Celestina Marie Designs

French Chic Dining and Happy Birthday My Love!

2012-01-25T04:06:00.011-05:00

Finishing French Chic Dining with a little elegance, a little farmhouse and a lot of heart to completion.

I love nothing more then the accomplished feeling that comes from a hard days work and the outcome turning into my vision. Years ago when I studied interior design, I had my own way of starting a project and planning it to the finish. You see, I see it finished, before I start. This just works for me. Oh sometimes plans have to be tweaked here and there, but I pull my steps from my vision and sometimes a design board.

The hutch turned out better then I thought it would and after adding some carved wood details, it seemed to change into an entire new french inspired treasure. Thirty years old and now given a new life.

Here are the before and after pics with the final wood details.

On the glass doors, I took out the window pane style panels which gave it the country look and replaced the door knobs with ivory ceramic pretties.

For each side of the hutch, I found these very old and distressed arched windows with inside iron. They were perfect to continue the style I was going for. Adding to the finish of chippy paint and layers of love, I painted over with antiquing to enhance the worn areas. For the background, I took an old vintage lace curtain, cut it to fit the arches, and then stapled it to the backside for a lacy look and add some interest. The reason I did not paint the arches black was for balance. When you use black in a room, and the heavy pieces are to one side, I did not want the room to be off scale and feel heavy to that side of the room. The arches left light in color, help with this. The opposite side of the room displays a side buffet to balance the room.
The windows of three are dressed with gorgeous lace in an antiqued color. They look tea stained and pick up the color in the arched windows old worn and chippy wood.

On this wall, is a very old treasure I found when I had my shoppe in an antique mall many years ago. I stenciled the doors with a french design and the buffet is draped with a french script table runner. Above the buffet is a wall shelf painted black with ivory pegs to coordinate to the hutch. I placed the pegs two each, close together to design a long stem glass holder. It turns an ordinary peg rack into a stem glasses display piece.

Here are a few pics of the full view. Hard to photograph with the bright window light, but you can see the idea. I love glass in a room to accent and on the table I used a dozen gorgeous red rose buds for a pop of color in a beautiful glass vase given to me from one of my dearest friends. Just some faux flowers until my outside flowers bloom and I can bring in a pretty bouquet.

I am still searching for a rug for under the table. Haven't found it yet, but I will!

The iron dress form stands in one corner and the scarf around the neck was my mothers. It is a gorgeous ivory with a black and white rose design. It has her initial to one side. I love it here to enjoy and view everyday.

To the right is the entryway and my Faith Curio Cabinet. I have shared this before, and if you remember, the wood was a stained oak. Well this piece got a redo too adding a pretty and soft finish of cottage ivory that looks nice with my cross collection. Painting around all the glass was a huge challenge.

Remember the walls here were a sage green and shades of lighter sage in the entry. I have never been so happy to see a color go away. LOL. I added an accent custom color called chocolate curl to the lower wall under the chair rail for contrast. The new wall color is Acapulco sand.

The above decorators ledge is also chocolate curl and I added a stencil in Fleur~Di~Li's all across to a total of 20.

Thank you for staying to this point and letting me share my update. Enough reading now, lets just look at the pics.

Thank you for taking the time to stop by and visit my dining room redo. Tonight I will have a special birthday dinner for my best guy with family and enjoy the dining room for the first time since completion.

Happy Birthday My Love and thank you for all the help with this room. Together we have redesigned many a space and always enjoyed the process. With your talents you make all our dreams come true. It is your special day and I wish for you continued good health and may God bless your path always. With love forever. Yours truly!

Blessings to you my blog friends and see you soon.
XO Celestina Marie

Friendship from Italy~

2012-01-23T13:57:00.009-05:00

Last week was so busy and this week is starting out to be as well, but the sweet surprises along the way keep one looking forward.

As I walked to the mail box, little did I know I would be met there with a surprise gift from Italy sent from my dear friend from Sicilia, Lilybets. She has a beautiful blog and loves roses, creating pretty treasures and all the things that make us kindred spirits. Lilybets is so giving, kind and inspiring.

Even the envelope was special~

Lilybets sent a gorgeous linen towel with the map of Sicila in it's bright and bold colors on a crisp white background. It is beautiful!

Included with the linen was a special postcard pic of the Old Capital of Malta, which is one of the most must-see sights on the island.

And to relax, Lilybets sent some luscious shower gel which is fabulous.

Special gifts from Italy that I will remember and hold dear always. Friendship is such a gift and I have been very blessed by dear friends that make my life complete.
Thank you so much Lilybets for this special gift. I just love it and the meaning behind it will always be dear to my heart.

Visit HERE and say hello to Lilybets. Tell her I sent you.

Have a wonderful winter day my friends.
May you always be blessed with special friendships.
XO Celestina Marie

Dining Room Redesign~Team Work Together

2012-01-19T20:26:00.012-05:00

Here we go again. Another home project in the new year and enjoying the process. As I mentioned in a post a few ago, my newest redo in our dining room has begun, and is now, finished. Oh we are so thrilled with the look and style of the room.

My Best Guy worked with me for 3 days over the long weekend to complete all the painting from ceiling to floor. He is so talented in all he can do in our improvements all through our cottage.
I am so thankful for all his help and cooperation when it comes to my interior design projects and God knows they are many! LOL

Working on the sconces and preparing for the paint.

Finally I think we have the wall colors with a nice flow one room to another. And, I am so happy to see sage green go!! I remember how we loved it some 8/9 years ago, but those days are gone and change is good and a new look refreshing.
My biggest challenge was to create all the living areas or common rooms, neutral in color and the bedrooms with a chosen color.

This new color choice is "Acapulco Sand" and runs through the entry way, dining room and to the kitchen. Opens up the whole area and ties the look together. Soft, light and fresh! This paint color is an ACE hardware custom color that I made up about 15 years ago for our kitchen. We still loved it and is perfect in the dining room. It goes with everything.

My Best Guy's painting tradition, writing on the wall before painting, "He plus Me" with a heart! We have fun and laugh alot while we work.

Miss B looking on and not happy with me on the ladder 8 foot high working on a decorators ceiling ledge with a pretty French stencil design.

Painting furniture pieces like our 30 year old hutch and curio cabinet, kept me really busy while my guy painted the walls, ceiling and accents.
Here is a little first peek of the hutch before and after. It sure was ready for a new look and update. This whole project cost under 60 dollars, using items I already had and shopping the house!

Now the hutch was not complete when this pic was taken. I added carved wood details and it then really took on a new and updated style. The new hardware is gorgeous ceramic knobs in ivory. On the glass doors were grid panels that I removed and it went from a country style to a new Frenchy Chic look.

Lace, vintage treasures, burlap, ivory/white dishes, roses and more brought this room together. I'll be back with the finished room next time. Thank you for stopping by.

Have a wonderful winter day.

See you soon.
Blessings, Celestina Marie

Hold That Note!!

2012-01-13T11:19:00.009-05:00

My how time marches on so quickly. Has it been a week since I stopped in here? Well, it has been time well spent creating and moving in all directions. I have much on my to do list and working towards marking it off each day.

While these winter days are all over the map with the weather, my studio is comfy and cozy and perfect for creating.

So on that note, I will share a few items that are fun to create and a sweet little add on for a gift that is a little helper too. All coming soon to my little boutique.
Little note holders made from medium size paper clip holders such as the clip style and clothes pin types. Using graphic papers, vintage trims, ribbons, lace and glitter with silk flowers, gems and more, these little helpers stand to hold a note or display a card. Easy to make using decoupage glue to adhere to the metal.

Recently I found some vintage molds of different styles and was so excited thinking they would be perfect for next Christmas for ornaments, but why wait? Why not create a little hanging pretty to display year round and especially with Valentines Day around the corner. Perfect for a kitchen hook, hutch door and more.
The first are these darling and deep vintage heart molds. So sweet topped with a sweet chickadee, roses with vintage laces, added hanging crystals and pearls and hand painted with cottage roses. And if they turn around, the inside holds a few more silk roses. So fun to create and will be in my shoppe soon.

Another fun mold I found was this one with a cherry design. When my grandmother was with us, she loved cherries and cardinals. She often would say, "have a cherry up day" or "may the cardinals bring you cherries!" It was an endearing thought from her and to this day, when I see cardinals and cherries, I think of her and those little expressions. Copper in it's original life, I hand painted and embellished this wall hanging with vintage tea stained lace, cardinal and ribbon lace. Shaped like a heart, this one would also make a dear Valentine gift. Of course glittered in red, for the bling we all love!

Lastly, do you remember the surprise gift sent to me with a story from my dear friend Cindy from Whimsical Musings? If not, visit her blog to read about this darling altered art little girl dress. I created a hanger to display it near the big girl dress form in my studio. And to complete, she holds a sweet paper roses bouquet sent to me a few years ago from another dear friend, Amy from My Shabby Bungalow.
The little wood hanger set will also be in my shoppe soon.

It's back to my creative world, but before I go, let me wish you a "Cherry Up Day with the Cardinals Bringing You Cherries"

See you soon~ Blessings always!
Celestina Marie

In The Off Hours~~~

2012-01-06T09:52:00.004-05:00

This time of year, after a day of decorating, painting, creating and more, I love to settle in for the evening with something in my lap to create. Hand stitching, crewel work, crochet or snuggling with Miss B. This new year finds me beginning a new crocheted lap throw in a very light pink and my signature broomstick lace pattern. This one is a smaller size and perfect for a light, but yet warm cover.

The fun part of this project is the fantastic tote I found some time ago to carry and hold my crochet throws while working on them. I love this one because the yarn can stand up saving room and the outside has plenty of slots for all your tools. It also works as a garden tote for tools and more. And, zips open to turn inside out so the slots for tools are in the inside if you choose. Wish I could remember where I found this little gem. More then likely one of the art shops I frequent.

Anyway, here are a few pics of this tote and my current throw.

This soft pink pretty will be in my etsy shoppe soon.
Are you working on a lap project too? Keeping busy in the off hours?
Thank you for stopping by and your welcome visit.

Have a wonderful winter day.

Creative Dreams,
Celestina Marie

Romantic Homes Feature

2012-01-05T16:21:00.012-05:00

Congratulations to my grandmother, Celestina Marie on her gorgeous BLUE WILLOW DISHES that I love and keep in my care, which are featured in the February 2012 issue of Romantic Homes Magazine. I am so happy that her lifelong collection is pictured on the pages of one of my favorite magazines.

If you are a follower of my blog you know the many stories I have shared about these keepsakes plates and accessories that I hold dear to my heart handed down to me through my grandma and mother who have since passed on. From childhood memories of holidays, birthdays and family gatherings, Blue Willow has been apart of my life forever. Imagine how happy I was to have the opportunity to share a few pics of my display in the Feb. issue and a few more here of the vintage hutch they live within.
Nana would be happy that I have taken good care of her keepsakes and these very old and loved plates made a little place in history.

Where the photos were taken in my vintage hutch, full view and one of the very old cups and saucer with an inside cup design.

The article points out history information and ways to display these treasures.

I hope you have the opportunity to pick up this Romantic Homes issue and enjoy the beauty of the vintage treasures this issue has to offer. The editor,
Jacqueline de Montravel, writes a beautiful opening letter titled Past Performance~

Till next Time~
Creative Dreams, Celestina Marie

p.s. please note to all readers, it seems that malicious adware has attached itself to blogland and many blogger posts. I have seen it everywhere. Do not click on the pink words throughout posts you see when you scan over and see an ad. These are spam and I did see it as an issue in blogger problems and being reported. Hopefully this is being fixed. Just wanted to pass on the info. Stay safe.

Monday Market in the New Year

2012-01-02T09:08:00.010-05:00

Happy New Year Friends,
I hope your weekend was great, safe and filled with new inspirations for 2012. Today is our first Monday Market from Etsy Cottage Style for the new year. Wonderful boutiques bringing you lots of great shopping, after Christmas sales and wonderful finds. Open all week with the list of participants ready to showcase special treasures you might be looking for. Perhaps you are redecorating like I am. Are you looking for the perfect accents? You just might find it here today and all week long. Check back often as new participants add to the shop list as the week goes along.

Yes, I am redesigning once again. It seems I get the bug to redo every new year. My life of interior decorating just can't help itself. LOL~~ So the dining room is in for a remake. It's been 7 years since I updated this space and so ready to give it a fresh new do. This room has gone from country to shabby to Tuscan and now will be more of a farmhouse Parisian chic style in blacks and ivory but still flow nicely into the kitchen decor which is updated a bit too. The lighter looks with burlap,lace, gauze and vintage treasures has really inspired me for winter after visiting 2 fabulous decorating markets over the vacation and the past year. I have already started gathering my inspiration pieces and planning.

Christmas is all put safely away once again. I can't believe how fast the holiday season flew by. Thank you to all who stopped by with your new year wishes. I will be along to visit now that I am back in the studio and ready to swing paint brushes. Oh how I miss my little creative space when I am away from it for too long. Miss B does too. She is so ready to get back into our creative routine and goes to the studio door as if to say, "come on momma, lets go to work" However, we know the work is tons of fun!!

Blessing to you all for the best start to a new beginning. See you soon with some pics of the process!! Lots of furniture painting to do. Till then, here are a few pics of the beginning and a few of my display designs.

And,before we go, Miss B wanted to show you her new purse she got for Christmas.

Welcome 2012

2011-12-27T10:41:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year Blog Friends!
Hope your Christmas was special and you made many memories to hold dear. Now as we welcome the new year, I want to wish you all the best life has to offer. May your days be all that you hope for and blessed with good health, happiness and much love.

Thank you for your wonderful friendship, visits and encouraging comments. I'll be taking a little break for a few days to regroup and ready my studio for a new year of fun and creating.

From my heart to yours, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2011-12-24T01:00:00.002-05:00

Best wishes to all in blogland and beyond for a very Merry Christmas and a day filled with the love of family and friends and blessings from above.
Thank you for a year of fun and friendships, encouragement and the blessings of your visits. I am looking forward to the new year filled with hope and direction with the joy found in all the inspirations of blogland.

Blessings to all and Merry Christmas!

A Golden Christmas Gift

2011-12-23T03:00:00.014-05:00

Dec.23rd 2004 was a very special day when my dear Miss Beazy Lee, our precious Golden Retriever, came to live with us. She was a surprise Christmas gift at 6 months old and given from the heart of my beloved hubby.

As the story goes, we, as a family have raised 4 Golden Retriever's. There was Bru, Buddie, Beau and now Beazy. She is the only girl we have lived with and she truly is my girly girl. The day she came into my life, she stole my heart away.

Born June 9th 2004, she came into my life at a time when our beloved Beau passed away suddenly at 11 years old. The vet believed he was just old and tired. My hubby and I were heart broken and I said, that's it, no more dogs. I can not go through this again.
However, Best Guy knew better and when he was offered a "pick of the litter Golden" from a fellow associate, he could not pass on the chance to give me a sweet puppy. While she was not meant to replace our Beau, she did give us a reason to give a home to another beautiful fur friend.

Thus the surprise on the 23rd of December. While I cooked and prepared for Christmas and the days to follow, dear hubs went off to pick her up from the vet who had given her 6 months shots, groomed and primped her all pretty, to come and meet her new momma. Remember, I did not know about this as I thought best guy was going to do something at work for a few hours. Back home he came and with him my precious 6 month old puppy. I fell in love instantly and life has not been the same since.

From the start she has loved bird and squirrel watching like in the pic below. She was only 1 years old here and her fur had not grown all out yet or feathered.

Sweet B has always watched TV too and has her favorites, like the Animal Planet and Pet Smart Commercials.

Texas is very hot in the summer months and Miss Beazy so enjoys a swim to cool off or just sit on the steps.

Just look at those pearly whites~~~ she loves to chew on a good dog bone.

A lover of walks and chasing critters. She loves being outside in the park or backyard.

Miss Beazy is now 7 years old and happy and healthy and given us more joy then we could ever imagine. I will always be thankful for the spot she has filled in our hearts and every Christmas I am reminded what a beautiful gift my Best Guy planned for me with a giving heart and much love. Thank you sweetheart.

Merry Christmas from Me and Miss Beazy Lee!

This Day Dec.22, 1945

2011-12-22T04:00:00.005-05:00

my Precious parents were married. Yes, 66 years ago this very day. It would be 10 years later I would come into this world and be blessed with the best mother and dad anyone could ask for.

For this special couple, their wedding was not glitz or glamour. No gorgeous dress and no big wedding reception. My dad had just come home from the war a couple weeks earlier and asked his beloved to marry him. They had no money and no way to prepare a gathering to celebrate, but my grandmother did make a wonderful day with dinner and special memories to last a lifetime. No one could even afford a camera and dads camera he used in the war, never made it home, so I have no pictures of that special day only the stories my precious mother and dad told me many times growing up.
In my mind I can see the day, cold and snowing, but warm with true love and hope for the future.
They did not want to wait to marry and do a lot of planning for they were already apart 3 years while dad served his time all over Europe in WWII. So marry they did and a union was blessed with God's love and faithfulness.

In all their days, that faith held strong and God did direct their path in many wonderful ways. They taught me what struggle and sacrifice was all about, how hard work and staying power would see you through tough times and that trust in God would be the rock on which to build your house.

Today I am very thankful for the life they gave me, the teachings I reflect on most everyday, and the love they gave unconditionally. I can't imagine how wonderful it would have been to marry just 3 days before Christmas and to celebrate for years that anniversary so many times before they passed away. Christmas was always special in our home with the anniversary of two sweet people and the celebration of Jesus' birth.

For me today, so close to Christmas, my thoughts go back to their special day, I give thanks to my most high FATHER for the gift he planned for me so many years ago.

Memories are very special and in honor of 66 years ago, I celebrate true love.

Our last picture at Christmas together, celebrating mother and dad's 52nd wedding anniversary.

Merry Christmas and Merry Memories!

Away In A Manger

2011-12-21T03:00:00.002-05:00

Many years ago my mother studied painting and found her nitch with ceramics. Over the years she designed and custom painted many gorgeous treasures. My favorite is her nativity set hand painted to look antiqued and old right from the beginning. That was over 35 years ago and now that very same cherished set, is old and loved as much today as ever.

The manger was painted with the holy family, the wise men and camels, the Shepard's and animals. The manger itself had 3 parts, but after our move here to Texas, the two side stalls had broken. However the blessing was the center manger stall was still in tack and for that I was thankful.

Simply elegant, it looks aged just the way mom intended it to be. Over the years, mom was asked by her church to display it for all to enjoy, which she so graciously did. These days, since mother's passing, it shows proudly here in our home with the reminders why we celebrate Christmas at all. The birth of the Lord Jesus and why he came to this world.

Without anymore words, I will just share the pics of a treasured keepsake that means so much. Included is the mantel where we also hang a painting of that special event.

May the true meaning of the season be your reason for celebration.
Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas Tea Time

2011-12-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome Friends to my holiday tea and Merry Christmas to you all.

It is so nice to be back to participating in a tea time once again. The last couple of months have been so very busy, so it is now time for a little tea break, reflect on the season and prepare to celebrate the birth of the Christ Child.

As I decorated our home for Christmas this year, I added a special tea pot with sugar bowl, creamer and mugs to my hutch display. In traditional colors, it brings a festive look for our holiday gathering. I am also so excited to redesign this hutch in the new year to a new and updated look. I hope to serve you a Valentine tea with the new style.

The cardinal tray behind the tea pot is the perfect compliment to the set.
So welcome in and please be at home as we visit over tea and Christmas dreams filled with more blessings then we can imagine. Join me in adding my newest 2012 ornaments to the tree. Each year my best guy and I find an ornament in our travels to place first on our tree each year. It has become a tradition with us and a time to remember when we look back each year to the ornaments collected over time. This year we added the little teacup and saucer with the red poinsettia and the tea pot to hang close by painted with ribbon and holly. The tea pot is by Lenox.

The full size tea pot and mugs are just as pretty in reds and green with a creamy background. I love the look with my waverly designs and black toile.

Please enjoy a Christmas cupcake I baked just for you. They are vanilla cream with buttercream frosting that looks like snow and sprinkled in red and green.

The glass plate I am serving these cupcakes on is one that holds special meaning for me. It was a Christmas gift from my dear son when he was just a teenager and first started working part time while going to school. He saved his money to give me something special. Special it is, and one, I will cherish forever because I know how hard he worked to give it. He was only 15.

While we enjoy our tea and cupcakes, an angel over looks our gathering atop my hutch with a large pinecone tree I created many years ago.

Thank you for coming by to spend some time and share in tea. It has been special to have you. Please visit our hostess Sandi of Rose Chintz Cottage for many more participants and her list of more lovely tea hostess too.

Before we go, I'd like to share a Christmas prayer with you adorned on a special ornament that hangs on my tree. The prayer in poetry is written by Ken Cornell. (Click on the pic to enlarge the words if needed.)

Merry Christmas

Blue Willow Christmas

2011-12-19T03:00:00.008-05:00

The memories I hold dear, from Christmas as a child, were the times spent sharing wonderful dinners enjoyed on a table set with my grandmother's Blue Willow Dishes. Vintage now, but still beautiful, these gorgeous pieces went to my mother and then on to me after my beloved grandmother passed away.

When I was a little girl, they were only used for special occasions. Now I use them everyday along with other English designs that I have collected to go along with them.

Displayed and stored inside my vintage hutch for Christmas, these precious pieces share space with a touch of Christmas using vintage cobalt blue ornaments and glittered white trees. Positioned among vintage books, my grandpa's pocket watch, french gloves and handmade doilies created by my grandmother. It makes a gorgeous display and carries so many memories for me and the special times so long ago.

Behind the tassel doors, lets take a peek inside~

The above gorgeous teacup pin cushion was a purchase from the talented Tammy of The Stitching Coop. It looks amazing with these vintage pieces in shades of blue and white.

Tangled in his snow ski's is this darling handmade snowman created by my talented friend Randi from Norway 16 years ago. He brings a touch of whimsy to my display.

I hope your Christmas is special~

Christmastime Giveaway Winner~~

2011-12-16T01:00:00.002-05:00

We have a WINNER~~~
Welcome to my studio and the drawing of the winner in my Christmas giveaway. I am so excited to send the winner my hand painted gifts and to say thank you to all that entered. It was lots of fun and while I wish all could win, I thank you for all for the entries and for playing along with lots of visit along the way.

As you all know, into the pink cowgirl hat go the entries. My Best Guy pulled the winner, who is~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Carolyn, from Draffin Bears!!!! Blog friends, stop by and visit Carolyn. She is a lovely lady, shares the best blog posts and is kind in all ways. Carolyn was one of my first blog friends nearly 5 years ago. My how time has flown by. Thank you Carolyn for all your visits and friendship. Like everyone here, it means the world to me.

Thank you Carolyn and congrats on your win. I will be contacting you through your blog and sending your gift promptly.
And, thank you again to all that entered many times plus your followings and new followers too. We had a total of 200 plus entries.

Enjoy this last weekend before Christmas!

Blessings Always~

Sharing Christmas With a Jolly Man!

2011-12-14T04:00:00.002-05:00

For many years, I have loved the jolly round gentlemen full of cheer and giving. The one who works all year in his work shop to bring joy to boys and girls, young and old. For more info about the history of Santa Claus, click HERE for interesting details.

For me, I like to think of Santa and his helpers working to bring love and comfort to so many. Basically we are all Santa's at Christmastime. In many ways whatever we do for another with God's direction and faithfulness reflects a bit of how Santa has worked for so many years. Oh yes, it has changed through the years to a commercialized time starting earlier each year, but I still hold on to the way it was and remember~~~

As far back as I can remember my father and I would take a trip to visit Santa Claus just before the 25th of December. We would ride on a bob sled through a wintry tunnel as if we were at the north pole. This was constructed in a popular department store in our town called Murheads, which was a clothing department shoppe. It was a special time when wonder and wide eyed imagination drew us to the man dressed in red. I remember he looked so kind with his glasses and long beard. His voice raised loud as he gave out a big HO HO HO! I was fascinated to say the least. You can see from the pic how my dad played along and was so enjoying watching me with my eyes big like two saucers.

When my father passed away, I found this picture in his wallet. He carried it for 40 years. I never knew he carried it with him always. He was a very special man.

Through the years I have collected Santa's in an old world style, traditional, shabby, and yes, painted many a Santa Claus too. My collecting is basically complete as I have no room left for any more Roly Poly guys to sleep in the attic from Christmas to Christmas ~ year to year. Well, maybe a few more~~~~~I can make room!

For about one month every year, these guys wake from their slumber in the attic to visit and bring Christmas cheer and help us greet the new year. They are always ready to give thanks as we remember the reason for the season.

Starting with a couple painted guys, they all wish you a very Merry Christmas~~

Merry Christmas!

Making Ice Block Presents and Bottle Art.

2011-12-12T04:32:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my studio blog friends.
Today I have a little project for you making ice block presents for decorations under the tree or outside on the porch, windows etc. Easy to make and looks so festive. The skies the limit to how you can decorate these as well as colors used glitter etc.

For mine I used glass medium for a frosted look on clear glass and merely brushed it on the glass and let dry.

Glass medium gives glass, ceramic or other slick surfaces some tooth for paint to stick and found again at craft or art shops. I was not going to paint these, but the frosted look hides the light stings inside as well. It also helps the glitter to stick better.

The blocks I used are found at most art shoppes and the holes are already drilled and ready for adding the light strings inside. I used white light stings so they don't show and blend with the outer surface. A variety of sizes make it more interesting too and also available.

If you use glass blocks without the holes, using a drill bit designed to use on glass etc. works well. Just be sure to drill carefully and slowly so as not to break the glass. Moving the drill too quick can cause the glass to break.

After the medium is dry, add the light strings, glitter, ribbons etc. Plug in and that's it. The light strings can join together if you have more then one like I show here. I do not recommend more then 3 strings joined together for safety. Also, the light stings with 20 to 50 lights work best. Any more and the glass may get too hot. They will be warm anyway, but not an issue and will not break the glass.

Another festive idea is one I am sure you have seen at art fairs and markets. This one is wine bottle art, or if you don't have wine bottles, any other style of bottle will work large enough to accommodate a string of lights.

This looks so festive on a kitchen counter, snack bar or sideboard. Again to am empty, rinsed and dry bottle, drill a hole using a ceramic/glass drill bit in the bottom of the bottle backside. Some bottles has double glass in the bottom so be careful not to break the glass.

Again using light strings around 20-50 works best. For electric lights, leave the stopper or cork off to let any heat escape. You can let it decoratively hang off the top with wire if you like. For mine I used a battery box set of lights from the company Bethlehem Lights to design and display without a plug or electical outlet. The battery box, stands narrow and right behind the bottle so you don't see it when displayed.

To the bottle neck I added grapes and a black with Greek Key ribbon to finish.

Lots of ideas can be created with this art form. For the shabby rose designs I will be offering this after the holidays with white lights and frosted bottles of different styles with roses. Pretty to use year round in cozy home decor and night time ambiance.

Thank you for stopping by and I hope you are nearly ready for Christmas.
See you again soon.

My Butterfly Soars in Memory and Honor!

2011-12-09T08:16:00.010-05:00

Greetings Blog Friends and Welcome to my studio.
I hope you are enjoying the Christmas season. Creating is slowing down for the moment in my studio, but before I close the door to enjoy some holiday time, I had to complete and send my Butterfly for the Butterfly project to honor the 1.5 million children who lost their precious lives in the Holocaust.

To read all about this project you can click HERE or the button to the right on the sidebar. A museum is being planned in honor of these children in Houston, Texas and the Butterfly creations designed by so many in blogland around the country will grace that museum. The deadline is Dec. 31st and I finally got mine sent in time which first goes to Trudi of Two Dresses Studio blog. From Trudi the Butterflies will make their way to Houston. A wonderful project and so meaningful. We will never forget and in honor, this wonderful museum will give voice to those little ones lost, set to open in the spring of 2013.

Here is my humble Butterfly made from papers and 3 layers. I used hearts and lace to represent the heart of the children. Vintage tea stained handmade lace to represent
a time long ago and ink winged designs with a bit of color to surround the vintage children in the center representing the young lives gone too soon.

Thank you to the Holocaust Museum in Houston and to Trudi of Two Dresses Studio for the opportunity to participate in this important event.

The Butterfly theme was chosen based on this poem.

I Never Saw Another Butterfly
The last, the very last,

So richly, brightly, dazzlingly yellow
Perhaps if the sun’s tears would sing
against a white stone....

Such, such a yellow
Is carried lightly way up high.
It went away I’m sure
because it wished
to kiss the world good-bye.

For seven weeks I’ve lived in here
Penned up inside this ghetto.
But I have found what I love here.
The dandelions call to me
And the white chestnut branches in the court.

Only I never saw another butterfly.
That butterfly was the last one.
Butterflies don’t live in here, in the ghetto.

Written by Pavel Friedman, June 4, 1942

BLESSINGS ALWAYS

Last Day Christmas Event at The Christmas Shoppes

2011-12-08T08:31:00.007-05:00

Today is the last day of our shopping event with Shabby Cottage Shops in The Christmas Shops. However, there is still time to receive treasures in time for Christmas and the shoppes will remain open offering many great sales and discounts.

It has been a wonderful season this year and many thanks go out to all of you for making my shop full of special visits and new friends. Your shopping with me is a blessing and I appreciate each and everyone who stops by. Your kind words of encouragement give me the wings to carry on when the days are long and the creative juices get slow. You lift my spirits everyday and now I look forward to the holidays with my family and friends always thinking and planning of what's to follow in the new year.

As with all creators, we realize the seasons are one step ahead of the moment we are in, thus, Winter and Spring are already being planned. I know, it can be crazy, but such is life in the days of an artist and designers.

But for now, more to come in blogland and holiday posts leading up to Christmas 2011.
I hope everyone is enjoying the season.
Christmas Blessings to you!
Visit HERE for more treasures available from my shop. Also don't forget to enter my thank you Christmastime giveaway going on till the 16th.

Christmas Decorating Simply Using What We Have!

2011-12-07T03:15:00.005-05:00

Decorating for Christmas can be filled with new and sparkly, but I love to take on the challenge of using what I have to decorate. I have found just adding a touch of holiday to the decor already in my cottage home, brings a look that is cozy and charming.

This year my decorating took on that style as you can see in the pics that follow. It was so much fun to Christmas up with treasures I already had and displayed in a new way.

Like this bowl of sugared fruit with a few blue ornaments and pine cones added to my vintage blue willow bowl. I use blue willow in my old world kitchen and this display on the island works right into that style.

For the table, I layered a large round Christmas platter with another in rubbed oil bronze in the center. Added to the two tiers I added vintage and new ornaments, magnolia cones, berries, sugared fruit and more. In the top I added a faux candle with timer and each evening it comes aglow and gives a cozy warm feel to the kitchen.

Here's an idea, to glass angels candle holders, I simply place a vintage gold ornament to the top of two angels. Candle holders don't always have to hold a candle.

One of my favorite and most cherished treasures is this red glass plate made by my great grandfather in the glass factory in W. Virgina in the 40's. To the plate which is displayed on a vintage dresser, I have added red and pink vintage ornaments. It's simple, easy and so pretty.

In this same room I have added a beaded red angel to the top of a vintage armoire displayed with a vintage hat on an old stand, with books, small dress form and a pair of wooden shoes brought back from France by my father in WWII. I cherish these shoes and remember them being in my entire life.

For the coffee table, once again I have added traditional ornaments to my mother's vintage glass bowl displayed with Christmas books and beaded pear coasters. But this time I place the bowl atop a candle ring of pine and berries which gives it some elevation and extra accent.

To this decorator's gallery ledge, I simply add an old world angel.

To my recently new guest bathroom, I added small ornaments to the glass bottles and jars with a glitter tree and large bottle brush tree.

To the top of the iron display tower I placed a beautiful crocheted angel with feather fur trim. She looks perfect overlooking the pink roses in this bath.

And since I seem to be on a roll with bowls this season, I had to once again this year, display my bowl of books in our library. It is always ready to read a few pages filled with Christmas inspiration.

How about a little treat?~~~ red, green and silver kisses filling a vintage canning jar and tied with red ribbon. I have to be careful not to eat too many for the decoration will go away. It's for looks right?!?! LOL and looks right at home among the little cookie jars of Santa and his Winter Cottage.

For my beloved Deacon's bench, made by my father, I place our family bible accented with holly leaves and berries and a pair of vintage glasses open to the story of the Christ Child's birth.

And have you seen these darling little set of 4 stencils from Dollar General for one dollar? They are for decorating cookies, cupcakes and such with sprinkles, sugars or powdered sugar. I can't wait to try these little sweeties.

Lastly, in case Santa loses his hat on the way down the chimney, I hang this sweet Santa hat on an old cane standing in a vintage crock by the fireplace.
This hat is very special to me. You see, it was worn by my mother when she was in the nursing home before she passed away. During the one Christmas she spent there, she wore it and wheeled around to the other rooms to wish those very sick a Merry Christmas. I can still see her, wheeling up into a neighboring room with a big smile full of cheer and greetings. It makes me cry with joy to remember her praying with other sick elders, singing Christmas carols and doing the Lords work, right to the end.

Love to you this Christmas!

Welcome to a Cottage Christmas~

2011-12-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

Every year, I have to admit, I enjoy the decorating process for Christmas. Even with my less is more approach this year, I still love preparing to celebrate the birth of the Christ Child.

For me and my family, it is not about the material side of the holidays, but rather, giving thanks for where we have been, where we are going and the memories held in the decor that we use to show that thanksgiving.

Many of you have mentioned in comments and emails that you looked forward to seeing my new tree this year. Well, I have a few pics to share, but I realized as I was trying to take these pics. It is just not easy to get good photos of a Christmas tree. None seem to do it justice and none show well with lights off and blur when on, but I tried and maybe you can imagine a little idea of how this Colorado Spruce turned out this year and our little library alpine tree where we spend most of our time in the evenings.

While the traditional Christmas tree takes center stage in most homes, it would not be Christmas if we did not display our nativity scene in all it's glory and handmade by my mother many years ago. And, I could not scale down and leave this out of our display this year or any. That post will be along as we get closer to Christmas Day.
But for now, come walk around with me on a little tour.

Welcome Friends, come in and be at home. Here we enter by the front door on the backside of the rock fireplace which goes around to the living room. We will turn to the dining room facing the front of the house. Our tree is dressed in copper, silver, sage, crocheted snowflakes, red cottage roses with white lights. This 7 1/2' tree is topped with a gold star from Norway given to me by my dear friend Randi and finished at the base with a pretty copper and sequins tree skirt which you can see in the very last pic.

The chandilier has a poinsettia vine trailing around with a bead garland that stays year round. I added velvet and bead shades with small swiss dots. Crystal drops hang from each lamp base, but they are hard to see in this picture.

On the sideboard I display some very special pine cones collected from the grounds where my parents are buried under 3 gorgeous pine trees. These are displayed in a vintage dish with a vintage red and gold glass ornament.

Turning around from this room we pass the kitchen and living room going on to our library where I have a small alpine tree with collectible ornaments new and old from our travels and gifts.

Under the tree are glass block presents I created last year. I will show them and how they are made in another post and with better lighting. They are hard to see in this bright glow.

Thank you for stopping by to take a little tour of Christmas at our Cottage. I'll be back to share more and a little creative project you might enjoy for yourself or gifts.

See you soon.
Merry Christmas!

CHRISTMASTIME~GIVEAWAY TIME

2011-12-02T11:14:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas Friends,

With the approach of my 5th year of blogging, I find it meaningful for me to say thank you with a Christmastime Giveaway to be drawn on December 16th. I have for my drawing a Shabby Rose 3pc Sampler Set of Ornaments hand painted and ready for you or gift giving.

I am so excited to send this out to someone who is an active blogger, leaves a comment on this post and all or any others before the 16th. Enter as many times as you like, and if you follow, that's one more entry. If you would like to join my group of followers, well that's another entry.
All names with comments will be going in the pink cowgirl hat and drawn by my Best Guy on the 16th.

Thank you so much for another year of blogging and friendship. You have blessed me more then you know. This journey has been so much fun, a great learning experience and a time of growth and inspiration. I'd say, I have received a wonderful Christmastime gift from you and for that, I am thankful.

Have Fun!

Decking and Decorating the Halls with Joy!

2011-12-01T03:00:00.001-05:00

After Thanksgiving my Best Guy and I began our decorating for Christmas. What fun we always have with the process. We put away all the Fall decor and after many trips back and forth to the attic with the Christmas tree and holiday decorations, our home is all aglow in Christmas romance. Inside and out says we are ready to celebrate the birth of the Christ Child.

Taking center stage is our new 7 1/2' Colorado Spruce Tree. This year a new faux tree was in order since our past tree had seen it's days. Before Halloween we found our new tree and we were so excited to put her up and decorate the boughs. Dressed in sage, copper, red cottage roses, snowflakes and vintage ornaments it is a beautiful sight in the dining room window. You can see it in the distance with the first pic. I'll share a closer pic soon when the light is better.

I have many pics to share and will do so a little at a time building up to Christmas. This season finds our cottage spruced up in a vintage traditional style. I must say it is warm, cozy and very Christmas especially in the evening with the warm glow of the lights. Not overdone, but a less is more approach this year. Just too busy for more, so our Christmas village is not part of the decorations this season. First time in 25 years I have not brought it all out, but with huge painting and home decorating plans after Christmas, I just needed to scale down just a bit. Really, just a bit.~~ My hubby would say not really, but for me it truly is less!! With the last of my custom orders to fill, I really look forward to enjoying the season with my huge studio work load complete.

What are the new plans for the first of the year you might ask? Well, starting with the dining room, I have plans for a new fresh wall color, repurpose the furniture and redecorate. More about that later, but for now, here are a few first pics to celebrate the season.

I'll be back with more and some ideas for decorating with what you already have by adding a touch of Christmas and a Holiday Giveaway.
Till then, enjoy the beginning of December, stay warm and Merry Christmas!

Happy Thanksgiving!~

2011-11-23T14:24:00.006-05:00

Wishing you my blog friends, your family and friends, a very blessed Thanksgiving holiday. May your day be filled with joys and special memories to mark another year to give thanks with those you love.
I will be cooking for my family a big dinner of turkey and the trimmings. Some time away from the big work load this season is going to be a treat along with the pumpkin pie!
We are thankful for our blessings and another year to give that thanks with family and friends.
Enjoy your day wherever you are and see you again soon as we tackle the events of the season one day at a time!

As a reminder, My boutique along with many participants of Shabby Cottage Shops is having a PRE BLACK FRIDAY SALE to kick off the shopping season as we approach Christmas. This event will start in my shop and the many others, Wednesday evening at 6pm EST and run through Cyber Monday. I will be offering Free Shipping on my entire shoppes treasures. Many others are offering a discount up to 60% off.

To visit travel HERE and to see more travel HERE
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

A Prayer For You from Me this day!

2011-11-12T08:42:00.006-05:00

Jeremiah 29:19

Dear Woman of God,
Be still for a while and praise God for His favor, His grace and His awesomeness. God is able to do the impossible and is always near. He loves us unconditionally.

Greetings Blog Friends,
Today I want to share a prayer with you that I received from a dear friend a few months ago. By sharing it with you, I hope it brings you peace for the beginning of this busy season and comfort knowing you are not alone. This touched my heart and I have saved this to share with you for just the right time. You know who you might be and I pray this touches you heart in some small way as well. We all seem to have a lot going on these days, but just know, most is only temporary and will pass to a simpler time eventually.

A Prayer for You~
Dear God, This is my friend whom I love and this is my prayer for her. Help her live her life to the fullest. Please cause her to excel above her expectations. Help her to shine in the darkest places where it is impossible to love. Protect her at all times, lift her up when she needs You the most, and let her know when she walks with You, she will always be safe.

Amen!

Thank you for stopping by and visiting for a moment. As I create and spend longer hours in the studio meeting the requests of my dear customers, filling orders and sharing my love of painting and creating, I hope you have a great weekend and I will see you soon for a visit too.

Blessings and Blue Skies be yours!

November Views~Missed You!

2011-11-04T09:30:00.004-04:00

Greetings Friends,
What a whirlwind week off line, but as promised ~~ on time and on line, I am up and running and have filled the shelves at Celestina Marie Design. Thank you for all the emails, convos and visits here. I am busy today catching up answering many emails and etsy messages while opening with many new holiday treasures Here at CMD.

Hope your week was great and November off to a wonderful start. As a reminder, our Pinkalicious Christmas Shoppe continues to dazzle with lots of wonderful treasures from the finest shoppes on the web through Dec 8th. Today's featured boutique is noted to the right on my sidebar.

See you soon~~ From a cool and crisp Texas, have a wonderful weekend!
Blessings Always.

Happy Halloween and The Pinkalicious Christmas Shoppe is Open, plus my Sneak Peek!

2011-10-26T20:47:00.002-04:00

Hello Bloggy Friends,
Big Texas Wishes for a wonderful Halloween and lots of fun with your trick or treaters.
I will be off line for a bit making some changes and recharging, but back up and running on November 4th.

In the meantime, please stop by our Shabby Cottage Shops Pinkalicious Christmas Shoppe going on till the 8th of Dec. Lots of participants with wonderful treasures to be purchased in time for Christmas. Also join in on the Christmas Tree Hunt and the Pink Present Giveaway too. Just Click HERE to read more and have some fun.

Each day I have featured the shop of the day on my sidebar, but being off line now I will not be able to include this till I am back. So again, by visiting HERE you can see what shop is featured everyday and link to visit their site.

When I turn my new computer back on, I will have the shelves filled with lots of new goodies for Christmas, below is a sneak preview of what is coming.

And, much more.
See you soon.
Happy Halloween! and think Pinkalicious Christmas!!

Happy Birthday, Mary Blair

2011-10-22T09:02:00.011-04:00

The daily search for inspiration is an easy one today, as today is Mary Blair’s 100th birthday. Mary was a true innovator, and a driving force behind many of Disney’s most memorable animations including Dumbo, Alice in Wonderland, and Peter Pan.

Her brilliant work as a concept designer, colorist, and art director continues to have a lasting impact on art makers all over the world.

Born Mary Robinson in Oklahoma in 1911, she attended L.A.’s esteemed Chouinard Art Institute, soon making her way in an industry then dominated by men.
Both her husband, Lee Everett Blair, and her brother-in-law, animator Preston Blair, were also artists.

Mary joined the Disney studio in 1940, where she and her husband created concept art for many of Walt Disney’s films. After she left Disney more than a decade later, her graphic work included major advertising campaigns and illustrations for Simon and Schuster’s Golden Books for children.

Looking back on Blair’s work reminds us of the importance of being a creator. Whenever an artist begins to imagine and to make, something of the moment of creation becomes permanent and manifests as a physical object that enters the world and begins to effect the people around it. This is an important part of making, realizing the lasting impact of art once created. Enjoy the process and create beauty, then share your art with the world.

Adapted and shared from the Society of Tole and Decorative Painters. 10-21-11

Thank you for stopping by today. Hope you have a wonderful Autumn weekend.
I am elbow deep in my studio working long hours to stock the shelves HERE and adding lots of new treasures to arrive Nov.4th in my shoppe. You are invited to stop by Shabby Cottage Shops to browse and shop our Christmas shopping event going on right now through Dec.8th. Wonderful treasures can be found among the best boutiques participating.
See you soon.

Beginning today~~

2011-10-20T01:00:00.001-04:00

The participating shoppes of Shabby Cottage Shops have stocked our shelves with lots of treasures to kick off the shopping season and our Christmas shopping event that starts today the 20th of Oct. and runs through Dec. 8th.

Each day one shop will be featured HERE and also posted here on my blog. We have lots of fun happening with a Christmas tree hunt to win 25 dollars to spend in one of our participating shoppes and a giveaway for each shoppe too.

I hope you can join in the fun and stop by Shabby Cottage Shops Christmas Shop each day to browse our on line mall where the best boutiques share their talents and treasures.
For me, I'll be spending long hours in my studio where lots of new treasures are being completed and coming to my etsy shop November 4th. when I reopen the shoppe and back to my studio and blogland.

Thank you, and although it is not even Halloween, the holiday shopping has already started. Join us and have some fun!!

Soothing Evening Tea Time Tuesday

2011-10-17T21:35:00.008-04:00

After a full work day, I find it very soothing in the late evening to enjoy a cup of tea to relax and end the day.
It also helps a sore throat, of which I am fighting at the moment. So the order of the evening is my favorite Earl Grey to do it's magic poured in one of my favorite cups in blue and white.

From the Spode Blue Room Collection, Botanical~ first introduced in 1820.
I love the blue background with wild roses in white with blue shading. Dark blue leaves and stroke work details. Reproduced from a hand engraved copper plate. Gorgeous.

Thank you for joining me for an evening tea as I relax and read. My tea is short this time due to my busy week but please visit our hostess Sandi from Rose Chintz Cottage for many more participants sharing in tea time. Sandi also has a list of many other dear blog friends that host this day.

See you again soon. Have a wonderful week full of the wonders of Autumn.

Helping Santa To Be Ready~

2011-10-15T15:45:00.011-04:00

Creating and more for Christmas is well underway here at Celestina Marie Designs and coming soon in November are my new designer spoons. Spoon art with lots of hand painted details with bits and babbles all coming together to make a unique ornament.
I have painted spoons for many years, but now they are taking a new twist and offered soon in my etsy shoppe.

And while this is going on, New Skates are primed and ready to design with hand painted roses and winter scenes accented with pink and white fur trims.

Glass ornies primed and ready to finish~

Mini glass ornaments ready to grace hand painted rose buds.

Lots of glitter, fairy dust, snow and German glass in shakers are stocked for creating and bits and babbles of glass and crystals stand by waiting to accent a pretty ornament.

Meet the first snow people already complete to hang out on someones Christmas tree.

As you can see, it is busy around here and my studio is like Santa's workshop. Miss Beazy is always near by ready to help and keep cozy company through the long but happy hours.
See you again soon blog friends. Till then, I'll be painting, and creating. Glittering and glueing, Helping Santa to Be Ready.
Hope you are enjoying a wonderful Fall season.
Blessings always~

Seeing Clearly for Tea Time Tuesday~

2011-10-10T21:00:00.000-04:00

and served in a clear glass cup!
Welcome tea time friends. Today I will share in our tea time with clear dishes. I have always loved anything made from glass. Gorgeous glass, crystal and cut glass treasures just steal my heart!

Many years ago I found a pretty set for 12, in dinner plates with matching lunch plates and cups. I have always loved them especially during the holidays with decorative colors showing through the plates.

Today as I reflect on the season ahead and take a moment to relax, which is rare these days, I will share my setting using those pieces I have added to my collection.

The cup has a flower design all around and holding Autumn Spice Tea. Our treat is harvest sugar cookies with my favorite decorator's icing for cookies which I will share below.

The pretty vintage napkin in light ivory, is from a set that was my mother's so many years ago. I remember these napkins at holidays and Sunday dinners. They give much comfort placed in my lap as I enjoy Spice tea and write in my Autumn journal.

The pretty sugar and creamer are very special. When my best guy and I were married 38years ago last August, this set was a wedding gift from my hubby's first job associates. I love the set and hold these treasures dear all these many years later.

Shall we ring for more tea? These lovely glass bells are from my little collection started by my mother to me. Including them in a table setting just brings a bit of conversation and beauty to the table. And, the ring so clear~

Another special table accent for our tea are these beautiful Irish Crystal Candle sticks my dear best guy gave me for our 10th anniversary. They are beautiful holding tapers or left empty on their own and pretty as a decoration.

Our pumpkin candle holding a faux tea light is a vintage votive holder from Avon many years ago. I am sure many of you have this little treasure too. It is heavy and shines beautifully on the harvest table. The tea light is from Brookstone and they
are made to be recharged as they burn low. These lights twinkle so pretty and at night really look real with no danger of flame around pets, kids or forgetting. The pumpkin tea pot I shared in an earlier post and we are using it again today.

Tall and gorgeous is my table centerpiece made from clear glass and holds again another Autumn faux candle on a timer surrounded by a harvest candle ring. The candle has an amazing fresh scent and lights our tea table so pretty.

As I write in my journal with ideas and hopes for the season, I know I have lots to be thankful for and I wish for you a lovely tea time and may all your hopes and dreams be CLEAR!

Before you leave, I'd like to share my recipe for Spice tea and the cookie icing used on Sugar Cookies.

Spice Tea
2 cups sugar
2 cups orange tang
1 cup instant unsweetened tea
1 package Koolaide lemonade mix
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves ~ optional ( I never add the cloves and like it better)

Mix all and store in an air tight container. Mix 3 teaspoons with hot water for one serving.
Perfect to make and fill in pretty containers for gifts during the holidays.

Decorators Cookie Icing
1 Cup Confectionery Sugar
1 1/2 tablespoon milk (I use skim milk)
1 Teaspoon vanilla
Add food coloring here for the color of your choice.

Mix all till completely blended and smooth. Keep covered till you are ready to spread on cookies. Do not refrigerate. Can also be piped from a decorators icing bag. Icing will be shiny till set at which time it will dry a matt finish on the cookie. Easy storage of cookies in tins will not smear once icing is dry. So yummy good.

For more lovely tea times to visit, please click HERE as I join our hostess Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage.
See you next time and till then, I will leave you with my yellow "New Day Roses" just picked from the garden today.

Have wonderful Fall Day! and Happy Thanksgiving to all my blog friends in Canada. Blessings Always!

Finally a Solution~~~

2011-10-09T14:35:00.006-04:00

for our sweet Miss Beazy Lee and the fear, anxiety and nervous episodes in thunderstorms.
Last night we knew bad weather with thunder and lightening were on the way, and of course we are always concern for our little fur baby because she does not like storms of any kind. Normally she just lays with her blanket for being a large breed with lots of fur she would get hot.

But this time, we had an idea to wrap our baby in her favorite blanket anyway to see what she would do. Well, the wrap was the solution. She did great. No shaking, no distress and no fear. She stayed calm and quiet with no panic and running to hide under the bed, tables or behind the sofa. We were just amazed at the difference.

Today my best guy went on line to look for any reports on this being a helpful idea and low and behold he found the info we would have loved to have known long ago.
It seems there is even a company that sell clothing for your fur friend called Thundershirts. Yes, you read it, Thundershirts.
The way they work is to make a layer covering between the fur and the static electrical effects that storms create and our pooches fill in the air all around them making them very anxious.
Of course not all dogs are affected, but many are and this may be a helpful solution for many of you too.

What have we got to lose by wrapping our little babies in there favorite blankies or putting on a t-shirt, maybe even purchasing the Thundershirt.

Miss B is modeling her own t-shirt in chocolate brown and pink along with her pink shabby blanket, her favorite that she loves and naps with everyday. Not sure we have to order a Thundershirt since she has done so well with her own attire.

Hope this info helps others that may be facing this same thing during severe rain storms. We never knew that relief for our sweetie was just a blanket wrap or T-shirt away.

Till next time, Have a blessed Sunday.
Miss Beazy feels blessed as she is wearing her T-shirt and is calm as can be with our rain today.

In the Garden for Tea Time

2011-10-03T21:15:00.019-04:00

Sharing Tea with your best girlfriend is one of life's special moments. Today for Tea Time Tuesday, we are joining Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage and the list of participants, as I celebrate Fall in the Garden for Tea Time.

As my friend and I take a seat at the bistro,Where Roses Bloom, we relax and look around the garden where flowers still share the last of summer's bounty and my Fall flowers are just beginning.

While our tea is brewing, let's enjoy the view of nature's beauty.

And of course we can't forget the Autumn cottage for our birdie friends.

Our tea is ready and it is so nice to relax this afternoon in the fresh air and cooler temps. Today I will serve our tea from a teapot I have shared before. It is pretty for Fall with the leaf pattern on the front. Our french inspired tea mugs are designed with roses in Autumn colors and rose names on the inside brim.

Our sugar and creamer are Autumn inspired with a sunflower design on one side and rooster on the other.

For the centerpiece, I have added just a simple Happy Harvest carved pumpkin.

Rust colored napkins are held using a mini grapevine wreath and silk leaf for a napkin holder.

For our tea time dessert, we are enjoying pumpkin cakeroll with creamcheese filling. It is light and not too sweet. Perfect with a dollop of plum jam.

How cozy it is to settle in for the afternoon and enjoy tea and cakeroll in our bistro seats with comfy back cushions.

Thank you for joining me and my best friend for tea today. It is always wonderful to have you visit and your comments are welcomed and enjoyed.
Have a beautiful Autumn day.

Welcome October With Some Pillow Talk!

2011-10-01T12:10:00.013-04:00

This month has always been one of my favorites. So many important events for myself and family have taken place in October. So this time of year holds special memories.
Along with finally enjoying some cooler days, I love to create, as a new burst of energy happens when the thermometer drops. When I don't have a paint brush in my hand, I keep busy with other lap projects that are so much fun.

Recently, I have been crazy for embellishing pillows to decorate my Autumn cottage. I found seasonal kitchen towels from the dollar store and teamed them with vintage buttons, trims and vintage lace to create some custom pillows for my guest room, dining room and outdoor sofa.

This duo was embellished from found dollar store pillows by adding vintage buttons, lace, and trims.

With cotton Fall dish towels, I created another stripe and leaves pillow with a crocheted doily and vintage button with bottom fringe!

This pumpkin towel was also fun to create another pillow, again using vintage trims.

See how it looks on the guestroom bed~ So Autumn cozy!

Here's another pillow on a comfy chair, made from an old dress collar and vintage coat button pulled tight in the center. I love the muted colors in the fabric of the pillow.

This one was so fun to create for our patio sofa, taking a cotton with crocheted edge doily and I stenciled a rose in the center with my paints using a fabric medium for softness. To the edge, I added two end trims using vintage crocheted lace from an old worn out table runner.

For each side of the rose pillow, I embellished two quilted rust pillows using two crocheted doilies with the same pattern but different shapes and added two vintage coat buttons to the center. It makes a cozy spot on the patio sofa to enjoy the season. I also changed my sofa wrap with another quilt with colors of Autumn. With each change of season I love to wrap my sofa in a different quilt.

I hope you are greeting this month with renewed energy and Fall memories.
Have a wonderful Fall Day!

Autumn Memories for Tea Time~

2011-09-26T04:00:00.000-04:00

Many years ago, in the Autumn of the year I recall a special time and visit from my mother. She was always one to treat you to gifts upon a visit. This particular Fall season, mom was coming home from an appointment when she stopped along the way at a little boutique she thought looked interesting. Browsing all the pretties in the unique shop, she came upon a few apple dish pieces, the last ones left in the shop of that design. At the time, my kitchen was decorated in apples and any collectibles I could find found a place among my treasures.

The pieces mom found were an apple mug with sugar and creamer, pie plate and 2 votive cups. So with the loving heart she always carried, she purchased the last of the stenciled apple line in excitement to gift them to me. You can imagine my surprise when her gift was handed to me, wrapped so pretty, and given with a smile that always lit up a room.

I was thrilled to receive these apple treasures from my mother. To this day they are treasures I hold dear. Not because of the material value, but the sweet envision of my mother browsing the little boutique and finding a gift just for me. She seldom purchased something for herself. Always putting others first, with thoughtful and endearing ways.

I think of those special moments every Autumn season when I see a bowl of apples or browse a little boutique with a Fall display. She was one of God's special angels and sent to earth to teach me how to live. For this I always give thanks.

Today with cooler weather and special moments along a very busy work week, I take the time to relax, reflect and enjoy a mug of tea or hot chocolate, cider or vanilla coffee in my special apple mug. Maybe I'll carve out some time to turn those apples into a pie. I just might~~ but for sure I will remember special memories, mother and the joy of giving.

Thank you Mama, I love you~

Please visit our dear hostess, Sandi of Rose Chintz Cottage for the list of more participants sharing tea time.

Just a Little Spot of Tea~

2011-09-19T20:41:00.010-04:00

Welcome friends to another Tea Time Tuesday. With Autumn just a few days away, you can feel the air changing and the soft hum of the wind outside.
For me, this is a favorite time of year. Cozy evenings, curling up with a good book, comfort foods on the stove, inspiring days creating, and of course a delicious cup of tea.
With many busy days ahead this season, I must make it a point to stop, relax and enjoy a tea break, even for just a little spot of tea. Which brings me to share a few of my favorite small tea pretties.

Sweet and useful in gorgeous blue and white is this hinged teapot porcelain box. Perfect for holding tea or sweeteners.

Tiny and true is another favorite that was a gift from a dear friend. I just love this sweet Blue Willow decorative set complete with the original scene on the tea pot and saucers.

Demi cups and saucers are among my small favorites too and on vacation this year I found this gorgeous little rose luster ware demi set. It was marked 2 dollars. Of course that was too good to pass up.

The details and condition are like new. Simply small and gorgeous.

Lastly and lovely is the small and oh so pretty sugar and creamer set. I found this at an antique market several weeks ago. I appreciate the hand painted and raised design in soft colors. It looks to be very old but in elegant condition. Look how pretty is compliments the rose luster ware set.

For today, even with a small cup of tea, I will read the pages of A Cup of Friendship, by The Clever Factory and welcome you to join me in remembering, take time to relax within the busy times of the day. Reflect on the season and the joy in everyday treasures. Time marches on so quickly and what we miss we can never get back.

Thank you for joining me today and for the list of more tea time participants, take a journey over to Sandi's of Rose Chintz Cottage.
Happy Autumn~
Blessings always,

Welcome Back ~ The Sights of Autumn

2011-09-16T04:09:00.004-04:00

Last weekend was a happy time to decorate for Fall days and cooler weather that finally hit today. Our summer heat gave one last burst of oven like temps this week with our 70th day of over 100 degrees.

Hopefully that will be forgotten soon. However our hearts and prayers go out to the those in Texas along the path of wildfires. So many have lost homes and they need our prayers for better days ahead.

If you were to come for a visit to my cottage, you would see and feel Fall in the air as I have a touch of the new season all around. Come with me as I show you around inside.

It's time for Fall

To be thankful~

For peace and plenty~ (gorgeous cross stitch made by my dear friend Stephanie from Angelic Accents, with the Halloween tag she created)

For a Happy Harvest~

To enter a happy home and be greeted by the Autumn Fairy!

For a soft candlelight glow to light the way~

Thankful for a pumpkin full of beauty~

For Sugared Fruit, that reminds me that life is mostly sweet.

For the sunflowers so sunny~

For the fruit of our labors~

Thankful for the treasures remembered~

Where the rooster crows for a new day.

Welcome back the sights of Autumn!

Thank you for coming to visit. We will go outside to enjoy the sights of Autumn next time. Till then, have a wonderful weekend and cooler days this last week of summer.

Autumn Almond Tea & Dreams

2011-09-12T17:55:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Tea Time Tuesday and welcome Autumn, maybe, hopefully, sometime or someday!!
Well we saw some cooler temps last week, then today the heat was back at 103 degrees again. We are hoping this is the last of it as we are so ready for Fall days. Anyway, I am dreaming of cooler weather and in hopes of times to come, I am serving Almond Tea today with cinnamon almond vanilla cookies drizzled with vanilla glaze.

My tea cup for today was my mother in laws and given to me when she sadly passed away 20 years ago. I was thrilled to own the 4 piece cup and saucer set with 4 luncheon plates including sugar and creamer. I am not sure if there ever was a tea pot, but that's okay as I team it up with one to celebrate the season. Since rusty orange is a complimentary color to blue, I am serving tea in my pumpkin tea pot found at Home Goods a few years ago. It all goes nicely together. I love this set because I know it meant so much to her and in my care I honor her memory.

Not sure what the marking or maker is as it is worn and hard to see, but it is a type of luster ware in a creamy ivory and gorgeous blue with gold trim.

Love the rusty rose bud topping the sugar bowl.

Serving tea from my pumpkin tea pot. Nothing fancy or vintage, just a cute tea pot for the season.

Our tea today is set on my hutch with decor for Autumn. Friends know I am a "stager" and can't help but pull a few treasures together to set the mood.
Behind the setting is a pretty painted platter and to each side, copper tea lights with candle rings and I used the luncheon plates behind those.

Our treat for today is cinnamon almond vanilla cookies topped with a drizzle of vanilla icing. They are so good and light. Perfect for our almond tea.

Now let's enjoy some tea and share the recipe.

The directions are to brew tea and combine all ingredients together except the 3 pints of water. Just before serving add the water.

So enjoyed tea with you today. I'll go back to dreaming of cooler days and looking forward to tea with the list of participants hosted by our gracious Sandi, from Rose Chintz Cottage. Have a wonderful September day and Blessings Always.

A Paris Chic ~ Thank you!

2011-09-08T05:00:00.001-04:00

Bloggy friends are very special.
Recently my giveaway winner was dear Sherry from Creatology. I was so happy to send her win and she shared it in a post.

However, to my surprise she sent me not only a thank you card, but a hand sewn and designed Paris and pink toile tote designed by her from her line called Sassy Chicks.

Chic card!

I was just over the moon thrilled to open a box to find this stunning purse/tote wrapped in a dress pattern.
The tote is reversible with one side being pink toile with darling heart button pins that can move around and be worn in different ways. And then, it reverses to a Paris fabric side with a pocket for sun glasses, cell phone, etc. Perfect and I love it. Thank you so very much Sherry. I am really enjoying it.

Visit Sherry and say hello. She is extremely talented and her work gorgeous.

In my studio I have a new addition and her name is Miss Mannie. A Paris chic dress form standing 5'5" tall and dressed in a damask fabric, black stand, pink and black feather boa and wearing vintage pearls and pin with a black and pink scarf. Oh she is gorgeous and is right at home with my black toile room.
Finding her was unexpected while shopping at Hobby Lobby for a few supplies. I was walking out with my purchase when I spotted Miss Mannie on the way out. She had a split side seam, and I thought, I could fix her and she would be good as new. So back inside I went, asked the manager about her, and he was nice enough to give me a huge discount. So home with me she came, given a few stitches on her side, replaced the trim and healed she was. I may not leave her with this fabric for long, but she really does fit in nicely in her original attire for now.

Please welcome and meet Miss Mannie~ last name Quin. LOL~~ I couldn't resist.

Thank you for stopping by. It is a very busy time in my studio these days. Working, I mean playing, long hours in the studio and loving every minute of it. It seems the holiday season is well underway and when you think about it, nearly just 3 months to Christmas. My brushes are calling.

Happy Fall~almost!

Alfresco Style Tea Time

2011-09-05T19:44:00.012-04:00

Greetings Tea Time Friends and welcome to an outdoor tea time. Finally we are blessed with some cooler temps and it is a welcome change. I have been waiting to take tea outside all summer, so today please join me and take a seat on the comfy sofa and we will enjoy the cooler air over tea and Italian Lady Fingers from Italy.

For our tea I'd like to share one of my favorite teacups from England. It is Wedgwood and has the prettiest garden pattern of flowers on an ivory background.

Holding our precious brew is another favorite from the Tuscany Collection and designed in a very pretty soft yellow stoneware.

To carry our tea outdoors, I recently hand painted a distressed tray found at a flea market with a Tuscan country side scene done in a painting study from one of my favorite decorative books.

To serve our Lady Fingers, I have used this pretty red and white transfer ware plate with a Autumn scene of picking apples in the orchard. Around the plate is a design of acorns and leaves. Perfect little dish for Fall. The Lady Fingers are from Italy and low in sugar and calories. I get these at our Farmers Market called Sprouts. It is a tasty light cookie for tea and dunking.

Pretty little hankies make the nicest napkins and today I am adding a pretty one with yellow trim and flowers. Perfect for our cup and tea pot.

While enjoying tea on this cooler last of summer day, I love to be inspired by one of my favorite design books, Putting the Heart in your Home, by Jean Lemmon. It is filled with beautiful and inspiring pictures of home decor.

The weather is glorious and you can feel in the air that Autumn is on the way. The soft winds give way to the beginning of a new season soon to follow. Thank you for coming to tea today. I was so glad to have you meet me outdoors for a relaxing visit.
Please join our hostess, Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage for the list of participants.

See you soon.
Blessings,

Happy Labor Day~ Monday September 5th 2011

2011-09-03T09:17:00.006-04:00

Happy Labor Day to all in the U.S. Many will enjoy a long holiday weekend and in honor of this Labor Day, MONDAY ONLY we will celebrate with a SALE from Celestina Marie Designs on etsy.
Yes, this sale will include every item in the shop with an extra 30% off at checkout with paypal. Just simply use the coupon code, LABORDAY30 to calculate your savings at checkout.
And, to my wonderful International Shoppers, this sale includes you too. Of course you must contact me for your shipping quote to your area, but the 30% off is yours to enjoy too.
We are making room for the many new items on the way to fill the shelves for the holidays. Visit here, Celestina Marie Designs/La Rea Rose on etsy to browse the shoppe.

My studio is buzzing with creativity and the busy season has arrived in a fiery of paints, glitter, snowmen and santas.

Best wishes to everyone as our nation celebrates Labor Day and hopefully rest from our labors. Be Safe, enjoy the last of summer and Blessings to you for a wonderful Autumn ahead.
Thank you for stopping by. Your visits and comments are always welcome. See you, as soon as I can take a breather.

Tea Time Trio~Keepsake too

2011-08-29T23:13:00.016-04:00

Welcome to another Tea Time Tuesday as I join the list of participants hosted by dear Sandi of Rose Chintz Cottage.As I mentioned in my last tea time post, I found a few tea cup pretties while treasure hunting on vacation.

This pretty trio in a gorgeous rose design was marked anniversary on the makers mark and perfect to celebrate our special trip. The great surprise was I found 2 sets of the trio. They look wonderful with my Churchill black and white dishes.

On my treasure hunt I also found this darling hand painted Lefton cup. The design and color was so pretty, the pedestal style and delicate strokes are a favorite of mine when I find them. As I looked closer, I noticed it all alone on a shelf, no saucer and no matching pieces. Well, you know what happened next. Priced at only 4 dollars, this little darling had to find it's way home with me.
Once home, among my dish collection, I found a saucer that made the perfect little coordinated finish to this lonely beauty. Now complete and at home in my kitchen hutch.

Today's tea is a welcome break and perfect to enjoy with the latest addition of Tea Time Magazine. And, on page 7 is our latest ad with Shabby Cottage Shops.

Inspired by the tea cups this week, I designed this tea bag keeper using an old keepsake box. This little treasure will fill the shelves HERE soon.

Thank you for stopping by for tea. Your visits and comments are always welcome.

See you soon and till then, I'll be elbow deep in my studio working on special treasures and preparing for the season to follow.
In the meantime, Thoughts and prayers go out to all our friends on the east coast affected by the hurricane over the weekend. God Bless you all.

Late Summer Anniversary Vacation~ Making Memories

2011-08-25T20:00:00.003-04:00

This years vacation found us hitting the road before the sun came up.
Traveling along in the calm of the early morning to our destination on our 38th wedding anniversary.
Each year we plan a little getaway on our special day. It has become a tradition for us to celebrate a new year of marriage with a little R&R.

Our travels to Hot Springs, Arkansas was beautiful and relaxing as we enjoyed the beautiful scenery along the way. Many trees looked like they were turning rust with Fall colors, but we quickly realized they were fading fast due to the terribly hot temperatures we have and still have this summer. Just six hours away the heat was less intense and for that we were very happy to have a break even with a few degrees.

Hot Springs is a beautiful city surrounded by Pine Tree covered mountain tops. The countryside is beautiful and standing at the top of West Mountain over looking the city was breathtaking.

Walking around the old Victorian style city was so much fun. Beautiful buildings, vintage landmarks, special boutiques and of course a few hot springs were among the interesting sights. One of the cities oldest hotels is The Arlington. We did not stay here, but we did walk through the lobby and browsed the gift shops. The building is old and showing age.
The main street is lined with Southern Magnolia Trees and give such a sense of nostalgia as we walked all around.

Beautiful city fountains that continually stream a steady flow of HOT water. You can see steam coming right out of the fountain. I touched the water, and yes, it is hot.

The downtown area also has situated on the sidewalk, a tribute called The Walk Of Fame. The following pics are just a few of the many famous people included.

One side of the street flourishes the famous Bath House Row. These are establishments from the early 1900's when it was all the rage to be pampered in a hot bath. Beautiful large porches on the bath houses with relaxing chairs to over look the downtown area. Sculptures beautifully situated on the front lawns of the bath houses line the fronts where Magnolia trees scatter their ever dropping leaves. These bath houses are still operating today.

Lots of boutique and antique shopping all along the main and side streets. My "Best Guy" is a dear to carry my packages.

We found some great antique malls off the beaten path too. They were so large it took several hours to go through each one.

We enjoyed more beautiful mountain views in the pines and relaxing lake scenes.

As our stay continued we traveled about 7 minutes from Hot Springs to The Garvan Woodland Gardens where the Anthony Glass Chapel is situated in the wooded pines overlooking the beautiful gardens. We have visited here several years ago and was inside the chapel. It is beautiful to sit in a pew and look out over the nature all around. The bell tower rings out a hymn in chimes that echos across the pines. This year a wedding was taking place and no visitors could go inside until the wedding was over. So we walked around the gardens, took pics and enjoyed the restful peace of this gorgeous spot.

Another Anniversary vacation comes to a finish, but we will remember the peaceful and relaxing time shared in a beautiful part of our America. As the cows said goodbye, we take the road home thankful for a wonderful time.

Thank you for stopping by to share in our little trip. We always love to get away for a restful break, but even more thankful to return home.

Me and my "Best Guy" 38 years ~~ together forever in love and life!

Blessings always!

Fruit Inspiration for Tea Time Tuesday~

2011-08-22T16:20:00.019-04:00

Welcome to another Tea Time. So glad you stopped by today. As you may know ~ from past visits, I have been away for a little vacation time. I am back now and busy as can be. Lots going on in my studio getting ready for the,"here before you know it" holidays. So taking a tea break for me is always inviting, and today, I want to share a new beautiful trio my best guy found for me on vacation in a wonderful antique shop we visited.

I loved this trio right away as this gorgeous set is painted with a fruit design on both sides of the cup, the saucer and the plate included with gold trim.. This set goes beautifully in my old world kitchen.

Both sides of the delicate cup is painted in different patterns.

The pretty saucer~

The gorgeous plate~

Makers Mark~

Serving us, I have added one of my favorite tea pots in blue and my handmade and painted sugar and creamer made by my mother nearly 35 years ago. I cherish these pieces because she made it and I love mixing pottery like this with more elegant pieces such as the trio. The tea pot reverses to a leaf pattern on one side and perfect going into the Fall days ahead~~ well we hope ahead. Still very HOT here!!

For our dessert, I thought yogurt and fruit were in order to balance out all the vacation feasting. So I have filled a lovely floral bowl that works so nicely with the trio in color and size. Vanilla yogurt, blueberries and strawberries, topped with finely chopped walnuts. Our tea is a tasty raspberry tea ~ Oh so yummy!

Well that was good and all gone too!!!

Please join our lovely hostess Sandi from Rose Chintz Cottage for the list of more participants and tea time hostess's. I will be doing a lot of catching up since away and I know it will be an inspiration to view the many tea related treasures. In the meantime, I am preparing to share pics from my time away and a few more gorgeous tea cups and saucers found along the way. And, as always you can find me, "swingin paint brushes" in my studio and creating new treasures with goodies I found on vacation.

Thank you for stopping by. Your visit and comments are always welcome and a blessing more then you know!
Till next time~

TRUE FRIENDSHIP IS SEEN THROUGH THE HEART, NOT THROUGH THE EYES. author unknown.

And, THE WINNER IS~~~~~~~~

2011-08-19T08:00:00.001-04:00

Pulled from the Pink cowgirl hat, by my best guy~~Is Createology!! Yea!!
Congrats to our winner!! Please email your address with full name and your new treasures will be on the way to you promptly!! So excited to send you your giveaway gifts!

Thank you to everyone who entered, commented and became a follower for my Anniversary Giveaway. There were many entries to place in the hat and I appreciate each and everyone who continued to come by and visit even while I was on vacation and scheduled my posts. I always wish I could send a gift to everyone, but of course we know that is not possible. I have met so many special friends and look forward to catching up with my visits to you, now that I am attached to my laptop again. LOL!! It felt great to keep the laptop at home and really take a much needed break!

Our vacation days and anniversary were wonderful and I will share a bit of our trip soon. In the meantime, I am back in the studio and creating away for Fall, Christmas and everything in between.

While I was gone, a little purchase arrived from my dear friend Mariette's boutique. I ordered this darling little blue angel tote wonderfully created by an artist from Europe. An artist that Mariette has items from in her shoppe. The tote is going perfectly to the paws of my blue toile bunny to hold tiny books in my library. Oh how adorable it is and accents our room perfectly.

Visit Mariette HERE where you can be taken to her boutique and view the many gorgeous treasures she has from the U.S. and abroad.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and I hope it is cool somewhere. It is still triple digits here in Texas. The ground is so dry that many yards are cracked wide open.
It's so HOT even this little lizard is swinging on my welcome wind chime trying to catch a breeze!

Thank you again for your interest in my giveaway and your dear friendship. Your visits and comments are always welcomed! Have a great weekend!

See you next week for Tea Time as I have a few tea cups found on vacation to share and pics of our trip.

In the meantime, I'll be in the studio
"swingin paint brushes"
Blessings and Blue Skies be yours~

Painting Tea Time Treasures!

2011-08-15T20:00:00.002-04:00

Visit our gracious Hostess Sandi at Rose Chintz Cottage for more tea time participants.

Hello friends~ I am still away and enjoying my break time, but did not want to miss a Tea Time Tuesday, so I thought I would share some hand painted designs that are tea related. Treasures found and now living in cottages and loved by someone special.

I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying some cooler weather. It is certainly still HOT here and triple digits predicted all week.
Remember my giveaway and the drawing this Friday the 19th. You can still enter every time you comment or become a new follower till the drawing. Good Luck and thank you to all those already entered!

Now on with the tea pics from tea pots to trays, tea boxes and spoons, sugar spoons and wall decor. I found that I paint tea related treasures more then I realized. It really is one of my favorite themes to create.

Thank you for coming by for tea. I promise to make a special treat when I return!
See you soon!

For the Love of Creating! A visit of Pics~

2011-08-12T03:00:00.008-04:00

Thank you for stopping by. Your visits are always welcome and I hope, while here, you will take a moment and enter my August Anniversary Giveaway. Visit HERE to read all about it. Just gifting some little goodies in thanks and appreciation to all my blog friends over the last 4 years. You are all special!

While I am out of the studio for a few days, I thought I would share a visit in pictures. Creations and paintings from the past, some designed by me and others in studies with some of my favorite artists, but all hand painted by moi. All for the love of creating.

Thank you for the visit.
See you soon, have a great week and blessings to all,
XO Celestina Marie

Anniversary Memories!

2011-08-11T04:00:00.004-04:00

38th Wedding Anniversary! Thank you Friends Giveaway

2011-08-11T04:00:00.003-04:00

There is something very special about being married to your best friend for 38 years. Yes, 38 years! The time has flown by and my Dear Hubby, who I refer to as my Best Guy, and I have been on an amazing adventure. Through life's ups and downs we have endured with the help of our faith in God and much love. Our journey has taken us across the country to make our home many times, and with each new adventure we have learned more about the meaning of marriage, family and friendship.

We have seen each other through child raising, career paths, family sickness, death, and the daily routines that go along with sharing your life with that special someone. But it is here, that I must mention, my thanks for putting up with all the decorating!! My beloved has supported all my ideas in interior design with each and every home we have been blessed to own. And, the wonderful support of my business venture over the past 30 plus years. Painting and design in the decorative arts, late nights of working, lots of treasure hunting and all those quick dinners
without complaint. For all this and more, I am so thankful.

Of course my thanksgiving does not stop there. It is in my deepest and cherished thoughts, that I know, God gave me a special gift when he blessed me with this wonderful man. His talents are many, his dedication to family and friends incomparable and his love for the Lord all abiding! But it is when I see him kneel to pray, I fall in love all over again. So, to 38 years and counting, I dedicate this post to my sweetheart.
Our Wedding Day, August 11th 1973

Today, 2011

Thank you honey for 38 wondeful years. Happy Anniversary!
I Love You, Celestina Marie

Thank you for stopping by and a revisit to my anniversary post. The words still ring true and so I share them once again.
We are enjoying a few days off, so I will not be around to visit until my return to the studio. Till then, stay cool and many blessings be yours.

In honor of my anniversary and to say thank you to all my blogging friends for your friendship, visits and comments, I invite you to enter my giveaway by clicking HERE to read all about it. Any comment on any post since that one will be counted towards another entry. Any new following, will count too. The drawing from the pink cowgirl hat will be August 19th so Good Luck!
Thank you for the birthday wishes to my son and anniversary wishes to us.

Hugs from Texas, Celestina Marie

Happy Birthday Wishes!, Post Revisited~

2011-08-10T12:13:00.002-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISHES DEAR SON~

2011-08-10T05:00:00.007-04:00

Dear Son,
It is hard to believe the years have gone by so quickly, and today is your birthday. What a blessing you are to both your Dad and I.

The day was August 10th 1976 when I heard your first cry and counted your little fingers and toes. I was already in love with you before birth and meeting you in person was the greatest joy of my life.

From the time you were born, your wonderful ways taught us so much. Your constant staying power has lead you to great success in your life.
You have brought us joys untold and shown through your spirit your big heart and kindness in all situations.

I remember a time when you were a young teen. We went to lunch for a quick sandwich after school supply shopping. As we left the restaurant, you spotted a young mentally challenged boy trying to empty his tray. As we walked by you said, “hang on a minute mom” as I watched, you went over to the boy, helped him and then walked back over to me as we proceeded to leave. I knew then, you were very special and had a big heart, nearly the size of Texas.

Through the years you have always shown love of family. Ready to help in any way. I am forever grateful for the help you always gave when Grandma was sick. She loved you and your care in her last days were more help then you will ever know.
You have always come to my rescue too, like the time the hot water tank burst and water was spraying all over, the time when the frig broke down and the kitchen flooded with water from the ice maker, and when the long black snake was stretched out across the driveway and I feared it went in my studio. I could go on and on, but you know the times and for your love and support, I am deeply thankful.

You always amaze us with your knowledge and wealth of information. Your patience is something I admire about you so much. Oh we’ve had our growing pains through the years as a teen and so on, but you always showed great respect for your dad and I and held back comments or rolling your eyes when we weren’t so cool. I always knew when you were being nice, and love you for that. With each and every work related move through the years, you held your courage, even when I knew it was hard for you to leave your friends and start over in a new school. I don’t know if I could have been so strong. In fact, I know I could not.

Now at this time and place, as you face another birthday, I pray that God continue to bless your journey and the life he has created for you to follow. Stay true to who you are, never forget where you came from and where you are going with God’s direction.
Talk to God often and remember to listen for direction. Care with your heart, it will keep you humble and remember to show compassion for your fellow man. Give all that you can to those that need your help and grateful for all your blessings. And as Grandpa always said, “never let your wants, be greater then your needs.”

Enjoy your birthday to the fullest and know you are loved very much for the little boy you were, the wonderful grown son you are now and the blessing you will always be.

Love you, Mom

Remember my anniversary giveaway going on till the 19th for a comment entry on all posts or new following. Click HERE for the info.

See you soon when I return! Miss You!
Hugs, Celestina Marie

Enjoying a Chic Tea Time Tuesday & Anniversary Giveaway!

2011-08-08T15:00:00.013-04:00

Welcome Friends to another Tea Time Tuesday. Well, I hate to report, it is still HOT, HOT, HOT here and the triple digit temps are still hanging on. My poor flowers are reaching for the water that does not come from the skies, but rather my garden hose which is really getting a work out, along with the water meter that goes around like a Ferris wheel. LOL
Well, what does one do in a heat wave but serve tea~~~

Today our tea is in the dining room with a pretty tea cup given to me from my dear friend Ann of Ann's Finds. This cup is like a dainty mug in a black and white zebra design and topped with a gorgeous and detailed pink rose. I have teamed it up with a pretty black and white toile style saucer.

One of my favorite tea pots is this pretty white with gold trim. I have enjoyed it for 30 years and was a gift from my secret pal sister from church.

For a pretty back drop display, I have added another one of my favorite black and white plates. I only have two of these and always keep on the lookout for more.

Gingham napkin in a fan fold and tied with a pink ribbon is a nice accent and a special glass box with a pretty black and white chandelier on the lid holds our tea bag selection.

The scent of my beautiful Tyler Candle is rose and a nice addition to our visit. This candle was sent to me from my dear friend Mary who lives in Tyler, Texas and her blog is Crash and Smash.

Petite Roses fill this large toile mug with pink handle.

I so enjoyed having you today. It has been a relaxing break inside as the temps soar.
Thank God for the AC.

Please visit our gracious hostess, Sandi, of Rose Chintz Cottage, for many more participants for Tea Time Tuesday.

And, in case you did not see my last post, I have a Giveaway going on in honor of my wedding anniversary.
Visit HERE to read about it, but you can enter by commenting on any post till the drawing.
I will be on a little vacation, so I'll thank you in advance for stopping by and leaving any comments. I'll visit you when I return.

Good Luck!

Blessings to you,
Celestina Marie

GIVEAWAY TIME!!

2011-08-05T12:11:00.005-04:00

It's HOT, so let's have a Summer Giveaway for my August Anniversary.
I just love to have a giveaway and in honor of my up coming 38th wedding anniversary I have some special hand painted and created treasures just for you.

A pretty rose birdhouse ornament, rose spoon ornament and a fleur graphic and rose embellished decorative bottle. Plus, a few surprises I always add to my giveaways when they are shipped.

To enter this giveaway, Just leave a comment on this post and all following posts till the drawing August 19th. Follow along if you are new and that's it. Each comment and following will count towards your chance to win in the drawing.

Thank you for entering and Good Luck to all!
Hugs from Texas, Celestina Marie

Pretty in Blue, Tea For Two! Welcome August!

2011-08-01T19:01:00.001-04:00

Welcome HOT August! Yes we are triple digits for the 32nd day and counting with no end in sight. I was going to have tea outside this week, but it is just too hot. So inside we stay as the AC makes it perfect for a cup of tea and visit with friends.

Beautiful blue and white is always pretty and fresh. By now, anyone who has visited me very often, knows my love of blue and white, toiles of different colors and designs and vintage pieces to treasure.
Today's tea is set just for two with the company of my blue and white rooster tea pot.
To set our mood I display this gorgeous cross stitch handmade by my dear friend Stephanie of Angelic Accents. I have many pieces gifted in her beautiful and talented work and this one is surely cherished. Soft light yellow teapot and cup with blue heart all framed in a rustic blue barn wood frame. So Tuscan or Frenchy for my kitchen or dining room.
Displayed with a sweet little light blue and white teacup and saucer, pot of roses and a beautiful appliqued teapot towel and blue and white.

I love the phrase Stephanie cross stitched with the lovely tea set.

So with our pretty inspiration, I share our Tuesday Tea.

Tea today will be served using this sweet rooster tea pot in blue and white.

One of my favorite cups is this gorgeous Spode set.

Another is this pretty blue and white Elizabethan set.

Tea bags holders, in a blue and white design was a great find a few years ago from Pier 1 Import.

On a trip to Home Goods last year, I found these oval lunch plates with country village and roosters. They make the perfect plate for tea and cookies, lunch or snacks.

While treasure hunting, I found this darling porcelain, blue and white hinged teapot to hold tea bags or sugar packets.

Sugar cookies with vanilla icing and pink sugar glitter is our treat today. Served on a pretty blue and white plate.

Still very Hot outside, but tea indoors is comfy and cool. Thank you for coming to visit.
For many more wonderful Tuesday teas, visit Sandi from Rose Chintz Cottage. You are sure to see wonderful tea cups, accessories and collectibles.

"Never pray for an easier life, pray to be a stronger person. Never pray for tasks equal to your power, pray for power equal to your task,
then, doing your work will be no miracle.
You will be the miracle." Philip Brooks

Hugs from Texas,
Stay cool! Celestina Marie

Roosters for Tea Time Tuesday

2011-07-25T17:53:00.000-04:00

Welcome Friends to another Tea Time Tuesday. Today I want to share a darling rooster teapot and mug set I found a few years ago while treasure hunting.
Since I like to decorate my Tuscan/French style cottage with roosters, this little set was perfect for a touch of that style.

Made by Bay Island and perfect for times shared by two with coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

To share this set I have displayed it for you with two favorite rooster prints, a collectible hand painted rooster and a darling glass Fitz and Floyd favorite.

Today's treat is a little bowl of raspberry vanilla creme cookies. Delicious with raspberry tea.

Thank you for stopping by for a visit and tea today. Please visit our wonderful hostess Sandi of Rose Chintz Cottage for a list of the many participants and their gorgeous tea sets and accessories. I hope you can stop by again soon as my summer giveaway is coming for August. Till then~~have a wonderful Summer's Day.

Blessings to you from Texas, Celestina Marie

The Praying Hands

2011-07-24T09:13:00.009-04:00

Back in the fifteenth century, in a tiny village near Nuremberg, lived a family with eighteen children.

Eighteen~~ In order merely to keep food on the table for this mob, the father and head of the household, a goldsmith by profession, worked almost eighteen hours a day at his trade and any other paying chore he could find in the neighborhood.

Despite their seemingly hopeless condition, two of the elder children, Albrecht and Albert, had a dream. They both wanted to pursue their talent for art, but they knew full well that their father would never be financially able to send either of them to Nuremberg to study at the Academy.

After many long discussions at night in their crowded bed, the two boys finally worked out a pact. They would toss a coin. The loser would go down into the nearby mines and, with his earnings, support his brother while he attended the academy. Then, when that brother who won the toss completed his studies, in four years, he would support the other brother at the academy, either with sales of his artwork or, if necessary, also by laboring in the mines.

They tossed a coin on a Sunday morning after church. Albrecht Durer won the toss and went off to Nuremberg.

Albert went down into the dangerous mines and, for the next four years, financed his brother, whose work at the academy was almost an immediate sensation. Albrecht's etchings, his woodcuts, and his oils were far better than those of most of his professors, and by the time he graduated, he was beginning to earn considerable fees for his commissioned works.

When the young artist returned to his village, the Durer family held a festive dinner on their lawn to celebrate Albrecht's triumphant homecoming. After a long and memorable meal, punctuated with music and laughter, Albrecht rose from his honored position at the head of the table to drink a toast to his beloved brother for the years of sacrifice that had enabled Albrecht to fulfill his ambition. His closing words were, "And now, Albert, blessed brother of mine, now it is your turn.

Now you can go to Nuremberg to pursue your dream, and I will take care of you."

All heads turned in eager expectation to the far end of the table where Albert sat, tears streaming down his pale face, shaking his lowered head from side to side while he sobbed and repeated, over and over, "No...no...no...no."

Finally, Albert rose and wiped the tears from his cheeks. He glanced down the long table at the faces he loved, and then, holding his hands close to his right cheek, he said softly, "No, brother. I cannot go to Nuremberg. It is too late for me. Look...look what four years in the mines have done to my hands! The bones in every finger have been smashed at least once, and lately I have been suffering from arthritis so badly in my right hand that I cannot even hold a glass to return your toast, much less make delicate lines on parchment or canvas with a pen or a brush.

No, brother...for me it is too late."

More than 450 years have passed. By now, Albrecht Durer's hundreds of masterful portraits, pen and silver-point sketches, watercolors, charcoals, woodcuts, and copper engravings hang in every great museum in the world, but the odds are great that you, like most people, are familiar with only one of Albrecht Durer's works. More than merely being familiar with it, you very well may have a reproduction hanging in your home or office.

One day, to pay homage to Albert for all that he had sacrificed, Albrecht Durer painstakingly drew his brother's abused hands with palms together and thin fingers stretched skyward. He called his powerful drawing simply "Hands," but the entire world almost immediately opened their hearts to his great masterpiece and renamed his tribute of love "The Praying Hands."

The next time you see a copy of that touching creation, take a second look. Let it be your reminder, if you still need one, that no one - NO ONE - - ever makes it alone!

In my home we also own a beautiful praying hands sculpture made by my dear hubby in 1972. While in college, he prepared and cleaned, fired and hand painted this gorgeous ceramic bisque praying hands for my parents that Christmas. They loved it and enjoyed it to the day they left this world. Now we display it in our home here in Texas as a reminder, the power of prayer.

I received this wonderful story from a dear friend who is also a devoted and faithful prayer warrior. I thought it fitting to share it with you today. I hope you have enjoyed this bit of artistic history.
For more information of this incredible artist, visit HERE to read more and view Albrecht Durer's many works.

Have a special Sunday and blessings to you and yours.
Celestina Marie xo