HandmadeBits4U

St. Patrick's Day Card

2012-02-22T21:56:00.000-06:00

I made this St. Patrick's Day Card today using my Cricut. I know it is a little early to be thinking of leprechauns, pots of gold, the blarney stone, and four leaf clovers. However, St. Patty's Day will be here before we know it!

Thanks for stopping by

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Rusty is enjoying his furcut

-Snow - at least it looks like winter now

-Blooming Orchids - they brighten up an otherwise dreary winter landscape

-Green

-Leprechauns, The Blarney Stone, and Shamrocks

Thank You Tags

2012-02-03T18:24:00.000-06:00

I've been paper crafting today. So instead of playing with fabric, I played with paper and ink. Both are so much fun!

Definition type stamps are always a favorite of mine and I acquired this new one from Hero Arts. And, thus, these Thank You Tags were created! I stamped the definition on white cardstock with black ink and then layered it on designer paper. Punched a hole. Added a ribbon. And took some photos!!

What do you think?

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Paper and Ink
-Beautiful blooming orchids
-Good customer service (which I didn't get today)
-French toast and coffee
-Stamping time

Blues and Oranges

2012-01-31T18:41:00.000-06:00

This collection of blues and oranges was curated by ConcepturePaper is such a delight to the eye! What a wonderful grouping of handmade creations! Thanks!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Orange and Blue, of course
-Temperatures in the 40s - in the tundra during January
-Today's find - a "thrift store" of crafting supplies - found a bargain on oilcloth
-The mailman brought no bills today, yeah
-Caribou Coffe - oh so delicious

Another Easy Peasy BNS

2012-01-21T20:45:00.001-06:00

It's time for another Easy Peasy BNS (Buy and Stay). It will open for business on Sunday January 22 at 9:00 am CST. Come join me and my wonderful UWIB team members for a fun day of snagging some fantastic, creative handmade products and gifts and secure your spot in next weeks Easy Peasy BNS!

Here's the link to the BNS so you can start browsing the shops!

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Chalk Board Play Mats
-Doodling
-Sewing
-Reading
-Creating

Send Your Love Via Snail Mail

2012-01-18T00:09:00.000-06:00

A big thank you to Tiffany'sDustyRose for including my 3D Floral Count Your Blessings Tag in her Send Your Love Via Snail Mail treasury!

Thanks Tiffany!

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Papercrafting

-Note Cards

-Tags

-Hearts

-Flowers, especially roses

It's a Bird!

2012-01-16T11:27:00.000-06:00

Today I played with a new (well, new to me) Sizzix Die Cut, Birds.

The bird is cut from kraft paper and then embossed with a Sizzix embossing folder. Notice that I cut the wing separately and embossed it with a different folder. A little distressing was added with brown Momento ink. Add a strip of designer paper and some ribbon and a bow and this is the result:

It will be a great all occasion card - all I need to do is to add a greeting inside!

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Southwest Airlines
-Sunshine and outdoor photos
-Good friends
-Papercrafting of all kinds
-Creativity

3D Floral Tag

2012-01-15T13:00:00.000-06:00

I'm having a grand time at our DuckAway retreat. The creativity is flowing interrupted for food and a little sleep here and there.

This 3D Floral Tag is just so very scrumptious! The 3D effect is achieved with the layers of flower petals plus being mounted with foam tape. The blue flowers, light green leaves, and cream tag are all coordinating patterned cardstock. The flowers are the Botanical Floral Collection from Heartfelt Creations matched with Spellbinders Rose Creations Shapeabilities. The greeting is from Our Daily Bread designs - it is the Full of Grace Collection.

Use the tags on gifts, gift bags, or gift baskets. Use it in a scrapbook layout or with altered art. The possibilities are endless!

Thanks for stopping by!

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Stamps with matching dies

-Flowers in the middle of winter - real or paper

-Ducks and herons

-Breakfast casseroles, guacamole, beef roast with vegies, and homemade soup

-Milk chocolate, white chocolate, dark chocolate

Puppy Dogs and Kitty Cats

2012-01-14T12:25:00.000-06:00

In another month we will be celebrating Saint Valentine's Day, the day that commemorates love and affection.

I have made some mini note cards that can be used for Valentine Card Exchanges. They can be added to gifts. Or even tuck them into lunches, gym bags, or briefcases to let your family members know how much you care.

Enjoy!

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Having Valentine Cards done a whole month before the event

-Sunshine and warmth

-Pink and Red

-Quality paper crafting time

-Paper, ink, die cuts, adhesive

Creating from the Heart Giveaway

2011-12-20T09:29:00.000-06:00

Would you like a $150 Gift Card from Michaels?

How about a Copic Air Brush Start System or a Copic Color Swatch Book?

Or maybe even a 36 Ciao Copic Market Set?

Just hop on over to Melissa's Creating from the Heart Blog to enter http://keepsakesbymelissa.blogspot.com/2011/12/my-annual-end-of-year-christmas.html

Have a great day.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Awesome Giveaways
-An almost clean house for holiday company
-Rice Pudding
-Grocery list (think turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberries, pie)
-A mild winter (of course most winters will be mild compared to last years)

Cyber Monday at UWIB

2011-11-28T00:43:00.000-06:00

The UWIB, Unique Women In Business, Team is having a Cyber Monday Sale. Use coupon code UWIBTEAM10 for 10% off anything in the featured shops.

UWIB is a very creative group of women. You will find a great selection of items to purchase. So join in on the fun! Here's a treasury of ideas for you.

And that is just the beginning. Here's another treasury with even more handmade gifts for your friends and family.

Happy Shopping! And thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-A decluttered sewing room
-Lovely ETSY Treasuries
-UWIB Friends
-Sales and Bargains
-Walks with the dog

Cyber Sale at HandmadeMN!

2011-11-26T18:56:00.001-06:00

Many of us at HandmadeMN are having cyber weekend sales! Give something handmade this year! Take some time and peruse through all of these shops and you're sure to find something on your list and perhaps something for yourself.

Thanks to Toni for writing this original blog post for the HandmadeMn team.
______________________________________________________

by Toni of Wild Dog Studio

Don't miss the HandmadeMN Team Holiday Sale this weekend!

Spend your Black Friday weekend away from the crowds and the malls. Go shopping in the comfort of your own home, and most importantly Buy Handmade!

Many of our team members are participating in this weekend's Holiday Sale, with an incredible array of great gifts just waiting for you!

The sale runs from Friday through Monday. Here's a list of participating shops for your shopping pleasure...

Harvest Moon by Hand
Waldorf-inspired window stars; and hand-embroidered and eco-friendly felted toys
Sale Details: 15% off all items with coupon code MNsale

Wild Dog Studio
Fine Silver, Fused Glass and Recycled Glass Jewelry
Sale Details: 20% off all items with coupon code MNSale!

HandmadeBits4u
Microwave Bowl Potholders, Hand-Chenilled Potholders, Quilts, Bags, Totes, Wallets
Sale details: MNsale for 10% discount

Twistmo Wall Decals
Quick and easy way to decorate with a TWIST!
Sale Details: Up to 30% Off my original designs and wall words! No coupon needed.

Scissor Savvy
Journals, sketchbooks, albums, all made from vintage and recycled books
Sale details: 20%off with coupon code MNsale

Palettepassion
Hand painted silk scarves and accessories
Sale details: Free global shipping with coupon code MNSale

Glass Garden Designs
Handmade fused glass and beaded jewelry
Sale details: 20% off all items with coupon code MNsale, except Clearance items

Beatific Bijoux
Romantic, vintage-inspired jewelry
Sale details: 20% off with the coupon code MNsale

Miss B Accessories
Handcrafted hair accessories and belts for children
Sale details: 20% off all items with coupon code MNsale

Ododo Originals
Beaded flower hair clips and brooches
Sale details: 15% off, no code required

Earth Grown Crayons
Handmade Soy Crayons
Sale details: 15% off all items with coupon code MNsale

Mary Foster Creative
Flower photography prints, note cards, 2012 calendar
Sale details: Free US and reduced international shipping

Shaggy Baggy
Totes, handbags, buckets
Sale details: 30% of with code MNsale, Free shipping (no code needed)

Kept Fresh
Prints and Cards
Sale Details: 20% off all items with coupon code MNsale

Cheri C Meyer
Free Form Bead Weaving & Wire Wrapped Jewelry
Sale details: Free Shipping - no code required

KomfyKozy
Handmade jewelry and accessories
Sale details: Free shipping with coupon code MNsale

Light Reading
lamp shades
Sale details: 10% off with coupon code MNSALELR

A Handmade Princess
Knit goods
Sale details: 15% off all items with coupon code MNSALE20

Shanti Designs
Handmade yoga mat bags and accessories
Sale details: Free shipping and lavender sache with coupon code MNsale

Peas and Carrots Too
Aprons, bags, napkins, capes and more!
Sale details: Free shipping with coupon code MNsale

BathNBeads
Bath & Body Products, Jewelry
Sale details: 15% off use coupon code MNsale

Dragonfly Adornnments
Beaded gemstone jewelry and fused glass pendants
Sale details: 20% off all items with coupon code MNsale

Easy Peasy BNS (Buy and Stay) Round 3

2011-11-12T19:39:00.000-06:00

Definition of Easy-Peasy: adjective meaning very easy

Definition of BNS
-Buy and Stay
-In Etsy Treasuryland, this means the 16 shops that are featured, stay in the treasury during the entire round of buying

Shopping Begins: The 3rd Round of the EasyPeasy BNS will be open for purchases the morning of Sunday November 13 at 8:00 CST.

The rules: Minimum buy is $4 (after any discounts and before shipping). You can buy anything in these 16 shops to qualify. The 1st 15 buyers will be featured in the EasyPeasy BNS Round 4 that starts Sunday November 20. When you make a purchase, leave a comment IN CAPS (so it catches my attention), with your Shop Name, the shop you bought from, what you bought, and the ETSY transaction id. (Leave the comment in the treasury comments, not here.) That's it! Simply Easy Peasy!

You will find the EasyPeasy BNS Round 4 here !

Thanks for stopping by

Rita

Today's Abundance
-An awesome day at the craft show
-Today's mild weather
-A terrific sister
-Rice pudding
-A quiet evening

Snowmen Stocking Stuffers

2011-11-05T18:53:00.000-05:00

Now that it is November, craft show season is in full swing. If there are any elves out there who haven't made the trek to the North Pole to help Santa, please let me know! Shoppers are buying handmade goods like crazy so I will be spending the week restocking the inventory once again.

These delightfully cute Snowmen Stocking Stuffers have been super popular. Beside being cute and being good sellers at craft shows, there are two other really good things about these Snowmen. First, each has a minature Hershey's Chocolate Candy Bar in the middle. Second, you can make these even when there is no snow on the ground!

Thanks to Splitcoaststampers for the inspiration!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Hershey's Chocolate - in any size or form
-Today's shoppers
-An extra hour tomorrow
-A warm, cozy kitchen
-Technology

I've Been Busy!!

2011-10-29T23:31:00.000-05:00

This stack of Microwave Bowl Potholders says everything! This was the "before" pile - that is before I went to today's craft show. The stack is significantly smaller now. So it is back to the sewing room to replenish the supply for next week's show.

Here is the description I use for my ETSY listings:

Warming up some soup? Making oatmeal? Having some leftovers for lunch or dinner? Are you tired of wrestling those hot bowls/containers from the microwave? Here's a new kind of microwave potholder - a Microwave Bowl Holder that will make this task much easier on the hands!.

This Microwave Bowl Potholder has two layers of of a special Microwave 100% cotton batting on the inside and 100% cotton coordinating fabric on the outside. Just nestle your bowl/container inside the potholder, put both in the microwave, and easily remove when your food is done without getting your fingers hot.

Like ice cream but would prefer not to get cold hands while eating? Just put the bowl of ice cream (or perhaps the ice cream container itself) in the bowl and enjoy your ice cream without get chilly fingers!

These make great gifts for everyone on your list!

Hope you're having a great weekend!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Microwave Bowl Potholders
-Another good craft show
-A nice fall day (unlike the snowy northeast)
-Fabric, thread, and sewing machine
-A sleeping puppy cuddled up beside me

EasyPeasy BNS (Buy and Stay) Preview

2011-10-28T20:53:00.004-05:00

Definition of Easy-Peasy: adjective meaning very easy

Definition of BNS

-Buy and Stay

-In Etsy Treasuryland, this means the 16 shops that are featured, stay in the treasury during the entire round of buying

Shopping Begins: The 1st Round of the EasyPeasy BNS will be open for purchases the morning of Sunday October 30 at 8:00 CST.

The rules: Minimum buy is $4 (after any discounts and before shipping). You can buy anything in these 16 shops to qualify. The 1st 15 buyers will be featured in the EasyPeasy BNS Round 2 that starts Sunday November 6. When you make a purchase, leave a comment IN CAPS (so it catches my attention), with your Shop Name, the shop you bought from, what you bought, and the ETSY transaction id. (Leave the comment in the treasury comments, not here.) That's it! Simply Easy Peasy!

And here is a preview of EasyPeasy BNS Round 1!

Oct 30 Update: The Easy Peasy BNS - Round 1 Treasury is now open!

A big thanks to all of the UWIB, Unique Women in Business, members who volunteered for the 1st round!

Thanks for stopping by

Rita

Today's Abundance

-BNS - Buy and Stay treasuries

-UWIB - a great Etsy Team

-The Color Red

-The fun of finding the right gift for each and every person on your list

-A laid back, easy peasy day

Joyful Expressions

2011-10-16T23:14:00.000-05:00

Starting Thursday an exciting new shop is opening in Hudson, WI - it is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. It is stocked with all kinds of handmade Fall gifts, art, and home decor when it opens to the public this Thursday. You'll find moszics, photography, paper art, soap, blown glass, scarves, jewelry, home decor, cards, journals, stained glass, and much, much more!

Photo by Vickie Armstrong

Find some time to stop by.... you won't be disappointed! And watch for their Christmas show towards the end of November!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-A productive day in the sewing room
-Fall weather - breezes, a slight chill, and leaves crunching under foot
-Puffed Apple Pancakes
-A working internet (it's the pits when it gets flaky)
-Sweatshirts and fleece jackets

Breast Cancer Blog Hop

2011-10-05T13:21:00.000-05:00

Because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are having a Breast Cancer Blog Hop over these next few days. Here are a couple of my cards that have been made with The Angel Company stamps and paper (sigh, they have closed their doors, but I still love this particular stamp set). You may have seen these in an earlier post. I intended to create some new cards, but life just got in the way......

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Fall colors
-Beautiful deep red and rust mums
-Blue skies, a few wispy clouds, and light breezes
-Temperatures nearing 90 (normal temps for October are in the 60s)
-Milling about with good friends

get the InLinkz code

It's Fall

2011-09-23T23:17:00.000-05:00

Welcome to fall! This is the season of brightly colored leaves, pumpkins, corn stalks, scarecrows, apples, apple cider, Halloween, and Thanksgiving! So a few of us are celebrating the day with a fall card blog hop!

I turned to my Cricut and Cuttlebug folders to make this cute little pumpkin card. I used the pumpkin on the Create a Critter cartridge, copied a second one, flipped it, and then welded the two pumpkins together. I embossed both the pumpkin and the leaf. The next step was to stamp the sentiment and punch it out with an oval punch. And finally I used brown ink to add a bit of distressing around the edges.

Please join me in hopping around to view these wonderful fall creations!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Pumpkins
-Fall
-Brightly Colored Leaves
-Mums
-Apples

Handmade Soaps

2011-09-23T12:36:00.002-05:00

I'm no expert by any means when it comes to handmade soaps. I buy them because they smell good, they look fabulous, they make for great gifts, and they are made from natural ingredients. And I also buy handmade soaps because I do enjoy supporting fellow Etsians! And since it is getting close to holiday gift giving time, I thought I would start spreading the word!

One of my favorite soap makers is Andrea from Sacred Suds. She is a fellow HandmadeMN team member and an awesome soap maker. On her ETSY profile, Andrea articulates her Sacred Suds mission. It is "to provide soulful soaps that help channel positive energies into your life. The soaps are inspired by goddesses, gods, yoga, the natural elements, and earth-based spiritual paths." How insightful! Andrea's Pumpkin Spice soap is now available - I can't wait for my mine to arrive! Doesn't this photo just ooze cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and everything else that comes with Pumpkin Pie?

Cory of AquarianBath has a nice selection of handmade soaps including unscsented sea salt soaps for acne skin types and fabulous shampoo bars. Cory is an herbalist, organic gardener, and a soap maker. And I must say, it is so much fun to wash one's hair with a shampoo bar rather than the same old liquid from a plastic container! Here is Cory's Aloe Shampoo Bar with Rosemary, Lavender and Mint.

And my latest handmade soap find is from Kim of dirtydivasoaps. The Dirty Diva Soap Company is a small family business in western Maryland. The soaps are mixed by hand and are made with natural oils and butter. This photo caught my eye and the first paragraph of the product description sealed the deal: "This is for one cold processed bar of Boston Lager Sam Adams Beer Soap Made with 2 bottles of Sam Adams beer , minus a sip or two as the soapmaker was......eh... sampling the product, ahem...just a little." Beer in any form is good!!

Have a favorite handmade soap product?

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-All of the Etsians who make Handmade Soap, it's becoming one of my newest vices!
-Beer
-Fall
-Pumpkin pie, cinnamon sticks, and the anticipation of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy
-The end of another week and the beginning of another weekend

HandmadeMN Fall Market

2011-09-22T00:44:00.000-05:00

Toni, Suz, Renae and myself of HandmadeMN are shepherding the HandmadeMn Fall Market scheduled for October 22. We have consumed coffee, lemonade, bagels, cookies, salads, and sandwiches at Panera as we planned, budgeted, scheduled, laughed, and laughed some more. Highlights of our activities include:

✔ VFW Contract signed

✔ Applications received, juried, fees and ST-19s collected from the 45 team members that will be part of the market

✔ Sponsors and Grants Secured

✔ Logos, Postcards, Posters, Programs, Passports designed, approved, and have been/being printed

✔ Team donations for Giveaways and Swag Bags received

✔ Advertising planned - print, online, radio, press kits

We have a few more volunteers to pin down; along with the last minute planning and attention to the little details that will make for a successful show. Oh yeah... we are also madly designing and creating product for the show! Hope to see you there....

What: HandmadeMN Fall Market

When: October 22 10am - 5pm

Where: Ballentine VFW - 2916 Lyndale Ave S Minneapolis

Thanks for stopping by

Rita

Today's Abundance

-The generosity of HandmadeMN Team Members - their time and their talents

-The opportuity to work with Toni, Suz, and Renae - it's been a blast

-Bonding time with the sewing machine this afternoon

-Warm jackets for windy fall days

-Kindle eBooks in public library - yeah

Our Furry Friends

2011-09-16T18:58:00.005-05:00

I never tire of making treasuries that have an animal theme! I have a cat and a dog that bring me endless hours of joy. I really love all of our 4 legged furry creatures whether they are large or small or in between. Ooops, we do need to exclude all of those rodents from that love though - unless they are Mickey and Minne! Mickey and Minnie are good rodents! And we have a number of animal lovers in the UWIB Etsy Team. You will find dogs and cats and moose and horses and more!

Check them all out here...

Please show us your favorite furry friend!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Cats
-Dogs
-Purring
-Barking
-The joy of having a special 4 legged friend in your life

Birthday Boy

2011-09-15T23:04:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick card I made for a Birthday Boy! The image is colored with Copics and framed with one of my many Nestabilities. I finished it with a few black brads and a Happy Birthday greeting.

So I have the card. Now what about the gift? What suggestions do you have?

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Fall like weather (better than heat and humidity)
-A good day with a good friend
-Puffed Apple Pancakes
-An afternoon nap
-Life long learning

Reindeer Kisses

2011-09-05T14:27:00.001-05:00

It's Labor Day 2011! The weather outside has a hint of fall in it. The temps are only in the 60's. It is a day for long sleeves; the short ones just won't do! The last couple of evenings have been chilly enough to require a light jacket. And in the last 2 days I've seen and heard a flock of geese overhead - the are getting ready for the flights to warmer weather. The transition from summer into fall, and then fall itself, is my favorite time of the year!

And after fall, comes winter, snow, holidays, celebrations, gift giving, and the annual ritual of sending out cards. And I do believe this cooler weather has nudged the creative juices to think that way too! I pulled out my Cricut, loooked through my cartridges and stamps, and this is the result!

I used the Winter Wonderland Cricut Cartridge, Christmas Memories and Background Soup stamp sets (The Angel Company), Tim Holtz's Kraft Resist Paper, kraft and brown card stock, red scrappers floss, and a red pearl.

And not only did I make 1 card, but I made a total of 10!

And may the end of your summer bring you good memories and the upcoming fall season bring you abundant blessings!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The sight of geese flying through the air
-Cool air, perfect for trimming those bushes outside
-The Cricut
-A decluttered craft room - oh the stuff that went in the garbage, that has sold, and that is waiting to be sold
-Open windows and neighborhood noises

So Long, Goodbye, Farewell...

2011-08-28T19:55:00.011-05:00

For the last year and a half Shirley Hotop and I have been co-hosting blog hops for PaperWings, an online forum for demonstrators from The Angel Company that is run by the demonstrators themselves.

Sadly, The Angel Company announced last week that they were going out of business. Since then the days have been filled with disbelief, tears, denial, disorientation, acceptance, and all of those other feelings triggered with a major loss.

The Angel Company, along with owners Mischelle and Kevin Smith, have been like an extended family to many of us. We've laughed together, cried together, celebrated together, and I suppose, even at times we've been mad at each other. But overall we've been a group of creative beings that were drawn to The Angel Company because of the heart and soul that Mischelle poured into it year after year. As many have said, her dreams became our dreams.

Rather than dwelling on our shattered dreams today, Shirley and I decided that we really needed to celebrate The Angel Company and Mischelle by hosting one last Paperwings Blog Hop. We have a tremendous turnout; so grab a few (well, maybe a lot of) Kleenexes, get comfortable, and be prepared to take a celebratory trip down memory lane!

Cuddly Pug was (and still is) one of my favorite stamps. It also has a special place in my heart because it was my first card that was published in a magazine (Simply Sentiments, June/July 2006).

This Tiger Card was one of my first Angel Company Contest Winners. The reward - free stamps, lots of free stamps!!

And imagine my surprise when another of my contest entries ended up on The Angel Company's Home Page in August 2009! What a thrill! I had so much fun making this Back-to-School paper backpack and little Mini Albums for Writing, Reading, and Arithmetic that used the Lilly Anna paper collection.

And since Halloween is coming up, here's Delightfully Spooky!

And last but not least is One of A Kind. And I think the name of this stamp set sums it all up! The Angel Company was One of A Kind; it had heart and soul. It was like a family, with all of the goodness and all of the warts that come with a family. I am and I will continue to miss it. I will also miss my fellow demonstrators. While we are trying to find ways of staying in touch, it is going to be an adjustment as we each decide what path to take next. It has been an honor, and a privilege, to know each and everyone of you!

Best wishes to everyone. May all of you find new dreams, new paths, new journeys. Safe travels everyone. It's been an awesome adventure!

For more tributes and more memories, please visit all of the links below my "Today's Abundance" list. Thanks for stopping by once again!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The Angel Company, Mischelle and Kevin Smith, Kevin Jr. (a.k.a. Boy), Sophie, Kathy, and Mary
-The Angel Company Customer Service personnel (past and present), they were awesome, they were the best
-Debbie Rivers, a TAC employee, who inspired my Today's Abundance List that I have include at the end of my blog posts since mid-2007
-All of The Angel Company Demonstrators
-Tributes, Memories, and Celebrations

More Tributes and Memories for Mischelle and The Angel Company
Julie:     http://juliesstamppad.blogspot.com/
Seleise:     http://www.amethystcat.blogspot.com/
Rita W.     http://handmadebits4u.blogspot.com/
Donna:     http://lakesidestamper.blogspot.com/
Chan:     http://purpledfly.blogspot.com/
Mary:     http://www.marysangelinspirations.blogspot.com/
Angela K.     http://www.angelakelley.blogspot.com/
Laura:     http://www.thecraftysister.com/
Barbara:     http://www.stampingwiththekamperstampr.blogspot.com/
Trudy:      http://www.trudystreasures.blogspot.com/
Shirley:          http://glitteredpaws.blogspot.com
Wendy: http://wendyswhimsyandwit.blogspot.com/
Carol:      http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/
Rita K.      http://ritasangels.blogspot.com/
Chelsea:      http://inkystamps.blogspot.com/
Kim:      http://angelatmydoor.blogspot.com/
PaulaKay      http://www.angelstampingwithpk.blogspot.com/
Ginger:      http://rubberstamped.blogspot.com/
Teresa:      http://mamapickle.blogspot.com/
Maria:      http://www.meastamper.blogspot.com/
Angie:     http://www.creativeinkspirations.com/
Deb Miller:      http://www.creamcityangels.blogspot.com/
Diana:     http://memorycrafter.blogspot.com/
Betty G.:     http://www.stampinteacher.com/
Christine:     http://christines-creativetherapy.blogspot.com/
Sandy A.     http://inkingofyou.blogspot.com/
Char:      http://pawsn2stamp.blogspot.com/
Diane H.     http://www.thesmilinstamper.blogspot.com/
Chris F.     http://allamericanstampers.blogspot.com/
Stacy     http://www.stacysangelcreations.blogspot.com/
Rita H.     http://www.ritaholmes.blogspot.com/

So Long, Goodbye, Farewell...

Rusty and Midnight - My Favorite Animals of All Time

2011-08-20T12:41:00.001-05:00

It is time for our UWIB, Unique Women In Business, monthly blog hop once again! The theme this month is one near and dear to my heart - it's all about the animals!

Rusty my dog and Midnight my cat are my favorite animals of all time! Rusty is the outgoing one. Midnight is less so; although, he can make his presence known with his somewhat shrill, irritating meow. Rusty demands more attention. Both scheme day in and day out how to get outside when the weather is nice. Midnight settles for the window sills when they are open. Rusty gets his daily walks, although he would love to go on them without the leash!

The two of them nap together, spat together, ignore each other, and can (if they want) play nicely together! It's hard to catch them both in the same camera shot, but I did manage to snap these photos awhile ago. I think they are so adorable!

Thanks for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance
1. Friends
2. Dogs and Cats
3. Fresh potatoes and beets from the Farmers Market
4. Scrapbooking - making an album for a very special person
5. Lunch - think I better go make something!

Universal Truths

2011-08-08T16:43:00.001-05:00

Last summer I took a driving trip through Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota. And what route did I take? Well, it went from quilt shop to quilt shop to quilt shop! I saw some beautiful country in the midwest - some areas I had been to before and some areas were new. I do so enjoy driving through the smaller towns and the countryside dotted with farms, cows, pigs, corn and soybeans. The sights, and yes, even the smells, are good for the soul.

One of my stops was Country Threads in Garner, Iowa. Now Country Threads is no ordinary quilt shop. The shop is located on a farm. The main building used to be a chicken coop and the old barn has several quilts hung in the upper loft where they have classes too. By the way, the buildings have been renovated and are very human friendly!

So what does this little story have to do with Universal Truths? Well, I've been ridding my countertop of ever growing paper pile and ran across the Country Threads newsletter that I picked up last summer on my trip. In it is a delightful list of "Universal Truths" and I knew I just had to share some of them with you!! I may have shared some of these a year ago, but some need to be shared again!

Universal Truths
1. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.
2. There is a great need for a sarcasm font.
3. Was learning cursive really necessary?
4. I would rather try to carry 10 plastic grocery bags in each hand than take two trip to bring my groceries in.
5. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.
6. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.
7. Bad decisions make good stories.
8. How the heck are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?
9. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.
10. Sometimes I'll look down at my watch three consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

Here's hoping you had a chuckle or two as you read the list above! Have a great day!

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
1. Temps in the low 80's.
2. Brainstorming how we can send cooler temps and rain to Texas and other scorched states!
3. A nicely groomed dog - Brandy does a great job.
4. "Pee Pee" cone orders are ready to ship!
5. Got bit by the de-cluttering bug once again - yeah!

Christmas in July Blog Hop

2011-07-31T19:57:00.001-05:00

We are getting an early start on our Christmas, Holiday, Winter, and New Year cards/projects with our July Blog Hop at PaperWings! Be prepared to be awed by all of this creativity for the holidays despite the fact that many of us are experiencing high heat and humidity. I feel cooler just thinking about the snow and cold!!

My card features the Cuddly Penguin and Trendy Greetings stamp sets from The Angel Company. The penguin is colored with copics. The blue and green cardstock is from Bazzill's new, yummy line of Smoothies. Buttons and scrappers floss complete the card!

And please join me in hopping around to these participating blogs for more Christmas in July creations. You won't be disappointed!

Rita W - http://handmadebits4u.blogspot.com
Michelle M - http://michellescreativejourney.blogspot.com
Seleise - http://www.amethystcat.blogspot.com/
Laura - http://www.thecraftysister.com/
Wendy - http://wendyswhimsyandwit.blogspot.com/
Laurie U - http://laurieunger.blogspot.com
Chelsea C - http://www.inkystamps.blogspot.com
Shirley H - http://glitteredpaws.blogspot.com
Kim S - http://angelatmydoor.blogspot.com/
Mary - http://marysangelinspirations.blogspot.com/
Angela K - http://www.angelakelley.blogspot.com
Carol N - http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/
Betty - http://www.stampinteacher.com
Rita K - http://ritasangels.blogspot.com
Julie - http://juliesstamppad.blogspot.com
Donna - http://lakesidestamper.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-A bevy of participants for today's blog hop
-A lazy Sunday afternoon - good for the soul
-Bazzill Smoothies
-Lavendar and rose - the colors are so beautiful in my blooming flowers
-Strawberry Smoothie (the kind you drink!!)

Circle of Love

2011-07-30T23:39:00.000-05:00

I have always been fascinated by the symbolism that one finds in the circle - so much that I once wrote a paper on The Circle for one of my college classes when I was pursuing my masters degree.

The circle has no beginning and it has no end and, thus, represents infinity, eternity, and completeness. The circle also stands for inclusion, wholeness, focus, unity, nurturing, cycles, initiation, perfection, centering, infinity, mobility, and more. The circle means we are included, we are drawn in, we are a part of whatever is around us. We also see circles throughout our daily lives: wheels, gears, CDs, plates, bowls, mugs, marbles, eyes, balls, rings, halos, lazy susans, yo yos, coins, and the sun. I can also think of a few companies that incorporate the circle into their logos.

ETSY has circles too! ETSY circles are "a great way to stay connected with other members of the Etsy community." And one of the teams I like to stay connected with is the ETSY Promo Love team! As you can see in the treasury below members have nurtured their creative spirit and passion by creating these lovely circular pieces.!

Have you created a circle lately?

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Craft garage sale (I came home with less than I took)
-Circles of all kinds
-Granola bars
-Iced coffee on a hot, humid day
-A thunderstorm off in the distance

Summer Fun

2011-07-22T22:37:00.002-05:00

It's UWIB Blog Hop time again! Our theme for July is Summer Fun!

I grew up on a farm which meant summers were more work than fun for the most part. My summers were spent weeding the garden along with cooking and baking for the help during the harvesting of the hay, straw, corn, and soy beans. Let's see, there was lunch, and then afternoon break, and then supper. And sometimes there was even late night meals on those days when harvesting went until the sun set. Back in the "good ole days" everything was made from scratch - no store bought potato salad or coleslaw, no gravy-in-a-can, and no mixes for cake or cookies. All of that homemade cooking and baking meant there were mountains of dishes to wash and dry - no dishwashers - all of those dishes and greasy pots and pans were washed and dried by hand!

Now summers on the farm weren't all work. There was some fun too! I have fond memories of riding my bike and playing with the dog. I, the dog, and my imaginary friends would have a blast. We did tricks on my bike in rodeos, we would race down the road to the walnut grove, and we would ride out to the pastures to herd the cows in for their evening milking. I rode the bike whenever I could and I and the dog were inseparable.

I always enjoyed the ride and the family dog... and this card brings back those fond memories.

Now on the farm the dogs didn't get to sleep inside so no good night "puppy kisses" like these for me. However, I'm making up for lost opportunities as my puppy now gets to sleep with me so I get plenty of "puppy kisses" each and every night!

And this bike - well, it reminds me of the first bike I bought as an adult! It was purple, it had a basket, and it had a banana set! So, you see, summer fun on the bike continues on endlessly!

And how do you have fun during the summer?

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Bicycles
-Dogs
-Puppy Kisses
-Summertime (except when the heat and humidity make us wilt and sweat upon stepping outside)
-Memories

Christmas in July

2011-07-20T17:15:00.000-05:00

I'm dreaming of cooler temperatures during this hot, ugly, never-ending heat wave we are experiencing here in Minnesota. Yesterday we broke a record for the highest heat index in bookoo years at 118 or 119, depending upon which report you read. It seems just like a few short weeks ago we were all wishing for summer to come and our long, hard, cold winter to be over (which set its own records too).

So, I am torn. Do I like summer better with all of this heat and humidity or do I like winter better with its cold and snow. Well, after some thought, I'm still a winter fan. I love the cooler temperatures, sweaters and sweat shirts, fire places, bundling up, the holidays, and fluffy, white snow (but not so much the heavy wet snow). Although I must say that the transition from summer to winter is my absolute favorite - fall - but that is a topic for another time.

Since I've been dreamin' of the holidays and those cold and snowy days, I've decided to celebrate by having a Christmas in July Sale! That's right, it is never too early to start you gift shopping for your family and friends - and for yourself too!!

Everything in my HandmadeBits4u ETSY shop is on sale - to receive a 10% discount you must use this coupon code when you check out : CHRISTMASINJULY2011.

Here are some of my new shop additions to whet your whistle. You will find....

... Greeting Cards,

including my new line of "Support the Girls" cards

for those facing or who have survivied Breast Cancer

(proceeds donated to The American Cancer Society) ...

... Fabric and laminated fabric coasters,

a fun way to protect your tables from sweaty drink glasses...

... Jumbo Yo Yo Bobbies to accessorize your hair,

perfect for little and big girls alike...

... Reusable Snack Sacks,

use them instead of plastic baggies for snacks and sandwiches ...

... Microwave Bowl Potholders,

protect your fingers when removing hot bowls and cups from the microwave ...

... Hand-chenilled potholders,

great gifts for bridal showers, the holidays, teachers, coaches, and even yourself ...

... Pee Pee Cones for your little boys, nephews, or grandsons,

great for baby showers,

avoid getting wet from those special little showers unique to baby boys ...

Happy shopping... remember to use the coupon code of CHRISTMASINJULY2011 to receive your 10% discount.

Thanks for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Air Conditioning

-The end to the Minnesota Government Shutdown

-Air Conditioning

-Pizza Delivery

-Have I mentioned Air Conditioning?

Orange Country

2011-07-14T23:54:00.001-05:00

It has been awhile since I've curated a treasury so that's what I've done tonight! The theme - Orange Country. Please enjoy these beautiful, handmade, orange creations!

Thanks for stopping by

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The last nice day for a week or so - i.e. heat and humidity are arriving tomorrow
-Yo Yos - they are so fun to make
-The end of a day with the hope of a new one tomorrow
-Ice cold water
-Orange slices - citrus slices and candy slices

The Flower Garden

2011-07-09T08:47:00.001-05:00

The flower gardens are so full of color these days with

yellows, golds, reds, purples, salmon, pinks, and whites.

In the gardens you can find

daisies and lilies and zinnias and marigolds and
rose moss and geraniums and clematis and
the lovely flowering hostas.

Sitting out on the patio is such a joy these days taking in all of the colors and splendid smells.

If it weren't for the traffic sounds and screaming kids,

I'd say I was getting pretty close to heaven!

Flower gardens abound everywhere, even with my fellow UWIB (Unique Women in Business) team members.

Want some sunflowers for your garden? Then check out this Sunflower Double Original Oil Painting by artbymsr...

Crazyforcollars has Flower Power Collars in this beautiful green and blue color combination...

And because I really like these shades of green and blue here's a Rose Organze Pin from gmPurseanallities!

Then we have the Purple and Pink Plumeria Polymer Flower Earrings expertly handmade by Ziporgiabella.

And finally there are the Shabby Daisy's from Paperquick...

Here's more flower garden inspiration!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The birds, the bees, the butterflies, and any and all other creatures that aide in the production of beautiful flower gardens
-Summer breezes at the end of a warm, warm day
-Kids having fun at the playground
-Key lime bars
-Weekends

World Chocolate Day - July 7, 2011

2011-07-07T19:01:00.002-05:00

Today is World Chocolate Day! Yeah! However, I must say that I don't need a special day to honor and enjoy chocolate. For me, every single day is Chocolate Day - love, love, love Chocolate!

Chocolate comes in many forms and flavors. Here are a few that I enjoy....

-Hershey's Chocolate Bars - plain and almond
-Hershey's Chocolate Kisses
-Ghirardelli Chocolate
-German Chocolate Cake with coconut frosting - my mom's homemade version was the best
-Brownies
-Hot Chocolate
-Dove Chocolate Bars
-Almond Fudge Ice Cream
-Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream with Warm Chocolate Syrup - oh so very yummy, a fond memory of my aunt Leona in the winter time
-Chocolate and Peanut Butter - a favorite snack on canoe trips
-Any and all chocolate desserts at Cafe Latte in St. Paul
-Chocolate pudding that is still a bit warm
-Chocolate desserts at TAC Seminars, especially when they are served as the first course!
-Pink Polka Dots on Brown - and visa versa
-and on and on and on.....

To mark the day, I did make a chocolate card! The base of the card is a deep, rich chocolate brown accented with a kraft brown and a shiny chocolate brown ribbon. The giraffes and inside sentiment (Treasure Found from The Angel Company) are stamped with Momento brown ink and then embossed using Transcendence Powder.

This chocolate colored card makes for a fabulous masculine card for birthdays, anniversaries, or for a "just because" card!

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Chocolate, of course

-The newly planted hostas are surviving

-Annual visit to the vet is successful

-Narrowly averted a run in with two large dogs while out walking the puppy

-Ready for the fabric/yarn garage sale sponsored by a local quilt store

Toss Your Expectations into the Ocean - or in my case - The Mississippi

2011-07-04T17:42:00.001-05:00

Question: What is Zen?
Answer: Zen is enlightenment through meditation and insight.

Question: What is Serendipity?
Answer: Serendipity is the accidental discovery of something pleasant, valuable, or useful.

Question: How did Serendipity and Zen cross paths for me today?
Answer: I discovered this bit of Zen advice quite by accident as I was clicking on links here, there, and everywhere this afternoon.

Question: What did I do with this new found advice?
Answer: I took it ... my expectations are now floating in the Mississippi River making their way to the Gulf of Mexico (I'm not near an ocean, but am near the Mississippi!). And here's hoping they get eaten by the fish, caught by the fishermen (and women), thrown hard against the rocks, besieged by tug boats and ore boats, and swallowed up by the strong currents along the way. And if some do manage to make it the approx. 2,000 miles, well, then the Gulf of Mexico can take over and finish them off! Good riddens - hope you never come back!

And here's the mental image I have formed. This Jomoud photo was found here ... thanks for the most appropriate image for me to toss my expectations into!

And may you have success in throwing away your expectations!

Thanks for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Zen
-Serendipity
-A gentle reminder that many of our frustrations are caused by our own expectations
-Another beautiful summer day
-Lots of yard waste ready to recycle - finally defeated part of the bushes and wild tree seedlings

Show and Tell

2011-06-29T11:53:00.007-05:00

When I was in elementary school, one of the highlights of the week was the proverbial "Show and Tell." We could bring in anything we wanted to show the class and tell them why this "thing" meant so much to us. It could be something about our summer vacations, a toy we loved, something from the garden, a story about a recent event. Oh, the possibilities were endless for sure. Looking back on it, I believe those were the first public speaking events of our lives! I wonder if "Show and Tell" is still part of the classroom?

As adults, and certainly as the creative beings that many of us are, I think it is still so very much fun (and maybe a bit more scary) to show off something we have poured our heart and soul into. I mean, after all, what if someone doesn't like it, or critiques it using words that hit our emotional buttons, or heaven forbid, it isn't sold right away! But nonetheless, we still create and we still like opportunities to share our creations with others!

So let's do some "Show and Tell" right here. The only parameter is that it must be something that you created!

I'll start by sharing these purple and green batik coasters that I made - I love the curved line joining the two colors!

Now it is your turn....

Thanks for stopping by.... hope you enjoyed all of the "Show and Tell."

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The opportunity to bring you some fabulous creations from fellow artists, Etsians, crafters, etc.
-The joy of sharing
-Fond memories of "Show and Tell" - I still remember the "hiccup" story
-Moving beyond the fear of rejection when someone doesn't like something I created or the way I created it
-Creativity! Creativity! Creativity!

June - Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month

2011-06-28T22:44:00.000-05:00

Wowzers!! Fresh Fruits and Vegetables have the whole month of June to call their own!

And did you know that the CDC has designated fruits and vegetables for each month too? Okra and Pluots© and Apriums© are our June Vegetable and Fruits! I think I'm going to have to do some research on Pluots© and Apriums© though!! What are they?

As a quilter and sewer, I am fascinated with the wide variety of fabric designs available today that incorporate fruits and vegetables! And while they are not as nutritious as the real thing by any means, they certainly do whet the appetite at times! I make both potholders and reusable snack sacks from fabric with fruit and vegetable designs. Here are some of my hand-chenilled potholders - bananas, apples, and pears.

The backs of these potholders have several layers of flannel that I then chenille by hand. These potholders are so very soft and also form and flex in your hand so you can get a good grip on that hot pot or pan you're trying to maneuver. Take a look at the green apple photo above. And here's the back of the pear potholders.

In my stash, waiting to be made, are oranges, raspberries, watermelon, more apples, eggplant, peppers - yes, I do have an entire vegetable garden and a vast orchard in my sewing room!

And what have you created that features fruits or vegetables? Please share your handmade creations below - just add right after my Today's Abundance list. Include the link to your blog post or your item that is handmade and features either a fruit or a vegetable!

Thanks for stopping by

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Fresh snap peas
-Fresh strawberries
-Fresh raspberries - hope they'll be here soon
-Fresh spinach and lettuce
-Fresh corn on the cob - although we have a bit of a wait yet for the corn to mature

*************

Blue with Specks of Red and White

2011-06-26T06:59:00.007-05:00

June is winding down and we are headed into the last week at warp speed. Did you know this means that 2011 is half over - a sobering thought indeed!

As a young child I thought time dragged on and on and on. A day, let alone a week or a month, was forever - it must have been all of those dishes I had to do by hand and dusting and cleaning and other household chores that made time go by so slowly.

One of my Facebook friends posted this in the last day or two...

I still find each day too short

for all the thoughts I want to think,

all the walks I want to take,

all the books I want to read,

and all the friends I want to see.

John Burroughs

This is how I am feeling at the moment!

But I digress. Because this is the last Sunday of the month, it is also time for the monthly UWIB Team Blog Hop! Our theme this month is Red, White, and Blue. In another week we will be celebrating the 4th of July, our Independence Day. There will be parades and picnics and family get togethers and fireworks! So let's start to celebrate with some fabulous Red, White, and Blue handmade goodies from our very creative UWIB team!!

My handmade item is mostly blue with specks of red and white. I have started a new recycle/upcycle project using unwanted (and sometimes very ugly) men's neckties! I magically turn them into wristlets that have a pocket for a cell phone, camera, iPod, or MP3 player along with a second pocket for credit cards, cash, reward cards, coupons, and driver's license. In addition to the strap, there is also a clasp for keys. These upcycled necktie wristlets are just the thing for those activities where you don't want to lug around a big purse or tote!

This would be perfect to take with you to the fireworks!!

Be sure to check out the goodies that are waiting for you at these blog sites...my team members are very creative and have lots to share with you!

Blog Hop Participants

Rita Wetzel (this is me!) - http://HandmadeBits4u.blogspot.com
Judy Woodley  - http://WellspringCreations.blogspot.com
Trudy Miller  - http://MommaGoddessTreasures.blogspot.com
Wendy Kelly  - http://blog.vintageday.com
Ann Rinkenberger  - http://harvestmoonbyhand.blogspot.com
Robin Koehler  - http://nestlingsbyrobin.blogspot.com
Cory Trusty  - http://store.aquarianbath.com/index.php/blog
AudreyFetterhoff  - http://AudreyGardenLady.blogspot.com
Janet Bocciardi   -   http://thehoneyfromthebee.blogspot.com
Karen Terry    - http://www.jmjcreations.blogspot.com

Happy hopping!!

Thanks for stopping by once again...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The mailman - he brought lots of goodies for me today (and no bills)
-Freshly picked strawberries over frozen vanilla yogurt
-A renewed interest in card making
-Androids - these gizmos have way too much abundance some days - i.e. why isn't my phone working like it did yesterday - I have no idea what I did, when I did it, or how to undo whatever it is that I did
-The daisies - they are in full bloom ...

10 Things I've Learned in the Past Year

2011-06-24T22:30:00.000-05:00

A year ago my family grew by 1!! As I reflect back on the last year I realize how much this little one has been a blessing, a joy, and, yes, even a bit frustrating at times. At first there were the sleepless nights and the uncertainty about what his sounds and cries meant. He was so little but oh so cuddly and cute - no one could resist him. There was the training, the shots, the accidents, the feedings, and so on. But gradually we got into a good routine and the world was filled with goodness.

Now Rusty has changed significantly over the year. When he arrived he was only a couple of pounds with "rusty" colored fur along with some black and cream. The official color is apricot! Here he is in the doggie vest that I made for him along with a matching leash. I got the tutorials from CrazyforCollars - her tutorials are awesome!! Look closely and you will see paw prints on the fabric!

And now a year later, well - I may need to change his name as most of his rusty color has given way to cream and white! His back still has the apricot color but the rest of him, well let's just say he has changed a lot since he was a little pup. He no longer fits into the vest and he has chewed the leash so much I finally had to toss it and make him a new one! Here he is "helping" me plant some new perennials in the backyard.

Now having a puppy in the household brings with it new insights into how the world operates! So here are the top 10 things that I have learned over the past year...

1. Puppies can not tell time! They eat, play inside and out, and heed Mother Nature's call at all hours of the day and night in all kinds of weather - scorching heat, high humidity, freezing cold, snowstorms, and rainstorms. It does not matter to them!

2. Puppies love playing with shoes and socks - they will even hunt them down, if need be. Doesn't matter if the store bought toys are right there in plain site, they will find the shoes and socks regardless of where they are, how high they are, or how well-put-away you think they are.

3. Puppies think basic obedience training is a great fun - the puppy trains you to give them snacks and treats for doing funny things like sitting, laying down, and walking beside you. Forget the treat and they forget to do those funny things!!

4. Puppies dream about catching squirrels and rabbits and practice anytime they can.

5. Puppies love going on walks in the neighborhood. They sniff every blade of grass, check out every tree and pole, want to greet every dog, bird, squirrel, and human they see. Going for a walk around the block - well, plan on a half hour for that!!

6. Puppies are really excited when they graduate from the kennel at night to the bed. They seem to think sleeping crosswise or diagonally is the thing to do - they know their humans will figure out how to contort themselves to accommodate their puppy.

7. Puppies love shoelaces too! Buy stock in a shoelace company!

8. Puppies love playing with other puppies and dogs. Going to Doggie Daycare is a delight for them. It's a good way to tire them out - and it gives their human some downtime!

9. Puppies and peanut butter - a match made in heaven. And peanut butter works great for getting those big ugly pills down without any problems!

10. Puppies leave paw prints on the heart - but then I think most of us already knew that!!

Thanks for stopping by once again.... hope you are enjoying your puppy (or your choice of pet) as much as I am enjoying Rusty!!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The new doggie stamps from TAC that I saw in some of the photos from seminar
-The black lab that played with Rusty this afternoon
-Red cardinal sightings once again
-Mushrooms popping up all over - they sure are liking all of the moisture
-My new recycled/upcycled projects - Necktie Wristlets

UFO No More!

2011-06-21T14:12:00.019-05:00

One of my objectives this year is to complete a number of UFOs - Unfinished Objects (not of the flying kind though)!

I finished this lap quilt last week and now have photos of it to share with you. I made this in a class that I took a few years ago at a local quilting shop. I love the burgundy and mustard colored fabrics that I chose for this quilt. I counted at least 8 different mustard colored fabrics and 8 different burgundy colored fabrics in the quilt.

I just love the overall design that has the 8 sided stars popping out all over the place. And I must say that most (but not quite all) have nice pointy ends to them!

I quilted it with two different thread colors - a mustard and a burgundy - in a meandering style.

This quilt will be a lovely addition to the family room where it will be loved and used year round.

Hmmm... I like it so much I should use the same pattern to make another - if I could only remember the name of the pattern or book it came from! Any bets on whether or not I will be able to find it?

What unfinished objects or projects have you finished lately?

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-A short break in the rain complete with sunshine - I was able to take photos outside - yeah
-No need to water the flowers again today - mother nature is doing a good job of that at the moment
-Leftover pizza - yummy
-Bargain hunting
-A day of playing with fabric and other creative stuff

Clean and Simple...

2011-06-19T19:55:00.006-05:00

Paperwings, the site for all Angel Company Demonstrators (run for and by the demonstrators themselves) is at it again! It is time for another Blog Hop. The theme for this one is "Clean and Simple" or CAS for short. In the papercrafting world, "Clean and Simple" means no to one layer of card stock, minimal bling, and very few elements to the design. If you want to read more about the "Clean and Simple" design I found this great explanation and examples by scrapnframes.com.

My cards used the Maggie Paper Collection, white card stock, and the Trendy Greetings stamp set from The Angel Company. I used punches and brads, and that's it!!

For this card I used a strip of 1/2" strip of paper along with a paper flower. A large white brad is found in the center of the flower. The sentiments are stamped at a slight angel.

This card has 3 flowers with brads in the middle. I rolled the edges of the petals so they would have more of a 3D effect.

You will find more Clean and Simple creations from participating Angels at these sites. Enjoy the blog hop!

Shirley H. http://www.glitteredpaws.blogspot.com/
Kim http://angelatmydoor.blogspot.com/
Seleise http://www.amethystcat.blogspot.com/
Angela http://www.angelakelley.blogspot.com/
Carol http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-An afternoon of playing with paper and ink
-Fresh spinach and fresh strawberries for lunch.... yummy
-Playtime with the puppy
-Playtime with the cat
-A bit of sunshine

The End.... And A Beginning

2011-06-19T01:01:00.000-05:00

What's that saying ... something like all good things must come to an end?

Well, the peonies have come to an abrupt end this season. A hard downpour earlier this week hammered the poor peonies; they didn't have a chance. The lovely flowers that you saw here are no longer. Rather, they are now a sad lot with drooping blossoms and piles of petals everywhere.

To think that the day before all of these beautiful blossoms were upright and all I could see was pink and white and a deep red - the green leaves and stems are barely discernible when the peonies are in full bloom. So sad, so very sad....

There is a bright spot though! Even though the peonies are fading fast, the daisies are just beginning! Over the next couple of weeks I will be able to cast my eyes on these beautiful white flowers with yellow centers. This strain of daisies is almost wild. I never quite know where they are going to bloom from year to year and I don't try to rein them in. They are beautiful! (And can you see the rain drops ... yes, we are still getting rain!)

Daisies abound everywhere - not just in my backyard!!

Take a look at this beautiful daisy from WildAppleDesign - it is an Upcycled Coca Cola Daisy Ring!

Cayennepeppy has a darling daisy ring in her shop too....

And if you love daisies so much that you want them on your blog, twitter, Facebook, and website, check out this Pre Fab Media Pack from kellyjsorenson!

Enjoy the daisies!

And remember to stop and smell the flowers as you hustle and bustle throughout the day!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The fresh evening air after a rainy day
-Green peas and freshly picked strawberries from the Farmers Market
-My camera
-Star Wars....(it's playing in the background while I work on this blog post)
-Enjoying the puppy as he explores the puddles on our walks today - he's just like a kid, they are there to walk in!

Pink

2011-06-17T22:41:00.000-05:00

Pink is today's color! Most of us know that pink is a combination of both red and white. The color pink ranges from a deep, deep pink (magenta and raspberry) to very light pastel pinks. Pink is the "sweet side" of red - think cotton candy and bubble gum! And what girl, young or old, doesn't like pink!

Want to see some pink in action? Here you go.....

CherisedCabinQuilts quilts, crochets, knits, and repurposes old into new. In this "Baby's Breath" Rag Rug, fabric has been upcycled to make this beautiful crocheted rug.

Shelly6262 has a passion for knitting and crocheting, too. Shelly is known for accenting most of her items with fun fur and for her superb Designer Collection of one of a kind pieces. Isn't this pink poncho perfect for your little girl?

At Sibel's Designs you will find beautiful knitted and crocheted accessories gloves, scarves, berets, and slippers. This pink and white crocheted cuff with a button closure is such an exquisite accessory.

These are but a few things that incorporate the color pink - please check out each of these shops for more lovely creations! Hope you enjoy them!

Thanks for stopping by

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Ice cold water
-Gentle breezes
-Lightening in the distance
-BBQ Ribs
-Reading on the patio

Why Do I Blog?

2011-06-15T14:18:00.000-05:00

Not too long ago I signed up for an eCourse offered by LivLane - it is entitled "How To Build A Blog That You Truly Love." Liv also has a blog, Choosing Beauty, and her Get Real Radio Show on my Talk 107.1 in the Twin Cities!

One of our very first exercises is to ponder and articulate why we blog. This indeed was - and still is - a thought provoking question!

I started blogging back in 2007 to showcase my papercrafting projects built around the products from The Angel Company. It stayed that way for a couple of years until I renewed my love affair with fabric, opened an ETSY shop, and started signing up for local craft shows and boutiques, especially the fall ones. Now you'll see what I've been up to in my sewing room, ETSY treasuries, my pets, and a few more things too, along with papercrafting projects.

The blog has evolved over the last four years, it has sputtered along the way, has been ignored here and there, but it keeps coming back. I started out on Blogspot, switched to the free version of Wordpress, and just recently switched back to Blogspot. Throughout the transitions I have lost some images, lost page and view counts, but fortunately the content has generally transitioned from one platform to another. For that I am thankful!

Needless to say, I jumped at the opportunity to participate in this eCourse because I really do want to offer a blog that I love and am proud of! I want a blog that is cohesive and has a mission and purpose and not a hodgepodge, even though hodgepodge can be interesting at times!

But I digress. So now back to why I want to blog as I move forward ....

With all of the thoughts rolling around in my head that have been generated from Liv's class, I started writing them on Post-Its. I now have them all over the place ... they are on doors, in stacks, and I even capture some on my phone when I'm not a home and need to write a thought down before it flits away...

Over the last couple of days, I've been trying to make sense of these thoughts and bits of insights. I have writtern, rewritten, wordsmithed, rearranged, put in, taken out, and on and on.

Today, I am glad to say I can share the first version of why I want to blog!

•••••••
i blog because I want to

celebrate the creative spirit

in others and in myself by

delighting the world with the handmade

whether the handmade

be ordinary or extraordinary

be new or tried and true

be from scratch or reused

be mine or of others

and
along the way

be thankful for the abundance
of the extraordinary day
of the ordinary day
and even of the mundane day

this is why I blog
•••••••

There it is! This is why I want to blog moving forward! So what do you think? And why do you want blog?

Thanks for stopping by

Rita

Today's Abundance

-My finished UFO lap quilt (photos in an upcoming blog post)

-All of the beautiful finished UFO's at last nights DCSQ guild meeting

-Fresh peas in the pod from the Farmers Market

-A napping puppy - all 4 paws in the air again

-Post It Notes

Peonies in Bloom!

2011-06-08T19:01:00.000-05:00

The peonies are in bloom - what beauty! I'll let Mother Nature speak for herself....

Which is your favorite?

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Good neighbors
-Garage sales
-Life in general
-Gentle breezes
-LivLane's eCourse on Blogging!

Angry Birds

2011-06-07T22:50:00.002-05:00

Did you know that Angry Birds was launched as an iPhone app in December, 2009 and since then Angry Birds has been downloaded over 200 million times on a multitude of platforms?

While Angry Birds can be addicting (and to some a waste of time), I sure find waiting in lines and at the doctor's and dentist's office much more pleasant these days when I whip out the phone and spend time flinging those birds at pigs and other nonsensical targets. Better than stewing about the wait time!!

I find the Angry Bird Story so very fascinating! How can these things capture our attention? How can something so popular cost little to nothing. Thinking about the creativity and the technical expertise that goes into each of the levels is mind boggling. And Angry Birds appeals to all ages everywhere!

Angry Birds according to Wikipedia. Click here for source.
Angry Birds Rio a Big Hit: 10 Million Downloads in 10 Days. Click here for source...
There are 25 different ways of downloading Angry Birds. Click here for source...
The total number of hours consumed by Angry Birds players world-wide is roughly 200 million minutes a DAY, which translates into 1.2 billion hours a year. To compare, all person-hours spent creating and updating Wikipedia totals about 100 million hours over the entire life span of Wikipedia (Neiman Journalism Lab). Click here for source....
And there are so many more articles - just do a search....

And, not only do I like playing Angry Birds, but I also like making Angry Bird greeting cards!!

Thanks for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Air Conditioning - we set a record high of 104 degrees today
-Electricity (to run the air conditioner)
-Angry Birds
-Cold, cold water
-The peonies are blossoming - watch for photos

Peony Bud

2011-06-05T20:37:00.002-05:00

Spring brings so much color to the backyard - everything from the leaves on the trees, the green grass (and the green weeds!), the newly planted annuals, and the spring blooming perennials.

My favorite spring perennial is the row of peonies that I have - it is full of pink, and white, and deep red peonies. Watching the buds form and gradually open can be such a thrill - despite the ants that are required to do the job.

Here's one of the first buds that is starting to open. If you look closely you'll also see an ant on one of the leaves in the background and another on the underside of the bud...

I'll post a few more photos of my peonies as they come into full bloom!

There are also some more beautiful peonies in full bloom. MommaGoddess has this beautiful Ivory Peony Necklace for you ...

MaryFosterCreative is a fine art photographer and her works are available in the form of note cards, calendars, and prints...

Elizabeth Hurley designs and hand stitches these beautiful one of a kind embroidered pieces of art...

And in LollyBopBaby's shop you will find this cute and adorable Pink Peony Headband...

Stay tuned for more Peony updates!!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Cricut time - having fun playing with paper
-A laid back day....
-Cold water with a bit of lemon
-A Single Thread by Marie Bostwick
-Pistachio Jello Salad

My Little Helper

2011-06-04T20:41:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful June day today. It started with a trip to the nursery and the farmers market followed by a full afternoon of planting, weed pulling, and bush trimming. Exhaustion is a good feeling tonight!

I didn't do this all by myself by any means. My little helper was a big help!

Rusty helped me with the Red Feather Grass.... he's pretty good at taking plants out of the containers...

But like me, Rusty too is exhausted....

The garden is watered. The day is coming to an end. It was a good one!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Red Feather Grass

-Sun and clouds and a light breeze

-Sleeping puppy

-Geraniums

-Achy bones

Random Thoughts

2011-06-03T23:50:00.000-05:00

Today's blog post is simply a few random thoughts from the day....

-Checked the peonies - the buds are getting bigger everyday.
-Dishwasher is sounding like a 747 - back to washing dishes by hand until I get it replaced. Can washing dishes by hand be therapeutic?
-To Do List is done for tomorrow - it'll be a busy day.
-Peanut Butter - good for dog treats.
-Was a good day to take photos outside.
-Warm and humid today.
-Cat and dog - they fight sometimes, they nap together sometimes
-My Woodlands Tan and Green Earth Tones Lap Quilt was showcased in this beautiful treasury by shellieartist

-Cold water is so very refreshing.
-Why are dogs attracted to anything with plastic on it?
-It's late... better think about calling it a day.

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-A nice walk even though it was a bit humid
-Clean dishes - even though I had to do them by hand
-Earth tones
-On tomorrow's to do list: Farmer's Market
-Ceiling fans

Agreeable Friends

2011-06-02T22:34:00.002-05:00

Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms. ~George Eliot

----------
Being owned by a cat and a dog is so very delightful! Cats and dogs have different personalities so life is never dull with having both of them around.

The cat sleeps a lot - like all cats do. However, when he's hungry or when he wants to be brushed, he has this high pitched meowing that quickly gets my attention. He won't quit until he gets enough brushing and combing! But, oh the brushing also brings on the purring!

The dog does his fair share of sleeping and napping too! To get my attention he starts with a low whine and then escalates it until I get his food, let him out, take him for a walk, or play with him. But which one he wants is sometimes difficult to figure out! He's so very cute though. He would love to get the rabbits in the neighbors yard - he barks and barks and barks at them and tries every day to get through the fence. He rolls in the grass and does so until I scratch his chin and tummy. Peanut butter is his favorite snack. And he loves attention from anyone and everyone!

My fabric stash also reflects my love for my agreeable friends, my cat and my dog! I have cats and dogs everywhere as you can see here ...

These above are two of my aprons that I have made using my cat and dog fabric stash!

Hope your friends are agreeable as mine are!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-My cat
-My dog
-Cat and dog fabric
-Purring
-Barking (well, most of the time!)

Red Apples and Green Leaves

2011-06-02T00:03:00.000-05:00

I could spend hours and hours and hours cutting up fabric only to stitch it back together into quilts of all kinds and all sizes! When I saw this mini red apple on blue fabric I knew I had to do something with it. I then found the green leaf fabric and the quilt started to come together. Added the red and that was it! The end result of all the cutting and stitching resulted in this Irish Chain Quilt.

Two different quilting techniques were used on the quilt: stitch-in-the-ditch and straight line quilting. The outside borders and binding are the same mini red apple on blue fabric.

I have also found other Red Apple and Green Leaf items on ETSY. Hope you enjoy this treasury - be sure to check out all the shops!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Red Apples (green ones too!)

-Leaves - it is so nice to see all of the leaves on the trees

-Watching Rusty trying to get to the rabbits on the other side of the fence

-Creative time

-Batiks

A New Name! HandmadeBits4u

2011-06-01T00:01:00.002-05:00

Another month is winding down way to fast. The old adage that time flies by when you're having fun is oh so very true! Projects abound around here ... flower gardens are being planted, bushes are being trimmed, and all kinds of other projects are in processs!

One new project is almost complete! For awhile now I have wanted to have my online presence to be all the same name rather than similar names. And I did, for the most part, accomplish that over the long weekend. So you will no longer be seeing RitasCreationsOnETSY, RitasCreations, or RitasCreativeNest once the transition is complete! My new online presence is HandmadeBits4u!

My new contact information is:

email - HandmadeBits4u@gmail.com

Blog - http://HandmadeBits4u.blogspot.com

Twitter - http://twitter.com/HandmadeBits4u

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/HandmadeBits4u

You will find all of my posts from RitasCreativeNest here as I was able to migrate them over.

Hope you enjoy the new online presence!!

Rita

Today's Abundance

-Marigolds, Zinnas, Hostas, Lillies

-Baby birdies

-Last of the lilacs

-Buds on the peonies

-Sunshine

Eggplant with Greens

2011-05-24T15:35:00.000-05:00

Purple and green are one of my favorite color combinations.

Purple is often associated with nobility and royalty. You will frequently find purple in nature too - lilacs, lavender, orchids, and violets come to mind. In fact the lilac bushes are in full bloom at the moment - the aroma is oh so sweet.

Green is all about life, all about nature, and all about the environment. Green is signifies growth, renewal, health, and environment.

And green and purple are favorite colors of my fellow Etsians in their homemade creations... just take a look...

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Lilacs - my favorite spring flowering bush
-Cardinals - love their bright red color
-A good afternoon of yard work
-Fresh green peas - my favorite green vegetable
- Hostas - a great green annual

Another Blog Hop ...

2011-05-22T14:50:00.001-05:00

Today is a busy day for me for Blog Hops. If by chance you stopped by for the UWIB Wedding Bells Blog Hop just scroll down a bit and you will see that post after this one!

PaperWings, a site for demonstrators of The Angel Company, has its monthly blog hop today. The theme is "Favorite Final Farewell." With a new catalog due out in late June, a number of our beloved stamps are being retired. And we are here to showcase our favorites tonight!

I couldn't pick just one favorite stamp set that is about to be retired! Nor could I stick with just 2 - I have 3 favorite stamp sets showcased in my samples for you!

First up, is Spunky Sprite Boys... this is a great set for to use when making cards for little boys!

And here is Spunky Sprite Girls (on the left) and Toodles (on the right). Spunky Sprite Girls is a great set for little girl cards. And Toodles has delightful images for both boys and girls.

And here are all four together...

The images on all 4 cards were colored with Copics. The designer paper and colored card stock is from Toodles paper collection. Hope you enjoyed these cards and be sure to hop on over to these blogs for more Final Farewell inspirations!

Rita W - http://ritascreativenest.com
Laura N - http://www.thecraftysister.com
Trudy O - http://www.trudystreasures.blogspot.com/
Carol N - http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/
Angela K - http://www.angelakelley.blogspot.com
Shirley H - http://glitteredpaws.blogspot.com
Seleise B - http://www.amethystcat.blogspot.com/
Teresa J - http://www.mamapickle.blogspot.com

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Safe and sound after two days of storms and tornados rolling through
-Playing with my Copics - love the new colors I just got
-French Toast
-Blog Hops
-Lazy Sundays

Wedding Bells UWIB Blog Hop

2011-05-22T01:59:00.000-05:00

The UWIB ETSY team is once again excited for their monthly Blog Hop! Since June is a big month for weddings, we are celebrating with a "Wedding Bells" Blog Hop.

The big day is filled with family and friends, flowers and beautiful dresses, jewelry and tuxes, vows and rings, food and cake, pictures and more pictures!

Leading up to the big day, the bride is busy with invitations, picking out colors and flowers, planning the reception, selecting her wedding dress, and making lists and more lists.

Before the big day the bride is also showered with gifts from family and friends. The bridal shower can be very traditional with women only, games, advice, and good food or they can be a very modern, co-ed affair! So what is a good gift for the bride at her shower? Well, gifts for the kitchen are always a good idea!

To start with, all new homes need potholders for the kitchen.

In addition to the traditional potholders, these new Microwave Bowl Potholders are a great gift for the bride too!

And to round out the kitchen gifts, how about this matching set of placemats, napkins, and coasters.

And best wishes to all of the brides! Have a wonderful day and a beautiful life!

Be sure to visit these blogs for more Wedding Bells!

Participants
Rita Wetzel http://RitasCreativeNest.com
Judy Woodley http://WellspringCreations.blogspot.com
Ann Rinkenberger http://harvestmoonbyhand.blogspot.com
Cory Trusty http://aquarianbath.blogspot.com
Nancy Pace http://NancysWildWireJewelry.blogspot.com
Trudy Miller http://MommaGoddessTreasures.blogspot.com
Linda Stranger http://capecoddreamer.blogspot.com
Wendy Kelly http://blog.vintageday.com
Miriam http://goldcrestbags.blogspot.com/

UWIB Blog http://uniquewomeninbusiness.blogspot.com/
UWIB ETSY Team Page http://www.etsy.com/teams/6263/unique-women-in-business-uwib

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Apple trees in full blossom
-Lilac bushes in full bloom
-Farmers Markets
-Cool temperatures after the storm has passed
-Spring - even though it is very late this year

Words of Wisdom from an Unlikely Source

2011-05-01T10:22:00.000-05:00

A fresh cup of coffee sure tastes good on this cold, windy May Day - yep, it is still cold here in Minnesota!! It's only in the 30's at the moment. Will it ever end??

Coffee and the Sunday paper go hand in hand. First it is the news section, then the variety and entertainment sections, the comics, the sports section - well, only the headlines, and then the ads.

Today, I found some great bits of wisdom from a very unlikely source! It is the Menards ad! (Menards is a competitor of Home Depot and Lowes but has been established locally much, much longer.) I noticed some small print on the bottom of the ad pages and upon looking at them closer was surprised as all get out! The small print wasn't disclaimers, it wasn't anything about how long the specials lasted, or anything like that. The small print was more than that - they were words of wisdom. So, I thought I'd share some with you...

-I think the next best thing to solving a problem is finding some humor in it.
-Sometimes it is necessary to go a long distance out of the way in order to come back a short distance correctly.
-Humor can alter any situation and help us cope at the very instant we are laughing.
-Everywhere is walking distance if you have the time.
-Comedy is simply a funny way of being serious.
-If you don't invest very much, then defeat doesn't hurt very much and winning is not very exciting.
-Nobody can be exactly like me. Sometimes even I have trouble doing it.
-A person with one watch knows what time it is; a person with two watches is never quite sure.
-A clean tie will always attract the soup of the day.
-A smile is understood in any language.
-Never tell me the sky's the limit when there are footprints on the moon.
-Don't wait for someone to take you under their wing. Find a good wing and climb up underneath it.
-The prime ingredient is FUN.

Hope you liked these words of wisdom. And I'll be checking next weeks ads to see what else Menards has to say!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Budding trees (despite the cold weather)
-Sedum cement planters found yesterday at Craftganza
-HandmadeMN
-A tired, sleepy puppy
-The cat that's burrowed under the bed covers for his naptime

Celebrating Womanhood

2011-04-25T01:59:00.000-05:00

The UWIB Etsy Street Team is hosting their monthly blog hop once again! Our theme for this month is "Celebrating Womanhood!"

Over the years, women have acquired much wisdom. Their experiences, feelings, family, journeys, ups, and downs have generated much insight from which all of us can benefit. Can you relate to any of the following bits of wisdom?

The greater your capacity to love, the greater is your capacity to feel the pain. ~ Jennifer Aniston, American actor

Those who don't know how to weep with their whole heart don't know how to laugh either. ~ Golda Meir, first female Prime Minister of Israel

Old age is no place for sissies. ~ Bette Davis, American actor

I don't want to get to the end of my life and find that I lived just the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well. ~ Diane Ackerman

When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child. ~ Sophia Loren

What great insights these women have passed onto all of us. And what about UWIB? We have our own insights and our own way of expressing them. Check out how my fellow team mates are "Celebrating Womanhood."

Audrey Fetterhoff   http://AudreyGardenLady.blogspot.com
Linda Stranger http://capecodjewel.blogspot.com
Judy Woodley http://WellspringCreations.blogspot.com
Janet Bocciardi   http://www.honeyfromthebee.com
Ann Rinkenberger   http://harvestmoonbyhand.blogspot.com
Celeste Bocchicchio-Chaudhri   http://ElephunksTrunk.blogspot.com
Wendy Kelly   http://blog.vintageday.com
Cory Trusty   http://aquarianbath.blogspot.com
Karen Terry http://jmjcreations.blogspot.com

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Love
-Laughter
-Life
-Young and Old
- My journey

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2011-04-24T14:57:00.000-05:00

PaperWings is hopping around blogs again tonight! This months theme is April Showers Bring May Flowers. At least it wasn't April Snow Bring May Flowers - although it probably would have been appropriate many places this year!!

I've decided to combine papercrafting with my passion for sewing for April's blog hop! The paper is used is from the Kaleidoscope Girls collection - this orange paper with pink flowers has always been a favorite of mine.

I used an adhesive and clear vinyl to cover both sides of the paper. Then I used one of my fabric patterns to make a mini wallet by adding a snap and sewing the sides together. These wallets are great for carrying credit cards, reward cards, and some money. They slip into your pocket for a quick getaway and are fun to carry around in your purse too!!

Here are the other participants - you will find some lovely flowers as you hop around their blogs.

Shirley   http://glitteredpaws.blogspot.com/
Teresa   http://www.mamapickle.blogspot.com/
Carol   http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/
Rita W. http://ritascreativenest.com/
Chelsea   http://www.inkystamps.blogspot.com/
Seleise http://www.amethystcat.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance
-A sunny day
-Bunnies
-Rummage sale pile of stuff
-Coffee and French Toast
-And, of course, blog hops!

Our 4 Legged Friends

2011-04-20T18:06:00.000-05:00

I've always loved animals whether they be pets, farm animals, or jungle residents!

Our dog friends are loyal and protective. They are companions and family members. They may keep our herd together or they may hunt with us. We train them, we love them, and we grieve when they are no longer with us.

Our cat friends are a bit more aloof than our dog friends. While independent creatures, we sure do like their purring, meowing, and paw kneading!

Animals, whether domesticated or wild, bring so much to our lives. We can learn from their demeanor, their loyalty, their community interactions, and how they care for their young. This has not gone unnoticed by our ETSYBloggers Team - they, too, are fond of animals of all types! Just take a look at this treasury...

To all of our 4 legged friends...

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Dogs and puppies
-Cats and kitties
-All Creatures Great and Small, by James Herriot
-Animal Humane Society
-Veterinarians and Vet Techs

HandmadeMN "No Name" Treasury....

2011-04-18T18:23:00.000-05:00

So how does one end up with a "No Name" Treasury? Well, I started out by looking for items that would fit into a HandmadeMN Summer Vacation treasury. I found a few items; then, I became enamored with things with oranges and copper and blues - pretty soon I had something other than a summer vacation treasury. I liked it!! But no clever theme or name has popped into my mind. Thus, it is my "No Name" Treasury!

HandmadeMN Etsians are awesome! Just look at the variety and quality that I've captured in this treasury! Enjoy....

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-A high tolerance for pain - snow is in the forecast for tomorrow - will it ever end??
-Getting to the post office before the rush of last minute tax payers
-Hardy spring annuals - they certainly are being tested this season
-No nap today - I'm getting over the crud so it is nice not to be so tired that I need to nap during the day
-HandmadeMN Etsy Team

First Aid

2011-04-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling sorry for myself today! I've had this nagging cold and congested head on and off over the winter months and every time I think I have it licked, it resurfaces. (Of course, our never ending winter isn't helping at all - it is snowing yet again!) The last few days I have slept more than I've been awake! Finally, today I think the waking hours exceeded the sleeping ones!

Now on the positive side, it has given me guilt free time at the computer - little energy to do anything but catch up on emails, surf the web, and peruse cyberspace until it's time for the next nap!

Now perhaps I just need some good First Aid to finally kick this thing... Do you think any of these will help? The nurses certainly will offer comfort! The First Aid kits and salves are always good to have around! And what do you think about those "sick polka dot heels?" And I absolutely love "Every time it rains, An Angel gets Pneumonia!" I wonder what Angels get when it snows??

Well, it's probably time I start thinking about taking another nap!

Have a great weekend...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Humor
-A cuddly pup and cat
-Warm handmade quilts
-Cyberspace
-The hope of warm weather

Robins and Rabbits

2011-04-04T15:33:00.000-05:00

Spring is slowly making an appearance. Although I think it must be stuck in traffic somewhere as it sure it taking a long time to warm up - I still need a winter jacket when I take the dog out for his walks. While the snow is melting there is still plenty of big piles left from all of the snow we have had since November of last year. Chili still tastes good on cold spring days as does a cup of hot chocolate!

I have seen signs of some perennials coming to life - the tulips and lilies are starting to peek through the ground and I can also see some small hens-n-chicks coming to life. Today I also saw the rabbits running through the yard and I saw my first robin of the season sitting on the fence chirping away!

So, to honor the robin and the rabbit I have made this treasury of goodies... Take a look... Can you feel the warmth of spring?? I sure can!!

And may all of you have sunny skies and warm temps and light breezes to welcome in spring!

Rita

Today's Abundance
- The first robin of the season
- Happy go lucky rabbits bounding through the backyards
- Scampering squirrels as they move from one branch above to another
- Green things struggling to poke their way through the wet, soggy soil
- The hope that spring will really arrive one of these days (i.e. warmer weather and sunny skies)

UWIB Spring Blog Hop

2011-03-27T13:55:00.000-05:00

The UWIB ETSY Team is hosting their monthly blog hop today! And our theme is spring! The calendar says it is spring; but in the midwest we are wondering if spring will ever come. We still have snow on the ground and below normal temps. And a week ago we had rain, sleet, and snow all in the span of less than 24 hours!!

But enough about the weather. Let's turn our attention towards spring! To me spring means warmth, sunny skies, green grass, and budding leaves!

So for my blog hop I decided to feature items that remind me of the sun - the color yellow, the sky - the color blue, and green - the color of grass and leaves!

This set of hand-chenilled potholders incorporates all three colors - yellow, blue, and green!

I also have a coordinating Microwave Bowl Potholder that highlights the blues and the yellows of a bright sunny sky along with a touch of green here and there!

Now what about those budding leaves and green grass that bring with it the fresh scent of spring, especially after a refreshing rain? Here's another Microwave Bowl Potholder for you!

In the spring time, as the leaves are budding, I enjoy watching the sky through the limbs of the trees. This zippered pouch has bits of the sky in its blue polka dots, the bark of the trees in its browns, and the green of the budding leaves! How perfect for spring!!

We have a good turn out for our blog hop today - please visit the blogs of our participating members and see what else UWIB has for you to enjoy for spring!

Rita Wetzel http://RitasCreativeNest.com

Jenn Nolda http://brynnsbeautifulbows.blogspot.com

Ann Rinkenberger http://harvestmoonbyhand.blogspot.com

Robin Koehler http://www.nestlingsbyrobin.blogspot.com

Linda Reynolds http://bellalindadesigns.net

Audrey Fetterhoff http://AudreyGardenLady.blogspot.com

Birgitte Hendricks http://SewDanish.blogspot.com

Wendy Kelly http://blog.vintageday.com

Janet Bocciardi http://www.honeyfromthebee.com

Linda Stranger http://capecodjewel.blogspot.com

Karen Terry/McDuffie http://jmjcreations.blogspot.com

Judy Woodley http://wellspringcreations.blogspot.com

Trudy Miller http://mommagoddesstreasures.blogspot.com/

Cory Trusty http://aquarianbath.blogspot.com

Nancy Pace http://nancyswildwirejewelry.blogspot.com

Lois Stifel http://foxygknits.com

Jenn Brockman http://alexshares.com

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-A low-key day
-Chirping birds
-Hints of green grass
-Melting snow
- Chocolate chip cookies

SewDanish

2011-03-24T17:58:00.000-05:00

I am a fan of everything that Birgitte of SewDanish makes! Birgitte is a Danish Textile/Fiber Artistwho lives in England.

In The Kitchen...

2011-03-23T18:05:00.000-05:00

I've been working on Hand-Chenilled Potholders and Microwave Bowl Potholders the last few days. Even authored an eTutorial for the Microwave Bowl Potholders - that's a first for me! So with all of this kitchen related creativity I decided to round up a few other creative items for the kitchen! Many of these items would make for fantastic Mother's Day Gifts!!

Click here for more treasury details! You will find bowls and glasses and napkins and serving trays and towels and dishcloths and much more!

Have a great meal!!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The hope of spring.... (although it is fading fast with this latest round of sleet and snow)
-My first eTutorial
-A full day of creativity
-Old movies
-Flower garden catalogs

Paperwings Spring Blog Hop

2011-03-20T14:57:00.000-05:00

Today is the first day of spring and we are celebrating with gusto over at PaperWings, an online resource for demonstrators for The Angel Company, with a Blog Hop. The theme: Spring (of course)! You will find lots of spring themed cards from the blog participants - you'll find the links at the end of the post.

The stamp set I used is Frogs and Kisses along with Mia's Cottage paper collection. I just love these frogs and balloons - they are so cheerful, uplifting, and so spring!! The images are colored with my trusty Copics. Then I used a glitter pen for highlights on the balloon and frog. The edges of the image have been distressed with Chartreuse Pallet ink. What a great birthday card this will make for someone special.

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to drop by these blogs to see more Spring Inspirations!

Rita W - http://ritascreativenest.com
Shirley - http://glitteredpaws.blogspot.com
Laura - http://www.thecraftysister.com/
Seleise - http://www.amethystcat.blogspot.com/
Angela - http://www.angelakelley.blogspot.com
Kim - http://angelatmydoor.blogspot.com/
Laurie - http://laurieunger.blogspot.com/
Carol - http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/
Teresa - http://www.mamapickle.blogspot.com

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Serendipity - a chance siting and ensuing chat with a friend at the car dealer/service center - a place where neither of us frequent very often
-The melting snow, puddles, fog, soggy lawns
-Fabric, paper, and ink
-Coffee and French Toast
- Progress, albeit tiny, in decluttering the sewing room

A Loyal Dog

2011-03-16T18:01:00.000-05:00

Over the past few days we have seen heartbreaking scenes from the devastated areas of Japan as a result of the earthquake and tsunami. It is beyond imagination that such destruction could occur in such a short amount of time - it is unbelievable, surreal, and totally mind-boggling. Our hearts go out to all of those affected.

Today, I saw this video - it is a story of a dog sticking by the side of another. It is so touching and may bring a tear or two to the eyes. Many of my fellow Etsians have items that, when sold, the proceeds will be donated to the relief efforts in Japan. For those of you who are dog lovers, here are some of the items that are available:

CrazyforCollars is donating the proceeds of her Dog and Cat Tags to Animal Refuge Kansai.

Garden of Wings has designated these Doggie Bandanas as her contributions to Animal Relief in Japan.

And ialbert has designated this beautiful Dachshund as part of the fundraising efforts.

You can find many more items on ETSY that have been designated as fundraising for relief efforts in Japan. Please keep the Japanese people along with their four-legged friends in your thoughts and prayers.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-More puddles from our warmer temperatures
-Nicholas Sparks Audio Books
-Sock Monkeys and Sock Monkey Quilts
-Our four-legged friends
-Life itself

Create Your Own Road

2011-03-12T16:10:00.000-06:00

I've taken a few days off from blogging. Now I'm back. Beware - I'm a bit philosophical today though!

The phrase - creating your own road - caught my eye in something that I've read the past few days. It is such a great metaphor for our lives - we need to be the best we can be, we need to be ourselves, we need to follow our roads and our paths; not those of others. This great adventure called life has so much to offer us! To get the most out of it, find your road, start/continue the journey, and have lots of fun on the way to being YOU!!

And to visualize this metaphor, I've curated this treasury of roads, paths, maps, bridges, etc!!

Have a grand time creating your own road - happy travels!!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Homemade Chili (for another chilly day in the midwest)
-A new zippered pouch with raw edge flower embellishment
-A napping puppy - with all four legs sticking up in the air - how funny
-My very own bumpy road with all kinds of twists and curves and steep downhills and uphills
-Life

Plum Pickins

2011-03-02T12:39:00.000-06:00

Today is the day to learn about Plums! First we start with the definitions and then we go to the pictures!!

Plum (definition per Bing Dictionary)

NOUN
1. dark red fruit: a round or oval smooth-skinned fruit, usually red or purple, containing a flattened pit
2. fruit tree: a tree that bears plums. Genus Prunus.
3. dark reddish purple color: a dark reddish purple color
4. something choice: something that is highly desirable or enviable, especially a job or contract ( informal

ADJECTIVE
1. desirable: highly desirable or profitable ( informal ) "a plum job"
2. dark reddish purple: of a dark reddish purple color

Plum Pickins according to the Etsy Bloggers ETSY Team!

Hope you enjoyed this short English lesson!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The little bit of sanity that I have left - it is once again in the single digits today, snow is in the forecast for tomorrow too
-A good day at the sewing machine
-No bills in the mail today
-House plants - the kind I can keep alive that is
-Music

My Snow Dog

2011-02-28T16:29:00.000-06:00

Today we had weather that was a tad bit warmer - a few puddles started to form and the snow on the street started to melt off too. And best of all, we had sunshine the whole day.

Rusty took full advantage of the day and got in some good play time in the backyard snowbanks! He loves to run in them, slide his face along them while pushing with his feet, and dig holes in them! And the result is not only one tired puppy but also a snow covered fur ball!!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita and The Snow Dog!!

Today's Abundance
-Sunshine
-A fun loving puppy
-The hope of spring
-Chocolate
-Cotton fabric

Something Green UWIB Blog Hop

2011-02-27T13:54:00.000-06:00

Welcome to our first monthly UWIB Blog Hop! Every 4^th Sunday we will have a new hop with a new theme along with our fabulous UWIB participants! Be prepared to be wowed by our members! UWIB, Unique Women in Business, is an ETSY Team - our members are creative, supportive, and are wonderful friends!

With St. Patrick's Day just around the corner, this month’s theme is “Something Green.” I'm featuring a couple of my "green" things. First is this set of adorable hand-chenilled potholders. I just love the little birdies, they remind me of the Twitter Bird, on a green background.

The second "Something Green" that I have to share with you is my upcycled "Everyone Loves an Irish Girl" Tote. It used to be a TShirt and I have now transformed it into this cute little tote. Who wouldn't want this for their St. Patrick's Day celebration?

Be sure to check out my RitasCreationsOnETSY shop for more potholders, St. Patrick's Day themed totes, Pee Pee Cones, and more.... And please visit my UWIB sisters who are participating in the "Something Green" Blog Hop too! You'll be green with envy when you're done!

Participants
Karen Terry-McDuffie - http://www.jmjcreations.blogspot.com
Robin Koehler - http://www.nestlingsbyrobin.blogspot.com
Linda Reynolds - http://bellalindadesigns.net/
Birgitte Hendricks - http://SewDanish.blogspot.com
Judy Woodley - http://www.WellspringCreations.blogspot.com
Rita Wetzel - http://ritascreativenest.com
Audrey F - http://AudreyGardenLady.blogspot.com
Robin Maria Pedrero - http://www.pocketfullofcolors.blogspot.com
Ann Rinkenberger - http://harvestmoonbyhand.blogspot.com
Trudy Miller - http://mommagoddesstreasures.blogspot.com
Cory Trusty - http://aquarianbath.blogspot.com
Cory Trusty - http://delicateadornments.blogspot.com
Nancy Pace - http://nancyswildwirejewelry.blogspot.com
Wendy Kelly - http://blog.vintageday.com/

Thanks for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance
-First ever UWIB Blog Hop
-The color green
-The hope of spring
-Creativity
-Friends

It's a Lazy Day Today!

2011-02-26T17:44:00.000-06:00

Ever have one of those days where all you want to do is to veg out? Well, today was one of those for me. Maybe it is this weather - we took two steps back again to snow and single digit temperatures. Maybe it's the fact that February (of 2011 no less) is almost over. Maybe I really am suffering from Cabin Fever! Whatever the reason, it was a day of movies, and blog browsing, and computer cleanup. I did, however, make pulled pork today in the slow cooker so I have meals ready for tomorrow!

So, in keeping with the lazy theme, I had to build a Lazy Treasury!

And treat yourself to a lazy day sometimes - it is refreshing!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Pulled Pork
-Good Movies
-Freed up space on my computer
-Being able to enjoy a lazy day now and again
-Tomorrow

Arundel - a.k.a. Running from the Mundane

2011-02-24T17:10:00.000-06:00

Today I'm featuring an ETSY shop that is about a year old. Two sisters - Ellie and Amy - have teamed up and opened the arundel ETSY shop. They recently started a blog too and I just love the name: Running from the Mundane!

So who are Ellie and Amy? As they explain it on their ETSY Profile: "We are two sisters with a passion for music, movies, fashion, books, travel and awesome adventures. With one foot stuck in reality, the other firmly planted in la-la land, we strive to create unique, quality pieces we hope will inspire and intrigue. Recycling is alive and well here at arundel. Many of our necklaces are made with vintage and/or surplus items that are deserving of a second chance. We mix these items with new pieces to create something that is truly one-of-a-kind."

Just take a look at the variety of items these two sisters make! Wired wrapped necklaces, skirts and dresses, zipper, bobby pins, and eye catching wine bottle stoppers!

And for their blog... it is truly out-of-the-ordinary and far, far from mundane! Check out Miniature Belts Have Feelings Too.... or Stepping Out of My Box! You'll find them to be delightful posts.

Please stop by their shop and their blog for an extraordinary experience!

Have a great day....

Rita

Today's Abundance
- Shoveling water - a futile experience in trying to get the end of the driveway cleared of a huge, never ending puddle
-Egg cookers
-Instruction manuals for when the brain freezes up regarding a task done many times
-The unusually fast service from the bank teller today
-Semi non-icy streets to walk on

Snow Photos!!

2011-02-22T17:11:00.000-06:00

Sunday and Monday, we got at least 12 inches of new, fluffy, white snow over the course of the 2 days - it just wouldn't stop snowing! Now I'm normally a winter person and can take a big snowstorm like this in stride. However,.... In November we had our first huge snowstorm - I happened to be out driving in it to a Craft Fair early that morning - cars slipping and sliding every which way. In December we had another monster storm - I stayed in for that one! In January I was visiting my sister for the day, it started to snow, and it only took me 4+ hours to get home going 40 miles an hour - it is normally an hour and a half drive. Mother Nature teased us with 40 degree temps last week. Now we know it was merely to melt some of the 60 inches of snow we've already had this winter to make room for another foot or more! I think the official count is over 75 inches of snow this season so far! So I'm on the spring bandwagon and am cheering it on with all of the gusto that I have! I have had enough of winter this year!

I did take some pictures this morning - it was quite beautiful out! Temperatures were decent, no wind, and blue skies! (The blue skies though faded into grey ones by the afternoon as the weather forecast is for more snow on Wednesday!!)

This snowbank was clear up to the backdoor - it was a little tough getting out before the path was semi-cleared out! It took 3 passes at the snow to get everything cleaned up decently. Thank goodness my neighbor comes over and does that for me - he is a terrific neighbor!

Now this is a beautiful site! I so do like evergreens with fresh powdery snow on the branches!

The snowbanks are so tall in some places that they completely cover the fences!

And look what I found on top of the roof this morning! Snow that had been whipped into huge snowbanks! While the lines of the snowbanks and the depth and height of them were amazing and very beautiful against the blue sky (yes, the winter is getting to me if I think that), it meant that I had to spend the morning raking the snow off the roof so it wouldn't ice up in the coming days.

Well, that's my story for today! Hope the weatherman is wrong about tomorrow's forecast!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Snow rakes
-Evergreen trees with lots of powdery snow
-Blue skies
-Brownies
-The hope of spring

Adult Truths!

2011-02-21T10:45:00.000-06:00

Audrey from AudreyGardenLady and a fellow UWIBer sent all of us Adult Truths a couple of days ago! And where did she get them from - well, she got them from her dear father! I picked out 10 of my favorites to share with all of you!.

*** Adult Truths ***

1. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.

2. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

3. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

4. How the *^$# are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

5. Bad decisions make good stories.

6. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.

7. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

8. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.

9. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!

10. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.

.

And here's a sneak peak at some of the wonderful items that Audrey creates.... be sure to visit her shop for more!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Watching the puppy frolic in the fresh new snow
-My neighbor who shovels and blows the snow for me so I don't have to frolic in the snow when I take the puppy out
-Another day of crafting
-Drawers and closets full of freshly laundered clothes
-A good nights sleep

One of a Kind

2011-02-20T13:55:00.000-06:00

Yep! It's time for another Blog Hop sponsored by Paperwings! The theme for this month is Hostess Sets currently available from The Angel Company. The Level A Hostess Set that I used is "One of a Kind." I used my Copics once again for the coloring medium. It's so much fun to color - I really need to get them out more often than I do. Be sure to check out the blogs below for more participants and more Hostess Set examples!

Blog Hop Participants
Shirley http://glitteredpaws.blogspot.com/
Rita http://ritascreativenest.com/
Angela http://www.angelakelley.blogspot.com/
Laura N http://www.thecraftysister.com/
Carol http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/
Chelsea http://inkystamps.blogspot.com/
Kerry http://www.thestampingbughaswings.blogspot.com/
Seleise http://www.amethystcat.blogspot.com/

Thanks once again for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Quote
Snow and adolescence are the only problems that disappear if you ignore them long enough. Earl Wilson

(p.s. Another 10-15 inches of snow predicted for today/tomorrow! We're already over 60 inches for the season. Think I will get lots of "ignoring" in this year!)

Read more:http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/snow_3.html#ixzz1EWjtyR64

Karen Terry - a.k.a. JMJ Creations

2011-02-19T14:52:00.000-06:00

Karen Terry of JMJ Creations keeps us all afloat over at the Unique Women in Business (UWIB) Etsy Team! She lets us know when new members have joined, spearheads special promotions on the UWIB Blog, gives us advice, listens to our woes, and still finds time to make awesome jewelry!

Karen says in her ETSY profile, "Jewelry designing has become my passion as well as my hobby. My hope is that you will wear my creations with the same enjoyment and pride as I had making them!" I know that several pieces have been snatched up by our own UWIB members and I'm sure you will find something that tickles your fancy too!

Here's a sampling of Karen's awesome artistic pieces!

So stop by Karen's shop and browse some more!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Obedience training is starting to pay off (for the puppy that is, I'm a lost cause!)
-Public Libraries
-Hazelnut Coffee - yummy
-Ziploc Steamer Bags - fresh veggies here I come!
- 1 day closer to spring and warmer weather that will stick around for more than a day or two - snow forecasted for tomorrow!

Puddle-Wonderful!

2011-02-17T17:12:00.000-06:00

Puddles. Puddles. And more puddles!

The warm weather has been so welcomed given the cold, snowy winter we have had. A week or so ago the temperature was -9 in the morning. Today, it was up to 45! So the huge snow banks are shrinking fast. Thus, the multitude of puddles!

The neighborhood kids were either biking or stomping through them today! They were having so much fun! I was having fun too! When I was out for a walk I noticed these awesome reflections of the trees in the puddles. I turned around, went home, got the camera, and here's what I saw this afternoon!

And what's even more amazing is that in a few short weeks all of the snow will be gone and the trees will have lovely green leaves. Nature is awesome!!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Quote
The world is mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful. E.E. Cummings

Where's My Blogging Mojo?

2011-02-15T17:35:00.000-06:00

When I decided to blog everyday a few weeks ago, I made several assumptions: 1) it would be fun, 2) there would always be something to blog about, and 3) it would be a challenge!

My findings...

First, it is fun to blog about something every day! I vary my subjects and approaches so it doesn't get boring or mundane. And when I get comments, well, that just makes it all the more fun!

Second, there is always something to write about! I've written about my puppy (who is just sitting here at the moment staring at me - wonder what he wants!). I've featured ETSY treasuries. I've blogged about fellow Etsians. There are monthly Angel Blog Hops and soon you'll see monthly UWIB (an ETSY Team) Blog Hops!

Third, it is a challenge! Challenges are good. There is a discipline to blogging everyday and a feeling of accomplishment when it does get done everyday. Lately thouogh, I've misplaced my Blogging Mojo and that is straining my discipline of daily blogging. So the question of the day is: Where or where is my Blogging Mojo?

The weather has warmed up, so my mojo isn't freezing anymore!

The daylight is getting longer, so my mojo can't be suffering from cabin fever!

I've got plenty of topics to write about, so my mojo should be interested in at least one of them!

So where or where is my Blogging Mojo? Have you seen it? If you have, please send it home. I'm thinking about getting the Geo Tagging upgrade for my Mojo so I can find it easier the next time it leaves!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-New found opportunities
-A blog post
-Melting snow and puddles
-Flock of geese heading north
-Temperatures above freezing

Fashion Week Kickoff

2011-02-10T10:47:00.000-06:00

Today is the day that New York City kicks off its Fashion Week to debut fall and winter seasonal lines. So, it seems appropriate that today's blog should be about fashion! But before we look ahead to the next few months, I think we should also look back at some vintage fashions from fellow Etsians! You will find wedding gowns, swimsuits, dresses and more from days past. You can find more details on each of the below here....

Happy Fashion!!

Thanks again for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Minus 9 this morning, 30 above tomorrow - I can hang on one more day
-Another upcycled tote
-No bills in today's mail
-A quiet, crafty day
- Daily blog post done before the evening sets in!

Wordless Wednesday....

2011-02-09T17:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Quote
Never run in the rain with you’re socks on. ~~Green Day

Some Bunny Loves Me

2011-02-08T12:02:00.000-06:00

A week or so ago I wrote about Upcycling T Shirts into purses and totes. Well, I just finished another one today and it is just too adorable not to highlight it here!

This is a darling yellow drawstring tote/bag made from an upcycled/recycled girls T-Shirt! The tote has a "Somebunny Loves Me" saying along with a pink and white bunny on the front. The inside is a pink on pink cotton lining. The drawstring and tabs are from a pink, yellow, and white fabric. I just love it! And your special little girl will love it too!

This tote is perfect for a change of clothes, for food and snacks, or for toys and other things to keep your special girl occupied on a car ride, a plane ride, during a sporting event, or while visiting family and friends.

And it was especially nice working on this today as it reminds me of spring and green grass and flowers and fresh warm air. Much different than the cold, cold, cold, day we are experiencing!

Thanks again for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Quote
Carrots are devine... You get a dozen for a dime, It's maaaa-gic! - Bugs Bunny

Pink Is In!

2011-02-07T12:35:00.000-06:00

Well, I have failed miserably that last few days by not blogging daily. I blame it on the snow and cold (I am a winter fan but even I have had enough!) and all of the busy-ness of the last few days.

So, here I am blogging away once again as I am getting caught up on the To-Do List! Since Pink is in these days with Valentine's being just a week away, I thought I'd feature pink things today!

My first pink thing is from Josy Card Co! What girl wouldn't want this hat for her party?

And here's something for your puppy dog from CrazyForCollars!

Love grapefruit? Well then, this Pink Grapefruit and Ginger Handmade Soap from SacredSuds is for you!

And Mary's photographs from MaryFosterCreative are always a favorite of mine!

Want more pink? What about this necklace from LoveStruckJewelry?

And what about me? Yep - I have some pink to offer too!

And that's it for the pink today!

Thanks for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Pink M&M's
-Pink Ribbon
-Pink Lemonade
-Pink Peonies
-Remembering the 1957 Pink Chevrolet Car

Had Enough?

2011-02-02T17:20:00.000-06:00

This says it all....

Have a great day! Stay warm and dry!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The warmth of inside
-Warm boots
-Fleece
-Hot cocoa
- Chocolate

Another Snowy Day!

2011-01-31T13:34:00.000-06:00

Another snowy day! Need I say more?

Today I choose to look at the beauty of winter and snow through the eyes of fellow Etsians!

Want more details? Then click here....

Thanks for stopping by on this blustery, winter day!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Cameras
-Black & White Photos
-Search Functions
-Cardinals
-Hope

National Puzzle Day

2011-01-29T17:17:00.000-06:00

Every January 29th is National Puzzle Day! There are all kinds of puzzles - crossword puzzles, Sudoku, jigsaw puzzles, brain-teasers, and more. There are simple puzzles and complex puzzles. Puzzles for the novice and puzzles for the expert. Young and old alike are fascinated with puzzles. Puzzles are fun. Puzzles can be a challenge. Puzzles can pass the time. And puzzles certainly work the brain and keeps it sharp. Did you do a puzzle today?

Here are some puzzles to enjoy...

Want to find out more about these puzzles? Then just follow this link....

Thanks again for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-The neighbor boy waving to me from the picture window as I am walking the puppy outside
-Libraries
-The wonderful smell of Pulled Pork being slowly cooked in the crock pot
- A nice stack of finished potholders
- Sudoko and Jigsaw Puzzles - my favorites

Upcycled T Shirts

2011-01-28T16:45:00.000-06:00

I love going to thrift shops to find treasures that can be recycled/upcycled into something new and useful! Breathing life into something again is so satisfying as the creative juices eek out something useful, something fun, or something totally unexpected. (And yes, there is that brainstorm that totally falls flat on its face and the revamped article will never see the light of day again!)

Lately I have been collecting T Shirts to upcycle them into totes, purses, and/or wallets. I hunt through the racks and racks of T Shirts to come up with a few that will make that perfect tote or purse for someone.

A Green Bay Packer fan donated a shirt to one of the local thrift stores and I transformed it into this tote for another Green Bay Packer fan! Wonder if it is going to the Super Bowl?

Like black and pink? Then this would have been a great bag for you!

And this one is absolutely perfect for the Irish Lass!

I have a stack of shirts to work on now - better get busy cutting and sewing!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Quote
We never know the worth of water till the well is dry. ~Thomas Fuller,Gnomologia, 1732

Beginning Today. And Every Day.

2011-01-27T17:01:00.000-06:00

.

''Never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today.'' Benjamin Franklin

------

Beginning today I will look in the mirror and I will see a person worthy
of my respect and admiration.
This capable person looking back at me is someone I enjoy spending time
with and someone I would like to get to know better.

Beginning today I will cherish each moment of my life.
I value this gift bestowed upon me in this world and I will unselfishly
share this gift with others.
I will use this gift to enhance the lives of others.

Beginning today I will take a moment to step off the beaten path and to
revel in the mysteries I encounter.
I will face challenges with courage and determination.
I will overcome what barriers there may be which hinder my quest for
growth and self-improvement.

Beginning today I will take life one day at a time, one step at a time.
Discouragement will not be allowed to taint my positive self-image,
my desire to succeed or my capacity to love.

Beginning today I walk with renewed faith in human kindness.
Regardless of what has gone before, I believe there is hope
for a brighter and better future.

Beginning today I will open my mind and my heart.
I will welcome new experiences. I will meet new people.
I will not expect perfection from myself nor anyone else: perfection does not exist in an imperfect world.
But I will applaud the attempt to overcome human foibles.

Beginning today I am responsible for my own happiness and I will do
things that make me happy . . .
admire the beautiful wonders of nature, listen to my favorite music,
pet a kitten or a puppy, soak in a bubble bath . . .
pleasure can be found in the most simple of gestures.

Beginning today I will learn something new; I will try something
different; I will savor all the various flavors life has to offer.
I will change what I can and the rest I will let go.
I will strive to become the best me I can possibly be.

By: Author Unknown

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Listening to an audio book
-Playing with my puppy
-Grooming my kitty
-Flowering House Plants
-Rabbit and squirrel tracks in the snow - its somehow reassuring to know they are surviving the winter

Fine Art from Kristen Stein

2011-01-25T12:26:00.000-06:00

Another favorite artist of mine is Kristen Stein who creates a wide-range of contemporary art that is suitable for all rooms in the house. Kristen is an award-winning Contemporary Artist. Her works are currently available on a variety of online venues, as well as, boutiques and galleries throughout the US.

In addition to her original works, Kristen offers posters, books, calendars, soft cover bags for phones and iPods, ACEOs, jewelry and more! One of her newest offerings is keepsake boxes that feature her original artwork. The high-gloss, lacquered, hardwood boxes are absolutely beautiful! You can use them for jewelry, mementos, and special trinkets. Below is my very own keepsake box featuring Kristen's "Autumn" work of art - autumn is my favorite season!

Here's more places to find out more about Kristen and her art!
-Blog - http://kristensteinfineart.blogspot.com
-Website - http://StudioArtworks.com
-Facebook - http://artist.to/kristensteinfineart
-Twitter - http://twitter.com/kristensteinart
-ETSY - http://www.etsy.com/shop/kristensteinfineart

Thanks again for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Quote
Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures. ~Henry Ward Beecher

Wonder and Joy

2011-01-25T11:42:00.000-06:00

I've been practicing with the Copics again. Here's another image from the Wonder and Joy Stamp Set from The Angel Company. This little girl is so very cute with her pigtails and bare feet! The image is matted and layered with the Lilly Anna Paper Collection, also from The Angel Company. And the flowers are a reminder that winter will be gone before we know it and spring flowers will be popping up all over!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Pink, Blue, and Green
-Flowers
-The thought of spring
-Audio books
-Copics

Valentine Candy Sticks

2011-01-23T12:06:00.000-06:00

I've been on a Valentine's kick lately! For once I'm ahead of the game rather than behind (remember it was I who sent out New Year's cards just a few days ago).

I started making these Candy Sticks for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Since they were such a big hit, I am now making them with a Valentine's theme. I'm using Valentine M&Ms and Red Hots - love those Red Hots!

The tags have been colored with Copics. The Puppy Dog is from Michelle Perkett and the Love Note image is from Sweet Stamping Treats. Both are digi stamps!

Waiting to see them? Well, here they are... in all of their sweetness....

Thanks again for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Quote
Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love. ~Albert Einstein

I {Heart} You

2011-01-21T12:40:00.000-06:00

Red, roses, hearts.... they are all part of Valentine's Day.... the day of love and affection!

And the members of the newly formed Red Team will not disappoint you with their take on Valentines .... just look at their creativity...

To check out the offerings, just click here and you'll be able to explore each of the shops in more detail!

Thanks for stopping by....

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Blueberry Pie
-Short nippy walks with the puppy in the cold, cold, cold weather
- A discovery - Kindle Books can be downloaded to the iPad and the Mac
-A reliable furnace
-Sweatshirts and turtlenecks

Valentine's Goodie Bags

2011-01-20T14:12:00.000-06:00

Valentine's Day is just around the corner. It is the day to celebrate love and affection with flowers, cards, jewelry, and candy! And look what I'm making for the day....

These pink on pink fabric drawstring bags can be filled with candy and other goodies for that special person. They are fully lined complete with finished seams. The drawstrings are made with coordinating fabric. You'll be seeing more of these bags in different sizes as they also make good gift bags, wine bags, shoe bags, water bags, and more...

I made the tag from a digi stamp, Puppy Love, designed by Michelle Perkett. And, of course, it was colored with Copic Markers.

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-An ordinary day
-Quilting inspiration
-Pink and Red - the colors of Valentine's
-1 day closer to warmer weather
-Puppy play time

Project Maddie

2011-01-19T14:14:00.000-06:00

Maddie needs help.

Maddie is a rescue kitten and her owner has tended to her, taken her to the vet, started her shots and given her lots and lots of love. Maddie is gaining weight and enjoys having her human around. Unfortunately, life has taken a few unkind twists and turns recently for Maddie's owner, Brie, and the budget is strained beyond imagination. Maddie and Brie may need to part ways if Brie is unable to keep up financially. And Brie is doing everything imaginable to turn the situation around.

Because Brie and Maddie belong together a number of us on the UWIB ETSY Team are banding together to raise funds for Maddie. Team members are donating sales from Project Maddie items to Maddie's fund. It's a win, win!! The buyer gets the item they purchased, Maddie gets funds for food and the vet, and us sellers have the satisfaction that comes with helping someone in need.

I have pledged (and sold already) 2 sets of my Reusable Snack Sacks for Project Maddie.

One of our team members, Maria Soto Robbins, painted a lovely image of Maddie. It, too, has already sold. You can buy prints, cards, and other items of Maddie here!

Other designated items include:

Rendachs has these adorable tea towels - "purr-fect" for any cat lover!

MommaGoddess has donated this lovely Pink Rose Ring - this is but one of the rings she has pledged to Maddie's Fund:

CrazyForCollars has pledged a number of her adorable collars for the fund:

And kledesigns has pledged these earrings:

You can also find other items earmarked for Maddie's Fund by clicking on this ETSY Search! New items are added frequently.

Thanks for checking out Project Maddie! All of your help will be appreciated tremendously. And remember, you receive the product and the seller is making the donation to Maddie's Fund!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Bright sunshine
-Project Maddie
-Being part of UWIB, and awesome group of creative Etsians
-A working furnace - the bitter cold is settling in for a few days
-Mint Hot Chocolate

Happy New Year Revisited

2011-01-17T13:48:00.000-06:00

I am happy to say that the New Year's cards are finally done. They are addressed, stuffed, and will find their way to the post office tomorrow. Want a sneak peak? Here they are....

The greeting is from one of my all time favorites - the Trendy Greetings stamp set from The Angel Company. While a bit non-traditional for a New Years card, I decided to use designer paper from the Mimi Collection, also from The Angel Company. (I suspect I did that because I'm looking already forward to spring flowers and warmer temps - winter and snow have to go away sometime, right!!) And did you notice that I used my favorite embellishment too - Scrappers Floss.

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-An impromptu gathering of a few neighbors, dogs, and kids to enjoy the freshly fallen snow
-Turkey Chili
-Crossing off New Years Cards on the To-Do List
-Valentines Treat Bags
-Bananas

Valentines Blog Hop

2011-01-16T13:55:00.000-06:00

Time for another PaperWings sponsored blog hop. The theme for this month is Valentines and you will be pleased with all of the creative ways the participants acknowledged their love of others through cards and other papercrafting projects.

I made a card using the Uptown Paper Collection, the Cheers to You stamp set, and the Trend Greetings stamp set - all from The Angel Company. And, I colored the flowers and vase with my trusty copics.

Be sure to check out the wonderful Valentine creations from the blog hop participants:

Rita W - http://ritascreativenest.com
Angela K - http://www.angelakelley.blogspot.com
Shirley H - http://www.glitteredpaws.blogspot.com
Julie R - http://juliesstamppad.blogspot.com
Carol N - http://stampincarol.blogspot.com/
Chelsea C - http://www.inkystamps.blogspot.com
Michelle - http://michellescreativejourney.blogspot.com

Thanks for stopping by.

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Puffed Apple Pancakes
-Coffee
-Blog Hops
-Fabric, especially quilting fabric
-Copics

Puffed Apple Pancakes and Coffee

2011-01-15T17:02:00.000-06:00

Even though it is Saturday evening, I am impatiently waiting for breakfast tomorrow. I will be making my all time favorite breakfast - Puffed Apple Pancakes along with some good, fresh coffee!

The apple pancakes are actually baked in the oven and are fairly easy to make - apples, cinnamon, vanilla, milk, eggs, flour, and a touch of sugar. They are scrumptious fresh out of the oven, delicious warmed up in the microwave, and tasty even when cold!

Hope your Sunday breakfast will be as good as mine! Here's what's in store for me tomorrow....

Thanks for stopping by.

Have a great day!

Rita

Today's Quote
All happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast. John Gunther

The Blues

2011-01-13T16:10:00.000-06:00

A treasury for the Pay It Forward ETSY Team....

That's all for tonight!

Thanks again for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Quote
Visualize this thing that you want, see it, feel it, believe in it. Make your mental blue print, and begin to build.
by Robert Collier, American Motivational Author, 1885 - 1950

Pay It Forward 2011

2011-01-12T16:24:00.000-06:00

In early January, a Pay It Forward challenge surfaced on Facebook. The challenge read:

Pay it Forward 2011: I promise to send something handmade to the first 5 people who leave a comment here. They must in turn post this and send something they make to the first 5 people who comment on their status. The rules are that it must be handmade by you and it must be sent to your 5 people sometime in 2011.

I took on the challenge and it didn't take very long for people to respond. I'm about ready to send off my handmade goodies to them. Want a peak as to what they will be receiving?

The homemade goodies include mini wallets, key fobs/rings, and memo pads made from upcycled food box chipboard. I will be mailing them yet this week so watch for them!

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Quote
“A life lived for others, is the only life worth living.” Albert Einstein

The Meaning of Life

2011-01-11T17:06:00.000-06:00

Back in August I pointed my readers to a You Tube Video called "The Meaning of Life." As I sat down to compose tonight's post for whatever reason I kept thinking about it and the messages it delivered. For the creator of the video, the meaning of life is:

-Be happy
-Show up
-Follow your heart
-Find a new perspective
-Have a sense of wonder
-Find people you love
-Set goals
-Help others
-Dance
-Pamper yourself
-Face your fears
-Go to a museum
-Exercise
-Limit television
-Get in touch with nature
-Lighten up
-Get a good night's sleep
-Read books
-Buy yourself flowers
-Dont' compare yourself to others
-Don't beat yourself up
-Be open to new ideas
-Don't focus on negative thoughts
-Focus on creating what you desire
-Make time just to have fun
-Keep the romance in your life
-Make a gratitude list
-Love your Mother Earth
-Want what you have
-Be true to yourself

How do you define the meaning of life?

Thanks for stopping by...

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Enjoying a new habit - listening to audio books while crafting
-Walking the puppy - even when it is snowing
-Making this abundance list
-Crossing off 3 major things on the to-do list today
-Attending the quilt guild meeting - such inspiration

It's Snowing Again!

2011-01-10T17:10:00.000-06:00

It has been lightly snowing here all day with the temperatures in the 20's. Throughout the midwest and southeast there has been more snow, ice, sleet, and wind! Schools have been closed. Commutes have been hectic. And car crashes and spinouts have been numerous.

So I got to thinking. What have we experienced in the past on January 10 for weather here in Minnesota? After some research (a.k.a. googling the internet) I found the "Blizzard of the Century."

On January 10, 1975, Minnesota experienced the "Blizzard of the Century" as the pressure dropped to 28 something. The snow started to fall in the midwest on January 10 and continued for 2 days resulting anywhere from a foot of snow to a high of 27 inches in Riverton, Minnesota. Winds were anywhere from 30 - 50 miles per hour and gusts of 70 - 90 miles per hour were recorded. Tornadoes were prevalent in the more southern states. Sadly, 58 people died and over 100,000 farm animals were lost throughout the midwest.

The storm has also been dubbed the "Superbowl Blizzard" as many people, including those stranded wherever, watched the Vikings lose the Super Bowl on the 12th. The Vikings lost 16 - 6 to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The game was played at the Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana.

However, even though winter can be cold, and miserable, and cruel, it can also be very beautiful - just look at this photo from PenguinPalace:

So, keep smiling while you're shoveling... (we will be complaining about the hot & humid summer weather fairly soon!)

Thanks again for stopping by!

Rita

Today's Abundance
-Light fluffy snow
-A puppy who loves playing in the snow
-Chocolate Chip Cookies
-A quilt that's ready to quilt on the quilting frame
-Puppy and cat once again napping side-by-side