Artful Affirmations

Valentine Mailbox

2012-01-28T17:51:00.000-08:00

This has been such a mild winter here in North Carolina.

We have enjoyed some very warm weather interspersed with showers and thunderstorms.

The rain is always welcome here, and I enjoy every thunderstorm we get.

Some of my daffodils are about to bloom, and there are buds on my Dogwood and Bradford Pears.

I hear many of you saying the same things about unusual weather in your area.

We have also had the luck to see a new bird couple at our feeders. We have not yet identified them. It is always exciting to see new visitors!

Enough about the weather...what you do think of my new blog look???

I engaged Karen from Valentine Design to give my blog a much needed lift.

And that is exactly what she did!

I am loving the new header and the easier navigation. I hope it is helpful for all of you to get around.

I love Valentine's Day.

I have many fond memories of going to school on Valentine's Day and receiving cards from classmates.

I have always made cards for my kids and hubby, and have in the past created a mailbox for them. It was so fun for the kids to drop their letters into the box to be opened on the 14th. Such sweet memories!

I was in the mood to create a fresh new box as I am in a swap with Mary Jane's Farm. I am expecting 29 Valentines! Yay! My box is ready and waiting to receive them all happily : )

I got so interested in this process that I decided to share how I made it with all of you.

This rose was you average silk rose, until I hit it with Candy Apple Glimmer mist. Then I used Fabric Tac to glue down some of the petals after I pulled the green plastic base off. I tried to scrunch it down some to create a more open blossom. The G.M. gave it a nice golden shine which you can not see in the image.

I have had this vintage door nob for about 15 years, and now it gracefully adorns the top of the box.

Here is a free video in case you would like to see how I made my mailbox. Enjoy!

Have you been having a good weekend?
I love to hear about what you have been creating lately.

Tea Cup Tuesday-Romantic

2012-01-23T18:04:00.000-08:00

Hello All!
Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday once again where Martha and I pick out some of our favorite china to share with you all. As most of you know, we love tea cups and all things tea, and we love sharing with you as well as visit you and seeing your gorgeous tea cups!

I have Romance on the mind as I have been creating Valentine cards as well as a Valentine mail box
(which I will share in my next post).

So today I thought I would share with you my most romantic tea cups!

Beautiful edges...

Beautiful trims.....

Beautiful colors...

Beautiful age.....this one is fairly old...

Beautiful roses....

Having "tea" is a very romantic experience to me.

Having a beautiful and romantic tea cup to use makes it even more enjoyable!
Are any of you planning a Romantic Tea for Valentine's?

I hope you have enjoyed your visit today. Next week I have a new cup to share that sweetly fits in the "Romantic" category!

If you would like to join in this week, just go and create a post with a tea cup in it and then come back here and link that specific post to Linky Tools below. Martha and I will come over and visit you and see your lovely tea cup!

I am in the process of having a blog makeover and I am very excited about it.
This site will be easier to navigate and I will have larger images (Yay! No more cut off pictures!)
More about that next week ; )

And....I feel another giveaway coming on!

Oh how I love giving lovely things away!

2012-01-21T11:27:00.000-08:00

Hello All

It is Valentine time!

Yay!

I find making these cards very enjoyable as they bring back memories of nights making them for my fellow class mates in grade school. I LOVED getting Valentines!

In fact, I remember we used to buy a large sheet of a variety of Valentines that we had to punch out....do any of you remember those sheets?....my favorite ones had gold trim! To this day, I am still loving gold trim!

I have seen many vintage Valentines, but never seen the ones I loved best.I am still looking.

There is something very sweet about seeing something that brought one delight in childhood!

This is where I began...

(cup of tea very important!)

I cut the hearts from a vintage lace placemat that had seen better days. I then sewed them on a water colored and stamped ATC card back with similar blue thread. I tried red first, but it didn't look fab, and now that I see the images, the blue thread is a wallflower!

with ATCs first...they are all done now. The coloring is a bit off.

This pic is more true to the coloring. See how much difference there is in where and when I took the photo? The first one was in the morning, and the second in the afternoon in two different places in my art room. It can really change the color!

Then I began to make cards...and I used the same tea cup image. I began with a white scalloped card and card stock. I stamped dots on the back and used Shimmering H2Os on the oval card, then stamped with gold ink on a script stamp. Added a half paper doily, cup (with gold Stickles) and the saying. Voila!

And another card, smaller and with the same cup. A simple heart shaped card and a smaller one sewn in with script stamp. It also has gold Stickles on it but you can not see the accents in the photos.

It was a lot of work and a lot of creative fun!

Here they are ready to go out in the mail.

What are you creating lately?

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Blue

2012-01-16T16:17:00.000-08:00

Hello All!

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday with Martha and myself.

We are so delighted to see you today!

I hope you enjoy what we have to share.

Today I am showing off a new cup to me.

I do love a blue cup! Especially what I call Martha Stewart blues and greens.

This cup is more of a robin egg blue, which goes so well with the scrolling gold designs and the gold handle.

It is slightly waisted, and is a generous size for a great cup of tea.

The flowers inside the cup are a sweet surprise, as the outside is less decorated. I found this cup when I went up north to visit my son and his family..and my new grandson.

The handle is very fancy all decked out in gold. You can see the scroll and two other embellishments, a spur and thumb rest just barely there.

The flowers inside the cup are very well done. Lovely vibrant colors of many different flowers.

I find this scroll design interesting.

Top view of a gorgeous cup!

The plate has complementary flowers gracing the center.

The backstamp tells us this cup was manufactured by E.B Foley. A very fine maker of china. I have a few Foley cups, and they are all very high quality and beautiful. The reddish orange numbers were added later, 3583? And I am guessing it is the pattern number. There are also three gold dots. I think they may tell who the artist is. From my research I have found this cup was created somewhere between the 1940-1950.

(click on the image to enlarge and see backstamp better)

I also wanted to share with you a new tea I have found called Rip Van Winkle...Love it!

It is a beautiful organic blend...don't know for sure what is in it as the bag does not say!

But it is very tasty : )

The tea is so gorgeous itself! It looks very fresh and smells divine!

Thank you so much for stopping by today. Martha and I really do get a thrill coming to visit all of you.

We get to see your lovely posts, and beautiful tea cups!

If you want to join in this week, just go and create a post with a tea cup in it that you would love to share, then come back here and link that post up to Linky Tools below.

Hugs,

Terri

What's Up?

2012-01-14T19:51:00.000-08:00

Hello All

Here it is already the middle of January!

We have not had the weather we would have expected. In fact my daffodils have pushed through the earth and are up 4 inches now...I don't think they realize it is only the beginning of winter! Last year it was a few weeks yet before they showed up early. This is also the first year I still have herbs growing outside. Are you experiencing the same thing?

Now that the holidays are over, it is that time of year again, time to clean up, organize and clear out! I have been doing exactly that in my art room. I took before and after pictures....but turns out, I am too chicken to share just how bad it truly was : )

Now I am all clear to get moving on new projects. Yay!

Some jewelry...

Today I was remembering back to the first jewelry i have ever made...and I was shocked to realize it was more than 40 years ago! Back then in the late 60s we were making macrame bracelets and chokers with shells and beads....do you remember that??? Then in the 80 I learned to wire wrap! Now I am learning to metal stamp and some other really cool things I have been experimenting with. I will show soon : )

Doing a little crochet.....

I am working on some Valentines with My favorite Paperwhimsy girl!

And I am hoping to start two new videos, free and a class at Creative Workshops.

Art and Soul 2012 Virginia Beach

I am getting excited about Art and Soul 2012 this March! This will be my first year attending. I have always wanted to go and I have always wanted to take a class with Sally Jean Alexander. So I am really thrilled that I am signed up for 4 of her classes...wooohooooooooo! And, the best part....I am going with not one but two blogging friends, Jan and Marlynn! Super woooohooooo! If you are interested in a retreat filled with fabulous opportunities to be creative and mix with like minded people thank hop on over to the website and see all the amazing teacher to choose from! Just click HERE.

When the time comes I will be sharing my experience on my blog here so you can see how it is!

Bye for now!
I am off to hop around and see your blogs!
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Exquisite Cups to Dream About!

2012-01-09T14:58:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday!It has been dark and rainy here, too dim to photograph my own cups.

So I went online to look for cups I wish I could own. Most of the cups I am sharing are over $300!

Some almost $500!It is fun to dream though!

I am going to start with this absolutely gorgeous cup!

This is the first cup I found. It is by Aynsley and called Athens Butterfly.
My sister Kathleen would love this cup too!

This golden beauty is attributed to George Jones, an English Potter during the 19th and early 20th century. I had not heard of this potter before.

This beautiful cup is an Aynsley.

It was called Surreal Roses on the site I found it on.

It looks like a painting!

This incredible cup was made by Shafford in Japan. This company created china ware from 1940-1970.

The roses are the most gorgeous colors! The design so unique!

This dramatically stunning cup is also an Aynsley.
It was called Emperor Rich Gold on the site.
I would love a closer look at the bottom inside of the cup, what I can see of the flowers looks so beautiful!
The gold trims are so lush! This is certainly a cup for a princess!

This beauty is also an Aynsley!

If you want to see where I found these cups I have "pinned" these images on my board at Pinterest.
Have you heard of "Pinning"?
It is so fun! You find something interesting and you pin it to one of your boards.
Here is the link to my page, then scroll to the bottom to find the board "Exquisite Tea Cups" http://pinterest.com/artfullgirl/

The link to where I found the image is just below the pic.

If you would like to join in Tea Cup Tuesday, just create a post with your tea cup in it and then come back here and hook up with Linky Tools below.
Martha and I love to come an see your beautiful blogs and tea cups!

Hugs,Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Favorites...short and sweet!

2012-01-02T11:19:00.000-08:00

Favorite New Cup

Favorite old cup

Favorite broken cup

(booo hoooo....sniff

Favorite French cup

Favorite Blue Cup

Favorite unusual handle.

Thank you so much for sharing Tea Cup Tuesday with us in 2011!

I hope 2012 will be even more fun on T.T!

I have some new gorgeous blue cups to share...

and a new tea pot!

Hugs,Terri

....if you want to play along, just create your post with your tea cup in it and then link up below...

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T21:12:00.000-08:00

Hello 2012!

Welcome!

This brand new day, of a brand new year

can only hold good things!

 May this year ahead bring joyful opportunities to all of us

and may each of us take the chance to find out what truly makes us smile. 

And now for the announcement from my Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza!

And the winners are...

Victorian Illustrations CD by Crafty Secrets is......Diane! From Diane Knots Musings

French Inspired Earring...JoAnne! from the Vintage DragonFly

Gold trimmed Tea Cup.................... Johanna! from Silber+Rosen

Congratulations Ladies!

Thank you all for participating in this giveaway.

I always wish I had a gift for each and everyone of you! I do, and I wish I had the hours in a day to visit each of my followers even once a week! I am close to 1300 now, so you can see my frustration! I want to, there just isn't time. So, I have giveaways often to help make up for that.

I appreciate each and everyone of you, taking a few moments of your day to stop in and say hello. Thank you so very much! I wish you all the very best of experiences in 2012!

Hugs,

Terri

Artist Share and Giveaway News

2011-12-29T09:37:00.000-08:00

 I was lucky to receive this wonderful handmade card from Marjanne of Couleurs et Fantaisies. 

I love the colors of her card as well as all the layers she has created. It is a very pretty card!

I love the tea time theme. There is even a little square of cross stitch!

Inside is this blue post card tag with a lovely message on the back!

Thank you so much Marjanne for your very sweet card!

Here is the cute ATC that Kimberly over at ArtJoyStuff....made for me in her Holiday ATC swap! She sent it in a sewn sleeve along with this adorable little wreath ornament.

Thank you so much Kimberly!

 A sweet fellow artist and particpant in my Altered Domino Book class, Carolyn,  sent me this surprise gift!

A pretty card, amazing rosette and butterfly as well as a cup of tea!

But a cup of tea with a twist....it is a candle! There is a spoon in it and it is the color of tea, but it is a candle!

How sweet is that! Thank you so very much Carolyn!

Now about my Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza! (giggle).

There is still time to enter to win by leaving a comment on the post of that prize that you would like to win. You can enter to win all of them if you like. Just be a follower and leave a comment and a way to reach you.

Prize #1

A Crafty Secrets Vintage Illustrations CD filled with fabulous images to print out!

(click on picture to go to post to comment and enter)

Prize #2

A pair of French Inspired Earrings made by moi.

(click on picture to go to post to comment to win)

Prize #3

This gorgeous tea cup and saucer!

(click on picture to go to post to enter on)

I hope each of you has been having a creative joyful week.

I look forward to announcing the three winners on New Years Day!

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Handles

2011-12-26T14:23:00.000-08:00

Hello All

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday, the last one of 2011.

In honor of that, I am doing a tribute to tea cup Handles! 

To the lowly handle.....

elegant....

classical...

shining...

petite

luminous...

curvaceous...

eclectic....

Thank you all for participating in Tea Cup Tuesday 2011!!!

Thank you Martha for hosting with me once again!

Next time we meet it will be 2012 and time to share new cups!

Yay!

Holiday Giveaway is still going on...see previous posts to enter to win! I will pick the winners on New Years Day!!!

Hugs,
Terri

Deck The Halls

2011-12-25T16:43:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to All!

And to All a Good Night.

Thank you all who shared their Christmas art during Deck The Halls Sunday.

I really enjoyed visiting you and seeing the beautiful decorations and gifts you have created!

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesdays-Holiday Cheer!

2011-12-19T11:51:00.001-08:00

Hello All!
Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday with Martha and I.

This week I am sharing one of my favorite cheery patterns for Christmas time.

It was the berries that first caught my eye.

I think if I had to pick a word for Christmas it would be" cheer"....

To cheer (an action) means to make a cry or shout of enthusiasms....

To be of Good Cheer means to be full of gladness........
(isn't cream and red a "cheery" colorway?)

Joy-fullness and gaiety!

My Christmas wish for you all is to be of good cheer.

to be full of joy, gladness and gaiety!

As they say....Tis the season to be Jolly...

(fa la laaaa...lalalaaaaa...la. la. laaaaa!)

(A "Thank You" to Mayfair of Wedgewood for assisting me in this post)

And soooooooo.....

My next giveaway prize for my
Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza!

How would you like to receive this lovely little tea cup in your mail????

She is a very sweet Royal Albert cup and saucer with all kinds of gorgeous details.

If you would like to enter to win this set, just be a follower and leave a comment to this post saying you would like to enter. Also, please leave a way to reach you.
I wish I had a cup for each and every one of you!

There are two more prizes in my Holiday Extravaganza Giveaway....

This wonderful Vintage Illustrations CD from Crafty Secrets!
Click HERE to go to the post that contains this prize and leave a comment to win!

And....

These French style earrings created by moi.
Click HERE to go to the post that contains this prize so you can leave a comment to win.

You can enter to win all or none of the prizes I am offering.
I just really want to say "Thank You" to each of you for you kindness and friendship.

Christmas Hugs to you All

Terri

Deck The Halls Sunday-Christmas is Coming Soon!

2011-12-17T16:12:00.000-08:00

Hello All!

Welcome to Deck The Halls Sunday

where we take a moment to share our holiday decorating and gifting crafts.

I have been working on creating more Jane ornaments and have been having so much fun.

I wish I had time to photograph each one and show everything, but I will just have to share what I can.

I created this ornament by using two prisms. I used this stamped image of Jane that I purchased in the gift shop at Jane's home in Chawton, England.

And a statement from Jane about the holidays on the back. I sugared the sides and it sparkles nicely!

Here is a miniature paper version of a townhome that looks like the one Jane lived in when she went with her family to live in Bath for a few years. I bought this paper kit for it from the gift shop at Jane's house in Chawton. You can still walk by the home they rented in Bath. It is down the street from the Jane Austen center and is now a dental surgery. I sugared it up as well as put some stickles on the windows and doors for wreath and boughs.

Next up was wrapping paper!
I decided to print out some of Jane's writings in the "Jane Austen" font and printed it out on paper to wrap gifts with. I used the cameo stamp again from the gift shop to do the tags.
You can see beneath the gifts the ruffled tree skirt I made out of batten. I do love the soft look of it.

I tucked a small white quill under the ribbon on this gift...since Jane wrote with a quill I thought it might be a nice touch.

Here I am in Jane's dining room, and there in front of me is the table she wrote at and a quill.
I get goosebumps just seeing this image again! I am a silly goose!

Next Sunday....Christmas!...I will show off the entire tree!

Now below is my next giveaway prize in my
Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza!
Yay!

A pair of French inspired earrings!

If you would like to enter to win, just be a follower and leave a comment saying you would like to enter, just so I know. Not everyone wears earrings or likes "French" styled items.

If you would like to enter to win my other prize...a Vintage Illustrations CD from Crafty Secrets, just click on here, and you will be taken to that post.

I love to host giveaways.... it is just a small way I can give back to you all for your kindness and encouragement in my creative life. I appreciate all your visits and comments. I also love to pop over and see what you are up to as well. Thank you so much for your friendship!

If you would like to join in Deck The Halls Sunday (this is our last one for this year) then just share something you have made or decorated for the holidays, and link up below with Linky Tools.

Hugs to you all!
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Winter Blue

2011-12-12T17:44:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday Everyone!

Today I am sharing a new cup that truly delights me!I think I might have swooned when I saw it sitting on the shelf at the antique shop.It isn't the normal Christmas cup. But to me, it's coloring and design says "Winter"!

This blue is my all time favorite color.
And the photo does capture it true.
It is a wintry blue, and along with the white, it really suits the season.

The flowers inside and outside the cup speak of summer,
but the rest of the cupwith it's golden swirls and dots look like winter winds and snow.

This cup has such an elegant handle, and it is very comfortable to hold.
I have some cups that I love the look of, but the handle is tricky.

I feel very fortunate to have found this cup, this color, this style and design.

Believe it or not, I found several more the same week,

and I am excited to share them with you soon.

The coloring in this photo is just a bit too blue,
but you can see the gorgeous pattern on the plate.
Have you already guessed the maker?

Paragon!
This is my favorite company!
I have shared about it many times in the past.
It opened in 1919 and it continued until 1960, when it went through ownership changes and now is a part of Royal Doulton. Wikipedia has a good article on this company, it is so convoluted!
It was originally part of the Star China Company, a well known organization begun by an Anysley (the same as the china company). It does seem like many china companies were bought up or merged with many of the same larger companies. So it gets quite confusing.

Thank you all so much for stopping by today!
I know we are all really busy preparing for the holiday.
If you would like to join in, just create a post about your tea cup, then come back here and link up your post below. Martha and I are really enjoying visiting all of you each week!

I have just begun a new Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza!
Go HERE to post a comment to enter.

You need only be a follower to enter. Make sure you leave a way to reach you.
And remember, I have some great free videos on my side bar for holiday banners, and how to bleach and dye bottle brush trees for your holiday decorations.

Deck The Halls Sunday-More Ornaments!

2011-12-10T13:02:00.001-08:00

Hello All!

I have been enjoying creating my Jane Austen tree. The ornaments are coming along. Some are simple, and some are more work, but all fun! This week I have made three more styles. Here are two of them.
I have also just finished a skirt for the tree from winter white batten. I will share that when I show off the whole tree on Dec 25th.

Jane"s cup! When I was visiting her home in Chawton, England, I was lucky enough to get a picture of one of the tea cups from their family's dining room.

I used the image to create this cup ornament. It is lovely and glittery!

I did think of adorning it with some holly, or a Christmas rose and some lace, but I really did not want to obscure what the Austen's china looked like.

Here is an ornament showing Jane's childhood home at the Steventon Parsonage.

I really enjoyed making this one. Wish I could have had a clearer image though.

I may be wrong, but I think the glitter freaks the auto focus out!

Many of you may be wondering why I would do a Jane tree...It is because of the joy I have received reading her work,

looking at society and life through her eyes, that motivated me to honor her with this tree.

She is/was such an amazing story teller! As I am someone who loves to write stories, I am so very impressed with her writings and her bravery for a woman of her time.

She is one of my mentors.

I am really enjoying coming and seeing your holiday craetions! Thank you everyone who has joined in each week. If you would like to share in Deck The Halls Sunday, just link up below to your post about something you have created either for decoration or gifting.

Don't forget to check out all the free videos on my right side bar. Also, my Altered Domino Book class is going beautifully. The books participants are making are awesome! This class would be a fabulous gift to a family member, friend or even yourself!

And don't forget about my...

Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza!

Click here to enter to win the first prize of the season.

Keep watching as I am posting new prizes soon!

Happy Holiday Crafting!

Hugs,

Terri

New Shoes for Christmas and a Giveaway!

2011-12-09T19:28:00.001-08:00

Hello All,

I have had a great day of crafting in my art room. I have a few more Jane Austen ornaments done and will show them tomorrow night at Deck The Halls Sunday blog hop hosted here at Artful Affirmations.

Today I wanted to share with you a Christmas gift idea. How about a Shoe and maybe a purse too,

for your artsy friend made by you? This pair is for a friend of mine.

Crafty Secrets has a new CD out called Creating With Vintage Illustrations. I has over 200 illustrations and all kinds of high quality papers. I created this shoe and purse from a divine pattern you can print off from this CD! Wow! I am totally in love with this paper and would love to paper a room with it! The purse pattern is also on this CD.

I have a free video tutorial on my sidebar on how to create this shoe.

It is perfect for tucking in little goodies, like vintage laces, ribbons and fibers....or any small gift.

The purse was designed by Cindy, and is easy and fun to create.

You could use it as a gift card holder, or for small photographs, or a letter, poem, or $$$!

Crafty Secrets asked if they could put my Elegant Shoe template on this CD and I said yes. They kindly sent me the CD and more to give away! Yay for you! So today I am beginning my

Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza starting off with this fabulous CD!!!

Creating with Vintage Illustrations CD #2

Click on the link in the image above to go directly to the shoppe.

I love creating these little shoes! It is so fun to choose a colorways and to add little touches.

I love receiving hand made gifts from my friends and family. They are so special to me.

Creative Secrets added this gorgeous heel! Didn't they do a fabulous design job on it?

Just an idea. I am working on several Christmas gifts right now too.

How is your Holiday gift crafting coming along?

If you would like to win this fantastic CD just leave a comment and how to reach you.

I will be posting more giveaway items for my Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza!

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-It's Beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2011-12-05T10:33:00.001-08:00

Hello All!

I am home now from my travels.

Visiting my family was wonderful, and seeing and holding my grandson was the best!

Now, it is time for Tea Cup Tuesday once again!

When I first saw this cup, I wasn't sure if I liked it....It has very unusual coloring and design, at least to me.

The coloring is actually a little more yellow green than this, a really gorgeous color.

Footed, and simply adorned with one thin gold line just the they have defined the waist.

The elegant handle is highlighted with gold.

I would call this handles shape a modified Kidney shape, with a prominent thumb spur.

There is one single pink rose in the bottom of the cup.

The plate and cup edges sweetly scalloped and trimmed with gold.

The design is very interesting to me. Have any of you seen this type of style before?

This backstamp was difficult to read, but I think it says "Royal Bayreuth".

Bavaria, Germany US Zone. This cup was manufactured during World War 2.

This company began in 1794 and was highly prized for it's designs by the Victorians. It's backstamp includes the Royal Coat of arms of Bavaria.

Christmas is fast approaching, and I am back in my art room working like an elf : )

I enjoy so much creating little gifts and cards.

My Jane Austen tree is coming along and I will share it again for Deck The Halls Sunday.

Thank you so much for coming by to visit today. I love having you over!

If you would like to join in and share one of your Tea Cups, just sign in with Linky Tools below.

Hugs,

Terri

Deck The Halls Sunday!

2011-12-03T20:31:00.001-08:00

Hello All!

Welcome to my festive blog hop to share out holiday

decorations and gifts made by hand and heart.

I have been away over a week to visit my family,

and new grandson.I was lucky enough to also have time to create

this little stocking for my Jane Austen tree.

The coloring is off (not as golden) as I did it at night with poor lighting, but essentially, this is how it looks.

At the moment it is filled with vintage sheet music and text, when I get home

I will refill it with text from some of Jane's own stories.

I used felt for the main stocking, some vintage lace, ribbon and trim as well as a vintage rhinestone to make it. I used embroidery floss to sew a blanket stitch around the stocking. Then I sugared it up with some Martha Stewart's glitters. Oh how I love glitter!

I do so love creating gifts and decorations myself. As I am doing this post, my sister is working on a gorgeous necklace. It is like the North Pole here with us crafting away!

What are you creating for the holidays?

If you would like to join in Deck The Halls Sunday and share what you are creating for the holiday, just join in with Linky tools below and I will come and visit you.

Hugs,

Terri

Sharing the News

2011-12-01T18:24:00.001-08:00

*Hello!*

Introducing my sweet little grandson......

He is the sweetest little guy, and such a thinker!

He is tired from all of Grandma's kisses!

I have loved every minute with him, and look forward to more tomorrow!

I also met a new friend, well not really. We met in blogland a couple years ago, and just met in person this week. I have admired Nancy Maxwell James ever since I first saw her art. She is an amazing creator and a sweet, kind and loving friend. I had a really wonderful time visiting at her beautiful home.

She shared with me the vintage style ornaments she is creating for the 12 Days Of Whimsy she is hosting at her gorgeous blog Sugar Lump Studios.

Each day starting today, she is sharing a Christmas ornament that you can follow her instructions and create yourself. By the time you finish the 12 Days you will have a tree full of gorgeous handmade decorations. She has really inspired me with some more ideas for my Jane Austen tree. Nancy is sharing this for free!

When I return home from this trip I am continuing my Christmas tree decorations and working on homemade gifts for the holidays. What are you up to this week?

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Ooooops!!!

2011-11-29T12:10:00.001-08:00

It has been more than two years since Tea Cup Tuesday began, and I have never missed a post!

But last night, I totally blanked!

I am away on a trip to visit my new grandson and was so tired out I missed it! I am so sorry!

You all must be wondering where I am!

Here I am (she waves her hand high in the air!)

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday!!! Yay!!!

Thank you Martha for your e-mail and shocking me back to reality!

Isn't this a sweet cup? It is new to me, I found it on my last trip to see my grandson.

I just thought this cup was so very lovely!

The coloring is unique and the flowers a different mix than I normally see.

The plate is so colorful and lively!

Such a sweet cup and a joy in the hand.

There is a sweet bunch of flowers on the inside as well.

Sorry they are blurry!

This adorable cup was made by Tuscan China, Stoke on Trent in England. The gold numbers are the pattern number, and if I could get a hold of a pattern list by them I would be able to look up the name.

Thank you so much for waiting for me to show up!
I am so glad you are here and if you want to join in just sign in with linky tools below.
Hugs to you All!
Terri

Deck The Halls Sunday!

2011-11-26T17:21:00.001-08:00

December is almost here!

My tree is looking a little less "Charlie Brown" and a little more festive. Yay!

I have quite a ways to go before it is full and truly ready for Christmas.

My theme this year is Jane Austen, and I am really loving it!

I am working on lights, letters, music, and other adornments....

Here is what I have been working on....

An improved ornament from last week, I am still working out the design on this one.

Here is my latest ornament. I love how this one turned out.

I used two different snow flake punches,

vintage beads and the same image as the other ornament.

The back of the ornament is a copy of a letter Jane wrote to her brother.

I am working on holiday ATCs with this image of Jane as well.

I am really enjoying playing with paper, old lace and netting!

I am not making all my holiday items with the same image of Jane LOL!!!

Next up comes an ornament with one of Jane's homes on it.

What are you creating for the holidays?

Are you having FUN????

If you would like to share what you are doing for the holidays, either decor or gift, just link up below and we will come and see what you are up to in your Santa's workshop!

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Thanksgiving

2011-11-21T07:50:00.001-08:00

Hello All!

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday once again! Yay!

As you all know, Martha and I get quite thrilled with china, especially tea cups.
So, a couple or more years ago we set up this blog party, and it has been delightful!
I am thankful for Martha, for T.T. and all of you!

This time of year, I find myself getting nostalgic and full of gratitude.
There are just so many things to be thankful for!
It is wonderful that we have a holiday that is about Thank Full Ness.

My cup this week:
Old cup, but one I am so thankful for. It is a corset shaped cup and one of my favorite colors. I have set it by a new vintage sugar caster. I have never owned one of these before.

This sweet cup has such a lovely color of blue.

Sweet roses too.

It has this sweet handle with just a though of gold.

As you can see, it is an Aynsley, made in Stoke on Trent, England. This company is one of my favorites. They often do this corset shaped cup, in fact, I think this cup is from a series.

I have it in rosey pink as well.

This shade of blue can be hard to find. lately though I have been lucky and have found three new tea cups that I adore in similar shades of blue green.....and am saving to share later.

I really adore this caster! I have seen stunning ones in silver,
but this hand painted one really got my attention.
And of course, right now a silver caster would be very pricey!

The backstamp shows that it is made by Noritake, in Japan. This stamp in red was used up until 1938/9.
The M in the wreath is for Maruki. Gosh, it is older than me!

I am so thankful for my family and home, for my husbands work and my kids health.
I am grateful for my country, my friends and my neighbors.

Words really can not express how full my heart feels today!

I am wishing all of you, the best Thanksgiving possible. May your heart feel full.

Thank you so much for visiting.

Hugs,

Terri

Deck The Halls Sunday-New Tree

2011-11-19T12:54:00.001-08:00

Hello All!

Welcome to my newest blog hop, where we get a chance to share our Christmas projects, either for decoration or for gifting. I love making my own decorations and have for many years. I also enjoy creating gifts for my friends and family. So if you would like to share too, just join in below with Linky Tools and we can come visit you and see your holiday crafts.

Last week I found a silver vintage-ish tree. I loved it right away as the silver color is not shiny bright silver, but a vintage silver color that would do well with silver or gold accents.

Here it is brand new and bare.

And here she is in her "Charlie Brown" stage...Lol!

My theme for this year is "Jane Austen".
The image at the top of my post is the home where Jane spent her first 25years.
I have cherished Jane's works, and became even more interested in her when I visited where she lived later in life, before she died. You can see that post here.
She wrote a number of her books there, although they were not published then.

Above is the first ornament I made from some old tart tins.

The print behind is from Pride and Prejudice.

(little tree bleached in my newest Video, see below)

This ornament is not quite done.

Very simple fanned cardstock, a silver glitter medallion behind an

image that could be Jane....at least I found it under the heading of "Images of Jane Austen"

I want to embellish this more, I just haven't been inspired just yet as to what I want to do.

It is backed with text that is a copy of a letter Jane wrote to her brother.

(see me reflected in the mirror ornament taking the picture???)

I have a long way to go yet with this tree. I am glad it is only November 20th!

Yay!

Plenty of time for more holiday creating!

Next on my agenda is little vintage looking Christmas stockings.

And just in case you missed it, here is my newest video:
"Bleaching and Dyeing Bottle Brush Trees for Christmas"

(not my best picture!)

I also have a Holiday Banner video you might like as well and you can see here

Thank you so much for stopping by!

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Sweet Cup!

2011-11-14T12:31:00.001-08:00

Hello All!

Welcome once again to Tea Cup Tuesday!
Martha and I are delighted to share this party with all of you.
Last week I saw such lovely china!
Thank you all so much for sharing!

Today I am sharing what I think is a very sweet cup. I just found this one when I was away visiting my son and family. I really appreciate the shape of this cup, The details are lovely.

It has a very interesting handle, seen straight on as well as the side view.

Such pretty sponged gold around the rim and plate edge!

Would you like a cup of tea?

I have used this cup several times already and it is a pleasure to hold in the hand.

Here you can easily see the "7" handle.

The plate is scalloped beautifully.

This set is from a company named Victoria.
This is the back of the cup, and it has two markings for who worked on this piece.

The 492 is the pattern number. The other mark is the artists mark. Which is not the same as the cup. So the plate and the cup were worked on by different artists. Maybe not even made the same day.

Thank you so much for stopping by to visit!

BTW...I have a new video tutorial...

"Bleaching and Dyeing Bottle Brush Christmas Trees"

you can see here

As well as a new blog hop:

Deck The Halls Sunday!

(same link as above)

Where we can all share our holiday decor and handmade gifts!

If you would like to join in Tea Cup Tuesday, remember it is about Tea Cups : )

Please have a tea cup in your post. Tell us a little about it. Martha and I have a great appreciation for these beauties from the past and present. After you have created your post, come back here to sign up below using the URL of the post itself and not just your blog. That way, even if you make another post, visitors looking for your tea cup post will be able to go right to it.

Martha has her blog all decked out for Christmas, so you don't want to miss that, or her website where she sells some of her gorgeous china! Pretty Vintage Things! I am heading over there to have a "look see" now. Lol!

Hugs to you all!

Terri

Deck the Halls Sunday!

2011-11-13T13:04:00.001-08:00

Hello Everyone,

It is that time of year again...time to turn our crafting to Christmas decor and gift!

This is a very creative time of year and I thought I might give us an opportunity to share what we are creating for holiday season. Today I am beginning Deck The Halls Sundays blog hop that will continue until Christmas with a new "how to" video on bleaching and dyeing your own bottle brush trees.

Bleaching and Dyeing Bottle Brush Christmas Trees

Next week I will have some ornaments created using some of the trees I have bleached and dyed. Also, I recently found a beautiful Vintage feather style tree, and you will see me start from scratch to create ornaments and decorations to fill it up! Yay!

Next week I will post Saturday evening for Sundays so we can get an early start. So if you would like to join in with any posts sharing home made Christmas decorations or gifts, then stop by and link up (today if you are ready as I will keep toady's open all week) next Saturday and Sunday.

Happy Holiday Crafting!
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Friends

2011-11-07T14:27:00.000-08:00

She looks a little plain doesn't she?

This new cup has a lovely gold design, but in this photo she does not show her beauty.

See her tall footing?
Her stance brings a regal feel,
and her true colors show up on the inside.

Perfect for fall, peaches, berries, roses and leaves tinged with color.

The plate has similar florals and fruit in vibrant colors.

The gold design reminds me of Pennsylvania Dutch patterns.

And here too you get a peek at the inside.

The split loop handle has a unadorned thumb spur, and a little gold detailing.
You know how sometimes a gorgeous cup will have the most uncomfortable handle? Well, luckily this one has a good handle. I don't think any cup I own is as comfortable to hold than this one. The loop is just the right size, shape and position on the cup.

I was surprised to turn the cup over and find out it is made by my favorite company.
Paragon makes such fine tea cups. I have not had one like this before, the shape is unusual to me.
This backstamp is similar but not exactly the same as ones used during the late 50s and early 60s. Paragon sometimes used stamps, as many companies did, out of sequence. If they had some left over, they would use them, even if they were also using a newer stamp. Here is the page I found the stamp examples:
http://www.btinternet.com/~paragoncollector/backstamps/backstamps.html

I found this tea ad in an old French book.

This weekend I was lucky to meet a Blogger friend in person!
Marlynn and I met through Paperwhimsy about three years ago and this past Saturday we spent the day together. We had been swapping art and e-mails for quite some time now, and it was a pleasure to meet this wonderful woman in person! French food, tea, shopping and art!
A perfectly fabulous day!
Marlynn has a gift for collage and her books are amazing. You can see what I mean by visiting her lovely blog Honeysuckle Breeze.

Thank you so much for coming by for a visit! If you would like to join in T.T. with Martha and I just go and create a post with a tea cup in it, and share with us about it, then come back here and link up below. We love coming to visit you, and we get much pleasure from seeing all your tea cups!

I love Creating Art More Than Vacuuming!

2011-11-03T15:44:00.000-07:00

Do you?

How do you fit art time in to your busy life?

Do you ever feel guilty for creating instead of cooking or cleaning?

This year has been an exceptionally busy year for me. I thought I was already busy, until August when "busy" took on a whole new meaning! Lol!

My muse is brimming with ideas, she is constantly coaxing me to go to my art room (very supportive I must say!). I have some plans for my holiday posts which should begin very soon, as well as a Holiday Giveaway. You know how I love a giveaway!

Here is a video by andyraydorfman of YouTube that I always find helpful when I am missing my art time. I have shared it before and think it is time to do so again. I hope you like it too.

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Halloween Tea

2011-10-31T20:19:00.000-07:00

Halloween night!

Many years ago when I was a child I loved this night.

I think because I really enjoyed dressing up in costume...and being allowed to eat more candy than I would have in an entire year!

Now I am older, I enjoy seeing the little ones dressed up. But also, it is the time of crisp nights, and the smell of smoke from fireplaces in the neighborhood wafting through the air. I've loved that smell since I was little. We had a large fireplace in our home and nothing felt as comforting as a fire crackling away. I may longer go out trick or treating, but I do find a cup of tea very enjoyable and I have a large fireplace in my home, so add the two together and you have my idea of a perfect evening.

Tonight I am using a new trio I recently added to my collection. It is a lovely set, with a pale mint blue ring around the plate edge. It is hard to see in these photos, being so subtle. It really is lovely.

This set has an elegant feel to it, the handle is simple, gilded and easy to handle.

I do not usually find trios, and it is a pleasure to have the extra plate for a treat with my tea.

What attracted me the most to this set is the pale blue ring and the lovely gold trims.

The design is so pretty! I love the scroll leaf work in the outer rim.

The air tonight is fresh and crisp. The fire is burning in the fireplace and soft music plays in the background. It is a perfect setting for a cup of spiced tea and a good book!

Two Tea Cup Tuesdays ago I shared the only cup I owned by this company, C. M. Hutschenreuther. Now that I have purchased this trio (and one other one I will show soon...) I have three tea cups from this company. My cup from two weeks ago had the same backstamp except below where this ones says "Germany", the other had the pattern name and year. I wish this cup had the pattern and date!

As I shared two weeks ago, Carolus Magnus Hutschenreuther began his fine porcelain company in northern Bavaria in 1814. His sons eventually began another one not that many miles away. So there were two Hutschenreuther companies. I still have not found more info or backstamps for this company.

Nostalgia!

This photo is from about 1968, I was a gypsy that year, and I think my friend Toni was Phylis Diller. I had not seen this photo for over 30 years and just got it a couple weeks ago. What memories it brings back!

Happy Halloween to all of You and may you experience many treats and no tricks!

Thank you so much for all your comments last T.T. and thank each of you for participating. I was away for 7 days waiting for my newest grandchild, and he decided to wait an extra 9 days to arrive! So I came home to take care of some business. He was born healthy and beautiful on Saturday morning. I am heading back north to see him soon! My son and family live about 20 hours north of me. I skyped (yes, can you believe that!) with him today and was so in awe of his sweetness!
Mother and son are doing very well. Grandma is over the moon!

I will be catching up with your posts this week before I return to visit them.
Hugs to you all,
Terri

Martha and I host Tea Cup Tuesday together. Make sure you visit Martha as she has so many beautiful pieces in her many collections. She also has a website, Pretty Vintage Things, where she sells her beauties!
If you would like to join in Tea Cup Tuesday, then go and create a post with a tea cup in it, tell us about your cup, show us your backstamp...(Martha and I love to see the backstamps!). Lol!
Then come back here and link up below.
We love coming to visit all of you!

Tea Cup Tuesday-Yay!

2011-10-24T18:05:00.000-07:00

Hello All,
and Welcome once again to Tea Cup Tuesday!

I am away this week (still) awaiting the arrival of my newest grandchild.

My tea cup share will be short and sweet with this beauty of a cup.

This cup was sitting pretty on a shelf at one of the local antique stores not far from my home.
It really feels good in the hand, and is light and just the right size for a good cup of tea.

It is a footed cup, with a simple gold trim.

Lovey unadorned handle with split and thumb spur.

The roses on this cup are really lovely. The photo did not quite capture the detail and texture of them.

Mayfair created this cup. I have looked up this company and did not really find any information. I saw Royal Mayfair, but not just Mayfair. I really must get some good sources for researching china!

I hope you are all having a fabulous week.

Thank you so much for stopping by.

Next Tea Cup Tuesday, I am sharing one of the new cups I have found on this trip as well as what I have done to the tea tray I picked up at Goodwill.

If you would like to join in Tea Cup Tuesday with Martha and I, just create a post with a tea cup or two you would like to share with us and come back here to link that post with Linky Tools below.

Martha and I would love to come and visit you too!

We are so thrilled to have you included.

Hugs,

Terri

The Art of Ana Fernandes-Fairy School and Dolls!

2011-10-22T18:58:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

I am away awaiting the arrival of my newest grandchild. Mama to be is doing well and having some signs of what is to come soon!Yay! She is over due by two days and ready to hold her baby.....I am ready too!

In the mean time, I thought I would do another artist share with you all.

I am delighted today, to share about a fellow artist Ana Fernandez!

She followed my Fairy School Tutorial series (which is located with the other free videos on my right side bar) and created this amazing school!

I am always thrilled to see the schools that are made, and Ana's is really fanciful and fun to look at.

I love her teacher and students as well as all the interesting objects they collected in their school room.

I recognize this little Paperwhimsy girl! Doesn't she make a perfect little Fairy student?

Looks like a very important lesson!

A thimble for a waste basket! How cool is that!

I also love this natural shelf, and the fabulous wall decorations!

Here is another interesting object...a shell as a scroll holder! I am so impressed!

Ana also makes incredible dolls!

Here is one....in a fabulous autumn dress!

And this sailor...isn't he something!

Oh and look at this couple! They are just adorable!

Ana does not have a blog yet, but you can find her on Facebook (Ana Dias).

We hope she does get a blog one day so we can all come and visit her!

Thank you Ana for sharing your gorgeous creations with us!

Hugs,

Terri

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday!

2011-10-17T18:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a happy Autumn birdie.....

She rests on this pretty cup I am sharing today.

This is the back side. I don't know what flowers these are here...do you?

This is the simplest yet most elegant simple loop handle I have seen yet!

It was the little bird that caught my eye in the shop, and why I brought this cup home!

There are two florals on the plate, this red one....

And this pink one.

I am thinking it is almost time to buy a big pumpkin for the front porch, as these tiny ones are all I have at the moment. Just right for a tea cup.

This is the only cup I have from this company, C. M. Hutschenreuther. Carolus Magnus Hutschenreuther began his fine porcelain company in northern Bavaria in 1814. His sons eventually began another one not that many miles away. So there were two Hutschenreuther companies. I did not find an example of this exact backstamp online, I saw some similar. I have to guess that "Olivia" would be the pattern name and "63" would be the year manufactured. I could be so wrong : ). If you know this company I would love to hear more about it. I know there was a merger and eventually a buy out. But as with most china companies, the history is convoluted.

This year has passed so quickly! I want to savor every moment of it!

I am heading off to my son's home this week to greet my newest grandchild! When I return, it will be time for Halloween already. I do enjoy handing out candy to the little ones that come dressed up. They are the cutest little kiddies! Emma and Betsy, our two Yorkies, think the kids are coming to visit them!

I hope that each and everyone of you are well and enJoying this fall season.

If you would like to play along and share a tea cup of yours, just create your post with your tea cup in it, tell us about it, and then come back here and sign up with Linkytools below.

Martha and I love to visit you and we love to see your tea cups.

Martha sells some tea cups on her website Pretty Vintage Things, a great place to look for gifts!

I found this tea tray at Goodwill for about $5. I am having fun fixing it up, and next week I will show it off! Yay! It will look much different. I wanted to paint it soft pink, but am changing my mind.

At this point I am not sure....we'll see : )

Thank you so very much for stopping by.

Hugs to you All!

Terri

It is that Spooky Time of Year!

2011-10-12T09:40:00.000-07:00

Getout your orange and black,

leavethe spider web on your front door,

encouragethe mushrooms on your lawn...

Itis time for Halloween once more!

I am not a huge fan of Halloween, like some of my bloggy friends (you know who you are!)

But I do feel a thrill when creating Halloween inspired art!

I loved going out to Trick or Treat as a child, even as a teenager. It was so much fun to see everyone walking up and down the street dressed as their favorite character.

I created a pair of *SpooKy* earrings for my friend and I thought I would share how easy it was.

I found this pack of skeletons at Archivers, sprayed them with walnut ink by Tsukinek, drilled a tiny hole in his head (he said he didn't mind...) and inserted a bronze jump ring.

On a bronze headpin I made a eyelet at one end, then slipped on a bead cap, orange crystal bead, a vintage rhinestone and then a Swarovsky green bicone crystal. I closed the end of the wire with another eyelet and then hooked the skeleton to the beads then the entire thingy to the earrings!
Presto Chango, Halloween Fun!

Happy Wednesday!
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Black and Gold

2011-10-10T21:27:00.000-07:00

Hello All!I can hardly believe it is Monday night already!The days seem to be flying by. It is just as they say "Time flies when you are having fun".I must be having an enormous amount of fun then!

Today I am sharing a cup that I have shared before, but it is so unique it needs repeating. I had never seen one like this before, and I haven't seen one since. I think it suits the Autumn season perfectly!

When I first spotted it in the antique shop I was drawn by the dramatic black and gold and the fleur de lis.

Each one is hand painted, so they are all just a tad different. I like that about his cup!

This handle is so classy! That is a good size thumb rest on it!

I also appreciate the interesting bottom, I haven't seen a footed cup like this before either.

This is the plate with it's lovely floral bouquet.

As you can see it is a Royal Stafford China cup. Since it says "Made in England"

I know it was created after 1920.

I hope you all are doing well and enjoying the fall. The trees are turning little by little each day and looking so gorgeous! Thank you so much for stopping by my blog for a visit. I am excited to come see your tea cups!

If you want to play along just create a post about your tea cup and then come back here and sign up with Linky tools below. Martha and I delight in coming to visit you and your tea cups!

Hugs,

Terri

Memory Book of Grandmother

2011-10-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

Hello All!

The opening of my new mixed media class on Altered Domino Books starts tomorrow!!!

O.k. can you tell I am excited about this???

You should see the grin on my face!

I wanted to share with you a domino book I made as a memory holder to my grandmother.

I only have a few blurry photos of my grandmother, so I chose an old vintage one that I thought resembled her the most and I crafted this little book that holds many happy memories of her for me.

I used each panel to depict something that I thought was particular special about her and our childhood.

One of my favorite memories is of her teaching us how to feed the birds in the backyard. We would save the crusts of our toast and put it out for them to have for breakfast. So I used the last panel to remind me of this.

And on the back of the pages I wrote out a thank you to her for all the happy experiences I had at her home when I was a child.

I do miss my grandparents. I have very good memories of staying overnight at their home.

I am very thankful for those memories!

You may have noticed that I changed the bead color from the first photo, I was happier with the gold pearl. I also stitched a little lace bag from vintage lace and silk to keep it in.

I also want to thank Gail at Creative Workshops for giving me an opportunity to teach what I love online!

Thank you Gail!

Thank you so much for stopping by!

Hugs,

Terri

Gothic Arches and Domino Kit Winner

2011-10-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
I have had a chance to finish up my other arches for a swap at Paperwhimsy.

These arches are for the Poetry group, and the poem is one of my favorites of Emily Dickinson...

Hope is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul,

And sings the tune without the words,

And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard;

And sore must be the storm

That could abash the little bird

That kept so many warm.

I've heard it in the chilliest land

And on the strangest sea;

Yet, never, in extremity,

It asked a crumb of me.

Each one is a little different, as I used many vintage materials and they are all aged uniquely. The feathers too are not perfect matches, but I think that is fine.

I decided to wrap them in tulle and tie with string. I think I will sneak a little Halloween candy into the package as well!

Now last but no least is the winner of my Domino Book Kit giveaway to celebrate my new class that opens tomorrow over at Creative Workshops!The winner, chosen by Random.org number generator.....IS......

Bobbi!

Congratulations to Bobbi!

Thank you to everyone who entered, I am sorry I do not have 111 of these kits so each and every one of you could get one too. I will be having many more giveaways in the future!

This little domino book was created while I shot the classes for my Altered Domino Book class. It is my Tea book! Such fun! Tomorrow is the opening of the class and I am super excited about it. Maybe I will see you there!

Hugs,

Terri

Gothic Arches and Halloween Fun

2011-10-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

Hello All!

How are you all doing so far this week?

I hope it is a good one for each and every one of you.

I will be picking the winner of my Domino Book Kit tomorrow night! Yay! I wish each of you luck.

If you have not yet entered to win, just go to THIS post.

Make sure you leave info on how to reach you if you win.

I have had a few moments to play and created these Gothic Arches for a swap over at Paperwhimsy.

Creating is such an enjoyable venture! I was thinking today about how young I was when I first realized that making things from paper is my favorite thing to do...and I had a memory of sitting at the kitchen table cutting out paper dolls the way my grandmother taught my sisters and I, I think I was about 6 or 7 years old.

I still love making things with paper!

I have been out and about in Blogland and was unable to comment on some blogs.

Just know, I do love to visit you!

Hugs to you all!

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Fall!

2011-10-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

Hello All!

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday where Martha and I invite you to visit and see our tea cups, and we hope we get asked over to your place to see yours! We love (really love) seeing your beautiful tea cups as well as stopping by to visit your blog.

Today I am sharing two tea cups and a tea pot. The first tea cup I have had for about 15 years. It is not a vintage cup, but about as old as I have had it. What drew me to it at the time was the large gorgeous rose! The cup is a very generous shape, so one does not have to refill it as often : )

The coloring on this cup is very pleasing, with such pretty botanicals!

The handle is a simple split loop and thumb spur without any adornment.

It was manufactured by Staffordshire China from England. But I found it at Ross For Less!

This is the matching tea pot. It is quite small considering the size of the cup!

Love this rose!

Here is the second cup. Very cheery yet perfect for fall with it's oranges, peaches and greens.

It also sports a unique "7" handle.

I am not sure what flowers these are supposed to be, they look like apple blossoms or rosa rugosa to me. What do you all think?

See the pale green edges? I do love this look! The inner rim of the cup has this same treatment only in pale pink. Also gorgeous! It is the little extra touches that make this cup unique.

This cup was created by Old Royal Bone China. Since it does not say "Made In" I am thinking it is before 1920. Do you agree?

I am so glad you were able to stop by!

Blogger has been iffy for me for months now, but I am not going to give up the ship. After thinking about it for quite some time, I figure any host is going to have issues, and I don't want to trade for different ones! I have seen a number of you bloggers out there thinking of leaving Blogger too. Hopefully they will keep working out the issues. So I can visit AND leave comments at your blog!

If you would like to play along with Tea Cup Tuesday, Please Remember, HAVE A TEA CUP IN YOUR POST! It is that simple. Most of you do this beautifully, but some lately have not had a tea cup at all or even just linked to a store page. I remove links that go to shops.

Sorry about this, but I need to do a little moderating.

If you have a tea cup you would like to share, then go create your post and then come back here and link that post to Linky Tools below. Then we can come and visit you! Yay!

I am having a giveaway to celebrate my new class beginning next Monday October 10th!

If you haven't yet entered just click HERE to go to the post to comment.

I will be announcing the winner at the end of this week!

Good luck to each of you!

Hugs,

Terri

Happy October!

2011-10-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

October has begun in perfection, with our first crisp day!

It has been in the high 80s here, and today it is in the 60s. So wonderful! As I mentioned in my previous post, the Maple trees in my backyard are beginning to turn color. Each day there are a few more leaves sporting seasonal attire!

I have finished filming all my class videos for my new class on Altered Domino Books at Creative Workshops. Yay! It was a wonderful experience and I learned a great deal more about editing and filming, even though I have been making videos for about two years. I think I am getting better at it! There are 8 videos in all! I am very excited to see what everyone in the class is going to make.

Since I am done filming and editing...I had time to play and create something for Halloween! I had a great time creating this banner using Paperwhimsy images. The background to the banners is a new sheet Gale has created. I love it! All of the Witches are PW girls. The letters BOO I bought at Archivers.

To celebrate my class opening, I am having a giveaway of a Domino Book Kit. If you have not entered yet, go HERE to do so. You only need be a follower to enter. I will be awarding this prize by Sunday October 9th! When you enter, please leave an e-mail address so I can contact you.

The witches in my banner are very chic. They design their own hats! They love netting, feathers and even rhinestones! Very fashionable I think!

I have begun a little Fall/Halloween decorating with this banner. It now graces my fireplace mantle in my family room. I have also added new candles and a plant there too.

Now all I need is to find a few pumpkins for my front porch!

I want to share with you a lovely gift I won during the Gypsy Dream Blog hop hosted by Celia at Adventures of the Striped Stockings.

Mina of Green Witch With Sprinkles offered this beautiful jewelry set and I won it! Yay!

Her gift arrived yesterday and I put them on as soon as I opened the package. They are so lovely and perfect for fall!

Thank you so much Mina!

Thank you all for stopping by!

I hope you are all having a lovely weekend.

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Roses!

2011-09-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

Hello All!

Welcome once again to our tea cup sharing party! Yay!

Today I am thrilled to show you a cup I found earlier this spring, but saved to show you now as it seemed like a perfect fall cup. It reminds me of the last roses of summer. My roses do poorly here in the hot summer heat and humidity, but when the cooler weather comes with September, suddenly they are happy again and blooming vibrantly. They will bloom for another month if we do not get a frost at night.

There are so many things I love about this cup. Firstly, the colors of the roses!

Soon worthy to me!

Secondly, I adore the shape of the cup, can you see the unusual shape of the rim? Almost square.

The two sides of the cup are decorated with roses, red on one side and yellow on the other.

I love the color of both roses. Just right.

The leaves are my favorite colors of green.

This looks like a modified "7" handle to me. It has just a simple gold detail on it.

The other thing that I appreciate about this cup is that it is a trio! I rarely find all three pieces.

The leaves are my favorite colors of green.

The roses on the plate, so lovely!

There are beautiful yellow roses on the plate too.

Here you can really see the shape of the cup.

The pattern name is Morgans Rose and was created by Hammersley in England. From what I can find out about Hammersley, it began around 1887, but was bought and sold a number of times. Aynsley bought the name in 1989. I am thinking that this backstamp is a fairly modern one, so it is not more than 20 years old.

As the weather gets cooler at night here, it is lovely to have such a cup to sip from by the fire.

Thank you so much for stopping by today! Martha (Make sure you visit her as she always has the most gorgeous tea cups...and her vintage website has lovely items for sale!) and I are so thrilled to visit each of you and we love seeing your tea cups. So if you would like to join in this week, just go and create a post about a tea cup or two and then come back here and link that specific post with Linky Tools below.

In case you haven't heard yet, I have a new class beginning with Creative Workshops October 10th on Altered Domino Books. So I am having a giveaway of a Domino Kit to celebrate! Yay! Click HERE to enter in this giveaway!

Happy Fall!

2011-09-24T07:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall to all of you!

What a delight to have a whole day to feel good about!

It has been raining on and off for a few days here, just perfect for entering fall. The maple tree in my back yard is just starting to show red and gold tints to it's leaves.

The smell of fall is filling the air and filling me with thoughts of appreciation and gratitude for life, however busy it may be, no matter the circumstances. Fresh fall air always makes me feel hopeful!
Do any of you get this feeling with fall?

During this season, I find myself already looking back at the year and realizing there is still so much I would like to do before the new year. I think of people I still want to write to or visit if possible, places I want to experience, bike rides I want to go on and projects I would like to finish.

Last night I had a dream it was Christmas morning,

and I had not bought any presents!

Fall, for me, is a good time to reconnect with myself as well. I can get so busy with things going on in life, so fall reminds me to breathe. I appreciate that!It also reminds me of how thankful I am for life, for my family, for my friends, and for all of you here in blogland. The saying above is one of my favorites. To me, each day really is a gift. That doesn't mean I jump out of bed every morning with a grin on my face (although that does happen!), but I know each day I can choose to experience it that way. Yay!

Feel free to right click on the saying and use it in your art. I have a giveaway going on to celebrate my new Altered Domino Class over at Creative Workshops. If you would like to enter just click HERE.

Have a lovely fall Saturday!

Hugs to you All!Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Lady Carlyle

2011-09-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

Hello All! Welcome to our Tea Cup Tuesday!
Martha and I share a love of tea cups, and really, all things tea. We totally love coming and seeing your beautiful tea cups each week and so you have all blessed us! Isn't it delightful to focus on things that bring you in touch with your own inner joy? I think so! Tea cups and having tea are pure delight to me. Sharing it with Martha and you all???? PRICELESS!

I owe the showing of today's cup to Carrie at Oak Rise Cottage who shared her Lady Carlyle tea cups last week and reminded me of mine and how much I enjoy it. She showed both the Avon shape as well as the Malvern. My cup is the Malvern shape although I love the Avon more.

As you can see it is a cup full of gorgeous color!

It sits pretty on it's pedestal base simple adorned with two gold rings.

I do so love the pink and cornflower blue in the flowers within the beautiful rose pattern

These pretty flowers adorn the inner cup.

I find the plate a work of art! Just look at that pattern!

Of course, it is Royal Albert! Doesn't it just look like a Royal Albert cup?
The pattern name "Lady Carlyle" is perfect for it.

I am having a giveaway (shameless promotion!) to celebrate my new class at Creative Workshops! Yay again! (see below for promo video)
I never knew I would be teaching classes online, and I know I am going to love it! I know some of you have signed up and I am so excited to have the opportunity to create with you!
Click here to enter my giveaway of a Domino kit I put together from my own art stash!

I must say, I am feeling a little guilty for having a video that isn't free, after two and a half years of free only! Someone commented on my Youtube page that they were sad I wasn't having free ones anymore. But I am ! I will do more for free.
I love doing that too!

This vase of flowers looks so lovely! The weather has cooled here some, and the roses are much happier! We will have roses for another month before it gets cooler.
Flowers are such a gift! They too connect me with my JOY!

Thank you so much for stopping by for a visit today!
Martha and I would love for you to join in, just pick out a tea cup to share and tell us about it in a post. Then come back here and sign up with Linky Tools below. If you don't have a tea cup, you could go look at Martha's website Pretty Vintage Things, she sells beautiful tea cups!

Hugs,
Terri

Celebration Giveaway!

2011-09-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
I am wanting to share my joy with you by having another giveaway! In celebration of my first Mixed Media class over at Creative Workshops on Altered Domino Books, I am giving away a box full of goodies to make your own domino books! There are all kinds of items from my art room that you could use to start creating your own! With Domino books you only need to think small, tiny little pieces. Which is so nice if you only have a little bit of your favorite paper or lace left, it can be used beautifully in one of these books!

Vintage ribbon and lace bundle...

Pink ribbons and lace bundle...

Blue and green ribbons and lace bundle...

Tissue paper transfers...

Two envelopes of beads, rhinestones, charms...words, sentences and many tiny images...

Three page inserts ready to adorn for your book....

Diamond Glaze, Stickles and of course, dominos!

I have been truly enjoying creating the video lessons for this class! It is full of all kinds of tips and techniques usable for creating domino books or any other type of art. What I love about Creative Workshops is that you have at least a year to do your class, maybe even longer and you can start any time. Yay! I am so excited to share and play with any of you who might want to join in!
This Altered Domino Book Class begins October 10th.

To enter my giveaway, all you need to do is to leave a comment...and of course be a follower.

Here is the short video that previews the class...
Just in case you haven't seen it before.

Hugs,
Terri

Gifts from Linda!

2011-09-09T05:39:00.001-07:00

(this cream smells divine, and is truly a joy to put on!)

I was recently blessed with gifts from a very talented artist named Linda, from Blue Eyed Girl. She is an amazing fiber and graphics artist, and I enjoy visiting her blog and seeing what delicious things she is creating.

A little while ago I saw that she was creating her own soothing cream as well. It sounded so good, I asked if I could purchase some. Instead though, she asked if she might gift me with a jar of it....well YES! How generous of her!

Linda works with such vibrant colors! Here is a gorgeous pin she sent along with her cream. This is going on my favorite sweater and my winter coat!

Linda sent along some of her own stunning fibers! Look at those colors! Lastly and not least, is the card she made me. She put an image of her own antique tea cup on it! What a creative way to share it with me! Isn't it a beautiful cup?

Thank you so much Linda! I so totally appreciate your creative gifts!

I adore the colors Linda works with, and I was inspired to begin a new project that I am using some of her fibers in. Below is a sneak peak of it. It is part of the new venture I mentioned in my last post. I will be teaching a mixed media class on Alter Domino Books at Creative Workshops ,(a wonderful online community!) this fall and I am very thrilled and excited! I was delighted and honored to be asked by Gail to join such a fine group of artists. I love teaching online as any one any where in the world can come together to have fun!

As you know, I do videos for free on a regular basis and I love doing it. I had been wanting to do a domino video, but it became a very large venture, as it has about 8 videos to it! So I thought that it would be a good fit with Creative Workshops. I will continue to do free video tutorials too. I have some new ones coming up for this fall. Lots of fun!

(recently on my art desk)

Thank you so much for dropping by!
Hugs to you all,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Gypsy Tea for You and Me

2011-09-08T17:21:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday!
I am sharing my Gypsy Dream blog hop post for Tea Cup Tuesday today. A little bit different, but I thought you might enjoy it. I used a lovely blue luster cup and saucer with gold stars that seems magical to me. There are no markings on this footed cup. So we can only guess it's origin.

Welcome to my little caravan, come in and have a seat at my little table. I will pour you a cup of tea and then we shall see what we can see....

The tea is brewed in the old way, my great grandmothers recipe.....

We shall let the amber liquid steep in its pretty cup...

And talk of things.....while you drink, and then we shall see, what the leaves see for you......

Oooooh, a good cup! I see happiness....I see joy! I see only good things for you!

I am so glad you stopped by!

Creating this post has put me in the mood for Halloween! When I was a little girl, maybe 8 years old, I dressed up as a gypsy with a flowing skirt and fancy shawl. I think I can remember wearing a scarf tied around my head. I believe it may have been the first time I wore makeup.

This post is in participation with Gypsy Dreams blog hop hosted by
Celia from Adventures of the Striped Stockings. If you would like to see more of the Gypsy Dream posts just click on the name of her blog to follow the link!

Follow the link to read about my new class at Creative Workshops!
And...I am having a giveaway later this week to celebrate my class! Yay!
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-New Cup and New Tea Pot!

2011-09-05T16:36:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
Happy Tea Cup Tuesday once again!

Here is my newest cup that I found at a Goodwill store for only $1.50!

It is a lovely shape and a very generous size (which I love!). The color palate is lovely with the pinks and lilacs.

Just a simple loop handle and gold trim around the plate.

I was researching this company on the internet and found no information. I did find one very frustrated collector who said she was unable to get answer about this company, even from the company (Bohemia Ceramics or Thun Karlovarsky Porcelan) who may be the original company. Considering her backstamps, I could hazard a guess at somewhere around the 1960s. Maybe one of you have some knowledge of this backstamp?

This little tea pot I found in England while driving through the New Forest. There was a quaint little antique shop on the road and as we passed by I shouted "Ooooh loook!" and my dear hubby pulled over and patiently waited while I look inside for treasures.

It is a tiny little pot, standing about 7'' tall, and has this beautiful top on it. See the lovely ruffled edge? The footing is ruffled too.

I find the handle so unusual, it looks like one handle from one side and two handles from the other side. See what I mean?

I adore the ruffle like handle with the sponged gold accents!

The delicate spout with sponged gold accents as well.

The flowers that decorate it are gorgeous in pastel shades of pink, purple, lilac, white, yellow and green! This is a very cheerful looking little tea pot!
If I remember correctly, I only paid about 9 pound for it!

Again, I came up empty while researching this backstamp. It may have been created in Limoges, France. But by whom and where??? I did see some information that Martin Freres and Brothers used a bird with ribbons in it's mouth with one ribbon saying "France". There was not an image with this information to compare with. So again, I can only guess. And this time, I do not even have enough information to risk a guess. If one of you happens to have a good book on Limoges, maybe you will find this backstamp in there.

Martha and I are very much enjoying visiting all of you each week! Last week we really saw some gorgeous tea cups, thank you so much each and everyone of you who participated! Thank you also, for all of you who stopped by to visit us!

If you would like to join in this week. Just go and create a post about a tea cup (or two...) that you would like to share with us. Let us know about how you came to have it, it's history, and dare we ask for a photo of the backstamp? That would be fab too!

Once you have your post up, come back and link up with Linky tools below.
We are excited to see what you have this week!
Hugs,
Terri

Fun with Purples and Greens

2011-09-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

At the Paperwhimsy Forum (a totally fun place to be!), we have just finished a fabulous swap. The theme was Sassy and we were to decorate a 81/2 x 11" envelope and then fill it with art supplies from our own stash. Then, send it to our secret Sassy Sister. Once everyone had there envelope of goodies, we were to create a Thank You ATC to send back to the sister who sent us the supplies. Totally fun!

Meet the "Sassy Sisters". There is Sassy One, Middle Sass and Lil' Sass. They are the cutest little girls....but my oh my are they sassy! I dyed the laces that Christine, my Secret Sassy sister sent me, and I used her green and gold paper background as well as her little girls for the ATCs. I decided they needed stitching in place and used gold, purple and green threads.

The papers she sent me worked so well together...even though she did not send me anything purple, that just kind of evolved.

Lil' Sass is really sweet looking....but watch out, her bite is much worse than her bark!

I had not made any ATCs for a while so this project was really enjoyable.

Here is the fantastic envelope that Christine created for me, along with some of the goodies she so generously sent too!

A close up of her decorated envelope. It was hard to capture the fab texture on the blue.

(My return gift to Christine, with the 3 ATCs)

Thank you so much Christine! I really appreciate what you sent me!
Thank you Paperwhimsy for yet another creative swap!

I hope you are all doing well this week. It has been a very busy week here.
I am working on a new venture and I will share about that soon!
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Tea Tales

2011-08-29T14:27:00.000-07:00

(Tea cozy, beaded over cross stitch...1880-1900)

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday!
Martha and I loved last weeks hop. We saw so many wonderful posts with gorgeous tea cups in them! Yay! We loved visiting each and everyone of you.

This week I am sharing about the Winchester Discovery Center's exhibit called "Tea Tales" and it showcases Britain's history with it's favorite hot drink...TEA! It is a small center, but they packed in a wonderful display about tea.

I was lucky to get to visit this show with my dear friend Cheryl. It was certainly interesting!

Delivery of Tea!
Wouldn't that be something to see a vehicle like this one taking tea orders to it's customers?

A tea grinder, a tea storage crate and another tea chest, that might have held tea's mixed by the shopkeeper. The merchant would order tea in bulk, then grind it and mix his own blends to offer to his customers.

Books were rare in the early days of tea. Women created their own receipt (as it would have been called back then) or recipe books. There is a recipe for tea balls in the book, but this page tells how to Ice a Great Cake. This book is not dated, although notes in the back cover are dated 1759. I feel quite sure that if I had lived during this time, I would have created my own books too! Maybe even with drawings and watercolors? Definitely!

This is a gorgeous tea caddy with tortoise shell and mother of pearl.

Another beautiful elaborately decorated tea chest.

This one isn't so pretty is it???
It is an electric automatic tea maker. I think it was from the 50's.

Here is a gorgeous tea dress!

I find the details so very romantic looking!

I was sure I took a photo of the information, but alas, I can not find it. So I will have to guess that this dress was worn in the 1800s. Anyone have an idea?

I wish I had taken more photos! But I hope you enjoyed this little trip to Winchester!
The show is on until September 10th, so if you live nearby it is still open.

The same day I went to the Tea show, it was market day. I found this beautiful trio at a stall there. It seemed the perfect finish to the day! It is my first Royal Crown Derby!
(I have already shared this cup in another post, but I thought it was fitting to put it also in this one)

Thank you all so much for your very fun comments to my previous post about meeting my favorite British actor over the summer! I was so surprised how many of you know and love Martin Clunes too and his character Doc Martin!

Thank you all for stopping by to visit me today.
I will be out and about all day visiting your tea cup posts!

If you want to join in Tea Cup Tuesday, remember, it is about TEA CUPS : )
Please create a post with the tea cup you want to share with us, tell us about it, how did you get it, who is the manufacturer....show us the backstamp (oooooh....aaaahhhhhhhh). Martha and I love backstamps! We love seeing companies we don't know or own any of their china.

But most of all, have a beautiful and creative week.
Hugs,
Terri

My Big Summer Surprise!

2011-08-26T17:57:00.000-07:00

O.k. I realize most of you are not going to know who this is in the photo with me....but a few of you are going to know, and maybe even scream!
(He put on his best "Doc Martin" look for the photo!)

While we were in England for July, we went to Port Isaac because we love the show Doc Martin so much. I posted photos of this trip earlier, below is a photo of the fishing village where the entire show is filmed. We thought the show was over, no more seasons (boo hoo). We stayed in a B&B that is used for the school house in the show. It was originally a church.

Well, when we arrived at the B&B we had no idea that we were going to find the Doc Martin group filming in the parking lot!!! I almost swooned! I quickly grabbed my camera, and when I got back, Marin was coming out to the small crowd watching (remember it is a tiny little fishing village so not many people there)the filming to say hello. When I spoke to him, he was very kind, very interested and funny! It took many tries for the person who was taking the photo to have success, and all the while he was hugging me with his arm and cracking jokes like "well, if this fails...can you draw?" LOL!

See the village? The boats are anchored with enormous chains embedded in the sand because of the tide. This beach and the tide play a big role in one of the funniest episodes.

"Louisa" signing autographs.

The end of a scene. This one is in the finale. If you look in the background, you will see Doc Martin in a suit (of course!) about to climb up the ladder. He was on that ladder all day for countless takes. Over and over and over. He must have been so tired of that ladder!

It was so strange to stand outside of the Doc's house and surgery!

I love Martin Clune's character, he plays it so well! Now that I have met him, I see how entirely different he is from the doc! I am so thrilled that I was able to meet him. And I am totally thrilled there will be another season! Yay!

He was so friendly, that once an older couple, suitcases in hand, crossed right in front of him as he was just starting a scene. They recognized him and stopped him to shake hands! He took it all in stride, broke character and was very kind to them and then started the scene over. I was so impressed!

Port Issac is such a gorgeous place to visit. Truly a tiny village, with all the quaintness. But seeing my favorite actor? Priceless!

Thank you so much for stopping by!
I have been super busy this summer, but promise to catch up with all of you soon.
More art and videos to come!
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Gift Cup!

2011-08-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
Welcome again to Tea Cup Tuesday with Martha and me! We LOVE hosting this tea cup event and absolutely adore coming over to see your tea cups! Both of us are really crazy about china, and everything tea. So we share this day with each other and all of you who so graciously join in. Last week I was thrilled to see so many different cups!

Today I am sharing a gift cup!

I was so surprised to hear from Katherine at Crafty Dify, saying she had found a tea cup that immediately made her think of me! So she mailed it all the way from Canada! I was really touched that she would do such a thing. The package arrived last week and I was so excited to see what she had sent.

This is a really sweet cup! The roses are a deep purple red, and the leaves a lovely green. There is a pale blue background behind the flowers that looks amazing, but the photo did not capture it. It really makes the cup pretty!

It has the most darling shape, with ripple edges on cup and plate. The edges are all touched with gold. This cup has a good weight and feel great in the hand.

I had poured a cup of tea in it within the hour of unwrapping it!

It is manufactured by Taylor and Kent, my very first cup from this company! Taylor and Kent began in Longton in 1867, and made fine china and earthenware during the Victorian period.
I have seen a rearing horse in their backstamp, but could not find this one with the crown. Anyone out there with a book that might date this cup?

Katherine also sent me some ribbon, a handmade card and tag as well!

This is her tag. Isn't it lovely? The center tag pulls out too! If you have a chance, stop by and visit her lovely blog. Thank you so very much Katherine! I really appreciate your generosity!

I have a another new cup to share that I picked up at GW last week for $1 and I would like to take you to the Winchester Library in England where I visited their little History of Tea exhibit. I think you will like it!

If you would like to join in Tea Cup Tuesday, PLEASE share a tea cup! Most of you do, but we seem to get people linking up without tea cups, and maybe even without anything to do with tea! (GASP!) I remove those links if I see them in time. Martha and I love coming to see your tea cups, so if you have one to share, or a post with a tea cup in part of it please link your post up below and we will come over and visit you.
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-August Already!

2011-08-15T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
I am delighted to be here with you all again today for Tea Cup Tuesday! Yay!
(Can you believe it is the middle of August already!)
How fun is this, sharing our beautiful tea cups and sentiments with each other.
Today I am sharing two cups that are very similar in shape, weight and feel.

This first one is what I have been calling my botanical cup, because of the little vignettes of flowers. The flowers are different in each section. I adore the fancy gold trims.

It has a simple loop handle, and as you can see it was well loved and a good amount of the gold has been worn away by loving hands. It is a very fine, and delicate cup.

All the little gold dots were applied by hand, many years ago.

This is a very pretty cup with all the little windows of flowers

A close up of the plates edge.

As you can see, it was created by Limoges. William Guerin began making pottery in Limoges France in 1836. His son joined him much later, around 1903. This mark could have been in use as early as 1891 or as late as 1936.
But as it does not say "made in" I am thinking it would be before 1920.

Here is my second cup to share for today. It is very similar to the first cup, the same cup and plate shape, and the same handle. What is different is the country of origin, and the raised gold design and the hand painted flowers are much simpler in execution than that of the first cup.

It is a very pretty cup, but upon close inspection you can see that the artist did not paint within the lines very well. The entire cup is hand painted.

This cup too, was well loved, as the gold has rubbed off the simple loop handle with repeated use.

But still, it is delicate and very sweet!

The porcelain is very thin and lightweight. So tea tastes quite good in it.

Did you guess? Yes, it is made by Nippon!
Martha, I know you knew that right away!
So, even though the cups were very similar, they were made in two totally different countries.

Here is the other vintage tea cozy I bought in the UK. I love the embroidery!

Such pretty vibrant color. The background is a little grey, so I am thinking of trying some Borax on it to lighten it and banish the dullness. I am just not sure how the colorful threads will do. Anyone know?
Thank you so much for stopping by to visit today! I have loved having you and I enjoy reading your comments. If you would like to play along with Martha and I, just go and create a post with your tea cup in it, tell us about it, show us the backstamp if you can, we love to see that. Last week I saw several cups from companies I had never heard of and that is always a delight!
Once you have your post up, link that specific post to the Linky system below. Then we can come and visit you!

Hugs,
Terri

Having my "Colors" done

2011-08-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

(I thought I was a "summer" but now know I am a Light, Soft and Cool girl!)

Hello All!
What a great week we are having!
Hot, but still a good week!

Today I thought I would share with you something I had done in the UK that I found fascinating (and no, it isn't the Indian eyebrow threading I had done, ouch!, but fabulous results!).

Have you ever bought a beautiful piece of clothing, that ended up only sitting in your closet for a few years, because when you put it on it just wasn't "right"? I have done this many times. And I don't want to get rid of these clothes because they are so gorgeous. Lately I had been thinking about how I could become more comfortable choosing clothing, because I had become somewhat reluctant only bring home another article of clothing that didn't end up working for me. Now, I do have some colors I positively know are mine, and I have stayed in my comfort zone with these. But the artist in me wants to work with all the colors I can!
Hence, my UK color experience.

(Sylvia)

Many years ago I had my "colors" done, and I found out I was a "Summer" and it did help me choose colors for my clothing. But what I had done by the multi talented and color gifted Sylvia Rattenbury was so much more than that, (and no more seasons)! Sylvia spent a couple hours teaching me about my own colors by carefully draping me in colorful swatches and watching my facial color dull or brighten. It took me a little bit before I could really see it with some colors, while others it was plain to tell. She also talked to me about clothing style and shapes that were best for my body type. By the time she was done showing me my own makeup color, I was thrilled and felt I had the information I needed to choose clothing colors and styles successfully. Yay!

(I love these colors! See the green? I have never worn green at all and I am happy to do so now I know the correct green for me!)

Sylvia put together my own personal booklet filled with my own colors. I have taken this with me every time I shop, and I am pleased to say I have successfully chosen some really lovely articles of clothing that I feel very good in, and in colors I would have never chosen! I can use this book to encourage myself to embrace color combinations I have never done before, with no fear of money wasted. As a person who loves color, this is exciting!

Sylvia lives near Horsham in southern England. She has a gorgeous home with a lovey studio that she does her color work in. I felt very comfortable there, as Sylvia's kind and knowledgeable manner really put me at ease. I highly recommend her!

So, if you live anywhere Sylvia (or are visiting in the area like I was) look her up. You will be so thrilled with the results! She has a beautiful and helpful website where you can find out more...colouryourstlye.co.uk

The clouds are building up outside, and I hear the early rumblings of a thunderstorm.....such a lovely sound. I am thankful for the rain today as it helps keep the temperatures down. I hope that where ever you are you are having a good day and enjoying the summer.
Thank you so very much for stopping by to visit.
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Already!

2011-08-08T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
Is it just me or is the summer flying by???
Whew it is hot here, mid to high nineties every day.
Guess I will have to stay indoors and craft!
Today I am sharing a tea cup trio that I purchased in an antique store while in the UK this summer. I don't usually see trios, so this was a delight.
I adore the roses on this set! I have seen others share it and versions of it, but until now I had not had my own...now I do. Yay!

I love the dainty gold markings on the handle.

This cup is footed with two gold bands as trim.

The rims of the cup and plates are heavily decorated with a gold floral pattern.

These are the sweetest little roses! I also love the shade of green for the leaves.

Gorgeous plate edges! Using this cup makes me feel almost royal!

As you can see by the backstamp, it is created by Royal Albert, and the pattern name is Dimity Rose. Such a sweet name for such a sweet cup!
Here is a dear little vintage tea cozy I found in another little antique shop in the UK this summer. Isn't it sweet too?

It is quite small and would fit a 2 cup tea pot. I think it is adorable. I found another one while there and I will share it next week.

How are you all doing this summer?
Are you having a good one?
Are you having your tea iced???

If you would like to join in for Tea Cup Tuesday with Martha and I, just go and create a post showing us your tea cup(s). Then come back here and link up below. Martha and I love coming to see you and your china!
Hugs,
Terri

Time to Play!

2011-08-07T13:54:00.000-07:00

(Best journal I have found for mixed media)

Hello all,
What a summer it has been!
Hot, Hot, and more Hot here in North Carolina. It was wonderful to get a break while in the UK and I just returned from my home state where it was much cooler and such a treat!
My travels are done for a little while so I am now able to get back into the art room and have some fun!

My friend Jan and I are doing the She Had Three Hearts class over at Scarlet Lime. I have been wanting to art journal for ages and now I am getting the opportunity to do so...and, the best part...share it with a friend!
The alphabet stamp set I used here on the cover of my journal is "Artsy Alphabet" by Crafty Secrets. I just received this fab set and I love it!

I am just in the beginning...playing with paints, layers, textures and embellishments....

So far I am having a great time!

Here is the front of a board book I am working on for a friend....it has been such fun to work on as well, lots of paints, stamps, paper and beeswax.

While I was away visiting family, my dear hubby had this wonderful sky light put in my art room, now I have gorgeous light all day long!

While on my way home from my family, I stopped at a antique store and found this old Excelsior sign and price stamp set! What a find!

It is going to be fun to use in my journalling.

I also found this beauty. She is about 6 inches tall, and I am dreaming of what to create with her.
I have also had a chance to catch up with many of your blogs. I am able to comment on most posts, but sometimes I am blocked. Just know I have been by for a visit.
What are you doing this summer?
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Tea Rooms

2011-07-31T09:49:00.001-07:00

Hello All and welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday once again!
Today I am sharing with you some images of Tea rooms I saw while in England.
The first photo above is in Romsey, King John's House. This dwelling is about 800 years old. There are beautiful walled gardens surrounding it, with gorgeous flowers, and fruit growing on the walls. Inside the house is a lovely tea room. A total delight to visit.

Here I am in Lyndhurst at another tea room that I think some of you might love. I did not get a chance to go inside, but it looked really fanciful on the outside.

The photo above is the sign handing above the next tea room, in Honiton. You have to walk down a narrow passage to reach it, on one side the passage opens onto a tea garden. The walk is full of flowers in planters as well.

It is very charming inside. The tables were all set with tea cups and plates just waiting for hungry and thirsty customer. And this place has gluten free options as well.

This is one of the sweetest little tea room, down a very tiny lane in Port Isaac.

And this tea room (which I forgot to take a photo of the exterior of the building) is in Tintagel. The inside is very traditional yet cozy. I have the absolute worst leek and potato soup there! See my dear hubby at our table?

These are their scones. They were not gluten free so I did not get to have any, but they were heavenly to look at!

I also wanted to share with you this beautiful tea pot I saw at an antique shop in Honiton. It is quite large, maybe holding 12 cups. The price, if I remember correctly, was about $32 USD. If I could have brought it home safely, I would have bought it!

Thank you so much for stopping by to visit. I think I have caught up with every one from the last two T.T. I really enjoyed seeing all your posts (and being able to comment again! Yay!).
Next week I will be sharing a tea cup trio, and a lovely little limoges tea pot I did get to bring home from our trip.

And believe it or not, I am on another trip! I will be home again in a few days.
Hugs to you All,
Terri

Back Home Again

2011-07-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
I was away for most of July in England. It was a truly enjoyable trip. We had the happy opportunity to visit with our dear friends and also see more of this wonderful country. I thought I might put together a post with some photos to give you an idea of what I did while there.

I also want to thank every one of you for stopping by to visit and leaving such kind comments. Thank you also to the new followers. I appreciate the time you take to drop by and value your words. I am catching up on as many of your blogs as possible, and working on new art pieces and hopefully a new video or two in August. Yay!

These pictures are not in order, I thought I might just give you an idea of what I did and saw while in the UK. This gorgeous place is Post Issac.

Tintagel is nine miles north of Port Isaac and just as gorgeous.
It is worth going to England just to see this view!

Remains of a castle from the 13th century. Richard, Earl of Cornwall, built it in 1233. There is a long history of Arthurian legend associated with this place. And Richard may have built there because of it.

My friend and I visiting Highclear castle, where one of my favorite programs is shot, Downton Abbey. It was build in 1679 by the Carnarvon family, and it is still their home today.

Karl and I were blessed to visit Brighton on a gorgeous day with delightful friends.

My friend and I oooohing and ahhhing over desserts in a Parisian shop window in Oxford.

Port Isaac again, one of the most peaceful spots I have ever been in....no sounds except the ocean and the birds.....aaaaaahhhhh.......

The Swan Inn in Morten In Marsh. We had a gorgeous room here.

Spotted these fab shoes in a shop window in Glastonbury.

And of course there were beautiful gardens everywhere!

Gorgeous flowers....

Beautiful....

Stunning....

Sheep.....and more sheep!

and more gorgeous flowers....

The first thing I did do after arriving was to visit this quilt show in the 12th century Norman church Romsey Abbey. There were some amazing quilts and it was quite the treat to see them in such a glorious place (there was a small choir practicing and their voices and music were absolutely incredible!).

Holly hocks, in bright fuchsia....delightful!

So beautiful to see in a garden.

Romesy.

Door.

Mmmmmm.....sweet peas! I miss growing these here.

I found some vintage treasures here and there and two tea cup trios. I had an chance to taste clotted cream ice cream! I even had clotted cream fudge, which is heavenly.
I hope you are all having a creative and joyful summer.
Hugs,
Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-New Cup!

2011-07-24T12:49:00.000-07:00

Hello All!
Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday once again!
I have been away in England this month and soon to be home. My hubby and I have been truly enjoying our time here. England has so many lovely spots to visit. Winchester is a one of them. I picked up this tea cup trio at a open air market there yesterday.

I was drawn to the gorgeous green design and the lovely bouquets. I picked it up hoping that it was in good shape and was delighted to find it blemish and crack free.
It has a sweet angular-ish loop handle with a spur.
The plates have a pretty slightly scalloped edge.

This sweet trio was created by Royal Crown Derby. I have never owned any RCD china before. I have seen it in shops and drooled over it, and now I am thrilled to bring this set home.

Royal Crown Derby manufactures fine quality Bone China in Derby, England. They can trace the beginnings of their company to 1750. Queen Victoria gave them the honor of using the word "Royal" in their name in 1890.

I have been lucky to enjoy a cream tea on this trip. Don't these scones looks delicious? They are gluten free, and yes, they were delicious! It was a real treat!

I have continued to be unable to post on most of your blogs. I have seen many of your tea cups over the past two weeks, but I have only been able to comment on a few. Blogger keeps asking me to log in, but it doesn't accept it. I remember hearing some of you mention this difficulty before, and I am hoping that it is repaired soon. Oh, and I am also having some strange spacing problems, as you can see by this post.

If you would like to join in on Tea Cup Tuesday just go and create a post with your tea cup in it and then come back here and join in your post with the link system below. Martha and I are always trilled to see what you are sharing with us all.

Thank you so much for coming by to visit today.

Hugs

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-English Pottery

2011-07-17T11:38:00.001-07:00

(Green ground laid color with guilding on this beautiful 1840's cup)

Hello All, and welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday!

Today I will be sharing about my visit to the Gladstone Pottery Museum in Stoke-On-Trent, England. This museum is the only complete Victorian pottery factory, keeping safe the history of pottery in North Staffordshire, England. I was quite fascinated to see this preserved factory that began in 1787 and closed it's door's in 1974, after being saved from demolition when it was realized that if it was removed, there would be no more coal fueled bottle kilns left that represent the history of fine china production.

This is the inner courtyard, the bricks having been worn smooth with thousands of workers footsteps.

This is called a saggar they were created specially at the factory from local clay to stack the china in to go in to the kiln. There was an art to creating them properly.

The three ingredients that make porcelain china.

Moulds that were used to form tea cups.

Here is a pictures of a saggar that was stacked for the kiln.

Here are two of the bottle kilns. There is the bottle shaped exterior and the coal burning kiln sits inside this bottle.

Peering into the narrow doorway showing a fully stacked kiln.

One of the coal burning furnaces that ring the kiln.

A group of pottery workers.

Another group of workers...they don't seem too unhappy. Yet when you read the details of their working conditions you see how difficult it really was. Most workers were paid by the piece, and if it was fine going into the kiln, but somehow the firing failed and all the pieces of china were ruined, they would not get paid at all. They were only paid for pieces that came out of the kiln in saleable condition. Eventually there was a law passed that changed this, and they were paid for pieces that were good quality when they went into the kiln. And that is only one of the difficulties. Many of the jobs included serious health risks, as well as the fact that a child as young as 5 could be working there all day too. It wasn't until about the 1900's that children were not permitted to work at the factory.

Hundreds of moulds left sitting on the shelves.

We toured many areas of the factory, the clay room, the slip room, the plate making area... and in one room was a man doing fine painting. He was very interesting to speak to. This tiny tea set he made for his wife. He said the dots were much harder to paint than the actual scene. This set is in 1:12th scale.

This photo is taken through the glass into the chemist's office, where he measured out the powders for paints.

Paints stored in jars.

I felt very lucky to get a glimpse of this book through the post office window. It is a very old pattern book. The artists would paint in and number the pattern in the book.

This museum is such a learning experience. I now have a much better idea of how some of my tea cups were made. I also have more appreciation for the people who created them.

I want to thank each of you who joined in T.T. last week. I am sorry to say that I have not visited any of you yet! We have had very spotty Internet. I am very lucky tonight that I have had the chance to create this post. I will catch up with all of you when I return home.

If you would like to join in this week. Just go and create a post with your tea cup in it and then come back here and link below with the actually post you are linking up. Martha and I look forward to seeing your gorgeous china!

Hugs to you all.

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-England

2011-07-11T15:34:00.000-07:00

Hello All

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday, where Martha and I enjoy sharing our tea cups with all of you, and...the best part, we get to come and see some of your beautiful china!

Today, I am writing this post from England, where it is now just about Midnight. I had a lovely long day of sightseeing. The above building is Mottisfont. It began as a priory many centuries ago and eventually was built over into a personal dwelling as you see it above. It has endured many additions after it was purchased in the 1920s. It is now a part of the National Trust of England.

I was lucky to see this beatuiful tea cup in the study. It is a 19th century English Newhall porcelain tea cup (and set below). The design is really beautiful with the gold detailing the deep blue oak leaves, the acorns and flowers.

Two curators were kind to pick up a piece of the tea set (against the rules!) so that I could take a photo of any markings it might have. The only markings are these numbers in red. The staff was very helpful and patient with me while I tried over and over to get a good picture of the china.

Here is the beautiful tea set. The tea pot is really stunning, as are the other pieces and the wooden tea tray they are displayed on. The lighting was dim in the room and flash was not allowed, so I did the best I could to get a picture I could share with you all.

I was really excited to see this item!

It is an early Victorian mahogany sarcophagus tea chest! I have never seen a tea chest on a stand before. The wood is polished beautifully with age. The docent shared with me that she had never seen inside of it, but that it was said that it had three compartments, two for two different types of tea and one for mixing the tea together.

The priory itself was lovely to visit. On the grounds are fabulous walled gardens, with such a variety of plants, trees, shrubs, and fruit trained to grow on the stone walls. It is amazing to see pears growing on a wall, all green and pink in the sun! I hope to share some photos later this week. In one of the dining (or was it gaming???) rooms the table was set with all of these fairy cakes! YUM! It is part of a special exhibit they have about Fairies!

Thank you so much for stopping by to visit. I had a great time visiting you all last week, although I may have missed the last few who signed up (hope to catch up soon!).

If you would like to join in the fun, just go and create a post with your tea cup in it, and then come back here and sign up with our linky system below. We are trilled to come and visit you!

I have not been able to do any of my usual blog visits for the past week, and I know I have missed many of your glorious posts! I do hope to have a chance to stop by for a visit when I return home and see what you all have been creating while I have been away.

Hugs,

Terri

Tea Cup Tuesday-Flowers!

2011-07-04T08:29:00.001-07:00

Hello All!

Welcome to Tea Cup Tuesday!

Today I am going to do my post a little differently.....

Summer time is here and I thought it would be fun to do a tea cup post

just about the beautiful flowers on my tea cups.

I am starting off with the gorgeous flowers in the above photo, which are on a beautiful Paragon cup. The vibrant and detailed flowers are gorgeous!

Here are some gorgeous pansies

on a demitasse cup from Germany.

Beautiful bouquet of flowers on this Foley.

More pretty boughs and posies of roses and flowers on another Foley.

Shelley....need I say more???

These chintzy flowers are on a very old Collingwood cup.

Artists flowers on this old James Kent piece.

Here are beautiful roses on a vintage Royal Imperial cup.

Here is a bright chintz floral from James Kent.

Lovely pastel chintz flowers on this Rosina cup.

A gorgeous cup by Meander BV, actually, this is the plate! It was easier to photograph.

Beautiful flowers on this Queen Anne cup.

These lovely roses adorn a Royal Grafton cup.

This cup has the most stunning color of yellow and green flowers! It is on a Royal Albert Blossom Time Series cup called "Laburnum".

Martha and I are enjoying visiting each of you and seeing your lovely china.

I want to take a moment to thank you for your visits and your kind comments.

I appreciate your visits!

If you would like to play along, just go and create a post with a tea cup in it. Tell us about your cup, how you got it, where it came from, and show us the backstamp...we love seeing it too. Then come back here and link up below.

I am wishing you all a creative and imaginative summer!

Hugs,

Terri

Freedom

2011-07-03T09:40:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

The holiday to celebrate FREEDOM!

And, for me, giving thanks for that freedom.

To celebrate, I sat down in my art room this morning and created a little symbol of the holiday. The early morning sun was shining in my window, and I worked quietly as others in my home were still resting (the early bird having woken me at 6:30am!).

Here is my little Freedom Flag...

I created it using copy of a rough draft of the Declaration of Independence for the flag.

I didn't have small enough letters, so I stamped my own using a Martha Stewart stamp set, I also used diamond glaze and some fine white glitter on them.

I then fan folded a strip of 1'' by 8 1/2'' paper, then pulled it into a round and glued it to the paper card stock circle.

I inked all the light colored papers with a brown ink pad.

I cut out red card stock a little larger than the printed flags, and pinked the edges. Then I glued a small ruffle of crepe paper at the top before sewing the front to back with red thread on baste.

After stitching the two sides together, I used fabric glue to glue on the red rickrack. I did try sewing it, but it is so tiny and narrow that I couldn't get it to hold still long enough!

Next I glued on the paper ruff all decked out with the circle and letter, added a blue star at the base and it was done. Yay!

Here is a copy of the page I created for the flags and the circles, just in case any of you would like to make your own little Freedom Flag. Just click on it to enlarge and then right click and do a "save as" to your own computer.

Have a fabulous 4th!

Hugs,

Terri