"URBAN COUNTRY" in Autumn.....

Perfect example of "Urban Country"....fabulous pieces of "history", set against this stark white wall.....

Hi Friends, It is September 9th, ...a very hot, dry day. Not exactly the kind of day I envision when we think & speak of "Autumn". I have been admiring & thoroughly enjoying all the Fall decorating of so many of my blogging friends,....however the idea of setting out orange pumpkins & brilliant Fall foliage, just doesn't seem quite right here at my house. Last year I thoroughly loved adding "orange" everywhere,...pumpkins of all sizes,... leaves,... mums & roses of the most amazing shade of dusty tangerine"!....However, this year it's all about a very neutral, quiet palette, which I think will work very well in my house. I am very into the "Urban Country" look,... of the comfortable aspects of country (pillows, quilts, soft rugs & upholstery), being combined with clean, uncluttered & almost contemporary pieces. The two styles combined, make for the most appealing look, one that speaks of our "heritage", but in a very fresh way!....So when it comes to Autumn decorating, I would like to continue in the same vein, simple & stark, but interesting!.....I would like to use "white pumkins" this year, along with bare branches adorned with just a few dark brown leaves barely hanging on. I would like to fill urns & baskets with huge arrangements of chocolate "mums", with creamy "hydtrangeas" spilling forth from old beige earthware crocks...& "acorns" scattered over bookcase & cabinets surfaces. And as a final touch,... use old, "cloches", to draw attention to small "autumn still-lifes"... made all the more important by being displayed under glass. This is the "vision" I have for Fall this year...."Urban Country" tweeked by Autumn's arrival......

A trio of Early American ladderback chairs,...with a clock that's lines speak of "mid-century" design. " .......

And in my house, "American Country" handicrafts, "quilts & ragballs", & "antique wood boxes".... & then the addition of very contemporary barrel lampshades!.....All work together beautifully!

My entryway....A very old Mexican bench, piled high with the softness of quilts & pillows!

"Urban Country Design" at it's best!....clean simple lines, with interesting old pieces that soften the edges & add richness to the room!.....

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"September Recipes".....

Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it!.....Goerge Eliot

Today is Sunday.....The first September Sunday of 2008.....It is close to 100 degrees here at our house, but I am working on Halloween swap boxes,... doing a bit of cooking... & quite contently pretending it is a lovely Autumn day, with crisp, cool temps. & leaves a falling. I am quite tardy with the posting of recipes, so I thought I would rectify that with this post! I am sharing two amazing recipes, both of which are especially good at this time of year! The first is a recipe I was given by my good friend Linda... She lives in the tiniest of villages back east, in a big old house & is quite the cook! This cake she shared one day when a group of us were getting together at my house to quilt. It is "German Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Icing" & is simply delectable!.....The other is a Gooseberry Patch recipe, for "corn pudding" that I have made dozens of times over the last several years. This corn pudding is something that can be made at this time of year to accompany turkey or beef, but also works well along side mexican dishes as well!.....Try them for yourself....I'm sure they will become "family favorites" at your house too!

Gooseberry Patch Corn Pudding:

16 oz. can corn, drained
16 oz. can creamed corn
2 eggs, beaten
8 oz. pkg. corn muffin mix
1/2 c. butter, melted
1 c. cheddar cheese
Mix all ingredients together except the cheese. Pour into greased dish (13" x 9"), bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, Sprinkle with cheese and bake 15 minutes longer, makes 6 servings.

German Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Icing:

1 1/4 cup olive oil
3 well-beaten eggs
2 cups sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
3 cups flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
3 cups chopped apples
Mix beaten egg, oil, sugar, & vanilla. Add dry ingredients to mixture. Batter will be thick. Add apples. Bake at 350 degrees for about an hour in greased 9" x 13" pan.

Cream Cheese Icing
6 oz. cream cheese,... room temp.
1/4 cup, melted
1 3/4 cup confectioner's sugar
1 tsp. lemon juice
Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Beat in butter. Stir in confectioner's sugar & lemon juice. Spread over cooled cake.

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"Holly Doodle Designs"....Simply Exquisite!....

A tiny velvet "berry" adrift in a sea of buttons.....

It's the first "Pink Saturday" of September...After taking a little break, I am so happy to be joining you all again!....Beverly of "How Sweet The Sound" is our hostess & how the list of participants has grown! A sincere congratulations to you Beverly, on having the "vision" of bringing ladies together with the simple idea of "posting pink"!

Could a nest get any prettier!.....

My contribution today is the incredible work of Holly Abston @ "Holly Doodle Designs"....I thought nothing could be more appropriate for "Pink Saturday", than her charming little "pieces of whimsy"! I had been on "flickr" looking at a variety of photos, when I came across her enchanting designs & wonderful blog!....I instantly added Holly to my list of favorites & decided right then & there that her sweet creations would be the subject of today's post!

A trio of the most exquisite "baskets"....

You should also know, that Holly & 5 of her talented friends make up "Sweet Six Studio"..... and the exciting thing is the six of them have just begun this month's "On-line Art Retreat"! You can register at "Sweet Six Studio" & pay a small fee....& then be able to have access to these incredible how-to's for some of the most adorable projects ever! I urge you to go check out what these ladies are up to!....I have no doubt, you will be thrilled you did!.... Happy Crafting! & "Happy Pink Saturday"!.......Your friend, Heidi XO

Another "wee basket" that any bird would be proud to call home....

The lovliest of "millinery flowers" lying atop cream linen....

Note: A heartfelt "thank you" to all of you generous & lovely ladies who didn't hesitate a moment to offer to take on another partner in my Halloween Swap! I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you all! Once again "Thank you"!!!......and a little heads up!....A "Christmas Swap" is in the works!!!!.....more information in a couple weeks!...Bye for now!

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Sarah Palin Hits A Grand Slam!.......

Tonight, I have one thing to say..."John McCain, you definitely picked the right person!!!!".....And in response to Gov. Sarah Palin's incredible speech,.... my dear friend Susie C. said it best,...."I enjoyed a great night, watching & cheering the Republican Nat. Convention……everyone was great…..Romney, Hucklebee, & Giuliani….but our favorite and highlight of the night was watching Sarah Palin hit a Grand Slam!! What a wonderful night to be an American…..and even more wonderful to be an American wife & mother!!!" .......I couldn't agree more!....

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Sherry's "Blogiversary".....

Hi Friends, Hope you are all doing well!...My friend Sherry, over at "If I Could Set My Soul Free" is celebrating her "Blogiversary"!...She is planning a month of fun!...so if you would like to participate please visit Sherry to find out all the specifics, & celebrate with all of us! How much fun is that! In order to meet & get to know each other a bit better,.... she has asked us to answer a few questions about ourselves...So here goes!...Hope to see you over at Sherry's!

What type of job do you have?......I am a "interior decorator" with my own business. Between decorating for clients, I am home taking care of my own home & family! And a few months ago, I opened 2 shops on Etsy..."Heidi Devlin Home", which carries heirloom quilts, pillows, table linens & seasonal decor pieces...& "babypeople" that is all about little ones....bibs/blankets & soon, ...clothing, tiny pillows, etc.

Where do you live?... I now live in Valley Center, California, a rural area approx. an hour north of San Diego.......Am originally from Spokane, Washington...and also have lived a few years ago, on 31 acres in Newark Valley, New York......

Where do you do your crafts/art work? ....I craft, sew & do most of my projects & work in my upstairs sewing room! It is a large creative space I share with my two daughters! ...I love it, even though at times you can barely tell it's a room!! :)....usually just a big explosion of fabric, paper & glitter!

What is your favorite daytime beverage?...I am trying to drink mainly ice water, but usually in the afternoon treat myself to "Diet Rite" or low-cal "Limeade", over lots of ice! Yummmm!

What is your favorite dessert?.....Please, I certainly don't have just one!....I love chocolate cheesecake, soft sugar cookies, spice cake with buttercrean frosting & berry pie!

Do you watch soap opera's and if you do what's your favorite?....I used to watch a few "soap operas", but really don't anymore!..unless it's the holidays! I LOVE to check in then to see what everyone is up to & to see all the gorgeous holiday decorating!...Especially on "Days Of Our Live"!!!.... Right now it is a little like Sherry, lots of "Miss Spider" & "Little Bear"!.....

What's the last movie you saw in a movie theatre? ...The last movie I saw was just last Saturday night!...."Black Knight", the batman movie... with my husband! We have a household filled with our daughters, our grandson & lots of dogs & cats!...we rarely are alone, so the other night we escaped & went to the movies!...You should all know though, I adore movies! I see lots & lots of them!.....

Thank you Sherry, for making this month of September such an enjoyable one!.....Happy Birthday & Congratulations!.......Heidi XO

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"September"......

Tomorrow morning we will be welcoming in September 2008. A lovely month that can easily slip by if we allow it. Children begin school, routines resume... & life takes on a more traditional feel. More "traditional" in the sense that nature treats us to it's "seasonal glory",... just as it always has, every year as long as we can remember..."Traditional" in the way we start "moving indoors" a bit, wanting to create warm, cozy spaces to cuddle up in.....& "traditional" in the way we begin craving "comfort" food, dishes that fill our tummies, leaving us feeling satisfied....This is also the time of year of orange pumpkins & crisp apples, both of which lend themselves to culinary delights, along with adding beauty to our homes!......


It is the time of year that the "mum" takes over as the flower of the month!.....bright & beautiful, & very hardy against the cooling temperatures of autumn. The "mum" realizes that we all depend on her for spashes of color that rival only the "changing colors & falling leaves" of this amazing season.

And speaking of fall leaves, ...let us all acknowledge the "show" that Mother Nature has in store for us beginnng this month.....A "symphony" like no other...one that only September can orchestrate!.....So in this month,... enjoy the moments that are traditional only to Autumn, ...remember them.....For their memories will keep you warm, during the winter days ahead. Welcome September with open arms.....

Note: Our thoughts go out to all the families that are affected by Hurricane Gustav. We pray that the hurricane loses strength with every hour.....& that all of you will be able to return to your homes & communities very soon.

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"Getting Caught Up"....With Awards, Annoucements & a Thank you....

NOTE: #1- It's Friday afternoon.....& the "final weekend of summer" is before us. I found this lovely photograph & have been waiting to use it for the last few months, but am so glad I saved it till now. I think it is the "perfect image",.... for saying our" sweet good-byes" to the last few months. Let us all enjoy this last "warm-weather weekend,.... before "gently inching" toward Autumn. This summer has been a wonderful one,... but for me, the idea of "Fall", has captivated my every thought!...."Good-bye Summertime",.... see you next year.

NOTE: #2- Congratulations Gov. Sarah Palin, for becoming John McCain's vice-presidential nomination.....An exceptional woman, to say the least!!!....I enjoyed watching (but respectfully disagree with) the Democratic convention this last week, & am very excited to see what the Republicans have in store for us in the coming week!....The next few months should prove very exciting!!!...I urge you all to get out,... & proudly get involved!....After all, having an opinion & standing up for it,..... is what America is all about!

NOTE:#3- I have been very "tardy".......My sweet friend, Alaura @ "Cottage Rose", tagged me about a month ago with the "Five Embarrassing Songs" tag. I meant to post about it in the next few days, but as you can see it has taken me a bit longer!...To tell you the truth, the only time I am really listening to music is in the car. And when I am in the car, my daughter, Holly & grandson, Andrew are usually with me. Even though listening to "Rascal Flats" would be my first choice,... the tunes we are usually listening & singing to, are ones a 4 year old enjoys! Which is just fine!.... And they are wonderfully "silly", so here goes.....#1-Raffi's "Baby Beluga".....#2-Hullabaloo's (a San Diego based duo) "Too Much Mango", #3-"Dogs & Diamonds", #4-"Mama Llama" & #5- "Grown-Up Sippy Cup".....I invite anyone who might be reading this to consider themselves to be tagged! .....Thank you, Alaura!!!!

NOTE:4-My dear friend Rhonda @ "Scooterblu's Whimsy" made up this charming award, & passed it on to the many wonderful readers of her beautiful blog!...Rhonda, that was just the nicest idea! I would like to pass it on to the following friends,....with an invitation to post a few of your favrtite blogging friends as well!.....

1- Tonya @ "Puddin Pop".....wonderful mother, ardent seamstress & huge fan of the "Twight" series!.....aren't we all!

2- Lori @ "Morning Glories and Moonflowers".....lovely new friend & talented "jewelry-maker" & crafter.......& very patient for putting up with my "crazy long" e-mails!

3- Heather @ Hydrangeas & Hopscotch...The sweetest "new mother" for the third time, just recently,.... lovely blog about her family & thoughts....

4- Devina @ The Fairy Glade...The most charming English woman & blog,... that I am always "tickled" to visit!

5- Gretchen @ Bird Nest Cottage....A new friend that has proven to be as much as a "homebody" as me!....darling blog!

NOTE: #5- And my final note is about the most delightful lady ever, Dana @ The Stone Rabbit....Dana writes, & posts the most wonderful stories of her, & of course "the Stone Rabbit", ...very, very funny!....I was thrilled when she chose me as one of ladies to receive the "Kreativ Blogger" Award. Thank you for thinking of me Dana!!!...I am to tell 6 things that make me "happy"....and then pass this award on to other bloggers!...Please keep this going friends!....

*Six Things That Make Me Happy".....1- RAINY DAYS.....2- SOFT OATMEAL COOKIES...3- MY FAMILY....4- FRESH FLOWERS WRAPPED in NEWSPRINT....5- BRITISH MAGAZINES...& 6-EXPENSIVE HANDBAGS (haven't purchased any in quite sometime, but haven't lost the desire to!)

I will pass this award on to the following....

1)-Donna @ Donna Art.....such a talented lady/painter & such an enjoyable blog!! I purchased one of her tiny "nest" paintings...just the lovliest little thing you have ever seen!

2) -Karen @ A' Musements....a new incredibly talented friend! You must visit her site & see for yourself the exquisite pieces she creates!

3)- Holly @ mommyholly....I know I'm partial, since she is my daughter, but I so want to brag about her "oh-so" charming cards & tags!!!...Go see for yourself!!! Just darling!

NOTE: #6- A special "thank you" to Lori @ "Morning Glories and Moonflowers" for writing a wonderful post about some of her favorite etsy shops ,... mine included!!!....That was such a lovely thing to do Lori!!! I want you to know how much I appreciate your thoughtfulness!

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"Very Vintage Halloween Swap"...UPDATE!

Hi Friends, For those of you who are participating in my "Very Vintage Halloween Swap"...the partners have been assigned, & an e-mail sent out to you all....I felt I was very careful about keeping track of all the people who wished to participate,...however, if you are reading this, thought you were included, & HAVE NOT received an e-mail, please leave me a comment on this post, along with your e-mail address & I will get right back to you......

And I so want to "thank" all the friends that are joining me in this swap!.....I had no idea the response was going to be like this!...it is just so exciting!.....I have sent out to each of you a tiny envelope containing 3 charming little Halloween tags, made by my daughter Holly @ mommyholly. She has a wonderful etsy shop, where she makes the most adorable cards & tags...you must visit her!...I wanted to show my appreciation to each of you, so be watching for your wee surprise!

You are all on your own now, "busily preparing" for the next few weeks...and then on October 8th, we will all be posting about our "Halloween swap boxes"...and I will be sure & post all of your names & blogs with links to each! I am so looking forward to seeing all the creative results from all you talented ladies!!!.....Here's to Halloween & friends!...Thank you all!......Heidi XO

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"One of Those Days"......& "Classic Blue"....

Sky "blue".....at it's best!....

It is Tuesday evening...It has been "one of those days" that started with a long "to-do" list & has finished with very few of those "to-do's" checked off?......I don't quite know what happened?....This morning I seemed to be so on top of it all, but as the day progressed, I was continually being pulled away from the immediate task at hand,...& all of a sudden found myself spending way too much time on projects that just weren't that important???...Oh well, what's a girl to do!...Some days are just like that, I must accept it & go on!.......O.K., so on the subject of moving forward,....One of the last projects of "summer" that I really want to accomplish is to finish painting a few different pieces of furniture. I have a "corner cabinet" in the living room, a "coffee table" on the patio & a couple "odd little chairs" that all need a fresh coat of paint!...and the color I have chosen is "blue"....Forever, "classic blue"!.....So off I went to the computer to pull up a few color-ideas, that I may consider for these "destined to be improved" pieces. In the process of doing this, I ended up coming across this assortment of the most charming "gates"......ALL IN "BLUE"!.....They are all various styles, ranging from ornate iron to simple wood, but each has a lovely "quality" of it's own. One that says "notice me", but in the most "respectful manner". "Blue" is like that you know,.... proud, but quiet. I think I may just add another piece to that "list of painting projects".......a "blue garden gate". One that would not only look amazing, but could also be closed behind me, forcing me to finish my long list of garden "to-do's" without being distracted! :).......Here's to finishing what you begin!........Heidi XO
A touch of "blue" against the "neutrals" of Fall.....

Simple & bright & "blue"!....
Could this "blue" gate, be hiding the most "secret of gardens"?.....
Such pretty "blue" detailing!......

A rustic rock wall & a country "blue" gate.....

And the most adorable little gate, all "dressed up".... in "blue"!

Note: For those of you participating in my "Halloween Swap".....I have assigned you all partners & instructions, & will be e-mailing them to you tomorrow...& I will also be sending out your tiny "tag favors"....a little treat for joining me!......Thank you all!

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A Sunday Dedicated To The Places..."Where Bloggers Create".....

My "sewing room & office",... one large room upstairs that I share with Holly & Mallory...my two creative daughters....

Today, Brenda at "Brenda's Blog....Snippets Of Me" is hosting.... "Where Bloggers Create". Brenda came up with the idea while she was reading the book, "Where Women Create", by author Jo Packham.....I too have this wonderful book!... & just like Brenda have enjoyed many hours admiring the spaces in which women work, craft & spend their creative moments!...In fact, I liked it so much, I ended up giving it to many of my friends for Christmas a couple years ago!
After being inspired by this book, Brenda thought it might be fun to invite other bloggers to post about the rooms or spaces they call there own. So today that is exactly what we are doing!....Brenda has a list of the participants at her site, with links to all their blogs as well....You might want to visit her today & check out some of their "rooms" ..."I" certainly will be, hoping to pick up a few good ideas I can apply to my own space!.... Hope to see you over at Brenda's blog!.....& enjoy your Sunday!
A "glass front cabinet", where each shelf is assigned a certain craft item...some are filled with "card making" supplies,... some hold little glass jars filled with "snaps, buttons, hooks & eyes", etc....& others house small bottles of "paint, Modge Podge, glue & brushes"!... I love how organized it "can" be, but when we all are crafting at once, those shelves can get mixed up in minutes!!! :)......The "white bookshelves" in the back corner hold all my favorite magazines! ( I am horrible about throwing them out!).....Every issue of "Victoria" which I refer to constantly for inspiration....House Beautiful, Country Living,... both the American & British issues, Country Home & Veranda.
This is the left side of my "desk"....It is actually a cabinet, built right into a little alcove. I propped a HUGE bulletin board across the back, but have continued to pin "clippings of inspiration" on both sides as well!....I LOVE being surrounded by photos, invitations, thank you notes, upcoming events & beautiful things!...It simply makes me happy!...And even though you really cannot tell, the little framed photo is of me & Martha Stewart! Talking about inspiring!!
Some of my "pretty strings".....I love the simplicity & "old-fashioned, humble charm" of "string"!!!.....And a "tiny painting" of red geraniums peeking out from behind.
And I do love a bit of "sparkle"....doesn't everyone!?.....Some of the little glass bottles showing off the lovliest of "beads & sequins".......

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Carolyne Roehm's "Apple Cake Doris".....

Hello Friends,....."Friday" has found it's way back to us once again. Even though this may still be only the 22nd day of August, my attentions are focused towards the coming "Autumn"!....."Fabric-wise", I am finding myself migrating to "small dark prints & plaids",....In the garden, it is the "cool weather crops" that are needing to be planted.... & in the kitchen, I already have a list of "fall recipes", I am dying to try!......So today I am sharing designer
Carolyne Roehm's "Apple Cake Doris". I have made it many times before, with amazingly delicious results!!....You must try it!...& maybe this weekend!...It is one of those cakes that can be enjoyed from breakfast,... to afternoon tea... & even as a late night snack!.....I have "zucchini breads" in the oven as I write this post, but in a few hours, "Apple Cake Doris" will be filling this house with the scents of "Fall"!..... Join me,... gather together some tart apples & mix up a couple of these cakes!.....Is there really any better way to welcome in the weekend?....


APPLE CAKE DORIS:
Makes one large bundt cake or 2 small loaves

1 cup plus 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cups unsifted all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons milk
2 cups (about 2 large) tart apples, peeled, cored, and cut into ½ inch dice

Preheat oven to 350° F. Using 1 tablespoon oil, grease a tube pan or two mini loaf pans measuring 5 ¾ x 3 x 2 ½ inches.
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon and set aside.
In a large bowl, blend sugar and remaining 1 cup of oil. Add eggs and milk and beat until well combined.
Add reserved dry ingredients to sugar mixture and stir until just blended. Fold in apples. Makes a very thick batter.
Press batter evenly into prepared pan(s) and bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in pan for 10 minutes. Invert pan, place serving plate on top and turn out cake.

APPLE CIDER GLAZE

1 cup apple cider
¼ cup butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar

In a saucepan, simmer apple cider over medium heat until reduced by half, about 10-15 minutes.
Add powdered sugar to cider and stir.
Remove pan from heat and whisk in melted butter. Cool slightly then pour over cake.

Note: Concerning my "Very Vintage Halloween Swap"....I am trying to assemble all of the participants addresses....I believe I have gotten in touch with of most of you, however am having a difficult time contacting Debbie, @ "From A Creative Heart".....If you read this Debbie, or are someone who knows her, would you please let me know....I would greatly appreciate it!.....And remember, there are still a few days left to sign up!!!!

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A "Sneak Peek" at Christmas.... From "Heidi Devlin Home"....

I know it may seem a bit early for "thinking Christmas",.... posting "holiday pieces in August ....but for those of us who are designers, artists, craftspeople & quilters, it is the perfect time!.....Many of us are well into the making of our "Autumn & Holiday" items! Our workshops, studios & even kitchen tables are brimming over with supplies,.... stacks of projects started.... & ideas filling the air! I am the first person to feel we must not "rush the seasons",.... but again if we didn't start early,... we would have nothing to offer all of you, who are eagarly awaiting to see the treasures we all have created!......

As for me, I am proudly posting the first of my lovely "Christmas Collection",... "quilted striped runners & sweet little pieces".....all available at heididevlin.etsy.com.....I will be adding a variety of stockings, both "felt appliqued & quilted",.... as well as tree skirts... & even Fall/ Winter pillows!.....There will be exquisitely hand-made ornaments, along with lovely napkins & table accessories! I have designed pieces that would not only be wonderful to have in your own home, but ones that you would be proud to give as "gifts" to very lucky friends!....I so hope you love what I have been creating!.....Old-fashioned pieces, that add "a bit of enchantment" to our everyday lives!.....I invte you to "take an early peek" at what "Heidi Devlin Home" will be offering this Holiday Season!.....And please don't hesitate to ask me about custom orders!.....I so appreciate your interest!
Two of my "Christmas Quilted Runners"......beautifully "classic".......
Another one of my "Christmas Quilted Runners"...this one with taupe & white stripes encased in a bright red binding!......& adorned with little silver bells!.......
These "Glittered Candy Canes" are actually one of my very favotite pieces!.....Being a generous size (12") they can be used in a variety of ways! They are darling "hanging from the branches" of a Christmas tree or tucked in placesettings as a lovely "gift" for guests... or my personal favorite, filling an old "crock" or earthenware bowl with these "sparkling beauties"!!!.....

This is my adorable "Elf Boot".... It is a three-dimensionable 6-inch boot, that can be filled with tiny "peppermint puffs or wee candy canes"!.....My 4 year old grandson Andrew, finds these absolutely fascinating!!...cannot put them down!
This "wee red stocking" is just the right size to tuck amongst the ribbon on a special package or again, ...hang as a sweet ornament!.......
Another little stocking in "winter white" & all "dressed-up" with a small taupe velvet bow!.....
And finally, my quilted "Christmas Hearts"!!!...These are all made from actual quilts...they are generous in size.....approx. 8"x10", & beautifully made! Every heart is a slightly different shape & each can be decorated in colors of your choice!......These are simply the epitome of "Christmas Charm"!......
Thank you for taking the time to see some of my first "Christmas pieces"! I am very proud of them all!.... & would love to have you visit my on-line shop to see the treasures that will be added weekly!.....If I can help you at all, or answer any questions, please just let me know!.....Here's to a wonderful "Autumn" & upcoming "Holiday Season"!.........Heidi (heididevlin.etsy.com)

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Remembering..."Back To School"......

Can you simply imagine this exquisite structure, being your school!!???...Bright red & beautiful!!!...The "schoolhouse of my dreams"!....

"Good Morning" & "Happy Monday" to you all!.....Even though Labor Day is a couple weeks away,... & very warm weather is still with us,......it is once again, "Back-To-School" time! I have always loved this time of year!....Even as a child, I loved it!!....In our family, it meant my mother was busy sewing schooldresses, often made from dark little prints with crisp white collars.....It meant the difficult decision of a new "lunch box", which again was something to be carefully concidered?....Should it be "traditional plaid" or maybe sport a "T.V. or cartoon character"??....Along with "Back To School" was the prospect of a new pair of shoes, something sturdy for the walk to school, usually ending with the purchase of a pair of "saddle shoes (always the tan/brown!) the classic favorite of my mother?....And although equipped with the knowledge of how this "shoe shopping was to go...it NEVER hindered me from "begging terribly" for the "maryjanes" that I simply coveted, but rarely got......And last, but not least were "new school supplies"!...."PeeChee notebooks, lined tablets, freshly sharpened #2 pencils & of course a brand-new Pink Pearl eraser!....Could life get much better in my world!!!

So pristine & lovely.....

The only part of this "Back To School" scenario that was not up to my liking, was the fact that I went to school in a normal suburban, early 60's designed "school"...not a "little, old-fashioned red schoolhouse"........I LOVED the idea of walking to one of these simple structures,... entering, sitting down to an old desk & "learning" in one room!.....I'm sure it stemmed primarily from the "Little House" or "Caddie Woodlawn or any other "pioneer-ish" book I could lay my hands on! Oh! how I wanted that life!.....And then was only reinforced with shows like "Lassie" & even years later with the "Waltons"!.......Well, as much as I truly did love the onset of Autumn & the "back to school" experience...the "dream" of the "one room, little red schoolhouse" always & forever escaped me!.....So to this day, they are still something I am very drawn to & find truly charming!....In tribute to this wonderful, nostalgic time of year....I have found & am posting a few of the prettiest "red schoolhouses"!......I hope they bring back the sweetest "schoolday" memories for you too!......They certainly do for me........Your friend...Heidi XO Hidden back & nestled in the trees, this little schoolhouse is just waiting for those eagar children to arrive!.....
A "little red schoolhouse" on a chilly Autumn day......

NOTE: Just a little reminder, There is only one more week left to sign up for my "Very Vintage Halloween Swap"!!!.....and I would just LOVE to have you join me!!! Read all about it, by going to the button on the right side of my page!...& feel free to borrow the button for your own blog as well! Thank you to all the ladies who have already signed up to participate!.....And for any of you that enjoy a charmingly "spooky" Halloween!...it may be just the ticket to welcome in this wonderful season!....

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My Last "PINK SATURDAY" for a While......

Good Morning To You All!......Another "Pink Saturday " is here!....Our hostess, for these lovely Saturday's is Beverly at "How Sweet The Sound". She had the idea of posting something "pink" on Saturdays, since at the end of a blogging week, it is always a bit difficult to think of yet another topic to write about!...A wonderful idea at that!.....I have participated in every single "PS", since day #1...& have thoroughly enjoyed thinking up "pink posts"!!!!....However, I believe the day has come, that regretfully, I am having to take an extended break from "Pink Saturday". My "pink" ideas have temporarily "run dry"?....I have made some incredible friends during this adventure & will continue to visit & enjoy many of your "PS" posts tomorrow & in the future.....And in turn, I sincerely invite you to stop by my blog as well!....Wishing, Beverly....& all of you the happiest of "Pink Saturdays"......Love, Heidi XO

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