My So Called Junky Life

What I Have Been Up To Today

2012-01-26T18:07:00.001-06:00

Today was one of those days. You know, where you don't get too much done. I spent the last couple of days cleaning because of an appraiser coming to look at our place.

I did get my tutorial for The Creative Patch finished today and if you want to learn how I made these shabby vintage inspired magnets you can go HERE to read!

The next few days will consist of me getting some projects done in time for Bottoms Up next weekend. Painting, staining, painting, pricing, painting, gluing, painting, cleaning old junk up, painting and making jewelry is on my agenda until next Wednesday so I guess that gives me 6 days to finish up my projects before I head on over there and fill my booth back up with lots of vintage goodies!

I was happy to find out that Beth of Gathering Dust will be selling her amazing finds next week too. I always find some great stuff in her booth to make jewelry with!

If I am not back before then, have a fabulous weekend!!

Inspired By..........

2012-01-23T15:53:00.000-06:00

Lately I have been inspired by rust, turquoise, leather, rustic decorating and cowgirls. Here are a few pictures I found on Pinterest that have inspired me with some new jewelry that I am working on.

Leather:

Source found on Pinterest

Turquoise on leather:

Source found on Pinterest

Turquoise with leather:

Source found on Pinterest

I have some fun new designs in the work and I will be sharing them soon!!

Jewelry For Me!

2012-01-10T17:06:00.002-06:00

As a jewelry designer, it isn't often that I create a piece for myself to enjoy. I have set out making something for myself, but then turn around and sell it because I am in business and I have to make money. Last month I came across this great store on Etsy called Lipstick Gypsy and fell in love with her customizable hand stamped spoon pendants and knew I had to have one!

Well it arrived in the mail and I loved it so much I bought another one for one of my besties, Amanda of Funkyshique. (Shhhhhh!!! Don't tell Amanda because she hasn't received it yet, but she never reads my blog so I figured I would share her necklace with you!) I had so much fun playing with these spoon pendants! Much different then the usual rhinestone piece, but I am very happy with the way both necklaces turned out.

Now I have a question for you readers. This dress form in the picture was a curbside find and boy was it ugly! It also has no base and I am still deciding whether I want to attach a base or not or leave her as a table top dress form. I decided to paint her white, but I am not sure I like this bright white look. Should I add a glaze or leave her as is? I was also thinking about adding a French/Paris inspired stamp, but wasn't sure if I should add it to the bottom or up by her neck area. Any thoughts?

The Ugly Messy Truth - Part 2

2012-01-09T19:47:00.000-06:00

Last year I shared with you pictures of my studio. You may remember that post HERE. Below is a little refresher as to what my studio looked like then.

Yes, quite a mess!

I was also contacted by so many other bloggers who appreciated my honesty and appreciated my beautiful mess. One of my goals for the year was to have it cleaned and organized by the end of the year. Well, as we all know, 2011 came to a close 9 days ago.

I have reflected on many things since New Years Eve. Time being one of them. Time passes so quickly. It hit me quite suddenly a few day ago that my once little baby will now be 12 years old next month and in middle school. He is a teenager in training and all I can hope for is the tenacity to see him through what can be tumultuous years in a person's lifetime.

Where did the time go?!?1

My youngest who is now six say such poignant things at times and I wonder how a little person can be so wise in his short little lifetime. He used to be this little bundle that I could hold in one arm and now he is this little person full of insight and perspective that I didn't even know little children could have.

Where did the time go?!?!

Time...........

It passes so quickly. There is that saying that we should all take time to smell the roses. My goal for this year is to simplify. I want to take more time to smell the roses and cut out some of the day to day junk and have my days filled with joy and laughter from my boys.

This also means I plan on simplifying other aspects of my life:

Cut out the drama that certain toxic people bring into my life.

Find joy in the simpler things in life.

And organize and de-clutter the house and my studio.

Which brings me back to the Ugly Messy Truth - Part 2.

The truth is I was not able to accomplish my goal last year. I did not get my studio organized and cleaned up as I had hoped. Its worse!!! You can see for yourself, as this picture was taken tonight!

This year will be a journey for me, some of it personal, but I also hope to be able share some of that with you over the next year. The first thing on my list to begin simplifying my studio and de-junk-ify it. I plan on taking lots to my booth, but also adding lots of supplies onto my Etsy and sharing some of my own personal stash with everyone. By this time next year I plan on showing you a pared down and simpler studio that will run parallel to my new philosophy in life.

Here's to a simpler and happier 2012!!!

Bottoms Up January 2012 Booth Pictures

2012-01-05T23:19:00.000-06:00

2012 is in full swing at Bottoms Up and booths have been primped for the new year! We have several new vendors this month, as well as all our oldies but goodies as well! This month, I spent more time just moving stuff around, rather than adding lots of new items ---- I just didn't do much junking in December and instead focused on Christmas with the kiddos.

I did make some new bulletin boards out of old painted frames and burlap and raided my garage, studio, living room and bedroom for smalls and small pieces of painted furniture.

These lanterns made out of old canning jars were a cinch to make. I will be adding candles in them during the weekend and I am looking forward to the warm glow that they will be giving off.

Have a beautiful weekend!!

Dreaming of Junk 2012 Calender

2012-01-04T23:16:00.001-06:00

A while back, Beth of Gathering Dust told me that one of the pictures that she had taken from my booth was going to be featured in Sue of Vintage Rescue Squad's Dreaming of Junking 2012 Calender.

*images are borrowed from Beth's blog

Imagine my surprise today when I went out to the mail box and found a package from Beth with the calender with this beautiful picture that Beth took! I am so honored that Beth took this picture and that it was selected as part of this gorgeous calender. Thanks Beth and Sue!!

Each month features a gorgeous picture of some beautiful "junk" as well as a great list of antique show dates throughout the year. You can find the calender in Sue's Etsy shop!!

Bottoms Up - This Weekend!!

2012-01-02T21:11:00.002-06:00

This weekend is the first sale of 2012 at Bottoms Up!!

2011 was a great year down at the West Bottoms in Kansas City and 2012 is sure to be even better!!!! If you are planning a trip to the Kansas City area this upcoming year, check out all our dates below and be sure to come a visit!!!

Hope to see you soon!!

2012

2011-12-31T21:02:00.000-06:00

(Source - http://whitemarketblog.blogspot.com)

I have been MIA lately because the kiddos have had a case of the sickies. It started before Christmas and has lasted off and on for the past couple of weeks. They are doing better, but plans that I had to post some fun New Years Even tutorials on The Creative Patch didn't happen. Stomach bugs, pink eye, fevers and boogery noses needed tending to instead.

We are laying low tonight, and will be celebrating it Elder style. This generally means my husband is asleep by 9:30 and the boys stay up with me until midnight and toast the New Year with sparkling apple cider.

I hope everyone has a wonderful 2012!!!

Rudolph Sandwiches

2011-12-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

Please come join me on The Creative Patch as I share how to make Rudolph Sandwiches with my little one.

Happy Holidays!!

25

2011-12-12T16:10:00.002-06:00

I came across these vintage sign numbers today while cleaning my studio this morning. These are perfect for Christmas being that Christmas falls on December 25th!

You can find these in my Etsy store HERE.

If you are looking for something a little more shabby chic, I whipped out a bunch of these vintage inspired wreath ornaments. These are made from vintage wreaths that I bleached, lots of mica flakes give them a pretty vintage inspired feel as well as vintage mercury glass garland beads in pink, blue and silver.

These can also be found in my Etsy store HERE.

I hope you are all having a wonderful stress-free week. I have so much to do and only 12 more days to get it done. I still need to finish up my decorating, but I did finally get my tree decorated after having it up for 5 days with just lights on it and nothing else!

Bottoms Up - December Booth Pictures

2011-12-08T16:07:00.001-06:00

I am running late this month in getting my pictures posted for the December Show at Bottoms Up in Kansas City. This past weekend was the show and it was amazing!!! All the booths were decked out for Christmas and the booths looks fantastic.

Go check out some more pictures on Carol's blog Raised in Cotton's blog. She has a couple of posts and you can read them HERE and HERE. Carol had an amazing booth and she will be back next month!

I made these trees out of some salvaged barn wood that I purchased at an estate sale. I was inspired by a blog called Wood & Wool Stool located in the Netherlands. Check her blog out - her work is amazing!!

These cones and Eiffel Tower ornaments are smothered in German glass glitter. To see a tutorial on how I use German glass glitter go to The Creative Patch. You can find my tutorial HERE and other amazing tutorials by other artists as well.

I hope you are all having a happy and wonderful week.

You Are Loved

2011-11-21T18:53:00.001-06:00

I am angry, sad, horrified, proud, and grateful right now. I am feeling a lot of mixed emotions right now and feel the need to express to you all how I am feeling and why. My son came home from school today and shocked me straight to tears. You see a boy in his class, 11 years old mind you, and one of his best friends told him and a few other friends today that he wanted to kill himself. My son and several of his other friends thankfully had to fortitude to tell their teacher right away what this young man had told them and they were able to start the process today to get him the help that he needed.

Now I am not certain that this boy really intended to "go through with it," but that is besides the point. No person, boy, girl, man, woman should ever feel that suicide is the answer. My son tells me that this young man is depressed and is harassed a lot for being "different" and he is called names such as retarded on a regular basis by many of his peers in their class. He and his friends met with the school counselor this afternoon to talk things through and I am glad that the school administration and his teacher handled things quickly.

I hate to say it, but the use of mean and hateful words are so common these days. You see it on t.v., in movies, music, the internet, as well as hear classmates, friends and family members use derogatory terms on a regular basis. Retard, gay, and bitch, homo, and slut are just the tip of the iceberg or words that are used to harass, hurt and ridicule people and it isn't okay.

ITS NOT OKAY.

These words are never justified. Ever. As a parent I worry about my boys and this afternoon I took some time to remind my son about the importance of kindness and love.

It is important to remember that no matter what you are called or how often you are bullied that you are loved. I am so thankful that this young man reached out to my son and his friends today. Always remember, your parents love you. Your brothers and sisters love you. Your grandparents love you. Your friends love you. Your teachers love you. There is always someone there to help you - all you have to do is reach out to them and they will be there for you.

Remember............

YOU ARE LOVED.

(SOURCE - CLICK HERE)

Pink Christmas Tree

2011-11-07T19:55:00.001-06:00

I have gotten a lot of inquires about this pink Christmas tree in my booth at Bottoms Up. I am sad to say it is not vintage/antique. I bought this last year on clearance at Kohl's. They do have this tree again this year and you can find it HERE or most likely at your local Kohl's store.

Yesterday on The Creative Patch, we shared our kits for the month of November. Here is mine:

This is a beautiful vintage inspired shabby chic Christmas wreath ornament. You will receive a vintage wreath that I have already bleached for you, mica flakes and vintage mercury glass beads in pink, silver and blue/aqua.

If you haven't checked out the blog yet, please do so! We offer free tutorials through out the month and there are some beautiful tutorials coming up the next couple of months you will not want to miss! Be sure to check out Sheila's and Heather's kits and blogs as well!

Booth Pictures - Bottoms Up November 2011

2011-11-03T21:45:00.000-05:00

Its that time again! Tomorrow and Saturday I will be selling my vintage goodies at Bottoms Up in Kansas City

This is my favorite time of the year and I have started decorating with vintage mercury glass ornaments and handmade bottle brush trees.

I am hoping to expand my booth next month. I will be staying in the same spot and taking over part of another booth next to me. I am happy that I will be able to get more pretty junk out of my garage and my husband will be even happier!

And before I forget, tomorrow morning be sure to check out The Creative Patch Blog and see my German Glass Glittered Gift Box tutorial!

Vintage Assemblage French Inspired Gypsy Boho Earrings

2011-10-26T18:00:00.000-05:00

Recently I have been inspired by the boho/gypsy earring trend that I have been seeing on Anthropologie and other online stores. Here are a couple of earrings that I found myself drawn to:

Source: HERE

Source: Here

I was playing around the other day with earrings and I was inspired to try to create my own gypsy/boho inspired earrings, but with vintage findings. I was drawn to vintage French souvenir bracelet links and vintage rhinestone findings and found myself making long chandelier and dangle style earrings. Here are some of the designs that I came up with:

My dad is coming to visit for the next week, so I am not sure how present I will be, but I will be back soon with lots more pictures of things that I have been working on!

Shabby Chic Christmas Wreath

2011-10-25T17:15:00.000-05:00

A little sneak peak on something that I am working on. All year long I shop at estate sales and garage sales and pick up bags of vintage mercury glass ornaments and stash them away. This year I decided it would be fun to make a shabby chic Christmas wreath out of my favorite vintage ornament colors pink, blue/aqua and silver. I did this in a matter of a few hours this afternoon when I should have been cleaning since my dad is coming to visit tomorrow. It isn't finished yet, as I still need to add some more vintage mercury glass ornaments to fill some empty spaces, but its getting there.

I hate to part with this, but it will be for sale next month at Bottoms Up, as I can't keep everything that I make or I would be close to being on Hoarders if I did. But if it doesn't sell I don't mind using for the upcoming Holiday season either!

Artful Adventure's Handmade Ornament Swap

2011-10-17T20:01:00.000-05:00

My amazing and talented friend Cassandra of Artful Adventure is hosting a wonderful handmade Christmas ornament swap on her blog. I have already signed up and I encourage everyone/anyone to sign up for this swap. It will be amazing!!

Go to her post here and get all the details! Hope you will be joining us!!

Kid's Corner Spooky Bookmark Tutorial At The Creative Patch

2011-10-17T18:07:00.001-05:00

BOO!!!!!!!

Come check out my Kid's Corner Spooky Bookmark Tutorial at The Creative Patch! This is a perfect easy and fun craft to do with your kiddos or grandkiddos!!

Barn at Kelsey Farms

2011-10-15T20:36:00.003-05:00

Today I went to a really awesome sale called the Barn at Kelsey Farms. My friends Melinda and Sandee were both selling there so the boys and I went to visit them and do a little bit of shopping too!

Yes - this barn has pink and white striped doors!

There was lots of shabby vintagey goodness to choose from! Lots of white with some pink, blue and aqua mixed in.

I thought this was a really neat idea. An old wagon bed was attached to an old sewing base. Amazing!!

There were so many amazing things to be found here at this sale - look at that old Chevrolet grill from an old truck! This was part of Melinda's booth and I don't think she plans on parting with that anytime soon.

I came away with some really great shabby white pieces that I will be adding to my booth next month at Bottoms Up. After that some we hit up some garage sales and overall had a great junking day. Tomorrow we are headed up to Weston to their Irish Fest and I hope to get some shopping done up there at their antique malls. I have been having good luck lately and I hope the luck holds!

Have a happy weekend!!

Necklaces!!

2011-10-12T23:49:00.000-05:00

Its been a while since I have shared any new jewelry designs with you. Lately it seems like I have been making jewelry for my booth and not even getting it up on my blog or on Etsy. But today I spent a good part of the day taking pictures, editing and listing these necklaces. I hope you like them!

Moms Fighting Bullying

2011-10-10T11:39:00.002-05:00

My friend Karley recently shared on her blog about how her son has been bullied to the point that when he had tried to run away from him he slipped and fell and ended up knocked unconscious and with a concussion. I absolutely feel for her because I was bullied as a child and my oldest has also been bullied. You can read our stories below:

http://mysocalledjunkylife.blogspot.com/2009/11/words-can-hurt.html

http://mysocalledjunkylife.blogspot.com/2010/10/it-gets-better.html

Karley has started a blog called Moms Fighting Bullying as well as a Facebook page here. Please read about her story and why she was inspired to do something about bullying.

Too many times a child has bullied, harassed or hurt someone and it gets chalked up to "kids will be kids" or that its "normal" for this sort of thing to happen. Bullying is not normal, and when you see young children acting out this way, I have come to believe that it is a learned behavior and that parents, moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, and all other family members need to step up and not excuse this kind of behavior. Parents are the key in bullying prevention, so talk to your kids and tell them its not okay to call names or to make fun of someone because they are different. Talk to your children and teach them that hitting, pushing, or kicking is not okay. But it also goes beyond just talking to your kids, You also have to be the change you want to see in the world. Don't scream or flip off the person who just cut you off, don't use derogatory comments, even innocent sounding ones that are used everyday like "gay" or "retarded" or "stupid" can have long lasting effects.

Bullying is becoming all to common in this society. Whether its at school, home, in the media, or online its not acceptable. Its time that we as parents, grandparents, friends, Americans and human beings stand up and say enough is enough!

Bottoms Up - October Pictures

2011-10-07T21:54:00.000-05:00

Today was the first day of our October sale at Bottoms Up. It continues tomorrow and there are still lots of great things to find! In my booth, I did very well today and I had to do a lot of moving around and adjusting (which is a good thing!). I was kept pretty busy today and wasn't able to get a lot of good pictures, but here are a few that turned out okay.

Bottoms Up - October

2011-10-06T15:33:00.001-05:00

I will be selling at Bottoms Up this weekend! Pictures of my booth are coming soon!

The Creative Patch - Kit Reveal

2011-10-06T07:30:00.000-05:00

Today is our first kit reveal at The Creative Patch! Head on over there to see all the details!!

The Raven - Tutorial

2011-10-03T07:35:00.000-05:00

Come check out my tutorial at The Creative Patch!

Don't forget to enter our amazing giveaway HERE!!

The Creative Patch!!

2011-10-01T22:30:00.003-05:00

I am a little late in the game, but I did want to announce that today was the very first tutorial at The Creative Patch!

Check out Sheila's cute Boo Baskets and enter not one, not two, but THREE giveaways!!!

Click Here and you will be taken to the blog!!

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner.........

2011-09-27T22:22:00.003-05:00

I have been having technical dificulties along with a busy weekend, but I do need to announce the winner of my earring giveaway!

Ann of Duct Tape and Denim is the lucky winner!!!

Congrats!!

The Creative Patch

2011-09-22T16:15:00.001-05:00

I am pleased to announce a new fun blog called The Creative Patch!! Sheila of Blessed and Distressed and Heather of Speckled Egg and I will be collaborating on this fun new project! Each month the Creative Gardeners will will feature free creative tutorials and special kits to help your creativity bloom. We will also have special guest Gardeners as well and during the month of October Leah of Family Matters & Everyday Chatters will be joining us.

Starting October 1st we will begin to bring you spooky tutorials with a Halloween theme and amazing kits will be for sale on October 6th! Some tutorials that we will be offering are themed that relate to the month, trash to treasure, kid 's corner, digital downloads and lots more!

We’ve created this cute blog button so that you can add The Creative Patch link to your blog.

See you back here on Oct 1st!

Bead Soup Blog Party

2011-09-17T14:06:00.002-05:00

Today is the big reveal of the 4th Bead Soup Blog Party. The way this works is that you get a partner and send them a focal, clasp and some beads and then make something out of what you have received. You must use the clasp and focal and everything else is up to you.

My partner Salla of Blog By Salla sent me these:

I made several sketches of what I planned to do. I had plans to make a really "artsy necklace" and I wanted to try some new techniques that I have seen on other blogs, as well as incorporate some black silk ribbon that I had, make some bead dangles with the little beads that Salla had provided and use some of my chunky brass chain that I have had for a while. But as jewelry designers know, things don't always go as planned.

I had trouble with the beads - they didn't dangle right when I attached to them to the necklace. The clasp was really big and no matter what I did, I couldn't get it to look right in either a bracelet or necklace, The chunky brass chain was too chunky and didn't work with the delicate black silk ribbon I was trying to use. My sketches we a big mess and it wasn't working for me. So I put everything to the side and left it there for a while to give me some time to think it over. Then Lori sent out an email to all the participants with different tips/hints and one of them was rather than to use the clasp as a clasp, to incorporate it into the design somehow.

So here is the final piece:

I used the clasp as part of the necklace and ended up making a charm necklace with one of the keyhole charms, a hand connector where I cut off one of the connections and made into a charm And of course I had to add some vintage rhinestones, so I made a little dangle using a vintage rhinestone findings and a tourmaline faceted nugget.

To be honest, I was unhappy in that I had envisioned one thing and it didn't work out that way. It is much simpler that I planned on it being, but I do have a necklace that I will wear. I am glad that I figured out a way to use the clasp in a non-traditional way and the bead soup was a challenge for me and that of course is the point of this bead soup swap!

To see what my partner made you can see her post HERE

To see all the other participants you can click on the links below or go the the official bead soup list HERE

The Hostess, Lori Anderson and her partner, Manuela Wutschke

1. Aimee Wheaton and Barbara York
2. Alice Craddick and Sandra Richardson
3. Alison Sachs and Amy Severino
4. Allison Scott and Cynthia Abner
5. Amanda Cargill Austin and Charlene Sevier
6. Amanda Davie and Patsy Evins
7. Amber Dawn and Kim Ballor
8. Ambra Gostoli and Christine Hansen
9. Amy Freelandand Christine Altmiller
10. Ana Krepel-Novak and Eleanor Snare

11. Andrea Morici and Hope Smitherman
12. Andrea Trank and Jayne Capps
13. Andrea Turini and Charlene Jacka
14. Angela May and Emanda Johnson
15. Anitra Gordy and Elizabeth Owens Dwy
16. Ann Rishell and Debbie Price
17. Ann Sherwood and Lynne Bowland
18. Anna Lear and Barbe Saint John
19. Anna Sabina and Erin Siegel
19. Nan Emmett and Erin Siegel
20. Astrid Boyce and Birgitta Lejonklou

21. B.R. Kuhlman and Deanna Chase
22. Barbara Bechtel and Bryna Lumb
23. Barbara Blaszczyk and DaviniaDesign
24. Barbara Judy and Holly Westfall
25. Barbara Lewis and Cathie Carroll
26. Barrie Edwards and Lyn Foley
27. Becky Fairclough and Jana Tarhala
28. Bella Borgouise and Gillian Lehman
29. Beth and Evie McCord and Erin Prais-Hintz
30. Beth Bricker and Heather Pyle

31. Beth Emery and Cassie Donlen
32. Bobbie Rafferty and Cindy Cima Edwards
33. Candice McGinnis and Sally Anderson
34. Carol Bradley and Cece Cormier
35. Cathy Khoury and Molly Alexander
36. Carol Tannahill and Hilary Frye
37. Carrie Tahquechi and Cris Peacock
38. Cat Pruitt and Cindy Gimbrone
39. Charlene Gary and Doris Stumpf
40. Charlotte Pevny and Kate Gardenghi

41. Cherrie Fickand Cathie Carroll
41. Claire Maunsell and Cherrie Fick
42. Cheryl Roe and Jenny Vidberg
43. Chris White and Norma Turvey
44. Christa Murphyand Kathy Alderfer
45. Christie Murrow and Dana James
46. Christina Miles and Collette Collins
47. Christine Brandel and Elizabeth Woodford
48. Christine Damm and Cynthia Deis
49. Christine Hendrickson and Debbie Goering
50. Christine Stonefield and Dee Wingrove-Smith

51. Cilla Watkins and Johanna Rhodes
52. Cindy Wimmer and Riki Schumacher
53. CJ Baushka and Cory Celaya
54. Courtney Breul and Joanna Matuszczyk
55. Cristi Clothier and Kathleen Robinson Young
56. Cryss Thain and Serena Trent
57. Cynthia Tucker and Kitty Durmaj
58. Dana Johnson Jones and Eva Sherman
59. Davinia Algeri and Janet McDonald
60. Deci Worland and Lara Lutrick

61. Diana Ptaszynski and Kristy Abner
62. Diane Cook and Kerry Bogert
63. Diane Hawkey and Jen Judd Velasquez
64. Dorcas Midkiff and Jill Harris
65. Doris Radlicki and Heather Goldsmith
66. Dot Lewallen and Gaea Cannaday
67. Elisabeth Auld and Jennifer Justman
68. Erin Fickert-Rowland and Geanina Grigore
69. Erin Grant and Julie Jones
70. Eszter Czibulyas and Helena Fritz

71. Fiona Christie and Michelle Heim
72. Gail Zwang and Genea Crivello-Knable
73. Geneva Collins and Jana Haag
74. Gretchen Nation and Heidi Post
75. Heather DeSimone and Karin Slaton
76. Heather Marley and Terry Carter
77. Ingrid McCue and Jennifer Pride
78. Jackie Ryan and Nicole Keller
79. Janna Harttgen and Joanne Tinley
80. Jean Yates and Lori Anderson

81. Jelveh Jaferian and Jenny Davies-Reazor
82. Jenni Connolly and Jennifer Heynen
83. Jennifer Cameron and Kristi Bowman
84. Jennifer Geldard and Lisa Liddy
85. Jennifer VanBenschoten and Kim Hora
86. Jess Italia Lincoln and Lori Greenberg
87. Jill MacKay and Lori Bergmann
88. JJ Jacobs and Karen Tremblay
89. Joyce Becker and Kathy Welsh
90. Judy Glende and Karen Sinkowski

91. Judy Riley and Kelly Morgan
92. JuLee Wolfe and Julie Bean
93. Julianna Cannon and Julianna Kis
94. Julie Nordine and Lesley Watt
95. K. Hutchinson and Shea Zukowski
96. Karen Firnberg and Karyn Bonfiglio
97. Karen Williams and Kimberly Roberts
98. Karen Zanco and Polly Barker
99. Kari Carrigan and Laura Twiford
100. Karin von Hoeren and Laura Blanck

101. Kate Richbourg and Lorelei Eurto
102. Kathleen Lange Klik and Maria Clark
103. Kathy Engstrom and Keri Lee Sereika
104. Kay Thomerson and Loretta Carstensen
105. Kelley Fogle and Laurel Bielec
106. Kelly Ramstack and Sally Anderson
107. Kim Stevens and Tiffany Long
108. Kristi Harrison and Mandy Williamson
109. Kristi Kyle and Lana Kinney
110. Kristina Johansson and Sue Hodgkinson

111. Kym Hunter and Laura Sanger
112. Laura Zeiner and Susan Kennedy
113. Laurel Stevenand Mary McGraw
114. Laurie Hanna and Lisa Boucher
115. Lesley Weir and Liz DeLuca
116. Linda Djokic and Tracey Weiser
117. Linda Inhelder and Pam Brisse
118. Linda Landig and Lori Dorrington
119. Linda Murphy and Lisa Hamilton
119. Line Labrecque and Marianne Baxter
120. Lisa Lodge and Monica Johnson

121. Lois Moon and Melissa Muir
122. Lola Surwillo and Therese Frank
123. Lori Bowring Michaud and Marci Brooks
124. Lupe Meter and Norma Agron
125. Maggie Towne and Marge Beebe
126. Malin de Koning and Susie Hibdon
127. Mallory Hoffman and Shirley Moore
128. Marcie Abney and Patty Miller
129. Marcy Lamberson and Melissa Clarke
130. Margot Potter and Suzann Sladcik Wilson

131. Maria Grimes and Wendy Blum
132. Maria Horvath and Melinda Orr
133. Maria Rosa Sharrow and Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp
134. Marian Hertzog and Melissa Mesara
135. Marianna Boylan and Sandi Lee James
136. Marina Dobrynina and Michaela Pabeschitz
137. Marsha Neal and Miri Agassi
138. Mary Ellen Parker and Melissa Meman
139. Mary Elliott and Tamara Soper
140. Mary Hicks and Laurel Steven

141. Melissa Pynn and Michelle Buettner
142. Michelle Hardy and Niki Meiners
143. Michelle Mach and Moira McEvoy
144. Missy Rappaportand Mags Sarri
145. Molly Alexander and Poranna
146. Mylene Hillam and Nicole Rennell
147. Nadezhda Parfyonova and Stacey Curry
148. Nan Emmett and Nancy Peterson
149. Nancy Boylan and Natalie McKenna
150. Natalie Monkivitch and Niky Sayers

151. Natasha Lutes and Pam Ferrari
152. Noemi Baena and Penny Ilagan
153. Pamela Petry and Rebecca Sirevaag
154. Pat Haightand MaryShannon Hicks
155. Patty Gasparino and Vonna Maslanka
156. Penny Neville and Sandi Volpe
157. Pepita Bos and Wendy Chamberlain
158. Raida Disbrow and Rebecca Watkins
159. Rebecca Anderson and Sabrina Staub
160. Regina Santerre and Rose Binoya

161. Rhea Freitag and Tari Kahrs
162. Rochelle Brisson and Teri Baskett
163. Sally Russick and Tracy Bell
164. Sandra McGriff and Shay Williams
165. Sandra Wolberg and Sara Hardin
166. Sarah Elder and Salla Small
167. Saskia Kaffenberger and Sharon Gardner
168. Sharon Palac and Shannon Chomanczuk
169. Shay Stone and Suzette Bentley
170. Shiraz Biggie and Tammy Powley

171. Staci Smith and Tracy Stillman
172. Stacie Stamper and Tracy Martin
173. Stefanie Teufel and Vicky Taylor
174. Stephanie Dixon and Stephanie LaRosa
175. Stephanie Haussler and Valerie Norton
176. Suzanne Tate and Terri Wlaschin
177. Sweet Freedom Designs and Tammy Jones
178. Tania Spivey and Tari Sasser
179. Tara Plote and Terry Matuszyk
180. Terri Gauthier and Deana Hager
181. Theresa Fosdick and Tracey Nanstad

Junky Jewelry Finds

2011-09-17T01:12:00.000-05:00

I have had a case of the blahs all week. I hadn't done anything or gone anywhere.......literally. I have spent most of the week sitting on the couch or laying in bed, not getting anything done like cleaning, dishes, jewelry stuff, junking or pretty much anything else. Pretty much my days have consisted of getting the kids up and ready for school, t.v., more t.v. and even more t.v. and then going outside to wait for the bus for the boys to get home and then more t.v. and then making dinner and then more t.v. and then to bed. This has been going on since Monday. I should be getting Halloween stuff made for my booth as well as cleaning because my mom and her husband are coming to visit early October. I have so much on my list to do, but no desire or energy to do it.

Yeserday morning I decided to "force" myself to get up and actually do something. I got some coffee, went to a few garage sales and estate sales and found some stuff for my booth as well as some pretty vintage jewelry for my designs. Its so weird how I can almost never find this stuff anymore at a decent price at sales and then all in one day I find a bunch of junk jewels. Here is some of what I bought today - not all of it - which doesn't include a gorgeous rhinestone belt I found as well!

Here are some of my favorites:

Don't forget to enter my Not One But Two Pairs of Earrings Giveaway HERE!

Not One But Two Pairs of Earrings - Giveaway!!!!!!

2011-09-15T17:19:00.000-05:00

Yes that is right! One lucky gal or guy will win these two pairs of earrings. Maybe you will wear one pair and will give the second pair away as a gift, give both at a gift or keep them both! Its all up to YOU!!!

Besides the usual leave a comment on this post, I thought it would be fun to also include the My So Called Junky Life Facebook page as well. So you have two ways of entering - either leave a comment below or leave a comment HERE. Or you could do both, its all up to you! All you have to do is leave a comment and I will pick the winner on the 22nd. As always, please make sure you leave a way for me to contact you, either with your email address or blog info when you comment here on the blog.

A little bit more information about these earrings:

These are sterling silver, with vintage rhinestone findings and creamy white rice freshwater pearls.

These are sterling silver with rhinestone findings, aqua button freshwater pearls and black baroque freshwater pearls. I had trouble with the lighting, but these aqua pearls are gorgeous and aqua and black is a really pretty combination.

I started using the burlap as my earrings cards at my last show at Bottoms Up and I got a lot of positive feedback on them. I really like the rustic look combined with the pretty bright sterling silver and pearls. I am looking for different ideas and ways to set up jewelry displays and one of my new favorite places for inspiration is Pinterest. You can find my pins here if you are interested in seeing what I am liking right now.

Antique Booth Pictures - September

2011-09-01T21:53:00.002-05:00

This weekend it my monthly antique sale at Bottoms Up. Its going to be a hot Labor Day weekend and I am really excited about all the new vintage finds that I came across this past month.

I made this sign for my booth, but I am not so sure about it. I feel like it is incomplete, like it needs something. Any ideas?

This month I have lots of vintage artsy goodies for the mixed media, jewelry or scrapbook artist. I went through my studio and brought tons of stuff from my own personal stash. I hope art supplies go over well in my booth - that is the thing about this business, you never know what someone is going to like.

I have lots of new jewelry this month, including some new designs that I am debuting here in my booth that I hope to get some feedback on. I didn't bring all my jewelry when I set up today, so the rest of it will up tomorrow morning. I will try to remember to take a picture to give you an idea of the direction I have been taking.

I hope you all have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!!!

Click here to be taken to the Bottoms Up Facebook page

The Beads I Sent And A New Adventure!!

2011-08-28T17:48:00.002-05:00

My partner Salla has received her beads for the Bead Soup Blog Party so I thought it would be fun to share with you what I sent to her.

Included in this mix are pretty rice freshwater pearls, as well as druzy freshwater pearls, an antique rhinestone fur clip, a pretty fleur de lis rhinestone charm and a flower toggle clasp. Salla does a lot of work with etching and seed beads, so this is going to be a big challenge for her, but I know that she will make something absolutely lovely!

I am also excited to announce a new adventure that I will be participating in with this lovely blogger! Yes that is the beautiful Sheila of Blessed and Distressed.

For now, that is all I will be sharing with you, but look for more information in the upcoming weeks. I am very excited about what we will be doing and I hope you will be too!

(Both pictures were borrowed from Sheila)

What's In A Name?

2011-08-18T22:54:00.000-05:00

I sometime get asked about the meaning of my blog/business name. When I first started my business I just used my name and called myself Sarah Elder's Designs, but I didn't really like the way that sounded. Then when I decided to start a blog, but I needed something catchy and also applied to my day to day like.

When I was a little girl, I would often times go over to my grandparent's house while my mom was at work. My grandma worked as a nurse, but my grandpa was retired and he would watch me and my sister for a few hours here and there. A lot of the time we would just sit in front of the t.v. with my Grandpa Hart and watch soaps and eat popcorn, Twinkies and A&W Root Beer. But sometimes he would be out in the garage working on his junk. He loved to go to garage sales and find old junky furniture and refinish it. He would always be on the look out for anything old or of value and would have annual garage sales that were an extremely popular event. We would get up at be at his house at 5 or 6 in the morning for the earl bird shoppers and I remember thinking that all these people were crazy to get up that early to buy all this junk.

Fast forward 25 years and now I find myself doing the same exact thing that my Grandpa Hart did. I have some to realize that I am a junker at heart. I love junk. Beautiful old, decrepit, rusty, chippy, junk. This can apply to both the kinds of things that I sell in my booth but also my jewelry designs.

My Grandpa Hart has long since passed a way, but I can't count the times when I am out at a garage sale or estate sale looking for the special piece of junk that calls out to me and he crosses my mind. I think what would grandpa do with this, or would he think this had any value. I have found that even more recently for some reason he has been in my thoughts as I ponder the direction I want to go with my business. Oh how I wish I could talk to him and ask his advice, because at the time I was too young to appreciate the value of his opinion and what he did.

I have heard/read that each person has five people who have influenced their life and made them who they are today, and I have no doubt that he is one of those five.

Before I get back on topic, I wanted to share one quick memory of my Grandpa Hart that stands out for me. It was at one of his infamous garage sales that he had a guitar for sale. I kept eyeing it most of the morning and finally asked him how much would it cost to get the guitar. His response was how about a kiss on the the cheek and we will have a deal. A quick peck on the cheek and that guitar was mine, but it also left a lasting impression of his kindness and love.

When I was choosing the name of my blog, which also became the name of my business I wanted something catchy, but also something that reflected me and what it is that I did/love. I was a product of the 90's and loved the show My So Called Life, so a play on words and My So Called Junky Life was born.

Over the last few years as my business has changed, I am grateful that I did have the foresight to choose a name that really fit so perfectly with my life.

My life is full of beautiful junk. Not only the junk I pick up to sell/create, but also the metaphoric junk I carry with me - all my life experiences, some good, some bad has all led to who I am today.

Hello, my name is Sarah and I am a junk-oholic.

Bead Soup Partner

2011-08-18T18:09:00.000-05:00

I am participating in the Bead Soup Party this year and I have been paired up with Sarah of Blog by Salla. I received my beads/findings from Sarah earlier this week and here is what she sent:

I have been sketching some designs out and I think I have a pretty good idea what it is I plan on doing. Here is a sneak peek of the beads that I sent Sarah:

I will share the actual beads/findings once she has received her package since its supposed to be a surprise!!

Yesterday was the first day of school for these two guys and I admit I got a little teary eyed when I watched the bus drive away. Dillon is in 6th grade and Colton is in 1st. They both really seem to like their teachers, which is always good, and had a great first day of school!

I am planning to blog more now that they are back in school - its hard to find time to blog when I am having to keep them from fighting all the time as well as constantly feeding them. I have a couple of posts already planned, plus a giveaway coming soon as well!

Antique Booth Photos - August 2011

2011-08-04T21:27:00.004-05:00

I have so many pictures to share I think I am going to just have this post mostly consist of photos. This weekend is my sale at Bottoms Up. Its cooled down a bit so hopefully it won't be as hot as it has been. Here is the info:

And here are the pictures!! Enjoy!!!

Trying Something New

2011-07-27T12:35:00.004-05:00

As a jewelry artist, I find myself sometimes feeling like I am in a rut, unable to be creative or feeling like I keep doing the same thing over and over again. Don't get me wrong, I love creating jewelry with vintage findings and I love freshwater pearls in whites and creams, but sometimes I feel like I need to branch out into some different styles or try different mediums. I am unable to attend one of the many jewelry retreats that are held and there aren't any held locally. I have been to different bead shops in the area, but the classes held there are just the basics and I think I have that down pretty well.

I was at Borders the other day (our local store is liquidating because they are going on of business) and I was looking at different jewelry books that they had on the shelves and I thought how easy it would be to make my own clasps. I have been thinking about doing this for a while, so armed with my idea, I looked on You-Tube at several different tutorials and decided to give it a try with some 18 gauge sterling silver wire that I had on hand.

An anvil, hammer and a little hammering flattened the round wire and gave the sort of artisan/handmade look I was going for. They aren't perfect, but I think I prefer that over machine made hooks that I have purchased in the past and ultimately think it will help with my jewelry and give it a more handmade/artisan look as well.

This is the first piece I completed with one of my handmade claps - and I am really happy with the final results.

Where Bloggers Create 2011

2011-07-15T17:45:00.004-05:00

Well I am sorry to say I am not going to be able to post current pictures of my studio do to a unforeseen problem. Lets just say I was in a hurry last night to see Harry Potter and left my camera on the ledge near my stairs and it got knocked off in the middle of the night by someone and is now broken. I am hoping it can be fixed, but if not I will be in the market for a new camera. I have decided to repost what my studio looked like earlier this year. I have improved on it immensely and the floor is clean and things somewhat have their place. But truth be told in a week or two it will probably look a lot like what you are about to see!!!

And be sure to check out the rest of the bloggers participating here!

Okay. I am going to warn you. Some of the following pictures are not very pretty. But in an effort to show my true voice on this blog I decided it was about time I came clean. (No pun intended.)

Are you ready?

....

Are you sure?

....

Don't say I didn't warn you!!!!

....

.... (Excuse me while I hang my head in shame)

Yes, these pictures are of my so-called studio. Its definitely a diamond in the rough, isn't it? I often pour over Where Women Create and all the gorgeous studio spaces that are featured. Or drool over so many lovely talented artists' spaces on their blogs. And then I go downstairs to this:

Sometimes I tell myself that I am going to take a week and really clean this up and make it my dream creating space, but then life gets in the way. Or I get too busy with other projects with my antique booth and put it off. Other times I look at it like a lost cause and will just dig around until I find what it is that I am looking for. Which sometimes I can't find it or it takes so long I will just give up and in return just make this already jumbled mess, even messier (is this even possible?)

In general I am a cluttered person. I think most artistic people are, or at least that is what I like to tell myself when art supplies are covering the coffee table or my husband it giving me a hard time about fabric, trim or paper all over the bedroom floor. The truth is I am a very clean person, but at the same time I don't mind clutter. Dirt drives me crazy and with three boys there is plenty of it, but for me everything doesn't necessarily have to have its place as long as I can find it or know where it is.

However, this mess that I call a studio isn't cluttered, its just one huge GIGANTIC mess. My hope is that in the near future, although I am not sure when I will be able to share with you a beautiful creative space, where everything has its place and still manages to stay somewhat cluttered without becoming a big old mess. That may be a month from now or it could be six months from now, but that is one of my goals to accomplish by the end of the year.

Now that being said, even int the jumbled mess, there are still treasures to be found. Check them out!

Old book pages -

Beautiful Prima and paper flowers -

Vintage wallpaper in pretty pastel shades -

(This collage is made by one of my favorite people - Ellen of One Ripe Peach)

A peek at my inspiration board -

Vintage and antique glass bottles -

Thanks for putting up with my mess! Its definitely a work in progress and hopefully sooner that later I will have a beautiful update of studio to share.

It All Ends.........Tonight!!!!

2011-07-14T21:12:00.002-05:00

Here at the Elder household, Harry Potter is a big deal. We love the books and the movies and we have been counting down since last year for the final film which comes out tonight. We have had tickets for the midnight showing for three weeks now. When I purchased the tickets I was told that it would be best if we arrived early, since people start to line up around 5p.m. That's a little early for us, so we plan to be at the theater at 10, in case we have to stand in line. Last year we did the same thing and it was busy, but we didn't have to stand in line and we got amazing seats, so my fingers are crossed that the same will apply tonight.

My youngest is very excited for this last movie, but to be honest, I expect him to be asleep 30 minutes in. Its hard for little guys to stay up that late, but I promised him that if he does fall asleep we will see it again this weekend, just the two of us. I couldn't let him feel left out, especially since he is dressing the part as Harry Potter tonight.

He has the cloak............

The wand..........(see the similarities?)

The glasses........

And the infamous scar.

(Spoiler alert)

He is not the only one who takes it seriously, I do too. I bawled my eyes out, during the last movie when Dobby died. I am prepared this time around when Snape finally is able to tell his story through the Pensive as well as when Harry sees his parents and Sirius as he prepares to meet his death. I have lots of tissue in my purse, and to be quite honest I have found myself a little teary eyed a couple of times today thinking about how this is the final movie.

The other reason that I love Harry Potter so much is that I have shared Harry Potter for over ten years with all three of my boys. The books and movies have given us countless hours of entertainment and a chance to do something together, something we will always have in common and be able to remember even when we are old. I hope when they are older and have families of their own, they will be able to look back and remember this time of amazement, adventure and imagination and carry that on with their own children.

In the words of Dumbledore - "You fail to recognize that it matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be."

Business Update and Thoughts

2011-07-06T20:31:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about different ways to expand my business, getting my name out there locally and having more of a web presence. One of those ways is setting up a page on Facebook for My So Called Junky Life. If you get a chance I would really appreciate if you would "like" me. I have plans to have a special giveaway soon for my Facebook followers so stay tuned for that as well.

So back to expanding my business. My husband and I have been talking lately about my taking things more seriously and not just doing what I do as a hobby, but to invest more into it and getting myself out there more. The only exceptions to this is that I don't ask him to take time off of work and that it doesn't affect him in anyway. (He's supportive, but doesn't really want any part of what I do because he doesn't really get it, but understands that I love doing what I do!)

I love having my booth at Bottoms Up and the once monthly sale that doesn't take too much of my time and leaves me time for other things that I want to do. I recently was part an open house and fundraiser for a friend of mine and while I have done trunk shows in the past and sold to a couple of businesses wholesale, my success with her event has given me a desire to do more local shows. Maybe an antique show here or there, as well as a craft fair here or there.

I would greatly appreciate any advice, thoughts, and opinions on how you may have expanded your business, what steps you took to be part of shows, etc. Let the discussion begin!!!!

Industrial Decorating

2011-07-05T18:06:00.000-05:00

I am working on my boy's room this Summer in between everything else I have going on. Its an on going project that I am trying to not spend a lot of money on, so I am collecting and adding as time goes on rather then do it all at once. For them, I have been inspired by the industrial chic decorating trend and I am using lots of metal and wood since its durable and easily found in abundance at estate sales, garage sales, and flea markets. Here are some pictures that I have been inspired by:

I particularly like the idea of using old lockers and while I can find them in antique malls and on craigslist, they go for $100 or more. I would like to pay half that, so I am going to have to keep checking and looking until I find what I want I guess.

Source: here

Rather then new bed frames, I like the idea of making beds out of old pallets. I like the idea of stacking several on top of each other and I am hoping to get some for free somewhere.

Source: here

Since this is a somewhat new project that I am working on, I have only just begun, but I think the best place for me to look is going to be in favorite place when I go to an estate sale: the basement and garage. That is where the treasures are usually found and there are also lots of tool boxes and old trunks, etc. usually in there as well. All great pieces for storage.

July Bottoms Up - Antique Booth

2011-07-01T21:52:00.001-05:00

So far this weekend has been a great success and I have to first and foremost thank all my customers who braved the 100 degree heat and made it out to the sale today!!

I got a lot of great feedback from vendors and returning customers about the new booth space and I have to say I am really loving it. It gives me more room to spread my wings and it doesn't feel so enclosed like it did last month.

I hope everyone has a great 4th of July weekend. My husband is taking the two oldest boys to the lake and Colton will be staying home with me. I am going to have to come up with some fun stuff to do - but one thing I know for sure, is that we will be spending Sunday in the pool! I can't wait to sit and relax outside!!

Bottoms Up - July!!

2011-07-01T00:24:00.000-05:00

This weekend in my antigue market at Bottoms Up in Kansas City. I usually like to post pictures on my booth prior to the sale, but my computer is acting up and its after midnight and I just want to go to sleep!!

So instead here is the info for the sale if you are local to the Kansas City area. Remember we did move to a new location about two blocks from the old location so look for signs on how to get there.

I will leave you with just one picture of my booth for for now. One thing to know is that I did move the location of my booth to a larger space! I am thrilled with my new space, although its still a work in progress. I added one wall to the back of the booth with old doors (thank goodness for Habitat Restore), but I still want to add another wall to one side. I also wasn't able to get my husband's help with hanging up the bed springs from the ceiling because he has been working so much, so that is missing as well this month.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and I will get pictures posted of the rest of my booth really soon!!

The Adventures Of Mario And Luigi

2011-06-28T16:06:00.000-05:00

My youngest Colton had a play date with one of his buddies and he was concerned that I would be lonely while he was gone. He told me that his other buddies Mario and Luigi would keep me company while he was away. I was touched by his concern for Mommy so I thought it would be fun to show him the exciting adventures that Mario and Luigi had while he was gone and how much help they were to me, so without further ado I give you The Adventures of Mario and Luigi!!

After dropping Colton off at his friend's house, Mommy made a quick trip to the grocery store and picked up some groceries. When Mommy got home, Luigi decided to help me put the groceries away. Easy MacN'Chees is a staple at our house - its easy and quick to make and the boys like it, plus its a break from the usual turkey and cheese sandwich or peanut butter and jelly sandwich they they get for lunch. Even Luigi likes it!!

While Luigi was busy helping me put the groceries away, Mario decided to take a T.V break and watch All My Children. Seriously though, like Mario really needs more drama in his life - Princess Pea getting kidnapped by Bowser all the time is drama enough for this little guy.

Luigi proved to be a big helper for Mommy. He helped me sort and put away the laundry. But he did make a few mistakes while sorting and put my shirts in Daddy's drawers by mistake. Oops!!

After All My Children, Mario decided to help me with a couple of jewelry pieces that Mommy needed to finish up. Yes that is what Mommy's jewelry table looks like right now. Maybe Mario can help me organize it later?

While Mario helped Mommy with her jewelry, Luigi took a well deserved break and chatted on the phone with his friend Yoshi about all the mushrooms they were going to eat later on for dinner.

Soon it was time to get the mail, so Mario went out and got the mail for Mommy. It was a bunch of junk mail and he put it into the recycling tub because he knows how important it is to recycle!! (And Mario wanted me to tell you all that after looking at this picture he realized he needs a bit of a tan!)

Mommy got some painting done this afternoon and Luigi helped too!! He is a great painter - look at all the shabby white frames he helped paint for my sale this weekend!

Finally, Mario and Luigi made a Starbucks run and shared a Iced Chai Tea Latte because that is what good brother's do. They sat on the porch and enjoyed their tea and got a little sun. But Mommy was sure to make sure they put on sunscreen so they wouldn't get a sunburn.

The End!!!

Ruffles N' Stuff

2011-06-27T18:27:00.000-05:00

This weekend I went to estate sales, garage sales, an antique show and several antique malls. I found lots of beautiful treasures, and I am going to start with the "stuff."

On Saturday I attended the Old Summit Country Antique that is held in Lee's Summit, MO several times a year. I saw Sandee, who has a booth at Bottoms Up, as well as owning two antique malls in Greenwood, MO - Greenwood Mercantile and Millet & Co. Melinda of TresMelindas was there selling her awesome Rustic Pendants and rusty finds. And Beth had a booth full of awesome antique and vintage finds, which I also happened to buy a beautiful cameo and some old brass tags from.

My favorite find was this amazing chippy mint green table that U purchased from a vendor from St. Joseph, MO. To make it usable, I cleaned it up with a little bit of water and dish soap, then lightly sanded it to get all the flaky paint off, then sealed it with wax to give it a nice luster. I also added brackets to the legs to give it a little more stability, as it was a little wobbly. I can't decide if I am going keep it at home or take it to Bottoms Up to use as a display piece, but I do know that I love it too much to sell right now. It would work wonderfully as a sofa table, but my boys have a habit of jumping over the back of the sofa and I am not sure if they would be easy on the table. Decisions........decisions..........

Yesterday I headed to a couple of antique malls and I found some pretty vintage millinery hats. Its been a while since I have found any around here for the right price. Its seemed like dealers realized money was to be make in hats so up the prices went, but these were all found for under 5 dollars each!!!

Okay -- so now I get to the other part - Ruffles!!!! On Friday I got my boys up early and headed to a bunch of garage sales in my area. We hit up sales in Lee's Summit, Raytown, Independence and lastly Blue Springs. My last garage sale of the day was in downtown Blue Springs and a lovely little cottage style home. It was early afternoon and HOT, so the ladies running the sale were getting ready to call it a day. They were busy bringing things into the garage when I arrived, but I was able to get a few deals, when I noticed a handwritten sign on the wall of the garage : Vintage/Old Western/Square Dancing clothes are for sale - please inquire if interested.

Well I am not big on Western wear, but I also happen to know that big beautiful petticoats go along with Western/Square Dancing clothes, so I decided to ask if they happened to have any petticoats. This very sweet woman replied that she had probably over 20 of them in her attic and wanted to know if I would like to take a look. Ummmmmmmmm................need I be asked twice?!?!

In getting to know this sweet grandma of 19 and great-grandma of 9, she explained to me that back in the 70's and 80's she was a square dancing instructor and former middle school teacher. My kids absolutely loved her - she gave them cookies and milk while we went up to the attic to take a look. The attic was very hot, but I felt like I was in Heaven!! I ended up getting 9 petticoats in all and all I left were the red and navy blue ones, and one that was damaged that I didn't think I would be able to repair. I got this light blue one above and this dusty rose one below.

Two white petticoats and

this cotton candy pink ruffled piece of Heaven!

I also got a gorgeous fuchsia, green, lavender and one black one - perfect for Halloween!

But most importantly I made a new friend - and we have plans to meet again very soon so look through her sewing room and basement.

Bead Swap Blog Hop

2011-06-15T00:01:00.051-05:00

Today is the reveal of the bead swap that I recently hosted. I had three different partners, because its just the way things worked out and because of last minute entries, etc. But I absolutely love that because it means I get more gorgeous beads to play with!!

First up is Tracey of My Boutique Bijou. She makes gorgeous jewelry that she sells in her online store and on Etsy. Tracey sent me this beautiful embellished box with lots of old lace and vintage millinery.

She sent me lots of vintage goodies from her stash as well as an amazing Victorian locket with the initial "S" on it. What Tracey didn't know is that I collect old things with an "S" or "Sarah" on it. I am slowly building up a nice collection and then plan on making a shadow box with all of them to put into my studio.

The beads that Tracey send include glass, vintage and freshwater pearls. They are so pretty and can be used together or separately. Thanks Tracey!!

Next up is Clair of Obstinate Pursuits. She makes amazing cards and has some really awesome tutorials on her blog. Check out the one where she makes a scarf out of tights. Seriously - its amazing!! Clair sent me this cute packaging with adorable handmade flowers! And the colors are right up my alley too!!

Inside she included pretty Czech glass beads, seed beads, freshwater pearls and some mother of pearl buttons (that I forgot to take a picture of, but believe me they are amazing!), as well as this amazing pink flowers.

I already know what I am going to make with these beautiful findings and when I get time I will finish up the necklace and share it with you. She also send this amazing Paris cuff link! Look at the details on this! Love it! Thanks Clair!!!

My last partner is Laura of Elemental Mercury. Her package is still on its way and I will add pictures on this post once it arrives! I am very excited to see what she sent!!

Please check out all the other participants of this swap by clicking the links below.

Erica @ Zunky Chic

Debi @ Life In My Studio

Tracey @ My Boutique Bijou

Rhea @ Sweet and Shabby Roses

Julie @ Splendidly Sweet

Laura @ Elemental Mercury

Jody @ Home and Heart

Jenny @ Faith & Pearl

Clair @ Obstinate Pursuit

Breana @ Vault 31

Marsha @ Sassy Mini Dolls

Heather @ Speckled Egg

Carrie @ Junque Magnet

I want to thank everyone who participated in this swap and made it such a big success!!! Thank you!!!!

Words To Live By

2011-06-14T20:32:00.000-05:00

- Barney Stinson - How I Met Your Mother

June Antique Booth Pictures

2011-06-02T23:04:00.001-05:00

This past month has been CRAZY when it came to my booth. Bottoms Up is now at a new location (one block east and then one block south of the old location) and for those who are local, there will be lots of signs on how to get there, so don't worry! The move was long and hectic and took many trips, but in the end I think it will be worth it. The new building is nicer and we are all on one floor rather than two, and we have two bathrooms instead of one!

My space is now 8x13, which is a lot smaller then my previous space, but I have managed to get it all in there. I may move to a larger space at some point, but I am happy with the way things are for now.

My husband came and helped last weekend by putting up wire so I could hang curtains up. He also helped me with suspending a bed spring from the ceiling. I have more ideas in mind, but I had a limited time so I wasn't able to get everything done as I would have liked.

This girl looks a little naked, but she will have jewelry draped on her tomorrow.

This is how my jewelry table will be set up - with jewelry of course!!

I love making these little pedestals with vintage china and candle holders. They can be stacked, used as cupcake stand, or used on a dresser to hold jewelry.

These two guys have been troopers the last couple of days while I put the finishing touches on my booth. Its been hot and there isn't a lot for them to do, but they have been good ----- for the most part. There were a few broken items when someone shoved another someone into a table. They will remain nameless.

Joplin, Missouri - Tornado

2011-05-23T16:04:00.001-05:00

Last night I was was quickly brought to tears as I was watching the ten o'clock news after hearing about the devastating tornado that ripped through Joplin, MO destroying at least 1/3 of the town. It is so heartbreaking to see the images coming out of this once beautiful town. This morning I donated blood because there are a special announcement regarding the need for extra blood to help those who have been affected by this tornado and since I have a hard to come by type of blood, I knew it was the important thing to do.

This afternoon I received this email from my youngest's kindergarten teacher:

Our kindergartners came in to school today all a buzz with the news of the tornado that occurred in Joplin, MO Sunday evening. As we visited in class it became apparent to us that our little ones wanted to do something to help those in Joplin. With permission from Mrs. Asplund, our principal, the kindergarten teachers have decided to have our classes participate in collecting items for the Heart to Heart International hygiene kits. Each hygiene kit includes:

· One new hand towel

· One new washcloth

· One wide-tooth comb

· One 10-15 oz. bottle of shampoo

· One new individually wrapped toothbrush

· One 4-6 oz. tube of toothpaste

· One individually wrapped bath-size bar of soap

· Ten (10) adhesive bandages

· Two (2) one-gallon-size, re-closable (press to close) plastic bags - *NOT w/ the zipper

We have divided the items needed for each hygiene kit by classroom below. If you are able to help, please send in items by Thursday. We will have our classes help to sort the items into as many hygiene kits as we have supplies. Any extra supplies will also be delivered to Heart to Heart.

Mrs. Ford	Miss J Tindle	Mrs. T Tindle	Mrs. Truman	Mrs. Wilson	Mrs. Wyckoff
New hand towel Wide-tooth comb 10-15 oz shampoo	Washcloths Wide-tooth comb 10 to 15 oz shampoo	New hand towel Indv. pkg toothbrush 4-6 oz toothpaste	New washcloth Indv. pkg toothbrush 4-6 oz toothpaste	New hand towel Indv wrapped soap Adhesive bandages 1 gallon bags	New washcloth Indv wrapped soap Adhesive bandages 1 gallon bags

It is truly heart touching to listen to the kindergartners, knowing that this could occur anywhere. Thank you for your help as we support their desire to help others and make a difference.

The PVE Kindergarten Team

My little guy has since come home from school and we had a very important conversation about what happened yesterday and his biggest concern are all the other kindergartners like him who don't have a house anymore. It truly is touching to see how young little minds show such compassion and love for people they don't know.

Pretty Packaging

2011-05-19T16:57:00.000-05:00

Today I was perusing online for pretty packaging ideas for my bead swap and thought I would share all the pretty eye candy that I saw!

Source - Style Me Pretty

Source - An Artful Adventure

Source - Midwest Living

Source - Everyday Beauty

Source - Creature Comforts

Source - Pinterest

Source - La Boheme

Source - RubyJu Blog

A Little Behind

2011-05-13T18:53:00.000-05:00

I am sorry, but I am running a little behind in getting the partner info out for the bead swap. I should have them out late tonight.

After I get the emails out, I am going to bunker down and read this book - and stay up all night doing so!!

Yes I love me some Sookie Stackhouse!!! And I can't wait for TrueBlood to come out on HBO on June 26th!!! Its sort of my guilty pleasure.

My Junky Day

2011-05-12T14:27:00.000-05:00

Today was a fabulous day to be out junking. Partly cloudy, mid to upper 60's and no rain!! If been a while since I showed my junky finds and since I had a great day finding things I thought it would be a good post for today.

I love the old rusty shopping cart! Its on the smaller side, I think it would be perfect to be used as a planter in a garden. And with use like this, it would only get more rusty and more perfect. I paid, well I am not going to share what I paid for this because I plan on selling it in my booth, but let just say that the guy who sold it to me asked if I would have paid more that what I did and I enthusiastically said yes! He then turned to his wife and said "See! I told you!" I got a really big laugh out of that.

One thing is missing in this picture, and that is a big rustic work table that I purchased at an estate sale this morning. I had the truck with me, because I saw pictures of it on the estate sale's company's website and knew it was going to be mine. I was second in line and when the doors opened, I made a beeline to the basement and grabbed the tag off of it immediately. And then I realized that it was going to be way too heavy for me to haul upstairs all by myself. Tomorrow after my husband gets off of work we are going to go back and pick it up. Its a beauty too and I will be utilizing it my antique booth next month.

In the back of this picture you can kind of see a big paper bag that is full of vintage beads and sequins that I purchased at the same estate sale. There are some beauties in that bag!! I haven't had a chance to go through everything yet, but I will share those in a future post.

The two paintings in the oval frames are originals and they are both so pretty! I always pick up chippy old step ladders when I find them, because they are so versatile in many different ways - not only functional but decorative as well. The same with the chippy white shutters. I was told by the lady who sold them to me, that she had previously used them in her daughter's room to hang her stuff animals from them. Again, not only functional, but decorative as well!!

The cute little white chair folds down and I also see that being used to hold a pretty container of roses in a garden or living room.

This picture also makes me realize that I really need to pull those weeds and sweep the drive way. LOL!!

The patina on the frame that is in the back is AH-mazing!!!! I am going to be using it as a display piece to hold some of my jewelry.

Some of what I found will be left alone and some of it will be given a shabby treatment. Sometimes it hard to decide what to paint and what not to paint (the frame above will not be touched!!) How do I decide what to change and what to leave as is? Well it really depends. Sometimes I will research something if I am unsure about it. Other times I just dig right in and don't even worry about it. And other times the patina on a found piece of junk is so beautiful I am not even willing to touch it because only time can give something that beautifully perfect aged appearance.

Lastly, I did find one other amazing find, but not for myself. Those of you who have boys under the age of ten probably know what these are........

This is a huge, and I mean HUGE box of Yu-Gi-Oh cards. I started counting them, but I stopped at 300 and there were a lot more to count after that, plus cards in binders and sleeves that I didn't even get to. So this little guy below is going to come home from school with a really huge surprise. Surely this will score me some major mommy points and keep him happy and content for the time being. Maybe he will even clean his room without my having to ask.

Well, I can dream, can't I????

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner.........

2011-05-11T18:36:00.000-05:00

Yeah I know it isn't exactly the most original title, but I am too tired to think of something different. So the winner of these lovely beads is Bryanna of The Canary's Cupcake!!

I will be getting the swap partner info out to you tomorrow so keep an eye out for that! I have lots to share and will be posting very soon to share all the news with you!!

May Antique Booth Pictures

2011-05-05T21:21:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is my monthly sale at Bottoms Up in Kansas City and today I went to update my booth space. Here are some snapshots of what it going to look like this weekend.

This little guy went and helped me out this afternoon, although it was more like he caused trouble. But that is okay, because I remember being dragged to antique malls when I was a kid and I hated it too. I am going to have to bring him with me on Saturday because the rest of the family will be attending a graduation. On the weekends when he has to tag along, I put him to work by helping me wrap things or give out Hershey's kisses and stickers to other kids who are shopping with mom and dad.

Thanks Miranda for the awesome picture below!!!