Puddle Jumper Creations

My Wonderful Ebay find~Vintage Batiste 1950'S Baby Dress

2012-02-03T11:18:00.000-08:00

I adore vintage baby items and I'm always on the look out for them, especially 1950's Batiste hand embroidered baby dresses. I watch Ebay pretty regularly for some good deals. I found this one a couple of weeks ago on Ebay for $18!!! I couldn't believe it and snatched it up. It's in excellent slightly worn condition, but that makes it vintage right?.

This little dress fits my reborn doll perfectly which is such a nice way to display my growing collection of baby vintage.

The hand embroidery detail is just exquisite and

delicate.

I love the Batiste cotton they used. It just irons beautifully and

holds it's shape.

Sharing with:

French Country Cottage~Feathered Nest Friday

Common Ground~Vintage Inspiration Friday

My Romantic Home

At the Picket Fence~Inspiration Friday

Vintage Valentine Gifts for ME!

2012-02-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

I need a little cheering up! I haven't been blogging since December. I have been in and out of the hospital this past month having had two surgeries on my right kidney. This month has been like a blur to me. Now I am nearly completely recovered and back on my feet. Yesterday I was looking at all my blogging friends blogs and was so cheered up by all the red, pink and darling Valentine gifts and decorations. Everyone has done such a good job!!! One blogger in particular inspired me to go shopping on Etsy. I did and found these two darling Valentine gifts that I bought for me.

I found these little vintage cuties on Etsy at Vintage in Colour. Aren't they the sweetest things.

This darling kitty pincushion just spoke to me. I kept going back and back to check it out and then

bought it. So different but so happy and that's what I need now, something bright and happy.

I found this darling little gift on Etsy shop at therootcellar.

I look so forward to getting them home and on display.

I joining the fun with:

It's a very Cherry World

Time Travel Thursday

Vintage Thingie Thursday

Catch a Glimpse Thursday

Vintage Inspiration Friday

Sharing my beautiful Secrest Santa gift...

2011-12-15T11:16:00.000-08:00

Oh my, oh my look what Santa sent me!!! My Secret Santa really knows me!!

I love vintage linens! She found this at a specialty store in the Ozarks. It's vintage alright and perfect.

The linen is top quality and the hand embroidery is exquisite.

It fits my table perfectly. When I get Christmas all packed away this goes right on my dining room table. I will take some more pictures then for sharing.

So who ever you are my dear Secret Santa

THANK-YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is all hand done!!! No machine did this that's for sure!!!

The center is crochet. I can't imagine how long this took.

This is an heirloom that I will treasure forever and pass it down

to my daughter!

Sharing with:

Cardinal Red for Christmas...

2011-12-14T09:54:00.000-08:00

I've had more fun with my embroidery machine this Christmas! I have been embroidering 4x4 designs and inserting in photo cards for my favorite people.

My step mother loves "Red Birds" as she calls them so I found this beautiful Cardinal design and created this card for her.

The Chick-a-dee is for my sister in law. I think they just turned out wonderful!

Christmas in a bag...

2011-12-09T12:49:00.000-08:00

I made a few presents for my friend in another state and wanted to

be creative in how I sent them to her.

I found this canvas tote at Walmart.

She loves cats! I found this kitty printable transfer on Etsy

and the transfer paper at Walmart. It was so easy to do. I printed

the transfer out in an 8x10 format and cut around it and ironed it on.

That easy and doesn't it just spruce it up a bit. It's personal now.

The tote was deep enough to place all her presents in! I just finished it off with a plaid ribbon. I am very pleased with how it turned it. Took it to UPS this morning and sent it off to her. Very convenient to! All this for under $10. Total cost was $7.50

I am going to do this for all my girlfriends and daughters this Christmas!

Autumn Come Lately...

2011-11-30T09:55:00.000-08:00

Where I live in Southern California up next to the San Jacinto Mountains Autumn comes late and lasts about 6 weeks. It's beautiful. We are just now getting into the real colors and it will go on like this until mid December. I love it. These are pictures taken this past weekend around my neighbor hood.

A Vintage Halloween!

2011-10-14T14:51:00.000-07:00

I have decorated for years for Halloween. I love the colors, etc. Now I have tailored down my collection to vintage inspired items that I have been collecting for awhile. Here are just a few favorites. I try and add something unique every year. This year I found a vintage embroidery pattern that I dearly love and created these flour sack t-towels. These are my favorite t-towels of the season. The pattern is so unique and whimsical.

There were only three designs in this collection. I hope the designer will have a new collection available next year. They are just so neat.

I also dearly love Bethany Lowe vintage inspired decor. I found this bowl years ago at the Pharmacy in Pasadena and have cherished it ever since. The colors are so vibrant and the design so whimsical.

One of my very favorite things to do is create little Halloween gifts for friends and family and attach one these vintage inspired tags to the gift. I also use these for postcards and they make great decor mantle pictures. These are just a few of my favorite tags from my collection.

Linking to:

VINTAGE Baby Burp Cloths!

2011-10-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

I just got the word that my son and his wife are having a baby in late April! Finally after 10 years of marriage. I am so happy for them. This will be my 7th grandchild. My daughter is having #6 grand baby in March. I got so excited that I machine embroidered these darling vintage design burp cloths. I getting ready to mail them out today so before I do thought I would share with my blogging peeps.

Doggie Fun in the Pumpkin Patch...

2011-10-11T16:19:00.000-07:00

One of my Bella pups born July 18, 2011 is now a Service Dog in Training with Paw'sitive Teams from San Diego, CA. This is the 3rd service pup they have received from me in the last6 10 years. My two other pups grew up to graduate and are canine companions today. I just received these pictures from Carol with Paw'sitive Teams of Sejera (little pup in the wagon) and her friends visiting a pumpkin patch.

She is such a happy pup!

Curious as well...

Always smiling!

Linking too:

My Memories Suite Giveaway! CHECK THIS OUT IT'S AWESOME.

2011-10-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

AWESOME! AWESOME! AWESOME!

GIVEAWAY!

Check out this give away over at The Crafter Bug. This digital scrap book software My Memories Suite is absolutely amazing. Connie is having a giveaway, but I couldn't wait so I copied her code and purchased the software for $10 discount and downloaded it to my computer. It's so user friendly. I love scrap booking but don't like the mess and really don't have time, digital scraping is the answer. I've tried other digital programs but never anything like this

I am having a blast creating these pages.

Below are six pages I put together yesterday of my current golden puppies.

You can go on Youtube and follow the tutorial's. There is just know end in sight with this software.

Linking to:

FALL = Malcolm, Pillows and a COZY MYSTERY!

2011-09-27T13:45:00.000-07:00

When the weather starts cooling down and the nights get cold I always look forward to going to bed early snuggling down in the pillows and covers with Malcolm snoring at my feet and reading a Cozy Mystery! You what I'm talking about, the middle aged/senior single woman sleuth who annoys the police but always turns out right. She always has a cat or two and the resident dog who accompanies her on her escapades. There always seems be plenty of gossip, good food and tea where ever she goes. They always take place in beautiful quaint country sides with plenty of flowers, trees and wonderful small wild animals such as badgers, owls, or hedgehogs. Usually a quick read and always comes in a series. Our heroine never gets sick and she isn't worried about finding a man to fill the void in her life, her community, home, friends and furry kids provide enough adventure for any one person.

Autumn began last Friday and I found my first Cozy Mystery from a recommendation on Cozy-Mystery.com which is a wonderful blog with countless suggestions! I found a new author, at least to me, Vicki Lane. She is a marvelous writer. She had me right up until the end. Her heroine is Elizabeth Goodweather a widow living in the mountains near Ashville, NC. She love Appalachia and the beauty and mountain lore is all included. Her books always have an unresolved mountain legend included from the past that somehow coincides with what is going on in the future.
I just finished the 1st one in the series Signs in the Blood (check out review)and plan to continue reading the whole series. I have a kindle so I look forward tonight to snuggling down in bed with Malcolm passed out at my feet reading
Art's Blood the 2nd installment in the series.

Linking with parties at:

Hoo are you Tuesday!

2011-09-13T11:48:00.000-07:00

1. Do you prefer sweet or salty foods?

I love both! Salty and sweet yum, yum

2. Name your 3 BEST personality traits!

Funny

Positive disposition

Nuturing

3. Name your 3 worst personality traits!

Can be unforgiving if betrayed
Can be slightly lazy

Sharp tongue

4. Do you collect anything?

I collect dolls from various artists

Vintage Pyrexx

Fiesta Ware

5. What is your favorite season of the year?

Autumn hands down!

So HOO ARE YOU??

Join in Hoo are you at Night Owl Crafting!

What to do with Vintage Flour Sacks...

2011-09-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

These are so cool! My guess is from the 30's and 40's. My friend found them at a thrift store and she didn't know what to do with them so she gave them to me. I really like them, I am just at a loss on what to do with them. I thought of re-creating them with stuffing inside and displaying that way. Any ideas would be really appreciated. I have never heard of Sea Island Sugar Company or Harvest Blossom, they must me old.

Have you ever seen anything so cute...

2011-08-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

This is Miss Cindy (Cinderella) one of my 13 golden retriever puppies. She is 4 weeks old. I haven't golden puppies around for quite a few years. We bred both our girls at the same time and got 13 puppies, 12 females and one male. They are so fun. A couple of them are going to local service dog organizations. We have just been having more fun with these babies.

Sharing with...

Who doesn't love Vintage Pyrex!!!

2011-08-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

I really do love vintage/retro dinnerware, cookware and bake ware. In particular I love vintage Pyrex. It just makes me want to cook or bake. The colors and patterns are so happy.
When I got married I received a full set of Pyrex Spring Blossom nesting bowls. I used those for years, but alas after 6 children and 37 years of marriage they have all been broken. I am always looking on Ebay for vintage stuff and discovered a whole new world of vintage Pyrex in most every pattern they manufactured.
Today being my birthday and since I always purchase my own present from my husband I found a great deal on what a full set of vintage Pyrex Primary Colors nesting bowls. I can't wait to receive them!!! I also found a birthday present from me to me a set of 3 Pyrex Friendship casserole dishes. The Friendship pattern is one of my favorites because of the bright red and yellow colors.

Corning produced the Pyrex brand in the mid 1940's and if you look at the patterns over the years they really reflect the decade they were produced in:

Set of nesting bowls in Pyrex Primary Colors

manufactured 1940's

Set of 3 Pyrex Friendship Casserole dishes

manurfactured 1967

Pyrex Cinderella Spring Blossom nesting bowls

manufactured 1972

Avacado green was really the trendy color

for the early 70's.

Butterprint or Amish Pyrex nesting bowls manufactured 1957

One of the most popular for collectors Pyrex Gooseberry pattern

shown here in set of Cinderella nesting bowls

manufactured 1957

Very collectible pattern Pyrex Rainbow Stripe shown here

in the 3 colors mixing bowl set

manufactured 1965

These are a rare find and a little pricey.

I love this pattern shown below in nesting bowls;

New Dot manufactured in 1967.

Very reflective of the 60's with dots and bright colors.

I would love to hear comments on your childhood with Pyrex or about your own collections.

If you have any pictures you would like to share of your own collections please

email them to me susielilypad@gmail.com. I will include them in this post.

Congratulations to my Giveaway Winner!!!

2011-08-16T10:54:00.001-07:00

Way to go Rikki Jill !!!!
You won!!!
Thanks to my two participants!!

Embroidered Dish Towel Giveaway!!!

2011-08-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

I love doing giveaway's and it's been so long since I have done one. I created this 28" 100% cotton Flour Sack dish towel embroidered in a late summer theme. Since it's for August this will be a short giveaway so the winner can enjoy the dish towel for the month.

Rules:
~ Must be a follower and leave a comment including your email address

If this goes well I plan to give away a dishtowel monthly.

Contest ends Monday August 15th!

Tea Time for the Colonial...

2011-07-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

I love Old Town Alexandria with all the pre-revolutionary buildings and cobble stone streets. I never visit my son with-out going to Old Town. This past May while visiting my son and his wife I toured the Carlyle House built in August 1753.

Carlyle House parallels the early history of Alexandria, colonial Virginia, and America.
It was left to decay after the Civil War when it served as a hospital, but thankfully during the Bicentennial, the Carlyle House was restored by the Northern Virginia National Parks Authority. Now it serves to educate tourists about the
lifestyle of an 18th-century Virginia family and their servants and slaves.

During the tour of the house I happened upon the gift shop which of course I could not resist. It is a lovely gift shop with so many colonial inspired goodies. I also love tea sets. I saw this particular one on display and had to have it. The price was very reasonable and I was just drawn to the sunny yellow. The gift shop host explained this was a replica of what the common colonial would have used for tea time. Very practical and durable, yet not dull. I love it!
I had them wrap it up good and had a heck of time getting it on the plane in the overhead bin :-).

It's perfect for summer my summer display in my living room sitting on my coffee table.

The Brown Betty style teapot shows the practicality of the colonials.

The Beehive motif was popular because of the bee's industrious nature.

Mustard Yellow was also a popular colonial color.

If they would have had this set in red I would have brought that home too!

Look what I have at my house... You'll be jealous!!!

2011-07-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

8 beautiful golden babies, born yesterday morning!!! 7 little girls and 1 little boy. I haven't had a golden litter at my house in years! It was time. One of these precious children will be going to Pawsitive Teams Service Dog organization. I have placed 3 dogs with them before and they have all done super well. Now they want another one. These little kids are out of my Bella and Jack! We are just so excited. Look for weekly pictures.
Nothing cuter than a golden puppy, except maybe a westie puppy, but then they are both so cute.

Mama loves her babies!

24 hours old

Daddy Jack!

Mama Bella

New Toddler in the House!!!

2011-07-11T11:56:00.000-07:00

Busy summer and not much time to post lately, but had to share this little chick. My daughter made this little beauty and I bought her. It set me back a pretty penny I can tell you but she is so worth it!

My daughter and I both reborn dolls and sell them on Ebay. It's a wonderful hobby. I saw this little girl and her twin coming to life as my daughter diligently worked on her. When finished I had to have her. For those of you who are familiar with Lee Middleton dolls may recognize a resemblance. The sculpt is a Reva Schick Arianna kit. She is 28" and wears 18 month old clothing. She is just like a real toddler. Her name is Pippa. You can see her twin Kate on ebay: I am so excited, I have been shopping I can tell you.

Priceless!!

2011-06-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

I have to share Miss Marion on her 2nd birthday (last Saturday)with her mom (my daughter) and dad.
Sometimes you just get the perfect picture!!! This says it all about this little chick's personality.

Taken on my iphone no less!

Make Your Own Water Feature in 45 Minutes!

2011-06-08T13:45:00.000-07:00

I have been on a quest to enhance my front porch. I have wanted a water feature for a very long time, but did not want to spend a lot of money, or have one that everyone else had. I wanted something unique and true to me. The best solution to this was to make my own. Yesterday I had the day off and I decided to go ahead and make my very own unique water feature. It was so much fun. I took photos along the way so I could share it with all of you.

I created a small water feature because that is all I have room for. I want to be able to go out on my front porch in the evening and relax over looking my lovely planter and hear the water.

I went to the local feed store and bought a 30 gallon galvanized (won't rust) water trough for animals.

Then onto Lowe's for a 70 gallon fountain pump with extender, water lily plantand organic pond solution.

Found the place to put it in my garden and dug out and around to make it level.

Placed the pump inside with the extender on it along with the spray head.

Dropped the water lily plant wrapped in mesh bag next to the pump.

Took some stones from the garden we have collected over the yearsfrom beach camping trips and placed them in the bottom. This is just for looks and

something extra for the fish.

Filled it up and dropped the fake lily that came with plant in.

Couldn't wait to plug it in and see what happened!!

Added the little fish (see the little bit of orange on bottom) and Viola I have my water feature!!!

According the Walmart assistant the fish will grow. I bought them for 10 cents a piece. Got 10 of them so hopefully I will still have 3 left by the end of the summer.

The water lily will grow pretty fast and it's leaves will give the fish something to swim

under for shade.

I can't tell you how fun this was. It took all of maybe 45 minutes to put together. The leveling

was the most difficult. It's not until this picture that I actually got it level.

I love it. It's exactly what I was looking for.

Total Cost:

Water Trough: $41

Pump with extender: $19.97

Water Lily: $7.98

Pond Cleaner: $8.50

Fish: $1.00

Fish Food: $4.98

Total: $ 83.43

Trendy Tree House

I Love Red Doors...

2011-06-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

I love red doors on a home or business. For years I have wanted to take the plunge and paint my door red, but have always been too chicken. When I was in Georgetown and Alexandria, Virginia I couldn't help but notice how many homes had red doors and they all looked so warm and welcoming. Red with the brass knockers are my favorites. There were variations of the color as well. I have now decided to actually do it, I'm going to paint my front door red, a regal red I think, maybe slightly brickish. I believe red doors mush have been popular in the colonial era since most of these homes I'm showing are historical homes. I have been looking for a brass knocker that I can have our name engraved on. I also want a brass door knob. I can't wait for the transformation. I will keep everyone updated.

1768 Plantation Home~Chatham House in Fredericksburg Virginia

2011-05-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

Chatham House

While visiting in Virginia these past couple of weeks we had the opportunity to visit Fredericksburg and take the Civil War Battlefield tour. When ever we go back to visit my son and his wife we always like to visit one battlefield per trip. Fredericksburg is only 30 minutes south of where my son lives. The weather was perfect!!! The town of Fredericksburg is a lovely small cozy little town nestled in the beautiful Virginia country side. This piece of country side is to date the bloodiest ground in America. Within 5-10 miles 3 of the bloodiest battles were fought along the Rappahanock River, Battle of Fredericksburg Dec. 1862, Battle of Chancellorsville May 1863 and Battle of the Wilderness May 1864. Between the three battles 73,444 men were killed.
It's just mind boggling to think that many young men from both North and South were lost. After the battle the Union Army moved into the Chatham House and made it a hospital. The family had fled to another estate. The house was a hospital for the remainder of the war. We were able to go into what they called the operation room, which was harrowing, thinking of all the amputations.

The poet Walt Whitman visited Chatham House in Dec. 1862 in search of his brother who was listed on the wounded list. Fortunately he found his brother with only a minor face wound, but from this experience he wrote his book Wound Dresser:

Excerpts from Whitman's book The Wound Dresser

     "Began my visits (December 21, 1862) among the camp hospitals in the Army of the Potomac, under General Burnside. Spent a good part of the day in a large brick mansion [Chatham] on the banks of the Rappahannock, immediately opposite Fredericksburg. It is used as a hospital since the battle, and seems to have received only the worst cases. Outdoors, at the foot of a tree, within ten yards of the front of the house [probably the still standing Catalpa tree], I noticed a heap of amputated feet, legs, arms, hands, etc. -- about a load for a one-horse cart. Several dead bodies lie near, each covered with its brown woolen blanket. In the dooryard, toward the river, are fresh graves, mostly of officers, their names on pieces of barrel staves or broken board, stuck in the dirt.

     The house is quite crowded, everything impromptu, no system, all bad enough, but I have no doubt the best that can be done; all the wounds pretty bad, some frightful, the men in their old clothes, unclean and bloody. Some of the wounded are rebel officers, prisoners. One, a Mississippian--a captain-- hit badly in the leg, I talked with him some time; he asked for papers, which I gave him. (I saw him three months afterward in Washington, with leg amputated, doing well.)

     I went through the rooms, down stairs and up. Some of the men were dying. I had nothing to give at that night, but wrote a few letters to folks home, mothers, etc. Also talked to three or four who seemed most susceptible to it, and needing it."

Walt Whitman 1862

I came away from our visit with the keen sense that I was walking on hollowed ground.

It would be on the far left end of the lower building that the amputated limbs laid

in a pile that Walt Whitman would have seen.

Cannon facing the town from Chatham Hill. Can you imagine bombarding the city with that thing?

Hubby scouting the horizon

Fredericksburg Church Steeple viewed from Chatham Hill.

This Church and many others became army field hospitals during the war.

Looking back on the house from the lower grounds.

Gardens in the back.

Puppy Tails #7

2011-05-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

I was so amazed to see how much they had grown after being away from them for 9 days!!!! They are now 7 weeks old and will be leaving home in another couple of weeks. I will miss them so! They are so stinking cute and healthy as can be. We now have them in small Camp Snoopy on the outside patio. They will get a bigger Camp Snoopy this weekend. Their little ears are now beginning to stand up properly and all their pigment is nice and black!

Little boy~ Tulouse

Little Girl~Amelia

Little Girl~Marie

Amelia

Little Boy~Mumford

Mommy, Izzie looking a little forlorn on the other side of the fence watching!

This is the hard part.

Home from the hill... Capitol Hill that is...

2011-05-24T11:58:00.000-07:00

I have been an absentee blogger for about ten days now. We just got back to Southern California last night from Washington D.C. We had the privilege of going there to attend my son, James Jr.'s graduation from Georgetown University Law School this past Sunday. It was amazing. What a campus, what a ceremony and what a thrill for us as parents! We were so proud. His brother, his parents, his in-laws all came to celebrate. It was a party hearty in his house where we all stayed. We had a great time. Here are some pictures from Sunday I wanted to share.

Getting a smooch from his wife Maria!

Another smooch!

Picture of the proud couple James and Maria Fiorito

Holding up his Law Degree!

Here he is with his brother Dr. Joseph Fiorito

we are so proud of these boys!

A smile for his mom!

Vintage Tablecloth and Napkin set I Scored!

2011-05-11T15:37:00.000-07:00

I love vintage. I love red and I love table linens. I found this beautiful vintage 1950's Simco screen printed table cloth and napkin set on Ebay. I was even more impressed when I received it. The colors are so vivid, no wear or spots. It is just beautiful. I had to throw it on my table and take pictures. The bowl in the center is a Scarlet Fiesta Ware pedestal bowl sitting on top of a Scarlet Fiesta Ware fruit bowl turned upside down.

I discovered after setting out my Fiesta Ware that I am missing my Sunflower Yellow, and Persimmon mugs. I need to get those replaced. That's the beauty of Fiesta Ware you can mix and match the color combos anyway you want and it's very easy to replace the current colors.

I took all the colors in the tablecloth and used my Fiesta Ware pieces that matched the colors.

I use my large disc pitchers all the time. They really are the perfect size and easy to handle.

Really I will have to say my two favorite colors of Fiesta Ware are Scarlet and Sunflower Yellow. They just brighten up any table, or kitchen.

Oops! I can see that I need to replace my Persimmon fruit bowl as well.

Puppy Tails #6

2011-05-09T12:08:00.000-07:00

5 weeks old today! Boy has the time just flown by. They are eating solid food now and have their I D collars. Pink and yellow are for the girls and blue and green are for the boys. They have been graduated to a larger pool and have things to climb on and toys. They are doing very good on their papers. Some time this week they will be able to go to Camp Snoopy. I am leaving Saturday for D.C. and won't be back for a week so no Puppy Tails next Monday :-(. I will miss them. A week is a long time in puppy growth, but they will be left in good hands.

This little face is of yellow girl are smallest one but by far the most adventurous! She is first to come, first out of the box and nothing scares her.

Victorian Era Dolls and Reproductions...

2011-05-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

I love vintage Victorian Era dolls.

One of the most popular artists for Bisque dolls was Pierre-François Jumeau who became widely known for his dolls with realistic faces and characterized by their exquisite clothing which replicated the popular fashions of the time.

It was in 1877 that Jumeau began to create his Bebe Jumeau, a little girl face with toddler clothing. These were his most popular dolls, selling over 3 million annually for 2 decades. Jumeau was awarded countless artisan awards and was featured at major expositions throughout Europe. During the 1890's when the world was in a financial crisis the German's began producing dolls that were less expensive and still very well made. They could not compete with the French artists at the time for technique and detail in both painting and fashion construction, but they were affordable and in very much demand.

The Golden Era of Jumeau dolls began to go into financial difficulty and was bought out by a French manufacturer. Regardless of these set backs, Jumeau Dolls have continued to be sought after by collectors and can be auctioned off for $2000 and upwards.

Here are two fine examples of an advertisement for the Bebe Jumeau

Here is a beautiful Jumeau Collectors Doll from 1907.

Picture borrowed from Kathy Libraty Dolls

Notice the exquisite clothing that would reflect the fashion of the time.

This is a Bisque doll not porcelain so it has a matte finish.

This doll is 105 years old and the paint is still stunning and vibrant.

Notice the eyebrows that was a Jumeau trademark.

Visit Kathy's site she has wonderful collection of gorgeous vintage dolls.

This is my doll Baby Jumeau part of a reproduction series put out by Marie Osmond. I just adore this doll. She is the first in the collection of six which I plan on scouting the universe to obtain.

Every detail was seen to including the Jumeau eyebrows.

She is a Baby so her dress, bonnet, and slip reflects Victorian age baby clothing.

She is also a Bisque doll with glass eyes.

Even her slip and little shoes exquisite detail.

The layers of lace are beautiful. The Reproduction Series is a Limited Edition from a few years ago, but watching Ebay closely you may be able to come by one.

I have highlighted all the dolls in the series with a weblink to www.mariedolls.net. Becky's site is so worth the visit. Beautiful pictures and details.

Baby Jumeau
Baby Bru
Baby Bru Christeing Day
Baby Mein Leibling
Baby Mein Leibling Holiday
Baby Mein Leibling Mother's Eyelet
Baby Steiner

Robin's Quilt part 2

2011-05-04T14:48:00.000-07:00

I've been having fun this past week building nine patch blocks for Robin's quilt. I have four more blocks to finish to complete the blocks. Right now it measures 60 x 60 when finished it will be 64 x 80. I have 9 days to get it ready for the quilting bee. When I have all the blocks finished then I will be doing the embellishments of embroidery and applique then sewing it altogether. I am very pleased with how it's turning out. It's all laid out in the center of my living room. It's probably the safest place in the house to have it.

There's a Party Going On!!!

2011-05-04T10:48:00.000-07:00

Hey kids there's a Pet Party going on at Debbiedoos

Better spread the word!

Did I hear Party?

Yes I think I did! I better tell Izzie and Malcolm.

A Party! I want to go. Yes, Sugar we better tell Malcolm

and then tell Dad there's a party going on!

Dad, did you hear there's a party going on! We want to go!

Geez Malcolm you can be such a stick in the mud sometimes!

That's right just stick your nose in the air because you're not the center of attention!

Hah! Turning your back on us really!

We'll fine we are going to go partying

with Debbiedoo's

Puppy Tails #5

2011-05-02T10:05:00.000-07:00

These little guys are growing like weeds! I cannot believe they are already 4 weeks old. They are at such a cute age now. They are playing with each other. Barking and marching around. This coming week they will begin eating solid food and graduating to Camp Snoopy where they can play and play. In next weeks pictures they will be sporting identification collars.
Can you tell I'm having fun!

Robin's Quilt part 1

2011-04-28T13:04:00.000-07:00

My daughter Robin is graduating from High School this year and I just found out that our youth's church group are going to tie quilts for the senior girls on May 14th. The hitch is that the mother's are putting together the quilt tops for their daughters prior to the quilting bee. The idea is that the girls all have their quilts before graduation on June 3rd.

What a panic. I don't know how I missed this memo, but a lot has been going on in my life. Thank-goodness for my other daughter, she came to the rescue. She had planned to make Robin a quilt for graduation anyway and had cut all these squares for a rag quilt. The two of us decided to collaborate on the quilt to get it done. I picked an easy nine patch quilt pattern of 30 18" blocks. The squares are already cut except for a the one's I'm filling in with. She cut the squares, I am sewing the blocks together. Both of us will work on organizing and piecing the quilt top together.

I won't be here on the May 14th, I will be on the plane flying across the United States to D.C. for my son's graduation from Georgetown Law, so my daughter will be attending the quilting bee with Robin to get her quilt tied. Thank goodness for family!!! My daughter's are awesome! They really pitch in when needed.

I started last night and finished four nine patch blocks.

I showed Robin what I had so far and she loves it!

I created this picture collage to give you an idea of what it might look like pieced together.

Partying with:

Strut Your Stuff

Spotted Among the Ferns!

2011-04-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

I was running out the door this morning on my way to work and noticed something purple peeking out of our fern and agapanthia jungle. I climbed among them for a close look and found these darling purple daisies happy as can be. Where they came from I have no idea. We have had a lot of rain this winter and spring and we do have birds in our trees, so I'm thinking a little birdie dropped some seeds in my ferns. I love it. I think they look so pretty.

Puppy Tails # 4

2011-04-25T10:32:00.000-07:00

Kilraeke Westies Puppy Tails continued...

They are three weeks old today and as promised their eyes and ears are fully opened and they are now off investigating their surroundings.

Really Mom, do you have to clean my butt on camera?

Yes, peep squeak I do and your brother and sister's butts too!

I could just perish with embarrassment.

We think it's pretty funny!

I'm outta here!

He's no fun!

Um, this is interesting!

Not sure I should leave this blanket, I think I'll just stick one paw in to test it out.

Better sniff to make sure!

Vintage Inspired Easter Napkins...

2011-04-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Decided to create Easter Napkins to go with my Vintage Deseret Rose Franciscan Ware. I love this design it is one of Embroidery Libraries Vintage Collection. I made six of these that I will set the table with on Easter Sunday. I love pink.

Shown with part of my Deseret Rose Franciscan Ware vintage 1941 collection

The design is a very intricate 3 dimensional design with 21 thread changes.

Partying with:

Winner of Cupcake Dishtowel Giveaway!

2011-04-21T11:04:00.000-07:00

Molly
You Won
My 100 Followers Celebration!!!!

Drawing done by Random.org #15

Block #2 in my American Heritage Quilt Challenge...

2011-04-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

This block(s) is actually the block of the month for February. There is two of these. I started late so I am going to have catch up to April. I now have January and February done. This week I will start on March. This is the Shoo Fly design. It was a little more challenging than last weeks. I tried very hard to make sure all my points met. I am having fun and look forward to the 3rd in the challenge which looks pretty complicated.

Shoo Fly design

Grouped with last weeks challenge.

Only two of these blocks required for the quilt.

Partying with:

It's A Very Cherry World Rednesday
Hoo's Got Talent
What's Up Wednesday

Puppy Update # 3

2011-04-18T10:33:00.000-07:00

They are 2 weeks old today and so much bigger than last week. Not much has changed except they are even fatter and one has his eyes open. This coming week will have some major mile stones for them, they will all open their eyes and and their ears. They will start walking around and sleeping less. By 21 days when their ears open they will start doing little barks because they can hear themselves. It will be the beginning of personality development. The pictures from hear on out will be much more interesting.

In the mosh pit.

Jeepers, creepers, look at them peepers!

The Girls!

The Boys!

Snug as bugs in a rug!

Proud Papa!

Crownridge Malcolm Kilraeke

Giveaway Celebrating 100 Followers!!

2011-04-13T11:25:00.000-07:00

What better way to celebrate than with Cupcakes!! As promised I have created something to celebrate my first milestone, 100 followers! I am giving away a pair of authentic large flour sack 100% cotton dishtowels embroidered with darling 4x4 cupcakes with bottom trimmed in novelty cupcake accent fabric. I was going to do a vintage design but when I saw this fabric in Joann's last night I had to do cupcakes. I love cupcakes because they make me feel so happy and cheerful! Tab down to bottom for all the Giveaway details!!!

Giveaway from April 13 - April 20th!

Three chances to win:

Follow me. Please indicate in comment~1 entry
Put my Giveaway Grab button on my sidebar on your blog and link back to me ~ 2 entries
Facebook or Tweet about my giveaway with a link~2 entries

Please do separate post for all your entries.

Winner announced Thurs a.m. PST April 14th

Good Luck!!!

My Quilt Block Challenge...

2011-04-12T14:56:00.000-07:00

I was in Joann's last night and this Quilt Block of the Month program caught my eye. I have always wanted to do a pieced quilt, but hated the idea of all the cutting. This seemed like a great solution, I liked the pattern, the colors and especially the idea that it was all precut. All I have to do is piece it all together one block at a time. I like challenges and this being done one block a month is right up my alley. I bought the first block set which actually is putting together 4 blocks for the month. I am starting 4 months into the year so I will need to do more 3 more block sets this month to get caught up in order to finish it by December.

This is what it will look like (hopefully) when I finished.

First Block set.

All the pieces to the block.

The center piece to the block.

First finished block, just 3 more just like this to go for the first block set. I have been sewing for over 30 years and I will tell you that putting this together is not as easy as it would seem. You have to be totally accurate. 1/4" seams and piecing the rows together the seams must match up perfectly or it will look funny. I have a new found respect for the avid quilter, piecing and sewing perfect rows!

Puppy Update Week # 2...

2011-04-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

TWO WEEKS OLD TODAY!!!

Miss Izzie being the perfect mommy!

Such sweet mellow babies. They just love to cuddle. This is a little boy that I'm spending time with this morning.

Miss Izzie just chilling with her babes.

I would call this shot "Punch (milk) Drunk"

Are you jealous yet?

Look at that milk belly?

So brilliant they are already getting their little black pigment and only a week old!

They have doubled their size in less than a week. It may be because their mommy is an open wet bar!

Vintage Baby Goodies...

2011-04-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

I love dolls, and vintage baby items! I made this doll for myself. She had to have the perfect dress for my bedroom. My girlfriend and I went Antiquing recently and I found this vintage Feldman Bros. dress and slip. I grabbed it and ran to the cashier. It fits perfectly on my little sweetie. I am so impressed with all the detail work involved in this dress.

Here you can see the detail of the butterflies embroidered on the bottom.

Here you can see the delicate pleating involved.

The under slip is almost like a sleeveless dress in itself. It was made by Feltman Bros. in the Philippines who are famous for the their Baptiste needle work. It's such a delicate cotton. I just love it, and it fits Miss Libby perfectly.

Here is another one of my vintage baby items I purchased off of Ebay a few years ago. It's the perfect vintage baby scale.

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My New Little White Babies...

2011-04-05T10:54:00.000-07:00

Announcing the birth of my little Westie Puppies born early Monday morning! We have 2 girls and 2 boys. They are perfect!!! Mom is amazing. Took these pictures today to share with all my peeps.

Announcing the WINNER of My Spring Fling Giveaway...

2011-04-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! TO # 42 Chosen by Random.org.

Suelovescherry's

I want to personally thank all of you who entered and making this such a successful giveaway. Please check back soon I will be having another giveaway to celebrate my 100th follower when that happeneds. Should be pretty soon since I only need 2 more to go!

Just a hint it will be Vintage, a dish towel and for Easter!

I don't know what I did wrong but the widget doesn't show the # that was generated after I posted. I'm sorry but it was #42.

Final Day for the Spring Fling!!!

2011-04-02T14:30:00.000-07:00

Day 14 is here already and the last day of the Spring Fling! I have had a wonderful time participating and I want to send out a big THANK-YOU to April from Wildflowers and Whimsy who was the host of this terrific event!!

Today's giveaway's are found at the following blogs:

Honeysuckle Pettiskirt

from

The Extra Ordinary Bree

$20 Gift Certificate to Your Girlish Whims

from

My Girlish Whims

Spring Fling Giveaway Day #13

2011-04-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

Only two more days for this fantastic party!

The giveaway's today are:

$25 credit to Barefeet on the Dash Designs

from

Barefeet on the Dash

Handmade Fabric Tray

from

By the Bluegrass

My Spring Fling Giveaway Today, Yeah!!!!

2011-03-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

Finally it's my turn to do my giveaway!!! I am so excited to offer this set of Vintage Inspired 7 Day a week Sun Bonnet Sue Flour Sack Dishtowels.

There is one dishtowel for everyday of the week. I embroidered the designs on my machine and finished the edges with a blanket stitch. These are lovely towels, the best by Aunt Martha's Company. They are 28X22 with a hanging loop at the top. 100% durable heavy duty cotton. I remember my grandmother having a set like these and loved them. They will wash up beautifully and last a long time. Colors will stay true.

PLEASE Read the Rules: You must leave a separate comment for each additional entry. If it says 2 extra entries, leave two comments with the same information. Also, please leave your email so I can contact you if you are the winner!

Mandatory Entry:
You must become a public follower of my blog! (If you already are a follower please leave a comment telling me so)

Extra Entries
•"like" me on my Etsy shop ( 2 extra entries)
•Tweet this on twitter & leave a link (2 extra entries)
•Post about this on your blog & leave a link (4 extra entries)
•Put my button on your blog sidebar, page, or blog roll. NOT just in a post & leave a link (5 extra entries)

Remember this is only for 3 days, and winner will be chosen by Random.org on Sunday. Good Luck I cannot wait to find out who wins!!!

Please stop by and visit

Renee @ Strokes of Magic for her giveaway
Hand painted Window Sill Sitter

Red, White and Vintage Birthday!

2011-03-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

It's my girlfriends birthday today and we are all meeting at Sizzler for her luncheon. She loves red, white and white vintage. Can't just do anything, it has to be special. Here is what I came up with for her present...

I found this cute white wire kitchen basket at Walmart and added the red gingham ribbon around the edge.

I found these wonderful absorbent, very soft kitchen towels also at Walmart and then machine embroidered the kitchen designs on them. I embroidered 4 towels two each of each design, I just mirrored them.

She loves cute jars and Atomic Fireballs! I found the jar at Walmart and filled it with red fireballs and decorated it with red and white polkadot ribbon

It wouldn't be the same without something vintage in the basket. This was probably the most time consuming visiting the thrift stores for something vintage, white and for the kitchen. I am pleased that I was able to find this white ironstone milk jug! It looks vintage to me. I like it, so in it goes. I did tie a ribbon around the handle.

Here it is all finished and ready to go.

This is picture of the card I put in it. She loves cats! She has 5 of them and the her latest baby looks just like the tabby in this picture.
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"/>

Spring Flinge Giveaway Day #11

2011-03-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

Only 4 more days of this fantastic giveaway party. Don't miss out! Here are today's wonderful giveaways:

And a set of decorative tiles from Delina at Dew This:

A $30 gift certificate to B.Inspired Vintage from Kristina at B.Inspired Mama:

Come back and visit tomorrow to sign up for my Vintage Inspired Giveaway:

Hoo Are You Tuesday...

2011-03-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

Hosted By Night Owl Crafting

Here are this week's questions!

1. What is your favorite magazine?

Country Living

2. What color are your eyes?

Hazel

3. Do you go to the dentist on a regular 6 month schedule, or do you put it off?

Put it off

4. Do you use anything to make your house smell good?

Scentsy
ex: candles, spray,etc...

5. Do you have any pets?

Yes, 4 Westie's

Spring Fling Giveaway Day #10...

2011-03-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

Only 5 more days of these amazing giveaways. Today the giveaways are at the following blogs:

Glass Pendant Necklace + a surprise

from

Girl Boy Girl Inspired

Loopy Bow

from

Ashley Creation

Remember each giveaway is only open for three days! Check back tomorrow for more fabulous giveaways!

Announcing a NEW GIVEAWAY over at The Crafter Bug!

2011-03-28T15:23:00.000-07:00

Don't miss out on this one! For all you mommy's of little girls this is a darling plaque for their bedroom. I've seen it up close and personal because one very similar hangs in my granddaughter's bedroom :-). It would you know since The Crafter Bug is my daughter. Sign up now it's over on April 2nd.

Spring Fling Giveaway Day(s) 8 & 9...

2011-03-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

Be sure to drop by and sign up for these great giveaways at the following blogs:

Every Occasion Dress
from
A Jennuine Life

Wildflowers and Whimsy

by April

Pretty Spring Necklace

from

Rock N Regalia

Custom Applique Shirt

from

Two Plus Jilly

Malcolm Needed a New Bed!

2011-03-26T11:47:00.000-07:00

Mr. Malcolm needed a new lightweight, easy to wash comfy bed. I keep going through the petsmart ones and they wear out or get ugly so quickly. I decided I would make one for him that could go in the car, on my bed, on the couch or where ever. I even peronalized it for him. He loves it!

Shared on:

Spring Fling Day # 7

2011-03-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

Don't miss out on these wonderful giveaways over at the following blogs:

Handmade Purse from

Sweet Bee Buzzings

Gift Basket filled with handmade items

from

Lucky 7 Designs

Each giveaway is only open for three days so make sure you hurry over and enter! And be sure to check back tomorrow for more fabulous giveaways!

It May be Cold, Dreary and Wet Outside but Malcolm has other Ideas...

2011-03-25T13:19:00.000-07:00

Like a long cozy afternoon nap on the couch in front of the fire!

Spring Fling Giveaway Day #6

2011-03-25T10:27:00.001-07:00

Spring Fling Giveaway #6 at the following blogs: Check these out!

Nat Mac @ Nat Mac’s Knick Nac’s

Cleaning Apron and Box of Magic Erasers

Stephanie @ Luxe Boulevard

Lady Beachy Keen headband

Don't Miss Today's Giveaway for the Spring Fling!!!

2011-03-24T09:56:00.000-07:00

We are now into the 4th day of the Spring Fling Giveaway where 16 lovely ladies are giving away something very special. Everyday there is two or three giveaway's going on. I have them posted here on where to go for that day's giveaway. Giveaway's going on from March 20-April 2nd.

Check back here on the March 31 for my giveaway which will be open for 3 days. Vintage inspired flour sack Sunbonnet Sue Seven Days a Week dish towels.
Sign-up on March 31 here at Puddle Jumper Creations!

Today's Giveaway's are at the following blogs:

Lovely Mustard Yellow Burlap Flower

from

Sweet Nothings

Diaper & Wipes Case, Owl Plushie + An added surprise...

from

To Sew With Love

Bloom Necklace from
The Simple Sussie

Each giveaway is only open for three days so make sure you hurry over and enter! And be sure to check back tomorrow for more fabulous giveaways!

Spring Fling Day #4 Giveaway...

2011-03-23T08:46:00.000-07:00

Check these out!

Joy @ Momma’s Kinda Crafty

Headband with interchangable crochet flowers

Jennifer @ My Mommy Can…

Spring Bouquet of Hair Accessories

Hoo Are You Tuesday...

2011-03-22T13:08:00.000-07:00

Here are this week's questions!

1. Have you ever had a professional massage before?

Yes, I have!!! Wonderful

2. When drinking bottled water do you have a preference on which brand you drink?

Fiji for sure

3. What is your favorite kind of soup?

Manhattan Clam Chowder, yummy

4. Do you have a preference on which Kleenex brand you use?

Puffs

5. What is your favorite breakfast food?

Bacon, eggs, country fries and sourdough toast!

Spring Fling Day #3 Giveaway...

2011-03-22T10:03:00.000-07:00

Check these out!!!

Krista @ While He Was Napping

Apron

Anna @ Ask Anna

Chocolate & Salmon Vintage Inspired Necklace

I have a new Etsy shop...

2011-03-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

I decided to take the plunge and open an Etsy shop. How it will go I don't know, but it's been fun preparing for it. I spent time over the weekend creating doggie aprons for the doggie lover. This is just the beginning I am going to be making dog beds and dog spa towels as well. Below are pictures of my darling girl modeling the aprons I did this weekend.

From The Pampered Pooch

available now

Spring Fling 14 day Giveaway has begun...

2011-03-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here are the giveaway's going on right now for the next 3 days!

Check out Amy's Blog In Creasingly Domestic

Crafty Southern Chick

A Very Dandolisin Life Giveaway!

Time Well Spent~Darling Tutu

Vintage Inspired "Jacobean" dish towels...

2011-03-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

Two of my very good friends had birthday's yesterday and I always want to give them something that they couldn't go out and buy. This year I was inspired by the vintage Jacobean designs and decided to put them on flour sack dish towels. Both of my friends have rather sophisticated tastes and are not into anything "sweet" or "cutesy". When I found this embroidery design package I was thrilled. I did a set of butterflies for one friend and the a set of dragonflies for the other both in earth tones to match their kitchens. I love how they turned out. Aunt Martha's flour sack dish towels are wonderful to work with.

Jacobean design comes from the late 16th century England when King James VI ruled England and Scotland. These designs vary and were used on furniture, buildings, china, pottery and linens. They are flowery with simple lines. You see Jacobean designs embroidered on linens in single colors or a variety like chose to use. This era of design is my favorite.

The towels press well and rolled up with a ribbon make a beautiful, classy present!

My friends loved their presents!

Sharing with ...

Hoo Are You Tuesday #3...

2011-03-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

Spring Fling Party Sneek Peek Giveaway...

2011-03-11T10:31:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to participate in this 14 day fabulous giveaway party sponsored by April at Wildflowers & Whimsy blog. My giveaway is Thursday March 31st. I have made Vintage Inspired Sun Bonnet Sue 100 % flour sack dish towels complete with blanket stitch border, one for each day of the week. They are great dish towels, very durable and large. They launder beautifully.

There will be at least two giveaways a day to join. I will be posting every day beginning March 20th where the giveaways will be located. Visit Wildflowers and Whimsy to see sneak peeks of the other giveaways! I am sharing my day with Strokes of Magic. She has a darling giveaway as well.

Come back on March 31st to sign-up!

Great Nora Roberts Giveaway going on over at my book blog

All Things Royal!

Collecting Vintage Franciscan Ware...

2011-03-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

Featuring today my vintage Apple pattern Tea Service

Be forewarned that it can be addicting!!! I started collecting Vintage Franciscan Ware about ten years ago when I discovered it on Ebay. I started with the Apple pattern which is one of their most popular releases. When I was a little girl my mother had Fiesta Ware which I truly loved and our family friends mother collected Franciscan Ware Apple. I fell in love with these dishes at six years old! I loved eating at their home because I knew whatever it was would be served on these dishes. She had everything, the mixing bowls, tumblers, casserole dishes, etc. They were so beautiful!

The hand painted vibrant colors are still so vivid no fading after 71 years. This Teapot was fired in 1940 when the pattern was first released. I got it off of Ebay for $35 eight years ago. It's one of my price pieces.

Franciscan Ware originated in Glendale, CA at the Gladding, McBean Co. back in 1934. The most famous patterns of this period was Apple, 1940 and Dessert Rose 1942. The inspiration behind the dinnerware was the American Southwest earthenware style Pottery. The name was created from the Franciscan monks who reflected the simple, informal lifestyle and belonged to California. This vintage dinnerware is still very collectible today. I say the vintage is because the company was sold to England in the early 80's and was massed produced and no longer hand painted. Comparing the new to the vintage is very telling. The colors of the new editions are not nearly as vibrant or vivid. The dinnerware itself doesn't really feel like pottery.

My collection is very precious to me for a few reasons; it reminds of my childhood and happy times, I love the fact that it is Californian. I have been raised and still live in Southern California and last but not least the pattern makes for such a beautiful table setting.

If you are thinking about collecting this dinnerware the best place at the best price is on Ebay. Estate sales are great as well, but often very expensive like the Antique stores. You need to be very careful of the back stamp on the bottom of the plate. Hand Made in California needs to be stamped on bottom. or Gladding McBean, Co. If it says it's made in England it is not Vintage and was made after 1959. True collectible Franciscan Ware Apple or Dessert Rose was all produced before 1959, preferably in 1940's. When shopping on Ebay always make sure the seller shows the back stamp on bottom of item, if not email and ask for picture before purchasing.

This is an example of a correct vintage 1940 era back stamp. You can see all the components; Hand painted, Made in California, and Gladdings, McBean.

I use this dinnerware often for Sunday dinners, but in particular for Thanksgiving. This Apple pattern is absolutely gorgeous with the table set in the fall colors. My children and grandchildren love.

This beautiful pitcher was the very first piece I purchased for my collection off of Ebay. This particular piece was fired in 1942.

I am still collecting pieces and branching out to new patterns. I so far have collected a service of 12 dinner, salad, dessert plates, 12 berry bowls and sundry of serving pieces. I collected some in lots of 4 but mostly just one or two pieces at a time. I am now currently expanding my Dessert Rose pattern.

I hope you enjoyed this informal history on Franciscan ware, I would love to hear your thoughts!!

Great Nora Roberts Giveaway going on over at my book blog

All Things Royal!

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St. Paddy's Day Party Giveaway Going On...

2011-03-08T16:39:00.000-08:00

over at my book blog All Things Royal. Check it out if you like Nora Roberts Romance set in Ireland. I'm giving away her Irish Trilogy Born of Fire, Born of Ice and Born of Shame. You can follow here on Puddle Jumpers. That will count as an entry, just leave a comment here indicating that and remember bonus points if you add the giveaway button to your side bar and let me know. Over this month I will be adding two more giveaways and you are welcome to enter them all. Hope you will!

Sunday Dinner with the Best Coconut Cake in the Whole World!!!

2011-03-07T12:59:00.000-08:00

In our home Sunday dinner is a tradition. When I was growing up I always looked forward to dinner when we arrived home from church. My mother was a great cook 7 days a week, but Sunday's were special. We always ate in the dining room with the good dishes. I remember roasts, hams, pork chops, her friend chicken and some yummy dessert to go with. I've been married now 36 years and have raised six children. Over the years I have kept Sunday dinner as a tradition in our home as well. It's the one day of the week that I try and pull out all the stops. My children are grown now and spread out over the United States but I still have two daughters that still live with us and and one daughter and her family that live nearby. We all meet up for Sunday dinner at either my house or my daughter's. I really look forward to this weekly tradition with good food and good table conversation. The little ones usually watch a special movie that grandma has that they don't :-) and the adults relax and visit. Last night was my turn and I really did do something special! On one of my very favorite blogs The Old Centennial Farmhouse I found a Coconut Cake recipe! It looked so gorgeous and reminded me of my Grandmother's coconut cake that I just had to try it. She claims it's the best coconut cake in the whole wide world and I have to say I 100% agree!!! I made it for Sunday dinner last night and WOW what a show stopper. My family ate the whole cake!

Go visit her blog, I have included the link and check it out for the recipe! It's pretty easy, the only thing I did differently was use 9" pans and added about 1 cup more flower to the icing as I mixed it. Other than those minor changes this is the best coconut cake in the whole wide world!!!!

I am also including quick tutorial on a yummy baked chicken recipe. I used package of eight boneless, skinless chicken 1/2 breasts, 1 lg package of French Fried Onion Rings and 1 cup of butter. Smash up the onion rings in plastic zip lock bag with either palm of your hand or rolling pin. Dip breast both sides in melted butter and then in the onion rings. Bake 350 for 1 hr. I made eight and ended up serving only five cut in 1/2 and that fed seven adults and three children. Chicken cooked this way is very yummy. Just served with boiled red potatoes, sliced tomatoes, and green beans. Kept the entree simple because the feature item was the Cake!!!

Happy Monday

Susie

Shared with ...

Blog hopping party...

2011-03-04T10:05:00.000-08:00

at the Follow Friday 40 and Over blog hop!

A Sweet Little Miracle!

2011-03-03T11:30:00.000-08:00

This is simply an amazing story I have to share. Last October I sold this little girl, Phoebe, to a woman in Russia. I shipped her out the next day after purchase. Two weeks later the buyer contacted me wondering where her doll was. This started a major investigation and finally a settlement with the U.S. Postal Service. Phoebe was MIA in Russia somewhere. I was heart broken, because I was intending on keeping Phoebe for myself. I rarely do that, but this particular sculpt I have done several times and I decided to finally do one for me. Money got tight so I decided to go ahead and sell her. I immediately regretted it.

Here comes the crazy part. A couple of days ago my co-worker was asking me if the doll was ever found. I told her no she was somewhere in Russia and that could be just about anywhere. I went on to tell her how I wished I had her back and that it makes me sad to know she was lost. You can tell by the outfit she's wearing that she's been lost for nearly 6 months. That very afternoon a couple of hours after the conversation with my co-worker my daughter calls and says "Mom you will never believe what I found on our door step. PHOEBE! Phoebe has returned from Russia!!" You could of pushed me over with a feather!!!! I told my co-worker right away and we were both stunned that we were discussing this very thing just a couple of hours earlier.

Anyway Phoebe is home now safe and sound from her big adventure. She's pretty tired I would imagine. The box was totally stamped up with Russian stamps, but in pretty good shape and had never even been opened.

She isn't going anywhere from now on!!!!

Thanks for stopping by and sharing in my little miracle!

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Sir Malcolm of Kilraeke

2011-03-02T16:03:00.000-08:00

Had to share my boy Malcolm! He is the love of our lives. As you can see I have him featured on my blog title. He is the funniest guy. He loves to watch t.v. go bye-bye in the car. Snuggle, visit anyone and everyone who comes by. He lays on the back of our living room couch by the front window to look out and wait for us to come home. His very favorite pass times is to eat and sleep. He has to be near us. If he is napping in den and we get up and move to other room he will follow. I have never had a better dog companion as this boy. When one of us isn't feeling well he knows, and be very comforting. Since this is a blog about my favorite things so to speak I had to share Malcolm.

Malcolm in his Sheriff Uniform ready for patrol

I am sharing this post with Savvy Southern Style Wow Us Wednesday!

Finally finished my baby gift for dear friend...

2011-02-28T11:12:00.000-08:00

I've had such a fun week this past week. I received the Versatile Blogger Award from Creative Princess. I was featured on At Home with K's for my Teen towel set. I discovered a whole bunch of new blogging friends and picked up 20 new followers! I also found a great apron pattern on Sugar Bee's which I can't wait to get started on, but I have to say the highlight of the week was finishing the heirloom blanket I was making for a dear friend who just had a baby. I finished it and took her out to lunch to give it to her. She was overwhelmed which of course was the appropriate response :-).

I love doing these blankets for new babies, but they do take awhile. They are not expensive. I get the baby afghan blanket at JoAnn's which is $12.99. I usually have a coupon and only really pay about $8.99. I choose an embroidery set to purchase to download onto my machine. In this case I chose the Baby Blue Bird collection from www.bunnycup.com. I paid $10 for the set and about $5.00 for the thread so all in all the blanket cost me less than $25. I work full time so my goal is to do at least 2 squares a night. There are 28 squares and I embroider 14 of them, doing every other one. I can usually manage to get one of these done working part time on it in about two weeks. I chose the blue birds simply because they were so dang cute and it was a spring happy theme. I always monogram the baby's initial on the bottom center square. The very last step is fringing which can be a bit tricky. I always sew two rows 1/4" apart all the way around with some finishing stitch about 6" inside and then pull thread out to create fringe. If you have an embroidery machine this really is an easy project which is perfect for the very special person in you lives. When finished the blanket becomes an heirloom. Sorry the pictures are not better quality, I just had a devil of a time taking them.

It was hard getting the picture of the full blanket.

Down the right side

Down the left side. Same design as right side just mirrored.

Top of blanket.

Bottom of blanket with monogrammed initial.

Blanket all folded up and ready to wrap.

I am sharing this with Debbiedoo's Blogging and Blabbing Monday Newbie Linky Party

I have been FEATURED...

2011-02-25T14:19:00.000-08:00

On At Home with K for my towels!!! I'm excited! Thanks K!

A Spring Fling come join the fun...

2011-02-23T11:25:00.000-08:00

April from Wildflowers & Whimsy is hosting a Spring Fling Giveaway beginning March 20th and lasting 14 days!!! Everyday for 14 days there will be give aways going on !!! She still has a few spots open if you would like to participate.
Mark your calendar and join the fun!