Giving In to Strawberries

I know that you are only supposed to buy fruit in season but after a long winter I am always seduced by the Florida strawberries in the market and although they cannot be compared to local June berries, some of them are not half bad.  When I ran across this recipe for Strawberry Shortcake Cake from The Pioneer Woman on Pinterest I couldn't resist giving it a try.   I am bringing it to a friend's house for dinner this evening and hopefully it will be yummy.

I used my new King Arthur baking pan with the ridges that are supposed to distribute heat evenly and it worked beautifully and the cake popped right out.

Matchbox Valentines

I am happiest when I'm surrounded by snippets of paper and have paste under my fingernails.  It's that time of year again and I am creating little matchbox Valentines for the shop.  These are so much fun to make and receive and the possibilities are endless.  They are especially nice when you use nice soft vintage papers and wallpapers as I have done here.   Just big enough to sign a little love letter and add a few candy hearts!  I have not put any in the Etsy shop but if you are interested feel free to email me.  They are $9 plus shipping.

Ladder of Love

Had fun decorating the Walpole Artisans Gallery today.  I was inspired by Donna's Ladder "trees" at Funky Junk Interiors and when I saw this old ladder at the thrift shop for just $12.00, I knew just what to do with it.   Some lights, a little pink tulle and lots of heart inspired and pink art and you've got a "Ladder of Love".

More Headwear

I am on a roll creating new headbands that are now available in my Etsy shop.

Headwear for the New Year

Happy New Year everyone!  Cold weather here in New England has me making some headwear.  This headband is made from wool with a soft polar fleece backing so there is no irritation on the ears.  The rosettes were made from old t-shirt hems!

This soft fleecy cap was made for a dear friend who is going through chemotherapy.  I am hoping it is helping to keep her head toasty while looking stylish to boot!

Last Minute Holiday Projects

I haven't made this in years and it takes me all day (and then some) but it is always worth it in the end.   I hosted the cookie swap with my lady friends this year and  I knew they would appreciate the effort!

This little ornament was made so easily with a small vintage Christmas tree cake tin and an old vintage holiday corsage.  Punch a small hole in the top with a metal punch tool and thread some beads on a wire.  Use a pretty ribbon to hang.  I used E-6000 glue to secure the corsage to the inside of the tin.  I was going to glitter the edges but decided to keep it simple.  These little tins are usually fairly easy to find at yard sales and thrift shops.   Look for them!

Peace on Earth