Brown*Bag Boutique

My how time flies. . .

2011-08-23T20:21:00.002-04:00

So, I am still out here! Things have been crazy busy lately and I haven't had much time for anything. Graduation (with my Master's degree +30, woooohoooo!) and a new classroom with all boys, all with Autism, has been, well . . . rather time consuming! I will say that I absolutely LOVE my job and LOVE those mentioned little boys. I hope to be back soon with some more creations!

Important Dates. . .

2011-06-26T21:35:00.003-04:00

June 22 . . . I turned 34 (where has time gone?!?)

June 23 . . . turned in my LAST assignment for my Master's Degree (in Special Education)

June 30 . . . GRADUATION from Converse (with my Master's +30 hours above)

August 8 . . . I start my new job!!! Woo Hoo!! (I will be teaching 6, 7, and 8 year olds with moderate mental disabilities)

I am beyond the moon excited!

Summer Project 2. . . Complete

2011-06-16T21:06:00.003-04:00

So, I was really tired of looking at the cardboard box my cats had fallen in love with. They love to get in anything and the box was no exception. Since I have been in project mode I figured I might as well keep going. (That mood doesn't hit me often so when I does I have to run with it!!) I made my cats a simple bed / box with a pillow made from a drop cloth.

I didn't take any pictures during the process because it was extremely easy. I bought pre-cut boards for the front and back, and cut down a 1x4 for the sides. I wanted the sides a tiny bit shorter to make it easier for them to get into. Measured and attached a piece to the bottom and painted with a mistint sample (that I wound up loving!) Added 4 ball feet to the bottom for a little flair and a cute cat bed was finished.

Now, to see if they like this anywhere near as much as the cardboard box!

Linking up to these great parties:

A $3.00 Makeover . . .

2011-06-09T00:05:00.009-04:00

Another orange redo (technically it is a LaFonda Copper redo but . . .) This one is also in my living room and just adds another small pop of color. It is the same color I used on my tv stand redo (You can see that makeover here). This is an end table that my mom bought for me for $3.00. No handles, no color, and a top that, well, had seen better days. But I really liked the size and the drawers are great for more storage and it fit. Oh yeah, and it was cheap!!

Here is what it looked like before. Plain.

And the top that was in such "great" shape.

Using these supplies (that I already had on hand)

. . . I got a "new" end table. For only $3.00! (the cost of adding two new knobs) I love it!!

(You can see the post on the lamp makeover here)

*Several people have asked about the Gripper that I've used. It is a product made by Glidden that I buy at Home Depot. It is a primer and comes in white and grey. I hate, absolutely HATE, to sand anything and sometimes things aren't able to be sanded (laminate, etc.). You paint this right on the piece without sanding first and let dry according to directions. It adheres and the paint sticks right to it. One of my absolute favorite products!

Linking to these great parties: (click on site name)
House of Hepworths

Cheap, Simple, Practical. . .

2011-03-29T23:18:00.006-04:00

Cheap = $1.00

Simple = paint

Practical = Organization

Before:

After:

The hooks are great for extra keys and just enough to hold a bill or two!
My type of thrifty makeover!

Just a Bit of Color . . .

2011-02-05T16:49:00.014-05:00

Ok, so it's a lot of color! I have looked everywhere for a cabinet to put my television on. I wanted a piece of furniture, not just a "tv stand". (If you read between those lines it says that I not only wanted somewhere to put my television I needed some extra storage for some of my stuff). I finally found a dresser that I loved. Isn't the wonderful yellowish / white color with the gold trim just beautiful?!?

And, if you look really close, at the bottom you can see the lovely bow and flowers that are intricately added as detail and how nice and "clean" it was once the handles were removed. Although this piece was exactly the shape I wanted I have to admit it just wasn't quite what I had envisioned for my snazzy storage space to sit in my living room. No problem! First things first, goodbye bows and flowers! Just a little bit of filler did the trick. I primed it with Gripper (love this stuff - no sanding needed and it sticks great to slick surfaces). Then I painted it with the perfect shade of Yam from Martha Stewart. Only, it wasn't so perfect once painted. First off, the paint was really thin, definitely not my favorite paint, and the color was, well. . . yam. No so much what I had envisioned. I was so ready to get new paint and repaint that I forgot to take a picture of the not so lovely shade.

No more flowers or bows,

and it is now finished and sits so lovely and proud in my living room.

The color I finally ended up using was La Fonda Copper (the close up of the bottom detail shows the shade much closer to the true shade than the full picture) - exactly the shade of burnt orange I was looking for. I spray painted the original brass handles with ORB and now I am totally loving my new piece!

Linking Up to these Parties:

2011 . . .

2011-01-03T20:53:00.002-05:00

"She went out on a limb, had it break off behind her, and realized she could fly."

Kobi Yamada

My thoughts exactly . . . Welcome 2011!

A Sunday Afternoon Craft . . .

2010-09-19T15:38:00.007-04:00

Well, I painted my front door black and I love it. The only problem is from the road it looks like a big. . . black . . . hole. It really just looks like there is no door. I love how it looks but it just needed something. I decided that I wanted to make a fall wreath and saw a square wreath on someone's blog (sorry, can't remember whose it was - would love to give credit so if it was yours please let me know!)

I didn't want to spend much money because I'm "frugal" like that - so my budget was $10.00. I bought 5 stems of leaves from the Dollar Tree (but only used 4), a roll of ribbon from the Dollar Tree, 6 picks from Michael's (4 at .59 each and 2 @ .99 each - in the Christmas section but great fall colors), and the cardboard I already had at home.

I simply cut my cardboard into a square"ish" shape and cut out the middle (trust me, I didn't measure and it is no where near a perfect square - but in the end it makes no difference). I pulled each of the leaves off of the stems and separated into colors (I am usually not that organized but felt the need to do that this time!) Then, I simply went around the board hot glueing on the leaves. I did find that the leaves on the top looked better when I cut the stem off of the leaves some so they wouldn't show. The ones underneath you can't see so I didn't take the time to do that, plus the plastic "veins" helped the leaves keep some shape. I am tickled with how it turned out.

It looks so good on the front door, you know. . . the front door you can now see!

I'm linking up to these parties:

Getting ready for fall . . .

2010-09-09T19:38:00.003-04:00

I am so ready for fall weather! There is nothing better than a brisk autumn day with a cool breeze blowing. Also, I love to decorate for fall. I love the colors and the decorations that come along with the fall season. I made two very simple projects to sit around the house. Seeing these really gets me in the mood for fall!

A Simple Sign

A Simple Monogram

Hope you enjoy all fall has to offer!

Let the Chaos Begin. . .

2010-09-04T19:50:00.003-04:00

So, school has officially gotten back under way. Both schools - where I work and where I go. I can't believe that I am working full time, taking 3 graduate classes, and doing an independent study. But, I'm almost at the end. Still looks like I will be student teaching in the spring.
I have had a good time crafting lately. Haven't done tons but have done a few things. I am still loving my Cricut and would recommend it to anyone contimplating the purchase. Here are some of the latest things I have made.

These first two are cake toppers or to be used for centerpieces at a party. The each measure about 5 inches and are attached to lollipop sticks to place on the top of the cake.

This is a favorite of mine - personalized trick or treat buckets. They can be made with names, initials, or words with ribbon and dots added. I have about 13 orders I am currently working on. Glad others thought they were cute, too!

I steal. . .

2010-07-27T18:32:00.005-04:00

OK - before anyone calls my mom and tells her I have publicly proclaimed to stealing I should clarify. I don't steal things (nope, been back in the store several times to pay for the $0.25 pack of gum that has fallen in the bottom of the cart and I haven't paid for). I like to steal ideas - but I like to think of it as borrowing. But that's what blogging is for, right, to get new ideas. I definitely don't claim them as my own ideas (unless they are and those are few and far between). Good, now that we have that clarified, have a look at my newest "borrowed" idea. I have seen these in several posts on several different blogs - ok lots of posts on lots of different blogs. I like things that are inexpensive. I like spray paint. I like the color black. I like gorilla glue epoxy. I need one more thing in my house (ha! that's a joke but it fit in with the rest of my I statements . . . ) Anyway, here is one of my latest crafty projects - made with an old cheese dome and some type of ceramic candle holder thingy.

Before:

After the Epoxy:

After:

Do I need it? Nope. Do I really have anywhere to put it? Nope. Do I love it? Yep. And in the end isn't that really what matters?

Summer, Summer, Summertime. . .

2010-07-10T18:05:00.003-04:00

Today is Saturday. I finished 3, yes 3, classes yesterday. In 5 weeks. With lots of projects. It wasn't easy but its done. My next class starts on Monday - yep this coming Monday. No break for me! But that's ok - its what I need to do. Hopefully these next few weeks won't be nearly as stressful as I am only taking one class instead of three.
I have had a little bit of time for crafting - not a lot but I have managed to "play" some. Here are some of the newest paper creations I have been making. These are cute door signs or room hangers and are almost right at 7.5". (By the way, I love the Cricut my husband got me for Christmas!!)

These have been so much fun to make. I am adding to my etsy stores so check them to see what I've been up to! Hope you're having a super summer!

Hello . . . Anyone there?

2010-05-16T15:39:00.003-04:00

Oh yes - I'm still here and doing fine. Just been busy - flat out busy. This semester in school (remember, I'm still working on my master's) had kicked my tail. I don't know why, but it seems this has been a hard semester for me to get things going. Or maybe that's the problem, I have too many things going. I like to get started on lots (you know, that good intention thing again) but don't seem to get a lot done. Currently the only projects I am working on are getting a new set of doors for the back, getting new fencing put up at the front of the house, redoing my laundry room into my crafting room, crafting like crazy, working full time, going to school and trying to keep my life in order. You know - just the basics! Ha! I have lots going on but that's the only way I know how to do things - dive in head first. Speaking of, I am so ready for summer vacation and the pool being warm enough to get in and relax. I plan on doing lots of that in between the 5, yes 5, classes that I am taking this summer. That's ok though, I am beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's not quite a steady light yet but enough that I get a glimpse every now and then. . .

The Coolest . . .

2010-02-09T18:58:00.002-05:00

You know, when I have a piece of advice that I think others may benefit from I like to share that information. Please note, that most advice comes from personal experience . . . this advice is no exception. When you are a recreational therapist with students who want to go to the gym to play basketball don't try to play in your dansko shoes (they are mighty comfortable but not the best on a slippery gym floor). You might be right in the middle of a great "one on one game" and your feet might slip out from under you. You might go down on both of your knees and then proceed to slide across the gym floor (imagine sliding into home base. . . you know Pete Rose style - if only we had been playing baseball!) You might be laughing really hard while trying not to cry because 7 5th graders just don't know quite what to say. You might realize that you have bruises on both of your knees the size of baseballs and the color of a plum. At this moment you might think you hate your job and can't believe you could be so clumsy. You might still be sitting on the floor trying to decide on whether you should try to get up or watch the game from the seated position and then you might hear, out of nowhere, a student yell . . .

"MRS. BROWN YOU ARE THE COOLEST TEACHER EVER!"

. . . and you might just realize how much you really do love your job!

A Corner Makeover . . .

2010-01-24T20:09:00.005-05:00

I love to be organized - however it is something that I struggle with. Because . . . well, I like stuff - lots of stuff. And I like crafts - lots of crafts. And I like to make new stuff - lots of new stuff. All those "likes" add up to, well . . . lots of stuff! So, I am determined that I am going to have all of my crafting stuff organized. This is just the beginning. One end of the laundry room is e.v.e.n.t.u.a.l.l.y going to be my crafting area. For the time being, lots of my stuff has been stashed in the spare bedroom. I had a large computer armoire that housed my computer and lots of random stuff. It was pretty and all, but rather large. I decided that I wanted a small desk but couldn't find what I wanted. So what's a girl to do, build it herself (with the help of her awesome father-in-law and her superb husband). However, now that I've seen it completed I could do it myself. I don't have a lot of pictures and no "really before" photos but these two show the "kinda before" and the "after".

A simple piece of scrap plywood cut and attached to the wall using a few supports:

After adding trim moulding, simple large dowel legs, and a bed sheet folded in half and stapled underneath:

I now have a great little desk that fits perfectly in the corner and is wonderful. I love having a small work station!

I'm linking up to Between Naps On the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday. Check out the other contributors!

Baskets . . .

2010-01-22T21:31:00.003-05:00

Actually, these are Easter Baskets. But I figured titling (is that a word - is is spelled correctly?) a post "Easter baskets" during the 3rd week of January just sounded funny. I have been in the sewing mood lately and found a pattern that I used for Easter Baskets several years ago. I don't think I made any last year but enjoy making them so thought I would get an "early start". That's a first for me! I've already made 4 but have only photographed (if you call my feeble attempts photography) 2 so far.

Hope you've had a great week
and have a fun-filled, restful weekend planned!

An Easy Gift . . .

2010-01-16T18:43:00.003-05:00

I don't think I've mentioned on here that I got a Cricut from my hubby for Christmas. I have been talking about wanting one f.o.r.e.v.e.r. It was a nice surprise. I have had the best time playing with it. It will do so many things and I know I haven't even done a fourth of them! This is my latest . . . and I think they would make the cutest gifts. (In my opinion, just about anything personalized makes a cute gift!)

Know what this is?

Yep, you're correct . . . it is hand sanitizer in a decorated pump. These are so easy to make. I used my cricut to cut my vinyl letter and dots (but you could use rub-ons or stickers) and then added a bit of ribbon tied around the top. When empty, refill. This is going on my desk at school - I use this stuff quite often!

A new year, a new redo . . .

2010-01-09T15:16:00.006-05:00

Happy 2010! I know it's late . . . I feel like that is the story of my life sometimes! Just a little late but here's to hoping that everyone had a wonderful Christmas and has had a great start to 2010. We have had both! I've feel like I have finally gotten back into the swing of returning to school and getting back into a routine. I enjoyed my time off but am glad to have a routine back.

You know I love to go to thrift stores, etc. and over break that was no different. My mom, myself and about 5 others wandered around all day visiting "discount" stores. It was so much fun and we all found some great deals. I have bought several things to redo (imagine - more stuff to add to my to do pile) and have gotten one of them done. I love how it turned out. I have no idea where it will go but I can't wait to put it out and use it.
I bought this not so lovely and wooden candle holder ($2.99). It was painted with an off white paint and had 4 "arms".

I also bought 4 small basic pyrex bowls ($.49 each) and a larger glass jar ($1.00).

I pulled out the nail in the top (I have no idea what it was originally there for) and then I spray painted the base black (free - I already had the spray paint) and used Gorilla Glue Epoxy (my new favorite glue - stinks but works great!) to attach the glass pieces. Tada . . . a very pretty glossy black candleholder! (For about $6.00 total).

I hope to get some more things completed soon. Enjoy 2010 and make it your best year yet!

*Updated - I'm linking to Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday. Check it out (click the graphic button below) to see some really neat blogs and creations!

A few more . . .

2009-12-23T21:01:00.005-05:00

I have really enjoyed making dresses. It sure has been a nice break from purses. These are a few more dresses that I have made lately.

These two Christmas dresses were custom orders. (They are actually a bright pink cordorouy fabric with a bright green liner - my photo skills are not very good!)

This dress with ballet slippers was also a custom order.

The snowflake dress was one that I made to list on Etsy.
I am definitely enjoying my time off from school. It's hard to believe Christmas is in 2 days!!

Last Minute Christmas Gifts . . .

2009-12-17T20:01:00.003-05:00

If you know me at all you know that I am the Queen of Procrastination. Tomorrow is my last day of work until the new year and I had 4 more presents that needed to be made. Yep - made, not bought. I decided to make "sticky note" holders for the desks of some of my coworkers. I have been wanting to make some and this was the perfect excuse to try them out. For my first attempt(s) I think they turned out rather cute.

Still here. . .

2009-12-16T21:28:00.006-05:00

Yes, I know . . . it has been a loooong time since the last post. Things have been crazy busy around here. Between finishing the semester and having graduate projects due, along with finals, and sewing and crafting and trying to decorate for Christmas between it all . . . it has been a whirlwind of activity. The semester is over, finals are finished, the house is decorated and only a day and a half left of work before a 2 week vacation. Ahhhhhh - I finally feel like I have time to sit down and breathe. Even in the midst of all of this, I have had time to get some crafting done. I have recently been making dresses for girls and have been swamped with custom orders. I am catching up with those but am enjoying making them. This was one of the first ones I made and is still one of my favorite fabrics.

I have also been making some little "purse pals". They are small personalized booklets that have a laminated front and back cover. They are filled with blank cards and are the perfect size to throw in your bag to jot down quick notes. These have also been pretty popular and I just finished up an order of 8 and another order of 6. I think they are cute and I use mine all the time!

I have gotten most things around here decorated (at least as much as they are going to be decorated!) I haven't taken a lot of photos but here are two of my favorites. I love my tree topper this year. Its fun and whimsical and my favorite mix of Christmas colors.

These are the jars that I made (see previous post for info) and the changes that I made for Christmas. These sit on the center of my coffee table and the live greenery smells divine.

Sure is a lot of rambling just to say I'm still here. . . If I don't post again before Christmas. . .

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!!

Creating. . .

2009-10-07T20:40:00.007-04:00

It's hard to believe that all of this. . .

Can become all of this. . .

I saw this on another blog, Shanty2Chic, and fell in love with these jars. I went to Hobby Lobby and bought all the stuff I needed (except they were out of the actual jars that she used - I bought the mason jars that have smooth sides and are made for crafting instead) and whipped up these little beauties in just a few hours. I am also going to make me a set of white ones for Christmas. Won't they be just lovely filled with red and green peppermints?!?

Craziness . . .

2009-10-03T09:43:00.002-04:00

Wow! It sure has been busy around here. I have had the hardest time getting back into the swing of school (both working at a school and working on my masters). I usually don't have too much of a problem adjusting but just can't seem to find enough time to do the things I like to do. Things seem to be settling down a bit so I look forward to some more sewing and creating. That's what's relaxing to me and I am ready to get back to having some time to relax. I must say though, even with the hectic schedule and the everyday hustle and bustle I wouldn't change a thing!
Life is good!

Happiness. . .

2009-08-25T20:36:00.000-04:00

"Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect...
it just means you decided to see beyond the imperfections."

A Few Updates. . .

2009-07-15T16:22:00.003-04:00

So, I did get a few bags completed and am working on adding them to the shop. These are small bags and are perfect for little girls (or big girls who like little bags!)

1 Down, 1 To Go. . .

2009-07-05T17:21:00.008-04:00

I am participating in this weeks Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch blog. I love looking at what other people "transform" and every Monday this blog has links to different bloggers and their transformations. Go and check them out!

I mentioned in a post or so before that I wanted new white rocking chairs on my front porch but didn't want to spend the money to buy new ones. Especially when I had two perfectly good, matching wooden rockers already. So instead, I decided to paint them. I have successfully painted one of them and have one more to do. I think they look great and they definitely brighten up the porch.

(Before)

(After)

These are the opposite rockers, as you can tell from the opposite side of the porch in the photos. I forgot to take a picture before I started painting this one.
I am very please with how this one turned out and can't wait to finish the other one.

Will You Be a "Johnny". . .

2009-07-05T16:47:00.000-04:00

With a paintbrush in hand. . .

2009-07-04T21:01:00.011-04:00

After a busy day today that included pressure washing the front porch and steps and then painting all of the railings on the porch (thanks for the help mom!) I decided the rocking chairs on the front porch needed some "doing".
This is what I currently have (2 that look just alike):

However, this is what I would like to have:

But because I am too ~~cheap~~ frugal to pay about $160 for 2 brand new white rockers, I now have a paintbrush in hand.

A few of my finds redone. . .

2009-06-27T22:08:00.014-04:00

I am working on redoing my spare bedroom. Actually, working on making it a bedroom again instead of a ~~junk~~ craft room. I have put the bed back in and am slowly adding to it.

Find #1
I found this white metal lamp at a local thrift store for $5.00. It is very heavy and I loved the curvy base. I spray painted it "Ivy Leaf" by Krylon and this is what I ended up with. I love it and it matches the bedding in the room perfectly.

Find #2 and #3
Find #2 was actually a find in my own yard. I have lots of these plastic terra cotta colored pots. Some have things planted in them and some, well some are home to some very lucky spiders. I bought an asparagus fern (one of my favorite types of ferns) and needed a pot to put it in. I decided to try spray painting the pot with "Ocean Breeze" by Krylon. I love it and it turned out great. The bright green fern looks so good in the blue pot. Find #3 is a black wrought iron plant stand that I bought for $5.00 at the flea market. It was pretty rusty and needed a good coating of paint. Again, I used Krylon spray paint in a black gloss. It turned out really pretty. It got dark before I could get a really good after picture.

Here's a picture of the plant stand before:

I am having the best time finding things and redoing them. And I am falling in love with spray paint!

M.I.A. . . .

2009-06-25T17:37:00.004-04:00

First I would like to emphasize the "in action" part of the title. I'm telling you, it has started off as a busy summer! I am taking two classes during first term and they are packed in there! Just this week alone I have had an exam every day!! One on Monday (oh but wait - that was a make up exam because all of last week I was ~~required~~ so graciously willing to be on jury duty - picked for the very first case of the week that lasted nothing short of all week!), 1/2 of one on Tuesday, the other half of that one on Wednesday and then one today. Not to mention I am having to do clinical hours. I am so looking forward to being done with these and having the rest of my summer with nothing planned. I hope to get some crafty things done and completed (don't I say that every time?) Hope you are enjoying your time. . .

(just wanted to add a picture - this is one of our kitties. She is actually the momma to our other kitties)

Hectic. . .

2009-05-18T21:49:00.003-04:00

Where has the time gone?!

Let's see - it's the end of the semester at Converse and it's been hectic! It's getting close to the end of the year at school and it's been hectic! The consignment sale I work every year is just getting started and it's hectic! I've been trying to buy plants to plant in the yard and trying to pull weeds and it's hectic! I hope to be doing a home show at a friend's house at the end of the month and it's hectic!

So, I am still here. And you know, sometimes when I actually have time to slow down I don't know what to do with myself. Sometimes, although I don't always like to admit it, I just do better when it's hectic!

Advice. . .

2009-04-08T22:25:00.003-04:00

Just a bit of advice. . . when you run out of your bare minerals makeup that you love don't go back to using the old makeup that you used to use - it might make your eyes swell almost shut by the time you get out of bed the next morning - then your face might get really red and become really itchy - and by the time you get to work it might be really swollen - and the school nurse just might give you a dose of Benadryl and then tell you to call the doctor - you just might have to make an appointment in the middle of the day because you feel like you are going to claw the skin off of your face - the doctor just might give you a medication that keeps you up all night - ok so you might get to sleep at 4:30 and then awake to the alarm at 5:30. Remember, these are just some of the "mights" - how do I know this? Let's just say, take my advice. . .

My creations in action. . .

2009-04-05T20:38:00.003-04:00

Emily got to wear her Minnie shirt and her matching headband I made her to see the Disney show on Saturday. Isn't she just adorable?!

Easter Wreath. . .

2009-04-04T18:08:00.003-04:00

Wow - 2 posts in 2 days and another completed craft project. If only Spring Break lasted a few more days! I had seen this cute Easter wreath on another blog and decided that I wanted to try it. It was very inexpensive to make and really easy! I think it looks super cute hanging on the front door.

Finally, some progress. . .

2009-04-03T22:01:00.004-04:00

I've been on Spring Break all week (gotta love working in the school system) and had grand plans to get lots of crafting done. Well, if you know me you know that I have the best of intentions that just don't always happen how I want them to. My bestest friend (yes, I know bestest is not a word but I like the way it sounds!) Michelle always laughs that I work best when only a little time is left. Unlike me, she plans way ahead for everything and it stresses her out that I wait until the last minute. It's Friday, the Friday of the END of my Spring Break, and I got some things done. I have made lots of little bows for some cute little girls, several woven headbands and today I made 2 appliqued shirts. I have been wanting to try applique on shirts for a while and Michelle wanted a cute Minnie shirt for Emily to wear so I decided to try it! I am hooked! It was so much fun and I loved seeing how they turned out. The goldfish turned out to be my favorite but I liked them both! I can't wait to make some more!

A bit of insight. . .

2009-03-27T19:17:00.006-04:00

"God doesn't give you the people you want, He gives you the people you need to help you, to hurt you, to leave you, to love you and to make you into the person you were meant to be."

Ok - maybe this isn't really insight but I must admit it made me think. I am sure that I have seen this little quote / saying before and I'm not really sure why today, of all days, it really hit home. It's not that any one person comes to mind; it's not that anyone has helped me , hurt me. left me or loved me any more today than any other day. But today, it hit home. I am a firm believer that everyone you meet impacts you somehow. Yep, everyone. I think about the grouchy lady on the phone who I talked to yesterday who reminded me that how I speak to someone can make them feel better or worse. I think about the friendly cashier at the grocery store who smiled and laughed with me while I was standing in line and spending way too much money who reminded me that a smile is contagious. I think about that sweet little guy this morning at school (who only comes up to my waist because he's only 5) put his arms around me and said "Mrs. Brown, this hug sure does make me happy!" who reminded me that even the smallest of acts can mean the most. I think about lots of people. And as I think about each one I think about how wonderful my God is and how He himself picked out long ago who I would encounter each day. God doesn't waste his time or mine. If He puts them in my path then I know they are placed there for a reason. So on this very rainy Friday night,
I am simply reminded . . .

A Snowy SC . . .

2009-03-02T09:03:00.007-05:00

We don't get snow here in the Upstate of SC very often so when we do it's a BIG deal. Even a little snow here will shut down schools and empty the grocery store shelves of bread and milk. I am not a cold weather, snow kinda gal. As mentioned before I prefer the beach and the sunshine any day of the week. However, as it snowed here last night I couldn't help but to watch and notice the beauty of it all. It's so white and clean and so pretty this morning as the sun shines on it. As I measured (for my own curiosity - with the ruler from my rotary cutter no less) I must admit I was a little shocked at the total - 7 inches! I know, for some that is nothing but for us here down south that's a good bit of snow. I am enjoying my day off today since schools were cancelled and plan on spending a lot of time indoors. Enjoy your day, wherever you may be and revel in the fact that its a beautiful Monday!

Cheering for the "other" team. . .

2009-02-21T19:10:00.004-05:00

I received this in an email on Friday at work. I watched it and I cried. I watched it again today and I cried. I think that I could watch it everyday and cry. But as the tears were streaming down my face, my heart was smiling. This is what compassion is and this is what we are put on this earth to do. As I wake up each morning, it's this selfless compassion that I hope to remember and portray. Every child, every person, deserves a chance to prove themselves. Sometimes, as christians, its up to us to cheer for the other team.

Here's to hoping we all remember to cheer for the "other" team!

A Shopping Trip. . .

2009-02-04T20:32:00.003-05:00

Guess what I did today after work today? I went School Shopping! Yep, that's right. I have finally taken the plunge and am heading back to school. If all goes as planned I will be starting classes tomorrow to begin work on my Masters. I am getting my masters in Special Education with emphasis in MD (mental disabilities) and ED (emotional disabilities). I am excited and nervous all at the same time! Why in the world is a 31 year old nervous about starting school?! After all, of the 31 years I have been on this earth 16 have been spent in school (so what's another year and a half!) If you have a minute, say a little prayer that all goes well!

The Year is Coming to an End. . .

2008-12-29T20:43:00.001-05:00

I can't believe that Christmas has come and gone and in just a few more days it will be 2009! Christmas around here was great - spending time with family and friends is always a blessing in itself. My younger brother came home for a week (which is a long time for him to stay - we usually only see him for a few days) and I got a chance to visit with him while he was here. He got a new puppy for Christmas, a 6 week old boxer. Absolutely adorable - mom said her house is awfully quiet now that they have returned to Virginia. I hope that each of you had a great Christmas and got to spend it with those you love. I like the fact that a new year is starting - a new year with new hopes, new dreams and new goals. For some reason, a new year just seams like a new start. Here's hoping that 2009 brings new adventures for you and yours!

(These are my two dogs - Charlie and Molly)

A Great Getaway. . .

2008-12-14T16:09:00.004-05:00

Shane and I just returned from a 3 day trip to the mountains of TN. Although I am a "beach junky" (give me warm weather and sand any day!) I have to admit that I had a wonderful time. It was nice to get away. We, along with another couple, rented a cabin on the TOP of the mountain. Did I mention that I like flat land and I am not terribly fond of heights?!? We were about 3.5 miles up the side of the mountain. The views were beautiful and were worth the not-so-fun drive up (you can't really tell from the picture but that is looking over the entire town of Pigeon Forge - that's how high up we were!).

We woke up to about 3 inches of snow on Friday morning.

Once you got about halfway down the mountain there was no snow. Guess that's what they mean when they say "snow in the high elevations".

It was a great getaway, especially during this very busy time of year. Being up that high was amazing and, as was mentioned more than once, gave you the feeling that you could reach up and touch heaven. Here's hoping that sometime over this Christmas Holiday you get a glimpse of heaven!

In case I don't blog again in the next week or so, Merry Christmas from our house to yours!

Today. . .

2008-11-27T21:30:00.006-05:00

I am thankful that today was a beautiful day.
I am thankful that today I got to spend time with family and friends.
I am thankful that today I was reminded so many times the ways that I have been blessed.
I am thankful that today I was able to see my God in ways that I've never seen before.
Today, as every day, I am thankful.

Here's to hoping that today you gave thanks and to hoping that, even as the day draws to an end, we remember that everyday is a day to give thanks.

Still Here. . .

2008-11-23T10:49:00.003-05:00

For those of you that do still check in once in a while, I'm still here! Things sure have been hectic around here lately. I have done several craft shows / home shows and am finally done with all of those. I hope that means that I am going to have a little bit of extra time (wait a minute, when do I ever have "extra time"?!?). I hope to be adding some new items to my Etsy shop in the next few days so keep a look out for those. There will be some cute, smaller items (such as key fobs, tissue holder, earrings, etc.) that would make great teacher and coworker gifts.

Anyway. . .

2008-10-14T17:41:00.003-04:00

I didn't need this on this particular day, but I must admit that there are many days when I do need to read this.

ANYWAY

People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, People may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies; Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight.
Build anyway.

The good you do today people will often be forgetten tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.

Author: Dr. Kent Keith

(I originally read this on a blog I frequent - Angelica Grace Designs - the link is on the right)

Not always interesting, but always blessed. . .

2008-10-10T17:36:00.003-04:00

Wow - I knew that keeping up with a blog would be hard for me but I didn't realize it had been that long since my last post. Here are a few random things that have been going on: (*warning~ these things are not extremely interesting so be warned!)

*I went to the Willie Nelson concert in Spartanburg last week. Now, I am not a fan of Willie but I must admit he puts on a pretty good show. He played for almost 2 hours straight without ever stopping. That's pretty good for an old man! I must also note, that it was worth every dime of the ticket price to sit and watch the people. The guy in the row in front of us was the best! He made for a very comical night! My experience there could actually be a blog post in itself!

*I have been getting ready for a craft show that is tomorrow. Every time I do one of these I swear that I will never do another one. Low and behold, I have one tomorrow. Since I am the procrastinator that I am, these shows can make for some stressful nights for me!

*I found out that we didn't get rid of all the fire ants in our yard. Guess how I found that out???

*I have been trying to get stuff together to meet with my advisor at Converse so that I can hopefully start on my Masters sometime soon. When you have been out of school this long it is really hard to stomach the idea of going back.

*A friend of my brother's was ordained as a minister this past Sunday night. I didn't get to attend but just hearing my mom talk about it brought tears to my eyes. I often used to consider Nate, Jonathan and Stephen my 3 other brothers. Although I don't see Nate often, and haven't seen him in many years, I am proud to say that I know him. He is an incredible guy with a great passion for the Lord. He has a wonderful family and his wife's blog makes me laugh!

Well, I warned you that these aren't anywhere near the most interesting things that you will read today. But that's my life sometimes, not always interesting but always blessed!

Makes you think. . .

2008-09-13T11:10:00.003-04:00

"Sometimes I’d like to ask God why He allows poverty, famine and injustice in the world when He could do something about it......

But I’m afraid God might ask me the same question."

-Anonymous

Enough said.

*I've seen this quote and several blogs lately and thought I would pass it along.

Food for Thought. . .

2008-09-08T19:14:00.005-04:00

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. . . it's about learning to dance in the rain."

Here's to hoping that the next time it "rains" you go out and dance.

Finally Updated. . .

2008-08-31T21:27:00.004-04:00

I finally got around to adding a few new items to my Etsy Shop.

"Dancing Skeletons" - a small tote with removable bows

Blue and Brown Damask - a small tote with removable bows

Earrings - Lucite Blue Flowers and Czech Crystal Rounds

Chocolate Teardrop Earrings

A Few of my Finds. . .

2008-08-24T17:28:00.006-04:00

I love a bargain! And if you know me at all then you know that is an understatement! Back at the beginning of the summer I decided our bedroom needed a new look. I painted the walls and got all new bedding and made some new pillows in this great fabric. But the best deal of all was the milkglass hobnail lamp that I found for $5.00! I collect milkglass hobnail and have for many years now. I don't have a huge collection but love the pieces I have obtained. Well, the lamp was in need of some work. The milkglass parts were in excellent condition (needed a little cleaning) but the other parts (the wood and brass) were in dire need of some paint. Here's some photos of the before:

And now how it looks after some chocolate brown paint and a new brown shade: (The lamp really is straight the photographer just wasn't holding the camera straight!)

It just may be the best $5.00 I've ever spent!

And it all begins. . .

2008-08-18T18:12:00.002-04:00

Today was registration at school. Many of the kiddos came in today and they were excited to be starting tomorrow. When I say excited I mean hugging the teacher excited. Big boys hugging the teacher excited. Now, I am sure that will last all of 3 days but we will take it as we get it. I have to admit, I am kind of glad they are coming back tomorrow. Because, you know, if I have to be back then they should have to come back also!

I have finally come to terms with the fact that I can no longer be an early bird and a night owl. Since I have to be at school on time, looks like the owl is out of the picture!

I think I'm getting old. . .

2008-08-16T15:11:00.003-04:00

You know, it used to be that getting up early was no problem. And going to bed late (on the same day I got up early) was no problem. Well, it's now a problem! Getting back into the routine of school is harder than I thought it would be. Of course the first day or so I got up at 5:30 with no problems and was at work by 7:15. Got home and went to bed around 11:00 / 11:30. Then Friday hits. I got up at 5:30 (thinking maybe this morning thing isn't so bad) got home around 4:30 and decided to take a nap. That nap lasted until 7:30. That is 3 HOURS!! When I finally arose I felt much better. That is until 9:00 when I decided to go and watch a Lifetime Movie (got hooked on those this summer) and fell asleep. I didn't wake up until 8:30 this morning. And only then because Shane woke me up to see if I was still breathing. Geesh - maybe mornings are only for those "young" people!

OOh - I did find out that I have been accepted into the MAT (Master's of Art in Teaching) program at Converse College! I am so excited and hope to get started back to school next semester. (For those that don't know, the MAT program is designed for those who have an undergrad degree in something other than education but who wish to go back and get their masters degree to teach.)

How You Live. . .

2008-08-13T17:38:00.003-04:00

I heard this song the other day and fell in love with it!! It is titled How You Live (Turn Up the Music) and is by Point of Grace. This isn't the actual video but this instead shows the words as you hear the music (which I like because the words are what makes this song AWESOME!!)

Enjoy!

Back to the Grindstone. . .

2008-08-11T18:13:00.006-04:00

Well, my summer is officially coming to an end. As of Wednesday, I go back to work! I know, I know - poor pitiful that has to go back to work after having almost 10 weeks off. Actually, I am a "routine" person for the most part (now don't get me wrong, I have LOVED being off this summer) so once I go back and get back into my routine I will be fine. But just the thought of having to go back - well, lets just say, I am trying not to think about it.

As a self proclaimed procrastinator (almost 10 weeks to be exact!), I have been crafting away these past few days. Several small bags are almost completed and I have made several new pairs of earrings that are now listed in my etsy shop. These are just a few of my favorites that I listed:

A Facelift. . .

2008-08-06T21:41:00.002-04:00

I decided the blog was due a facelift. I love the bright colors and pattern of this background.

A Few New Ones. . .

2008-08-01T18:42:00.002-04:00

I have been on a sewing kick lately. I go through spells - sometimes that is all I want to do and sometimes that is the last thing I want to do. This has been a good week for sewing. Hopefully these will be added to my etsy shop later tonight or sometime tomorrow.

We're Back. . .

2008-07-27T23:01:00.005-04:00

The beach was nice and relaxing but there is nothing like being home. These are the only 3 pictures we took while at the beach, and they aren't even ON the beach. (In case you don't know us, that's my mom in the blue.)

Tomorrow, this is where my feet will be. . .

2008-07-21T09:43:00.003-04:00

A Makeover. . .

2008-07-15T20:46:00.000-04:00

I decided that my bedroom needed a makeover. When we moved into the house 6 years ago (can't believe it has been 6 years!!) we decided we wanted color in our bedroom. After lots of searching Candy Apple Red won. And boy was it color. I loved it - for a while. This is what the red looked like:

Then, I found Faded Seafoam, a color by Ralph Lauren. And I loved it! But more than me loving it, Shane loved it. So, today was the day. My mom and I decided to tackle the red (fully expecting it to be a chore) But a coat of tinted primer (that stuff rocks!) and several hours later and this is what we got:

Lots of color still, which if you know me is important, but oh so much lighter and brighter. I still haven't hung stuff on the wall as of yet since the paint is still a little tacky but it's coming! I am in love with my room again! (*Please ignore the awful television sitting on the dresser. We are in the process of "updating" those also!)

I also decided to try making my own throw pillows with a great Anna Maria Horner fabric. I love this fabric and it matches absolutely perfect!

A Custom Order. . .

2008-07-11T17:52:00.001-04:00

This is a custom order for a baby shower gift that I just completed. Dad is a fireman and so we wanted to use a fireman themed fabric. But, since mom is the one that will be carrying the bag I added a polka dotted ribbon to make it a little more girly. Hope that mom, and dad, like their bag.

For the Little Ones. . .

2008-07-11T13:58:00.000-04:00

It's Christmas in July! I am slowly (very slowly!) adding a few Christmas items to my Etsy Shop. This is a small handbag that is perfect for little hands (or for big hands who want a little bag!)

Burpies. . .

2008-07-08T21:42:00.001-04:00

Simple burp cloths made with a printed flannel on one side and a coordinating flannel on the back. These are great not only a burp cloths but to use to clean up spills. I hope to have these listed in the shop tomorrow.

Happy 4th. . .

2008-07-04T12:22:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th and a big thanks to all the men and women serving our country. Your generosity doesn't go unnoticed!

Photo Frames. . .

2008-07-03T20:34:00.001-04:00

Some new photo frames that I just completed - first one is a black and white argyle print, second shows a back to school frame and the third is made using an amy butler print. All have glass and hold a 4x6 picture.

Something New. . .

2008-06-23T22:36:00.000-04:00

New key fobs that I completed. These will be listed in the shop hopefully tomorrow.

More Additions. . .

2008-06-20T15:38:00.000-04:00

I'm in the process of adding several new diaper wipe cases to the shop. Some of these have already been added and some are soon to appear. I love to do custom orders so let me know if you are looking for a particular color or print.

Just Added. . .

2008-06-18T09:38:00.000-04:00

My newest diaper wipe case addition - added to my Etsy Store! Check out the other diaper wipe cases that are already listed.

Here Goes. . .

2008-06-16T18:48:00.000-04:00

So, I'm not real sure this "blog" thing is going to catch on with me. I mean, I love to read other blogs, and think people have really interesting lives, but I am not sure my life is really anything to read about.

My name is Anna and I love anything crafty! I am wife to a wonderfully patient man and work full time in the school system as a Recreational Therapist with Emotional Disturbed children. I love it and love the time that I have to do things I enjoy. I hope this blog will be a little insight into my simple little life, a simple little life that I absolutely adore! From time to time I hope to post things that I have made and things that I have listed for sale on Etsy! (If you haven't visited Etsy you must do so - an amazing site full of handmade items!) There's a little link to the left that will take you straight to my Etsy shop.

Thanks for stopping by!