Bobbypin's Boardwalk

West Elm Wreath Hack

2011-06-18T05:25:00.001-05:00

My friend, Kim, from Cheap Chic Home asked me if I would be interested in coming out of my blog retirement long enough to do a guest post for her. I happened to have a project that I had worked on and never posted, yet had photographed (what are the chances?) and I really loved it, so I think that is the perfect thing to share on Kim's blog. It's CHEAP, CHIC, and hanging in my HOME.

Here it is -- a picture of a wreath that I fell in love with months ago from West Elm (now discontinued). I was impressed by the earthiness and non-feminine look of this wreath. It seemed very versatile and leaned a little more toward a simplistic and modern design style. So.... well -- West Elm! And the fact is -- I wanted it!

You know when a crafter wants something, they NEVER buy it -- oh no -- they have to figure out how to make it, otherwise where is the fun and sense of accomplishment? If you want to make it too, here's how I did it!

You will need:

A grapevine wreath
Green moss - 2 bags (from Hobby Lobby - use the 50% off coupons)
Various balls (styrofoam, ping-pong, old Christmas ornament balls)
Twine
Hot glue/glue gun

This is a very easy project, but it is also quite time-consuming, so if you can set yourself up in front of a couple of good movies over a week or so, it will go more quickly for you. The pictures pretty much explain the process.

Here is my bag of green moss.

Here is my ball of twine.

Here is my box of various balls.

And here is my grapevine wreath

1. Take a ball, apply hot glue to half of the ball. Press on the moss (use caution against glue burns). Once cool, apply more glue and more moss. Then take a minute or so to really press that moss against the ball. This will allow the moss to flatten a bit against the ball, allowing the twine to be more visible.

2. Then wrap your twine around the ball without following any particular pattern. I recommend you put a bit of glue at the beginning of my twine, then wrap and wrap until you like the look of that ball, cut the twine and apply a bit more glue to hold the twine in place.

3. You can then generously apply more glue (where the twine began and ended) and glue your ball to the wreath, sprinkling in a bit more moss in any uncovered areas as you go along.

4. Just keep doing this and doing this and doing this (haha)

In no time at all (well in my case a couple of weeks), you will have an exact replica of the West Elm Wreath.

Then do not go back and look at the wreath on the West Elm site again because you will then discover that it's on clearance for $24.95, and you will wonder why you worked so hard making it when you could have bought it. However, remember that at the time you originally saw it and fell in love with it, it did cost $49.99.

This wreath cost approximately $10 for all supplies -- although I did have about half of the balls on hand. Here are a few pictures of my wreath displayed over my fireplace on a mirror, which I partially de-mirrored so that you can see the brick coming through in various places.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial. I know I really enjoyed sharing it with you and who knows? Perhaps I'll begin to post on my blog on occasion. We recently put our home for sale and I've spent a lot of time staging and organizing and finishing all those projects that were on the back-burner. Although now that it's so dog-gone clean and organized, I would almost hate to leave it. :)

Going to Visit with Kim Next Week -- Hope to See you There!

2011-06-10T15:06:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to drop you a note to let you all know that I am doing a guest post for Kim at Cheap Chic Home next week. I think you'll enjoy the tutorial, and I'll let you know when she puts it on her blog. I will then put it on my blog, as well. I hope you're all doing well, and I think of you all the time!

Michael Smith for Compassion International In Africa

2011-04-14T23:25:00.000-05:00

2011-02-09T20:12:00.015-06:00

Although I do not have plans to continue blogging at this time, I will leave my blog open for those who want to refer to the tutorials which are posted on my blog (and in case I change my mind in a few months. You know I do that sometimes ;)

Home Worthy for a Zebra Bird

2011-02-02T11:39:00.006-06:00

As I was saying yesterday before Picasa rudely demanded $5 from me (even though I do not utilize their service for my blog) ahem ......

I painted a couple of birds in a zebra costume

I had a flashback of the pretty little bird's nest from last spring where the bird had incorporated white ribbon in her nest (too sweet)

All of which inspired me to make a nest that would be worthy of a zebra bird.

I visualized the zebra bird swooping by and grabbing up:

Bits of coral and shells,
Strings with a button or two still attached,
Shredded burlap and newspaper twine,
Yarn from an old sweater,
An abundance of white fur,
Found jewelry (for we know that any zebra bird would require her bling),
Bits of gold Christmas ornament string,
A small crocheted granny square made from muslin fabric where she can sit quite comfortably,
Torn pages from a discarded romance novel,
Luxurious feathers left at her nest by other visiting birds.
In describing this nest, I now want to add a shard of mirror so that the zebra bird can admire herself (haha).

So you see, I believe I went WAY too long without making anything and now I've thrown all I have at this nest for the zebra bird. Poor little thing won't even have room to stretch out if I don't stop soon.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

"Post Worthy", but Must Wait Until Tomorrow!

2011-02-01T15:34:00.001-06:00

I was waiting to be inspired. During this waiting phase I did do a few things:

I continued painting walls, and I thought to myself, "I'll put together a little tutorial on how to "cut in with a paintbrush", do edges and that sort of thing. Then I thought, "Well -- I don't think that would be a very interesting post." So I didn't post on that.

I've also been hanging new curtains, which required a bit of hemming, and I thought to myself, "I'll do a tutorial explaining how to hem curtains using hem tape." What a wonderful and easy way to hem! But then I thought to myself, "The directions are right on the tape...that wouldn't be very interesting." So I didn't post on that either.

I've been reading a couple of books on how to eat well AND lose weight according to the glycemic index and I thought, "This will be so helpful to people just like me." But then I thought, "Really, Jan, can't you just let the whole dieting thing go?" AND I actually agreed with myself, so I didn't post on that, but I do recommend the book.

Today blizzard-type weather arrived and it has had me yearning for spring. I thought back to the bird's nest I found last spring. Remember this post about the beautiful little bird's nest where this very determined bird had used tiny white ribbon to make her nests? But of course, I already posted about that.

I then remembered a creative theme that I wanted to pursue a few months ago. My thought process was, "What if God had chosen differently?" I started imaging birds painted like zebras, pigs with shiny scales, animals "different" -- you get the idea. I did finish a set of birds. Take a look! That probably would have been worth a post, but for some reason I just didn't post it. I think my plan was to have all of my little animals finished, and so far I've only done the two birds.

Today I created a home for the littlest bird. I think the home is very fitting for such a unique little bird, and I would also consider it to be very "POST-WORTHY". But then I ran out of storage space on Picasa (which I still don't understand since I upload directly from my own software program). I purchased additional storage for $5, however, the system won't recognize the additional space for about 24 hours, so I guess I can't post about that either...UNTIL TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!!!

Please come back and visit me tomorrow, ok? Yes, I will definitely post about that tomorrow (as long as all this ice doesn't knock out the power). Hmmm.....in which case, that would also make for a very interesting post.

((((((((((((hugs)))))))))))))

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE (and play down the "very ok") AND Conclusion of Comments Experiment

2011-01-13T13:48:00.002-06:00

I recently did a small decorating project in our foyer, and one of the things I did was change out the lighting. My decorating budget is very small and I was fortunate to find a great chandelier at a great price, but I also had some ceiling lights at the top of the foyer which were in need of updating (they had been the shiny brass). Here is what I chose:

This is an inexpensive ceiling-mount light which provides excellent lighting and is very affordable. Because it is white and matches the ceiling is does not stand out as being a fixtures that screams "Look at me"! They also had the same fixtures in the iron tone, but I chose to stay with the white so that it would blend.

Do you see what I mean? If I had chosen the darker-rimmed light fixture your eye would have immediately been drawn to an "inexpensive" fixture and who wants that? It's kind of the same as putting on makeup -- you accentuate your most positive features!

As it is now, you really don't notice the white fixture as being an issue one way or the other. But you know what you DO notice?

One thing does indeed lead to another!

Comments are back to "ON". The absence of comments was a bit unsettling...it felt as though I didn't have a blog. I was happy to receive some emails. In fact, thrilled. My elation over those emails has lead me to understand the importance of comments in blogging. My short experiment is now concluded. Your comments are welcome and LOVED; and yes, my ego must continually be fed!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

My Heart is Truly a Flutter

2011-01-08T17:24:00.002-06:00

A group of butterflies is called a FLUTTER. My daughter, Amy, recently made a flutter for me. I watch them closely as they glide throughout the house, impatiently waiting to see where they will land. (I think they are camera-shy.)

There are 28,000 known butterfly species throughout the world -- Actually make that 28,001.

Butterflies taste food by standing on it. I guess that is why they often attach themselves to refrigerators.

The patterns on butterflies are VERY useful in courtship rituals. Butterflies fly in circles around one another to find a mate.

Butterflies are a very popular topic for poets. In fact, no one knows the exact number of poems written about butterflies.

Butterflies cannot fly if their body temperature is less than 86 degrees.

Some Butterflies lay their eggs on the underside of specific plants, others lay them in mid-flight!

It is not difficult to find butterflies, as they are often drawn to bright light sources during the day.

Will you make someone's heart a flutter? It isn't hard. Just cut out old pages in the shape of a butterfly, fold, glue, add a magnet and ribbon down the center. Cut the ribbon at the top leaving about 1/2 inch for the antenna.

Thank you, Amy, for making my heart a flutter.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

CHEAP FOYER FACELIFT

2011-01-04T23:04:00.011-06:00

After several requests about the "color" I used, I have an update at the bottom of this post.

Your home's foyer or entryway make the first impression for someone entering your home (except for those special friends and family who use the back door :). So you want to use as much care in your entryway as you would in any other room of your home. I do wish that my entryway was larger and that it didn't open directly into a staircase, but we work with what we have, right? Here are a couple "before" pictures:

BEFORE - Preparing to Paint the Front Door

BEFORE - Large Canvas Artwork Going up the Stairway/Walls a Golden Yellow

BEFORE - This is a "Stock" Photo of my Chandelier and Ceiling Fixtures at the Top of the Steps.

Heck -- I really didn't dislike any of it, but it was time for a change (a cheap change, that is). So here's what I did:

Repainted the walls using 1.5 gallons Lowe's Valspar Latex Enamel flat finish (LOVE that paint) - $25
Changed out the light fixtures - New Chande from CSN - $65; and 2 ceiling fixtures from Home Depot - $15 for both!
Painted the front door, quart of Rustoleum Black Enamel (HATED that paint) $8
Replaced the canvas artwork - Spray painted and distressed existing frames $10
Added a few pieces of metal scrollwork - 50% off at Hobby Lobby $35
Stapled black fringe to the bottom of my sidelight curtain panels. $2
Switched to a different rug (which I already had).
Gave the dog a bath!

TOTAL - $160 (I added that in my head--hope I'm right)

I love the softer look. What do you think?

AFTER

These next few pictures were taken at night with the lights on. Isn't it amazing how different the colors look behind the lens of the camera and without the benefit of natural light? The TRUE COLOR is the neutral gray tone as depicted in the shots above.

Babbette even looks prettier after the mini renovation!

Update on Paint Color: As you know I often mix my own paint, and such was the case with this paint color. I mixed the paint and used it in Cory's bedroom, bathroom, and a few other areas. I found I really liked it, so I brought in a sample to Lowes and had them mix me up several gallons, using Valspar Latex Enamel in a Flat finish. . Here is the information you would need in order to get the same color.

(The color is shown very accurately in the daytime picture of the foyer wall with my children's pictures--the picture directly below the question, "What do you think?". It is a soft and cool neutral color tone smack dab in the middle of a gray and a beige. I have found it to be an excellent background for EVERYTHING so far, having now used it in the foyer, dining room, front room, bathroom, and Cory's room (gold sofa, green curtains, wood tone, black, white, ivory, turquoise). I hope this is helpful to you.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

HERE are the parties I love to visit and where I link my posts. I am happy to display the parties in which I am participating beneath my post on the day of the party. Thank you so much for hosting, ladies!

Does the Blog Still Fit?

2011-01-03T08:32:00.000-06:00

Several times a year I find myself questioning my blogging motivations. It's the beginning of the year, so it seems a good time to once again re-evaluate my blogging habit...see if it still "fits". I'm aware that the amount of time spent on the computer varies tremendously from one blogger to the next, but for myself it sometimes becomes a bit extreme, particularly when I host the Boardwalk Bragfest.

It's funny -- I find myself doing projects in an excited haste to complete them so that I can post them on my blog (haha). I then ask myself -- would I be doing so many decorating projects around the house, if I didn't have a blog on which to post my accomplishments? Well -- I suppose the answer to that question really doesn't matter all that much because there are definitely projects that need to be completed in my house. OK -- that one is settled. Plus I love to ~~show them off~~ share them with fellow bloggers.

A tremendous bonus to blogging is the unique opportunity to correspond with other women across the world. The kindness and generosity of fellow bloggers is truly astounding. I am not willing to give that up.

I recently had a couple of lovely sponsors on my blog, and I thought that was a bit of a landmark in blogging, but it really was not. One sponsor was disappointed in the outcome and indicated that the advertising did not benefit her business. I really felt badly about this, so I don't think I am in a rush to take on any more sponsors. There's just no way I can control whether people who read my blog will click on that sponsor's ad and purchase from them.

Blogging is a process, constantly evolving and changing to meet each blogger's needs. I think to maintain a happy blog, we have to blog in a way that makes us happy (finally she says something sensible, right?). I know that specific link party times are no longer something that I want to commit to. Although I love and always learn from the projects submitted to the Boardwalk Bragfest, I also do not want to be committed to the time spent in hosting the party, so the Boardwalk Bragfest is going into retirement.

I think it comes down to a button I've seen around blogland on occasion; and perhaps I will have to make one. It says "Blogging Without Obligation". This mindset allows one to be a bit more independent and blog only when they WANT to -- but not because they HAVE to...(no apologies necessary for not posting in a given week, that sort of thing).

I doubt my blogging schedule will change all that much, however, if it does, don't worry -- I will be back when it's time. Thanks for listening to me "think out loud". Now I must skedaddle as I want to finish up another quick "lighting" project so I can post it before the end of the week (haha). Some things DON'T change.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

CSN REVIEW - Amazing Sheets

2011-01-02T19:15:00.003-06:00

Thank you CSN for providing such a wonderful product at an unbelievable price. I recently ordered the Wildon Home 600 Threat Count Solid Sateen Sheet set priced at $40.00 for my king-size bed. That price would be a fair price for a mediocre set of sheets, but these sheets are far from mediocre. They are marvelous! They are thick and luxurious with a marvelous soft feel. I ordered them in the gold color and they are beautiful.

The fitted sheet also has very deep side pockets to easily accommodate my extremely thick mattress WITH the 3" memory foam pad AND thick mattress pad. I no longer feel like I'm in a wrestling match with my bed when I change the sheets. Here are a few pictures for anyone who is thinking about purchasing some new sheets for the new year.

PACKAGED VERY NICELY

BEAUTIFUL COLOR & SHEEN

ACCOMPANYING DIMENSIONS AND CARE INSTRUCTIONS

You may notice that the care instructions direct the use of cold water in the gentle cycle. I chose NOT to use cold water and I did NOT use the gentle cycle. I used very WARM water on my "heavy" setting, and then tumble dried these sheets in my dryer on the normal setting until they were completely dry. I did not notice any discoloration or shrinkage. They came out perfect.

But -- that's me. I like to give my sheets a thorough washing and the sheets held up to my tough love very well!

Another winner, CSN! Thanks a million.

Permanent Marker on my Drapes -- OH MY!

2011-01-02T03:05:00.016-06:00

I LOVE the challenge of working with what I already have! It saves money, time, and allows me to be a bit more creative. When the project is complete, it is much more fulfilling. Such was my recent experience with my Dining Room Curtains.

I had purchased four drapery panels at the Goodwill for about $10 several years ago. I sewed the panels together to make two wide pair, then I attached interfacing and gold fabric along the edge and bottom of the drapes creating a more custom look. (The interfacing allowed for a stiffer consistency similar to that of the thicker insulated drapes.) I also added some fun black "eyelash" trim.

You may remember when I shared a glimpse of my "marker" idea (as shown in the two pictures directly below):

It seemed like it would work, and at this point I would say that it did. I would call this project a SUCCESS. It was such an EASY project -- just like following the lines of a coloring book and something I was able to enjoy doing while sitting in front of the TV in the evening. The only cost was the purchase of four magic markers and black rope from Home Depot (about $20 total) used in hanging the drapery. I think that the pictures explain the procedure.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

HERE are the parties I love to visit and where I link my posts. I am happy to display the parties in which I am participating beneath my post on the day of the party. Thank you all for hosting!

Monday: Motivated Monday @ Becolorful

POLAR BEAR REDEMPTION ... Otherwise Known as, "BEWARE OF MAMA BEAR & PAPA BEAR " - Part Two of Two Parts

2010-12-30T23:13:00.006-06:00

You can read Part One HERE.

POLAR BEAR REDEMPTION - PART TWO

Kenny and I zipped out to his car, which emerged from our garage faster than a mole from a hose-soaked run. At the end of our street, a heavy question arose in the form of Kenny's voice, "OK, Jan, which way?" The question hung in the air....

"I have no idea", I stammered, "I wasn't watching, I was putting on my coat. I remember that their car is white. Ummm, turn right. (huh?)" The mere fact that I responded to this question meant that we were actually going to go forward with our "no plan" PLAN. Not only were we missing a plan, I was missing my pants; but I did have a long wool coat and socks. What would we do if we actually found them? Get into a snowball fight? -- I didn't even know what kind of car it was or how many idiots were involved. I just remember the growl of their muffler coming from a white beast. OK -- think Jan!

In doing some quick "risk control" thinking, I realized that I had already taken out my contacts for the night, so I wouldn't be able to see too far. However, I COULD hear. Kenny has decent eyesight, but he is legally deaf...poor love simply can't hear a thing! What a fabulous team. Kenny could see, but not hear; and I could hear, but not see. He had pants and I had an iPhone. Ready or not, here we come!

Our subdivision is small and surrounded by other subdivisions of various sizes. We headed to the subdivision closest. We quickly realized that we were too late as decapitated snow bodies lay everywhere. White balls of frothy foam strewn about. Here and there I could make out a carrot, stick arms, woolen caps. Kenny reassured me that I was better off not being able to see all the downed snow creatures. He told me to avert my eyes and focus on "hearing". Our determination was greater than ever.

We came to a crossroads. Kenny said, "Jan let's just sit here, and if they are still in this subdivision, they will eventually have to come by. You'll recognize the sound."

"No, Kenny -- they're no longer here." I replied. I knew that they had wrought their destruction and had headed out to bigger pastures. I could feel their momentum building. They were on a roll. They were looking for the motherload. They needed a BIG subdivision, a BIGGER challenge. "We must move quickly before they can do more damage." I said, "I know they've moved on. Leave this subdivision, Kenny," I said (Now realize that when I say "said", I actually "yell" so that Kenny can hear me. AND the act of yelling tends to raise the adrenaline -- even when communicating with a fellow comrade.) Our adrenaline gave us confidence.

We quickly drove (while abiding the speed limit) to the closest BIG subdivision, and turned in just as the white car with the LOUD muffler and hooting hooligans drove out! IT WAS THEM!!! Kenny looked at me for confirmation. "Yes, I said, that's the sound!" It didn't take us but 60 seconds to turn around and head back on the main drag after them. I could make out the tail lights of the white car, could still hear the muffler! Kenny knew what street they had turned on and turned behind them. These silly boys were clueless -- they didn't know they had been spotted, but there was something WE didn't know either!

Kenny's driving abilities are legendary, and he was able to maintain the perfect distance behind the white car while I snapped pictures of the license plate. Kenny flashed the bright lights at them. They continued throughout the neighborhood, circling through the cul-de-sacs, as though oblivious to our suggestion that they pull over to the side of the road. Suddenly they took a quick turn, then another.

I then saw a group of people standing in their front yard. Could it be that the boys had managed to demolish yet another snowman BEFORE we got behind them? I opened my window and yelled out to the people, "Do you know who was in that white car?" They looked at me in alarm -- obviously still in shock over their downed snowman.

Kenny never lost site of the white car and soon we were back on the main drag (speed limit 40) directly on their tail. Kenny then said, "We've got a problem, Jan!" He looked at me and said, "They travel in pairs. They have a tail on us too! We are sandwiched." Since there isn't a lot one can do in "sandwich" mode, we simply continued to follow the white car.

The car was taking roads very familiar to us and as criminals tend to do -- these idiots actually returned to the scene of their original crime -- right to our subdivision. The driver of the white car now drove to the end of the subdivision and was turning around, when Kenny quickly performed an overt maneuver -- he blocked them in. They were trapped! Now, I should probably remind you that just as they were trapped, we too were trapped by the second vehicle, which was a van. However, you will undoubtedly remember the feeling of the MAMA AND PAPA BEAR transition. Who knows? Maybe the boys in the van sensed it as they never emerged from the safety of their vehicle.

Kenny put the car in park and jumped out of the car with me right behind him (holding my coat closed with my left hand while snapping pictures with my right hand). Kenny was actually quite civil considering the circumstances. He asked the two teens in a powerful voice, "Why would you spend your night driving around destroying childrens' snowmen, what kind of a person does that? Is that what you consider fun? I want answers, boys!"

The driver acted as though he had no idea what Kenny was talking about and put on a pretty good front of innocence. I couldn't help but get involved at that point, and I'm usually not as reasonable as Kenny. "Look, idiots" I said, "I am making a formal citizen's arrest. I have your pictures, the make and model of your car, the license plate and I'm officially advising you to stay right where you are until the police arrive. I have a video motion camera on our house and you come through as clear as day. We've caught you red-handed. You were trespassing in our yard and vandalizing private property." I think I actually laughed a bit (admittedly it did sound a bit like a crazy laugh) as I asked them how stupid they were thinking they would actually get away with destroying OUR bear? Kenny was giving me an incredulous look of shock! His eyes asked the question, "WHO IS THIS WOMAN?"

Now the panic started to set in on the teen driver, and he raised his voice. He said, "Lady you're CRAZY! I'm getting out of here." I reminded him that we were waiting for the police -- that pesky little thing called "Citizens' Arrest". I was feeling so powerful that I had actually forgotten to call the police. Suddenly the teen bolted. He drove around our car (somewhat through a yard) and took off. The van quickly backed up and drove off behind the white car. (DEEP BREATH) It was over, and Kenny and I were actually quite happy to head home ourselves!

But not quite so fast, as we were driving the short block home, we saw that the van and the white car had both pulled over to the side of the road with their windows down. I asked Kenny to stop the car next to the van. He did so. I rolled down my window and asked them what they wanted. The driver of the van told me that he and his crew hadn't done anything and didn't want any trouble. I quickly snapped some pictures. "I have your license number, the make and model of this van and all of your pictures now -- don't ever let me see you in my neighborhood again. Do you understand?" I received affirmative nods, and they drove off and out of our subdivision. The white car remained on the side of the road.

We pulled up to the white car. I rolled down my window. The driver said, "OK -- what do we gotta do? I don't want the police involved."

"They're already involved, you stupid jerks! It's a little late for regrets..." I responded, but between you and me -- they weren't--I still hadn't taken the time to call them yet. Kenny put his hand on my arm and said to the boys in a very stern PAPA BEAR voice, "FIX MY BEAR!"

The boys conferred with one another briefly and consented. The two boys put the snowbear back together again while Kenny supervised. PAPA BEAR made sure that everything was put back exactly as it had been before the attack. It was enjoyable to watch the complete attitude adjustment in the boys -- "Where do you want me to put this, sir?" and "Is this okay, Mister?". When they were finished to Kenny's satisfaction, he told them to leave and never return to our subdivision.

They promised that they would never be back.

Today the temperature got to 55 degrees. Our bear melted. ((((((((((hugs))))))))))) ...the big BEAR kind!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

The Best Present of All - A Christmas POLAR BEAR ... Otherwise Known as, "BEWARE OF MAMA BEAR & PAPA BEAR " - Part One of Two Parts

2010-12-29T22:48:00.005-06:00

The Best Present of All -- A Christmas Polar Bear!

(This Photo is being used as my entry to GiveawayBlogs.com “ 2010 Holiday Photo Contest”, which I will be submitting to www.uprinting.com)

It is with pride that I gaze upon the polar bear in our front yard, street lights reflecting off his brilliant white fur (um "snow") with his joyful red scarf blowing in the wind. He's brought a surprising amount of joy into my life. I think it stemmed from the awareness that he was created by my family and me -- that for a couple of hours we played and planned together to bring him to life, lighting a candle in celebration of a birthday -- that was before "our babies" left later that day to go back to their homes, their jobs, their commitments.

and before the ATTACK!

As the sun falls on the bear's first day, I can almost see the fog in the air from his hot breath as he stares without a single blink upon my neighbor's homes. He diligently guards the neighborhood or perhaps he's simply hungry? (I laugh to myself).

That first night I thought I heard him growl, but being of sound mind (at least as of the writing of this post) I dismissed the sound as tinnitus (my newest complaint). I then heard the growl again, then laughter, then hooting (hooting? -- bears don't hoot!) and I just knew that SOMETHING WAS VERY WRONG!!! That wasn't just a growl -- that was the faulty muffler of a PREDATOR!

I ran to the bedroom window upstairs and looked down in horror as two hooligans used a badly executed version of a karate chop to knock my bear's head off. NO-O-O-O-O-O-O!! I saw a flash as my little polar cub's nose went flying. My senses became alive. It had been a while since this transition had occurred, but I certainly recognized it -- I was being transformed into MAMA BEAR. Mothers know the horror that can ensue when in MAMA BEAR MODE. Quite frankly, those hooligans had no chance -- the idiots!

I flew down the steps (while wearing husband's T-shirt and wool socks), screamed for PAPA BEAR as I threw on my long blue wool coat. PAPA BEAR is very hard of hearing, as you know, but he's as intuitive as any man has a right to be and knew that we were going to be on the chase -- he just didn't know who we were going to chase or what the chase would involve. "What is it, Jan? What's wrong?" he asked as he threw on his dark coat.

"It's the bear, Kenny -- IDIOTS have attacked the bear!" That's all my man had to hear, for although words had not been spoken to the effect, I later came to know that our polar bear meant just as much to my man as to me.

The Polar Bear Redemption had begun!...

Thanks so much for stopping by and please check back tomorrow for the conclusion of the "POLAR BEAR REDEMPTION...Otherwise Known as, "BEWARE OF MAMA BEAR AND PAPA BEAR"

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

WELCOME TO THE BOARDWALK BRAGFEST!

2010-12-27T19:59:00.001-06:00

Has it only been a week since the last Boardwalk Bragfest! In some ways it seems like so much has happened since then, yet from another perspective it feels like the blink of an eye. Since I know the calendar isn't telling tales, I'm happy to say that it is time again for another Boardwalk Bragfest!

Here are a few projects that jumped off the page at me last week! I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

Shiny and colorful holiday wreath from Anne of Calamity Anne's Adventures

Fun and rustic wooden stockings from Holly at No. 504 Main

Simple & Stunning Monogrammed R = Red Door Welcome by Traci at Living Learning

A Very Special Dessert Beverage by Maggie at ceo a's draiocht

So VERY Pretty Turquoise Vanity Makeover by Sue @ Uniquely Chic

Ladies, I am overwhelmed by the expertise and creativity you have shown through your projects and would be honored if you would display my featured button on your blog.

All featured blogs have two things in common:

1. They are followers of Bobbypin's Boardwalk blog

2. They displayed the Boardwalk Bragfest button on their post or front page of their blog on the day of the party!

Please do likewise, if you wish to participate in the Boardwalk Bragfest!

Hoping you had a "BEARY MERRY" Christmas!

2010-12-26T19:26:00.000-06:00

He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes... Psalm 147:16

2010-12-24T13:21:00.001-06:00

God stepped in this morning and added the final finishing touches to my outdoor Christmas decor.

There is truly no better designer than the Lord Himself!

I pray that God blesses each and every one of you as you celebrate and rejoice with Him in the birth of His Son, Jesus Christ!

NO FAIL $10 - $20 Last Minute (and easy to find) Gifts -- Now I'm Headed to the Store!

2010-12-23T18:44:00.002-06:00

CHOCOLATE WINE (Grocery Store)

CHOCOLATE (Department Stores and Walgreens)

WINE CORKSCREW (Target has a similar one for $7.99)

INSPIRATIONAL BOOK (Book Store, Department Stores, Walgreens)

WIRELESS MOUSE (Department Stores and Best Buy)

BEAUTIFUL SCARF (Department Stores & Walgreens)

PORTABLE BINOCULARS (Department Stores & Walgreens)

SWEET UMBRELLA (Department Store)

I-TUNES GIFT CARD

(Available at your local Walgreens)

HEATING PAD - (Department Store/Walmart/Walgreens)

(I recommend the type that automatically turns off after a period of time)

FANCY COFFEE OR TEA- (Department Store/Grocery Store)

MOVIE CERTIFICATE WITH POPCORN, CANDY & SODA

(Blockbuster and/or Grocery Store)

AS SEEN ON TV - Walgreens:

SMALL CLOCK (Department Store)/Walmart/Walgreens

LOTTERY TICKETS (Gas Station/Convenient Store

Wallet or Billfold

Organizer/Portfolio

Watch

I-Pod Case

Lotion/Shower Gel

Cosmetic Tote

Cosmetics in a Gift Package

Manicure/Pedicure Set

Portable Flashlight

Beautiful Journal with Pen

Magazine Subscription

Picture Frame

Hoodie or Sweatshirt

Driving Gloves

Work Gloves

Good Quality Paintbrush

Apron

Desk Lamp

Natural Bristle Hairbrush

Birdhouse or Bird Feeder

Hummingbird Feeder and Book on Hummingbirds

Tokens for Car Washes

Movie Tickets

When purchasing a gift for someone, it's always nice if you can buy them something that they would LOVE to have, but would NEVER buy for themselves -- a splurge. Quality is better than quantity. If purchasing chocolate, go for the Godiva -- now THAT's a sweet gift.

I've Become a Fan of "Become"

2010-12-22T11:04:00.000-06:00

You know that I'm a HUGE on-line shopper and am always looking for a bargain! I recently discovered Become.Com, and found some GREAT info! I loved their Top 10 Lists -- Top 10 Home Decor Ideas, Top 10 Gifts for an Aspiring Bartender, Top 10 White Elephant Gifts, etc., etc., I got some great ideas for last minute gift ideas, like for the person who has everything, buy them a lesson of some sort -- paint lessons, swimming lessons, DRIVING lessons (I'll save that story for another time, but know this -- in both cases the pedestrian was able to get up and WALK just fine -- not necessarily happy, but walking nevertheless).

I looked at my "Someday When... WISH List" (we all have one of those, don't we?) and did some investigating. Someday when I BECOME a master gardener, I will require a dump cart. Let's check out dump carts for sale. LOVE THIS. And during my master gardener phase I will also want a beautiful railing flower box. See how great this is? Oh -- and one final thing I will need...a battery operated pool surface skimmer (haha) because you know that I'll require a lovely natural soothing pond in which to take a cool dip. I wonder if I could use one of these in my goldfish pond?

I love finding these new sites and sharing them with you. One more thing I loved about Become.Com was their page of merchants who offer free shipping. I've bookmarked that page because being cheap like I am, paying shipping is something I try to avoid.

Check out Become.Com! I think you'll find all kinds of hints, tips, and scoops to help you with your on-line shopping.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Please see my disclosure policy.

WELCOME TO THE BOARDWALK BRAGFEST!

2010-12-20T20:06:00.003-06:00

EVERY TUESDAY! Last week we had some amazing projects. Thank you all for linking to the party. I would like to share a few of the links that just POPPED right out at me!

Patti from Pandora's Box shared this darling tassel and a TUTORIAL!
Thank you, Patti!

Barbara Jean from Treasures from the Heart shared her unique cloche with the clock face base.

Thank you, Barbara Jean!

Sharon from Elizabeth & Co shared her recipe for a festive sparkling cranberry punch.

Thank you, Sharon!

Kathy of 10 Minutes Each Day in an Unreasonable Manner shared some ideas from her Women's Cave.

Thank you, Kathy!

Theresa from Theresa's Tablet shared her art that earned her the title of December's Artist of the Month

Thank you, Theresa!

Diane from Welcome to Pittypat Paperie shared with us her decadent flavored butters

Thank you, Diane!

Caroline of Atelier Caroline shared her lovely ruffled and adorned Christmas Tree

Thank you, Caroline!

Ellen of Creative Passages shared her Baby Jesus ornament complete with a silver star!

Thank you, Ellen!

Congratulations ladies for providing inspiration! It would honor me if you would like to grab the button below and display it on your blog!

Please respect the following guidelines:
1. When linking, make sure you are a follower of Bobbypin's Boardwalk.2. Indicate on your link or front page of your blog that you are participating in this party.3. Visit other links. Perhaps you will find some new blogs to follow; and ask others to follow you in return. HAVE A GREAT TIME!

I JUST HAVE TO ASK......

2010-12-19T17:08:00.007-06:00

Does your family read your blog?

This is NOT my family because my family DOES NOT READ MY BLOG!

ok -- glad to get that off my chest....

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

This Just In -- Weather Warning for our Area in the Midwest !!!

2010-12-18T03:10:00.000-06:00

TWO MORE FEET OF SNOW!

Special thanks to my friend, She So!

BOOKMARKED ON THE BOARDWALK

2010-12-17T12:14:00.005-06:00

I have seven wonderful bookmarks to share with you today from my followers' blogs. Get your highlighter ready because I think you will want to bookmark these links too!

My friend, Anne, from Calamity Anne's Adventures taught me how to change my signature line to look fancy. See?

Ⓙaη @ ฿◎ßßƴ℘ḯη❝﹩ ℬ◎aґdẘαʟк ツ

Her post gives step-by-step instructions and I had a ton of fun playing with all the possibilities. I doubt my signature will ever be "normal" again! Thank you, Anne!

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My friend, Angela, from Free Spirit Haven shared her "visions" from a fun photo shoot courtesy of photofunia.com. Take a look at some of the fun she had

Check out her post to find more fun photos and inspiration! Thanks so much, Angela!

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My new friend, Debbie, from Threaded Together shared a wonderful Christmas picture AND the instructions on how we can recreate the same type of picture. Do you love it?

Visit her blog and you too can drive your family crazy snapping their pics while they gaze upon a piece of cardboard. I love those opportunities, don't you? Thanks so much, Debbie!

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My friend, Tammy, from Type A Decorating, shared some quick and classy picture frames.

I love frames that allow you to easily switch the pictures for the season or occasion! You'll want to visit her blog for the tutorial. Thanks so much, Tammy!

**************************************************************

My friend, Jennifer, from The Magic Brush, Inc., shared a wonderful fireplace makeover. This is the first fireplace renovation that my husband and I both agreed that we would like to do to our fireplace (that's no minor feat, folks). I love the look!

Visit Jennifer at her blog and get some tips on how you can recreate a similar look to your fireplace. Thanks so much, Jennifer!

**************************************************************

I was digging into Gay's blog, It's a Hodgepodge Life, looking at some of her older posts and discovered this wonderful tassel from a post she did in February of this year. I absolutely love it, and think these would make wonderful gifts!

Didn't it turn out great? Visit Gay's blog for links and inspiration. Thanks so much, Gay!

**************************************************************

My friend, Nancy, from This Old House in New Liberty, made an amazing balloon birthday wreath. WOW -- What a great way to set the mood for a birthday party!

Wouldn't this be a great Christmas wreath using red and green balloons to celebrate Baby Jesus' birthday? Visit Nancy's blog for her tutorial! Thanks, Nancy.

I hope you all enjoy these projects!

Ladies, I would be honored for you to display my special "Bookmarked on the Boardwalk" button. Please stop off HERE for the button HTML code.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Little Sneak Peak of Dining Room Projects

2010-12-16T13:17:00.002-06:00

Here is a sneak peak at a couple of my dining room projects. I've been enjoying "coloring" my drapes (and I don't even have to stay in the lines).

In addition to coloring with my black markers, I've been doing a little finger painting -- or at least the paint all ended up on my fingers!

And since I had white paint on hand, I just went ahead and gave the large gold mirror a quick coat!

These little changes are already making a substantial difference. I will continue to keep you appraised. Over and out!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Welcome to the Boardwalk Bragfest!

2010-12-13T19:02:00.004-06:00

Good evening all! Welcome to the Boardwalk Bragfest! What wonderful links from last week. I am excited to share with you the top three clicked on links!

Christmas in Connecticut by Conghaile Cottage

A Christmas Kitchen Reveal by Common Ground

Living Room Tour by Cottage Hill

Thank you, ladies, for submitting such wonderful and inspirational posts/projects. Feel free to grab my "featured" button! As I say each week, I love this button.

When linking to the Boardwalk Bragfest, you must be a follower of this blog and should display a link to the party (either on your post or on the front page of your blog) on the day of the party!

I Made Some Hats!

2010-12-12T17:18:00.009-06:00

As you know, Mom has been going through chemo therapy and, of course, the side effect is loss of hair (among other things). I was making Mom some hats to wear -- trying to make them stylish. She loved them and was wearing them out when we went to the bank or grocery store. She always got so many compliments on the hats, and that made her so happy. The wonderful thing was that she could use one hat and end up with LOTS of different looks!

I decided I would make up a few of them to see if they would sell in my Etsy shop. The hats are very unique in that you can interchange the crocheted flowers by simply slipping them over the button and fabric flower -- four looks in one hat! I asked my sweet niece, Rachel, if she would model them for me, and she did such a great job. I think she's a natural.

What do you think of my hats?

I have only made up three of them and am anxious to see how they go over. If I see an interest in them, I will quickly make up some more.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

HERE are the parties I love to visit and where I link my posts. I am happy to display the parties in which I am participating beneath my post on the day of the party.

Linking to the following parties on Thursday:

Get Your Craft On @ Life As Lori
Hook up with House of Hepworths
Fabric Fun Thursday @ Cheap Chic Home
Commercial Break Thursday Promote Yourself @ Suzy's Artsy Craftsy Sitcom

Shopping is now a "ZAP" (I mean "snap")

2010-12-12T10:19:00.003-06:00

I love doing my Christmas shopping on-line, but I'm pretty particularly about where I shop. I want dependable quality, great service, quick responses, and FREE SHIPPING; and when I find an on-line shop that fulfills those requirements, I like to pass it along. Zappos is that shop! Are you familiar with them? Their TV commercials are what grabbed me first. The commercials are absolutely charming and I looked forward to seeing them! Now that's a first -- congratulations to their great marketing staff. So that's how I found Zappos!

Zappos offers more than any brick and mortar store I've ever found. They offer refunds for an ENTIRE YEAR and FREE SHIPPING BOTH WAYS! They say it loud and clear right at the top of their pages. In fact, you can place your order with Zappos up until 1:00 p.m. December 23 and they will still guarantee FREE Christmas delivery. How is that possible? I'm starting to believe in Santa again!

Now I have someone in my family (I'm sure you can guess who) with a LOVE for all things Cole Haan, BUT she also has the tiniest little feet, size 5 1/2 -- No problem at Zappos. They have her size in a gazillion pairs of shoes and personally I am loving the Cole Haan yellow handbag (hint hint -- Kenny), but no worry, if the yellow one isn't your choice, they have a total of 85 handbags Cole Haan Handbags. It is simple to find the perfect size, style, color, price -- all at no risk. If it doesn't work, they will pay to have it shipped back to them.

Zappos is a rare gem and I keep them bookmarked under my favorite shops. I recommend that you check them out!

What's in that Big Pot?

2010-12-09T18:46:00.000-06:00

Can you guess what is in the big cooking pot?

The one that is steaming and looks very hot.

It's brown and it's making my home smell so sweet!

Do you think that it's actually something to eat?

It smells delicious, but it's nothing to eat or drink -- it's simply water with a couple teaspoons of cinnamon boiling and creating much needed humidity for my home! If it's cold where you live, then you should consider adding some steam to your house too! The humidity level in your home should typically be between 40 and 50%. You can buy inexpensive humidity gauges, but you will know if you need more humidity in your house. Low humidity will cause the following:

Chapped Lips
Dry and itchy skin
Dry nasal passages
Coughing and clearing of throat
Nose bleeds
Cracks in wood furniture and acoustic guitars
Wood baseboards will contract and pull away from each other
Static electricity in your clothing
Shocks when touching each other (that's actually kind of fun!)
Unhappy houseplants

Too much humidity can also cause problems like mold. This will often be found in bathrooms, so be sure to always run the exhaust fan during your shower or bath, and then for an additional ten minutes afterward.

Here are a few guidelines to follow when you decide to put some wonderful healing steam into your home.

When you water starts to boil, turn burner to "medium"...

Set your timer as a reminder to check on your pot of boiling water!

My oven fan does NOT exhaust outdoors, so I also turn on my fan to shoot the nice steam right out into the room. (If your fan DOES exhaust outdoors, you should skip this step.)

Proper humidity levels in your home also make your home feel warmer, so you could most likely turn down your thermostat a bit and save a few bucks.

That's my simple tip! Now I need to head out to the store to buy some more permanent markers! Enjoy your evening!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Could this Work or Am I Crazy?

2010-12-08T10:35:00.003-06:00

Sounds like a trick question, doesn't it? The preferable answer would be "yes" and "no" (haha). Here's what's happening. We painted the dining room (least favorite room in my house because it is not used and the furniture is not to my taste) a neutral color. It was previously a sage or olive green. These pictures show the new paint color. I like it just fine! (Keep in mind that things are still in disarray).

This new color leans toward a beige or a gray tone -- probably mostly beige. Well -- now I'm rethinking lots of things. If I keep the dining room furniture (which is not to my taste), it will need to be painted black (perhaps yellow?). The chande needs to be painted (black -- definitely black, or perhaps white). Vibrant wall art should be added (red or yellow with black, or maybe just white). Beautiful gold mirror probably needs to go elsewhere, but that is still up in the air (perhaps paint it?). I still don't like this room, although I know that with some tweeking I could probably live with it--not.

Now my previous window treatments were very nice and I think I can still use them. They are cream-colored drapes I had purchased at the goodwill, sewed a couple of panels together, added some trim and gold fabric and more trim. Well -- you can see here:

So in an effort to liven up that room a bit, I'm wondering --

Sometimes I just can't stop myself!

Would you do this? Let me rephrase that -- do you think I should do this? Do you think I already HAVE done it? In like -- she's really done it now (haha). I think I might be thinking that!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

It's That Time Again -- WELCOME TO THE BOARDWALK BRAGFEST!

2010-12-06T20:00:00.004-06:00

Will we see evergreens covered in snow?

Or beautiful wreaths tied with a big bow?

Perhaps it's a pie you baked for your friends.

Or a basket just full of great odds and ends.

Let's all visit each other -- a great game of tag

And during our visits, let's have fun and brag!

I'm happy to share with you the MOST CLICKED ON LINKS from last week's Boardwalk Bragfest, keeping in mind that to be featured, you must have displayed the Boardwalk Bragfest Link on your post on the day of the party and you must be a follower of Bobbypin's Boardwalk!

Beautiful Faux Mantle On Kim's "Stand-in" Piece by Cheap Chic Home

Sparkling Christmas China Cabinet by Lacy @ The Inspired Nest

Ultra-Unique Christmas Mantle by Decor 4 Poor

I know you will join me in congratulating these talented ladies for their wonderful projects. Ladies, Way to Go! Feel free to grab the featured button below. See the pretty lady in the button?

When linking to the Boardwalk Bragfest, you must be a follower of this blog and you must show a link to the party (either on your post or on the front page of your blog) on the day of the party!

Have fun! Visit others, follow and be followed....and definitely BRAG!

One of my All-time Favorite Projects - Frame a Frame

2010-12-05T20:07:00.025-06:00

I wanted to share with you one of my favorite projects. This project can be adapted to so many different themes or various decors. I got the idea years ago from Lynette Jennings -- (You don't have to admit if you remember her - haha.) I made this particular piece for my mother and while I was visiting her yesterday, I decided I would share it with you!

You will need the following:

Two frames of appropriate size, so that one fits inside the other. (I used a liquid gold leaf on my frames and then went over them with an antique medium so that some areas would be darker.) I wanted my frames to have the same finish, although it would not be necessary.
Two coordinating fabrics
A small unique "framable" item. I chose an unusual yard sale find (letter holder?) and also put touches of the liquid gold on that, as well.
Picture hanging brackets
Wire
Duct tape
Small decorative hook (whatever looks appropriate for your project)
Hot Glue
Nail for punching a hole

Using your larger frame, remove the cardboard insert (or if there is none, make one from a box). Apply the fabric over the cardboard, and insert it in the frame. Use duct tape to tape the fabric down in the back.

Now take your second frame and your second fabric and do the same.

Adhere your hook to the smaller frame, spacing it in such a way that your items will hang centered from the hook in the second frame. I stuck my hook in through the fabric and the cardboard, and then applied a glob of hot glue over the area that was sticking out in the back. This secured it nicely to the frame.

I then screwed in small round hooks into the top and bottom of the smaller frame (as seen in the picture above). I lined them up so that they would be centered inside the larger frame, and lightly marked the spots. Using a small nail I punched 2 small holes through the fabric and cardboard of the larger frame. I then took some wire and went through the hole of the hook attached to the small frame into the holes I had punched in the large frame and wrapped them around each other in order to secure the smaller frame to the front of the larger frame.

If your larger frame doesn't already have a bracket for hanging, you will want to add that, as well. Then just hook on your item to be framed from the small hook in the center, and hang it on the wall.

Think if the different themes you could use -- Velvets in shades of gray of silver, highlighting a beautiful piece of jewelry or collectible; bold stripes with bright florals, checks and ginghams for country decor, burlaps and drop clothes with various prints, highlighting a bird's nest. I can't believe I just got rid of a bunch of frames. I'm really inspiring myself -- I hope it's having the same effect on you (haha), cause I'm ready to create! Let me know if you have questions!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

HERE are the parties I love to visit and where I link my posts. I am happy to display the parties in which I am participating beneath my post on the day of the party.

Thank you, Ladies!

I Have a Confession.....

2010-12-04T00:36:00.001-06:00

I don't decorate for Christmas anymore -- at least not like I use to! It's a lot of work that I'm happy I no longer do. I would rather spend that time decorating my home with projects and decor that are up all year long -- not just for one month. I do set out a nativity set, very small and simple, as well as a few small primitive evergreen trees near the fireplace with a little white church that sits nestled among them. That's it! No more days spent with the multitude of ornaments, lights, bulbs, etc. on the 8-foot tree and a home where every light fixture, shelf, mantle, and rail is covered in some type of garland and bows. I guess that's why I enjoy looking at the beautiful Christmas decorations in blogland, yet I'm so glad it's not me doing it.

Tomorrow I will be continuing painting the interior of my home, trying to neutralize the various rooms that the kids have left behind. There are only so many guest rooms one home needs, so I have been looking at other uses for these empty bedrooms. My mom has always told me that her favorite room is her small back room. She has 2 small yet comfortable chairs, a TV on a corner TV stand, a small desk with her computer, a daybed for sneaking in a quick nap. It's almost like a little efficiency apartment within her home. That room is so cozy and sweet and it's where we have the best conversations. Do you think that's what they use to call the "morning room"?

So please continue sharing your Christmas decor. I love seeing it. I am enjoying making Christmas presents for family and friends and trying to think up new uses for rooms...oh -- I'm also cooking again!

A Country Collector's Home!

2010-12-02T11:53:00.005-06:00

Meet my lovely sister, Kim! (Kim, tell everyone "Hello").

See how nice she is! ...The prettiest smile and the best hostess!

Kim is a collector. She collects a lot of things -- dolls, chairs, holiday decor, bears, quilts, doilies, old toys, fire department "stuff", McDonald's toys, dice, matchbooks, etc., etc. If Kim like it, she generally buys it. I was at Kim's home on Thanksgiving, happened to have my camera, and realized that I would love to show you all of her unique items and her gift of display. Kim is very happy to share her home with you, and hopes you enjoy it! Isn't that right, Kim?

I always feel so loved when I visit with my family!

If you've ever wondered who is buying out your Etsy Stores, well that would be my sister, Kim. This is about half of the pictures I took of her home, and I am exhausted. I will show you some more next week! I hope you've enjoyed your tour so far. Say goodbye, Kim!

That's my neice dog, Mazy. You may remember when I babysat her HERE...."Fort Suitcase"! (haha) More of this Country Collector's Home next week!

Linking Kim's Country Collections to:

HERE are the parties I love to visit and where I link my posts. I am happy to display the parties in which I am participating beneath my post on the day of the party.

Saturday Night Special @ Funky Junk Interiors
Saturday Soiree @ A Little Lovely
A Few of My Favorite Things Saturday @ Bargain Hunting (and chatting) with Laurie
Weekend Wrap-Up Party @ Tatertots and Jello
Show N Tell @ Be Different...Act Normal
Style Feature Saturday @ Perfectly Imperfect

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

ARE YOU BUSY? ARE YOU A PERSON? DO YOU EAT?

2010-12-01T09:34:00.002-06:00

If you answered yes to these questions, then you NEED to meet my new friends at E-mealz.

I've told you many times that I don't like, actually that's a bit too mild -- that I "hate" to cook. I don't like to figure out what to eat (same old thing all the time), determine what I need to buy, run to the store several times a week to get the ingredients. Listen, I blog -- I don't have time for all of that! It's an endless battle for me, and I don't even eat very healthy. Imagine the work involved if I decided to eat like I should.

I believe all of that is about to change. I'm going to give E-mealz a try... Really, for $5 A MONTH, how can I go wrong? It's unbelievable what they offer. You have the option of choosing your grocery store, the type of menu items you want (by that I mean WW point values, vegetarian, carb diet, etc.) number of people for whom you are cooking. They give you the menu, the recipes, and the shopping list...Did I mention $5 for the month?

This could be my answer. Try it with me. (5 bucks???)

WELCOME TO THE BOARDWALK BRAGFEST!

2010-11-29T18:57:00.005-06:00

After a very busy week, it's so nice to be back to Monday evening preparing for the Boardwalk Bragfest. Before we begin the party, it's a privilege to share with you the top three links from last week. I encourage you to stop by their blogs and offer your congratulations!

Lovely Vintage Sheet Music Ornaments from My Shabby Chateau

Darling Holiday House Tutorial by The Art of Scrapbooking by Melissa Samuels

Unique Christmas Tree from The Wool Acorn

Ladies, please help yourself to my favorite button:

Please remember that in order to be recognized in the top three you must follow the guidelines of the party.

So -- a quick review:

1. Make sure that the project you are linking is your own "bragable"

2. Link to the actual URL of your project post, not the URL of your blog

3. Indicate your participation in the Boardwalk Bragfest either through using my button which is located at the top of this post or in writing on your post or on the home page. This should be displayed on the day of the party.

4. Be a follower on Bobbypin's Boardwalk via Google Friend Connect.

I also encourage you to visit one another, make new friends, follow and be followed!

CHANGE THE PERSONALITY OF YOUR ROOM WITH PAINT! Part Two - Choosing the Perfect Color for the Walls

2010-11-27T02:13:00.005-06:00

Ahhhh....the "perfect" color... that color which we can see so beautifully in our mind, but somehow can't manage to transfer to our hand when selecting the paint swatches. Having painted my dining rooms four times within one week in an effort to locate the perfect green, I would consider myself a bit of an expert in paint color...would that be an expert in choosing the wrong color or an expert in finally succeeding in choosing the right color? At this point it doesn't matter because I'm tired of green and it will repainted that room a soft shade of yellow (YELLOW???) very soon.

I've learned to mix my own paint from paint that I purchase and from what I have on hand whenever possible. I do it to achieve the "perfect" color AND to more easily eliminate left-over paint. This is one thing I don't do to save money. When considering the impact paint provides, paint is cheap. I keep quart-size containers (empty Taster's Choice Instant coffee containers) for the left-over paint that I mix. Should you require additional paint of the same color in the future, you can always bring a sample of the paint to any paint store and they will color-match it for you.

The paint I am mixing now is for two bedrooms and a bathroom, and then a darker version of the same paint color for the adjoining upstairs hallway. (I'm going to mix quite a bit of paint, so I'm using a 5-gallon bucket.) I want the end result to be a soft earthy gray. Although I love using color on the walls, I am also conscious of color continuity (the continuance of the same color mood). I had several shades of left-over beige and tan paints, as well as quarts of mistinted paints, including black -- all of them water-based, some were satin, some semi-gloss, some flat. As long as your paints are all water-based, it will mix fine. Do not use OLD paint.

After painting a few test spots of color on the walls, adding more black, then more tan, more test spots, the end result was a color I LOVE. More on that will be forthcoming.

If you purchase your paint from the store and are disappointed to find out that the color doesn't look as great as your had hoped, BRING IT BACK TO THE STORE!!! They will not give you a refund, but you don't want a refund. You want them to help you get a color that will work for you. Explain to the "paint person" that although this is the color you chose, it's not working. Ask them to help you. Tell them what you would like. I've done this several times. They are happy to help and can always add additional pigment to adjust the shade, even lighten the shade.

I would NEVER choose a vivid primary color as the wall color. I recommend that you use those colors for accents. I have found that the use of three secondary colors and one neutral (white or ivory) plus a dark brown or black never fail to create a harmonious color story in a room. You will have color distributed throughout your room in your furniture, window treatments, horizontal surfaces (tables, counter tops), floor covering, rugs, lamp shades, artwork, so the color you choose for your wall is for the sole purpose of making whatever sits in front of it look its best! There are very few occasions where you want the wall itself to be the focal point (other than focal walls).

A quick word about focal walls. If you've seen our master bedroom HERE or one of Cory's rooms HERE, you know I love focal walls! Just remember, you must consider them to be artwork. They will distract and draw your attention FIRST. Everything else in the room will be secondary. Is that your intention?

You want your rooms to look well designed, therefore, all must be considered, particularly for those who want the look of an "evolved" room (a room continually growing and changing personality). Take the time to refer to inspiration pictures, the color wheel, and the moods that are evoked from the use of color. Color is a fascinating subject; and the color wheel below is interesting because it also displays the seasons, moods, and traits evoked by color.

Test yourself based on the color chart:

What color would you like in your kitchen? Your Study? Your bathroom? Do you think the same moods are brought to surface through the use of these colors in a flower garden? Have you ever felt like the temperature actually changed when you walked into a soft blue room or a vivid orange or yellow room? What color room do you feel the happiest? The saddest? What about the popular "all white" rooms (that one has me intrigued).

Choose the color for your walls with care, but if you don't like the color, simply repaint it. Never live with a paint color that doesn't make you happy. Repainting a room is too easy to remain displeased with the existing paint color.

More to come on "Changing the personality of your room with paint."

Linking to: Tutorial Tuesdays @ Hope Studios

They Assigned me the Green Bean Casserole AGAIN!

2010-11-25T07:15:00.001-06:00

You know the family doesn't trust your cooking when they assign you the Green Bean Casserole three years in a row!

But this year I pulled a fast one on them -- Yes, I made the casserole, but I also made Calamity Anne's Deviled Eggs with HOT SAUCE...teehee (and I may have used more than her recommended two dashes--kind of lost count). My family is not typically a "hot sauce" kind of group. Should be fun! Thanks, Anne!

This is a picture of Anne's deviled eggs. Aren't they beautiful?

Eye-Catching Table Centerpiece

2010-11-24T02:16:00.003-06:00

DIY Ideas

Round up some medium-sized river rock. Wash. Then give a quick, haphazard spray with various metallic paint tones. I love it just the way it is, but you could add some sprigs of greenery and a few little Christmas baubles to make it more festive for the holidays or perhaps display in a glass vase or cloche. How would you display it?

Welcome to the Boardwalk Bragfest!

2010-11-22T19:09:00.003-06:00

Thank you all for your participation in the Boardwalk Bragfest last week. As I seem to tell you every week -- YOU are my inspiration. The number of clicked on links was impressive, and the statistics indicate that you should all have received many visitors. I hope you made new friends and followers! Please enjoy the top three links from last week's party.

Eye-Catching Vintage Book Wreath from House Revivals

Beautiful Kitchen Renovation by This Old House in New Liberty

Sparkling Apothecary Jars for Your Holiday Table by the Homesteading Apartment

A big congratulations to you, ladies! What wonderful projects. I'm proud to call you all "Boardwalkers", and here is our special button to commemorate your special day!

Now I'm very excited to have you link your "bragables" to the Boardwalk Bragfest. A few guidelines:

Make sure that the project you are linking is your own "bragable".
Link to the actual URL of your project, not the URL of your blog.
Indicate your participation in the Boardwalk Bragfest either through the button above or the party name on your post or on the home page. At the very least this should be displayed while the party is active.
Sign up to follower on Bobbypins Boardwalk via Google Friend Connect.
Visit, visit, visit. Know that all who link to the Bragfest are eager to meet you and greet new followers. Invite others to follow you in return. Just as you would reciprocate a party invitation, please follow blogger etiquette (or at least my version) and when invited to return the follow, please do so. You will be so happy you did.

Show me your wares!

Paint Pens Make it Easy

2010-11-21T22:31:00.003-06:00

Tonight I'm bookmarking my friend, Brendleca of Retropolitan, for the creative plates she has designed using the simple-to-use and often overlooked PAINT PEN. Take a look at a few of her pieces, then skedaddle over to her blog for all the details! I'm not trying to rush you off, but you will want to go visit her. You can stay here as long as you like, but then you must go check out this project in more detail.

I know these pictures just get those creative juices flowing, don't they? You'll find much more to inspire you at her blog Retropolitan. Mention my name, Bobbypin's Boardwalk, and she'll ...ummm.... hmmm - - well, actually nothing will happen, but it sounded like I might be onto something there, so I just went with it! Well -- you could try it. Just mention my name and see if anything at all happens (haha). Truly, don't expect anything from mentioning my name. That was just a joke.

Oh my gosh -- is this fate? I just saw her newest post and she's having a darling giveaway, so you will definitely want to stop by there to enter that as well! I love it when things just fall in place like this.

Congratulations, Brendleca, YOU'VE BEEN BOOKMARKED! Feel free to grab this one-of-a-kind special "Bookmarked on the Boardwalk" button. It's guaranteed to coordinate very nicely with any blog decor.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

(and don't forget about the Boardwalk Bragfest on TUESDAY)

Our Cross to Bear

2010-11-21T10:45:00.002-06:00

When we complain about the cross we must bear... we do not realize that it's preparing us for the dip in the road that God can see and we can't.

Whatever your cross, whatever your pain,
there will always be sunshine, after the rain....

Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall;
But God's always ready, to answer your call.....

He knows every heartache, sees every tear,
a word from His lips, can calm every fear...

Your sorrows may linger, throughout the whole night,
But suddenly vanish, with dawn's early light...

The Savior is waiting, somewhere above,
to give you His grace, and send you His love....

God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.

Thank you, SheSo!

Have a Blessed Sunday!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

CHANGE THE PERSONALITY OF YOUR ROOM WITH PAINT! Part One - The Popcorn Ceiling

2010-11-19T20:30:00.007-06:00

Nothing creates change like paint. It is vital to the mood and ambiance of a room, which in turn has a direct effect of the mood of the people who live there.

This is the room which I created for my son, Cory, when he was in his early teens. Let's call it an early "teen-cave". It featured painted faux stone, brick and mortar, with nail-head trim to accent each unique piece of stone.

I painted the roller shades with emblems from his favorite sports teams, and trimmed them with cuttings from cheerleader pom poms. I made the shelves and to cover the entire wall on one side of his room to help him stay organized. Nothing like shelves to help keep the clutter off the floor! I loved that room, but it was rather short lived. Cory had a mind of his own (darn it)!

So Cory enjoyed this room for about four or five years, and then he decided that he preferred a more modern/contemporary look. We purchased a modern bedroom set for him with beautiful dark wood and lots of straight lines. Of course one thing leads to another. Now we needed to paint the room again.

He starrted talking to me about painting his room a dark brown. I said that I didn't think that would work. I should have said a definite "NO" because one day I came home and he had painted his room a dark chocolate brown. WOW -- I LOVED IT! He had taken my "vintage" record albums and meticulously hung them on the wall with lots of little bitty nails. It was a fabulous look!

Well, then Cory went off to college, came back from college, and then moved out yet again, this time with some friends. So -- he hasn't really lived in this room for well over a year.

It was time to once again paint, and I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to share with you a tutorial on how I go about repainting a room. If you know how to paint, this will probably not be beneficial to you; however, if you want to start painting your own home, save lots of money by NOT hiring it done, then this tutorial should tell you everything you need to know. Let me know if you have any questions at all!

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THE CEILING

When I paint a room, I generally paint the ceiling, as well. It brightens up the room, and I like knowing that the entire room as been repainted, not just the walls. So, it would make sense to start at the top and work your way down. That means we start with the ceiling. So get your supplies together. You will need:

A tarp or other protective floor covering;
Ladder;
Patching plaster to repair any damage to the ceiling before you paint it;
A wet rag for the purpose of wiping up spills, etc.;
A roller and roller handle. I like the semi-rough 1/2" nap roller. Others will recommend a thicker nap on a popcorn ceiling, but that makes the roller a bit too heavy to handle in my opinion;
An extension pole on which to screw your roller handle;
A decent quality paint brush. It doesn't matter what size, just something you can easily manage;
A roller pan;
Ceiling paint, paint can opener, and paint stick. I ALWAYS use the Glidden ceiling paint. It goes on the ceiling "pink", but dries white. That way you know where you have painted. LOVE THAT!

Let's begin. Lay down you tarp. Open yous paint and stir it. Pour some into your paint pan.

Put your roller brush on the roller. Inspect your ceiling. Here is what you may see:

Amazing how a water stain gets on the ceiling, isn't it? There wasn't a leak! The other is a little nail popping through the popcorn ceiling. Take your fingernail and clean the area of the popcorn as shown below:

Open the plaster or spackling and use your finger to apply over the nail hole, as shown. It will dry within a few minutes and once you have painted your ceiling, you won't even notice it.

If you have a light fixture of ceiling fan in the room, that's where you want to start, simply to eliminate that obstacle first. Do not bother taping anything off. Climb your ladder and use your paint roller to roll your paint as close as possible to the fixture; then switch to your paint brush to finish it off. You WILL get paint on the fixture. When you get paint on the fixture, just use your wet rag to wipe the paint off. Clean the dust off your ceiling fan blades while you are up there.

Well done. Now that you have completed the most difficult part, hop off the ladder, and attach the extension pole to your roller handle.

Resume painting, but now you can stand on the ground because you have a VERY LONG HANDLE.

Some of the popcorn will come of onto your roller. That is to be expected...just ignore that!

Paint as far to the edges of the ceiling as you possibly can with your roller. Since you're going to paint your walls next, it doesn't matter if you get ceiling paint on the walls. After you have used your roller to apply the paint as far as you can on the ceiling, you will need to do your finish work with your brush.

Do not be concerned that some of the popcorn comes off on your brush. It just happens.

Now look down and see why it was so important to lay protective floor covering. Did I mention you should wear old clothing and shoes, as well?

You can go wash up now, but leave the tarp down because we're going to do the walls next! Say....in a day or so.

Jan

HERE are the parties I love to visit and where I link my posts. I am happy to display the parties in which I am participating beneath my post on the day of the party.

Here's Some Help to Organize AND USE Those Retail and Restaurant Coupons. SAVE BIG!

2010-11-18T08:39:00.010-06:00

Each day now I find more retail store and restaurant coupons in my mailbox and in my newspaper. These coupons are not nickle and dime pieces of paper. Some are worth $10, $20, and more. It is, however, so easy to misplace and forget about them, losing track of the expiration dates, etc. This year I'm going to try to take advantage of as much "savings" as possible.

I created an Excel document -- one for Store Coupons, like Kohls, Michaels, Etc.; and one for Restaurants like Culvers, Ruby Tuesdays, Houlihans, etc. I can quickly record the necessary information for the coupons. Here I typed the data directly to the spreadsheets after I created the documents, but I will be writing it in the future. I'll then cross it off, as I use that coupon. If it is close to the expiration date, I might find it helpful to highlight that line.

I cut my coupons out -- so much less fussy and messy, and put them on a small clipboard purchased from the dollar store.

Once I've put my coupons on the clipboard, I then put my Excel sheet clipped to the top for easy reference. This is just two days worth of coupons, so I have another back-up Excel sheet ready to go.

I KNOW this is going to be a big help for me. I've got a copy of each for you too! Just click on them and print!

I'm glad you stopped by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

HERE are the parties I love to visit and where I link my posts. I am happy to display the parties in which I am participating beneath my post on the day of the party.

BOARDWALK BRAGFEST & LAST WEEK'S TOP THREE LINKS

2010-11-15T18:19:00.002-06:00

Wonderful links last week. Thank you all for participating in the Boardwalk Bragfest. YOU are my inspiration. Please enjoy the top three links from last weeks party:

Decadent Bottle Brush Christmas Tree from Ms. Bingles Vintage Christmas

Fantabulous Footstool Makeover by Mamie Jane's

Eye-Catching Centerpieces and Vignettes by Cheap Chic Home

Congratulations, Ladies, for linking the top three projects from last week. There were a lot of clicks going on, and your projects brought in the most. Feel free to grab this button:

I am very anxious to see what you've been working on this week. Please visit other blogs who have linked their projects. You may wish to comment on their project, follow them, and invite them to follow you in return. This party is a great time to make new friends.

If you are linking to the Boardwalk Bragfest and are not yet a follower, please consider following my blog. It is not required to participate in the Bragfest, but it is a thoughtful and appreciated gesture.

Indicate on your post or the front page of your blog that you are participating in the Boardwalk Bragfest party so that others might see the party and play too!

Lovely Little Birds Nests Tutorial

2010-11-14T18:29:00.002-06:00

If you've been in blogland for any time at all, you have probably learned that when it comes to birds nests, the place to go is Treasures from the Heart, a blog by Barbara Jean. (I think she lets her hubby help out once in a while too.) This lovely lady knows the ins and outs of nesting and generously shares her know-how with fellow bloggers. Take a look at some of her darling items:

Bird Nest Tutorial

Mini Nest Tutorial

Bird & Nest in a Spoon

Nest Box

Barbara has lots of wonderful ideas on her blog. She has a gift for putting together timeless vignettes and is just a lovely person to know. Stop over at Treasures from the Heart and introduce yourself. She will be your friend FOREVER.

Thank you for sharing your talent, Barbara. I've bookmarked so many of your projects. Please feel free to grab a button from the link entitled "buttons" above -- it's a new button!

I'm glad you stopped by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

I Really Wanted a Rosted Marshmallow!

2010-11-13T20:10:00.002-06:00

In typing this, my first question is -- why is it called a "roasted" marshmallow? Why not "toasted marshmallow" or a "singed marshmallow", grilled, melted, scorched, or even "burnt"?

I didn't want to start a fire in the fireplace or outside in the fire pit just to cook a marshmallow, so I lit a candle.

I'm sure others have done this, but being an addicted blogger, I felt compelled to record the experience for my followers. Kenny laughs. He can't imagine that ANYONE would actually care that I wanted a marshmallow. I'm sure he's right, but I simply cannot help myself.

If my camera recorded sounds, you would hear the smoke detector at about this time. I think that if I hadn't been so busy taking pictures of my marshmallow, I would have realized that it was on fire. When you're behind the camera, everything takes on a different persona. It's as though you're an observer, not an actual participant. I probably should not be cooking and snapping pictures at the same time.

NO GOOD AT ALL. LET'S TRY A DIFFERENT APPROACH!

Good enough!

Now I have to tell you that Kenny just walked by and is literally falling in the chair laughing. He just saw that I filed this post under the label of "Food and Recipes". I did use the microwave, right?

Thank youfor stopping by on this "toasty" evening!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Treat yourself. Stop by and visit:

Scentsy's Wonderful Holiday Collection

Jewel Kade Jewelry -- Beautiful and Unique Pieces

Swagbucks - Earn Goodies by Using Swagbucks for Your On-Line Searches!

Boardwalk Bookmark - Amazing Floating Shelves

2010-11-13T08:02:00.001-06:00

What if I told you that these beautiful floating shelves were unbelievably simple to make from an inexpensive core door? Hard to believe, isn't it? I thought so too!

Aren't they fabulous? You'll realize just how ingenious this project is when you read the tutorial at A Penny Saved. Thank you for allowing me to "share your shelves", Britt! (That has a nice ring to it, doesn't it?) Feel free to grab the "Bookmarked on the Boardwalk" button from the link above, Britt, and congratulations on an amazing project!

Thank youfor stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Treat yourself. Stop by and visit:

Scentsy's Wonderful Holiday Collection

Jewel Kade Jewelry -- Beautiful and Unique Pieces

Swagbucks - Earn Goodies for Searching the Internet via Swagbucks!

Guest Poster Tutorial - Quick and Easy Holiday Placemats

2010-11-12T00:01:00.012-06:00

It is my pleasure to introduce Cindy from Cindy's Busy Mom Tips, Blogging Hints, and Work at Home Helper. Yes, that's three blogs -- each one completely unique from the other. I was so pleased when Cindy agreed to be my guest blogger for this week. (I'm still trying to figure out how she found the time.) So, today I will open the red velvet curtain for Cindy, who has put together a wonderful project for the holidays.

Hello everyone. My name is Cindy and I'd like to thank Jan for inviting me to be a guest on Bobbypins Boardwalk. I'm a native Floridian, a wife, mother to a 10 year old boy and 7 year old girl, a freelance writer and a blogger. I've been blogging for a little over a year and I love every minute of it. I have a BS degree in Management Information Systems so I decided to put it work and create a blog. It's something I've always wanted to do but never had the time.

In September of 2009, I started the blog Busy Mom's Tips. In fact, I loved blogging so much that I created two more blogs as well. When I'm not blogging or chauffeuring the kids to their activities, I enjoy working on home decorating projects. These are my favorite types of projects to create because I get to be thrifty and creative all at the same time.

The holidays are fast approaching and soon it will be time to decorate our homes. I enjoy the holidays as much as I enjoy making holiday crafts. Here is a quick and easy tutorial on how to sew your own holiday placemats.

Materials for 1 Placemat

28" x 14" piece of holiday print fabric

19" x 14" piece of batting

Coordinating thread

Straight pins

Sewing machine or needle

Scissors

Instructions

1. Fold the piece of 28" x 14" fabric in half with right sides together.

2. Place the 19" x 14" piece of batting on top of the folded fabric pinning in place.

3. Starting on the left, stitch the 14" side and the 19" side making sure to sew with the batting on the top. Leave the 14" side on the right open.

4. Using scissors, cut the corners of the sewn sides at an angle.

5. Turn right sides out.

6. Fold the open edge inside approximately 1" and pin into place.

7. Stitch to close.

Repeat the above process for however many placemats you would like to create. Have fun and happy sewing!

For more home decorating ideas, stop by Busy Mom's Tips. Busy Mom's Tips also provides useful tips to other busy moms on topics such as planning family vacations, saving money, home decorating, home organization, cleaning,product reviews, giveaways and meal planning. I thoroughly enjoy interacting with my readers and sharing with them useful tidbits I discover which creates more time for the important things in life - family.

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Cindy, thank you so much for sharing your placemat tutorial on Bobbypin's Boardwalk. Feel free to grab Bobbypin's Boardwalk "Feature Presentation" button in the left column. I love the placemats, and I'm imagining how festive they would look as part of my holiday table setting. Great project.

I would like to invite everyone to visit Cindy at her blogs. I actually first met Cindy through her Work at Home Helper blog. She shares multiple links, ideas, and suggestions on how to earn income from home. All of her blogs offer great insight into their various categories. I love a blog where I learn something that I didn't already know. See? I DO realize that I don't know it all -- at least not quite. I love following her and I invite you to do the same!

Thank youfor stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Treat yourself. Stop by and visit:

Scentsy's wonderful holiday collection

Jewel Kade Jewelry -- beautiful and unique pieces

Swagbucks

Also -- Did you know that it's much less expensive to use $1 hair conditioner in place of shaving cream for the purpose of shaving your legs? Try it! You'll be thrilled.

Time for a Boardwalk Bookmark!

2010-11-11T17:10:00.003-06:00

Suzanne from Meridian Road has blown me away with her amazing project. She took a beat up door and through her creativity and skill she created a beautiful trumeau mirror.

The transformation is amazing, particularly when I tell you that she "sprayed on" the mirror. You obviously must go take a look at her project! Thank you Suzanne from Meridian Road!

Thank youfor stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Treat yourself. Stop by and visit:

Scentsy's wonderful holiday collection

Jewel Kade Jewelry -- beautiful and unique pieces

Swagbucks

Sometime during the night....

2010-11-11T08:30:00.001-06:00

This situation should NEVER have occurred, and like so many others, my opinion of Amazon has dropped dramatically. They have finally determined the books to be trash and have treated them likewise ... OR... are they just doing what they have to do to maintain their customers? I hope they learned that everything is not okay.

Shame on You, Amazon.Com

2010-11-10T20:13:00.004-06:00

Why have you resorted to selling trash?

Why on earth would Amazon degrade themselves and their customers? I will do no further business with Amazon until this book is removed and I encourage others to do likewise. I have contacted Amazon through my account with them and have provided them a link to this post. Please post similar spots on your blog. Let's get the word out and get rid of this trash!

Here is a copy of the email I submitted to Amazon:

I have been a good customer, but will purchase nothing additional from you until you have removed the Kindle book, "A Child-Lover's Code of Conduct" from your inventory. This type of book is totally inappropriate and quite frankly, "SICK". Your association with this book raises serious questions about YOUR values.

I have posted my opinion about your providing this book on my blog. You can find it at www.bobbypinsboardwalk.com. I have also encouraged others to do likewise. I urge you to take swift action and remove this book from your inventory.

It will take more than my email. Please do likewise and then let's pray that Amazon quickly removes this book from its circulation.

We have a winner...

2010-11-10T15:23:00.004-06:00

I've been having way too much fun today over at Suzy's Artsy Craftsy Sitcom. I've seen my old friend, Tom Selleck and another dear friend, Bill. You may know him as William Shatner. Come on over and join us. It's a riot! Now where was I?

The winner of the $25 Scentsy giveaway is:

Counting down to the 25th comment brings us to:

Regan from A Day in the Life

CONGRATULATIONS REGAN!

WELCOME TO THE BOARDWALK BRAGFEST AND GIVEAWAY!

2010-11-08T20:41:00.007-06:00

LAST DAY TO ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE.

Welcome to the Boardwalk Bragfest. I'm so happy that you are here! Before we get started, I would like to share with you the five most popular links from last week's party.

NO COST PANTRY RENOVATION

Congratulations, Pam, from the DIY Design Fanatic

Quilled Paisley Monogram

Congratulations, Suzy, from Suzy's Artsy Craftsy Sitcom

(On a side note, I am looking forward to being Suzy's guest on her blog this Wednesday. Tom Selleck will be joining us.)

Freezer Paper French Decor Mini Pillows

Congratulations, Rachel, from Holy Craft

Anthropologie Acid Mirror

Congratulations, Mandi, from Vintage Revivals

Dresser Before & After Renovation

Congratulations, Krystal, from Krystal-Kreations

Aren't these projects amazing? Thanks you, ladies. I have a button for you right here:

A quick review... please indicate on your post or on the front page of your blog that you are linking to the Boardwalk Bragfest (via button or Blog Name).

If you enjoy visiting and reviewing all the creative links of the Boardwalk Bragfest, I would encourage you to follow Bobbypin's Boardwalk. This is not required, but would be very much appreciated. I will also return the "follow"!

Visit one another and I encourage you to leave comments. Comments are like boomerangs -- they will come right back to you! Just don't let them hit you in the head...(you may want to "turn off" comment moderation to make it easier for people to leave comments on your blog).

That's it! Now let's see what's been keeping you entertained this week!

BOOKMARKED ON THE BOARDWALK

2010-11-07T16:08:00.001-06:00

It was so difficult to limit my bookmarks to just seven this week! In fact, I think I may have to start up a separate blog for the purpose of keeping all my bookmarked projects in one safe spot. What if my computer just completely bites the dust some day? I would lose all my bookmarks. As I'm sure you would agree, bookmarks would be very difficult to replace.

Did you notice that I made a new button? That's how much I appreciate you. If you choose to display this button on your blog, I want it to be rather "cool", so that it is an asset to your blog...makes you look just as smart as you really are. I was playing off of the bookmarked "book". But I know you already knew that.

Here are the fabulous bookmarks for this week (in no particular order):

Beautiful Upscale Woven Paper Artwork

Created by Gail from Can's Stop Making Things

EXQUISITE "STORY OF OUR LIVES" MIXED MEDIA ALBUM

Created by Melissa from The Art of Scrapbooking

Darling Christmas Countdown Mini Album

Created by Jan from Papercraft Pleasures

Cuter than Cute Mini Decorate Pillows

Created by Rachel from Holy Craft

Simply Beautiful Christmas Decorations

Created by Theresa from 612 Riverside

Fun and Unique Painted End Table

Created by Laurie from House to Your Home

Fabulous Fall Wreath

Created by Peg's Sister Sal

See? I told you they were all great! Thank you so much, ladies, for sharing your creativity with us. You never cease to amaze and inspire! Please feel free to grab that new button up there!

Readers, if you have a great project that I have missed, please bring it to my attention! I have tried to make sure I follow all my followers, and go through my Google reader regularly to see what you are creating, but I'm sure I've missed some good projects/bookmarks. Don't hesitate to bring it to my attention!

Remember to enter the giveaway.

It's EASY (no back and forth ten times, I promise)...just 2 little comments!

CLICK HERE.

Thank youfor stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com

Guest Poster Tutorial. Easy and Beautiful Pine Cone Fire Starters...SOME CALL IT BRILLIANT!

2010-11-05T13:06:00.001-05:00

It's my pleasure to introduce you to Suzy from Suzy's Artsy Craftsy Sitcom. Her blog is so much fun, and I always learn something new when I visit her. Suzy has talent from head to toe and is full of creativity, personality, and charm. She also hangs out with the coolest people -- like my favorite, Tom Selleck (she will have to tell you more about that on her blog).

She has graciously agreed to share a new tutorial on my blog today, and I'm so excited. I've had a sneak peak at what she's going to teach us, and it's a wonderful project. I'm anxious to try it! So, without further ado I'm rolling out the read carpet... (this one is heavy)...

and -- Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeere's SUZY!

Hi! I'm Suzy and I'm so happy to be invited to guest on Bobbypins Boardwalk! I've always been kinda artsy craftsy. In fact I had plans to be an artist when I grew up. Unfortunately, life certainly can get in the way and art took a backseat to marriage, children and other such things that insisted they were more important. Kids are kinda demanding that way. Ha! So, a career in art was put aside.

But the artsy-craftsyness has always stayed a hobby.Now that the kids are grown, I have a bit more free time and decided to start a blog that not only incorporates my love of all things arts and crafts, but also my love of humor and story telling. You see, with my husband, three dogs, daughters and extended family, along with my weird anti-social ways, my life has become a sitcom. Hence the blog name.

As you most likely are already aware, Christmas is just around the corner. I don't know about you, but money is not growing on any of the trees in my lawn. So I plan on making thrifty home-made gifts for my friends and relatives this year. This tutorial is on how to make a beautiful pinecone firestarter gift basket for just pennies.

For this project I used:Assorted PineconesWaxCrayonsWax PaperBasketsPretty Kitchen TowelsArtificial pine greeneryDouble boiler (or two sauce pans)Wired Ribbon

The crayons are used for color, so choose what colors that you would like your pinecones to be and prepare the crayons by removing the paper. It will take 4-5 crayons per box of wax to achieve a good strong color. I chose to make red, green, blue and white pinecones.

Start by using your double boiler or in my case, I used two sauce pans inside each other. I put about 2" of water in the bottom sauce pan and added a box of wax (cut in smaller pieces) to the top pan along with the red crayons. Allow the water to boil, and stir the wax until it has melted.

Cover your workspace with wax paper. Remove the pan from the heat. Allow it to cool for a few moments, then begin dipping the pinecones in the pan, coating them with a layer of wax. I found that each pinecone will need several coats of wax and as the wax begins to cool in the pan, the coats will get thicker on your pinecones. I found that each box of wax would generally cover about 3 large pinecones and 4 smaller ones.

At some point, your wax will get too cool to coat them properly. Just reheat the wax and repeat. Being the crazy thrifty person I am, I actually scraped up all the cooled puddles of wax from the wax paper and reheated them in order to get as much as I could out of each box of wax.

Repeat this process for each color. Be sure to clean all your utensils carefully between each color change so as not to contaminate your new color. Remember that wax down the drain is not a good thing. In order to clean the utensils, I scraped as much as I could into the trash and then used hot water for any tiny bits left over.

The baskets, kitchen towels and artificial greenery were all purchased from the Dollar Store. I lined the baskets with the towels and then placed the pinecones in along with the greenery for decoration. I finished the basket by tying a wired ribbon bow to the handle along with a few sprigs of artificial greenery.

For gift giving, you can purchase clear bags to put your baskets in (also at the Dollar store) and tie with a bow. This makes an awesome gift. Suggestions for variations would include adding a scent to the wax or placing cinnamon sticks in the basket along with the pinecones.

If this project seems too time consuming for you. Please stop by my Etsy shop where I have several of these baskets for sale along with lots of other unique items that would make wonderful gifts.Also, please stop by and visit Suzy's Artsy Craftsy Sitcom. There is always something going on including lots of tutorials, link parties and crazy stories. On Wednesdays, my buddy Tom Selleck, his mustache, and I welcome a crafty guest star. And most likely chaos will ensue. But isn't that what life is all about?

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Thank you so much, Suzy. I love this project. These pinecones are so gorgeous. I am definitely going to try my hand at this. I invite you all to visit Suzy at her blog, Suzy's Artsy Craftsy Sitcom (don't you love that name?). She will welcome you with open arms. I follow Suzy's blog so that I don't miss a single one of her creative projects, and I recommend you do likewise.

If you would like to be a guest poster on my blog with a new tutorial to share with my readers, please contact me. It would be an honor to have you (and I have plenty of red carpet).

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Thank youfor stopping by!

Jan

bobbypinsboardwalk@yahoo.com