The AppleSeed

2011-07-08T19:31:00.002-05:00

NEW BLOG POST HERE!

(yes my friends, that is a junkosaurus..... find out for yourself!)

check out my new BLOG!

2011-07-02T20:47:00.003-05:00

A few to do items on my summer list.

check it out HERE!

new bloggidy blog.

2011-06-30T19:51:00.002-05:00

I HAVE MOVED blogs:) !!!!!!
COME CHECK OUT MY NEW bloggidy.

I PROMISE to post on this ALL the time.

you will not be dissapointed:)

this is a collaboration between the lil sis and I.

and we are VERY super duper excited to get the ball rolling.

here is the link to the NEW blog

http://reevesfagan.blogspot.com/

check it out!

LONDON

2011-05-04T15:41:00.003-05:00

I have decided to share a few of my favorite things from London.

So, naturally the first being beautifully styled ladies and gents. Even the three years olds were better dressed than I was on any given day. You would never see Nike shorts or wranglers, cut off jeans or Sperry's, Costa Del Mar's or cowboy boots

I could go on...

Goodness the world would be a better place without most of that nonsense. I mean, I can rock some cut off jean shorts every once in a while, but other than that every Londoner was either straight classy, or beautiful vintage. I can hope!

Picnic Time

2011-04-21T15:17:00.007-05:00

It is finally time to rummage through your grandmothers closet for the perfect knit quilt.

Yes my friends, it is picnic season.

1. Croquet Set 2. photo 3. Picnic Inspired headband

4. red dress 5. Green Central Station 6. picnic basket

Here in Alabama we have a good three weeks of perfect.sunny.70 degree weather to enjoy a little croquet, or mimosas with strawberries, and of course your favorite picnic basket or two before the weather turns sour.

...and by sour I mean unbearably hot.

These past couple of weekends I was able to relax

at a few of my favorite parks in Birmingham with a few of my favorite friends.

Weekend 1

Green Central Station

A shop in Birmingham that rents every imaginable type of picnic supplies.

On top of that, hosts 2nd Sunday Picnic @ Rushton Park on Highland every month.

The owner brings out croquet sets, bat-gamin, picnic tables, and plenty of yummy treats.

Vintage revamped bikes are also sold at the shop. Check it out.

You will not be disappointed.

Weekend 2

Railroad Park.

This particular visit we met up with a handful of friends,

and began plotting for our community field day.

Accompanied of course by mimosas and fresh fruit.

I am talking about balloons. picking teams. potato sack races. parachutes.

the works!

Where do you like to picnic?

Paint the Town Red 2011

2011-03-29T23:25:00.001-05:00

Paint the Town Red is BACK! In full force
with some pretty extreme new ideas.

music. food. street vendors. performances.
and of course digital art blasted across the walls of
downtown Birmingham

The streets will be lit up red.
No worries there is an area for the kiddies,
and drinks for the adults.
It should be an all around good time.
Check out some photos from last year.

Let me break it down for you....
Proceeds benefit the American Red Cross, Birmingham Area Chapter.

Cost is $10.00 advanced sale for adults and $5.00 for children under twelve.

www.paintthetownredbham.com

Paint the Town Red 2011 will take Place Saturday, April 16th.
Gates open at 6 PM and the festivities end at 11 PM. (aka ALL NIGHT)

come on... all the COOL KIDS are doing it.
buy your tickets here.

Carrie

DOO NANNY

2011-03-27T15:04:00.001-05:00

quite a unique experience Doo Nanny, there is nothing quite like it.
portable bike powered showers, communal kitchens, art cars, bones, junk and metal, banjos, girl scout cookies and one killer camp fire pretty much sums up the weekend. The rain simply made everything better, and it turns out we got some use out of the three pairs of yellow sailor rain suits compliments of Bonadio! Check out some photos. this kind of place just makes you want to come home and make stuff. i can't wait to go back, next year. prepared with a craft booth! enjoy.

bridge

2011-02-10T11:27:00.005-06:00

(i found a new toy. it is called AnalogColor)
...it is like Photoshop for impatient people.

click below. enjoy.

carrie fagan

we had little a clue.

2011-02-07T22:15:00.004-06:00

this is where our adventure began.

one pack 30 yr. aged 75 color film
restored beauty Polaroid land film camera
two pairs of mittens
one rusty green bridge
hot liquid chocolate rice
and a but load of frowns and slippery feet
oh! and a sore bum.

lets just say I have Google and blue tape to thank,
and a decade worth of dust to fault.

The film was a bit shot
or we collectively somehow managed to over expose every single photo.
the picnic made up for our lack of Polaroid skills

lunch:
grilled portabello on wheat
dried mango
chocolate pretzels
sweet potato chips
grapefruit
& apple
smiles all around

carrie fagan

winter play date

2011-01-18T23:56:00.002-06:00

I would like you to meet my adorable cousin Marion. She is quite simply the cutest little blonde you have ever seen. We had a play-date at Railroad Park this past weekend. With matching hats, and a burst of energy we both twirled around the park, riding imaginary elevators,
and climbing on top of the world.

Truly an inspiration she is.

She found a play date at the park, he showed her a few moves known specifically as "pop-up" and of course, how to roll down a hill.

Love you bunches little M
Carrie Fagan

silly boys and their antics.

2011-01-10T13:34:00.003-06:00

it was a splendid day off.
the work has been canceled due to ice and snow.
a day I have spent crafting. sewing. baking and enjoying my slippers.
i will share more soon
how funny. this little boy followed my every snow picture.
very sneaky.

carrie fagan

a touch of magic.

2011-01-09T12:01:00.004-06:00

The home of Ray and Karine.

Let me share with you a few sneak peeks into my good friend Julian's parents home.
Last week my roomie Christian and I ventured over to Julian's house for dinner.
Karen had prepared quite a feast for us when we arrived, Greek chicken cooked to a crisp, roasted veggies and orzo pasta, freshly tossed salad with a homemade vinaigrette sauce,
and chocolate lava cake to boot.

meal incredible
conversation spectacular
sweet company
the house....
Magnificent!
don't you think?

2011

2011-01-01T19:14:00.002-06:00

Passed I have the season of giving, after wrapping up last minute presents and holiday cheer I decided it was time to purchase a new year's gift to myself.

I have been saving,debating, and confusing myself for too long with when, what, and how I will be purchasing a new camera. Quite the impulse buyer, I finally did it. After a short reassurance with my friend Rachael (thanks Rach), I was convinced the Nikon D3100 would suit quite nicely. Plus my good friend Emma just got the exact same for Christmas... so maybe a bit of jealousy? Jokes.

All night I have been taking random photos of my house, fingers and toes,poor crippled Christmas tree and crafts to try and figure out a few of the settings gadgets and gizmos... so look forward to PLENTY more beautiful posts with my snazzy new camera:)

I hope everyone is having a splendid new year!

fagan

source camera case 
source camera strap

you are beautiful.

2010-12-31T08:47:00.003-06:00

a simple photo shoot from a cold cloudy day.
Bemma you da best!

lurv you too Dily.

i then continued to tie random red balloons on cars.
it was great.

fagan

a simple snow.

2010-12-26T10:02:00.003-06:00

Alabama pulled through pretty nicely last minute. and let it snow! all day the flurries fell through the blistering cold. the first full snow of the year so perfectly placed on Christmas day.

full bellies i have from gathered family and friends. full thoughts as well of meaningful gifts. this Christmas has been quite a splendor of surprises and affection. so share with you i will a bit of a poem i received from a very close friend.

these words do mean more than boxes or bows.
tied up in phrases, gifts of the thought.

Not unlike mountains

Not unlike mountains
an unwavering boldness
with a core that penetrates stone

Not unlike the arrow
sifting through unwanted targets
for home

not unlike the moon
with empty newness
and waking fullness
only to rebirth again

not unlike the deserted soldier
whose treacherous young heart
fights brave quick battles, yet
not meant for the vastness of war

not unlike the ocean
with shallow depths
come deep awakenings

not unlike the apple
forbidden sweetness
with a crisp to your liking

not unlike the winds,
she binds,
she floats,
she dances.

She is not unlike mountains,
but more importantly
she is the true girl who will
be to be.

-christian becraft

chest of fairytales- a favorite illustrator

Dil and i catching the tiny bits of snow. when we were younger we gathered bowls and bowls of snow to store for the rest of the winter. why you ask? well, to make snow cream of course. the snow however never quite kept it's consistency. you think we would learn after a year or so, but we still packed the freezer with bags of melting snow.

snow cream:
2 handfuls snow
1 handful sugar
6 drops vanilla.

mix and enjoy. you get the idea.
quite a splendid treat.

i wish everyone a splendid new year.
i hope it is filled with laughter and thrills.

fagan

i miss this.

2010-12-21T21:38:00.003-06:00

i have been playing a disappearing act of sorts.
how i have missed.. snapping shots of my mind, and sharing in time.
but for now i will simply just wait.

in the process of updating my entire technological bag you see.
a working computer. an existing camera.
i am so close!

after holiday cheer, full bellies and stories
i will return with big news
i promise none boring.
but for now i will share with you a story book of secrets
tied in knots of course in ETSY wishes and desires...

a few books i found from a used book store recently.
pop up limericks... look it up (such an incredible gift)
also. Chilean street art. an immediate favorite.

with soon to follow. new year hopes.
site launched.
new tools to blog.
camera & computer
a trip to Europe?!
studio shops opening

oh and i get a kick out of this at work.
learn while you play!

http://www.ted.com/talks
/oliver_sacks_what_hallucination_reveals_about_our_minds.html

another find i thought today.
i have an inkling for watch hands, keys, graffiti, and small boxes.

do have a happy holiday.
see you in the new year.

fagan

Holiday Craft Bazaar

2010-11-28T11:15:00.001-06:00

this week i will be getting ready for the
5th annual Holiday Craft Bazaar!!
Lily and I will be located at Bottle Tree.

Please come visit us!
You're sure to find the perfect gift for that special someone.
So mark your calendars.
Get all of your holiday shopping done early, all kinds of hand-made goods made by local artists at great prices.



Friday 3rd 5pm to 9pm
Saturday 4th 10am to 4pm
Sunday 5th 11am to 4pm

hope to see you there!

care to join?!

2010-11-26T10:00:00.001-06:00

it is quite an incredible feeling to get mail. It is better when you know this mail does not contain either
a. a bill
b. useless coupons
or
c. alumni letters...also asking for money!
(WHAT? are you kidding i have not even paid of my student loans, and you think its funny to ask me for more money?!)

anywho.....

I adore getting mail.
I have been pretty bad recently about sending it,
but oh boy do i love receiving it
(I'm thinking maybe a new years resolution in the works
...no email, just MAIL!)

I once thought it would be a really good idea to have a few pin-pals.

if any of my pin-pals are reading this, i am profusely sorry i have not written you back. (you guys are sitting nicely in a vintage suitcase in my craft room) i pull this mail out often, laugh and smile as i read it, and then get distracted and forget to write back.  one day you will receive something really great, that makes up for my lack of quick response.


OK so here is the BEST part.
if you would like to take this adventure with me.
i promise you wont be disappointed!
i am cleaning out my craft room, and stock of
vintage clothing/knick knacks and i feel that it would
be interesting to pass it around to like minded crafters.

i only ask for one thing in return. some sweet tunes. 
(or anything weird, unusual, unique to you!)

so... you send me a mix CD of your favorite songs , and I will send you the most random mix of crafty/vintage materials you could imagine.

if you are interested.
please email me:
cfmontgomery23@gmail.com

ps. new blog name. Reeves & Fagan.... will explain plenty very soon.

CARRIE FAGAN

(photos compliments of the world wide web)

it is all relative

2010-11-20T00:24:00.003-06:00

Lets be honest , art repeats itself. If you try and tell me that all your artwork is original, then your just being silly and naive. You drew inspiration from someone, something, one moment, a thought, or  a passing person with bright blue shoes. It does not matter really, where or how you found it, all that matters is the satisfaction in creating it.

To me, everyone is an artist, whether you abuse this right, or  simply don't acknowledge that its true, i wish and hope to believe that everyone strives for a meaning in their lives. it can be as simple as doting your I's with hearts, or wearing the color purple three days in a row, you are expressing yourself in a way that influences emotions and senses.

Have you ever looked up the definition of art? Well, I will share it for you here. Art is the product or process of deliberately arranging symbolic elements in a way that influences and affects one or more of the senses, emotions  and intellect. (thank you wikipedia)

I often tell many of my friends that art is my religion. This is a bit broad, and a great excuse to get out of a long Jesus/religion debacle, but in a sense it is very true. I have a faith in art. Just like others have faith in their religion.

I compare emotions, people, instances, imaginations, circumstance and morals in relation to art. Reading this you might be lost, somehow it makes sense to me. Making judgments of value requires a basis for criticism right? Whether you are classifying someone as being an artists or a christian, the criteria to be considered as such is completely relative, and in most instances your own personal judgment.

a penny for your thoughts?

So relax, and create! no matter what it is or how you choose to express yourself, just don't be afraid to do it.
but if your a little afraid at least support those who create for a living- the local artists, musicians, performers.
this just might bring you a little bit of happy.

(the pictures above are graciously taken from the world wide web, i have to be honest, i have quite a large collection of photo/idea inspirations. so I cant give credit to whose work this is, but it is not mine,and I am simply borrowing and sharing it for selfish purposes)

OH...one more thing. I am changing my blog name and url.... i promise you guys wont get left behind... just a little warning, sometime soon there will be a big blog reconstruction project. I was never really satisfied with the appleseed...now i simply have to find a name/style i will actually stick with. we shall see....

CARRIEFAGAN

Create it. Because you can

2010-11-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

bippidy bop.

sorry for the lack of posts. I have been missing my blog like crazy.
its been a fluster of a ride these past few weeks.
Oh what a chaotic delight.Between craft shows, sister sister visits, attempting and failing at buying a new car, workshops, crafting, and crazy mothers... my life could not be more complete. Now i simply have to prioritize, something I can honestly say I have a little trouble doing.

can you spot my bight blue front door?? it makes me smile every morning. I dunno what it is about bright blue, it just makes you giggle.

Just a short recap.

I got a JOB woo!- my boss and coworkers are truly a delight to work with... and I really love what I do... so i consider myself very lucky.

I am still meeting some pretty interesting people in the HAM - all good news! i'm hanging with lil Dily every chance i get. as seen below- poems for a dollar. genius. I don't really see the older sis much. i need to make time to do that.

This past weekend was one of the most rewarding and exhausting craft shows I have ever done. By far the best part was bartering some goodies off to other VERY talented artists. Ill have to share some pics of my sweet trades. one of which included an amazing tooth brush bowl. with two squinty eyes.

I am finding that I have very little free time, between job and crafting. I terribly miss my friends and I think sometimes i might scare new ppl off a little because I just want to badly to find someone to relate to... tricky. thats for another day though.

did i mention i went to a Beautiful concert the other night. If you have not heard of the Punch Brothers, then man you are missing out. they are truly amazing, beautifully talented boys!

side note...

i have so much to look forward too. I am still determined to open my community craft center, and connect crazy talented artists all over this town. until then. i will diligently work toward staying happy and spreading creativity any way I can.

alright so get this. my lil sis is cray talented. and she just so happens to have a super inspirational rhyming mind. Her poems are a perfect mix of Salvador Dali and Dr. Seuss. I will share a couple with you below, these guys were written at her poems for a dollar stunt. She made about 24$/hr. no joke.

pure talent.

I just got an anonymous letter in Z mail.
susch a horrible and incredible idea.

i am pretty sure i will try this with sketch books!

ok then.
miss this.
chat soon!

carrie

OH so Loveley Funky

2010-10-31T19:20:00.006-05:00

some people are just so darn talented these days...
for real... i could get lost on the internet searching through blogs/paintings/etsy/design sponge...now if only i could bring everyone here to Birmingham... it would be like a craft party everyday.

(picture above)

ha... confused? this is the start of a new project. the broccoli will be transformed into wearable art.. i promise to keep you posted. but hopefully they will be incredibly GReat!

here is a hint.

now you can always be healthy....
and thought i would share some sweet finds.

purple print

lucious space

incredible outfit....

can i please get married here.

gosh darn this weekend was funky.
full of Halloween candy, horse back rides, and beautiful weather.
i was a little bummed.. i went to Sams Club to stock up on some candy... and i only got TWO tricker treaters...(HUH?)... that is what i get for living at the top of the hill:(

now all of the candy is nicely scattered throughout the house...
OH and I got some super sweet finds from the thrift this weekend.

good times.

alright so if you were not already aware i found TWO really great blogs....
here they are.... (kind of amazing)

also... does anyone have a favorite illustrator on ETSY...
I'm looking to buy some prints for my room.

Just another Waste of Time

2010-10-30T09:30:00.000-05:00

I think it has been past due time for a watch. I have never worn watches religiously. My sporadic self usually finds a broken watch at the thrift store, wears it for a week or so, then realizes that is quite silly because it does not even work. Yes I often wear watches that do not work. It is just hard to justify paying 45$ to fix a watch that I payed 2.50$ for. So I have finally decided to break down and buy a very beautiful custom handmade watch.

ETSY watches

I just cant quite understand the trend of those goofy looking huge crystal watches with brightly colored plastic bands. I honestly thought I liked them, until I saw everyone and their mom wearing them. They even sell them for like 20$ at those awful kiosks in the mall.. NO thank you
I would NOT like a watch that 3/4s of American women own.
I also like to support etsy sellers whenever possible.

but when not possible- i go for the other end of the spectrum Japanese watches!

Here are a few other options....
do you see the trend? maybe i should just get two!

retro green watch

lime green watch

bright yellow!

super duper

so which is your favorite? I'm leaning toward the super duper!
Have a great weekend!

Holi Color Celebration

2010-10-19T21:30:00.005-05:00

Gavin does nothing normal. So naturally for his birthday he wanted to celebrate in a very unique way. the main goal... to please and delight as many people as possible with incredibly delicious home cooked food, vibrant color powder extravaganza, and a simple in kind donation to none other than your everyday goat giving organization.

this sounds absurd. but is completely normal in Gav's book. A birthday is for celebration, but MR. Giving G took it a step further, he wanted to raise money for someone a bit less fortunate than himself. He asked for donations at his bday party to be put toward an organization (sorry i forget the name) which provided livestock (GOATS) to a family in need.  Success? i dunno yet. i still owe him 20$ but a kick booty idea if you ask me.

the celebration was quite a splendid event. generous portions of squash casserole, chick pea salad, and banana raisin bread pudding with espresso chocolate sauce. YUM! and of course HOLI POWDER.

here is the prezzie Dily and I made Gav for his Bday...
still a work in progress. his own personal creepy shrine.

to say the very least. the food was yum. the friends were a delight. and the colored powder was sweet!
Happy Birthday Gav.

Fall Sale. and pumpkin time.

2010-10-13T17:57:00.003-05:00

(read more below)

Fall is officially here. This means I'm feeling a little generous!
I have carved one pumpkin, worn plenty of sweaters, and eaten one too many pumpkin flavored deserts already.

This October has been filled with oh so many surprises and changes for me. I have officially settled into a new city. I recently got a truly inspirational and rewarding job. I have met so many new friends, oh and did I mention HALLOWEEN is just around the corner?

let me simply explain.

I  accepted a position at Mitchell's Place,  a comprehensive treatment center in Birmingham for children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Job title: Development Associate, basically organizing and helping with fund-raising events and conferences as well as development goals for the school. The staff has been so welcoming and encouraging, and the kids are simply an inspiring delight to be around. I am very excited to be joining such a wonderful team.

so on to more super news... Everything in the shop will be 40% off until the end of October.
the discount will be reimbursed when you check out.
you MUST send me a message which reads: 40OFF please!
(excludes shipping prices)

I am trying to clean house a bit to get ready for fall crafts and holiday parties.

and i have so many ideas running around in my head for Halloween costumes... first on the list Poison Ivy. i just really want to either a. wear a wig...or b. be in complete disguise.

hope your having a super splendid fall.
sorry for the lack of posts recently.
my life has been wow busy.

poems for a dollar.

2010-09-27T12:06:00.000-05:00

My lil sis lily decided to bring one of my typewriters
to the market to sell poems for a dollar.

I cannot even begin to tell you how big of a hit this was. There were people lined up just for a poem from lil. It was crazy. The poems were pretty clever very much like Dr Seuss mixed with cheezy hallmark cards. The idea was you pick a topic, and she writes a snippet of a poem. Here is one she wrote for some old man looking for a gift for his girlfriend.

I don't want to buy you something cheezy or corny.
so I wrote you this poem, which might just make you horny.
my hopes and my dreams
all revolve around you
and if you leave i will cry
and be ever so blue
so stay baby stay
please stay just for me.
I will take you away, we can sail on the sea,
you will see, have some tea,
your the pod to my pea,
stick around for good times,
fun for you, fun for me!

This is proof of the last weekend at Pepper Place. It could not have gone better. One of my best friends Emmy traveled up from Florida to visit for a bit. We kicked booty at Pepper Place, then hopped over to the Greek Fest for some falafels and Greek doughnuts. There was also a film festival going on this weekend so we headed to the beautiful Alabama theater for a very interesting/creepy film about a family who taught there kids that cats were the devil and they were kept in their home learning improper meanings for words and interactions.

Check out a little more about Dogtooth the film here.
http://www.avclub.com/articles/dogtooth-director-giorgos-lanthimos,42525/

I hope your having a SUPER week.

a few purple crazies.

2010-09-23T23:40:00.000-05:00

ill share a few pics from them antique stores we stopped by in Atlanta, GA. Lily and I (my lil sis with the purple hair) seem to get lost in thrift stores and antique shops. We usually find ourselves taking more pictures for art ideas, than we do buy items.Lily found this super cool paper mache fox head. It was a little too pricy, but most certainly going on my craft list.I felt inspired to share with you a touch of one of my favorite colors.

Purple never really goes out of style, and it just seems to match everything right? well almost everything. I would have to say one of my absolute favorites... the elf jacket. Beautifully crafted from recycled sweaters. I keep reminding myself that ONE day I will create something very similar with all of the grungy sweaters I have kept over the years. I cant seem to throw away anything these days.

ALSO. do you like the new tape accents? I finally found someone who offers them as freebies. Check it out here.This gal has oodles of other wonderful goodies.

I hope everyone is having a splendid week. I am most certainly looking forward to this weekend. It will be my last Pepper Place craft weekend, and my BEST friend EMMY is coming to visit.
Oh boy things are gonna get crazy.

oh. and i am thinking of redesigning my blog again.
why? you ask. well i just like change.

have a splendid weekend.

purple shoes 
crazy quilt elf coat
purple suede jacket 
magic burrito 
mysterious unicorn 

Before and After a beautiful sitting device.

2010-09-21T12:12:00.000-05:00

Everyone is guilty of keeping ugly furniture...determined to reach the day when you will make it pretty. I usually purchase one too many chairs at a thrift or estate sale determine to fix that wobbly leg, or slap a fresh coat of paint on the rustic wood. More often than not, they sit unchanged for weeks or months until I finally get a sudden urge to fix something.

This lucky chair was actually my roommates. She brought it back from her dorm days living in Auburn. When I saw it I immediately knew it was in need of a little TLC. Someone had obviously attempted previously to fix the poor thing. It had hand painted moss green splotch paint (disaster) and a really awful stained gray colored upholstery finish.

I have been keeping this hand stitched butterfly wall hanging for a little over a year now. The frame was broken and I could never find the right size to fix it. It has certainly been put to good use. I simply detached the round cushion and stapled the new butterfly stitch fabric on the stool. I next painted the metal chair a fresh coat of zesty yellow. These colors work beautifully in my kitchen.

The chair now proudly sits next too a stack of old suitcases and some fresh garden flowers in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy.

A little touch of color.

2010-09-13T14:27:00.006-05:00

I have almost finished arranging my new house. I have recently acquired a new roommate, my best friend Christian, and we have been packing, cleaning, arranging, styling, and enjoying our little house at the top of the hill. Our styles are very different, but somehow it just works. I tend to enjoy brightly colored and chaotic furniture, lamps and curtains, while Christian more enjoys the classic shabby chic type style with light colors and floral print.

here is a little preview.

If I had to compare our sense of styles to a book or movie, Christian would most certainly be some sort of Jane Austin novel (Pride and Prejudice to be exact), while I would be better compared to Jennifer Anniston's character in Along Came Polly very sporadic and lost at times. We have managed quite nicely though. I cook, Christian cleans, I tweet and blog on my computer, Christian reads a novel, I blare Cloud Cult and Radiohead on my Ipod, while Christian listens to Frank Sinatra at an acceptable tone on her record player. A perfect combination right?

our little kitchen window.

Z kitchen

Mr. Buddha

lavender mantel display. smells SO yummy.

i hope you enjoy.
I am super excited this week. My little sister comes back in town! She can finally help me prepare more goodies for this weekends craft fair at Pepper Place.

Happy Monday Everyone.

Cupcakes Cobbler and Notebooks

2010-09-08T08:21:00.006-05:00

This past weekend my friends and I celebrated Labor Day. To be honest we could not have asked for more perfect weather. It was a constant 84 degrees, and there was not a cloud in the sky. All of my closest friends drove up to meet in Birmingham at my Lake house in at Inland Lake. A few highlights of the weekend included a GREAT new card game i learned called Dutch Blitz, if you are not familiar look it up.....it is great.

It was also two of my friends birthdays. Ray and Rhami both received some hand made goodies from Gavin and I. I made Ray a handful of crafted notebooks, and a mustache, and Rhami got one of y favorite journals. There was cupcakes, M&M's and cobbler galore.

Above is a little sneak peak of part of my new display for the buttons I have been making. I recently purchased this dress form for only 10$ from craigslist. Wow...I love craigslist. I also started something new. I made SCRABBLE magnets to sell at the craft fair. They were a huge hit, but I need to sell them as groups of letters and words instead of just individually. I displayed them on an antique tool box I found in my grandfathers closet. Alright and one last thing.

I have just been introduced to the new crazy flavors of M&M's...and boy let me tell you the dark chocolate, pretzel and coconut M&Ms are oodles of goodness in your mouth. just trust me on this one.

Anthropologie Semptember catalog

2010-09-03T07:42:00.004-05:00

 
I have fallen in love with the interior designs of the new Anthropologie magazine. Too bad they are crazy expensive, yet I can still dream. I adore anything patchwork, and eccentric colors and styles really make me happy. Their new September issue is most certainly drool worthy. I will be sharing a few pics of my newly renovated home after my much needed vacation at the lake this weekend. I hope everyone  (in the states) has a very happy Labor Day. What are you doing to celebrate?

incredible... I love the simple wallpaper.

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Fancy Shop Update for Fall

2010-08-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

This update has been a long time coming. I have finally gotten a chance to squeeze in a photo shoot in order to update items for the end of summer and beginning of fall. There are really some exquisite pieces in this update. As you can see I have two new models, Christian (my roomie), and Emma. Both wonderfully beautiful ladies, it was so easy to get some great shots.

This photo shoot was quite an adventure. The pictures were taken at my moms house right next to her chicken coop haha. And let me tell you.... we were getting eaten up by mosquitoes!! Ill share a few pics with me taking pics and sporting those silly bug repellent fans. They actually work! The shoot was great fun, and I am so excited to have my friends helping me out.
All of the items will be up in The AppleSeed by the end of today! I hope you enjoy.

Salvador Dali

2010-08-24T08:03:00.000-05:00

This past weekend Gavin and I ventured up to Atlanta for a pretty incredible exhibit. None other than Salvador Dali had some impressive paintings, sculpture, and jewelry on display. Gavin and I came very prepared. Our travel bag included two apples, some rice cakes, a very adorable children's book (don't ask), and mustaches of course. My lil sis and I have been cranking out these mustaches to sell at the Pepper Place craft farmers market here.

The Dali exhibit was striking, and the mustaches were a hit. We were a tad bit rushed, because we got there only an hour before the museum closed, but at least we saw everything. After the museum we ventured into little five points to grab a gyro at a small Turkish restaurant.

Le me just say there are some very interesting people in Atlanta, GA. My favorite had to be the older women dressed head to toe in a neon blue super woman outfit. I was told this is a regular habit for her.

Here are a few Salvador Dali inspired finds. If you are not familiar with Dali, just look up a few paintings of his online, they are truly spectacular.

In order to acquire a growing and lasting respect in society, it is a good thing, if you possess great talent, to give, early in your youth, a very hard kick to the right shin of the society that you love. After that, be a snob.
-Salvador Dali

1. Salvador Dali inspired shirt ETSY
2. Mix of Mustaches on ETSY3. The Temptation of Saint Anthony

Nectar Art Collective

2010-08-19T07:36:00.000-05:00

boy have I been a crafting fool these past two weeks. I thought I would share with you a few of my most recent projects. The first are my shooting star crayons. I found a massive box of crayons that my mom had been saving since my sisters and I were little. She never let me thrown them away, saying they would come in handy one day. And boy did they ever. I have already used almost the entire box of crayon remains, and melted them into these little beauties.

I took them to the craft show this past weekend, and even though it was raining the kids loved them. I had a little basket laying out where you could try them out. Its pretty neat, they write in rainbow colors.

The next are my recycled vintage book journals. I only had a picture of the back of them, but that is the best part. I used my vintage label maker if you remember from here, to print out little stickers to put on the back of the notebooks. I even brought the label maker to the show with me to stamp out personal names or sayings on the front of the journals, it was a big hit.

Both of these items will be available for purchase in my
VERY NEW Etsy store.
Nectar Art Collective. feel free to check it out.

This store will be soon filled with all things handmade.
Do you like the new design of the shop? Or have any favorite items.

Hope your having a super week.

Rainy Day Art booth

2010-08-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

This weekend was my first time to have a booth at the Pepper Place Farmers Market. I have been getting ready for this weekend for a very long time. Plenty of crafting, painting, sewing, stamping and gluing has been going on non stop over it mi casa.

And what happened this weekend you ask..... well it poured down rain of course. There were a total of a bout 30 people at the market. Haha not exactly what I expected. Oh and get this, it was the very first weekend of the entire market, which began in May, that rained. Lily and I came straight home to research some ancient anti-ran dances to do for next weekend.

Needless to say it was not a huge success, but I learned a lot and I look forward to 5 more weekends of sunny days (fingers crossed). Here are a few pictures of my booth set up, and some of the items I brought. I would say the mustaches on a stick and herb garden spokes were favorites by far.

you can find me all this week performing anti-rain dances in my craft room....

hope you have a super week.

Colorful Mistake - Free Crafts

2010-08-11T08:45:00.000-05:00

Here is a sneak peak of my new craft room. I am still working on filling the walls and getting a few more shelves for organization, but it is almost there. Today I made the garland that you see hanging around the ceiling. It was super simple, and practically free. Every time I visit the hardware store I snatch a handful of paint samples. I have been hoarding them for a while now. Today I finally put them all to good use.
I present to you a FREE and simple paint swatch garland DIY.

Supplies:
Handful of Paint samples from the hardware store
leaf stamp
thread
scissors
sewing machine.

Instructions:
cut the paint swatches into even triangles
stamp each with your favorite pattern in any color
sew together
hang and enjoy.

(only takes about 30 min)

oh and one more thing.
if you ever try to make recycled crayons.
DO NOT use an iron skillet.
so silly on my part.

iron skillet= ruined here is my beautiful mess

It was a good idea, I just figure I need the bendable chocolate molds
so the crayons will come out easier.

I will keep you updated on attempt #2

what is your favorite craft mistake?

Crafty Monday

2010-08-09T09:40:00.000-05:00

My goodness things have been busy around here. I have almost finished moving into my new house, I just graduated this past weekend from college, and I am preparing for a 6 weekend long craft booth extravaganza, oh...and applying for jobs of course. I had an interview last week. Fingers crossed (it is an incredible position).

I have so many stories and pictures to share of what I have been working on these past two weeks. Only today I finally cleared out enough space in the craft area to get some work done. My little sister is living with me for a while as well, and we are getting very creative on ways to store all of our overwhelming crafts supplies. We are literally storing brushes and paints in the kitchen, for lack of space, and all of the tin cans and wood pieces in the dining room.

It is pretty funny unpacking with Lily. She thinks everything...and I mean EVERYTHING should be displayed. I have caught her several times rummaging through boxes and setting trinkets and tin cans on the mantel and tiny shelves. I keep having to take them back off and hide them in desks and drawers so the tiny house does not feel so cluttered.

I have also been babysitting my cousin two days out of the week, and used the opportunity to craft with her. We made the most adorable caterpillars and lady bugs out of recycled egg cartons. Ill share some more pics of crafts we are doing later on this week.

Did I mention I have been craving green tea frappuccinos from Starbucks? I normally despise all things Starbucks, because of their extraordinarily high prices, and overpowering nature to the local unique coffee shops, but once you try this you will be hooked.

I am currently searching for some green tea matcha to purchase offline, so I will not have to pay $4.85 every time I want a green tea frapp.Does anyone know a good online store to buy tea?

This week is crazy for me.
I hope everyone has a splendid Monday.

Giveaway Winner

2010-08-03T08:13:00.003-05:00

Today I will announce the winner!
ok, well there will be TWO winners (i am feeling generous)
drum roll please.....

Paislea Elyse
(won the 35$ gift certificate and journal)

and also

jane-willy
(won a journal of your choice and a few other goodies)

please contact me with your emails, so I an give you your prizes
also a very special thanks to everyone who entered.

I have had so much fun visiting these wonderful blogs over the past week.
Get ready for a few very pretty posts this week!

Splendid Giveaway

2010-07-28T09:20:00.001-05:00

This will be the simplest giveaway ever I promise.
I have too many adorable vintage items sitting in storage
at my house that need to be loved. So I offer you a chance to win one gift certificate to my shop worth $35, as well as your pick of a handcrafted journal made from recycled album covers.

I planned to do a giveaway when I reached 100 readers, but I got so caught up with school and moving that I did not have enough time. I hope that this little giveaway shows my appreciation and respect to all of you bloggers out there. This blog has become quite a passion, and I really hope that you enjoy reading. I recently added an EMAIL ME button which is perfectly suitable for just a friendly "hello" email or some thoughts for new posts.

I giggle with joy from every blog comment I read, and I also love discovering about new readers. My boyfriend sometimes feels he has to share me with ETSY and BLOG... haha

alright, on with the giveaway
here is how it will work.

simply follow this blog and
leave a comment below with one of your favorite
blogs or inspirational sites.
(try to leave a site you think I would not have visited- i love new discoveries)

or tweet about this giveaway
please mention @carriefagan so I can see!
(please leave your email in the comment)

the winner will be picked at random and announced
next Tuesday August 2nd
I hope you have a fabulous Wednesday

Indian Inspiration

2010-07-26T08:12:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday. Today I have been inspired to post a few vibrant Indian themed treasures and recipes.Indian food and style has always captured my attention, my little sister and I combined own a handful of super comfortable Indian wrap pants, as seen above. We also share a passion for Indian cuisine. Yesterday Gavin, Lily and I visited our favorite Indian restaurant in Birmingham, Taj India.

Taj India offers a buffet style lunch so you can sample a handful of different dishes each day. I would have shared a few pictures of my meal, but we were sitting in a very dimly lit room, therefor all you would see is darkness. So instead I included my favorite dishes and a really great site for some recipes, over at Sailu's Kitchen.

2. long gypsy skirt

1. tribal vintage 70s Pomegranate red ethnic hippie skirt
7. Red printed Rayon Harem Pants
5. wedding
3. my friends studio floor- tree of life
(the floor is made from cut out pieces of recycled magazine and wrapping paper.
Each leaf is individually cut and pasted to the floor.
A final coat of polyurethane seals the floor.)
6. vintage handmade embellished dress
4. Tandoori spice kit with Recipes- small
8. Stunning slip on Bollywood style Indian leather beaded shoes

I hope everyone has a splendid and productive week ahead.

In Season Fig Preserves

2010-07-23T09:00:00.004-05:00

Its time for an in season recipe. Figs are at the peak of there season in the south. They have a very subtle sweet taste, perfect for jam and preserves. Earlier this week Gavin and I rode our bikes to a local fig tree we found about a year ago. We have been waiting all summer for the figs to get ripe.
Every time we rode our bikes by we would check
to see if they were ripe yet.

Here is the yummy recipe.
(Figs can be substituted with any fruit in season)

Ingredients:

pounds figs (no stems) (about 9 cups)
cups sugar
lemons, very thinly sliced, seeds removed
a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg

Preparation:

Wash, drain and stem figs. Place the figs and sliced lemons in the pot and pour over the sugar.  Cook over medium-low heat until sugar is completely dissolved; reduce to low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add lemon slices. Cover and cook until figs are transparent and the syrup is thick, 2-3 hours. Then spread over anything!

my breakfast of champions

mr. frog with the figs.

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i hope you have a calm relaxed weeekend. I will be very busy getting a garage sale together.

DIY Inspire to Loom

2010-07-22T09:17:00.001-05:00

I want to share with you my oh so anticipated craft adventure. I have recently discovered the flower loom. I remember doing something similar to the loom with my mom, making woven hot pads
out of old fabrics with the square loom.

So, I ventured to Hobby Lobby in hopes of finding a cheap medium sized flower loom. Of course, the only loom they had came in a back of 3 for $30.00 NO thank you. I came home and searched ETSY...no luck...then EBAY and whabam! I found three different size looms for only $9.00. The looms even come with two vintage flower  project books
(I was very excited about that).

I also picked up a huge bag of multi-colored yarn from
the thrift store for only $2.00.



etsy photo 

I am so excited for my looms to come in the mail!
I am planning to make some hair pieces and brooches,
and possibly attempt a blanket.
I even found an ETSY seller online who recycles plastic  shopping bags into beautiful pieces of art.
What an inexpensive way to create something beautiful.
Reduce, reuse, recycle for a sustainable future.
I know I avoid plastic bags whenever possible, but this is a neat way to recycle those you already have.


Recycled Plastic Bag Flowers by Strewth 

So have I got you hooked yet? If not here is a simple tutorial to show you how easy and fun it really is.

Home EC. Vintage Flower Loom Tutorial.

What are your recent craft endeavors? Have a super weekend. I will be busy preparing for a HUGE garage sale.

Pretty Dress Update and thoughts

2010-07-20T15:18:00.005-05:00

It has been a little tricky recently for me to be motivated about posting vintage to my shop.I have SO many dresses and oodles of funky purses and shoes... just little time to take Z photos
....and lack of a model. Yet here they are regardless.
APPLESEED VINTAGE

I really appreciate seeing photos of the clothing on a model when I purchase online, so you can really understand the style and fit. I try my hardest to post pictures of clothing being modeled. This happens to be my newest model Lily.

Ok, so she is my little sister but you would not believe how many photos I had to take just to get 5 decent ones. I swear she was twirling around in the dresses like a little girl playing dress up...and then she attempted to take some to wear that night. ha you gotta love her though.. full of energy.

I cannot wait until I move and get everything organized so I can post on a regular schedule.
I hope everyone is having a splendid Tuesday.
It is very hot here in Tuscaloosa, so I am staying inside writing letters and getting packages together for my new pin pals.

Me Amo Dulces

2010-07-19T13:10:00.000-05:00

One more travel extraordinaire to share with you. This weekend I was in New Orleans with Gavin and his family, eating candy, chocolates and beignets. And all of a sudden we were thrown back into 1914. Check out this mule hauled Roman Candy cart we came across.

Gavin and I passed it driving, and of course I had to stop to buy some $1.00 candy sticks. There were three flavors strawberry, chocolate and vanilla. The vanilla was my favorite as it tasted like roasted marshmallows. The man has owned the truck since 1914. And boy, you should have seen the line for these sought after candies. Every time he stopped children and parents would
line up to get their favorite candy sticks.

This discovery inspired me to share a few candy favorites.

1. wedding candy display 

2. Candy Shop Engagement Photos

most adorable message ever

vintage candy shop

5. candy girl with an oh so tiny waist



5. caramel candy recipe 
1/2 stick butter
1 cup canned evaporated milk
2 cups sugar
16 large marshmallows
1/4 cup sugar, caramelized
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups broken pecan pieces


Melt butter around the sides and bottom of a heavy saucepan. Add milk and sugar. Stir with wooden spoon toward the center of the pan. Add marshmallows.Place 1/4 cup sugar in small pan to caramelize (a cast iron pan works well but is not required). Turn pan frequently to prevent burning.
Transfer melted sugar into the larger pan, stirring constantly. Lower the heat, and cook until a candy thermometer reaches 238°F, stirring often; set aside to cool to 110°F.
Stir in vanilla and pecans, continuing to stir until the candy will hold its shape. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto buttered wax paper, parchment paper or silicone sheets.


5. candy house!

all images taken from weheartit

6. my favorite candies... sixlets and peach rings

what is your favorite candy?

Tuesday Tale of a Rainbow

2010-07-13T09:03:00.003-05:00

I have been inspired by a colorful mystery. Well, it is no longer a mystery anymore, rather a scientific theory, but it use to be very mysterious to several different cultures. Probably the most common explanation from the Irish leprechaun's secret hiding place for his pot of gold is usually said to be at the end of the rainbow.

This past weekend driving home from Houston we saw two rainbows. It was completely sunny outside and it suddenly started to rain. Rainbows are so peaceful. I usually make a wish whenever I see one. In this case I got two wishes.

These rainbow inspired finds would be a little overwhelming all together but mix and match to make an irresistible outfit.

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Have a Happy Tuesday
What do you do when you see a rainbow?

Bigger in Texas

2010-07-12T12:23:00.000-05:00

Texas was incredible! As they say everything is bigger in Texas, and let me assure you everyone including the visitors who leave Texas. I had never eaten out so much. We went out to eat
for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Good thing I was visiting friends so we could always split meals. There are some super unique shops and restaurants in Houston. If your planning a trip anytime soon I insist you check out these favorites.

The Bead SHOP
2476 Times Rd., Houston, TX, 77005
   in Rice Village

This place was amazing. Thousands of beads spread out all over the tables. And for pretty cheap, only a couple of cents for some really nice glass beads. The guy that worked there had a pretty extensive collection of Hindu sculptures. I bought a few evil eye glass beads... I'm still thinking what to make.

Ruggles Cafe Bakery

Im pretty sure these were meant for children, but we bought some regardless. If you buy a cookie for $1.00 they give you your very own icing to ice your treat. I went all out of course, plus they were delicious.

Ruggles GREEN
& The Path of Tea

Ruggles Green offers delicious menu items that incorporate organic, all-natural, hormone-free, preservative-free, products that are always delicious. I ordered the veggie burger with sweet potato fries. Then walk right across the street to the tea bar and order a frozen green tea. It is like heaven in a cup.

United Way Thrift & Flash Back Antiques

The United way thrift store had SO many vintage nurse dresses donated this past weekend. All of my friends tried on a nurse outfit just for fun. I wish nurses still wore these vintage white dress outfits...how much fun! Close but is Flask Back antiques. I could not afford anything in the store, but it is totally worth the trip.

OH and I have some SUPER exciting news to share... It's not set in stone yest so I don't want to spoil the surprise, but I will tell very soon.

Road Trip

2010-07-08T07:56:00.000-05:00

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I have been waiting for a good road-trip. This weekend I will be headed to TEXAS with two friends. Houston, Texas to be exact. Texas is one of the few states I have not visited. Does anyone live in Houston, or know some good restaurants/ thrift stores to visit? Here is a simple list of things to keep you occupied while on a road-trip, If I may.

1. make a few really good mix tapes

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2. pack a snack of apple chips and Izze! (my favorites)
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3. Bring a doodle book...and plenty of markers

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4. a very comfy pillow

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5. And some really killer shades.
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What is your favorite road trip accessory?

Reclaimed Key Necklaces

2010-07-06T10:48:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I found a huge pile of old keys while I was cleaning out my mom's office. My little sister and I were so excited, and immediately started creating necklaces from the vintage keys and recycled necklace parts. I am not sure if I want to add these
to the shop, or wait for the craft fair in August.
I am so excited to have an art booth at Pepper Place this fall.

What do you think of them? I'm sure there will be more to come.

From Garden to Plate

2010-07-06T09:40:00.000-05:00

There is nothing better than eating veggies fresh picked form the garden. This weekend was a feast of fresh tomato sandwiches, cucumber salad, watermelons, and fava beans, all from mom's garden. I finally gave myself a break from the internet, and spent a wonderful weekend with family and friends.

OH and get this. While we were up at the mountain house Gavin and I went exploring down toward the waterfall and we came across a huge patch of Chanterelle mushrooms. We know this because my mom has a friend who is an outdoor expert. We picked an entire bunch, and are waiting to cook them tonight. I had never picked mushrooms from the wild, or ever eaten Chanterelles before. I am so excited.

I am sure everyone has had a very eventful weekend. But its time to get on with the week. This week I'll be staying home to get my house cleaned out and ready to move in. I am having a MASSIVE garage sale and selling everything I possibly can in order to make some space. I will also be posting tons of new dresses this week in the shop so stay tuned.
Also, does anyone have any recipes for Chanterelle mushrooms? I have never even eaten them at a restaurant.
Have a Happy Monday.

Shop Update

2010-07-03T09:05:00.000-05:00

SO many beautiful items in the shop today.
Be sure to check back July 5th. I will have TONS of new dresses and skirts going up as well.
I hope everyone is having a splendid Thursday
Be sure to check out MyGirlThursday, she is having an amazing giveaway going on right now.

Crazy Idea

2010-07-02T09:50:00.000-05:00

SO, I have been saving all my pennies for the past year to buy my very first car. I said it, my very FIRST car. I am 22 and have never owned a car. Yes I know how to drive, and I have my drivers license, I guess I just really never needed one. I got around just fine at school on bikes, and whenever I needed to go home I just got a ride from a friend.I adore my two bikes, a bright red cruiser and a blue road bike. This has kept me in shape, and saved me tons of mula. I highly recommend getting a bike!

It has been a little nicer with Gavin letting me borrow his car. Although, this has meant TOO many trips to the thrift store, I used to bike to the thrift, haha GEEZ its so far away I'm silly.

Anywho, I have a reasonable budget of about 2,500.( I wish I didn't have to buy a car, but I will desperately need one once I move back home, too bad Birmingham has a non existant public transportation system) I envy those of you who live in big cities and can rely on public transit.

Yeah I bet your thinking what the POO is 2,500 going to get you. Well, my friends I have been searching craigslist and kellybluebook high and low like it is my job. And let me tell you, the only things you will find for those prices are SCAMS, and maybe some decent cars with over 100,000 miles and smoke smell or dog pee stains.

So here are my two radical considerations.

Idea #1 Buy an old (but running) VW van

(i found this beauty for 1,500$ I am seriously crazy right)

...but what she could look like

or Idea # 2 Buy a Vespa

(craigslist 1,200$ 60mpg- beauty)

or i could just combine the two ideas... brilliant!

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who said this had to be a practical decision...i don't
think you can beat 60 mpg
What was your first car?

Sculpture Craze

2010-07-01T09:38:00.005-05:00

I thought I would share with you a few sneaks peaks of my work in progress. I am currently working on two sculpture projects. I cant decide yet if I want to sell them, or keep them for myself. I will bring them to my craft booth in August too see if anyone likes! The whole in its eye will have a huge black camera lens. Don't be frightened... I'm not finished yet, just sharing a little bit of process. Enjoy!

Here are a few of my favorite sculptures I recently
found on ETSY that involve antlers. I love the quilted ones!

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Design Doodles

2010-06-30T09:38:00.003-05:00

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So as of today I have finished my last day of school ever. I do not actually become a graduate until August, but I no longer have any classes! I am so excited to be finished/incredibly nervous and anxious about moving back to Birmingham. I will be on the search for a job, and really dedicating time to my online shop. So, since I have the entire month of July to relax and be creative I thought I would offer some design services. I have never really done this before, but I figured It wouldn't hurt to ask.

If you are searching for a creative playful design for any of the following just shoot me an email.
cfontgomery23@gmail.com

business cards
letterheads
logo
blog title
blog buttons
personal signature

My prices are very low, and I love working with new people and clients. I have three years experience designing and working for an online advertising organization, as well as a creative studio. Mostly I design for my blog/etsy, class projects and work. If your looking for a revamp on your business or blog and want a creative approach
just send me an email. cfmontgomery23@gmail.com
Here are some examples of my work.

I'm graduated, and I still have a HUGE to do list. Now, just more time to finish these projects I guess. My day will consist of:
picking up supplies from hobby lobby
writing out graduation invitations
hemming two dresses
finishing sculpture robots to sell at Pepper Place
shipping items
gathering clothing for photoshoot on Friday
dishes...erg
begin online job search.(very daunting)

wish me luck! I hope everyone is having a splendid Wednesday.

DIY- Funky Light switch

2010-06-29T10:12:00.002-05:00

I saw this light switch at a friends house last year, so I have been making different versions of it ever since. Yet my favorite version is still the cheezy Fuego love scenes. They are SO funny. The light switch just fits so perfectly on the picture...if you know what i'm sayin. Well here is what you will need:
Polyurethane
paint brush
light covers
cheezy love scenes
(you can get these from the
front of romance novels at the thrift store)
buttons or trinkets.
metal clips.
hot glue gun
sandpaper

1. Score the front of the light switch with some sandpaper.
2. Next cover the light switch in a light layer of glue and place the magazine cover over the front. Fold over the edges and clip them with the metal clips.
3. Hot glue the back of the folded paper so that it stays put.
4. Glue on your trinkets and buttons to the front of the light switch, then cover with two coats of polyurethane.

These are perfect for birthday gifts or prank gifts. You can really personalize them with different magazine clippings and vintage photographs. Hope you enjoy!

Thrift Store Finds

2010-06-28T10:54:00.005-05:00

Check out all of the clocks I got at the thrift this weekend. I now have an instant collection of mini Baby Ben clocks. I am pretty sure some old woman had been collecting these little guys for months, and finally decided to just get rid of all of them. It can get a little annoying if you have all of them running in one room. The tic tocks will most certainly get to you. I had to take the batteries out of all but one of them. My favorite is the blue plastic vibrant clock right in front.

A word of advice. DO NOT use goo gone on plastic surfaces. The goo gone will eat the plastic up.
I hate those darn stickers from the thrift store!! I can't tell you how many drinking glasses I have that still have the thrift store stickers on them. All of my clocks still have the stickers on them, I just do not have the patience to scrape them off.

Does anyone know a good remedy to get VERY sticky stickers off of plastic?

Here is a beautiful quilt I found at an estate sale. It is only the raw quilted squares at the moment. I need to buy some material to sew to the back of the quilt. The design is amazing, so many colors! Has anyone made any quilts recently? I will be looking for some fabric and advice on how to turn this blanket into a beauty.

Pearl River Blues

2010-06-27T09:30:00.002-05:00

I literally have 25lbs. of blueberries now stored in my fridge! Yesterday Gavin, and his little sister, and I went to pick blueberries at Pearl River Blues Farms. We visited Pearl River Blue's Farm last year and we absolutely loved it. The farm has over 3,000 blueberry bushes, chickens, a veggie and flower garden and wonderful friends. If you have never gone to a farm near you and picked either blueberries or strawberries I highly recommend it.

Pearl River is an organic farm so they don't spray the field with any pesticides or herbicides. You can eat as many berries as you want right off the bush. And did we ever. Gavin and I remembered not to eat a lot because we knew we would be filling our bellies with berries.
Right now is perfect blueberry picking season, so research a blueberry farm near you!

Gavin and I will freeze most of the berries and eat them year round. I'll post my favorite blueberry recipe tomorrow. It is so much fun getting to know farmers in your area, we even brought
home one dozen fresh eggs.

Has anyone else gone blueberry picking?

May I own this car.

2010-06-25T07:53:00.000-05:00

Could I just maybe put a "for sale" sign on this car? She is quite the beauty. I spotted her a street over from my house. I could not resist getting out and snapping some pics.

Gavin and I are headed to New Orleans this weekend to visit his family. We are stopping by Pearl River Blues to pick some fresh blueberries. We went last year and have been waiting until the berries are ripe for picking this year. We hope to pick at least 3 lbs. and freeze them so we can have blueberries throughout the year.

Don't forget to stop by my shop and check out all the new items. Remember 15% of all purchases this month will be donated to The Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Gulf Coast Oil Spill Fund.

What are you doing this weekend? Anyone fond of picking blueberries as well?

Save the Gulf- Ill try

2010-06-24T10:50:00.000-05:00

I keep watching the news coverage on the oil spill and scanning through magazines of dirty pelicans and sea turtles and sometimes I feel so helpless. I don't really have the funds or extra time to donate to the disaster, but I figured I could spare a little through ETSY.

My boyfriend Gavin is from New Orleans, so we both pay close attention to whats happening in the gulf. We are going down to visit this weekend, it will probably be the first time visiting that we wont bring home a huge bag of fresh boiled crayfish or shrimp. We hope to even head to the coast to see some of the damage.

For the next month (June 24-July 24) I have decided to donate 15% of my sales on ETSY to The Greater New  Orleans Foundation’s Gulf  Coast Oil Spill Fund. This does not sound like much, but its all I can really give right now. I'm hoping to raise at least 200$ in the next month to be donated. The 15% will be taken out of the final purchase and stored until I can donate the lump sum of raised fund in July.

How can you help? Simply purchase some lovely vintage
items from my shop, The Appleseed.

Or if you don't find something you like in my shop, check out all the ETSY sellers below who are also donating funds to the disaster.

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1. Loopy Goth OOAK Art Doll Clarissa

2. Handmade vintage linen owl plushie

3.SAVE THE GULF COAST BOW

4. Ornamental Sun on Organic Alternative Apparel Scoop Neck tshirt

5. Yellow Vintage Bicycle On Gray Bodysuit Or Tee

6. High Lonesome blue grass inspired antique crazy quilt cuff all recycled from down de bayou

Shop Update - plenty of new items.

2010-06-23T11:00:00.001-05:00

Plenty of items new in the shop today. I hope your having a splendid Wednesday. I am super excited for tonight's new show on Bravo
"Work of Art" which will feature artists in every medium of art including: painting, sculpture, photography, collage and industrial design.

Has anyone seen an episode yet? I just found out about it yesterday.
I am so excited!

DIY- a craft extravaganza

2010-06-23T08:31:00.000-05:00

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Very soon I will be moving back home to Birmingham. I am excited/nervous/sad. I will be leaving my boyfriend here in Tuscaloosa while he finishes up his master's in Biology. Gavin is my number one supporter so its going to be a little tough without him. On the excited side, I will be moving to a larger city with tons of art, excitement, jobs and new friends. Actually I have very few friends in Birmingham so I'm very anxious to get to the city and explore. I will also be on the search for a job, gosh I'm already graduating from college, its seems so surreal.

Anywho, once I move back to town I will be a nanny for my younger cousin. I thought I would take this splendid opportunity to create as many crafts as I can with her. I soon plan to open a community craft/vintage/art collective shop downtown, so this will be the perfect opportunity to try out some young kid crafts. Here is a small list I have come up with. (with images) I will be posting DIY steps and pics to all of these endeavors upon completion.

1. Dream Shadow Box

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2. Photo Mobile

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3. Crochet pet rock (first I have to learn to crochet/sticth)
maybe we will just paint them...

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4. Pretty wire wall decor
SUPER excited about this one.

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5. Felt hair clips of course. because they
are always a huge hit with the ladies

What craft did you create recently? Do you have any pictures?

Truly Inspiring. One Dress

2010-06-22T16:16:00.004-05:00

A truly inspiring story I found searching the web. It amazes me how such a creative mind, a little style, and one dress can make such a difference. Here is how Sheena a girl who grew up in India gave back to her community.

The Idea- The Uniform Project 

Starting May 2009, I have pledged to wear one dress for one year as an exercise in sustainable fashion. Here’s how it works: There are 7 identical dresses, one for each day of the week. Every day I will reinvent the dress with layers, accessories and all kinds of accouterments, the majority of which will be vintage, hand-made, or hand-me-down goodies. Think of it as wearing a daily uniform with enough creative license to make it look like I just crawled out of the Marquis de Sade's boudoir.

The Uniform Project is also a year-long fundraiser for the Akanksha Foundation, a grassroots movement that is revolutionizing education in India. At the end of the year, all contributions will go toward Akanksha’s School Project to fund uniforms and other educational expenses for children living in Indian slums.

Uniform Project Picture Book from The Uniform Project on Vimeo.

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Tuesday Tale of Doris's tall hat

2010-06-22T11:46:00.000-05:00

For those of you who are new to my blog every Tuesday I share a little story about where my thrift stores finds traveled from to make it into my home. It's a simple and unique way to appreciate other peoples trash, which have become my treasures. Today I will share with you the extraordinary fancy top hat I snatched from the thrift, which was previously owned by Dorris Steele.

but first Ill share some pretty finds...

Here are a few favorites:

Vintage Navy Blue Cocktail Hat

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Vintage Cocktail Hat in Turquoise

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Selima Salaun designs these beautiful hats in NYC. If only I could dress like this every day. I simply walked into the grocery in Alabama with my new found beauty, and I got so many funny looks. I loved it!

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There are some pristine replicas of vintage hats on ETSY. For a very reasonable price as well. I am so tempted to snatch one of these up. Gail of Creations by Gail designs hats from past eras, she even does custom orders if you need one for a special occasion or wedding. If I only had the occasion to wear them all to.

Dorris's Top Hat

It was not quite Sunday, yet Dorris had spent her entire Saturday evening displaying her hats on her bed in attempts to decide which hat would match her orange tequila lace pant suit. Dorris has quite the collection of hats, blue velvet hats for a winter day, silk red cocktail hats for outings with friend and delicate straw wide brimmed hats for trimming the garden. Dorris has become quite the spectacle at her church in Templar, TX. She has been a member of Sacred Heart Church for 16 years but only recently has she somehow seemed to double the congregation.

Dorris always attends the early service at church, she promptly arrives at 7:20 to get the best seat in the very front row before the service begins at 8:00.She also likes being the very first in line for communion...(for obvious reasons. One Sunday Dorris arrived wearing quite unusual attire. She was dressed head to toe in purple velvet,a large brimmed hat included, which seemed to resemble an overgrown eggplant. The next Sunday Dorris wore matching crimson red nickers and scarlet a scarlet red hat. And the next Sunday a striking lime green pencil skirt with spotted leggings and a lime bean like skinny top hat.

Word spreads quickly through Templar of such a scandal, and Dorris became the talk of the town. People would show up to the church just to sneak a peek of the elaborate and exotic prints and fabrics Dorris would be wearing.

Sadly, when Dorris passed away she sent one hat to each friend and relative she knew. The yellow and gold top hat which was sent to her niece in Birmingham, AL was no gift at all.Her cousin despised it upon first arrival, not evening giving it a chance in the mirror. The hat was quickly taken to the local donation spot...where it happened to fall right into my arms.

I plan to proudly wear this hat wherever I deem fit. The grocery store, movie nights with Gavin, potlucks, and strolls around the neighborhood. By the way Gavin fully supports the crazy hat.

Some pretty images because I felt that they were irresistible. Thank you weheartit, for I waste too many hours searching
through your stock.

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Do you have any favorite hats or unique accessories just dying for the occasion to wear them to? Well don't wait, just wear them to the grocery store and enjoy those funny looks.

Please do tell!

Supermarket Sarah- creative ways to sell online

2010-06-18T22:59:00.001-05:00

This is an absolutely wonderful and innovative
way to sell vintage online.
Supermarket Sarah takes window shopping to an entire new level.
Sarah decided to leave the corporate world behind her and set up shop in her own home in London. Her home, is now overflowing with treasures and delights and she welcomes visitors with tea and cakes by appointment.

All you need to do is hover your mouse over which item you would like to purchase from the display wall, and you can see if it has sold or not. How neat!

(images taken from Sarah's website)

I hope everyone has a lovely weekend and Happy Fathers Day!

Pretty Little Things- shop update and chickies!

2010-06-18T10:10:00.005-05:00

Some super cute accessories went up in the shop last night. Feel free to check them out here. Oh and I promised to share some pics of mom's baby chicks... well here they are. How adorable!

(yes Gavin is attempting to eat the baby chicken...
he was so frightened.) I made him put the poor thing down.

Have super weekend. Don't forget its fathers day weekend! Anyone have any super plans with their padre?

The Crazy Chaotic Inspiration of others...

2010-06-16T17:12:00.014-05:00

Today I thought I would share with you a little bit of inspirational artists/photos. The first on the list is my little sister of course. As you can see above Lily surrounds herself with colorful and exotic colors, shapes, drawings, sketches, figures and fabrics. Stepping into her room is like stepping into her mind.

She has deep purple and red walls covered in everything from vintage records to personal paintings. her ceilings are also covered in about 40 different scarves, Her room is a little bit messy here (although you might not be able to tell).

Every time I come into town I hang out in the back of lily's room and paint or play with some clay. She literally has every medium you could think of, and all of the tools to create it. Metal, clay, glass, mixed media, jewelry, wire, fabric, its GREAT! Lily is oh so talented and I cant wait to she what she will be creating next.

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by artist Raphael website

I also love artist and graphic designer Kate Bingaman Burt .Kate has been extraordinarily busy with many projects ranging from hand lettering the brand new book Handmade Nation, also illustrations for ReadyMade Magazine.

Here are a couple of websites I check a good bit
to draw inspiration from. Check them out! Just click on the images.Be careful, if your like me, you could end up spending hours there!

(great for inspirational studio spaces, art,
design, logos, sculpture)

(Australian blog filled with hundreds of lovely categories)

(a community of buyers and sellers showcasing the best in art,
handmade, and vintage...sort of like ETSY)

Where do you draw your inspiration? Do you have any secret sites you would like to share?

DIY Tree Branch Jewelry Stand

2010-06-15T12:35:00.015-05:00

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I needed a way to display my necklaces and bracelets and didn't want to buy some expensive display. Its crazy that Urban Outfitters sells there metal imitation tree branch jewelry stands for like 50 bucks! So, I created a jewelry display with a scrap of tree branch,some wall hanging fixtures, and spray paint. Most of these materials I found around my house and backyard. I included steps on how to make your own jewelry stand, but first a little inspiration...

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Here is a picture of the one I made. Its a little different than the standing tree branch, but it looks very pretty on the wall! Sorry for the low quality images... I don't have my camera. I painted it an avocado green color.

Supplies:

tree branch with lots of smaller branches
a small block of wood for the base
power drill
wood glue
spray paint

How it works:

1. Clean the branch with hot water and a little bit of soap. Scrap off any dirt and weak twigs with a knife or sandpaper.

2. Drill a hole in the block of wood that is the same diameter as the bottom of the tree branch.

3. Fill the hole half way with wood glue and stick your branch in so it stands up straight. Hold it steady until the glue is almost finished drying.

4. Spray the entire branch and wood block with paint. You can also paint it if you like! I used acrylic paint and it worked fine, just may take a little longer.

Here are a few more examples..

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But don't stop there. Look, you can make a hat stand!

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a little too far maybe...

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Hope you enjoy!

Happy Monday- eat your veggies and buy local!

2010-06-12T11:43:00.012-05:00

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Happy Monday Everyone!
I have been so busy this weekend. I came home to visit some family and relax a little. Gavin is out of town:( so I have been keeping myself busy. He took the camera to Boston, so I wont be able to share pics from the garden...but if only you could have seen the feast my little sister and I shared for dinner last night. We went out late Sunday afternoon to pick tons of veggies from moms garden. Here is a small list of the goodies we gathered:

new potatoes (red and golden)
onions (red and yellow)
purple cabbage
carrots
beans
spinach
tomatoes
basil
dill

and what did we make you ask?
A delicious soup of course!

But you don’t need a farm to grow fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits. You don’t really even need a garden, check out some of these neat tricks to grow your own veggies, trust me they will taste WAY better than the ones in the store.

I tried to find some pics of super pretty gardens, maybe to convince someone to start to grow there own veggies.

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(look at the pretty glass covers for the lettuce)

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Look its a roof garden!

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Oh and here are some super funky accessories for the garden,
found on etsy

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anyone have any secret recipes or tips for the
veggies we picked? I adore new recipes.
I'd love to add it to my recipe box.

Vintage Greeting Cards- Funky Friday

2010-06-10T13:53:00.006-05:00

You cant find cards like these anymore. Just like you don't see any more vintage cartoons, vintage greeting cards are quite the treasures.

Sharon Foster Vintage has a very delightful shop on ETSY, where I found a few of these cards. I was thinking of using them for my graduation announcements. I like to be a little out of the ordinary. Look how wonderful and unique they are.

Hope your having a splendid Friday. My mom is out of town, and she insisted that I come in to town and take care of her chickens. So, this means I get a whole weekend full of thrifting in Birmingham.

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Blog Makeover

2010-06-09T17:02:00.005-05:00

My blog had a little face lift. I had some spare time in design today, so I started playing around. What do you think? I would love your opinion!

Also, anything you don't like?  I would love to know!
Thanks so much.

..i know its a little uneven.. getting the darn thing centered is driving me cuckoo. if only I was fluent in HTML.

AppleSeed Shop Update

2010-06-09T08:30:00.001-05:00

Get ready for some adorable vintage dresses and tops popping up in the AppleSeed shop tonight. Here is a tiny peek at what what you will find. Remember the new set up I was practicing with Gavin? Well, here they are! Hope you like.

Have a super Wednesday.

Tuesday Tale- Thelma's Label Maker

2010-06-08T08:19:00.000-05:00

Here comes another fantastical story about the bright blue label maker I found at the thrift store Saturday. I have decided to do a little Tall Tale every Tuesday about my thrift store favorites. It is so much fun to think of where these items came from and who owned them in a previous life.

Today is Thelma's vibrant blue label maker.
This is not any ordinary label maker. This label maker belonged to The Thelma Louise Pearl. Thelma was an avid collector who lived in the town of Warrandyte. Her little cottage perched atop an unsightly hill, right next to the town dump. Too most this would seem quite dirty and depressing, but Thelma had sort of a different mind set.

Each morning Thelma would wake up, fix  some poached eggs, feed her eleven cats, and routinely walk over to the dumpster site before anyone arrived for work.

Did I mention Thelma was a collector? She had a soft spot for anything red. It was the craziest thing, old red shoes, thrown out red bins, red light posts, she even commandeered a bent red stop sign once.

And this is where the labeling began. Use your imagination. A woman who owns eleven cats, a label maker, and a house full of red junk. Oh how delightful. Thanks Thelma, and your wonderful habits.

I found a couple label makers online for super cheap!

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I'll share with you what I intend to label.
No boring bookshelves or plastic boxes, food cans or trinket shelves.
I will label oodles of pictures, people, fruit and bed stands.
Maybe even I will label a few paint brushes, or notebooks, picture frames or Baby Ben clocks.

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Flickr.

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I bought tape today, and I can't wait to get started.
What would you label if you came across Thelma's label maker?
I am oh so curious.

AppleSeed Accessories Update

2010-06-06T15:29:00.005-05:00

I am super excited for these updates. For two reasons I guess. These items were part of my personal collection. I tend to attach myself easily to any vintage shoes that fit, or brightly colored trinkets! The problem is I never actually wear/use them, I just like having them in my closet or sitting on my shelf.

My friends always say I have TOO much stuff... so I am selling it all! Well, not all of it, just letting go of some very pretty items. I hope each and every one of them finds a new happy home.
If you see an item you like just visit
my shop at The AppleSeed and snatch it up!

Oh goodness... at this very moment I am watching the
show Hoarders.. is it a sign?

I thought I would share some pretty hilarious pics of my boyfriend Gavin, he was helping me try out my new modeling set up. Such a goof ball.

(also notice his shirt) a pretty sweet find from the thrift this week!

Have a Happy Monday!

Merlin and Griffin The garden gnomes

2010-06-05T10:07:00.004-05:00

Look what I found thrifting this weekend. It is so funny, because I have been hoping and wishing I would come across a cute little garden gnome. And look! I found two. It has long been known to be good luck to place the Gnome in garden and home. These two gnomes are sitting inside for the moment, in our potted plants, only because I am too scared our neighbors will take them if we put them outside. I live in a college town, so I'm a little weary of placing prized objects on the front lawn. Kinda silly I guess, but I would be SO upset if they disappeared.

Gavin and I named them Merlin, and Griffin.

Merlin is a happy little fellow who came from an imaginary smurf like town named Squinnland. Merlin enjoys watching monarch butterflies, and sneezes when the sun is too bright.

Griffin is quite the opposite, he is the quit one. He seems pretty content to just shut his eyes and snooze off when no one is watching.. as you can see I caught him right in the act.

These little guys remind me of a GREAT French movie I saw recently, Amelie. Amelie (check out the trailer) is quite an unusual girl with a pretty funny past. This is such a unique film and I highly recommend you watch it.

Somehow a garden gnome in this film makes some kind of sense. In the movie Amelie's father refuses to leave the shrine-topped with a lawn gnome- he has built to his departed wife. In order to get her father to see the world, Amelie kidnaps the lawn gnome and gives it to her friend who is a flight attendant. Amelie's friend proceeds to send pictures and postcards back to Amelie's father detailing the gnome's adventures. Eventually Amelie's father works up the courage to leave his home.

Here are a few fellas I found on ETSY

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Does anyone else have a garden gnome? What are their names, and stories?

Chickens!

2010-06-03T08:27:00.000-05:00

My mom got chickens today!We have been waiting for these guys for months. My mom lives right outside the city limits of Birmingham, so I think its legal? Any who, we have been waiting on these guys for a while. The last batch of chickens (as seen below) we bought at about 9 weeks old. It only took them about two months until they started laying. Unfortunately mom didn't have any chicken wire over their little fenced in area, so either the owls, or foxes would come in a steal one every night. It was really sad, and kind of funny at the same time. Exactly one chicken would go missing every night until they were all gone.

My mom practically treated the chickens like her daughters, waking up at 6 in the morning to check on them, and playing with them during the day. She tried once to even give the excuse that she couldn't visit me at school because she had to watch her chickens. Crazy mom and her chickens.

So this is round two of the chickens. I will head into town next weekend so I can post pics of them. I even get to name 4 of them haha. I think I will just repeat my names from last time.

Catchatori
Houdini
Tandoori
and
Shaniqua
(so bad....hehe)

I am so excited for fresh eggs!!

look how ridiculously happy my mom is with her chickens!

Do you know anyone close to you who owns chickens? There really is nothing better than walking up in the morning, walking outside, and picking two fresh eggs for breakfast. It's like Christmas Eve every night.

Funky Furniture

2010-06-02T10:15:00.002-05:00

The last thing I really need to buy before I move back to Birmingham is more furniture. But I just love searching online to see what other people have in their homes. I mean, I am going to need it very soon right? Why not buy  it if I find it cheap. I love the idea of having mismatched furniture. Whether you have one large dining table and many different chairs, or just a living room filled with your favorite pieces. It adds so much character.

Here are a few pretty pieces I found online for purchase! (some of them are not so cheap...) but still OK to dream!

ETSY

ETSY

ETSY

EBAY

(this chair I found at a thrift store! isn't it great. The seat even pulls out to show a secret compartment. what a beauty)

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Oh I almost forgot. I have a giveaway going on over at
Annie Banana's blog.
Its super simple to win! only 5 people have commented so far.
Check it out. You could win all of these:
4 daisy napkin rings
2 antique flower brooches

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Wednesday. I'm feeling a little better from my sickness so I might go out for a run today! What are your Wednesday plans?

New Glasses and Cuckoo Clocks

2010-06-01T12:40:00.000-05:00

Check out these AMAZING glasses I found at the thrift store on Saturday. Well, my boyfriend Gavin really found them, but somehow I seem to have them in my possession. If only I did NOT have 20/20 vision. I know this sounds bad, but I really am jealous of those who get to wear glass. what an adorable accessory!

I like to think up stories of where my thrift finds come from. These particular glasses came from an old man named Freddy. Freddy lived in Selma, Alabama. Freddy had a pretty wife named Sue, and two wonderful children named Petuna and Angie. Freddy was a blueberry farmer by day, and a cuckoo clock creator by night. He needed these very specific glasses to see the tiny nobs and buttons on the clocks. They served him well for 45 years, and now they happen to be in my possession.

Here were some of the Cuckoo Clocks Freddy fixed!

but this on ETSY!

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Do you ever make up stories, or think of who owned your vintage beauties before they were vintage?

New Buttons and cute birdie pics.

2010-06-01T09:10:00.000-05:00

Happy June!
Here are a few pics of some photos I took for my new blog advertisement. It was a little tricky trying to decide what to put in these pictures. Since I have oodles of very beautiful photos of my vintage clothing, but I am in NONE of them, and I thought it would be a little weird if I put someone else in the advertisement button. SO I put together a little photo shoot of trinkets that I thought would describe my shop and blog.

This clock was my grandfathers, and I keep it right next to my bed. I have several other little Baby Ben clocks that were similar that I have sold. But this one is super special. The little blue birdie was a thrift store find! He sits in my window seal right next to all of me succulents. And all of the WONDERFUL vintage fabric I snatched up from an estate sale. I am still thinking of what to do with it all. I also have hundreds of square quilting patterns, and I have NO idea what to do with them?? Any ideas (besides making a quilt haha)

I am super excited to buy an advertising spot on Bluebird Vintage, as well as Freckled Nest. I have been thinking about doing this for my ETSY shop for a while now. I hope it looks pretty on both pages. I only just started blogging, and my ETSY shop has recently been doing pretty well. So, I hope that these little scattered buttons will bring some fun! Ill let you know how it went by  the end of the month. Here are a few examples of the photos I was thinking to use.

Which one do you like best?

Feel free to stick my button on your blog! I would greatly appreciate it! And let me know if you have a button I can put on my blog.

Its ALive- farmers market surprise

2010-05-30T10:07:00.001-05:00

You would not believe what Gavin picked up at the market yesterday. It was indeed a tomato imitating a human. It had an entire finger! Very creepy, we hid it under the other tomatoes and quickly left with our bag of delicious oranges. Oh check out Gavin's tee-shirt, he snagged it at the thrift last week. Priceless.

DIY- Upcycled Tie Necklace

2010-05-28T21:28:00.007-05:00

Good Morning! I am still sick, so I have more free time to spend on crafts. Today I will show how super simple it is to take your dad's, boyfriend's, or brother's outdated ties, and turn them into a super funky necklace. It really easy and only take about 25 minutes tops!

Who says girls can't wear ties??

Here’s what you’ll need:
* One stylish tie (the more outdated the better)
* Sewing Pins
* Scissors
* Sewing Machine
* Thread (multiple colors)
* Button of your choice

1. Lay tie out flat, with the fat side starting on the left.

2. Fold accordion style so that you overlap the tie forming it into a rounded frame.

3. Be sure to pin each layer together as you work so they do not come apart.

4. Keep in mind, the more angled the fold is the more of a curve the necklace will have. I have made them several different ways, and I will show you what I mean.

5. Fold between 8-13 folds depending on how long or short you want the necklace to be. Be sure to remember to leave enough unfolded tie to fit around your neck.

6. Start sewing the end of the tie necklace at the skinny side.

7. Sew (zig zag) over the curves of the tie. If you prefer for the stitches to be hidden, pick a less vibrant stitch and match the thread color to the tones in the tie. I LOVE the vibrant stitches, which is why I usually put about three different colors.

8. Attach the small end of the tie to the fat with desired button. (I can never decide)

9. Your finished! Now go show off your spunky creation to its previous owner. These necklaces look best with a simple white tank top or low neck shirt.

Graffiti Friday, and the teal stove.

2010-05-28T09:04:00.009-05:00

So, I have a super huge to do list  this weekend. But first I will share with you the thrift store find I left behind this past week. If only I had a trailer on the back of my car, and a spare kitchen to put this first find in. Oh and about three other people to help lift.  It was great!!

Ok, I wasn't sure if it actually worked, but it was only $35.00 how could you beat that. A stove for $35.00 if anything it would be a funky decoration piece but where would I put it? For now, I will keep on dreaming. Maybe one day.

Recently I have had a little obsession with graffiti. There is not much graffiti in the state of Alabama that I really know of, besides the funky tags on trains that pass you buy. I know graffiti is a little destructive, but it can be so beautiful, truly a work of art. When I was in Australia a couple of years ago there was graffiti everywhere! Large buildings and department stores would commission artists to graffiti the entire side of a building.

It was flippin breathtaking. So everywhere I went I would be taking pictures of the graffiti. Well, I wont dig up those pictures, but here are a few I found in Birmingham. I took a couple shots of the lil sis for her graduation. They turned out really nice.
Also some favorites i snatched on wehearit.

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Anybody else have an obsession with graffiti? Or am I the only one. Have a super weekend everyone!

Sneak Peak - Nectar Vintage

2010-05-27T08:44:00.009-05:00

Here is a little sneak peak at this week's updates. This week, my friend Rachael Roberts photographed clothing for Nectar Vintage. Erin Brooks was the new model. It was so much fun, and sweating hott! Everything pictured below (except for the model of course!) will be available for purchase at Nectar Vintage by the end of this week. You can check out some more of Rachael Robert's photography (portfolio) here, also at her blog Rachaelnroberts Photography. Can't wait to do it again! Thanks Erin and Rach.

Sick Day- Blog Button Tutorial

2010-05-26T10:02:00.009-05:00

I woke up this morning with a very sharp sensation in my throat, throbbing head, and yucky sweats. What the POO is up with my immune system? It seems I am the guinea pig of bacteria, testing out their new diseases. Humph. Any who, luckily I don't have school today so I get to relax. Of course, my relaxation means twiddling with my blog.

I always see other blogs and ETSY stores and find bursts of creativity. I am constantly trying to figure out how to twiddle with HTML, new photography and design ideas. Today, I might be tweaking my blog header. I just never seem satisfied with the one I have. I have probably designed around ten or fifteen, I just have not had the time to change them out.

OK, all of this being said, I would like to share with anyone who is interested how to create an advertisement for yourself! You know when you sometimes see Funky blogs with their little different sized buttons on the right side, with the source code below. Well it took me hours of searching the web (failure), and attempts to read other peoples source code (semi failure) until I finally just thought to ask a friend how she did it! Jennifer Birdge from Jennfunique The Blog was a friend I met through ETSY. I worked with her at an event in Birmingham. She has lovely style and a very funky blog. She also sells super cute headbands at her ETSY shop.

Jennifer gave me these directions, and now I pass them on to you.

Here is an example of Jennifer's Buttons

And My Buttons!

If you have any questions about design,
or HTML junk just shoot me an email!
cfmontgomery23@gmail.com

Sizzlin Summer- A few of my favorites.

2010-05-23T17:42:00.014-05:00

It is getting super hot here in Tuscaloosa. Fashion is quickly thrown out of the window for the best way to keep cool. Yeah, it would be nice to wear one of my hundreds of floral scarfs around my neck to look extra pretty, or those ankle boots that lace up, but its just not practical. So, I have been searching all over the place for some new summer outfits and swimsuits. I am usually a very loyal thrift shopper and find it hard to spend over $5 for a shirt or skirt. I guess you could say the thrift store has spoiled me in a way. Its pretty funny, I actually can not remember the last time I went into a large shopping center, unless of course I needed new bras and undies. My friends are always amazed that almost everything I own comes from the thrift store. Anyway, long story short there are a few items I have been eying, I am just waiting for the perfect occasion to purchase them. Graduation present for myself maybe?

1. Lovely Swimsuit found on ETSY
(pretty sure this one is my favorite)

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2. Retro dress from UrbanOutfitters

 
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3. Super funky acid wash mini from EBAY

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4. Sexy slim hot pink suit from Victoria's Secret

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5. Barbie swimsuit from ETSY

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6. Polka dot skirt Weheartit

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7. Floral zip-up mini Urban Outfitters

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8. Stylish suit from the Fashion Police

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9. vintage FLORAL fabric JUMPER ETSY

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10. Knit floral mini -Bleubird Vintage

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Hope you enjoy! Oh and April won the owl family!! I will contact you to get your address.