Tabby Talk

For Minneapolis, St. Paul, Twin Cities, Etc.

2011-04-08T17:55:00.004-05:00

If you are a Minnesota resident in the Twin Cities area, put check out my favorite shops in Buffalo, MN about 30-45 minutes from the Twin Cities, but worth the trip. People go to Buffalo every month from all over for FABULOUS finds, at GREAT prices - often one-of-kinds items.

I sold jewelry at The Three Sisters a couple of doors down - what a wonderful experience: working with such talented ladies, meeting new people every month - it was wonderful.

The Porch is on the corner and the owner's apartment upstairs was featured in Country Living. If you check out her blog you can see pictures. My sister and I toured her apt - WOW!

My niece and I checking out the place last summer.

http://theporchatelier.blogspot.com http://www.thethreesistersbuffalo.com/

For my niece, the ballerina

2011-04-08T15:21:00.001-05:00

To find more beautiful photographs like this one, click on the link. The photos are stunningly beautiful, so soft and inviting...

April Showers...

2011-04-08T15:16:00.002-05:00

Here is the April Shower - a fabulous large drop of water (crystal) from the Beaded Iris on Etsy. Fabulous earrings and necklaces - I've purchased many myself. The following May flowers, also from the same seller.

Bring May Flowers

2011-04-08T15:12:00.003-05:00

Spring is Around the Corner

2011-04-08T14:24:00.003-05:00

Cross your fingers - Spring is just around the corner, as it's summer in MN today. I love this picture from a fabulous Etsy photographer. It reminds me that soon the dock will be going out at our lake home and spring cleaning for summer is near.

WOW !!

2011-04-08T11:03:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite Etsy Designers, Laura at

www.lkfarnsworth.etsy.com

Hats for the Royal Wedding - Part 2

2011-04-08T10:45:00.003-05:00

If you have been invited to the Royal Wedding, you'll need a hat. The loveliest hats can be found on Etsy.

I Want Candy...

2011-04-04T16:27:00.004-05:00

This necklace is fabulous - I see vintage beads in the design, and other yummy beads in bright and wonderful colors.

I love looking at this shop - "Divine Rose" from Sydney, Australia. I find her shop so uplifting and inspiring.

Invited to the Royal Wedding?

2011-04-01T23:46:00.004-05:00

Then you're going to need a hat !!

Arturo Rios hats found on Etsy - how fun and fabulous.

Doll Dresses

2011-03-31T00:03:00.003-05:00

from Emily, the adorable tabby:

I'm rubbing my head against the laptop, trying to tell my mom to get off the internet and give the tabby some love, but she wants to show you one more item - a super cute dress she bought for her niece, very well made - please check out the shop - "The Sewing Shed" on Etsy, of course.

A Favorite Shop

2011-03-30T23:55:00.002-05:00

We aren't sure what we like best - the titles of the pieces or the jewelry pieces themselves. I check this shop out everyday - what a fabulous imagination !!

from BHG

2011-03-30T23:18:00.000-05:00

Branch Out - Pruners, a relatively straight tree branch, white spray paint -- voila! A nature-inspired, functional work of art. Use tie-top curtains to adjust for the curves of the branch -- no rings or clips needed.

Eliana Golf Earrings for Helping Paws

2010-08-25T13:40:00.001-05:00

These are just the cutest golf bag earrings - made with 3-D antiqued brass golf bag charms (10x23mm), and 4mm glass pearls.

Eliana is my 3 year old niece and budding golfer!

ALL PROCEEDS will be donated to www.helpingpaws.org
a non-profit which trains service dogs.

A special thank you to www.glamourgirlbeads.etsy.com for donating additional charms. I will be making golf theme jewerly for a silent auction, all of which will be used to raise funds for Helping Paws.

Triathon Treasury

2010-08-05T18:05:00.004-05:00

Archduchess Necklace

2010-08-05T14:49:00.002-05:00

My Son's First Triathlon

2010-07-30T14:47:00.002-05:00

The purpose was to raise funds for children with cancer, and to give kids a fitness outlet and a personal challenge - to complete a triathlon. My son said when he crossed the finish line it was like a dream and he couldn't believe he did it, and in 93 degree weather. My son and all the other kids, ages 7 to 17 were AWESOME!! He also ran for my dad, who died from cancer October 2009, and watched from heaven.

MiracleKids Triathlon - Minnepolis, MN

Our Mission: To introduce kids to a fun way to get fit, be active and learn the value of giving back through racing in a world-class event.

Our Theme: Kids Racing for Kids Who Can’t

Hundreds of Minnesota kids are battling cancer and are too sick to race, so you’ll do the racing for them. We’ll mark your leg with the name of the cancer kid you’ll be racing in for. We hope you will also choose to raise pledges for the Miracles of Mitch Foundation to make your race more meaningful.

His fundraising page:
http://www.firstgiving.com/jakeknudson

Kids Racing for Kids Who Can't

2010-06-23T18:36:00.002-05:00

Mitch's All Stars, pediatric cancer patients, lead the procession of triathletes at the 2009 MiracleKids Triathlon.

Will You Fight?!
--William Wallace, Braveheart

Please help kids fighting cancer! Donate here:
http://www.firstgiving.com/jakeknudson

Please visit my son's fundraising page to see why he's doing his 1st triathlon.
He's 10 years old, an Etsian who designs and has sold earrings at
www.tabbiesandtrains.etsy.com

Spring Favorites

2010-04-19T11:33:00.004-05:00

"Sparkling Red Cherry Punch" Earrings - my mom's favorite and new in her shop. So new a description is "coming soon." The glass drops and cherry cabs are both vintage.

Spring Favorites

2010-04-19T11:29:00.002-05:00

Spring favorite #4 - A Tabby in Wonderland! ATC cards and one of my favorites, a fun take on Alice in Wonderland. Cheerful, bright colors too.

Spring Favorites

2010-04-19T11:21:00.003-05:00

This of course is my brother's favorite - #3 a Lego Gift Box. Made with his favorite toy (Legos) and in his favorite color - red. Jake loves making his own Lego creations, and I will often hang out with him and watch. --Emily

Spring Favorites

2010-04-19T11:06:00.002-05:00

This adorable "We've Moved" card is in a classic red and aqua combination. So pretty, it almost makes you want to move yourself! Well, maybe not...

Emily's Spring Favorites

2010-04-19T10:56:00.003-05:00

Emily, the cute tabby here with some of my favorite spring items from Etsy. #1 - who doesn't like chocolate with lime! Click on the title to be directed to RachelleD's site for more springtime necklaces in fabulous color combinations!

First Concert

2010-04-19T10:40:00.004-05:00

This fall my son and several of his friends joined the 4th grade orchestra. (Kids can't join band until 5th grade). Jake and two of close friends decided on the violin. In March they had their first concert, which also included the 5th - 12th grades. The 4th graders played several piece on their own, and then "Ode to Joy" with the 5th-12th grade orchestra. They were fabulous and the talk of the town! Unfortunately my pictures of the concert did not turn out very well. But we have another one in May. When my son practices, his cat Emily is always watching. Hey diddle, diddle, the cat and the fiddle...

2010-02-04T22:51:00.001-06:00

National Wear Red Day is the one day each year we dedicate to building awareness of risk, and raising funds for research and education on behalf of women everywhere.
Each year thousands of men and women at companies, organizations, churches, and schools wear red and Go Red to fight heart disease on this day. So invite your friends, family and coworkers to join us on Friday, Feb. 5 as we paint the country red!

Red Heart Necklace

2010-02-04T22:48:00.003-06:00

From our own shop - Tubs, Tabbies and Trains. A brass locket with 16 red Swarvoksi crystals. Perfect for women and heart disease awareness, and Valentine's Day. SOLD - made my son and purchased by a shop manager. We have our jewelry in two local shops now!!

Plushies Wear Red for Women

2010-02-04T22:09:00.003-06:00

Emily, the adorable tabby here - how cute are these?! Red plushie spools of thread - too cute. Click on title for link to Etsy shop.

Legos Go Red for Women

2010-02-04T21:46:00.001-06:00

My brother's pick - he's so into Legos!

Barbie Wears Red for Women

2010-02-04T21:32:00.001-06:00

Click on title for link to Barbie Dress sold on Etsy.

Go Red for Women Day

2010-02-04T21:24:00.003-06:00

Stand up and speak out against heart disease in women by wearing red on Friday, Feb. 5, 2010.

http://www.goredforwomen.org/

The Colors of Christmas - #10 Holiday Decor

2009-12-11T12:10:00.001-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #9 Rustic Redux

2009-12-11T12:09:00.002-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #8 Cat Treats

2009-12-11T12:04:00.001-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #7 Flower Earrings

2009-12-11T11:59:00.002-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #6 Earrings

2009-12-11T11:55:00.002-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #5 Bead Supplies

2009-12-11T11:54:00.001-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #4 Necklace

2009-12-11T11:48:00.002-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #3 Graphics

2009-12-11T11:43:00.001-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #2 Peppermint Soap

2009-12-11T11:42:00.002-06:00

The Colors of Christmas - #1 Vintage Gown

2009-12-11T11:40:00.001-06:00

Coming Soon to Our Etsy Shop

2009-12-10T15:34:00.002-06:00

Winter Series - Earrings

2009-12-10T14:13:00.003-06:00

Winter Series - Photography

2009-12-09T13:33:00.004-06:00

Winter Series - Pendant

2009-12-09T13:20:00.002-06:00

Winter Series - For Baby

2009-12-09T13:18:00.001-06:00

Winter Series - Scarves

2009-12-09T13:17:00.001-06:00

Winter Series - Buttons handcraft in Minnesota

2009-12-09T13:10:00.003-06:00

Winter Series - Beads

2009-12-09T13:08:00.001-06:00

Winter Series - Art

2009-12-09T13:01:00.001-06:00

Winter is Officially Here !!

2009-12-09T12:40:00.002-06:00

MINNEAPOLIS -- Our first significant winter storm of the season will be winding down Wednesday afternoon. The accumulating snow will be done in the Twin Cities metro area by noon and the rest of the day will be very cold with gusty northwest winds and sub-zero wind-chills.

But a Blizzard Warning is still in effect for the south metro and a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the north metro Wednesday.

Snowfall accumulations with this storm across the Twin Cities metro range from 3 to 5 inches on the north side to 5 to 6 inches on the south side with some +6 inch amounts toward the Hastings area in the southeast metro. The snowfall totals west and north of the Twin Cities were mostly less than 2 inches while to the south and southeast much higher amounts were reported with over 15" in Winona. Many areas from Albert Lea to Owatonna and east to Rochester picked up 9 to 11 inches of snow. Lake effect snow in northwestern Wisconsin was heavy with over 15" at Bayfield near Madeline Island.

Temperatures will range from 10 degrees (wind-chill -8 below) at noon and then 9 degrees (wind-chill -10 below) at 4 p.m. Sunset Wednesday is 4:32 p.m. Cloudy, windy and very cold Wednesday night - temperatures at 8 p.m. will be around 3 degrees (wind-chill -16 below) then overnight lows by sunrise (7:39 a.m.) Thursday will be near -4 below with wind-chills from -15 to -20 below.

Beautiful Things Series - #10 Beads

2009-12-09T12:22:00.002-06:00

Beautiful Things Series - #9 My Shop

2009-12-09T12:15:00.003-06:00

Beautiful Things Series - #8 Photography

2009-12-09T12:02:00.002-06:00

Beautiful Things Series - #7 Paper

2009-12-09T11:56:00.002-06:00

Beautiful Things Series - #6 Vintage Clothing

2009-12-09T11:40:00.002-06:00

Beautiful Things Series - #5 Scarves

2009-12-09T11:16:00.001-06:00

Beautiful Things Series - #4 Housewares

2009-12-09T11:14:00.001-06:00

Beautiful Things Series - #3 Earrings

2009-12-09T11:02:00.002-06:00

Beautiful Things Series - #2 Shoes

2009-12-09T11:01:00.002-06:00

Beautiful Thing Series - #1 Pillows

2009-12-09T10:58:00.004-06:00

The Shack

2009-10-18T01:31:00.001-05:00

Mackenzie Allen Philips' youngest daughter, Missy, has been abducted during a family vacation and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later in the midst of his Great Sadness, Mack receives a suspicious note, apparently from God, inviting him back to that shack for a weekend. Against his better judgment he arrives at the shack on a wintry afternoon and walks back into his darkest nightmare. What he finds there will change Mack's world forever. In a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant "The Shack" wrestles with the timeless question, "Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?" The answers Mack gets will astound you and perhaps transform you as much as it did him. You'll want everyone you know to read this book!

The Shack is the most absorbing work of fiction I've read in many years. My wife and I laughed, cried and repented of our own lack of faith along the way. The Shack will leave you craving for the presence of God. Michael W. Smith, Recording Artist --Michael W Smith, Recording Artist - personal endorsement

Reading The Shack during a very difficult transition in my life, this story has blown the door wide open to my soul. Wynonna Judd, Recording Artist --Wynonna Judd, Recording Artist - personal endorsement

This book has the potential to do for our generation what John Bunyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress' did for his. It's that good! Eugene Peterson, author --Eugene Peterson, Professor Emeritus of Spiritual Theology, Regent College, Vancouver, B.C.

The Shack

2009-10-18T01:19:00.003-05:00

The Shack is a one of a kind invitation to journey to the very heart of God. Through my tears and cheers, I have been indeed transformed by the tender mercy with which William Paul Young opened the veil that too often separated me from God and from myself. With every page, the complicated do’s and don’t that distort a relationship into a religion were washed away as I understood Father, Son, and Holy Ghost for the first time in my life.
Patrick M. Roddy, Emmy Award Winning Producer of ABC News

ETSY PROJECT EMBRACE

2009-09-04T11:18:00.004-05:00

Blacksheepbeads's Shop Announcement
***LABOR DAY WEEKEND FUNDRAISER FOR Etsy Project Embrace***~~From 4PM on Friday, Sept. 4th through midnight on Monday, Sept. 7th, 20% of all sales will be donated to Etsy Project Embrace. Etsy Project Embrace is a coalition of artists who are joining together to raise awareness of cancer by donating the profits, or percentage of profits, from one or more of their listings to the American Cancer Society (ACS) for cancer research. We'll send you a convo letting you know how much you donated with your purchases! :)

Black Sheep Beads offers unusual jewelry supplies for your beading needs. We specialize in vintage glass/Lucite beads and funky bead caps. All of our vintage beads are unused, and most are "sourced" in person. Don't let our sales figures fool you - we're merely a husband and wife team working out of our home. :)

LONDON

2009-08-11T17:49:00.002-05:00

Pussy cat, pussy cat, where have you been?
I've been to London to visit the Queen.
Pussy cat, pussy cat, what did you do there?
I frightened a little mouse, under her chair.

http://mattallenphotography.blogspot.com

http://twitter.com/mattallenphoto

Photographers of Etsy Streat Team member

Origami Dress BreakUp Card

2009-08-11T17:36:00.003-05:00

Origami Dress Cards

2009-08-11T17:13:00.009-05:00

Emily, the adorble tabby here! This shop rocks and so does the name! (hummmm... wonder why?) My mom says you really need to check out this shop for amazing cards, and origami embellishments.

You Rock Card - Know someone who's going through a tough time or just needs a reminder of how great they are? Give her some encouragement with this origami dress card! The card features 3 personally folded origami dresses and is accented with rhinestones and card stock. The card is left blank for your personal message.

Purchase at http://www.kittykatkards.etsy.com/

Party Dresses by Laura L. Trevey

2009-08-11T16:59:00.003-05:00

Extend your summer with this watercolor painting entitled "Party Dresses." Also, if your summers include gardening and flowers please visit Laura's Etsy shop to see her additional paintings, including "Summer Geraniums."

Beach Chairs

2009-08-11T16:49:00.004-05:00

I love blue, the beach and this painting - "Beach Chairs" a Limited Edition Watercolor by Laura L. Trevey. This is a reproduction of her original Beach Chairs watercolor painting. Please click in the link and browse her shop and surround yourself with fabulous bright colors emanating from her paintings. I've marked many paintings a "favorite" and you will too.

WE'RE IN A TREASURY AGAIN!

2009-08-11T16:37:00.002-05:00

We are featured in a Treasury!! Thank you www.angelhearts.etsy.com

Please check out her shop, and this beautiful bracelet:http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23913566

We are working to reduce our bead supply, so please check out our shop Specials. Also, check back on a regular basis to see what's new! To entice you to browse, we have great prices outside of Specials Section too.

Graduation Photos Sheet Wrapping Paper

2009-08-11T16:18:00.002-05:00

No more teachers, no more books! Ah, the joy of graduation! Our keen take on all those dopey yearbook pictures will bring a smile to any graduation gift. And for ribbon, may we suggest their school colors? Part of our PS Green Choices line, this pattern is printed on our Eco-White, 100% recycled, 30% post-consumer waste, paper. It's both archival and acid-free. Sheet size - 19 1/2" x 27"; 70# txt

Item 44360650
Price $2.25 Sale: $1.13

On sale now at Paper Source online!

Blue Willow Earrings

2009-08-10T19:58:00.003-05:00

New in our shop - Blue Willow Earrings! These vintage beauties remind me of Blue Willow china! I grew up with Blue Willow china for dinnerware, so I just had to have these beads! They have an ornate etched pattern filled in with navy blue. They measure 16mm in diameter, with lovely brass bead caps and fine Swarvoski crystals in the new indigo blue - very lovely blue!!

Established in England over one hundred years ago and currently a member of the Wedgwood Group, Johnson Brothers has earned a reputation for creating high quality earthenware products. Johnson Brothers is now made in China using the original designs and high quality standards.

Purchase for only $3.00 - find in our Specials Section.

Blue Willow Poem

2009-08-10T19:53:00.002-05:00

Whilst we sit around the table,

Please allow me to relate,

The entrancing ancient fable

Of "The Willow Pattern Plate."

Every picture tells a story,

Like the Willow Pattern Plate,

Where two lovers dwelt in glory,

And defied paternal hate.

By elopement from the castle

You observe upon the ridge,

Where the violent old rascal

Chases them across the bridge.

Tries to catch the rogue and whip him,

'Ere he steals the daughter fair;

But the loving pair outstrip him,

Let him languish in despair.

Thrown upon their own resources,

In a junk they emigrate,

To a splendid little oasis,

Near the margin of the plate.

Dwell in peace, whilst unmolested,

In most perfect harmony;

Till at length they are arrested,

by his Nibs' gendarmerie.

Then the tyrant lord appeals toLaw and lucre,

with their pow'r;Caught, confined,

they have their meals too,

In that horrid little tow'r.

When the pair are executed,

To appease their lord irate,

To a pair of doves transmuted,S

till they fly upon the plate.

Every picture tells a story,

Like the Willow Pattern blue,

A nd true love will reign in glory,

To infinity! Adieu

by B. L. Bowers

Beyond Our Galaxy Earrings

2009-08-07T16:44:00.001-05:00

A new addition to my son's Star Wars inspired line of earrings.These are really lovely and fun beads which remind us of the awesome pictures sent back the the space Hubble telescope. I've attached a few Hubble pictures for your viewing pleasure.They're bright blue glass with pitted "facets" and a shimmery aurora borealis (AB) coating, and measure 11mm.Large (1 1/4 inch) kidney earwires in antiqued brass

French Vanilla and Lace Earrings

2009-08-07T16:42:00.003-05:00

~ ~ NEW ~ ~

Now in our shop!

Special Price of $3.00

Rose Colored Glasses

2009-08-07T16:40:00.003-05:00

ROSE-COLORED GLASSES* noun: a cheerful or optimistic view of things, usually without valid basis. Example: He saw life through rose-colored glasses.

Instead of rose-colored glasses, we offer you earrings. They may have the same effect! I have a pair myself because the bead color is so lovely. I’ve added no embellishments – some beads are better left alone. Beautiful vintage Lucite beads (16mm) with 1 1/4 inch antiqued brass earwires.

The Painted Ladies

2009-07-31T14:23:00.002-05:00

Painted Ladies is a term used for Victorian and Edwardian houses and buildings painted in three or more colors that embellish or enhance their architectural details. Our Painted Ladies are Victorian like lucite earrings - aren't they beautiful! Available now in our shop.

My Friends by Emily

2009-07-31T14:18:00.002-05:00

These adorable little guys are my friends who keep me company while my mom and brother are away during the day. They don't even mind if when I drink out of their tank. They are Clouseau, who is almost white, like Steve Martin's hair in the new Pink Panther movies; Obi-Wan Kenobi and Qui-Gon Jinn - fantail goldfish master Jedi.

~Emily, the adorable tabby

Favorite Male Group

2009-07-31T00:09:00.002-05:00

http://www.amazon.com/The-Promise/dp/B001KOYEXO/ref=dm_ap_alb1?ie=UTF8&qid=1249017000&sr=1-1
I hope this links to you Amazon for a sneak peek. My favorites - She and Amazing Grace!

Shop Early! Shop Etsy!

2009-07-28T17:13:00.001-05:00

I've already started my Christmas shopping! Hard to believe? Yes, but it's true.

I have found fabulous items at affordable prices from very talented Etsians, and have found out that great items go fast!

Please check out our shop for your needs, and if you can't find what you are looking for then please support someone else in the world of Etsy.

Hunter Green Flower Earrings for Fall

2009-07-28T17:10:00.004-05:00

These darling flowers in hunter green were purchased from Sue of Blue Marble Beads on Etsy. They are the most fabulous color and perfect for fall. They are currently offered in our shop for an affordable $3.50 - what a deal!

As many will be tightening their holiday shopping budgets this year, please check out our shop for sweet deals - and thanks for looking!

Very Paris Scarf

2009-07-28T17:09:00.004-05:00

The photo doesn’t do the look justice, but this is one of my new favorite scarves. Because the price was right, I also bought the black and white version, but I preferred the red with my black jacket and white t-shirt. The black and white version looks fabulous with jeans and a white t-shirt.

They were purchased at the fabulous Porch shop in Buffalo, MN. The Porch on the upper level is an occasional sale shop, open five days each month: the first Wednesday-Sunday), and offers handcrafted jewelry, gift items, all unique and affordable. The Atelier (street level shop: open every week, Thursday-Sunday) offers refurbished furnishings, at fabulous prices and home décor.

A Garden Tour

2009-07-21T13:49:00.002-05:00

Cookie Counting Set

2009-07-16T12:28:00.003-05:00

How cute is this fabulous gift idea!! I have to young nieces and I'm thinking what a great gift idea for them--I'm so excited about finding this.

This is a perfect gift for that special little one. Just in time for back to school. This listing features a custom draw string personalized bag with a real cookie cutter. Your child's name will be machine embroidery on the front of the bag on a stuffed cookie. The bag measures around 11 by 11. You will also receive 10 Cookies with numbers 1 -10 on them ( Cookies can be made without numbers) Cookies fit neatly inside the draw string bag.Bags can come in different fabric. Will have samples of fabric posted in the next couple of days. Order can take a few days to ship. Made to order.

Elegance for Fall

2009-07-15T12:33:00.005-05:00

The mineral olivine (when gem-quality also called peridot) is a magnesium iron silicate with the formula (Mg,Fe)2SiO4. It is one of the most common minerals on Earth, and has also been identified in meteorites and on the Moon, Mars, and comet Wild 2.

Pantone Fall Colors 2009 includes a touch of elegance and sophistication to fall with Warm Olive!

Vibrant color!

Brilliant facets!

17x11mm rondelle

French brass hooks

Beautiful brass bead caps

Waterfall Earrings

2009-06-30T16:28:00.001-05:00

This is the only pair, unless I can find more of these breathtaking beads of Premium Czech glass!I LOVE these beads, and kept a pair for myself! An absolute brilliant shade of aqua blue; washed within clear glass - and only part of the bead has a frosted finish! Part high gloss shine, part matte finish. Antique copper French earwires

Our First "PIF" Earrings

2009-06-23T15:47:00.005-05:00

The concept was described by Benjamin Franklin, in a letter to Benjamin Webb dated April 22, 1784:

I do not pretend to give such a Sum; I only lend it to you. When you [...] meet with another honest Man in similar Distress, you must pay me by lending this Sum to him; enjoining him to discharge the Debt by a like operation, when he shall be able, and shall meet with another opportunity. I hope it may thus go thro' many hands, before it meets with a Knave that will stop its Progress. This is a trick of mine for doing a deal of good with a little money.

The Swimmer

2009-06-18T18:09:00.002-05:00

Quotes about Swimming

2009-06-18T18:06:00.002-05:00

Sometimes God calms the storm. At other times, he calms the sailor. And sometimes he makes us swim. ~Author Unknown
Seventy-five percent of our planet is water - can you swim? ~Author Unknown
What goes around comes around, just like a flip turn. ~Author Unknown
When the earth floods from global warming, the swimmers will rule the world. ~Author Unknown
Swimming: From the outside looking in, you can’t understand it. From the inside looking out, you can’t explain it. ~Author Unknown
Swimming - what real men do while boys play football. ~Author Unknown
We swim because we are too sexy for a sport that requires clothes. ~Author Unknown

I simply can't understand
Why swimsuits are in such demand
They're soggy and damp,
Bind like a clamp,
And hold about three pounds of sand!
~D.R. Benson

The Artist

2009-06-18T18:01:00.002-05:00

Garlic Roasted Cod with Mashed-Potato Crust

2009-06-17T14:41:00.003-05:00

This is one of my all time favorite recipes - it will impress your guests and it's easy to make!

SERVINGS: 4

Fast (Time to make)

Ingredients

2 pounds baking potatoes (about 4), peeled and cut into chunks
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
4 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup heavy cream, light cream, or milk
2 pounds cod fillets, cut to make 4 pieces
2 teaspoons cooking oil
4 cloves garlic, minced

Directions
Heat the oven to 450°. Put the potatoes in a medium saucepan of salted water. Bring to a boil and continue boiling until tender, about 15 minutes.

Drain the potatoes and put them back into the saucepan along with 3/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper. Mash the potatoes over very low heat, gradually incorporating the butter and cream.

Rub the cod with the oil and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Put the cod in a large roasting pan, sprinkle the fillets with the garlic, and then spread with the mashed potatoes. Roast until the fish is nearly done, 8 to 10 minutes for 3/4-inch-thick fillets.

Heat the broiler. Broil the fish until the mashed potatoes have a golden brown crust, about 2 minutes.

Betsy McCall Paper Doll

2009-06-16T11:31:00.005-05:00

Betsy McCall uncut paper doll in original box. There is a 26 piece press-out wardrobe in mint condition. Betsy measures about 9 1/2 inches tall and has no creases, rips or tears. She is made of thick sturdy cardboard. She even comes with her original stand. This Betsy paper doll dates from 1971 and is 38 years old.

I have a 9 year old son, and he wouldn't be as excited as I am about this Betsy McCall paper doll. I wish I had a daughter to buy it for. The price is only $14.99 plus $4.00 for shipping in the U.S. What a bargain!! Somebody please buy this!! This is a real treasure, especially as I remember when Betsy use to be in the McCalls magazine. The seller also has the paper dolls from the magazine too. Check this out -- way too cute: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26503039

She listed a bunch more magazine Betsy McCalls today!!

Remember Betsy McCall?

2009-06-15T22:44:00.004-05:00

Who doesn't know Betsy McCall, perhaps the best known magazine paper doll in America? A sweet-faced Betsy McCall by Kay Morrissey debuted in 1951. Morrissey was followed by an unknown artist in 1955, then by Ginnie Hoffman in 1958. Betsy McCall modeled fashions that could be made with McCall's patterns while she enjoyed travels and activities all over the United States and beyond.

I was so excited when I found this on Etsy -- a walk down memory lane. I remember getting the Betsy McCall paperdolls from my grandmother years ago. How fun that an Etsy seller has made Betsy available for a new generation of young girls, or collectors. Please visit http://www.evelynnsalcove.etsy.com/ to purchase Betsy!

Hooray for Jake !!

2009-06-09T15:40:00.002-05:00

Passed Level 4 in swimming last night. His front crawl comment by instructor - Great! Also, he demonstrated the whip kick to the entire class because he does it so well! Hooray for my brother! -Emily

p.s. in our family we don't dog paddle, we tabby tread! LOL

Free Shipping Today!

2009-06-09T15:32:00.004-05:00

In honor of my brother's birthday!!

Happy Birthday Jake!

Love, Mom and Emily

ONLY PAIR - Marie Antoinette Earrings

2009-06-02T14:27:00.002-05:00

Third in the Queen Series: Marie Antoinette, (2 November 1755 – Paris, 16 October 1793) was an Archduchess of Austria and Queen of France and of Navarre. She was the fifteenth and second before last child of Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor and of Maria Theresa, Empress of Austria.At the age of fourteen, on the day of her marriage to Louis-Auguste, Dauphin of France, she became Dauphine de France. At the death of King Louis XV, in May 1774, her husband ascended the French throne as Louis XVI, and Marie Antoinette assumed the title of Queen of France and of Navarre.

After seven years of marriage she gave birth to a daughter, Marie-Thérèse-Charlotte de France, the first of their four children.If you look at the many portraits of Marie Antoinette, you will notice she wear no jewelry or very little jewelry in her portraits. As she was married at a young age I imagine her to have simple tastes in jewelry. Later her spending sprees came as a result of neglect from her husband.

* Vintage pale pink pearl teardrops, 1 1/4 inch in length

* Vintage German pink opal glass set in antique brass settings are 10x8mm

Covent Garden Lantern Earrings

2009-05-31T20:16:00.003-05:00

Covent Garden is a district in London, England, located in the easternmost parts of the City of Westminster and the southwestern corner of the London Borough of Camden. The area is dominated by shopping, street performers, and entertainment facilities, and it contains an entrance to the Royal Opera House, which is also widely-known simply as "Covent Garden", and the bustling Seven Dials area.

Think "My Fair Lady" - On a rainy night in Edwardian London, the opera patrons are waiting under the arches of Covent Garden for cabs. Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, runs into a young man called Freddie. She admonishes him for spilling her violets in the mud but cheers up after selling one to an older gentleman.

These bicone beads are vintage and a soft, pretty pink; barely translucent as you can see a faint pink glow in the photo. There are also purchased from "across the pond" so the name is only fitting.

Brie with Caramelized Pecans

2009-05-31T19:43:00.004-05:00

Brie with Caramelized Pecans

1 brie cheese, 5-inch wheel
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup pecan halves
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 baguette, sliced thin

Warm a sharp slicing knife in very hot tap water and carefully cut the top rind off the brie wheel. As a slicing guide, you can insert skewers into the cheese just below the rind. Let the knife blade rest on the skewers as you slice off the rind.

In a sauce pot, combine the sugar and water, bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until reduced by half and sauce is dark brown. Remove from heat and add the pecans and cream. Stir well. Return mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about another 4 to 5 minutes.

Remove pan from heat and stir in butter.

Place the brie on a large plate. While it is still hot, pour the caramel and pecan mixture evenly over the Brie, letting some of the caramel run over the sides of the cheese.

Surround the finished brie with baguette slices and serve. Makes 8 servings.

Per serving: 320 calories; 18 g fat (8 g saturated fat; 51 percent calories from fat); 30 g carbohydrates; 42 mg cholesterol; 441 mg sodium; 10 g protein; 2 g fiber.

A friend of mine, a local event planner and featured in InStyle Wedding and more; she has used this recipe at her own parties. I love to find recipes that impress my guests, but are easy to make!

Please watch my blog for more fabulous recipes!

The House of a Thousand Lanterns Earrings

2009-05-31T19:36:00.003-05:00

From Victoria Holt's "The House of a Thousand Lanterns," one of my favorite authors.

Jane Lindsay never dreamed she would be wealthy. Nor that she would fall in love with a man she could not trust. Against the background of 19th-century England and Hong Kong, the story of a young Englishwoman in a strange new world unfolds . . .

Earrings to salute this fabulous author and novel. -Emily's mom

Silver Jubilee Earrings

2009-05-31T19:21:00.005-05:00

Our 2nd pair in the Queen Series earrings - The Silver Jubilee Earrings.

During my 1st summer in England, a very special event was taking place, the Queen's 25th Anniversary on the throne. It just occured to me I should take a photo of the earrings dangling from my "Silver Jubilee" mug purchased during my summer in England and Paris.

The Silver Jubilee of Elizabeth II marked the twenty-fifth anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's accession to the throne. It was celebrated with large-scale parties and parades throughout the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth throughout 1977, culminating in June with the official "Jubilee Days," held to coincide with the Queen's Official Birthday. The anniversary date itself was commemorated in church services across the land on 6 February 1977, and continued throughout the month. -Emily's mom

Jeanne d'Évreux (1310 – 4 March 1371)

2009-05-21T14:13:00.003-05:00

My mom is very busy so she asked my to tell you about the new series of earrings we'd like to add to our shop - The Queen Series. Along with earrings, we will also give you a short history lesson. Enjoy! Here is our 1st listing (earrings pictures below). -by Emily, the cute tabby

Jeanne d'Évreux (1310 – 4 March 1371) was the third wife of King Charles IV of France, daughter of his uncle Louis d'Évreux and Margaret of Artois. She bore no male heir, thus "causing" the end of the direct line of the Capetian dynasty. She was also the king's cousin, so Pope John XXII had to agree on the marriage, Jeanne bore Charles two daughters, Marie and Blanche.

Two of Jeanne's remarkable possessions survive—her prayer book and a statue of the Virgin and Child. The Book of Hours, known as the Hours of Jeanne d'Evreux, is held in The Cloisters collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The small statue of the Virgin and Child (gilded silver and enamel, 69 cm high), which Jeanne left to the monastery of St Denis outside Paris, is held in the Louvre Museum.

Jeanne d'Évreux Earrings

2009-05-21T14:09:00.002-05:00

* Beautiful vintage style earrings with a glossy shine!
* They would look fabulous with a simple black evening dress!

- Large Vintage Style Teardrop Antique Silver Beads
- Bead measures approx. 27mm x 18mm
- Made out of acrylic – pattern both on the front and back
- Gunmetal headpins and bead caps – blackened earrings