Inspire Me Designs

Shabby chic nightstands

2012-02-10T18:52:00.000-06:00

I have two pieces of furniture done! I still
have three more pieces to finish and still
need to pick up the GORGEOUS antiques
I bought a couple of weeks ago. Here's
the finished pieces. You can buy them
thru my etsy store or locally in San Antonio!

Chasing my tail

2012-02-08T16:28:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you

busted your buttah all day long to get nowhere?

Well, that’s what happened to me all day! I have

been painting for days trying to get 7 pieces of

furniture ready to sell. I went to glaze them late

last night and noticed all these tiny squiggly pieces

of thread all over the furniture. Home depot was

out of the rollers I use, so I bought some other kind.

Big…Big mistake! I have spend all day re-sanding

all that furniture to get rid of those squiggly threads!

I decided to take a break from that as I was a little

(a lot) peeved and needed to back away. I started

priming boards to make some chalkboards

for some antique frames. I get them all primed

and go to grab my chalkboard

paint and it’s the WRONG kind! I grabbed the

tintable can (sigh). I think I’m going to call it a

day and sketch some new designs… Here’s a

few pictures of what I painted and have to REDO!

Cedar Hill Ranch and The Shabby Apple Giveaway!

2012-02-01T18:11:00.000-06:00

Yes, that's right... A GIVEAWAY! A really good GIVEAWAY!
A vintage dress by shabby apple! You will need to go to the
Cedar Hill ranch to sign up. Here's the details and links:

The shabby apple

Cedar Hill Ranch

Here is the link to Cedar Hill Ranch:

http://cedarhillranch.blogspot.com/

Anita is the owner of Cedar Hill Ranch and

has all the info to win a FABULOUS DRESS

by The Shabby Apple!

Take the time to read Anita's profile!
What an amazing woman she is and
so talented! I can't wait to get to know her,
I will be a daily reader on her blog!

I need some help and some idea's!

2012-01-31T13:15:00.001-06:00

Does anyone know how to make a mold? I would like to make a mold
out of this cast iron piece that went to an antique heater, I ripped apart
and made a manel out of a LONG time ago. I want to make a mold
out of the applique, I'm hoping I can make some out of the applique's
that are on the cast iron part I used to make my mantel. Now for some
isea's... I want to make something out of this piece after I make some
molds. It's pretty heavy and only has about 1 3/4 inches from the front
to the back. I was thinking of flipping it up side down and attaching
it to an old piece of wood and making it a mail holder for a front porch.
I think it would be so cute! Does anyone have any other idea's what
to make out of it? Here are the pictures:

The cast iron piece above went right under the

cast iron piece on the mantel, right under where

you see the bows and ribbon.

I know someone has an idea or two?

Some new items and my adorable Granddaughter!

2012-01-29T18:05:00.001-06:00

I wanted to show you what else I bought at the flea market
and my adorable Granddaughter. I was doing a photo shoot
and Ava wouldn't let me take her picture which is so odd,
because she normally hams it up for the camera. I was just
about to take my first picture when she comes walking out
with a huge candy bar in her hands. Ah ha, I was able to
bribe her to get her picture. I think they turned out so cute!
First up is another old tool box I bought at the flea market
last weekend.

Correction: This is the same tool box down below, this is after I painted it.
I forgot I posted it. (Ding Dong) I thought I only posted the little blue one.
The little blue one sold within two hours after being posted on Etsy.

I just love her to pieces!

Some of my favs from the flea market

2012-01-26T08:57:00.000-06:00

I don't know why, but I am addicted to old tools!
here are a few of my finds from the flea market
I went to this past Sunday.

I love them!!!

New items up on Etsy!

2011-12-12T22:08:00.001-06:00

I'm finally doing my etsy shop, that I opened in 09.
I'm having a blast trying to figure it all out. Everyone
over there is so sweet. I'm finding it hard to blog, work
a real job, work on my business, and get all my house
stuff done! I'm hoping this gets easier as I get used to
how everything works. Here are a few things up in my store
right now (http://www.etsy.com/shop/InspireMeDesigns)

These are about the only things that are not Christmas items.

My store will be ware when Christmas is over!

~Diane

Christmas Gift tags and more!

2011-11-26T21:09:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone! I'm so sorry I have been gone so long. I am
so busy during this time of the year at work and in my
business. I have been working on my etsy store and it's
starting to pay off. The designers, artist, and sellers at
etsy are phenomenal! I have seen so many gorgeous
things over there. I have bought too many things over
there as well, LOL! I will do a post on the artist over there,
they are AMAZING! So much talent in one little spot, if
you have not been to etsy you need to go there! My Christmas
gift tags are flying out my door. I have been to the post office
5 times in two days! I go mail orders and come back and there's more.
I'm having a 20% off sale through Monday if you would like
to check it out. My shop is here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/InspireMeDesigns
If you there please check out some of the sellers, I promise
you will be amazed how much talent is in one spot. If you sell
on etsy please email me @ dianescottage@aol.com. I will put
your link in my etsy post. I will try to get a post up with some
great gifts from etsy sellers by Monday night. Have a wonderful
weekend! Here is some of my gift tags:

Where is my blog????

2011-10-20T08:49:00.001-05:00

Does anyone know why my blog is blank?

Decorating a mantel for fall

2011-10-12T09:34:00.001-05:00

I finally had some time to start getting my fall decor up.
I had some help from my Granddaughter Ava and she
did an awesome job painting and shading wood pumpkins.
She is a little artist in the making. I gave her and her friend
painting lessons the other day and she knocked it out of
the park! I have only completed my manel and hope to
have the rest of my decor up this weekend. I've included
a picture of my unfinished china cabinet. If any of you
have any idea's to help me complete my China cabinet,
please leave me your suggestions in comments. Ok,
Here's my finished mantel. Click on pictures to enlarge.

These are the wood pumpkins Ava painted, do you see the shading?
She did an awesome job! I was so proud of her, it was her first time
shading.

Adding a signature to your blog post updated links

2011-10-08T07:45:00.001-05:00

I have noticed when checking on my blog stats that I am getting a lot of
hits on an old post about adding a signature to your post. I noticed the
link I provided before is no longer valid, so I'm putting a new one up.
The blogger I use for my beautiful backgrounds has a step by step
post on how to do this. Here it is:

http://www.thecutestblogontheblock.com/blog-secrets/140-how-to-add-a-signature-to-your-blog-posts-updated.html

While your there check out all their backgrounds and buttons!

It's also time to start working on your 2012 journal...

Salvaged wood part

2011-10-05T13:56:00.001-05:00

I have one more piece of salvaged wood I'd like to show you.
To the people who have emailed me about not being able to
leave comments. I have no idea what is going on but blogger
does this quite often, I can't leave comments on the blogs I follow.
All I can say is just keep trying, it'll work again if only for a fews days. LOL

Ok here is the before:

After

I just love it!!

Vintage Bassett Dresser shabby chic style!

2011-09-26T21:00:00.000-05:00

I love this Dresser! It's so hard to let these go after I finish them...

Make it a GREAT week!!

Hugs,
Diane

Free Fall Decorating Idea

2011-09-21T10:36:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

I was walking with my Granddaughter the other day and I spotted
a piece of wood that would be great for a sign. I picked it up and
brought it home. I decided to do a fall sign, I didn't have any orange
paint so I mixed up my own using black, yellow, and red. I paint
the sign with the mixed up paint, stenciled the letters fall on the board,
and finished off with wax and a metallic glaze. Here is my free
fall sign along with a little sign I made for Ava's room.

This sign did not cost me one penny!

Before and After pictures

2011-09-14T21:33:00.001-05:00

Happy 50th Anniversary to my Parents!

2011-06-26T21:46:00.001-05:00

Happy 50th Anniversary Mom and Dad!

I love you so much!

A day to remember those who serve past and present.

2011-05-30T11:07:00.001-05:00

To all of those who have served and are serving... God bless you
and thank you. You make me PROUD to be an American.
My husband and I passed by Fort Sam Houston a couple of
weeks ago, and I said "turn around lets see if we can get in".
We were able to drive right in... I had to get out and see this
amazing sight. I wanted to touch each and every headstone
and thank them for their service. I have no words to describe
the feeling I had while standing there among such brave souls.
I touched as many headstones as I could and thanked them.
While saying a little prayer at each one, I noticed one that
had served in three wars. WOW! Along with the pictures
I'm going to add a video that was posted on a fallan Marines
memorial site. I am going to give the link to Lance Cpl. Aaron C. Austin.
Please leave a message for his Mother De'on, she is an
amazing Mother of a fallen Marine.

God Bless our troops.

http://vodpod.com/watch/997498-until-then-homeward-bound

http://www.fallenheroesmemorial.com/oif/profiles/austinaaronc.html

Random things around my house...

2011-05-10T16:19:00.000-05:00

Playing with the camera...

Flea Market Style and Bella Villa

2011-04-21T07:24:00.000-05:00

I would like to give a BIG SHOUT OUT to flea market style
and Bella Villa. Bella Villa donated the CUTEST bottle
toppers for flea market styles promotion of their new magazine.
I have been in love with flea market style magazine for years.
I bought my first book 13 years ago and was so impressed
it's a keeper! I recieved the most beautiful package in the mail,
beautiful note, and the bottle topper. I LOVE, LOVE IT!
The topper is from Rosanna Smith@ Bella Villa, you can
check out her beautiful furnishings @
http://www.bellavillashop.shutterfly.com/
I was also able to find her by typing in bella villa Rosanna on google.
She has a facebook as well. Here are some pictures of my topper.

Go check Rosanna out, she has different bottle toppers and decor items.

Thank you Rosanna and Flea market style, I love my gift!

Some things I've been making...

2011-02-26T11:12:00.000-06:00

I am trying to get serious with my etsy store.
I have been making things like crazy! I have
been trying to list something daily. That's what
they say to do, so I'm giving it my best shot.
Tell me what you think of the pictures and the
items. Tell the truth, as I need all of the help
I can get! Thanks everyone.

Hugs,

Diane

Show and Tell Friday Vintage Frame and tool chest

2011-02-17T20:57:00.006-06:00

I'm joining Cindy in show and tell Fridays! Today
I'm showing the most gorgeous vintage frame.
This has been in my Mother in laws garage
forever. I finally asked if I could borrow it,
and put it in my studio. She said YES!!!
Isn't it just GORGEOUS! Make sure you go
by Cindy's blog and see all the vintage things!

PS. Sorry the pictures are not that great.
I took them tonight (Thurs evening) and the
lighting in my studio is awful.

I've decided to put my antique tool chest
pictures with this. (much better pictures)
Cindy's blog is:

http://romantichome.blogspot.com/2011/02/show-and-tell-friday_17.html

Grab a big cup of coffee as you will be at her blog for HOURS!

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2011-02-13T16:29:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to pop on and say HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!
I love you so much and wish I could be there with you!

My Mom doing the zip line in Alaska

Finished project and some great flea market finds.

2011-02-11T08:42:00.000-06:00

Here is my finished end tables.

before

after

Color is Martha Stewart "milk Pail"

I love these knobs! $2.50 a piece @ hobby Lobby on Sale!

My new flea market find, this is my favorite! It's an
antique tool chect.

Filling it up with my kinda tools.

Isn't it beautiful?

I dug through my Mother in laws house again! She has the
best stuff!

I also wanted to share this blog I found. If you love vinatge things, you will love this blog.
I found it on twitter. http://www.estilofiona.com/ Her name is Fiona and is as sweet as her blog!

Amazing HIGH School MUSICAL Party idea's tablescape... WOW!

2011-01-30T07:31:00.005-06:00

Oh my gosh my Sister made this for her Daughter's school party.

You have to go check out her blog:

http://shellyblogblogblog.blogspot.com/2011/01/high-school-musical-tablescape.html

Sanding away....

2011-01-27T14:33:00.000-06:00

Here is the night stands/end tables. We have been sanding away
all day. I think I better wait until she goes home to start painting
them. I have her tomorrow as wel,l and will be going to an estate
sale and flea market on Saturday. I'm hoping to start painting
them on Sunday. I took a sneak peak pic of what I'm going to
do to these little tables. I also have to show you what I made with
my Dad over Christmas. I'll be posting again very soon!

Ava's art work

SCOREEEEEEEEE!!!!! Antique Vanity and more!

2011-01-26T08:52:00.005-06:00

Hiya Bloggers! I have been so busy! Let's see...
I went to Bedford Texas, to visit my Parents
and Sister, bought some cool antiques, made new
tags for etsy, added some cool stuff to my home
studio, had a B-day, made a few fabric wrist cuffs,
and much more! Here's my pictures:

Three little monkey's sitting in the tree

Presley

SNOW! Coming home from my Parents... It was beautiful!

I hung old coke crates on my wall

Antique desk drawer... I'm going to make it into a jewelery display.

My Mother gave this to me, it was my Grandmother's. I love it!

New Tags

close up

My HUGE score from Craigs list!! It's an Edward Ballman and cummings
antique dresser from the late 1890's or early 1900's.

The mirror

Antique dresser that I bought with it.

close up of my coke crate's

My tags I need to add to etsy.

I had to beg the guy from Craigs list to PLEASE hold
the furniture until I got there. It was about 30
minutes away from my house. I had to promise
to buy all the furniture he had listed at his asking price.
I wanted the vanity and dresser but not the two night
stands, but I bought them all. I forgot to take the pictures
of the night stands... can ya tell I wasn't to thrilled on them.
However, I am going to make them into "must have" night
stands. Either that or I have lost my mind! I have an idea
in my head and plan to start on them today. I will take a picture
and do a post tomorrow. YES, tomorrow... Two post in two days!

I can't wait to show you what I plan to do with these two
average night stands.

Hugs and see ya tomorrow!

Please vote for me in the BHG magazine,

2010-12-14T06:53:00.000-06:00

I had no idea I would be selected or I would have really decorated. Here's the link to
vote for me. You can vote everday.
http://photos.bhg.com/category/vote/photo/634495

Thank you so VERY much!

Holiday DIY Linky Party

2010-12-07T22:16:00.000-06:00

Join the DIY Holiday Linky Party:

Finished studio/Office and a Hello to My Mom!

2010-12-05T19:33:00.000-06:00

I know, I know.... It's been forevah since my last post.
I've been working 40 hours a week (I'm dying ovah here).
Before I post my 90% percent finished Studio pics, I wanted
to say hello to my Mom. HIYA MOM! I bet she has looked
at my blog 50 times since yesterday morning. I told her I was
going to post the pics early yesterday. LOL, I'm always late.
Ok, Here's what I've been doing besides working and re-arranging
my whole house.

Do you see the small antique gloves? I love them!

This is my Granddaughter's drawer. (shelly, notice all the flowers)

Another one of Ava's drawers.

I will try and get some close ups of all the things, I have on

the wall. When I was taking pictures My Oldest Son came

over, then my Middle son came over, so I just left my space.

I will try and get a weekly post going again, I'm sorry it took

so long to post. I have missed everyone!

Diane

~XO

The Winner Is....

2010-10-24T17:57:00.002-05:00

Random Number: 19

It's so Very Cheri! Congrats Cheri!! Please email me your
address and I will mail your box. Email me at Dianescottage@aol.com
and put Blog winner in the subject line.

Thank you to all my followers! I wanted to share
some pictures I took while visiting my Parents and
Sister. My first photo lessons from my Sister, Shelly.

My Sister is a good teacher, I love these pictures!

I hope everyone has an awesome week!

Finished project, Pumpkin Patch, and a Giveaway!

2010-10-20T14:05:00.004-05:00

Oh my gosh, I don’t even know where to begin!

I’ll try to go in order. I finally finished my mantel!

I went to visit my Family, My Sister took us to

the coolest Pumpkin Patch. She also gave me

photography lessons, which I really needed!

I finally have my giveaway box ready to go!

So… Here’s the pictures from my visit and

my giveaway box. I took over 700 pictures

Here are some of my favorites, I will put my

photography pictures up Sunday when I announce

the winner. I will draw the name Sunday the 24th

@ 6:00 central time. Good luck! If you have

not followed me yet, you have until Sunday : )

Having fun.

I just had to take this picture.

My Dad

Landri

Ava

My Mom waiting for the girls to come out of the corn maze.

Landri my niece.

My Sister, Ava, and Landri.

Ava followed Landri everywhere.

Landri and Ava dancing up a storm.

My niece Logan

This was taken right before my Parents took us all to dinner.

My Sister's beautiful back yard. I LOVE this barn!

In the car coming back home.

This is the giveaway box!

Holiday tags in a vintage cigar box.

Vintage Bracelet great for winter colors.

Sunday at the Flea Market...

2010-09-27T11:10:00.007-05:00

Bussey's Flea Market
18738 I.H. 35 N.
Schertz, TX 78154
(210) 651-6830

I met Fifi the owner of Booth 365, She is the sweetest
little Lady. She has awesome vintage and Antique items.
Her prices were just as awesome as her treasures. I
bought the cutest Antique purse with a wooden bottom.
If you live around the San Antonio area and love
vintage items and are on a budget, she's is where you need
to go!

This is just one picture of her vintage items. I so wish I had
taken more pictures, but there were a few customers holding
items in their hands, wanting to ask questions, and I did not
want to take up her time. She has the cutest vintage gloves,
if they are still there when I go back, I'm buying them!

These next pictures are from another sweet Lady named
Linelle. She has the sweet pea cottage, and also has
the shop at Wimberely, Texas. Most Texas Folks know
of Wimberley. She is at booth 179 in wimberly across
from the ice cream shop. You will fall in love with her.

More of Sweet Pea Cottage at Bussey's. LOVED,
LOVED her stuff.

Linelle (sweet pea Cottage) is at both 20,21, and 22 @ Bussey's.

My BEAUTIFUL purse I bought from FiFi! I LOVE IT!
It has a wooden bottom and as in MINT condition! It was
only $20.00!! You need to visit these two wonderful Ladies!

The back of the purse.

I bought this little box from another vendor for $5.00.

OK, back to my fall decorating. I'm so behind! Petra your
goodie bag was sent this AM, thanks again
for being my 100th follower!

My 100th follower and a sneak peak!

2010-09-22T22:19:00.010-05:00

I am so excited about my 100th follower! Petra, thaank you
so much for being my 100th follower! If you will email me
your address @ DianesCottage@aol.com, I will send you
a THANK YOU box. I will get it in the mail by Monday
the 27th. To all my followers, I will do a drawing some
time in the next two weeks and send a thank you box
to the winner. If you haven't followed me yet, you still
have time. I will include all new followers up until the
day I hold the drawing. I am feeling the blog LOVE!

OK... A sneak peak of my fall project:

First I had to pick up all Ava's crafts

Yup, it's on the floor as well.

My before picture. For someone who loves color

it's pretty dull. See the dirty mirror?

I took everything down. A nice clean slate.

See those frames? I bought one for 50 cents at

estate sale, and the other at goodwill for 25 cents.

While I was outside painting my frames, I seen

some branches and thought of an idea.

See those blocks I took off the mantle?

Here they are with the sticks.

Then I went digging in my stuff.

Another bargain at an estate sale!

It's a pumpkin made out of blocks. I'm going to

make four for F-A-L-L. Do you see the picture
in the back ground? Yup, that's my 25 cent frame.

Here's my 50 cent frame. I don't know if I will keep

this one, I may change it to a leaf.

                        I'm going to have to pick all this stuff up tonight
                       as my little Ava will be here at 7 AM! I won't be
                       working on my fall project tomorrow. If I left it
                          out, everything would be taped together!

                                 I hope to have everything done by next weekend!

                                              Thank you to all my followers!

                                                                 XOXO

Fall Decorating...

2010-09-20T16:31:00.001-05:00

I was checking out Pottery Barn for fall Decor idea's. Here are some of their pictures:

I like their idea's, but I need more color and drama. I have

some idea's in my head and will post my before and after

pictures as soon as I can complete my projects.

I just had to do it!

2010-09-08T10:31:00.001-05:00

How could I NOT post these pictures. I just love

my little Ava so much. She brings such joy to my

heart. You never know what she's going to say next.

The other day we were cooking in the kitchen and Papa

kept turning the TV up real loud, teasing her. I kept

sayng "Paul, enough" She then looks at me and says

"Mimi, your not my Mimi, You're my Mom" she then

picks up an old cell phone she was playing with earlier

and proceeds to make a call. She then says in the

cell phone "Mimi, come pick up your husband" I

laughed so hard. She says the funniest things!

Prayers Needed

2010-09-02T11:10:00.000-05:00

My Father in law had a stroke Friday August 27th and we could

use your prayers. We are hoping for a full recovery. You can follow

his progress at http://www.peteadame.com/ Thank you so much.

I've been busy...

2010-08-19T19:49:00.004-05:00

Very busy with Ava the artist

She doesn't wear glasses she puts mine on

My very own Mimi Me

Playing at the Park with Papa

My very own little Angel

Smiling for Papa

Making a Princess card in her Princess dress

Getting everything together

Look Mimi, it's perfect!

Busy...busy...

It's done

She had to put the glasses on to write her note

Playing dress up

with Mimi's lipstick

Mimi's little model

I just love this picture of her on the swing.

After the park, crafts, and make up
we made Papa dinner.

Crafting with Ava

2010-07-18T20:11:00.002-05:00

I had my Granddaughter on Friday. We decided to

make her a paper bag Princess book.

                                   I was busy punching holes in the bags
                                and looked up, and she had taped her mouth shut!
                                                  She is a HOOT!

Here she is holding her book to show

everyone how pretty her book is.

                               LOL, She hid her face as she had already
                                   told me "Mimi, no more pictures,
                                          it's barbie time now."

                              I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

New blog on the block

2010-07-03T23:58:00.001-05:00

There is a new blog on the block! I am so excited as it is my sister Shelly, she is a
fabulous photographer and baker. You will love her pictures and cupcakes. Just a
quick warning, YOU will need *sugar* fix after taking a peek around her blog. Make
sure you scroll down to see her sunflowers in front of her barn. Have a happy forth
of July! Just in case you missed the link to her blog: http://shellyblogblogblog.blogspot.com/

Thanks! : )

My Little Princess

2010-07-03T21:34:00.000-05:00

Vintage Jewelry

2010-01-15T10:21:00.000-06:00

It's show and tell Friday at cindy's today!

Today I'm showing my favorite vintage

necklace. I also wanted to show you an

antique book. Go right a head and lust

all ovah my necklace (smile).

Happy Friday!

Window Treatments

2010-01-14T17:28:00.002-06:00

I'm a MESS! I *was* going to move my studio to

my formal dining room, but have decided against

it, as I have way too much stuff! So... Now I'm

changing everything to match the color I painted

on the walls. Which leads me to this post.

LOL, I know, not a good shot of the windows.

I took this to show you where my antique sewing

machine was going to go (eyeroll) before I decided

about 30 minutes ago to change my mind on the whole

switching of rooms.

I'm thinking just a simple valance shirred on a

rod with this fabric, a 2 inch banding in

gold at the bottom, then finished off with

black tassel fringe.

I promise, I haven't lost my mind...See look

take a closer look of my color schemes

I'll let you know how it turns out. Hobby Lobby

has 50% off all tassels and fringe! I will try and

post tomorrow on Cindy's "show and tell Fridays".

I have some vintage jewelry, I would love

to show you. Prayers go out to all the

people in Haiti and their loved ones.

UPDATE: I already changed my mind on

the fabric. It has some blue in it, and I

feel it will not flow. I'm going to go with

waverly, bramasole chocolate. I ordered it

today, so I guess I'll be cleaning and organizing

my huge mess in the studio today. Wish me luck!

Happy Wednesday

2010-01-13T15:43:00.001-06:00

I found a new blog again. LOL, I am seriously addicted to blogs.

Any who, her name is Norma Lee and she is having her first ever

giveaway. It's a certified International Firenze Ivory Oval Baker

friend Norma Lee. I know you will fall in love with her

and her blog. Go here to meet Norma Lee.

Have a great day!

This is what she is giving away. *GORGEOUS*

Painted Rug Before and After

2010-01-12T12:07:00.003-06:00

This is a house we lived in about ten years ago.

Everything...I mean everything had to be re-done!

We were on a limited budget. I started on the

first room when you walked in. We ripped

out the *NASTY* carpet!

Then I swept and vacuumed the floor. I painted

kills all over the area I was going to paint.

I found a rug in a decor mag that was way OVER

my budget and decided I could paint it. I marked

out my rug with tape ( I wish I had taken more pics,

this was way before I blogged)

I then started the details, I started on the border

and worked my way into the rug.

Here it is all finished!

Here it is after I moved everything back.

Please remember this was about *TEN*

years ago, so no laughing at my decor!

Another shot of the rug. It looked so real

that when people came in, they would try and step

up on the rug. I'll try and dig up the painted

floor I did in one of the bathrooms.

For more show and tell go to:

http://thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/

I cannot get her banner to come up,

so just click and you'll be at the party!

Show and tell Friday

2010-01-08T12:38:00.000-06:00

Some of my fabulous finds and treasures.

For more fabulous finds, head over to:

Cindy's

Blog LOVE

2010-01-07T14:59:00.001-06:00

This picture is just for The red neck chic. I'm so

excited, she mentioned me on her blog...and

she's gonna mail me something! She's from

Texas and designs the most beautiful things.

She also makes *burnt flowers*, yes,

you read that right...burnt flowers. Go see

@ http://redneckchic.blogspot.com/ And

red neck chic if your reading... Those cows

were in my yard! Right out my studio window!

Nope, they were not mine... They belonged to my neighbor,
some how they always made it through the barb wire.
I always Moo'd at them every time they came over or walked by.
I know they thought I was a crazy lady!

I do miss that place!

I need banner help!

2010-01-06T19:30:00.001-06:00

I went to make a banner out of my last post
and well....you can see what happened. It
took me two and a half hours to get it that
big. I'm pretty new to the blog scene and
am trying to kick it up a knotch or 10. Can
anyone please, please help me. Muah!

Creating a 2010 journal

2010-01-06T13:19:00.002-06:00

I'm thinking if a create a 2010 journal,

It would help me keep on track and

complete my goals. Ohhhh, how I

hope it works. Stay tuned....

I've gathered a few things...

Pretty things...

girly things...

YUMMO!!!

2010-01-04T19:09:00.002-06:00

This is SO good! It’s called Chicken Acapulco…

and it is *to die for*We had it at this restaurant:

http://www.gristmillrestaurant.com/

I went with a fellow designer when

I still was doing custom decorating in Austin, Texas.

After lunch we went down where they filmed the movie

“Michael” with John Travolta. Then we strolled through

All the shops and Antique stores. I wish I had taken

Pictures but this was WAY before blogville at least

For me. This was about 10 years ago. I no longer

do Interior design. I started out designing showroom

Floors, then went into Interior Design. I settled for

The custom side of designing. I loved doing window

Treatments and custom bedding. It was so MUCH easier.

It’s not like on HGTV where you have all these people

Walking behind you carrying everything in for you.

I had to actually carry samples in the house all by myself

In HEELS! That’s why I settled on window treatments.

LOL. I now work out of my home and love it. I always

Worked out of my home but was always in my car

Running to appointments, so working out of my home

Is nice. However, I wish I was retired! HEEHEE

Here is my made of version of the chicken Acapulco:

Boneless chicken breast

Rotel or salsa

Sour Cream

Cilantro

Salt, pepper, cumin, and if you like spicy, sprinkle

Some chili powder on it as well.

Cheese.

Sprinkle spices on chicken, add rotel, and cilantro.

Bake at 350 for 1 hour. Add the sour cream and

Cheese and wallah…A yummo dinner!

Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-01T16:00:00.000-06:00

Adding a signature to your blog post

2009-12-30T13:49:00.000-06:00

I always wondered how people were putting a signature at
the end of their post. I was playing in blog land reading
all the wonderful blogs out there. I came across this blog:
http://bluecricketdesign.blogspot.com/2009/12/adding-signature-to-your-blog-post.htmlhow
She gives step by step directions and where to go. It was easy peasy!
See...Look there's my name right under this! While your there take time
to check out her blog. I loved it and am now a follower.

Getting ready for the NEW YEAR!

2009-12-29T14:00:00.000-06:00

A red rose

some red wine

A nice roaring fire...

Reality... It was nice while it lasted : )

Merry Christmas

2009-12-23T19:57:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!

The carpet is in...Let the decorating begin!

2009-12-17T12:40:00.001-06:00

WAITING....

2009-12-15T20:53:00.000-06:00

I've decided to move my studio to the formal dining room. It's been a mess!
I've also had plumbers in and out of my master bath for weeks now, so I am
so far behind! I haven't a lick of Christmas decor up or anything! I have how
ever painted my antique trunk (black). I'm waiting for my carpet to be installed
before I take pics. They are installing it a day early...WOOT WOOT! I'm so
stoked! They were to install it Thursday morning but called today and said
they could install tomorrow afternoon! I have no idea where I'm going to put
my buffet or anything...I'm a hot mess, I tell ya! I hope to be up and bloging
up a storm for the New Year! I have so many things I want to show you. I'm
great with decorating on a budget. I've found so many creative bloggers out there.
I'm excited about getting to play in blog land in my new studio with a fireplace!
The lighting is so much better in that room, so I can't wait to get it all set up.

Antique Trunk

2009-12-03T13:56:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure if I should paint this black or burgundy?
I bought it for ten dollars at an estate sale.

2009-12-02T18:12:00.000-06:00

2009-12-02T14:22:00.000-06:00

Isn't this cute? I will have it

up on etsy, when I can figure

out how to make my picture

smaller (sigh).

It's a blog party

2009-11-27T21:48:00.005-06:00

Attention all you wonderful bloggers,

there is going to be a Christmas blog party.

It will be on the 5th of December.

Go to this wonderful blog for all the details.

I'm so excited, I'll see ya there!

http://bella-dreams.blogspot.com/

Susan Boyle's album is out!

2009-11-23T13:30:00.001-06:00

Susan Boyle's CD is out today! I cry every time

I hear the clip of her singing wild horses. I cannot wait to

hear this playing in my studio.

Aveeno...A Winter must have!

2009-11-18T15:30:00.001-06:00

This lotion is the MUST have for this winter.

I have really dry elbows and have tried all the

lotions and creams, I can get my hands on too.

Yet nothing works. I was looking for new

lotions the other day and came across Aveeno.

I put it on that night. The next day I went to

put some more on and my elbows were so soft.

That night I put on more and was shocked. My

dry elbows were gone and my skin was so soft! If

you have dry skin...This is the BOMB!

bobbypinsboardwalk: HEDGEAPPLE GIVEAWAY

2009-11-16T11:58:00.001-06:00

bobbypinsboardwalk: HEDGEAPPLE GIVEAWAY

These are so beautiful! A free giveaway!!! Go check it out!

Show and tell Friday

2009-11-13T11:33:00.001-06:00

I bought this at an estate sale for$5.00! For more
show and tell Friday visit here: http://www.romantichome.blogspot.com/?

Ava's Third Halloween

2009-11-05T11:30:00.000-06:00

Isn't she a doll? She came over last night and said
"Mimi, I'll be a dog and you be you". I had to call
her a puppy the whole time she was here. She wagged
her tail, sat, stood, jumped, and begged for her snacks
all while sticking her tougue out. I wish I would had
taken a pictures.

Halloween

2009-11-05T11:25:00.000-06:00

Mimi's little spook

Happy Halloween

2009-11-05T11:21:00.000-06:00

Handmade Christmas gift tags

2009-10-23T15:29:00.000-05:00

I had so much fun making these! I always wrap
my presents in brown paper. These would look
right at home with my brown paper. But...This year
I'm going to do something different. I will give more
details much later. : )~

Shabby Chic gift tags

2009-10-22T10:02:00.000-05:00

I'm so happy with the way these turned out. However,
I do need to work on my photo skills. I'm in the process
of designing tags that will hold business cards. I'm almost
done, they just need a little tweaking before I start cutting
them out. Have a great day!

2009-10-21T14:53:00.000-05:00

Getting my first order from etsy ready

Etsy

2009-10-21T14:52:00.000-05:00

Tags all wrapped up and ready to be put
in the envelope!

My First Etsy sale!

2009-10-21T12:54:00.000-05:00

I sold my first set of tags! I just put these up yesterday and
both sets sold! I'm so excited! I will put pics up later of
my first order all wrapped and ready to go! I think I'm
more excited by this sale than I was on Ebay.

FALL

2009-10-20T13:45:00.000-05:00

Me in Alaska digging for gold!

2009-10-20T13:07:00.002-05:00

I'll take this too

2009-10-20T13:00:00.001-05:00

I want this!!

2009-10-20T12:59:00.000-05:00

2009-10-02T11:22:00.000-05:00

It's Friday!! Woooohooo! My Granddaughter's 3 rd birthday
paty is tomorrow. I'm so excited, I ordered her a princess cake.
I can't wait to see it, we pick it up tomorrow. I have been so
busy making homemade gift tags for my etsy shop. I opened
one up about four months ago and never put anything in it.
I'll show you some sneak peaks. I'm hoping to get them up
Saturday night. Have a great weekend!

Diane

~xo

My Studio

2009-09-22T16:02:00.000-05:00

Etsy

2009-09-22T14:44:00.000-05:00

I opened an etsy account about 3 months ago and never did
put anything in my store. I'm sitting in a virtual lab
as I type waiting to learn how to use etsy. Everyone
seems so nice, I can't wait to get up and running.

Blogs...Blogs...Blogs...

2009-09-02T18:13:00.002-05:00

I am too busy reading blogs to post in my own blog.
LOL, There are some amazing blogs out there! I'm
going to do better at blogging. It's just so hard
when you love to read! I'm going to start putting
my designs on etsy. I made an account about two
years ago and never used it. I'm so use to Ebay
but haven't put a thing in my ebay store in about
six months. I've been making vintage Christmas gift
tags. They are oh so cute! Have a wonderful evening!

Diane
~xo

Prayers needed

2009-08-26T16:46:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone in cyber space. I know I haven't written in a while. My Brother in law, Peter was in an accident at work. He was run over by a fork lift. What is so weird is...He isn't a warehouse guy. He's in sales... A higher up guy. I guess you could say he was in the wrong spot at the wrong time? This is a man of strength...A pillar to his family, the best husband and father anyone could wish for or dream about. He's the one in the family who's there just because he knows you need him. I love him dearly. He has the most beautiful wife and Daughter. They're the ones in my last post. I called his wife last week to see how she was doing, she said Peter has been so strong but was having a bad day that day. It just broke my heart. He was questioning why this would happen to him. God does not let things happen to us nor can he stop them all the time, but he sure will be there to carry you through it. I'm asking all of you in cyber space to please pray for Peter, Barbara, and Christina. Peter has lost his foot and is need of our love and prayers. I ask God to lift him up in his arms and carry him through this time in his life. May God be with you, Peter and your family. God be with you.

~Diane
XO

It's a Party!

2009-05-25T16:37:00.000-05:00

Christina and her Mom, Barbara.

My niece, Christina turned 21! Woohoo, what a fun age!
She is in college and will be a dentist. We're all so proud
of her. She does so many things for her Sorority. It's
amazing how she can do so much while keeping her
grades up. Kudo's to her and her Sorority. Here's
some pics of her B-day party.

She wanted a dog for her Birthday.
Her Mom bought her this faux dog
as she thought it would be easier
for her to take care of. LOL, Christina,
wanted a real one! It looked real to me.
I need to ask to see if she takes it out
to go potty. Did you notice how handsome
her boyfriend is? he looks like a soap
opera stud!

More Pictures:

Ranch Style Chic?

2009-05-21T16:20:00.000-05:00

I'm on a mission to make my own Ranch Style chic decor.
I've decorated country style(many years ago), Shabby chic
(not too long ago), and traditional. After moving here in
the country, I want to decorate to my surroundings.
I was an Interior designer for many years and I've decorated
showroom floors, but I am stumped! My son had surgery not
too long ago and while waiting, I picked up a
Texas Monthly magazine. I about died at the designs, they were
horrible! Do they think if you live in the country you have no
taste? Do you have to wear turquoise jewelry because you live
in the country? Do these people not understand that so many
city folks are moving to the country? I've sold a lot of my
shabby chic stuff and what I kept has been painted black, with
the exception of two pieces. What I would like to design is
"casual ranch chic." So I'll get to designing and post some
pictures soon and I would love to hear your feedback. Here's
my first Ranch Style Chic floral arrangement.

Fried Eggplant!

2009-04-23T16:32:00.000-05:00

I know...I know, It's fattening, but who cares.
I LOVE fried eggplant!
This was so good, I ate the whole thing!
Does anyone have a baked eggplant recipe?

It's a mood board PARTY!

2009-04-15T13:00:00.000-05:00

I was wondering around peeking in on blogs and came across this blog:

http://gabrieladelworth.com/2009/04/13/mood-board-party-lets-design-together/

It's a mood board party this Sat April 18th! Sign up and let's have a party!

Easter 2009

2009-04-14T14:54:00.001-05:00

Easter Pictures

2009-04-14T13:51:00.000-05:00

Easter turned out to be a BEAUTIFUL day! The weather was to be thunderstorms all day with lots of rain. We had the Easter egg hunt inside for my Granddaughter, after we finished the sun came out...so we did it again! Here's the pics! She had fun!

Happy Friday!

2009-04-10T12:07:00.000-05:00

Busy, Busy, Busy, Friday! I only have a quick second,

so I thought I would show you my view of the sunsets

here on my ten acres. I'm a city girl who moved to the

country. I am loving it! There is only one draw back. I

cannot get online and order pizza on Friday nights as they

do not deliver in the country. But, I will take my view!

I have to say I have a million dollar view where I'm located.

At night we can see the down town lights of San Antonio.

It is just breath taking. Here is a view of our sunsets.

Diane

~xo

Blog Candy

2009-04-09T14:16:00.000-05:00

I just love this purse! I love vintage purses and jewelry.

I took this from outside a window In Alaska, when we

went on a cruise. We had just finished an excursion

and was running to get back to the ship on time. I

just had to stop and take a picture of this beautiful

purse. I still wish I had ran in real fast and bought it.

Oh well! Maybe I can make one myself. It's been awhile

since I've made purses, but man oh man...

I WANT THIS PURSE!!!!

Kids say the funniest things!

2009-04-08T09:20:00.000-05:00

Last night, I was laying in bed trying to go to sleep. I started thinking, what could I put
on my blog today? As if, anyone reads it (smile). One day someone will find my blog,
I just know it! Any who, back to the topic. I started thinking about my boys, who by the way,
are all grown up now (so to speak). I thought about the funny things they use to say when they were little. I have three boys, very active boys at that! They were all over the place! My
middle one, Ryan, couldn't sit still for all the money in the world. I would always say,
"calm down guys, your making me nervous and giving me a headache" I would say
that quite often. One day my youngest one, Mikey, came to me holding his head and
said "Mom, I have a nerbous". That is how he said headache, LOL, I just knew he
got that from me! Yes, he said nerbous because he was about three years old.
What's the funniest thing one of your children have said to you? I will add more
later, as I have to do that yucky word "work".

~xo Diane

Cupcakes

2009-04-07T19:52:00.000-05:00

Cupcakes...Who doesn't love cupcakes? I LOVE cupcakes! I love mine to have icing so tall you have no idea how your going to take that first bite. I like to see how many sprinkles and other items I can pile on top. The more eye candy the better for me and my kids. The best part about a cupcake like that, is when you take a bite, you have icing all over your nose. Cupcakes are more than food to me, they are a way to express your self and have some fun. When was the last time you had a cupcake?

A guided Purpose

2009-04-06T19:36:00.000-05:00

A Guided Purpose by Fion Lim

Fluttering mind, fluttering mind,
Calm yourself down and have a rest.

Slow down the busyness of your mind,
And cool off your many distractions.

There's the calming effect of a fixed purpose,
Which slay all doubts, worries and fears.

Once you found a goal to commit to,
Your powerful mind set to work in a tenacious way.

No hesitancy, no pull back, no excuses,
Removing all obstacles that stand in the way.

Upon reaching the far-fetched goal,
You wonder at the marvel of it all.

A great power seems to be at work,
Guiding you along the line of fulfilling your aim.

The power of a committed purpose,
All lie within your powerful mind.

Copyright © 2007 Fion Lim. All rights reserved.

What Inspire's You?

2009-03-29T12:55:00.000-05:00

Gosh, almost everything Inspires me when it comes to designing. I'm trying to get a blog up and rock and rolling. I stopped doing Interior Design about 3 years ago but would still like to design with out having to leave my home! It's not like on TV where you have a crew carrying all your stuff in. In the real Interior Design business, at least in Texas, we carry in all the fabric samples, heavy mirrors, and pictures ourselves. I love to get old things and make them purdy again! I love to play with paint, paper, fabrics, furniture, jewelery, and pretty much anything I can get my hands on. I look forward to meeting new designers and friends and figuring this blog thing out!

Nice to meet you, friend.

Diane
~xo