Abby's Paperie Garden

Quote of the Day

2012-01-14T08:35:00.000-05:00

The Lord your God is with you....

He will take great delight in you.

He will quite you with His love.

He will rejoice over you with singing.

Zephaniah 3:17 NIV

Happy Happy weekend my dear friends!

xo,

Abby

Quote of the Day

2012-01-13T07:00:00.006-05:00

Blessed are they who have the gift of making friends, for it is one of God's best gifts.

(Thomas Hughes)

Quote of the Day

2012-01-12T07:02:00.003-05:00

If instead of a gem, or even a flower,

we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend,

that would be giving as the angels give.

(George MacDonald)

Quote of the Day

2012-01-11T07:00:00.004-05:00

God loves you in the morning sun and the evening rain, without caution or regret.

(Brennan Manning)

Have a great rest of the week!

Abby

Quote of the Day

2012-01-10T07:03:00.000-05:00

Always stay connected to people and seek out things that bring you joy.

Dream with abandon. Pray confidently.

(Barbara Johnson)

Quote of the Day

2012-01-09T07:09:00.008-05:00

When just being together is more important than what you do, you are with a friend.

Have a blessed week!

Abby

My latest happenings....

2012-01-08T17:25:00.004-05:00

Hi friends, how's your weekend so far? We've enjoyed a mild weekend in the midst of winter...what a gift from mother nature. So while I'm here I'd love to share a few of my latest happenings with you...

Some of my work was featured in a few of Stampington's publications...so exciting!

Do you remember the newspaper pendants I created a little while back.....

well you'll find them in the current issue of Somerset Life along with an article written by me:)

and if you remember my paper dolls strung along my studio window....

they're featured in this issue of Somerset Studio Gallery...

and you'll also find a spring inspired tussie mussie and...

a few of my bird tags in...

the gallery section of Sew Somerset...

I've also been adding a few pretties to the shop....

flower petal heart tags

French script buttons

and winter bird nests too..

Well friends, thanks so much for visiting...and especially for your friendship and encouragement as I travel along this creative little path of mine. It means the world to me.

Have a great week!

Abby

Joining:

Quote of the Day

2012-01-08T07:13:00.015-05:00

A friendship can weather most things and thrive in thin soil, but it needs a little mulch of letters and phone calls and small, silly presents every so often...just to save it from drying out completely.

Oh how I love this quote! It speaks so beautifully on the importance of nurturing a friendship.

xo,

Abby

P.S. I'll be back tonight to share some of my latest happenings:)

Quote of the Day

2012-01-07T09:43:00.004-05:00

Happy weekend my friends! We have a sun-shiny mild weekend upon us and I hope to enjoy a little bit of it. In the meantime, here's today's quote.....I love that it's just a few word but so powerful.

The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.

Galatians 5:6 NIV

xo,

Abby

Quote of the Day

2012-01-06T08:24:00.000-05:00

May God give you eyes to see beauty only the heart can understand.

Quote of the Day

2012-01-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

Dear Lord, grant me the grace of wonder.

Surprise me, amaze me, awe me in every crevice of your universe...

each day enrapture me with your marvelous things without number.

I do not ask to see the reason for it all; I ask only to share the wonder of it all.

(Abraham Joshua Heschel)

Quote of the Day

2012-01-04T07:39:00.000-05:00

The Lord will guide you always;

He will satisfy your needs...

You will be like a well-watered garden,

like a spring whose waters never fail.

Quote of the Day...may I share it with you...

2012-01-03T08:14:00.001-05:00

For the past few years I have enjoyed the tradition of emailing inspirational "Quotes of the Day" to a few treasured friends in my personal life. The quotes and Bible verses celebrate the beauty of friendship and I send them early in the morning to help start the new day with a positive outlook and refreshed spirit. At times we ponder on its meaning and how it touched us...while other times we just simply say "that's a good one". I've even revisited with a few of my favorites when I've needed to reignite my creative spirit on days when it's felt a bit dim.

So in this New Year I'd love to also share them with you...my extended family. I know we're all busy with life and visiting here everyday may not fit into your schedule but I do hope the times you do find your way here that you'll discover a serendipitous quote that will inspire your creative spirit, comfort your soul, cheer you up when you feel down, and perhaps bring a warm smile to your beautiful face...

And since I can't resist including a pretty photo with a post I'll try and be sure to include a favorite picture from my archives for good measure:) Ok, so here's the first one which I dedicate to all of you who fit the definition of a friend....

Friends are very special.

They make you smile and encourage you to succeed.

They lend an ear, and they share a word of praise.

Author Uknown

xo,

Abby

Surround yourself with what you love....

2012-01-01T23:54:00.004-05:00

My quest to create a creative haven began quite simple some time ago...with a few sprinklings of my pretties here and there....but it seems that somewhere along the way more of the bits and pieces that I adore and inspire me have slowly made their way into my studio...causing me to to question....what does one do with too much of what she loves....does she keep it all.....

for I can never resist the sight of a rose from my girl....

or petite frozen bisque dolls from fellow bloggers...

or a shabby altered bottle I created a little while back....

and of course vintage finds...I can never say no...

a special rose from my dear friend Monica must be among my treasures....

and a vintage doll's dress...faded in just the right places...too irresistible not to hang....

and I must also find a place to tuck my published work and a beautiful crucifix too....

so...is too much of what you love still too much....

Perhaps so...but I intend to surround myself with more of what makes my heart smile this year...and this clutter of a mess makes me smile!

I hope you too surround yourself with what you love in 2012!

xo,

Abby

joining:

My Romantic Home

a year in review

2011-12-29T19:21:00.002-05:00

So I've noticed a lot of our fellow bloggers sharing their favorites for 2011 and I thought I'd join in the fun....so here are a few of my favorite moments in 2011...

Emma got her wings...

I discovered a tiny everyday miracle nearby....

discovered a few vintage finds that make me happy...

and tug at my heart....

paper bags became paper dolls....

(featured in the current issue of Somerset Studio Gallery)

I tried my hand at creating jewelry....

(featured in Somerset Life's 2012 winter issue)

and when cabin fever struck...my girl and I created vintage paper dolls....

playing with dried flowers amid a gray winter saved me from my winter blues....

I shared a glimpse of my studio for Where Bloggers Create...

sent a creation or two..or three to Stampington....

finally reopened my Etsy shop with simple pretties...

and made a HUGE dream come true in getting published a few times....check out my sidebar:)

But the best moment..or shall I say moments are the times you've visited, shared lovely comments, offered your support, encouragement, and your friendship. Thank you so much for being my extended family.

Happy New Year!

xo,

Abby

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T08:17:00.000-05:00

(Mr Patrick and my girl)

Wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas!

xo,

Abby

Happy Weekend!

2011-12-16T19:36:00.001-05:00

Happy Weekend before Christmas dear friends!

I am work on wrapping a few gifts for my loved ones...of course with what I have on hand....muslin fabric, French script stamp, twine, and a handmade ornament for each. Humble but with lots of love.....

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Abby

She knows.....

2011-12-13T22:35:00.001-05:00

Well friends my girl knows the truth about Santa:( I knew the day was nearing...she had questions...lots of questions....and I'm a little bit sad about this....she's my only one. So I decided I'd go back to a post from November 2009 and read it about a thousand or so times.....Miss Sophie preparing cookies for Santa's arrival....here it is....

Originally posted November 2009:

These photos are of one my most treasured Christmas moments.....Sophia preparing milk and cookies for Santa in her Christmas Eve dress....just looking at her innocent and believing eyes melts my heart completely.....
.....there was talk of where to place the milk...shall it be on the plate....or next to the plate.....would he like chocolate chip cookies or prefer sugar cookies instead......hmmm....so much to ponder for a child who believes so deeply.....

....so much in fact that her sweet blue eyes became heavy and sleepiness would soon win the battle....

wait just a bit longer she said....just a bit longer......

I'm a sad mama......

xo,

Abby

Happy Weekend!

2011-12-09T07:45:00.004-05:00

Hi friends! Happy weekend to ya! It's been one of those weeks for me but I've been able to play in the studio while listening to my favorite Christmas music and I love it!

Here's a peek at a recent addition to the shop....a duet of bird nest ornaments

very simple and sweet

hanging from beautiful ivory seam binding

sprinkled with a bit of Christmas magic

and finished with 3 lovely pearls

(update: sold and making more:)

Have a great weekend whatever you do!

xo,

Abby

P.S. here's a peek at a peat potted rose made exclusively for Christmas

linking up with:

Show and Tell Friday
White Wednesday

Happy Weekend!

2011-12-03T16:18:00.000-05:00

Hi friends! Just a quick hello on a beautiful weekend!

I'm a busy little bee...or should I say elf.....working on creating a few more fairy princess ornaments for my shop.

Hope you're having a wonderful weekend!

xo, Abby

New pretties inspired by Jeanne d' Arc Living

2011-11-29T11:05:00.001-05:00

Hi friends, hope you're having a fantastic week so far! I've been working on a few Jeanne d' Arc inspired pretties to fill my shop. Ever since discovering Jeanne d' Arc Living I fell in love with its quiet elegance...both in their styling and products. Everything is created with very little fuss and just bits of color here and there ...making each and every piece beautiful. I was so inspired by their Christmas issue that I couldn't resist creating a few Christmas adornments with a touch of their simplistic yet elegant style...so here's a peek at a few things that have just been added....

fairy princess ornaments with layers of elegant femininity....

bejeweled with pearls, beads and shimmery fairy wings

very simple winged heart ornaments

reindeer duets to trim the tree

some simple and white...others shimmery and elegant

and snowy white winter cones...one trimmed with soft white feathers and snow kissed pine cones

and a second that's quite simple with just a bit of twine...I love its simplicity

These are now in my shop and I hope to list a few pretties with a soft and pretty colors for the shabby chic ladies.

Have a great rest of the week!

xo,

Abby

Joining:

Christmas Adornments...a preview

2011-11-22T18:59:00.002-05:00

Hello dear friends! We're preparing for our Thanksgiving gathering in a day or two and I am so very grateful for the many blessings I've had this year...including having all of you in my life. I won't be online much until after....but in the meantime I thought I'd share a peek at a few Christmas adornments that are still getting bits of finishing touches before adding them to my shop ....

a few dress form ornaments

some will be shabby and chic and brimming with femininity...

while others will feature a simple white palette inspired by Jeanne d'Arc Living....

I'll also have a few Christmas pockets...perfect for a gift card or tiny gift...

adorned with pinecone tassels and other pretties....

and filled with bits of sheet music...

a few reindeer ornaments are also getting a few finishing touches....

I hope to have these and other pretties in the shop very soon!

Have a blessed and safe Thanksgiving!

Abby

Joining:

Thank You Sale

2011-11-18T08:36:00.000-05:00

In celebration of Thanksgiving Day all items in my store are 25% off through Friday November 25th.

Use coupon code THANKYOU2011 when checking out.

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Abby

For the love of toile

2011-11-15T18:52:00.000-05:00

Oh if I only had the time to create all of the pretties that my creative spirit envisions.

So many ideas tucked away in my mind and sketchbook...but alas it is finding the time to create that is most difficult.

For now I'll settle for sharing 2 new pretties just added to the shop....

I adore creating luxurious little homes for small trinkets or gift cards..especially with beautiful toile pattern paper. .

This sweet little box took forever to create but I do love the end result. It's finished with layers of beautiful pattern paper...and embellished with lovely baubles and trimmings of lace, tulle, ribbons, and silk.

and of course a bit of whimsy too with a fluttering butterfly amid a beautiful white rose.

a treasure box to hold a special gift for a special someone....

and here's a peek at my second toile creation...I recently found just a smidge of the prettiest pink and ivory toile pattern paper in my stash....

just enough to create one petite tussie mussie

it too is trimmed with pretties like beads, vintage sheet music, lace and tulle

I'm working on a few Christmas adornments to add to the shop but for now you can find these pretties in my shop.

xo,

Abby

Joining:

White Wednesday

One hankie....three creations

2011-11-12T08:06:00.000-05:00

Happy weekend friends! So I thought I’d share a few pictures of my latest creations...inspired by Somerset Life’s challenge to create a little something with a handkerchief. I happen to own just a few vintage hankies...one in particular has always been my very favorite. When I first discovered it tucked inside a tattered and torn vintage envelope I instantly fell in love with its delicately embroidered edges in the prettiest shades of lavender.

Initially, I hesitated in cutting such a beautiful piece of history...but alas I couldn't resist the possibility of transforming it into something even more lovely, and believe it or not I managed to create 3 pieces from this one hankie! So, how about a peek at the pretties that made their way into my imagination….

the first is a simple and elegant Victorian inspired fan with the front side featuring the hankie

and the back layered with the most beautiful pattern paper

I added bits of vintage rhinestones and pearls for a sweet finishing touch.

The second is a petite tussie mussie made with vintage sheet music and trimmings.

I loved it just as is...so I opted to forgo the usual handle, fillings, and such.

And the third is the simple little home for a sweet love note or business card....embellished with my version of a feminine tassel. The dangling heart charm happens to be part of a vintage necklace that I received from one of my blogging friends Gloria. She was kind enough to send me a box filled with old pieces of jewelry....thank you so much for thinking of me Gloria.

I must admit I do love this little trio...I hope you’ll agree cutting this hankie wasn't such a terrible idea after all:)

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Abby

P.S. Filling my shop is slow-going but I hope to add other pretties very soon.

Published in Somerset Life

2011-11-09T18:41:00.001-05:00

Hello friends, how's your week so far? Another busy one for me but I had a chance to play in the studio and that makes me very happy:)

So, I've waited much too long to share the news of being published in the latest issue of my favorite magazine Somerset Life. I am featured in it twice and am so excited and honored to be in it once again....it's surreal every time I look at the pages!

The first article shares photos of a few of my Pay It Forward peat-pot ornaments...

and here's a peek of them in my studio

I am honored to also be included in their paper bag challenge article. It was a last minute inspiration so I hadn't even take pictures of them before sending them.

Luckily though they've already been returned to me so I was able to take a few pictures for you now.

I used the same True Value petite bags as in my whimsical paper doll clothesline to create petite giftcard holders.

They were torn, painted and layered with sweet and girly trimmings....I love that they started off as simple brown paper bags

P.S. Here's what's inspiring me right now...a vintage hankie with the loveliest embroidered edge for Somerset Life's challenge to create something with a handkerchief. I'll share some sneak peeks before sending them off.

Have a great rest of the week!

xo,

Abby

a few pretties in the midst of a busy life

2011-11-06T00:13:00.001-04:00

Hello friends, life's thrown a few curve balls my way so I don't have much to report right now. In the meantime I'll share a few pictures of things that are making me smile right now.....

a few snippets of what I won from the lovely Susan of Evelyn and Roses . She was so sweet to include a few extras like the vintage wall paper which for now are tucked inside a hanging basket....though I have plans for it...and her signature present pillow is to die for!

and of course there's the fabric heart which I absolutely love...doesn't it look right at home hanging from the mini dresser

and for good measure here's a glimpse at my latest find...a vintage painting I discovered at GW...it's a Young Mother Mary and I love it!

Off to my next task...have a great rest of the weekend!

xo,

Abby

Joining:

The extent of this year's Halloween decor...

2011-10-30T12:40:00.003-04:00

Yes my friends, one crow's feather from my yard is this year's Halloween mantle decor...big difference from last year's mantle would you say....sometimes life's other duties get in the way but I kinda like the simplicity.

it sits among a mantle of tattered books and candles

here's a view from afar...pay no attention to the dated brick front and wood mantle....I hate both but I have to work with what I have:) I decided to go with a rich, earthy feel without the fluff. Do you ever find yourself torn between two styles...sometimes I love the all white and shabby look, then other times I'm drawn to the deep rich tones of worn leather and dark woods. Tell me I'm not the only one!

I found the cast iron horse bust at Goodwill some time ago...so glad I decided to bring it home. Have you seen the more expensive ones in Restoration Hardware?

Have safe and Happy Halloween!

xo,

Abby

Roses blooming in my shop...and other tid bits

2011-10-24T21:38:00.001-04:00

It's been a long while since I last listed some pretties in my Etsy shop and I've been a busy little bee trying to refill the shop once again. I had hoped to re-open with an array of pretties at the same time but alas life had other plans. So while I continue crafting away...I've listed the peat-potted roses and will soon be adding gift boxes, tags, and other bits and baubs.

Here's a glimpse at a mini peat-potted rose that's now in the shop

and a few more peeks at a gift box that's still getting a few finishing touches. For some time I've wanted to create luxurious gift boxes for petite gifts or gift cards.

they're covered in beautiful paper and trimmed with lace and other baubles....

and the inside will be just as beautiful as the outside.

The peat-potted roses are now in the shop and I'll let you know when the rest of the pretties will join in.

Wishing you an amazing week!

xo,

Abby

Linking up with:

Desperate measures inspire great things

2011-10-22T13:54:00.002-04:00

So I'm going to a costume party tonight as Marie Antoinette (I'll try to post pics). This of course meant I'd need a lovely fan for my ensemble. I searched everywhere for an inexpensive but pretty one with no luck....so what's a crafty girl to do....of course create her own.

It started with these two pieces....a dollar store fan and an old crochet blouse that's too small on me.

I added pearls and satin lace

and trimmed it with strands of ribbon, broken necklaces and even the straps from the shirt....then finished it with one of my dollar store cameos.

Not a bad way to up cycle a blouse huh!

Have a great weekend!

Abby

Linking up with:

Frugalicious Friday

Emma's new wings..and the winner of the Mingle giveaway

2011-10-16T23:14:00.001-04:00

Ever since my very first encounter with the famous Jeanne d' Arc wings I have been in love with them...but at almost $100 I could never justify such a purchase.

But just like that fateful day when I found Emma....such was my encounter with these wings....

and though they are not the authentic Jeanne d'Arc wings these wings are truly magnificent....

and I do believe Emma loves them too:)

Wishing you a fabulous week!

xo,

Abby

P.S. The winner of the Mingle giveaway is Kimberly Owens who contacted me via email. Kimberly, please email me your address and I'll mail the issue right away:) Thanks so much to all who entered!

Linking up with:

peat-potted roses in progress

2011-10-14T10:17:00.000-04:00

Happy weekend friends! So how about a peek at the first of the peat-potted roses that will be filling my shop? They're a touch different than my original ones but I adore how they're turning out.

Each petite pot is painted in a lovely shade of creamy white named Buttermilk by DecoArt....and just a touch here and there of the greenish-blue hues one would find on an old planter that's been sitting in nature for many seasons...named Sea Glass, also by DecoArt. Did I tell you about DecoArt craft paints? They were kind enough to send me a box full of beautiful paint colors, paint brushes, and other pretties to play with and I must say their products are top quality. The colors are rich and creamy, and a little goes a long way!

now, to add a touch more character I've even added a few cracks here and there for a continued old-world feel.

and of course pretty little leaves made of the loveliest pattern paper on one side and bits of silk on the other also joined in

each little pot is finished with bits of vintage sheet music, tulle, and sewing patterns tucked inside

and finally a name for each to represent ones feeling, thought, or aspiration

oh these tiny peat-potted roses are a true labor of love....every little detail makes my heart smile.

so friends, I'd love to know what you think...please share:)

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Abby

P.S. While you're here, remember to enter my giveaway. I'll be announcing a winner on Sunday October 16th.

Roses in bloom...and a great find

2011-10-11T18:19:00.004-04:00

Hi friends, how's your week so far? On my side of the world we've been enjoying some glorious Indian Summer days...love it!

So, how about a peek at what I've been up to....

I was inspired to create more of my fabric roses in hopes of refilling my Etsy shop in the near future.

Some will be peat-potted roses like the ones published in Somerset Life, while others will be sold as single white roses....

and if time allows I hope to create a few rose bouquets too

I adore how ethereal they look sitting atop vintage linens and books

and speaking of books...take a look at this glorious Webster's Dictionary! It is literally a foot thick and filled with pages and pages of vintage love....and it's all mine:)

Well that's it for now....chat soon!

xo,

Abby

P.S. here's little peek at the beginnings of another little something I'm working on...altered gift boxes for any occasion.

P.P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway. I'll be announcing the winner soon!

Linking up with:

Vintage Inspiration Friday

Inspiration Friday

Let's Mingle with a Giveaway!

2011-10-08T11:03:00.001-04:00

Hi all, and happy weekend!!!

So I'll make this post short and sweet...would you like a chance at winning a copy of the newest member of the Stampington & Co publications? It's called Mingle and it's fabulous! It's filled with stories and pictures that will tug at your heart, make you smile, and inspire you to plan a gathering filled with whimsy and delight!

All you have to do is leave a comment on this post for a chance to win. I know there are some recent problems with commenting on posts so if for some reason you can't please email me (link on the sidebar) and I'll add your name to the list.

Here are some pictures to tease your curiousity just a bit:)

And a couple of collages for a little fun....

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Abby

an unexpected find at the library!

2011-09-28T20:05:00.001-04:00

One never knows when a wonderful find may arise....and when it happens completely unexpectedly it is an even bigger thrill.

This week was my local library's book sale and most times I miss it for one reason or another.

Though this time around I made certain to carve out just a smidge of time for Miss Sophia and I to take a quick look.

Never did I expect that among a sea of books would they also have a tiny table with what most would consider junk....

and within that junk were a few pieces of wonderfully old coral waiting for a new home.

Of course I scooped them up right away....and since I'm not quite ready to sprinkle the feeling of fall throughout my home they've topped off a few vintage books on my coffee table.

So have you scored an unexpected find lately?

out walking the dog

2011-09-24T09:55:00.002-04:00

Hi friends, happy weekend!

Not much to report today. The girls are off to walk their new dog:)

xo,

Abby

second time around

2011-09-20T19:58:00.004-04:00

So now that the seasons are changing I'm guessing many of you are doing exactly what I've been doing these past few weeks.....sorting through your summer and fall wardrobes and deciding what to keep and what to donate. For me there's always one or two pieces that I can't seem to part with even if I know deep down inside I won't ever wear it again.

Take the shirt-dress below for instance....it's been hangin' out in my closet for much longer than it should have as it was well past my style....yet I haven't been able to part with it. Perhaps it was the design or colors that I still appreciated....but not so much that it was a dress.

so this time around my visit with this old friend was a little different...I found myself inspired to transform it into something fun and chic instead of the usual routine of putting it away for another year. So I grabbed my fabric glue and in 15 minutes I created a little something that fit right into my wardrobe!

(so sorry for this blurry pic:)

And for a little fun I added a cameo flower similar to the one I made in this post...did I tell you I grabbed every last one of the cameos in stock:)

it sure was nice to breath new life into something I liked way back in the day...and am now liking a second time around.....

Wishing you a blessed week!

xo,

Abby

P.S. Have you heard of Stampington & Co's new publication Mingle! It's a fabulous magazine filled with fun and unique ideas for gathering and celebrating. Knowing Stampington's reputation for publishing wonderful magazines I'm certain this new addition to their family will be sure to please. And guess what, I'll be giving away a copy to one lucky winner so be sure to pop in for a visit in October to enter. By the way, you can pre-order your copy now if you'd like to get a head start...just click the picture to take you straight to the link.

Linking up with:

Transformation Thursday

The paper dollhouse is coming along...slowly

2011-09-17T10:19:00.002-04:00

Hi friends, happy weekend!! Just thought I'd share a glimpse at a few features added to the paper dollhouse. It's slow going now that we're back in school, soccer, and life. This is what we have so far....

My goal is to use only what I have in my studio...craftwire, pattern paper, trinkets and such...

and of course I can't resist adding vintage bits like clip-on earrings which have been transformed into sconces

right now I'm working on a sofa made from cardboard and pattern paper. I still have to add the trim and legs...and perhaps another pillow or two.

I've had so much fun with this little project that I may continue to add on and on....and on:)

Have a great weekend!

xo,

Abby

butterfly wishes

2011-09-09T19:01:00.001-04:00

To me butterflies are reminiscent of angels on earth….and every once in a while when I discover one fluttering by I make a wish into the universe.

Some are teeny tiny wishes…

while others carry the weight of my soul

I've been known to alter a vintage bottle or two into doll dresses of sorts...so when I read Art Doll Quarterly’s recent challenge to transform a bottle into a doll I followed my creative spirit and created a little something in honor of my butterfly wishes. She is a bit eccentric and perhaps even a touch weird.....

but I can't resist loving a doll that holds each of my whispered wishes deep within her soul...

and the greatest of all my wishes in her hand.

Wishing you a weekend filled with butterfly wishes:)

xo,

Abby

Happy weekend!

2011-09-02T17:46:00.001-04:00

Hello friends! Happy weekend to you!

I don't have much to report so I thought I'd share a few pictures of my latest find....

Vintage threads in a beautiful shade of cream

I placed them in a chippy bowl I've had since forever

aren't the old labels inside wonderful

Love a great find!!

Wishing you a great Labor Day weekend!

xo,

Abby

Linking up with:

When cabin fever strikes...create paper dolls

2011-08-29T20:25:00.010-04:00

Hello dear friends! We made it through Hurricane Irene with just a short power outage in my neighborhood, a few fallen branches and debris, thank God. Thanks to everyone who sent their prayers our way.

So while the hurricane made her way through my side of the world my girl and I suffered from a bit of cabin fever so we decided we'd create paper dolls..though these are not your typical paper dolls.

These girls are chic..sophisticated and a wee bit whimsy too...

and Miss Sophia loves playing with them!

So would you like to meet the girls?

First there's Miss Isabel who's celebrating her birthday

she's been adorned with a diamond tiara for her special day

and a scarf flowing in the wind....of course.

Next is Miss Hazel who's quite the diva...with a beautiful pearl necklace, a feather upon her hair...

and a satin evening bag with a handle made of links from a broken necklace.

And here's Miss Sophia....adorned with shimmery gloves and a glossy pout...

and her dress trimmed with tulle and satin for a bit of whimsy

and here's Miss Nora who according to my girl is the wild one of the group...she loves to dance!

her lovely hat and belt have been trimmed with a bit of tulle...and collar and cuffs with a bit of vintage lace

and did you happen to notice where the girls are hangin' out? Well they of course had to have a place to play so a shoebox is being transformed into their "brownstone" townhouse in the city. It started off looking like this...

In fact, here's Miss Hazel deciding on her curtains as we speak, he he.

I'll share more as it comes along.

Have a fabulous week my friends!

xo,

Abby

Tuesday's Treasures

Beach Cottage

Transformation Thursday

awaiting a storm

2011-08-27T10:50:00.002-04:00

There’s a hurricane in the horizon on my side of the world…

a time to prepare….

and a time to wait….

pray….

and wait some more…

and while we wait I snipped a few fragile blooms and petals that would never weather such a storm...

and sprinkled them about in teacups and such

adding a bit of cheer in the midst of the storm.

To my friends over on the East Coast....be safe:)

xo,

Abby

Make it pretty with the simple things

2011-08-22T21:07:00.006-04:00

As some of you know I love to wrap gifts with what I have on hand.....not only because it's cost effective but because to me it adds a personal touch to the most humble of gifts. You may recall my Make it Pretty post where I shared a quick and easy way to wrap a gift with remnants from Jo-Ann's. So I thought I'd share pics of another gift I wrapped for one of my best friends whose birthday is this week. She happens to be an amazing poet with a wise soul and more importantly a readily available comforting shoulder when ever I need a friend. When I'm out thrifting I'm always on the look out for vintage poetry books though I had very little luck until just this past weekend when thankully I found two....serendipitous I'm certain.....

To wrap her gift I reach for things already in my studio....tissue paper I saved from an Anthro purchase (I love their tissue paper), a vintage bonnet from one of my dolls, vintage lace and tulle, fabric remnants from Jo-Ann's, and a cameo hair tie from you'll never guess.....the dollar store!!! Yup, you read that right...the dollar store!

To start I stamped the tissue paper with a French script rubber stamp through out....

For a bit of color I stamped just a few floral prints in a pretty shade of blue....

I love that it's just a subtle touch of blue....

before wrapping the books in the tissue paper I first wrapped them in a $2 remnant from Jo-Ann...

which I secured in placing with a simple stick pin and a few pearls....

Once the books were wrapped with the final layer of the French script tissue paper I created the finishing touch....a fabric flower made of vintage tulle, a doll's bonnett, and a cameo hair tie from the dollar store...

it was quite easy to create...I just shaped the tulle and bonnett into a flower then after removing the black rubberband I adhered the cameo to the center....

I attached it to a Darice pin so that she may wear it how ever she likes....

This project took no more than 10 minutes, cost less than $3 yet managed to elevate the presentation of a humble gift in a way that regular wrapping paper and a bow never could. I hope when you're in a pinch to wrap a gift for a good friend you'll consider looking within your home...you never know what pretties you may find to Make it Pretty:)

Have a fabulous week!

xo,

Abby

Linking up with:

Saturday Nite Special

Inspiration Friday

Vintage Inspiration Friday

Fate

2011-08-13T21:09:00.000-04:00

Fate: the element of chance in the affairs of life; the unforeseen and unestimated conditions considered as a force shaping events.

With very little time to thrift today my plan was to visit the nearest thriftstore just minutes away...but while driving something inside told me to continue driving to the thriftstore in the next town....and so I did.

What was awaiting for my arrival made my heart skip a beat..maybe even two or three.....

there she was...my favorite Saint...Santa Teresa as I call her...waiting for me just beyond the children's toys and books....

worn and chippy....making her all the more beautiful in my eyes...

It was fate, I am certain, that lead me to her today....as I had recently been pondering on whether I should change my blog name....perhaps removing the word Garden as I felt some may wonder why the name "Abby's Garden". In discovering Saint Therese it was the answer I searched for....for she loved flowers and saw herself as the "little flower of Jesus" who gave glory to God by just being her beautiful little self among the flowers in God's garden. I believe I too am a flower in God's Garden just as she was....and so my blog name will remain untouched....ahh the magic of fate.....

xo,

Abby

My new inspirations on their way....

2011-08-08T22:33:00.013-04:00

Edited August 9, 2011: this post disappeared with all its comments. I've reposted it but all prior comments are gone:(

Hello my dear friends, how are you today? I hope your weekend was amazing and most especially memorable. The summer's winding down much too quickly for me...it always does:(

So before I share a glimpse of a few creations I made for Somerset Life's newspaper and tart tin challenges I want to thank you all for your lovely comments on my prior post. I am sincerely grateful for your friendship and your support...I can't imagine my life without my blog family:)

So here's a peek at what I created. First here's what I made for the newspaper challenge...

I used snippets of ads from a vintage French newspaper to create pendants inspired by soldered jewelry....a look I find most enchanting.

Now I've never ever created jewelry so my pieces are a humble girl's version.....but I had tons of fun giving it a try. In fact I had so much fun that I even created a few charms of pearls for a touch of whimsical elegance.

And here's a glimpse at what I created for the tart tins challenge....a task inspired by one of my favorite artists Becky Shander.

In my attempts to desperately hold on to every little bit of summer it seems I could not resist creating a petite trinket box inspired by the sea. I reshaped the metal a bit to resemble a clamshell....then finished it with a touch of craft paint, bits of tattered tulle and satin, spanish moss, and a pearl. I love its romantic simplicity....

Thankfully a little window of time allowed for me to create another little something....this time transforming a tart tin into a petite time capsule of sorts that's been filled with a few treasures from this summer's special moments...movie ticket stubs from our mommy-daughter date, a few pebbles and such from our trip to the shore, and even a sprinkling of sand too.

Creating this keepsake feels as if I've stolen a few moments from Father Time and tucked them away in this sweet little tin.

These are already on their journey and I hope some day I'll be back to say they've made the cut. Though either way is ok...as I truly enjoyed creating each piece.

Thanks so much for visiting...have a fantastic week!

xo,

Abby

Linking up with:

Saturday Nite Special
Frugal Friday
Vintage Inspiration Friday
Inspiration Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Show and Tell Friday
Good Life Wednesday
White Wednesday

Somserset Life dreams

2011-08-05T17:27:00.002-04:00

Have you seen the latest issue of Somerset Life ...it's one of their most beautiful issues yet! And I'm proud to say I am featured in it twice!

Remember the framed blooms below....created in the midst of my winter blues. You'll find them in a lovely article written by Amanda Crabtree...

and you'll also find my potted roses made their peat pot challenge....how exciting!

Getting published in my favorite magazine has been a fantastic dream come true....though I will share that my greatest gift has been discovering new layers in my creative journey...especially after having to resign from all of my design teams some time ago. I felt like a lost ship....unsure of my creative path. I craved the drive that the challenges and deadlines inspired and wondered how I'd find that same fire as I ventured along a new road.....in fact I had even considered deleting my blog countless times as I felt I had nothing to offer (sigh). For me Somerset Life was like a good friend....arriving just in time with the metaphoric bowl of chicken soup to comfort me...filling that creative void while allowing me to still balance life. And a year later I've come to realize that while seeing my work published has been exciting beyond belief it has been the process of creating that has been my true blessing.

So how about a glimpse at what's inspiring me right now....vintage tart tins and newspaper....I'll share a few peeks before sending them off...

In the meantime, I wish you a glorious weekend!

xo,

Abby

P.S. If you've ever considered submitting your work to Somerset Life (or any publication) just go for it....and don't look back! Yes you will have some work rejected, everyone does, but you will be inspired, you will push yourself, and you too will discover you are capable of reaching new heights in your creative journey....and isn't that what our creative spirit desires most:)

Seeing beyond

2011-07-29T18:26:00.013-04:00

There was a time in my life when I wouldn't have looked twice at this old and dusty spice rack sitting on a Goodwill shelf....

but today I see everything with different eyes....I see beyond....

and as soon as I saw it I immediately envisioned these lovely vessels filled with all kinds of baubles from my studio...

buttons and pearls

beads and dried flower petals

I've even shabby'd up the lids with a bit of paint and a few more baubles...

What do you think, not a bad find for one dollar!

Before I go I thought you'd like to see an updated picture of Mr Patrick. He's a big ball of energy!

Have an awesome weekend!

xo,

Abby

Linking up with:

Tuesday's Treasures

Gratitude

2011-07-18T21:10:00.003-04:00

There's a single rose blooming in my studio just for you...

as it lays just beside the word gratitude in my old and tattered dictionary I ponder on its meaning....the state of being grateful....

and I can't help but say...thank you so very much for your beautiful words about my studio.

xo,

Abby

P.S. I'm slowly but surely getting through the list of studios between my every day. So forgive me if I have yet to visit with you:)

Where Bloggers Create 2011

2011-07-15T00:47:00.018-04:00

Hello there friends, welcome to my creative space. I'm joining in on Karen's third annual Where Bloggers Create Party where hundreds of bloggers from all over the world share a glimpse of their creative haven.

So, last year you may remember I shared pictures of my studio in progress. It hasn't really changed much since then....though I have rearranged a few things and sprinkled in more of the things that make me happy. Now are you ready for a look around at some of the changes....but I must warn you I may have gone a little overboard with the pictures so let me know if it takes too long to upload please:)

Here are a few views from last year
(click pictures to enlarge)

Now let's take a look around at some changes.....

First up is Emma who's been relocated near the entry and has been dressed with vintage lace, jewels, pearls, hat pins, and topped off with a crown....

along the back wall there have been just a few changes (sorry for the glare, it was a sunny day)....a vintage chair now stands where Emma was....replacing the throw pillows and making it a bit more comfy for Miss Sophie when she hangs out in the room. A vintage sewing basket beneath the chair is also new to the collection..it's filled to the brim with trims....

I've also added a couple more framed pieces to the wall....

I especially love my girl's sweet gloves against a backdrop of vintage sheet music....

an old frame with stained burlap trim was perfect to display bits of lace pretties along the rusty wire...

there's also an embroidered lantern hanging by the window....a great find at GW!

The inspiration board is a bit of a mess right now but I love it just the same......I did consider sprucing it up a bit just for your visit but I think you'd prefer to see a little bit of reality in the mix...and this is it....a fabulous mess:)

The lamp shade is now a bit "naked" after removing the fabric...it offers more lighting this way which I desperately need at night...and truthfully I kinda like its tattered look....

and it's turned out to be perfect for hanging bits of vintage lace at arm's reach for my projects too....

Now you may have noticed a bundle or two of dried roses have made their way into some pictures in prior posts...these roses (and now the wisteria) hang along the window where I take many of my photos....

moving them each time would disturb their fragile petals so I just let them be.....and I must admit...I don't really mind having a backdrop of dried blooms in my little "photo shoots"....

over on the other side I've sprinkled in a few more bits and pieces in the room.....a beautiful vintage fan now sits as the backdrop to pretty storage boxes and a pair of porcelain figurines I found at GW....

and Elizabeth....along with a few vintage teacups and salt and pepper shakers filled with pretties sit atop the shelves above my work area...

while right below you'll find a smaller inspiration board that's perfect for little treasures like Sophie's hand cut out, pictures, and special notes....right by the board is a stand holding some of my ribbon spools....

and over by the window hangs a basket with more pretty trims...oh that glare was a little pest but I can't really complain about the sun shining:)

now how about a few more random pictures of other bits and pieces....I have vintage postage envelopes sprinkled here and there...I love the history each worn word holds. Some still have the letters inside and one actually had a vintage hankerchief!

one of my most treasured pieces....a Colleen Moody birdie doll...I still can't believe she's mine

but by far my favorite pieces among the room are the pictures of my girl...this one sits right by my work table....just love her!

this metal dress form was one of my first purchases for the studio and I still LOVE it....

She's dressed a bit different from Emma....more eccentric and whimsical.....

I love that they differ so much yet fit right in my space:)

over by the entry wall a few recent finds hang until I find a permanent place for them....I love the oval frames with the two ballerinas...

Now I couldn't leave without sharing a glimpse of my work desk right now.....far from pristine...but that's how it should be right!

Here we are a year later and it's still a work in prgress (I suspect it always will be). This summer I hope to remove the carpeting and white wash the floor and a vintage chandelier also waits to be hung.

Well there you have it....my studio (in progress). Thank you so much for taking the time to visit...be sure to stop by Karen's blog for tons more creative spaces to discover.

xo,

Abby

linking up with:

A sneaky peek before the Where Bloggers Create Party

2011-07-14T21:10:00.004-04:00

Hello there, I'm sitting here working on my Where Bloggers Create post and thought I'd share a sneaky peek of my creative space.....

I'll be back soon with the full post...see you then!

xo,

Abby

White Wednesday

2011-07-12T20:58:00.000-04:00

Hello all, how's it going! It's been soooo hot on my side of the world but I won't complain after the frigid winter we had...I will take the humid, frizzy hair weather...and believe me it's frizzy!

So I've been meaning to share a few pics of my beautiful giveway win from Stefanie at Rose Petals and Rust...and what better time than on White Wednesday....

It was a generous giveaway that included so many of the bits and pieces I adore and she took great care to package everything beautifully....

inside I discovered all sorts of beauties like vintage spools and buttons........

the teeniest vintage bottle...which I couldn't help but put a sprig of the lavender from her beautiful packaging.....

there was also a doily, a sweet little bisque doll and trims.....and would you believe a beautiful pearl necklace and perfectly tarnished fork and spoon were also included!
I feel so lucky to have won such a wonderful giveway...thank you so much Stefanie for a most lovely gift...I will forever treasure every piece!

See you Friday for Where Bloggers Create

xo,

Abby

On their way...

2011-07-10T20:11:00.000-04:00

Hello dear friends, so the Birdsong tags are now on their journey to Karla's home. I did manage to take a few more pictures just before.....

I love that each seems to have its own personality and special touch...some adorned with vintage dress patterns and tulle...

while others with tags and buttons...

a strand of vintage rhinestones for a little bling....

and doilies distressed and stamped just so...

along the way it seemed the birdies beckoned for a little more flare...so a crown for each came to be....some made with vintage lace....and others of craft wire and beads

and a few more made of vintage sheet music....

I must say this little project has inspired me in so many ways....and still does. I suspect I will continue to make many more...and perhaps include them in my oh so lonely etsy shop...

Thanks so much for visiting and especially your friendship. Have an awesome week!

xo,

Abby

P.S. I'll be back in a few days to join in on the Where Bloggers Create 3rd annual party. Hope you'll stop by for a few peeks at the bits and pieces that keep me company while I create.

P.P.S. Forgive the quality of the Birdsong tag photos....my camera and I don't seem to be getting along lately:)

The finishing touches...

2011-06-29T21:22:00.010-04:00

Hello my beautiful friends, I hope you're enjoying your week so far!

I'm still adding the finishing touches to my Birdsong tags before sending them off on their journey to Karla's home. So while I'm here would you like a peek at the hostess gift that I created especially for Karla? It was inpsired by my trio of white roses created for Somerset Life's Peat Pot challenge (a challenge she originally inspired)...

This rose differs a bit from my potted roses...as a lovely and simple long stem rose was inspired instead. It is not extravegant in value but one I hope she'll love.....

I discovered a page with the words bird song among my collection of vintage sheet music that was just perfect to wrap the rose....hmmm serendipity indeed...

I must admit...I've enjoyed this little swapping aventure and hope for the opportunity to join a few more in the future...

I'll be back with a few more peeks before they begin their journey.

Wishing you an awesome rest of the week!

xo,

Abby

P.S. You can find my potted roses in the summer issue of Somerset Life!

Linking up with:

Fireflies and Jellybeans

Meet Patrick...

2011-06-25T17:42:00.003-04:00

May I introduce you to Miss Sophie’s new love…..his name is Patrick (yes as in Sponge Bob's bff)!

A furry, white ball of playfulness and feistiness….and oh so cute!!

Perhaps too soon for me but my girl was lonely….and admittedly our home was too….

And though this little guy was not planned he’s managed to fill our home with love, joy, and comfort too....

Dare I say....I think I'm in love.....

xo,

Abby

P.S. Never ever ever under any circumstances plan a trip to just “look” at a puppy…..I promise….you will fall in love instantly and without hesitation take him home with you….be warned:)

Linking up with: