Vintage Indie

God Bless America

We thank you for your bravery, for your courage and for fighting for our freedom. We thank our Lord and Savior for His grace and his protection over you. 

 

"We shall trust Him in the darkness as well as in the light. He has said, “I will not fail thee or forsake thee” [Joshua 1:5]. The Christian’s faith is that which trusts the Unseen Power which lies behind all open manifestation. No matter what threatens, he knows God will send His protecting angels to keep charge over him. What is history but the recorded result of these invisible forces?"  - Wall Builders

Image courtesy of Vintage Holiday Crafts

Vintage Crush: Vintage Red Pumps

♥ SHOP ♥

Cheeky Vintage Closet

Through the Lens: Raceytay

{ Through the Lens } { Independent Photography } {Inspired by Nature }

Shop for Prints at Raceytay

Photography Copyright © Raceytay

Small Business: "If you don't earn it, someone else will." by Mitzi Curi

Vintage Indie would like to welcome shop owner Mitzi Curi for her inside tips for making some cash this spring and summer with antiques, refurbished housewares and more.

Photo Copyright © JavaJaneDesigns

Now that spring is in the air, at least in this hemisphere, go outside and take a deep breath.  Can you smell something different in the air, besides the the perfume of spring flowers?  It's the smell of money, honey!  There is money out there, floating about with the pollen.  If you don't earn it, someone else will.  How can you earn it?  By buying and re-selling antiques and vintage goods.  You can get started pretty easily in a part-time antique business without much initial investment.  Today, I'd like to suggest three different ways to get your foot in the door of this fun and exciting world!

Photo Copyright © Blandy Snorhal

Becoming a Picker:

Just like in the natural world, there is a "food chain" of sorts in the antique selling world.  Close to the bottom of the chain are the "pickers".  Pickers are folks who comb the countryside looking for antiques.  This doesn't have to include cold-calling on residences, asking owners if they have things to sell.  Pickers can also acquire their goods from garage sales, Salvation Army or secondhand stores, Craig's List, or even eBay.  The trick is "flipping" your acquisitions quickly to antique dealers and making a profit.  Basically, if you are a picker you are a supplier, and you have total flexibility in terms of how much or how little time you put into your business., and you won't be tied down to a bricks-and-mortar shop waiting for customers to show up.

If you are able to "pick" a cache of goods, you need to call upon some antique dealers to show them your wares.  Contact an antique mall or antique store, preferably during a slow time such as a weekday morning.  You might want to call first, just to make sure you will be welcome.  Simply tell them you have a selection of goods to sell and show up with your treasures.  If you have very large items, such as a dining room suite, you might bring pictures instead, and maybe one part of the set as an example.  Be prepared to deliver the items when convenient for the buyer.  When a picker shows an antique dealer their wares, they should have an asking price ready for each item, leaving a bit of room for negotiation.  Don't be offended if the dealers don't bite.  There are many reasons why they might not be in a buying mode.  They might be strapped for cash, or simply uninterested in the items you brought.  Simply leave your business card and move on to another antique store.

I think it goes without saying that it helps to have some basic knowledge about the stuff you are trying to sell.  You don't want to make a costly mistake such as "flipping" a  piece of pottery you purchased for $4 at a garage sale to a dealer for $8, then later seeing the pottery priced at $125.  Even though you made a 100% markup on the piece, you want to avoid that sick feeling that a situation like this might elicit.  So do your research and learn as much as you can as you go.

Photo Copyright © DOTTO

Occasional Sales:

  If becoming a picker doesn't appeal to you, perhaps conducting "occasional sales" by yourself or with a group will be a better option.  This can be as simple as having a sale at your house, which you can advertise as you would a garage sale with an emphasis on antiques, or as elaborate as a group sale at a special venue such as someone's barn.  Be certain you obtain any necessary permits from the city for holding a sale such as this, and plan for the parking so customers can safely and easily visit your location. 

Refinishing and Rehabbing Furniture:

  Another business idea without investing a lot of money is to buy furniture in the rough, refinishing or painting it, and then selling it to dealers or directly to the public via occasional sales or shows.  I can think of one gal that rented a booth at an antique mall and sold her painted furniture quite briskly there. 

If you have some furniture repair skills, you can put them to use by purchasing furniture that needs "help", getting it back in shape, then giving it your special paint treatment.  You might need to learn how to re-glue rickety chairs, replace missing hardware, or find other solutions to bring old furniture back to life.  My suggestion would be to perfect a "Shabby & Chic" inspired paint treatment.  The shabby look is still quite popular, and painting furniture is easier than stripping off the old finish and staining and sealing it. 

Personally, I like colorful furniture, but in my experience white sells the best.  Consider adding special details such as glass drawer pulls on the dressers, or maybe painting floral designs on a headboard.  One invaluable resource for the furniture repair person is the Rockler Woodworking catalog.  They have everything you need to get furniture up to speed.  You can really feel good about "furniture rehab", because you are rescuing things that might have ended up in a landfill and are giving them a second life.

These three ideas should help get the wheels turning and maybe inspire you to get involved in a new small business.   Even if your dream is to someday own your own store, these are easy ways to dip you toe in the water without investing the large amount of money that starting up a store would require.  You will meet other dealers, learn something new every day, and be on your way to joining a group of folks that have already discovered a fulfilling hobby/business that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. 

My name is Mitzi Curi and I am striving to become the "New Face of Antique Dealers"!  I think the time is right for us to incorporate vintage goods into our modern lifestyle and appreciate things that have a history and story to tell.  Re-purposing antiques and crafting with vintage materials are my favorite pastimes, and I love to share my passion and enthusiasm with readers at my blog Mitzi Collectibles 

Organic & Whole Living: Household Product Challenge Part 5 - " Life without Plastic"

Can you imagine a life without plastic? I saw this video on The Lazy Organizer's blog other day, (I like this chick, she tells it like it is and I like that). Anyway, it isn't for the faint-hearted, but if we hide our eyes from the truth, what do we learn?

This week's product review is from a company called " Life Without Plastic". Please note that they are not associated with the video above. I found the video before contacting them. However, they did send me these two products to review for you, which makes me feel good after watching that video. You're going to want to get some alternatives.

Up first is this Stainless Steel Airtight Watertight Food Storage Container.

On a recent family weekend I packed this baby full of juicy oranges, clipped the sides and threw it in our backpack. I'm very happy to report that it didn't leak one bit! Everything stayed snug inside the container. These are on my wish list, I'd like to have one for everyone in the family for picnics!

Second from Life Without Plastic is this Stainless Steel Oval Bento Lunch Box. This one isn't advertised to be watertight and I don't think that it is. It does however fit some crunchy homemade granola for the whole family just fine. I think it would also hold a single sandwich as well. I'm glad to have it as apart of our new picnic must haves. 

I truly appreciate Life Without Plastic for sending me these products to review. I have a whole wish list brewing from their website.

I hope this post has given you some insight on just how bad our plastic problem is. I didn't used to be, and I'm not a "mother earth" advocate. I'm an advocate for God's creation. He gets all of the credit for our beautiful Earth and I do think it is time we start to really do something about how we're treating it. I have to think about my children's children and what kind of beaches and oceans will they have to vacation at when they are my age. It's a lot to think about. It isn't something I can just close my eyes and heart to and do nothing about it. Every little bit counts, but most importantly your DOLLAR counts. Vote for products like those from Life Without Plastic. Their plastic businesses can't survive if we aren't buying.

Truth in Review: Life Without Plastic did provide me with all of the products mentioned to review including shipping. Life Without Plastics did not pay me for the review or require any certain context within my review. All reviews posted by me are truthful in content and not bought. Gabreial Visit our Disclaimer  for more info.

Art Stories: Leslie Woods Meyers of My Painted Porch

 

Please help me in welcoming Leslie Woods Meyers of My Painted Porch for this edition of Art Stories.

Q. Hi Leslie, thank you for taking the time to chat with me about your business. Can you tell me, what does it mean to you to be an independent designer?

I love that I answer to myself only, which sometimes translates to being my own worse enemy because I can be really demanding of myself at times.  But on the flip side of that, having creative freedoms to make choices that only I have to suffer the consequences of or reap the rewards from is the big pay-off.  If I spend time putting an idea into motion, from start to finish, and it's a well-met one, then nothing can be more gratifying. 

The old adage ‘it's in the journey’ really holds true for anyone slightly creative and working for themselves...playing with an idea and the process in getting there, that ends with a finished product in hand and one you are proud of. You and you alone decide from there where you will take it and it is you alone who is solely responsible for your success. So it's not any one thing in particular...it's the whole thing.  I love that I’m on my own clock, can do my graphics work and correspondence in pj’s, that I can structure my schedule around my 3 yr old (and 23 yr old), my husband’s sometimes very long workdays and just what works for us.  I can't imagine ever working for anyone else again...I'd probably be the nightmare employee after having been independent for so long. 

 
Q. Can you tell us what inspires your designs?

 

So many things inspire me on a daily basis.  It can be a time of year, or a sentiment coming from a moment with the big love of my life who is European and ever so romantic.  Many of my designs come from memories of our travels together...places we've seen, food or music we've experienced, a mood or an ambiance I can remember like it was yesterday...snapshots in my mind of a moment, memories of my childhood.

  I used to spend countless summer vacations visiting with my grandparents on their farm.  I remember so well, my grandmother, whom I loved dearly...adored, singing me to sleep while I lay in her big old cast iron bed.  It would be so hot and humid where all of the upstairs windows of the old farmhouse would be open, and there were these sheer panels on the windows that would flutter with the breeze coming off of the Miramichi River which ran almost at her front door, and all you could hear was the running water, the crickets, her song and the sound of my own breath as I fell to sleep.  I remember the green enamelware ashtray that used to sit on the seat of the chipped painted chair next to the bed that was used to hold our chewing gum before she tucked us in.  The ashtray was a vintage green, and was from a tavern my grandfather had been to.  The colour of that ashtray was the inspiration behind the Vintage Garden and Le Jardin signs.  The inspirations never dictate anything exactly in whole, but in part and the rest just  evolves from there until there's a finished piece

Meyers Design Studio

 
 

Q. What does your business offer that the larger companies don't?
 
I spend a great deal of time in trying to get to know my customers...their 

lifestyles, their families, their likes and dislikes, preferred styles, exactly what it is they're trying to capture, the environment a sign would be going into.  That is not an easy feat when you consider that all is done by e-mail and it all takes time.  That's what it is to have an online business as an artisan.  A large company just does not have the manpower or personal vested interest in trying to arrive at each individual's needs.  It's not cost effective and they therefore, can’t offer it.  I like to consider myself more an artisan where what I do is more of a creative process than a production. 

I take the time that is needed, because it matters to me, and I believe our customers appreciate it because in the end, they get what they envisioned and it means something. Yes, we have our regularly carried stock items, which are all also lovingly created by hand, but when a customer comes to you with a special request, which is a very large portion of what we do, you have to be prepared to listen, to really hear, and to take pride enough in your work and your business, not just as artisan but as a business owner, to ensure that your brand, reputation and service are synonymous with truly caring about quality and  sincerity in all projects that you take on.

 

Q. Can you tell us what your most popular item is and what you think is
popular this wedding season?

 

Our Sweetest Moments line includes so many wonderful and whimsical signs.  We do sell many of the stock items such as the Mr. and Mrs. sets, Guest Book signs, etc but what sells really well for us, are the signs that speak a sentiment that brides relate to. It doesn't have to be blatantly personalized to be personal, as long as it's something they hold dear to their hearts for whatever reason.  That's where I believe our strengths are in what we do.  Whether it be in the text style or specific font used, the classic colours of the sign, or the phrase itself, it has to be something that evokes something within the couple that has personal meaning or significance to them.  

Weddings are all about traditions of the past.  No matter what trends come and go, we almost always include the tradition of the wedding procession, exchanging of vows, carrying a bouquet, having attendants, a reception of some kind for our guests afterwords, a photographer to capture the moments. There’s a real longing with almost all brides to include pieces of the past with current trends and themes.  They don't want what is necessarily the trend by the book. They look for ways to add personal touches that reflect who they are.  A wedding is an extremely personal and monumental moment in a woman’s life and she will search ways of blending practicality with romantic notions, whimsy and ‘personal’.  My belief is that this season or any other, when it comes to planning your wedding or any other aspect of your life for that matter as a woman, aside from etiquette, there is no right or wrong as long as it says, it’s uniquely you.

A special thank you to Leslie for giving us a personal inside look into her studio.

Please visit Leslie at her website to order signs at My Painted Porch.

My Vintage Pad Home Tour: A Home Restoration in Huntsville, AL

Vintage Indie would like to welcome Ashley and Andy as they share their beautiful home and unbelievable restoration with us.

 

What made you decided to restore the home?

Our first home together was a ranch house that needed a little bit of work, mainly cosmetic. We had a blast fixing it up, and that was right around the time of the restoration TV shows "boom" that happened a few years back. We would watch people transform these dilapidated houses into the most stunning homes. Andy (my husband) mentioned his dad had property in our favorite part of town, called Five Points, that needed serious repair. His dad had owned it since the 70s as a rental property, so the tenants didn't take the best care of it. Without even seeing the interior, I became obsessed with the idea of restoring the home back to a single family residence and creating the perfect home for us. After a year of convincing his parents that we really wanted to do this, they finally gave notice to the tenants that they were selling, and handed us the keys. Even with the puddle of pee that was in the kitchen, and the alligator (!!!) cage that was in the bedroom, and the mold all throughout the dining room, we knew it was perfect!

Living Room Before

Living Room Before

Living Room After

 

Living Room After

What is your favorite part of each room?

Overall, my favorite thing about the entire house is the lighting. I love how our bedroom faces East, so we wake up with the sun. There are a couple of hours in the morning where our bedroom glows. It's hard to wake up on the wrong side of the bed when it's so beautiful. Our living room gets the afternoon light, and it pours into the house, making the whole room look warm and cozy. The dining room houses two very important antiques - Andy's great great grandmother's dining room table, and my grandmother's piano. It's also where my extensive camera collection is stored. I love that our family's furniture blends so nicely with each other to create a comfortable room. All three of these rooms - bed, living, and dining - have fireplaces. We have 6 total in the house, and I love the character element they lend to each room. Not to mention the mantle space to display some of our favorite collections. And our kitchen and bath probably received the most amount of TLC thus far. We had to basically re-build the entire back part of the house, so it's been a true labor of love. Ever since I was a little girl, I've wanted black and white checkered floors, so it was wonderful when that little dream became true! I also love that the entire kitchen is basically windows and it provides a nice place to start our seeds each year.

Bathroom Before

Bathroom After

(one of my favorite parts, don't you just love that tile floor and that tub)

Bathroom After

What was the hardest part about the restoration?

While nothing was particularly "hard" about the restoration - everything was a learning process for us - we did live without water for 3 weeks. We became great friends with the gas station attendant down the street! We also didn't have electricity for 2 months when we first moved in. We lived upstairs while working on the downstairs. Since the house was a duplex, there were two breakers. In fact, the upstairs was on a fuse box that was a fire hazard, so we had to wait until the electricity was run downstairs, and then the electrician dropped us a line to use upstairs via a long, long extension cord. It was fun squatting, I mean, "camping out" with my husband.

Bedroom Before

Bedroom After

Bedroom After

Where do you find inspiration for decorating your home?

When we didn't have walls, insulation, electricity, and water I poured over Domino (RIP) and This Old House magazines dreaming of the day when I could focus on what kind of flower would go into what vase. When the time came to actually start picking out colors for rooms, I went with my gut. The main colors I used basically screamed at me among the pile o' paint chips and I never looked back. And it's like that with about everything in our house, when I came across it - whatever it is - it just jumped out! When I found our kitchen cabinets (after getting quotes of $10k for lower cabinets for a 5x6 area) sitting there together, all for $1,200 my eyes totally teared up. It's like this house is sending me out to find all of its lost pieces!

Kitchen Before

Kitchen Before

Kitchen After

Kitchen After

How do vintage things play a role in your room/home?

They basically make up our entire home. I think I could only find 20 items that were bought new, and I'm sure some of them came from our wedding registry haha. My husband and I eagerly wait for the estate sales each weekend and scour thrift stores to find the treasures. I absolutely love seeing all these random things that we like come together to make up our home. It's so much more exciting than going to a store with mass production of the same items. Sure, I appreciate the design of some of today's top selling name brands, but I love the "hunt" of finding things vintage.

Dining Room Before

Dining Room After

Any advice on creating your look?

My husband actually helped me with this one, cause I was stumped a bit. I don't think anyone has ever asked me this. But Andy answered perfectly, "we find things that reflect our personality."

Kitchen Details

Any advice for those of us interested in a restoration project of your size?

You have to really want it. Like, I dreamed about this house every night the entire year before it became ours (whole new meaning to 'dream house' haha). We knew this would take a lot of time and money, but we decided (together!) that this is what we wanted. We wanted this plot of land and this house to become our home, no matter what it took. Honestly, we didn't have a lot of capital when this project started, so we did what we could, when we could...and we still operate like that. We didn't really plan out a budget because we knew it would get done someway, somehow and as long as we stayed out of debt, we would be fine. So while we are still working on this house, we both have our sanity - and most importantly - each other, still! You just have to make sure you know what you are getting into and try to plan accordingly, or at least not fret over every small thing. There will be small things and big things that go wrong, but it's all part of the process.

Back Porch

Thank you Andy and Ashley for sharing all of your hard work with us, I can't even imagine all of the sweat and love you had to pour into this home. The outcome is simply stunning.

Visit their website The Real Vertical House for more photos.

Thanks again Andy & Ashley! 

Sponsor Vintage Indie: 20% off Ads for June & July!

 If you're looking to gain some extra exposure to your blog, shop, brick and mortar store, Vintage Indie is the place for you. We're offering 20% off ads options 2, 3 & 4! We'll also pro-rate any ad you start right now!

 

 

 

 

 
With each ad you will receive one "VI Headliner" feature during your single or consecutive months booked. This is a sponsor feature showcasing your shop and is marked a sponsor feature.  At the beginning of your booking you are welcome to email us  any specials you are running or offers available to Vintage Indie readers. This is a great time to offer our readers a special discount to your shop. Our goal is to bring you customers! To see our top sponsor spots or our $25.00 spot, visit our advertising page.

I look forward to working with you!  Email me to book and mention June & July special in your message. 

editor.vintageindie {AT} gmail {DOT} com

Gabreial, Editor

What You Make of It: Pretty Gift Card Holders with Susan Duane

At the end of each school year we give our children's teachers a gift to show our appreciation. I'm often tempted to buy those cute apple mugs, world's greatest teacher items but in recent years my practical side takes over and I opt for a gift card to a spot the teachers/staff enjoy. While maybe not as fun I do think they appreciate that it's something useful rather than another mug that will get tucked away in the cupboard.
 
I'm always looking for a pretty way to give the cards rather than the generic card holder the stores often provide. In years past I have made stamped holders, this time around I found darling burlap bags I purchased on Etsy, bought one roll of the moss ribbon, vintage lace, some felt circles & flowers and a few vintage baubles.

 
On two of the bags I used moss, the other ribbon.  I glued the moss and lace on with my trusty glue gun. My suggestion is you glue close to the seams so the inside of the bag doesn't get glued together. 

 
Then I took the felt shapes and folded them, gluing them in place as desired. I found a scrabble tile with one's initial, a vintage deconstructed earring and one I pinned on a vintage medal that I added to each. I think these little details make them more personal. Again, this project is easily adapted to use what you have on hand and if you are feeling really crafty you can make the burlap bags yourself! Happy Crafting! Susan

Susan Duane is a wife and mother of three young children. She is a home cook, aspiring photographer and lover of old things. She spends her days caring for her family, creating for Paperhill and in her free time chronicles her long list of interests on her blog Hometown Girl.

Don't forget there is still time to vote for the Design for Charity Contest! Vote for Vintage Indie!

It's Voting Day, TWO WAYS!

Today is Election Day, and your chance to vote multiple times!

If you missed it, yesterday I posted my design for the MagnetStreet Weddings Design Contest for Charity Entry! You can read more about it here.

My charity is Northwest Haiti Christian Mission. I first heard about NWHCM through our homeschool co-op group. The church we meet at was throwing a very large "baby shower" for the orphanage there through this mission. This was before the tragic earthquakes that hit Haiti just recently. Since then, the church has continued to give, visit and take care of the children there. To find out more about Northwest Haiti Christian Mission visit the link above.

Your vote (even multiple votes) count towards the $1,000 that will be given to my charity. I truly thank you, for supporting me.

Voting lasts all week and ends Monday May 24, 2010

xoxo  - Gabreial

Vintage Indie's Design Below

Head over to Facebook to cast your vote(s)!

Plan Ahead Events: The Farm Chicks Antiques Show 2010

It's almost time for The Farm Chicks Antiques Show. I dream of visiting one day! If you're a little closer to the Spokane Washington area, then you'll want to plan ahead! It is a beautiful show.

MagnetStreet Design Conest for Charity, Help me win $1,000 for Charity!

Remember that exciting announcement that I had for you? Well, this is it! I'm participating in MagnetStreet's Design Contest for charity. I was thrilled to be invited to participate in this contest, as MagnetStreet has been a wonderful supporter of Vintage Indie for quite some time.

Here are some fun facts you may not know about MagnetStreet Weddings

•  Our Wedding Invitations are made from 100% post-consumer paper and our Letterpress Invitations are 100% cotton fiber so no trees are harmed.
• We partner with World Relief to provide employment to international refugees who have fled civil war in their home countries.  We’ve seen many of them purchase homes and become citizens during their time at MagnetStreet.
• We pioneered the Save the Date Magnet idea and it remains our most popular product five years later.

My design below created at MagnetStreet Weddings was inspired by the idea of a warm and summery vintage style wedding.

CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

The yellow pattern reminded me of a classy vintage wallpaper. The blue created a perfect soothing and relaxing backdrop. Can you imagine a warm summer evening for this wedding? Candle lit tables fill a white linen tent casting a gorgeous glow. The bride stands stunning in her fifties style dress, while the groom holds her tightly without a care in the world. You see, this is how my mind wanders when I start designing in my head.  I think a wedding should start with a fantastic invitation. Giving guests a little glimpse into what the future evening will hold. 

I could think of many more ideas to fulfill this wedding, but since this contest is about the design of the invitation, I think I'll stop there. I hope you'll vote for my design in the MagnetStreet Design contest. Most importantly the winner will receive a $1,000 donation to his/her charity. 

As a bonus, for your support I'll be hosting a giveaway for you later this week! Stay tuned. 

Until then, please go vote for Vintage Indie & my design!

xoxo Gabreial

Jonesing for Summer and a Vacation

Some days, I can close my eyes and hear the swishing of the waves. The warmth of the sun rays on my face and the sweet smells of the ocean. I need a trip to the beach. To me, nothing says vacation like sand between my toes, and a cool breeze off of the ocean. Maybe someday, anyone have a time-share they'd like to share?

Until then, I hope you you enjoy the beautiful artwork by Cathy Nichols. She seems to capture those summer feelings within her artwork, making me daydream.

 

Sea Dunes

The Boys of Summer
 

I also love this piece by Cathy titled 3 Little Birds.

Making the Most of Monday: One more day please!

If you are new to the magazine, Making the Most of Monday is a regular part of our features. Mondays  signify one important thing, a fresh start. It's like a new years resolution at the start of every week.

Hopefully by Monday you've taken some off time during the weekend to rejuvenate, spend quality time with loved ones and friends, which makes Monday your chance to really get to work and make the most of your week.

Good morning lovely readers, how was your weekend? Our weekend was fine, but I sure could use one more day. We ran all weekend and I need to catch up on so much. Laundry, cleaning, filing and organizing you know how it is sometimes. My goal for the week is to get paperwork under control. What goals do you have for the week?

We visited the Burlington Antique Show yesterday, it was another great show. If you live in the area (Burlington, KY) you should give it a go. It is the third Sunday of the month. They open up bright and early for you to shop and close at 3 PM. I'm just glad the rain held off. I hope to have some photos for you very soon.

Today is a fun day for me. We're finishing up our spring study in our home school and an exciting announcement is coming your way at noon. I hope you'll stop back, because I'll need your vote! This will make one charity very happy. 

How is your household product challenge going? I've started a spreadsheet to document the products that we're using. It starts by listing the product name, followed by where to purchase, price, grade from Skin Deep, a link to the product on Skin Deep and the date that this information was posted. Not only does this help me keep inventory of what were using, but helps me keep track of pricing and formula changes. I'll be back later to share a couple of tips with you on how to search products that may not be listed on Skin Deep.

Until then, have a beautiful day everyone and please come back here at noon to hear my announcement!

xoxo Gabreial

Sticky Sticky Sticky

Have you jumped on the sticky tape bandwagon? I know you've had to seen all of the wonderful posts in blogland about the sticky tape craze. It seems like there has been one every week for a year. Well, after seeing these, I just had to hitch a ride.

I'll take one in every color and pattern please! I love that lace tape and the blue polka dot, how cute!

You can find this collection at NothingElegant on Etsy!

Teach Me: The Chronicles of Narnia (Focus on the Family Radio Theatre)

You may have heard me talk about our love affair with books on tape. We listened to two other editions of The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe as well as A Horse and His Boy, from our local library until a friend of ours gave us her set from Focus on the Family Radio Theatre.

Several trips in the car and huddling by the radio while folding laundry, we've have completed all seven in the series. I have to tell you that these are the best stories I've ever heard. Certainly better than their movie counterparts, although I thoroughly enjoyed The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe when it was released on DVD.  I think I felt such a connection as an adult with the relationships in the stories because of their implied relationship to the Bible.

This series comes highly recommended from me and my two children. We're sending our copy off with friends to listen to while driving along to their vacation destination. This review was not paid, or asked of me to do. I'm sure Focus on the Family Radio Theatre has never heard of me. Check your local library, for each individual story. They had started to carry them at our local branch the last time we were there, but be sure you get the Focus on the Family series, we feel it is the best.

Now, what to listen to next? That has been the question of the day.

Happy listening and learning!

Organic & Whole Living: Household Product Challenge Part 4 - Water Bottle Alternatives

How is your household product challenge going? Are you getting rid of all of the nasty stuff in your home? I sure hope so. You will sleep so much better, I promise.

Today, I have a great water bottle alternative for you. Have you heard of the ever-popular Klean Kanteen? They are the original BPA-FREE alternative to plastic bottles. They use high-quality, 18/8, food-grade stainless steel. Not only is this stainless steal healthier for you, but it is also durable! That comes in handy when you have two boys, that's for sure.

I decided to try out our new Klean Kanteen's at the Zoo this past week. The night before, I washed up the Kanteen's and filled them up with filtered water. Into the fridge they went.

The top left bottle is their new Klean Kanteen Wide Insulated. I claimed this one. After all, I am the coffee drinker in the family.  The taller 27oz is my husband's Klean Kanteen Wide. Both of these came with their Wide Loop Cap, but I chose to replace my wide loop cap with a Wide Cafe Cap.

I love the fact that based on what you are doing, you can change out your cap. Of course the Cafe Cap makes it safe and easier for on the go when I'm driving. I like the loop cap for snapping the Kanteen's onto our backpack. Either way they stayed nice and cold all day long, especially the insulated Kanteen.

These two Klean Kanteen Classics were for the fellas. They both chose a color and it was amazing, they both were very happy with their choices. I love it when it's simple like that.  I can't tell you how much I love color to define who's is who's, it makes life easy. The boys did great all day at the zoo with their Kanteen's, the only thing I would change is the cap. They offer a sports cap, so that you don't have to worry about one of them walking off and leaving without their cap. I will be sure to pick up one of those for each of us.

 In case you are wondering about that cap, this is what I picked up from Klean Kanteen. "Caps made from safe, BPA-free polypropylene (pp#5)are lightweight and also cost-effective, enabling Klean Kanteen® to create a handcrafted product of exceptional quality at a reasonable price." I think that's fair enough, don't you. 

Overall, Klean Kanteen creates a durable, fashionable and wonderful alternative to Plastic Bottles. We won't ever go back to plastic bottles! Oh, and if you do happen to have a broken bottle, cap or manufacture defect, Kleen Kanteen offer's a one year manufactures warranty! How about that. (see website for details)

I truly appreciate Klean Kanteen for sending us these four bottles to review. I'm thrilled to be able to share all positive things about Klean Kanteen with you from real life experience. 

Truth in Review: Klean Kanteen did provide me with all of the products mentioned to review including shipping. Klean Kanteen did not pay me for the review or require any certain context within my review. All reviews posted by me are truthful in content and not bought. Gabreial Visit our Disclaimer  for more info.

Random Tips for Mama's : Jasmere

Hey Mama's!

I'm back with another random tip for you. Have you ever heard of Jasmere? I just found out about it recently. It is almost like Groupons, but with a wider range of offerings not specific to your location. Jasmere is a " two shoppers are better than one" kind of deal. The more who shop on that specific day, the cheaper the end price will be. Sound good? I haven't made any purchases yet, but I'm liking the idea. What mama doesn't like to save money?

Head over to Jasmere to learn more and invite your friends!

xoxox Mamas! ♥ Gabreial

(by the way the link up there is a referral link, help me, help you)

pss.  I earned 12 swag bucks for searching Jasmere, I'm up to $10.00 in Amazon Gift Cards!

Product Review & Photo Tutorial: Hot Iron Embroidery Patterns from Sublime Stitching

I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that I was embarking on a new-to-me craft. I'm not much of the crafty type, but I fell in love with embroidery once I got started. I contacted Sublime Stitching my first week, wanting to try my hand at hot iron transfer patterns. They happily fulfilled my request and from that, I've created a handy photo tutorial for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See how easy that was! Sublime Stitching's instructions were easy to follow. I have to say, this method is way easier than a pencil transfer. Head over to Sublime Stitching for the I LUV Veggies Hot Iron Transfer Pattern and so much more. 

Truth in Review: Sublime Stitching did provide me with all of the products mentioned to review including shipping. Sublime Stitching did not pay me for the review or require any certain context within my review. All reviews posted by me are truthful in content and not bought. Gabreial Visit our Disclaimer  for more info.

 

Happy Mother's Day

I'm thankful for two wonderful boys who light up my life just from a look in their direction. I'm so thankful to God, and Jesus my Lord and Savior for my healthy children. I'm thankful he gave me the only true thing I've ever wanted, to be a wife and a mom. 

(Nature Club Photo from our Trip to the Arboretum)

Children are full of so many great qualities that we sometimes take for granted. Like the times they make you smile, when you're sad, frustrated and tired. 

(My youngest love, smelling the sweet blooms.)

I'm thankful for those times and for scriptures of sweet reminders that God has given me. ²

² A cheerful heart is good medicine,
       but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22 (NIV)


( My oldest love , showing me what he found )

I love them...



Happy Mother's Day to all of my lovely readers. I hope you find some cheer this Mother's Day.

♥ Gabreial

Sales & Specials: Franklin Springs Family Media

You may remember, just a week or so ago I reviewed The Art of Bread Making with the West Ladies from Franklin Springs Family Media. I wanted to pop in and let you know about their new website and sale!

They are offering 25% off individual titles, including the Homestead Blessing series.

I feel comfortable watching any of these with my children. Head over to see their new site and save some dough! I'll be back with more from the Homestead Blessing series including a review of their gardening, canning and herb videos. 

Truth in Review: Franklin Springs Family Media did not pay me for this post, I offer it to you because I want you to save money! 

On the Road with Contributing Editor Elizabeth Young: The Ruby Rooster Shelbyville, KY

Driving down Main Street in the historic district of Shelbyville, KY, one cannot help but notice the huge antique mall near the courthouse.  Originally two separate clothing stores, the buildings have merged and are now home to The Ruby Rooster.  The name on the storefront reads Main St. Antique Mall but trust that you are in the right place.  Owner Glenda Hilling worked with the previous owner before she and her husband bought the business 6 years ago.  "I have really nice customers and dealers and I get to meet people from all over the world," says Glenda. 

With approximately 24,000 sq. feet and 75 dealers, this two story mall offers something for everyone.  The Ruby Rooster specializes in primitive furniture, collectibles, decorative items, vintage clothing and hats, jewelry, books, toys, glassware, linens and well known artist prints.  Two floors on each side will keep the antique lover busy for hours.  An entire downstairs room is devoted to consigned items.  If you need a little snack while shopping, cookies and coffee are offered daily. 

Customer service is a priority at The Ruby Rooster. Employees are happy to hold items while you shop and then help carry your purchases to the car. Gift certificates and layaway over $50 are available.  Before you leave, be sure to sign up for their mailing list.

Location:  514-518 Main St., Shelbyville, KY  40065

Phone:  502-633-0001

Hours:  Monday - Saturday 10:00 to 5:00, closed Sundays. Closed most major holidays, open Memorial Day.

Special Events:  Spring Fling at the end of March beginning of April- Dealers offer special sales and refreshments are served.  Events on Main St. include car shows and live band music.
                        
Sidewalk sales and special booth sales are plentiful during the Annual Horse Show at the Fairgrounds in July.
                         

A Christmas Open House is held the first Saturday in November.  Hours are extended until 7:00 PM, special sales are offered and refreshments are provided.

                        

Elizabeth Young is a wife and cat mom who spends many an hour hunting for vintage goodies at her favorite  thrift stores, antique shops and monthly flea markets!  A collector of vintage toys, holiday decor and general store items, many of the found treasures end up on display in her Victorian home.  She also looks for vintage ephemera, fun supplies and kitschy decor for her Etsy shop Grandmother's Attic !  When not doing this, she works two part time jobs, wearing different hats at each! 

Shining Dawn Books Giveaway Winner

Hey everyone!

I'm terribly sorry this is so ridiculously late! We finally have a winner for the Shining Dawn Books giveaway that was posted along with the Home Educating Magazine Giveaway. Congratulations to NordykeAcademy.

NordykeAcademy said..

I entered to win the prize from Home Educating family above. I also tweeted about it !!! :)

There was a slight problem though with this winner, I don't have your email address. Please email me by May 11th to claim your prize or I will have to give it to the next winner.

Thanks for entering everyone!

Organic & Whole Living: Household Product Challenge Part 3 Use Less Plastic

This little video is a lot of fun and visually creative. A great way to get an idea of how much plastic we use. Also another great reason to stop your exposure to BPA, commonly found in plastics.

The FDA has recently (Jan. 2010)  updated their stance on Bisphenol A. Read the article here at FDA.GOV

It is certainly interesting to me that the FDA is now changing their tune on this chemical. Frustrating to say the least. Don't dismay, I have some great alternative ideas coming your way as well as some great giveaways!

xoxo Gabreial

Use Less Plastic from TakePart on Vimeo.