Lamp Shade Transformation

 Hi guys.   I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend.  The sun came out for awhile today so that Vitamin D kicked in and I am a happy camper.

Some time ago I found the most adorable lamp at the Alameda Flea Market.  I fell in love with the color and detail on the base.  The only problem, it didn't have a shade.  That same day I also found a shade but the fabric was horrible.  I loved the scalloped edge, it was different.  Since it is an awkward shape,  I wasn't sure how I was going to recover it.

I have had the lamp and shade for two years now.  Believe me I have tried a couple of ideas and it either didn't look right or failed completely.  I have been going through photos I had saved of design ideas I liked or inspired me.  I happened across a photo I know I have had for awhile, so why this idea hadn't occurred to me sooner, I have no idea.  Maybe the timing just wasn't right.  I am happy to say that this attempt didn't fail and I am thrilled with the result.  I hope you like it as much as I do.

Isn't this lovely?

This is my inspiration photo.  I found this on Pinterest a while ago.  I apologize that I don't know where it originated from or I would give credit where it is due.  I love this pendant.  Can you see how this design worked so well for my bare lamp shade?

This is my lovely shade.  On top of it being a difficult shape, the top was more narrow than the bottom. I created a paper template.  I measured the top and bottom scallop and the length from top to bottom of the shade frame.  I added a 1/2 inch to each measurement.  I then used my pattern to cut my fabric.  I ironed the fabric creating that 1/2 inch seam.  I  then just sewed it down.  I left the ties rough cut and sewed them down as well.  It added that shabby look I love.

Here is the lovely base I couldn't live without.  I love all the details.

I am so glad this little project is done and I can move on to the next DIY.  I also hope this encourages you to find inspiration in others work and put you own stamp on it.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend .

Pine Cone Terrarium

 It is very difficult for me to decorate during this time of year.  You have to decorate for Winter but you don't want it to look like Christmas.  I also want to incorporate Valentines simply because I don't want to have to redecorate in a couple of week.  Recently I was checking in with Folk Lifestyle.  They have a lot of great ideas and inspirations.  They had a DIY post for a pine cone terrarium.  Here is the wonderful thing about creativity.  You can take someones ideas and put your own spin on it.

A couple of weeks ago my sister gave me some pine cones she got on clearance, after Christmas, at Target.  She said she knew I would figure out something to do with them.  When I saw this post I had a moment.

So here is my take on Folk Lifestyle pine cone terrarium project.

This was my original inspiration..

How cute are these pine cones?  I also adore the silver glitter accents on the edges.

Love the price.

So this is my take.  I think it turned out pretty cute.  I added a glass heart to incorporate Valentines.  Also, I learned that there are different mosses.  The one I used was Reindeer Moss.  I love it.  It is really soft and pliable.  I also love this shade of green.

I topped my terrarium with a dome, of course, my favorite.

Have a great week my friends and please share with me any pine cone inspiration you might have.

 I love Christmas.  After I get over the craziness of decorating and gift buying I can enjoy this special time of year.  I remember how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family and such good friends.  It is also a time to remember those that I miss and wish were here.  One person in particular is my friend Viki.  I was introduced to her by my other good friend Khrist.  She and Khristi had been the best of friends for years.  As soon as I met Viki I knew she was special.  She brought something special to the group.  Everyone that knew her, loved her.

I think about Viki often anyway, but when I start bringing out the Christmas decorations I am soon reminded of her again.  I have one of her vintage ornaments.  I can't put it on the tree, I am afraid you won't see it and it will be lost.  Instead,  I put it by itself.  I want it front and center.  I walk past it several times a day and smile every time.

Although I am sad she is no longer here, I know that others sadness is even greater than mine.  I am oh so grateful for having known her and had her in my life if even for a short time.

Viki is in the middle, Khrist is on the left and me on the right.

Merry Christmas Sweet Viki.

Bottle Brush Tree Love

 I have been collecting bottle brush trees for about 8 years.  I love them, and I can add one or two to my collection each year without breaking the bank.  I bought one last year, after Christmas, at Marshall's for $1.00.  That is when it is fun.
 Anyways, I am always trying to think of fun, different ways to display them.  Sometimes, I really think I am cleaver.  So, this year I thought I would pile some in the back of a vintage toy truck and make tie downs with jute twine.  Cleaver right?

Well, great minds think alike.  I was on Pinterest last night and guess what?  Someone else had the same idea.  I love their idea too.

I,of course love the colors.  This is on my to do list for next year.

Spicy Vodka

 This time of year we are always trying to think of easy, inexpensive gift we can give to friends and offer as a hostess gift.  Last year I was given a bottle of spicy vodka.  It is perfect for bloody mary's.

It is easy peasy.  I bought bottles for $1.99 at Marshall's and Ross.  I have also seen them at Cost Plus.  Then I added cocktail onions, orange bell pepper, serrano peppers, jalepeno peppers, red pepper flakes, and sundried tomatoes.  Just eyeball it.  Put however many looks nice.  I probably only put 1/2 tsp. of the red pepper flakes.  After I added the peppers to the bottle I then filled it up with vodka.  I used the Kirkland brand from Costco, but you can use whatever.  I figure total cost is about $10.00.

Then, I of course had to add a tag and a torn piece of red and white ticking.  I stamped out spicy vodka.  It was a nice touch.

Radio Flyer Centerpiece

 I have been going through my email notices from other blogs.  I just love all the creative inspiration I get from others.  Bliss Ranch had this great idea for a vintage radio flyer wagon.  She removed the wheels and added a handle. I love this and can't wait to find a wagon to do this to.  Check it out.

Cosmos and Cookies

 One of the best parts of the holiday season is getting together with friends and family.  I was recently invited to a Cosmos and Cookies party.  It was fun and simple and just a great reason for girlfriends to get together.