YAPPING CAT STUDIO

Pain + Craft = Not for me!

I have tried to quilt.  It is a skill that, frankly, I'm just to weenie to pursue.  Painful finger pricks and bloody fabric is not really my idea of a great time.  So.  I just admire from afar.  And I do, very much admire.  The thought, time and effort put into a quilt just amazes me.

And admire some I did.  A few weekends ago, when Sweet Hub and I drove over to Crockett, Texas.  A beautiful, East Texas town that was kicking off the Christmas Holidays with an old-fashioned day of food, crafts, and music.  One of the events was a Quilt Show and there were some beauties.  Take a peep.

I'm such a sucker for this.  I think its the mix of all the different patterns that pull me in. This was my fave.  And it was vintage.  What's not to love?

Isn't it pretty?

I thought this was interesting as well.  Same type of mix of patterns, but with a more modern look.

Again, another pattern mix.  Are we seeing a pattern in what it is that I like?  But, seriously, it had me at the ruffled edge. 

 

Sweet!

Just loved the details here.  But, if I were the one stitching, by the third square, I would be crying, rocking back and forth and begging for Bag Balm.  

Uhm, red and white?  What's not to love.  I wondered briefly if I could run fast enough to get this out the door and to the car before they caught me.  OK.  I'm kidding.  Maybe. 

YO!  YO!  Ha!  Get it?

Awwww, how does one not love Yo-Yo's?  Come on...they are too stinkin cute!  Bout wold'nt your toes get cold?

I guessed this was the modern version of the Sweet Sue?

 

But this was the Big Daddy of em all and the one they were auctioning off.  It was really, really pretty.  And machine done.  Hey, I could do that.  If I knew how to SEW.  

But all kidding aside.  I do admire quilts.  My Gran quilted and I'm fortunate enough to have one of her quilts.  Its beautiful and a wonderful reminder of her sweet spirit and talented hands.

Well, thanks for taking a peep with me.  I hope you enjoyed the quilts as much as I did.  I think it is always fun to be inspired by new color combo's and patterns. 

And we got to eat giant Sausage on a stick that day too!  What can I say.  It was a win-win. 

Happy Tuesday!

PS.  Thanks for the Etsy love yesterday.  I just added some more new things tonight.  Some Christmas and some just vintage in general. 

Flea-ing @ Camp Round Top

Camp Round Top.  As my boss likes to call it.  And its sorta like camp, in fun way. 

For those that don't know, "Round Top" refers to not only the name of the small town that this Antique-slash-Flea Fest is held in, but the event itself.  Round Top is a Texas-sized show that is truly, well, big.  And fun.  One can find anything from fine, European antiques, to monogrammed Burlap pillows (for a mere $650.00) to hand-made goods and jewelry and clothing.  It is a junker's dream and it happens twice a year, every Fall and every Spring.

I was fortunate to get to tag along with my boss, CB as she shopped for the shop.  We had our eyes peeled for cool things and fantastic finds.  So much eye candy and tons of inspiration.  And one of the best parts, finding fellow (or rather gal) bloggers. 

The first one I spied with my little eye...why it was Deb and Cat Daddy! at Talking White Trash.  What an awesomely, beautiful booth they had. 

Deb puts together a great vignette.  And of course, I loved the touches of Fall with bittersweet and white pumpkins.   You are a true artist Deb! 

Great pile of old silverware.

Just loved the way this all looked together.  The weather beaten door, art, fabric and that great branch of bittersweet.  Did I mention artist?

CB loved this old scale.  It was truly a cool find and I think it actually worked.

And while the outdoor temps felt like anything BUT Fall (can you say, "sweat fest"), it was fun to pretend.  And we did have some cooler temps roll through for a short time on Tuesday morning, after the rain storm.

Finally got to see what Zapp Hall was all about.  Have I mentioned fun?  Even more fun was FINALLY getting to meet Theresa.  I think we've only been trying to meet for about two years now.  LOL.  Her booth was just amazing.  Agan, an artist.  In the photo above, I just loved the suit case full of wonderful finds.

Sweet, little, shabby child-sized chair.

Loved the "tumbling" look of the set of tables. 

And thought about carrying all of these little guys home.  Garden finds are a favorite of mine.  And I stupidly did not take any pics of people, probably cause we were all melting in the heat.  And does anyone really want to see that? 

After hearing so much about the shop called Leftovers, from the other gals that I work with, I finally got to see it for myself.  Wonderful.  The lay-outs and displays and merchandise are very pretty and nicely detailed.

The thing that tugged at my heart most was this kitchen.  The bead board, cabinets and counter top are what I would like to have in my own home.  But I especially admired the artwork on the wall.  It is a rusty wire, under which are tucked all sorts of tempting little goodies and whimsies.

Here are some close-ups.  Old plates, books, photo's...

...even a couple of small, ironstone creamers hangs from the wire. 

Of course, I especially loved the waded up paper and the wee nest. 

And I also loved this great wall treatment.  Painted, glazed and stamped. 

But the trip was not complete without a visit to Royers.  And as always, it's well, fun and loud.  The host (Bud) is snarky (but sweet at heart with a great smile) and the food is fabulous.  Two words - Cilantro Ranch Dressing.  Ok, that's three words.  And steak that melts in your mouth.  Awesome.

Great atmosphere.  But pooh, no one danced on the tables.  Well, on the floor, but no tables.

This is the ceiling.

And often times, you will get "community" seating.  There were our dining companions for the evening.  And they were fun.  Because they were British.  OK, the two on the left are British, the one on the right is American.  But he's from New England, so there ya go.  LOL.  All were shop owners, looking for goods, except Daniel (center) who I think was along for the wild ride.  Chauffer I think he said.  :D

Conversation intially centered on shop talk, of course.  But soon bits of speak on topics that ranged from Harry Potter to "Bubbles and Squeak" (which is an English dish which consists of leftover Pot Roast and Cabbage) soon made their way into the convo.  They were delightful gentlemen (of course, they were British) and we very much enjoyed their company and conversation (and cool accents) for the evening. 

Except for, did I mention the downpour?  Yes, this was our dinner attire as we made the dash out to Royer's.  Tres Chic. 

We stayed at the most lovely location.  The Outpost at Cedar Creek is Texas charm from one end to the other.  Lenore was a great hostess (and such a cutie), delightful accommodations and fantastic food, had me wishing I could stay longer.  Not once did my hiney hit the hammock, but it sure did want too.  I will for sure go back and drag Sweet Hubs along next time.  And hey, now only 999 places left to visit before I die.  Sounds like a plan to me. 

Lovely club room.

The little Casi-ta we stayed in.

It was a grand adventure and with so much inspiration and eye candy, British talk and great food.  My creativity is on overload and I'm ready to git to work.  So I'll git to it!

Happy Wednesday!

Pretty Art, Talented Artist, Sweet Hubby!

No, not me!  Silly!  Oh, how I wish that it was my name that was attached to this lovely piece of art work and the title above!  But alas, that title belongs to my friend Lesley.  Lesley, is Texas born, but sadly no longer Texas based, artist.  Her in work is based in mixed-media as well as fabric.  She sent us (Tina and I) a piece to use as a give-away in the June PC.  Sadly, I did not get pics, but let me tell you, it was amazing.  A completely, stitched and sewn fabric book that had all of us gals just itchin to hold it.  It was so lovely.  Blast Renee'...er uhm I mean, lucky Renee' was the winner on that one. 

But here is the good part!  You can take a class from the wonderful Miss Lesley herself!  Yep.  KC Willis Studio Retreats is having a "visiting artists class" and Lesley is one of the teachers.  She will be doing a Relics class and it looks so wonderful.  For more dates and info head here!  The classes are February 4-6, 2010.  But from the looks of the samples, I am willing to bet it will fill up fast!

Also, as an aside, "Mr. Lesley" as Lesley's hubby is known, has a cooking blog!  So be sure to take a peep at Mr Lesley Cooks. as well.  He's funny and he cooks!  Lesley is a lucky gal indeed!

Here's one more little peep, I hope she won't mind me showing ya, LOVE this!

 

Is this not the prettiest?  As I said, she is oh-so-talented.  So, check out her blog, and this site for more class info!  You won't be disappointed.  As I said, if only I lived closer!  I would be there with bells on!  :D

Happy Monday!

Red, she said. And I was hooked.

Several years ago, when I first found out about blogs, there were a handful that I consistently went to for my creative "fix".  And one, that I stumbled across, that would become one of my faves (and still is) is Melissa Mccob Hubbell   I found everything about her blog delightful.  Even the name intrigued me.  The Garden of Pink Shadows. I loved the sound of it, romantic and beautiful.  Perhaps a quiet place to slip into at twilight, while sipping a glass of wine or a cup of tea.  You know, just a place to relax and take in the beauty.  And that's exactly what her blog is. 

 

She was one of the first Etsy shops that I ever ordered from.  And I still love to order from her.  You know me, I had to have this. It had me at the "red".  Lookit that cute little twine and that wee labels.  Yeah, can you say, "hooked'. 

 

Even the back of the package is adorable!  She sealed it shut with a letter.  Just too stinkin cute I tell ya.  I'm so into little details like that. 

 

This Schoolgirl Paper Packet was a must have.  Ever since purchasing this, 

well, I've just been in that "new crayons, new shoes, back-to-school" mode.  The only thing left to do is pick up one of the Fall clothes magazines and wait for the cooler weather to make it's way here.  Oh please, do hurry! 

 

I'm thinkin some sort of tag for the new supply tin is in order and that these goodies just might be the ticket for making that tag.

Well, I'm off to create.  And I hope you get to do the same today.  And do check out Melissa's blog.

I hope that you, like I was, will be delighted. 

Happy Wednesday.

No White Rabbit here!

Or brown for that matter.  Have you seen these? (click on pics to make larger).

I just thought this was so fun.  Especially as anal...I mean, er, color challenged as I am, well, now I can totally coordinate my Easter basket in all one color.  No more brown chocolate bunny.  He's vibrant orange.  With Whopper's to match.  And Cotton Candy.  How cool is that? 

There was orange, green, pink, blue and yellow.  I thought it was was just too much fun.  I found it all at Wally no less. 

Kinda reminds me of when they used to dye the little chicks down at the M.E.Moses.  Now, if that is not telling my age...I don't know what is.  LOL.  Easter fun for sure.  Once I get the baskets finished, I'll show ya.  Some things may have to be "cello bagged".  LOL.  Did I mention anal? 

Happy Thursday.  

M I A ?

Nope.  M-I-C. 

As in, M-I-C...K-E-Y...M-O-U-S-E! 

Yep.  Ears.  I wore em.  For several days.  And liked it!

It's been hard to come back to the real world, sans ears.   That's for sure.

This was so much fun.  Especially for a person that grew up watching as Tinkerbell flew over that magical castle every Sunday evening, fireworks exploding in the sky behind her.  She still holds a special spot in my heart. 

I still can't really believe that I was there. 

For it really was, quite M-A-G-I-C-A-L!

So thanks Sweet Hub! for one of the best birthday's that this little girl (in spirit anyway) has ever had.  It truly was magical in every sense of the word. 

And thanks to ya'll for such wonderful comments and sweet compliments on the bluebirds and roses goodies.  I hope to get more things done this week (as soon as I stop mooning around and wearing my ears), and get some of it loaded on Etsy. 

Happy Mo....Hey wait...is it Tuesday?  Ah, behind again. 

I guess that means I'm back in the real world. 

Happy Tuesday. 

**edited to say**crap!  Just realized...it's Wednesday!  LOL.  I am behind...big time.  Well, off to try and catch up on reading the 755 blog posts in Google Reader.  You guys have been busy.  LOL. 

On the road again

OK, confession time.  So I wasn't totally working last week.  I was really mostly playing.  I got to go down to the Hill Country for a few days and it was absolutely wonderful.  Sweet Hub and I had not been there in ages, actually about 8 ages. 

To say that this year has been hard...total understatement.  So, was nice to get away with for just a few, short, days and drive, shop and eat.  Not always in that order.  LOL. 

And while more booth pics just might send you running and screaming from the room.  I did think you might enjoy these.

Alas, this is not my booth.   But a booth in the fantastic store that is Homestead in Fredericksburg.  Texas, that is.  I loved this space and all her things were so nicely displayed.  I love an all white look, but in my own home, I know color would continuously sneak in.

Loved these little glittered eggs in taupe's, silver and cooper. 

This was funky, cool.  An old, wicker hamper with an "altered" top. 

Just so lovely and peaceful looking.

Is this piece not amazing?  Would have soooooo loved to have it.

And that red transfer ware?  Equally yummy and equally out of my price range.

But thankfully this yummy was not!  Yep, that would be a cinnamon Muffin and blueberry scone from the Rather Sweet Bakery.  Rebecca has also opened a second restaurant called, Rebecca's Table, which is equally delish.

Her bakery is always one of our favorite stops in F'burg.  As is the 5 and Dime.  You can't beat Dooley's for fun.  We meandered through Comfort, Boerne, and back through Austin again (oh the changes!, oh the toll roads!).  Was a great few days and wonderful to relax, but always good to be back home.

Its beginning to look a lot like...

the North Pole. 

Yep. They are here.   Where I work. 

It's that time of year.  Although seems like we are doing it a wee bit early this year, but hey, those penguins and their little happy feet could be contained no longer.

Come with me, I'll give ya a little tour. 

From top to bottom, the front of the store is a winter wonderland awash in shades of red, black and white.  One can almost feel an icy chill as you step through the door.

These little snow birds look right at home with their dancing counterparts.

As do these little guys.  How cute would these be just clipped to some bare branches in a pretty white urn?

The penguin tree is cool!  Literally.

 

Lots of great ribbons and decorative accessories.  LOVE that striped ribbon.

This guy never wants to have LAU after his name!  LOL.

Lots to see and take in.  Just hearing people "oooh and aaah" yesterday, made all the hard work worth while.

Up front, it's all a red, black and white wonderland wonderful!

Now, if your idea of Christmas is a little warmer, but no less magical, think Enchanted. 

A frosty, enchanted forest.

A sun-dappled forest, where icy leaves crunch under foot.

And little birds snuggle warmly into nests under shimmering boughs. 

But not to worry, still lovely bits of Fall about.

Pumpkins and leaves.  Cute Red Robin sign!  Wonder "who" does their signs?  LOL

Crows and Candles.

And Halloween bits of spooky fun.  And candy.

Gobble, gobble.

Cool greens and concrete cuteness.

Texas Honey.

Kitchen fun.

And Sister's and my little booth?  Think pink.

I'll post more pics of our booth on the week after next, for Pink Saturday. 

Hope you enjoyed the tour of The Doves Nest .  Come down and take a peek for yourself!

And the Winner is...

... but first a  word from our sponsor.  Me.

Sorry I'm late.  I had hoped to post the winner this morning.  But you know me, late as usual.  You know how a doc will have PhD after his/her name, lawyer's are AAL (Attorney's at Law)...I'm thinking of putting one after my name, as in Cindy, LAU.  Late as usual.  That way, I will never have to explain my constant lateness.  It's there, after my name.  But, I digress.  So without further adieu...our winner is:

Kathy at Mimi's Garden

YAY.  Kathy was number 17, the winner, as randomly generated by Sweet Hub.  When asked to pick a number between one and twenty-three.  LOL.  So  Congrats Kathy and I will get your little tea cup out to ya.  Thanks to everyone for taking the time to leave a comment and playing.    I hope to have more kits on my Etsy by the end of this week.

On Saturday, I did something I rarely ever do...I took a class! 

 

Our LSS offered an incredible class taught by the wonderful Wendy that is pretty much the same as the Ranger 101 class.  We learned the basic inking techniques and methods used by the pros.  It was fun and fab to finally learn exactly what to do with that stack of inks that sit on the edge of my desk and mock me daily!

And practice is the key.  The tag in the middle (that says "nevermore") was my favorite.  It was called Burnt Edge. 

And I sat at the "cool kids table".  With this one, this one, this one,  and this one.

Was alot of fun.  Now off to the studio to play.

Eye candy Delish

I love eye candy!  It makes my heart flutter, my mind run amok, spurs the old creativity and best of all, its not fattening. 

So, with those thoughts in mind, feast upon these pics.  While they in no way do justice to the wonderful, little shop that is Laurie Anna's  .  Hopefully they will spur you on to take a trip to her wonderful store and see the goodness for yourself. 

Each little vignette draws you in and tells a story.  Pulling you along to the next spot.  Filling every nook and cranny of space with delightful, affordable finds.  One can envision a single piece or a entire display in their own home.  I had to have that wonderful little birdie on the wood base (to the right of the concrete candle holder).  As well as a few other things.

Brown is a color after my own heart.  I'm just a brown girl I guess.  But mix in the coolness of white and a little sophistication of black and the ordinary is elevated to classic.  And texture...love texture.

And Laurie has the most wonderful mix of wood, fur, feather, metal and more.  Pleasing to the eye and to the touch.  Look at this gorgeous dress.  Loved it.  And that little basket of owls.  I wanted a few, but was afraid they would become cat fodder.  So, I left them in the basket. 

See the textures?  Love it!  Is your heart fluttering yet?  Mine was.

Now, I know this pic does not make sense.  I only captured a small area.  This is a huge bird cage.  It's filled with sheet music, twiggy wreaths, and lots of cool cups and saucers, wood pieces and burlap.  It was such a contradiction, but it all works.  So much fun.  And this, as they say, is just the tip of the iceberg.  The shop is chock full of wonderful goodies and Christmas things, but out of the ordinary, not your run of the mill red and green.  And so beautiful.

But the best part of the day...getting the meet the wonderful Missy Laurie Anna herself.  We've "talked" several times (via email) but had not gotten to meet.  She is as warm and beautiful as the shop she creates.  Was a joy to meet her and see the new location.  If you get a chance, stop in and see her.  You won't be disappointed.  And I bet your heart will flutter a bit too!

From there down to the flea market piles and dollar tables that make up part of the fun of Canton.  There with five million other Texas gals.  LOL.  Was anyone at Round Top?  Hard to believe with the crowd that was pushing their way through the Arbors today. 

I had lots of fun.   Between today and last weekend, I've got ideas for ktis and new creations and lots of new things.  Plus, the vintage goodies, that I found today.  I'll share more next week. 

Have a good weekend.