Whimsy by Victoria

The best of 2011...

2011-12-28T16:46:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!! We enjoyed ours here in Colorado. There had been a few days before Christmas that brought snow and the cold, so it made it feel even more like Christmas here. I just love this time of the year and remembering the importance of what Christmas is truly about.

As I look forward to the New Year to come, it is always a great time to look back over this last year and reflect on what 2011 brought. I feel many of the goals I had set for this last year I was able to accomplish or to start on that path of getting to the goal I had set. Setting goals give's me a chance to try to attain them in a realistic way and if I don't get there before the end of the year, I can continue to work towards them.

I wanted to share with you all what I think was some of the best things that happened to me this year and posts I shared with you. I am really excited for what this New Year brings and some of the goals I would like to attain. I have something coming up that is a big change for me and my family and we are really happy about it. I can't share just yet, but very soon!! A new road on my journey and of course I will be bringing you all along. :)

I hope you will enjoy going back in time over this year and visiting some of my posts that I felt were the best of 2011...

Following your dreams...

Love of old books...

Smell the roses...

This very moment...

Victoria's secret recipes...

A Sunday game of chess...

Flirtatious...handbag and clutch

My Art Saves Story...

Enchanted 2011 Collection...

Victoria Hayden...

Creating Vintage Charm...

Vintage matelasse floral stockings...

I will be back in the New Year of 2012 with new designs for my shop, lots more decorating in my home and exciting things that will be happening in my business!! Thank you to all of you who stop by for a visit, leave sweet comments and have become my support as friends!! I appreciate you all so much and look forward to what this new year will bring!! I wish you all a very Happy New Year friends and many great blessings in this new year to come!!

Hugs and love,

Christmas Time...

2011-12-21T18:33:00.000-08:00

Hi friends!

I wanted to share the winner of the $50 gift certificate to spend with Mikarose clothing...the Random Generator picked lucky number 8!!! That's you Allison that said "I follow your lovely blog!" Yay!!! So happy for you! I hope you will love getting to shop with Mikarose!! I know I am happy to have found this wonderful company and definitely look forward to shopping with them too!!

There has been so much going on here between filling orders, designs, baking, shopping and wrapping that I really haven't had much time to decorate for Christmas. I decided to keep it very simple this year, so with that I don't have a lot to show you in pictures. I do however have this post from last year that shows some of the decorating I did here...I hope you will enjoy getting to see this again if you saw this last year or if it's the first time, I hope you will enjoy a little peek into our home for the holidays with a re-post...

So happy to get to share a little of Christmas decorating with you all this year. Last year we were just moving in and putting our floors in, I didn't get to decorate for the Christmas season at all.

We have been taking in the moments and savoring the beauty, warmth and comfort of our home at this Christmas time. Little by little it really is starting to look and feel like the home I had envisioned. I decided not to stress about projects that still need to be done in the house this month and instead focus my attention solely on the spirit of Christmas...it has been a nice change!

I have a tradition every year that I make something homemade and special for my family. Giving something from my heart and hands shows my family how much they mean to me. I too have fond memories as a kid being given handmade gifts that I have treasured...much more than things that were bought for me.

This year I decided to make some new stockings. As I pondered on what I wanted to do, I remembered some beautiful crocheted snowflakes my mother-in-law had made for me years ago. I thought, what better way to create something special than to incorporate something from her heart and hands, along with mine.

I let the family pick what snowflakes they liked and then sewed them on. Using burlap, linen and canvas...I had a neutral background for all of the beautiful and intricate snowflakes. I made the cuff of my stockings with a scallop edge from an old maltesse coverlet that used to be on my bed. They have added so much whimsy and beauty to our Christmas decor and fireplace...we all love them!

I feel lucky to have such a talented mother-in-law, who is always making wonderful creations for us from her heart. We love and treasure her!

Ready to share with you all what Christmas time looks like in our home...a little whimsy, touches of elegance, with a cottage feel...Welcome friends and enjoy!

Burlap and crocheted snowflakes...

Personalized letters...

Homemade stockings, made with love...

Hung with care...

In hope's that St. Nicholas will soon be here.

Hopefully no coal in mine!

Birdies and snow...

Vintage bottle brush trees...

Joy to the World!

Shiny ornaments...

A miniature nest under a cloche...

The splendor of the tree...

No two snowflakes alike...

Brilliant red berries...

A dove for Peace and it's pretty nest...

A hand carved wooden dove...

A sweet nest...

Pretty wrapped packages, ready for the tree...

No peeking...

Tree bathing in the light...

Still more room for presents!

Lot's and lots of pine cones...

Wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas from my home to yours!!

Thank you for stopping by and visiting!

Hugs and love to you all!

Mikarose Giveaway!!

2011-12-12T18:37:00.000-08:00

Hello friends!!

I hope your week is off to a great start! Can you believe we are only 2 weeks away from Christmas?! I feel like the days just blend and the weeks go faster...I have heard this comes with the older you get...does this mean I am there? ;)

How about starting your week out with a wonderful giveaway?!

I was recently contacted by the company Mikarose about doing a giveaway for my readers. When I went to look at their website I was very impressed at what I saw! They are a company that carries beautiful, quality clothing all done in a modest way! I am someone who believes in dressing modestly, so this really appealed to me. I found many dresses, skirts and other items that I now want to add to my wardrobe.

Another thing I loved about Mikarose...their prices!! They are moderately priced for such beautiful, quality clothing. That is always a bonus! I loved that they fit many sizes too. From xs to plus size they have something for everyone!

Here is what Mikarose shares about their company...

Mikarose is a clothing company that specializes in modest, elegant and fashionable dresses. Our company's idea evolved when the owners realized how difficult it was to find modest dresses in today's market. We are sure you have had similar experiences when looking for a modest dress. After many frustrating outings, we formed Mikarose. Our goal is to provide an extensive line of modest dresses, without having to sacrifice style. You will be able to wear our line to a broad range of functions: from everyday events to corporate parties. We hope to not only meet the needs of women looking for modest wear, but all those who are seeking elegant dresses.

Here are just a few things I found that I loved from their site...

I love this dress!!

The style is so flattering, but I have to admit I loved the name too...

Victoria (this is the winter version in slate)

Here is is again in black...

Another great thing about this dress? It's on clearance!!

This top is so pretty in this pink coral and

I love the attention to detail with the flowers!

Who doesn't love a great skirt?!

A a-line skirt that flatters any figure with a soft flowy bottom.

This is a beautiful wrap dress that also comes in stone, burnt red and plum...

Mikarose also carries pretty accessories...

There is so much more to see on their site! Mikarose is being very generous and giving one lucky winner a $50 gift certificate to shop with them!! Wouldn't that be great to add some new clothes to your closet?!

Here is how to enter...

Visit Mikarose, come back here and leave a comment on your favorite thing! It's that easy!!

Would you like to have additional entries?

Of course you would! ;)

Here are a few more ways to enter...

"Like" Mikarose and add them as a friend on Facebook and tell them I sent you!
Blog or FB with a link to this giveaway to share with your friends, don't forget to tell me here!
Follow along with me here or let me know if you do
"Like" me Victoria Hayden Designs on Facebook and say "Hi"

When you do each additional entry come back and comment that you did for each separate thing!! I will run the giveaway until Friday the 16th of December until 12am Pacific time! This giveaway is open to US and Canada residents only. A winner will be picked by using the Random Generator and winner will be announced on Saturday the 17th of December!

Good luck and I hope you enjoy visiting Mikarose!!

Hugs to you all!

Vintage matelasse' floral stockings...

2011-12-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to show you the stockings I have been working on...

I hope you will love them as much as I do.

I was happy to create these with some of my favorite fabrics by the amazingly talented Tanya Whelan. I paired the stockings with a beautiful vintage matelasse' fabric for the scalloped cuff. Then I added a ruffled gingham fabric (from the Darla collection by Tanya) made into a pretty rose, coordinated perfectly with the beautiful floral patterns on these pretty stockings. They are lined with a cream muslin that makes them nicely finished and durable for all the goodies that Santa will fill them with. Each stocking gets a big sparkly gold or silver glittered letter to add that extra special detail to make each one personalized. These are now available in my Etsy...

Personalized glittered gold or silver letter...

Vintage matelasse' floral stockings...

A pretty ruffled gingham rose...

Some of these stockings are limited in some of the fabrics, if you see something you love you might want to buy it now or it will be gone! These are all so pretty and will add a vintage, romantic and sweet look to any Christmas decor! A perfect gift to give filled or left for Santa to fill. You can visit my Etsy here.

I have another stocking design I will be back to share.

Have a great day friends!!

The Winners Are...

2011-12-05T13:41:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to pop in for a minute and announce the winners for the Creating Vintage Charm magazine! I received my copies over the weekend and I loved every page!! It was exciting to see my tutorials in print and I hope that you too will try some of the handmade gifts I shared. I just want to thank Sonia Crouse the editor of this amazing magazine for featuring my gift tutorials! I know she works hard to put this eye candy and articles together for all of us to enjoy!! Thank you Sonia!!

There is so many other beautiful things to see...make sure to buy your copy here!! I loved getting to read and look at the magical event, Once Upon A Dream hosted by the oh.so.talented Jennifer Hayslip! You will also see Natasha Burns (one of my favorite artists too!) share a whimsical tutorial on a Midsummer Mobile...it's beautiful!! So many other talented ladies and features...you will love it!

So...the 3 winners are...#11, #20, #29....that's Deborah@Fairfield House, Traci@It's My Life and Lori@Morning Glories and Moonflowers!!!! So happy for you ladies! I will be getting in touch with you for your mailing info. I hope you enjoy this beautiful magazine!!

I am hoping to share another post later today or tomorrow on some very pretty stockings I made that will be in my Etsy!! Be back soon!

I leave you with a little Christmas inspiration from my Pinterest board Christmas Time...

Have a wonderful Monday!!

Hugs,

Creating Vintage Charm...a Giveaway!!

2011-11-28T16:40:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving day and holiday!! I love this time of year...not just because there is so much great food, traditions and fun, but mainly because family and friends is always at the heart of what makes it such a special time of year. I am so grateful for my beautiful family and the joy they bring to my life. I am also grateful for each and everyone of you! Thank you for coming by for a little visit, you brighten my day with the sweet thoughts you leave me. :)

I told you last week I have lots to share over the next few weeks with you. Well today is one of the things I have been excited about! I recently had worked on some tutorial projects for handmade Christmas gifts that have now been published in the beautiful and inspirational magazine, Creating Vintage Charm! This really is a dream come true for me! I had fun putting the projects together, photographing it and writing the tutorial. I myself have not seen the issue, but I can't wait to see when it arrives in the mail!! To be included in such a beautiful magazine is a honor! There are so many talented artist and designers featured as well as lots of eye candy in every issue!

Here are some peeks at my Christmas gift tutorials...

Winter Meadow Cloche...

Stained Glass Silhouette Ornament...

Reversible Cutout Placemats...

There is so much more to see on these beautiful gifts, I hope you too will want to order a copy for yourself so you can make the sweet handmade gifts I shared! The great thing...today is Cyber Monday and Creating Vintage Charm is having 25% off their normal price, today only!! That is a great deal!! You can orders yours here.

Being that I am in this issue with 3 homemade gift tutorials, I thought I should share with all of you! This magazine is wonderful and I want you to have the chance to see for yourself why I love it!! So...I am giving 3 lucky readers a chance to win a copy for themselves!! Yes, 3 Winners!!

All you have to do is leave a comment for me if you are creating any homemade gifts this year! Easy!!

Want more entries to win?!

Follow along with me here, if you already do...just let me know! I would love to have you "like" my new page on FB Victoria Hayden Designs, Tweet, FB or Blog about this giveaway...each thing is an entry too! Visit Creating Vintage Charm's FB page and "like" them too! Make sure to comment on each thing you do in separate comments for each one to count!

Giveaway closes on Friday December 2nd, 2011 by midnight Pacific time! I will announce the winners on Saturday December 3rd, 2011!! Good luck!

Have a wonderful start to your week friends!!

SALE!! Vintage French Cutwork Embroidery Pillows...

2011-11-19T15:52:00.000-08:00

Hello to you all!!

Things always get so busy this time of year as I am sure you all can relate! I have had many projects going on and am looking forward to getting to share some of them in the coming weeks with you all.

I wanted to let you all know of the SALE I have going on in my Etsy! I just marked all my items in my boutique down 30%!!

Just in time for Christmas shopping!

Every item you buy with me comes beautifully wrapped with a special "pocket of love" added as well! You won't even have to worry about the wrapping...each gift personalized and the work already done for your loved one's!! Here is just an example of an order I just mailed...

A pocket of love...

Personalized glittered initial...

A sweet little nosegay...

Pretty details....

Brown paper all packaged up...

Each one is done differently in colors and unique for each gift. I'm happy to take requests on colors too!

The beautiful vintage cutwork(60 years old) embroidery paneled( from France)pillows, are some of my favorite in my shop. These are one of a kind pillows with unique details on each one. I love the contrast that the osnaburg and linen fabric give with the sheer detailed panels. These too are marked down from $45 to now $35!! The perfect pillow for that someone special who loves vintage, french and wants to add a touch of elegance to any room.

Here are some of my favorites...

Vintage French cutwork embroidery pillow w/white fleur garden design

Vintage French cutwork embroidery pillow w/cream medallion and scalloped design

Vintage French cutwork embroidery pillow w/cream and big floral design

Vintage French cutwork embroidery w/cream and fleur medallion design

Vintage French cutwork embroidery pillow w/cream and whimsy floral design

Would love to have your visit and would be grateful for you to keep me in mind for some of your Holiday shopping!!

Before I go I just wanted to share just some of the things I have been up to...

Working on a memory quilt for my Grandma who turned 80 this week!! Such a big celebration in life! I couldn't be where she lives to celebrate with her, so I wanted to make something for her that would let her know how much I love her. I will be sharing step by step my work for this, so maybe you too might want to make one for your loved ones as well.
I hosted a very fun Hot Tamale night for the sisters in my ward at our church. I shared my love of growing up in the Four Corners of New Mexico and the food I have loved for so many years. One of our family’s traditions is eating posole and tamales on Christmas Eve. We had a big tamalada or tamal (as it's called) party so they too can now share in this tradition with their own families. I too will be sharing the yummy recipes and step by step instruction on how to make tamales...don't miss that post if you would like to know as well!! :)
A GIVEAWAY for next week you all are going to love... :)
I worked on something I am VERY EXCITED about sharing...have to wait for the reveal and then can share with all of you!! I had a lot of fun creating and one of my dreams coming true...
Orders for my boutique and new shop goodies...very soon I will share!

So as you can see...staying busy here!! I hope all is well with you and your family's!!

Be back soon!!

Hugs and love,

Season of change...

2011-10-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Have you all been enjoying the wonderful change in the season? It definitely feels like fall here in Colorado. Beautiful colors on the trees, leaves falling and piling up and the brisk coolness in the air. I love Fall time! The time of year that for me, makes me want to be in my cozy, warm home and in the kitchen cooking more...great for my family...not so good for my waistline! ;)

Just as the seasons change, there is change going on here as well...

I mentioned this summer I had some changes coming. Well I finally have had a few days to work on that change. One of those...my new blog look...I hope you all like it! My blog now will also be called~Victoria Hayden...just me, living my life creatively and sharing it with all of you. To reassure many of you who love whimsy...still lots to be found here. I can't live without having a little whimsy in my life...so, no worries. :)

My new blog address will be up soon, re-directing traffic... once I get it all figured out. I am excited for this change and all that lies ahead. I look forward to continuing on this journey and sharing whats ahead with all of you...my sweet friends!

Now that my collection Enchanted has been revealed and my Etsy is open...I feel I can breathe a little easier again! I have been working on some more designs that I hope you all will love and finding some vintage goodies to add soon into my boutique. I will post when I do. I am really excited to keep adding all the things I want to have in my Etsy and I hope you will find things you love too! I will say that the designs I am working on now are beautiful with rich colors. I love how pops of color can add warmth and interest to a room.

I of course can't share a post without some eye candy, so here are some of my favorite fall pictures from my Pinterest board harvest happiness...

This makes you wish you were there and walking down this road...

A great idea...crocheted pumpkin!

Vintage turquoise pickup love!!

A book to read by the fire and a leaf pressed as a bookmark...

I adore Cinderella pumpkins...my favorite!!

I hope your week is off to a great start and getting to enjoy the

change of season wherever you might live!!

Thanks for stopping by for a visit...be back soon with shop goodies.

Hugs and love,

Victoria Hayden...

2011-10-10T15:28:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a great weekend! Some of my kiddos had a 4 day weekend, which made it nice to not have the rush for those days.

The response to my collection Enchanted has been overwhelming and heartwarming!! Thank you to everyone who has left a sweet message, shared, liked me, viewed my lookbook and visited my Etsy!! Your support means so much and I am grateful!! :)

Over the next few months there will be many things added into my boutique. I am busy again working on some new designs for Fall, refurbishing furniture, upholstery and slipcovers. Along with all this, I will also be adding vintage finds too! As new things are added, I will be updating here so you all know. I am really excited to see where my new endeavor is headed and how it will be even a year from now!

If for some reason you have missed all that has been going on here, I thought I would share some of the pictures in my collection that you can also find in my Etsy....

Osnaburg table runner with crochet trim~$40

Ruched osnaburg pillow cover~$35

Osnaburg crochet trim/vintage buttons pillow cover~$35

Vintage ruffle osnaburg pillow cover~$35

Romantic floral embroidery pillow~$48

Delicate bamboo pink beads...

Whimsical dimensional beaded flower slipcover~$45

Vintage French cutwork embroidery pillow~$58

More one of a kind french vintage pillows in my boutique...

I hope you enjoyed seeing some of what's in my Etsy! I wanted to let you know that I also have a 10% coupon code using OPEN1011 at checkout for your entire order for the month of October!!

So before I go I need to share the winner of the $150 credit to use in my Etsy Victoria Hayden...

The winner is #44!!!

Susan@Hometown Girl...

"Victoria everything is just lovely.Congratulations!

I wish you much success. I LOVE the table runner it is perfect!

xo Susan

So happy for you Susan!!! I will send you an e-mail!!

Thank you to all who entered and your support!! I will have many more giveaways for my boutique as I go! Have a great week and will be back to share more soon!

Hugs and love,

Enchanted 2011 collection and giveaway...

2011-09-30T17:15:00.000-07:00

Finally, finally, finally...can you see I am excited!?

Why am I so excited?!

I finally get to share my collection with you all!!

It has taken a lot more than I anticipated and I have learned a lot, but I will save that for another post.

Today I get to share my collection...

I hope you will be able to see how much love, time and energy I put into this. From the designs, creating, styling, photography, writing, editing...lot's of editing...yes, it has been a lot of work! It all has been worth it though! I am grateful that my husband and children have supported me in my journey...I couldn't have done it without their understanding and support...I love them!! I also want to thank my daughter for being my amazing model in my story...I so blessed to be her mother. For all my friends who have encouraged and shared in my excitement...thank you from the bottom of my heart!!

There is still so much more to come, but here I am at the beginning and I couldn't be more happy!!

Well...maybe you should just take a look yourself and let me know what you think? I hope you love my collection as much as I do...

*Just click on the lookbook to view*

To start this weekend off right and because I am so happy to finally get to share my collection with you all, I am doing a giveaway!! I will give one lucky winner a $150.00 to spend in my new Etsy boutique Victoria Hayden for anything they want to spend it on!!

How to enter? Simple...just leave your comment here after you have visited my lookbook and boutique and tell me what you think! If you want to share my collection with your friends, family and everyone...I would be honored!! Just come back and leave a comment for each way you shared...FB, Twitter, or Blog. I will pick a winner next Friday, October 7th 2011 by 12am Pacific time.

Over the next few months look for more new designs, drapery, upholstery, bedding, refurbished furniture and vintage finds. I am already back to work on all of these things. I will be adding as I go! Thank you again sweet friends for being so patient and all of your support...it means so much!!

Hugs and love,

*This giveaway is now closed*
Thank you to all who entered...winner will be announced Monday!

My Art Saves Story...

2011-09-07T09:54:00.000-07:00

Hi friends!

I just wanted to pop in real quick and let you know I was asked to be a Guest Curator by Jenny Doh, on her blog CRESCENDOh and share my Art Saves Story. I am very honored to be among the many and oh.so.talented artist/designers that are showcased on this amazing blog! My story is from my heart and recalling some of the memories in my life, really made me reflect why art has been such an importance to me. I would love for you to stop by for a visit and to read about my journey how art has been in many ways my constant safe and happy place.

I was also asked to share some of my favorite blogs and a post that I loved as well. Two blogs and their post change daily that are featured alongside my story for the next 7 days. You can check the daily archives to see which of these blogs were shown on what day. I would like to again mention them here and their links so if you missed them you can visit them too. I have added my thoughts on why I love visiting these blogs as well. So in no particular order of favorites, here they are....

The Vintage Wren

2. A rosy ring…http://thevintagewren.blogspot.com/2010/10/rosey-ring.html…Carrie can capture a photo in the most beautiful way. She is very talented in so many creative ways and has recently started sharing her artwork in watercolor. You always feel welcomed and inspired!

Burlap and Luxe

3. Beauty in the imperfections…http://burlapluxe.blogspot.com/2010/09/beauty-in-imperfections.html…I love this blog for its serene, peaceful feeling and inspired European designs. Dore is a trompe l'oeil and faux painting artist. By recycling and restyling forgotten pieces she brings them back to their full beauty.

Frugal Farmhouse Design

4. Pink…http://frugalfarmhousedesign.blogspot.com/2010/01/pink.html…This post spoke to me of trusting your instinct’s over others opinions! Lori shares great tips, budget ideas, with fresh, simple and modern design.

Full Bloom Cottage

5. Buy what you love…it always works out in the end…

http://fullbloomcottage.blogspot.com/2010/08/buy-what-you-love-it-always-works-out.html…I could get lost in this blog for hours. Loretta uses sumptuous vintage fabrics in her linens collection and gorgeous French antique furniture.

Divas and Dreams

6. Ten ways to boost your creativity…http://www.divasanddreamsblog.com/2010/08/10-ways-to-boost-your-creativity.html…This photography blog is filled with beautiful eye candy, lessons in photography and so much inspiration. Christina is not only an amazing photographer, but she gives great insight to the everyday as a life coach too!

Canadian Cottage

7. Thoughts on making ordinary things pretty…http://canadiancottage.blogspot.com/2010/04/thoughts-on-making-ordinary-things.html…I love this blog! The very sweet Janice and her handyman husband share their families journey as they renovate on their House of Dreams. Using lots of creativity, attention to detail, pretty cottage style all on a small budget… very inspiring!

Tinkered Treasures

8. Faux sew sewing jar…http://tinkeredtreasures.blogspot.com/2011/03/faux-sew-sewing-jar.html...Elyse shares diy projects for her pretty cottage, her love of oilcloth and charming tinkered treasures. A happy place to be!

The Twice Remembered Cottage

9. Dollhouse cottage kitchen…http://twiceremembered.blogspot.com/2010/09/dollhouse-cottage-kitchen-snapshots.html…Since my first visit here, I am in awe and admire Kim’s creativity and attention to the tiniest detail! She shares vintage style, love of the color red and quaint cottage charm!

Cinderella Moments

10 The artist cottage dollhouse…http://shopcinderellamoments.blogspot.com/2011/04/artists-cottage-dollhouse_09.html... Artist, Caroline Dupuis creates romantic, shabby chic and French inspired miniature cottages. Taking the ordinary she adds a magical twinkle that creates pure whimsical delight!

Lulu and Co.

11 Life…http://www.luluandcompany.net/2011/03/life.html…Art comes in many forms and Lulu has a way with poetic words. Wanting to hang onto her every sentence, you will be captivated as she shares about her life, family and love of design.

Hometown Girl

12 The Reveal ~A winter party…http://hometowngirl.typepad.com/hometown_girl/2010/01/the-reveal.html…The talented artist and photographer, Susan Duane shares her simple.handmade.life with love in every post!

Na.Da.Farm Life with Anne Marie

13 7 days to a better me…http://nadafarmlife.blogspot.com/2011/04/7-days-to-better-me.html…Anne Marie lives her life with simplicity and shares in the joy of doing so. With the love for her beautiful family, strong testimony in her faith and joy in creating she inspires in so many ways!

Air Kiss

14 Peonies and a vintage ladder…http://www.larasheleheda.com/2011/05/peonies-and-my-vintage-ladder.html…You will see why the name “Air Kiss” fits this blog perfectly. Photographer and stylist, Lara Sheleheda captures that light and airy feeling in her beautiful styling and photos.

Bluebird Notes

Mending my mindset…http://bluebirdnotes.blogspot.com/2011/03/mending-my-mindset.html…Full of whimsy and her favorite colors: red, blue and pink there is lots of inspiration you will find in Koralee’s simple posts and beautiful photography!

Again I just want to say how honored I am to be a guest on CRESCENDOh and thank you Jenny Doh for letting me share my story!!

I wanted to let you know that I am behind the scenes right now trying to work through some technical computer issues so that I can share my collection and Etsy. I know my week turned into 2...bare with me, hopefully will be showing in the next 2 days!!

Hugs to you all!!

Flirtatious...handbag and clutch

2011-08-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

I'm still here...

really.

Sorry for my absence...

life has been really busy here the last month.

A sweet 16 birthday for our oldest,

back to school with 5 kids,

and an exciting event coming up...

I Finally get to share my design collection with you all next week!!

Can I just say how excited, relieved and happy I am that I can let you all

see what I have been working so hard on?!

One thing I have learned over the last several months...

my studio and home have to be put together before I will do another collection!

Just too hard to balance a big family, life, remodeling and designing.

I am a person who functions on order and the last 2 years of my life have definitely not been that!

So, for now I am happy to be opening my Etsy next week and sharing my first design collection.

I have many dreams and thoughts about what is in the future...

but for now I feel satisfied and happy to just have these designs out of my head!

I decided to share a new handbag design with you all today...

however it will not be available to buy until next week when my Etsy opens.

I am so in love with how this turned out!

I also have been blessed to have a great model to photograph it with...

my beautiful daughter Brittany!

Here is my new handbag and clutch design...

"Flirtatious"

So...

What do you think?!

I will give lots more detail on this bag when my Etsy opens next week!

Can't wait to share the rest...

Happy weekend to you all!!

Inspiring others...

2011-08-01T18:32:00.000-07:00

Hi friends!

I hope it has been a good Monday for you all.

My sofa from "Her Beauty Revealed..."

A few weeks ago I received a very sweet e-mail from a reader who wanted to share with me some projects she had finished. As I read her e-mail it brought a lot of joy to my heart. One of my posts that I shared with all of you a year ago on my sofa transformation, had given her inspiration and motivation for her to finish some projects as well. Here is here sweet e-mail she shared with me...

" Hi Victoria,
I just wanted to tell you that I came across your blog some time ago and have really enjoyed it! I am older than you and have lost some of my motivation in repainting, re-papering and re-purposing... :) I have two chairs I bought at a resell shop and when I saw your BEAUTIFUL sofa, I got busy. I had some upholstery remnants I bought for $5 for 6 yards and I painted the chairs and distressed them and took them and an old rocker, that I bought many years ago at an auction, to be upholstered. The chairs are now white, upholstered in a latte quilted fabric. $5 covered both chairs. The rocker was upholstered, (for the 3rd time since I've had it.) in a damask cream and off white velvet. (see attached.)

I just wrote to Thank You for your inspiring blog. Keep doing what you do so well."

Her words just really warmed my heart. The one thing I hope to do here on my li'l blog is inspire others! I love when I have helped a friend or someone that I haven't even met in person to realize their own potential in being creative, needing a little motivation, or that they too can do a project that might seem too big.

As women taking on a project that might seem a little challenging or big, can feel very intimidating at times. We might worry that "what if we mess it up, how do I know I will like it when it's done, or maybe I can't do this" can all be real thoughts and feelings that can hinder us from really finding the potential of what we are capable of doing. When we let go of these worries and put ourselves out there to try something new, it can be the most rewarding feeling to step back and say..."I did that!" I can attest to how incredible that can feel even at moments when I wasn't really sure if I could do it.

When I saw the pictures that came attached with the e-mail I was smiling! Her chairs and rocker turned out amazing!! Not only did they look great, but she found a great deal on gorgeous fabric too! You can't beat that!! :) Here are her beautiful photos she sent me for her chairs and rocker...

Love the distressed white and latte quilted fabric...beautiful!

I adore the style of these chairs too!!

Gorgeous wood and loving the damask cream and off white velvet fabric she used!!

I just want all you to know, it does bring me great joy in being able to inspire you, but when you share your projects and words with me, you inspire me as well!! Thank you sweet friend for sharing this project with me and letting me share with my readers. :)

Something else that put a smile on my face a few weeks ago...

I won a giveaway! Really!! I rarely win anything, so it was a very nice surprise!! I won this beautiful antiqued brass perfume compact from The Alchemist's Heart...

*Photo permission from The Alchemists Heart

The scent can change out and they are natural botanical scents.

I picked the vanilla bourbon...a very soft and sensual scent.

I have to find the perfect chain, but I can wear this as a necklace locket too.

Isn't it so pretty!?

Here is a little information about the owner Darlene of The Alchemists Heart...

I 'm an aromatic artist and photographer and have always loved anything that connects me to nature and all that God has created. I find peace in trying to live a natural, back- to -basics life style and receive great joy working with natural aromatic essences.

An alchemists at heart, I've been blending my own compositions for over 15 years. My greatest joy has been sharing it with others.

There are so many other beautiful things in this shop. If you have not had a visit there, it's a must! You can visit her Etsy here or show her some love and like The Alchemists Heart! Tell her I sent you. ;)

One more thing before I go... I have the winner of my Anthropologie goodies giveaway!! I don't know about you, but when ever I put the number of entries into the Random Number Generator, I always feel butterflies to see what number is going to pop up when you click generate. I get excited for the winner! The lucky winner of this giveaway is...#32!!!! That is SueAnn@SueAnn's Journey!!! So happy for you!! I will be getting in touch with you to get your address so these goodies can be on their way!!

Thank you all who entered! I love reading your comments and appreciated your visit! I do have lots more giveaways coming up...very soon again in fact...stay tuned!! ;)

Wishing you all a great start to your week!

Hugs,

Anthropologie goodies giveaway!!

2011-07-27T16:16:00.000-07:00

How about a little giveaway to finish off your week?

What would you say if I told you it was an Anthropologie giveaway?!

Love??!!

I found a few goodies upon my very first shopping trip to Anthropologie a few weeks ago. Yes, I said "my very first"...I know, shock! I have never lived close enough to be able to visit this amazing, creative piece of heaven. *sigh* I finally do live close enough to one, so I enjoyed every little moment of my first experience. Looking in every nook and cranny, making sure I left nothing un-turned or over looked. Many things I found and wanted to take home with me, but sometimes that sticker shock! oops, I mean... pretty.little.price.tag deterred me. I definitely am a budget, coupon, and sale kind of girl. I did however find a few goodies that I felt were in my perfect budget price. As I was savoring my shopping, I had an inspiring thought. My readers...yes, you all came to mind. My amazing readers...how about I show my appreciation and love to you all and do a little giveaway?! Are you game?

Well if you are, let me share the goodies....

Anthropologie goodies...

*Books and spoon not included*

How beautiful is this cup?!! I want a collection of these!

The perfect cup of whimsy to start your day off...

This soap smells so good, the scent is called milk...such cute candy packaging!

*sorry, jewelry not included*

I love this pretty green lidded jar.

It would be great for jewelry, candy, seashells...anything your heart desires.

Love this sweet Lovebird notepad...

These blue-green glass (4) knobs are the perfect jewelry for any furniture...

So...these aren't from Anthropologie, but they have that feel.

Two beautiful patterned plates you can eat off of or use them decoratively..

So...do you love it?!!

Are you ready to win?!!

All you have to do to enter, just leave me a comment sharing any of your shopping trips or finds from Anthropologie, whether online or in person. Do you love this store as much as I do?!

A few ways to have some more entries...

Share with your friends by blogging this, tweeting or Facebook

this giveaway and leave a second comment with a link.

You can visit my Facebook page Whimsy by Victoria and Like me...awe, feeling the love! :)

If you already do just let me know too.

If you follow on this journey here with me that is another entry!

Thank you all for being such great supporting readers and friends!!

This giveaway will close on Sunday, July 31st at 12 a.m. Pacific time!

I will announce the winner on Monday August 1st 2011!!

Hugs to you all and good luck!!

A Sunday game of chess...

2011-07-17T17:18:00.000-07:00

It's moments like these that I treasure and want to store in my memory forever.

Li'l Bug and Dad playing a Sunday game of chess.

I viewed from a distance, not wanting to interrupt their concentration.

Feeling gratitude for the milestones that have been made with our youngest.

Sitting with Dad, playing a game and interacting while concentrating.
If I haven't shared before, Li'l Bug has Autism.

A year ago, he would have wanted Dad to sit beside him and only play when he told him to...

today, he was trying to understand the game and playing with Dad.

Seeing this warmed my heart and made me smile.

A wonderful way to spend some quality time together on a Sunday afternoon.

I love this family of mine...I feel so blessed.

I hope you too are enjoying your beautiful Sunday day.

Hugs and blessings,

Crushing on lace and crochet...

2011-07-05T18:55:00.000-07:00

How was everyone's 4th of July?! We kept it simple here. Made some ribs on the grill, our fireworks consisted of snappers and poppers being that Colorado Springs is on a firework ban because of how dry it is here. Although, that still didn't seem to stop others, so we did get to see some bigger fireworks in the sky. We finished our evening as a family with root beer floats. A perfect way to spend our day and evening celebrating our great country!

I have had to re-focus my attention recently from my line and back onto my home. We have my daughters best friend coming in this weekend to stay a week. Once she leaves we have our son R with us for 6 weeks from Texas. We always feel like our family is complete once he is back with us. I also am working on a big b-day party for our daughter. She is turning 16!! The big sweet 16 party...but we are keeping it small with about 25 friends and adding lot's of creativity. I will be sharing more on that soon. So, as I was saying back to work on the house. Finishing some projects in the kitchen that have been procrastinated on for at least the last year. I finally am sewing curtains for the kitchen dining area and living room...so excited to share how they will look when I am done. :)

The changes I am working on here with my blog are also on a temporary hold until I can give it a little more time to finish it. Sometimes I wish I could duplicate myself to do all the things I need to do in a day...anyone with me?! lol I just thought I would take a moment to pop in and share a recent ~~obsession~~ love of mine, lace and crochet!!

Here are some things I have been crushing on as of late. You can find all these images on my Pinterest board, Lace and Crochet...oh my!

I would love to have a crocheted piece like this...

What a breathtaking dress!

I am wanting to learn to crochet just to make a pin like this!

A beautiful lace table cloth...

A girly, delicate crocheted and lace shirt peeking out from under a jacket...

So wanting to try these doily cookies!

A sweet and pretty crocheted doily curtain...

Adding a little whimsy with this crocheted vase...

It would be divine to walk down these stairs everyday! *sigh*

Love all of it!!

I don't think my husband will mind that I have a crush on lace and crochet either. ;)

Have a great week friends!

Lots of hugs to you!!

Victoria's secret recipes...

2011-06-23T03:13:00.000-07:00

Hello friends!

I hope all is well with everyone. It has been a little less eventful since my last post..."Our Dennis the Menace"...whew, thank goodness! lol I appreciate everyone who commented and shared your well wishes, thank you. E is doing much better and his cut seems to be mending well.

For those that have been wondering when I will reveal my summer line, I haven't forgotten just have some things changing here and I am trying to get it all in order before I can share. Sorry it has been such a wait, but I hope you all will think it was worth it! ;)

One of the changes that I am excited to tell you about, I am starting to share recipes here. Not just any recipes, but my secret recipes. :) Those that know me well can tell you, as much as I love to create in my home, I love to be in the kitchen and cooking too! It brings me great joy to share things I bake, cook or make in my kitchen with those I know and even those I don't. I love to feed people and I always add a little love into everything I make. ;)

Some of my recipes are ones that have been passed down, given to me by friends/family, my own creations, recipe books I treasure and of course my favorite recipes I have come by over the years.

Today, I am going to share a recipe that I have had for over the last 18 years. I am not even sure where I found it, I just know I wrote it down and it is one of my favorite's!

So, for my first Victoria's secret recipe I will be sharing...my very yummy banana bread. It is so moist and good, one of the best banana breads I have ever tasted! It's the perfect recipe for when you have lots of ripened bananas and you don't want to throw them out...

Here are the ingredients you will need...

2 ½ cups of sugar
¾ cup of applesauce
¼ cup of canola oil
6 ripe bananas
* ½ cup of buttermilk
2 teaspoons of baking soda
4 eggs separated
2 teaspoons of vanilla
3 cups of all-purpose flour
2 cups of chopped walnuts (optional)
*I don't always have buttermilk on hand, so I am substituting the buttermilk with a 1/2 cup of milk mixed with 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar; let sit 5 minutes before using

In a large mixing bowl add your bananas...

Mash them together...

Now add the sugar...

Then mix your applesauce and oil in a liquid measuring cup, next...

* You can use 1 cup of canola oil, but I use the applesauce and 1/4 cup of oil to cut down on the fat. I use applesauce in place of oil on a lot of my baking...you can't tell the difference and I think it's more moist!

Separate the eggs. Yolks in one bowl and egg whites in the mixer...

Now add your egg yolks to the batter and with a mixing spoon stir it all together by hand...

Whip the egg whites on high until stiff peaks form...

Wait to add the egg whites till the end.

*Tip when using baking soda in a recipe, pour some into a

bowl then scoop with your measuring spoons and level.

Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the buttermilk,

use a large liquid measuring cup as it will rise when the soda is added.

Alternate between your buttermilk/soda mixture and flour as you mix...

Once mixed add your vanilla...

*Note use a large mixing bowl, unlike me who started off with a medium bowl. ;)

And chopped nuts if you like...

Once stirred now it's time to add those fluffy egg whites...

Fold in gently...

Now it's ready for the bread pans. Fill *greased and parchment lined pans 3/4 ways full. This will make 2 large loafs, or you can do like I did (I am not sure what happened to my other large loaf pan?) and use a smaller loaf pan. I still had enough to do some big muffins. :)

*I use parchment paper on the bottom of the pans and a spray oil like PAM for the sides to keep from sticking.

Bake in a pre-heated 350 degree oven in the middle for about 30 minutes or until center comes clean when you insert a toothpick. The top should be nicely browned and risen. I brush with melted butter over the top when it first comes out of the oven and then cool on wire racks. Once cooled invert onto a cutting board and slice. So moist, with a crusty outside...it is so yummy!! If you don't have a large family to feed like I do, you can always share with a friend or even freeze a loaf for later. :)

Enjoy with a little pat of butter and a cold glass of milk!

I hope you try this at home, please share with me if you do. Would love to know if you like it. I will be trying to post recipes here more often. I am hoping to share the change I have going on here in the next several days. Back to work I go! ;)

Hugs to you all,

shabby apple giveaway...again!!

2011-06-13T17:39:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone's summer is off to a great start so far! I have been enjoying the sleeping in and not having to be on an exact schedule. I know however by August, I will be tired of hearing "I'm bored" and ready for the kids to go back to school! :) For now though, I am just enjoying listening to the kids ~~fight~~ play nicely together and the lazy days of summer.

I am happy to once again be sharing a shabby apple giveaway with you all!! Who doesn't need a new summer dress?! I for one, love wearing dresses in the summer and shabby apple has so many great styles to choose from. I especially like their new summer line Set Sail !! So many cute styles, colors and patterns to choose from.

From the collection "Set Sail" ~ Overboard

This is just one of the beautiful and fun women's dresses you will find at shabby apple! They carry a variety of vintage inspired styles for everyone! They have everything from dresses, girls dresses, maternity, bridesmaid, plus sizes and so much more!!

A playful and pretty aquamarine swimsuit~Costa

The Rosso dress can take you from the beach to ballet and back again!

shabby apple carries beautiful accessories and jewelry as well, like this Genoa ring!

Needing a perfect white dress?

You will find this dress Freshwater Pearl under the "white" category.

With their Fit Guide you will also have a great way to find the perfect size for you! Shabby apple carries modest, beautiful, and vintage inspired styles that you will love! Are you ready to start shopping?!

Well, before you go...shabby apple is giving one of my lucky readers a chance to win a beautiful dress!!! You get the option to pick your favorite from these 3 dresses...

Choice #1

This hollywood starlet inspired-summer frock the Ahoy! has a beautiful carribean-cool turquoise color!

Choice #2

The San Gabriel dress in light grey cotton poplin, a playful air of femininity!

Choice #3

A Crisp cotton poplin that is tailored into a classic silhouette with a slightly fuller

skirt and higher neckline—prefect for the modest modern woman.

A beautiful red dress always say's summer to me!

You will make a statement in this dress Duck Beach a cherry red shirt dress!

A classic style with a fun sash! If cherry red is not your color, than you can pick the apple green instead!

So there are your choices to choose from if you win!! Shabby apple is also offering my readers a 10% off coupon on their entire order for the next 30 days!! All you have to do is put in the code "whimsy10off" at checkout! So have fun shopping!!

Here is all you have to do to enter to win...

Go to shabby apple's FB page and "like" them! So easy!! Please let them know I sent you and come back here and tell me you did.

Here are a few more ways to win!

1. Blog this

2. Tweet this

3. FB this...don't forget to link back here!

4. If you follow me or let me know if you now are.

5 ways to win to enter! This giveaway starts today Monday June 13th, 2011 and ends Thursday June 16th, 2011. Winner will be posted on Friday June 17th, 2011! You must have a US shipping address and there will be no exchanges for the winning dress. I wish you all luck!!

Have a great week friends!! I wanted to let you all know how much I love hearing from you and enjoy your visits...thank you!! There is also some new changes that will be happening here soon...I will share more as they are closer. :) Hugs to you!!

Thank you to all who entered! This giveaway is now closed!

Gold elegance...

2011-06-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

I have always loved gold. Not only because it is one of the most precious metals, but because of the beautiful, elegant, warm and rich feel it can bring to anything.

Over the years I had found myself using more silver in my decor and jewelry. Even though I love silver as well, gold still always has my heart. I seem to be drawn to using less silver again and more gold. When I say "more" gold, I am not talking about everything done in, over the top and too shiny gold. That just is not my style. I am talking about a matted, antiqued gold with a beautiful patina. I love to see some gold elements in any room.

Being that I am using a lot of cool tones such as grey blues, whites, and soft pinks, gold tones just add warmth to the room. As I just shared with you in my post "Butterflies & ballet slipper pink" the gold mirror I hung above the hutch looks so pretty with the soft cool tones of the room. However, I have decided differently on the mirror since my post. I love the gold in the mirror, but think the mirror is too heavy for the piece it is hung over. I have now added a different mirror you can see here on my Facebook page. I will share more on the updates soon.

So, how have I decided to still add the elegant, warm gold in to this room that I love? Through all the accessories such as picture frames with other touches here and there.

I thought I would share some beautiful ways to add gold into a room without overdoing it. Remember you can over do anything with too much of a good thing! ;) Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate gold elegance into your home....

Seriously inspired to do a piece like this in my house. I found a french sofa and chair

that I need to re-upholster and thinking I might do it with a gold frame and pink fabric...

Love the mirror in this room! Just enough gold to warm it up with the blue...

The gold mirror adds the refined and elegant feel this room needs with all the vibrant, playful colors.

Bringing gold in helps to keep this room from being to cool and having some warmth...

I love this room and all the textures, patterns and colors with the gold tones...

The room is calming and simple with a touch of elegance from the gold mirror...

This room definitely exudes whimsy, vintage and gold elegance!

Ornate and beautiful gold mirrors grouped together...

O.k. so this is a little over the top for me, but I can appreciate the beauty of the tub!

Love the farm house feel with a pop of gold and unexpected mirror in the kitchen...

Designer Annette Tatum uses gold in her rooms perfectly! I love everything about this room!!

Here is another version of it with some things changed, but still touches of gold...

Well I hope this brings some inspiration for using gold if you haven't already done so in your own decor. I would love to hear if you are incorporating gold elegance into your home?

You can find all these images on my pin board "Rich in gold" on Pinterest. If you haven't checked out this site it is a must...love it! Oh, if you are on Pinterest I would love to know and if not I would be happy to send you an invite!

I hope your Monday has you off to a great start to your week!! I have been enjoying a few "lazy day's" of summer, but now I am feeling the need to get back to work! ;)

Hugs friends!

Butterflies & ballet slipper pink...

2011-05-25T04:01:00.000-07:00

Subtle pink and beautiful...

I woke up Saturday morning of this last weekend with a very clear and vivid idea. This idea was of my front room, or the parlor I am calling it. I am still playing around with furniture arrangement and have yet to hang all my decor on the walls. I believe some of the best design comes from really listening to a room. Living in the space and getting a feel for how that area is used. Anyways... back to my idea.

I have been so busy with my summer collection, that my poor house has been put on the back burner and neglected. As I have sat sewing, I try to pretend not to see all the unfinished projects around me...calling my name. Well last Friday my name became so loud, I had to do something about it. I started moving furniture. Before I knew it, I had a bigger mess of chaos than when I started. Pieces went to different rooms, decor was coming out of storage spots and I now was lost in rearranging rooms.

It's a little more pink than the pictures are showing due to all the light...

So, there I am lying in bed Saturday morning...eyes suddenly wide open after having such clarity on an idea of what I needed to do in the parlor. This idea motivated me. The next thing I knew I was up, dressed and ready in hand with paint and a paintbrush.

The "before" with a taupe/beige paint and chippy goodness!

I found a antique buffet when I lived in New Mexico that I bought off of Craigslist. I fell in love with this piece the moment I saw it on the ad. I knew at some point I wanted to change the color of paint, but it just had not come to me what that color should be. The color on the buffet was a taupe/beige color and I had never really loved this color on it.

It seems more light than the color shown here...

I recently had bought some paint called "ballet slipper pink" from Martha Stewart's paint line. I love this pink! It's not overly "girly" or too "little" girl pink. Remember, I live with 4 boys and my husband here. Even though they all are supportive in whatever I do in our home, I know they don't want to see pink everywhere. ;)

Another reason why I have waited so long in re-doing this piece was the aged patina of chipped paint that she so beautifully wears. I wanted to still keep the character of the chipped paint, so I had to figure out a way to do that without losing this detail.

I decided if I did a few light coats I would still be able to show a lot of the chipping when I sanded. Now that my paint color had been decided, I was excited to get painting. An hour later...a pretty new shade of "ballet slipper pink" was now on my buffet. I love it! It is subtle enough, but still add's a romantic touch to this piece.

My idea was becoming more clear and I moved on to the next project so I could put it together.

Butterflies have always been one of my favorite things. They are the epitome of "whimsy"! I had this vision of a "butterfly tree". In a post I shared last spring, I displayed some branches and glued on some cherry blossoms. Those same branches I now re-used for my "butterfly tree". Adding some crystals and cutting butterflies from mulberry paper I printed adjectives that described what butterflies are to me. I love how it turned out as well. It definitely has added some whimsy to our home!

Using an antique mirror I bought off of Craigslist back in New Mexico, my arrangement was coming together. I like how the gold adds a little elegance with the distressed paint on the buffet. There is still lot's more for me to do in this room before I can show you the whole picture, but I am happy with the direction it is going in.

I have a very busy week ahead of me and this is the last week for my kiddos at school. Can you believe summer is already here?!! This last school year went by incredibly fast!

On another note, I have the winner of the Ramsign enamel house number giveaway!! The random generator picked lucky number 15! That would be Allison!! So happy for you! What a great way to add charm and character to the outside of your home! Thank you to all that entered! I of course will have lot's more goodies here to giveaway in the future. :)

Wishing you all a great week ahead! I know I am looking forward to "not" having to wake up early come next Monday! Yay for summer!! ;)

Be back soon friends!

Ramsign...classic enamel signs giveaway!!

2011-05-18T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hello friends!

I know I have been a little absent here, but I promise for good reason. :) When I am busy creating I try to stay focused and not get distracted by my computer (that calls to me). Trying to finish up all the loose ends so I can reveal my summer collection very soon! I was hoping to have done so already, but I know I wouldn't be happy if it wasn't in the exact vision and way I want you all to see it. I hope you will love it as much as I do...it definitely has been a labor of love!

It has a little bit of everything I love...feminine, romantic, vintage, whimsical and charming all in one. I have used many fabrics like dupioni silk, chiffon, linen, muslin, canvas, Kona cotton. With details like lace, embroidery, beads, crocheted pieces some of these details are vintage and some are new. I have an obsession with butterflies and flowers, that you will see lots of. Many classic styles too such as ruching, smocking, ruffles and appliquéd techniques .

Lots for the home with pillow slipcovers, chandelier slipcovers, cloche's, table runners, designs of handbags and some inspired jewelry pieces as well. I just love it all!!!

If you would like to take a sneak peek at some of the fabrics and details I have created with, you can see that on my Facebook page here. It only gives a small glimpse on what it all entails...I have to keep you in suspense just a little longer until the reveal. ;) More on all of this when I am ready to share.

How about a fun giveaway in the meantime to get you through the rest of your week?!!

I was recently contacted by a unique company called Ramsign about doing a giveaway with my readers. I just want you all to know, I am very selective about what I share and giveaway here on my blog. I only want things that I know you all would love to have. I don't know about you, but I do have a love affair with anything enamel! So when I visited their website and saw all the classic enamel signs, I *sighed* a little happiness and knew you all would love this too!

Here is a little history on Ramsign a Denmark company that is keeping the European tradition going :

In 1991 Ramsign revived the production of porcelain enameled signs by the help of skilled craftsmen with life long experience. Today the signs are still produced by hand with the original stencil technique and porcelain enamel, also referred to as vitreous enamel, or glass enamel.

I love how that they are still doing this by hand!

They have a great selection of style's to choose from for their house number plaques...

Metropolitan

Englehardt

Highlander

Arrowhead

These are just a few of the examples you can do for your own sign.

They also have door signs...

Name plates...

And address plaques.

So...are you ready to enter?!!

One lucky winner will get to choose their style from any of the house number plaques!! You can have up to 5 numbers...these signs are valued up to $100!!! How wonderful it would be to have one of these classic enamel signs!! It would definitely add charm and uniqueness to your home!

Here is how to enter:

Just visit Ramsign website and come back here and let me know what sign you love! Easy peasy!!

Would you like some more entries?!

1. Share this...blog or put this on your sidebar.

2. Tweet this...make sure to share the links with me!

3. FB it...

4. I love to have you on this journey with me...if you follow or now are following, another entry for you!

That gives you 5 entries!! Make sure to comment on each separate thing you do!

This is open to everyone! Ramsign ships world wide!! I will close this giveaway on Sunday, May 22nd, 2011 at 12pm pacific time. Good luck to you all!!

I hope you have a great week friends!!

This very moment...

2011-05-02T17:55:00.000-07:00

Moments define our life, memories and important events...

My chalkboard above the breakfast nook and my Bon Appetit sign I made

At this very moment...

Someone is now falling in love

A new sweet baby is born

A mother is telling her child she loves them

A dream is coming true

I love Hydrangeas!

At this very moment...

Someone is having to say "goodbye" to a loved one

A child is laughing

A bud is blossoming

The sun is shining

We built this shelf for a breakfast spot and here are the stenciled stools I did.

At this very moment...

A tear is being wiped away

Someone is thinking of you

A blessing has happened

Someone is surprised

At this very moment...

A prayer is being answered

Someone is hurting

Children are playing

Something new is being tried

At this very moment...

"I'm sorry" is being spoken

A first kiss is being given

Someone is disappointed

Dinner is being made

At this very moment...

A child is being tucked in for bed

Someone needs a hug

A smile is warming a heart

Heavenly Father is watching over us

My love of old books always get in my pictures.

At this very moment...

A life is being saved

Someone is moving

A family is healing

Snow is falling

At this very moment...

Someone just found out they won my "Queen for a day" Giveaway!!

The random generator picked #60~ Elise@Nest Sweet Nest!!

Here is what Elise said if she was "Queen for a day"...

"If I were Queen for a day, I'd definitely eat food I didn't have to cook, in a place without a playground, go junking, get a massage, and maybe watch a movie!! What a great giveaway and congrats on your two years!!"

Elise

Congratulations Elise...this is a moment to celebrate! Enjoy your day, you deserve it!!

Thank you to all who entered and said such sweet things about me and my blogaversary...I am humbled and grateful for each of you!! To those that are new here..."Welcome!" Happy to have you along on this journey with me!

I would love to tell you all that I am done and ready to reveal my Spring line for my Etsy, but I'm not....along with design comes problem solving. I had to figure out a few things I was working on. Happy to say though, hopefully it won't be too much longer and I will be able to share with you all what I have been busy creating!

Until then friends, cherish the moments, live in the moment and have happier moments than not!!

Hugs and love to you all,

I am linking this up with Sarah@Beach Cottage Good Life Wednesdays! Make sure to stop by for a visit!

Queen for a day...blogaversary giveaway!!

2011-04-26T17:37:00.000-07:00

I am a little late in celebrating my actual blogaversary, but I am a big believer in "better late than never!" Hard to believe this is already my 2nd year!

I have learned a lot about blogging and myself over the last 2 years. When I started my blog, I did it with the intent of sharing my creations I would be designing for the opening of my Etsy. That plan did not happen. We found out that we would be moving unexpectedly. Then with the move to our new home we started lots of new projects with remodeling. It has been a whirlwind to say the least! I am just at a point that I finally feel I can focus on a few other things other than our home. Still lots to do, but I know in time it will all come together.

In thinking about celebrating with you all for my blogaversary, I wanted to not only celebrate my success of being able to keep my blog a float with all the changes in my life, but I really want you all to know how this little blog would be nothing without you! Your visits, sweet comments and love really keep me going. I know I have not been able to blog as often as I would like too, yet you all are still here and giving support. Thank you!! It means more to me than I can put into words. Blogging has brought me happiness with lots of new friendships, inspiration and connection with other like minded women. That has been very fulfilling!

As I thought about how to celebrate my anniversary this year, I became lost in deep thoughts...you know daydreaming. I really want to honor each and everyone of you. Of course I wish I was rich enough to give you all something, but I can only give you each an opportunity to win a gift that I have put much thought and love into.

As women we give so much of ourselves to others. Whether it be family, friends, work, charity's, schools, neighbors, churches...you know, just life! Many times we might feel overwhelmed and even at times unappreciated. We love to give of ourselves to others, but a lot of the time we cut our own rope too short and leave very little to take care of ourselves...are you all still with me?!

So I started thinking and asking the question...what is it that we as women really want for ourselves? Many times the answer is "just a day for me". A day to do whatever we want, when we want, to be treated in a way that makes us feel appreciated, refreshed and rejuvenated. Hmmm...how could I give this to you all? A "a ha" moment came to me...wouldn't it be great if I could make you feel like a "Queen for a day?"

so the thoughts started coming. If I was "Queen for a day", I would...

*you can find some of these images on my Pinterest boards*

start my day with some yummy strawberry crepe`s and not worry about the calories...

proudly display my "Queen" badge so that my family doesn't forget that it's my day...

surrounded myself with beautiful and fragrant flowers...

If I was "Queen for a day"....

I would spend my day doing things I love, like...

going on a romantic picnic with my sweetheart...

or do a little shopping in my favorite boutiques...

I would take some time to pamper me, maybe even get a pedicure...

Hmmm....If I was "Queen for a day" I would...

find a special place to retreat to and read a great book, like...

Romantic Prairie Style by the ever so talented, pretty and sweet Fifi O'Neil...

*Photo permission from Fifi herself*

I would also be enjoying some of these in my little getaway...

then to finish off my day, I would have the luxury of soaking in this...

with lots of bubbles and a wonderful fragrance filling the air...

my own secret wonderland!

This is how I envision my "Queen for a day"...

A perfect ending to a perfect day!

So...I want to know. How would you spend your day if you were "Queen for a day"?

Here is my gift to you to help make your day even more special...

Your own Romantic Prairie Style book signed by Fifi O'Neil , Bath and Body Secret Wonderland bubble bath and lotion, A $50 Visa gift card to spend however you would like, A decadent box of Godiva chocolates to enjoy, a whimsy "Queen" badge handmade by me with vintage lace, ric rac and ribbon, and a crown to wear on your special day!

I hope you all know how much I appreciate each and everyone of you that has brought joy to my blogging experience...Thank You Friends!! Here is to many more years together!!

All you have to do to enter...

Leave a comment on how you would spend your day if you were "Queen for a day"!

Here are a few more ways you can enter too...

1. Let me know if you follow here along on my journey or if you are now.

2. FB me on my business page...you like me, you really, really like me!

3. Put this on your sidebar or blog this!

4. Share a Tweet!

5. Post it on FB!

That gives you 6 ways to enter!! Let's celebrate big! I would love for you to share my blogaversary with your friends and family too!! This giveaway will end on Saturday April 30th, 2011. I will announce the winner on Monday May 2nd, 2011! The random generator will pick the lucky number! Good luck to you friends!!

Hugs and love to you all!

elizabeth dean boutique...

2011-04-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

As we traveled on our Spring break and stopped in many little boutiques along the way, I came across one I fell.in.love with the moment I laid eyes upon the building. You might even recall I mentioned in my "Meet the chicks" post I thought I was in vintage anthropology heaven! I think you might just agree as you look through my post.

Let me introduce you all to this wonderful, whimsical eye candy...elizabeth dean boutique.

There is such a romantic and beautiful love story behind this boutique.

The moment I saw the eye catching window displays, it called my name and I knew I had to go in there. So glad I did! I convinced Mr.W to stop and take some of the kiddos into another shop a little ways up from this one. I of course was trying to buy me some time and I knew once the kids heard there was a bookstore they would want to stop too! Reluctant Mr.W found a parking spot behind the boutique and we had to walk to the front. It felt nostalgic, like I had gone back in time as I rounded the corner and came upon this...

Wouldn't this be a great spot for a photo shoot?!

Love these brick buildings...

As I walked up to the big, beautiful wooden doors that opened to elizabeth dean boutique, I had excitement and anticipation of what I might find inside...

It definitely didn't disappoint! My eyes were trying to take in all the vintage and whimsical treasures that were everywhere! So much to see...I almost didn't know where to start. I was trying to savor each vignette, like it was the best chocolate I had ever tasted! Slowly, methodically taking it all in. Wanting to store it all in my head...such creativity and inspiration.

Framed plant holders...what a great idea!

I loved how these beautiful, vintage fabrics were put together and told a story!

So detailed and unique...

After looking for a couple of minutes, I had a *light bulb* moment! I said to my 13 yr. old son who was with me, "I wonder if they would let me take some pictures to share with my readers?" See how I'm like that...always thinking about you all. ;) I thought I won't know unless I ask.

I see up by the front desk a very pretty, friendly lady talking with someone. So I wait and look some more.

A great way to display some jeans!

A little browsing here...

and there...

There were all kinds of fun chalkboards with great

inspirational quotes on them throughout the boutique!

Once I saw this sweet lady was done talking, I went over to her and introduced myself. I told her how in love I was with her shop and would she mind if I took some photos to share with my readers. Luckily she didn't look at me like I was crazy and happily said "yes". I was excited! So much eye candy beautifully displayed and I was going to get photograph it all!

I hurried out to my van and grabbed my camera. My husband and kiddos were done, ready to get back on the road. I charmed my sweet husband with one of my dimpled smiles and convinced him I wouldn't be much longer than 45 15 minutes (he is so patient with me and knows my minutes means much longer than that)!

Once back inside I talk to the sweet, pretty lady who told me "yes"...

This is Annie K! So sweet and friendly! As her buisness card reads,

"hunter...gatherer...&designer of one-of-a-kind finds..." love that!

In talking with Annie K I found out a little more about the boutique. She is a partner with the owner Nicole Nelson. Annie K get's to travel and find many vintage, antique and unique pieces for the boutique. Together Nicole and Annie K are like "peanutbutter and chocolate" they just get each other. I could see these two ladies were a lot of fun to be around and they have great creative vision!

In love with these! Very whimsy!!

Nicole was not in that day, but I had a great opportunity to talk with her via the phone. She shared the romantic and sweet story behind elizabeth dean boutique...

Vintage wedding dresses...beautiful!

Nicole's mother sadly passed away 5 years ago. Her name was Mary Elizabeth. Nicole's grandmother went through her attic and found lots of saved memorabilia to send onto Nicole. She was going to gather it all together and create sentimental scrapbooks. As Nicole went through these journals and stories of her mothers, she was filled with inspiration. Her parents love story was all there...from her mother's journal entry 5 minutes before her first date with Nicole's dad (Marlo Dean) to 15 minutes before they were married.

Nicole's parents pictures, notes and journals displayed in the boutique, telling of their love story.

A beautiful love story. There were even the skeptics who thought the couple wouldn't make it. Mary and Marlo were both from the wrong side of the tracks...literally Nicole said, "the town was split in the middle by the railroad tracks" growing up in Alexandria, Minnesota. Marlo was the guy who loved fast cars and Mary was the good girl cheerleader.

So as Nicole went through her parents memories, inspiration came to her to preserve and share their love story in a boutique. She would call it elizabeth dean boutique after both of her parents middle names.

An appointment with the school counselor is displayed on this vintage brush...

I loved getting to hear the meaning behind her boutiques name and all about the vintage details that were displayed. Knowing the love story of her parent's warmed my heart and made me love this boutique even more!

This looks like it could be a spelling list...

Some other interesting facts I learned about the boutique was the history of the building it's in.

What a great way to use creativity and re-purpose...antique crib springs turned photo holder!

At one time in this same area there was a casino and saloons. The building that is now here has been everything from a hotel, restaurant and even a key shop. Nicole shared that there used to be 3 stories instead of 2 to this building, but at some point the top floor was torn down. The front door to the boutique was made from the wood from the top story.

Unique one of a kind artwork you will find here...

She even shared that there is a "friendly" ghost they have named "ghost Jack" they think he's a cowboy that shares the space with them. He is known to hang up phone calls if they are too long, make noise and she said he even has his own room that they put nothing in because he walks in there. To some they might not believe, but it does add to the romanticism and nostalgia of the building.

I of course left with all kind of goodies for my home...

It was hard to choose and there are still things there I saw I have been thinking about since.

Love this birdcage with it's great patina!

A pretty blue-green and distressed book holder...

Whimsical wire cloche...

The pretty little nest on top.

A old shelf with great chippy paint!

So there it all is. A romantic love story, lot's of eye candy, a little history and even a ghost story! This really is a beautiful boutique to see in person. Nicole and Annie K don't have a website yet, but you can see them in person if your visiting or live in the area.

elizabeth dean boutique

717 Grand Avenue

Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

It is definitely worth your time!! Thank you Nicole and Annie K for letting me share your wonderful boutique and sweet story with all my readers, it was a lot of fun!

Still getting lot's done here to open my Etsy! Keeping my fingers crossed I can have it all done by the end of next week.

Oh, one more thing before I go...

I am going to be celebrating my birthday next week and my (late) blogaversary!!! I have something wonderful planned to celebrate with you all! Till then...

Hugs friends!

Smell the roses...

2011-04-11T11:36:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I hope your week is off to a great start. I know mine is. I have had so much I want to share with you all as of late, but I have been working away on trying to finish my Spring line. Soon though!

Speaking of Spring line...

Exciting news!! I will be revealing all I have been working on next week and the opening of my Etsy! So excited...lots of butterflies fluttering around in my stomach. This is a first for me to really put myself out there...a little scary, but as I shared with you...I am ready to follow my dreams!

A few days ago I bought these beautiful vintage medicine bottles at an antique store here. I knew when I found them, I envisioned them grouped together with pretty flowers. I saw these gorgeous roses in multiple colors and couldn't help but do a little photo shoot to share.

I realize in all this hustle and bustle of creating and trying to make it to the finish line, I need to remember to "take time to smell the roses..."

Loved the way the sunlight would shine on the roses...

I hope to be back with another post this week. There is more exciting things coming this way soon I want to share!!

I better get back to work! Enjoy your week friends and remember take time to smell the roses! ;)

Hugs and love friends,

Meet the chicks!

2011-03-30T04:00:00.000-07:00

I'm back!

It had been so long since we had taken a vacation, I forgot how nice it can be to get away. We have traveled over 3000 miles in 10 days...and with those miles came lots of bad weather. Not exactly how I thought we would spend our Spring Break. We did however get to see lot's of family, many different places and I had fun doing a little shopping.

For those of you that stopped by and visited our sweet company here last week, thank you! It was so much fun to see how these talented ladies use whimsy in their homes. Thank you again to Amy@WhisperWood Cottage, Melissa@The Inspired Room, Jen@Tatertots and Jello and Jennifer@Jennifer Ruizzo for sharing with us all your beautiful and inspiring homes!

If you were here visiting last week, you also know I had a little surprise giveaway that I would be revealing when I got back. I had so much fun finding little whimsy goodies for one of you to win. Many fun, whimsical boutiques I visited and I also found many treasures for my own home I will share later this week.

Along the way I also met some sweet, little, chirpy friends I couldn't resist taking home. I soon learned that they were all such unique chicks with lots of personality! In fact when they heard I was doing a photo shoot of all the goodies I was giving away, they insisted on being in it! Of course it was hard for me to say no with all their cute little faces.

Well, let me just introduce them all so you can see for yourselves...

The cuteness is almost too much to handle!! Like I said these chicks definitely have personality !

Meg is the singer of the group, everything she says...comes out in a tune. Yo-lky and Scramblez are twins...they think they are really cool when they rap! Egg-bert, he is Mr. Smarty pants and is like a walking encyclopedia of knowledge. See how talented these little chicks are too?! Shell-e she is such a DRAMA Queen...enough said! How cute is Li'l Peep?! He exudes cuteness and always so sweet! Then there is Frenchie...um, a little confused about where she really is from, she even talks with a french accent. Last but certainly not least....Chickie! She really is the mother hen of the group, keeping all these little chicks in line.

Now that you have met these cute chicks, they're going to help show you what's in the surprise giveaway!

My first stop...a little boutique in Paradise, California...

As you can see Li'l Peep is super excited about this beautiful hand painted egg!

Fir Street Gallery boutique has many unique finds. I was automatically drawn to some beautiful, detailed hand painted paper mache' eggs . It was hard to choose they were all so unique and pretty! It was also nice to get to visit with the owner, Pam Funk. She is a glass artist as well and I enjoyed seeing some of her amazing pieces. Her shop has so many great things all in one, an art gallery, specialty gifts, fine jewelry, gourmet foods and wines. Pam also teaches stain glass classes. You can visit her shop Fir Street Gallery in Paradise, California or online!

Shell-e loves this handmade soap from France!

There is a town not too far from Paradise called Chico. It has a lot of unique boutiques downtown to shop in. Many things I fell in love with there!

One shop that stood out to me... Zucchini & Vine. This shop is a Gourmet Tabletop store, they feature local artisans, casual linens, dinnerware, home accessories, gourmet foods, fine imported cheeses, and Moonstruck chocolates.

In my search for the perfect gift, I came across the most heavenly fragrance...lemon grass soap! When I found out it was handmade in France...even better! I loved visiting this store. You can visit Zucchini & Vine online as well here.

On our trip back we had to change our direction for going home due to more snow that came into Truckee. So, we went South. We now were on our way to Las Vegas, Nevada where more of our family lived. We were hoping to find some sunshine finally on our vacation!

I knew that Las Vegas might just have the perfect gourmet chocolates I was looking for. I found it...on the strip, in the Bellagio. I had been to this divine chocolate shop once before when we visited Las Vegas. The chocolate fountains at Jean Philippes shop are mesmerizing. This was where you could find decadent, rich chocolate made by world renowned pastry chef Jean Philippe.

Frenchie is drawn to anything French...she wanted to keep these chocolates all to herself!

Let's just say you have to be rich to buy a lot of chocolate here, but even a little bit is soo worth it! These chocolate truffles should be savored with each bite. A little taste of heaven. You can find out more about Jean Philippe and his incredible work here, you can even order chocolates online.

Shell-e is in the spotlight again..she was trying to get into every picture!

After leaving Las Vegas we were finally on our way home. I only was able to get a few more stops in due to weather and my family just wanting to get home. We had put a lot of miles in and we were ready to be home in our own beds.

We stayed overnight in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. After having some breakfast with some more family...(I have family all over!) I talked Mr.W into letting me make one last stop before we were back on the road. So glad I did!

As we were going down town and looking for little shops I wanted to stop in, my eyes caught a glimpse of a window display that called out to me. I convinced my husband to park and let me go visit this shop while he took some of the boys into a train/book store.

Once inside this shop...I was smitten. Everywhere I looked...eye candy! I was in vintage anthropology heaven! I found so many things I couldn't live without and that very cute bag above for my giveaway. I am excited to tell you...I talked with one of the owners and asked to take some photos of her shop so I could share will all of you. I was given the go ahead and I was in my element! I will be sharing so much more on this unique boutique soon. I know you all will love it too!

Egg-bert and Megg sharing their cuteness with you!

Our vacation has come to an end and we finally are home getting back into the routine of things. I did a little more shopping at some of my favorite stores here and added some more whimsy things for someone to enjoy!

Here's Shell-e again...see how much she likes the attention!

Yo-lky was rapping while taking this picture, always trying to be cool!

So there is the surprise giveaway! I hope the winner will love it as much as I loved finding special things! I want to say how much I appreciated you leaving some love for our special guests while I was gone.

The random generator has picked #29 and that is Connie@I started out as a child...you won!!! I'm so happy for you! Please contact me with your info. so I can get this on it's way to you. :)

I have lots going on this week and hoping to get a little time in for creating for my soon to open Etsy! I hope you all have a great week and enjoyed meeting my cute chicks!

Hugs,

Jennifer Rizzo...

2011-03-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

I've always been an artist but never knew it.

Even when I was little I would paint and draw on everything, but as I grew,

I pushed it down, feeling like a starving artist wasn't really an acceptable job.

Now that I am in my... ahem... late 30's; I've finally gotten to the point

where it's almost a "need" for me to let that inner artist come out.

My home is certainly one of the places I like to let it shine.

A bit of whimsy can make the entire space.

I've always loved color and texture and now that I finally feel like

I can express myself, I am trying to become more fearless in using it.

On a whim, I'l stitch up a pillow or cover a lampshade with a fabric I like.

I have no problem putting fun things in my home

or covering my girls room in paper butterflies.

It's only decorating, not life or death.

Decorating should be a fun, organic process. Be creative, take risks.

If you hate it, just change it. It will make you love your home so much more.

Jennifer D. Rizzo

Artist/ Freelance writer
http://www.jenniferrizzo.com

Etsy: Jenniferrizzo

"Jen, your artistic expression always inspires me!! Thank you so much for sharing!"

Well, I have to say I am sad to see my company go. :( The good thing...you can visit them anytime at their blogs! I just want to say "Thank You" again to all of my guests and for taking the time to share here! I loved seeing so many different ways others interpret whimsy in designing their homes.

I will be back on Monday to share the winner of my surprise giveaway! It is has lots of whimsy finds and I know who ever wins it will love it! You still have time to enter. All you have to do...leave a comment on each guest post this week and it will give you a chance to have 4 entries!

Our vacation has come to a close and we will be back in our beds tonight...revitalized with a zest to

get back to work! :)

Till next week friends,

Hugs!!

Tatertots and Jello...

2011-03-24T15:52:00.000-07:00

Jen@Tatertots and Jello is here to share all about her whimsy style in her home today! We are still on vacation and happy to say the open road has finally led us to some sunshine in Las Vegas! We will be here for a few more days then on to Home Sweet Home! Enjoy friends....

Hi there!! I'm Jen from Tatertots and Jello

I’m so excited to be here at Victoria’s beautiful blog. I just adore her and I love her ideas and style!

Victoria asked me to share some of my idea on decorating with whimsy.

I just love color and I think that is probably how I add whimsy to my home.

Like these Ruffled Pillows…

You may know that I love pennants, and I have quite a few in my home. Like my pantry…

And in my Dining Room that I turned into my Office…

Making Subway Art….

Even turning coffee filters and tissue paper into whimsical Spring decorations…

Thanks for letting me stop by! It’s been wonderful.

Come by for a visit sometime @ Tatertots and Jello!!

Jennifer Hadfield
tatertotsandjello.com
thecsiproject.com

"Thank you Jen! You have such great creativity and I LOVE the fun projects you are always doing in your home!"

I have one more guest popping over tomorrow! It has been such a fun week to see how everyone uses whimsy in their homes. It really does add to design and keeps it unique!

If you missed any of the other guest bloggers this week, here are the other fun posts you might have missed:

The Inspired Room

WhisperWood Cottage

Don't forget about the giveaway going on here! Through my travels on vacation, I have been picking up all kind of unique goodies for a surprise package that will be revealed on Monday, March 28th 2011! All you have to do to enter..leave lots of love for our company! If you visit each post and leave a comment...it gives you an entry. You can have up to 4 enteries.

I am off to enjoy some sun while I can! :)

The Inspired Room...

2011-03-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

I love a little whimsy in my decor! Decorating with whimsy can mean something different to everyone, depending on what YOU like and what makes YOU SMILE! A home wouldn't feel like a home to me if it didn't make us happy or show off our personality! Whimsy is what makes a home fun, unique and interesting, don't you think?

In our family room, we framed whimsical maps and art to remind us of places we've traveled! We don't get to travel as much these days as we'd like but just seeing our art gives us a little mini vacation full of memories!

We have had this blue table for years and on a whim, we painted it a fun shade of "boat blue" last summer. How can you not smile at the thought of a blue coffee table? It is unexpected to see a blue antique, but it definitely makes this room more fun!

I couldn't resist bringing home this little lantern last year, it is a great whimsical shape and it is YELLOW!! It is like sunshine on a cloudy day.

If you can't hang a ladder on a wall and use it as a shelf in your own home, well, you should just loosen up! It is fun to do something unique that makes you smile and keeps life from feeling too serious.

Fun, unique and whimsical ideas are what give our homes LIFE and PERSONALITY!

Thanks for inviting me to share the whimsy in my home today, Victoria!!

"Thank you Melissa! I always love your creative and whimsy ideas!"

You can see so much more of Melissa's beautiful home at The Inspired Room. I am loving having all these wonderful and talented friends sharing their beautiful, whimsy homes with all of you!

If you missed out on my guest post yesterday by Amy@WhisperWood Cottage, you can see it here.

Don't forget about my fun giveaway! I am picking up goodies all along my road trip. Unique one of a kind and of course whimsy finds! All packaged up for 1 lucky reader! :) All you have to do to win...leave a sweet comment for our guests. You can get up to 4 entries for leaving some love on each post! Easy, peasy!!

I leave you with a little peek of 1 of the whimsy finds in my giveaway package...

You will get to choose 1 of these beautiful hand painted eggs! The winner will be revealed on Monday, March 28th when I get back from vacation. Make sure to enter...

Heading out on the open road again, destination....Las Vegas!

WhisperWood Cottage...

2011-03-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hi, Whimsy fans! This is Amy from WhisperWood Cottage. I'm honored to be here at Whimsy by Victoria! When Victoria asked me to guest post, I automatically said, "yes!" Then the reality set in. Did she say something about whimsy? WHIMSY? What is whimsy? Am I whimsical? Do I know enough to post about whimsical things? The panic set in.

After taking a deep breath, I did what all good bloggers do. I googled. And here's what I came up with...

So, with that definition, I wondered if WhisperWood Cottage is...

Capricious? Um. That doesn't describe me or my style.
Extravagant? Not really...I like thrifty finds and uncluttered spaces.
Fanciful. No, I'm rather traditional and pragmatic, but I like some pretty mixed in here and there.
Excessively playful? Playful, yes, but not excessively.
Odd? Are we talking about my style or me? :) Now, I do use some odd or unique pieces...and usually vintage or antique...throughout the cottage.

WhisperWood Cottage might not be outright whimsical, but I think it can still qualify! Here are some odd, unique, and somewhat playful pieces that we've used throughout the cottage...

WHIMSICAL SIGNS

I L.O.V.E. signs! Especially vintage signs! I love them in every room in the house. Here are a few that make me smile each time I see them...

Vintage church sign in the master bedroom.

Vintage Greyhound bus sign in the guest room.

Hand-inked depression-era sign above the kitchen window.

A simple greeting card with a powerful message framed by a vintage toaster.

WHIMSICAL DOORS

One of my favorite projects ever was the master bedroom makeover. Two salvaged university doors became barn-style doors on the closet and the master bathroom with the addition of antique barn track and trolley pieces.

A salvaged university door turned barn-style door for the master bedroom closet.

Using antique track and trolley salvaged from an 1800s barn in southern Wisconsin.

A ship's key and leather fob just for a fun detail in the keyhole.

WHIMSICAL DETAILS

I guess I've also used a few pieces around the house from time to time that could be considered unexpected or whimsical. When entertaining, gifting, or decorating, adding a simple unexpected touch makes it a little more fun!

An old LP used for a table setting.

Crystals from a chandelier turned cabinet knob.

Craft paper and a wall stencil to make my own whimsical wrapping paper.

With all that said, does WhisperWood Cottage style qualify as whimsical? I imagine that most people have at least a touch of whimsy in their home. I also imagine that there are different forms of whimsy. What collections, pieces, colors, or creations do you use to add whimsy to your home?

Thanks, Victoria, for letting me stop in for a visit!! I enjoyed meeting all your guests. All of you are welcome to stop by WhisperWood Cottage any time!

Thank you Amy! I love her style and definitely thinks she has whimsy in her home!

Now that our company has arrived, that also means it's giveaway time!! Yay!

Please welcome Amy and share your whimsy thoughts and love...every time you leave a comment on each guest post for the next 4 days, it gives you an entry to win my surprise package!!

It's that easy!

*source*

A wonderful package full of whimsy!

I will share who the lucky reader is and what they won on Monday, March 28th, 2011!

Be back tomorrow with another great guest!!