ButterflyDreams

Our Living/Dining Room Remodel

2012-03-05T17:06:00.000-06:00

We've been hard at work this weekend painting and decorating our living/dining room. We still have one wall and half of a wall to finish but I couldn't resist showing you how it was coming. We have been moving furniture, painting, and redecorating one wall at a time.

I wanted a neutral color that wouldn't be too dark or too light. This room has three windows that let in a lot of natural light. I love natural light and didn't want to overwhelm it with a too dark wall color. I wanted it to be neutral so that any other changes we wanted to make with curtains, furniture, etc would work with the walls. This taupe shade called Wheat Bread from Behr is perfect. It is absolutely gorgeous!

These corner cupboards had a white paper with a small blue print on the glass windows. Once I started painting I realized that the white was too much. It was too bright and too glaring. We had bought a roll or two of the toile contact paper to line the island (Hubby built a shelf inside to help with storage) and I found it perfect for the cupboards. We bought a couple more rolls and I absolutely love the end result.

I have some art projects in the works that I eventually want to hang on this wall. I am not in any hurry though.

Here is a photo of the new curtains we purchased. I just love how they look in the room. The tiebacks are ribbon from my stash. It worked just perfectly. Yes, this room is coming together beautifully and I couldn't be happier with the results. I am hoping that this weekend we can paint the rest of room. I'll be sure to take pics when it's all finished!

A New Discovery

2012-02-28T23:50:00.000-06:00

So, Yesterday my husband and I spent the day in Shreveport doing a little shopping and eating out. It was a day off and all about having fun. There is a store in Shreveport called World Market. We had seen it before and didn't think much of it until I noticed it mentioned in HGTV magazine. Naturally, we had to check it out. This store is so cool! I loved it and I am even happier that they have an online shop as well. They have furniture, bath, bedding, kitchen, accessories, jewelry, and so much more. If you haven't heard of it before then you are in for a treat. Here are some of my favorites.

Do visit them online. I'd love to hear about your favorites.

2012-02-12T13:49:00.000-06:00

It all started with a book called "Taking Flight: Inspiration & Techniques to give your Creative Spirit Wings." The second chapter in the book talked about our fears and how we often allow them to keep us from trying new things or living our potential. The end of the chapter showed a step by step guide for making a lovely art piece. It seemed simple enough, broken down into little bits. I thought I might give it a go. Fast forward a bit and you will find me going through my old scrapbooks. I found a picture I painted in Kindergarten. It was typical Kindergarten fare. I remembered just how much fun and pleasure I derived from standing in front of the easel, paint brush in hand, pretty colors of paint, and a blank piece of paper. Somewhere along the way, I have become a bit of a perfectionist, always thinking of the final outcome, and getting frustrated when things don't quite work out the way I plan. I knew I needed and wanted to let go of that and just create and have fun. I wanted to return to the joy of standing in front of the easel in Kindergarten. The project I had been thinking about trying seemed perfect. So I made a little trip to Hobby Lobby for a board, paint, and a few other supplies. I pulled out the card table, covered it with newspaper, set out my supplies and got busy playing.

This was so fun much to make. I played with new materials, tried new techniques, and even embraced any flaws. My focus was on the process and the act of creating and that made all the difference. I can't wait to do more!!!!

I made the skirt and top using Sculpey clay which was then painted and baked. After baking I added the embellishments. The background is composed of several layers of paint using various techniques. The patterns and texture were made using bubble wrap, shelf liner, and a shampoo bottle lid. I also used a charcoal pencil to add more detail. I know I've said this before, but this was so much fun to make. I am already thinking about other items that might be used for pattern/texture. So, go create something and have fun!!!!

Flea Market Treasures

2012-02-07T18:53:00.001-06:00

I just love wandering through a flea market, never knowing what treasures I may find. My recent jaunts have yielded lovely, surprising results.

I just couldn't resist this pretty, floral handbag. It is perfect for Spring and Summer and just makes me feel happy.

This little street lamp will look so pretty on the wall after we paint. I've never seen anything like it before. The detail is perfect.

I also found two new Cameo Creations to add to my collection. I just adore these lovely pictures.

We love listening to old records in the Birchfield household and this little case is the perfect home for a few 45's.

I just love the stripes, don't you?

And finally my latest finds have been a magazine rack and an end table. I am so thrilled with these purchases. I am thinking of painting the magazine rack a nice country white. I love that the table holds everything, even my computer and with all my books and magazines safe and handy I can even use my ottoman again.

I decided to use my favorite vintage hanky as a doily. I love the flowers and the colors in this hanky.

That's it. These are my favorite flea market finds from the last few weeks. Have you found any treasures?

I would like you to meet. . . . .

2012-02-01T18:11:00.000-06:00

Pumpernickel!!!!

This little sweetheart wandered onto our Aunt Mandy's property. Knowing our love for kitties, she called us. We were more than happy to give her a home. Micah was a little uncertain about her because we have an all black cat named Licorice who is 1 1/2 years old. Micah could see how much I wanted to keep her so as a Valentine gift she came home. We were trying to settle on a name when she climbed up into Micah's lap to help him eat his pumpernickel and cream cheese sandwich. We christened her Pumpernickel, Pumpkin for short. Yes, we now have two all black, Halloween kitties named Licorice and Pumpkin and we are almost one big happy family!

Flower Power

2012-01-29T23:03:00.000-06:00

Back in December my sister gave me a beautiful, white pitcher. Immediately I thought, "This will be beautiful on my dining table full of hydrangeas." I then decided not to find a professional but instead to learn floral arranging and then make my very own centerpiece. So off I went in search of books on floral arranging. I've been reading and studying and collecting flowers for several weeks and finally decided it was time to give it go. Here are my first ever floral arrangements including the centerpiece.

These are all artificial flowers. I thought that that might be the easiest place to start. It was really fun and not all that difficult. In researching I've even discovered some favorite flowers like lillies of the valley and hydrangeas. I also really liked the petunias and poppies. Do you have lots of flowers in your home? What are your favorites?

2012-01-24T14:04:00.000-06:00

I love making things! It is so much fun to play with paper, scissors, glue, ribbon, and such. I like to think of it as playtime for grown ups. And nothing is as satisfying as seeing the tiniest bit of an idea come to life in my own two hands. Lately, I've been fussing around the house working on some little decorating items. Sometimes, it's the littlest touches that make a house a home.

I thinking of Valentine's Day when I remembered these little grapevine hearts that were in my stash. I found these little roses also in my stash and put them together. Then, I looked through my ribbon and found this pretty blue. Instantly, I knew what I was going to make. It looks lovely on my candle doesn't it? Pretty and simple.

This heart was fun to make, even if I had to make it twice. Originally, I wrapped this styrofoam heart with gold ribbon and a sheer burgandy ribbon and added the flowers. I had it hung on the door until I bought a lovely wreath with hydrangeas and roses. I temporarily hung it on the knob of a curio cabinet and forgot to move it before going to bed. My sweet kitty views all ribbons as toys made just for her delight. The next morning I found the burgandy ribbon in less than perfect condition. So, I went back to the ribbon stash and found this lovely floral ribbon and went to work. I believe it turned out even better the second time around. I am more than pleased and it is hanging in a place safe from the kitty.

I do love embroidery hoop wall art and just had to make something for Valentine's Day. I am so pleased and love it so much, that I think I just may keep it up year round.

Finally, I've been reading a few books and gathering ideas for my own self-journey and I keep coming back to journaling. So, I decided to make my very own journal. I've seen other bloggers and artist create the most amazing journals using vintage books and their own unique art. I wasn't sure I was skilled enough. I made up my mind to just to do it. I am thrilled with the outcome. It was so much fun to make and now I can't wait to start writing.

Before I sign off here's a final picture of the lovely wreath I mentioned above.

Have a lovely, blessed, creative day!

Review: Russian Winter

2012-01-21T22:19:00.001-06:00

Russian Winter by Daphne Kalotay

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Russian Winter tells the story of a young a girl who becomes a prima ballerina in Russia during Stalin's reign. It also tells the story of Drew, a young woman seeking to begin her life anew after a divorce and a college professor searching both for his past and his future. The author weaves the stories of these characters together through a jewelry auction and the sale of a bracelet, earrings, and necklace made of Baltic Amber. It was a fascinating and truly captivating book.

View all my reviews

I Wish I Could Take Pictures Like These!

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

I want to share another photographer with you this week. I don't remember just how I stumbled upon Christine Bauer but I am so glad I did. Her work is beautiful. I can spend hours just gazing on all the lovely photos on her website. It was impossible to pick a favorite. All of her photos are simply beautiful.

Visit her website to see more of her lovely work.

My Decorating Vision

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

We've been talking about doing some redecorating around the homeplace and I've been looking through magazines and pinterest. It is so much fun just to look and dream and play. I decided to go to Olioboard and let my imagination run wild. If you haven't visited Olioboard yet, I strongly encourage you to do so. It is such a fun place. One can use the furniture already listed or find your own around the web and create a moodboard for any room. I can spend hours just playing around. Nothing is more fun than dreaming without limits. In this lovely world, I can have any piece of furniture, light fixture, wall paper, or art I desire. Price, feasibility, and reality make no difference. Here are the two rooms I've created the last couple of weeks.

What do you think? What would your dream rooms look like?

The living/dining room is the room we are planning to redecorate a bit. We have picked out a lovely shade of taupe called Barefoot Beach. It won't be too dark or too light. We have three windows in the living room which let in alot of natural light which I love. I want to keep the room light and airy. Also by going with a taupe shade we can have more freedom with other decor like art, curtains, and furniture. If we ever want to change anything, we won't have to worry about clashing with the wall color. We are also looking at new curtains and perhaps a chandelier over the dining table. Farther in the furture we want to put down a new floor. I would love, love, love to have a hardwood floor. New furniture isn't in the plan at present but perhaps someday we'll find the perfect grey sofa and purple chairs.

An Awesome Video

2012-01-15T07:00:00.001-06:00

The Joy of Books

Surprise!

2012-01-14T14:37:00.000-06:00

My day has begun with an unexpected surprise: a package arriving in the mail. Inside are 4 books and CD's by 7 different artists. The package traveled here from New York City. It was sent by a friend, a penpal. A girl I have never met and only spoken with through the written word. We met by chance encounter. We visited the same website. We share a name for she, too is called Melissa. And now, a surprise, a package, a gift of music and words. I don't remember the first story I heard or the first song, but I am grateful. Both words and music have taught me that everyone has a story and there are many ways to see the same story. Words, music, painting, photography - all art is a means of sharing stories. Lissa is a part of my story. Her gift - the stories contained therein - are now part of our story.

Thank you Lissa for your kindness and generosity. Thank you sharing your story with me and becoming a part of mine.

Paper Paris

2012-01-13T07:00:00.001-06:00

So, the other day my husband was perusing BoingBoing and found this delightful paper Paris. He thought I'd like it and he was so right.

It was created by Joel Henriques and is so fun. You can download it for free on his blog, Made by Joel. He even made a little miniature Paris to Go!

Helena Bernald Photography

2012-01-11T07:00:00.001-06:00

My sister gave me this pretty white pitcher which is sitting empty in the middle of my table. I want to fill it with beautiful flowers and have decided to learn about flower arranging so that I can create my very own beautiful bouquet. My new interest in flowers led me to this photo.

Isn't it gorgeous? I love the heart and may try to do something similar. Anyway, I decided to visit Helena Bernald Photography and I fell completely in love. Her work is beautiful.

Visit Helena Bernald Photography and see for yourself.

Extraordinary Paper Creations

2012-01-09T07:00:00.002-06:00

While persusing the Winter 2011 issue of Romantic Country I discovered the extraordinary work of Portland based artist Denise Sharp. She conjurs up the most beautiful works of art made of paper. I wish I had her talent! Here are a few of my favorite pieces.

Isn't her work beautiful. To see more and learn more about Denise Sharp please visit her website, Studio D Sharp.

A Little Light Shopping

2012-01-08T16:52:00.000-06:00

I have decided that if I don't want to spend money, then I shouldn't leave the house. Micah and I went out to pick up a few groceries yesterday and I ended up with a few goodies of my own. I just had to walk through the flea market. One never knows what treasures one might find. Besides I have been searching for a lamp for my nightstand and I thought I might find one. Well, I didn't find a lamp, but I did find these beautiful bangles.

I saw a picture in a magazine in which the model was wearing wooden bangles similar to these. I thought they were very pretty and had been wanting some for awhile. I was thrilled to find these. The flea market is located next door to Big Lots so naturally we paid a visit. I found this lovely candle holder which was perfect for a candle I already had and at only $5.00 the price was definitely right.

A visit to Target yielded the perfect lamp for my nightstand and a another pretty candle holder. Both were on sale!!!

I also picked up two books on flower arranging at a resale shop. Oh, and we did get the groceries as well. All in all it was a fun day with lots of goodies at the perfect price.

2012-01-06T16:04:00.000-06:00

Just discovered the coolest and most beautiful paperdolls from Dover Publishing.

This book of paperdolls is done in the Art Nouveau style of Alphonse Mucha. They are so pretty. Free samples are available from Dover, but as for me I want the whole book. This is definitely going on my wishlist!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T16:38:00.000-06:00

I hope all of you have had a lovely holiday and a great start to a new year. This is a time in which it seems the whole world is beginning anew. We are making resolutions and plans as we look ahead into the new year. We dream of all the things we can do and places we can go as we color a new canvas with new experiences and new ideas. This year I simply want to grow. I want to be more than I am and feel ready to move ahead. I want to read new books, learn new skills, try new things, and foster deeper, long-lasting relationships. I want to spend time with those most precious to me and make lots and lots of new memories. What do you want for the new year?

Today, I want to share with you a little decorating magic that took place recently. I had purchased this gorgeous frame at Goodwill not long ago. With a lovely Christmas picture and bowl of vintage shiny brites it became a perfect Christmas centerpiece. Now I needed something new. I found another lovely picture and then while perusing a favorite magazine, Romantic Homes, I found another idea. Someone had used silver goblets to hold roses. Three of these had been placed on silver tray. I believe it was called a Gustavian design style. I thought it was quite pretty and wished I could do something similar. Then I remembered that we had some silver goblets that had been used at Halloween a few years ago. I brought one out and added some silk roses that I already had on hand. And Voila!

Quite lovely isn't it? I am very pleased with my little vignette. It brings me much joy every morning as I sit and do my bible study and a little reading.

2011-12-23T23:34:00.000-06:00

I've been super busy with holiday fun, but wanted to stop in and wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas!!!!

Cute, Easy Christmas Gift Tags

2011-12-09T14:22:00.001-06:00

I made these fun little tags today using old Christmas cards, scrapbooking embellishments, and ribbon. They were easy and fun to make. All of the supplies can be bought at any craft store.

This one is my favorite. I just love that sweet little child heading up the stairs. Isn't it adorable?

It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas

2011-12-02T12:26:00.000-06:00

I've been working on Christmas decorations all week! I am finally ready to share all of the goodies that are bringing me so much cheer. I didn't want to do too much with the mantel. I loved the way it looked already so, I added a bit of Christmas with bottle trees, snow globes and our stockings.

I also made a wreath, a banner and some embroidery hoop wall art. I love the way they turned out!

Three years ago I spotted these little elves at Michael's and fell in love. I purchase a new one each year to add to my collection. Aren't they adorable? I just love their smiles.

Each year when I was little my grandmother filled a Christmas stocking for me. I hung it this morning with a smile.

My snowmen are sitting atop one bookshelf and pretty red birds atop another.

I decided to add a tiny tree and a few shabby chic decorations in my little reading nook. It is now my favorite spot in the house.

And finally for my favorite part of Christmas decorating. . . . the tree!!!!!

Yes, that is a skeleton. He's name is Wally and he came to live with us in October. We haven't exactly decided on the best way to store him, so we just decided to make him part of the decor. He's quite handsome don't you think? Christmas is my favorite time of' the year and I just love decorating. I've had more fun this year and I hope you have too.

The Perfect Gift for a Princess

2011-11-28T07:00:00.006-06:00

Months ago I discovered a quote by Anna Johnson which I just adored. Immediately, I knew what my little niece was getting for Christmas. I found a fancy frame and proceeded to add a little pink (my niece's favorite color).

I used frog tape and acrylic paint in Parisian Pink.

Once the paint dries and the tape is peeled off you get this!

I found a pretty crown graphic on the GraphicsFairy. I turned it into a water color and added more pink using my photo editing software, PhotoScape. Then we added the quote, saved, and printed on matte photo paper. Here is the finished product. I sure hope she likes it!

Easy DIY Bookmarks

2011-11-26T15:15:00.005-06:00

I hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving. I spent the day watching the Macy's parade, eating all the traditional foods, reading a book, and watching the Longhorns beat the Aggies. It was a fun, relaxing, perfect day! I have a little gift for you today. It's a fun, easy, DIY craft! I hope you enjoy!

As any bibliophile will tell you one can never have too many bookmarks. I love to read and am always looking for something to mark my page. Any old piece of paper might do, but a pretty bookmark is so much better. These are easy to make and fun to use. All you need are paint sample cards, rubber stamps, a hole punch, and pretty ribbon!

A Giveaway!

2011-11-20T13:56:00.003-06:00

Katie-Lyn of Gypsy Dust Vintage is giving away a tea cup candle! This is one of my favorite blogs, so please stop by, visit, and enter the giveway. You won't be disappointed!

House of Fifty

2011-11-20T13:23:00.003-06:00

I recently discovered this wonderful online magazine called House of Fifty. It is an awesome magazine full of inspiration. I highly recommend spending the afternoon with this delightful publication.

Visit the House of Fifty blog here!

A Shabby Chic Mantel

2011-11-17T12:16:00.013-06:00

Once the Halloween decorations came down I decided a little redecorating was needed. I have had alot of fun playing with the mantel decor. And the best part is that it didn't cost a dime. I simply looked around and found new uses for found objects that I already owned.

First up, the wall above the mantel needed something new. I decided to hang a pretty picture that was a wedding gift from my mom. I also hung two little pictures that I had picked up at the flea market some time ago.

I also added two oil lamps to either side of the mantel. My mother-in-law has quite a collection of these. I picked out some of my favorites. I like the shapes and colors. Aren't they pretty?

On one side I added a pretty pitcher with wedding bouquet in it. My sister made the bouquet for me. She asked me to watch my nephew because she had to work late. It turned out she was making me the prettiest wedding bouquet.

On the other side I added a pretty little sugar bowl, which I am using as a candle holder.

Finally, in the center is the painting made for us by a dear friend.

All in all it makes for a very pretty, very shabby chic mantel.

The Puppini Sisters - Hollywood

2011-11-15T12:39:00.007-06:00

Have you ever heard the Puppini Sisters? I happened upon one of their albums several years ago and have been a huge fan ever since. I just adore them!

I am happy and excited to share the news of their new album, Hollywood!

It's available now on Amazon!

I just discovered that The Puppini Sisters have a brand new website! Check it out here!

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

I am so curious about this new perfume which is a recreation of Marie Antoinette's perfume. It is available from Peony in Melbourne.

2011-11-12T11:56:00.002-06:00

The moment I saw this room I fell in love. It is just simply perfect.

Photo taken by Leslie Williamson

Paris je t'aime

2011-11-08T13:48:00.010-06:00

I just finished reading a wonderful mystery called "Murder on the Eiffel Tower" by Claude Isner. It is set during the French Universal Exposition of 1889 in Paris. It is a wonderful book and now my thoughts are all of Paris. I hope you will enjoy this lovely pictures as much as I do.

Parisien Salon

Curry15 via Flickr

Paris-for-Free

Curry15 via Flickr

Curry 15 via Flickr

Richard Nahem vis Parisien Salon

Bill Marcil via Parisien Salon

Virginia Jones via Parisien Salon

2011-11-04T15:58:00.010-05:00

My grandma had hydrangeas which we always called snowballs. I've been thinking about my grandma lately and thought I'd share some goregous hydrangeas in her memory.

Southern Living

karaamariee

apartment34 via La Fleur Weddings

Wild at Heart

5minutesjustforme via pinterest

pretty stuff

I just couldn't resist this lovely fleece pillow from Buffalovely.

I hope you all have a lovely weekend!

Decorating for Fall

2011-11-01T17:47:00.009-05:00

I just wanted to share my Fall table decor. I am very pleased with how it looks. I wanted to keep my pretty white pumpkins out. Both are sitting atop candlesticks of varying heights.

Earlier in the fall I made a centerpiece using two pedestal cake stands. I found the original idea in a Romantic Country Magazine. I brought out the smallest cake stand and made a lovely arrangement consisting of a scarecrow, some flowers, and fall leaves. I wanted to bring in a floral element and this seemed the perfect way to do it.

I love candles and so added a vanilla pillar candle on a wooden stand. A lovely Fall ribbon jazzed it up just a bit.

Add a pretty candy dish and it's done. I love my Fall inspired table. I smile everytime I walk by.

2011-10-31T14:24:00.015-05:00

Happy Halloween to all of my dear friends and readers! Here are a few photos of our Halloween decorations.

And here are my nephews having fun at their Halloween Party! Aren't they the cutest?

William Tell As You've Never Heard It Before

2011-10-25T18:24:00.004-05:00

My husband found this. It is a very amusing and most fascinating rendition of the William Tell Overture.

Books and Caravans

2011-10-23T14:36:00.005-05:00

Lastnight I was wandering around the world of tumbler and I tumbled upon this lovely photo of a vintage inspired caravan. I had to know more so I started searching and discovered this great book. It's definitely going on my wishlist!

Visit Amazon to learn more.

Soft and Sweet

2011-10-21T15:41:00.003-05:00

I love Julie London's voice and have at least one of her albums on vinyl. I was so excited when my husband sent me this link to a free download of one her albums. I just had to share and say a big Thank You to Third Island for making this available.

Inspired by Scripture

2011-10-20T20:41:00.012-05:00

Dee Kasberger is the creative mind behind Red Letter Words. She first created these works of art for herself and her friends. It has now become an inspiring business.

She mimics the look of a chalkboard that has been erased many times. It takes me back to summers spent helping my mom get her classroom ready for the start of school. Somehow my sister and I always managed to get in a few games of hangman as well as some drawing time on the chalkboard.

Dee is inspired by scripture as well as her own travels. You can see more of Dee's work on her website, at her Etsy shop, or on her blog.

2011-10-19T15:00:00.006-05:00

When I first started blogging I didn't know much about it or the blog world. I couldn't have predicted how fun it would be or how much I would grow and change through blogging. I have worked hard to get to know my authentic self and I am succeeding. I am growing more confident and assertive. I am learning to love and accept myself just as I am. I wish I had known many of these things years ago. As I have grown my blog has grown and changed. Lately, I have felt as though I needed more from my blog. I needed more options so that I could make a true reflection of myself, so here I am starting fresh. Everything is brand new and exciting! Here you will find crafts, thrifting, flea markets, books, music, movies, and family. You will find me and all that matters most to me. Thank you for stopping by. I hope you'll stay a spell, enjoy a cup of tea and fellowship.