THE MUSICAL TATTER (Formerly known as "Blog Thoughts By Linda")

My trip to Pigeon Forge

2012-01-23T11:54:00.000-05:00

Last week, we made a trip to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and had a great time! This time of year, it is kind of quiet there and the motel and cabin rates are fantastic. So we stayed at the Inn at Christmas Place and it was just beautiful. I will try to get some pictures of it on here but I can't figure out how to put them on from my iPad yet. Anyway, I wanted to give you the website of the lady who taught me how to tat about 15 years ago. She has a wonderful shop in a log cabin that has every kind of needlework. Below you will find her website. I bought some new tatting booke there. She has a great selection and I think you can order supplies from her website, too.

If you are ever up that way, please stop in to see her and tell her I sent you!

Http://www.stitcheri.com

Next!

2011-12-30T08:50:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday. Mine has been great! My son came home for Christmas so our family was together again. As usual, I was busy crafting all through the month of December. Lately, I have been obsessed with making earrings. I love to wear them and have many, many pairs. I have included a couple of examples of them. I guess I made about more than 50 different pairs. They are going on Etsy as soon as I get pictures and will only be $4.00 each.
My new challenge will be crazy quilting. I got a new magazine online and made a new friend and the background of my earring pictures shows the magazine. It is called "Crazy Quilt Gatherings" and I love it!! I would like to make some phone cases and book covers. That will be a challenge! If I can ever get off my new IPad, I plan to get busy. Have a great weekend and 2012!

For Chocolate Lovers!

2011-12-17T22:06:00.001-05:00

I found this candy recipe on Pinterest and I want to make it!

Chocolate Bark: the easiest candy ever | King Arthur Flour – Baking Banter

Busy Time of Year

2011-12-04T21:13:00.001-05:00

Things are definitely speeding up for me at this time of year. We had our "Holiday Ball" at Elmcroft Assisted Living where I work. I have started a choir at Elmcroft called "Here's To Life Choir". It is made up of around 15 residents and they sang four songs at our Holiday Ball. They look so festive, don't they? Everyone did such a good job that our Resident Director said we were going to take them "on the road." That will definitely be fun for everyone!

I have also been making many more ornaments and angels. This ornament is my latest. I got an order from a new little shop close to my home and they wanted these colors used. I think they came out really cute. I delivered the order today and the shop owners were very pleased. I need to start decorating my home for Christmas but I am waiting for my grandson to get back home before I do. He always helps me. I hope everyone is enjoying the Season!

My Youtube Videos

2011-11-23T07:07:00.004-05:00

I have enjoyed putting new videos on Youtube for everyone to view. I have some of my singing and some of my crafts. My latest one is a compilation of my tatting projects over the past few years I always try to come up with a new way to use my tatting. That is the challenge for me. I can't handle the big tatting projects like doilies and tablecloths. I wish I could, but I mostly want instant gratification when it comes to creating.

My video has the wonderful arrangement of "Amazing Grace - My Chains Are Gone". I am trying to become better in my computer skills in my old age. If you would like to go to my Youtube Channel, you can reach it by doing the following:

1. Bring up Youtube in the search engine.
2. Type in "Linda Price" in the Youtube search.
3. Look for the pretty butterfly video under Linda Price-that's me!
4. Click on that video (it is my singing rendition of "Yesterday") and you can view it. Look above the video and you will see all 11 of my videos. Click that on and they will all come up.

I hope you enjoy the video and maybe you can get some ideas from it to use in your creations!

It's Been Awhile

2011-11-20T19:10:00.001-05:00

Wow! Time goes by so fast. Much has happened since I last posted. Mostly, I have been sick and had a bad reaction to some medication the doctor had me taking. But, I am better now. They put me on steroids and so I started feeling very strong and my knees didn't hurt anymore.
I still had to work and sing (as best I could), though. I had two concerts I had to perform at and made it through them without coughing too much. I sold my first "black" tatted bracelet on Etsy and I am surprised at that. Someone suggested I make one in black thread. I love getting ideas and trying them--some of them turn out pretty good! I have included a picture of it here. I am now getting ready for a craft show the first of December at Elmcroft. These are always fun for everyone.
This week, we will be celebrating one of my most favorite holidays--Thanksgiving. I am so thankful for many things God has done for me and my family. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

My Grandson

2011-10-17T08:12:00.000-04:00

I just had to post this picture of my grandson. My daughter is a wonderful photographer and this picture is just one example of her fantastic work. You may wonder how she took this picture. Well, I really can't tell you, but I can say that it is not photoshopped. There is a place in downtown Chattanooga that she has found where she can take it. I don't know whether the place was created for this purpose, but she found it all the same.

This picture represents my grandson's life. It is how he is every day--full of life. I have loved every stage of his life so far and he and I are very close. I just thought you would enjoy this picture. You don't see many of these every day!

Sophie

2011-10-15T12:31:00.003-04:00

I have a kitty, Sophie, who won't let me tat--she thinks all that dangly thread is her's, so she bats at it and even grabs it with her mouth while I'm trying to tat. That really messes up my tatting rhythm. And, if I'm not tatting, she is always poking her head in my bag of thread and dragging out whatever she can get. I have to put all my thread into baggies so it won't be all over the floor. She forces me to be neat--I guess that's a good thing. Oh, yes, she is all white and I have lots of sticky lint removers. I even bought a vacuum for cat hair.

When I am tatting, she pretends to be my friend and gets up in my lap, but all she wants is my tatting thread.

Oh, yes, and Sophie does not like to be chased. My grandson, Blythe, likes to chase her around the house to try to pet her, but she will have nothing to do with it. He often sneaks up and when he walks slowly, he can get a pet in every now and then.

My Husband Terry

2011-10-09T22:07:00.000-04:00

On Friday, my husband Terry turned 65 years old! This is hardly possible since I am not far behind him. He is now a member of the Medicare Club and hopefully, that will be good. He is still working full time for a local grocery store and has told them that he is sticking around until he is 70! That just blows their minds. He is my best friend and has been for a long time. I hope we have many more years together. Happy Birthday, Terry--and many more! I love you!

Busy Week!

2011-09-24T08:46:00.000-04:00

I have been very busy making all my "stuff" this week and singing. On Thursday evening, I sang a jazz concert at a Family Night for a local assisted living home. There were about 100 people there. The lights were low and they all sat around small tables eating olives, cheese and nuts and drinking wine and sparkling juice while I sang. It was fun! I sang for about an hour and it was totally jazz music from the 30's and 40's. I am doing this again this coming Monday at another place. I am going to try to develop this since there are not very many people doing it. Can you imagine how many songs the younger singers would have to learn to catch up to me? I think I have an edge on this for sure. I think I have found my calling!

I am also showing some pictures of my new ornaments. I have enjoyed making these and have a lot more to make. So, that is what I will be doing all day today after I post this. You can find them on my Etsy site at http://www.lllangel.etsy.com and they are very reasonable in price--really no more than most other store-bought ornaments. And they are handmade. I think they would look cute when added to the bow of a gift wrapped package, too. So, until next time. . . . .

My Latest Adventures

2011-09-16T08:04:00.004-04:00

Lately, I have been very busy singing. I have found a new music love in Jazz. I love all the old 1930's and 1940's music and have found that my voice adapts well to these old songs. I guess you would say that I like "crooning." I'll bet you thought only guys did that! I have some singing engagements where I only sing jazz. It is very conducive to dancing while I'm singing. And it is very relaxing for me to sing. Also, jazz is making a comeback these days. Younger people are discovering it and the ballroom dancing adapts very well it it. So, I am having fun with it these days. Maybe I will post a song or two in the coming weeks that I am doing.

Also, I have decided to start selling my creations to unique shops and boutiques again. I took a long break from it and was jolted back to reality when I received a great order from the Old Mill Pottery in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. So, if you are in Pigeon Forge and you stop by the Old Mill complex, you might just see some of these tatted pins on display in their pottery store. Also, you might see lots of my angels pictured here. I made 160 of them--wow, that took awhile! I hope to do well so I can just keep sending them re-orders. Wouldn't that be great?? Here's hoping!

My Friend's Beautiful Creation

2011-09-10T22:56:00.000-04:00

The top picture is the back of the garment. The bottom picture is the front.

Well, my new friend in Canada finally received her tatted pieces from me. It took quite a while to get there. But, I am so glad they arrived. I am posting the first pictures of her beautiful creations where the tatting is being added. This is a chemise she made and added the tatted accent to the back of it. Isn't it beautiful? I can't wait to see more.

My Daughter

2011-09-10T22:23:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to post a picture of my beautiful daughter. She is an RN in the ER of a local children's hospital and has a son of her own (my precious grandson). My grandson took this picture of his mom. He is quite the little photographer! She has taught him well--she is a great photographer. I just wanted to share her with you.

New Friend in Canada

2011-08-27T20:14:00.004-04:00

This last month, I have been talking via email to a talented lady in Canada who creates beautiful dresses and clothes. They look very victorian and rich. So, she asked me to make her up some tatting so she could work in into her designs. I have added a picture of what I sent her--she requested certain colors that would go with her designs. I can't wait to see how she uses them--this may be the start of something very nice!

This Hits Close To Home

2011-08-24T15:56:00.005-04:00

I thought I would post what is happening to my sister who is a former employee of Kohl's (unfortunately, a place I love to shop). Even though they have good bargains, they need to clean up their act when it comes to discrimination. I am so glad the EEOC decided to help my sister. It is time for these big companies (along with their heartless, aggressive young managers) to stop discriminating against people with disabilities!!

EEOC Sues Kohl's Department Stores For Disability Discrimination

Employee Forced to Quit After Store Denies a Regular Schedule to Accommodate Her Diabetes

PORTLAND, Maine – Kohl’s Department Stores, a nationwide, Wisconsin-based retailer, violated federal law when it refused to accommodate a diabetic employee’s request for a regular schedule and forced her to quit her job at a Westbrook, Maine, Kohl’s store, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a lawsuit it filed today.

The EEOC’s lawsuit, Civil Action No.11-00320, filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Maine, alleges that Kohl’s failed to accommodate Pamela Manning, who began to suffer significant complications to her diabetes after Kohl’s switched her from her long-held set schedule to an irregular schedule. The EEOC’s suit states that her oral requests for a return to a set schedule were repeatedly ignored. After Manning brought in a note from her doctor that explained the need for her to work a predictable day shift to help prevent serious complications from her diabetes, Kohl’s again refused to change her schedule. When Manning told Kohl’s that the scheduled hours could kill her, its store manager laughed and told her that she would not accommodate her, the EEOC said. Manning then had no choice but to resign her employment to protect her health. Kohl’s refused to accommodate Manning even though it had numerous employees on set schedules and had accommodated employees’ scheduling requests for such reasons as day care, transportation and other personal needs.

Disability discrimination, including the failure to reasonably accommodate an employee’s disability, violates the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). The EEOC filed suit after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its conciliation process. The agency seeks monetary relief for Manning, the adoption of strong policies and procedures to remedy and prevent disability discrimination by Kohl’s, training on discrimination for its managers and employees, and more.

“Employers are obligated to reasonably accommodate employees with disabilities, and this obligation becomes even more serious when a worker has a potentially life-threatening illness,” said Markus L. Penzel, trial attorney in the EEOC’s Boston Area Office, which has jurisdiction over Maine.

Elizabeth Grossman, regional attorney for the EEOC’s New York District, added, “Keeping Ms. Manning on a regular, set schedule would have posed no undue hardship on this company. When one considers the possible dire consequences of ignoring her needs, refusing her request out of hand was unconscionable.”

The EEOC enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. Further information about the agency is available on the agency's web site at www.eeoc.gov.

The Craft Show Results!

2011-08-06T07:58:00.000-04:00

Well, it was a pretty good craft show for July. Everyone made a little money and we made some new friends, too. I made a great contact and we are possibly going to do some future shows together. It's always easier if you have someone to partner with you at a craft show. We can then each get some breaks during the day and have someone to talk to. I think it's fun! I sold mostly my rings and little decorated hair pins. My little books did not sell--but I think that's more for the Holidays. I also sold a few angels, which I do at every craft show. They never go out of "style". We are planning another show for November and hope to make it for 2 or 3 days plus add more vendors. Well, back to creating again!

Craft Show Tomorrow!

2011-07-27T08:19:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow is our craft show and I only have a few more hours to get ready for it. I love craft shows--as long as they are inside! I have had my share of outside craft show disasters. Just last month, we had a show outside and it was in the 90's! Give me air conditioning and a constant air flow, and I'm happy.

We are donating a portion of our sales tomorrow to the Alzheimer's Association. I am looking forward to a good show. Several of our residents are very talented and have made items to put in the craft show. One of our residents makes wonderful dolls from head to toe. And even the faces and hair are hand-stitched. I will let you know how things go after it is over. Here is an example of some of our items we will have in the show.

My Alzheimer's Memory Bracelet

2011-07-23T17:51:00.003-04:00

The "Memory Walk for Alzheimer's" is coming up in September and I have made a bracelet commemorating this very important event. My my own mom passed away three years ago from this dreaded disease. I also work at an assisted living home with memory care residents. Every day, I see this disease and the effect it has on people from the ages of 50 to 95. It is so sad to see a dear resident in distress over thoughts that aren't even reality.

Just last week, I was helping a resident who had been a very successful ad executive in New York City for many years. She wanted to know how to turn on her computer because she wanted to write down some of her thoughts. I turned her computer on and a page came up with a page full of typed letters that did not spell any words. And she didn't even know that these weren't words. She thought she was typing her thoughts. I wanted to cry for her.

Whatever sales I receive from this bracelet, I will donate a portion of the sales to the Alzheimer's Organization. I am raising money at this time. If you would like to order a bracelet, you can go to my Etsy located at the top left column of my blog.

We need to find a cure for Alzheimer's.

The bracelet is made of silver metal beads and glass crystals with the Alzheimer's light purple ribbon charm attached. The stretch cord bracelet is 6-1/2".

What I've Been Up To Lately

2011-07-18T16:04:00.002-04:00

Lately, I have been spending my spare time making "holiday" items. I'm making my tatted Christmas trees and Christmas wreaths. I have also finished a "free" website and maybe more people can find me here on this vast web.

   My new website address is:

I am thinking of getting my own domain name to make it easier to find.

I have also started selling on a new website called "Three Sisters Marketplace". They have been so nice and I have already sold two items on there.

Three Sisters Marketplace website is:

  They aren't as huge as Etsy and only sell handmade items (not vintage and used items like Etsy does).

This all takes many hours of work--hours I should be using to "make" my products.

I would love it if you would visit me and leave me a message in my Guestbook. Hope to see you soon! Thanks!

My Music - "Temporary Home"

2011-07-12T23:12:00.003-04:00

Well, since my blog is about a musical tatter, I thought I'd put a video on with one of my favorite "newer" songs - "Temporary Home" by Carrie Underwood. I hope you enjoy it!

My New Ring Collection

2011-07-10T21:41:00.003-04:00

I have always loved jewelry and started making it a few years ago. I have made earrings, necklaces and bracelets, but never rings. A few months ago, I saw a ring that I liked and searched for many, many hours to find the pieces to make these rings. Along with my tatting, I started designing these rings, because it seemed they fit right into my tatting and lacy look. Of course, I have to add my tatting somehow, so I made a medallion that can be slipped over the ring. It is stiff, so it stays without sliding around. I call it my Tatted Ring Jacket. If someone likes the "big" ring look, it sure adds to the size. The medallion can also be added to other rings to change the look.

So, now I am selling my rings locally and on my Etsy. They are doing very well--they are not too big so they get in the way of working with your hands, and not so small that they are not noticed. I like the look--sort of contemporary but still old-world looking. So, I'm having fun with this new line of rings.

MY STAR FISH STORY - AND I'M STICKING TO IT!

2011-07-08T09:04:00.004-04:00

It's Friday and another week has flown by. This summer is passing quickly and school starts in about another month! My grandson is going into the first grade and is so excited about starting school. I wonder how long that will last? It's fun to see him so excited, though.

We went on a quick trip to Florida a couple of weeks ago and my grandson and I spent most of the time collecting shells. We also went to a couple of shell stores where I found some of my favorite star fish and bought about $6.00 of them. I couldn't wait to get back home to use them in my creations. Well, my daughter left them outside the night we returned home because they didn't smell too good--I guess they were "fresh." The next morning, my star fish were eaten up! I guess someone was hungry and the star fish tasted good. I was so disappointed that I lost my star fish, but was also happy that someone had the opportunity to feast on a very expensive meal--you might say it was gourmet food for them. Those star fish must have tasted really good!

So, now I'm looking for more star fish . . . . . .

Highlights of My Week So Far

2011-07-01T09:04:00.000-04:00

Well, I have had a very full week. In addition to teaching all my students and working at Elmcroft, I added a few more activities to my busy schedule. On Wednesday, I sang at a local assisted living home that I sing at every month. I sang about 16 songs for about an hour and loved doing it. Then, yesterday, my boss (who plays the drums), a chef from our kitchen (who plays the sax) and I (who plays the keyboards) did a concert at our local Senior Center for over 100 people. We play jazz mostly, but have a couple of very upbeat songs headed by our sax player. He is just a young guy and is so good at improv. I wish you could hear him.

Last week, I made a quick trip to Navarre, Florida and hung out there with my daughter and sweet grandson. We mostly collected shells the whole time we were there. I came home and created a little journal with some of the shells that I collected and posted it on Etsy. So fun!!

Well, I am really tired out now and hope for a nice weekend. On Sunday, our Praise Team is singing a Patriotic Package. Can't wait!

My Name Change

2011-06-19T12:31:00.000-04:00

I hope this does not confuse all my friends, but I decided to change my blog name. I think my new name tells a little more about me and I can also talk about tatting plus music. I don't think my other name told you much about me--we all have thoughts, right? :) I had some creative juices flowing yesterday and made this little muslin gift bag. I trimmed it in vintage laces and made my own flower and tatted center. I needed something new to add to my Etsy, so we'll see how everyone likes it.

My next project is to work on an angel for Alzheimer's. I want to be able to contribute to the Alzheimer's Association and I can give part of the sale of the angel to them. So, that's another idea that has to be developed. I am always trying to create and learn.

Don't Know What To Do Next

2011-06-17T09:55:00.005-04:00

You know, there are so many options and directions to go in every day, aren't they? Sometimes, I feel very scatterbrained because I don't know what to do next. I can't believe that when I was young, I was bored sometimes. What is "bored"? I don't even know that word anymore. Here I am working on this blog, but I should be getting ready for work, working on my crafts for my upcoming craft show, cleaning my house (now that is at the bottom of my "to do" list). It is really hard for me to concentrate on one thing at a time. Do you all feel this way, too? I sure hope so, because I need company.

This past week the assisted living home where I work was featured on a local lifestyle show every day of the week, and I had to be on there two of the days. I was really stressed out about that. One day, I played the keyboards for our "Elmcroft Jazz Trio"and the other day I talked about "Crafts for Seniors." They both went well, but still it is live TV. No pre-recorded segments.

If you want to see the segments, just copy and paste the following link, go to "Shows" and then to "3 Plus You", and then search the videos on the left hand side for "Elmcroft Jazz Trio" and "Crafts For Seniors." I especially like the craft one because two of our residents that I really love joined me on there. They are so special.

http://www.wrcbtv.com

Name That Tune!!

2011-05-20T08:39:00.001-04:00

Well, we got through our Name That Tune competition and it was a blast!! We had 25 contestants and they all did great. About 80 people attended the event which was filled with laughter and cheering. One of our very own residents won the competition and our Elmcroft Jazz Trio also played a couple of numbers for entertainment. The trio is made up of Ben (a cook) on the sax, Jamie (our Resident Director) on the drums and me on the keyboards. We had a TV personality as our emcee and that was the best decision we ever could have made. He heard our trio and asked if we could come on his show the next Monday. It is called "3 Plus You" and is on at 11 a.m. in the morning. So, the following Monday morning, we appeared on the show. They all loved it and, asked us to come back the week of June 6th for a different segment every day! They want to feature Elmcroft Assisted Living every day with one segment being our music, another day of crafts, another day of food we serve, another day of "How To Choose An Assisted Living Home" and then the final one on Altzheimer's information!! What better advertising could we get?? And it is FREE advertising. We are all so excited about this. And our Resident Director is flying high! But, I'm not too excited about it, right?

I want to include a picture with this blog, so here is a set of crocheted cloths that I am featuring on Etsy. I alternate between tatting and crocheting these days. I need to get back to tatting, and I will.

My Clutch Trimmed in Lace and Tatting

2011-05-07T13:48:00.001-04:00

I have been creating again. I can't just tat--I like to think up things to add my tatting to. So, here is my envelope clutch and I trimmed in vintage lace and my tatting. Since I have been very busy at work, I have kind of put my tatting on the back burner. But I am sure it will not stay there long.

At my assisted living job this week, we are having a "Name That Tune" competition between us and the other assisted living homes in the area. Remember the "la la girl" back in the '60's (Kathy Lee Gifford)? Well, I'm going to be the "la la" girl and we are doing tunes from the '30's to the '60's. It should be lots of fun, I am sure. We have been "practicing" and listening to all the old songs and, hopefully, all the residents will remember what they heard. I'll let you know how it all comes out. It will happen this next Thursday and we expect between 60 - 80 contestants. This will be our first year and we plan to continue it in the coming years. We have had "Trivia Challenge" for the last 10 years, so we thought it was time to change it up a little. Can't wait!!

And The Winner Is . . . .

2011-04-25T13:35:00.001-04:00

Well, it's the day I promised I would have a WINNER (I feel like Charlie Sheen) of my little angel. My husband did the honors and pulled out one of the 11 names written on pieces of paper. And the WINNER is . . . . Nancy in Dallas!!

Congratulations, Nancy--and I see that you are a fellow tatter, also! Thanks to all of you who participated and now I have made a few more friends with whom I can share my thoughts. I hope you all have a good week and I'll see what else I can give away in the near future.

Also, I just had to add the latest that I am working on. I made a crocheted cell phone holder for myself a couple of years ago and when I took my phone in to trade for a new 4G android phone, the sales person commented on how clean and scratch free my old phone was. I didn't even have one of those clear covers on it. I know it was because I kept it in my little crocheted bag all that time. So, I decided to make more up and put them on my Etsy, since they worked so well for me. I am in a craft show in about a month and thought I'd make up some for the show, also. I like to crochet as well as tat, so I go back and forth to keep things interesting.

My New Giveaway!

2011-04-11T08:06:00.001-04:00

I have decided to list a new GIVEAWAY! I have been making these 7" angels for the last 12 years and, even after that long, I still enjoy making them! I think it's the meaning of them that keeps me going. Even though they are just a handmade item, their meaning gives comfort to someone in need and they give me a real purpose for making them. God uses His angels to protect us every day.

Just post a comment and you will be entered into the giveaway. I will keep it open until Monday, April 25th. That week, I will randomly choose the winner and notify you. I'm sorry, but I will have to limit this to the United States only. So, please sign up!!

lllangel Flickr Photostream

2011-04-09T18:41:00.002-04:00

lllangel photostream on Flickr.

So I found this link on Flickr and thought I'd try it. I have been exploring today and looking at all sorts of things. I am trying to find some music blogs since that is my other love. I haven't found any yet, but I did find this. We'll see how this comes out on the other end.

Yey, Youtube!

2011-03-27T13:08:00.000-04:00

Well, I learned something new from Youtube. You know, many say that Youtube is not a "good thing" sometimes, but I think it's great! Of course, I don't go searching for the obscene, crazy, ugly or bad things on Youtube. I only search for what interests me--like all kinds of crafts. I am so thankful for all the friends I have made through watching Youtube videos. I learned how to make the flowers above from a Youtube video. And they weren't hard at all. In fact, just about anything I want to learn, I can find a craft video on Youtube. If only I had hours and hours to spend there. Recently, I made a friend through my Youtube video who wants to learn how to tat. She already is very creative and has made several of her own "how-to" videos. So, if you want to learn something new, just search Youtube for the "how-to", and you will probably find it there. Happy hunting!

Our Card Making Success!!

2011-03-21T19:44:00.003-04:00

I think I told you all that I am an Activity Director at an assisted living home. We have had some fun lately making greeting cards. We have a group of ladies who are members of the "Gracious Ladies Club" and they decided they wanted to open a general store a couple of days a week for the residents. One thing we decided to do was to make greeting cards and sell them for $1.00 each so both the residents and the staff could get some nice cards when they need them. I decided to set up our class near the front door so people who came through could see what we were doing. I told the ladies that they could sell the cards as we made them, if they wanted to. And sell they did! The first class, we sold $50 worth of cards--which means we made 50+ cards and just about sold out. We had another class the next week in the same spot and sold $30 more! Plus, we have sold $20 worth to the Marketing Department. (We are having a Fashion Show in April and she wanted 20 cards with dresses on them--too cute!) So, that makes $80 we have made on our cards so far! Those ladies are so excited about this--but I'm even more excited because I am making more money for my budget!! Yey! I have posted the cards we are making. They are just simple--I stamp them and they color them with colored pencils, and then I add glitter glue. We are also using my dress stamp that I designed and are making all kinds of dresses out of it. I sign them on the back - "Handmade by Ladies of Elmcroft". Everybody loves them! Hope you do, too! Oh, I have another class on Tuesday. Wonder how much we will sell?? If you are interested in any of them, just let me know.

A Video on My Angelic Tatted Removable Notebook Cover

2011-03-12T13:22:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I made another video on my latest tatted notebook cover. I noticed that there are probably thousands of these kinds of videos on YouTube and they are interesting to view. I'm home all day today by myself and not getting any housework done. But I sure am having fun staying on this computer and working on my tatting projects. Sound familiar?? I hope you are having as much fun today as I am!

My First Product Video!

2011-03-12T07:53:00.003-05:00

This is my first video, describing one of my handmade notebooks. I will definitely not say the word "little" so much in my next video (even though I like that word a lot :) My Etsy website is http://www.lllangel.etsy.com

Please let me know if you think this is a good idea to show my creations other than just showing pictures. I really need your feedback. Thanks!

My Angelic Notebook Cover and Other Things

2011-03-11T09:18:00.003-05:00

Well, it's been a good week for me so far. I gained two new voice students this week. They both were taking lessons from competitors of mine (two different studios) and I was shocked at what my new students told me. Both competitors started these students out by putting on a CD and placing a microphone in their hands. There was no learning how to breathe when singing, exercising the voice, or any other kind of techniques on vocal training. Essentially, these studios were teaching how to sing Karaoke, and that's it! It is amazing to me that they are just taking their money and not giving any training in return. Learning to sing is like learning a new sport. One has to learn how to sing, the techniques and exercise the voice, just like exercising the body. Okay, I have said enough about this.

On a lighter note, I have added another notebook to my Etsy site. This time, I added a handcrafted angel to the cover. We all need to be reminded that there are angels watching over us every day, protecting us. I enjoy making these little journals. I hope you like this one.

www.lllangel.etsy.com

My New Checkbook and my Videos on Left Handed Tatting

2011-02-28T16:41:00.000-05:00

Well, I've made a decision to make some YouTube videos on tatting. I researched the videos and couldn't find anything on tatting for a left hander. I am left handed and have taught over 400 people to tat through the local university's continuing education program. I have figured out how to do the video with my computer and so I'm going to try it. The videos I have seen people do are not very clear and they are tatting too fast to follow. So, I'm going to slow it way down. We'll see how it goes, but I think it would be fun.

I have finished my first check book and added it to my Etsy. I thought it turned out very well and it is easy to get the tatted cover on and off the checkbook. It is very frilly, so it's going to take someone in love with lace to like it. Let me know what you think about the check book and also my idea of videos for left handed tatters, okay?

My Birthday

2011-02-26T19:48:00.000-05:00

Well, it's my birthday today. Needless to say, birthdays are not as important to me as they use to be. I wish they would just go away and not come back. But today was a very nice day. The weather was beautiful, my husband was off work (not just for my birthday--just off), and I just had an enjoyable day. He took me out to eat at one of our nice restaurants that features a "free" birthday dinner, so it didn't cost us too much. And he also gave me the funniest card I have ever received--I think so, anyway. So, I made a video of it so I could share it with all of you. Let me know if you think it's as funny as I do. I have played it over and over and over . . . . . .

Another Week Has Flown By!

2011-02-20T14:18:00.001-05:00

I can't believe how fast the time goes. And I never get everything done that I want to accomplish. However, I did accomplish making another little journal cover. I have posted the pictures for you to see it. This time, I made a little heart out of clay, watercolor painted it and then added glitter. It seems that everything looks better with a little glitter these days. I am also into flower making now and really enjoy making them. I'm not very good at growing flowers, but I can sure sew flowers :)

I had an interesting Wednesday this week. I sang at another assisted living home and had to sing for one hour. That meant singing about 20 songs! I'm glad my voice held up until the end, but just barely. I sang lots of jazz standards and threw in some Carole King and Linda Ronstadt, too. It was fun and I could see that the residents were enjoying hearing all those old songs. They were even mouthing the words as I sang. It really did my heart good to see that. It seems that even though our memory fades, the words to favorite songs never fade. They are always remembered. Isn't that strange that we should remember words to music but can't remember what we did yesterday? I am convinced that hearing music is good for the soul, no matter what age we are.

My Week - Some Good and Some Bad

2011-02-13T17:23:00.003-05:00

This last week hasn't been the greatest. I came down with a stomach virus and I still don't think I'm over it quite yet. I do feel better and fortunately no one in my family has caught it from me. I stayed either in the bathroom (of course) or the bedroom the whole time and didn't even come out in the living area.

I did start feeling better and even designed a new little notebook cover. I hope you like it. I really enjoy making them. I might even start making some business card holders and maybe eyeglass holders. That's what I have been thinking about, anyway.

I found this little shop called "Hidden Treasures" where I am selling some of my items. They are located down by Coolidge Park and only sell local handcrafted items. If my local friends are looking for a nice shop to show their out-of-town guests, this is a really unique one. Below are some pictures of my little area. I am also making rings that are selling very well--and I have a picture of them, also.

I am going to bring some lace to put over the black table to give it a softer look. If you would like to visit Hidden Treasures, it is located across from where you pay for parking down by the park. It is next to a cute cupcake shop, if you're hungry. I hope you will visit it!

I Love Hearts!

2011-02-12T09:33:00.002-05:00

In honor of Monday, Valentine's Day, I thought I'd show some of my "heart" creations. I love hearts!

My Day

2011-02-07T16:40:00.000-05:00

My husband and I are off today--well, I'm sort of "off." I have to teach piano in about 45 minutes. I have three students this evening, so that's not really what I call "work." One lady I teach is 60 years old--a little younger than me. I love teaching her because she appreciates learning so much. She is about through with Book 1 and ready to go into Book 2 and she is so excited.

This morning, we had to go to the Social Security office. Both my husband and I retired "early" at 62 and really were not ready for the hassle of only earning so much per year. Needless to say, we both went over the limit and things have gotten complicated. But I think, from now on, we might be okay. Who knows with the government? My husband actually over-estimated his income, so they owe us money. Wonder when we will see that?

Anyway, we went out to Cracker Barrel afterwards for breakfast, and that was good. I am trying to get ahead with my Etsy items so that I don't have to rush around and make something if I happen to sell it. I don't know why, but I've been selling on there lately. There are many dry periods--especially when I don't pay attention to it. To be successful on Etsy, one needs to post a new item every few days or at least once a week. It only costs 20 cents for each post, so it's just the hassle of keeping up with posting.

This afternoon, we watched the movie "The Sixth Sense" for the first time, and it was a little different, but good. And "Poof", my day is just about gone. I really wasted some time today, but it was fun. Oh yes, I did finish up my laundry and we did go to Sears this morning and look at all the flat screen TV's that are on sale for great prices--$139 for a 19"! I want the $1,600 TV that is 52" and has the internet, of course.

Well, I'd better get going before I'm late for teaching--and now it's raining outside. It was sunny this morning. Hope you are all having good days.

Creating and Enjoying my Grandson

2011-02-04T06:38:00.005-05:00

I'm still making my little notebook covers. I have started making flowers to add to my pieces and they are fun to make. All this cold and snow has made me want to just sit and tat and sew.

But I did have to go to my grandson's school last week to pick him up.(The picture I have included shows him taking nature pictures with his camera.) I have to tell you a story about that. When I walked up to his room, there were pictures all over the wall that were drawn by his class. They were self portraits and every one was so cute. My grandson started drawing as soon as he could hold a marker so his was very detailed, right down to the blue irises and pupils in his big eyes and his lips and teeth. There was a question that they answered under their pictures. It was, "When you are 100 years old, what will you be doing?" All the answers were so cute! I laughed and laughed. Some said, "I'll be driving my car." Several said, "I will be sitting and watching TV." Of course, my grandson's was unique. There wasn't another comment like his. He said, "I will be very old and have lots of wrinkles." I guess he spends too much time with his grandma :).

Victorian Charm

2011-01-31T10:41:00.002-05:00

New Tatted Lace Wrist Cuff

I found out some exciting news this past week! I teach piano and one student that I teach is putting his lessons to good use. Three years ago, he started piano with me and had never played before. I knew right away that he had a special talent and he went through his lesson books very fast. Three years later (in fact, last week) he tried out for his Jazz Band in high school. He was picked to play the keyboard for the Jazz Band! And he has only been playing for three years! I feel like I have done my job as a teacher. So many students don't keep up with their playing through the years, and I talk to them as adults and they always say they wished they had continued with their lessons. But, it's never too late. I also have a 62 year-old student who is doing very well and wants to teach her grandchildren.

Just thought I'd add my latest creation. One of my readers suggested that I start making lace cuffs along with my notebook covers. So, here is a new one. I tried making satin flowers yesterday and found I really like making them, also. I have already sold one cuff to my reader and I'm on to my next one that is featured on my Etsy (http://www.lllangel.etsy.com).

Old Songs and Old Lace

2011-01-30T08:18:00.001-05:00

You know, the older I get, the more I love the past. I guess that is a normal progression. We want to remember the past because that was our life. Friday at work, I sang about 20 songs from the past--mostly from the 30's to the 60's. I find that people really enjoy these old songs. I'm sure they bring back special memories. I sang songs like "Fly Me To The Moon", "Stormy Weather", "Misty", "Someone To Watch Over Me" and songs from Carole King, like "Home Again" and "Where You Lead." I'm in love with jazz right now. And I was in O'Charley's last week, and they had jazz playing in the background. I asked the young waitress if she liked the music and she said, "Yes, it was very soothing." Of course, she had never heard these songs before they started playing at her restaurant. I think jazz is coming back. My musician friend sings in supper clubs, etc., and all she is singing is jazz right now. That's what people want. And, even though I don't really watch "Glee", I have heard they are featuring songs from the past like "Maybe This Time." Are you loving all the old songs?

I have always loved lace. I guess that's why I started tatting--so I could make lace. Now, I am noticing lace on more and more blogs and on more and more Etsy sites. I need to make more time to visit antique shops so I can look for old handmade lace. The past is our heritage. Isn't it interesting how these new inventions (like the internet) can help keep the past alive. I think visiting blogs has replaced my love for magazines. I use to buy so many magazines, but why do I need to when I have so many thoughts and ideas from others like you? So, now I think I'll go back to visit more of your blogs for a little while . . . .

The French Cupboard

2011-01-28T07:58:00.010-05:00

I have found this wonderful blog, and every few weeks, she asks us to post pictures for her various "parties." This week, she has posted her "Valentines Party" and asked for pictures of hearts and Valentine-themed creations. What a lovely theme! The name of her blog is The French Cupboard and her blog is www.thefrenchcupboard.blogspot.com

You can see such beautiful pictures and other blogs when you visit her blog. Above, I have added my heart that I posted to her blog. If you get a chance, please visit her blog. You will have a great time there.

My Tatted Wrist Cuff

2011-01-24T16:29:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm on to something new already. In addition to my notebook covers, I am now making tatted lace wrist cuffs. I had someone contact me and ask me if I would make one similar to my notebook cover. So, here's my first one. I'm going to make more styles and some with flowers. I'm also going to try a necklace. I think these would be nice for a bridal piece, also.

It's a wonderful day here in Tennessee! The temperature has reached 50 degrees and it feels great. My husband and I have the day off and we were out all morning doing errands. No snow to deal with, no coldness--I love it! I will enjoy it while I can.

Still on My Little Journals

2011-01-19T08:34:00.000-05:00

I'm still designing more of my little journals. They are really fun to make. And someone even suggested that I make a wristband with the same design. I think I will try this, also. I am open to any and all suggestions you may have. It is a little bright spot in my life right now. At Elmcroft, the assisted living home where I work, this month has been rough. We have some residents in the hospital right now and I hope they can return home soon. The weather here is getting a little warmer after our week of winter snow. We weren't able to get out of our subdivision until the middle of last week. And the snow hung around for more than a week instead of just a couple of days. It reminded me of living up north all those years. I am looking forward to Spring in about a month and a half. In the meantime, I am praying that everyone will stay well or get well soon. I hope you are all taking care of yourselves and washing your hands frequently and using hand sanitizer often. That really helps!

My Second Tatted Notebook Cover - New On My Etsy Site!

2011-01-10T16:05:00.010-05:00

A picture of the front of the book. The cover is totally removable so you can put another spiral notebook inside.

A picture of the book opened and showing both the front and back.

A picture of the back of the book.

A picture of the side of the book showing the removable spiral notebook.

Well, it has been snowing all day so this gave me a chance to work on my second tatted notebook. This time, I made it with pink and off-white. I am having fun with this! Both of my tatted book covers can be found on my Etsy site - www.lllangel.etsy.com

Tatted Journal Cover

2011-01-10T10:47:00.005-05:00

Okay, I was thinking about something new I could make for this year that I haven't made before. It's always fun to come up with "new" thoughts in creating. So, I was trying to come up with something that was practical as well as pretty. I saw some small journal covers on Flickr that I just loved and decided to try one and adding my tatting to it. You know, that's what I like to do--add my tatting to existing items and altering them. I really enjoyed making it and am on to my second one at the moment. The covers are totally removable from the spiral notebook, so another new notebook can be added when the original is filled up. What's more practical than that? I think it would look pretty on a bed stand or carried in a purse for all to see. It's size is only 3 x 5, so it can easily be put in a purse. Since I am "snowed in" today, I think I will work on more of these little book covers. I am putting them on my Etsy site once they are completed. Hope you like them!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T08:42:00.007-05:00

Well, today is the first day of a new year! I'm sure we all have had our share of good times and hard times in 2010. But, this is a new start and I'm going to start out on a positive note and keep going from there. With the Lord's guidance, 2011 will be a very good year!

My daughter took a photo of my husband Terry and me, and I really like our expressions. I thought I'd share it with you.

An Answered Prayer

2010-12-19T18:20:00.011-05:00

I was talking with my six-year-old grandson yesterday and we were talking about God and how He gives us good things. My grandson had his Christmas program at his school yesterday and a party afterwards where he got many gifts. (He is the little shepherd on the left at the end.)

Well, as we were talking, he asked, "How does God give us good things?" I said, "We pray to Him and ask Him." Then my grandson said, "Well, I prayed to Him and He didn't answer my prayer." I asked him, "What did you pray for?" He said he lost a toy and prayed that he would find it again. He said that God never let him find it. I asked him what the toy was. He said it was a slinky and he really wanted to find it.

I then said, "Well, what did you get for one of your gifts today?" His eyes got big with a surprised look on his face, and he said, "I got a slinky!" I said, "Well, do you think your prayer was answered?" He said, "Yes, and it was even my favorite color blue!" I told him that sometimes God doesn't answer our prayers the way we think they should be answered. Sometimes the answer comes in another way. That was a great lesson for my grandson and I don't think he will ever forget it. It showed me, too, that God can use lessons like this for all of us. It did my heart good to see my grandson respond the way he did. And just maybe we all can learn something from this, too.

O Holy Night!

2010-12-18T09:43:00.002-05:00

Everyone loves this song, including me. And I finally have recorded it! I just thought I'd put on some Christmas songs since I have been singing them quite a bit lately. I put another song (Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas) below this recording, if you want to listen to that one, too. Hope you like them.

I just made a karaoke recording: Mariah Carey - Oh holy night check it out at http://www.karaokeplay.com/recordings/oh-holy-night-4273155.html

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas!

2010-12-18T09:41:00.001-05:00

This is my Christmas wish for everyone one my friends this year!

I just made a karaoke recording: Kenny G - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas check it out at http://www.karaokeplay.com/recordings/have-yourself-a-merry-little-4273044.html

Another Video - "Grownup Christmas List

2010-12-04T22:05:00.005-05:00

We had our recital today for Music Instruction Studio. It went really well and we had a packed house. One of my students sang this song (which I have sung before) and I love it so much I just had to record it when I got home. She did a beautiful job singing it and it was her first time singing in front of a big crowd. I was so proud of her. I wish I had a video of her singing it--I would put it on here instead of me.

The words to this song are so meaningful and thought-provoking. Hope you enjoy it.

Another Video -

2010-12-04T22:05:00.000-05:00

New Video

2010-11-28T23:54:00.006-05:00

My husband and I have been having fun recording videos lately. We had a quiet Thanksgiving since my daughter had to work and my grandson was in New York with his father. So, we just played on the computer most of the day with music, and then went out to eat at Cracker Barrel for our Thanksgiving dinner. While there, I saw about 10 friends who were also eating out.

I sang this song in high school many, many years ago and I can't believe that I'm singing it again today. It is one of the most beautiful songs ever written and I recently sang it at a friend's memorial service. The name of the song is "Moon River."

Dust In The Wind

2010-11-26T10:03:00.003-05:00

I was thinking about the book of Ecclesiastes and this song came to mind. I don't know if the composer was a Christian, but he was right on with his lyrics. Today, I am thankful that we have more than just this life on earth to live. We have a wonderful heaven waiting for us in the future. But we can't get there unless we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. Below, I have recorded this song so you can listen to it. Just click it on and you will go right to it. Even though this was a popular song in the 80's, I wonder just how many people thought about what it said. Please listen closely to the lyrics.

I just made a karaoke recording: Kansas - Dust In The Wind check it out at http://www.karaokeplay.com/recordings/dust-in-the-wind-3973296.html

My Angel's New Look

2010-11-24T22:19:00.005-05:00

I have been making these angels for several years now--I'd say about 12 or more. I like to make changes in them from time to time and I found this beautiful pleated lace. It looked like it would make a pretty skirt and change the look slightly. I don't think I'll ever get tired of making these angels. At one time, I had my whole family involved in making them. But, now I'm the only one who makes them. There will always be angel lovers and I love what they represent. God made His angels to guide and protect us here on earth. And I know for a fact that angels have protected members of my family through their lifetime.

Our Holiday Bazaar was a success!!

2010-11-18T21:50:00.002-05:00

Yes, we had a great day at Elmcroft today selling our arts and crafts! Dee Dee sold about 20 dolls, plus lap quilts and snowmen. And I sold my angels, Christmas pins, cards, bags and earrings. By 2 PM, it looked pretty bare around the tables. In fact, we closed up at 4 PM and just then, a lady came in who lived 40 miles away and said she rushed there after she got off work. She had seen the Channel 3 segment yesterday and wanted to purchase some of Dee Dee's dolls. So I took her up to Dee Dee's apartment, and she bought 4 more dolls! I am very happy about everything--it was well worth it!

Dee Dee's Doll Creations

2010-11-17T06:55:00.002-05:00

For those of you who saw the television show "Three Plus You" that interviewed Dee Dee about her handmade dolls, please scroll down a couple of blog posts to see pictures of her creations. Our "Holiday Bazaar" is on Thursday at Elmcroft Assisted Living on Gunbarrel Road from 10 AM to 4 PM. Dee Dee will be selling her handmade dolls and snowmen if you would like to purchase them for the Holidays.

Still Crafting Away . . . .

2010-11-06T12:20:00.004-04:00

I'm still trying to come up with new items for my upcoming craft shows. My latest is this little muslin bag. These little bags can be used for anything and I found a really good source on Etsy where I can order any quantity I want. I not only use Etsy for selling my "stuff", but I also order many supplies from that website. I can find items that I can't find locally and their prices are almost like wholesale. And I don't have to order 100 of more of anything. This time, I just ordered 25 and it was really reasonable. It's fun to explore Etsy. I have ordered everything from tatting thread, yarn, to unique beads and stones. I never make any money on Etsy, because I spend it on my supplies. But I sure am having fun. If you haven't checked Etsy out, it's fun to explore. I know that many of the other tatters sell on Etsy like I do and Etsy makes it easy. Well, now back to my tatting . . . . . have a nice weekend!!

Christmas is Coming!

2010-10-27T14:21:00.008-04:00

At this time of year, our days are getting busier and filled with "extra" things to do, right? I plan to be in a couple of craft shows and the items I have pictured are the things I am creating these days. I love making them! They are stiffened so they look very crisp. If you would like to place an order, you can go to my website at www.lllangel.etsy.com - they sell for $3.95, and include the sweet organza bag! (I have a link to my Etsy in my left-hand side column)

Above is my pink Christmas pin/ornament for those who love pink!

I include a little organza bag with my combination pin/ornament for gift-giving.

The above combination pin/ornament is for those who like wearing wreath pins.

Below is my traditional Christmas tree pin/ornament with red crystals.

Television Interview!!

2010-10-23T08:48:00.015-04:00

On Friday, Dee Dee and I were interviewed by the sweet and pretty Julie Edwards of "3 Plus You" on News Channel 3 in Chattanooga. This will probably air in one of their shows next week at 11 a.m.

Dee Dee has Parkinson's, but she doesn't let it stop her from creating and crafting! She is one strong and smart lady.

If you would like to see some of Dee Dee's unique dolls, please scroll down a couple of blogs to look at all the pictures and read the story. This has been so exciting for Dee Dee and me!

We are having an "Elmcroft Holiday Bazaar" on Thursday, November 18th from 10 AM to 4 PM. So, if you are looking for some inexpensive and unique Christmas gifts (including Dee Dee's Dolls), please come by and see us!

My New GIRLFRIEND ART

2010-10-09T16:33:00.006-04:00

I have taken a little detour and started painting again. I first started using oils, but they take so long to dry and you know me--I don't have time to watch paint dry. Anyway, I noticed that lots of female art has become popular in the last few years so I thought I'd take a chance and try my hand at it. I love to draw female faces and now am experimenting with different hairstyles and trying to make my ladies look different from each other--and that is hard. I tried to put a whimsical look into the paintings so they are not so serious and will make people smile. I hope I accomplished that. Anyway, I'm having fun doing it. I posted them on Etsy to see what happens.

Dee Dee's Clowns

2010-09-19T21:23:00.006-04:00

This past week, my friend Dee Dee Patrick was interviewed by our local newspaper. She has had three clowns purchased by Warner Brothers Studio in California for an upcoming Showtime series called "Shameless." One of the characters in the show collects clowns and Warner Brothers found one of her clowns on my Etsy website (www.lllangel.etsy.com) where I am selling them for her. Below are the three clowns they have purchased, along with the last picture of a clown she has just recently completed. I decided to tell her story and show her pictures on my blog so that you could enjoy them, too! If you have any questions or want more information about her creations, please send me a message on my blog and I will answer any of your questions. We are planning a craft show in November at Elmcroft Assisted Living (which is located on Gunbarrel Road in Chattanooga). If you would like more information on this upcoming show, just comment and I will get back with you.This is the first clown Dee Dee sold to Warner Brothers.
As you can see, every one of Dee Dee's clowns are unique and different. She never duplicates any of her creations. This is another clown she sold to Warner Brothers.
This red clown is a larger one than her other clowns. Here is the third clown Dee Dee sold to Warner Brothers. Aren't they so cute!
Dee Dee has just finished this clown and it is for sale on my Etsy site (www.lllangel.etsy.com)

More of Dee Dee's Creations

2010-09-17T11:49:00.002-04:00

These are more of DeeDee's creations. She makes everything from dolls to snowmen to cute pumpkin pins. Just let me know if you are interested in purchasing any of these items, and I will get back with you on it.

Cute Dolls and Other Items

2010-09-17T11:46:00.001-04:00

Dee Dee has sold over 20 of her dolls in the past month! We had a craft show at Elmcroft Assisted Living where she lives and, from that, more people have found out about what a variety of dolls she makes!

"Baby Sleeping" Pillow

2010-09-17T09:47:00.003-04:00

Yet another item where I added my tatting--this time, to a little "Baby Sleeping" pillow. This is so fun. I just love to find and make things to "dress up" with tatting. However, it's just a few weeks until the weather starts to cool and it will be time to bring out the knitting and crocheting again. I love all the variety of things I can use as my "therapy."

My Box for "Faux Black Vintage Friday"

2010-09-10T20:42:00.007-04:00

I am posting this for "Faux Black Vintage Friday" over at Count Your Blessings Blog. Here is my tatted vintage box that I thought turned out pretty well. I don't know how to post a link, so I just posted another blog. Hope this works.

New Little Purse/Bag

2010-09-08T08:23:00.008-04:00

I've come up with yet another twist to my tatting. This time, it's a little purse. I've noticed that these little trimmed bags are selling on Etsy. Everyone is looking for something unique and different. The pink heart is made of felt and I've added some sparkle with glitter around it and a shiny stone in the middle of it. I've already sold two of them locally and this is enough to keep me going with it. Hope you like it.

Book Cover Challenge--My Angel Board Book

2010-08-30T15:19:00.010-04:00

Okay, I'm back in my altered book mode, if anyone wonders why I'm posting all these non-tatted pictures (actually, there is some tatting on some of these pages). Since all these pictures were in Picturetrail, I didn't know how to take one picture and copy it into my blog. So I did a slideshow of the album of my altered books. Please look for the angel altered board book. It is towards the end of this slideshow. I took a little board book that had a picture of a little girl on the front cover and made an angel out of it. The book opens in the middle like she is spreading her wings. The next picture is the opened book. This is for the "Altered Book Cover Challenge" in one of my responses to my altered book.

My Altered Book of Love--Shared for the Paperie Party!

2010-08-27T20:44:00.003-04:00

I wanted to share my "Altered Book of Love" with the "Paperie Party" group, so here it is. I have so many other items I could share--I love creating with paper!

My Friend's Clown Doll

2010-08-27T20:28:00.003-04:00

Well, do I have a story to tell! We have a new resident (Dee Dee) at Elmcroft who is very talented in doll making. I talked about her in a previous post and posted some pictures of her dolls. Well, last week I posted one of her clown dolls on my Etsy site to help her sell some of her dolls.

On Wednesday, I received an Etsy message from Warner Brothers in Burbank, CA asking to purchase her clown doll. They want to use it in an upcoming Showtime series called "Shameless" starring William H. Macy. I wasn't sure this was legitimate so I googled "Shameless" and, sure enough, it is true! So, we started conversing back and forth and in the end, they bought her doll to use in the upcoming series! One of their characters collects clowns and they will be featured in the series. And they want to buy more from her, so now she is busy making as many clown dolls as she can! Also, yesterday, we had a vendor show at Elmcroft featuring the arts and crafts of our residents, and she sold over $200 of her dolls in 5 hours! I can tell you that she is now really pumped up over her dolls, and I'm so glad that I have been a part of all this. It sure does my heart good!

I've Been Busy!

2010-08-14T13:32:00.003-04:00

Well, it's finally August and maybe we'll see some cooler days in another month. Not lately, though. For the last 3 months, we have been averaging every day in the high 90's and 100's, and it has been pretty miserable. But I am getting to see a little glimpse of fall coming (it's only 94 today!). I am getting into gear to make "stuff" and here are pictures of my first order. I have no idea what my customer is using my little bags for--maybe some nice smelling sachets. They took me awhile, but I enjoy making them so the process was fun. We are also having a vendor show at Elmcroft where I work at the end of the month, so I'm preparing for that as well. I am also traveling to Maine in September, and am really excited about that! I will see my family up there and also visit some favorite places. So, things are looking up around here and my spirits are rising as well.

My New Friend!

2010-08-07T18:44:00.005-04:00

As I've told you in the past, I work part time as an Activities Director for a wonderful assisted living home. Two weeks ago, Deedee Parsons moved in. She is a very talented crafter and I am so excited she is with us. She's just like me--she likes lots of arts and crafts and makes many things. She has Parkinson's so at times, it is hard for her to move. But when she is feeling good, she makes wonderful little dolls with various outfits on. No two are alike. I told her that I would help her sell some of them since she only has a small studio apartment and her little dolls are already taking over the place.

She also makes snowmen--but that's for another post. I have posted some pictures of her precious little dolls (they are about 13" tall). They are completely hand and machine stitched by her. All of the hair is completely sewn into the head and not glued.

Hope you enjoy them--and if you are interested in any of them, just let me know. The two that I have posted on here are also for sale on Etsy. I will be sharing more of them with you in the next few days.

My Slideshow of Little Lace Lady Creations

2010-07-23T08:05:00.003-04:00

I found this great slideshow presentation on someone else's blog and made my own. You can, too! I didn't realize I would be advertising for someone, but, oh well, I don't mind advertising for "Adopt a Pet". Hope you enjoy it.

On The Mend!

2010-07-03T16:46:00.003-04:00

Well, I went back to work last week and it's good to be busy again! You know, it seems that when we are busy, we dream of not having anything to do and just taking it easy. But I found out that I can't stand to sit around the house and do nothing. It was depressing and I had nothing to talk about at the end of the day. CNN and all the other news programs were getting on my nerves, and I can't watch movies one after another. I tried to clean house one-handed, but did like half a job at it. The one thing I did enjoy, though, was reading all the wonderful blogs on the internet. I have added several more favorites to my list during the past few weeks.

This last Tuesday at work, I played the piano for the residents for one hour, and 20 songs later, my wrist did not feel bad at all and all my fingers were working! I was so happy. I still have problems moving my wrist back and forth and sideways, but I am taking some physical therapy that hopefully will take care of that. Anyway, I am in a better place now and each day, I see improvement. I am back tatting again and working on some more boxes. I still have to get ready for craft shows during the holidays. Thanks for all your prayers and remembering me and all your kind comments.

My Card

2010-06-06T13:43:00.007-04:00

I just had to share my five-year-old grandson's get well card to me. He's such a bright spot in my life. I pretty much get to see him whenever I want. What more could I ask for? That's me on the left and he is on the right. He asked me what I liked and I said, "Flowers and butterflies and cupcakes" (cupcake on the right with a cherry on top--I was eating some cherries.) So he drew some of them, too. Wouldn't that just make your day?

I'm Stylin'

2010-05-31T08:14:00.004-04:00

I wanted to share with you my beautiful cast that my artistic daughter designed. Every time I look at it, I smile. And everywhere I go, it definitely gets attention! Being a crafter, I had all my supplies on hand for this creation. I think my daughter could have a second income if there were some way to advertise this. If you have any advertising suggestions, please let me know. This took her about 1-1/2 hours and the supplies were rhinestones and glitter glue. I think Im going to frame this somehow when it comes off. It won't be too old and gross since I will be having surgery within the next week. What an original piece of art!

Where There's A Will . . . .

2010-05-29T09:11:00.003-04:00

Well, I have accomplished something! Here is a picture of my first one-handed tatted flower. I did cheat a little--I used my teeth to hold the thread tight. Oh, yes, you can see my fashionable cast, too. My artistic daughter is in the process of designing my one-of-a-kind cast. She is not done yet. When she is, I will definitely post a picture.

Actually, there will be two casts. I found out Thursday that I will have surgery this next week to add a metal plate in my wrist. I smashed all the bones much like Humpty Dumpty--so my doctor says. I told him that I was supposed to go on vacation in a week. He then said, "Do you want to be able to use your arm again, or do you want to go on vacation?" I guess you know my response.

Trying To Get Inspired

2010-05-27T08:23:00.005-04:00

Well, today I get my arm put in a cast. It's been a very frustrating week. All your kind comments have boosted my spirit, and I thank you for that. It has almost been a week since I broke it and because it's a workmen's comp claim, everything has been dragged out. I can't tell you how many phone calls I have made just to try to get into see a doctor! I just keep saying, "I just want to go back to work." I would think that's what they want me to do, too.

Meanwhile, I'm trying to get my inspiration going by reading everyone's wonderful blogs. Now, I need to DO something. These are a couple of paintings I have done in the past. I know they're kind of different. I just loved painting all the shadows in the garden post sconce painting. The roses are done in watercolor, and I don't like that medium so much. So, I'll probably paint something in oils. Anyway, hopefully, I'll get started this weekend. Hope you all have a wonderful holiday and be safe!

I Need Therapy!

2010-05-25T11:05:00.002-04:00

Bad news! There will be no tatting--or crafts of any kind--for me for awhile. I broke my wrist in three places last week while at work! I am so depressed. I've got to come up with some way to tat. That's my therapy! Now, I have no therapy. One positive note, though--I broke my right wrist and I am lefthanded. So, there is something good in all this.

P.S. This is another one of my daughter's pictures. They always cheer me up.

The Giveaway I Won!

2010-05-25T10:43:00.006-04:00

Yes, I not only gave something away, but I also won a wonderful Giveaway! I took a picture of all three--yes, three--items here and they are so beautiful. The blog I signed up on is www.countryfolkheart.blogspot.com

and she will give something away every month. So, please check her out! Everything is blue, which is my favorite color. The cone shaped beauty is a pin cushion. There is also a hatpin and a little oval box. And the box is lined inside with music, which I love, as you know. So, be sure to visit her blog--I know you will love it!

GIVEAWAY WINNER!

2010-05-24T14:08:00.003-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS, TYPSTATTING--YOU ARE THE WINNER OF MY FIRST GIVEAWAY!!

Thank you all for signing up for my first giveaway. I am going to try to have a Giveaway every month, so please check back with me. I have made some new friends with this first one and I thank you for joining my first one!

My First Giveaway!!

2010-05-12T11:21:00.013-04:00

It's a great day for me! I made my reservations to go visit my dad and family in Maine today. I have been checking the airline ticket prices for the past two weeks and, finally, they had a decent price today. I had almost talked myself into taking a shuttle to Atlanta and flying out of there, but that is a lot more trouble than just getting on a plane here in Chattanooga. So, everything has worked out so far. And, to celebrate, I would like to offer my first giveaway!! The item is a little heart I have made out of felt and I sewed little light pink rosebuds on it and added the word "Love" on the bottom, along with a pretty silk bow. It can be used as a pincushion or just hung on a knob. So, this is yours if I draw your name. And you are welcome to become one of my "followers" if you would like. I will give everyone until May 23rd to send me a comment and then I will draw someone's name from the list.

I'm Into Pink

2010-05-07T19:59:00.003-04:00

Okay, well, I'm hooked on pink and pastels right now. I think they look so soft and feminine. One of my friends has ordered two square boxes from me and she is going to buy a set of pearls for both her granddaughters and place them in the boxes. I thought that was pretty unique. The box that I have pictured here reminds me of a cupcake. Yum!

I had a great day at Elmcroft. This was my short day--worked only 4 hours. I like those kinds of days. It was really tough, though. I went in at 11:00 a.m., got 7 of the residents together to go out to lunch, hopped on our bus and went to Beef O'Brady's for lunch. Then, when we got back, we had a birthday party for everyone who had a birthday in May. We celebrate with a beautifully decorated cake from our local grocery store, complete with cream cheese frosting. And we top everything off by drinking Crystal Light punch. Makes sense to me! You can definitely see why I love my job. It's not always that much fun--just about 95% of it. I would recommend this job to anyone who likes to party plan and who has a talent or two. Wish I would or could have done this many, many years ago. Until next time . . . . . .

Tuesday's Activities

2010-05-05T08:32:00.005-04:00

Well, now, for another day off--sort of. I do have to teach piano to 2 students this afternoon, but the rest of the day is mine. I need to tackle this house cleaning one of these days. We had wood floors put in about 6 weeks ago, and I just love them! They are so easy to keep clean and no more cleaning carpets every time there is a spill. Eventually, we'll get the whole house done--but it is kind of expensive.

Yesterday, I had another good day at Elmcroft. I love the seniors I work with and try to keep them very busy all day. I don't get everyone to come to the activities, but I have a good core group who likes to keep busy. We are working on our virtual cruise to Hawaii in July and making the decorations for it. We can't go there, but we can imitate the things one would do on a cruise, and that's fun! Martha Stewart is coming in handy because I'm using lots of her decorating ideas for this week of cruise doings. We made some of her puffy big tissue paper flowers yesterday in all kinds of bright colors. I need to get a picture to show you all. In the meantime, I'm trying to add to my stockpile of craft show products. Here's another picture of what I am doing. It's a little tatted pouch that I fill with the lavender potpourri that I have in the little bag. They are fun to make.

2010-05-03T08:11:00.003-04:00

I have had a full musical week! I taught piano and voice all week, and sang at Elmcroft for the residents. I love to sing and play for them. They so appreciate it and just don't get to hear music unless I either make music or bring in musicians for them. They don't play the radio or have many CD's. We play music over the intercom for them during the day for atmosphere, but there's nothing like live music. On Friday, we had a "Wine Down Friday" gathering where I played the keyboards while people from outside came to mingle and visit. That went on for two hours. Then, on Saturday, we had our Spring Recital with 37 students involved. That was a big production but went very well. I had 5 students involved in that. Two of them were adults who had never performed in public, so it was a special and scary time for them. One played the piano and the other sang. They did just great! And I'm so glad they took the big step. Now, the next time, it will be easier Then, on Sunday, I had to sing a solo in two services at church. Our "band" learned the song ahead of time, so they played for me instead of my using a backing track. I enjoyed that so much more! They were wonderful to sing with.

However, I did manage to work a little on my crafts and made another pincushion, or "pinkeep" which is the new trendy word for "pincushion." So, now on to another week. God is Good!

Victorian Tatted Puncushion

2010-04-28T10:10:00.007-04:00

Well, here is another of my creations to show my tatting. I thought this would be practical since all sewers and quilters need something to stick their pins into. And of course, I made it with tatted trim. I just can't stay with one thing lately. I have so many new ideas I think about that I just have to try them. But my inspiration does not come on it's own. I look at all your blogs and get inspired so much that I just have to come up with something old yet new.

I have to give credit to one of my favorite bloggers for this idea. Thank you so much!

Lovely Weather!

2010-04-24T15:04:00.008-04:00

It seems like the warm weather has rushed in all at once and everything is green again. So beautiful! I took the residents for a bus ride yesterday and we went to the Chickamauga Dam which is part of the Tennessee River. There are lots of boats there and it's very peaceful. It was a nice ride.

The pictures I have posted is of the sun setting on the Tennesse River. It's so beautiful in the evenings here now that the daylight is with us longer. My daughter took these lovely pictures on two separate evenings, and I just love the peaceful way the water looks in the second one. The sky is another beauty. This location is only about 4 miles from my house! Wish it was in my back yard. Only God could create something so lovely! Hope you enjoy it, too.

Yesterday

2010-04-17T07:36:00.003-04:00

Well, you probably know by now that one of my first loves is music. So I've got another song for you. I was in a group last year and we practiced in a studio once a week. Our group was called "Choo Choo Chicks" and we were a trio. We would do a collection of songs from the '40's to the 80's era and did such songs as "Mr. Sandman", "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy", just to name a couple. Our leader has many talented friends who would help us from time to time. One evening, Maurice came by to record some keyboards and he and I ended up recording "Yesterday", the beautiful Beatles song. I have had this recording and decided to put it on Youtube.

My daughter is a wonderful photographer, so I decided to use her pictures and combine them with my music. It turned out so nice! Even though the song is a sad song, it does talk about our yesterdays, and lots of our yesterdays are worthy of remembering, right? Just like these photographs of flowers and butterflies are from yesterday, their images are still something to cherish for the future. Hope you enjoy this.

A Little History

2010-04-14T08:16:00.007-04:00

Long ago, really about 15 years ago, I started a craft business while I was working full time for a construction company. During the next 2 years while I was still working, my craft business grew into a wholesale business. At that time I was in my early 40's and making a living as an office manager for this construction company. My children were just about grown but were still living at home. Those were busy but exciting years for us. The business started with me making angels and just kept growing.

I was working non-stop all day and all night and couldn't keep up. So I had to make a decision. I decided to resign from my job and go with my passion. The wholesale business led to opening up a retail business two years later at the Chattanooga Choo Choo and we named it "Little Lace Lady". For the next ten years, I ran this business and literally met people from all over the world. You would not believe how many people know the song, "Pardon me boy, is that the Chattanooga Choo Choo" and they wanted to see the original. I met mostly people from England and Europe--even countries that I have never heard of! I have even met some celebrities who stayed at the Choo Choo. Maybe even one of you has visited the Choo Choo in the past.

Two years ago, we decided to sell the business and it is still there to this day. I am semi-retired now, and am traveling in a totally different direction, but I still make my angels. The angel pictured has gone through several "costume changes" and the latest change I have made is adding my tatting to the skirt. ( I am selling it on my Etsy if you are interested.)

The one suggestion that really made my angels start selling well was a suggestion by a sales rep. who was selling my angels. She said that if I would write little simple poems and add them to my little angel, it would expand my line and people would buy them even more. And she was exactly right! I wrote poems for mothers, sisters, daughters, friends, grandmothers, granddaughters--anything I could think of. The angel pictured has my "Mother" poem on it.

Here is the poem:

I thank the Lord above

For giving me a mother

who always is so kind and good

And patient like no other.

There will always be people who believe in angels, and I certainly am one of them!

My Song - "Temporary Home"

2010-04-11T08:32:00.007-04:00

I recorded a new song on Youtube--one that is very dear to my heart. We had a "Celebration of Life" memorial service up in the Smokies with our family last Easter weekend for my husband's mom, and it was very moving. His mom would have loved this song

P.S. Right at the end of the video, my kitty, Sophie, gave a little meow--I hope I had her approval. It was so cute--see if you can hear it!

Lavender Sachet & Etsy

2010-03-28T16:06:00.007-04:00

So, I was home by myself on Saturday and didn't even go anywhere! That's because every time I leave the house, I spend money. Is that true for you? I figured if I just stayed home, there are a million things that can keep me busy, but what I chose to do primarily was surfing all my great blogs (and some new ones) and doing some tatting.

A couple of weeks ago, I ordered some lavender off Etsy, along with some muslin bags, and decided to add some tatting to the little muslin bag. I love being on Etsy--I make a little money that I can spend on other people's Etsy sites and I'm happy. I've found some real treasures on Etsy. Maybe sometime, I'll take pictures of what I have ordered on Etsy. I've ordered everything from glitter to jewelry findings to paper crafts and my latest purchase, the lavender. Oh yes, I've even ordered loose tea which is very good. So, now I have given some free advertising to Etsy--I hope they appreciate that. I added 3 pictures here because I like seeing what my projects look on different backgrounds. The lavender almost gives the bag a light green tint, and I like that.

So, I added my little tatted muslin sachet to my Etsy and we'll see if it sells. If it doesn't, I still enjoyed the process of making it and can always give it away to a friend or family. I added 3 pictures here because I like seeing what my projects look on different backgrounds. The lavender almost gives the bag a light green tint, and I like that. Oh yes, I also ordered that pretty dyed pink silk ribbon off Etsy. I have found beautiful silk ribbons of every color!

Hope you have a good week creating!

More Hearts

2010-03-26T11:38:00.006-04:00

I have spent the whole morning on the computer because I am getting my wood flooring installed throughout the house and really can't do much else. That's okay because I could really spend all my waking hours on the computer looking at lovely blogs. I don't know about you, but I really enjoy looking at other creative blogs. I should be working on my tatting and other things that I do, but just can't get off here. I did add two more hearts to my Etsy site, so I did really accomplish something today. The weather is finally warming up here so I can be outside with my grandson more. We like to be outside--until about June, when it starts getting hot.

I'm getting more students for piano and voice these days, which is good. Our studio is moving to another more convenient and visible location starting next week, so that should help get even more students. I have one new student who is 70 years old and says that learning to play the piano is on her "bucket list." She looks and acts much younger--I'd say around 55-60. She still works full time, too! Wow, I am really impressed with her. And she is enjoying piano so much--I enjoy it right along with her. I have 4 adults taking piano right now. It's never too late to learn something new and piano-playing is such an enjoyable hobby. You should try it!

I'm into Hearts!

2010-03-15T15:05:00.002-04:00

Well, now I'm making little hearts with tatting added. I just liked the look of this combination and low and behold, I sold one on Etsy one day after I listed it! So, I take it that I should start making more.

I'm so happy that my daffodils are finally starting to bloom in my yard. That means that Spring is right around the corner. Yey!! I am ready for warmer weather, and I know that you all are, too (unless you live where it's warm all the time). And now that the time has changed, it will be lighter later in the evening. I like that, too.

2010-02-22T09:23:00.002-05:00

Well, yesterday was such a beautiful day (in the 60's) that I thought I would change my background to match! I hope we are just not being teased with this weather and then get some snow and cold weather again. This makes me want to get into some new crafts and create something different. Maybe I'll start making some greeting cards again and add my tatting to them.

I have decided to start teaching tatting again at my local Hobby Lobby. They make it so easy to get a class going. They don't charge anything to use their classroom and I can pick a day to demonstrate out in their lobby. I plan to set up a table with many of my tatted samples laid out for people to see, and simply sit in a chair and tat. I have always been able to get some students that way. I really like to teach--it's fun seeing someone's excitement when they learn something new. Anyway, that's my plan and I'll let you know how it all comes out. I figured if I tell you all that I'm going to do it, I will actually do it. Here's hoping I get some students . . . .

Renewing our Vows on Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T13:46:00.003-05:00

Today at our church, all the couples who were married since 1985 renewed their vows, and that also included me and my husband, Terry. We have been married for 41 years and I couldn't tell you where all the time has gone! Before we know it, it will be 50 years and that's 1/2 a century! I feel like this is a great accomplishment for us and after 41 years, we still love each other. What a great ceremony to have on this Valentine's Day!

All Things "Love"

2010-02-08T15:59:00.003-05:00

Soon, another Valentine's Day will be here and we think about "all things love." At our church, on Valentine's Day (which is Sunday), we are having a ceremony for married couples to renew their vows. Anyone married before 1985 has been invited to participate, and since my husband and I were married in 1968, we definitely qualify. I am curious to see just how many couples will be in the group--it will be a very special time. In keeping with Valentine's Day, here is a picture of the one and only lace heart I have made. I plan to make more since I have tons of lace and a sewing machine. That's all I need to make this heart.

Embellished With Tatting

2010-01-31T11:36:00.005-05:00

Well, here is yet another item I found to add my tatting to - a pretty box! I love going out and looking for items like this--keeps my mind going with new ideas and possibilities. I tell you, I know that I'm ADD. Yesterday, I had the TV going on mute, watching a cooking show, sitting on my couch tatting with my earplugs in my ears, listening to my favorite music on www.pandora.com. How's that for multi-tasking?? Not just 2 things at once--3 things at once. Are any of you like this?? I'm working on trying 4 things at once, but haven't accomplished this yet. I'll let you know when I do!