July Fourth Traditions

As another July fourth has flown past with its parades, picnics and fireworks, I'm amazed at how little our  personal traditions have changed.  In most ways, I take comfort in these celebrations.  It is with gratitude that I enjoy the company of family and dear friends on this joyous occasion.  But in another way, with each year's closing fireworks, I reflect on the true sacrifices made by so many others that allow me to have such lovely experiences in such a safe environment.  The flashes , bright lights and booming noises that fill the skies seem more and more like battlefields in my mind.  And though I continue to enjoy the day, there is also a sadness and longing for a world more at peace.  Although I will not see that in my lifetime, it is my sincere hope that those who follow will catch a glimpse of that world.

The Esty Bloggers team asked us to share an item in our shop that reflects Independence Day.  The best example I have is in my peacoxtoo shop...a flag afghan with a large yellow ribbon gracing the blue field instead of the stars.  It is in honor and  memory of those who serve and have served this most blessed nation.

Fiber Art

Fiber art has always seemed daunting to me, but in the skilled hands of Tammy, of http://www.tamdoll.etsy.com it come alive with color, texture and style.  She creates dolls, jewelry, bags, clothing, and much more from largely upcycled fiber materials and offers them in her Etsy shop.  She loves the challenge of unusual materials that most of us would not think of combining to form lovely, original design pieces such as these fiber heart charms in shades of pink, white and green.  They're 1 1/4" across and have a ring at the back so you can add them to a necklace or bracelet.  They would also be darling as a pin on a hat, coat or sweater.  Take a few moments to browse her shop;  you'll be glad you did!

Summertime...time for smoothies!

Although smoothies are great any time of year, they're a real hit at our house during the summer months, especially for breakfast.  So when the Etsy Bloggers asked for summer time recipes, it was a no-brainer!  This is a very flexible recipe, so the amounts are approximate.  You can add or subtract as you like.

2 cups of yogurt in the flavor of your choice.
1 sliced banana
1 1/2 cups of juice in the flavor of your choice.
1 cup frozen fruit

Blend well and enjoy!  This makes about a quart of mixture.  Actually, this morning I invited my aerobics class for a smoothie party.  We had three choices:  mango/peach,  strawberry/mixed berry, and vanilla/blueberry.  There were no complaints!!

The Great Bathroom Remodel...Part 1

For several years, now, we've needed a bathroom remodel and have finally almost finished the project.  Although we were supposed to be finished before Easter, the final date is finally June 16, so I'm glad I waited to blog about the project!  Here are some photos of the disaster we were experiencing before the work started.  The photos do not do the horrible state of affairs justice, so you'll just have to believe me that I was embarrassed to have guests in it!  At any rate, these were shot in April when we could still use it.  The true remodel story will start tomorrow!

Must Love Dogs

What could be cuter than a beagle puppy, even if he's snatched a calla lily from the neighbor's yard?  This little guy is actually a polymer clay bead made by Nancy of http://nanjodogs.etsy.com  He's shown here in a bracelet with other beads as an example of how he might be used in your own jewelry.  The detail on this bead is amazing!  Please visit her shop for this sweetheart and other breed of dogs and puppies.  Enjoy!

Memorial Day Parade

We've never been so close to a Memorial Day Parade before!  Our little village always has a small parade, but we thought it was scheduled for later in the morning.  As we were driving earlier down our main drag, the police pulled us over to the side so that the parade could pass!!  Now, you must realize that our parade consists of two squad cars, the high school band, the Girl Scouts and Brownies, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, a Color Guard, three village officials and two fire engines...a total of a five minute parade.  Nevertheless, it was an up close and personal experience that exemplifies the true spirit of small town America.  God bless the USA!

Dreaming of Down Under

The Etsy Bloggers team carnival is featuring a "down under" theme.  It is a place I've always dreamed  of visiting!  Isn't it funny how we romanticize far away places?  But I have the feeling that the southern hemisphere offers much more than I can imagine!

Right now, as we move

 into the spring and summer months here in the northern US, they are preparing for the winter season.  So, I'm featuring some of my fingerless gloves which ship free...even to "down under"!