so much of my time. I have let spring sneak up on me this year. My husband and I have decided it is time to plant our dream garden before it's too late into the season. I have to admit I cannot wait to get my hands in the dirt, get some mud on my boots and taste the fruits of our labor. My brother and I are doing this "together" from across the country and I am so interested to see the results as we live in different zones and he is much better at this than me. Thank goodness we have so much in common as we can sit and talk about our interests for hours and we are usually on the same brain wave without even knowing it. (kinda like the twin thing but we are 10 years apart) I wanted to share this with you, as it is my go to for all my gardening needs. Happy Spring everyone!

all photos courtesy of Hen and Hammock

2010-02-05T08:15:00.000-08:00

Just arrived new Pickwick and Co. candles! I ordered some new scents to chase away the winter blues.
Thai Citrus- tart pink grapefruit, ginger, rose, plum, lily, lavender, white musk, green notes, and fruitwood.
Tuscan No.5- hibiscus, sapmoss, apple, black currant, natural petitgrain and galbanum, jasmine, yellow rose, cyclamen, white musk, amber, olibanum, patchouli, and Madagascar vanilla.
Portofino- fresh and modern blend of watermelon,mandarin, passion fruit, marigold, crushed leaves, water hyacinth, tuberose absolute, creme brulee, vanilla, precious woods, and patchouli
Black Pepper- black pepper, lemon, cumin, coriander, ginger, jasmine, and violet leaf, all atop a longlasting base of oakmoss, musk, amber, and patchouli.
My best seller........Honey Tobacco-a warm, comforting accord of vanilla,smoky patchouli,damask rose,geranium, orange honey, and pipe tobacco. Created for men but loved by everyone!

These candles are hand-poured of the highest quality infusions and wax foundations.
60+hour burn time.
Green Packaging
$22.00 +S&H

I am in the process of presenting these candles in the home tours in Oklahoma City this year. I am the first retailer in the state and am excited to share these quality candles with everyone!

Spring has sprung at Oliver's!

2010-01-22T15:29:00.000-08:00

Got the first shipment of spring out today. There is lavender blooming here at Oliver's. Wish I could say the same for the weather outside. Dreaming of spring.....

Three...Two...One...Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T11:21:00.000-08:00

Happy new year to all of my blog friends out there. 2009 was a year of new and exciting things and I know that 2010 will be full of great things as well. I will become an aunt for the first time to little Andrew, and will run a half marathon in April (even if it kills me). But the only new year promise I am making is to love my friends and family as much as they will let me and to let everyone know through my words and actions how I feel about them, before it is too late. That is the only thing I know I can live up to...so no disappointing myself there! What are your new year promises?

Teacher's Gifts

2009-12-18T06:06:00.000-08:00

With my boutique this year I found myself with less time than usual. I came across these chipboard albums at Michael's for $1.00 and each album had 5 to 6 pcs. per set. I covered, aged, and embellished. I printed the recipe for the Gingerbread Caramel Corn and covered the back with it. This is the first time for me to make this recipe and it will definitely be one that I make every year. It is delicious...let me know if you try it!

Merry Christmas to Me!

2009-12-15T06:51:00.001-08:00

I made an appointment for the family to have "real" photos taken for our Christmas cards this year. The photographer went to grade school with my daughter and is just starting this venture into her career. I have to say I am not disappointed! She emailed me a card she thought I would like and I fell head over heels! It has a front and back and needless to say, I had one of those "if we have to eat Ramen noodles for a month to get those cards" moments. (not really but I was prepared if need be) If anyone is in the area and wants her information just leave me a comment with your email.

Featured In Southern Living!

2009-12-01T07:28:00.000-08:00

I was pleasantly surprised when I opened up the December issue of Southern Living yesterday and saw the Knobstoppers I carry in my boutique featured as one of the top 25 gifts of the season! These stoppers are made with vintage door knobs, and old gate finials. They make the perfect gift to bring to the hostess with the mostess that throws that great Christmas party every year. So classy attached to the bottle you give the boss, the newlyweds, or the new home owners. Bottles topped with Knobstoppers look great adorning an unfinished bottle of wine on your counter top, especially if you have a collection grouped together. These are nice and sturdy to be used for generations to come, a great family heirloom in the making. I have them topping my "cooking wine" and get compliments every time company comes. I priced nice wine bags when I was deciding if these would be profitable for me and the bags are $20.00 at Pottery Barn...on sale! And what exactly does one do with those after the gift has been given? I know I have about 5 stashed in a drawer! If you are interested in one of these little jewels leave me a comment and an email address. They range from $20.00 to $32.00 a piece. My motto is "The only thing better than receiving a unique and gorgeous gift is to be the person giving it!" Happy Shopping, Paula

Decorating with Family Treasures

2009-11-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

The holidays always bring in a flood of childhood memories for me. I find it comforting to incorporate family heirlooms and heirlooms "to be" into my holiday decorating. As a newlywed I had a garage sale with my new mother in law and discovered a small box of shiny brite ornaments she had marked to sale for a quarter. When I asked her where she got them she said they were her first ornaments as a newlywed and upon closer inspection I discovered the box was stamped 1969 not only were they her first box of ornaments they hung on my husbands first of many childhood Christmas trees. I imagine my in laws carrying their son to his first Christmas tree to watch their tiny newborn open his eyes to focus on the bright lights and multicolored ornaments. Needless to say that box of shiny brites came home with me, along with their first tree topper. Every year I display these fragile ornaments in a footed bowl that once graced the table of my husbands great grandmother. This year I have draped it with a strand of pearls that my grandmother wore to church on Sundays. There is much history tied to so many wonderful memories in that small holiday display. My cloche holds a tattered book, a baby photo of my father and my prized ornament that my best friend Amy bought for me on her trip to Curious Sofa. This is sure to become an heirloom as time passes and the shine fades. Draped on the book is a vintage rosary. This is the rosary my father carried with him on his tour in Vietnam, if only these heirlooms could talk, what would they say? What have they seen? I would love to hear how you incorporate vintage pieces into your holiday decor.

Old World Christmas...Done!

2009-11-07T06:21:00.000-08:00

I have finished decking the halls at Oliver's. My wonderful husband/chief financial officer/best friend/heavy lifter came to my rescue and helped me with the hanging and moving and I have to say I could not have gotten it all together without him. And just in time. The Market is hosting a Holiday Open House on Friday Nov. 13th. If you are in the area they will be serving refreshments, have live entertainment and hourly drawings. Now I just need to re-coup so I can deck the halls at home!

The Old and The Beautiful!

2009-11-03T12:35:00.001-08:00

I often wonder if I ever built another house "what would I do different"? I go back and forth between nice traditional cabinetry or something like this. I have a friend who saved antique pieces for years and had her builder "build around" them. I can see this round corner piece as a great coffee/tea bar in the corner of a kitchen or breakfast nook. And this red piece as a place for fine linens, formal dishes, or even used casually as a pantry. The large blue/green piece would look perfect in a master bath as a linen closet with beautiful towels, and vintage apothecary bottles, sitting next to a slipper tub of course with a big fat chandelier hanging above it. I would use these pieces exactly as they are, the patina is priceless.

2 Days til Christmas Music!

2009-10-30T05:24:00.001-07:00

I woke up thinking that in 2 days I will be breaking out the Christmas CD's! (I am embarrassed to say I have around 20) My family is giving me a hard time and almost had me convinced that Nov.1st may be a little early for holiday tunes...then I found this in my email and took it as a sign. Christmas is just around the corner and I "need" 2 months of the joyful sounds of Christmas streaming through my day. I did make a deal with my kids that I wouldn't play it to wake them for school or change my ring tone on my phone for a couple more weeks...yes, I do bend! This is from the "chalk guy" he is amazing!

Copper Pumpkins

2009-10-26T06:44:00.000-07:00

I will be marking down what is left of my fall merchandise this week to prepare for my Tuscan Christmas. I will be sad to see it go. Retailers rush the seasons through so quickly that I feel like consumers don't have a chance to really enjoy the moment. I am still in "smores by the fire, leaves a cracklin', hot apple cider" mode but will be pushing "tree-trimming, gift buying, eggnog drinking" mode. And to think I will be purchasing next years Christmas in January...it's mind boggling! Here's to... slowing down, playing in the leaves, carving pumpkins, roasting marshmallows by the fire and savoring this beautiful autumn God has given us! Have a crisp and colorful day!

A Tuscan Christmas

2009-10-21T05:58:00.000-07:00

Since I made the decision to open my boutique in October, I obviously did not have the luxury of pouring over beautiful catalogs in pursuit of the perfect Christmas decor to sell. I did however have a vision (which usually means bringing it to fruition in a year or two for lack of finding product). I ordered Christmas from 4 different companies and had to learn to "settle" on some of my ideas, but I think I may actually pull this one off! I hope to have everything in and displayed by Nov. 6th for the unveiling of "A Tuscan Christmas". Lots of Old World charm, the most
"believable" greenery, and a little burlap here and there. Here is a sneak peek ....

Can I Borrow Your Finger?

2009-10-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

I love to give gifts, I love to find "the perfect" gift, but most of all I love to be the gift giver with the "best looking" gift. You know what I mean, you are at a party and the table is covered with gifts, but yours is wrapped so yummy that the gift receiver grabs yours first! Ahhh what a great feeling. I found this lady and she is the master at gift wrapping, she has evolved it into an art form. I mean this lady even takes the well known and loved blue Tiffany box with the white bow to a whole new level...genius I say! The only thing I miss by renting a space at a designer showcase mall is the opportunity to purchase just the right gift wrap, in just the right color, with just the right logo, (with the perfect font) and the perfect ribbon to finish it off. Someday I will get the chance, and when people see my logo on their yummy gift their heart will skip a beat and they will say "Oh my goodness! You didn't? A gift from Oliver's...really?"

all photos from: A Gift Wrapped Life

Open For Business and My First Giveaway!

2009-10-01T11:19:00.000-07:00

I am officially open for business. I am renting a boutique space at The Market in Oklahoma City, Ok. and I am so excited about this venture. I had a space two years ago and did not renew my lease do to the downfall of the economy. Even though my business was doing great, I was scared to death that any day it would all be over. Looking back I realize I was living for the "what if" and not enjoying the moment. My husband (aka my biggest fan and supporter) has been trying to get me to go back ever since and to be honest outside of my family it is my biggest passion. So after alot of praying, and soul searching I took a leap of faith. I mean that literally, God is my pilot, after all he gave me the passion, and he will guide me to use it as he sees fit. No more "what if's" for this girl! Everything has gone so much smoother this time (kind of like with your 2nd baby vs. your first). I am excited to introduce a new candle line, not only did I land an exclusive to The Market...I will be the first to carry it in the state! It is a soy mix, with super strong, complex and unique fragrances and it is eco friendly down to the packaging. And since this is my 100th post I will be giving one away. Leave a comment and I will draw a winner on Friday October 9th. These candles are like none you have ever experienced..I will leave you with the scent description...Have a great weekend everyone! If you are in my area please stop by!
Mexican Pumpkin
Delectable notes of cinnamon,clove,nutmeg,cardamom,and pimento leaf lend warmth to a green balsamic heart. The drydown brings together rich vanilla and sweet caramel for a mouthwatering finale.

2009-09-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hoping to post pictures of the new boutique next week. Meanwhile I am enjoying the cooler weather and all that autumn brings with it! I am never one to settle for the usual so I am always on the hunt for great heirloom pumpkins to decorate with. This one is probably my favorite. Which variety of pumpkins makes your heart skip a beat?

Finally!

2009-09-14T16:57:00.000-07:00

I finally have my handmade tags in place. I couldn't find apothecary jars that I liked so I emptied a few of mine that I was using someplace else to hang my tags on before the season was over! My fall decor is complete and just in time for me to decorate my boutique with the decor I have purchased...it is so yummy! I can't wait to show you guys...I ordered my design for my sign today and look forward to seeing how it turns out. I'll have pictures soon. Hope you are all enjoying your cooler days, Paula

I wanted to give credit where credit is due....I saw this creative ladies labels and decided that I would give some a try for my Halloween decor, I love the way they turned out and if you haven't guessed yet...they are covered CD's!!!! Now there is a great use for all the freebies that come in the mail and all the scratched ones the kiddos can't listen to anymore. I want to see your completed project if you make some of your own!

2009-09-11T20:40:00.000-07:00

I have been busy placing orders and designing my new boutique. I will be opening shop Oct.1st and I can't wait to share this journey with everyone. I'll be posting pictures soon. Paula

Ahhhh Fall......

2009-09-04T05:37:00.001-07:00

Jute Ribbon....

2009-08-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

My friend Susie posted about this adorable jute ribbon from Wal-Mart and I had to jump on the band-wagon. I wanted to label some jars for my kitchen and I loved the red stripe running through it. Visit her here to see what she had done with this 60cent a yard wonder!

Promises,Promises

2009-08-25T08:11:00.001-07:00

You have promised yourself that now the kids are back in school you will reorganize the craft closet from the "summer craft days". Promise went something like this..."I vow to myself that I will stay home (No Hobby Lobby and No Michaels's) and gut the craft closet, reorganize to the best of my capability and I will not leave the house until it is complete." Wait....I need containers to organize, but once I drive to Wal-Mart, hunt them down, stand in line, drive home...my day is gone. Alas, I have an empty plastic container or two around here but then my craft closet begins to look like my dear grandmother's house (she never threw anything away, she re-purposed every twisty tie and every baggie). A strip of burlap to cover the label, a stamp or two, a few dressy buttons later, a pat on the back for not caving into my desire to shop...Done! Craft closet complete, not a dime spent, and I never even changed out of my PJ's! I have been looking for a way to label my lentils and beans in my pantry and I think this is my answer! I feel a pantry overhaul brewing...those bedroom walls just may have to wait. There is one problem.....Honey? I'm gonna need you to put a rush on my craft room, I have run out of space:)

In Progress.....

2009-08-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

The boys went and golfed all day Sunday, an activity we normally all do together but my youngest had to study for tests, so I stayed behind with her and started some Halloween decor. I hope to have them finished in a couple of days....stay tuned!

*a quick thanks to my Shawnee followers...please leave a comment I'd love to hear from you

I've Stalled Long Enough!

2009-08-20T06:09:00.000-07:00

Now that the kiddos are back in school, I have gutted closets and drawers in attempt to re-organize my life I can not put off my BIG Project any longer. I have wanted to plaster my master bath since we built our home 6years ago. We thought we would save a few hundred dollars and just have the walls done in a knock down texture and I have never been satisfied with the feel of that room. I did venetian plaster in my booth at my shop and I loved it and surprisingly it was an easy project....just time consuming. I am an instant gratification personality so this is going to be a chore for me to have my master bath "in chaos" for a week or so. (yes I have a moderate case of OCD if you are wondering)These are my inspiration photos. (sorry I don't remember where I found them...I know it was a faux finishing site)

Spa Day!!!

2009-08-12T05:51:00.000-07:00

To take the pain out of the last day of summer my friend and I held a spa day for our daughters. Goodie bags filled with chocolates, facial masks, nail art polish, among other things took their minds off of the fact that summer would be a distant memory in a few short hours. It is amazing what a mani/pedi and some chocolate can do for a girl!

The Ring

2009-08-06T17:04:00.000-07:00

I was watching home videos today with my children and noticed that in every tape we have of my husbands grandmother she is wearing a ring I gave her. She had told me before she passed that she never forgot where it came from or who gave it to her. She said that every time she looked down at her hand she was reminded of my smiling face the day she commented on it and I slid it off my finger and placed it on hers. After she passed in January of this year, my mother in law gave it back to me. I was so grief stricken that I just placed it in my purse and left it there for a couple of days. When I took it out of my purse I noticed that she wasn't kidding when she said she never removed it from her hand. It was originally a sterling silver band but had turned black and was "caked" with a substance underneath the setting. I cleaned it and placed with my other keepsakes. I took it out today and slid it on my hand. It didn't seem right, as the ring had become Nannee's. I realized that in the last 10yrs. the ring was on her hand when she rolled crusts as she baked someone's favorite pie. It was on her hand when she rocked each and every one of her great grandchildren. The ring was present when she folded her loving hands in prayer every night as she knelt by her bed and called us each by name to her heavenly father. I thought at the time that I was bestowing a gift to her but in the end I realize that the gift was all mine!

photo from google images

Vinyl and Metal Don't Mix

2009-07-29T19:38:00.000-07:00

I finished my sign...finally. The vinyl lettering did not want to stick so once I peeled it off it's backing I had to painstakingly place in on the metal and then I left a brick on it for a couple of days. (not joking) I decoupaged it with a matte modge podge, let it dry and then "antiqued" it. It was a pain to do but I love it and the best thing is, it was on the cheap! (remember the sign and paint were free..I only had to buy the lettering) Not to mention it's like a two for one... the side that you see from my living room into my kitchen says "enjoy your meal" (in Italian) and Pantry on the side that leads down the hall where my pantry is located. That's one project to check off the list now just a couple dozen more to go.

20 Already?

2009-07-26T21:36:00.000-07:00

I have always heard that the friends you make in college are the ones you will keep for a lifetime and I have to say I totally disagree! My best girlfriends are the ones I have had my whole life. We literally grew up together. We have memories of Girl Scout camp, first boyfriends, first cars, first to get married (me), first to have a baby (me), we have given wedding/baby showers for each other and have seen each other through good and bad. We found ourselves at our 20 year high school reunion talking all night with our grade school "gang" more so than the high school crowd. We have such a great time together and it was so great to see everyone. Even though we get busy and go months without being able to see each other we are always able to pick up right where we left off. These girls have showed me what "true" friendship is. Thanks girls for the "Married the Longest" award it meant alot to us!

Sneaky...Sneaky!

2009-07-17T06:25:00.001-07:00

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I was able to sneak in a project with the kids home! I can now check this one off my list....almost. My dad gave me this heavy iron "house sign" that he found at a garage sale for $1.00. He picked it up for me to use in my shop (that's another post...plans are still in the works) but it was too small. I knew it had to be aged...check! Next I will be placing vinyl words on each side from an Uppercase Living party my mom had, but this is where it gets tricky...I don't want my sign aged and my words to look freshly painted. So if any of you know a way to make my vinyl words look aged and distorted please let me know! I am itching to finish this project up so I can hang it in time for a client to see, but I don't want to ruin my letters. Help!

Crepe Myrtles and Comment Moderation Troubles!

2009-07-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

The crepe myrtles are blooming here in Oklahoma and they are beautiful. This is the new variety I am growing in my backyard I love the way it looks in front of the lime green varigated grass. It amazes me how beautiful they are in 104 degree heat. They seem to do better the hotter it gets while we struggle to keep anything else from burning up. Once again as I went to post some really sweet comments, I have deleted them instead. Please leave me another one I would love to hear from you again.

Still Dreaming!

2009-07-10T05:32:00.000-07:00

The kids are keeping me busy and I can't seem to find time for projects so I have to result to daydreaming. I still have new furniture on my mind. Hope you are all having a great summer!

2009-07-02T06:37:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a happy and safe Independence Day! Thank you to all of our servicemen and women present and past, God bless each and every one of you.

Honey....We Need New Furniture...Pleeeasssse!

2009-06-16T05:40:00.000-07:00

While looking for a client an accent table weeks ago I discovered the furniture of my dreams. I have a thing for roosters....it's actually an addiction I think. But this furniture screams French Country and I find myself dreaming about it quite often. The finishes are incredible and the fabrics are oh so yummy. I thought I would share it with you all and please...if you have the same feeling for it as I do, leave me a comment and I will gladly forward them to the husband. I also love the way they photograph these "high end" beauties outside...how clever, and it makes the appeal that much greater.

p.s. Someone left me a sweet comment that (before I could even see who it was from) I somehow deleted. They had come over from Magic Brush. Please introduce yourself again so that I can visit your blog as well.

The Stork Made a Big Mistake!

2009-06-04T09:47:00.001-07:00

I think when the stork dropped me off he was lost! I should have been taken to a Tuscan hillside to live out my life waking everyday to the sweet smells of lavender. I harvested the first of the figs off of my tree yesterday and I have to say it was the best tasting thing I have ever put in my mouth. I took my youngest to a lavender field this week and we giggled and harvested lavender for an hour or so, imagining that we were in a field outside of Tuscany! (yes she shares my dream to live abroad someday) Then there is the whole Cotswold sheep endeavor, I am still working on my husband on that one, he has however agreed to help me start a lavender field of my own. I love my husband for his never ending support and for the fact that he loves me enough to help me chase my dreams. So here I sit in Oklahoma when I should be in Tuscany or Provence. All kidding aside, I love my life and wouldn't trade it for anything.....but a girl can dream!

All photos courtesy of google and Eddie Ross

So Clever!!!

2009-06-02T06:04:00.000-07:00

I have had my eye on all of the great pillows and bags that are being made with burlap and I have to admit I have visited Ebay a few times to scout out the goods. Then I came across this website and fell in love. I have to say they win the award for "The Most Clever Use Of Burlap".

Uncharted Territory

2009-05-27T06:46:00.001-07:00

I usually don't do my own florals for my jobs but I had some inspiration on this one. I saw a beautiful planter done in succulents and my client fell in love with them, so I gave it a shot. This is the finished product and I have to say they were so much fun to work with. The are large and so realistic, not to mention a huge trend right now. So if you are out and about and come across some of these give them a try they are perfect for large containers as they have great scale!

Rainy Day Fun

2009-05-12T10:38:00.000-07:00

I am going stir crazy with all of this rain! What is a girl to do? Craft of course! I had some left over muslin and some new stamps....this is what I came up with. The Paris ribbon I purchased here, and the other I made to keep my sanity. I am loving my new crown jar from my dear friend at Bliss Studio. Thank you Miss Brandee. Here's hoping it's sunny where you are!

Update on Tuscan Kitchen....

2009-05-05T06:07:00.000-07:00

The client I am working with right now has more taste than anyone I know. She doesn't follow "rules" she just knows what she likes and runs with it. Her home is a mix of french country, tuscan and a whole lotta ecclectic....my kind of girl. She loves antiques, rustic and bling. There has to be a catchy name for this....."French Cowgirl", "European Bling". or maybe "Farmhouse Chic". If you ladies have a suggestion on a new and trendy term let me know I would love to hear them. I found the wine crate above her cabinet at a trendy antique store here in Oklahoma and it is stamped on the side with the year her and her husband were born so we grabbed it up and the old bottles were even included in the price. I got so tickled because she saleswoman said "You HAVE to take the bottles that are in there, they come with it" (like we would put up a fuss) SCORE!!!!! My client collects knobstoppers for her wine bottles and I have to say I have a new addiction for them myself, they are so ecclectic and a great conversation piece when you host those little get-togethers. I have had a ball looking for things to play off all the fabulous "stuff" she already had, not easy.... but fun! This house is amazing I am hoping to take lots of pics when I deliver window treatments this week, I'll keep ya posted.

A Blogger's Best Friend!

2009-05-01T05:55:00.000-07:00

Besides all of the wonderful people I have met through my blog there is something else that I just love....Site Meter! I had this installed over a year ago and would "sometimes" check in, but here lately I have had reason to check it everyday. It is so neat I just wanted to tell all of my fellow bloggers about it. First of all it's free! (www.sitemeter.com) It's password protected and it gives you such insight to your blog and everyone who visits...even blocked IP addresses. You can monitor who looks at your blog, where they live(down to latitiude and longitude) what time they looked, how they logged on to your blog, what pages they visited for how long and even if they read your comments or not. This thing is so interesting I tell ya! For example I had over 100 visits yesterday from as far away as Turkey to as close as a small town here in Oklahoma called Tecumseh (you know who you are). It's amazing to see how far blogging can reach....I have had some friends that have had to shut down their blogs due to their professional photography being stolen so I am glad there is a monitoring system out there, even if I don't have fantastic photographs I like to know who's looking! Thanks to all of you for stopping by .....now I know exactly who you are:)

Birthday Fun!

2009-04-23T06:19:00.000-07:00

A friend of my mom's asked me to help her with her secret pals gift for her birthday, she wanted to do something special for her and knew that we had the same taste.This was a challenge since this pal is a very talented friend of mine with exceptional taste. I had wanted to do a box for a while but just never had the right occasion...now I had the chance! I decorated the box with scrapbook paper in "Neapolitan Ice-Cream" colors and filled it with some millinery that she loves purchased from this great etsy store. Her secret pal gave her the box and her first words were "This has Paula written all over it!" Well so much for the great birthday sneak! She figured out I helped her secret pal but I'm not telling!

I'm A Mommy Again!

2009-04-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

That freaked me out just to type that. I love my children dearly but to start all over again would be to say the least exhausting. So what do I do...hand raise, and bottle feed a baby calf! My father in law raises cattle behind our house and when one of the new mommies wouldn't feed her baby he decided to let nature take it's course...um not a good outcome to say the least. So I jumped in my vehicle ran to the feed store and bought all the necessary supplies. Now I am the proud new mommy of Bella Blue. She is a premature black angus with blue eyes. Once again my wonderful husband was my biggest cheerleader and even offered to put his finger in her mouth to teach her how to suck...by the way in case you don't know calves are born with a full set of sharp teeth (that man must really love me and my hairbrained ideas). It took a couple of days to get her up on her feet but she is doing really well and has the whole family in awe of her. My 11 year old daughter put it best..."Mommy this is the good stuff! I feel so close to God when I help someone (or in this case something) out." Have a blessed day!

Not A Typical Easter Post

2009-04-12T17:22:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Easter today with a family dinner at our house. We had about 15 guests, two of which were from out of state and didn't know were coming until last minute but were thrilled could make it. I had all of the typical Easter feelings of thankfulness, appreciation and gratitude but there were also feelings I didn't expect, the love and appreciation for my husband. I woke up sick but with so much to do and I have to say he stepped up to the plate like never before. He always helps above and beyond but he had the kiddos doing laundry, the house spotless and the food cooking before I even made it out of bed. He made sure our guests had plenty of food and drink and were comfortable, all the while he made sure I was ok and never once complained in fact he said how much he enjoyed himself. I realized how unselfish this man of mine is and how lucky I am to call him my own. We will be married 20yrs. on April 21st and I fell in love with him all over again today. God has truly blessed me over and over again and for this I am thankful.

Sure!!! I'll Help

2009-04-08T12:35:00.001-07:00

My mom has a secret pal at her work and since I don't work at an office outside the home I am always a little envious when she starts planning secret pal gifts. So this week when she asked me to help with her gift I jumped at the chance. We decided together that sometimes the ole gift bag is a little over done..so we decided to do a photo box from Hobby Lobby. I aged it, scrapbooked it and embellished it and here it is! I have to say I like the way it turned out, and everything I used on it, I already had so that is even better. The box was $2.00 half off whoo hoo. And I got to have a couple hours of fun to boot!

Dreaming of Olives Trees, Fig Trees and Lavender

2009-03-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

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We are receiving a major snow storm in Oklahoma today so while I am dreaming of being outside planting a garden that looks like the Tuscan countryside I will leave you instead with some images I have collected for the job I am doing now. Carpe Diem!

Getting It Together

2009-03-13T13:27:00.000-07:00

I have spent this week scouring my resources trying to get all of my ducks in a row. I am working on a .....Tuscan kitchen! Here are a few pieces my client and I are looking at for her incredible kitchen.

The Lord Does Provide

2009-03-09T08:14:00.001-07:00

After quitting my full-time job, I am glad to say that my youngest daughter's grades have improved and my family had gotten "back to normal". But I was feeling the pinch of the economy and missing my creative outlet...decorating. I did not renew my lease at the upscale boutique I was renting from due to the extremely high rent and wanting to rent something closer to home, with no luck of that happening I decided to sell my display pieces on craigs list. I met a lady interested in some of my things and she has hired me to help her finish decorating her home. I met with her last week and her home is one of the most beautiful I have seen. She has such great taste. She lives only 2 miles from where my shop was (small world). This is my kind of job!(plus she has a few friends that need my services as well) I'll keep you posted with lots of pics. Right now we are deciding on fabric. I feel like when I put my family and their needs first that the good Lord blessed me with being able to work around my kid's schedules doing something I love!!!

Oh...this old thing?

2009-02-24T06:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had what I call a "free" Monday. House clean...check No appointments for the kids....check No meetings at the school....check What is a girl to do? Grab something old and make it new. And the best part of it... free! Everything I used for this project I already had. Fun Fun Fun!

Spoiled Rotten!!!!

2009-02-18T10:56:00.002-08:00

That's exactly how I feel. This artistic, talented, and thoughtful friend of mine brought me a basket of goodies today. We've have been friends for only a short time but she knows my taste so well. The french inspired tea towels, the cross that just happens to match my home perfectly and the bingo style balls that I actually picked up at Hobby Lobby only to "chicken-out" and put them back and could kick myself for... I now have thanks to her and the monogrammed frame with the harlequin ribbon is precious! My mom picked me up this amazing fleur de lis scoop that I have been wanting for ages, but could never find, and then gave it to me 3 whole weeks before my birthday...I am one lucky girl! Thank you guys! Your are the best!

Dollar Tree..the place to be!

2009-02-10T10:19:00.000-08:00

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After quitting my job, I have this overwhelming desire to do everything "on the cheaper". I have always been a bargain hunter but now it is a challenge to see what the lowest amount is I can possibly spend. I stole this idea for teachers Valentines gifts from Just a Girl, but found pink hand sanitizer at no other than the famous Dollar Tree it's berry scented and just the right color for V-day.I'll give the larger one to Braydi's teacher and the smaller ones to the ladies in the library, gym teacher, etc. I had been looking for a pen holder for my desk to match my decor, and all I could find were the mesh silver thingys at Staples when I happened upon this cute little plastic cube with room for pictures. A little scrap book paper and a few rub-ons later...voila! A custom pen holder for a buck! I heart you Dollar Tree!

Hi-Ho..Hi-Ho...off from work I go!

2009-02-05T14:21:00.000-08:00

Ok... I tried it, the whole working a 40hr. a week job away from home. And while it was very satisfying, and rewarding, my family needs me at home. I have such a greater respect for the super women out there that make it all work for them and their family, I however do not possess that talent. Maybe it was the 2(washing machine, hot water tank)floods I experienced, the illness and death of my husband's beloved grandmother, my youngest child's grades plummeting and the shear exhaustion, but I am glad to be a stay at home mom, homemaker again. But the lesson learned here is being thankful. Thankful that I had the opportunity to experience a career again, and the opportunity that when my family needed me most God blessed me with the ability to be here for them. I am also thankful that the man of my dreams supports me and appreciates me now more than ever. I think it is safe to say he hated every minute of helping me with the house cleaning. Not his forte' though he never complained. So now I am playing catch up on all of the projects that I had left undone. Pillows to make...a little girls room that is still undone...and spring cleaning and decorating. I am hoping to post more and to catch up with you gals. I feel like the new girl at school again, so I hope to hear from you all soon. Paula

2009-01-19T19:21:00.000-08:00

Today we buried my husbands grandmother. I have to say this was probably one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I feel like I had so much more to learn from her. She was the most saintly person I have ever known. As we sat with the preacher last night telling stories we realized she was the one who taught us all to pray. I remember her telling me to "ask Jesus only once for a blessing and then thank him for it every night after." She told me that thanking him for a blessing even before you received it showed faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and that even though blessings didn't always come in our time if at all, a faithful servant had a thankful heart. When I needed prayer she was the one I called, for she had the closest relationship with the Lord of anybody I knew. Nanny Lucy...you will be missed.

Give Me A "T" !

2009-01-03T17:25:00.001-08:00

I am in love with all things monogrammed. I have noticed that there are alot of "L's" popping up around the house lately. I found a new antique mall here in Oklahoma and hit the jackpot when I came across these vintage metal sign letters at only $5.00 and $8.00 each. My son Trevor thought I was crazy when I decided to group them in his bathroom, but like his dad, he has learned not to ask too many questions.

Resolutions and A Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T13:31:00.002-08:00

I am not one to make promises of the New Year but this year is definitely an exception! After going to work full time my house has gone to the dogs. My husband has done a great job with helping me but let's be honest it just doesn't compare to being home and staying on top of things everyday. So what did sweet husband do...he put my craft closet back together for me and is helping get the whole house organized. So I have jumped on the organization in the year 2009 band wagon... and I can't wait! We're off to a great start and the new carpet is coming soon!!! I feel like a kid in a candy store. What are you ladies doing to get yourselves organized? I'd love to hear any suggestions you have, and look at what Amy is doing to organize her closets.

Hoping You Had A Great One!

2008-12-26T14:57:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a great Christmas! After all the turkey, dressing, visiting with family and friends, lots of Guitar Hero, and the "After Christmas shopping" I can look back and say "It was a great holiday and a very merry Christmas!" I hope all of you had a great one as well.

I Got It Goin' On...

2008-11-25T04:02:00.000-08:00

No I am not bragging but I happened to have a very successful week last week. We trimmed the tree...check! Hung the stockings...check! Decorated the front porch...check! And as if that weren't enough the kids sat for their Christmas card picture (taken by yours truly)...check! Whew! A friend of mine and myself took 4 giddy little "tweens" to see Twilight (yes, I have a crush on Edward too)...check! All that and I put in a 40 hr. work week at my new job! Ok so I couldn't even tell you my name but I got the list I had for myself cut in half (thanks to an incredible man I call husband). Hope you are all having a ball decorating for the holidays. Paula...that's my name...I almost forgot!

It's Coming...I Can Feel It!

2008-11-12T06:17:00.000-08:00

The air has turned crisp here in Oklahoma, the foliage seems to have been short lived, the toy commercials have taken over, and my children have been working on their lists. That can only mean one thing, I better get prepared because Christmas will be here in a flash. I have been working on my front porch decor and have all my interior decorating done except for the tree, we will trim the tree this weekend. We make finger foods, have eggnog, and listen to holiday music while the tree gets bejeweled. When the tree is finished we toast it with a glass of "the nog" then settle in for our annual Family Christmas movie.....National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. My dad always made Christmas such an event when I was growing up and I hope that I have passed that along to my children. What kind of customs do you have when you trim your tree? I'd love to hear about them. Have a great day! Paula

A Safe Haven!!!

2008-10-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

Ladies did you know that there was a whole blog for the married with children Twilight followers? What is this world coming to? Nevermind....count me in!!! I added the link right above my Twilight widget...and to think a few short weeks ago I had never heard of a widget. The Twilight Moms blog is a safe haven for us to go and not hear snickers or see the rolling of eyes when you try to explain the piled laundry, the fact you haven't showered in days because, well, you can't very well read in the shower and where people understand that you asked your children in the middle of chapter 8 "who are you? and why are you calling me mommy?" I feel so much better that while I may not be "normal" I am definatley not alone! Oh a safe haven! I only wish I had known of this blog while I was reading the first book. I'm off to my TAA meeting... that is Twilight Addicts Anonymous...Hello my name is Paula and I have an addiction to vampires.........I found out at my new favorite blog that if you pre-order your tickets on Oct. 31st from Fandango that you will be able to download Edward's lullaby to Bella for free!!!I know I'm sick.

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

2008-10-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

Ok!I read it. The popularity of this book had me very curious. How in the world could so many women even the 30ish like myself be so addicted to this book and this story? I don't know how it happened but I read the entire book in 2 days! And I am sorry to say I am now one of those addicted women and I have already started the 2nd in the series. If you haven't read the first book yet you should and you still have time before the movie is out! Enjoy!

2008-10-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

5 Months and Counting!

2008-10-20T06:24:00.000-07:00

No this is not a post about an impending birth. I am here to report that I have officially gotten over my "5 month decorators block". This room was a birthday gift to my 10 year old and I am only now starting to see some progress. The black and pink were cute but I thought it needed another color for accent and after talking to a friend I decided turquoise would be a good choice. I worked this weekend on her vanity and I hope it will be moved into her room soon. It is actually only the top to a vanity. I am spray painting it black, decoupaging scrapbook paper to the drawer fronts and glazing it. I found these cute acrylic crystals at Hobby Lobby and decoupaged paper behind them and glued them to the knobs, you can't beat $3.00 for custom drawer pulls. It is so hard to find chandelier anything in my area. Then I will hang it by 2 decorative black iron brackets. I still need to find a dresser, recover the vanity chair, and hang some pictures on the wall. Oh and lets not forget new curtains, and pillows for the window seat. I think I am starting to freak myself out. Ok I can do this...baby steps Paula baby steps.

Hostess Gift...With Style!

2008-10-10T06:09:00.000-07:00

Ok...you and your spouse are invited to a Halloween/Fall party and you want to bring the hostess something, but a plain bottle of wine just looks....well...Plain! Here is how you dress it up and show everyone your "style-ish " taste. Go to your area home improvement store and head on over to the plumbing department (stay with me here) get one of these fitters and cut it in half you don't need it to be super thick. Then find some feather trim (I get mine at Hobby Lobby but only with my 40% off coupon) hot glue it around the base of the fitter (I realize this is not the proper name). Then for the show stopper.....The Dollar Tree crow to top it off! I just twisted the metal prongs from the bird around the bottle but I suppose you could hot glue it too. (I just wanted my hostess to be able to reuse her new crow) Then if you really want the crow to look like she is a guest of this dinner party you will need to make sure she is wearing her pearls. This is were all of the broken costume jewelry you keep lying around comes in handy. I just threaded some of my daughters jewelry making beads onto some wire and twisted it onto my crows feathery little neck. The way I look at it anyone can go out and buy a wine bag or bring an "undressed" bottle but why would you want to? Have a Great Day!

Weather Predicting....

2008-10-06T06:09:00.000-07:00

My children and I saw the neatest thing on T.V. last year and decided to give it a try. You take a persimmon off of a tree and cut open the seeds. If the shape inside the seed appears to look like a fork your winter will be mild, if the shape resembles a knife, then it will be so cold it will cut through you like a knife, if the shape is of a spoon you can expect an abundance of snow....well I'm off to buy a snow shovel. You know what they say "The early bird gets a cleared walkway" or wait..is that the worm?

Fall Organizing 101...

2008-09-22T08:35:00.000-07:00

The infamous closet project is almost complete! I got hubby to hang my crown knobs (Hobby Lobby) for my jewelry and I got may hang tags made for my canvas totes. (still need to add rub-ons so I will know what is inside each one) I need to make my earring holder and paint my grandmothers jewelry box and I will be done! The mirror that catapulted it all was given to me by my dad. He picked it up at a garage sale and my mother told him to get rid of that ugly thing. Being the kind person I am I decided to help him out and take it off his hands. (needless to say...mom was rethinking her request to rid herself of it) Too late! I'll post finished pictures soon. I am having way fun!!! Smiles, Paula

I Heart Joe Spencer!

2008-09-17T07:42:00.001-07:00

I love artist Joe Spencer. He is a folk artist who designs and handpaints his characters. He uses tulle and whimsy in all of his designs (with two daughters who dance we are the queens of tulle). Oh and did I mention glitter? I only have small pieces from his collection because he can be quite pricey (even at wholesale) but you can sometimes find pieces on ebay. My Halloween ornaments were pretty affordable at $8.00 a pc. My friend Amy (The Andreani Family at the left under friends...wow I really do need to learn the whole linking thing) also has a heart for ol Joe, check out her collection. I think my favorite are my witches legs..Amy has the hands too! Here's to a spooky Halloween with style...way to go Joe!

Religious Artifacts....Love Em!

2008-09-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

I scored a giant rosary this weekend at a local shop. I have had my eye on it for some time at 30%off ...that baby was mine. I photographed it on one of my tables, but this is not where it is staying. If you guys have any ideas of how to show this treasure off let me know. Do you ever pine away for something and then you get it home and think "Now where am I going to put this?" I also photographed my Dollar Tree pumpkins on my dining room table...Thanks for the tip Susie! Gotta love the ole Dollar Tree. I am hoping to go "House Tour Hoppin' " this week ,if I make it I will take lots of pictures, it is supposed to be phenomenal! Smiles, Paula

Seeds of Kindness...

2008-08-31T19:04:00.000-07:00

My 10yr. old daughter and I approached the cash register at the grocery store to hear the cashier tell a young man he owed $3.26. The young man who was mentally disabled said sweetly "Okay, I'm not very good at this." He proceeded to count his change one coin at a time with much difficulty. The one thing I noticed is that the young cashier was overly patient with this man who at this time was holding up the line. I thought how unique it is in this day and age for young people to show such patience and kindness. She helped him count $2.14...$2.15...$2.16...$2.17 this is where he ran out of coins and where the man in between us ran out of patience he was looking around for an empty register and showing his disgust in having to wait. The patient young cashier never faultered. The young man asked if he could put one thing back and that is when I looked to see what he was purchasing...3 kits to make necklaces out of the dollar store department. Something came over me and I imagined him threading a necklace with pride perhaps for his mother..God spoke to me and I reached past the impatient man and asked the sweet cashier if she would kindly ring all 3 things on my debit card. She accepted my card with a smile and the young man turned to me and said "Thank you, you did not have to do that." Oh but I did I thought because when God speaks to me, I do not argue. But this is where the real gift takes place, my 10yr. old daughter looks up at me with her big blue eyes filled with tears and says, "Thank you mommy, I am so proud of you, that was a wonderful thing you did." I thought to myself I have spread the seed of kindness to my child and one day she will help another who needs it. I wish I had told the cashier how proud I was of her, hopefully she knows. This post is not a boastful one, but I would love for everyone who reads this to leave me a post, I would like to see how far my seed travels. I challenge everyone to do something kind for someone else today even if it is just a smile or a kind word, it could change their life. God bless you all, Paula

Oldies First...Then We Shop!

2008-08-26T07:04:00.000-07:00

I know this is early for fall decor but I have to get all of my oldies out before I can even think of starting any new projects or buying anything new so here is a peek at some of the oldies I have collected over the years. My favorite is my witch legs that my best friend Amy sent me last year... I love them! I had to find a use for the 3 packages of skeleton garland I had left over after my candle sticks so I "creeped out" my dining room chandelier, I can't get enough of that creepy gauze. (what is wrong with me?) I visited Cherry's Jubilee (listed under my favorites) and I have a whole arsenal of ideas for this weekend. Blessings and Smiles, Paula

"A" for effort?

2008-08-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

I have long admired The Nester and Susie at Bienvenue (at the left under friends) and their tassel making talent. As I would never attempt a "real" everyday tassel, I thought "how could you mess up on a scary Halloween one?" So here is my first and probably last attempt at this art form of tassel finery. I found a whole bag of these skeleton heads at The Dollar Tree and had some scrap trim lying around and it matches my candle stick "jewelry". By the way I am not usually a creepy Halloween person but my 15 year old son informed me that he is a little tired of the scarecrow and pumpkin "baby theme" he has had to indure his whole life...so this is for you Trevor!

Sneek Peek at Fall...

2008-08-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

I found this cute skeleton garland and this yummy gauzy stuff this weekend so I just had to add some Halloween spookiness to my candle sticks. I am off to get my Halloween/Fall tubs so I can get the rest of my decor out. It has been alot cooler here in Oklahoma so I am slowly getting the Fall decorating bug. Have a great day, Paula

One For The Road

2008-08-08T05:20:00.000-07:00

My baby brother and his wife left us here in Oklahoma and ventured to Indiana to start their new careers. Since he is 10yrs younger than me I felt like I was sending off one of my own. To take my mind off of the "goodbye" for a while I made them each a "goodie bag" for the road.

1. Starbucks gift card (for the 12hr. drive)

2. Burt's lip balm (both he and his wife and myself are all addicted to this)

3. Reeses cups (the good stuff)

4.C.D. of traveling songs (On the road again, Hit the road Jack, King of the road etc. They called and said they got a kick out of it when they were stranded not once but twice on the side of the road)

5.Toilet paper (I'll just say my brother and I have the same sick sense of humor)

6.Instead of a card I wrote on the back of a family picture so they wouldn't "forget to remember me".

It was hard to see them leave but I know that they appreciated the goodie bag and that they know how much they will be missed. Have a great day, Paula

No Camera For Now

2008-07-29T06:20:00.000-07:00

My husband has the camera at work so I cannot post pics of the Vegas shadow box yet. So I am posting a family photo of the reunion we had a couple of weeks ago. We had family in from Arizona and South Carolina with some cousins that we hadn't seen in over 8 years. We were celebrating my husband's grandmother's 80th birthday. Happy Bithday Nee Nee.

Saturday Morning Fun

2008-07-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

I played on Flickr this morning and decided to put myself in a magazine. Have a great weekend, Paula

What Happens In Vegas...

2008-07-23T15:01:00.001-07:00

...goes in a shadow box. I'm off to Hobby Lobby I'll be back soon with a shadow box tutorial. Can't wait to show you! Smiles, Paula

God Bless America

2008-07-03T10:37:00.000-07:00

Here is some of my Independence Day decor. I love this picture of my grandfather in his Navy uniform, I think he is so handsome. I always put out Ole Uncle Sam to greet this visitors. My husband purchased him for me several years ago from a local aritst. I thank God everyday for the past, present and future servicemen and women who keep us free. I am so proud to be an American. Have a happy and safe holiday, Paula

Mantel Mania

2008-06-19T07:02:00.000-07:00

My friends Kari and Kijsa are having a mantel party and although I don't have a fireplace I purchased this large shelf to stand in until I do. The stockings get hung here and it is definately the focal point of my living room. (this shelf is huge!) This is the first place I decorate for the changing seasons and it now holds the first Senior picture of the family. So it's like a scrapbook of sorts. Hope you enjoy.

Paula

Boorrrriiiinnnngggg

2008-06-18T05:59:00.000-07:00

My master bath has been like an neglected step-child since we moved into our home. The inspiration just never hit me. I wanted a spa feel but let's be honest I had never been to a spa so this was a guessing game. It was bad, I mean no towel rack, no cute towels nothing, nada. Then I was at Marshall's one day and fell in love with these cute "french bee" towels. Talking husband into these was like pulling teeth, he just wasn't "feeling" the whole bee thing. Ok got him talked into that one, whew! Now what? I pulled the large fleur de lis from my shop, something I rarely do but always thought would be great. Ok now we have kinda a "french spa" thing going on here (I am only guessing there are elaborate spas in France...I don't know this for sure). Then there was the problem of the empty spaces on the deck of my huge tub (which husband had to have, but never uses). I wanted pictures, but was always afraid to spend the money because I wasn't sure how they would hold up admist all the steam so I went shopping...at home. I found these ivory glazed frames in my hope chest from years back and had some vacation photos copied, then I filled my apothocary jars and thought I was done, then I found these monograms on etsy but couldn't wait to order one so I was off to Hobby Lobby to make my own and $3.00 later...done! I was so excited, I found this french inspired scrapbook paper that had the word Lyon on it, so not only is it my initial but it has my whole last name on it, how cool is that? My master bath is now complete and ready for a relaxing soak.

Light At The End Of The Tunnel....

2008-06-16T08:23:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, I haven't posted in a while due to never ending, half finished projects around the house. But alas, my biggest project is now complete! My front walkway is done. It has been 5 years since we moved into our home and we now have the tumbled flagstone walkway I have always wanted. Maybe in 5 more years my shutters will be done. Hope everyone enjoyed Father's Day. I sure did. This picture is of my sister Lori, myself, my daddy, and my brother Dustin. Have a great day,Paula

Susie...This Post Is For You!

2008-05-29T09:41:00.001-07:00

I received this beautiful tassel this weekend from my blog buddy Susie at Bienvenue. I have heard about these beautifully packaged gifts that blog buddies send, but had never received one myself. Susie, you did not disappoint. Thank you so much, the tassel is beautiful, and I love the rooster tags (how in the world did you know I adore roosters?). She had them packaged so sweetly with chocolate brown bows, I wish I had taken pictures before I unwrapped them but quite frankly paper was flying like Christmas morning (I guess I am just a kid at heart). Go look at her tassels they are amazing and I don't think she even realizes how talented she is. I am eyeing a tassel for my mom's new house so she will feel as spoiled as I do. Have a great day everyone, Paula

2008-05-24T09:02:00.000-07:00

Here is wishing everyone a great Memorial Day weekend! I am off to the nursery to find a few new things to plant, I am inspired by Back Porch Musings (at the left). Smiles, Paula

Too Many?

2008-05-21T12:44:00.001-07:00

I was so excited to see my friend Susie at Bienvenue (haven't learned to set up a link yet, but you can find her to the left) selling her tassels. They are beautiful! She has plucked one of her tassels with a crown out for me and I am on pins and needles waiting for it. (Susie I hope you got my email)As I type that I realize I may have a problem. (I am also wishing for a few more from The Nester also at the left) So I excitedly tell husband that I am ordering new tassels and he replies (and I quote)...."Do you think you have too many?" I was speechless, so I smiled and said that would be like getting "too many" hugs from your children or having "too many " friends or "too many good hair days"...it's just not possible...then he was speechless. And that's how I play the That Was a Dumb Question game without saying "that was a dumb question." Happy Tassels to all of you...may you all have "too many". Paula

Only in Oklahoma

2008-05-08T13:18:00.000-07:00

This is what my daughter and I passed on the way home from school today. We are avid Oklahoma Sooner fans so this was awesome. I knew when I built my dream home in the country 6 years ago that my children would have the opportunity to run free, enjoy nature, but learn some history...wow! Makes me proud to be an Okie. A Sooner schooner in our front yard..only in Oklahoma.

Slowly But Surely...

2008-04-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

After staining the concrete on my back patio and buying new furniture last summer... I was done. I don't know maybe it was the stain fumes but I had hit a decorators block. Until today! I don't know maybe it was the sunshine and the birds singing but I went crazy. I tore through closets, out buildings, my garage, gathered all I could find and threw this together. (and didn't spend a dime I might add) I finally found a use for my grandfathers old tool box (that's it with the gloves and seed packets) all in all I am pretty happy with the outcome except I definately need a tree for the corner and so I am off to hunt one down..Have a creative day, Paula

12 Step Program Needed

2008-04-28T05:17:00.000-07:00

I love The Nesting Place blog. She is so laid back and has a no nonsense attitude toward decorating. Go to her blog and read about her window "mistreatments". My problem is that I have a little problem (commonly referred to as obsessive compulsive disorder). I like to think of it this way...I am visually gifted...meaning that everything has to be visually perfect. I feel that reading her blog everyday is sort of the 1st step in my 12 step program to recovery. So this weekend I moved in this peice of furniture and it definately needed some softness, but I had no table runner in sight so I grabbed this fabric that I have had for 5 years and did a runner "mistreatment". I have every intention of getting it to my seamstress for some hemming and some yummy trim...told ya I was sick!!!!

Rainy Day Project

2008-04-08T11:24:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine has started her own consignment business and was looking for a way to display the jewelry she will be selling. I told her to get me some old cabinet doors, scrapbook paper,old drawer pulls(which she will be adding later) and off to work I went. First the paint(only where the wood will show, no need to paint the whole peice) then some chocolate glaze (so fun to work with...thanks for the advice Rene'e)then some glue. By the 2nd one (pictured here) I figured out not so much glue to adhere the paper, let it dry, then glue over the top. My friend was given antique drawer knobs she will attach them and the jewelry will hang from them..too cute. So easy. The cabinet doors she found were awesome because they were sectioned off. If I can get some more I will do one for my daughters new room(birthday surprise) and paint one panel with chalk board paint, cover one with cork, then decoupage the other two to match her new bedding. I don't even scrapbook but I love the paper they offer, it's better than a wallpaper store!!! I will be doing myself a jewelry hanger for my closet makeover(I'll post about that ordeal at another time) I repainted and have gone "crown crazy". My closet now feels like another room in the house. I love it...but it's not done. Have a great day everyone!Paula

Yes... I Will Take Those...Thank You!

2008-03-31T16:53:00.001-07:00

My mother-in-law was throwing away two of these pots because they were chipping and looking bad. I have been wanting a patio herb garden for a long time...here was my chance. I took them painted them my favorite "Tuscan" color and then took over the small slab of concrete on the side of my house. Voila... a herb garden! (Please pardon the trim around the side door that is on my lovely husbands honey do list.) So many of you ladies have given me inspiration with all of your great finds so I had to try something myself. I thank you, my husband thanks you, and his pocket book thanks you. Paula

"I'm Sorry...Did I Get Your Name?"

2008-03-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

Am I dreaming? Just last night I tucked my daughter into bed and with a big popsicle smile and those chocolate drop eyes she said to me "Mommy can we have a picnic under our oak tree tomorrow?" I kissed that sweet chubby 2 year old cheek and said "of course we can Princess now go to sleep." Now here's where the story gets weird, I wake up this morning and a grown woman greets me with a smile and pours herself a cup of my coffee. (who does she think she is?) I'm standing there in disbelief when this woman asks me for money... "By the way, don't forget, I need $65.00" she says. "Um what for? " I reply. "For college application fees." Ok so now I am giving this stranger money...what gives? "Oh and don't forget we need to pick out graduation announcements" she says. Now this has gone on too long so I ask, "I'm sorry ...did I get your name?" This woman who is very beautiful, I might add says, "Very funny mom, I love you, see ya after school." She leaves. I'm left standing in my very quiet kitchen all alone when suddenly I realize what Kenny Chesney means when he sings "Don't Blink". Tomorrow she will have her Senior pictures taken and I will stand there and smile while I am dying inside, wishing for one more popsicle smile and teddy bear picnic. Paula

For The Love Of My Child....

2008-03-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

My little dancer entered a photography contest a couple of weeks ago and is now on the campaign trail asking for your votes. (I told her I would help her out) Log on to Dejah Quinn Photography and vote. My little one is no.1 in the 8yrs-12yr catagory. You can only vote once per computer. These little girls are adorable and this photographer is amazing, she will be photographing my oldest daughter Fri. for her Sr. pics. (I am still in denial that I have a child graduating). Thanks for your help bloggers. Enjoy Dejah's site she is such a talent. Paula