Joy Comes in the Morning

Yesterday was a BEAR of a day. The hours and the dishes seemed to go on forever. By the end I was just exhausted.  I didn't even have enough energy to bake anything.  And I had been looking forward to it all day.  Not only was I tired, I was irritable and frustrated.  Though instead of pushing it, I listened to my body and went to bed early.

Now, today was a whole other story.  My daughter Alex had an appointment to see the eye doctor. She and I headed out early enough to swing by my mother's house for just a few minutes.  My mother and I talked, while Alex played in my mom's yard. Then we were off to see the doctor.

We were the doctor's first appointment of the day. Alex did an amazing job. She even managed to give her doctor a wonderful laugh when she referred to the  tiny "birthday cake with candles" picture as "a stack of pancakes with steam coming out." Alex even chose some really cute frames that left me with some bold ideas about my next pair of eyeglasses.

All done with Alex's appointment, we did a little grocery shopping at Kroger, which happens to be in the same building as the optometrist's office.  As we were walking down the aisle heading toward the back of Kroger, I saw my grandmother Mary.  Well, not exactly,  since she passed away in 2000, the same year (but before) my Alex was born. So she didn't have a chance to meet any of my children on this side of creation.

But there was an elderly woman who, from behind, looked just like my Granny.  She was leaning over into the meat bin, propping herself with her left arm just like I remember my grandmother doing. My heart fluttered and smiled all at once.  I tell you I was stopped in stride. I said nothing. And Alex just looked at me, trying I'm sure to figure out why we were neither moving nor picking up anything from the aisle.  The only words I can use to explain that moment are PURE JOY.

In the 14 years since I've seen Grandma Mary, I've never seen anyone else who actually looked so much like her that it gave me pause. Another aisle, a minute later, a minute too soon and this moment may not have existed at all. Then to top it all off, in the car after we had loaded the groceries, my daughter started to talk about just how much Nana (my mom) looks like her Mom (my grandma) and how she thinks they could be twins. I was just amazed. In the store, I hadn't even mentioned anything to Alex and she just casually starts a conversation about my grandmother.

The LORD does speak to us and issues out little doses of joy like much-needed medicine. Sometimes a lot. Sometimes a little. Always the proper amount. Enough to encourage us in the moment. HIS ways are mysterious, varied and undeniable.  HE loves us and reaches out, giving us hope in the most uncertain times.  HE orders our steps. And I pray to always be spiritually open for whatever the LORD wants to say. If I had to speak to all the ways I KNOW that the LORD our Father in heaven is real, I could go on and on indefinitely.  And today would definitely make the list.

We The Tiny House People (Documentary): Small Homes, Tiny Flats & Wee Sh...

I'm so happy I was able to carve out some time to watch this documentary. It challenges what many of us were taught about the American Dream, what it means to have the "good life" and to truly live well.  I enjoyed the film. I'm definitely inspired by the people who shared their experiences. The essence of this film speaks to who I am and what I find most important in my life.

Mortgage-free, tiny home on a housekeeper's salary

Thinking outside of the box & not accepting all of society's standards for how you should live your life, is so refreshing and inspiring!

Blue & White Statement Textile Necklace

* Part of my new collection, this one-of-a-kind textile necklace is fun, lively, expressive, imperfect, eclectic, unconventional, genuine and simple, yet brave.

* Fabric, long strips

* no clasp, goes on over head

* fibers wrapped around focal coil

* measures 28 " from top to bottom, 17" from top down to first coil

* band at nape of neck measures less than 1/2" wide

* Due to the length of necklace, may be shipped folded or coiled

* To ensure this item will last, spot cleaning is recommended. Please do not shower, swim or bathe while wearing.  Due to handcrafting, no two items are ever alike.  Please expect variation in color, stitching and patterns.

Fabric, vintage buttons and colors speak to me, excite me, and shout of creative possibilities.  Even the smallest bits and pieces of exquisite fabrics are cherished and nestled away, where they wait to become an integral part of just the right project.

Hours of love and attention to detail went into this wearable art.  This necklace is accented with fibers, stitching, beads, buttons, charms, and two of my handmade fabric flowers, which I use whenever I can.  Hand-stitching as well as machine-stitching were used to put this piece together.
I loved making this necklace and I hope it speaks to you and your individuality. I hope you'll be proud to call it your own.  Perhaps this vibrant piece can become one of your favorites.

Vibrant Blue Multi-Strand Textile Necklace

$18 + $3.50 Shipping, SOLD!

Custom Orders Welcome!

* Part of my new collection, this one-of-a-kind textile necklace is fun, lively, expressive, imperfect, eclectic, unconventional, genuine and simple, yet brave.

* Colorful multi-strands, comprised mostly of cotton (vintage & new fabric)

* Colors: blue, yellow, orange, turquoise, fuschia, green, black, white

* no clasp, necklace goes on over head

* measures 29" from top to bottom, 19" from top down to first fabric strand

* band at nape of neck measures 3/4" wide

* Proudly made here in the USA, never mass-produced

* Whenever possible, to add more charm and character, I use vintage fabrics, buttons & other accents & include recycled/repurposed elements. 

* Due to the length of the necklace, it may be shipped folded or coiled/wrapped in bubble wrap. Thanks for understanding!

* To ensure this item will last, spot cleaning is recommended. Please do not shower, swim or bathe while wearing.  Not intended for children. Due to handcrafting, no two items are ever alike.  Please expect variation in color, stitching and patterns.

* Fabric, vintage buttons and colors speak to me, excite me, and shout of creative possibilities.  Even the smallest bits and pieces of exquisite fabrics are cherished and nestled away, where they wait to become an integral part of just the right project.   

Hours of love and attention to detail went into this wearable art.  Hand-stitching as well as machine-stitching were used to put this piece together.  

I loved making this necklace and I hope it speaks to you and your individuality. I hope you'll be proud to call it your own.  Perhaps this vibrant piece can become one of your favorites.

Ecru Flower Coil Textile Statement Necklace

* Part of my new collection, this one-of-a-kind textile necklace is fun, lively, expressive, imperfect, eclectic, unconventional, genuine and simple, yet brave.

* 2 coils, comprised mostly of vintage cotton

* round coils accented with handcrafted beaded flower, charms, a shell, vintage buttons, beads & wrapped fibers

* no clasp, necklace goes on over head

* measures 17" from top to bottom coil, 15" from top down to first coil

* at nape of neck measures 3/4" wide

* Proudly made here in the USA, never mass-produced

* Whenever possible, to add more charm and character, I use vintage fabrics, buttons & other accents & include recycled/repurposed elements. 

* Due to the length of the necklace, it may be shipped folded or coiled/wrapped in bubble wrap. Thanks for understanding!

* To ensure this item will last, spot cleaning is recommended. Please do not shower, swim or bathe while wearing.  Due to handcrafting, no two items are ever alike.  Please expect variation in color, stitching and patterns.

* Fabric, vintage buttons and colors speak to me, excite me, and shout of creative possibilities.  Even the smallest bits and pieces of exquisite fabrics are cherished and nestled away, where they wait to become an integral part of just the right project.   

Hours of love and attention to detail went into this wearable art.  This necklace is accented with a flower, fibers, stitching, beads, buttons, charms, & a shell.  Hand-stitching as well as machine-stitching were used to put this piece together.  

I loved making this necklace and I hope it speaks to you and your individuality. I hope you'll be proud to call it your own.  Perhaps this vibrant piece can become one of your favorites.

Multi Strand Ecru Charm Textile Necklace

* Part of my new collection, this one-of-a-kind textile necklace is fun, lively, expressive, imperfect, eclectic, unconventional, genuine and simple, yet brave.

* Multi-strands, comprised mostly of cotton

* round coil accented with charms, a vintage button, beads & wrapped fibers

* no clasp, necklace goes on over head

* measures 25" from top to bottom, 15" from top down to first fabric strand

* band at nape of neck measures 3/4" wide & is accented with a decorative button on each side

* Proudly made here in the USA, never mass-produced

* Whenever possible, to add more charm and character, I use vintage fabrics, buttons & other accents & include recycled/repurposed elements. 

* Due to the length of the necklace, it may be shipped folded or coiled/wrapped in bubble wrap. Thanks for understanding!

* To ensure this item will last, spot cleaning is recommended. Please do not shower, swim or bathe while wearing.  Due to handcrafting, no two items are ever alike.  Please expect variation in color, stitching and patterns.

* Fabric, vintage buttons and colors speak to me, excite me, and shout of creative possibilities.  Even the smallest bits and pieces of exquisite fabrics are cherished and nestled away, where they wait to become an integral part of just the right project.   

Hours of love and attention to detail went into this wearable art.  This necklace is accented with fibers, stitching, beads, buttons, charms, & a shell.  Hand-stitching as well as machine-stitching were used to put this piece together.  

I loved making this necklace and I hope it speaks to you and your individuality. I hope you'll be proud to call it your own.  Perhaps this vibrant piece can become one of your favorites.

Bohemian Tribal Red Textile Necklace

SOLD!

Custom Orders Welcome

* Part of my new collection, this one-of-a-kind textile necklace is fun, lively, expressive, imperfect, eclectic, unconventional, genuine and simple, yet brave.

* Multi-strands, comprised mostly of cotton salvaged from a vintage sundress

* round coils accented with 3 handcrafted beaded flowers & wrapped fibers

* no clasp, necklace goes on over head

* measures 13" from top to bottom, 11" from top down to first coil

* band at nape of neck measures 1" wide

* Proudly made here in the USA, never mass-produced

* Whenever possible, to add more charm and character, I use vintage fabrics, buttons & other accents & include recycled/repurposed elements. 

* Due to the length of the necklace, it may be shipped folded or coiled/wrapped in bubble wrap. Thanks for understanding!

* To ensure this item will last, spot cleaning is recommended. Please do not shower, swim or bathe while wearing.  Due to handcrafting, no two items are ever alike.  Please expect variation in color, stitching and patterns.

* Fabric, vintage buttons and colors speak to me, excite me, and shout of creative possibilities.  Even the smallest bits and pieces of exquisite fabrics are cherished and nestled away, where they wait to become an integral part of just the right project.   

Hours of love and attention to detail went into this wearable art.  This necklace is accented with fibers, stitching, beads, buttons, charms, & a shell.  Hand-stitching as well as machine-stitching were used to put this piece together.  

I loved making this necklace and I hope it speaks to you and your individuality. I hope you'll be proud to call it your own.  Perhaps this vibrant piece can become one of your favorites.

I AM MOM What's Your Super Power Art Sign

* I AM MOM Wall Hanging Door Greeter 11" x 14"

$30 + $5 shipping

* Colors: Tan, Red, Black

*  Perfect GIFT idea~An all year round item for your home!  Need another color or inspirational verse/quote? Contact me. I LOVE custom orders! Please check back often. I'm currently working on some new items. The plant is NOT included in this listing.

* Lovingly handcrafted by me for you! I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember. I enjoy creating in different mediums. This piece is truly a one of a kind!  This sign was created on an archival, acid-free flat panel canvas. The background has been covered with pieces of  pages from an Asian book & atlas pieces.  I used acrylic paint for this item.

* The raised letters are die-cut, then painted. The sides of the canvas are painted. I left the back white.

* I have anchored this on natural polished hemp.

* This piece measures 11″ x 14" (without hanger), & 17″ high (with hanger).

* This piece has been signed on the front. Layers of varnish have been added to this piece for added protection & shine!

* Although this piece has a hanger, the hemp could be cut off and this piece could be placed in a frame (without glass).

* This piece is especially for everyone who loves surrounding themselves with inspiration, a pop of color & for those of us who enjoy touching art, not just looking at it.  Although this item has been glazed with exterior varnish, I recommend this item be displayed indoors.

* I’m extremely pleased with how this piece came together & hope that you like it enough to make it your own. 

* This item will be wrapped in bubble wrap and/or sandwiched between 2 layers of cardboard for shipping. I often use recycled shipping supplies. This item may be shipped in a large envelope or wrapped in kraft paper. Thanks for understanding!

Family Love One Another Inspirational Art Sign

* Be Thankful Love One Another Art Wall Hanging Door Greeter 11" x 14"

$30 + 4.50 shipping

*This item is custom-made. Please allow 2 days for this item to be created before shipment.

* Colors: Tan, Red, Black

*  Perfect GIFT idea~An all year round item for your home!  Need another color or inspirational verse/quote? Contact me. I LOVE custom orders! Please check back often. I'm currently working on some new items. The plant is NOT included in this listing.

* Lovingly handcrafted by me for you! I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember. I enjoy creating in different mediums. This piece is truly a one of a kind!  This sign was created on an archival, acid-free flat panel canvas. The background has been covered with pieces of vintage sheet music, pages from an Asian book & atlas pieces.  I used acrylic paint for this item.

* The raised letters are die-cut. The sides of the canvas are painted. I left the back white.

* I have anchored this on natural polished hemp.

* This piece measures 11″ x 14" (without hanger), & 20 1/2″ high (with hanger).

* This piece has been signed on the front. Layers of varnish have been added to this piece for added protection & shine!

* Although this piece has a hanger, the hemp could be cut off and this piece could be placed in a frame (without glass).

* This piece is especially for everyone who loves surrounding themselves with inspiration, a pop of color & for those of us who enjoy touching art, not just looking at it.  Although this item has been glazed with exterior varnish, I recommend this item be displayed indoors.

* I’m extremely pleased with how this piece came together & hope that you like it enough to make it your own. 

* This item will be wrapped in bubble wrap and/or sandwiched between 2 layers of cardboard for shipping. I often use recycled shipping supplies. This item may be shipped in a large envelope or wrapped in kraft paper. Thanks for understanding!

Tan We Do Family Inspirational Collage Art Sign

* Tan We Do Family Wall Hanging Door Greeter Sign 9" x 12", $25+ 4.50 shipping

* Colors: Tan, Red, Black

* This particular item will be made to order. Please allow 2 days for this item to be created. Due to handcrafting, no two items are exactly alike. Please expect some variation between the photo & your actual sign.

*  Perfect GIFT idea~An all year round item for your home!  Need another color or inspirational verse/quote? Contact me. I LOVE custom orders! Please check back often. I'm currently working on some new items. The plant is NOT included in this listing.

* Lovingly handcrafted by me for you! I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember. I enjoy creating in different mediums. This piece is truly a one of a kind!  This sign was created on an archival, acid-free flat panel canvas. The background has been covered with pieces of vintage sheet music, pages from an Asian book & atlas pieces.  I used acrylic paint.

* The raised letters are die-cut. The sides of the canvas are painted. I left the back white.

* I have anchored this on natural polished hemp.

* This piece measures 9″ x 12" (without hanger), & 17″ high (with hanger).

* This piece has been signed on the front. Varnish has been added to this piece for added protection & shine!

* Although this piece has a hanger, the hemp could be cut off and this piece could be placed in a frame (without glass).

* This piece is especially for everyone who loves surrounding themselves with inspiration, a pop of color & for those of us who enjoy touching art, not just looking at it.  Although this item has been glazed with exterior varnish, I recommend this item be displayed indoors.

* I’m extremely pleased with how this piece came together & hope that you like it enough to make it your own. 

* This item will be wrapped in bubble wrap and/or sandwiched between 2 layers of cardboard for shipping. I often use recycled shipping supplies. This item may be shipped in a large envelope or wrapped in kraft paper. Thanks for understanding!

DREAM Motivational Tan Black Red Inspirational Home Wall Hanging Art Sign

* Dream Get Motivated Art Wall Hanging Door Greeter 11" x 14"

$40 + 5.00 shipping

* This item will be made to order. Please allow 3 days before this item is shipped out. Due to handcrafting, no two items are exactly alike. Please expect some variation between the photo & your actual sign.

* Dream, Get Motivated, Have a Vision, Get Inspired, Believe in Yourself, Work Hard, Stay Focused, Be Fearless, Get Out There!

* Colors: Tan, Red, Black

*  Perfect GIFT idea~An all year round item for your home!  Need another color or inspirational verse/quote? Contact me. I LOVE custom orders! Please check back often. I'm currently working on some new items. The plant is NOT included in this listing.

* Lovingly handcrafted by me for you! I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember. I enjoy creating in different mediums. This piece is truly a one of a kind!  This sign was created on an archival, acid-free flat panel canvas. The background has been covered with pieces of vintage sheet music, pages from an Asian book & atlas pieces.  I used acrylic paint for this item.

* The raised letters are die-cut, then painted. The sides of the canvas are painted. I left the back white.

* I have anchored this on natural polished hemp.

* This piece measures 11″ x 14" (without hanger), & 17″ high (with hanger).

* This piece has been signed on the front. Layers of varnish have been added to this piece for added protection & shine!

* Although this piece has a hanger, the hemp could be cut off and this piece could be placed in a frame (without glass).

* This piece is especially for everyone who loves surrounding themselves with inspiration, a pop of color & for those of us who enjoy touching art, not just looking at it.  Although this item has been glazed with exterior varnish, I recommend this item be displayed indoors.

* I’m extremely pleased with how this piece came together & hope that you like it enough to make it your own. 

* This item will be wrapped in bubble wrap and/or sandwiched between 2 layers of cardboard for shipping. I often use recycled shipping supplies. This item may be shipped in a large envelope or wrapped in kraft paper. Thanks for understanding!

iCONS Featured in ilovedinomartin

Anyone who truly knows me, knows just how proud I am of my husband Aristotle Allen, for far too many reasons to list or count. 

Here's another proud wife moment. My husband's beautiful work with primitive dolls has been noticed & today he is being featured on ilovedinomartin! 

God has blessed my sweetie with SO much talent...and might I add, computer hacking skills to match. 

Thank you Dino Martin Peters for the feature! All of you Martin & Lewis Fans should drop by his site for all things Dean Martin.

Don't forget to check out the other wonderful dolls & canvas artwork Aristotle has created!

Faith Bigger Than Your Fear Crimson Toile Pillow Cover

* Crimson Toile Custom Made Inspirational Faith Throw Toss Pillow Cover  16" 

$12 + $3.75 shipping SOLD

* Lovingly handcrafted by me for you!!! Custom orders are welcome! Need something in a different color/quote? Feel free to contact me.

*  Inspirational words "Let Your Faith Be Bigger Than Your Fear" grace the center of this cover.  This item makes a wonderful gift!

* Each pillow cover will need a 16" pillow insert. Inserts can be found at any home goods store. You can make your own or just stuff with polyfill & stitch up the back, or close with safety pins or just reclaim an old pillow that you may have lying around the house. 

* Each pillow cover measures approximately 15" x 15".  I usually make my covers a little smaller than the pillow to get just the right plumpness & fullness. (The photo shows the cover enclosing a 16" pillow insert).

* The pillow covers will arrive with folds. 

* The back of each pillow cover is finished envelope-style for easy removal of insert. This item will need to be ironed after each wash. I recommend washing inside out and covering the letters with a cloth when ironing. Due to handcrafting, no two items are alike. Due to handcrafting, please expect a small variance in size.

* I used French seams on the interior of this pillow cover. So, there are no raw edges. Interior stitches have been reinforced.

* This item is the perfect pop of color & romance for your bed, sofa, chaise or favorite chair.

* I enjoyed creating this pillow cover & hope that it's exactly what you're looking for to decorate your home.

* This item will be folded & shipped in an envelope. Thanks for understanding!