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Are We There Yet?
Road Trip – Last Stop: Are We There Yet?
Since my last stop along my Road Trip to visit Mimi and the Karma Truck last week in Northern Virginia, and a pass through my own old stomping grounds (I could even see my old house on Google maps street view!), I have headed north and east and set my GBS for New Hampshire, so I can kick it up with Pam at the Mercantile Muse. I have to ask, did you guess that the first potato planted in the US was planted in New Hampshire? I bet you thought I was headed all the way back to Idaho! Since I’ve been back on the road, I’ve logged my last 500 miles…nice how it just rounded off so smoothly and caps off my coast-to-coast adventure. And, it’s only fitting that Pam is my last stop, because as the saying goes, the first shall be last.
“Are We There Yet”via Bates Mercantile Co. on Etsy
Pam was one of the very very first people I connected with when I started my own Etsy shop and this blog – she was warm, welcoming, friendly and so easy to connect with. It was apparent right away that she’s not just kind, but full of life, and energy and is definitely the hostess with the mostess; hosting fabulous parties online and off. Pam is gracious whether in party mode or not, always finding a way to make you feel welcome and shine a light on other creatives; she does this with her own creative touch and a refined eye for the unique, special find you just might miss and then wonder how you did once she puts it out on the party table. 
In case anyone just jumped in the car, my summer bloggin’ road trip is all about celebrating the connections we find and make through our blogs. The way this virtual visit works is - I asked Pam some questions I’d want to ask here if we really got to meet in person.
So, I have made it all the way to New Hampshire, and drive up to Pam’s house, aka The Bates Estate, and settle in for a nice long visit. I’ve got to get out and stretch my legs!
Since this is a bloggin’ road trip, we have to talk about blogging, of course. Tell me about when you got started in blogging – What was it that got you started? Did you think about it for a long time, or did you just wake up one day and think, “I’m going to start a blog”? // Oh this crazy blogosphere……who knew where it would all lead me when I began. I blame it all on Etsy. I opened an Etsy shop in December of 2010 and kept reading that having a blog helped drive traffic to your shop. So in June of 2011 I finally bit the bullet and started Mercantile Muse. // I had the same auspicious start; and I was just about a year behind you. I opened my Etsy shop in November 2011 and this blog in December 2011 – it was nice having you a few steps ahead of me; it’s like knowing a sophomore when you are a freshman!
How long have you been blogging now, and what would you say has surprised you the most about it? // So even though I kind of answered that question, I’ll answer it another way ….I’ve been blogging for a year and 2 months. That time flew by. The thing that has surprised me the most about blogging is all of the fabulous, fantastic, extremely talented women it’s connected me to. That’s not to say that there are men who are bloggin’, but I think the gals really have made their mark on the blogging world and will continue to do so. Women have a LOT to say about everything from crafts to surviving illness, to matters of the heart. I love that blogging has given women a forum where they can express themselves anyway they want. So cool.
Everything has it’s challenges, are there things about being a blogger that just make you say, ugh? Things you put off or just like less than the rest of it? // Trying to fit it into the day. I post most days, so I feel bad if I don’t get a post up. Only because I feel like I’ve let myself down. // I am always impressed how you fit in a post just about every day, I can’t seem to manage that! And each day, you give such a personable, warm welcome to your readers.
What topic/topics do you enjoy blogging about the most? // That’s just too tough to answer. I really don’t know because Mercantile Muse is all about the great things in our (mine and husband Garrett’s life). And that covers a lot of ground. // You do cover a lot of territory, which is always fun, but at the heart of it, you always seem to celebrate and muse on the joys you find in every day life.
I just rolled in – what are we going to do today? // I hope you had a good night’s sleep before you got here because girl, we have a lot to do. FIRST things FIRST West Coast Bonnie…………we’re driving 10 minutes, stepping on the sand at North Beach in my hometown of Hampton, New Hampshire and then we’re sticking our toes in the Atlantic. // No arguments from me on that! I haven’t seen the ocean since I left California and I am so ready to get out and stretch my legs. YOU are driving to the beach though…I’m the passenger today!
Retro Beach via Bates Mercantile Co. on Etsy
Then, when we’re done walking, we’re heading just a wee bit south along Rt 1A/Ocean Blvd to the main beach. One side is sand until your eye can see. There’s a lovely new stage where they host free entertainment for tourists. The other side is the beach strip with stores and the old Hampton Beach Casino building where we’re going to have a little skeeball competition.
Then we’ll top it off with a nice lunch at the Sea Ketch which has 4 stories of decks, all with beautiful views of the beach. When we’re done, we’ll take a lovely ride up the coast (all 19 miles of it) through North Hampton and Rye and it’s big, beautiful waterfront homes. The second one on this page is my favorite, (but there are others that are real MANSIONS) and then we’ll heat on to Portsmouth. Ready for more decks? // I’m ready for whatever you have planned for us today; you are the queen of parties and I know to trust whatever you have in store for me!
500 miles is a trek, I would love to put my feet up and grab a drink with you…where are we going? // Well, you know already of my love for Margaritas, so we’re going to sit on Poco Diablo’s deck over the harbor and enjoy one. On the rocks, with salt please. I’ll sip on that while we enjoy the view of the harbor, the boats coming and going and of course, the Porsmouth tugboats. // Ok, you get no argument from me on that; I say, yes please, to the margarita on the rocks with salt. This CA girl speaks Margarita, fluently. Can we just order a pitcher? 
What question(s) do you have for me while we relax? // How’d you become such a good mom? I LOVED your story about your son and his ‘technology ban’ and all the good stuff that came of it. So cool. // Pam, that’s an awesome question, and an awesome compliment. I have to attribute so much to my own mom, who was small but mighty. She showed me, and taught me through example, the art of balancing unconditional love, tough love and understanding the importance of really knowing your kid. She was tough when she made a decision [ahem, dating age, curfews, boyfriends, etc.] but was so nurturing and I always knew she was on my side, no matter what. I am confident that she was in my heart when Ben and I worked out the case of the technology and truth misstep and got things back on track.
If you were a superhero, who would you be? I of course am known ‘round these parts as PowerWasher Woman….give me a power washer and I’ll take a chunk out of grime. // So funny, and another great question. Raising a boy, superheros are definitely part of my life! We’ve got action figures of all kinds around the house. Which reminds me, our SuperFur Kid made a snack out of our Wonder Woman action figure and I need to replace her! While I am not quite Wonder Woman, I can safely say I am a MacGyver Girl – I always love a challenge to figure ‘stuff’ out and coming up with surprising solutions.
So, I’m pretty hungry after a day of driving and I’ve had my fill of fast food and truck stop food. I would loooove something home cooked; what would you fix for us to eat? // I hope you like seafood. Because you drove so far to get here, we thought we’d put on a real New England lobster bake for you with all the fixin’s – lobster, steamers, potatoes, butter and sugar corn which is unreal right now, Aunt Polly’s potato salad, Watermelon George. Hope you’ve got room. // Your parties always look like so much fun, I will make room!
Before I get back on the road, I’m going to need a good cuppa cuppa to keep me awake for the next part of my drive….where would you take me for my java fix? // Blue Moon Evolution, my friend’s place. I’m not usually a coffee person. I’m a strong tea in the morning girl. However, when I go to the moon, I get a cuppa because it’s just plain good. It’s organic too. // What a little slice of heaven, the moon is. I’ve eaten my way through their menu, just looking at it, and I’ll take one of each one the beverage menu. You’re driving today, right?
Tell me one surprising thing I would find out when meeting you for the first time? // Hhhhhmmm, that’s a tough one too since I put most of it out there on the Muse. Let’s see, I have crooked fingers. The middle fingers on both of my hands ‘swoop’ towards each other at the top. You might not notice it but it’s a family thing from my Gram. Earthshattering revelations, I know. Oh, don’t tell my parents but I can swear like a sailor. Only in the right company of course. (Sorry Mom and Dad if you’re reading this)
It’s been an awesome stop – I want to take a souvenir home to remember my visit with you – what should I put in my trunk to take home? // Well that’s easy. Didn’t I mention we’d be beachcombing while we walked at North Beach? You’ve got a mason jar filled with shells, rocks, sand and sea glass. // I love that idea, and what a great reminder of my last stop on this excellent adventure!
I’m heading out of the driveway – you toss me a CD of your favorite tunes to listen to as I roll on down the highway – what is it and what’s your favorite song on it? //Oh it’s definitely Gar’s 40th Birthday CD because you’ll be able to drive and drive and drive. It might be 7 years old, but it still gets us movin’. You are going to LOVE The Saw Doctor’s HayWrap just as much as we do, but be ready to pull over so you can dance.
Is there anything else you want to say, I’m heading out, gotta hit the road again! // I’m so glad you made it all the way to the East Coast safely. As my parents say ‘straight home, no parking’. Call me when you get home so I know you made it ok. // You got it, my mom always waited for my phone call too, so I really appreciate that. I might have to make a few stops on the way home though, it’s a long way from NH to CA!
In case you haven’t figured it out by now, I’m Pam, an all around creative type married to Garrett, my own transplanted Dubliner. I met him while I was going to college in the Bronx. I muse about all of the good things in our life including people, food, design, the handmade movement, crafts, vintage, places and yes, even business. I’ve had my own advertising, pr and marketing firm- Speakeasy- for 18 + years. I opened a shop on etsy called Bates Mercantile Co. in 2010 so that I could explore my creative side even more. That’s how Mercantile Muse came about. I am so happy to be connecting with people all over the world, including the {PaperKeeper} herself, Bonnie.
***
Pam – I left a little something for you, it’s out by the pool, your favorite spot!
I want to say thank you, for the warm welcome, the great conversation, and showing me around your neck of the woods.
Thank you so much for hosting my last stop on my road trip and showing me such great hospitality!
***
I’m a little sad, this is normally where I give you a hint of where my next stop will be…but this is the end of this road, the last stop, for now, for this traveller.
But don’t be surprised if I get my GBS and my trusty Triumph revved up again sometime soon; I can’t sit still for very long, and I have so many more places to explore.
Thank you so much for riding along and following this epic adventure,
and until next time, safe travels of all kinds…
…wheels, heart, mind and soul.
Get Your Beach Read On :: Treasury Thursday
I remember a good book like I remember a good friend. I may not recall every detail or line, or even the sequence of events, but I will always be able to feel the mood of a book, the way I think the characters look and act, the feeling(s) I had while reading it. I can’t remember movies to save myself, and even watched the same one three times because I kept forgetting that I had seen it already. I can’t even remember which movie it was. Really { I know…}. But a book, it’s with me always.
Real readers read all year long, but isn’t there just something about the summer read; the beach read? Decadent, indulgent, savory. Somehow we give ourselves permission to get lost in a story that may not be the most enriching or most mind bending because it amuses, it comforts, it transports. It delivers us from our own daily routines.
A good book should leave you… slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading it. ~William Styron, interview, Writers at Work, 1958
Every summer I set out with a great plan to tackle one of the classics that I somehow missed in my younger days, but I usually manage to sabotage my own plan! I hate to admit it, but it’s true; I get to this time of the year, and I just want the easy read, the escape, the transport into the lives of the memorable characters that always manage to take up permanent residence in my memory.
From summers gone by, these are just a few of my favorite beach reads. They are epic, with stories that seem to go on as long as summer itself.
But what about when the book just ends? Leaves you hanging, wanting more? I usually race through a book, only to realize that I miss it the minute I finish the last page. Sometimes, it seems impossible to start a new book, it feels almost disloyal; or, it just seems that nothing can compare with the experience. After I finished reading Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption; it was at least three months before I could pick up another book; the story so compelling, it moved me, and I dare say it even changed me a little.
But if you find yourself looking for good recommendations, try Shelf Awareness: Enlightenment for Readers. They have a newsletter that helps you discover the 25 best books of the week!
For this week’s Treasury Thursday; you will find some wonderful items for your reading escapes – comfy spots to curl up, fun ways to tote and store your books, a few fun accessories and always, some simple truths.
I leave you with two questions – what’s your favorite summer beach read, and when you read, do you go for an ‘old fashion’ paper book, or the modern day e-reader?
Happy reading!
A book is the only place in which you can examine a fragile thought without breaking it, or explore an explosive idea without fear it will go off in your face. It is one of the few havens remaining where a (hu)man’s mind can get both provocation and privacy. ~Edward P. Morgan
Run Like the Wind :: Treasury Thursday
About a week ago, I admitted that I had given up on running some time ago, only to find that I really miss it and that I am making it my mission to see if I have any of the run left in me.
I’ve made good on my end of the deal and I have to say, it feels as good as I remembered. I will never qualify as a stand in for The Flash, but neither will I be representing the tortoise when he goes up against the hare. I’ve always been a middle of the pack runner and I think it’s safe to say that some things never change.
I am completely ok with this undeniable truth.
My goal is 30 miles in 30 days; I am a firm believer that if you want to add something healthy, something positive, into your life, do it for at least 21 days and it becomes a habit, or at least not such a struggle. On the flip side, if there is something you want to take out of your life [Cheez-Its perhaps?], stop doing that behavior for at least 21 days. By the way, I haven’t had one single Cheez-It since the middle of May. Honest. What Cheez-Its? You mean the little crunchy, crispy, salty yummy, cheesy little scary orange crackers? Oh, right, those.
So, my theory is that if I can churn out 30 miles in 30 days, running might actually become a habit again.
You, my dear bleeps, are here to help hold me accountable. Look for this little update in posts now and then. I am 7 days into my challenge so far and here is my update:
So far, so good. I am on track but the best part is that it feels good, I end my little runs looking forward to the next one. The early summer mornings are cool, crisp and fresh and that fresh start helps me get through the rest of the day.
So, this week’s treasury is all run inspired. There are some fantastic and creative items out in Etsy-land for you runners or for the runner(s) you love. Find the treasury in Etsy, or take an easy jog right here.
What’s the point?
I’ve been putting this post off…not because I haven’t thought about it just about every day for the last few weeks, but because I sort of didn’t want to deal with it. If I don’t write it, it’s not real, right?
I like watching shows like HGTV’s Design Star and the FoodNetwork’s The Next FoodNetwork Star, for the entertainment value, the creativity, and the fierce competition of course. But I realized the other night, there is another reason, one with a bit more to bite into.
In both shows, the contestants are constantly challenged to have a clear point of view – what do they bring to the table to offer their potential viewers if they win the golden opportunity to have their own show?
The lightbulb went on and I realized that I face the same dilemma. Thankfully, I don’t have producers and famous celebrity guest judges sitting three feet away constantly reminding me of this. But, I have myself. Sometimes we are harder on ourselves than anyone else could ever be.
So, what’s the point here? What am I getting at?
That’s the point. Having one. Finding one.
First, a little backstory. I started this blog soon after I opened my Etsy shop last fall.
I started my Etsy shop becuase I wanted needed a positive, creative outlet.
I needed a positive creative outlet because I needed to balance some workplace struggles and challenges that all on their own were something to reckon with, but I also found that my creative soul was taking the hit too. This left me with a void. There’s so much more, but that’s probably better left for another day.
So, with my Etsy shop open for biz, and all the amazing resources and advice on how to do that successfully, it suddenly came crashing upon me,
I gotta get a blog!
So, I did. Normally I think and over think these things, but in this case, I just dove in.
I have a few blogs I had started in prior years, that are just sitting on the sidelines [ideas, ideas, ideas] so I knew how to get started, get set up, you know, the basics. The mechanics of it all.
So, I started.
I wasn’t sure exactly what I should be doing, but I jumped in with both eyes open and a Nike-like committment to just do it. I was nervous, I was shy. I felt funny ‘putting myself out there”. But I did it anyway. It wasn’t long before I started realizing how much fun it could be when things I had never thought of before were suddenly thoughts I had to write down. I started to realize there is a place for everyone.
So I kept going and well, here we sit. I am still working on defining, clarifying, finding the point and I certainly know what I am not. It’s a drag, because I can so easily get derailed when I cruise around blogland and see so many awesomesauce bloggers, and come up short. And then, I circle back with myself and try to remember this
Just like with anything we do, we get nowhere by comparing ourselves. I intentionally limit my ‘comparison thinking’ and instead, try to refocus my thinking on learning from all the awesomeness I see every day. When I think of stopping, I realize that what I do know for sure is that I enjoy { and perhaps even need? } blogging because…
…it keeps me thinking
…it keeps me creative
…it keeps me connected
…it keeps me learning
…it keeps me challenged
…it keeps me working on my photography
and perhaps the most important,
…it keeps pushing me beyond my comfort zone.
And, those are all good things. Why would I question something that gives me all that?
But wait, there’s more.
I find that I view life a little differently, more clearly. The thoughts and ideas that merely passed my mind and then quickly exited as I multi-tasked my way through my days, have more velcro these days, more stick-to-it-iveness.
I find that I appreciate the small, [easily regarded as insignificant], moments so much more and remember that they are often the punctuation in our story. They are what makes the big picture make so much more sense.
And the bottom line?
I realized that I just kinda like it here. I have that feeling of having found a new friend, when I least expected it. I try not to put too much energy into site stats; is it necessary to have numbers tell us it is ok to do something that we just like to do? I didn’t think so. I like all the hip, personal, friendly, kindred, stylish, bold , and insightful yous { I hope you all know who you are!} that I have connected with here in bloggity blog world. And what about all of the “youwhos” I haven’t even met yet?
And I realize that it works both ways; that because I have this here little blog, I have come across fresh perspectives, some great humor, provocative thoughts and insightful twists on things I see and think about every day. Y’all are contantly stretching my mind. Having this blog leads me to bloggy pastures that are green, and rich and insightful. Sometimes just funny, and always creative and fresh. I want all of that.
So, in short, I’ve had some days I’ve questioned it all, and wondered more than once, what’s the point? What’s my point? Should I even be here? The best part is, I finally realized that I don’t have to have the answer right now. I’m going to stick around, take a few more leaps, perhaps play interior decorator around my blog house and throw a fresh coat of paint on the walls,freshen things up a bit; I’m even pondering a switch to a slightly different name…a little ways down the road. In other words I am going to
I am glad to be here, and glad you are too.
Cheers!
Photographer’s Assistant :: Foto Friday
I have the day off today, but I am at home, working on some updates to my Etsy shop listing images.
I have the best photographer’s assistant, he is very loyal, doesn’t get in my way and keeps me company while I work.
I’m sorry, he’s not available for hire; he’s currently employed full time.
What are you up to this fine Friday?
School’s Out! :: Treasury Thursday
The idea of “School’s Out” is so well timed and is a great idea for this weeks’s treasury challenge.
I love this time of year, have I mentioned that already?
When school is out, we can hopefully enjoy longer days, a more carefree routine, and perhaps be reminded of easier, simpler and innocent summer days of childhood.
I savor the longer days, warm summer nights and as a mom of a school kid, I am not sure who’s happier when school is out, me or the kiddo!
There is less homework, more peace in the house; less rushing, more family time; less cooking, more grilling.
This week’s idea hails all the way from Comrie, Perthshire, Scotland – thanks to Louise from CraftyLou! You can find CraftyLou in a few places…she’s got a shop on Folksy and Etsy , some fun boards on Pinterest, Facebook, and I suggest grabbing a cup of tea and pay a visit to her blog.
Since my own Etsy shop is focused on Paper, I feel that I have stumbled across a kindred spirit when I read her personal message on her Etsy shop…
Paper……..it surrounds us everyday….newspapers, office printouts, junk mail, magazines….and I love making things with it. Ever since I was wee I’ve drawn on, cut, folded, glued, selotaped and stapled paper to make things….some more sucessful than others! My choice of university degree and subsequent career as an Architect have developed and inspired this love of modeling paper into forms.
She makes the most detailed, beautiful hand-cut paper works of art – I can’t imagine the patience this must require! One of her pieces is in this treasury…I think you will spot it easily…it reminds me of one of my favorite movies of all time, Grease, and the summer romance between Sandy and Danny!
When school is out, it leaves an empty canvas; the days are no longer filled with the three R’s, but instead space is created for …
Sprinklers.
Popsicles.
Swimming pools.
Flip flops.
Staying up late.
Summer nights.
and more…
Take a little break and enjoy the treasury…what easy breezy ‘school’s out’ memories do you have? And be sure to stop by and say hello to CraftyLou!
 School’s Out |
Printable, DIY, Schools Out, Sun, Flip flops, Summer, Labels, stickers, Hang…
Hand Stamped Graduation Key Chain Class of 2012 With Graduation Cap Charm Per…
I Love School ….When It’s Out Patch
Deep in a wood carved on a tree – wedding congratulations card
Vintage Drive In Movie Pendant Resin Pendant Picture Pendant Photo Pendant Re…
Vintage Children’s Book Set, “Let’s Find Out” Book Series
Record Clock – Grease (Summer Nights)
School of Fish Decals (100 fish to arrange any way you’d like)
Swimming Pool Summer Water Blue Ladder – 5 x 7 art print by Dawn Smith
Custom Sand Imprint Flip Flops. Your Design. No Minimum Order Quantity.
popsicle print, beach art, summer photography, carnival, popsicle print, nurs…
Swimming: Use a Medals Rack to display your swimming ribbons
Stayed up past my bedtime…and survived T-Shirt – Not The End of the World D…
Last Day of School Countdown Clock
Oh, Rickey, you’re so fine…
It’s hot. It’s summertime. So, let’s toast the official kick off to summer, and have a cool drink, shall we?
Drinks are on the house and today I’m serving up…
Have you ever had a Lime Rickey? Yes? Great…then ya know what I am talking about.
No? How can that be? You are in for some tangy, zesty, refreshing goodness. Trust me on this.
You will need:
Fresh Limes (approx 12) for 3/4 cup fresh lime juice
:: 1/2 cup sugar :: 1/2 cup water :: 1 + 1/2 quart soda water :: ice ::
Here’s how you put it all together
- Use a 1 quart pan and mix the sugar with the 1/2 cup of water and stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved, about 5 min
- Pour into a glass/heat proof container and chill in fridge or freezer { I suggest making this ahead of time, so it’s chillin and ready when you are }
- In a container, combine the lime juice + the cooled syrup. Cover and refrigerate/freeze till ready to use
- To serve, pour the lime juice and simple syrup into a pitcher + add the soda water.
- Cut the extra limes into slices for garnish in the pitcher + the glasses.
- Pour into ice-filled glases and garnish with lime
Such a signature summer drink! Hosting a party and need some tang + zing? Just add the juice of approximately 6 more limes and add 1 1/2 cups of gin to give it an extra sparkle!
As I was making this, I thought of a few things I will do differently next time…
– make the simple syrup ahead of time so you can have it chilled, I had to wait { impatiently, I might add!} for the syrup to chill. Who wants warm Lime Rickey?
– double the recipe, but prepare in two batches, and freeze one batch of the lime juice and syrup
– just think, a pitcher of ice cold zesty fizzy Lime Rickey will be ready to serve at a moment’s notice, just add the ice, soda water; and of course, the gin if it’s a big girl party!
Oh, and I’ll be adding these next time too…
via PaperStrawsParty (Etsy)
And, now because you have the tune in the back of your mind…I know you do…and it’s ok if you change the words to Rickey instead of Mickey, because a Lime Rickey is in fact so fine and just might blow your mind… C’mon, sing along! 
Cheers to you, go have a drink!
Treasury Thursday :: watermelon sunshine
I headed into the archives for this week’s treasury theme…for a suggestion from a few weeks ago that I didn’t want to leave behind, especially since it’s summer! What, it’s only my favorite season of the year!
This idea was inspired by Paula from Stuff I Tell My Sister, her blog that is all this and more…
Who do you call or text with everyday “stuff” that occurs? Your sister, your mom, your best friend? That’s what this blog is about, “stuff I tell my sister”… Great books, photos, music, new ideas, product reviews, exercise and health info, rants & raves and random life thoughts. (from an Oklahoma gal to you♥)
You might remember Paula from an earlier post this week, where she shared some awesome sunshine over this way, so it seemed only right to pair the scrumptious watermelon with some bright shiny sunshine. I’ve enjoyed getting acquainted with Paula through bloggity blog world…and we realized we share the experience of growing up in a small town and both have an affinity for a certain author [more on that sometime soon!]. Take a minute to meet Paula…by no mistake, one of her most recent posts is a tribute to the farmer. Perfect for watermelon week, yes? After reading it, I hope you savor that watermelon even more.
So, wha-la: here you have some watermelon sunshine. But first, some interesting info about watermelons and a few new recipes to try out…
Who knew?
Watermelon is thought to have originated in southern Africa where it is found growing wild // There are more than 1200 varieties of watermelon, ranging in weight from less than a pound to more than two hundred pounds, with flesh that is red, orange, yellow or white. // And just for Paula, did ya know that the Oklahoma State Senate passed a bill on 17 April 2007 declaring watermelon as the official state vegetable, with some controversy surrounding whether a watermelon is a fruit? I did my research!
We all know that watermelon in it’s natural form is one of the most delicious flavors of summer…but, have you ever thought of using the rinds? Me neither…so think about this:
- Try Spiced watermelon honey, a great way to use up watermelon rind that normally ends up in the garbage. Watermelon honey is great on pancakes, biscuits, & toast.
- Or, make this Watermelon-Peach Salsa to complement your chicken or fish on the grill.
- Feeling more adventurous? Great…try deep fried watermelon. Yeah. Let me know how that goes!
View the treasury here or savor all the juicy goods below…and Paula, the clock is for you
I hope you enjoy and thanks for the inspiration!
Cheers!
 Watermelon Leather Pouch |
SPECIAL OFFER…3 x 10ft WATERMELON Felt Circle Garlands in Pink and Green – …
liquid sunshine hand painted yellow mug 2.0
Brighten your home with a little sunshine Art
Popsicle Soap (Juicy Watermelon)
6 Sunshine Felt flowers applique sew on poppy 3 shades of yellow summer
Padma & Pickles Jewelry: Completely Handmade in Hawaii-Watermelon Tourmaline …
That’s my Jam Watermelon Jelly 8 oz jar
Sunshine shea butter soap BIG 5 oz bar
Watermelon Shimmer Gloss – Lip Gloss – Natural Minerals With Sparks and Refle…
LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE Hand Painted Wall Clock
You Are My Sunshine – Printable Art – Nursery Art
Handmade Glycerin Soap – Summer Watermelon – 1 Bar
Mid Century Art Print, Orange Yellow Grey, Sunshine, Mountains Abstract Lands…
Treasury Thursday :: all buttoned up.
I know I say it every week, but it’s so much fun to assemble a treasury based on a challenge…it gets me out of my own zone and on the hunt for things I might not otherwise seek out. It’s good to see things differently!
When I was a kid, my mom was always asking, ‘what do you want for dinner?” I never had a good answer and couldn’t figure out why she was always asking ME…she was the mom! Now, I get it and gosh darn it if I don’t do the same thing! Thinking of what to cook is harder than pulling the meal together…once you have a plan, the rest is fun. And, the same is true here!
So, this week, my hat is off to Kate over at A Creative Cookie for her idea of buttons! And, once you spend even just a few minutes on her blog, you will realize she really is in fact one creative cookie. Wow! I have visited her blog many times and have a few ideas bookmarked, so it was great to spend a little more time ‘getting to know her’ so I could introduce her to all of you!
What’s fun is that one of her recent tutorials is the perfect match to the buttons…a necklace made from a spool of thread! You can find tutorials for all things creative over at A Creative Cookie…from holiday fun, jewelry, fun for kids, creative organizing, tips and techniques and ideas for parties. And that’s not all, she has a super duper list Link Parties, and if you are looking for a little bit of the spotlight, go see Kate and chat about advertising and give aways …she’s got that covered too! Stop by and say hello; you can find her on Facebook too!
I love buttons, and check this out. When I put the word button into the Etsy search tool, any guesses on the number of items that popped up? Go on, take a guess. Did you guess 371,673 items? Didn’t think so! Buttons show up in so many ways: necklaces, bracelets, every kind of vintage button you can imagine, fabric, painted, wood, ceramic. There are giant buttons, oh so petite buttons. Buttons you can eat, buttons you wash up with…there is a button for everyone! Kate, I hope this inspires your creativity…it will be be fun to see what button projects you come up with.
Hope you all enjoy all the amazing items made by such creative Etsy shop owners. View the Treasury in Etsy and below…
{ Hope your day is all buttoned up! }
Treasury Thursday :: living in America
So, after a short break, I am back with a new week of Treasury Thursday. It’s always a fun surprise to see what suggestions I get from the challenge I post on my Facebook wall and this week was no exception – so many great ideas. I couldn’t possibly choose, so I wrote all the idea on slips of paper and had my kiddo choose one. So…
The one he picked was from Masako at Sock Sock World!
Her suggestion was:
America or USA. I am looking for unique gifts for my family overseas.
Thanks to her, we get to take a moment to stop and appreciate the place we call home. I mentioned in an earlier post that I work with students who come from all over the world to attend the university where I work and I always ask them how long it’s been since they have been able to visit wherever their home is. It never ceases to amaze me when their answer is two or more years; often due to student visa issues or just a matter of finances. So, with that in mind, Masasko, I hope this treasury gives you some ideas for some gifts you might send home to give a glimpse of life here and how much your family at home means!
Before moving on to the treasury itself, I just have to tell you about Masako. I She is a wonderful person to be connected with; she is present, pleasant, and so positive, so friendly. It always makes my day when I log-in to Facebook and see that she has connected with one of my posts. I get the feeling that it would be easy to sit down over a cup of coffee and have an easy, comfortable conversation with her. Ok, and her shop on Etsy is just the best, you have to stop by and see for yourself. She designs and creates the most adorable sock animals of all kinds. Whales. Kangaroos. Dogs. Platypuses. Otters. Adorable and soft, they are perfect as gifts for the small set, and even the bigs. Not too long ago, I wrote to her and sent a photo of my dog to see if she could create a sock animal for my son for his Easter basket. She did an amazing job creating a soft version of our dog Stuart
In the photo I sent, Stuart had his tongue sticking out like this, and she took the time to capture not only that detail, but also the color of his collar and included a tag with his initial that she hand stitched…and this was all after making sure she had the right kind of fuzzy sock to use to match his crazy hair. Meet some of her other wonderful Sock animals, in the shop now!
Find Sock Sock World on Facebook, Etsy, & Twitter and you will feel like you have a new friend. I do! Now, on to the treasury…hope you enjoy all things U.S. of A. and find some inspiration and appreciation of all the freedoms we enjoy! View the Treasury here or below…
 Enamel flower brooch Vintage… $7.00
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 Vintage map gift tags, six r… $3.00
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 Linocut Print – 8×10 USA Air… $22.00
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 Mohawk Zebra with Red Heart … $22.98
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 Vintage Suitcase Set of TWO,… $34.99
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 Not All That Wander Are Lost… $15.00
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 Before the storm Original la… $199.00
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 Women’s T-shirt, Thoreau… $18.00
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 50 Red, White and Blue Strip… $8.00
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 Eco 13.5 inch Laptop Bag Pad… $35.00
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 Sakura Stitch Marker Keeper … $11.50
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 Memorial Day Flower Hair Cli… $6.00
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 I Love America Gift Tags $4.00
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 High Waist American Flag Sho… $35.00
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 Red/White/Blue 4th of July P… $42.00
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 Button Magnets, Red, white a… $19.50
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{ cheers }
