studio waterstone

i heart macro

2012-01-28T16:30:00.006-05:00

I'm taking time off from production. But it's been so nice to get to play a teensy bit with my new fabric and some recycled leather. And iPad case for me.

And a new sketch

waiting to be painted. More on that later this week.

***

Clickable lovelies from last Sunday...

From Through the Lens

and Captured by Ima

Couldn't be more different or more beautiful.

***

It's time for "I Heart Macro" slash "I Heart Close Ups: Up Close Photography for Macro Makers and the Camerologically Challenged". Join me by blogging your up close/macro picture of the week. Grab the button* to show that you're participating and link up here. Then be sure to visit other participants and spread the macro love.

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P.S. If Linky Tools isn't cooperating with you, just contact me directly with your link, email, and name and I'd be happy to see if I can add it.

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in the absence of color

2012-01-27T13:44:00.003-05:00

Happy Friday! In my neck of the (colorless) woods...

We have a young (-er than me) visitor this weekend.
We're celebrating a birthday but will hold off on the real celebration until Dad comes home.
I'm pumped to paint more - maybe it's a bit like riding a bike because the flow and eagerness is beginning to settle in. BTW, thank you for your positive reinforcement - it's the gas in my tank...er...the wind in my sails.
Just started reading The Hunger Games. Addictive, but so far just sad. Any HG readers out there?

And in the absence of color, I offer a few of this week's photos.

Have a beautiful weekend.

Be sure to return on Sunday to share your macro.

doodle dee doo

2012-01-26T15:50:00.005-05:00

Doodle dee doo. A new series of peeks into my slowly growing sketchbook. As a realist by nature, I'm attempting to be a bolder and more colorful, carefree painter - er, doodler.

baby steps

A newly discovered app. I think, no I KNOW I'm in love.

A couple more examples of this newfound toy, appropriately called Grunge.

A photo of myself (with Sophie by my side, of course) modeling a new scarf for a friend.

Clearly modeling isn't my forte.

Has creativity taken you on a new path recently?

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toot toot

2012-01-24T17:14:00.006-05:00

I'm going to do a little horn tooting, a little news spreading, a little thanking, and a little chatting. But don't worry, I'll be brief with each. Yes, it is possible. Just watch!

The News:

Be sure to visit my pal, Barbara Lewis, this week at Art Saves. All this week, she's sharing a little about herself, her inspiration, and spotlighting various artists. On Wednesday, Barbara will be talking about Andrew Thornton and moi! So be sure to visit Art Saves each and every day this week. P.S. Barbara gives a brief schedule of the week on her blog, Painting with Fire Artwear.

The Horn Toot:

Okay, really not my horn to toot. But I did give birth and crack a whip with this little chickie. My youngest, a.k.a. the model, just received the Zell Miller Scholarship which translates into 100% tuition PAID! Woot! She also turns 19 this Saturday. So, happy early birthday, you little brat, you.

The Thanking:

Thank you so much to my wonderful customers, readers, and Facebook buds for visiting my clearance sale this week. It has been a blast seeing my peeps get such great deals and, FYI, there are still a few items for sale.

The Chatting:

This week we've experienced...

Rain of near biblical proportions

snow and

65 degree weather today. (Sophie says hi)

Yeah. I'll take the third.

it's time for a serious handbag clearance sale

2012-01-23T08:56:00.003-05:00

It's time to shutter the shop for winter and ready myself for spring. I've decided to drastically reduce my remaining inventory by 50% or more! Head over and check out the big sale.

Have an inspired Monday.

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i heart macro

2012-01-21T17:18:00.006-05:00

I'm afraid that my offering this week pales in comparison to...

A clickable beauty by Maboe.

***

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P.S. If Linky Tools isn't cooperating with you, just contact me directly with your link, email, and name and I'd be happy to see if I can add it.

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loveliness and comfort

2012-01-19T17:35:00.014-05:00

Just returned this afternoon from my parent's house. My sister, Anne, and I worked from Monday through Wednesday to clean and stage. Visiting with my sister and her hubby was wonderful and the time spent in my former home brought both comfort and wonderful memories.

In the end, the house looked so beautiful that I briefly thought we should take pictures to send to Mom and Dad! We both laughed and then Anne said that she liked to imagine that they would drop in for a little visit - a nice thought, so we decided to stick with that.

Now, I have several "new" things to show you.

First, I found this Jo Totes camera bag while thrifting! Fuh real! It was truly a "double-take, then grab" moment. Fellow thrifters (and camera buffs) will most certainly relate.

It's in perfect condition inside with all of the padding and the long strap included.

While in North Carolina, I hit my favorite fabric store and found lots of amazing remnants. I am so freaking in love with these patterns and colors.

Beautiful things from Mom's. She loved to entertain.

So good to be back. Enjoy your Friday!

the present moment

2012-01-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.

~Buddha~

This week I'm in North Carolina helping my sister ready mom and dad's home for sale. It's been a long year while at the same time it's hard to believe that a year has passed. So for me, this week it's important to be reminded to focus on the present. In fact, it's not a bad thought to carry each day, hm?

I hope you have a wonderful week and I'll see you again in a few days.

i heart macro

2012-01-14T20:00:00.001-05:00

This week I broke out the ole paint brushes and played. I'm trying to become a bolder person - or at least a bolder painter. How's it coming?

Ever heard of a snail's pace? This is slower as bolder and methodical don't mix well.

***

Last week's most clickable clicks goes to...

Droplets on Tulips by Captured by Ima

Gorgeous!!

***

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doodle-dee-doo

2012-01-12T16:16:00.008-05:00

I've been an artist, in one form or another, since I could hold a crayon. But as any artist will tell you, we all have our individual styles. Try as I might, I've always been a realist. Vivid colors were never on my palette.

My dream is to be bolder, more colorful.

I'm going to slowly attempt to change this. Baby steps.

I channel my inner Alisa Burke. Slowly coaxing.

Baby steps. Stay tuned.

What's your style?

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obsessing

2012-01-11T17:28:00.009-05:00

It's been a heck of a week (and it's only Wednesday!) beginning with a milestone birthday for moi followed by a milestone wedding anniversary - the big 25! The flowers were from my kiddos who also surprised me with a box of creme horns...

(Side Note) Do you know what creme horns are? They're cream filled pastries which contain, I'm certain, 99.9% fat - the bad kind. The kids remembered that when I passed said CR in the grocery store I would make the sign of the cross and back away. It's a strange weakness - which is why I never purchased them. They bought them. I ate them.

So, along with obsessing over my adorable husband and mischievous offspring, I'm in love with...

This gorgeous scarf, a gift from my bestie.

cuties - just because

Water for Elephants on the Kindle

Downton Abbey. Seriously. Obsessing.

And my Dove dark chocolates.

How appropriate - Renew Your Sense of Discovery

What has you obsessing?

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patience

2012-01-10T07:46:00.009-05:00

If patience is a virtue, it's one which eludes me more often than not. While I (im)patiently sit and allow my arm to heal, I ask your patience for my scarce nature. I'm visiting you and reading, but trying not to type too much. So, thank you for your patience.

Do you struggle with patience? In what area?

Have you won the battle?

Enjoy this post? Feel free to

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i heart macro

2012-01-07T19:30:00.004-05:00

Thanks for joining our weekly I Heart Macro party.

Still learning here! But I do feel like things are getting a little clearer.

***

Last week's "most clicked photo" goes to...

Patti from My Addictions. Great pic, Patti!

***

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tgif and just in case

2012-01-06T08:12:00.003-05:00

TGIF. Time for the collective sigh....

And if you're stumped for something to do this weekend:

1) Tee Shirt Scarf

2) Mason Jar Pendant Light

3) Dictionary of Stitching Tutorials

4) Recovered Lamp Shade

5) Etched Glass Storage Jars

Get creative and have a good one!

getting down to business in 2012

2012-01-04T08:20:00.003-05:00

Getting down to business while NOT getting down to business.

To all of my customers, Studio Waterstone is officially out of production for the short term. Last year, I didn't give my arm sufficient time to heal and now I'm reaping the benefits. I have absolutely no choice this time - no cheating. If you have a gift certificate or are waiting for "just the right bag", rest assured, new things are coming. Hopefully I will be back in production in the spring/summer with beautiful new goodies. Until then...

It's a great time to get down to business. Contradicting what I just said? Not really. It's a great time for examining and fine-tuning my brand, streamlining my styles and offerings, designing and planning for spring - not a small undertaking, but I'm excited about it.

While remaining eco-friendly, I'm going to try to reinvent by adding an element of art - something unique. As stated before, Studio Waterstone will be more streamlined, simple, and organized while continuing to focus on earth friendly, stylish functionality.

Sounds like a good "jumping off point" to me. Care to add your desires and preferences to the list while I'm hot on the design trail? I'd love to hear your opinions.

On a personal level, I'm currently working on photography (staging and photographing products, too) and reading for fun. At the moment, I'm reading Water for Elephants.

Painting will be on the agenda as well as studio organizing - a major undertaking.

I've signed on for 52 Weeks to an Organized Home. Care to join me?

It's a new year with fresh beginnings and exciting possibilities. While I will be absent from Studio Waterstone production, I'll continue to be around here and here and here. See you around!

how's tricks? a blogging tutorial

2012-01-03T08:19:00.003-05:00

Blogger and I have a love/hate relationship, something many of your know about. You may even share this sentiment.

He (blogger) recently pulled a new trick out of his bag by yanking my extensive blogroll. One day it was there and the next, poof! Gone. I'm going to show you how to easily save your blogroll to rebuild with ease when Blogger Boy gets bored and decides to grab a list.

Tip: This also works great when you visit an interesting blog and want to explore their bloglist without clicking back and forth.

Saving your Blogroll

~a visual tutorial~

Right click again and click "copy", then...

That's it! Super easy, right?

hiya and a happy 2012

2012-01-02T08:19:00.004-05:00

Always a day late and a dollar short, I wish you all a Happy 2012. May it be jam packed with good health, happiness, and fulfilled dreams.

Personally, the mister heads back to Ohio this evening, ending a wonderful holiday. My life will be filled with reorganization, cleaning (aren't they one and the same?), reinvention, and recuperating. How about you? What's on tap for 2012?

Psst. I'm a little proud of that photo. Straight from my camera. I'm learning!

i heart macro

2011-12-31T19:56:00.005-05:00

Santa brought the camera that I've been wanting for two years, the one which promises to take my photography to an entirely new level. Sadly (for you) I really don't know what I'm doing and after, literally, hundreds of photos, this is the best I can come up with this week.

So, thank you for putting up with my ineptness. And please feel free to offer tips, recommend wonderful DSLR books, tutorials, etc.

****

And in other (more beautiful) news, two weeks ago...

...Tracey from A Beadiful Mess recieved the most clicks with this gorgeous photo.
Beautiful work, Tracey!

****

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vaca

2011-12-28T20:34:00.003-05:00

What am I doing during my holiday vacation? Lots and nothing. I've taken a ridiculous amount of terrible photographs with my fancy schmancy camera, salvaging only a few, trying to understand the various buttons, and refusing to use the auto setting.

I've been clearing the decorations. It's the only time of year I'm actually an eager beaver.

Making. Fingerless gloves from a recycled sweater which I could NOT felt.
No matter how many times I washed it, with tennis balls, on hot.
So I went to plan "B"

Eating a lot. A LOT.

Thinking about an annual budget. Thinking about it. That's all.

And watching a lot of things like this.
Can you "name that movie?"

Hope you're enjoying your week.

peace and new toys

2011-12-27T08:06:00.005-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday. I thought I'd get my usual - a lump of coal. But Santa had other things in mind. He brought me a camera which I do not know how to use. All those buttons...and I can't turn off the flash!

My sweetheart was home for a long weekend. The animals were in heaven.

So was I.

I'm spending the week reading the instruction manual

and spending time with family

and recuperating

and cleaning

and playing.

I hope you're doing the same.

(minus the cleaning part - wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy)

See you right back here this Sunday for I Heart Macro.

(maybe I'll figure out how to work the camera by then)

merry merry

2011-12-24T17:10:00.002-05:00

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas, full of peace and love.

cherry, almond, and chocolate clusters

2011-12-22T15:13:00.005-05:00

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Fair warning. Make a double batch.

Cherry Almond Chocolate Clusters

What You'll Need:

1 cup whole almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped

1/2 - 3/4 cup dried cherries, coarsely chopped

6 oz. dark or bittersweet chocolate (60% or 70% cocoa), finely chopped

***

1) Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.

2) Melt the chocolate, either in a double boiler or in the microwave.

3) Add the chopped almonds and dried cherries to the chocolate.

4) Drop clusters onto the baking sheet. Put in the refrigerator until cooled.

Enjoy!

thoughts

2011-12-19T20:47:00.006-05:00

"Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen." - Bobby, age 7

i heart macro

2011-12-17T20:46:00.006-05:00

Jeff's grandmother's teapot.

***

Last week's most clicks...

Kristi Bowman

***

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Copy the code shown above. Go to your blogger and instead of using the "compose" tab, click on the "edit html" tab. Paste the code you've just copied. Then switch back to the "compose" tab and you'll magically see the button! Finish your post, publish and you are done. Easy peasy.

*NOTE* If you're having trouble linking up, send me your information via the contact button (name, email, link) and I'll add it for you.

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uppers and downers

2011-12-15T16:21:00.011-05:00

Today's post is sprinkled with ups and downs.

Downer:

Time for things to slow down which is a good thing because my arm is ready to fall off. The tendonitis has flared something terrible and, well, remember that question I asked on Wednesday? The one about defining moments?

I actually had two answers to that question. The second I didn't want to face. But in my heart I knew. I can't sew. Not a lick. Not if I ever want my arm to heal. You have no idea how hard it is for me to turn down work, but that's exactly what I'm doing.

Upper:

So, what's a girl to do? For the time being, I'm returning to my first love of painting. Broke out the watercolors and began to doodle today. I'm also going to focus on photography. And talking to you.

Beggar (somewhere in between): I hope you'll be patient and stay with me.

Downer (and totally random): My blogroll completely disappeared. Did you take it?

Because I need it.

Upper: The handbags and sewing will return later. But for now...

Upper: I heart eyes and faces. It's why I painted portraits for so long.

So there you go. I said it. Out loud. And it didn't hurt. Figuratively speaking.

Super Upper:

Let's hope this journey is full of wonderful turns and deliciously creative messes. Hm?

Care to take a spin into the world of doodling with me?

You never know. Something good may just come from it.

reads: unstitched

2011-12-15T08:06:00.002-05:00

This addiction for beauty, inspiration, and intriguing content - it's madness - a madness I welcome with open arms. I'm constantly amazed at the talent out there, the hours of love that must go into these beautiful online "magazines".

Unstitched

The design asethetic had me at hello. But we all know that there must be great content and Unstitched doesn't disappoint. Lillian has a weekly schedule which includes globetrotting, personal museum, here & there, the find, and artsy living. Did I mention the eye candy?

Unstitched. Go ahead, you know you want to visit.

earth shattering, life or death kind of questions

2011-12-14T07:12:00.000-05:00

My mother passed away in January of this year after a brief illness. About two weeks later I had a "dream" and from that experience, I knew one thing for sure. This was my defining moment.

Defining moments. We've all had them.

I've found several definitions:

The instant a small event changes your life.
An event, action, or decision that results in a significant change for a person, institution, or community, country, or world.
A point at which the essential nature or character of a person, group, etc., is revealed or identified.

Wow. Pretty serious stuff. I would think that sometimes we experience defining moments and they change our lives and sometimes we go through the experiences only to remain stuck.

Looking over the past year, and more importantly toward the upcoming year, I'll ask this week's earth shattering, life or death kind of question.

What was the most defining moment in your life during this past year?

diy image tips and tricks

2011-12-13T07:24:00.013-05:00

But first...

Congratulations to Mary Newton for winning the subscription to Country Living! P.S. I'm going to celebrate the week with another giveaway VERY soon - something from my collection. So, stay tuned!

Now about those images. If you're a blogger, you probably know how important images and image quality is. Having said that, photo's can be tricky! Here are a few thoughts on the subject.

Image size:

You cannot enlarge a photo from it's original source without causing it to blur. For example, your photo is 686 pixels wide. You can't enlarge it to 1000 pixels or even 700 pixels and get a perfectly clear photo.

I uploaded this image to Flickr and it shows the original as 686 pixels wide. My options are always smaller images.

BUT...

What if I want to change my image to fit a 600 pixel wide space. Is this possible?
Why, yes! Yes, it is. And if your image is already uploaded to Flickr, it's easy to change.

Above, it shows the html code that I copied from Flickr and posted to my blog post.

From that highlighted section, you want to focus in on the dimensions. Change the 686 to 600 pixels. BUT (and this is VERY important), you also need to change the height to a corresponding dimension. For instance, if I reduce the width by 86 pixels, I need to also reduce the height by the same number.

Another way of getting exactly the size you want is to export it correctly in the first place! Just click on "custom" when exporting and enter your desired width.

Image quality:

Ever go to one of those sites or blogs and have to wait an eternity while things load? Not fun. When exporting my photos, I always choose medium quality. This looks fine on a computer screen and keeps loading time to a minimum.

Alt tags:

Back to my blog html screen. I can't talk about images without adding this tip. See the highlighted part shown above? That's my alt tag and it's currently named "IMG_0502". So boring and totally useless.

Without getting into the importance of alt tags, I'd recommend that you change it to maybe your blog name or the title of your post. Why? Because it helps with SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and it's an easy change.

Hope my tips help! Now, you can add those all-important images with ease while giving your post a more professional look.

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santa wants to give you something

2011-12-11T21:24:00.003-05:00

One year everyone asked Jeff what I'd like for Christmas. His response...
Turtlenecks.

I got ten turtlenecks that year.

***

So I got my renewal from my favorite magazine, Country Living, and they asked if I wanted to give a gift subscription? I said, "Hell's yeah!", but who? And then I had a great idea...I'll give it away! Are you a Country Living fan? Do you believe in Santa?

If you answered yes to both questions and would like a complimentary, no catches, one year subscription to Country Living you will need to answer one more question...

What do you want for Christmas?
(Besides a free subscription to Country Living Magazine)

***

I'll pick a name on Tuesday, December 13th.

Good luck!

i heart macro

2011-12-10T17:16:00.008-05:00

Brownness seems to have invaded everything now. So today, for my I Heart Macro submission, I'm sharing the brownness with the exception of a couple of things. You'll see.

P.S. I hope you bring a fantabulous dose of macro color!

P.P.S. I'm ready to graduate and need your .02. What kind of camera do you use? What kind of camera would you recommend?

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a studio peek and a reminder

2011-12-09T18:31:00.005-05:00

Be forewarned. I'm ending the week with a peek inside my studio. And I'm sure you'll agree that it's due for a thorough cleaning followed by a serious dose of color.

Items to be mailed out.

A custom backpack.

Love this card. Don't they look happy?

Me...er...a long time ago.
I'm the one with the super mod striped dress, knee socks, and corsage.

The heavy machinery, a.k.a. The BAG Maker

Geez, it looks like a man with absolutely no imagination or creativity resides here.

The Reminder...

The shop is beginning to dwindle and free shipping is on the table.
Just sayin'.

Have a wonderful Saturday. Play, but don't hurt yourself.

thrifting tips

2011-12-08T15:19:00.007-05:00

Some call it an illness. Others call it a curse. I call it a gift.

You may have heard me say that I'm descended from the original leather fairy because of my knack for finding great leather. But after pondering the title, I've decided to crown myself queen of the (local)(part-time) thrifting fairies. Not that I'm bragging or anything - but it's for real. I am the embodiment of thrifting lucky-ness - at least in my little world.

Below, a sampling of past acquisitions. (If you'd rather skip to the meat of the post, just scroll past the display of one upmanship)

This hutch - found and painted

Of course the belts and amazing buckles

My audacious cowboy boots

Jessie's audacious cowboy boots AND Frye boots - found on the same day.
Psst...I saw the exact pair of Frye boots at Nordstrom recently - score!

My Ethan Allen turquoise hutch

A sweet little W.J. Gordy creamer- signed on the bottom.

A terrific pair of red leather Dansko Professionals - in my size. Wore them today.

And this is what I found today...

A silver platter to begin my collection for this.

Two large trays to use for this.

Two scrumptious leather coats :-)

***

Now, the tips...

Before you go, look through your inspiration boards, whether they're on Pinterest or in a file you keep at home.

Carry either a backpack, small crossbody - not a regular handbag.

Because all you need is...

Your ID
Credit Card and/or Cash
Keys
Measuring Tape!!!

Take your time and...

Find out when they have 1/2 price day, or daily specials.

Think outside of the box.

Rarely is something used as it was intended.

Skirts and dresses can be used for quilts, pillows, scarves, bags.

Old framed pictures can be spray painted white or black.

Old LP's can look fantastic framed and grouped.

Old game boards can also be framed.

Lamps, tables, bookcases, chairs can be repainted, reupholstered, or used in a completely different way.

Candlesticks and odd plates can become pedestals.

Now it's your turn.
Do you thrift? What's your best thrifting tip?
Best score?

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earth shattering, life or death kind of questions

2011-12-06T19:41:00.002-05:00

Earlier this week, I briefly touched on thoughts of a new year. Personally, this has been one of our most difficult and while I will count our blessing (of which there are many), I'm ready to wrap things up and start fresh. How about you?

With that in mind, for the next few weeks I'd like to bring back Wednesday's Earth Shattering, Life or Death Kind of Questions. Can't think of a better time to ask ourselves questions which can help to point our minds in the right direction. Let's start with...

...that little voice. You know the one I'm talking about. It's in your head. Some say it's your conscience. Others suggest that it's God or a guiding spirit - whether good or bad. I've always thought it's my gut speaking. My gut feeling has rarely failed, even if I don't like what it's telling me.

What has the little voice inside your head been saying lately?

I would love to hear your answer. But, even if you don't want to leave it in a comment, think about it. That little voice is pretty darned smart.

chicken tortilla soup with chipoltle & fire roasted tomatoes

2011-12-05T18:51:00.010-05:00

I'm borderline obsessive over Mexican food and during the cooler months I'm full-on obsessive over soup. So, when the two are combined, I'm in heaven.

I recently found this delicious recipe for Chicken Tortilla Soup and feel compelled to share with the rest of the class as it's become my new favorite. It most assuredly will not disappoint.

I'm also an avocado freak pairing the soup with simple avocado and cheese quesadillas.

Chicken Tortilla Soup with Chipotle and Fire Roasted Tomatoes
(original recipe is from Foodnetwork)

1 lb. chicken tenders (I used 2 bone-in chicken breasts)
3 c. gluten-free, low sodium chicken broth
1 bay leaf (I used dried)
4 slices of bacon
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves minced garlic
2 chipotles in adobo, chopped, then 2 tbs. of the sauce
1 28 oz. can crushed fire roasted tomatoes
salt & pepper to taste
lightly crushed corn tortilla chips
shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar
chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
avocado (optional)
flour or corn tortillas (optional, for quesadilla)
if it's too hot, you can cool it off with a little sour cream

***

Poach chicken in chicken broth with bay leaf.

While the chicken poaches, cook bacon in a soup pot over medium-high heat until crisp.
Remove bacon.

Drain off excess fat, leaving 2 to 3 tablespoons in the pan. Add onions and garlic to the skillet and cook 5 minutes then stir in chipotles and tomatoes.

Remove chicken from stock, dice and then add to soup.

Pass stock through a strainer then add to the soup.

Serve topped with shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
Or substitute the tortilla chips, as I did, with a crisp avocado and cheese quesadilla.

Enjoy!

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monday inspiration

2011-12-05T06:23:00.010-05:00

It's December and I'm already thinking end-of-year: taking time off, looking back, visiting the mister in January, Christmas(!), new items for spring and business ideas. Basically, I'm like a kid on the first day of school. And it's still June.

But first, I can't think of the past year without adding this little item...

If I've learned anything this year, it's that the above statement is TRUE.
Not always fun, but true.

***

Lately I've accumulated some really doable projects which are on my "this is what I want to do when I take time off" list. Tell me what you think, then tell me what's on your "want to do" list.

Finally! You have no IDEA how many corks I've saved through the years. I've always written on the side: the date and the person who shared the wine with me. I'm madly in love with this.

Fabric on a painted canvas. How easy is this? And so adorable!

I'll get a scarf-sized piece of knit (no need to even hem!) and write my favorite quote with gray and black sharpies. So cool. And you know how I feel about scarves.

The perfect thing for all those pictures I have stored on a hard drive, knowing I'll never get them into a photo album. Imagine the possibilities!

A thrifted chest-of-drawers. Remove the drawers and any slats, and paint.
How cool is this?

And finally, I plan to do a little of this.

Your turn. What are you dreaming of doing?

psst...all images can be found on Pinterest - only the bestest place on the web.

i heart macro

2011-12-03T20:05:00.004-05:00

Not sure how macro this actually is. I took the picture with my iPhone while hiking through the woods in Columbus with the mister. This green thing was pretty big and I have no idea what it is.

They were all over the place and isn't the color to die for?
If you happen to know what the mystery mushroomy thing is, please advise.

***

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a holiday shop hop and a wrap

2011-12-02T20:26:00.003-05:00

Have you started your holiday shopping yet? Be SURE to check out the Holiday Shop Hop, an extensive list of artisans, hosted by Shel of MiShel Designs. Perusing this list will certainly not disappoint. In fact, the only thing difficult about this shopping trip is NOT snagging gifts for yourself!

As for Studio Waterstone, I'm really pleased that I was able to finish three, full-sized handbags this week. They're all currently in the shop with, by the way, FREE SHIPPING! Just be sure to use coupon code: MerryChristmas2011 and you'll have your entire order shipped for free.

***

For ease of shopping, I've included the list of Holiday Shop Hop participants. Enjoy your shopping trip!

Blackbeary Mountain

Blue Pearls Handcrafted Goods

Handcrafted Serenity Jewelry Designs

Happy and Healthy Magnetic Jewelry

Holly Westfall / Silver Rose Designs

Just A Tish

Just Mare Pottery

Keefer Style Creations

Kabs Creative Concepts

Klassy Joolz

Kristi Bowman Design

Lilly Rose Jewelry Designs

Little Rocks

MiShel Designs

Melinda Orr Designs

My Life Under the Bus

Olive Branch Organics

Pine Ridge Treasures

Pink Poppy Studio

Rosebud’s Lampwork Beads

Wire Worked Handcrafted Jewelry

things and other things

2011-12-02T06:58:00.003-05:00

Popping in to say TGIF and to apologize for being so AWOL. The busy-ness of the season has taken me body and soul - or so it seems.

A few studio pics from my Instagram with one extra thrown in for good measure. I said that I was so maxxed out that I wouldn't work. You didn't really believe that, did you?

Finished this one yesterday and hoping to wrap up three more today.

Have a fabulous Friday.

fashion for the rest of us

2011-11-29T08:16:00.017-05:00

My third attempt at Polyvore.

It's a little addicting. This would be me on a really good day - casual - always.

Are you a leggings girl? Merrell tunic? Toms? Polyvore?
I'm all for leggings as long as the tunic covers my tush!

Psst...If you click on the Polyvore link above,
you'll get source information on all of the items. Cool or what?

Pin It

cyber monday, sharing the love, and sales galore

2011-11-28T06:35:00.007-05:00

Today, CYBER MONDAY, is THE day for online retailers.

For featured artist, Sally Russick of Wireworked Handcrafted Jewelry, it means a whopping 20% off the entire shop through December 10th! (I'm seriously drooling over the Trapeze Envy Earrings)

For Studio Waterstone, that means free shipping on all purchases. (Use coupon code: CYBERMON)

Are you an online retailer? Do you have a special sale? Leave your shop or featured item button here and spread the love. (Scroll down and click the "click here to enter" link) Feel free to, if possible, add the list to your blog. Also be sure to visit others and shop with the other shop owners who have linked up!

i heart macro

2011-11-26T20:30:00.000-05:00

Hoping that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. Ours is still ongoing, which is why I've been AWOL for the past week. Even so, I just can't go a week without celebrating the art - or attempted art, in my case - of macro.

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on being thankful

2011-11-21T22:17:00.003-05:00

“I awoke this morning with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and the new”
Ralph Waldo Emerson

fashion for the rest of us

2011-11-20T16:17:00.016-05:00

But first, my thought for the day. Okay, any day, but especially a Monday...

I picked up the first three Fashion for the Rest of Us groupings from Pinterest.

Definitely the boots.

Love the flats and the wrap. I REALLY want to wear a wrap - properly - and with style.

Another gorgeous wrap.

So what's on your wish list?

i heart macro

2011-11-19T17:47:00.006-05:00

Sophie and I enjoyed our afternoon walk so much today. The weather provided blue skies and crisp fall temperatures - the perfect framework for a struggling amateur photographer.

No complaints. Except to say that I had trouble choosing a subject for this week's I Heart Macro post. So, I chose five.

Of course, the last isn't exactly a macro shot. She's my muse.
And my own personal camera hog.

***

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tgi...long weekend/week/weekend

2011-11-18T09:40:00.007-05:00

Enthusiasm abounds. Emotions are at an all time high and a much needed holiday week is in front of me. In all honesty, I'll probably pop in because, well, this is what I love.

Thought I'd show you what became of the two, most recent projects. One is in the shop and one will be later today. I sincerely love the fabric and leather combinations and the backpack? Let's just say that the model and I are kind of fighting over it.

This wool is the coolest - I'll squeeze out every scrap. And you can't see it in these photos, but the leather is so super distressed - in a really good way.

This came together surprisingly well - like riding a bike, on a clear day, with no rocks or slippery stuff on the path. So much so that I'll make another.

Special weekend/week/holiday plans?
I'll be prepping and cleaning for company next week. And, of course, Jeff will be coming home from Ohio - YAY! Scariest part? I'll be in charge of the Thanksgiving feast.

For the first time.

Ever. Yep, Jeff (a.k.a. Mr. Waterstone) is the real cook in the family.

Help a girl out.

Favorite Thanksgiving dish?

randomness, burn out, and a question for you

2011-11-16T17:37:00.006-05:00

Today I began working on two new bags with a mix of leather and fabric. Below is my last big piece of this recycled wool - oh, how I wish I had more. This will have a dark strip of recycled brown leather across the bottom and a couple of great straps at the top.

And this will be my first attempt at a backpack. It will have a recycled brown leather zippered pocket on the front, brown leather straps which zip together and this red leather detailing.

More randomness...
Check out this new iPhone App! It's called CamWow.
I can't help but think that some serious creativeness can come from this app.

Pretty Oreo...

Pretty Sophie...

Yikes! What the what? I look like the creature from the black lagoon.

***

Seems I'm experiencing burn out - recognized it. Been there. Done that.
So I think I'll throw up the old hands, vacate work and blogland for the entire week of Thanksgiving. Oh my. Can she really do it???

About that question...

What's your best cure for burnout?

fall comfort, a.k.a. fashion for the rest of us

2011-11-15T16:51:00.007-05:00

Only one thing to add...

The simply classic, recycled pebbled black leather bag will go to the shop tonight.

monday inspiration...boards

2011-11-13T20:30:00.004-05:00

Inspiration boards. Essential to the creative mind.

...Now for a dose of my reality...

Do you have your own inspiration board?
I have three. They strive to be as pretty - working on it.
Don't have room? Notebooks work beautifully - and travel. :)

Have a beautifully inspired Monday.

psst...top images are from pinterest

i heart macro

2011-11-12T16:59:00.003-05:00

embroidered flowers & texture

***

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pinterest pass or fail - apple & winter squash soup

2011-11-11T17:07:00.006-05:00

While visiting Jen over at Hope Studios this past week, I came across a post of hers called, Pinterest: Pass or Fail and knew that it would be the perfect topic for the Autumn Apple & Winter Squash Soup recipe I recently tried out.

To be honest, it left a big question mark. And since I'm not a squash expert, I'd love your opinion. I found the recipe on another one of my favorite blogs, Running with Tweezers (highly recommend!). Go ahead and take a gander, I'll wait...

Does that sound delicious or what? I know! So anyway, I tried it and, yes, it looked just like the soup that she has beautifully photographed - creamy and beautifully orange and she does say she's a purest. But that question mark...

Wes, my oldest and bestest food taster, said it tasted like he was eating a large, warm bowl of apple sauce. I thought it was good, but had to agree. So, my question for you is...

What, exactly, should squash and apple soup taste like?
Would you try it and let me know? Was I missing something? Did I nail it?
Should it taste like apple sauce? Clearly I'm confused.

But it photographs beautifully. :)

let's talk talent...

2011-11-10T17:51:00.005-05:00

I love this part of the week because it's time to talk talented folks! Can't think of a better way to shout "TGIF" than to learn about new and inspiring artisans.

This week I was thrilled to host three fantastically talented ladies and I sincerely hope that you visit their shops, websites, and blogs as they all have something beautifully unique to offer.

*****

First up is one of my favorite silversmiths, Jayne of Jayne Norvelle Designs. Jayne creates jewelry using stones found along the Oregon coast. One of my favorites from Jayne's shop is the this oxidized, forged silver and stone necklace.

Gynna, from GrabStuff Creations, knits wonderful scarves, makes the cutest stitch markers, and creates knitting project bags. I'm a scarf girl, so as soon as I hit her shop, my eye immediately fixates on the hand knit cowl - so perfect for cooler weather!

Erin of Tesori Trovati Jewelry, combines her love for words with rustic, time-worn looks to create "Simple Truths" pendants. I am loving the "take time" slender pendants.

from tiny pouches to weekenders

2011-11-09T16:04:00.007-05:00

While away last week, I could only work on what I could carry. And because nobody was willing to move a cast iron, industrial Juki, I worked on a much smaller scale.

Zippered pouches, embroidery needles, and yarn are the perfect traveling companion.
They don't talk back and they look pretty after a long day.

Now that I'm back in the studio, my focus has shifted because the shop is sorely lacking handbags and totes.

Today, I finished this large leather weekender. It's soft and scrunchy and did I say large? It won't go into the shop for another day or so as I need to corner my model. (Making the handbag was easier than cornering the model, if that's any indication)

Handbags and totes will be on the agenda for at least the next two weeks. Leather handbags, such as the one shown above, are made without one of my patterns, which translates into more hours per bag which is kinda fun especially when each bag is totally different.

Speaking of...
It's been a long time since I asked for your opinion...and your opinion matters!

What kind of handbag do you prefer?
Small with a few necessities or large with lots of room?
Single strap or double?
Leather or fabric?
Artistic touches or classically simple?
Colorful or neutral?

no-brainer meals for one - help!

2011-11-08T17:40:00.015-05:00

Seems the 9.5 hour drive south on Monday combined with falling back on Sunday put my brain into a catatonic state. So, I vacated the blogosphere - just skipped a day - and that's saying something. Felt good to take a day off to regroup and catch up. But that's not my point...

While visiting Jeff in Ohio, I was forced to face one of my greatest fears, a "single" man's refrigerator and freezer. One look at Hungry Man dinners and boxes of mac & cheese and I was a woman on a mission. What does one who works eleven and twelve hour days prepare for dinner? First, it has to be super simple and fast. An exhausted man (or woman) does not want to slice, dice, and wash dirty pots and pans.

*Note* In many cases, I'm buying more expensive ingredients to make things easier and/or quicker. However, compare this to a frozen dinner loaded with sodium, expensive take-out, etc. It's not only healthier but, in the long run, cheaper.

My quickie meal plan for a "single", meat and potatoes kind of guy

Please add your own ideas in the comment section! I'd love some help.

1) Homemade Spaghetti: I made a very large pot of spaghetti sauce and divided it into two-cup portions (1 dinner + one leftover), added each to a quart sized freezer bag and froze. Add pasta and a salad.

2) Homemade Chicken Enchiladas: I mixed shredded, cooked chicken with diced green chili's, shredded cheese, and black beans. Rolled approx. 1/4 cup portions tightly into flour tortillas and wrapped them individually with waxed paper, added to a freezer bag and froze. No need to thaw the enchiladas. Just preheat the oven to 425, top the enchiladas with sauce and shredded cheese and bake for 20 minutes. Serve with lettuce, salsa, avocados, and sour cream.

3) Grilled Chicken Salads: Purchase frozen, cooked grilled chicken - already sliced OR individually frozen chicken tenders. I purchased my favorite kitchen gadget, the salad spinner. Believe it or not, you WILL eat more salad this way because it's ready to eat - no salad prep. Add toppings - we love dried cranberries, walnuts, and dressing.

4) BBQ or Pork Roast: I bought a whole pork loin and divided it into three sections, then individually froze each. This needs to be thawed overnight in the refrigerator. Next morning, add it to the crock pot along with salt, pepper, and a little water. If you're making BBQ, simply add the sauce and shred the roast when you get home. If you're having the roast, you can add onions and carrots. I also like to sprinkle the meat (for roast) with lemon pepper seasoning.

5) I found stuffed, apple and almond chicken breasts at Trader Joe's. We tried them and they were really pretty good!

6) Fajitas: Using the sliced, pre-cooked grilled chicken, combine with frozen fajita mixture (found in the freezer section).

Vegetable sides:

Salad
Frozen Birdseye Steamfresh Pure & Simple
Individually shrink-wrapped, microwavable sweet potatoes
Baby carrots for steaming

*****

Now it's your turn.

Help a girl and her hungry hubby out?
Offer up your quick & easy, no-brainer (and I mean no-brainer) recipes.
Links are also welcome!

monday inspiration

2011-11-06T20:46:00.003-05:00

For me, this Monday means a quick, 9.5 hour trek back to Atlanta. The hubs and I had such a wonderful week. We dated, hiked, visited with friends, and co-existed for the first time in two months. Totally wonderful week together.

With that still fresh in my mind, I hope the simple words below provide you with a dose of Monday inspiration.

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.
~Confucius

*Image source

i heart macro

2011-11-05T20:36:00.000-04:00

Earlier this week I wrote about my nemesis. Today's macro image shares Sophie's nemesis. Or maybe it's my OTHER nemesis. At any rate, these little suckers love to attach themselves to her fur as she runs through the tall grass. And they always irritate me much more than Sophie.

*****

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let's talk talent...

2011-11-03T17:22:00.006-04:00

*****

LeAnn, from Summers Studio, creates earthy, organic ceramic and bronze art beads, pendants, and jewelry. I'm in love with the little ceramic owl beads as well as the sweet seasonal mitten and ornament beads.

Sharon, from Livewire Jewelry, creates beautiful necklaces, bracelets, and earrings using copper, handmade beads and earthy stones. I'm drooling over the Jezabel earrings at the moment.

Shel, from MiShel Designs, works wonders using ribbon, pearls, sterling silver to create her lovely, classic pieces. Be sure to visit Shel's shop and blog. Right now she's organizing a Holiday Shop Hop that you will not want to miss!

*****

Interested in having your shop, website, or blog featured? I'm interested in promoting YOU and giving you a space. That space is to your immediate right. See the three, large, featured artist ads? That's it! And the best part is that it's free. Yep, free - otherwise known as spreading the love.

The details...

Visit this weeks artisans then come back and let everyone know what you loved. Comments are open through Saturday night, November 5th and on Sunday morning, we'll draw for four spaces to go in the "Featured Artists" spot in the right sidebar.

If you're chosen, your advertisement will be added ASAP and it will run through next Saturday night. Next Friday we'll do the same thing all over again. No catch, no charge, no nothing except advertising space for your shop, website, or blog.

For the full details (size requirements, etc), head over to this page. But be sure to come right back here and comment to toss your name in the hat.

Good luck!!!

bragging rights!

2011-11-02T16:24:00.005-04:00

Of course, I'm not sure that I have the right to brag. After all, I didn't do a thing except give birth to the model, toil over her for almost 19 hard years and...okay. I don't have the right.

On the other hand, our fabulously talented photographer, Kelley Wenzel of Pear Tree Photography, deserves praise for her beautiful shots. Yes, we're talking the very same Kelley Wenzel from Kelley's Beads. Seriously, this much talent should be outlawed - but not until I get my pictures!

Now you've seen my model's face, something that doesn't happen often around here!
For my bragging, I borrowed a couple of preview pics from the photo shoot.

Want to see a few more? Head over to Kelley's blog to see her beautiful work.

embroidery

2011-11-01T17:28:00.004-04:00

It's not all about the work here in Ohio this week. I'm playing a little, too. Embroidery - something I love and never seem to find the time to do.

Embroidery, reading, and movies in the afternoon.
I think I needed this and didn't even know it.

Who knew?

my nemesis, a short story

2011-10-31T20:00:00.005-04:00

Years ago, as Mr. W and I were out shopping for a sofa, we walked past this chair. Mr. W instantly fell in love. It reminded him of a chair he had in college - a.k.a. the cruel chair. (his words)

An elderly lady standing near us commented, "Honey, that is one butt ugly chair!". I laughed. We argued over the chair. Then we bought it and from that day forward it was known as our butt ugly chair.

The end.

Help.

monday inspiration

2011-10-31T07:20:00.003-04:00

Greetings from Ohio! After our "short" nine hour drive yesterday, I am now temporarily residing in an extremely white and uninspired apartment. My job this week is to turn it into something beautifully liveable on the cheap. Any suggestions?

For this week's inspiration, I'm showing you a few ideas I've bookmarked on Pinterest. Please add to the list with your fantastic ideas and, as always, I hope this leaves you inspired and ready for a new week.

paint chip mural

felted sweater throw

thrifted, painted frames with corkboard

image transfer onto canvas

thrifted & felted sweater pillow

fabric or paper covered box tops

images printed on large mailing labels and applied to filing boxes

Inspired? I sure am. Now I'm off to the thrift shops in Ohio. But I need your help...
Please give me your quick suggestions. This place is DULLSVILLE.
More to follow.

Have a wonderful, inspired Monday.

i heart macro

2011-10-29T19:00:00.009-04:00

Black Leather and Toile

Both recycled and headed to Canada. O Canada.

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fashion and opportunities and fashionable opportunities

2011-10-28T17:30:00.004-04:00

Did you have an inspired week? I sure hope so. The studio here was a hopping madhouse. Whenever that happens I experience serious ADD and want to play! Staying focused and on task can be quite difficult. Know what I mean?

For today's post, I have two super quick topics...

First, my week wouldn't be complete without covering "Fashion for the Rest of Us". I fell in love with each of these looks. How about you? Which is your favorite/most wearable?

For me, each one is perfect and 100% wearable. I'm really dying over the Eileen Fisher dress in the top, left photo - oh how I wish it was in my (cough, cough) budget.

Topic numero "B"...

You still have through this Saturday to comment on yesterday's post for a chance to nab some free advertising space! Seriously? Yes! There is no agenda here. I simply see so many talented artists, photographers, and bloggers out there and want to share a little of your space - a.k.a. spreading the handmade love.

So, if you haven't taken the chance to read and comment, then now's the time! I'd love to feature you.

Now, I'm off to the Atlanta airport (in the rain. on a friday. sheesh.) to pick up a gorgeous man named Mr. Waterstone. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll see you right back here on Sunday for I Heart Macro.

(psst...the images are from Pinterest)

three fantastic artists and an opportunity

2011-10-27T18:59:00.006-04:00

I couldn't think of a better way to begin a new tradition of sponsoring artists, photographers, and fellow bloggers than to begin with this trio. This week I was thrilled to host three fantastic artisans and I sincerely hope that you visit their shops as they all have something beautifully unique to offer.

Anne, of Gardanne: Handmade Glass and Enamel Beads, entices us with the vibrant color and graceful curves in her glass beads. Currently, her enameled keys are at the top of my wishlist.

If you're less into making and more into wearing, Lisa, from Grimm & Grete : Urban Bohemian Chic Jewelry for the Modern Romantic, draws you in with her gorgeous jewelry. I'm drooling over this blue quartz necklace.

Maria, from Garden Path Beads, had me at whimsical. She creates fun, colorful glass beads such as a bird's nest and eggs, adorable carrots and radishes, and my favorite, the starfish. Imagine the fun you'd have creating jewelry using her beads!

*****

Interested in having your shop, website, or blog featured? I'm interested in promoting YOU and giving you a space. That space is to your immediate right. See the three, rather large, featured ads? Yep, that's it! And the best part is that it's free. Yep, free - otherwise known as spreading the love.

The details...

Visit this weeks artisans then come back and let everyone know what you loved. Comments are open through Saturday night, October 29th and on Sunday morning, we'll draw for FOUR spaces to go in the "Featured Artists" spot in the right sidebar.

If you're chosen, your advertisement will be added ASAP and it will run through next Saturday night. Next Friday we'll do the same thing except that time it'll be all four free ad spaces! No catch, no charge, no nothing except advertising space for your shop, website, or blog. Capeesh?

For the full details (size requirements, etc), head over to this page. But be sure to come right back here and comment to toss your name in the hat.

Good luck!!!

new things: a sneak peek

2011-10-26T18:21:00.008-04:00

...zippered key/phone or camera pouches...

...recycled suede and leather iPad sleeve...

...recycled, uber weathered cross body handbag - sized large for all your goodies...

...love this. recycled wool with the coolest strap ever...
...the brass thingies move! it's like a toy and a tote all wrapped into one...

...family shot...

...lightweight recycled gray tweed tote with suede handles...

...lightweight, recycled black bag...

...another family portrait...

all headed to the shop Thursday night. 8 p.m.-ish. fingers crossed.

my arm/elbow needs a vaca
icing has commenced...wine may be involved

reaching the epitome of suckitude

2011-10-25T17:36:00.009-04:00

For me, it was never a journey - I was at the top of that mountain from the very beginning. And yet, I'm pretty sure that I'll never come down. The epitome of suckitude, once accepted, can actually be a comfy place. Join me?

I suck at making Autumn Butternut Squash & Apple Soup. But that's another story for another day. Today we're focusing on seriously reaching the epitome of suckitude.

The dreaded newsletter

You know, that tab over in my right sidebar? With the best of intentions I accumulate poor souls who think they'll receive news and shop updates. But they never do. Some people actually register over and over. I should send them a newsletter telling them that I suck at sending newsletters...but I probably won't.*

So, in the spirit of suckitude, Wednesday's Earth Shattering, Life or Death Kind of Question is:

Have you reached the epitome of suckitude in one area of your business or life?
And have you grown to accept this as a fact that will possibly never change?
Are you completely at peace? I kinda am.

*If you are one of the sad souls who never receives a newsletter from me, I'll give you a little tip. The best way to get the most current shop information is to join me on Facebook.

And this was no advertisement. I really DO suck at newsletters.

how to communicate: a tutorial

2011-10-24T18:00:00.005-04:00

I love to communicate. Communicating ranks high on my list, much to my families' (and a few friend's) frustration.

When hosting a giveaway or the Friday advertising feature, nothing makes me happier than to hear your reaction as you're notified. Sometimes, however, locating you can turn into a meandering path which, believe it or not, ends with a dead end. This makes no one happy except for the alternate winner.

So, whether you are or are not aware, adding a contact email to your Blogger profile takes only a few minutes. Maybe you've been meaning to add your email. Maybe you didn't know how. Maybe you didn't want spam - can't say as I blame you for that. But remember, it's easy to create an extra gmail or yahoo email address for such occasions. At any rate, here's a refresher...

Log into your Blogger profile. See the "Contact" box? That's where your email will be. See the "Edit Profile" button? Click that little button.

Under "Identity", you can enter whichever email you'd like to use. Then make absolutely sure that you click the box next to "Show My Email Address". Then you click save and voila! You're done.

I can now contact you when you've won something - or I just need a shoulder. Just kidding about the second part. I'll not communicate my moans and groans.

i participate:

monday inspiration

2011-10-24T07:59:00.008-04:00

A big "thank you" goes out to all the thoughtful folks who commented and offered up creative suggestions to my dilemma last week. The conversation with the big E still has maybe one last ditch effort before I resort to getting creative with a new name.

This week, my agenda is big bags - leather on the Juki! (sounds like a dish, doesn't it?) I'll be visiting Mr. W next week and, needless to say, I can't just toss the old Juki in the trunk. Who will take care of Sophie and Oreo? Why my fantastic house sitters, of course! They will cook, clean, sit, and love - the animals.

Here's some Monday inspiration for you...

I think it's time to live, don't you?

This is so doable.

Doable? Meh. Impressive? Definitely!

I hope your day is inspired.

What's on your agenda?

(psst...the images are from Pinterest)

i heart macro

2011-10-22T20:19:00.004-04:00

I hope you've had a chance this week to enjoy the crisp autumn weather. This is, hand's down, my favorite time of the year. Sophie and I take our little walks a couple of times daily so, naturally, my pictures will be of...more weeds.

But they're such pretty weeds! I'm addicted to weeds.

This isn't really pretty and it's truly just a weed.
But I loved the vivid green against the dark background.

*****

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*NOTE*

If Linky isn't cooperating with you, add your link to the comment section OR click the contact button and give me your link, first and last name, email, and I'll add it for you.

a(nother) lesson in what not to do

2011-10-21T19:06:00.008-04:00

Knew I wasn't the smartest kid on the block - but I always had common sense on my side. So when I switched over to making handbags instead of jewelry, I patiently waited for the day that I could switch my shop name to StudioWaterstone.

However, because common sense was on my side, and I know how to protect my web address on the internet, common sense said, "Lori, you need to open a dummy shop called StudioWaterstone so that the name will be protected." (I'm smart like that) So I listened to myself and opened that dummy shop.

The day finally came this week. I was so excited. I promptly closed my StudioWaterstone.Etsy.com shop and set out to officially change my name.

Not allowed. That name is already in use, says Etsy.

What? In use? It's in use by me!!! But wait! Now it's deleted! Can I reopen it? Nope, says Etsy. But here's what I did, Etsy (because I've got tons of common sense)...blah, blah, blah. And that's what I did Etsy. Doesn't it make sense?

Etsy didn't think it made sense. My shop name is now available to absolutely no one including me.

I fudged up big. BIG.

Now what? What?????

Seriously, what?

LoriPlyler@Etsy.com. Really??? Only 1% of the population will ever spell Plyler correctly. Heck, I even mess it up from time to time.

WaterstoneBags.Etsy.com? A definite possibility. Waterstone.Etsy.com is taken, if you can believe that.

I fudged up. Feed me some names. Anything that you think will work.

I fudged up.

P.S. Would you be interested in a little free advertising? But note. I will NOT add your to the list until you help me with this ridiculous situation. Feed me a name - and it had better not be DumbAss.Etsy.com. Then I will become like the Soup Nazi and say, "No free advertising for you!"

P.S.S. Image is from Pinterest - the most funnest place on earth - besides Etsy (cough, cough)

about that free featured ad...

2011-10-21T08:13:00.002-04:00

But first, TGIF! Man has it been a week. While sparing you the gory details, I've had a dog with stomach issues, a hobbling cat on drugs, a realtor's luncheon in which I was asked to display my wares (translate...set up, have everything ship-ready, priced, tagged, etc), and work. TGIF and TGIF.

(almost finished!)

Now, about that free featured ad space. I'm so excited about this. As stated in this post, I'm interested in promoting YOU and giving you a space. That space is to your immediate right. See the two, rather large, featured ads? Yep, that's it!

You want your ad to be fantastic, right? So do I. I want viewers to be absolutely compelled to click and see what's behind that little button! That's my only requirement, I need to approve the final space. But the good news is that if you're having trouble putting something together, I'll help you.

The details...

Comment here as to why you think you need this featured advertising spot. Comments are open through tomorrow night (Saturday, 10/22) and on Sunday morning, we'll draw for a space to go with Gardanne and Grimm & Grete. It will be added ASAP and it will run through next Saturday night. Next Friday we'll do the same thing except that time it'll be all three free ad spaces! No catch, no charge, no nothin' except a great advertising space for your shop or blog. Capeesh?

If you don't capeesh, just give me a shout. Otherwise, tell me why you need that space.

Good luck!!!

what's on the table

2011-10-19T16:45:00.007-04:00

Tootsies, I've got lots of things on the table today and I'm absolutely CERTAIN that you'll be interested because it has to do with YOU. Well, the first part is about me, er, my handbags. The second, about you. So, while the post is a little long, stick around.

I'm kinda excited about this and want to show you what's on my studio table this week.

I found this 100% wool, southwestern-style skirt during the summer. It was a huge wrap skirt (yay! love huge) trimmed all the way around with dark brown leather. Ralph Lauren. Quite the score in my book. Anyway, I knew it would be ripe for fall. I'm pairing it with this amazing belt (translate= strap) that I found. The little metal thingies at the ends actually move around!

This is a gray wool tweed I found and fell in love with. It will pair perfectly with this belt - Chico's - red wrapped leather with the coolest metal hooks on both ends.

Aren't the hooks cool? And they're big.

Finally, this distressed leather is to die for and I've cut it into a kind of tallish tote shape. The two front pockets are ideal for storing your goodies, and they're deep - my favorite kind of pockets. I'm thinking that I'll pair it with this strap with lots of little silver and brass rivets. Distressed bling?

*****
Enough about me. Now it's time for the YOU section.

*****

The other thing on my table will certainly deserve it's own post(s). But I want to give you some information today because this will happen soon, the season is upon us, and exposure is a good thing!

I have struggled so heavily with the thought of advertising, bouncing back and forth daily. Today, I finally arrived at a solution that just FEELS right. We're talking a new, fun twist on advertising called "featured" ads.

As my readership grows, I want to promote what I feel are fantastic artisans.
Charging doesn't feel right at the moment. I'm a strong believer in going with my gut and this gave me a stomach ache. Definitely telling me something. So...
I'm going to feature 3-4 artists weekly in my sidebar. At the top. With huge 330 wide x 120 high ads. The kicker? They're FREE! (See the Gardanne ad? They will be like that)
I'm still working out the details, whether it will be around a theme, or random, etc. I'll let you know as soon as I work out the details which should be within the next day or so.
Be sure to stay tuned. Who doesn't want a LARGE, FEATURED AD in October, November, December and beyond?

That's what's on my table at the moment. Actually there's a lot more but the other stuff would totally bore you.

My question for you is...

What are your thoughts? Suggestions? Themes? Colors? Regions?
Please offer up your opinions as I value them so very much.

5 things you can learn from your pet

2011-10-19T06:42:00.006-04:00

For Wednesday's Earth Shattering, Life or Death Kind of Question, I thought we'd shake things up a bit. Today, we're talking cats and dogs.

Did you know that, in many ways, our pets are smarter than we are? No, really! Okay, they may have a few practices which are questionable at best. But read on - I think you'll agree. I hope you enjoy this.

Celebrate EVERYTHING! Don't wait for the major events in life to have fun. Celebrate even the smallest things that happen in life - a good night's sleep, that good grade, a sale. You get the picture.
Just being present is enough. Five years ago, when Jessie was so sick, for such a long time, that she couldn't even get up from the sofa to walk down the driveway, Sophie snuggled with her. No talks or lectures - after all, she couldn't. She was just there.
Napping is good.
Don't try so hard. Know thyself. Now we're talking cats. See, a cat doesn't clamor for attention or try to please. Enough said.
You can get along with anybody. Back to the dogs and cats/puppies thing. When you raise different species together, lovingly, they get along. I think that on this topic, humans could learn a thing or two from our pets, hmm???

Now it's your turn.
What can you learn/have you learned from your pet about life?

(psst...the idea for this post came from a great article in Real Simple)

anniversary sale!

2011-10-18T16:53:00.003-04:00

Happy anniversary, happy anniversary, happy anniversary, HAP-py ANiVerSary...to my shop which was opened four years ago today. To celebrate, I'm having a quickie anniversary sale...

20% off your entire purchase!
Use Coupon Code: 4BigOnes

Sales ends tonight (10-18-11) at 11:59 p.m.

monday inspiration

2011-10-17T07:39:00.003-04:00

Is Monday staring you down with a "to do" list that makes you want to crawl back under the covers? I can kinda relate today as it's going to be a full Monday. Here's a little kick start to get your attitude and inspiration moving in the right direction.

psst...it's all from pinterest.

i heart macro

2011-10-15T17:55:00.009-04:00

from our nature walk today

both flowers were actually tiny weeds

wildflowers?
weeds?
flowers

*****

*NOTE*
Sometimes I get reports that folks are having trouble linking up with Linky Tools. If you're having trouble you can leave your image link in the comment section. Also, please feel free to contact me. Thanks so much!

*****

*Instructions for grabbing a button*

it's a wrap: studio saturday

2011-10-14T20:19:00.007-04:00

It's been a couple of weeks since my last wrap. Last week I worked on designing recycled iPad cases. It was quite a process and took several attempts. I settled on four different designs. Each one is lined with soft felt.

recycled wool, leather, and fabric

recycled leather and tweed

recycled suede and tweed. (sold)

recycled suede and fabric

I was able to make one recycled leather bag. (sold)

And this crossbody handbag needed a little tweaking. I wasn't happy with how the stems showed up machine stitched, so I embroidered them and that did the trick.

Now I'm working on a few full-sized recycled wool bags that should be complete by next week.

So, that's it for me!
What did you work on this week?

I hope everyone has a relaxing, inspired weekend.
See you on Sunday for I Heart Macro.

tgif and your basic recipe

2011-10-13T17:47:00.006-04:00

TGIF! I'm loving this particular Friday because we've had rain this week, the leaves are changing, it's been cooler, and best of all it's time for comfort food.

Two weeks ago I made beef stew. I had one bowl and that was it. It disappeared. The poor dog didn't even get a taste. This is not good because beef stew is SO much better the next day! So, I made it again - and I hid it.

I've tried stew many different ways but this basic recipe is simple, straightforward, and it's always a hit. Did I mention that this recipe is gluten-free? Did I say crockpot? Never made beef stew? Maybe it's time.

Your Basic(ly Delicious) Beef Stew

about 1.5 lbs of cubed beef stew meat
gluten-free low-sodium beef broth
s&p
canola oil
bob's red mill gluten-free all purpose flour
1 lb. carrots (we're carrot freaks here), cut into 3/4" pieces
large onion, chopped
pkg. of mushrooms, quartered into larger chunks
minced garlic (we're also garlic freaks, so I use about 2 tbs)
about 1/2 cup of red wine
rice or potatoes
gallon sized baggie

Trim the fat off the beef stew and cut it into smaller cubes - about 1". Add about 4-5 tbs. of the flour to the baggie along with some s&p. Toss in the beef, zip closed and shake, shake, shake. Pour about 4 tbs of the oil to a non-stick skillet and heat to medium high. Add the beef until it's just brown, remove with a slotted spoon and add to your crockpot.

To the original skillet, add the chopped onions, mushrooms and a little s&p. Saute for just a few minutes, then add the minced garlic. Saute for a minute or two more. Just make sure you don't over brown the garlic. Add the onions, mushrooms, and garlic to the beef.

Add a little more oil to the skillet and sprinkle in the leftover flour (from the baggie)
plus about 2 more tbs. Whisk until it becomes lightly browned. Warning: I'm going to say "whisk" a lot. Slowly (while whisking) add a little of the beef broth. You want to whisk to be sure it isn't lumpy.

Continue whisking as the mixture becomes thicker. Add the other can of beef broth and about 1/2 of a can of water. Whisk until smooth and pour into the crockpot over your beef and vegetable mixture. Add the wine and stir. Add your chopped carrots to the stew.

We alternate the next part because of family preferences:

If you want beef stew alone, add chopped, peeled potatoes.
If you want to serve it with rice, don't add the potatoes.
If you're feeling REALLY starchy, add the potatoes and serve your stew with rice.

If your making this in the morning, you can set the crockpot on low and cook all day. I'm not that organized. I make it at lunch, cook on high for 3-4 hours until the carrots are cooked, then switch to low.

Enjoy this with a delicious red wine and crusty bread.

Do you have a favorite stew recipe?

fashion for the rest of us and a treat!

2011-10-12T18:25:00.008-04:00

I finished a handbag today - YAY! Can't wait to show you at the end of the week. If you follow me on Facebook, you'll see it tonight. But that's not my point. My point is fashion and, today, a treat that I found worthy of of extreme drooling. I know, they hardly go together...food and fashion. Unless they fall into the category of things you love. Moving on...

the fashion

I know this is a little summery...but with the jacket? I LOVE it.
Switch the sandals up with a nice pair of boots and you're good to go.

This jacket. Love.

***

the treat

Bugles, with peanut butter scooped inside then dipped in chocolate.
OMG

Tell me. Besides the treat, which works best for you?

Psst...all of these items are found on Pinterest.

a winner, a direction, and a question

2011-10-12T07:41:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Debbie Merhege of Bludawg Designs! She's the winner of a beautiful collection torch-fired enamel beads. Debbie, you'll need to contact Barbara Lewis.

And just in case you missed it, I was stop number five of Barbara's Virtual Book Tour - a fun way of spreading the word on her new book, Torch-Fired Enamel Jewelry. It was a total blast and I thank all of the visitors and new friends! Here's the list to follow along. Today's stop is Diane Cook over at Rosa-Josies. FYI, her interpretation is stunning! Just sayin'.

October 6, Mary Jane Dodd, www.mairedodd.blogspot.com

October 7, Gaea Cannaday, www.gaeabeads.blogspot.com

October 8, Linda Larsen, www.objectsandelements.typepad.com

October 10, Andrew Thornton, www.andrew-thornton.blogspot.com

October 11, Lori Plyler, www.waterstonejewelry.blogspot.com

October 12, Diane Cook, www.rosa-josies.blogspot.com

October 13, Lori Anderson, http://www.prettythingsblog.com

October 14, LeAnn Weih, www.summersstudio.blogspot.com

October 15, Jen Judd Velasquez, www.jenjuddrocks.blogspot.com

October 17, Melissa Meman, www.melissameman.blogspot.com

October 18, Lisa Crone, www.abeadaday.blogspot.com

October 19, Shannon LeVart, www.missficklemediacom.blogspot.com

October 20, Cindy Wimmer, www.sweetbeadstudio.com

October 21, Laura Twiford, www.souvenirsfromlife.blogspot.com

October 22, Erin Prais-Hintz, www.treasures-found.blogspot.com
October 24, Jennifer Cameron, www.glassaddictions.com

***

What is the one small thing that always makes you happy?
We're talking small here.

***

My answer:
When I get a new magazine in the mail. This is all it takes to make it a "red letter day".
It doesn't take much.

So, what makes you happy?

a book tour and a giveaway!

2011-10-10T13:32:00.011-04:00

Imagine how excited I was when asked to be a part of Barbara Lewis' Virtual Book Tour - 16 days of people sharing information about Barbara, her book, Torch-Fired Enamel Jewelry, and the art of torch-fired enamel jewelry.

Click here for my layman's review of Barbara's new book.
BUT, don't click until you've read this post...

I've got all sorts of things in store for you today, including a great giveaway.

First, as the only non-jewelry artisan (I think) on the tour, I'd like to show you my appreciation for this art and tell you how it's incorporated into my designs.

Since torch-fired enamel beads are so vividly colored, they make ideal accents, as shown here with the tabbed pull. The beads are also combined with leather and used as the focal point for the modern applique flowers on this recycled wool key pouch.

As a handbag designer, handcrafted beads add a special touch to my bags and I love sharing these one-of-a-kind items while promoting the artists who create them.

***

Now, about that tour...

So you don't miss out on any of the blog posts, here is the list of hosts for you to follow:

October 6, Mary Jane Dodd, www.mairedodd.blogspot.com

October 7, Gaea Cannaday, www.gaeabeads.blogspot.com

October 8, Linda Larsen, www.objectsandelements.typepad.com

October 10, Andrew Thornton, www.andrew-thornton.blogspot.com

October 11, Lori Plyler, www.waterstonejewelry.blogspot.com

October 12, Diane Cook, www.rosa-josies.blogspot.com

October 13, Lori Anderson, http://www.prettythingsblog.com

October 14, LeAnn Weih, www.summersstudio.blogspot.com

October 15, Jen Judd Velasquez, www.jenjuddrocks.blogspot.com

October 17, Melissa Meman, www.melissameman.blogspot.com

October 18, Lisa Crone, www.abeadaday.blogspot.com

October 19, Shannon LeVart, www.missficklemediacom.blogspot.com

October 20, Cindy Wimmer, www.sweetbeadstudio.com

October 21, Laura Twiford, www.souvenirsfromlife.blogspot.com

October 22, Erin Prais-Hintz, www.treasures-found.blogspot.com
October 24, Jennifer Cameron, www.glassaddictions.com

There will be prizes throughout the book tour plus a grand prize at the end. The more you spread the excitement, the more chances you have to win some of the goodies each blogger is giving away!

For Today's Giveaway...

a gamorgeous set of enameled beads

Ready to play?

Here are the rules to play along:

Leave a comment here, on Lori's blog, and become a follower = 1 chance.

Tweet, Facebook or blog about the giveaway and leave a comment at this post (the original Virtual Book Tour post) = 1 additional chance.

While you're visiting Barbara's blog, if you become a follower or say that you're already a follower in your comment = 1 additional chance.

You can earn up to three chances per daily giveaway. A winner will be selected by 10 p.m. eastern time and be announced the following day. You can check back at Barbara's blog for the name of the winner or at any other of the participating blogs.

But wait...there's more!!

To thank you for following along, we will have a BONUS PRIZE at the end of the book tour! All of the entries will be included in the drawing for a kit containing all the elements of "Floral Cascade," one of the projects in the book. You'll receive everything you need to make the necklace, including the chain, jump rings, clasp, enamel beads, and head pins!

But that's not all! Really? Seriously? Seriously.

For a chance to win the Grand Prize - a Torch-Firing Kit (or $110 shopping experience at www.paintingwithfireartwear.com) - please leave a review at Amazon.com by November 24. Remember, leave an honest review... the book must stand on its own.

Thanks for playing along! This is going to be a lot of fun!

P.S. Unfortunately, we have to restrict the giveaways to U.S. residents. Winners should contact me with their name and address through my author website: www.torchfiredenameljewelry.com so that you can receive your prizes!"

P.P.S Want to see the Featuring Studio Spaces peek into Barbara's studio? Just click here.

put a ring around it

2011-10-10T07:32:00.003-04:00

Christmas shopping at Etsy is almost worse than the mall in that I become terribly distracted by pretty shiny things. Seems I'm doomed. But I really must show you a few of the gorgeous rings I came across this morning...and I wasn't even looking for rings. See?

from Etese

from RareDesign

from Masaoms

from Angidega

from Leslee Frost

***

Be sure to check in tomorrow! I'll be number five on Barbara Lewis' Virtual Book Tour.
Hint, hint, nudge, nudge...I've got something REALLY pretty to give away.
See you then.

Now, go buy a ring for yourself, hmm?

i heart macro

2011-10-08T18:06:00.005-04:00

[ texture ]

*Instructions for grabbing a button*

tgif, also known as, tgi freakin' f

2011-10-06T19:25:00.007-04:00

Glad it's Friday? I love Mondays and I love Fridays. In between is so-so.

Mr. W flies in tonight! Wah-hoo! I miss that man. But ya know? I have to admit that after 24 years and two kids, I'm kinda enjoying my time alone. Cook what I want. Watch what I want. Bathe IF I want. Just kidding on the last one...er...okay...I'm not.

So, it's been absolutely gorgeous this week and the Soph monster and I have walked together every day. Here's what we saw.

Colorful leaves make my heart go pitter patter. I heart colorful leaves.

Lots of feathers along the path. Me thinks a bird joined the circle of life.

See that beach? It shouldn't be there. At all. That's how desperate we are for rain.

A visitor at my back door. Sophie walked right by it. It had better thank it's lucky stars it wasn't a lizard! Otherwise, Soph would have taken notice and it would have joined the circle of life, too.
Moving along...

Hot dog. Happy hot dog.

Please do me a huge favor and have a terrific weekend.

fashion for the rest of us

2011-10-05T17:47:00.005-04:00

But first...ever have one of those funky, wacky weeks? I think I'm there. I've got a stack of really pretty new clutches that are begging me, "Please Miss Lori, please add us to the shop. That's what we're here for!" And I just can't seem to get my groove on! What's with? My fingers are crossed that tonight is the night...er...hopefully.

I have been on a clutch binge. Thinking that big bags are calling my name next. Big bags and clutches are so happy when paired with trendy fashion - trendy fashion for the rest of us. Here's what I've found this week.

Sweater Dress from Muza (seriously, does this picture rock or what?)

Necklace from Nina Bagley

Coat from J. Crew

Outfit found on Pinterest

Necklace from Lorelei Eurto

Outfit found on Pinterest

Sweater Dress from Sundance Catalog

Necklace from Livewire Jewelry

What's your favorite?

earth shattering, life or death kind of questions

2011-10-04T18:03:00.005-04:00

Serious can be so dull. I think it's good to intersperse the deep, thoughtful questions with a few light, cheerful, thoughtless ones. Don't you think? So, this week we're swinging more toward thoughtless.

The unhealthiest meal I've eaten is...

My Answer:

Okay, once Jessie (my model) and I were having a girl's weekend. It was before she got sick so she must have been about 11. Anyway, we rented fun chick flicks and each ate a massive plate of homemade french fries then topped it off with hot fudge brownies a la mode for dessert. Jessie got a stomach ache. I think I finished her fries. :-)

Now it's your turn. Spill.

how do I follow thee?

2011-10-03T18:16:00.011-04:00

"I believe the nicest and sweetest days are not those on which anything very splendid or wonderful or exciting happens, but just those that bring simple little pleasures, following one another softly, like pearls off a string." ~Anne of Avonlea, by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Today, someone asked me to explain the different ways to follow blogs. To be honest, it's more than a little confusing when faced with a plethora of choices. I know I've wondered exactly what words such as Bloglovin', RSS, Atom, and Feedburner mean. Maybe you have, too.

RSS Button: The RSS button gives you choices on how to receive blog updates. You can choose to have the updates added to your Google Reader, Yahoo, or AOL. You also have an option for receiving updates via email.

Blogger Subscribe Button: You'll find these buttons on blogs to subscribe via email. New blog posts are delivered to your email box. This subscription uses Feedburner.

Google Friend Connect: Follow a blog via Google Friend Connect through your Google, Yahoo, or AOL account. You allow the blog author and other readers to see that you are a follower. You also have the option of interacting with other GFC followers! Blog updates appear in your Google, Yahoo, or AOL dashboard.

Bloglovin': I'm really loving Bloglovin'. It's free to sign up. Their site categorizes bloggers and allows you to follow and track your blogs through either a daily or weekly email update. You can also catch up on blogs by signing into Bloglovin'.

Blogroll: (Mine is off to your right, labeled "daily reads") This is a little different but it seems to work for me. Are you a blogger? You can add the blogroll widget to your sidebar and have it set to rotate the most recent updates to the top of the list.

Each option is extremely easy and straightforward.

And I'm sure that I'm leaving one out. Main thing - there are tons of ways to connect.

What's your preferred way of following blogs and websites?

inspire me monday

2011-10-02T17:16:00.009-04:00

As one of the few people who loves Monday, I still need a little inspiration (along with a strong cup of coffee) to get going each week. In that spirit, here's my teensy dose of Inspire Me Monday. Hope it's contagiously catchy.

Inspirational Meal Planning - yes, cooking can be deliciously inspiring. really.
no, really.

A Beautiful Mess inspiration tips

***

Things I Do to Get Inspired
1) Take a walk and look at the world through my camera lens.

2) Clean my studio - I'm always surprised at what I find.

3) Look through my past work. Freaky, right? You can really be inspired by your own work.

4) Take a shower. Don't know why but I've always done my best thinking in the shower.

5) Sketch patterns and shapes I see indoors and out. Then work them into my designs.

Where do you go for inspiration?

i heart macro

2011-10-01T20:26:00.005-04:00

It's macro Sunday! Do you have your macro? I actually finished, yes finished, six little clutches this weekend and so they were my macro subjects for the week.

*NOTE* Linky needs a swift kick in the tush - being temperamental again for some and fine for others. If you can't link up, feel free to leave a link to your beautiful macro shot in the comment section. Thanks!

*Instructions for grabbing a button*

awol

2011-10-01T07:36:00.002-04:00

Hi all! I'm going AWOL today. Mr. W had a layover in Atlanta yesterday on his way to Columbus and, well...I kidnapped him. He's not allowed to return until Sunday. Totally spontaneous!

Hoping you have a wonderful Saturday and I'll see you right back here tomorrow for I Heart Macro.

Tootles!

fashion for the rest of us

2011-09-29T20:34:00.005-04:00

TGIF and TGIF. Ready for a little fashion...for the rest of us?

My favorites? The Toms

The sweater

The cardigan and bracelets

Everything

Absolutely EVERYthing

Your favorites?

Psst...all images are from Pinterest

studio waterstone

i heart macro

in the absence of color

doodle dee doo

toot toot

it's time for a serious handbag clearance sale

i heart macro

loveliness and comfort

the present moment

i heart macro

doodle-dee-doo

obsessing

patience

i heart macro

tgif and just in case

getting down to business in 2012

how's tricks? a blogging tutorial

hiya and a happy 2012

i heart macro

vaca

peace and new toys

merry merry

cherry, almond, and chocolate clusters

blogrolling

thoughts

i heart macro

uppers and downers

reads: unstitched

earth shattering, life or death kind of questions

diy image tips and tricks

santa wants to give you something

i heart macro

a studio peek and a reminder

thrifting tips

earth shattering, life or death kind of questions

chicken tortilla soup with chipoltle & fire roasted tomatoes

monday inspiration

i heart macro

a holiday shop hop and a wrap

things and other things

fashion for the rest of us

cyber monday, sharing the love, and sales galore

i heart macro

on being thankful

fashion for the rest of us

i heart macro

tgi...long weekend/week/weekend

randomness, burn out, and a question for you

fall comfort, a.k.a. fashion for the rest of us

monday inspiration...boards

i heart macro

pinterest pass or fail - apple & winter squash soup

let's talk talent...

from tiny pouches to weekenders

no-brainer meals for one - help!

monday inspiration

i heart macro

let's talk talent...

bragging rights!

embroidery

my nemesis, a short story

monday inspiration

i heart macro

fashion and opportunities and fashionable opportunities

three fantastic artists and an opportunity

new things: a sneak peek

reaching the epitome of suckitude

how to communicate: a tutorial

monday inspiration

i heart macro

a(nother) lesson in what not to do

about that free featured ad...

what's on the table

5 things you can learn from your pet

anniversary sale!

popular diy tutorials

monday inspiration

i heart macro

it's a wrap: studio saturday

tgif and your basic recipe