Bonnie Blue Bell

Today I'd like to share a picture of a little doll that my mother once played with.  It was hand made by either my grandmother or great grandmother in the 1940's.  I think it would technically be considered folk art today.   I really admire the handy needle work that was put into it.  I'm not sure how they colored her jacket and skirt flowers but they appear to be some sort of dye that was painted on. 
I think she is really sweet and like the fact that whoever created her added a ball in her hand.

If I were more talented with a needle, I'd entertain the thought of recreating her...I can picture other dolls with ringlets and holding kittens, puppies or flowers...

Bike Ride Scenery

My husband & I went on our first bike ride of the season.  We biked ten miles around Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun & Lake Harriet.  There are some really beautiful houses along the lake. We both agree that the scenery keeps us going because we're always waiting to get a glimpse of the next spectacular thing.  I stopped along the way to take a few pics. Here they are.  Enjoy!

This house even has a gargoyle to keep watch over the yard.  I do love gargoyles!

Oh yeah, let's not forget the lakes.  I can't say they were too stunning today because it was so cloudy...I'll share some pics of the lakes when we go back later this summer.  Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to collapse on the couch for some much needed rest!  

Focal Point

I once read that the focal point of any bedroom should be the bed.  So go all out and make that bed amazing.  Add some great pillows.  Layer the bedding using different textures.  Hang a beautiful blanket at the head or curtains as this creative person did.
This room is from a model home we toured recently. The bedroom was VERY small but the amazing decorating made it feel cozy. 

They used coarse burlap for the bed skirt.  The texture of it gave the room a fresh, spring like feeling.

This last picture is of the master bedroom in the same house.  It would be very easy to put this grouping together.  This picture doesn't do them justice but I fell in love with the plaster casts hanging above the bed.  I have no idea where to even find something like that...

Dining In Style

I love this book by Mary Carol Garrity!  She has a distinctive style that combines the new with the old to achieve casual elegance.  I'd like to share one picture from her wonderful book.

How sweet is this puppy next to his bowl?  You know he is loved if his owner chose to create such a delightful spot for him.  It inspired me to create something similar for my little Lester.  Of course, I completely over thought the project.  My initial thought was that a similarly framed piece of art would be a bit expensive.  However, rather than buying a pre-framed picture, I could have purchased a frame from Michaels and found a lovely greeting card to use... duh.
Well anyhow, here's what I came up with.

I simply cut a piece of wood to size, painted it and applied a design applique. Then I applied the L applique over the design.  I found the plaster cast at the dime store.  I remember how my Mom (who's no longer with us) used to love this little nook for my cat.  She thought it was quite cute.

Yum

 I recently celebrated my birthday and want to say thanks to my friends and family for making it such a special one. I made a cake to share with my co-workers and while I didn't get a picture of it, it got me to thinking of cakes I've made in the past.  I thought I'd share some pictures.

Oh by the way, congratulations to Laurie!  Despite overwhelming odds, she emerged a winner in the give away!!!!

Every Day Brings Something Beautiful

Do you ever catch yourself thinking it's grey, cold, foggy, cloudy or just not nice out?  I think that when adopting that attitude, we cheat ourselves out of experiencing something special.  Those are some of the best times for an early morning walk down a quiet street or country lane.  That's what I did yesterday and was amazed at the beauty I found. 

Enjoy your day, whatever the weather might bring!

Is there anybody out there? Give Away

OK, the counter at the bottom of this page keeps going up so I'm wondering who's checking out my humble blog.  Provide a comment on today's post & you could win this cute little guy! Give away ends Feb. 4th at midnight.

Today I'm wondering what your thoughts are on large wall art in a bathroom.  It's something I don't see very often...but kinda like.  The right picture can add a bit of elegance to a room that could otherwise be a bit boring.  What do you think?