Counting My Blessings

Fun and Games~

2012-03-08T22:52:00.000-08:00

Hello dear friends. Have you ever been to Cabo San Lucas? Well...I haven't either, but I wouldn't mind it. I got this postcard with my order from Novica today! Beautiful, isn't it?

This is what was written on the back. I still need to translate it.

This little card came with it too. It's from the Artisan, Marco Polo! :)

His creation came wrapped like this!

With this little clay pitcher and raffia tied to it. So cute.

The photos do not do justice to the quality of the craftsmanship of this piece. I'm going to hang this on my fence in the backyard. I will definitely be shopping more at Novica online!

I found a little bag of Rummikub pieces at a garage sale last summer and thought I would do something with a couple of them. I used alcohol ink to color the background, some rub-ons and an earring piece.

This one was out of the ordinary for me. But this piece had a picture of the moon. I think it's the moon and thought I could add some stars and rhinestones. Then I started rummaging through some bits and pieces and found this marble with a flat back and thought it would make a cool planet. I drilled some holes in the rummikub and wrapped wire around the marble 3 time to make it look kind of like the rings on Saturn. Then added the letters d-r-e-a-m. What do you think? Weird? ;)

Thanks for stopping by today. And thank you for all the kind words, prayers and well wishes for my husband. He is doing great! Your comments make my day!

Have a great weekend, dear friends.

Love,
Sonya

I Can Do All Things...

2012-03-05T08:09:00.000-08:00

Hello friends. I was in the mood for mixed media again. The background of this canvas is music paper and sewing pattern paper. Then I used acrylic paint (watered down so you could see a little of the paper underneath.

I chose to hand write the scripture from Philippians. It made it more personal to me.
The images of butterflies came from Graphics Fairy. I LOVE her vintage images. And they are FREE!

I outlined each butterfly with ink, so they would stand out more.

Paul wrote these words while imprisoned. It was so encouraging to me. There's been times in my life that I thought, I can't get through this. But friends, we can...through Christ who strengthens us.

Yesterday, I had a scare. My husband became very ill-all of a sudden. I thought he was having a heartattack. I called the ambulance and we took a trip to the hospital. Pacing the floor in the hospital, waiting and wondering, I started to pray. I felt like I was going to break down and start crying. But when I started praying all of a sudden this scripture came to mind again. Then I said to the Lord, Paul's right. I "can" do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Lord, give me that strength right now. I had a peace come over me that you can only get from the Lord. After 5 hours of tests and waiting and my hubby laying there with an I.V. of pain meds dripping through his veins, the doctor came in and said yep, it's a kidney stone! Praise God! Not that kidney stones aren't awful. They are! But it wasn't a heartattack and that was a relief.

Thank you for visiting today and for your comments.

I'm linking up with Graphics Fairy for Brag Monday. If you haven't visited Karen's blog before (I'm sure you have), you must!

Have a wonderful week, my new and old friends.

Blessings,
Sonya

Love is the Key~

2012-03-03T18:12:00.000-08:00

Hello sweet friends. This chain belonged to my Mother. She would have loved what I did with it. She liked lots of bling. I added some bling to the key and stamped the word "Love" in the top. Have you ever used the metal stamps? I didn't find it very easy to do. Of course, I probably don't have the right tools either...but I got it done. After smashing my thumb a couple times. :P

Some of these pieces were left over from a class I just took. I couldn't let them go to waste.

The round piece above the key is a button that I just love. I don't remember where I got it but I thought it was pretty on the necklace. I soldered each jumpring onto the necklace too, so I wouldn't have to worry about losing any pieces.

Thank you for stopping by and for your comments.

Have a wonderful day full of many blessings.

Sonya

Some Boomarks to Share~

2012-03-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

Hello dear friends. I thought I would share three bookmarks that I made up the other day. The first one I made with a pretty "aubergine" (egg plant) colored ribbon and a couple of vintage earrings.

This one is made with a Paper Whimsy image. I think this little girl is so cute and I liked this quote-"a book is a garden carried in the pocket".

This bookmark I made for my hubby. He said I always make my bookmarks too feminine and asked me if I could make him one that wasn't so foo-foo. Well, I tried. He will use this one for his bible-so what better quote than this?

I used vintage buttons and a rusty heart. Don't you love this ribbon netting? It's from Flights of Fancy. I tried to capture the coppery shimmer to it in the photo.

This is also from Flights of Fancy-I love the beading in the center of the flowers.

What have you been up to? I've been working in my craft room where it's warm and toasty, since it's been snowing outside! Not that much though. More rain than snow. I hope you are all doing well and are getting to do something fun. I would love to hear from you!

Thanks for stopping by today.

Warm hugs,
Sonya

To Everything There is a Season...

2012-02-26T14:43:00.000-08:00

Hello again! Here is a mixed media canvas that I just finished and wanted to share with you. I used a combination of vintage papers, sewing pattern paper,rusted pieces,resistors,button, acrylics,bubble wrap, charcoal and inks. My husband was scratching his head again at this one. ;P

I created the sun by using a big (about 2 1/2 inches wide) old button that I had in my stash and some resistors that I ordered from Vintage Supply on Etsy. Love her stuff!

I found got this watering can at Barb's Vintage Market Place show at Treasures From the Heart Shop. It was actually a trade with a lady that had a booth too-Rae-Marie. Hi Marie! The rusted wire for the water coming out is from Vintage Supply too.

The little bird house actually had a wire at the top so you could hang it. I took it out and I can't remember where I got this bird but it had a wire piece at the bottom of it. It fit perfectly in the hole and I secured it with glue.

The "fence post" is really a drawer plate that I painted to make it look rusted. And then I attached this little metal garland on to it. It was a Christmas wreath that I cut up. ;P

The inside of the flowers are rusted bottle caps with a piece of rusty perforated sheet of metal.

Spring is on its way friends and can you tell that I'm ready for it? How about you? What have you been up to?
Thanks for visiting today and I appreciate your comments. ;)

Happy sunny days to you,
Sonya

A Few Things to Share~

2012-02-24T11:35:00.000-08:00

Hello again, friends. My daughter gave me a couple clear glass doorknobs the other day, so I thought I would do something with one of them.

I added some bling and watch face and some wings. ;) I love old doorknobs. I would love all my doorknobs to be like this in the house. Wouldn't that be cool? Of course, I would get a lavender one for my bedroom. My hubby would be thrilled. ;)

My buddy LOVES to watch the weather channel! I don't know why...

Sissie could care less. She likes sleeping on my pillow.

Now it's Buddie's turn. He was exhausted from watching so much tv. No wonder I couldn't make my bed until almost noon!

I also wanted to share my win from the talented Laura @ Artfully Musing. She makes the most fabulous ATC cards. Well, anything she makes is fabulous! So much layering and depth. I've won her giveaways more than once! ;) And I am thrilled everytime! If you've never visited her-you must.

I love the colors she used for this card...

Pretty isn't it? She is sitting in my craft room along with my others. Thank you, dear Laura (again!).

What have you been up to, friends? I've been doing a little of this and a little of that. I will be sharing more of my makings soon.

It's a beautiful day here in Oregon! The frogs are out in the backyard and so loud that it's deafening! But I love it!

Back with more soon. Enjoy your weekend!

Love,
Sonya

White Wedneday and My Winners!

2012-02-22T00:08:00.000-08:00

Hello my friends. Here is the pillow that I made from the Gilded Valentine's workshop that I took last week. It's about 10 inches wide by 9 inches long. I used peaches and cream colored scraps of lace. I sewed some pearls on (of course) and some shabby flowers and I glued some irridescent colored rhinestones in the middle of them.

I'm definitely making more of them! ;) This class has been soooo fun!

I'm linking up with Kathleen @ Faded Charm for White Wednesday. Thank you, Kathleen was hostessing again!!

Want to see more creamy whites? Go visit Kathleen's blog and click on all the blogs that have linked up. Lots of pretties!

Now...the winners of my Novica giveaway:

Cindy @ Weaving Friendships
Lynn @ Trash to Treasure Art

Congratulations girls! I will email you your gift certificate codes-each worth $37.50 to use towards your oder to Novica. Thank you to all who participated in my giveaway and thank you, Novica for providing the prizes!

Happy White Wednesday and thank you for visiting today.

Big hugs,
Sonya

A Package From Denmark!

2012-02-19T11:02:00.000-08:00

Hello my dear friends. Guess what I got? Yes, another gift in the mail! From my friend:

Dorthe from Den Lille Lade

Have you met her? If you haven't you must, you will love her, I promise. Come see what she sent me. Everything wrapped so beautifully too.

First, this bag she made with birds on the front with a flower closing the top.

Inside was this beautiful heart-shaped tag with lacey scraps sewn on the front with a bird stamped distressed tag on top. I "heart" this heart, Dorthe. ;)

Secondly, this beautifully wrapped gift with french script paper in creamy brown tones. And look at the flower-I just know she made it and I love the color. Too pretty to unwrap, huh?.... But I did!

Just look at this collage that she made me. Look at all the details. The lace, the angelic-faced little girl, the roses, the Fleur-De-Lis stamping, French and German wording and the little angel on the top and the words, "friend are angels without wings". Yes, they are and Dorthe is one.

This is what she wrote on the back. And Dorthe, your gifts are a daily joy to me too.

Last but not least, another lovely wrapped gift with a beautiful cross tied to it with a silky ribbon.

Look who I found inside. Don't you love how Dorthe tucked her inside this sweet hankie and pinned it so preciously with the little medal pendant of Jesus. I love it, Dorthe.

I was trying to take this photo and it was very cloudy gray day but I wanted you to see this fairy's pixy face close up. Isn't she precious?

She sits on a little stand. Look at her flower hat and...

and the stars. I just love eyelet fabric.

I tried like crazy to get this photo turned upright but blogger was being stubborn today. Look at her boots and her little slip-Dorthe paid attention to so much detail. She is just precious to me.

Her wings craftily made with fabric netting.

Have I been spoiled or what? Thank you SO MUCH, Dorthe dear. You are too generous and kind to me. I will cherish these gifts. They will be proudly displayed in my studio so I can see them everyday.

I hoped you enjoyed the sharing of my gifts today. Go visit Dorthe and tell her how wonderful she is-she deserves to hear it. :)

Hugs and blessings to all of you,

Sonya~

Only two days till be giveaway winners are announced-leave a comment here.

A Mini Workshop~

2012-02-17T14:41:00.003-08:00

Hello friends! Did any of you sign up for this online mini workshop-"A Gilded Valentine"? Ohhh, you should have! ;) Christy Tomlinson @ Scarlet Lime and Debbie and Shea @ A Gilded Life taught the workshops.

I ordered the jewelry kit for one of the projects from Debbie and Shea. It came just in time for my class to start. :) It came in this cute little heart.

All of this was inside the heart.

Isn't this a beautiful, blingy brooch heart? I tried to pick up the sparkle with the camera.

A this is what I made! Yes, I made it! Can you believe that?

So many pretty little glass beads, pink pearls, buttons and charms.

I just loved making this bracelet. Now...on to other projects.

Thank you for stopping by dear friends. I'm linking up with sweet Beverly @ How Sweet the Sound for Pink Saturday. If you have a blog and you have never participated, you just gotta. It's so fun meeting new friends!

Have a wonderful weekend and thank you for visiting today. I especially appreciate when you take the time to comment-it means a lot to me.

Oh! I almost forgot- sign up for my Novica giveaway that ends on Feb. 21st.

Hugs and love,
Sonya~

To MY Valentine~

2012-02-15T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hello dear friends. I know Valentine's is over but I thought I would show you the Valentine I made for my hubby. I make him one every year. I love the shade of pink in this lace. Kind of a muted color. I buy it online at Flights of Fancy. Love their stuff!

I liked all the seed beads.

I don't remember where I got this little glass heart. If YOU gave it to me-thank YOU! :)

I sure hope you enjoyed your Valentine's Day. I will be back to share what I won recently! ;) And of course, what I'm creating!

Don't forget to enter my giveaway-last day the 21st!

Have a wonderful week and thanks for stopping by. I would love to hear from you!

Big hugs,

Sonya~

A Valentine For You~

2012-02-10T20:37:00.000-08:00

Hello dear Valentines. I made this Valentine for YOU! ;) Don't you just love the vintage ones? They just don't make them like this anymore, do they?

What are your plans for Valentines? Anything romantic?

I love this little heart (from Dorthe @ Den Lille Lade). Thank you, Dorthe! ;)

I'm linking up with sweet Beverly @ How Sweet the Sound for Pink Saturday. If you want to see more fun and beautiful pink stuff go to her blog and click on a number of links to see even more wonderful blogs. Tell Beverly I said hello. Thank you Bev for hosting Pink Saturday!

Oh, and Happy Valentine's Day friends. Don't forget to enter my Novica giveaway here .

*Kisses*,
Sonya

Giveaway Time!

2012-02-07T11:09:00.005-08:00

Hello dear friends! I was contacted by Novica asking me if I would like to host a giveaway for them. I said I would LOVE to! Have you heard of Novica? Novica is associated with National Geographic and provides artist and artisans around the world a global platform to express their talents and spur creativity. The site is full of hard to find, unique items that only the Internet infrastructure can allow access to.

When I visited their website I was amazed at the range of different items from jewelry to clothing to home decor to paintings and MORE! You have to go see! The artistry is astounding! By purchasing through Novica you are helping many many artists to make a living with their God-given talents.

I am giving away not one but TWO gift certificates worth $37.50 each. So go visit them. Grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and expect to stay awhile, there is a lot to see. And come back, become a follower (if you haven't already) and let me know what your favorite item or like me-item(s) are! You will get a second chance if you mention this giveaway on your blog (post or side-bar).Leave me a separate comment telling me that you did that :) Easy peasy.

I love amethyst and silver.

I know this ring in big but I LOVE it. I have a weakness for pearls.

Their jewelry is exquisite, you have to go see...

Silver bracelet-the details are amazing.

I WANT this! Gorgeous! They have other colors and patterns too.

This green blouse has such pretty details.

Isn't this to die for? I could just curl up in it. I'm cold blooded so anything warm is wonderful!

What about this? Can you say..."Mine"? I can!

They have an endless assortment of purses! Red-my favorite color!

Paintings from some extremely talented artists. Don't you love it? Hey, Katherine! Vanda would want this, huh? :)

I want this for my backyard! I could just see this hanging on my fence. I have a very small backyard and that will be my Spring and Summer project. I'm sure I'll be posting pics on that subject.

You must go see ALL the goodies they have! I mean fabulous goodies! The artists come from all over, Andes, Bali, Java, Brazil, Central America, India, Mexico, Thailand and West Africa.

Here are a few links that they wanted me to mention:
amber earrings
womens' gloves
silk shawls
red scarves
mens accessories from Peru
mens wallets
If you visit these links too-I will enter you a third time! Just come back and tell me. K?

So dear friends, you have a total of three chances to win. You don't have to do them all to enter though. This giveaway is open WORLDWIDE! So anyone can enter! :) If you want the 3 chances make sure you make 3 different comments so that I can make sure you get the credit.

Good luck and have a wonderful week! OH! I almost forgot! You have until Tuesday, February 21st! That should give you enough time to see all of Novica's goodies. Tell your friends!

Hugs,
Sonya

My "Heartstrings" Pin~

2012-02-01T13:28:00.000-08:00

Hello again, friends. I made this heart pin to wear on my coat. I used an old earring, some pearls from an old broken necklace, a couple of mother-of-pearl buttons and some old lace remnants. Easy peasy.

I took this pic to show you the actual size of the heart. I've got to try my hand at a couple more projects Nancy is offering in her class. Hopefully, I can get started on those soon. I have another project that I will share with you in a couple days. Then...my giveaway.

I hope you are all doing well and getting a chance to create. I would love to hear from you.

Thank you again, for dropping by, and especially for taking the time to leave comments. They make my day!

Big hearts and hugs,

Sonya~

Shabby Chic Heartstring Garland~

2012-01-28T00:38:00.000-08:00

Hello sweet friends! I made another garland. This one is for my daughter. Her house is shabby chic style decorated in sagey green and sky blue. This will go perfectly across her fireplace.

Like I said, her house is shabby chic and so are these little hearts. I just love the chunky button at the top of this heart.

She also decorates with a lot of angel stuff so I had to add this little one. ;)

Talk to you all soon. Enjoy your weekend.

Hugs,
Sonya

My Tender Tinnie~

2012-01-26T21:41:00.000-08:00

Hey friends! Just finished another craft from Nancy's class. My Tender Tinnie full of sweet tweets! :) Actually, it's heart-shaped peanut butter cups. Deacon's favorite candy.

Layers of lace over a piece of music paper that I lightly white-washed. The image is from Paper Whimsy. The wire handle is rusted wire and I made the nest with 3 egg-shaped fresh water pearls and bronze colored wire. I'm having a great time in this class.

What are you doing? Any Valentine-sy creations? I would love to hear about it. Thanks for your faithful visits here and for your comments.
I have a giveaway coming up soon and it's a little different from what I usually do...so stayed tuned!

Speaking of giveaways...Katherine at Chatelet is having a giveaway! Go see her! You will love her AND her giveaway!

Have a great rest of the week.

Hugs,
Sonya

Valentine's Banner

2012-01-26T00:20:00.000-08:00

Hey sweet friends! This is a banner that I just finished from Nancy's class. It was a lot of fun to make and I have other ideas for more...if I get around to it!

I thought this fabric was perfect with the little cherubs on it. I had to add one too. I love the metal letters and knew I would use them for a Valentine's Day project. I attached a little heart locket on the "L".

This looks cute hanging on my headboard. It would be cute hanging across the fireplace too, if I had one still. :(

I still have a few more projects that I'm working on. Thanks for dropping by and for your sweet comments.

Happy hugs,
Sonya

Wonderful Gifts in the Mail~

2012-01-24T12:45:00.000-08:00

Hello dear friends. I checked my mail last night around 8:30 and found a envelope from my dear friend, Marie at Lost Bird Studio! I couldn't wait to get home and open it! I grabbed my camera and took pictures as I opened them. Most of you , I'm sure already know Marie. If you don't, you are missing out if you don't go visit her! She is always sharing her talent with us on her blog and if you're lucky (like ME!) she gifts them too! I so love her style! In the picture above she made a little bag with a vintage image of a beautiful lady with lace and mother-of-pearl buttons and a vintage clothespin with lace tied to it.

Inside the bag was this. I love how she uses vintage paper to wrap with.

This tag was attached to it. I love the image and this is what it said on the back of it...

This made me smile. :)

One of Marie's gorgeous journals.

With one of her adorable nests tied to it.

Inside the journal was this tag tucked in the side pocket.

This is what the tag said. Thank you, sweet Marie.

This is the back of the lovely journal.

I told you she is talented. My gifts are proudly hanging on my art wall in my craft room. I love every single bit. Thank you for thinking of me.

What have YOU been up to? I started my "Heartstrings" class that Nancy is teaching. I'm having a great time. I will be sharing a couple things I've been working on soon. If you are interested go check it out.

I hope you are all having a great week! It has been raining cats and dogs here! So great time to be in the craft room! :)

Love,
Sonya

My New Little Craft Room~

2012-01-20T18:41:00.000-08:00

Hello sweet friends! Can you see why I wanted to sit down and cry? My old craft room was 17x20 plus I had a 10x11 sewing room. Now...10x11 for both! Ahhh!

I had to decide what I was willing to part with and what I really wanted to keep. It wasn't easy...

This is the guest bedroom, I had to put some of my craft room stuff in here while I organized. It's not staying in here.

Yes, and into the hallway too! After almost two weeks, I'm finally done!

Ta-da! It looks a little better, huh?

This long table I will sew and do my soldering.

This is the closet that my hubby put shelves in for me.

I still have a lot of stuff, don't I? Well, I still needed some of it. :)

Here is my wall where I display all my wonderful gifts and purchases from my blog friends. I love this wall. I can sit in my chair and stare at it. Thank you, friends.

I'm very happy that it is finished. Except for the ceiling light. Hubby is going to put a better light up for me. One that will shine down on my work table. I didn't take a picture of my TV and DVD player on a shelf next to the closet because I hate electronics. It doesn't look bad though, just not very interesting.
NOW, I can get down to business! I signed up for Nancy Maxwell James' "Heartstrings" online class and it starts Sunday! I can't wait! It's not too late to join! Go see her! She is one talented artist! She'll be using a lot of Paper Whimsy products that are just fab-u-lous!
I still have the rest of my house to get put away too, but I got the important room done! lol.
What are you working on? I would love to hear about it. Thank you for stopping by and for your lovely comments!

Love,
Sonya

Pincushion From My Friend

2012-01-13T21:39:00.000-08:00

Hello sweet friends! Did you wonder what happened to me? Well, some of you know that I was in the middle of moving! Yuck! This move was hard because we moved from 3,000 sq ft. to 1,200 sq. ft. So I have boxed sitting everywhere! I wanted to take a picture of it all but I can't find my camera! It's in one of the boxes, but which one? But I did take pictures of this wonderful pincushion from my dear friend, Cindy from Blessings From Cindy. I love it. Cindy is the sweetest. We met through blogland and she ended up moving just around the corner from me. And then.... I move to a different town! Ugh! But we will still visit one another. We don't live that far apart!

She made this lovely tag as well.

I don't know about you, friends, but blogger has been giving me trouble ever since I've been back. It took me forever to write up this post and it ended up taking away one of my photos. So I think i will sign off for now, while I can!

I hope all is well with you, my friends. As soon as I get my craft room unpacked I plan on getting back to creating! I signed up for Nancy's class too! Go visit her. Her button is up at the top left hand corner. Just click on it.

I'm linking up with dear Beverly at How Sweet the Sound for Pink Saturday.

Happy Pink Saturday everyone,

Sonya

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2011-12-24T06:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday dear Jesus!

Hello dear friends! I just wanted to wish you the very merriest of Christmas' and may the New Year bring you much peace, love, good health and hope.

I bake a cake and place a little baby Jesus (from our Nativity set) on top of the cake and we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. My Grandson just loves that...and so do I.

I will be busy for the next couple of weeks but I sure hope you can come back and visit me. I love hearing from all of you.

God's blessings to you,
Sonya

Blessings From My Blog Friends~

2011-12-19T23:31:00.001-08:00

Hello dear ones! I couldn't wait to share my wonderful gifts I received in the mail yesterday. I checked the mail before I went shopping and wanted to wait til I got home so I could take photos. Do you know how hard that was not to open them?
The first thing I opened was this lovely Christmas tag that my friend, Marie at Lost Bird Studio sent me! Do you know her? Go visit this sweet talented gal! I admire her creations so much. I love this image of these little angels. Can you see the glitter too?

Thank you, dear Marie! Merry Christmas to you too!

The next was a package from sweet Sandy at Quill Cottage. You must go visit her too! She is such a gifted artist AND writer! You will love her and her blog.

If you've visited her before, you know that she recently had a giveaway and she giving these beautiful tags that she created just by using her scraps in her studio! Wow, huh?

I love all the textures and layers. Just beautiful.

This is the back of the tag. Don't you love embossed paper?

I had to take quite a few photos because I wanted you to be able to appreciate how beautiful this is.

Back of the gift tag.

She used this wallpaper for the gift wrapping. See the texture and embossing? Oh, I want this on my walls!!

When I opened this, I just about started to cry! It so, so beautiful!

She burnt the words, "Pocket Full of Dreams" in the wood.

There are pockets behind the front piece of the artwork.

So creative, isn't she?

Sandy used a piece of rusted barbed-wire for the branch that the birdie is sitting on. Isn't that wonderful?

I love embroidery work!

Real pods!

This is so beautiful, Sandy, I am in awe. I showed it to my husband and he said," It's really beautiful, isn't it?" For him to say that is a REAL compliment! :) When we move into our new home, this will hang in my living room. It goes perfectly. Thank you so much!

I don't know what's going on with blogger again but all of a sudden it's turning my photos sideways. I tried to fix them like I use to but it isn't working. Ok, blogger, FIX it! Thank you.-.- For that reason I couldn't share some of the photos.

Thank you for visiting today and letting me share my special gifts from my dear blogger friends, Marie and Sandy. Go visit their blogs and tell them how wonderful they are! :) I pray that YOU all have a very blessed Christmas.

Love,

Sonya

O Christmas Tree...

2011-12-15T21:57:00.000-08:00

Hello sweet friends! Just a short post this time. I've had this laying on my craft table for about 3 weeks and finally finished it, while babysitting my boy.

I used the Martha Stewart tinsel glitter. I love that stuff. The camera didn't even begin to pick up all the sparkle that the glitter gives off.

I would love to do a whole feather tree with cookie cutter ornaments. Wouldn't that be cute? ;) Maybe next year...if I remember.

Thanks for stopping by and for your sweet comments!

Blessings,
Sonya

Presents From Up North!

2011-12-14T21:16:00.000-08:00

Hello my dear friends! Just had to share a package I received in the mail from up north! No, not the North Pole. But Canada! Yes, if you've visited before then you probably know where this package came from! My dear friend, Katherine at Chatelet! Just look at all the goodies!! Can you say, WOW!? I sure did when I opened the box! I will warn you ahead of time, there are lots of pics. So I will try not to talk, I mean write too much.

Deacon was pretty happy about it too! Because she sent him Spiderman gifts! His favorite! He said "Thank you, Katherine!". :)

She sent me a LOT of sweets. Most of it I've never heard of before. These glazed gingerbread cookies are... I mean -were delicious! ;)

Deacon latched onto these real quick!

Ohhhh these are super duper yummy kids!

Yes, I'm sure I will be needing to wear my stretch pants...real soon!

I can't begin to tell you how yummy all of these sweets are!

I won't be using these dominos for crafting! :)

I wish I would have taken a pic of this when I opened it. It was beautiful. Did you get that? Was?

I have never ate black currants in my life and these were fabulous!

Oh and chocolate covered cherries! Mmmmm...

These shortbread cookies are wonderful with tea.

This present was wrapped so beautifully, I hated to mess it up.

I love the color of these dominoes. They have that aged look that I love.

Cute little lavender bag with...

this adorable little wooden bear inside!

Sissie is asking how this piece of cloth looks with her eyes. She thought it was hers.

Katherine wraps her gifts so artistically. Lovely.

She made this beautiful ornament that is now hanging on my tree.

I love the sparkle in this jewel!

I wish you could feel this paper! It is really thick like wallpaper. Love it. Tried to be careful when opening so I can use it in my crafts. I love the rose she made. And don't you love the rusted stars?

Deacon wanted to help open it.

Isn't this a gorgeous frame? Oh I just love pearls and bling!

Close-up view...

And this...

Yes, she made this ornament too, which is also hanging on my tree of homemade ornaments. She made the flower too, of course! I don't know if she made the doily but it wouldn't surprise me! They are gorgeous!

Guess what my New Year's resolution is going to have to be? ;) Notice the name on the box?

Doesn't it make your mouth water?

Isn't this pretty with the deer cut-out in the center? Darn it, I forgot to load the picture of what was inside this bag! It is called Tahin Helvasi. I looked it up on line to see what the words meant-plus I wanted to know what I was eating. It was a very important dessert in Turkey during the Ottoman period. It's a sesame paste that just melts in your mouth and my friends, it is so delicious! I had my friends in my bible study group taste it and they just loved it too.

A scrumptious chocolate Santa made in Germany. The chocolate is so smooth and creamy, it just melts in your mouth.

He was broken from the shipping but it made him doubly delicious! ;)

Beautifully wrapped once again...

Look what Katherine made? A beautiful altered perfume bottle!

Isn't he the cutest snowman? These photos do not do justice to this creation of hers!

What's this?

Oh how I love glittered things! Don't you?

Oh my....stars!

Now...can you say "WOW" ? Unbelievable, huh? Katherine, YOU are TOO generous and kind to me, dear girl! I am in sweet tooth heaven! Thank you SO much! You should have seen hubby's eyes when I showed him!

I had to take this pic of Deacon while he was watching a Christmas show. He looked like an angel (sitting still). :)

Sorry about the long post but how could I leave anything out? Isn't Katherine the sweetest? Go visit her and tell her hi for me! And go ahead, tell her how much she spoils me!

How is YOUR Christmas holiday coming along? I have been SO busy as some of you know. That's why I haven't been posting much lately, and I miss it! One reason is we sold our home! So it's been kind of crazy around here! Hopefully, by the end of next month things will be back to normal. I have a few packages that I am sending out to some of my blog friends and they probably won't make it in time for Christmas! But know they WILL get sent out! I have been thinking about you, my friends! I pray that you are all doing well.

Merry CHRISTmas to you all,
Love,
Sonya

Some Ornaments and My Little Chef~

2011-12-03T21:52:00.001-08:00

Hello dear ones! I wanted to share a couple of ornaments today. This little girl with butterfly wings is from Nancy's 12 Days of Whimsy at Sugar Lump Studio using Gale's Paper Whimsy images for each one. If you haven't visited either one of these sites, you just gotta! As of today, Nancy is on day 4 of the tutorials and did I mention that they are FREE!!? Yes, that's right, plus they will be posted for 6 months so you have plenty of time to work on these wonderful projects!

Sorry about these photos having such bad lighting. It was dark outside by the time I got around taking the pics. :( This looks so cute on my tree. Thank you, Nancy for the tutorials and thank you, Gale for the images!

I have quite a few of these tarts tins left over from last year and thought I would work on a few of these. I either gave away or sold the ones I made last year and I really like the way these sparkle under the tree.

I used German script for the background that I received from Marie at Lost Bird Studio (thank you!), a vintage earring, silver pipe cleaner,some German glitter on the edge of the tin, pearls from a broken rosary that I found at a garage sale, and a little charm that says "believe".

Next, I want to introduce to you, my new little Chef-in-training...

The Fabulous Deacon! His Mommy bought him an apron and he wanted to help me make tacos! :)

He was pretty proud of getting to help Grandma cook dinner. The tacos were great by the way!

I hope you are all doing well and enjoying the anticipation of Christmas. Are you working on any crafts? I would love to hear from you.

Thank you for visiting today and for your sweet comments!

Merry Christmas to you,
Sonya

I'm joining the Deck the Halls Sunday group at Artful Affirmations that Terri is hosting. Thank you, Terri! If you've never visited Terri, you MUST! She is so, so talented! And very sweet!

Happy Pink Saturday!

2011-11-26T11:02:00.001-08:00

Hello my Pink friends! Yes...another snowman ornament! This time I thought I would make her pink! In honor of Pink Saturday. Thank you Beverly for hosting again! :)

If you've never visited before, I purchased a snowman tutorial from Dawn at The Feathered Nest. They are so fun to make, as you can see from my previous post!

I didn't name this one. What would be a good name for her? Any ideas?

Have a fabulous Pink Saturday!

Hugs,
Sonya

Meet Chilly and Willy~

2011-11-25T21:11:00.001-08:00

Hello friends! I made a couple more snowmen and decided to dress them a little differently from the other ones that I've made.I gave them names too. The first one is Chilly. :]

And this one is called Willy.

I'm thinking about decorating my tree with just homemade ornaments. What do you think?
You can purchase the tutorial on how to make these snowmen ornaments at The Feathered Nest. Dawn's tutorials are very easy to understand. You'll love her and the beautiful things she makes.

So did you survive Black Friday? I did...I stayed home! :)A friend of mine came over to visit and I ordered pizza. Had it delivered! I knew it would be a nuthouse in town. I did my Christmas shopping online last year and plan to do the same this year. They are having great sales plus free shipping. Why not? It saves gas and did you hear on the news about people going crazy? One lady in L.A. sprayed pepper spray at 20 people because she didn't want them to get what she was after! Ridiculous! What is wrong with people? But for the brave ones that survived the day-I hope YOU remembered to have fun. There is nothing in the stores worth getting into fights for.

Thank you for visiting today. Have a wonderful weekend, dear friends.

Love,
Sonya

Happy White Wednesday~

2011-11-23T11:57:00.001-08:00

Hello friends! Just a couple things to share with you. I made this ornament last night. This first one on sewed onto a little 4 inch hanger. I bought these hangers a long time ago and figured it was time to use them.

Of course, I had to sprinkle it with a little Martha Stewart Tinsel Glitter. It's much prettier in real life.

This is a hangy thingy that I made using a Paper Whimsy image. I thought she looked like an angel so...she became one! I wanted her dress to look kind of like she was floating on a cloud.

The flowers she is holding matches the flowers in her hair.

A sprinkling of a little tinsel glitter is a must! :)

I'm joining Kathleen at Faded Charm for White Wednesday. Go see the others that have joined in, you will love what they are sharing!

Thank YOU for visiting me today and for your lovely comments.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Love,
Sonya

Letter Crazy!

2011-11-22T14:15:00.001-08:00

Hello my friends! Do you like using letters in your decor? I sure do! This was a lot of fun seeing how many different kinds of "K's" I could come up with. I made this one for my friend, Katherine at Chatelet.

I used old book paper, stamps and vintage buttons.

I love this blingy K! :) And the button with the black bead in the center.

See the bee that landed on the black "K"?

Katherine loves birds, so I had to add at least one!

All the vintage buttons are made out of metal and so is this letter "K".

I hope you like it, Katherine! :) I need to make me one now.

Are you ready for Thanksgiving? I'm asking my American friends. Canada had theirs already. What are your Thanksgiving plans? What are you thankful for? I'm thankful for your friendships and for visiting me. I'm also thankful for your lovely comments!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Many blessings,
Sonya

Another Birthday Surprise!

2011-11-15T23:23:00.001-08:00

Hello my dear friends! Can you believe it? Another birthday package in the mail! This time it was from my friend Rae-Marie! I met her when I was in the show Vintage Marketplace at Barb's Treasures From the Heart shop. We spent the day just blabbing back and forth and had a great time getting to know one another. We swapped some goodies with each other. I love doing that! :)

All the goodies she sent me were inside this cute little birdie box. Oh, yeah, this little box was wrapped in cheesecloth which will be great for my crafts!

This will be great to use for a Christmas project! :)

A cute little vintage matchbox.

Look what was inside it! I love these, Rae-Marie! She knew I would!

Don't you love vintage cards? They just don't make them like this anymore. In mint condition too.

A pretty handkerchief and little bird pillow.

Don't you just love birds! :)

She is precious as can be too! Perfect little size for a collage!

What do you think about this beautiful little coin purse? Love the pearls!

A darling nest. I just love the feathers inside the nest.

Adorable little perfume bottle.

Thank you SO much Rae-Marie! (((HUGS)))! I love every bit of my birthday gifts! You put a big smile on my face today!

And thank you all for stopping by and for your lovely comments. I enjoyed sharing my gifts with you.

What are you doing for Thanksgiving? Have a wonderful safe week.

Blessings,
Sonya

My Grandbaby in a Jar~

2011-11-06T11:46:00.000-08:00

Hello dear friends! I purchased a tutorial from the sweet Dawn at Feathered Nest quite a long time ago and I thought I would add my own touch to it. My Grandmotherly touch. Dawn provides the most adorable photo of a little baby girl but I thought, why not put my Deacon in my jar instead?

I just copied the picture in black and white and pinked up his cheeks a bit.

Rather than leave the lid plain I thought it would be cute to add some music paper inside the lid.

I think he looks pretty happy in my jar! :) Oh I miss him being this little!

Thank you for visiting today. I pray that you are all healthy and doing something fun! And your comments are always appreciated!

Blessings to you today,
Sonya

Surprise! Another Win!

2011-11-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

Hello dear ones! I know what you're thinking...I must enter every blog giveaway on earth! But really I don't! I just think I've really been blessed lately. And when I get my craft room presentable, I will take photos of my treasures from my bloggy friends! Oh, I just love look at that wall! So many talented ladies out there! Well, I'm sure there's talented men too but all of my goodies are from women. I won another ATC card from the OH SO talented, Laura at Artfully Musing. I know some of you that have also won her cards and they are just truly beautiful, aren't they? If you've never met her, you must go see what pretties she creates. You will be in awe, I promise! Here is my win:

She is called "Witchy Woman". I love how she always uses different textures in her work to add depth. The Fall color of this ATC is gorgeous and don't you just love Witchy woman's hat?

Thank you, Laura! I am very happily adding her to my collection of treasures!

I hope all of you are doing well! Are you getting ready for the Christmas holidays already? :) Creating anything new? Thank you for stopping by and for your dear comments!

Blessings,
Sonya

Lynn is Having a 3rd Blogaversary Giveaway!

2011-11-04T22:49:00.000-07:00

A wonderful antique book with charms, made out of brass. It has several pages, great for address book or favorite quotes.

Hello friends! I wanted to share Lynn's giveaway with you! I'm sure you know Lynn @ Trash to Treasure. She is celebrating 3 years of blogging! Her work is just amazing and I would love to win one of these fabulous creations!

She also has a surprise gift! Oh, I can't wait to see what it is!

She made this beautiful journal made with a rusted cover, vintage laces, a fabric transfer and other rusty bits and bobs. Isn't it gorgeous? :)

OR you can win this! A necklace she made out of rusted tin and a rusted hinge. It can hold a cherished note or a little trinket inside! Love it!

Here is something else you can win! ALL of these stamps! WhooHoo!

Pretty awesome giveaway, huh? Go see her and leave a comment! Make sure you read through and follow the instructions so you can win 2 other ways too. Mentioning it on your blog and mentioning the word BONUS in you comment can give you more chances to win. I sure hope I win! :)

Thank you to all of you who wished me a Happy Birthday! It felt like it lasted a week! :) But actually it was today! I appreciate all of your comments sweet friends. Have a wonderful weekend!

Love,
Sonya

Another Surprise in the Mail!

2011-11-02T21:24:00.000-07:00

Hello sweet friends! I have to tell you, that I'm getting pretty darn spoiled this week! Another one of my bloggy friends sent me a birthday package today! My friend, Marie at Lost Bird Studio, I'm sure you know her! If you don't, you must pay her a visit! She is very sweet (obviously) and very,very talented! Just look at the goodies!

She wrapped this little package so sweetly I hated to disturb it. I love the feather and so did my cat, Buddy! I was trying to take pics and he kept sticking his nose in trying to get the feather!

I know this little girl is a Paper Whimsy girl. She is just adorable-I love her!

This is the back of the hanging pic. Thank you so much, Marie. Can you see what it says on the side of it?

A vintage clothespin wrapped with lace.

This bird is darling with the wonderful background and lace.

What's in the bag?

Wonderful bits and bobs that I will definitely use in my crafting! Oh I love it!

More pretty lace with something inside.

Yippee! One of Marie's soldered pieces! I LOVE it! Isn't the girl so pretty? I love the flower and key too!

Don't you love that she stamped the back of it with her name?

I'm am just overwhelmed, Marie. Such beautiful gifts, my friend.

Buddy gave up on the feather. :) Isn't he a tubby? I just love him. He follows me everywhere like a dog (more like a child).

I just had to share with you, friends! I hope you are having a wonderful week too! I know I should have waited until Friday to open my gifts from Katherine and Marie but how could I?

Thank you again, dear Marie. I am truly blessed.

Love,
Sonya

It Sure Feels Like Christmas!

2011-11-01T23:32:00.000-07:00

Hello sweet friends! I came home yesterday afternoon to find to boxes on my front porch! Guess who they were from? If you guessed my friend, Katherine, then you are right! Go visit her blog, Chatelet and tell her hello and how wonderful she is! She told me that packages were coming and that she had sent them last Thursday. She said the postman reassured her that they would arrive in time for my birthday! Really? They arrived 4 days early! That was FAST! I sent her two packages awhile back and I think it took 3 weeks! I just had to share all the precious gifts she sent! Warning! There's a lot of pics, but I couldn't leave anything out. I'll try not to talk too much, k?

This beautiful package is for my bath-they're called Fairy cakes and fancies. I wished I would have taken a pic of the soaps! They look good enough to eat!

This sweet package had...

This beautiful journal that Katherine's daughter, Magda made me! I LOVE it! I can't believe this was her first one she's ever made! Thank you, Magda!

Isn't this a gorgeous rose? And the book...

Shakespeare in German! This book has such a beautiful texture to it too!

This lovely wrapped in silky material and a beautiful flower that I know Katherine made herself.

Gorgeous, isn't it?

Inside was this fragrant Floris candle with the hyacinth scent! Heavenly!

This precious pink package wrapped in a fabric that I can't think of the name of right now is so beautiful with the pink jewel attached.

Isn't this box fabulous? I love everything about it!

It contained this Honey Almond Shea Butter soap that I can't wait to try!

Some lovely french soap in Lilac, lavender and violet scents.

This wonderful lacey goodness was tied and a pearl gem attached to it.

Tucked inside were these lovely little salt and pepper shakers. I have a few of these that I love setting at the table for each place setting. It looks lovely in candlelight.

This adorable doily was tied up into a little ball and inside...

was this bath truffler scented with Fig and Pink Cedar. Mmmmm.

This beautiful tin was filled with delicious candies that Katherine made herself.

Heavenly scented sugar coated orange slices dipped in chocolate!

I just couldn't wait! I showed my husband and he said that I better give him one now, or there wouldn't be any left! :) He's probably right.

Dear Katherine made this too.

A little box holding my guardian angel inside!

Guess what was inside this pumpkin felt bag?

Yep! Candy! Delicious polish candy! Is your mouth watering?

I love this book, Katherine! Is that me on the front with the little poodle? :)

This awesome burlap bag with...

jars of apple/pear jam, plum/apple, plum/chocolate (yes, I said chocolate!) and a spicy papaya chutney like jam, that she made herself! I can't wait to try them!

This wonderful goody bag was for Deacon. He was SO excited!

He has part of his costume on. :) He LOVES Spiderman and is always pretending to be him.

A treat from Katherine's daughter Vanda. It makes BIG bubbles! He wanted to play with it right then and there. It was only 9:00 at night and it was pouring outside!

A puzzle book...

Candy with a glowing light on the top when you push a button.

Can you tell he liked it?

Deacon says, thank you Katherine and Vanda!! :)

This card that Katherine made me came in the mail yesterday too! Can you believe they all arrived together?

Thank you SO much my dear friend! You have made this a wonderful birthday week and have really boosted my spirits! I'm so thankful for our friendship. God bless you and your two lovely daughters.

I hope all of you dear bloggers are doing well. Are you getting ready for the Christmas holidays yet? I would love to hear about it!

Thank you for your prayers and well wishes for my husband. He is slowly getting his health back, praise God! I think the prayers are working on him!

God bless,
Sonya

Frosty the Snowman~

2011-10-30T23:11:00.000-07:00

Hello my bloggy friends! I purchased an online class in February of 2010. The course consisted of 12 tutorials from fabulous artists. Because of family tragedies last year I only got one tutorial accomplished and that was it. I recently dug them out of my file box and thought it was high time to give some of them a try. Most of you know Dawn from Feathered Nest. She offered a cute little snowman tutorial. This is my little snowman! ;) This was so fun make. If you're interested in trying this little project out, she still sells the tutorial in her Etsy shop, Sew Many Roses. Go visit her and tell her hi for me! The photo does not do the little snowman justice. He is sparkley with glitter so he will look beautiful under the Christmas lights.

My poor husband is suffering from pneumonia again and is quite ill. I would appreciate if you would send up prayers for him. I hope this post finds you all doing well and enjoying the anticipation of the holidays. Please stay safe on Halloween.

Thank you for stopping by and for your sweet comments you always leave me. I really appreciate each and every one!

Love,
Sonya

Doubly Blessed

2011-10-27T17:54:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends! You're not going to believe this! But it's true! I won, I actually won TWO giveaways! Yes, I know, I'm shocked! And over the moon too! One came clear from Denmark and the other from Colorado! They both arrived today! It felt like Christmas...or an early birthday.

The first giveaway that I won is from Dorthe at Den Lille Lade, if you haven't met her go meet her and tell her how happy I am! :)She is such an artist!She also has an Etsy shop called Den Lille Lade that you've got to see!There's a lot of pics so I will try to limit my blabbing and just let you look!

Thank you,dear,sweet Dorthe!

A crown for me!

She makes the most darling angels ever! Isn't she the sweetest? I love her!I need to give her a name.

Don't you love her little boots?

Goodies that dear Dorthe knows I will use!

I love her rusty halo!

And her rusty wings!

My second giveaway win is from Linda at Charmed Victorian. Another talented sweet lady that you need to meet if you haven't already. Tell her, too, how happy I am! :)She also has an etsy shop called Charmed One. I won two of her pendant creations. Plus she sent me some adorable gift tags, note cards and matching clothespins.

Look at the kitty's shoes!

Aren't they magnificent?!She makes these herself and sells them through her etsy shop. They are so beautiful, thank you, dear Linda!

I told you I was doubly blessed, didn't I? Isn't that something to win TWO angelic giveaways and they arrive the same day? :) I am so thankful that I have a blog and have met some truly gifted generous people. That share the love of creating and giving. I have developed some very dear friendships along the way. There is a special place in my studio that I display my gifts and wins from my blog friends. That way I can see them everyday. A great reminder to count my blessings. Each and everyone of you are blessings to me.
Thank you again to both of you, Dorthe and Linda. My heart is full.
I'm so glad you stopped by so that I could share my treasures with you. I appreciate your comments and your friendship!

Counting My Blessings,
Sonya

I Can Read with My Eyes Shut!

2011-10-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

Hello again, dear friends. Just another bookmark to share with a quote from Dr. Seuss' book, "I Can Read with My Eyes Shut".

I love this image of a little girl reading in a window seat with the sun streaming in.

When I was a child I daydreamed of the places I read about. Well, I still do! :)

Thank you for visiting me today and for your comments.

I hope you enjoy your coming week and do something creative.

Blessings,
Sonya

I'm linking up with Blue Monday at Smiling Sally!

Halloween Garage Sale Finds

2011-10-22T16:04:00.000-07:00

Hello my boo-tiful friends! :) I wanted to share some Halloween finds that I bought last year at garage sales. I'll tell you, that's the way to decorate your house! It's a so much cheaper way to go. This pumpkin guy in a boot I thought was so cute. Doesn't he look like a "Dee Foust" creation? Her creations aren't cheap either...but they are at garage sales! I bought him for 2 bucks!Whoo-hoo!

He's smiling, he thinks I got a good deal too!

Baby was reeealllly enthused about getting her picture taken.

I love the image on this box.

Mr. Mouse holding an acorn and an oak leaf.

Happy Haunting!

I know these aren't Halloween but aren't they cute?

Such a cute witch.

A Pumpkin girl holding her kitty.

A removable head so you can put candy inside the pumpkin.

This kitty and pumpkin stands about 21 inches tall.

It has sparkles all over it.

I found this witch too about the same height as the kitty.

I don't know if you can see the glitter on her.

This ceramic ghost looks awesome lit up at night!

I thought this strange looking pillow was so ugly, it was cute! Really heavy too. I wouldn't want to pillow fight with it!

Sissie Pants is not thrilled about the picture taking either...

Nikki bought Sissie this little shirt for Halloween. :)

Thank you for dropping by dear friends and for your wonderful comments.

I will be having a giveaway soon. It's about time don't you think? Hmmm, what should it be? I would love to hear some ideas.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Blessings,
Sonya

Seek...

2011-10-20T20:54:00.000-07:00

Hello sweet friends! I really love the Fall season and on my walks I'm always looking for things to bring home and hopefully incorporate into my crafts. I've had this drawer for awhile now and just loved the roughness of it. I painted it with creamy white paint. Just one coat as I wanted the wood to show through.

Isn't this a cool rusty handle? I painted over the word "glutin" and stamped the word "seek" I love the crackley finish the shows through the paint.

I found this piece of birch in one of my neighbors yard from their tree. Thanks neighbor! :) Then I stamped the words "Nature is the art of God".

This is a real nest that I bought at a garage sale! And the eggs are real quail eggs. I bought these at a store. I didn't realize they were real until I opened the package and saw the blow holes in them. :(

More goodies I found down by the river. I painted every piece with Mod Podge so they won't fall apart as they age.

Everything in this collage is from nature. I decided that last night while putting it together. I had planned to do something else and then I thought...what could be better than using the nature of God?

Do you enjoy nature walks? I sure do! So many wondrous things to appreciate and see. That's why I put the word "seek" on the handle.
I've been thinking about closing my blog and quitting my crafting. Do you ever think about that? I just wonder why I'm doing what I'm doing because I don't see the purpose. Like I'm not doing anything that matters to anyone else. Then I watched a movie last night and a person in the movie said "Creating doesn't always have to have a purpose-sometimes it's just the beauty of it".
I sure hope you enjoy your weekend and maybe take a nature walk. Thank you to all my followers and for all the sweet comments that you always leave.

Blessings Always,
Sonya

Dreams are a Wish Your Heart Makes

2011-10-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

Hello dear friends. I thought I would share another bookmark that I finished this morning.

I love the image of this Mother reading to her child. While she listens to her Mother, she is wishing and dreaming...

Did you like to be read to when you were a child? I sure did. I still listen to books on CDs while I'm working in my studio. So relaxing.

Since I used the words,"Dreams are a wish your heart makes", I also used heart-shaped lace on the bookmark.

You can never have too many bookmarks. They make great inexpensive gifts for Christmas too.

Thank you for stopping by and for your sweet comments. I hope you are enjoying your week.

Blessings,

Sonya

A Goodie in the Mail!

2011-10-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

Hello my dear friends! I wanted to share something that I got in the mail yesterday. Oh, I LOVE getting goodies in the mail! I'm sure a lot of you already know Kimberly at ArtJoyStuff. If you don't, you need to go visit her blog. You will love her! She is a paper and mixed media collage artist, and I love her work!Kimberly also has two etsy shops.

Why did she send this to me? Because SHE is a kind and thoughtful person. The tag has so many textures, and the pretty Fall colors and of course, the Paper Whimsy image...always love them! She sewed the little brown and white polka dot envelope for the tag too.

Thank you, Kimberly! I have it hanging on my wall in my studio!
Now, friends go visit her blog and her etsy shops...you will love her work and her.

Have a wonderful Wednesday.

Blessings,
Sonya

Cindy is Having a Giveaway!

2011-10-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

Hello blogger friends! I just wanted to share a giveaway that my friend, Cindy is having over at Blessings From Cindy. I met her not too long ago through my blog and found out she lives just a couple blocks from me! Isn't that something? So we go for walks and talk all the while. She is as sweet as can be and very talented. She is giving away the Memories Suite Digital Scrapbooking Software! So why don't you stop by her blog and become a follower AND leave a comment. Tell her I said hi!

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great week.

Love,
Sonya

A Bookmark

2011-10-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

Hello friends. Just a short post to share a bookmark that I made.

Do you read to know that you're not alone? I do. I love C.S. Lewis' quotes and his writings.

I hope you are all well and are finding time to create. I would love to hear about it! Thank you for being followers and for your wonderful comments.

On another note...

I want to say a special thank you for Cindy at Shabby Chic Girls' Club for featuring me on her blog! She is the sweetest! She is always thinking of others.If you haven't met her yet go see her and tell her hello for me. She is full of great information for women bloggers and she is a very talented artist as well.

Many blessings to you,

Sonya

Rusty Rooster Vintage is Having a Giveaway!

2011-10-12T22:09:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! Just wanted to pop in and tell you that my friend, Vicki at Rusty Rooster Vintage is having a giveaway! All you have to do is leave a comment on her blog. If you're not a follower that would be nice of you to become one too. She is sweet as can be and very talented! Tell her I said Hi and that she has to draw my name! Ha! Just kiddin'. Well, maybe I'm not kidding. Cause I would really like to win, okay? Just sayin'...
Anyway, one of the wonderful goodies is this beeswax collage. Isn't it lovely? And...

hand-dyed cheeesecloth in Fall colors. Love it.

PLUS, these yummy goodies too! Glitter in Fall colors, a package of suede, cord, and wire. And a mix of gorgeous beads to create anything your minds can come up with! Double click and you can see close-up.

Now do you see why I want to win? :) Just think what you can do with these items!

Thank you for stopping by. I sure hope you are all well and enjoying your Fall weather. And thank you for your sweet comments you leave me.

Happy creating,
Sonya

Just Something to Enjoy

2011-10-08T23:05:00.000-07:00

Hello friends. I just wanted to share this little video. The photography is magnificent and of course, Karen Carpenter's voice is too,singing, "Cresent Noon". Someone taken far too young. I hope you enjoy this.

Blessings,
Sonya

~A Memory Box~

2011-10-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

Hello friends. I made this piece last night and of course, I had to include a photo of my grandson.

I had to add this little playing card. Deacon's Dad use to call him Goose or Goosie. We still do sometimes.

I just love him in these bib overalls.

Thanks for stopping by and for the sweet comments that you leave!

I hope you are getting to enjoy some beautiful Fall weather and getting to create something with your hands.

Have a great weekend.

Blessings,
Sonya

I Won!

2011-10-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

Hello again, friends! I wanted to share a giveaway that I recently won! Have you met Laura @ Artfully Musing? She had a September giveaway and of course, I entered it! She is a fabulous artist and loves to share art from other artist too. I won this art-deco ATC! I love the red. Double click so you can see close up. I love the embellishments that she added to this card. Thank you, Laura! I love it!

This is the back of the card.

So, go visit her and tell her I sent you! :) She is having another fun October giveaway too. That's her button above. You can click on it and it will take you right to the post to leave a comment so you can try to win. You can sign my name on your comment...lol. Just kidding...although, I wouldn't mind winning again!

I hope your week is wonderfully creative. Thanks for popping in and for all the lovely comments.

Love,
Sonya

New Family Members!

2011-10-01T23:22:00.000-07:00

Hello sweet friends!! I just had to share the new family members at Nikki and Deacon's house! They are the cutest. I think Deacon is pretty proud, don't you?

This is Oliver. We went to Walmart and outside in a grocery basket they sat. Two month old toy poodles and both are boys.Nikki couldn't decide which one she wanted...so she took both! :P

This is Dudley. You should hear him bark!

They just love to play with Deacon. Biting and licking his ears and feet!

Can you tell Deacon is enjoying this?

Oliver loves to give kisses.

They love to be held.

I think they're tuckered out from all the playing. :)

So relaxed...

"Thank you, Mommy!" Deacon is saying! :) These babies have the sweetest dispositions. Very laid back. I think it will be good for Nikki and Deacon both to have these little ones in their new home.

Thank you for stopping by. I so appreciate your comments too! I hope you are all having pleasant Fall weather. Are you thinking about Christmas yet? I am! :)

Have a wonderful week!

Hugs,
Sonya

Mixed Media Collage and Photos

2011-09-24T08:29:00.000-07:00

Good morning, friends! I just had to take a photo of the sun coming up over the hill this morning. Remember to thank God for it. I stepped outside to take it and oh...the smell of Fall is in the air. After taking photos of the sunflowers and the little birds the other day it inspired me to make this...

This was so fun to make. I used old book papers, music paper and a piece of paper with french writing on it for the background. I also used acrylics, charcoal and ink. I wanted to sit a bird in the pot but couldn't find the right one. Maybe I will later.

I'm SO glad that you can double click on the photos again!

I found this darling photo at an antique store and had to have it and I wanted to share it with you. The back of it was written on. The little boy and girl are named Harold and Genevieve Russell and written beside their names it said "deceased". Children of John Russell, brother of Emma Russell-Davenport. It also has the name and address of Mrs. Markert Russell, 623 West Main St., Cherokee, GA. I wonder if there are any family members left? If I was part of this family, I would want this photo, wouldn't you?

Thank you for visiting today. If any of you know, Katherine at Chatelet, please pray for her as she has been very sick. Have a wonderful weekend, dear friends.

Blessings and love,
Sonya

Blackberry Junction

2011-09-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

Hello again, friends! My daughter, grandson and I went to the Blackberry Junction show in Albany so I thought I would share some pics with you. If you live in the Albany, Oregon area it's at 635 Water St. It will be open until the 24th from 10-6! They have something for everyone. I would tell you to double click on the pics to get a better view but I don't think we can anymore. Which really ticks me off. Why can't they leave things alone? I liked it the way it was. You get use to something and then they go a change it.

Aren't these purses the cutest? I love them! One of each please!

They were selling letters in a bag. I bought a couple. And my pics aren't in order, I don't know why. So bear with me please.

They had so much Halloween-ie stuff and Autumnal stuff. I love Autumn!

I could just see myself bringing this home. My lawnmower cat (Buddy) would have mowed this down in no time.

A vendor named Julie made these pillows. She always has some great ideas and does beautiful work.

Here's a closer view of the goodies on her pillows.

She made this little bird pin cushion out of a salt shaker.

Yes, this is a rat. I don't think I want one thank you.

I love this can-can slip lampshade.

Altered dolls.

Deacon posing in front of a cabinet. He wanted to go home.

This tray came home with me. Now it's loaded with all my little goodies.

I love this acorn napkins rings. I bought 8 for Thanksgiving dinner.

A cute little notebook with a tin type photo. Sweet.

I thought this was a cute saying on this little sign.

This photo should have been way towards the top of the post.Stupid blogger. Yes. These are my Ss'.

They had lots of beautiful plants. Do you see that awesome barn door at the back right? I want that. I wasn't for sale! Thanks for teasing me!

Hi Nikki! Deacon's playing with an old telephone. He LOVES the phones!

The screen sitting behind this dresser was so darned cute! It had french pictures on it.

How do you like these chairs? There's Deacon's phone sitting there on the table.

Cute legs!

I so wish you could double click on this. Well, if you want to go through the trouble you can click on the photo and save it and THEN look at it as large as you want. Yeah, sure you really want to do that, right? These were so pretty close up.

They really were.

I wanted this cubby for my craft room! But what if I move and it doesn't fit?

Well, I hope you enjoyed shopping! If you live around Albany, go check Blackberry out!

Are you working on any holiday crafts? I would love to hear. And if you don't want to leave a comment on my blog, my email button is on the side. Just click and write! Have a wonderful weekend.

Love,
Sonya

Before and After

2011-09-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

Hello dear friends! I thought I would share a few before and after shots of the front of our house and a few things that are growing in our yard!

This the wonderful muddy mess before. We had to dig up all the sprinkler system as "someone" had poked holes in quite a few of the pipes. It looked like pitch fork holes.

Isn't it lovely?

The shrubs WILL get bigger. But it is definitely low maintenance now. If we were staying here I would add more flowers and a little tree on the right corner.

We now working on the backyard.

The sunflowers are from the seeds that I feed the birds. I let them grow for the bees.

Rose of Sharon.

Sweet cherry tomatoes! Yum! See Sissie? She loves to smell them!

A little rose that was given to me by my Step-Mom. I love it and it will keep moving with me.

Another rose that I bought last summer and it blooms ALL summer until we get our first frost. I love it.

Black-eyed Susan.

A pretty "Stella" Lilly that smells divine.

They love the sunflower seeds...

She is sitting there patiently waiting her turn.

I leave you with a pretty a pretty setting sun. The colors remind me of Fall.

I hope you are enjoying your changing season. Are you busy crafting for the Holidays? I would love to hear about it.

Blessings,
Sonya