The Victorian Gypsy

A JANUARY YARN

2012-01-13T07:30:00.003-06:00

January always seems like a perfect time to work with yarn. Through the years I've made lots of small things, a couple of afghans and baby blankets, many purses, hats, and scarves, but never anything that is meant to fit. How I envy the people with the skill and patience to finish sweaters and socks. I really like little projects best, I guess. I think maybe it stems from the years of making things to sell at craft shows. Here's just a couple of pictures. I made a lot of tea cozies for a while. I really liked this one. The tie is adorned with buttons, beads, and charms.

The brooch is a little large. I guess I should have known when the pattern said "peony". I found it here, and I'll be wearing it on my jacket at work today. I guess I'll see how many people laugh. It's my own little homage to spring, now that winter has finally begun in the midwest!

Ring In the New

2012-01-01T21:40:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year! Can you hear my sigh of relief that it is 2012? When I posted last January, I gave myself two words for the year. One was Accept, which I am keeping. The other was Soar. I didn't. I also wanted to revamp my blog and set a goal of 200 followers. I did add a few, but missed the goal. I am grateful for those of you who have stayed with me. Many of my posts start at one place and end up entirely somewhere else. So much of my past eighteen months have just been about getting through another day that I am almost afraid to even plan for the future. That's why I liked this post by Dr. Wayne Dyer:

"Forget about those New Year’s resolutions in which you decide on the first day of January how you will be conducting your life for the next twelve months. Instead, set up day-to-day goals for yourself, and then resolve to begin living with present moment awareness for the rest of your life. When you get good at living your present moments one day at a time, you’ll see yourself changing right before your own surprised eyes. Remember, anyone can do anything for just one day, so tune out the sentences that keep you locked into your old self-defeating ways and begin to enjoy each day of your bright new year."

I have always liked to make Resolutions. For years I have stayed up until the New Year, taking stock of my past year and planning for the future. But, I have learned that the Future is a wily old scoundrel who sometimes has his way with us, no matter what we may plan. I have changed so much from the woman who started a little crafty blog, and wanted to share her thoughts about her happy, hectic life. I miss her so.

CHRISTMAS MOURNING

2011-12-23T08:00:00.003-06:00

REMEMBERING RICH AND JIM

CHRISTMAS 2011

This isn't the Christmas I've dreamed of, it's true...

But I still want to send a greeting to you.

I'll always remember this year as the worst.

And, yes, I do wonder if maybe I'm cursed.

It's been a hard year, and you all have come through

With love and with friendship, I am grateful for you.

I know that I haven't always answered the phone.

My body is here, but my heart isn't at home.

There's an unwritten law--when one loses a spouse-

Everything falls apart in the house.

The furnace, the faucets, the drains, and the car---

But these aren't the reasons I miss him, by far!

I'm tired of sadness, I'm wearied by sorrow...

I'm sick of waiting each day for tomorrow.

So I cry when I laugh and I laugh when I cry

And don't understand why good people die.

But little by little, and yes, bit by bit.

The tree is put up, and the candles are lit.

The stores are too cheery with music and such

So I'm shopping online and not doing much.

I try to remember, though it's lonely down here

There's a party upstairs... And they are feeling the cheer.

Go hug all your children. Give your loved ones a kiss

And celebrate Christmas for those that we miss.

Love,

Sandi

I Know You're Jealous!

2011-12-12T21:12:00.003-06:00

Time for our annual Christmas Craft Nite Party. You remember my Craft Nite Group. We've know each other simply forever and started to get together when our children were babies (almost 35 years ago---Wow!) At Christmas we don't have a craft-just a party. Kathy hosted and these were gifts. She bleached the trees, decorated them, and showcased them in teacups. How cute is that!

We also draw names. This year I received an old tin box filled with ephemera and all sorts of supplies. Of course, I love it. If it's old and paper, or fabric, or tin, or wood, I am smitten. Between all the mica flakes, glitter, bakers twine, buttons, ribbons, bits and bobbles, I'd better come up with something good. More to come on the contents of the magical box.

We also received an ornament from our famous dollmaker friend, Cindee. She started making Christmas angels for each of us about 15 years ago and now she can't show up without one. I am so blessed in my friendships! Even without the presents.

A Very Paper Christmas

2011-12-06T20:16:00.005-06:00

I've decided to have a very simple Christmas this year, so I bought a skinny tree of the very cheap variety. I set it on a box to make it look taller and proceeded to embellish. Most of my decorations are made from one old book. I pleated rosettes, glued them together and added old fashioned Santas. A large one forms the tree topper. Other pages were rolled into cornucopias, filled with red berries and rosemary. Birds were cut from cardboard, book pages, and scrapbook paper, with pleated wings. And sticks from the yard are stuck randomly into the tree. My most favorite decoration is the long chain. It's made from many bits of fabric, sewed onto a heavy interfacing, decorated with all sorts of fancy stitches and ribbons, and then cut into strips and all buttoned together. I've used lots of sentimental pieces
and written names and dates and sayings on them. I even had some fabric from the clothes I made from my girls when they were small. And from doll clothes. (I was always going to use them for a doll quilt or something. Now, I finally have.) I still have more to finish, but this works for my tree and is a great memory chain. I spent a lot of time creating it, and trying out the stitches on my sewing machine. The grandkids like looking for their names. I will probably keep it out after the holiday. It may become a window garland.

There is also a wreath made of book pages. So far, that's it, except for the Advent calendars. I do need something for the fireplace.

I do miss seeing all my ornaments, and other decorations, and Christmas village, and the big tree, but this just isn't the year for them. Next year: happier times and more decorating.

I really have to apologise for the terrible quality of the photos. I am just never home at a decent time of day to take pictures lately. And I knew, if I didn't add this now, it wouldn't happen in December. Happy Holidays!

The New Thankful 2011

2011-11-24T21:36:00.004-06:00

Every life is full. Good things and not so good things. And sometimes we have to look for the good things. I feel very vulnerable this Thanksgiving. Just a year ago, I thought that if I could just get through the holidays after Rich's sudden death, then life would get better. I never even dreamed that we would sit down to our Thanksgiving meal with another missing place at the table. Yes, it is hard to be happy, and sometimes it is hard to be grateful, but giving thanks is what this time of year is all about.

I am grateful for the friends and family who gather and the way that we can all support each other. I am grateful that we can always find things to laugh about even when we cry.

It's been a good day. Most of us were able to come to KC to spend it with my oldest daughter, Erin, and her family. They had a houseful--nineteen of us for dinner. My son's family had to stay in Des Moines because of work schedules, but we should all be together to celebrate Christmas.

Trent, my son-in-law, is always the cook, and the the rest of us just plan to stay out of his way, and handle the cleanup. He takes his Turkey very seriously, even wearing a chef's coat when putting our delicious dinner together. Jim always spent a lot of time in the kitchen with him, so I know he felt the loss this year. But the other men stepped in. In some ways today was a comedy of errors, and we really felt Jim's presence in many ways. We really thought he and Rich might have been playing a few tricks. There was a little problem with the turkey when they realized that the oven wasn't on, so dinner was delayed! Next, one of the sterno cans under the chafing dish caught fire and we had a little tablecloth disaster right before dinner. Everyone was screaming, and shouting and laughing, because for some reason we are always laughing in the face of disaster in this family. And, right then, one of my dead husband's favorite songs started playing on the radio!!

It was a great meal, though perhaps not our most elegant, with our makeshift centerpiece and singed tablecloth, and tired and hungry children.

We are starting to look forward to happy times. Middle daughter Meg will be moving to her dream home within a couple of months, and we are finally beginning to plan Bridget's wedding, which will be held there in the fall.

"Life goes on, though good men die." (Edna St. Vincent Millay)

What? October's Over?

2011-10-31T21:23:00.007-05:00

So, looks like I almost missed this month! But, wait, I have some photos. Not very good-I can't seem to get the lighting and background thing right. I am always taking my photos late at nite or early in the morning. Even though I know that I shouldn't. And I have to apologize for not being able to figure out the secret of getting my photos where I want them to be. I know this should be much easier than it is.

First, I won a prize. And what a prize it is. Paulette, made this beautiful Practical Magic art book for me. It's one of my favorite movies, and you can be sure that the book will stay out, and not be put away just because Halloween is over. Visit her blog and you will see more pages, and lots more beautiful things. Thank you Paulette. It was a wonderful surprise.

And I made two Halloween books myself. One, I sent to my dear friend, Fleur, just barely before the holiday was over, and the other I may just have to keep, since it didn't get mailed in a timely manner. I folded the pages of old books, added lots of pictures and paint, and voila! Stand up journals.

I went to the annual giant booksale this fall, looking just for books, I could tear apart and alter. I'm not too successful at that, even though I love art books. Once, I get them home, I can't bear to take them apart. I am trying to not have more books than I have shelves, but I am honestly thinking that may never happen.

I did have a bit of fun with my decorating. The first picture, now that I have given up trying to get them where I want them to be, is an old tin document box. I think this one was actually for art supplies. I opened the door to the compartment, stood the box on its' side, and added a few things to make it spooky. Now I'm going to take it apart and start changing it for Christmas. Don't you love it when you can use something you've had forever in a completely new way?

I did have a very busy month. I think I've overcommitted myself. I'm hoping that my new sewing machine-more about that in another post- will break me of the recently acquired habit of wandering around stores shopping for nothing, instead of going home to my quiet house.

A Portrait from Tess and Wise Words

2011-09-21T19:02:00.003-05:00

Tess, who will be four in November, drew this picture for me. She calls it "Grammie in the Rain". I knew I had a black cloud over my head, but I had hoped I was hiding it from others. This week is the one year anniversary since we lost Rich. At the time I thought that was the worst thing that could happen. I don't know how I could have gotten through it without Jim. This week we will all be spending a lot of time together. Tomorrow the littlest of the grands will help me get out the Halloween decorations. This weekend we will all spend time cleaning up the yard for fall and celebrating life.

"This is the beginning of a new day. You have been given this day to use as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever; in its' place is something that you have left behind...let it be something good." Anonymous

More Loose Change

2011-09-06T21:55:00.002-05:00

The runner is finally done, and I am quite pleased with it. Lovely felted wool pieces are stitched onto a calico base. I made it a bit smaller than originally intended so that it would also fit as a banner on the fireplace. I've never used this space before, but with a tension curtain rod, I can hang this right up. What a versatile piece it has turned out to be. I've also made an eyeglass case and a pincushion. I think my next project will be a sewing case. I'm having fun just having all the little pieces of wool to choose from. Now, as I look at the first picture, I realize that is before it was finished. I added some embellishment to the leaves and flowers later. Well, you get the idea--it's done, it's done!

Penny For My Thoughts

2011-08-14T22:34:00.003-05:00

I've been looking for something crafty to do-something which only takes a part of my brain, and this is what I have come up with--Penny rugs--a nineteenth century applique technique using wool. This looks big, but is actually a small mug mat. Now I'm in the process of making a table runner. I just ordered some wool pieces from etsy, so I am waiting until they come before I progress much farther. I did buy a yard of white wool with a coupon (50% off) and have been dying little pieces of it. Wool is very expensive, so this is a good way to get a variety of solid colors.

I have also been working on some memorial pieces as Christmas gifts. Well, not so much working on them as thinking about them. I call them "Grief Goods". Maybe there's a market. Baby steps.

It's been six weeks now that I have been alone. It does not get easier. Of course, I already knew that. I don't know what the future will bring. Right now I am just getting through the days. And the nights.

JIM MORAN June 23,1949-June 30, 2011

2011-07-02T14:22:00.006-05:00

I am a widow. Jim did great for three days after his surgery. Then started having probems. Wednesday morning he coded and they shocked him back, but we could see he was gone when we got to the hospital. We took him off the respirator on Thursday and he died three minutes later at 9:26. I am in shock, as are all of us. We thought we would have more time, even though we knew it was terminal. We found out yesterday that cancer tumors were in eighty percent of his liver. We didn't know that it was that extensive. I truly believe he was trying to save us the pain. His heart stopped as he was lying in bed, just like Rich's. He has always said he wanted to die alone, and not have everyone watching him, but he didn't get that wish. We were all there throughout the night. I've always said I wanted to go like Melanie a la GWTW, so I'll probably lie alone somewhere for a week before someone finds me. God delights in playing tricks with me, it seems. Once again, I am dreading the next few days, as we do all this with the same cast, different leading man.

(this picture was taken on Father's Day-I still can't believe he was sick)

Be The Lighthouse

2011-06-25T22:40:00.002-05:00

SOME DAYS THE ROAD IS LIT AND THE WAY IS EASY

OTHER DAYS THE PATH IS DARK AND THE GOING ROUGH

FEAR NO DARKNESS...BE THE LIGHTHOUSE.

After our son died last September, we found a "bucket list" when packing up his apartment. One of the items on it was "Own a lighthouse". I must admit, I never knew that, and I never even thought about lighthouses. Now, I see them everywhere. And that isn't easy. We live in the midwest, so they aren't usually something that one notices. And since I realized that the Moran family motto means 'Shine in Darkness', somehow it all seems connected.

Last week, it hit me again that our incredible run of bad luck isn't over. As we sat in the oncologist's office and heard the news that my husband's stomach pain was not the hernia that he had thought it was. Instead it is a stage 4 malignancy that has already spread to his liver. And, wouldn't you just know it, on the doctor's wall was a large painting of a lighthouse!

And, yes, now we are officially, the family that no one wants to be.

Happy Mothers' Day

2011-05-08T11:04:00.001-05:00

SONG FOR A FIFTH CHILD

(THE VALUE OF VALUES)

Ruth Hulbert Hamilton

Mother, oh Mother, come shake out your cloth

Empty the dustpan--poison the moth

Hang out the washing--make up the bed

Sew on a button and butter the bread.

Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?

She's up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.

Oh, I've grown as shiftless as Little Boy Blue

(Lullabye, rockabye, lullaby loo)

Dishes are waiting and bills are past due

(Lullabye, rockabye, lullaby loo)

The shopping's not done and there's nothing for stew

And out in the yard there's a hullaba-loo

But I'm playing "Kanga" and this is my "Roo"

Look, aren't his eyes the most wonderful hue?

(Lullabye, rockabye, lullabye loo).

The cleaning and scrubbing can wait til tomorrow

But children grow up as I've learned to my sorrow.

So quiet down cobwebs! And dust go to sleep!

I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep!

I discovered this poem many years ago when my fifth child, Rich, was a baby.

Happy Mothers' Day everyone, and especially to the five wonderful children

that I have been privileged to raise. It seems like yesterday that you were

all babies and we were "blissfully rocking".

In The Pink

2011-04-20T17:43:00.005-05:00

Okay, this isn't a difficult project, but definitely one with a lot of meaning. Last summer, when I was going through my six and a half weeks of radiation, the very worst part of it for me was the clothes pins. Yes, I guess I must be weird. But something about putting on that ugly hospital gown every day and fastening it with two clothespins was just awful! So when my craft group decided we really needed to do a project for others at some of our monthly gatherings, this was my first thought. We painted a bunch of them bright colors and decorated them with stamps, and pictures, and uplifting, inspirational words. I think if they bring a smile to just one patient, they are worth it. Today I delivered the pins and had my one year mammo and visit with the oncologist and everything is good.
Actually now that I think about it, the very worst part was when the hot young tech drew lines and arrows all over my bosom with an indelible marker.

Soul Restoration

2011-03-27T22:16:00.004-05:00

Remember this class? It's over now, but still a big,big part of my life. Monday and Tuesday they are sponsoring a contest, and inviting students to blog about what the class meant to them. Well, very simply, I loved it. It came at a perfect time for me, and let me mess, and glue, and cut, for hours at a time, without having to think too much about my sorrow. They are having a second class in June. I'm not too sure what it will be like, but it involves lots and lots of index cards. The winner will get free registration to the class for herself and for a friend.

I mentioned the time line before and how it made me see that I have really had a good life and that it has gone by very quickly. We also made another book about soul restoration and a book of Promises for the future. I am still working on that one. I also did a lot of journaling. Some of it was pretty dark, but I needed to do it, and it helped. I think my very favorite project was the Truth Cards. I put mine on a little easel and have one out every day to remember my own personal truths. Every person's truths are different, but they are all very motivating and uplifting.

I remember a tv show when I was a child called "Queen For A Day". Women would come on the show and talk about how awful their lives were. At the end of the show, the most pitiful one was chosen to be Queen. Maybe I am mixing it up with Miss America, but it seems to me that she got a robe, a crown, and flowers. And she always seemed to win a washing machine. I sort of feel like I have become those women, because so many awful things have happened to me in the last year. Some of them I have never even mentioned, because, really, how much can you believe??? But, as someone, who has always been pretty happy and content, 2009 and 2010 were like one of those barrels you see rolling down a big hill in old movies. Over and over and over again, and then another big bump, while I just tried to hang on as best as I could. I really think, that if I can't win the class, I should at least get the crown.

It's Not Easy Being Green

2011-03-17T21:42:00.005-05:00

Here we are all, about to enjoy a lovely St Paddy's Day. Green eggs and ham, such a way to start the day. Finn and Tess about to get on the float. Tess loved it all. She thought everyone was there just for her. Can you say "Irish Princess"? Cass and I went home while everyone else enjoyed the parade. The weather was nice, and what a crowd. Later, I collected the other children and we had fun the rest of the day, while the rest of the family got a little bit more Irish as the day progressed. I didn't listen to any Irish music this year. Usually I start early in February. We had the shirts made as a tribute to Rich. There were 50 of them out and about today. They have the family motto "Lucet in Tenebris", which means "They Shine in Darkness" Tess told me that Uncle Wich was busy in Heaven today looking after us.

These things, I warmly wish for you-

Someone to love, Some work to do,

A bit of o’ sun A bit o’ cheer

And a guardian angel Always near.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T22:48:00.003-06:00

Happiest of Valentines to you from The Victorian Gypsy

Soul Restoration

2011-01-23T23:22:00.000-06:00

I know I promised myself that I would post more, but I have been spending every available minute Mod podging, collaging, journaling, cutting, pasting, and thinking. I am totally involved in this wonderful workshop. I knew I was a brave girl after everything that has happened to me in the past year, but I can use all the reinforcement that I can get. Right now we are working on a time line, which is kind of scary because it only goes to age 80. Now I imagine that some of you think that is an advanced age, but to me it seems like it is right around the corner, especially as I see how quickly my time has gone so far. So I am adding an envelope at the end of mine to put all those things I will still want to do after I am eighty. I know several women who are still volunteering, working at jobs they love, traveling, and enjoying life in general. That's the way I plan to be.
Seriously, this is a great class. I am learning all sorts of things. There are four weeks left, and I will be sorry to see it end.

New Year, New Words

2011-01-05T21:05:00.000-06:00

Everybody picks words for the year any more, rather than resolutions. Obviously, my word for the year should be procastination, since we are already five days into 2011. I have two words. The first one picked me, but I think I need it. The word is ACCEPTANCE. There are so many things I want to accept. This is kind of a no brainer, I guess. This year I want to accept that sometimes there are no answers. This is a tough one for me, because I expect everything to have a reason. I accept that I will not do all the things I want to do, because I accept the fact that I'm not so young as I think I am. I do not accept getting funny emails about all the awful things that are part of our lives now that we are old. I laugh, but I do not accept them. I accept that taking care of my health is something I have to do now, not later. I accept that treats are okay, too. I accept that every day isn't a perfect day, but that there is something perfect in every day.
My other word, the one that I am deliberately choosing is SOAR. This is my year to soar, and to shine, and to enjoy.
Also I do have a goal. Before this year ends, I would like to have at least 200 followers on my blog. So please, follow me, and ask your friends to follow me. It's going to be good. Just accept it.

Forecasting A Happy New Year

2011-01-02T20:03:00.005-06:00

Don't you love this post card? Wishing good fortune is always a part of New Year Festivities. I know I'm a day late. Not the best way to start a new year, but I have been busy. I'm still undecorating the house. It seems to be hitting me harder than the original decorating. I pack a few ornaments, cry a little, pack a few more, take a break. Hopefully, I'll finish the tree tonight or first thing in the morning, and then tomorrow it will go back out to the garage. When we had a live tree, it always let me know when it was time to banish it from the house. Droopy, prickly branches were obvious. But, now, the artificial trees look as good after Christmas as they did before.

I enjoy that empty space when the tree is gone. I didn't really make resolutions this year, but I am doing a lot of space clearing. For a person who hardly ever shops, I tend to accumulate things at an alarming rate. I am trying to eliminate the things that I don't absolutely love. As William Morris, the Victorian designer and artist, said, "Have nothing in your house that you don't know to be useful or believe to be beautiful." I look around and I just have way too much stuff. So, no resolutions, but a definite determination to clean up, clear out, and have some sort of control. That's how my life is now. William Morris also said, "The true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life."
Nothing matters, yet everything matters. I'm not sure if someone else said that first, but it explains so much about the way I feel.

A Blank Slate

2011-01-02T19:54:00.002-06:00

Here it is. 2011. And not a minute too soon. A New Year. A Blank Slate. We never know what any year will bring, it's true, but I am wishing you, and me, and everyone in the world the best of everything.

Eight isn't Enough

2010-12-19T23:22:00.000-06:00

I finally got everyone together and to sit reasonably still for a moment. So ta-da! Finally, all eight in one picture. Of course, some aren't smiling, some aren't looking at the camera, and some wouldn't take off their hats, but they are all right here wishing us all a very merry Christmas.

Paper Stories

2010-12-15T18:29:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we had our annual Christmas craft nite. I've talked about our group before. We have been meeting once a month for over 30 years. Dinner, lots of laughter, and an easy craft. We have several very talented women in our small group, so there are always wonderful projects. At Christmas we don't craft but have a gift exchange. This is what I made. I love it and plan to make more. I am a book lover, hoarder, keeper, so it was very hard for me to tear a book apart. I bought this one especially to reconstruct. It was already missing a few pages, so that is my defense. This was a late nineteenth century (yummy thick and textured paper) novel called "The Old Mam'selle's Secret''. And I have kept the cover for more projects. More budget book projects coming right up.

A Sort of Holly Jolly Christmas

2010-12-12T11:11:00.000-06:00

Decorating is going up in bits and pieces this year. Finn and Tess came over to help with the tree. As you can see, their idea is very definitely quantity over quality. We have lots of bare spots and lots of places very heavy with holiday. That says a lot about the way I feel, I suppose. This year there are just things I cannot do. I have to make substitutions. Some boxes I'm just not able to open.
We were gifted by an "angel" from Amanda the Panda. This is a local organization that has been active for 30 years helping families to get through the grieving process. They put together a box of little gifts for us to open each day until Christmas. An amaryllis plant, a cookbook, chocolates, just a variety of things to brighten our day and let us know that people are thinking of us. I am very impressed with them and plan to volunteer in some way in the future. As I've said before, my life has changed forever, and this grief will be part of who I am now. I can still laugh, and enjoy life, and I am looking forward to the time when I don't dissolve into sobs several times a day, but I know this underlying sadness will never go away. And I really think that perhaps I can help other people who have to go through this.
Every post I try to start out positively, and really don't want this to be depressing, but holidays are very difficult. Thank you for reading. Next time, a happy post. Really!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL

2010-11-21T21:56:00.000-06:00

It is almost Thanksgiving. My entire sense of perception has been off this year, so I am surprised that it is Turkey Time again. I have to say that this has never been my favorite holiday. Oh, I do love to eat---but I have never cooked a Thanksgiving dinner, or hosted one at my house. And I don't really like to decorate with turkeys, so Thanksgiving has just been part of a slow slide into Christmas. I've always had very definite rules that we didn't start to shop or decorate or listen to Christmas music until after this holiday is over. Usually we go to my oldest daughter's house in Kansas City, but since we will be working on Friday we will stay in town and have dinner with our son and family.
I like this card, which I found at Vintage Holiday Crafts. I am working very hard on being grateful for all the good things in our life. This is difficult, because this was the worst year ever.
We finally got the autopsy report back last week. My thirty year old son died from heart disease. He went to sleep one night and never woke up. Our family is still having a very difficult time. We never suspected and I'm sure he didn't know that his heart was bad either. I worry that it could have been prevented, but I have to believe that when it is time............... I know it will get easier, but it will never be back to normal. And I will never be fine.
There have been things that have helped. Reading and writing on Facebook has actually been very helpful. I hardly even checked my account until recently. It helps to be in touch with his friends. And I have found a very good book. It was written by Brooke Noel and is called "I Wasn't Ready to Say Goodbye". I have been trying to read other things too, but my attention span isn't great lately.
I have started thinking about Christmas. Having the young children around will make things better. Finn and Tess will each decorate their own little tree at our house this year, so that will be fun.

Bounteous Beauties

2010-10-30T21:32:00.000-05:00

I am finally posting about the goodies I received in the Artsy Mama Sweet and Sinister Swap. I was lucky enough to have two partners and they were both wonderful and extremely talented ladies. Above is a picture which I borrowed from my partner Karen's blog, Recycled Rita . (I did take pictures, but wasn't able to post them.) Lots of goodies, including the great eek banner, which I hung across my window. A vintage purse, which I loooove, and two flower pins. This Halloween plate and spreader will be used tomorrow at my daughter-in-law's party.There is a decorated can filled with yummy chocolates. A sparkled cardboad chandelier, lots of ephemera, and more that I am sure that I forgot. Thank you Karen.

And next, my partner Natalie of One Hungry Hippie sent me these treasures early, but my posting got delayed. Lots of great items, including this clutch bag decorated with feathers, a black and white Paris scarf, a milk glass goblet, an ostrich feather pen, a giant patchwork pumpkin, a coffee cozy. chocolates, and more. I feel very spoiled by both of these lovely ladies, and lucky to have two new friends. Happy Halloween everybody. I'm afraid it sort of slid by me this year.

Journal for a Friend

2010-10-25T22:09:00.000-05:00

Here we have a couple of pictures of a journal I made for a friend's birthday this summer. I do love to put these books together, and am still thinking of having a class.
I am busy right now putting our lives back together. Grieving is an exhausting process. And for now, going to work everyday and then being with family is about all that I can manage. I have ventured out once or twice for social occasions, but there are still too many tears.

I had two talented and understanding partners for the "Sweet and Sinister" swap and hope to get their lovely items posted tomorrow. Halloween is usually a favorite holiday. This year it isn't quite as much fun.

Family

2010-10-03T09:49:00.000-05:00

As you may probably guess, we have looked through lots of photos in the past week. This is a few years old but one of my favorites. Meghan, Bridget, Jim, Rich, and Erin. Jim is the oldest and Rich the youngest. They have always been very close, and are holding each other up now. As much as my husband and I grieve for the loss of our child, they are heartbroken at the emptiness they feel for a brother and friend.
I have hundreds of other pictures, but promise not to post them all. I want this to be a happy, crafty blog, where visitors come for art and inspiration, and funny stories. This past year I seem to have taken a major detour. Thank you for being here for me. Please come again.

Heartfelt Thanks

2010-09-30T07:31:00.000-05:00

"Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives, and when he isn't around, he leaves an awful hole doesn't he?" Clarence Oddbody, ASC (Angel, 2nd Class)
If a funeral could ever said to be perfect, this one was. The eulogy, the songs....everything reinforced how we thought of his "Wonderful Life". More people than we ever imagined, have come to tell us how they loved Rich, and how important he was to them. His funeral was standing room only, and hundreds came to his wake/birthday party. And each of them had a story to tell. We are empty, yet comforted. Thank you all

2010-09-24T00:29:00.000-05:00

Richard Moran 1979-2010
I will never dance at your wedding. I will never hold your future babies in my arms. I love you, my youngest child, and cannot beleive that you are gone from us. I remember before you were born, when strangers would come up to me and wonder aloud why I would have so many children. (In the 1970's big families really weren't considered to be politically correct.) I love all my children, but you were special, because you were the baby.
So many memories are going through my head tonite. The story times and tea parties we would have when every one else was in school. Pokie and Benjie. The long talks. Watching wrestling (???) on tv. We thought you had a charmed life when you were little. Almost falling out of the car when the door unexpectedly opened. Riding your bicycle into a moving car. Riding the toboggan down the Killer Hills. Having the corner cupboard fall on top of you. And, oh yes, the little accident with the police car. I remember how you skipped school to go to the library and the coffee shop. Of course, you grew up, even though I keep seeing pictures of you in my head as a little boy. And we have always been proud of you and your brother and your sisters. I think you might enjoy hearing how we miss you. And you'd want to be around for the grand old Irish wake we are probably going to have.
So many terrible things have happened this year. And I have never cried. Not once. Not even a little. And now I cannot stop. On Monday it will be your thirtyfirst birthday. And we will say goodbye. May the wind be always at your back.

Back to the Real World

2010-09-05T19:29:00.000-05:00

Well, I am back from my little road trip and every single moment was fantastic. Here we all are at Mary's lakefront home, standing on the deck with Lake Minnetonka in the background. Her house has 4 levels, all looking at the lake and dock in her backyard. It was beautiful! We stayed on the top floor, and it looked like a lodge. There were four beds, all built in, and surrounded by bookshelves. Our whole trip was like a fairy tale. The cottage that you see here was a little garden shop called Gray Gardens.We feasted on fresh fruits and croissants in the mornings, while we admired the view, and then shopped, shopped, shopped all day. And we all love the thrill of junking, so we hunted for bargains and admired each others treasures. Things like old books and rusted grandpa lunch boxes, vintage luggage, needlework, wooden boxes, jewelry, and anything made from paper makes my heart beat faster, but I like to look at it all. Our trip ended with a visit to a few clothing stores, and, finally, Anthropologie and Ikea. By the time we stopped at Ikea, we were ready to start the drive back home. Saturday afternoon on Labor Day Weekend was just a little too busy! Our car couldn't hold any more packages, so it was just as well that we were ready to head south to Iowa.

2010-08-31T21:45:00.000-05:00

This is the book cover that I am in the process of creating for my journal in ArtsyMama's Sweet and Sinister blog and swap. It should be filled with goodies by Halloween. I am also taking an online class called Collage Coterie, so I am cheating a bit, and using this as my homework for both classes. I have to cheat a little, because I am already lessons behind. Everyone else in the class must be creating all day long. Projects abound in the Flickr group,
Well, I'm going to be gone for a few days. I'm leaving tomorrow for a road trip: of fun, junking, shopping, eating and boating around a lake. Four of us, on a girl's weekend to a lake home somewhere. Not even sure where I'm going or how to get there, but I am planning on having a wonderful time. See you all when I get back. I should have pictures. Happy Labor Day Weekend. For once, I don't have to work, just play.

These Things I've Learned

2010-08-31T21:30:00.000-05:00

1. Writing helps, but I don't want cute. Journaling the angry helpless moments is good. Scrapbooking this journey is something I can do without. The pink ribbon section in my scrapbook store stopped and stunned me. The last thing I want to see is a pink calendar counting off the days of radiation.
2. And speaking of radiation, it is not like a very bad sunburn. It is like a very, very bad radiation burn.
3. Never start a new job that involves lots of lifting, and turning, and reaching, and bending, when you are enduring the effects of Rule No. 2. A new job during this time was probably a bad idea anyway, but I'm glad I wasn't afraid to try.
4. I'm not as confident as I used to be. I think that comes from the whole body betrayal thing.
5. Sometimes the most help comes when you least expect it. My immediate family and friends have been wonderful, but I knew thay would be, and I treasure them all the more for it. Other family members, not so much. And this was a sad surprise. But people I hardly know, people I've met through the internet, strangers, yet friends, who have offered words of comfort, have been a tremendous support. The world is full of giving, caring people. And I am grateful. And I am going to take care to pass some of that along.
And that's all I'm going to say about that.

GypsyWoman

2010-08-28T20:45:00.000-05:00

Here is the Gypsy that my friend created just for me. She is actually quite tame compared to the rest of Cindee's art dolls, but after all, she is a Victorian Gypsy!

Gypsy Vagabond Caravan

2010-08-13T23:24:00.000-05:00

I know that I am late posting this birthday gift, but my camera has been doing baby duty the past several weeks. All the family cameras broke at once except mine, so I happily sacrificed it to the cause. Baby Cass changes every day, and his parents don't want to miss it.

And now, on to my very own GypsyWagon Birdhouse. I just love this. It was made especially for me by a dear friend who knows my quirkly obsession with all things Gypsy. The Gypsywoman on the front is wearing real earrings, and there are lots of bits and bobbles on it. Visit Cindee and see what a talented doll artist she is. Her work has appeared in several ArtDoll issues and other books and magazines. She also teaches at Joggles and at workshops all over the country. And yes, I do have a Gypsy doll that she made for me. I'll get a photo now that my camera is back, at least for a little while.

A Belated Birthday

2010-07-18T21:27:00.000-05:00

Yes, I recently celebrated another year, and as the card says "May many birthdays yet be mine to know, and countless blessings future years bestow." That is certainly my Wish. In the past two months I've certainly spent more time thinking about my future than ever before. I know that although I am very happy with my life, and have many blessings, there is more that I want to do, and see, and have, and be. I think that being faced with the possibility of one's demise probably has that effect on a person!!! And there are things that I want less of . I promise myself that this year and every year coming up is going to be the best year of the rest of my life. Hoping you will join me as we live our adventures.

Special thanks to The GraphicsFairy for this postcard.

Life is Just a Bowl of Baby

2010-06-30T22:08:00.000-05:00

Here he is--Cass Patrick. Brother of Finn and Tess, and the newest grandbaby in our family. I've been a little late getting this posted, with everything so crazy in my life right now, but he's a cutie and we sure are happy with him.

Things are still pretty hectic. I am halfway (I hope) through my radiation treatments, and right now I am starting to feel them. I slept for ten and a half hours last nite! The job is definitely getting easier, and I really enjoy working at a pediatrics office. The financial issues that have been haunting my last couple of years are finally being resolved, and my blood pressure was on it's way back to normal at the last check.

Oh, in case you are wondering why he's in a bowl.... My husband has been in the restaurant business most of his life, and this is one of the big mixing bowls he used.

A Few More Pictures

2010-06-19T12:07:00.000-05:00

Not Exactly The Tour I Envisioned

2010-06-19T11:38:00.000-05:00

Hi there,
Finally got my computer fixed, but now I can't seem to upload pictures. This is one corner of my basement workshop, alias studio. Hopefully more pictures will happen! I have a thing for cupboards and drawers. Unfortunately, I am not inspired to work unless everything is out where I can see it, so I do spend a lot of time looking through cupboards and drawers to see what I have forgotten. My studio space is one half of a long room. The other half has a small kitchenette area and the laundry. The only thing I would have changed was to have it all behind doors, so I could shut off projects in progress. My husband thought that this way would keep me from being so messy, ha ha.
My other two walls have a cupboard that we cut in half. It was originally about 15 feet long with about 120 drawers! It wouldn't fit into the space before, but after altering it and adding bookshelves to the cut ends, it is perfect! I also have a counter space for my sewing machine, and a large table in the middle of the room. And, yes, all the drawers are appropriately labeled!

Still here

2010-06-05T19:02:00.000-05:00

Yes, I am still here, but my computer isn't! First my laptop died and then now I can't turn my other one on. So aggravating. Everything is plugged in, but the on switch is totally dead. I don't know what is going on. Any ideas or advice? So I try to use everybody else's, wherever I go. Right now, we are having a family barbeque, but I am stealing away for my electronic fix.
Things are going really well for me. I start six weeks of radiation next week, and then start my new job the week after that. I am never very good with timing!
As for the computer thing, family members are starting to make excuses to keep me away from theirs. I am really very careful, but everyone agrees that I have strange ways with electrical equipment. I have a long history. Who knows what radiation will do to me!!!!!

And Now....For Something Completely Different!!

2010-05-21T11:42:00.000-05:00

Here are just a few photos of the JUNK JOURNAL that I made after working at the Legislature this spring. I saved all the daily calendars, lots of ephemera, and put it all together. I love doing this. I am working on several using papers I've printed about all sorts of things that I don't need to keep but don't want to throw away. I've added envelopes, pockets, other origami bits, glued right over the scrap papers with scrapbook papers and wallpaper, etc. This helps me with my packrat tendencies--if I ever want to read these things again, I could! I'm always saving little pieces of information and flyers from everywhere I go, so this is a good way to use them

The book measures about 6" by 10". I folded the pages and put the folded side out. I also added lots of postcards, flyers and brochures. It was really a lot of fun to do. I'm going to use this as a class this summer at my house or at Adult Ed classes in the fall. I really want to start teaching classes again.

Today's Health

2010-05-17T22:32:00.000-05:00

Good news for me! The surgery is over. Everything tested well and that little bit of cancer is gone. Now I have lots of reading to do before I meet with radiologist because I want to know all the choices. Input is welcome. Life is good.

Just A Little Update

2010-05-13T21:47:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who left a message or sent a personal email. It's amazing how they help! I am resolving to do better. I would love to get some regular readers again. I know, I know. Writing is the key, isn't it?

I'll be having a lumpectomy in the morning. Hopefully, that and radiation will be the extent of it, I hope. I have been reading and absorbing, and scaring myself all week. I have learned a lot, but I am still at the beginning.

WISH FOR TODAY: "Yesterday is gone but today can always get better--and tomorrow is full of promise" YES!!! Yes!!! YES!!!

A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Rest Of My Life

2010-05-04T19:37:00.000-05:00

Well, once again, it has certainly been a while for me, and as you may guess, some things have changed in my life. I've actually been very busy, finishing my delightful job at the Legislature, interviewing for a new career, and starting back at my seasonal museum job. Yes, indeedy, I was getting things in control. And then suddenly, I bumped right into the cancer whammy. So that's where I am right now, diagnosed and waiting for the next step. Talk about shock and awe. I still can't believe it. I am finding that writing is very helpful to me, so I may actually become a better blogger. As you can see, I am looking for that silver lining. This blog may take a crazy turn for a little while, but I am hoping that some of you will stay with me, as I learn from this journey I must take, and come out a better person for it.

"Oh, the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person; having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but to pour them all out, just as they are, chaff and grain together, knowing that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then, with a breath of kindness, blow the rest away." ~ George Eliott

And the Winner Is

2010-02-15T22:39:00.000-06:00

Using my trusty gypsy cards, I picked Marie as the winner. Her blog is called Art from the Heart. I hope she likes the Vagabond Bag. I'll post photos of the goodies inside in a few days, so I don't spoil the surprise!!

Today's Wish:
This time, like all times, is a very good one if we know what to do with it.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Tick Tock Tick Tock

2010-02-14T22:44:00.000-06:00

The countdown to the day of fabulous prizes is almost over. Here in VictorianGypsyLand, the drawing will be held tomorrow evening. You can still enter until 8 pm Central time on Monday, February 15. Then I will draw and let you know.
Lisa ended up with over 1,000 generous gifters. I didn't get to visit nearly that many blogs, but I have been trying. There are so many wonderful writers and artists, I am overwhelmed.

By the way, Happy Valentine's Day. I sort of skipped it. One good thing about my life right now....there is so much room for improvement.
And so, on to the bottle of Wishes:
Your only treasures are those you carry within your heart. Demophilus
Well, now, that's a pretty good one for February 14! I'm spending a lot of energy lately trying not to focus on material things. Paring down my treasures and concentrating on what is really meaningful to me, so this one made a lot of sense. Even though I love material things. Sigh.

One World One Heart

2010-01-24T22:34:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year again. Lisa's creative blog giveaway is here for the fourth time and I've been a part of it for all four years. Read all about it here and get involved if you can. It's a lot of fun, and I always find so many great new blogs. Just leave a comment on this post and you will be entered. Drawing for the winner will be held on February 15.

This year, Lisa is having a magic carpet ride. Just the thing for us VictorianGypsies. I'll be giving away one of my Gypsy Vagabond Bags. And it will be filled with gypsy treasures. Not sure what, because it's a surprise. Be sure to visit. You'll find all sorts of new blog friends and be glad that you did.

Inspiration and Whimsy

2010-01-24T21:41:00.000-06:00

I need a little inspiration when it comes to pictures. I never seem to have the ones I want for the things I want to write about. I've spent a lot of time this week looking for the perfect photo. It's a picture of the group of Senate pages taken the last time I worked at the Capitol--in 1967! And would you believe it, they are still wearing the same style of blazers, and wearing the same nametags. Sometimes my life seems to be a cycle of deja vu! I love my new job, and am so sorry it is only temporary. My only problem is the wardrobe deficiency. But I am working on creative accessorizing. As for the picture, I knew exactly where it was before the big move, nearly four years ago. If I find it, I will post it, just for the amusement factor.
Wish for Today: "Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." Theodore Roosevelt

Another Employment Adventure

2010-01-10T19:55:00.000-06:00

Here's a picture of our Iowa Capitol building. It was started in 1871 and finished in 1886 and is a beautiful building. Beginning tomorrow, I'll be spending a lot of time there for the next three months. I'm going to be working at the switchboard for the 2010 Legislative session. Behind the scenes, yes, but I think I will really enjoy it. (Because of budget cuts, I will only be employed at Living History Farms for six months a year from now on. That would be lovely if I were independently wealthy or a lottery winner, but no such luck.)
Since I've spent most of my recent years living in the past, a suitable wardrobe is a bit of a problem. I'm really not used to dressing for business, wearing make-up, and leaving the house, oh, so very early in the mornings. It will be good for me, I'm sure.

And Ringing In The New

2010-01-01T23:07:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! Resolutions, anyone? As for me, I have been making the same ones every year forever. (Lose weight...Clear out clutter....Exercise...) This year I am going to concentrate on feeling grateful. My last year was all about a sense of lack, of having less and doing less and being less. So in 2010 I am going to see, and do, and feel the abundance that is my life.

For years I have been making "Wishes", little messages in bottles. They are a mixture of quotes and sayings and things that I just make up. My plan is to pull a Wish out of the WishBottle whenever I write here and just see what it says.
So here is my Wish for January 1:
"An Everyday Wish:
Take the time to play today."
And I did. We spent some time with Finn and Tess while their parents went to a movie. Who better to play with than two and four year olds with new Christmas toys?

Ringing Out the Old

2009-12-31T23:20:00.000-06:00

Obviously, the birthday month idea didn't work out! I've been gone for ever so long, but I had to say goodbye to 2009. It wasn't my best year ever, though it is starting to pick up a little here at the end. I'm back. I'm anxiously waiting for 2010, because lots of good things are ahead this year, and soon the past will be a mostly (un)pleasant memory. I'm wishing lots of good things for all of us in this New Year and hoping I will have blog friends again.

The Festivities Begin

2009-07-01T17:09:00.000-05:00

Here it is the very first day of my birthday "month" and I got a present in the mail. My dear Silver Bella friend Jodie of everything vintage made this beautiful necklace and gift box for me. My pictures don't do it justice. It is gorgeous, and of course, I love my gypsy lady. What a thoughtful and wonderful birthday gift, and two weeks early! I am such a procrastinator that I buy my belated birthday cards ahead of time. I always know I'll need them. Thank you dear Jodie for starting my month off in such a great way.

Look at this great box. It's tied with rayon seam binding! (Sorry about that picture. Of course the dangling jewel should be dangling, not pushed over to the side.) She is so clever. And I am so lucky.

My Birthday Give A Way will be posted in a few days--but sign up anyway. What's a birthday without surprises?

Memory Lane and a Give A Way

2009-06-30T23:01:00.000-05:00

Can you believe this was my favorite book when I was in the 5th grade? Last week a friend and I were talking about books we'd loved as children, and I got very nostalgic about this one. I couldn't remember the name-just that it was about a gypsy girl named Miranda and a horse. Started looking and there it was on Ebay! I think this was the book that started my gypsy fixation. So I just finished reading it again.I was a bit disturbed because she was sixteen and fell in love with and got engaged to a 26 year old. Eww-hadn't remembered that part.

We're still looking for "A Hatbox for Mimi". Anyone remember that one? I know, I know I'm old.

Speaking of, July is my birthday month, and I'm thinking of all sorts of ways to celebrate it. So starting now, I'm having a give a way on July 15 for anyone who posts between now and then.

Waterlogged at Walnut

2009-06-20T20:04:00.000-05:00

Yesterday two of my non-blog friends and I took a little roadtrip to Walnut, Iowa for a day of antiquing, junking, eating and laughing. Well, we had a lot of fun with the eating and laughing, but the junking was a real disappointment. The day started out great, so we left our umbrellas in the car. Big mistake. It didn't take long before the weather changed and we were just about as wet as we could be. And just imagine all these wonderful treasures hiding under the tarps. The sale lasts three days, but I could only be there for the first day. So just think of all that money I saved!

A Perfect Day

2009-06-07T23:04:00.000-05:00

Lovely Miss Lindsey came to visit us to celebrate her 8th birthday yesterday. Weeks ago, I got this letter from her. She had designed her first dress and was confident that I could make it for her. I haven't sewed clothing in ages, but finding the fabric was definitely the hardest part. Orchid with blue polka dots. (Next time, we'll pick the fabric first!) Lindsey has been planning the perfect day for weeks, and everyone cooperated. A coconut cream pie from Grandpa. A Hello Kitty birthday cake. Roses and marshmallows from her Dad. A party with all her aunts and uncles and cousins. And then spending the night with us with a bath in the bubble tub, and time for crafting in my craft room. A perfect day and she planned it all in advance! My daughters and I decided she's got the right idea and we are now all planning our perfect birthdays. (Mine's next month, so I'll be first) Today we asked if she would have changed anything. She said "Yes, we would have all gone bowling."

Oh, and now she's forming her own company LDKC (LindseyD Kansas City) She's the designer, and I'm just supposed to make it all happen.......

Actually, it was all lots of fun, and she's just a sweetie who never asks for anything, until all these birthday plans happened. She said it was her best day ever, and we know she won't always think we're perfect.

Silver Bella Vendor

2009-06-05T17:24:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited! I've been accepted as a vendor for Silver Bella in November! More about it later, but I just had to get it up here now.

Some Junky Fun

2009-05-28T22:36:00.000-05:00

I recently went to Junk Club. Whatever is that, you well may ask. Well, it's an absolutely lovely nite out making things from junk. This month's project was a planter made from an old tin drawer. We painted it, and then made a marker, painted half way with chalk board paint, and decorated with a piece of chalk and an antique key, and some twisty wire. My picture is bad, but you can see the real thing here, at Old Crow Farm. How cute is that? And she even fed us. They have these projects once a month, and it's getting harder to get in. Don't know if I can be at the next one or not. But I'm trying. I love the old metal junky things that they sell, but I have to be really careful about what I buy. My husband doesn't like, understand, or care about this look at all. A few years ago, he painted every junky thing that I had...... white, while I was at work one day, thinking he would surprise me. And he did.

Things are kind of rocky here, since he is still semi unemployed. He is spending a lot of time at home, and I never seem to be here at all. He's finished all sorts of projects. I never know what I'll find when I come home. He took all the old awful WWII linoleum off our kitchen floor. What a mess, but the original 1918 wood floor looks fantastic. Now he's been working on the old windows, which has turned into another major job. He's refinished the steps to the attic. Even though I liked the old paint, the wood looks nice. And the steps are a lot more solid than they used to be. A zillion projects--inside and out. I can't even think of them all. He's remodeled our son's kitchen and attic, and stripped wallpaper, and refinished more furniture than I can remember. I keep trying to get him to hire himself out as a handyman. Seems like a good idea to me, but he isn't co-operating. And I think I'll just stop here.

Skipping Thru May

2009-05-24T10:37:00.000-05:00

Well, it's pretty obvious that's what I've been doing. Skipping, that is. Here this month is practically over, and I've barely been here for it, so a quick update on what's been happening.

First of all, I haven't posted all the wonderful treasures I received from ArtsyMama. This was the May Basket swap and she sent me the best bunch of goodies. Lots of vintage lace, cards, art boards, one with a pocket. I loved these! Just oodles of stuff. All great. I mailed her a May Basket made from coiled vintage fabric. Don't know if I'll make another one of these. It wasn't easy getting that cone shape! I've been making small gypsytreasure baskets though. I really like these. They are embellished with charms, beads, and buttons, and can hold your treasures. I have some on my etsy site.

I can't quite get my pictures where I want them, so hopefully, you'll know which is which. I'm out of time, so more to come later. Pinky promise.

A Busy Weekend

2009-05-04T23:45:00.001-05:00

Had a very busy weekend. First, a First Communion for my granddaughter. She was a beautiful and very grown up seven year old in her pretty white dress and her mother's veil. I cried.
And then a funeral for my aunt who was the eccentric of our already crazy family, and a reunion with my sisters who live far away. I cried again.

Long Live the Queens

2009-04-25T22:03:00.000-05:00

Thirty two years ago three friends and I decided that we never got out-so we started Craft Nite and have been getting together once a month ever since! The group has grown, and now we each host it about once a year. For me, it's about the only time I really cook anymore. Yes,we have dinner, gift exchange, and a craft. Sometimes we even have a theme. This month the theme was England, and so, of course, we had to make crowns. Here we are, modeling our crowns and doing the Queen wave.

I've never posted a real picture of myself, so I'll let you guess which one I am! Lucky for me, none of these royal ladies ever read my blog, so they won't know I did this. Really, we usually look better.

Words I Live By

2009-04-20T23:01:00.000-05:00

A Happy Easter Greeting

2009-04-13T12:46:00.000-05:00

Yes, I do know it was yesterday, but here's where we were. This is a beautiful, gorgeous and very traditional church in Kansas City. It's called Our Lady of Perpetual Help, more commonly known as Redemptorist and was built in 1912. Breathtaking.

Oh, and the kids. As you can tell, they don't stand still very often. These are the Kansas City Grands. Tom is 9, Lindsey,7, and Joey is 5.

Excuses, Excuses

2009-04-06T11:22:00.000-05:00

"I don't like to write, but I love to have written." Michael Kanin
I don't know who he is, but this is a quote I just came across on Rebecca Sower's beautiful blog, right after I read a few "where are you?" posts on my forlorn little journal. Thanks for caring and for getting me back into motion. Actually, I am just running out the door, late, as usual, but I will be back later today with something...and pictures.

If You're Irish...

2009-03-17T12:52:00.000-05:00

If you're Irish, come into the parlor,

There's a Welcome here for you
Well, it wasn't too easy getting Finn and Tess to sit still and smile for a little Irish picture, but here they are. They are spending the night with us, while their parents are out celebrating the holiday in the grand old Irish way.

Finn has the greatest hat. Underneath his shamrock jacket, his green shirt says "Wee Little

Troublemaker", and he showed up ringing my doorbell early this morning wearing his green frog wellies. Tess's shamrock bow didn't stay in her hair very long.

My husband's family is pure and total Irish. I'm only a little bit Irish, but our children and grands all turned out 100% green. So this is a big holiday around here. Funny thing is, we're the ones who stay home now, while everyone else goes out to party.

Still Knitting

2009-03-09T22:50:00.000-05:00

I am still enthralled with double pointed needles, so I have to show my finished items! The little bag is called a miser's purse. The brass rings in the middle slide to open and close each little bag at the ends. It is a very old style and I love it.

I got the baby hat pattern from my knitting group, but you can find it here. It's a great little hat for practicing cables. I've started another in green, so I don't forget how to do it! Just in case you are too impressed with all my color changes-I've used varigated yarn. The bag is done with a sock yarn and I just love the colors. Very VictorianGypsy, don'tcha think?

Look What I Can Do!

2009-03-03T00:00:00.000-06:00

For the past few Monday nights I have been going to Knitting, gathering with a few of my co-workers who are much more skilled than I will ever be, and learning to knit with double pointed needles! Like this sweet lady in the picture, I can now knit in the round with 4 needles. I've finished my first project, a miser's purse, and am now working on a small hat with cables. I am so excited to have finally learned how to do this. For you experienced knitters, this may seem like a minor accomplishment, but I never thought I would be able to do anything more complicated than scarves and dishcloths. Oh my, I may even be seeing mittens and socks in my future. Actually, I think my next project will be a tea cozy. Thank you, dear Gateway Knitters, for your patience and good company.

OWOH Hand Warmers And A Bit of This and That

2009-02-23T23:07:00.000-06:00

Gotta love these hand warmers I received from Barbara at All About the Buttons. They are just perfect to wear while typing here in my chilly attic. Look at her packaging too. They arrived wrapped in tissue, with a large button sticker. The little folder of handmade paper is adorned with a real button and encases her business card, which also has a teeny, tiny button glued on it. I love how she does that. If you like buttons, be sure to visit her site. She has an etsy shop too.

Things have been kind of crazy here lately. I've always thought that being flexible was one of my strengths, but now it seems like I have no schedule at all. I won't be working full time again until mid April, and now it seems like I'm never quite sure where I am or what I'm supposed to be doing. My first temp job has ended. This was my first experience with being an office temp and I am really not suited for it. By the last day I worked, some of the people were actually saying hello to me, but most of the time "the temp" felt pretty invisible (and clueless, I might add). I was hoping to stay there longer, but they fired someone on my first day, and then decided that they needed to have a full time office manager with accounting experience, rather than a two day a week receptionist. Originally, I was going to be there for a couple of months, which would have been perfect, rather than just a few weeks.

About half an hour after I was "released from my contract", and feeling like I had been totally rejected by the workforce, I got a call and picked up about 40 hours in March as our soap maker at my real job. We are going to be selling lye soap in our LHF gift shop and as of now, I'll be the first one making it. So that will help. See what I mean--no set schedule, no continuity, but lots of surprises, and very small paychecks.

Mystery Gift

2009-02-23T22:45:00.000-06:00

I received this in the mail, totally mangled. How sad for me, and for whoever it was who put so much work into it. I can tell it was a lovely handmade card, and whatever was in the bag has disappeared. The return address is unreadable too. How frustrating, both for me, and for whoever sent it.

Presents by Post

2009-02-21T22:31:00.000-06:00

I must have been good recently because I've been getting lots of presents! First, from my sweet friend Jodie of everything vintage are these lovelies that she sent to me for No Reason. Am I lucky or what! Two packages, the first was this lovely Valentine, tied with vintage seam binding. Don't you just love that stuff? And then, this pretty bookmark, which is getting lots of use, because I have been on a reading binge lately. More about that later. Thank you Jodie, I am so fortunate that we met! And I just discovered that another friend from Silver Bella has started a blog. I believe she may have been shamed and bullied into it, but no matter, it is gorgeous. And already she's posting more frequently than I am. So please visit Sandy at Sew Revived, and you'll be glad you did. I shared several classes with her, and she was so generous with her materials, and so much fun. And I still can't believe how quickly she finishes her projects. You'll love her new blog. I do.

I can't get my pictures where I want them, but this first shot is my Year of Color swap with

Stacey. She sent a box filled with ephemera and other gorgeous goodies. A little picture frame, decks of cards, sheet music, labels, cards, and just about everything you could think of. Thanks, Stacey. It was great fun.

More to come: I won two things in OWOH drawings. Pictures tomorrow-yes, I did say tomorrow.

And the Winner Is......

2009-02-12T18:54:00.000-06:00

Well, I consulted my magic cards, and this is who I came up with:
The winner of my "Off the Cuff" cuff bracelet is (long dramatic pause)
Fannie . She's a wonderful artist and had SIX giveaways on her site.
Go visit her. She makes beautiful things. Congratulations Fannie.

OWOH- The Clock Is Ticking

2009-02-10T13:53:00.001-06:00

It's almost time to draw for the OWOH GiveAway!!! It ends February 12, and I will be drawing for mine at 6:00 P.M. Central Time. There is still time to sign up, so I am hoping to get a few more visitors. As I write this, I'v had 150 visitors sign up to win my "Off the Cuff" Cuff. It's so nice to have new readers. I've made some very good friends here in BlogLand, and kept in better touch with old friends, too. It's so much fun to read the comments and to discover other kindred spirits. Good luck to everyone who has participated. I'll be back tomorrow with the news.

Jill of all Trades-That's Me!

2009-01-30T21:31:00.000-06:00

Wondering where I've been, after all my promises of timely blogging? It's been a busy week for me, learning new things. Well, trying to learn new things anyway. After I convinced myself that my interview and tests at a temporary agency would come to absolutely nothing, I got a call and starting a part time receptionist job. In addition to working at the Victorian Dinners, using such skills as wood splitting, fire building, and playing riotous parlor games, I am now also answering phones, filing, scanning, and other duties as needed. On Monday, I will start working a few days as a rental worker at the Farms. They're filming a movie there right now, so several of us are taking shifts. I'm not quite sure what it will involve, but maybe I'll see somebody who is famous. Probably not, but who knows. I am also trying to get some things into my Etsy shop within the next week. In other years, I've enjoyed the relatively quiet winters, with my reduced schedule at the museum, but this year I am trying to fill every available hour with employment. Our hours have been cut, so I will not be full time again until mid-April. Who can even guess what new skills I will have by then? Or how crazy I will be? During my free time, I just can't stay away from all the blogs I'm discovering because of OWOH. I've been trying to visit as many as possible. Have you?

One World One Heart

2009-01-20T16:14:00.001-06:00

This is it! The 3rd Annual One World One Heart GiveAway. It get's bigger every year and was the brainchild of Lisa OceanDreamer. It gives us all a way to find hundreds of blogs we haven't seen, and to win beautiful artwork. Who wouldn't want to play? To be a part of it, just click on the One World 2009 logo to learn how to host your own. Even if you don't plan on giving away something yourself, you can still enter to win. Just leave a message on THIS blog post with a way I can contact you. Drawings will be held on February 12.

This year I am giving away one of my "Off the Cuff" bracelets. This one was made from a felted blue sweater cuff, decorated with embroidery, buttons, ribbons, charms, beads, and who knows what! This will fit an average sized wrist and just slides on. Good luck. Remember to leave a message, and who knows, maybe you'll keep reading!!

Future Inspiration Board

2009-01-15T23:51:00.001-06:00

Hi,
Thought I'd show you a picture of my Inspiration Board. I'm just starting to add things to it, so I'll show it again when it's really working for me. I have this on a wall behind a door. In the previous picture there was just a bare space there. It's big-about 5 feet tall and 30 inches wide. I found it on a junking excursion. I was really looking for baby bed springs, but found this piece of an old fire escape railing. I can hook things on it with clothes pins or clips. I like it, and of course, my husband (Mr. Neat and Tidy) tolerates it because it is behind a door! He was a little grouchy about it, but he did hang it for me. Actually, this may end up being as much work-in-progress as Inspiration. But it's a start. I know, it needs some help.
One thing I am wanting to do this year is to put my uncompleted projects in bags, with all the needed supplies, and FINISH them. Somewhere I read about doing that, and to only have three things going at once. I have about three hundred, I'm afraid. Anyway, this is one of my aspirations.
I am so appreciative of the comments I have been getting. It is encouraging to know that some of you are reading this. I even splurged and put the new new Followers gadget here. Hopefully, I won't end up embarrassing myself.

Being Who You Are

2009-01-07T22:53:00.000-06:00

Sometimes things keep dropping on your head, and finally, you just have to pay attention! The last few days I have been getting the same message over and over. Essentially, it is to be who I am. And to trust my judgement. I've seen several blogs talking about having a theme for the year, so I have decided this is to be my theme for 2009. I'm hoping that this is the year I become comfortable with my own style and follow my instincts. Especially in the art world. I can't even begin to say how many times I've thought about an idea, or abandoned it half finished because I just didn't think it was good enough, only to see it turn up later and be wildly successful for someone else. Does this happen to everyone? So this year I am really looking for and listening to the signs! Here's a couple of quotes that I've just noticed in the last few days: "Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."
- Howard Thurman. This was mentioned in a newsletter I received from Sally Evans.
An email from my dearest friend, Fleur, basically told me the same thing. I can also count on her to cheer me up when I'm feeling whiny. She reminded me to do my own thing, and not worry about what was popular, or what I thought people might want.
And then I found this quote, which I had written in a notebook eons ago: "Often people attempt to live their lives backwards; they try to have more things, or more money, in order to do more of what they want, so they will be happier. The way it actually works is the reverse. You must first be who you really are, then do what you need to do, in order to have what you want." (Margaret Young). Another thing: Just when I was thinking that I need to be really specific about my style, and what I want to do, and that I really, really should make an inspiration or vision board--I picked up a magazine, and it naturally opened to a page about inspiration boards!! See, I think it's time to listen.
I got a wonderful surprise from my SilverBella friend, Jodie, of everything vintage. Look here, and you will see she mentions mine as one of the blogs she finds inspiring! And, oh, the company she puts me with. I was thrilled. Jodie is very helpful by keeping me blogging. I tend to get discouraged and lazy when I think no one ever comes to visit.
No pictures, I'm afraid. I think my monitor has died. Anyway something is not working, so I'm on the laptop with no pictures, for now.

Time Again

2009-01-04T23:21:00.000-06:00

Well, the holidays are over. Decorations are finally put away, and it's time for some serious creating. I've never put up any pictures of my finished craft room, so here are some when it is relatively neat. Yes, I do have a fixation for drawers. The only problem is, I like to have everything where I can see it when I am working. The best arrangement for me would probably have been lots of open shelves. But my husband-the neat freak-wants everything hidden. The other half of this large room is laundry area and sink and counters. If I had been thinking, I probably would have insisted on a small room with a door so everything could be hidden away. But then I couldn't have had all these wonderful old cupboards. Does anyone remember when we bought the big one? Originally it was in an old school, and then an auto parts shop. We had to cut it into two cupboards to fit the space that we had. Our eyes were bigger than our room at the auction! With this wonderful room, you think I'd be making something, wouldn't you? Big plans for 2009, I promise.

Deja Vu, All Over Again

2008-12-31T18:35:00.000-06:00

Hi,
I know this is probably cheating, but I am reprinting my old resolutions. (I would have just linked to this but I'm not quite sure it would work, and most of you probably weren't reading my blog way back then.
Wishing you all a New Year's Eve that is everything you want. We'll be going over to my son and daughter-in-law for a little family and close friends get-together. Hopefully, I will get a crown party hat! I know we will be home way before midnite. Then I am hoping to have some time to work on my new list of goals, but til then:

Slowing Down, Getting More Done, And Living With Intention
Here it is New Year's Eve again and I'm still trying to improve upon last year's resolutions. Time has never been on my side. I have seldom noticed it to be a particular ally. It dances around me, and slithers underneath me, while I wonder where it went, and what happened, and, why, no matter what I do, I never seem to have enough of it. My improbable dream is to slow time down, but to get more done.And so, I have made a mission statement. Or maybe it is a mantra. Anyway, here is my new life theme.
Live With Intention. Knowing me, you might think that means that I intend to do something-at some point in time. Maybe sooner, maybe later. But, no, it means that I will live with intent. I will begin to realize that the future is what we have today, not somewhere in the distant horizon.Here is what Living With Intention means to me:That I enjoy my life as it is, but always want to learn more. I want to remember that it is never too late, and that nothing ends until it is over.That I remember to make some space for the new to enter. I am learning to let some things go. Weeding out, paring down, and simplifying are so hard for some of us.
That I bring kindness to others. There are so many things we can do that are truly significant. Once a week, I will send a card to someone I know. Or do something nice for someone for absolutely no reason.That I leave a creative legacy. I need to know that something I've sewed, or painted, or written will be here after I'm gone.
That my outside reflects my inside. I just know I must be more fascinating than I look!!! Sometimes, I think it must all be about the accessorizing.
That I take care of my health. It's true that our health is the most important thing we possess. I keep trying to remember that when I am tempted. And I am always tempted.
That I find time each day for creative and spiritual moments. It still comes down to time, doesn't it?
That I do not neglect the riches that I already have. Be grateful. Always.Happy New Year everyone.

A Very Little Christmas

2008-12-25T22:43:00.000-06:00

Well, we did have Christmas, but it was very low key this year. I barely decorated, didn't send out cards or letters, etc. etc. Some years it is hard to get every one together at once and this was one of them. We did manage most of them for a short time on Christmas Eve, but today was a very quiet day here. We watched old movies and I played on the computer all day. We decided not to buy presents this year except for the Kris Kringle gifts. Every year we draw names, usually on Saint Nicholas Day, and open those presents on Christmas Eve. I started this tradition years ago. The kids all put their shoes in front of their bedroom doors and St Nicholas left them an ornament and chocolate coins. Then we drew names and that was the sibling they were to secretly do nice things(!!!) for and give a special gift. It's funny what parts of Christmas traditions are important and what parts aren't! I didn't feel at all concerned about not getting a gift from my husband, but I really missed not having something in my stocking. I did fill stockings from the "gift closet". Luckily I did buy too much last year, so I still had some goodies.

The present economy has had a big effect on our family this year, and it doesn't seem right to buy frivolously when we don't know what's going to happen next. Layoffs, shortened work hours, and unemployment have become a very scary part of our lives in 2008, so the holidays weren't as jolly as usual.

On a much lighter note, this photo is of a large Santa my mom bought for me several years ago. His coat is made from an antique crazy quilt. I thought he was lost in our move in 2006, and this fall I finally found him again!

Whoops! I just started to tell you about some gifts that I made, but one of them won't be received until next week, so I won't give my secret away til then! It was fun, and took a lot of time (but very little money!) , so I'll have pictures soon.

Wishing you all Peace on Earth and a very happy new year!

A Winner!

2008-12-11T21:05:00.000-06:00

Look at this! I won an award. According to my good new friend Jodie, of everything vintage, I am a Kreativ Blogger. This is so exciting. I feel like someday I can play with the big kids. I'm still thinking of who to give it to--there are so many wonderful blogs out there, so I'll be back shortly with some names.

As for the Christmas decorating fiasco, it is coming around but still not finished. The tree is up and it looks perfect, because it is fake. This is my first Christmas ever with an artificial tree, and it just makes me feel sad. I don't know why, but it does. My husband loves it. All he had to do was carry the box in and he was finished. No lights. No setting the tree at all angles trying to get it to look even. No deciding which was the best side. This tree has way too many lights on it for me. All you can see when you look at it is a blinding glare. I prefer a simpler tree, with a bad side.

My daughter Meg, bought her first artificial tree too, and doesn't like it either. We've decided to trade next year. I think the thing that I dislike the most is that the tree always will look the same. But we have solved that. Next year she will have the big fat one with a million colored lights, and I will have the tall skinny one with white lights. We both feel better already.

Christmas Chaos

2008-12-05T22:28:00.000-06:00

Hi!

While I've been so busy decorating at work, I haven't made much progress here at home! I pulled all the boxes out of the attic, but that's as far as I've gotten. All these (and more!)came from behind the little gray and white door, and only half of them are going back in. Yes, this is the year I'm going to pare down and get rid of some of this. My decorating is a much more minimal than it used to be. Although I still love the little vignettes, they just don't seem to work in this house. I'm hoping to make much progress in the next few days. Maybe.

Beginning to Look Like Christmas

2008-12-04T20:23:00.000-06:00

Well, I've been busy. Decorating the Victorian Home where I work takes a lot of time, but now we are finished, and busy with visitors. We try to show 1875 style decorating, which means plenty of red and green. We use a lot of natural materials and gild a lot of the leaves, nuts, and pinecones. The dining room was done mostly with paper roses. Lots of paper roses. We used to use all fresh greenery, but now we have to use some artificial, especially for the garlands that criss-cross the ceilings. This year we also used a lot of roses and hydrangeas. And gold beads. This is the dining room, where we hold teas and buffet dinners in December. When we have tea parties, the big table disappears and we have four small round tables in the room. Everything is very elegant. December is a very busy time here. I'm hoping to find the time for my own decorating soon. It won't be Victorian.

Do You ATC What I ATC?

2008-11-25T08:14:00.001-06:00

Yet another wonderful class! This one was with Carolyn Peeler and she was terriffic! Learned some new tricks, which is what I love when I take a class. Our album has a Christmas picture on the front, but I'm using it for my SB souvenirs, moo cards, labels, wrappers, all those little things you collect. I love the way the baseball card pages are cut into thirds and then attached to the book. This was my first time covering a book like this. Getting the wires off and on again is certainly exasperating! I heard about a machine called a Zutter that cuts the holes and binds the book all at once. I may splurge if I make a lot of books. (Notice how optimistic I am about continuing with this crafting bonanza). Actually, this is another project that I have finished. And there are more to come.

Silver Bella Bank

2008-11-23T23:53:00.000-06:00

Okay, this is just a little silly, and certainly not my best ever creative endeavor, but I have to show you my Silver Bella Pringles Bank! I started this when I signed up for Silver Bella 2008, covered it with inspirational sayings, and added money to it, a little at a time. I took it with me, and didn't open it until Omaha. This was my spending money for Vendor Night. It wasn't as much as I hoped it would be (Is it ever???) but it helped me to do some serious shopping. Here is the secret. It must be taped and covered so you can't get the money out. Just cut a slit in the plastic lid and then secure it. Oh, and you have to promise not to open it no matter what the crisis is. I've started mine for 2009, but it isn't decorated yet. Just a dollar or two at a time should add up by next November. Because, I am definitely going again!

I know, I know, I really have to start taking better pictures.

Bella Bella Bella

2008-11-22T13:43:00.000-06:00

Here are some more of my completed projects! This was Jenni Bowlin's class and she was terrific. The class was called Tiny Treasures and we made three of the cutest little projects. Her bingo card was lots of fun. I really like her little packages of crepe paper strips. It's all about the crepe paper now, I think. Crepe paper and glitter. The tiny book with the key in the binding is also so cute. She came over to every table to show us how to do the key, and chastized me just a bit for not speaking up about having a bad key. She changed my key to a better one and told me that I was paying a lot of money for classes and shouldn't be afraid to speak up if my materials weren't right! I actually liked my bent up, wonky key but it wouldn't have worked very well for the book edge, so I'm glad I changed. She was so sweet, and helpful, and very sharing. A very good class.

Isn't this little spool the cutest thing? I really liked all the projects because they were quick and cute and would make perfect little gifts when you need something small. I also bought her little Bingo card baby book, and bottle cap ornament kit, and some of her vintage findings. Love her site. Please check it out. I'm really not a scrapbooker. I have boxes and boxes of photos, but just getting them barely organized is all I can do. With five children and seven grands, I can't even think how may albums that would be with just a few pics on each page($$$$). I do love the little books and accessory items though.

Oh my! I think I have beaten my record for monthly posts. Dare I say------see you tomorrow????

Silver Bella Bling

2008-11-21T00:00:00.000-06:00

Here's my very first project at SilverBella. On Thursday nite-oh my, it was a week ago, already! the entire group made these darling little door hangers. The secret is to stamp the image and then embroider over it. It adds so much dimension to the picture. I even sewed some seed beads to the wings. (Thank you, Sandy, for being so generous with your supplies) A crepe paper ruffle, a velvet ribbon, a peace banner, and some mica finished everything nicely. Cute and simple. And finished! I just love it that I was able to mostly finish most of my projects. I did go back to my room most evenings and work on my projects. I think I was really in need of some quiet time so I did enjoy it. I do wish that I had mingled with all those Bellas who had those late night chats though. This was the first time I've gone anywhere without a roommate so it was quieter.
I promised to post on time today and didn't quite make it. I just got home from my monthly night out with friends. We started our Craft Nite over 30 years ago, and tonite I took all my new projects for an informal show and tell. I'm pretty proud of myself that I've completed these, and loved talking about the fantastic time I had. I think they probably want to be Bellas too.

Back from SilverBella Land

2008-11-19T18:25:00.000-06:00

I went. It was wonderful. I am still wandering around in disbelief. I had an incredible weekend. I have a few pictures but not as many as I'd hoped. Just as I started to get into it, my battery was dying, so several pics came out poorly. Visit Jodie's blog, Everything Vintage. She is an extraordinary photographer. And such a good, new friend.

Here's a picture of the centerpiece from our lunch with Mary Engelbreit. Simply wonderful. This was a Saint's candle, I believe, wrapped in vintage book paper, and decorated with crepe paper and velvet ribblon. It's on a nest of shredded vintage paper, with shiny Christmas balls and lots and lots of glitter. The little sign says "Living the SilverBella Life". Glitter and crepe paper are the most popular ever, with lots of vintage ephemera. I still have trouble using real ephemera. With my history background, I want to save and protect everything. Cutting it and glittering it is just a little blasphemous to me, even though I love the look and feel of the originals. I have to say it: I usually want to copy it and save the originals.

We had a total of six classes. I've been working on my projects, and almost all of them are finished! I'll have photos of them tomorrow. Yes, I said tomorrow. I am a new woman.

So come back again, and I will have more to share.

Wherever Does Time Go?

2008-11-07T21:01:00.000-06:00

Okay. Here's the thing. I just can't seem to get the knack of this posting habit. Days, and weeks and months go by before I know it. Yes, a lot has been going on--I just can't seem to write about it, can I? All right, I am resolving to do better.

The biggest thing in my life right now is SilverBella, coming up next week. I am so excited to go to this art retreat. Of course, I haven't started getting ready for it yet. Have to have a tiara. That may be all of my prom nite costume. Last year I think the theme was Gypsy Something. That I could have done. But Prom? Not so much.

Stay tuned. I will be posting. Really, I will. I'm hoping all these inspiring artists will inspire me when I see them IN PERSON.

Wasn't That A Party!!!

2008-08-11T06:54:00.000-05:00

Who are these young people? Our five children gave us a wonderful anniversary party on Saturday. Family and good friends met us at the restaurant where we had our rehearsal

dinner forty (!!!!) years ago. The best part was the video they had made. It actually brought

lots of laughter and tears to everyone's eyes. The party was a great success, and I feel blessed

to have produced such a family.

One of the great things: Seven year old Lindsey was in charge of the video camera. She filmed the video while we were watching it. Yes, her version is a little choppy (think Blair Witch movie here!), but I have 20 minutes of funny comments from the grandkids while they are watching it.

Priceless!

Silver Bella

2008-07-21T22:46:00.000-05:00

Oh, I can't even believe it myself, but I am going to Silver Bella in November. I just registered today. It was my birthday present to myself. It was very strange, but this was the first year I ever remember that I didn't get any presents on my birthday. Oh, I do have a few still coming, I don't think I've been forgotten entirely, but very close it seems. My husband has decided that I should just buy myself presents--so I did!! He might want to rethink that one.

The Great Catch Up Post

2008-06-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Okay! I know it's been too long when I forget my password. Honestly, I don't know where the time goes. Working full time has certainly taken a big chunk out of my life.

Lots of things have happened:

First, I received a wonderful package from my swap partner, Kathy Schwartz of Sew Anyway. She made one of her great bread blankets for me. It keeps your dinner rolls warm for about half an hour! Lots of other goodies were in the box, including two items made by her 11 year old daughter Tori; a yummy coffee bean sachet for the car, and a felt needlebook! Also a lovely little tin from England (my favorite), a story book which has already gone to the grands, coffee, candles, a tissue cozy, and some inspirational cards. Lots of fun, and very generous of her. As for me, I was very late, and I hope she has forgiven me. I am really having trouble with deadlines lately.

The big news here in Iowa is that our state has about floated away. We have had the most terrible flooding. I think it's been the worst. Everyone still talks about the flood of 1993, but now I think it will be the flood of 2008 that we remember most. June started with tornados everywhere, and then went right into flooding. I live in an area a few blocks from the river, and though our neighborhood wasn't hit, many were. My children, and many, many other people have all put in a lot of hours sandbagging. They saved the area they were working on, but then the levee broke a short distance away, and many houses and businesses were severely damaged. Last week a lot of streets were closed, so there were detours everywhere.

In 1993, the water system was damaged, and Des Moines was without water for 21 days. Believe me, that is something you never forget.

Our house was in the Union Park Neighborhood home tour last weekend. Two of the houses had to drop out at the last minute because of the flooding, so it was a pretty small tour. But I think it was pretty successful, and my house looked so good (Except for the closets where I stuffed everything--My goal now is to start cleaning the closets.) A photographer from the newspaper came and took lots of pictures, but I haven't seen anything in the paper yet.

Well, I hadn't planned to use this picture, but I can't seem to get it to disappear, and it's now or never if I want to get a post today. Kathy, I will get your lovely items pictured soon.

This and That

2008-04-19T23:10:00.000-05:00

I keep forgetting to mention that I'm in the "Not Too Shabby" Summer Swap. Isn't the logo for this just so cute???? Roxi is still taking sign-ups so check it out.
I think that maybe a few people might be reading my blog. I hope so. Last week I was contacted by two old friends. I hadn't seen either of them for a long time, but they had both read VictorianGypsy. How exciting for me that they emailed. I always feel that I am writing to the big empty spaces and that no one actually sees it. The majority of my comments seem to come from spammers lately. That's the reason for the deleted comments.
I've just finished my first week of working full time again. What a difference! I think that working three days a week is probably my ideal job wish. Plus, of course, lots of money. I do love being back at LHF again, but it uses so much time, doesn't it? I have basically been my own boss during the last two years, so that takes some major adjusting. And the getting up so early..... Not really the getting up, but getting up and out of the house. I like to loll about. I do think that this will make me more productive though. I have lots of new ideas. I just need to schedule some time for them.

Six Word Memoirs

2008-04-10T00:14:00.000-05:00

While browsing at my favorite bookstore, I came across this book. Short, fascinating, funny, poignant, and depressing. Can you sum up your life in six words? Well, just for fun, I did. Several times in fact, in a few minutes. Here are some of the memoirs that I came up with.

A Wife and Mommy. Grammy, too.

Lots of things. Too little time.

Feeling a little out of place.

Living every minute of the day.

Using all the time that's left.

Needed to take a bigger leap.

I was always a little late.

New Goal: Dance a little everyday.

Drank too many cups of tea.

True, I have a gypsy soul.

Try it. It's fun, and your answers might surprise you. I know I am seeing a theme here.

Tea Time

2008-03-31T22:42:00.000-05:00

Look, look, look at the beautiful treasures I received from Cris Cunningham at Enchanted Heart Studio. I love this little Tea for One pot! It'a pale yellow, and goes perfectly with the blue and yellow plate. I also received a box of note cards-love Jane Austen, however did Cris know? And a sweet little notebook, and LOTS of tea. And all wrapped in gorgeous black and white toile tissue paper.

And here's what I sent to her: A little white tea pot with a crocheted tea cozy. I added beads and charms to the tie. I included two napkins trimmed with rick rack, a vintage apron, and a scattering of my TeaThyme Wishes.

This swap was a lot of fun. It was hosted by Teresa McFayden as part of her Bellatoria Zine. If you haven't subscribed to one of her Zines yet, please check it out. She has the most wonderful ideas. And she makes all sorts of fantastic projects sound easy!!! I confess that I haven't done too many of them yet. Just seeing and reading about them makes me happy.

Thanks Teresa for Bellatoria and the swap. Chris and I had a good time, and I think we're blog friends now. Hope so

Spring Banner

2008-03-30T22:35:00.000-05:00

Hi,

Look what I received from Linda Harre at StudioStuffGirls. I won a drawing! I've been pretty lucky lately--maybe it's time to start buying lottery tickets. She has a much better picture of this at her blog. It is very sweet, with lots of detail and pretty bird eggs. She also sent a pack of vintage wallpaper. I've been wanting to make a banner for baby Tess's room since she was born in November. Guess I'd better get a little busier.

Pass the Popcorn!!

2008-03-30T19:35:00.000-05:00

Oh no,
John Adams, Jane Austen, and Anne Bolyn, all on the same nite, and all forcing me to sit mesmerized before the tv. I do have a project to work on, so I'm not feeling quite like such a
decadent person.
I have lots to tell you, and pictures of surprises that I've been getting in the mail, but of course the camera isn't even close to where I am. I think that is what keeps me from posting regularly--taking the pictures, uploading them, etc. etc. I can't seem to find a decent time and spot for photography. I think there is about one hour of the day when my pictures turn out decently, and I'm usually not here then. I really want to work on that. My goal is to actually hit 100 posts this year, And by that time, I hope to have enough blog friends to have a drawing.
I started back at Living History Farms this week, and spent Friday teaching Victorian etiquette to 5th graders. If you visit the site, I am back at my beloved Flynn House, plus I will be spending one day a week in the Millinery. The general season begins May 1, but now we are working with school groups and cleaning and getting the summer programs ready. I really feel that I am back where I belong. I left my full time position over 2 years ago, and have worked sporadically since then. Lots of changes, but I'll still be getting to do the things that I love. I will still be working for our family biz as "lunch lady" one night a week, but for the most part, I will finally be sleeping at night again. Already I feel more energetic. I am really hoping to get a lot more creative things finished too. I've been in a lull.............

Saint Paddy's Day

2008-03-17T22:26:00.000-05:00

And what else would we expect on St Paddy's day but an Irish Gypsy Caravan. This is one of my favorite postcards from my Gypsy Collection.

I've Been Tagged!

2008-02-29T23:31:00.000-06:00

I've been tagged by Cyndi! I've never been tagged before, so I really don't know how to react. I have to share 7 things about myself, some random and some weird. This is hard--most of the random, weird things I know are about my family..........
1. I love history, and have worked for several years at a living history museum. I took a couple of years off, but am going back next month. I enjoy spending my days in 1875.
2. I know how to make jewelry from hair, and to cook on a woodstove. (See #1)
3.My maternal grandmother had 5 children. My mother has 5 children. I have 5 children. All are grown now
4.I collect gypsy items. Pictures, books, advertisements, cards, clothespins, fortune telling items, dolls, caravans, etc.
5. I've believed in reincarnation ever since I read "The Search for Bridey Murphy" when I was twelve.
6.Everything I do takes longer than I think it will.
7.I've lived in the same zipcode for most of my life.
Well, that's pretty random.
Now, for seven other bloggers.
1. Rowan Willow
2.The Marmelade Gypsy
3.Vintage Moon
4.Gypsy Wagon
5.Calamity Kim
6.Gypsy Froggie
7.Purple Majic
I can't say that I really know a lot of bloggers (or that they know me), but these are some that I enjoy reading
Have fun with this.

One World One Heart Winners

2008-02-15T05:59:00.000-06:00

We have our winners! I'll be sending a bottle of GypsyWoman's Wishes to Lisa OceanDreamer and another bottle to Staci Rose !!! They'll go out on Monday. If anyone out there would like some sample Wishes, just send me an email with your address. I also have them for sale at www.sandimoran.com or on Etsy.
I will miss having all these visitors. Hope some of you come back again.
Well, it's time for bed for me. I'll be back later today with some pictures (finally) and news about the drawings that I won.
Thank you Lisa for all that you did. This was phenomenal. I'll be reading new blogs forever. There are so many that looked fascinating.

I Won Something!!!

2008-02-10T00:39:00.000-06:00

Kari at ArtsyMama held a drawing and I won! The prize is a goodie bag from Anthropologie (so, who wouldn't love it). I'll post when it comes. I was so excited I emailed her twice, thinking maybe she wouldn't recognize the different addy. Kari's is one of my favorite blogs. She was the hostess for the Valentine Supplies Swap. She's had several others, but this is the first I got in on. You have to move quickly for these things. Anyway, I am thrilled. It was a good day for me. I won something and got a job offer-more on that later.
Well, isn't this One World drawing just turning into the biggest thing ever. I do hope some of these people come back and visit me again and that I can get some visitors to my little blog in "real time". I've been trying to keep track of where I've been, but it gets confusing. I participated in this last year, but it was much smaller. Last year I didn't win anything, but I found all sorts of new places to visit, so that made it more than worthwhile. Thank you Lisa for all this hard work you've been doing. This was truly an inspiration.

Valentine Swap

2008-02-01T22:16:00.000-06:00

Here's the box I mailed to Elizabeth for ArtsyMama's swap. Got it out today which was the duedate. I swear, I am never early with anything. I think it has some fun things in it. Ribbons, lace, charms, butttons, trim, beads, stickers, and Wishes I hope she enjoys it. I hope it doesn't arrive all jumbled.