Scandinavian Gift Ideas

I love the clean and classic lines of Scandinavian design. Here are a few ideas if you are looking for a unique holiday gift!

Mid Century Modern Wood Bowls

Vintage Norway Pewter Owl Necklace

Mid Century Krenit Enamel

Bowls From Denmark

Vintage Emerald Green Dansk Votives

Scandinavian Inspired Zippered Pouch

These items can be found on Etsy at http://www.funvintageliving.etsy.com/ and http://www.blessedsparrow.etsy.com/

Catching Up

It's been over a week since I've posted, so today is "Catch Up" day!

First and most important, a huge THANK YOU to all of our veterans who have served to keep our country safe.

My mom visited for a week and while we had a wonderful visit, I didn't get much completed in the way of sewing or blogging. I'm sure you all understand! Mom and I were very busy shopping, "treasure hunting", and just plain visiting with each other. One of the days my mom visited, we let the kids play hooky from school (sshhhh....)and went to Julian for the day. What a lovely day! Julian is in the hills of North-East San Diego and Fall had definitely arrived! Colors changing on the trees, a crispness in the weather, and fresh mountain air combined with the warm apple pie we had at "MOM's", made for a perfect day!


Lunch with grandma in Julian

We shopped for "stuff"

Fall Festival Fun!
We attended our church's Fall Festival in lieu of trick-or-treating October 31st. The kids had a blast! They "trunk-or-treated", got their faces painted, went on a hay ride, ate hamburgers and played numerous games. Oh yes, and don't forget, they ate way too much candy!

Finally, I wanted to let you all know about my Holiday Sale, offering many items at reduced prices, on both of my Etsy sites! Be sure to visit and start shopping for those Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers!

*The Blessed Sparrow http://www.blessedsparrow.etsy.com/ (I will also take custom orders).

*Fun Vintage Living http://www.funvintageliving.etsy.com/


I hope you enjoy this long weekend and reflect on the gifts of freedom our country's veterans have fought to keep for us.

Little Zippered Pouches

I wanted to share with you three new zippered pouches I created. Two of them are made of Ultrasuede, so they look and feel like suede. They are lined with a polka dot lining and a pretty flower decoration on the front. The third is made from soft, purple leather with a tree applique on the front and fully lined interior. These little bags make great cosmetic cases, money pouches, holders for your phone, iphone, Blackberry. Super cute and very durable!
You can check out these little goodies and others at my Etsy store. Thanks for stopping by! http://www.BlessedSparrow.etsy.com

Guilty Pleasures

We all have them, come on, admit it...there are foods you eat even though they aren't good for you and activities you may partake in even though it's a waste of time. I like to think that our guilty pleasures are a way to relax and spoil ourselves once in a while during our hectic and sometimes frantic days. Mine have changed over the years. It used to be Nordstrom shopping, professional manicures and house cleaning service were my guilty pleasures. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but due to life circumstances, I have gratefully found happiness in the simpler, more important things in life and in the process God has become my #1 pleasure.

Here are a few of my other guilty pleasures:

2) Oreo cookies and milk after the kids go to bed
3) Re-runs of Alias, LOST and Gilmore Girls (rarely, but I love it when I get the chance)
4) Browsing Barnes and Noble bookstore with a coffee (even though I may not purchase anything)
5) Walking on the beach
6) Listening to music really loud and singing at the top of my lungs in the car, BY MYSELF.
7) Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte
8) Crafting and creating
9) Lastly, and many of you may be able to relate, but my guiltiest pleasure of all...estate, thrift store and garage sale shopping for vintage treasures!

The last item on my list is a new "guilty pleasure" that I've turned into a small business because I can't possibly keep every cute retro item that I just HAD to purchase (because it's so awesome and a "great deal"). In the "old days", I used to get the same thrill shopping at Nordy's when I would find the cutest pair of shoes, but times, hmmm hmmm, and my checkbook, have changed... now, I actually get more of a thrill when I find a one of a kind treasure at the thrift store for $2.00! I usually go on a huge shopping trip once a week, quickly walking up and down the aisles, when my eye catches that special vintage treasure (my son coined the term "treasure hunting", which makes the trip more bearable, I mean fun)! My pulse starts racing and I get excited, I run over and put the "treasure" in my basket before someone else realizes what a prized possession it could be! Yes, this is what I find exciting and let's just say my husband is putting up with me...he's actually gone with me a few times, however he doesn't have the stamina for "treasure hunting" as is required!

You can visit my other etsy shop to see what I've been up to (when I'm not sewing)at:
http://www.funvintageliving.etsy.com/

More Great Gift Ideas

With Christmas just around the corner, I will be sharing unique and special products, shops and ideas with you!

I just visited one of my favorite blogs, "Lee La La" and she is showcasing a special etsy shop called, "Much Ado About You". Much Ado About You sells beautiful, custom made planners, calendars, etc... with a flair! They will make excellent gifts so you MUST check them out! Oh yeah, if you go to Lee La La blog you can enter the contest to win one of these special day planners!


You can visit Lee La La's blog at:
http://lindsay-thelees.blogspot.com/2010/10/much-ado-about-you-giveaway.html


You can visit Much Ado About You at:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/muchadoaboutyou

My favorite item, The BEVIN dayplanner from Much Ado About You

My Kitchen Garden (sort of....)

I've always wanted to have a vegetable and herb garden, but felt intimidated by the entire process. Living in the suburbs, it is too convenient to drive a few blocks to the grocery store and purchase overpriced and scientifically engineered food. Well, I finally had enough and mustered up the courage to jump into the dirt, through trial and error, learn how to grow my own veges!

Now, all of you green thumbs and experienced gardeners are probably rolling your eyes or thinking, "how cute", but for this girl, this is a big step! First, I had to stake out the "perfect" plot of dirt, till it, fertilize, THEN start the planting. My sweet husband was worried that I would just walk outside with my shovel, start digging and drop in some seeds. I assured him, don't worry, I will do my homework (my pride will not allow me to fail this project...my family is watching from the sidelines wondering what will come of this new "Lucy" idea of mine to feed my family from mom's garden). My wonderful husband volunteered to till and prepare the dirt for me, which, after watching what it entailed, I was very thankful for. I have since sectioned out four smaller plots within the larger area, planted seeds in two of them and watch them like they are my children! I never knew how fun and rewarding gardening could be. I love digging in the dirt and watching God's amazing work as the seeds grow into plants. My children get so excited when a new row of seeds starts to pop through the surface. Okay, I admit, I did have visions of strolling outside within a couple of weeks of planting and plucking a nightly dinner salad...that may happen, with TIME. LOTS OF TIME. This is a true lesson in patience for me and I definitely need to learn that lesson!

A few of my new favorite books (aka Garden Bible and tutor):

1) The Kitchen Garden by Alan Buckingham 2010) - this book is awesome! It is a step by step, monthly guide for the extreme beginner who knows NOTHING about gardening. This book will guide you through the process without making you feel guilty for not having started sooner

2) Gardening for Food and Fun by The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (1977) - I found this vintage book at a thrift store, and yes, I admit I purchased it first because I thought the retro pictures were fun, however it has turned out to be a wonderful resource book!

3)Vegetable Gardening by Sunset Magazines (1974) - Another great vintage resource packed with useful information and retro pictures. Love it!

Jeremiah 29:5 "...plant gardens and eat what they produce..."

The Holiday Bazaar

Calling all experienced holiday crafters...I need your help...in a big way!

I was invited by a fellow etsy-er to participate in a holiday bazaar (in 3 weeks!!!) and although I am very excited, I'm also in a complete panic! This very nice person probably has no idea that this is my first time...yep, I'm a "newbie". However, I want to show up prepared and at least fake like I know what I'm doing! Hopefully it won't be too obvious that I have never done this before. Oh, and yes, it will be lots of fun to meet new people and sell my hand-crafted goodies!

My first point of anxiety is not having enough inventory. Yes, I know, easy to fix...just MAKE more! But still...it is worrying me. Between driving the kids all over the county every day for school, dance, karate, youth group and art class...oh, and trying to be the wife and mother I desire, which includes making three meals a day, making sure the house is at least sanitary, the clothes are clean, the animals are fed, the husband and children are loved, it's amazing that anything else fits in the schedule! During the hours in which the kiddos are in school and my hubby is at work, I run around like a crazy lady trying to get as much completed as possible so I can enter my favorite room in the house, the art/sewing/library/office room, for the rest of the day to create. I know ALL you mommy crafters and artists know what I'm talking about!

Second, I have no idea what to expect...should I decorate my table with "holiday" decorations and hand out sweets and baked goods to entice people over? How should I display my wares? How much cash should I have on hand? Seriously ladies, I need your tips and advice from your previous experience. I appreciate any and all words of wisdom you have. Oh, I must tell you now, I draw the line at wearing a Christmas sweater...nope, no way, can't and will not do it.

Tuesday's New Purse Design!

I am so excited about this little zippered purse...it is so cute! White damask exterior with 2 little fabric flowers attached with red button centers. Interior is reinforced with a fleece interface so it is padded. Blue and red floral trim. Adorable! Perfect for your cosmetics or as a coin purse! Let me know what you think. I can also make you a custom item, various fabrics, colors and sizes. I would love to hear from you!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/59412199/the-charlotte-design-zippered-pouch-by

New Give Away at Simply Handmade by Paige

I just wanted to tell you all about a cool giveaway on Simply Handmade by Paige's blog! The Pretty Poppy jewelry shop is giving away a pair of earrings to one lucky reader on Miss Paige's blog. Miss Paige is a 14 year old entrepreneur (yes, 14!) who has 3 etsy shops and runs an awesome blog! Be sure to stop by and say "hi" to Paige and enter the Pretty Poppy contest!

Chrysanthemum earrings Sterling Silver Charms!



Simply Handmade by Paige http://www.simplyhandmadebypaige.blogspot.com/

The Pretty Poppy Jewelry www.etsy.com/shop/theprettypoppy

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: "In the childhood memories of every good cook, there's a large kitchen, a warm stove, a simmering pot and mom" ~Barbara Costikyan

What is it about the smell of a pie baking in the oven that gives that "everything in the world is okay" feeling? Today is the perfect Fall day, drizzling with rain and a crispness to the air. We've got a fire in the fireplace and the house just feels "homey". For me, this is pie making season! The house smells so good and there is nothing quite warm pie with icecream to make your family smile.

PERFECT PEAR-BLACKBERRY PIE

Fool proof pie crust:

2 C. flourpinch of salt

2/3 C. unsalted butter

4 Tbl cold water

*Mix flour and salt

*Chop up butter, add to flour

*Cut butter into flour using pastry cutter until small beads form

*Add water one tablespoon at a time until dough is lightly moistened

*Mix dough with hands to form right consistency (not too dry; not sticky)

*Divide dough in half. Enough for 2, dish only pies or 1 top crust pie*Roll one half of dough on lightly floured surface, slightly larger than pie plate

*Fold dough into fourths, place in pie plate, unfold (prevents breaking of dough)

*Press dough around pie plate edge either with thumb and forefinger or a fork

*Roll out second round of dough for top

Scrumptious Pie Filling:

4 pears, peeled, thinly sliced

2 C. fresh blackberries

1/4 C. corn starch1 C. sugar

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1 egg

*Gently mix all ingredients together

*Pour filling in pie plate. Dot top of filling with butter

*Cover with second piece of dough

*Press edges together to seal and flute

*Cut slits in top of crust

*Place decorative dough cutouts on top (brush with beaten egg to adhere)

*Lightly dust with milk for shiny appearance

*Cover edge of pie crust with foil to prevent burning

*Place in pre-heated 375 degree oven for approximately 50 min. on middle rack until top of crust is just starting to turn a golden brown.

*Let cool. Refrigerate for firmer pie

CONVERSATION: What do you find comfort in?

New Purse Designs at The Blessed Sparrow

I was struggling last week with new designs. I love piecing together fabrics, patterns and textures to come together in a fun new way: velvets with cords and cottons are my favorite. But, I was having a design mental block and not feeling too inspired. Then it occurred to me, sometimes simpler is better! I sat down and made 4 cute little zippered bags (and I'm making more) and I just love them! Small, simple and super sweet. I've also reinforced all the purses with interfacing and triple stitched all seams for extra durability. These little bags are perfect for cosmetics, money, phone, etc... They make great little gifts and stocking stuffers! http://www.blessedsparrow.etsy.com/

My Thoughts For Today

LOVE

This has been on my mind and I felt compelled to share...In my personal life, I have been trying to take the time and effort to live in LOVE. 1 Corinthians 13 4-7 keeps ringing in my ears. I just have to write it down because it is so beautiful. I hope you will take a moment to think on the meaning of these words as they are so simple and powerful. Love covers everything! If we are not living in love, then we are living in hatred, envy, jealousy, hurt, etc... this is why it is so important to keep our focus on loving others with our attitude, words and actions. When we feel we have been wronged and life is unfair, it is so easy to react in ways that are not loving. If we could only keep our focus on love, our life would be much richer, not to mention how it will affect those around us and our world.

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. LOVE NEVER FAILS." 1 Cor. 13: 4-7

Meet Lil Lollipop's Children's Boutique Clothing

At Lil Lollipop's, Nicolette is offering her beautiful, hand created, boutique clothing and accessories for little ones. What I love about the Lil Lollipop's line is the extra detail and girly flair in the designs, which makes it unique and beautiful! I especially like the cute little capes Nicolette has created for the Fall season, so cute and traditional.

Be sure to stop by and visit Lil Lollipops at http://www.etsy.com/shop/lillollipop

*Part of the proceeds from sales will go to Spina Bifida Association and to the American Cancer Society

A Little Bit of Leather

I had never thought of sewing with leather before, but I happened upon some very soft, teal colored leather and just had to give it a try! The result is a teal leather cosmetic bag with a floral cotton lining and zipper closure. Now that I'm past the intimidation of sewing with leather, I will be creating more! The pieces are beautiful, soft, and very durable.

Three New Zippered Cases

Three Little Birds...


These little zippered bags are the perfect size to carry in your purse, tote or backback! They are very durable with reinforced seams, super cute, one of a kind and functional. Zippered closure to keep your stuff secure. Great as a coin purse or cosmetic bag.

It's not too early to think about the holidays and start shopping for friends and family! These little purses are the perfect gift and also make great stocking stuffers.

Custom requests accepted with many fabrics and sizes to choose from.

New Kinsey Tote Bag!

I just created this sweet little bag that is perfect for carrying around everything! It's a tote bag with enough room for books, or to be used as a purse. Very sturdy, soft brown chenille bag with canvas lining. Flower applique on front and blue floral trim and handles. I just love this bag and you will too! All hand-crafted, full lining, re-inforced seams for extra durability. Measures 12"X13". Perfect as a gift or for yourself!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/57804761/the-kinsey-hand-crafted-bag-tote-by-the

Welcome to The Blessed Sparrow Blog!

Thank you for visiting my new blog site where you can follow The Blessed Sparrow creations which are featured on Etsy at http://www.blessedsparrow.etsy.com/.  The Blessed Sparrow products are hand-crafted inspirational gifts including bible covers, coin purses, tote bags and more!  Each item is hand made with the highest quality and care with beautiful fabric combinations and appliques, designed by me for The Blessed Sparrow product line.  A portion of each sale is donated to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation (SOWF). My hope is that when you visit The Blessed Sparrow etsy shop and blog you will be uplifted by the message that YOU are important and taken care of - Matthew 10:29!