Evelyn and Rose

Spring Crafting - Butterflies and Flowers

2012-03-01T15:09:00.000-05:00

Yearning for sights of spring, I decided to make a butterfly garland for our dining room. I dug up an article from last spring's 'Romantic Country' magazine on how to create one. The article featured Tara of the blog http://www.blondiensc.typepad.com/. She made a gorgeous butterfly garland for her dress form.

I decided to make my garland with both vintage music paper and spring-themed fabrics.

The instructions are pretty easy. Simply find an image of a butterfly you like (scan google for free clip art), and cut out a bunch of butterflies from paper. If you want to use fabric like I did, iron some fusible interfacing to the back of the fabric, then cut out your butterflies. This helps the fabric stay stiff enough not to droop. You can fold your butterflies for dimension, then hot-glue to a length of ribbon. Simple!

The garland adds some interesting texture to this shutter I leaned in our dining room corner:

The butterfly colors blend in well here.

In a crafting mood, I also made more crepe paper peony flowers using Dear Lillie's tutorial you can find here. They're an unconventional baby blue, but what else would I have in this room?

More dashes of my favorite light blue:

Dreaming of spring, while here it is March 1st with snow on the ground!

Sharing with:
Show and Tell Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Air Your Laundry Friday

Adding Pops of Color to All White

2012-02-28T13:32:00.000-05:00

It's White Wednesday again! I haven't shown our living room for a while, so here it is today. After the calming all-white look in winter, I'm starting to add some pops of color.

The pillow and quilted throw have been borrowed from our daughter's room:

So has this heart ornament:

During our children's school vacation last week, we visited our local garden center to get a taste of spring. These purple hydrangeas came home with us, and I potted them for indoor enjoyment:

They liven up this corner desk in the room. I also added a bag (won from Karen's giveaway) with dried lavender hanging on the chair:

The garden store also had the prettiest begonia with soft pink flowers....

I couldn't part with the roses from Trader Joe's, so here they are hung to dry:

Instead of scattering old books about, I stacked and wrapped them in torn muslin:

Dried sprigs of lavender and hydrangea topped them off:

Hope you are enjoying adding pops of spring color to your home, too!

Lighter and Brighter

2012-02-21T13:56:00.000-05:00

The sun is shining brightly today and our dining room is splendidly reflecting all that light. This room gets the best light in the house.

The white tulips my dear husband got me for Valentine's day brightened up the room even more:

I love the new look of the light gray lower wall, which you can see closer in the background of this next photo. The sculptured paste wall stencil now has a more subtle effect, but still gives dimension:

It looks especially calming behind these pretty china pieces:

These pink roses from Trader Joe's are still going strong:

The corner hutch got a cleaning-out and now displays all the blue and white pieces I've collected, as well as our wedding china. Here it is, with the arched window glass door closed & opened:

Little details...

...and a reflection of the room in this vintage mirror:

This room is such a happy place to be, that I'm seriously considering turning it into a multi-purpose library/dining room. I am embarassed to admit that a gorgeous antique French daybed is being held captive in our dark basement. We never had any place to put it on our upper levels. It's been down there far too long, and needs to relish some daylight. Would it be crazy to line it up against a wall in here next to the dining table and use it as a reading area? Hmmmm...
I'll be sharing this bright room with White Wednesday, Feathered Nest Friday and Show and Tell Friday.

St. Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T16:51:00.000-05:00

Pink perfection added to the neutral whites here (sharing with White Wednesday). Such happy pinks, don't you agree? I hope you are enjoying your St. Valentine's day. I'm feeling incredibly blessed for the loves in my life - my dear husband, children, family and friends (including you!).

I'm sending special prayers out today for those I love who are struggling with illness, job loss and sadness. My dear college friends and I just spent the weekend in Vermont. A beloved spouse of one of these friends is living in the advanced stages of ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). The strength of the love in that family holds them together, day by day. I'd appreciate any prayers you could offer for Frank, Heidi and their two boys.
All I can think about today is the power of LOVE. It defies despair and has no end.
Thank you.

Flowers and a Beautiful Saint

2012-02-09T16:46:00.001-05:00

St. Valentine's day is the perfect time to celebrate LOVE. I can't help but add some romantic details in our dining room, and what is more romantic than pink roses?

The dining room did indeed get a new coat of paint under the chair-rail (as I hinted at in my last post). I used a mix of leftover paint, and am happy with the soft gray-ish result.

It contrasts better with the dark mahogany pieces. I'll show more of the wall later, but today I'm sharing all the little Valentine touches before the holiday has come & gone.

a simple request

And of course I had to display our St. Therese figure amongst all these roses.
Humble and lovely...

A gift tag from Rosemary, saved from last year:

Fun with papers & boxes, and another lavender heart sachet:

Hope you are all enjoying this romantic time. See you at:
Vintage Inspiration Friday (Vintage Valentine party!)
Feathered Nest Friday
Show and Tell Friday
Pink Saturday

Spring(?) Cleaning

2012-02-07T19:30:00.001-05:00

Is it only a week until Valentine's day? This winter is going by much faster than last year, considering what a mild season it has been. We've had very little snow and warmer temperatures. The spring-cleaning bug has hit me early. Lots of purging is going on (finally!), as well as making lists of zero-budget projects.
A girl can try.

The wintery decor is retiring, yet the simple whites still dominate...

Last summer's dried hydrangeas from our garden were re-discovered and I'm adding groups of them about:

The photo above shows the wall under our dining room chair-rail. We have a sculptured fleur-de-lis stencil there, but I'm no longer loving the antique gold glaze painted on it. I plan to cover it gray this week with paint we already have, crossing my fingers there will be enough (zero-budget means a magical mix of paints on hand).

Meanwhile, some small reminders of Valentine's day are taking form. A little bit of pink:

A vintage postcard:

Some hanging hearts to spread the love:

I hope to share the refreshed dining room with you soon. Wish me luck with my creative painting challenge.
In the meantime, I'll see you and a whole lot of inspiration over at White Wednesday this week.
Oh, and thank you so much for all your lovely comments on the previous post about my sweethearts. It's moments like those that I cherish. :)

Sweethearts

2012-01-31T10:57:00.000-05:00

I do have a new Etsy listing to share with you, but first...indulge me in a little story.
Last night our 6-yr old son and 4-yr old daughter were getting along splendidly (not always the case) and decided to be Valentines. Our son made paper Valentines for our girl, then serenaded her with the song "You are My Sunshine". She was beaming. I took a small video of the scene, not wanting it to end. Time refuses to stand still, but those moments make a lasting impression. I hope they'll remember.

Now..speaking of sweet hearts, here is a fabric heart envelope I designed to hold little love notes. It's got a hand-knit pink heart on the front and includes several Valentine cards.

I was excited to share this listing with you from the store, but it pales in comparison to these:

Sorry, not for sale :)

Sharing with White Wednesday and Pink Saturday this week.

Tarnish and Texture

2012-01-24T19:58:00.001-05:00

Along with yarn, I think the winter season is a great time to display tarnished silver and other interesting textures. I've been playing with various patinas and textures in our home lately.

Unpolished silver-plated bowls filled with creamy sola flowers on the dining room buffet...

I've kept the white faux fur from Christmas on this buffet, as it continues a warm wintery feel. Adding tarnished silver items provides subdued sheen. The Victorian candlesticks were a wedding gift and came from England. I used to polish them more often, but now I like their tarnished look.

An assortment of pleasing items on this old tray:

Can you believe these adorable little porcelain vases came from my local dollar store? 3 dollars worth of cheerfulness. I can't wait to put pink little flowers in them for Valentine's day & spring time.

On the table, here's an old mold showcasing paper doilies, a lovely heart made by dear Michelle, and perfectly vintage jewelry tins from Sandi's booth.

I've put floral vase pebbles under the mini-cloches in our living room. Their creamy and smooth texture enhances the serenity of the angel wings.

Often when I'm designing a new piece for my Etsy store, I'll create a 'practice' version. This way the products are home-tested (that's my rationale for keeping one for myself).
This pillow is a simpler version of one in the store now (which has a vintage monogram in the center):

Have you seen these amazing crowns from Katie's Rose Cottage? I just got this one and love it! It's sitting pretty next to a crepe paper flower I made using a tutorial over at Dear Lillie's blog.

Winter is the perfect time to showcase objects with texture & patina in our home. Whether from tarnished silver, fabrics, vintage pieces, pebbles, crafted items or paper - the visual appeal will last until spring's natural elements abound.

Sharing this post with
White Wednesday
Primp Your Stuff Wednesday
Vintage Inspiration Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Show and Tell Friday

Dreamy Vintage White Creations

2012-01-21T14:34:00.001-05:00

It is snowing outside today. Beautiful, glistening white snowflakes soften the land and trees. A perfect day to list some of my new white creations on Etsy.

A gathered round linen pillow, with soft floral cotton and a vintage monogram in the center is shown here with a coordinating lavender heart sachet:

More heart sachets...I just couldn't help myself so close to Valentine's Day:

sachet on right is SOLD (but I can make another one)

Much of the listings were designed using vintage trim and lace I found on this Flea Market adventure I wrote about. Here are pillows adorned with vintage trims:

This long linen table runner was edged with some of the beautifully aged trim. It would look just as lovely on a rustic farmhouse table outside as it would on an elegant holiday table.

I'll be sharing these winter creations with White Wednesday this coming week. Stay warm!

Yarn in View

2012-01-17T09:30:00.001-05:00

During the winter I like to surround myself with yarn. It's the best time to cozy up and knit or crochet. Just looking at the soft yarn and textures brings a comforting feeling.

My Santos doll is wearing her shawl. It's a remnant of an earlier crochet project ...

Yarn gathered on the living room desk...soft and pretty:

I've kept the fun fur yarn on this adorable bag from Sandi. It looks sweet with this vintage book from her:

The throw on this chair was a hand-crocheted gift from my Aunt when our son was born:

More yarn texture lies in the galvanized bucket. The pillow cover was made from an old knitted sweater:

With Valentine's day coming up, I've been working with some of this pink sparkly yarn (top right). It's got sequins in it! And isn't the vintage wrapping on the other pink yarn so cute?

Sharing these soft textures over at White Wednesday. I love to see all the winter whites over there!

Winter Bare

2012-01-10T14:04:00.000-05:00

There is a dusting of white snow on our ground and the trees are bare. Serene, peaceful. Inside the house our rooms are sharing that look - bare after the abundance of Christmas decor... and quiet.

I've added a white glittered banner to my arched window. Simple...

Some Christmas items have remained, blending in with the serene winter scene...

These horn ornaments on our mantel have a great vintage look to them:

And I just couldn't pack this lovely heart ornament away, found on the fabulous visit to Nesting.

Snowflakes inside and out...

Time passes quietly in the winter...

And I must share with you this incredible doll crown I won in a giveaway from Amy of Vintage Market Place. Thank you Amy! It blends perfectly in our daughter's room. Amy has such talent with her creations!

I'll be sharing these peaceful whites over at Kathleen's White Wednesday.
Enjoy a quiet and serene winter!

Out with the New, In with the Old

2012-01-03T15:55:00.001-05:00

Yes, you read that correctly. I'm starting 2012 with a fresh perspective on design. Although there is always a place for new treasures that will eventually become heirlooms, I'm going to seek out more of the old. Vintage finds are unique, time-worn, loved and carry a history with them that is irreplaceable.

Time flies...

...and lands softly in our memories:

Each vintage find is layered with stories to tell...

...yet we can create a new story for it in our world:

(love this vintage wallpaper!)

I'm looking forward to following new (old) paths in creativity and sharing it all with you in 2012.
Happy White Wednesday my friends! Don't forget I'm having a 25% off sale in my Etsy shop!

Happy New Year Sale!

2012-01-01T19:26:00.000-05:00

Dear friends, happy new year to you all! I hope your Christmas was glorious and you are looking forward to starting fresh in 2012.
We just spend a loooong day taking down our Christmas decorations and tree. I always feel a bit melancholy doing that, but it helped to take a break and walk outside with my little boy, hand in hand. I do not look forward to the day when he no longer reaches up for my hand. Alas, time must march on.

To celebrate 2012 and clear out inventory to make new items, I'm having a sale in my Etsy store. Use the coupon code NEWYEAR2012 to get 25% off everything!

I'll be back posting after a family wedding this weekend. In the meantime, I'm enjoying catching up on your lovely blogs.

Christmas Bedrooms

2011-12-20T09:52:00.001-05:00

Hello friends! Wow, this has been a lovely month of visiting your homes. I love decorating, but in particular at this time of year. It is just a small way to celebrate the joy of Advent.
To conclude the tour of our home, I thought I'd share our sweet daughter's room and the master bedroom. And thank you for sharing your homes, crafts and recipes with me!

Pink, feminine, ballet-inspired...our girl loves it here:

Handmade pillows just for her...

The shelf over her radiator is adorned with a sparkly tree and pink shiny brites:

Visions of sugarplums and dancing ballerinas in her head...

The master was kept simple. I just added greenery...

Organza fabric and vintage lace trim added a nice touch to the wreath on my favorite chair:

Bonne Nuit and Christmas dreams...

Sharing with the last White Wednesday before Christmas.
May you have a blessed and very Merry Christmas!

Cozy Christmas Kitchen

2011-12-15T12:04:00.001-05:00

Our kitchen is cozy this time of year. I'm not much of a chef (I'll admit), but like to bake. Especially at Christmas. The scent of Christmas surrounds this little room, where I've added greenery and touches of red.

Over at the window, the hanging basket gets greenery and silver ornaments:

Vintage postcards are displayed underneath:

On the table - this little green tree was a gift from a work colleague 20 years ago. I've always thought it was sweet - his Mom made it. :)

I made a few red ticking lavender sachet ornaments as gifts, and kept this cheerful Santa:

The area surrounding the sink was inspired by the November issue of Romantic Homes magazine. I adored the kitchen in Marie Johansson-Karlsson's home, and took my cues from it, gingerbread house and all:

I enlisted my dear husband to draw this festive horn on our chalkboard, heralding the good news:

Joining in at these spirited parties:
Vintage Inspiration Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Show and Tell Friday

Christmas Dining Room Tour

2011-12-12T17:41:00.000-05:00

Although I've shared sneak peeks of our dining room Christmas decor here and there in previous posts, we are now enjoying a completed room. Bring on the guests!
I love visiting other homes in blogland and seeing the beauty to mark the magical season, and it has been an honor for me to welcome you here...

Three simple trees stand atop the runner. I used paper doilies as tree skirts for two...

...and a linen ruffled tree skirt for the center tree:

For the tablecloth, a vintage sheet was used. It was a fortuitous find at the Flea Market, since it has a beautiful monogrammed 'F' :

Here is another view of the room from the entry way:

After making a gathered fabric heart wreath for my Etsy shop, I was inspired to make similar wreaths for Christmas. I put four circular ones on chairs, tied with blue ribbon & two festive jingle bells:

Golden angels on the chandelier with the built-in hutch behind. I love its' original arched window door:

Next to the hutch sits a humble kitchen chair. It's been dressed up with glittered decor:

Inside the built-in hutch...blue and white:

A view from another corner:

Some recent additions to the room...small but significant:

(vintage French prayer cards from the Nesting trip)

I'll be sharing this post with White Wednesday this week, and enjoying all the heavenly inspiration there.

Romantic Christmas Living Room...Part 2

2011-12-08T15:26:00.000-05:00

Having a holly, jolly Christmas here, and sharing more of our Christmas living room (see earlier post for Part 1)....

My daughter likes to hug this Santa, and no wonder - he's happily resided here each Christmas for many seasons:

A basket of Christmas style...the old clock face came from the Nesting trip with Petite Michelle Louise:

View from the far corner:

Some collections on the tables...

(this lovely old plate was also from Nesting)

O Christmas Tree...

Inspired by the latest Jeanne D'Arc Living, I wrapped some boxes in vintage wallpaper. My son thought Christmas had arrived, and I felt silly explaining to him that they were just for decoration. It just looked too empty under there!

Merry Christmas season to you all!

Sharing with:
Vintage Inspiration Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Show and Tell Friday

Christmas Giveaway Winner!

2011-12-07T22:47:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all who participated in my Christmas Giveaway. I used Random.org to find the winning #22, which is Jessie, from A Cozy Cottage in the City!

Congratulations, Jessie! I will be in touch with you to get your address.
Merry Christmas season everyone!

Romantic Christmas Living Room...Part 1

2011-12-06T16:28:00.001-05:00

It is cloudy today, but that didn't stop me from taking photos of our decorated living room. When children are at school and the house is quiet, one has to take advantage of the time no matter what the sun is doing.
So here is our romantically lit living room on a gray December day....and I'm finding it so very peaceful.

A reflection of the room:

This smaller tree holds white, silver and vintage-inspired ornaments:

Had to include one of my smaller lace angel wings....

...as well as a gorgeous script-stamped angel wing from Sandi at Wayside Treasures:

I couldn't resist adding some fun fur yarn to the trim of this white knitted stocking I made, hanging from the galvanized bucket:

More of the fireplace and mantel:

I got this lovely ornament at Nesting (see my previous post to see that gorgeous store).

The far corner...a simple balsam wreath on our old door:

I wanted to add a little 'pretty' to the room over at this console table:

Lovely gifts from another dear friend...I received this adorable book and burlap bag from Sandi of A Cottage Muse. I added more fun fur yarn around the lovely fabric rose on the bag.

This white tree was perfect for arranging some wallpaper ornaments. I made the round ones from new and vintage wallpaper, while the glittered-edge ornaments were from sweet Karen of A Shabby Moment In Time.

(wallpapered boxes underneath, too!)

The Santos doll gets a festive necklace of vintage garland:

These 'NOEL' ornaments I made last year blended in well on the flea market shelf:

We'll plan to spend some relaxing time in here all season...

I'll be sharing more of the room (in Part 2) later this week.
Don't forget to enter my Christmas Giveaway - it ends Wednesday night!
Sharing with these link parties:
White Wednesday
Feathered Nest Friday
Vintage Inspiration Friday
Show and Tell Friday

Update: December 12th - also joining in on Jennifer's fun holiday house tour party:

Nesting on Main

2011-12-06T14:05:00.000-05:00

Hello Christmas Elves! Some New England coverage here... Not only is Concord, Massachusetts the quintessential New England town, brimming in history, it is also the home to the gorgeous store "Nesting on Main".
My dear blogging friend Michelle, also friend to many of you, met me in downtown Concord on Sunday and watched my jaw drop as I entered this favorite store of hers. I think I grabbed her arm as my eyes popped.
I'll let these photos do the talking - they're perfect to share at White Wednesday this week.

(yes, that's a band playing music in the background - terrific!)

(just loved this display!)

And here are some touches of red...

(loved these Dresden ornaments, and Michelle got a crown!)

The owners Wendy and Melissa were the sweetest, and not surprisingly big fans of Michelle's work. Here they are with their staff member Sandy - they were all so welcoming (and wore tiaras for their Open House festivities - fun!).

(Wendy, Melissa, Sandy)

I had such fun with Michelle as always. She knew the nooks and crannies of the store, just where to find those treasures. And what a sweetheart! I loved spending time with her and meeting new friends.

(Michelle, me)

Alas, we were unable to attend the Wrentham Country Store open house that day as well. The New England Patriots had a football game that was sure to leave us stranded in nearby traffic - darn!
Be sure to visit Sandi's blog for the store coverage and her exciting news!

Green, White and Vintage Christmas

2011-12-02T10:49:00.000-05:00

Just adding some Jeanne D'Arc Living inspired touches to this corner of the dining room....

I like seeing the vintage sheet music from the Flea Market peeking out underneath...

More Shiny Brites...

These branches were trimmed from the bottom of our Christmas tree:

...which now presides in our living room:

We're loving the smell of the balsam tree and wreath:

I'll be adding more greenery to this room, and will share more later...

Joining in on the fun over at Vintage Inspiration Friday and Feathered Nest Friday.

I'll Have a Blue (and White) Christmas

2011-11-29T16:39:00.000-05:00

Have you been getting into the Christmas spirit? We are feeling jolly here, already setting up the tree and Christmas decorations. It takes a while to bedeck the whole house, but I take my time and enjoy it all, especially while listening to Christmas tunes.
For White Wednesday over at Kathleen's blog, I'm sharing the transformation in our dining room. Of course I must include my favorite light blue along with the vintage white & cream colors.

Vintage Shiny Brites on the bottom shelf of our hutch:

A full view of the hutch:

And closer...

I got these neat glittered pedestal and trophies at my local thrift store this past year:

A nod to Victorian Santas on this shelf:

I've had this reindeer for years, and decided to sew some faux fur around his neck this season:

The faux fur was mainly used on top of our mahogany buffet, along with the vintage 'trimmed' tree I posted about last week:

I've added a 'SNOW' banner, also purchased at the thrift store:

The vintage-inspired victorian star ornaments I made are now raised in the silver bowls, cushioned by faux snow:

I love these glitter reindeers picked up at the dollar store:

And here is a simple corner showcasing a Christmas village and white feather wreath:

I'll be sharing more of this room, as well as the living room in the coming days.

Don't forget to enter my Christmas Giveaway, which ends December 7th. Have a jolly season!

Christmas Giveaway

2011-11-28T16:49:00.001-05:00

The season is upon us - the most wonderful time of the year. I have enjoyed my first year of blogging and want to celebrate with you all. It was a big and scary step to hit 'publish' just last year, but it has allowed me to meet great new friends along the way.
To thank you, I'm offering a giveaway with these handmade gifts in Nordic/French style:

1) A hopsack linen stocking with a feminine boot and raw-edged cuff. I've also tied a white fabric bow to the stocking loop with white seam binding. A red ticking fleur-de-lys crest adorns the front:

2) A white burlap bag, cinched with vintage Belgium laundry ribbon, and hand-embroidered with a red star:

3) An 8" x 8" pillow made of cotton red toile:

And how about this for versatility? The pillow may also be transformed into a 'Present Pillow', much like those in my Etsy store collection. Simply remove the fabric bow from the stocking and tie it onto the pillow for this look:

The fabric bow could be used anywhere in your Christmas decor. It would look terrific on a green wreath or tree.

I do hope you enter for a chance to win and spread the word. This giveaway is open to all. Christmas is meant for giving!
For one chance to win, simply leave a comment on this post.
For a second chance, post about this giveaway on your blog or add a link from your sidebar (you can copy from my sidebar at top) and leave a separate comment letting me know.
I will choose a winner using random.org on Wednesday evening, December 7th.

Thank you for entering, and for being supportive friends this past year. Merry Christmas!

Etsy shop sale - now thru Monday

2011-11-24T20:12:00.000-05:00

Hello all! I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving day. I am very thankful for many blessings, including friends such as you. It has been a year since I began blogging, and have found so many new friendships with vintage souls.
I'm celebrating with a sale in my Etsy store and a giveaway to be announced next week.
Use coupon code CHRISTMAS11 to get 15% off at Evelyn and Rose.
Have a wonderful weekend!

Vintage 'Trim'ming the tree!

2011-11-22T16:44:00.000-05:00

Last week I had the pleasure of perusing the local outdoor flea market with Petite Michelle Louise. We had to get one more trip in before the season closes. What fun! Michelle is such a doll and a pro at finding just the right treasures. Her eyes light up and she beams when coming across something to delight.
Alas, we forgot to take photos of our trip, but I assure you Michelle looked adorable whereas I wandered around in my husband's fleece with my hair getting the 'wind' treatment. One vendor got a little too 'friendly' with Michelle, offering her the pretty girl price. I could chuckle as I stood safely yards away. :)
We both had a good laugh!
And look what was found....
Hand-knitted and crocheted soft appliques and a lovely white embroidered tablecloth:

An amazing stash of vintage lace trimmings that Michelle and I are splitting together:

And what to do with some of that gorgeous vintage trim? Why not showcase it in a sparkly silver tree?

I created these ornaments to blend in with the vintage tones...

I'm just starting to get the house ready for Christmas, beginning in the dining room (no hosting Thanksgiving this year!).
This ornament placed in the bowl was made by attaching pipe cleaners together in the shape of a star, then gluing vintage style tinsel garland to it. Next I simply taped a Victorian dresden paper angel image to the front:

Here's another easy project I recently did. I love the look of little drums in Christmas decor, so I purchased this wreath pick decoration at JoAnn's craft store. The drum top and bottom were a bit too shiny for my taste, so I glued on vintage music paper. Now it fits right into the vintage/sparkly tones in this room:

It was serendipitous to find some music with the word 'drummer' in the lyric, too!

Sharing with White Wednesday and Vintage Inspiration Friday. I hope you all have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Stay tuned for Etsy sale news and a Christmas giveaway!

Tour of Living Room

2011-11-15T15:19:00.000-05:00

Hello friends! I'm so excited to see all the creating going on in blogland. Since I've also been creating for my Etsy shop, I feel as though my home has been a bit neglected. But I've finally found time to put some finishing touches in our living room. Hope you enjoy this tour...there are a lot of photos!

The view upon entry:

I finally hung this flea market shelf I acquired in July, and have since painted:

The dried hydrangeas are still pretty:

Layering a flea market embroidered tablecloth on the couch adds some interesting texture:

A peak over the chair into the far corner:

Couldn't help but start adding some early Christmas sparkle on the desk:

I've never shown this before in a post - our media cabinet. It is on the left as you enter the room, and is quite large. I've had this for over 10 years, and have always loved the architecture of it. It is dark, but that offers a nice contrast with all the white (so I tell myself):

(subwoofer thing hidden by blanket underneath)

At the front of the room near the doorway you'll find a favorite shelf and old barn window:

Closer look...

Moving along...turning right upon entry is the fireplace wall. Yes, the bricks are quite red. No, I'm not allowed to paint them white:

An original door from our house was brought up from the basement and leaned here. I can't wait to put a Christmas wreath on it:

The heart displayed at top is available in my Etsy store, crafted from vintage French book pages:

The white buffet...

My dear flea market Blessed Mother statue is now wearing white Rosary beads I received as a child:

Lastly...the mantel:

Hope you enjoyed the tour. Let me just be real for a minute - in order to obtain the above photos...magic marker 'art' was cleaned off wall, crumbs were vacuumed, tons of books/magazines were 'hidden', toy kitchen was brought out of room, and miscellaneous toys were all temporarily removed.

This somewhat pristine view above lasted for about an hour. :)

Sharing with these parties:

White Wednesday

French Inspiration Thursday

Feathered Nest Friday

Vintage Inspiration Friday

Show and Tell Friday

Just listed - Nordic style stockings

2011-11-14T12:27:00.000-05:00

For your French and Nordic inspired home...Merry Christmas!
Find these in my Etsy shop:

Jeanne D'Arc Living style ornaments - now on my Etsy!

2011-11-08T14:11:00.000-05:00

Hello vintage white enthusiasts! It's that time of week again - White Wednesday over at Kathleen's Faded Charm blog. I've been busy listing some new Christmas ornaments in my Etsy shop.

I can't resist the appeal of victorian cherubs nestled in white tissue...inspired by the lovely Jeanne D'Arc Living magazine. I've also been able to use vintage tinsel and die-cut dresden stars and crowns to embellish them with.

I had fun using some recent Flea Market finds on the ornaments - this friendly angel...

...and pages from a vintage music book:

I like that I'm not the only one planning for Christmas...there's plenty of you at White Wednesday!

Send in the Crowns!

2011-11-04T17:17:00.000-04:00

Such was the whimsical name of fabric I purchased a few months ago. These sparkling gold, silver and turquoise crown fabrics have inspired Christmas stockings and ornaments - now available in my Etsy store!

The stockings have been edged in hand-crocheted crown picot trim - of course!

I'll be listing some Jeanne D'Arc Living inspired ornaments soon as well...thanks for peeking!

Fall Whites Around the Home

2011-11-01T15:43:00.000-04:00

Happy November friends! I can't believe we've already had some white snow on the ground over the weekend. Instead of showing you that premature uninvited white stuff for White Wednesday, here are some whites from inside our home.

(I love Rachel Ashwell's new book!)

The Santos doll has been dressed for fall:

White throws are kept nearby as the weather gets colder:

Flea Market bottles on the mantel:

It wouldn't be fall without pinecones:

Old man winter is sneaking up on us....and then, Christmas! My favorite time of year. Stay tuned for new Christmas listings at my Etsy store. Have a great week!

Where I'm Creating

2011-10-25T13:55:00.000-04:00

There's a tiny little space in our master bedroom where I create. It's not much, but gives me such peace and pleasure. Nooks and crannies hold delights and works in progress...

An old shutter holds items listed in my Etsy store or on their way there soon...

It's not too early to be creating for Christmas decor. This year I'm making Jeanne D'Arc Living style ornaments - white, vintage, with a touch of sparkle.

Our bedroom door holds handmade stockings:

(the red striped ones will definitely be on Etsy)

I thought I'd spruce up the miniature trees I altered last year, by making them ruffled tree skirts:

So much fun awaits when I open these doors of the wardrobe...

...to see my inspiration board and the stash inside waiting to be transformed.

It doesn't hurt to have glitter over my head as I dream...

Now I'll be headed to White Wednesday to take in all the heavenly whites...I'm sure many of you are happily creating, too!
Also sharing with Show and Tell Friday.

My Glamorous Friend

2011-10-21T17:41:00.000-04:00

Do you have one of those friends who is the most glamorous girl in the room? Maybe you are her!
I've always been in awe of my friend Maria's style. She puts on an outfit and it is truly an ensemble. I want to run home and change my clothes or at least put on a necklace! My style is simple, but Maria takes hers to such a beautiful level, without being over the top.

I have to share her with you because she's recently begun blogging. My dear, fashionista friend Maria, whom I've known for 20+ years, is sharing her thoughts on bridal style with you. You'll love to visit her at Pink French Bride.

Maria worked at Boston's one and only 'Priscilla' bridal boutique back in the day, and has always loved working with brides for their special day. Now she is located in Naples, Florida and has a bridal accessory business called 'POP! Jewels'.

I'm blessed to see Maria about once a year, when 8 of us college friends reunite and act as though we saw each other yesterday. Time has passed, our lives have brought many adventures, joys and sadness, but we feel like 20 again in each other's presence.

(doesn't she look 20?)

Every time I see Maria, I get encouraged to go home and add some sparkle to my wardrobe or add a bold color or two. I'm inspired, and I know she'll inspire you, too. She is a treasured friend of mine with a heart of gold.
I think I'll introduce her to the gals at Pink Saturday!

Dining with Decay

2011-10-18T13:47:00.000-04:00

Something strange and quite unsettling is going on in our dining room...

Some uninvited guests have refused to leave...

Bats have taken shelter in a tree by a graveyard...

...while my pretty cabinet shelves have been intruded upon.

Things are looking grim...

It's unclear who had a hand in this transformation...

...and this guy isn't talking...

oh...the decay!

I do believe two little children may have helped, and perhaps their Mom did need to add that one sparkling touch...

Hope you're having a spooktacular time decorating for Halloween...I know we are!
Sharing with White Wednesday. BOO!

Fall Flea Market Finds

2011-10-11T13:34:00.000-04:00

What a glorious fall weekend we just had here. I was able to hit the local flea market with my Mom, which was a nice treat. She behaved and didn't buy a thing, whereas I....well...here you are:

How could I resist this serene, beautiful, patina-ed, breathtaking garden statue of our Blessed Mother...

She was my last find of the day and by far the favorite.

I was on the hunt for vintage white linens, and the search paid off. The embroidery and crochet edgings on these various pieces really caught my eye:

It's never too early to shop for vintage Christmas! These were all found at the Flea:

Simply darling:

Love this old white bottlebrush tree, and the vintage mother of pearl buttons:

Speaking of Christmas, I've been busy covering some mini boxes with vintage wallpaper and ephemera. They'll get ribbons to hang as ornaments. Hmmmm...to keep or sell on Etsy. Tough decision!

(quite the juxtaposition - little tree with towering gifts)

Sharing these treasures with Kathleen's White Wednesday, Debra's Vintage Inspiration Friday, Cindy's Show and Tell Friday, and Courtney's Feathered Nest Friday.

The Winner is...

2011-10-09T20:46:00.000-04:00

...Abby from Abby's Paperie Garden! Congratulations Abby! I used random.org to choose a number, and hers was the lucky #9.

Thanks to all of you who participated. I will definitely have another giveaway near Christmas with some holiday creations. It is so much fun!
Abby - the pillow, fabric heart and book will be headed your way soon. I'll touch base to get your address.
Have a great week everyone!
- Susan

Fall Dining Room

2011-10-06T16:08:00.000-04:00

Hello friends! Boy, was it cool this morning. Fall is in the air and in my dining room...

My sea-shell mirror has been 'dramatized' with vintage music book pages. I simply glued the pages to a paper plate and lightly taped it to the back of the mirror for a temporary look:

The pages came from this book, a find from last week's White Elephant shopping expedition:

I also used the pages in these frames:

The fall buffet:

A banner reminds us of God's blessings:

The fall table:

I was glad my daughter recognized this knitted piece as an acorn, despite the soft colors I used:

A simply way to decorate this corner:

Don't forget to enter my giveaway - it ends this Sunday evening.

I'll be linking with Show and Tell Friday, Vintage Inspiration Friday, and Feathered Nest Friday this week.

Hope you are enjoying your fall!

White Arched Window

2011-10-04T16:16:00.002-04:00

I was driving home last week from Michael's craft store after purchasing the fabulous autumn Somerset Life issue with Petite Michelle Louise's feature (on the cover!). Already feeling giddy, I stumbled upon this fabulous arched old window from my neighbor's curb! What!!!!! You can't imagine how fast I parked my car and scooted over there to take a look.

Of course I promptly cleaned it up and put it on display. The lace angel wings and white fabric heart (also listed in my Etsy store) were gently placed against the window. The two frames nearby were originally located in the master bedroom (and were brown), but I moved them here with their recent coat of Heirloom White spray paint. I've heard rave reviews about the paint from Donna's blog.

Can you believe the varied colors in these hydrangeas? They were some late bloomers from our bushes outside:

I thought this crinkled seam binding blended right in with the flowers:

Another find at Michael's crafts were these mini pocket watch faces. I got the idea to transform them from Mikey's blog 'Shabby French Cottage'. See his post here to learn how.

Lastly, here are some new pillows I'll be adding to my Etsy store. Vintage Belgium ribbon is sewn to the front of each pillow, with a hand-embroidered matching number in the center.

There's still time to enter my giveaway!
Sharing all these whites with Kathleen's White Wednesday party. Thanks Kathleen!
Also sharing with Feathered Nest Friday and Vintage Inspiration Friday.

Evelyn and Rose Giveaway!

2011-10-02T15:11:00.001-04:00

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED - THANK YOU!

To celebrate the opening of my Etsy store last week, I'm hosting a giveaway! Thank you for all your support during this exciting time.

The winner of the giveaway will receive:

A unique pillow from my 'Present Pillow' collection. This 8" x 8" pillow is sewn from hopsack linen and stuffed with non-allergenic polyester fiberfill. It is wrapped like a present, with a nautical-inspired fabric bow with 'shield', and pretty crinkled white seam binding as ribbon.
A wire heart with gathered white linen/cotton fabric. I saw similar ones in JoAnne Coletti's latest book 'The Feminine Home, Where the Heart Is' and had to make some.
Christina Strutt's book 'Cabbages and Roses Vintage Chic'. This book was originally published in 2003 as 'Country Living Decorating Vintage Style' and I have pored over my copy ever since. It has timeless, vintage appeal.

Similar handmade items are available in my Etsy store Evelyn and Rose.

For one chance to win, you simply need to leave a comment on this giveaway post.
For a second chance to win, feel free to post about this giveaway or add my giveaway button (see my sidebar) to your blog with a link back here. Then leave me an additional comment on this post letting me know you did.

That's it! I hope one of you will enjoy receiving these gifts as much as I enjoyed selecting & making them. The winner will be drawn next Sunday evening, October 9th.
Thank you, Susan

White Elephant Hunt with Petite Michelle Louise!

2011-09-27T15:57:00.000-04:00

What a weekend! I went on a White Elephant hunt with a great friend. Vivacious Michelle, from the Petite Michelle Louise blog joined me on a trip to the White Elephant shop in Essex, MA. We laughed, talked endlessly, and shopped through dust and rust to find amazing bargains.
I wish I had taken photos of Michelle's astounded face at the very friendly prices to be found. Here we are, picking through the loot at the outlet store:

(me on left, cute Michelle on right)

We called ourselves the Picker Sisters after a TV show by that name. I haven't seen it, but Michelle joked that we were doing what they do. :)

(look at Michelle's stylish Paris bag - she looked so chic!)

(perfect for White Wednesday, no?)

We spent time shopping at the '1/2 off' outlet and regular store down the road, and seriously could have spent all day. I loved watching Michelle's mind work as she thought up ideas for creations she could make with various treasures. Many of your names came up: "Amy would love this...wouldn't Rhonda love these?...Melinda would get this door...Sandi would get this rustic bucket". Isn't is great how through your blogs we really do get a sense of your taste? And of course we have to share this with Kathleen's White Wednesday party.
Here's what I brought home. First, this great old wooden ladder:

($10 - yes! There's 3 more there...hurry!)

I also found the cool flour sack there - in my palette! It hangs next to this amazing enamel bucket that Michelle brought me. She thought it would fit my farmhouse-style kitchen more than it did hers. Isn't she thoughtful? And of course she embellished it with one of her amazing signature-styled tags.

I cleaned up this old top of a baluster/fence post(?) for our mantel and got a neat old music book for a future project:

Keep your eye out for the autumn issue of Somerset Life, on news-stands soon. Michelle's doorknob inspiration holders are on the cover and she's got an article inside! Congratulations Michelle! Visit her blog to see what she brought home from the White Elephant.

And thanks to all of you offering well wishes on the opening of my Etsy store. Stay tuned for a giveaway soon...

ETSY shop is open!

2011-09-25T15:00:00.000-04:00

Hello there! I'm happy to share the news that my Etsy store is open for business. You can find it at:
www.etsy.com/shop/EvelynAndRose

Thanks to all of your support and encouragement, it is finally a reality.
I hope you get a minute to stop by. Here are some items listed:

The 'Present Pillow Collection'

More pretty pillows

Jeanne D'Arc inspired angel wings

fall wreath

And stay tuned this week to hear about a fun shopping excursion I had yesterday with Petite Michelle Louise!

Living Room Fireplace and Etsy Shop News

2011-09-20T17:29:00.000-04:00

Hello friends! I was so honored to be featured in last week's White Wednesday link party - thank you Kathleen! It is my favorite place to seek out dreamy white inspiration each week.
For this week's party, I thought I'd share a view of our living room fireplace, with some fall changes surrounding it.

We had an abundance of hydrangea blooms this year from our 5 bushes, so now I've been drying them. I love how they fill this white basket (from sweet Karen of A Shabby Moment in Time).

I made two pillow covers out of a vintage grain sack, and placed them on my transformed white chairs for a fall look. I'm not crazy about the dark red brick on our fireplace (that's for another post), but now I love how these all-white chairs balance it out:

On the shutter (also from Karen) hangs a small angel wings ornament I made. It is a miniature version of the wings I made in this post.

Both sizes of angel wings will be available in my Etsy shop opening soon (hopefully within a few days)!
In addition to these, I will be introducing the Evelyn and Rose 'Present Pillow Collection'. These are pillows uniquely wrapped like presents, with fabric bows and seam binding ribbon...

I will also be listing vintage white towels, available for custom monogramming, inspired by the Jeanne D'Arc Living style...

Stay tuned for the shop opening news and enticing giveaways to come...

Special Memories and Fall Decorating

2011-09-13T09:27:00.000-04:00

I've been thinking about.....our wedding day.

My husband and I were married 8 years ago today, September 13th. We first met at the church where we married - St. Patrick's. I was walking home from Mass, and he introduced himself as he walked to his car nearby. He was the man I had been waiting a long time to meet.

God brought us together, we are sure of that.

Each September I take out our wedding album and keepsakes, and we remember and celebrate.
Our invitation and unity candles are on display:

Our honeymoon in Paris is a cherished memory:

It is a special time of year for us.
As I start to change out summer decor for fall colors, I am reminded of how many seasons we've shared and I look forward to each coming season.

Here are some dining room updates I thought I'd share at White Wednesday this week. It's good to be back after a little blog break!
Dining room cupboard:

(see this post on how the pumpkins were crafted)

Introducing more dark brown into the room...

I'll share more as the rooms change. And I'll be sure to share some New England fall foliage with you all!

The Feminine (White) Home

2011-08-30T13:51:00.000-04:00

Hello friends! Thankfully Irene came and went without much damage here. We lost power for 12 hours, but that was the worst we encountered. Our hearts go out to those that experienced much worse devastation. Nature can astound and remind us what is truly important in our lives.
Our children start school this week, and I will be focusing on getting them ready. But I did want to do a quick post about the fabulous book I recently purchased from Jo-Anne Coletti called 'The Feminine Home - Where the Heart Is". It is gorgeous!!
Take a peek:

What a lovely assortment of homes to discover inside its' pages. All in the white, dreamy, Jeanne D'Arc Living style and accompanied by enchanting stories and quotations. You can order a book here at Jo-Anne's website. She is also having a giveaway for a signed copy of the book, ending 8/31. So hurry!

Still in the 'white' frame of mind, here are a few whites from our living room...

Sharing with Kathleen's White Wednesday. See you in September!

Seasonal Transition

2011-08-23T15:02:00.000-04:00

Summer's warm and sea-breezed days are getting fewer, but we're making the most of them here. Our children start school next week, so I'm also thinking of fall and the crisp autumn days ahead. The house is in transition, not to mention a bit untidy from full days with active children. I hope to post some full room shots of autumn decor in the weeks ahead.
In the meantime, here is a quick fall project I worked on today. These craft store pumpkins got painted with white gesso. I've been trying out gesso after seeing all the amazing projects Rosemary creates with it on her blog.

hydrangeas in transition, too...

After gesso-ing the pumpkins, I 'painted' glue in the top creases with a toothpick and sprinkled with clear glitter.

Here is a before pic of the pumpkin from the craft store. It was a bit too cream-colored and smooth for me:

Some lingering touches of summer still brighten the day...

I've also been busy designing and creating some handmade goods for my soon-to-open Etsy store! I'll be focusing on what I love to work with - fabrics. Inspiration surrounds me...

The pretty and the rustic combined...

Of course I'll share the store news with you as soon as it opens, which will hopefully be next month.
Until then, enjoy this transitional time full of opportunities!
Sharing this post with Kathleen's White Wednesday and Cindy's Show and Tell Friday.

Enchanted Garden

2011-08-16T13:44:00.000-04:00

We are fortunate to live so near the ocean and this fabulous city park located on the coast. It has a gorgeous garden to explore.

But beware....

My fellas decided to go ahead in and be cast by the garden spell:

Our daughter enjoyed the view from above:

To the right the garden is open to this glorious view...

..and to the left are many secret hiding places. This is a popular place to play hide-and-seek...

... or to sit a spell on this stone white bench...

...but the lions keeping watch always know where to find you!

Sharing these white stone beauties over at Kathleen's White Wednesday.
Wish you could all come visit and be enchanted!

White Chair Makeover

2011-08-09T14:52:00.000-04:00

It's White Wednesday again already, so here I am linking up with a chair makeover. Recently I mentioned the plan to re-cover a pair of chairs in our living room. New white fabric was put to good use in a monogrammed seat slipcover. The top back got a simple nail head tacking to hold in place.

I was inspired to make these slipcovers after admiring those found in the 'Romantic Prairie Style' book, from Lisa and Rich Adkins' home. I like the ability to take them off for washing. Here are the inspiration chairs:

That book offers hours of delighting in each detail. Sigh..

My summer pillow fits comfortably:

Not having the budget to use a vintage monogrammed French sheet to cover the chairs, I personalized them with our children's initials:

Although the dark linen fabric I originally covered the chairs in was functional for 5 years, it was time for a change - don't you think?

wrinkled, stained(?) and dark - gasp!

I'm also sharing this transformation with Michele's Primp Your Stuff, Jami's Textile Party, and Cindy's Show and Tell Friday.
Hope to see you there!

Patina Love

2011-08-04T15:22:00.000-04:00

Hello dear friends! First I want to thank you for your positive comments on my previous post. I appreciate your support and may just yet open that Etsy shop!

For Vintage Inspiration Friday, I thought I'd share recent shelves from the flea market. In this post I showed you the first of these shelves purchased as part of a pair. I love the chippiness and lighter color of the other shelf in the pair. It was in two pieces - a bulky bottom and top piece that served as sort of a backsplash. I was particularly drawn to this smaller top piece which justified the entire bargain purchase of $20.
Here is the top piece placed on our dining room buffet:

I adore its' patina:

It is temporarily resting on two candlestick holders until I decide on a permanent location. I think the shelf helps to tone down the formality of the buffet:

A rustic basket and grain sack help to further balance the look:

Hmmm...now what to do with the bulky bottom piece of the shelf? I love it, but just haven't found an ideal place for it and it is heavy.

This is an enjoyable transition time between summer and fall. Possibilities await....
Have a terrific weekend!

Inspired by Jeanne D'Arc Living

2011-08-02T14:25:00.001-04:00

I know so many of you share the enjoyment of the beloved Jeanne D'Arc Living magazines. I often find myself poring over issues again and again. I mark the pages with a "someday I'll do that" type of excitement.
One of this year's spring issues had a gorgeous pair of angel wings adorning a vintage dress form. It definitely appeared handmade, so I thought "I'll try that some day". Here is the result:

They were simple to make, but a bit tedious. I reshaped two old wire hangers to make the wing forms and tied them together with twine. Next I cut some lace netting to fit each form, then sewed the lace around the wire. (That's the tedious part). I love how they turned out and am having fun finding places to hang them. Here they adorn our rustic old barn window in a corner of our living room:

And what are the odds I'd find some vintage towels with my blog initials 'E + R' on them? Not good. So Jeanne D'Arc Living also inspired me to cross-stitch some initials on vintage white towels.

I've been pondering the idea of opening an Etsy shop with these kind of handmade items. Plus I love to make pillows. Hmmm...much to consider. Any advice from you dear talented friends would be much appreciated.

And I have to tell you about these cutest miniature jars I found at JoAnn's craft store last week. They were only $1 each!

Sharing this JDL inspiration with Kathleen's White Wednesday. I always find much inspiration there as well!
Also linking to Cindy's Show and Tell Friday and Jami's Textile Party.

French Influence

2011-07-21T15:54:00.001-04:00

It should be no surprise by now that I'm influenced by all things vintage and French. My blog's namesakes Evelyn (grandmother) and Rose (great-grandmother) had the last name Labossiere. Memeire Rose had a heavy French accent and hailed from Quebec. I loved listening to her soothing voice as a child, and seeing her devotion to the Rosary and her Catholic faith. She was a talented seamstress and taught her daughter Evelyn well. Their influence surrounds me in so many ways. I think they would enjoy that French decor and sewing/knitting/crochet/embroidery projects are embraced in our home.

This bench needed an extra something, so I cross-stitched my initials on it. My grandmother loved to embroider. Now this reminds me of something that would have come from an old French sheet.

Small accents...

This chair is one of two found on Ebay 5 years ago. I love the French look of them. They were painted ivory, then stapled with linen fabric as a temporary measure. I think it may soon be time to recover in something lighter...perhaps with a monogram?
And what's more French than these cute urns?

The pillow is made from fabric by Annette Tatum. I love her designs!

Chippy old shutter...

I'll leave you with some fresh hydrangeas from the garden, comfortably resting in a flea market pitcher on a chippy cabinet.

Sharing with Debra's Vintage Inspiration Friday and Courtney's Feathered Nest Friday.
I'm also linking with Michele's {PRIMP} your stuff link party this week.
Have a great weekend!

White Cabinet for Kitchen

2011-07-19T17:35:00.000-04:00

My dear sister wondered if I'd be interested in a white cabinet of shelves she no longer needed. Ummmm...YES! I was looking for a narrow one to fit in our kitchen, and this works perfectly.
Thank you Michelle!!!
Thought I'd share it over at White Wednesday...

It blends right into the French Farmhouse look I was going for. Perhaps I'll add some cute hooks on the right side for hanging embroidered towels.

Hope you are enjoying your summers - stay cool!

Trying Out a New Camera...

2011-07-17T13:16:00.000-04:00

Hello there! Guess what? My dearest husband surprised me with a new camera for my birthday recently!! Yippee! Our current camera is 6 years old - bought when our son was born. This wonderful new gift has much better resolution & zoom capabilities. I've been having fun testing it out around our home and with our somewhat willing children.
Although my photography skills are far from what I see in many of your amazing blogs, I'm glad this blog will get a boost with clearer photos. Maybe now I won't have to use Picnik so much to edit them. :)
Here are some unedited 'practice' pics...

Thanks for stopping by!

I'll Be In The Garden

2011-07-12T13:55:00.001-04:00

Ahhh...summer. It's this time of year when we feel like our home has grown, as we spend much time in our outside 'room'. Since starting this blog last fall, this is the first chance to share our garden respite areas during the glory of summer blooming.
I recently painted this patio table set white (it was previously black). It will look more aged after leaving it out a few seasons. Here it is with a summer table setting.

The basket and grain sack (used as a runner) are flea market finds from this past weekend:

This shelf was one of two I also scored at the flea market. I wasn't sure I wanted this one, as it is dark, but my silent decision-making prompted the vendor to keep lowering the price for both. Isn't it funny how sometimes just being silent will get you a better deal? (He said I had a poker face, when really I was just trying to figure out what to do with the shelves).

The shelf is currently attached to our fence, but I'm not sure I love it here. This rusty old plant stand (center) and watering can (on the top shelf left) were from the same flea market:

Last year, our children and I surprised my husband with a hammock for Father's Day. He likes to take well-earned breaks here. It is a restful spot by the hydrangeas:

Here's our wicker chair (found curbside) nestled beside the blooming 'New Dawn' climbing rose bush:

We're blessed to be able to enjoy the outdoors here. With all these whites, I'll be linking with White Wednesday this week. Happy summer!
Also linking to Sandy's summer video to share summer flowers.

Summer Kitchen

2011-07-07T16:54:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I've shown our kitchen (see this post for its' French Farmhouse transformation). Thought I'd share some vintage finds that have found their way in here for summer. I'll be linking to Vintage Inspiration Friday and Feathered Nest Friday this week.

I removed the toile tablecloth to showcase the simple summery vintage white cloth...bowl of peaches ripening on top:

The shelves hold recent ironstone finds, as well as some rustic cans:

The old clock ticks comfortably, while fresh hydrangeas and wildflowers from our garden cheer us at morning breakfast:

This next rusty piece was a find at the flea market. The vendor sold it for $2, while we both wondered at its' original purpose. I'm hanging it with a faux nest to appear like a birdcage. I'm sure a candle inside would look nice, too.

Enjoy your summer weekend everyone!

Ballet Birthday

2011-07-05T15:11:00.002-04:00

Hello friends! Hope you enjoyed the 4th of July long weekend. We celebrated our little girl's birthday with a ballet-inspired party. She was full of giggles and smiles throughout! It was such fun to decorate with this feminine theme. Of course I had to share the pretties with you kindred spirits.

What's a party without someone hanging from the chandelier? Here's a ballet paper doll used for this decoration. I simply gathered tulle with a ribbon around her waist.

The same type of doll was used for the ballet art in our daughter's bedroom.

My husband thought it was strange that I was digging out this white Christmas tree from storage. It was used for this table display:

The ruffled pink tablecloth is actually a Simply Shabby Chic curtain panel I draped over the table. The tags on the tree are made by Elizabeth of Porcelain Rose. They are the sweetest ballerinas with a little glitter on their dresses!

I used more of Elizabeth's tags on the favor bags. I have to thank Victoria of Slightly Shabby for introducing me to these tags via her recent giveaway.

On the table, ballerina cupcakes stand ready...

...and this dancer delights the crowd:

This flea market print was borrowed from our girl's room:

A delightful party for a delightful girl!!

I'm linking this post to the White Wednesday and Pink Saturday parties this week.

Master Bedroom Office Area

2011-06-28T20:45:00.000-04:00

The pretty part of our Master bedroom was revealed in my last post. Now I'll show you the area that functions as our office. We live in a small Cape Cod style house, so this room has to serve a dual purpose. The computer, printer, file cabinet and desk are needed here. The not-so-pretty black bookcase is necessary, too, although it will be replaced eventually. It's too small to hold all my husband's books!

This white wardrobe is great for holding my sewing machine, fabrics and craft necessities. Thought it was good to share again for Kathleen's White Wednesday party:

It stands next to the desk, for easy access:

Karen's pretty heart hangs on the knob:

Above the wardrobe sits this framed flea market print, which has such sweet words on motherhood:

I've shown this curtain over the desk in a previous 'sneak peek' post. I stenciled the fabric with a '1939' design, which is the year our home was built:

Cheesecloth wrapped around the lampshade, and flea market frames hanging on thrift store shutters I painted light gray:

Desk inspiration:

Despite the office space, this room is much more peaceful than it used to be. Bonne Nuit!

We celebrated our little girl's 4th birthday today!! Seems like yesterday she came into our lives, and we've been so blessed ever since. :)

Master Bedroom Done....(for now)

2011-06-23T20:50:00.001-04:00

Hello friends! We just spent a week visiting our dear BIG clan in Dallas and it was fabulous. My husband is one of 7 children, and there's nothing like sitting around the table with everyone just talking, laughing and tickling the little ones. Heavenly.
We're back and unpacking. Tired.
But I did get to take lots of promised photos of our master bedroom changes before we left for Dallas. I haven't much energy for words, but will try to post more soon. In the meantime, I'm enjoying catching up with your blogs.

My bureau is one of a vintage set. I'll show my husband's in another post...

Love this closet door and dormers...

The other side of the room works as an office. The black bookcase, file cabinet & printer are not ideal but functional for now. It's a work in progress. I'm loving my white wardrobe used for sewing & crafting.

That's it for now. I'll show more pics & write details later. Tonight I'm linking to Show and Tell Friday, then getting some sleep. :)
I'm also linking to the Metamorphosis Monday party, although I don't have 'before' pics - trust me, it was a big change for the better.

Living Room Whites and Master Bedroom Updates

2011-06-14T14:50:00.001-04:00

Ahhh...summer and whites blend perfectly together. Simple, easy, calm...
I thought I'd share some whites in our living room today for White Wednesday, as well as give you another sneak peek into the master bedroom transformation. I wanted to take lots of photos of the master, but the sun has not been shining. It will have to wait...

This interesting shelf/display piece was found at my local thrift store recently. The metal 'F' letter is from talented Tracey's store French Larkspur:

I love the detail and chipping on this old frame:

The Santos cage doll has been moved to the white desk:

I think she prefers her simple unadorned summer look:

A view of the living room through the looking glass...

I've been busy painting this bedside table and covering our lampshades with vintage monogrammed towels in the master bedroom:

The David Austin 'Secret' rose just bloomed in our garden and smells delightful. I love how Karen's glittered star looks on this old bottle:

No surprise - I went with a blue/white/cream color combination when making our bed pillows. The blue fabrics are from the Shabby Chic line, which I was lucky to find on Fabric.com a couple of years ago.

I'll post the big master bedroom 'reveal' once I get a lot of sun (and time) to take the photos.

Until then, happy White Wednesday!

Summer Dining Room

2011-06-09T16:13:00.000-04:00

Summer is just about upon us, and our dining room is getting its' simple summer makeover. Seashells, peonies, roses...and some shabby chic style. I'll keep the words in this post to a minimum, since there are many photos to share:

The rustic with the elegant...

Inspired by Jeanne D'Arc Living, but holding onto my shabby chic roots...

Keeping it simple with peonies..

...and roses.

Ready to grab this wicker basket for outdoor entertaining...

...and this caddy for dining al fresco!

What a great time of year - I've been enjoying seeing your summer changes as well.
I'm sharing this post with these link parties: Feathered Nest Friday, Show and Tell Friday, Vintage Inspiration Friday and Pink Saturday.

Seaside Inspiration

2011-06-07T12:10:00.001-04:00

It's this time of year when our family truly appreciates how close we live to the ocean. It's just a mile down the road, and we take full advantage of its' proximity. I'm a fair weather runner, and my morning run takes me to this vista - a light house & residence occupied by a Coast Guard commander. It's my white contribution for Kathleen's White Wednesday party this week.

Here's the view. I love to take in the beauty surrounding me on those morning runs, and say a grateful prayer for the day. I've also said some prayers here for some of you.

Hope you can see this white house on the peninsula far off. Wonder what it would be like to live there, on the cusp of the ocean...

This time of year is also when I get out my seashells and bring summer into the home. Some are from the craft store, but many are from beaches nearby.

I made this seashell wreath last year after seeing this one on Heather Bullard's blog. Couldn't help myself!

I'll post more of the summer transformation as it continues...enjoy this lovely time of year!

Our Daughter's Room and the Versatililty of a Shower Curtain

2011-05-31T15:20:00.000-04:00

Hello friends! I do hope you enjoyed your weekends and took time to honor Memorial Day. We had lots of sunshine here - finally! As White Wednesday is upon us, I thought I'd finally post about our daughter's room. It's been long overdue after giving you sneak peaks here and here.
Last year I went to town decorating her room. Lots of pillows were made, as well as other embellishments. I loved personalizing it for our sweet girl. This year I've added ballet accents.
So here's a tour...Let me start by saying this room is TINY. Some people's closets are bigger than our girl's room. But that's okay, because she's little, too.

As you enter the room, you see one wall has a window and two built-in closets made by the original homeowner. They're great for storage. However when we upgraded our girl's crib to a vintage iron twin bed (scored on craigslist!), we realized the 2nd closet's door must be removed. We wouldn't be able to open it with the bed there, so I replaced the door with lace curtains.

tight squeeze at foot of bed!

Above the window hangs a banner I made for her birthday last summer.

Ballet-inspired trophy...

I found 3 lovely old ballet prints at a local flea market this weekend, and propped them on her shelf along with some vintage ballet slippers:

They coordinate with the ballet art I made on the opposite wall:

Her princess bed, with Simply Shabby Chic duvet cover...

Several years ago, I purchased a shower curtain from HomeGoods (or TJ Maxx) because I loved the pattern on the cotton fabric. I held onto it until I had a perfect room to showcase this fabric. I was able to use the entire shower curtain to make this pillow with pom-pom trim...

(Memeire Rose's vintage doll)

...and the background for this framed inspiration board...

...this quilted throw at the foot of her bed...

...heart pillow...

...and the fabric behind this chicken-wired cabinet door.

One shower curtain goes a long way!!!

This vintage doll crib was a Brimfield find from two years ago. I made cushions to keep her dolls comfy:

Over our little girl's door hangs fancy dresses for play, and her handmade tote for ballet class:

I had fun making these pillows to cozy up on. They lie atop her basket of dress-up fun...

Our little girl loves the room, and I know she loves her quilt!

Hope you enjoyed the tour. Come back again to visit!

I'll be linking this post with Beverly's Pink Saturday, too.

We have a winner!

2011-05-29T20:16:00.000-04:00

Thank you to so many of you for entering my very first giveaway ... 'French Farmhouse Style'. I appreciated your comments and adding the button to your sidebar or posting about it. I'm also so glad some of you became followers while you were visiting. This experience has been a great way to meet more of you.
I had such fun making these gifts (except the sugar bowl!) and anxiously awaiting the big reveal tonight!

So without further adieu...the winner is Anne from Fiona and Twig!
I used random.org to choose a random number, and hers was comment #5:

I am a big fan of Anne's blog, and couldn't take my eyes off her first contributing article in 'Romantic Country'. She captured gorgeous photos of Linda and Ludmil Marcov's home, one of my favorite homes to see in magazines.
I hope you enjoy these gifts, Anne. Send me your address to EvelynAndRose@hotmail.com when you get a chance. Congratulations, and thanks to all! I'll have another giveaway sooner than later, because this one was such fun!
- Susan

Bedroom Chair and Sneak Peek

2011-05-26T17:18:00.000-04:00

Now that our bedroom chair has been featured in my giveaway button, I thought I'd tell you about its' transformation. Also, this post will give you a sneak peek into our master bedroom makeover. I know sneak peeks are a tease, but there's still more to be done. A little at a time...

I did end up recovering the chair seat with a white cotton/linen blend fabric and finishing the edges with nailhead trim. Did you know you can get this great trim at JoAnn's Fabrics? It comes in a strand, and every 5th nailhead has a tiny hole where you hammer in a nail (with head) over it. It's easier than hammering in many individual nails.

The frames on the floor will end up in the room somewhere. Still debating a place...
The gold frame holds a heavy old vintage mirror which is very distressed. My husband wondered about it, but I explained that there was an article in a recent Jeanne D'Arc magazine instructing us on how to transform a new mirror to look that way. He just shook his head.

I had fun making this 'Bonne Nuit' sign, based on a similar one I've seen in Ludmil and Linda Marcov's home (I save all magazine articles about their style!). This glittered star was from a local florist, and bids sweet dreams...

Here's a 'before' pic of the $15 thrift store chair, as I was taking it apart:

Blessed Mother...

These curtains had already been made for this window, so I decided to stencil a '1939' design on them. It's the year our house was built.

Here's a peek through my bureau mirror, looking at the white wardrobe.

On the back of the bedroom door...

Hope you enjoyed this initial peek. I've still got a sidetable to paint and lampshades to cover, then hopefully I'll reveal the room sooner than later.
Linking this post with Vintage Inspiration Friday (Debra's got some great scandinavian style pics this week) and Feathered Nest Friday.

White Mantel and Spring Finds

2011-05-24T17:21:00.000-04:00

Looking at so many beautiful whites at the 100th White Wednesday last week inspired me to really zone in on whites in my own home. Here's a spring mantel makeover I did recently.

After missing out on the Brimfield Flea Market this month, I took a trip to the White Elephant Shop outlet to make up for it. I've written about the great bargains to be had there in this post. The visit didn't disappoint!
I found this salvaged white spindle (next to the candlestick) for just $1, as well as this HEAVY iron scrollwork piece:

I was excited to also find two ironstone pieces, one of which is this jug holding lilacs from our bushes:

This neat chippy drawer was only $5. I plan to use it as an 'inspiration box', holding bits & pieces that I find compelling. You'll see I've included my pretty French script gift box and star ornament from the giveaway I won from Karen.

Lastly, here's a white wicker chair I rescued from my neighbor's curbside. I captured a photo on one of our rare sunny days. May hasn't felt much like spring, but here's hoping June is sunny and bright!

I'm sharing these with the 101st White Wednesday over at Faded Charm.

Don't forget to enter my French Farmhouse Style giveaway, which ends May 29th!

GIVEAWAY - French Farmhouse Style!

2011-05-22T14:13:00.001-04:00

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU!

I'm having my first giveaway here at the Evelyn and Rose blog. It's time to celebrate 50 posts and spring! I also want to thank you all for taking the time to read this blog. I enjoy sharing my home decor, projects and ideas with you. You have been so supportive and are amazing sources of inspiration for me!

So...I thought I'd offer a French Farmhouse Style giveaway comprised of mostly handmade gifts:

The winner will receive:

Handmade pillow in floral cotton fabric (approx. 18 inches square). Includes 14 in. square pillow form and removable (washable) cover.
Runner made from burlap and white cotton (approx. 11 inches wide by 53 inches long).
Miniature hand-stamped lavender sachet ornament, with blue/white ticking fabric on back.
3 hand-stamped coffee-dyed tags.
Charming vintage sugar bowl (missing its' lid).
And a few more surprises thrown in. (sorry - chair and fresh flower not included, hee hee)

Here's a closer look at the smaller items:

For one chance to win, you simply need to leave a comment on this giveaway post.
For a second chance to win, feel free to post about this giveaway or add my giveaway button (see my sidebar) to your blog with a link back here. Then leave me an additional comment on this post letting me know you did.

That's it! I hope one of you will enjoy receiving these gifts as much as I enjoyed selecting & making them. The winner will be drawn next Sunday evening, May 29th.
Thank you, Susan

Happy 100th White Wednesday!

2011-05-17T15:43:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Kathleen of Faded Charm for hosting her 100th White Wednesday this week! When I first started blogging last fall, this was the place I started connecting with fellow white enthusiasts. Each week I've enjoyed ogling white ironstone, lace, chippy furniture, holiday decor and garden delights.
Thank you for providing a wealth of inspiration Kathleen, both through your lovely blog and this incredible weekly link party.
I've gathered some of my blog photos over the past 6 months and made some collages to celebrate WHITE!
Hope you enjoy. I can't wait to take a look at all of your celebratory blog posts this week as well...

Cheers to white!

A Generous Heart

2011-05-15T13:57:00.001-04:00

I couldn't contain my excitement yesterday when the giveaway I luckily won from Karen of A Shabby Moment In Time arrived! I got to meet Karen in person at the Wrentham Store's 'At Home with White' event last month. What a sweetheart she is! Not only did she bestow the lovely prizes from the giveaway - a French themed pillow, Eiffel tower print and adorable ruffled drawstring bag - but she tucked away some lovely surpises as well.
This hand-stamped bag was filled with goodies, along with the amazing giveaway items:

I just love the ooh-la-la French print & pillow, and am admiring the ruffles on the lovely bag. It was wrapped in tissue paper with this cute 'Nest' sticker I had to show:

Inside the 'goody' bag was a terrific French-script gift box ensemble & lovely lady hang tag, as well as some gorgeous items Karen made - a lavender burlap/jewelled sachet and some glitter heart & star ornaments I had admired on her blog. Isn't it so sweet she recalled how much I admired the ornaments? I am LOVING the light blue in them (of course)...

Thank you Karen for your thoughtfulness and generosity! I will feature these items again in another post when I can showcase where they end up.
Now I've got to finish the spring giveway I have planned for this blog....watch for news soon. I'm inspired!
Oh, and happy birthday to my mom-in-law Karyl who is in France as we speak. Not a bad way to spend your birthday!