Art in Entertaining by Cindy Rippe

Valentine's Day Dessert Eye Candy

2012-02-05T15:56:00.001-06:00

Valentine's Day Eye Candy - Cindy Rippe - Pinterest

I've been eating healthy for the last 18 months. Oh... we still eat dessert around here but not too often.

After a visit to Bakerella's website this morning I just got a little lost while web surfing for more creative Valentine's Day desserts and thought you'd like to join me on my Pinterest Board - Valentine's Day Desserts.

The talent and creativity in food just amazes me! Love it! While these desserts make my love of pink happy, if I'm going to actually eat a dessert my favorite is chocolate. Almost any type of chocolate :)

I've shared a few simple Valentine's Day desserts in the past. You might remember my Valentine's Day Treats and Easy Valentine's Treats posts from last year.

Have you created a fabulous dessert that you'd like to share? Please do! I can always use a little Eye Candy. It has fewer calories than the real thing.

There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat and drink, and make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it is from the hand of God. Ecclesiastes 2:24

A Crafty Solution to a Complicated Problem

2012-01-20T10:39:00.000-06:00

I've been struggling through the last few months with a broken camera. You know how it goes, too expensive to fix, can't afford a new one right now, trying to use my small "point and shoot" cameras. So frustrating!


Camera "repair" by Cindy Rippe using Glue Dots

I was cleaning off my desk last night and noticed a thumbtack that was about the same size as my broken shutter release. Cool! Grabbed a few Pop Up Glue Dots and headed to the photo corner to try it out. Yeah! It worked!

No, I don't expect to carry it around everywhere like I used to, but I'll be able to use it on the tripod and for still life shots in the photography corner in my studio. Finally!.....I can get back to posting more often on my blogs and maybe my photos will actually look like the artwork that I'm taking a picture of.

It's great to be a Designer/Artist with lots of fabulous craft supplies just hanging around waiting for inspiration! So happy and grateful this morning. I'm sure my husband will be happy too. No more complaining about picture problems!

"When the solution is simple, God is answering."

Albert Einstein

Join the parties this week at:

Amaryllis and Success - Flower Meanings

2011-12-12T09:40:00.001-06:00

I think that Amaryllis is my favorite Christmas flower. I used to grow a few every year and really need to get back to doing that for myself.

Source: 4.bp.blogspot.com via Cindy on Pinterest

There are many symbolic meanings for the Amaryllis. The one that I choose this month is: "Symbolic of success won after a struggle. These were often given in recognition of a job well done – particularly in scholastics, writing, and artistic endeavors." (source - http://www.whats-your-sign.com/flowers-and-meanings.html)

I think I'll buy one today. I deserve it. (that was a rare pat on the back) And my friend needs one too. For encouraging me and not giving up on me. Thanks Kelly. You deserve one for your own success as well!

My personal success list for 2011 includes:

- I am happy to be enjoying art and creativity again after one of those struggles that artists go through sometimes. I've submitted some great classes for conventions and look forward to sharing my love of botanical and inspirational art again next year.

- I had the opportunity to look back through 30 years of my sketches and completed artwork last week. Wow...there is so much!

- My "one pound a week" is finally starting to show!

The Amaryllis is the perfect flower to celebrate my success! I hope that you are ending this year with your own "job well done"!

"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." 2 Chronicles 15:7

Pantone Color of the Year for 2012 - Tangerine Tango

2011-12-07T23:12:00.001-06:00

Pantone's 2012 Color of the Year - Tangerine Tango

Pantone announced it's choice for Color of the Year - 2012. Tangerine Tango

For Interiors and More:
Energize interior spaces with Tangerine Tango patterned home accessories. Pillows, bedspreads and tabletop accessories in this high-impact hue add spice to any room. Or incorporate Tangerine Tango appliances and personal electronics for an unexpected pop of color. Looking for an inexpensive way to perk up your home? Paint a wall in Tangerine Tango for a dynamic burst of energy in the kitchen, entryway or hallway.
You can read the rest of the Pantone Press Release on their web site.

Here are a few of my favorite dinnerware sets from around the web that will help you add this pop of color to your table.

Iris Orange Round 20 Piece Dinnerware Set by Brilliant

Noritake "Elements Coral"

Morocco by CB2 (no longer available on the site but you might find it on ebay)

Round + Square by Rachel Ray

Red/Orange Floral Melamine by Target

Red Orange Floral - Target

Dinnerware, Fiesta® Square 3-Pc. Place Setting

Fiesta Tangerine Collection

My favorite is the Orange Iris by Brilliant. Which one do you like? Can you recommend another pattern?

November's Flower of the Month and Mom

2011-11-30T10:33:00.001-06:00

Chrysanthemum photo - Flowers Magazine

This photo of November's Flower of the Month seems appropriate for me. The single orange flower surrounded by the neutral white really represents my life this past month. Mom had a mild stroke. It was small, Thank God, and she's recovered from the physical effects but her Dementia took the turn for that next step. The one where she seems OK to everyone else at first, but she needs someone with her all the time now.

It's been rough. Lots of changes and I've felt like I was alone many times during her stroke recovery and transition to this new life. The truth is, however, that my faith, family, (especially my husband) friends, and her medical team have been the white flowers. The single flowers grouped tightly together that have held me up.

Also, during this time my sister fell seriously ill. We try to work as a team to care for Mom but she needs to care for herself. I'm sure she felt like the orange flower too. Alone but with a quiet team of support to hold her up.

Last, but certainly not the least is Mom. I'm sure that she's happy most of the time. We see to that. But I'm also sure that she feels alone when she truly believes the stories she's telling, when she is positive that she already took her meds (or ate, or bathed, or talked to someone on the phone). Her self esteem hits a low point many days. She gets angry and it's hard to remain patient with her. But much of the time she's like the Chrysanthemum. Cheerful and loving. We'll hold on to that as long as we can! Love You Much Mom!

“‘Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may go well with you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you." Deuteronomy 5:16 ESV

Thanksgiving and Autumn Glass Painting Project

2011-11-07T17:45:00.000-06:00

The theme for this month at the Designer Crafts Blog Connection is Thanksgiving/Fall. As usual, I'm sharing a quick and easy project with you. I like to inspire you with an "I can do that!" attitude. Hope you like this one as well as the other creative ideas on the 365 Days of Crafts Blog Hop.

I used the new DecoArt Glass Paint Markers, in Brown, to draw the leaves on a white ceramic plate. The charger was originally clear. I painted the border with a sponge brush to create a blend of orange and yellow with Americana Gloss Enamels. The swirls were stamped on using Brown Americana Gloss Enamels.

There's a matching glass and a folded napkin technique to come soon, I promise! Mom's in the hospital and I've been there almost 24/7. She's doing well and we hope to get her home soon. Then it's back to posting the rest of my Thanksgiving tablescape ideas.

You might enjoy a few posts from last fall to keep you busy until I get back.
Autumn Napkin Folds - Chocolate Brown
Autumn Napkin Folds - Crown Fold
Autumn Napkins Folds - Cone Fold
Autumn Rose and French Fold Napkins
Thanksgiving Tablescape and Dessert Buffet
Blessed Family Gathering
Pause and Give Thanks

Don't forget to Hop through the rest of the blogs and see what the other Designers have been up to!

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I'm also hanging out with my friends at:
TABLESCAPE THURSDAY - Between Naps on the Porch

Stop on by and visit!

Pumpkins are not just for Jack O Lanterns

2011-10-31T07:10:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!
Did you know that you can decorate a pumpkin with flowers by poking holes in the sides and sticking the stems in?


Mumkin Pumpkins - Flower Shop Network

5 Easy Ways to Decorate Pumpkins - Southern Living Magazine

These would make a lovely Thanksgiving centerpiece as well. I wonder how this would work with those artificial pumpkins from the craft store and silk flowers? I'm sure the pumpkins will be on sale tomorrow!

Earth’s crammed with heaven, And every common bush afire with God; And only he who sees takes off his shoes; The rest sit round it and pluck blackberries. – Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Hop along with me at: House of Hepworths and Between Naps on the Porch this week.

Halloween Dinnerware Shopping at HomeGoods

2011-10-25T09:55:00.001-05:00

Skull Decor is a very strong trend right now and it's not just for Halloween! Try a Google search and you'll find everything from Designer Clothing to Home Decor and even Wedding Cake Toppers. While I was shopping recently I found this great set of dinnerware that's perfect for a Halloween Party.

Handpainted Dinnerware by MESA at HomeGoods

This design actually covers a few trends including; Halloween Decor, Skulls, Glam and Black + White (even though the webs are silver they would still look great with a B+W theme)

Skull Decor crosses over into the Gothic, Steampunk and Vampire trends as well.

Love the rhinestones!

Of course, since I'm the Research Queen, I wanted to know more about who made this set. When you shop at HomeGoods you need to buy it when you see it. The things I usually fall in love with are in limited supply and not restocked. The company, MESA Home Products, has a website. No skull dinnerware there, but they do have some really great items for entertaining. I've bookmarked it for future shopping.


MESA Home Products label on Halloween Dinnerware

HomeGoods has been one of my favorite places to shop for tablescape decor. (I do still love those bargains at the resale store though!) Now I'm headed back to pick up the pumpkin I saw covered in leaves..........I don't know why I talked myself out of it the first time!

Pumpkin covered in leaves - HomeGoods 2011

Eat, drink and be scary! Author Unknown

You can find me at: A Stroll Thru Life and the 166 Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch this week.

Halloween Birds Silhouette Shadow Box - Sizzix Fresh Vintage Blog Hop

2011-10-17T22:54:00.000-05:00

Time for another Sizzix Fresh Vintage Blog Hop! I received a sample of the adorable Sizzix Scoreboard Bird Die (designed by Eileen Hull) and used it to make this Halloween Bird Silhouette Shadow Box. To see all the projects the Fresh Vintage Designers came up with and for a chance to WIN one of the Sizzix Scoreboard Dies be sure to check out the information at the end of this post.

As you can see; the original die cut is made to be a little more three dimensional. It has two wings and a beak and is perfect for hanging from a string. I chose to trim the wings and use the birds in a shadow box.

Sizzix Fresh Vintage Scoreboard Bird designed by Eileen Hull

The dies are designed to cut through thick or thin paper, fabric and more. I found some really cute Black Glitter Card Stock by doodlebug designs inc. I cut one bird and then flipped the paper to reverse it so the birds would be facing each other.

For the background I used a piece of scrapbook paper from my stash (sorry - don't know the manufacturer). I liked the writing and the postmark design - which was in just the right spot for the moon.

First, I coated the paper with DecoArt Easy Float to make it easier to blend the Americana Acrylic Paints. I then loaded my brush 1/2 and 1/2 with Easy Float and paint and blended the colors from Light to Dark and back again a few times until I was happy with the blending and the finished look. The Easy Float made the colors translucent which allowed the lettering to show through. The colors I used are; Titanium White, Lemon Yellow, Cadmium Yellow, Orange Twist, Tangelo Orange, and Georgia Clay.

After the background dried I painted the moon with DecoArt Glamour Dust Glitter Paint in Lemon Drop Yellow to add to the glow (and to match the glitter on the birds).

After painting a branch with Lamp Black, I brushed on some DecoArt Black Craft Twinkles Glitter Paint.

Artistic Wire from Beadalon was perfect for the legs and feet. (Thank you Katie Hacker) I just wired it onto the branches and then glued the birds onto the wire. (mine are a little wobbly looking aren't they? I kept moving them around.)

Everything is arranged inside an old shadowbox picture frame that I had in storage. I made a little coil to glue behind the bird and put the whole thing together with Glue Dots! I used Pop Up Glue Dots® for the birds and branch for strength and dimension and Ultra Thin Glue Dots® to attach the paper inside the box.

Here's the Information I promised you for NAVIGATING through the Sizzix Fresh Vintage Blog Hop and for your CHANCE to WIN a Sizzix Die:

Please make sure to visit the blogs of the members of this hop. They have some great projects to share. You can click on the Fresh Vintage blinkie on my sidebar. This will take you around to all of the designers on the hop OR you can click on the linky party on Eileen Hull's Blog for a look at all the projects.

For a chance to win this die, answer the question about today's hop on the Oh My Crafts blog today. Don't forget! You have to leave a comment on their blog post to be entered in the GiveAway. There are lots of ways you can use this die and you are about to see some very cool ideas. Are you ready?

Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns. ~George Eliot

You can also find me at:

Marigold - Flower of the Month for October

2011-10-11T12:11:00.000-05:00

October's Birth Flower is the Marigold. Their warm and cheerful colors are long lasting in the Autumn garden and signify Affection and Grace.

Cindy Rippe's Crown Fold with Marigolds from a previous post.

The botanical name, Calendula officinalis, refers to the latin word for calendar. Calendula means "the first day of the month" and they say that the marigold blooms on the first day of the month. (I'm not sure about that, once mine bloom there are new flowers every day) Early Christians called them Mary's Gold, and placed them by statues of the Virgin Mary.

They have medicinal qualities, are used by gardeners as an insect repellent, and by cooks as a spicy seasoning. Their bright colors are used to make brilliant dyes for fabrics, cosmetics and foods according to 1st in Flowers.com.

Photo credits: flowers.vg - orchidflowers.wordpress - ohmygarden.com

Marigolds are said to symbolize sorrow or sympathy. I prefer to think of that as being sorry that summer is coming to an end but their bright and cheerful colors are happy soaking up the Autumn sunshine while it lasts.

The hidden meaning of the Marigold during the Victorian era was "My thoughts are with You."

"There ought to be gardens for all months in the year, in which, severally, things of beauty may be then in season." - Sir Francis Bacon

Hello Kitty Party Projects for PreTeens

2011-10-07T23:21:00.000-05:00

As promised here are the details for the Hello Kitty Projects seen in my previous post.


Hello Kitty Journal - Cindy Rippe

I used the Westcott Brand® Titanium Bonded Non Stick Scissors to cut The Duck Brand® Duct Tape Sheets and Tape Rolls and cover the journal. I folded the tape upon itself to create the tag and attached it to the cover with VELCRO® Brand Hook and Loop Fasteners. A little bit of ribbon trim and a heart charm add just the right amount of whimsey.

Inside Cover of Hello Kitty Journal with Pocket - Cindy Rippe

After covering the inside cover with the printed duct tape, I made a pocket by leaving most of the backing material on the sheet of duct tape (to allow for a non-stick area). I decorated the top edge with the printed tape and trimmed the backing away on the sides and bottom edge of the pocket to stick it to the book.


Mini Hello Kitty Pennant - Cindy Rippe

To make the Mini Pennant I just folded pieces of the printed tape over a length of narrow ribbon and trimmed each into a triangle shape.

Hello Kitty Hair Bow made from duct tape - Cindy Rippe

and finally; I made a small bow from the tape and used a hair clip to attach it to the gift bag. I cut two slits through white card stock topper and the bag using the Westcott Hobby Knife. Favor bag decoration and a cute hair accessory in one!

Don't forget to add your comments to the WESTCOTT Brand Blog for your chance to win an assortment of cutting tools.

I was provided with samples from Westcott Brand Cutting Tools, Duck Brand Duct Tape and VELCRO Brand Hook and Loop fasteners for this Blog Hop and enjoyed designing with them all. Thank you to all the participating sponsors and to Marisa Pawelko Craft Designer & Founder of Modern Surrealist for organizing this project.

Westcott Brand is the official sponsor of the October Designer Crafts Connection Blog Hop! The Non Stick Scissors really did work great with all the adhesives. I look forward to using them in future projects. Here's a little information about the Cutting Tools that I used.

Westcott Brand® Scissors are the WORLD’S FAVORITE SCISSORS™ meaning Westcott sells more scissors than any other manufacturer in the world!
Westcott Brand® Titanium Bonded Non Stick Scissors are the BEST Non Stick Scissors on the market that never get stuck and can easily cut through Sticky Back VELCRO®, Duck Tape and multiple layers of fabric and other materials!
Titanium bonded blades are 3 times harder than stainless steel and never need sharpening!
Westcott Brand® Cutting Tools have the best performance! The 3” scissors can even cut through 5 layers of fabric!
Westcott Brand® Cutting Tools are ergonomic and come in several different color options!

" Life is not a written book you can pick up and read.
It is a journal waiting for you to fill it's pages." Dana Atkin

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Hello Kitty Party for Preteens

2011-10-03T11:39:00.000-05:00

Hello Kitty Party - Favors and Decor by Cindy Rippe

October's challenge is sponsored by:

AND

I went with a girl's party theme this month since I was inspired by all the pink goodies sent for me to design with. This is perfect for a preteen party. They can create the journal as a party activity.

You'll find the project details in this POST and find out how to get your chance to WIN a fabulous collection of Westcott Brand™ Cutting Tools.

They are providing a giveaway of a deluxe assortment of Westcott Brand Cutting Tools to a random winner who comments on this post during the month of October. Please also show your support by posting comments about this blog hop their Facebook Fan Page!

*Giveaway winner must provide a valid US street shipping address.

Keep hopping to see what the other Designers have created for you!

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Time to pick Apples!

2011-09-30T17:00:00.000-05:00

Each year about this time we try to make a trip to Tree-Mendus Fruit Orchards in Southwest Michigan to pick fresh Apples. We ride the hay wagon out to the orchard, fill the buckets with Golden Delicious, Gala and Red Delicious apples and eat a few right off the tree. We have to buy the Honey Crisp apples in the farmstand. They aren't available as a "U Pick" variety. A stop or two along the way and lunch at Redemak's in New Buffalo make a perfect day for us.


Source: Cindy Rippe - Seasonal Treats - Apples on Pinterest

I've been wanting to make Pie Pops since seeing them for the first time at http://luxirare.com. There are great tips and recipes on the Pillsbury and Bakerella web sites if you want bake them too. I don't know if I'll go as far as making my own Apple Pie filling like Cindy at Skip to My Lou but it does look delicious!

Now if the weather would just cooperate we could actually plan the trip. Wish me luck!

Nothing would be more tiresome than eating and drinking
if God had not made them a pleasure as well as a necessity.
~ Voltaire

Sizzix Fresh Vintage Blog Hop and GiveAway

2011-09-27T17:00:00.000-05:00

The Sizzix Fresh Vintage blog hop by Eileen Hull started this week! Every Tuesday and Thursday for the next 6 weeks, one of the 12 dies in the collection will be featured. 6-10 projects for every die will be posted by 75 of the most creative designers in our industry. I am thrilled that they have asked me to participate!

The first of twelve different dies featured is the Album. I've seen some really creative uses for this one. Start HERE at Balzer Designs to see them all.

Sizzix Scoreboards XL Die - Album by Eileen Hull 657122

Eileen is a friend and I'm so proud of her success as a Designer. Sizzix has provided me with a sample Scoreboards Die and a Little Sizzles Matboard pack to work with.

Sizzix Scoreboards Die - Bird - Designed by Eileen Hull

I'll be working with this Bird and my post is scheduled for October 18th. What kind of project do you think I can make from this cute little bird that would be perfect for Holiday or Party Decor? I have a few ideas but you'll have to check back on October 18 to see!

To view the hop, you can click on the Fresh Vintage blinkie below or on the sidebar. This will take you around to all of the designers on the hop OR you can click on the linky party below for a look at all the projects.

Eileen Hull: Sizzix Fresh Vintage Blog Hop Home Page

More info and how to win a Prize:

We have teamed up with some great craft manufacturers and their talented Design Teams, to show how well these dies work with supplies that you probably have on hand (or need to buy!) After you have checked out all of the projects, head over to Oh My Crafts blog to answer the Hop Question of the Day for a chance to win a die!

FAQ about the Fresh Vintage Blog Hop:

How do I hop around to see ideas using the current featured die?

Every Tuesday and Thursday between September 27-November 3, 2011 there will be a new Sizzix Fresh Vintage die featured on 6-10 of the 75 participating designers' blogs. The navigation buttons for "Hop Back" and "Hop Forward" will allow you to easily hop around and see projects featuring whatever the current die is, since those buttons are programmed to navigate only to the blogs that are participating for that die. On the next Tuesday/Thursday, the buttons will automatically reprogram themselves to navigate to the blogs that are signed up for the next featured die.

What if I start at a designer's blog that isn't one of the 6-10 signed up for that die?

No problem! Simply hit either the "Hop Forward" or "Hop Back" button on the Fresh Vintage navigation widget from any blog's sidebar and you'll automatically advance to one of the participating blogs.

Can I go back and view the ideas for a previously featured die?

Of course! Go to the "Blog Hops" link at the top of the page. It will bring up all of the blog posts where you'll find direct links to each participating blog along with a thumbnail image of the project.

Where can I buy the Sizzix Fresh Vintage dies, by Eileen Hull?

You can visit Sizzix.com to find a local and online retailers for Sizzix products.

Also be sure to visit Oh My Crafts, one of this blog hop's sponsors, (between the dates of September 27-November 3, 2011) and enter for a chance to win a Flower Layers #9 die!

How long does a Sunflower Centerpiece last?

2011-09-21T11:46:00.004-05:00

Sunflower Centerpiece

I picked up this small bunch of Sunflowers at the Farmers Market over the weekend. So cute, just trimmed the flowers and placed them in a vintage blue Ball jar! I did add a loose rubber band around the stems, near the top, to hold them together.

The Bunny likes it too. I think I'll paint this grouping some day.

So... back to the question in the title of this post. Just how long does a Sunflower Centerpiece last?

"I didn't do it!"

About 24 hours if you have a hungry Squirrel! I thought heard him knock it over this morning, the little troublemaker. Should have checked to see what the noise was.

Flowers whisper "Beauty!" to the world, even as they fade, wilt, fall.
~Dr. SunWolf

September Flower of the Month - Aster

2011-09-20T10:15:00.000-05:00

Asteraceae -anythingwithplants.com

The Aster is September's flower of the month. The name comes from the Greek word for Stars which is perfect for this delicate little flower. There are more than 600 varieties available in almost every color except bright yellow and orange. The violet, pink and white shades are most popular.

The Aster symbolizes afterthought, daintiness and love of variety. In China they symbolize fidelity. They are also called Star flowers or Frost flowers (probably because they are one of the last to bloom before the autumn frosts).


Kim Willis - life123.com

The butterflies can't get enough of their tasty nectar that's hidden in the tiny yellow flowers clustered around the flower's center. This row of flowers separates them from the chrysanthemum family.

Beautiful in an Autumn bouquet

Their long stems and full flower clusters make them perfect as a filler flower in large bouquets. I love the cool touch of lavender amongst the warm autumn colors in this bouquet.

"A late summer garden has a tranquility found no other time of the year." - William Longgood

Baptism Decor using Photos and Clip Art.

2011-09-06T08:18:00.000-05:00

I'm a member of the Designer Crafts Connection Blog group and we post projects on the First Monday of each month. Click the 365 Days of Crafts Logo on the right to see all the creative ideas that we have to share. To celebrate we also have a giveaway! Read through to the end of the post for information on how to enter.

The theme for the month of September is parties, baby showers, wedding showers, etc., basically anything to do with decorating for a celebration. I chose to share the quick and easy decorations that I made for my nephew, Cash, at his Baptism party. This was a picnic and the decor was casual but I still wanted it to be special for Cash and his family.

I saved a small picture of Cash, added wings with Photoshop, and printed a whole sheet of them. After cutting out circles of glossy blue cardstock, I layered the photos (cut just a bit smaller) and cardstock with Glue Dots.

I printed a Bible clip art image for some of the flower centers to reinforce the blue and white theme. After all the circles were finished I glued them to the centers of inexpensive daisy flowers with Glue Dots. The daisies were sold as a bunch and I just popped them into the vases. Light blue twin sheets from Walmart ($4.00 each!) worked perfectly for tablecloths.

I used the same card stock to make the cupcake toppers. Again, I used Glue Dots to attach the images. This time I glued them to lollipops after trimming the excess cellophane around the candy. So cute! I wish my cupcakes were as tasty as they were beautiful. I tried to be creative with the recipe and they turned out to be more like heavy brownies than light and fluffy cake. Lesson learned ! Test and Taste before you serve dessert to a large group of people!

SEPTEMBER GIVEAWAY!

We have something special this month - a set of Scrapbook Soup, Series 100 DVDs! Scrapbook Soup is now airing on your local PBS TV channel. Check your local listings and if it isn't listed, call the station and request it! Program managers always like to hear what their viewers want to watch.

TO ENTER: Visit all the Blogs on the DCC Hop and stop at Life in the Craft Lane for the details on entering for a chance to win this wonderful set of DVDs.

I'm joining A Stroll Thru Life: Tabletop Tuesday and

this week. Stop by for a visit!

Gladiola Centerpieces

2011-08-08T15:25:00.009-05:00

Continuing with my August Flower of the Month post.

After I purchased my Gladiolus from the Farmer's Market I arranged them in a huge vase.
Did I remember to take a picture? No... sorry. Here's a photo, from ftd.com,except mine were all a soft peach color.


White Gladiolus in a Glass Vase - Traditional arrangement

Loved it - Enjoyed it while it lasted- but I know that you can do so much more with Gladiolus. I've used the single flowers before. Most of the time I float them in a shallow bowl. I took a trip around the internet today and found a few great ideas to share.

In this arrangement the Gladiola leaves were left on and large leaves were added around the base for a nice full look.


www.weddings.theknot.com

The addition of Gerbera Daisies around the base really updates the look.

www.laosflower.com

You've probably seen orchid submerged in a tall vase of water. Gladiolus are just as beautiful but cost less. You'll need to wire the stems to putty on the bottom of the vase so they don't float.

www.mocharosedesigns.blogspot.com

Since the flowers are so beautiful you can use them individually in small arrangements. Love this DIY project for decorating the vases with printed papers.


www.oncewed.com

And finally; this pretty red and white arrangement. Just fill vases with fresh cranberries and water and tuck in single white Glads. A beautiful look for your holiday table or contemporary dining room.


www.tothegathering.blogspot.com

Bread feeds the body, indeed, but flowers feed also the soul. ~The Koran

Gladiola - Flower of the Month for August

2011-08-06T12:31:00.001-05:00

The Birthday Flower for August is Gladiola. It’s a member of the Iris family that’s also known as Sword Lily. The pointed leaves and tall stalks of flowers with pointed tips and the Latin name “Gladius” give reference to the Gladiators of ancient Rome.

I love all the colors that are available. There are over 250 species to choose from including some with ruffled petals.

The flowers bloom from the bottom of the stem toward the top. As cut flowers in a vase you can just pinch off the spent flowers and enjoy each new bloom above.

The meaning of the August Birth Flower, the Gladiolus, is sincerity and symbolizes strength of character. In Victorian times there was a hidden meaning, "Love at first site". I know that the pink ruffled variety pictured above was love at first site for me!

I don't have enough sunny garden space to grow them in my own garden but look forward to the Farmer's Market each summer where they sell armloads of these gorgeous blooms for $5.00 a bunch. Lovely!

What's your favorite color?

"Flowers are the sweetest thing God ever made, and forgot to put a soul into." Henry Ward Beecher

Mixed Media Zinnias

2011-08-01T12:36:00.005-05:00

As part of the 365 Days of Crafts link party this month we were asked to post a project using a technique that we love to do. If you've read my blog before you know I love flowers, drawing flowers, painting flowers, decorating with flowers and growing flowers. My favorite creative technique would be called Multimedia. I use my original drawings and quotes to create art with paint, colored pencil, pen & ink, etc.


Multimedia Zinna on paper copyright Cindy Rippe Art in Entertaining 2011

The words behind the flowers are - "Zinnias: An old fashioned annual that just makes me happy. I’m sure the memories I have of them in the gardens of family and special friends have something to do with that. The seeds are easily dried and shared to create a special connection with those you love."

While I love this orange flower, if I could grow Zinnias in my yard (I don't have enough sun) they would be pink. That's who I am.

To continue through the Designers Craft Connection Blog Hop click on the link to the right in the side bar.

You can also find me at House of Hepworths and Tatertots and Jello: Weekend Wrap Up this week!

3rd Birthday Princess Party Theme

2011-07-14T10:37:00.004-05:00

Isabella's 3rd Birthday party had a Princess theme. Surprise, surprise... she's a girl, she's 3, she loves Disney Princesses. She loves to act out the stories, recruiting willing family members to play the all the parts. "No...you need to ride in on the horse please." "You are Prince Phillip, Grandma Cookie is the Queen, I am Aurora"

She waves her magic wand

Sarah's Mom and Dad really wanted to keep things simple this year. They served sandwiches, salads and fruit which was perfect for a hot day. We used her Birthday Banner again this year. (see last year's post) It has become a nice tradition to use it every year (well, so far - until she reaches that age where it will look too "pretty" :)

Fruit on Fairy Wand skewers made by Aunt Karen

Favor Bags

The paper bags with handles that were decorated with Disney Princess Stickers were a hit. A few of the guests continued to call themselves a Prince or Princess after they went home. Of course everyone got a Glittery Star Wand to create their own magic!


Star Wands from Oriental Trading Co

I decorated with Pom Pom's made from tissue paper and ribbons. They looked so pretty as a chandelier in the center of the tent. Inexpensive and easy to make too.

Pom Poms hanging inside tent and out.

The left over scraps of tissue paper tucked into a pink glass bowl and topped with a plastic tiara and jewels worked out great for the inside table centerpiece.


I twisted two squares of tissue together at a time and tucked them in the holes along the edge of the bowl.

For the tables under the tent I used the cases from our Disney VHS tapes, (I guess they're Vintage now) pom poms, a tiara and a Star Wand.


Close up of the centerpiece and a vintage VHS case.

Prince Cooper peeking from behind a centerpiece. Isabella cuddles with Suzanne while waking up from her nap.

Blog Parties I'm attending. Come on over and join me!

Lunch at the Kintner House Part Two

2011-07-12T17:15:00.003-05:00

I promised to tell you more about our lunch at Kintner House Inn today. Our hosts were very sweet and the Victorian Decor was pretty but I'm sure you want to know about the food right? They offered a nice menu with light entrees that were perfect for the Tea Room atmosphere.


I think this is Elvin's Chicken Salad with Pink Arctic Salad and Banana Bread

The selections were delicious and plated beautifully.

This the Joey's Egg Salad Sandwich with a Mandarin Spinach Salad and Chips.

We were served an assortment of beverages from the Beverage Bar. Assorted glass containers on a Victorian Buffet.

My favorite container was the Bee Hive beverage dispenser. I thought it might be vintage but I found several sources to buy one on the internet. I'm tempted to get one of my own. How about you?

Isn't it cute? Also, did you notice the little bees and grasshoppers in the wallpaper behind it? Unexpected, but perfect placement.

I was told that the desserts were delicious but I was holding out for Ice Cream later in the day. Maybe next time!

Did you get any ideas about plating a meal for a luncheon of your own? Plating, which is the art of presenting food in an attractive way, doesn't have to involve really elaborate techniques or anything. It just makes the food taste better since you are appealing to more than just the sense of taste. A beautiful plate of food satisfies the mouth, nose and eyes. It also gives us another reason to be creative! You know I'm all about that :)

Mary Jo's Design Divas June 2011

Dee Windell - Innkeeper and the Kintner House Family and Staff

Left to right - top row Connie, Dee, Debbie

Next row - L to R Bradley, Jennifer, Joey

This charming group gave us a warm welcome and made our visit just perfect. We took a tour of the rooms (there are photos here) and learned a little more about the Inn after lunch before we checked out the local shops. I look forward to another visit some day.

And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed. --Joel 2:26

A visit to The Kintner House Inn for Lunch

2011-07-11T09:00:00.001-05:00

I enjoyed a pleasant visit to The Kintner House Inn, a charming Bed and Breakfast in Corydon, Indiana, for lunch recently and thought you'd like to check it out. You might want to stay there someday or join them for a bite to eat in the Tea Room.


The Kintner House Inn, Corydon, IN

This historic Inn has 15 guest rooms, lovingly restored and decorated each with a different theme. There are photos and descriptions of each one on the web site. The Family and Staff were very attentive and worked hard to make our visit special.

The building has been restored to meet the guidelines for the National Register of Historic Places. They've succeeded in creating a lovely and peaceful Bed and Breakfast in Downtown Corydon.


The Kintner House Inn - Cindy Rippe - Art in Entertaining

Front Porch Swing at Kintner House Inn - Cindy Rippe - Art in Entertaining

A front Porch Swing and

Rocking Chairs at Kintner House Inn - Cindy Rippe - Art in Entertaining

a pair of Rocking Chairs invite you to relax and enjoy your visit.

As one of a group of Artists attending the Mary Jo Leisure Design Seminar at Cheri Rol's Studio, this was a nice little side trip during a very inspirational week. We enjoyed the time together developing friendships and getting to know each other a little better.

It is around the table that friends understand best, the warmth of being together. -Unknown
More about our lunch and visit tomorrow!

Larkspur or Delphinium? Which do you like?

2011-07-08T13:19:00.000-05:00

I'm still enjoying the Flower of the Month - Larkspur. Thought I'd share a few more photos with you.

There are so many varieties available. I think of the original, more delicate, Larkspur with the fern-like leaves to be more of a wild flower. The cultivated variety, known as Delphinium, has a full leaf and more flowers. It looks great in a cottage style garden and does well as a perennial in some areas. Mine have only come back for one year and then I have to purchase new plants.

I like them both and love the cottage look. Guess it's time to start a new sketch!

Blue thou art, intensely blue; Flower, whence came thy dazzling hue? James Montgomery

4th of July Flowers

2011-07-02T12:51:00.001-05:00


Sunrise Seeds American Flag Mix - Botanical Interest

I found this mix of Larkspur colors that would be perfect in a patriotic garden! Now I wish I would have grown them for a 4th of July Centerpiece.

Here are a few other ideas for Red, White and Blue Centerpieces. Click on the photo for more information.

I hope this inspires you to dress up your table with flowers that have a little Patriotic color. I found the perfect quote for this post! Enjoy!

Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed - else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die. ~Dwight D. Eisenhower

Sketching Larkspur

2011-07-02T12:27:00.000-05:00

As I said in my previous post, I decided to sketch some Larkspur. I look forward to painting it with Acrylics and Colored Pencil on paper.

I wonder how I can use it in a Tablescape? If I paint it with Glass Enamels or Fabric Paint I can create dinnerware or linens..........hmmm..... Creativity awaits!

Larkspur - Flower of the Month

2011-07-01T10:29:00.001-05:00

Since I love to draw botanicals and birthdays are a reason to entertain, I thought it would be fun to do a series of "Flowers of the Month". I've been researching the Meaning of Flowers, Birth month Flowers, State Flowers and more for about 10 years. The Romans were probably the first to include flowers as part of birthday celebrations. The Victorians gathered flowers into Tussy Mussies (a small bouquet) with careful thought as to what each flower meant as they shared the bouquet with friends or enemies.

Blue Larkspur

The Birthday Flower for July is Larkspur. It's a wildflower and grows in late spring in a variety of colors I love the Blue, no surprise to those who know me, especially the very pale blue. It's also known as delphinium with even more varieties available now. The name comes from spur of the flower, which reminded some people of the parts of the lark. The plants have very tall stems with many branches.

The meaning of July's Birth flower is an open heart, levity, lightness and ardent attachment.

There are hidden meanings based on color:

Pink symbolizes fickleness

White is Joyful, happy-go-lucky

Purple - You have such as sweet disposition and first love.

You can find more information about July's Birth Flower at Birthstones.org. I've taken lots of pictures of Larkspur and Delphinium over the years. I think I'll start a new sketch!

God has sown his name on the heavens in glittering stars; but on earth he planteth his name by tender flowers. Jean Paul Richter

Sketching Roses for Surface Design

2011-06-07T20:40:00.003-05:00

I've been sketching designs for Wall Art, Dinnerware and Table Linens (future projects). I'm lucky to have a lush perennial garden with lots flowering trees and bushes to study. Our climbing rose bush is trained on a large arbor in the back yard and is probably older than me (and that's pretty old!). It belonged to Lee's Grandma before we bought the house and we've lived here for over 20 years.


Climbing Roses - Sketch by Cindy Rippe

The fully opened flowers didn't do well this year but I think the buds are pretty interesting. The smell is very sweet and one that I remember long before all the unscented but long blooming hybrids.

This design would look nice on dinnerware or as a border to an inspirational quote. Whatever it ends up being will make someone happy I hope!

The rose that lives its little hour
Is prized beyond the sculptured flower.
- Bryant

Designer Crafts Connection Blog Hop for June 6

2011-06-07T20:18:00.000-05:00

I've been busy working in the garden and sketching flowers for future design projects. I'll post a peek tomorrow.

I'm participating in the Designer Crafts Connection Blog hop this week and I don't want to break the link. Our theme is Patriotic so I'm reposting my picture from Memorial Day.

Please click through, enjoy all the Creativity and come back again to see what I've been up to.


Memorial Day 2011 - Cindy Rippe - Art in Entertaining

Click Hop forward or Hop back to continue through to the next blog. Thanks!

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How to repair a Princess Dress

2011-06-02T11:55:00.003-05:00

We celebrated the Royal Wedding last month and our Princess is still dressing up each day. (She has been "all about" Princesses for a long time) You can see the party in this earlier post. Princess Party to Celebrate the Royal Wedding.

Sometimes the dresses come out of the wash a little worse for the wear. Yep, did the gentle cycle, etc, etc, but the seams on this one just shredded away! Every seam on the top of the dress fell apart.

Repairing a Princess Dress with Fabri-Tac Glue. Cindy Rippe Art in Entertaining

So how can it be fixed? With LOTS of patience, satin ribbon and my favorite glue - FABRI-TAC by Beacon Adhesives! Oh....and lots more patience to slowly piece everything back together, one step at a time. The glue actually sets up quickly. It just that the fabric is so delicate and it took me a while to figure out what part should be glued to another.

There's not enough fabric to sew it back together so I trimmed the threads away, glued and reinforced each seam with Fabri-Tac and then covered the glue and added more strength to the seams by adding a layer of satin ribbon.

Princess Dress shredded fabric on side seams - Cindy Rippe Art in Entertaining

The ripped seam actually went in three directions for this part.


Side seam of Princess Dress repaired - Cindy Rippe Art in Entertaining

Both shoulders, both side seams were open and part of the waist was open. I glued the tulle on the shoulder seams and the gathered it directly to the edge of the shoulder fabric with no ribbon.


Princess Dress repaired and ready for Princess Isabella - Cindy Rippe Art in Entertaining

Finished! Ready for another day of imagination and play. I don't have to worry about the glue holding. I've used it for years to add trim to tablecloths and napkins. It dries clear and it's washable. Now lets see if the rest of the fabric holds up! :) (Oh! and no, I didn't get an endorsement for mentioning this product.)

Memorial Day - Remember

2011-05-29T22:42:00.000-05:00


Memorial Day 2011 - Cindy Rippe - Art in Entertaining

Both of our Dad's served during two different wars. We honor the sacrifices of those who have served and currently serve our Country.

Happy Memorial Day

How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes! ~Maya Angelou

Can you draw Geraniums?

2011-05-12T14:48:00.000-05:00

Sure you can! If you have been wondering what I've been up to lately this is a little peek.

Drawing Botanicals Class by Cindy Rippe at the Society of Dec Painters Convention.

I'll be teaching this class at the SDP Convention and look forward to the happy students that will learn techniques to create their own designs or just want to trace mine and finish it with blending and shading tools.

Cindy Rippe's Geraniums ready to be sketched at SDP 2011

What does that have to do with Art in Entertaining and Tablescapes? Well, since I love to draw botanicals I've been working on a new website with Botanical, Inspirational and Seasonal Decor for the home and entertaining. There will be projects and finished designs of all types for crafters will all skill levels.

Click FOLLOW on the right side of the page for up to date about the project that YOU can create to personalize your home and table.

"The 'Amen!' of Nature is always a flower."
- Oliver Wendell Holmes

Breakfast in Bed - Sarah's Summer House

2011-05-06T10:05:00.002-05:00

Tablescaping can be as simple as fixing a special tray for breakfast in bed. Wouldn't this be a wonderful way to start the day?


Sarah's Summer House HGTV

Take a few moments to gather a pretty tea pot and cups and arrange them on a colorful tray. You can paint or decoupage the tray to match your bedroom and keep ready for those rare mornings that you have some leisure time.

I've been inspired by Sarah Richardson's decorating style for a long time and look forward to her new series that starts tomorrow on HGTV. You can find the schedule for upcoming episodes on the HGTV website.

"A simple enough pleasure, surely, to have breakfast alone with one`s husband, but how seldom married people in the midst of life achieve it. " Anne Morrow Lindbergh

A Mother's Day Card - Free Pattern

2011-05-01T23:38:00.006-05:00

We have finally been blessed with some beautiful weather and I have lots of gardening to catch up on. Not much time for crafting but I designed this card for Pentel Arts and thought it might inspire you to make one for your Mom this week.

by Cindy Rippe for Pentel Arts

I used scrapbook papers, Aquash Watercolor crayons , Metallic Brush Pens , some ribbon and a charm. You'll find the free step by step instructions and rose pattern on the Pentel Arts Website.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, because this is right. Honor your father and mother which is the first commandment with a promise - that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life. ~Ephesians 6:1-3

I'm participating in the Designer Crafts Blog Connection this week. Click through and enjoy the Creativity!

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Princess Party to Celebrate the Royal Wedding

2011-04-28T23:53:00.003-05:00

In honor of the Royal Wedding why not let the little girls in your life play dress up? They love to pretend that they can be a real Princess too.

Princess Dress Up Time - Cindy Rippe

Princess Isabella, Princess Abby, Princess Corina, and Princess Izzy had a wonderful time with the Princess clothes and accessories.

Pink Princess Cupcakes by Sugarbaby's in Houston

Every wedding needs cake! Pretty pink fondant crowns on pink buttercream and sparkling pink sugar decorate these vanilla cupcakes by Sugarbaby's.

Princess Cupcake Wrapper by Wilton

It would also be fun to let the girls decorate the cupcakes with sprinkles and candies. You can't go wrong with cake for dessert!

"Every girl can be a princess
Any dream can be
Close your eyes and see
A magic wand and soon you’ve gone
From just you to royalty
You don’t need a grand old castle
Rising in the air
Maids to brush your hair
Your heart is pure, you’re thoughtful
Surely princess, you’re almost there
Why just putting on a tiara
And you aren’t the same old you
My life changed so completely
By just putting on a shoe"

Lyrics from Every Girl Can be a Princess on Disney's Princess Tea Party Album and Cinderella DVD set.

Please join me at these creative blogs:
My Romantic Home
and
The Shabby Nest

and
The Shabby Chic Cottage

Don't forget to check out some of the other blogs while you're there.

Happy Easter - Spring Planter Box Centerpiece

2011-04-24T07:36:00.009-05:00

I hope you have a blessed Easter Day. We are lucky to be spending it again with family and realize what a treasure that is. No completely decked out tablescape this year but I did create a centerpiece that I thought you'd like to see. It's been a while since I've dabbled in floral arranging but am pretty happy with how this turned out.

Easter 2011 Tulip and Hydrangea Planter box centerpiece - Cindy Rippe

The arrangement was inspired by the tablescape that I fell in love with at the International Housewares Show last month featuring Paula Deen's new dinnerware by Meyer. You can see a picture of it on her facebook page.

After finding a bargain on a flat of tulip plants ($4.00 at Lowes) and Hydrangea bushes (Michaels - 60% off) I was good to go! Spring is my favorite time of year and the "New Life" theme worked out pretty well.


Afternoon Shadows on the centerpiece - Cindy Rippe

Dinner will be served buffet style with disposable dinnerware. We've all been going through some crazy, busy times around here and decided that easy cleanup would be the way to go for a change. (After my concerns about using disposable products I was reminded that they will be recycled) I found these at Party City. We'll use my stainless flatware instead of plastic and I chose the hand towels instead of napkins because of the way they are folded and the size is just a bit larger. We'll alternate napkins and plates to make it easy for guests to pick them up in the buffet line.


Pretty Paisley Napkins and Leaf Green Plates from Party City - Cindy Rippe

Here's a link to last year's tablescape. Enjoy!

From my house to yours: Happy Easter, Happy Spring, Happy Life!

Greatest man in history, named Jesus, had no servants, yet they called him Master. Had no degree, yet they called him Teacher. Had no medicines, yet they called him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no military battles, yet he conquered the world. He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him. He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.

Blog Hopping this week with:

Take some time to visit these cute blogs too please.

Easter Egg Tree - Recycle last year's plastic eggs

2011-04-15T09:18:00.008-05:00

Here's a fun project that uses the plastic eggs left over after Easter. The candy's gone, you're tired of picking them up off of the floor and you know you'll want new, shiny and clean ones next year. Gather up all the pieces and make ornaments for an outdoor Easter Egg Tree!


Larry and Elena's Easter Egg Tree - Cindy Rippe Art in Entertaining

I took this picture of my Brother and Sister In-Law's tree yesterday when we took Isabella by for a visit to "my Uncle Larry". We always enjoy their Holiday Decorations and beautiful yard.

To make the Easter Egg ornaments for your own tree. You need a needle nosed pliers, wire that's thick enough to stay straight, yet easy to bend by hand and a thick needle or old ice pick and some glue.

Separate the eggs.
1 - Heat the point of the needle (that you are holding with the pliers) over an open flame for a few seconds and press through the top of the egg to create a hole large enough for the wire to go through.
   - After you test the size, finish making all the holes.
   - Note: If you have a high speed Dremel drill that would work too.

2 - Cut the wire to 12" lengths. (or whatever length you'd like for your type of tree or bushes)

3 - Thread one end of the wire through the hole far enough to easily work on the tip.
   - Use the pliers to twist the end of the wire into a loop large enough to prevent it from slipping back out.

4 - Bend the other end of the wire into a 2 inch loop and twist it to secure. (see photo below)

5 - Add a touch of Aleene's Original Tacky Glue to the edge of the egg and snap the bottom piece in to place. You can mix egg colors or match them as seen in the above photo.


Adjust wire loop as desired to fit tree branch - note that wire comes straight out of the top hole in egg.

The heavier gauge wire helps to prevent the eggs from flipping around and getting caught up in the branches during Spring weather. The large loops make them easier to hang while you decorate and remove after Easter.

Save the ornaments and keep adding more each year and don't worry if some get separated or broken. You'll have plenty of spare parts next year for repairs! This could end up being a family tradition and the kids might not leave them lying around after the candy's gone. (We'll...we can always hope, right?)

Romantic Homes Show and Tell Friday

I'm also linking to Craft Test Dummies Go Green Link Party, Today's Cretaive Blog and Creative Bloggers' Party and Hop this week. Check out all the fun projects!

CRAFT TEST DUMMIES - GO GREEN PARTY

TODAY'S CREATIVE BLOG - GET YOUR CRAFT ON

Daffodils and Easter Inspiration

2011-04-14T00:36:00.000-05:00

I love spring! The flowers and plants coming back to life after a long winter. The sunshine and promise of warmer weather. Soft rain showers that seem to wash away the gloom of February and crazy March winds.

Daffodils - Multimedia on Bristol Vellum - copyright Cindy Rippe 2011

I've been spending much of my time lately designing, sketching and painting. There aren't many new tablescapes right now but my Holiday and Seasonal designs (mostly botanical and inspirational) are destined for dinnerware, table linens and stationery. In addition to teaching at National Conventions I've gone back to creating original designs for multimedia art (graphite, acrylic wash, pen and ink and colored pencil), painting on glass, ceramic and fabric.

So...along with celebrating Easter this month I guess I'm celebrating a rebirth of my own creativity.
Wish me luck! It will be interesting to see which direction this blog takes us. Click "Follow" on the right side of this page to keep in touch.

“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” – John 11:25-26

I'm joining the Designer Crafts Connection Blog Connection again this month. You can go to the main page at 365 Days of Crafts Blog Hop or click on the Logo below. Click forward to go to the next Designer's post. Keep clicking until you get back here and you will have seen all the wonderful Easter/Spring ideas.

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Easter Banners

2011-04-05T15:19:00.000-05:00

Life's been a little strange lately. I have limited internet access and I've missed connecting with you all!

Since I won't have time to craft or write much until next week I wanted to share a few cute DIY Easter banners I found today while waiting for Isabella to wake up from her nap.

Isn't this adorable? Looks like a fun family project from Holiday Snob.


Paper Plate Bunny Banner from Holiday Snob

And this Bunny Banner from Happy Clippings would be a great way to use some of my scrapbook paper stash. Love the buttons on the tail!

Bunny Banner from Happy Clippings

And my favorite, from Jennie at Studio 1621 on Etsy. Simple, elegant and the real reason I celebrate Easter!

He is Risen by Studio 1621

And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life. 1 John 2:25

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St Pat's Day

2011-03-17T17:28:00.000-05:00

Happy St Patrick's Day!

I'm sitting in the library today. My internet is down for the count until next week but I didn't want to miss the opportunity to say Hi and hope you have fun today!
Here's my post from LAST YEAR if you want a little Irish inspiration right now.
I'll try to post pictures of my project for this year next week. I have a collection of Vintage Hallmark Merry Minatures and Lapel Pins. (makes me feel old since they are now considered vintage!) I'll be using the Lapel Pins and ribbon to wrap around our napkins today.

I decided to sell some of my collection so look to future posts for lots of bargains that will be perfect to add a special touch to your Holiday Tablescape.

May your blessings outnumber
The shamrocks that grow,
And may trouble avoid you
Wherever you go.
~Irish Blessing

Painted Wedding Shoes - Wedding Week Part Three

2011-03-16T05:00:00.002-05:00

After I painted the Wedding Dress with Dahlias (previous post - Wedding Week Part Two) I decided to paint a pair of matching shoes. What woman doesn't want a pair of beautiful shoes? My SIL, Elena, very kindly gave me a pair of shoes to decorate.


Wedding Shoes painted with Dahlias-copyright Cindy Rippe 2011

I used the Pentel Red Gel Roller for Fabric again. The only problem I had was that after I sketched the flower on the first shoe I had to get the pattern off of it and reverse it for the other shoe. (Reminder to self: Don't free hand a design on an uneven surface if you need to repeat it.)

I added Black Satin Ribbon and a bow using my favorite glue for fabric - Beacon Adhesive's Fabri-Tac. It grabs hold right away and stays on. Perfect for a pair of shoes that would probably see lots of dancing at the Wedding Reception!

Close up of Dahlia on Dyeable shoes - copyright Cindy Rippe 2011

The music may have stopped but my heart beats to another tune, this rhythm called love. ~A.C. Van Cherub

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Painted Wedding Dress - Wedding Week Part Two

2011-03-14T22:08:00.001-05:00

I decided to continue with Wedding Week for the DESIGNER CRAFTS Blog Connection. There are so many great ideas. Don't forget to click on the link below to see them all.

Red is such a strong color trend I thought you'd enjoy seeing a Re-purposed Wedding Dress that I painted.

Ivory Wedding Dress Painted with DecoArt Fabric Paints - copyright Cindy Rippe

I really had fun with this project. I used DecoArt So Soft Fabric Paints and and a Gel Roller for Fabric Pen by Pentel Arts. After I sketched the flowers with the pen, I used the fabric paint to add shading and reinforce thick lines. I also painted few of the flowers on the bodice and made a wide sash to update the look. (one of my few sewing projects)


Close up of Dahlia - copyright Cindy Rippe

Border Close up - copyright Cindy Rippe

This design would be nice for a Bride born in August. It's the Flower of the August Birth month.

True love stories never have endings. ~Richard Bach

Follow Me at FAVECRAFTS - Finished on the 15th
and

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It's Pi Day! Or PIE Day in my house!

2011-03-14T19:51:00.007-05:00

Today is Pi Day! A celebration of the number 3.14 or the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter. Its value can be expressed as a mathematical series that produces an infinitely long number.

I figured this would be a good day to celebrate with a pie you can eat since Math is not really my "thing".


Key Lime Pie - Eagle Brand

Key Lime Pie is my all time favorite! I've posted the recipe at the Art in Entertaining Recipes blog. Yum!

I also, like Strawberry or Mixed Berry and Lemon Cream Pie.


Fresh Strawberry Pie

Zesty Lemon Pie

And then there's French Silk Chocolate Pie, Apple, and pretty much any pie without coconut or custard. That being said; I probably have a piece of pie only a few times each year! I think it's time to change that.

I've been watching food trends and there have been several indications that Pie will overtake the Cupcake in popularity. Betty Crocker reported this trend in 2010. I haven't seen really strong evidence of that yet but I'm enjoying the research for sure!

What's your favorite flavor?

Come in a few days for a report on more Dessert Trends.

Maui Wedding - Easy Centerpiece - Designer Crafts Connection

2011-03-12T21:47:00.004-06:00


Wedding Cake with Orchids for Julie and Joe's Wedding in Maui

It's Wedding Day at the Designer Crafts Connection! Today's Blog Hop features projects for and about Weddings. Life's been a little crazy around here lately. I didn't have time to make something new but I thought you'd like this archived idea for a really easy centerpiece.

We traveled to Maui for my niece Julie's wedding. After we arrived she asked if I could help her create some centerpieces with the box of orchids she was getting as part of her wedding package. She wanted candlelight for the outdoor reception.

The glass vases, found in the floral department at the grocery store, were a bargain and would work out great!


Tucking orchids under ribbon.

After we filled the vases with sand from the beach (with help from the kids) I gathered leaves from the patio garden and used a double sided tape to adhere them to the vases. (you can see the plants behind Lee in the picture below) Ribbon tied around the leaves gave me a nice place to tuck in the flowers.


Happy to be crafting on the beach!

Lee patiently helping me with a project once again!

We looked at candles but I knew that the wind from the beach would play havoc on the candle flame so we bought Tap Lights instead. That was Lee's job. Assemble and install the batteries for all the lights.


GE Tap Light

Finished Orchid Centerpiece. Can you see the Tap Light?

The hotel staff added the extra orchids when they set the tables. Very simple and sweet. Julie and Joe loved it so that's all that matters!

The Happy couple, Julie and Joe.

The Tap Light gave a warm glow after dark and the batteries lasted all evening. Julie gave the vases to family members the next day as Wedding keepsakes. Yes, I carried mine home on the plane and still use it often!

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is LOVE. 1 Corinthians 13:13

To continue through the entire Blog Hop. You can go to the main page at 365 Days of Crafts Blog Hop or on the Designer Crafts Blog Connection Logo below. Click forward to go to the next Designer's post. Keep clicking until you get back here and you will have seen all the wonderful ideas this week.

The world is but a canvas to the imagination.
-- Henry David Thoreau

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I'm joining Tablescape Thursday this week too!

And the Shabby Nest for Frugal Fridays!

Don't forget Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday!

What's New? Products from the CHA Show, a Cricut Expression Giveaway and a New Blog Hop!

2011-03-03T07:00:00.041-06:00

Introducing the Designer Crafts Connection and 365 Days of Crafts!

A group of Designers from the Creative Industry and a monthly Blog Party full of inspiration.

One lucky Blog Hopper will win a fantastic prize (the info is at the bottom of the page) and you'll get a sneak peek into what goes on at the world's largest Craft & Hobby Trade Show. So appropriate for National Craft Month!

This week the Designers are sharing their reviews and photos from the Winter CHA Show and Conference. I wasn't able to attend but checked with a few of the companies that I've worked with in the past to see what new products they introduced at the show. I paint and draw on a variety of surfaces for and these are the new products that I'll be using in my designs this year.


New Americana Acrylic Paint Colors for 2011

The Americana Acrylics work great as Acrylic Wash in Pen and Ink Designs and as base coats under colored pencil in my Multimedia Botanical drawings.

Transparent Gloss Enamels

I've been using the original Gloss Enamels and look forward to painting on dinnerware with the new Translucent Colors.


SoSoft Fabric Paints

The SoSoft Fabric Paints are really nice on Table Linens and Baby Clothes. I really like them and wonder how the Fine glitter will work.

Walnut Hollow Innkeeper Sign

Wood pieces for my "Front Door Decor" designs.

Basswood Canvas

Walnut Hollow is also making a nice Basswood Canvas surface that looks similar to the size of stretched canvases. I've always loved the quality of their wood products so I'm sure I'll like these.

Loew Cornell Sketching Set

I've used the Drawing Sets from Loew Cornell for my Drawing Classes in the past. This one looks good too.

I was only able to share new products from the companies that I currently use in my designs after searching for "New Products" on their web sites and following the blog posts of my CHA Designer friends that did attend the show. (disclosure note: I did not get paid for this post)

For more information please continue through the entire Blog Hop. There are 36 Designers participating. You can go to the main page at 365 Days of Crafts Blog Hop

or on the Designer Crafts Blog Connection Logo below. Click forward to go to the next Designer's post. Keep clicking until you get back here and you will have seen all the wonderful ideas this week.

Be sure to check Julie McGuffee's Blog Life in the Craft Lane for an exciting
Cricut GIVEAWAY

and come back on March 13 when the Theme will be WEDDINGS with wide variety of projects suitable for weddings and anything connected with weddings.

The world is but a canvas to the imagination.
-- Henry David Thoreau

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Have you tried to force Spring Flower Bulbs?

2011-03-02T22:14:00.003-06:00

In January we took Isabella to see the Winter Train Exhibit at the Morton Arboretum. They had some Hyacinth Bulbs in the Clearance rack and I thought "Why Not? I really need a touch of Spring around the house!" Well, I don't know whether it was the bulbs or me but here's the result.

Hyacinths in Milk Glass Candy Dishes

©Cindy Rippe

I planted the bulbs in my Vintage Lace Edge Milk Glass Candy Dishes filled with tiny gravel. They didn't grow as full as I expected but it sure smells nice in the kitchen.

I included my Marjolein Bastin Datebook (the one I told you about in last year's post about daffodils) a twig vase with eggs and my painted metal birds. But the flowers still look really pitiful.


White Flower Farm

This is what I hoped for.

This is what I got. So sad looking but they smell so sweet! I'm working on a design with Hyacinths and planned to use these for inspiration and to sketch. Ooops! Good thing I have pictures from last year's garden and garden shows. Maybe I can talk Lee into buying me a plant from the nursery.

Perfumes are the feelings of flowers. Heinrich Heine

It's National Craft Month!

2011-03-01T07:28:00.162-06:00

February is over - Yeah! After a long winter I'm looking forward to Spring and the way it inspires me to get Creative. I'll be attending several shows over the next few months and will be inspired by Spring Flowers, Pantone Color Trends and New Products for Home, Gourmet Foods and Entertaining.

I have several new projects coming up over the next few months and look forward to sharing them with you. My focus is on Botanical, Seasonal and Faith based designs. Watch for announcements about my upcoming Web Site, Publications, and Teaching Schedule.

The first thing I want to share is that I've joined a fabulous group of Designers at 365 Days of Crafts. We'll be sharing our ideas through a project called the Designer Crafts Connection. It's a monthly Blog Hop with inspiration and trendy creative projects by leading edge Designers in the Creative Industry using a variety of mediums.

A Year of Celebrations will launch on March 3rd with reviews of new product and craft Trends and Techniques introduced at the CHA Winter Show last month in Los Angeles. This event is the Annual Winter Conference and Trade Show for professionals in the Craft Industry. The participating Designers will give you a peek at what you'll see in your stores this year. Make sure to check back on Thursday to see what's new this month!

Garfield Park Conservatory Spring Show

©Cindy Rippe

For as the earth brings forth her bud, and as the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth ; so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations. Isaiah 61:11

Pistachio Nut Wreath for Valentine's Day.

2011-02-13T21:58:00.006-06:00

I love this wreath. It was a gift from Cindy Wollenzien and hangs in my studio year round. I brought it home for Valentine's Day.

After removing the dust with my soft vintage brush.

I gave it a coat of spray on sealer.

The wreath is made by hot gluing the whole nuts onto a heart shape (this one is cut from card stock). I like the way some of the nut meat is popping out of the shells. Just follow the shape of the heart in rows.

You can see where the glue is peeking out in the back. Add a layer of felt and a picture hangar (also hot glued) and a pretty shear ribbon. It would make a pretty, last minute gift for someone you love.

Daffodils for Valentine's Day

2011-02-12T22:19:00.020-06:00

Well...who says that a Valentine's Day Tablescape needs to include Pink and Red? I was feeling desperate for a touch of Spring after our trip to Sid's Greenhouse and pulled out my Daffodil Altered Book. I created the design one year after seeing a few of my daffodils "kissing" between the fence in the yard.

I glued several pages together and cut out heart shapes with a craft knife. 1. Rubber stamped letters on a sheet of clear acetate is glued between the pages. 2. The back side of the large heart showing the pages of the book. 3. The daffodil sketch was painted with water color, colored pencil and inked lines. A few pieces of Scrapbook paper, my garden statue photo, ribbon and a tassel decorate the rest of the piece. It's designed to sit on an easel which works out nicely for a tablescape centerpiece.

I wanted to tie the napkin with raffia but didn't have any so I improvised with embroidery floss.

1. Accordion fold the napkin. 2. DMC brand embrodery floss. 3. Spread the skein of floss into a circle.
4. Slip it on to the end of the folded napkin. 5. Twist and wrap it around one more time. 6. Adjust the threads if needed. 7. Tuck a few flowers into the floss napkin ring.

I can't forget the cookies! They are made using the Nestle Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe but I used Peanut Butter chips and Mini Chocolate Chips mixed together. "Deelicious!" as Isabella would say.

For more Valentine's Day Tablescapes visit this week's Tablescape Thursday at BETWEEN NAPS ON THE PORCH. Beautiful!

I'm partying with CRAFTY CHICA for her Saturday "Post Your Craft" Link Party.Check it out!
Oh...for those of you that can't imagine a Valentine's Day Tablescape without pink I found out that there are several varieties of Pink Daffodils. Who knew??

Daffodil 'Chromacolor'


Finished On the 15th Blog Hop

A Touch of Spring Inspiration

2011-02-06T21:57:00.001-06:00

We ventured over to Sid's Greenhouse. They were nice enough to let me take photos and since it wasn't busy we stayed for a while. I gathered the warmth, the beauty and saw so many things for the garden that I could use for Tablescaping.

Can you imagine how happy I was to see all of the stages of growth on the Amaryllis collection? A Botanical Artist's dream come true!

There were Gnomes everywhere! At least three different displays. I'm sure the movie coming out has something to do with that. Do you see the famous Gnome in the center? I didn't know he traveled to Palos, Illinois!

The Pantone Honeysuckle Pink pottery mixed in with red and white gathered for a cheerful display.

There were lots of fairies, another strong design trend, but one that has been a garden standard for years. I took so many pictures. I'll be using them for design inspiration. Very soon I hope!

Beauty After the Storm

2011-02-05T21:40:00.005-06:00

We stayed in for the next few days after the Blizzard. It was really cold and for a change we didn't have to go anywhere. On Saturday I looked out my window and saw this.

The squirrels had finally ventured out to play in the snow! You can see where they hopped down from the tree started out and circled back. Fun! I looked up to find them and noticed something better.

The sky was blue and the sun was shining for the first time in 5 days! I called out "Lee! Let's get out of here!" I didn't have a plan. I just wanted to enjoy some of that sunshine too. After driving around town to survey the storm damage we headed for one of our favorite nature preserves, Lake Katherine.

This end of the lake is kept from freezing and flows to a creek and waterfall. The ducks and geese were enjoying the sunshine too!

This is the creek with fast running water. The waterfall is behind the trees but we didn't dress for hiking through the snow.

So pretty. It was going on a little vacation!

Snowflakes and A Day at Home

2011-02-05T20:37:00.008-06:00

Well we made it through the Blizzard of 2011.

View from my front window. I love this tree and I'm glad it weathered the storm.

Even though we lost power for 15 hours we were lucky that most of that time was while we slept. Cozy and warm under a collection of quilts and an excuse to sleep late! That part was nice. A rare mid-week day off with Lee was nice too!

The wind was so strong it blew the drifts away from this side of the cars.

Shoveling and cleaning off the cars wasn't fun but that worked out OK too with some help from our neighbor, Adolph, and eventually a sympathetic pick up truck driver with a plow. (After the city plow reburied our parking spaces).

Our Garden Shed and Rose Arbor. Lots of flowers waiting under that snow!

So grateful that we had no major damage and had the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Winter. I am totally ready for it to be gone though! Come on Spring! There are perennials waiting to grow!

Remember When - Wedding Shower Decor from the 70s

2011-01-20T20:21:00.001-06:00

As part of my plan to "ReOrganize" in 2011 I spent some time cleaning off the shelf with photo albums today. After we spent some time laughing at ourselves, we remembered how nice it was that our friends and family were so generous for our wedding. We ended up having 3 Wedding Showers and each one was decorated a little different. We really appreciate all the effort they made to make the parties special. I thought you might enjoy a look back at what was popular back then!

Paper nut cups wrapped with lots of tulle and curling ribbon for favors. There were probably pillow mints inside the cups.

A popular cake at that time was the Double Wedding Ring. I like the little bride and groom on the left and the bridesmaids on the right. I might still have those in my Memory Box, you never know! Notice the satin ribbon bows on the candlestick on the left side. That was a recurring theme at all the parties.

A decorated umbrella and "chair of honor" decorated by my friends Lauri and Jeanette. They sure made me feel like a princess that day. This was really considered "over the top" decor back then. Of course, Lauri's little poodle thought the chair of honor was for her!

Opening gifts under the umbrella with my sister, Bev, making a list of the gifts for the Thank You notes.

I'm sure all of you crafters and quilters will appreciate this gift. It's a quilt made by Lee's Grandmother and hand quilted by her, Lee's Mom (Alice) and even has a few stitches added by Lee when he was really young. What a treasure - 3 generations.

And finally; here we are at one of the other parties. We were SO YOUNG! I think Lee's hair was longer than mine is now! What kind of fun memories can you dig up?

Snowmen on the Table and Mary Jo Leisure

2011-01-15T07:00:00.004-06:00

The Christmas decorations are all put away except for the snowmen. I keep them up until Valentine's Day and then I'm ready for the Spring countdown! For the time being though I like to use the snowmen wherever I can.

I designed this snowman plaque "Pudgy" a few years ago while at an annual Design Seminar with Mary Jo Leisure. It's usually perched on the shelf in my front entryway. Today, I decided to use it as part of this simple tablescape.

Each day, during the week of "Design" in our beautiful surroundings at CedarCrest Lodge, Mary Jo reviewed the Elements of Design and planned opportunities for us to create original sketches using Daily Assignments. In addition to the classroom experience, Mary Jo taught us to Live Creatively and see beauty in many ways. Meals were provided for us during the week and the beautiful tablescape would include the design she created from that day's assignment (a wood surface or theme). There's was always anticipation as we waited to see what she came up with when the dinner bell would ring. So this one's for you Mary Jo!

By placing the Banana Bread on a clear glass plate you can see the painting underneath.

I took a few minutes to shape the butter into a snowball shape and used fabric with dots that look like snowballs to carry through the theme.

Here's Pudgy as he looks when he's sitting on the shelf.

You'll find the recipe for the Banana Bread HERE on my Recipe Blog.

Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepts thy works.- Ecclesiastes 9:7

I participate in the following Blog Hops. Check them out for lots of creative inspiration!

125th Tablescape Thursday

January Blog Hop - favecrafts

Trends on Tuesdays - Words

2011-01-11T12:34:00.096-06:00

I'm working on new painted and stitched designs for kitchen, entertaining and holidays. My designs are inspired by words and inspirational quotes and I'm certainly not alone! (see end of post for cookie info)

Another Designer friend is inspired by words to create her art and loves to research the meaning of the word, the feeling it conveys and additional words to get a message across. KELLY HOERNIG, says; "I have to create and words are an important part of the inspiration. Discovering new "out of the box" ways to put the two together are always a challenge for me. I want to take you on an artistic journey so you can discover your own imagination by seeing things differently and through my eyes."

Peace Art - copyright Kelly Hoernig

While not a new trend, the use of words and inspirational quotes is incredibly popular in home decor, stationery and design right now. Maybe it's the need for hope and happiness in our society, maybe it's the new year and a need for change, or just the desire to make your feelings known. Whatever the reason; my Trend research this month allowed me to find several wonderful ways for you to get your own message across.

Upper Case Living - Vinyl Words - Cindy Wollenzien

Left to Right: Studio 628 Hand Towels, Dining Out Embroidered Pillow, BetsyGrace Manners Napkins

Left to Right: Pottery Barn Comfort Food , DaySpring Life Collection , DaySpring Ever Grateful Collection

Oh! 2 year old Isabella and I made the cookies at the top of this post using Sillycone molds. Even though the cookie weren't perfect, (someone got a little zealous and overfilled the molds) we had a great time making them. I like making ice cubes with the molds for parties to really personalize the decor.

I do have a few of the molds left in stock. If you're interested in purchasing a set, email me for information at: CindyRippe@gmail.com or watch for them in my CHERISHED STUFF shop . What words would YOU create with them?

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD...Psalm 19:14

Look for me on the FAVECRAFTS Blog Hop! You'll find lots of inspiration there.

Hot Beverage Bar - Follow up for Sizzix Blog Hop Week 7 post

2011-01-10T22:34:00.003-06:00

I went through some photos during my Christmas break and found the pictures from the Hot Beverage Bar that I created for the Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop - Week 7 in a previous post. I made signs for each beverage with matboard shapes cut out with the Sizzix ScoreBoards XL Die - Treat Bag Toppers that were designed by Eileen Hull.

The signs were simply decorated with a little pen and ink with a wash of color and one thin coat of Craft Twinkles glitter using DecoArt Americana acrylics. I printed sign on the computer to identify each beverage. The coffee flavor is Winter Frost made by Coffee Masters. I'm lucky to have a local resource for specialty and gourmet foods - D'Masti Catering Inc. They also carry a variety of wonderful Hot Chocolate flavors!
.

Hot Cocoa stays warm in my thrift store find Thermos pot. You could also fill the Thermos with hot water and offer a basket filled with an assortment of Coffee Masters flavored Cocoa Amore. (Also available at DMasti.com) my favorite is Chocolate Creme Bruelee) This tag is easier than the others and I painted the holly berries painted pink to match the pointsettia. I attached all the labels and ribbon with Glue Dots.

The recipe for the Spiced Apple Cider in the crock pot can be found HERE. I used a soft chenille fabric (found in the baby section) for the tablecloth because the bumps look like little snowballs. A green fabric napkin and my snowmen finish the display.

Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home. Edith Sitwell

New Year's Day with my Family

2011-01-02T20:46:00.004-06:00

I can't think of a better way to start a new year than to spend time with my immediate family. We're all so busy that it's hard to schedule a day for just the 7 of us to get together. This year we watched Isabella overnight on New Year's Eve. Lee and I made a Lasagna dinner for the kids next day. (I forgot how hard it is to work on a large project with a helpful 2 1/2 year old! - Isabella had fun eating and adding cheese to the pan) We actually made three pans of Lasagna so we'd have extra to freeze and share. Yum!

You can find the recipe here. While this takes some time to make, you can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate before baking. Add a little extra baking time since it will be cold when you put it in the oven.

I served it with a simple salad and french bread. We had a few Christmas cookies for dessert and spent the evening just laughing and talking about our plans for the upcoming year. Wonderful!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T20:39:00.011-06:00


Isabella

Have you made resolutions for the New Year? For the last few years I've just said that I want to work on being a better person. (I've tried - not sure if I've succeeded but I feel good about trying)

This year's goal - "Reorganize": I plan to have my basement and attic reorganized and cleaned out by the end of 2011. That's good news for my blog readers. I'll be selling some of the Cherished Stuff here on my blog. I have 35 years worth of Holiday, Seasonal and Party goodies that you might love as much as I do. Wish me luck on my journey of organization and discovery!

Christmas Dinner Tablescape

2010-12-26T21:28:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to share Linda's tablescape. So pretty! We had our regular Christmas Day meal of Beef Tenderloin with all the trimmings and Christmas cookies with peppermint ice cream for dessert. Yum!

Traditional red, white and green on Pfaltzgraff Winterberry dinnerware and accessories.

Alexander, age 6, helped out by setting the table with just a little help from Grandma. He did a great job!

The sideboard set for coffee and dessert. I love the way she placed the silver tray under the centerpiece.

Thanks for hosting us once again Linda!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T22:00:00.002-06:00


We Believe

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. Ours was a little different, but still good. Christmas with a two year old Granddaughter and time spent with family made it perfect. We missed having Jon and Tawn with us this year - they were in South Dakota with her family - but we're happy for them that they had a good time. We ended up eating Kentucky Fried Chicken for dinner on Christmas Eve but that's what Mom wanted this year. Mom in Law hasn't been feeling too good lately but she was able to enjoy Christmas Day with us. Jason and Sarah were involved in an accident on Christmas Eve but everything is working out okay.

Luke 2:1-20

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

With Love,

Cindy

Sweet Christmas Joy from Bakerella

2010-12-20T21:59:00.000-06:00

I'm a big fan of Bakerella. Her delightful Cake Pops and blog just make me so happy! I was reading her blog today and she shared pictures from her friend "Cupcake Julie's" Christmas party again this year. I'm glad I took a few minutes to see what she's up to. I needed something to get me out of a bad mood. (You know, one of those days when you know you shouldn't be complaining about things but you just can't help yourself!)

If you need a little touch of "Happy" too you'll want check out her blog.

Last year's party - December 2009. I love the sugar cookies, the signs on the dessert buffet, and well... everything! Wonderful pictures!

http://www.bakerella.com/candyland/

Tablescape from this year's party. December 2010.

http://www.bakerella.com/sweet-soldiers/

Enjoy!

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Week 7 - Hot Beverage Bar Signs

2010-12-16T11:00:00.004-06:00

This is the last week for the Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop, I'll miss playing with all the shapes. This week I received mat board shapes cut from the Sizzix ScoreBoards XL Die - Treat Bag Toppers designed by Eileen Hull. So cute!

I decided to use the shapes as signs for my Hot Beverage Bar. We have a Christmas Light Parade in town every year and after some of the parades I've invited friends and family over for a simple meal. As they arrive they are greeted with an assortment of hot beverages that are set up as a self service bar and beverage area.

I use a crock pot, insulated "Thermos" coffee pots and my coffee maker to keep the drinks warm since I prepare them before I leave to watch the parade myself. The only thing left to do when I get back is to switch on the coffee pot.

The Crock Pot holds Spiced Apple Cider. (For the recipe click HERE) I used a brown permanent pen to sketch a flower and painted it with DecoArt Americana Acrylics. To match the glitter on the artificial leaf accents I finished the sign with a coat of DecoArt Twinkles Glitter. I wrapped a ribbon around the crockpot, attached a few glittered leaves, the sign and the oval label with Glue Dots.

The serving ladle rests on a little dish that was originally made for dipping bread in olive oil. It helps with the drips and the guests feel better knowing where to put it. Oh! I also leave the lid of the crock pot off during the party.

A few touches to dress up my Snow Lady pulls the grouping together! I'm working on more signs so be sure to check back again to see the rest of my Hot Beverage Bar.

Click on the forward button below to continue with the Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop.

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For more tablescapes check out Between Naps on the Porch for a Christmas Tablescape Thursday.

Trends on Tuesday - Honeysuckle Pink - Pantone

2010-12-14T05:08:00.000-06:00


http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/Pantone.aspx?pg=20821&ca=4

Pantone has named Pantone 18-2120 Honeysuckle, a reddish pink, as the color of the year for 2011. They've described Honeysuckle as “encouraging and uplifting” and that "It’s a color for every day – with nothing “everyday” about it."
“In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues,” Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, says. “Honeysuckle derives its positive qualities from a powerful bond to its mother color red, the most physical, viscerally alive hue in the spectrum.” Source: Pantone

Well, I know pink makes ME happy. As part of my trend research this month, I did a little web surfing to find ways that I could add a "pop" of pink when entertaining. Enjoy!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/63841060/sale-cloth-napkins-set-of-4-pretty-in

http://www.etsy.com/listing/46639470/grey-blue-linen-napkins-with-pink-cherry


http://www.etsy.com/shop/PleasantRidgeCandles?ref=seller_info

http://www.goldcanyon.com/Shop/Love-Struck--Tealights-and-Votives-Scented-Candle/p/674


http://www.etsy.com/listing/50308156/hot-pink-vintage-style-table-numbers


http://www.bhg.com/holidays/christmas/indoor-decorating/pink-christmas/

http://www.amazon.com/Ribbed-12-pc-Dinnerware-Set-Frutti/dp/B0030CX2ZA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1292301897&sr=8-2

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop - Sneak Peek - Treat Bag Toppers

2010-12-13T10:39:00.000-06:00

Our challenge this week is to design a project using Eileen Hull's Treat Bag Toppers.

Photo from http://www.sizzix.com/product/2484

They are very cute as originally designed (and I'll use them this way some time in the future) but I'm thinking maybe something a little different for the Blog Hop on Thursday.

I was sent pieces cut from white mat board. Hereare the shapes I have to work with.

http://www.sizzix.com/home

Yeah! Love a blank slate to design on. Check back later to see what I come up with. Until then check out the creations from last week. There are great ideas for you.

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Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop Week 6 - Snowflakes and Pink - A Feminine Tablescape

2010-12-09T13:32:00.004-06:00

This week's project uses the Sizzix Bigz XL Die - Album, Brackets by the talented Brenda Pinnick. As always; I'm looking for new ways to dress up the table using craft techniques. This is is what I decided to make. Pantone announced the 2011 color of the year this morning. It's Honeysuckle Pink. This isn't the exact color but it still makes me happy.

My challenge this time was to work with pink and white card stock die cuts. I decided that they would be great hanging from the ceiling or chandelier over the table. So feminine and "Wintery" with the crystal glitter. Sorry that you can't see the sparkly details. The glitter didn't photograph well and I'm stuck with a point and shoot camera today.

I used a variety of paper punches and decorative scissors by Fiskars to cut snowflakes out of copy paper, ironed all the little folds out, embellished everything with glitter and attached the snowflakes and pre-cut frames to the ribbon. I used Aleene's Clear Gel Tacky Glue for everything.

Maybe the black background will help.

I used my winter white dishes and pink depression glass. So sweet!

A pink napkin, accented with one of the snowflakes and tucked inside the cup, acts like a little nest for the tiny ceramic bird. The bird would be a perfect little keepsake for your guests.

I added interest and different heights to the tablescape by using the ceramic birds on pedestals and a small bowl tucked under the champagne glass filled with cookies.

To do this for your own party please remember:
1. Cut the frames from card stock.
2. It's easier to cut the snowflakes out of thin paper like copy paper. Anything heavier than that makes it hard to fold. (How to cut out paper snowflakes)
3. Embellish both sides of the paper. The idea is to hang the pieces from the chandelier or ceiling over the table.
4. Vary the ribbon lengths.
5. Don't be afraid to make the ribbons (or fishing line works too) really long. Some should be almost to eye level over the table. They are delicate and will be turning slightly with the breeze. They probably won't interfere with the dining experience.
6. Don't get them too close to candles! :)

Isabella and I will be continuing with this project next week and I plan to turn it into a winter mobile for her playroom.

This is what the Sizzix Bigz XL Die - Album, Brackets was designed for originally. Really cute, isn't it? Can you think of creative uses for the die cuts?

To see what the rest of the Triple Play Blog Hop Designers have created click next below.

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For more tablescapes visit Between Naps on the Porch
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