Abigail's

right now at this very moment

2012-01-25T19:33:00.000-08:00

i heard this morning on the radio that Etta James died last friday...this is my favorite song, i love her confidence, i wish i could borrow some of it right now

right this very minute, i'm getting ready to present about Relational-Cultural Theory to the Idaho Counseling Association.... LT and the kids are watching TV, and everyone is full from a good dinner of frybread and roast beef (yeah, healthy, i know.)

my bags are packed, but i'm working on my powerpoint, making changes, doubting myself and the audacity of a student presenting to a group of people who have more experience and more letters after their names

i'm worried about my size....about judgement, disconnection, and my ability to convey my message: a message that is, after all, so close to my heart and has a good chance of being dismissed by people afraid of change

i keep going over a quote by Audre Lorde's in Sister Outsider:

"...it is not those differences
between us that are separating us. It is
rather our refusal to recognize those differences, and to examine the
distortions which result from our misnaming them and their effects upon human
behavior and expectation."

today I took down my tree

2012-01-02T12:56:00.000-08:00

this year, my tree didn't stay decorated.

My little E and J spent weeks deconstructing the decorated tree

breaking ornaments, losing pieces, and adding their own

taking it down today made me think...

about new starts, decisions, and the future.

I've been hanging on to the past, using the same ornaments every year, even though I've changed.

losing control helped me let go

of things I didn't love

but thought I had to hold on to

and decide which things I really love: it forced me to choose

today, I kept what I really love, threw out what was tired, and created a new start.

I bought this lovely a few years ago, after Christmas sale at Joann's. She still makes my heart sing :)

I wasn't going to do any resolutions, but taking down the tree got me thinking.

In 2012 I will...

have fun

be bold

sing

be me

rock the boat

be grateful

giggle

love

have a voice

CHANGE THE WORLD

Vintage Glider

2011-11-27T14:48:00.001-08:00

I'm so pleased with how this turned out, I just have to share :)

I have had this old glider sitting on the porch at Abigail's all summer. I found it at an estate sale a while ago, and have been using it for summer days on the porch.

Yesterday, I decided to paint it. I didn't have many good colors in my paint stash, so I made my own color. I had a pretty ugly light moss green. You know, the color that was hot about 10 years ago, but now, not so much. I also found a really painfully bright turquoise. I mixed the two....using the lighter green as a base, and added the turquoise a bit at a time.

At first, it looked a little brown....I kept adding and it turned out so pretty.

The pictures don't capture the color as well as I had hoped, it is gorgeous in person.

Check out a sneek peek of a new project I'm working on here.

2011-10-16T10:13:00.000-07:00

"That's a neat idea.."

"I like that one.."
"Me too!"
"I digg that one."
"I'll tweet that."
"Hmm.. where did I find that website?"
"Gosh..I wish I knew..."

These are all comments that many of us have had made a million times. Now, thanks to the wonderful world of PINTEREST we are all having {endless-gasps} of pinning our finds and sharing our ideas while we log everything!

I'm sure you've seen it, but if you haven't, you don't know what you're missing. Come follow me :)

Some of my favorite pins:

My favorite find of the summer...

2011-07-09T16:09:00.000-07:00

This carved wood face which is a fragment off of something, a mirror? a column?

I'm not sure, but I found her at a yard sale this summer for $2

It's my favorite find of the summer :) And I'm going to keep it for a while, at least.

New Furniture at the Shop

2011-07-01T19:38:00.000-07:00

SOLD Cute 4 Drawer Desk with Lion Head pulls

This sofa table is beautiful, the picture doesn't do it justice :)

SOLD Black painted drop-leaf vintage table

Three different vintage nightstands: The cream/gold one is on hold.

UPDATE: THE WHITE IS SOLD, PINK IS STILL AVAILABLE, AND GOLD IS SOLD

Seven metal outdoor chairs. Rustic, chippy paint.

I priced over 100 new items today, this table was FULL by the end of the day!

These blue chairs are back.

Uptown Photography

2011-05-26T13:26:00.000-07:00

So, I've been needing a new photo of myself.

Taking pictures isn't my favorite thing, but I needed one for the Idaho State Journal "At Home" column that I write. I asked Jessamyn from Uptown Photography

to help me out.

I've been using a picture from about 5 years and 2 babies ago :) Lots can change between 5 years and 2 babies. You know what I mean, right?

So, I just wanted to say how much I love how the photo shoot turned out.

I don't know how she made extra chins and wrinkles disappear....magic? Possibly...

And I wanted to give you all a heads up about her work <3 .

Trailer Trash...

2011-05-14T19:26:00.000-07:00

Some regular customers of mine belong to Sisters on the Fly.

I've read about the Sisters in Mary Jane's Farm magazine, on their website, and other blogs.

I've been wanting a vintage trailer for so long. I have lusted and hunted and finally, one practically fell into my lap.

I love her.

So, I'm thinking she needs a name. I need some ideas...

Memphis County Jail Blues...

2011-05-12T10:53:00.000-07:00

I just finished this mixed media canvas and hung it in my bedroom.

It is so good to be out of school :)

This canvas started out as an ugly painting. I pick them up when I see them for cheap. If I can buy it for $1 or $2 it's cheaper than buying a new canvas. Plus it's recycling.

I used yellowed vintage sheet music, old book pages, ledger paper, and a cancelled 1950s check from the Idaho-Utah Sugar Co. Any ephemera would do, as long as it looks old.

I was going for a theme, so I chose sheet music with songs like "Memphis County Jail Blues" and other related songs. Although it is subtle, and most people probably wouldn't notice, I like adding details like that.

I used Mod Podge with a matte finish to cover the canvas with the vintage ephemera. I did this a few weeks ago. I printed a bird photo from The Graphics Fairy (you didn't know about the Graphics Fairy??)

Here's where things got a little tricky.

I drew a freehand birdcage with a Sharpie.

I hated it. I was sad. I thought I would have to throw this away. See?

The lines were too dark, too bold, (not to mention shiny) and every flaw stood out in my drawing.

So I set it aside for a couple days, and last night I dreamed about it.

I took a fine grit sandpaper and sanded the Sharpie lines. Because they were drawn on top of Mod Podge, it didn't mess up the paper. Then, I used acrylic paint and float (mixed a little brown and a little white) and glazed over the whole canvas to give it a faded out look.

I'm in love with it now! It's hanging in my bedroom.

New Stuff Thursday, May 11th 2011

2011-05-12T09:00:00.000-07:00

Metal/wire wall pocket $22 painted white 18" long, 9" deep, 11" wide.

Vintage embroidery on 100% linen. $8 slightly yellowed with age, but good condition.

Vintage Owl figurine. $4 Excellent conditon, no chips or cracks. About 5" tall.

Vintage green homestead plate $4. Measures

Junkalicious finds, pricing and putting in the shop...

2011-05-11T10:56:00.000-07:00

I found some of the coolest things yesterday when I was out and about...

I can't wait to put them in the shop. If you can't wait until the weekend, let me know and we'll work something out.

Click on the pictures for a closer look.

Skeleton keys, reproduction, but still so perfect $12.

7 1/2 inches total length from top of ring to bottom of longest key.

Chippy French hanging enamel ware planter with 3 removable pots $18. UPDATE: THIS IS SOLD.

15 1/2" long at the longest. Pots are 4" diameter at the top.

MidCentury Suitcase Organizer $14I'm thinking photo prop or in your mod office as an organizer. Constructed of wood and silvery paper/linen. Great vintage condition, a few small scuffs & tears in the paper. 16" x 10" x 13"

Vintage Globe $18

I've been spotting these all over Etsy and blog-land, they look perfect by themselves or even better grouped up. I've got one more (different color) already priced over at the shop. Measures about 18" high from base to top.

SOLD Delicious Cotton lace tablecloth. $16 This tablecloth is vintage, yellowed, with no holes. There are a few faded stains (nothing noticable). I love to use these to hang up as curtains. They also look great repurposed as a layer of bedding on top of a comforter. Oh yeah, I guess you could use it as a tablecloth too. But repurposing is so much fun...

eek, this isn't stained, just how it photographed with the shadow.

This tablecloth measures 70" x 88". An instant heirloom, on the cheap.

I have a bunch more things that I found, some I'm tinkering with or painting, some I still need to photograph :)

Oh. And my little blue cupboard isn't for sale, just using it as a photo prop, sorry.

My Bedroom

2011-05-09T13:41:00.000-07:00

Last December, I moved from a teeny, tiny cute little cottage, to a bigger house in a nicer neighborhood. My kids love it. We actually have plenty of room for everyone here. Our other house was so small.

With the big increase in space, you would think I'd be having a great time decorating.

Not so.

I haven't even had time to think about it because I've been so busy with grad school.

I have lots of great ideas, tons of things to decorate with (hello. I have a store, right?)

So, I want to spend some time working on it this summer :)

My bedroom is a good size. I have some basic furniture that I've painted.

I like to keep it neutral because I find shades of white relaxing.

So, here it is. This is my bedroom.

Right now it is pretty blah. Not horrible, but pretty boring.

I just made the branch/bird mobile sculpture for the At Home in SouthEast Idaho Magazine Challenge.

I have some projects that I'd like to do in this room.

1. Headboard. I need a cute headboard in this room. Right now, it's too basic and too boring. It doesn't have to be traditional, just something to work as a headboard. I have some ideas.

2. Wall of mirrors. I love the look of a wall full of mirrors. It makes the room seem larger, reflects light all over the place, and adds character and interest. Plus I have some FANTASTIC vintage mirrors I've been saving for *something*.

3. Bench re-do. I found an upholstered bench at a yard sale for $5. The lines on it are divine, but the upholstery is not so much. It just needs a slip-cover. Again, I have some ideas.

4. New light fixture. Did you check out the ugly globe light? Oh my. Yes, that definately needs to go.

5. Pillows. I know how to sew, and there are so many great ideas out there. I didn't realize how boring my pillows were until I was taking these photos. They are comfy down, however.

6. Pop o' Color. I would like a little bit of color. That can be changed. You know, when I get sick of it. Maybe with the season or holiday. Like pillows or other accessories.
7. Paint the ugly 80s oak closet doors & get new knobs. Oh, and the baseboards too.

pay no attention to the pile of clothes on the floor, please :)

Bird mobile inspired by dear lillie.

Note to self...

2011-04-17T16:42:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd drop in to let everyone know what's going on with me and Abigail's.

I am finishing up my second semester of graduate school.

This semester has been the most academically challenging time I've ever had.

With everything I attempt to juggle, I've gotten ~~a little~~ very overwhelmed with life.

Over the past month or two, something had to give.

I certainly wasn't going to let it be my family.

And I couldn't slack on my school committments.

So Abigail's has been sadly neglected.

Here's the good news:

School is going to be finished in a little over two weeks :)

I have so many creative ideas that I feel like my brain is going to explode.

I can't wait to fill the store with new items, new displays, and fresh inspiration.

Hang in there with me.

If you have a shopping emergency

*or you just miss Abigail's so much you can't stand it any longer*

don't hesitate to send me a message on Facebook or email me

melissadc76@hotmail.com

and we can schedule a private shopping appointment.

a day late and a dollar short...

2011-03-04T16:01:00.000-08:00

I just found the cutest printable vintage valentine from Altered Artifacts.

Please go check out her blog and other free images!

Tyler Candles have ARRIVED!

2011-02-25T16:50:00.000-08:00

When we had the first shop over on Main Street, customers loved our Tyler Candles.

We have so many people that request them, we have brought them back!

Fragrances include:

High Maintenance

High Maintenance is one of Tyler's most popular fragrances. It is a floral, woody blend of patchouli and vanilla with a heavy musk undertone!!

(Color: Khaki)

Pineapple Crush

Pineapple is an exciting fragrance of fresh sweet pineapple! A fresh, mouthwatering fragrance.

(Color: Pineapple)

Diva

Diva is a delicious combination of fruits and rich florals. Aromatic chocolate and amber complete the luscious scent.

(Color: Ecru)

Dolce Vita

Full-bodied Tea and bergamot create an enticing fragrance, while Saboc jasmine, orchid, freesia and patchouli combine to create the power to make anything seem possible.

(Color: Off-White)

Fleur de Lis

Tart pomegranates are at the heart of this amazing fragrance. The Fleur De Lis scent lets you experience the sun-kissed feel of distant lands!

(Color: Off-White)

French Market

Tyler Candle's French Market fragrance is a fresh combination of florals with hints of gardenia and tuberose. Very unique!!

(Color: Cream)

Icon

Icon is an invigorating, fresh fragrance that is also spicy, sporty and unforgettable! With notes of sandalwood, ambergris, violet leaves, French verbena and Florentine iris, Icon offers a truly uniqe sensory experience!

(Color: Pale Gold)

Ira Jean

This captivating fragrance is a bouqet of Jasmine, Rose, Musk and Sandalwood! This amazing fragrance is then topped with a fruity blend of Pineapple, Raspberry and Peach.

(Color: Soft Aster)

Kathina

Kathina is a beautiful fragrance of sensual lily of the valley combined with citrus and rose.

(Color: Ruby Red)

Limelight

Limelight is a very popular fragrance. It is a clean, fresh blend of pure mandarin oranges with a surprising touch of lime. A hint of rich vanilla bean oil gives this fragrance a very unique twist.

(Color: Chartreuse)

Mediterranean Fig

The Mediterranean Fig scent is a warm fragrance of sun baked Italian figs mixed with a hint of sandalwood and musk.

(Color: Blush)

Orange Vanilla

The Orange Vanilla fragrance is one that can be enjoyed year round. The Orange Vanilla scent is a clean fragrance of pure orange and rich vanilla with just a hint of spice.

(Color: Golden Yellow)

TwentyFourSevenGLAM

TwentyFourSevenGlam is a soul soothing fragrance of voloptuous vetiver, vanilla and heliotrope blended with violet and jasmine. The fragrance finishes with mandarin, succulent peaches and green ivy!

(Color: Apollo Gold)

Tyler

Bursting with the medley of currant & grapefruit. A dash of green undertones adds an opulent twist! Firmly grounded with confidence!

(Color: Camilla Sage)

Upgrade

Delectable Black Currant & fresh Bergamot begin this amazing fragrance! Dramatic Middle notes of tempting Florals and rich Fruit Accords are deppened with intoxicating Lotus Wood! Enrich your world & Elevate up!

(Color: Roman Gold)

Warm Sugar Cookie

Rich sugar cookies baking in the oven with zero fat grams!!!

(Color: Tan)

Queenly Antique Iron Beds

2011-02-11T16:44:00.000-08:00

Antique iron beds add tons of character to a shabby/farmhouse/vintage bedroom,

but...

sometimes they can just be a pain.

Usually, people come into the shop and want Queen size, but the problem is, they didn't make Queen size beds when most of the cool, ornate iron beds were produced.

Luckily, I know a handsome welder who was willing to design an adaptive bed-rail to turn my antique full size iron bed into a queen.

I talked him into making them available to my customers :)
The introductory price for custom made queen size bed-rails is $75
So if you have a full size antique bed (even if it has no rails at all), these rails will adapt it to a queen size (it also has a middle support bar).
Full size rails are $50
*please note, all rails are made by a professional welder and guaranteed
*headboard and footboard are not re-sized, just the rails, which looks great most of the time

Vintage Valentines

2011-02-05T17:12:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't LOVE vintage valentines?

Here are some royalty-free Valentine images to play with:

Other great Valentine images like this one can be found at:

The Graphics Fairy

(mostly Victorian style images...)

Lots of 30's, 40's, and 50's Valentines like this one:

can be found at Hearts Atwirl

To download images, click on the image for a larger size.

Right click on image, then choose "Save as", pick a name, then save!

Giveaway Winner!

2011-01-18T08:38:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!
I had sick and cranky kids this weekend, so sorry about the delay in my giveaway.

Thanks for everyone who shared this on Facebook and your own blog.

I assigned each entry a number and went to random.org to randomly choose a number.

Our winner is Coop de Villa!

You can email me at melissadc76@hotmail.com to arrange to get your apron. And let me know which color you like, too.

I hope everyone has a great day.
Thanks for playing :)

Perfectly Thrifty Apron Giveaway

2011-01-05T18:46:00.000-08:00

These are some of the presents I made for my favorite girls on my Christmas list this year.

I have an entire cupboard of fabric. Most of it is from yard sales or thrift shops. Sometimes, I find charming vintage yardage, uncut and forgotten. Embroidered or printed vintage tablecloths are also folded in stacks, next to charming vintage sheets and pillowcases. You can't buy prints like those anymore and you can't beat the garage sale prices for someone's forgotten project.

This apron is my favorite.

The bodice is a blue and white polka-dot vintage sheet.

The bottom ruffle is the edge of an old pink tablecloth.

The two prints are adorable vintage prints that I picked up at yard sales this summer for a song.

This apron is made of scraps and thrifted fabrics. It matches my mom's kitchen colors : )

The turquoise is from a dress I made for my little Ella (it came out so wrong, so I re-used that fabric).

The blue polka-dot fabric is a vintage sheet, the ruffles are all thrifted modern fabric.

So, here's the giveaway part:

One lucky reader will win one perfectly thrifty apron made by me and my handy little sewing machine.

I have more of the fabric pictured in the first two pics (used all of the last one up).

Here's how to enter:

1. Share about this giveaway on Facebook,

2. Leave a comment about what your favorite crafty Christmas gift you've given or recieved,

or 3. Mention our giveaway on your own blog.

So, you can enter up to three times.

Oh yeah, and tell me which apron you want if you win.

Good luck!

(Oh, I will pick a winner on January 15th!)

Loving these for 2011...

2010-12-31T18:02:00.000-08:00

This super-delicious pleated bag crochet pattern from Mamachee.

Edible sugar butterflies from SugarRobot.

Oh my, don't these make you want to have a cupcake party?

Sigh. It says “The love that moves the sun and the other stars” from onelifejewelry.

That's all. I hope you all have the best year of your lives in 2011 :)

(stolen from my sweet and inspiring friend Artgirl's facebook).

Thrifty Adventures...

2010-12-30T13:27:00.000-08:00

The news said it's going to be below zero tonight. When it's this cold, I usually like to stay home and bake or read or sew (oh yeah, or blog surf): anything except going out in the cold, for sure.

But I had errands to get done today. And luckily, my business took me near my favorite thrift shops : )

I found this fabulous vintage 40s barkcloth curtain. Aren't the colors perfect?

And while I usually consider it bad form to share prices, I have to brag about this one:

I'm seeing visions of vintage handbags dance in my head. Oh, I moved my sewing machine to my shop, but need another at home!

This is another little vintage curtain valance. The aqua and brown flowers are flocked! I can just imagine this ruffle deconstructed and added as an embellishment to one of my vintage slip dresses.

Don't even look at the next picture if you're the jealous type....

I know. I told you not to look.

Then I found these three vintage beauties. The pink stork is going in my Etsy shop later today. The two aqua vases are for a photo shoot and *might* be seen in my next column, then listed on Etsy or put on the shelf at Abigail's.

I also found this church birdhouse with a rusty metal roof. It's newer, but was in the 75% off Christmas section and ended up costing $.63. Maybe I'll paint it.

And last, but not least, I found a 100% wool cableknit vest on the sale rack. I buy wool sweaters to felt and sew little fun projects with.

Southeast Idaho Home Magazine Column November/December

2010-12-28T19:29:00.000-08:00

My column for the November/December issue of SE Idaho Home Magazine.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Love, Abigail's <3

Image courtesy Square America

Its a Cowgirl Glitter Life

2010-10-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

Snapshots from Cowgirl Glitter Camp Altered Books 101 Class

September 10th, 2010

Abigail, Amanda, Jessamyn, and Melinda

Examples from Melinda's book I stole from her Facebook.

Can you believe this was her first try with Altered Books?

What's New @ Abigail's

2010-10-23T20:25:00.000-07:00

I've been working on some new displays at the shop this weekend...

New Burlap Pillows!

Re-Stocked Mama Bird Nest Pendants

These are made from fresh water pearls and copper or silver wire $5 each.

They are made with 1, 2, 3, or 4 eggs.

These make perfect gifts for mamas :)

Adorable handmade tiny eggs in nests.

I've got a bunch of new/OLD (new in the shop antiques) blue canning jars, chicken feeders, rusty buckets, and other great hard-to-find FARMHOUSE CHIC antiques. I'll be working on getting these items cleaned and stocked this week in between school assignments.

I've also been working on some funky silver pendants. There are more of these coming soon.

(Hopefully by next week.)

Thanks to everyone who came to shop this weekend :)

SouthEast Idaho Home Magazine Column October/November

2010-10-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

New Furniture!

2010-09-18T17:00:00.000-07:00

So.....suddenly painting furniture has become exciting again.

It must be my school schedule.

For a while, I used to abhor painting furniture. I hired it out.

But now.....I'm starting to love it again.

I think it's because I spend my weeks reading, studying, writing, and learning.

I'm finding something soothing about resting my brain and working with my hands.

Ta-Da!

Here's what I've been working on this week:

Black Hutch

This hutch is solid, heavy, sturdy, painted black and distressed.

$189

White Basic 5 Drawer Tall Dresser

This dresser was sad and LT sturdied it up and we gave it a fresh coat of paint, then lightly distressed it.

$65

Of course there's more. I'll post pictures when I get a chance. Or you can stop by the shop :)

Show me your collections!

2010-09-05T07:47:00.000-07:00

Rebecca Pyper, editor of At Home magazine for the Idaho State Journal asked me to write a regular column for the magazine.

Of course, I was flattered and said yes!

My first column came out in the online edition a couple days ago.

It should be out in the printed magazine September 26th.

So, I was thinking...there are so many great things to write about.

What do you collect?

Cowgirl Glitter Camp: Altered Books 101 Details!

2010-08-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

My first Cowgirl Glitter Camp class is coming up soon!

There are still a few spaces available.

Here's the scoop:

Altered Books 101

September 10th @ Abigail's

*Since this class is introductory, there won't be a theme.

We will be playing in our books, experimenting and exploring creativity through collage in an old book.

We will have tons of ideas available: ideas and examples will inspire your book.

You can use our ideas as much or as little as you would like.

This class is great for everyone interested in playing and having fun with paper, ink, stamps, old photos, ephemera, and other exciting mediums.

The aim is to inspire and get your creative energies going, LAUGH and HAVE FUN.

Treats will be provided.

We will start the class at 8:30pm and finish when we finish (or get tired).

Stay as long as you would like or take ideas home.

You need to bring:

An old book, any shape, size, theme, whatever.

Scissors

Glue Sticks, other adhesive you have.

Pens, markers, crayons, gel pens, pencils (whatever you would like to use).

Collage items: get creative.

Could include candy wrappers, old photos, magazine photos, old cards, tickets, letters, bingo cards, keys, ribbon, trim, lace, fabric. You can include ANYTHING you want to. Bring extra to trade if you'd like. Anything you don't have we will have available to borrow.

I am putting together a suprise ART KIT as a FREE GIFT
for anyone who signs up. It will include vintage photos, collage art sheets, and other suprise goodies.

When you finish your book, it will make a wonderful gift or scrapbook.

Christmas seems far away, but it will be here before we know it!

They cost very little to make and they can are the sweetest gift EVER.

If you're interested, call Melissa @ 223-8898 or email melissadc76@hotmail.com

Cupcake Adventures

2010-08-09T19:07:00.000-07:00

Adventures weren't part of my plans today.

I was going to enjoy the cloudy day, staying close to my sewing machine, filling custom slip dress orders.

Plans changed and I needed to pick up my older two kids in Utah.

My sister met us in Ogden, coincidentally, the location of the Vintage Cupcake :)

Since I couldn't take you all with me, I took lots of pictures!

Sorry LT, we accidentally ate all of the cupcakes we bought :(

Cowgirl Glitter Camp!

2010-08-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

So, I've been thinking.

Being a mom can be hard.

Sometimes, even the most patient mothers (not me, per se, but I'm sure you know some) need a break.

This week was challenging.

Jonathan is going through a special toddler stage.

Last week he learned to climb on top of the stove and get into shelves, where he found bottles of spices and would pour them out. He did it every day for a week (ok, his mother is a slow learner) with garlic salt, lemon pepper, seasoning salt, black pepper, salt and my navy blue RIT Dye. Beginning this week he must have gotten tired of the climbing and pouring routine.

Instead he became fascinated with taking his pants and diaper off.

Monday, he peed on my floors seven times. Oh, the Clorox wipes I went through.

By Tuesday, I'd had it.

I called my friend.

I need a break, what can we do?

We usually get together and get crafty. Getting crafty really has a way of helping me let off some steam. We create, we chat, we laugh, we get loud and obnoxious. We forget about RIT dye and Clorox wipes.

Usually, I have a hard time getting my crafty act together when I'm on the verge of a Mommy meltdown.

I gathered a basket full of STUFF and brought it over.

She had scissors, glue, and other supplies.

We worked on an altered book for her sister, taking turns doing pages..

The later it got, the more creative and fun it became.

Since I opened Abigail's at this location, I've wanted to offer creative classes.

So here I am.

Introducing...

Cowgirl Glitter Camp.

The first class will be:

Altered Books 101

September 10th 8:30 pm-?

Location TBA

Cost $10

*Learn all the basics of creating an Altered Book to keep, or more fun, to give away.

Oh my goodness, these are fun for gifts!

*Price of the class includes refreshments and instruction.

*Bring your own antique/vintage book to alter or I have a selection you can purchase from $3.

*Bring any old photos, ribbons, trim, ephemera, scrapbook papers, junk, paper scraps, whatever!

*Materials like vintage photos, buttons, etc will also be available for purchase (and a freebie bin).

I will continue once a month, on the second Friday of the month, to have a group.

Altered Book Group/Swap

2nd Fridays 8:30 pm-?

Cost $5

Bring your book-in-progress and learn new techniques, swap ideas, get away, create, giggle.

Create a layout in someone else's book & let them create in yours.

Price includes refreshments, instruction, and materials to learn 3 new techniques.

If all goes well, people like it, and everyone has fun, I will add more fun classes.

Class size will be limited, so stop by the shop, email me at melissadc76@hotmail.com or leave a comment to sign up.

Nothing Lasts Forever...

2010-07-20T18:38:00.001-07:00

It's Tuesday evening.

For the last 2 days, I haven't done much. It's been hot and I'm a wimp when it comes to being outside, so I've been staying inside, close to my computer and scissors... creating.

I know this time isn't going to last forever, so I'm doing my best to enjoy every moment of it.

I know that too soon, I'll have exams to study for, papers to write, and classes to attend.

I'll wonder where my free time went and wish I could have a day off to play with scissors and paint and glitter.

When the sun goes down in the evening, I love going outside to watch the kids run around the yard, play and chat with LT. He always makes me giggle. My humble back yard is heaven on summer evenings.

In my life, I don't have it all together.

There are many, many things that I haven't gotten right.

You could say I have some regrets.

But one thing I do have figured out is how to enjoy a good thing when I have it,

because I know nothing lasts forever.

Funky Mod Retro Hanging Lamp

2010-07-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

I just brought in and priced this Funky Mod Retro Hanging Lamp.

This one almost didn't make it to the shop...

If I wasn't in the midst of moving plans, I would have certainly brought it home myself :)

Priced at only $45.

I'm listing it here first, so my blog pals can get the first shot at it.

It is made of a molded resin, but has that glass look (can't tell unless you touch it). It's wired so it plugs into an outlet so you can pretty much hang it anywhere (no existing fixture needed).

Hi there...

2010-06-26T17:08:00.000-07:00

Hi there...

Do you ever find something that speaks to your soul and you just had to share it with everyone?

Yesterday, Country Living Magazine posted on Facebook about this little Victorian Cottage.

Go take a look, I'm in love...

I can imagine escaping for a little bit, with a delicious book and a cold lemonade.

Lauri Grimshaw-Cox of Epiphanies of an Art Girl posted this video as a celebration of her birthday.

It gave me goosebumps and I had to pass it on....

So.....
What makes your heart sing?

P.S. Thanks to everyone who visited my shop today. I really appreciate the support of my business.

Life is Good: More Photo Shoot Pics & Giveaway Heads Up

2010-06-23T16:01:00.000-07:00

Kris Ryan at Heart & Soul Photography has posted more pics of our photo shoot for my slip dresses!

I can't wait to get the image CD tomorrow morning :)

You can see more of the shoot here.

And Funky Junk Sisters are having a giveaway! I love this necklace :)

Life is good. I'm finally starting to recover from my back troubles. Yesterday, I made friends with my sewing machine again and created 3 new slip dresses. Today I've been working on more.

I've also had camera issues (ugh).

Hopefully at the end of this week I'll be able to post pictures of new items in the shop and new slip dresses

(I know some of you are anxious to see them in the Etsy shop :)

I'm so jealous: my Mom is headed to Paris today! She is going to be gone three weeks and I don't even know if I can stand having her gone that long, but I hope she has the best time ever. And she better bring me back something GOOD from a junky Brocante.

Speaking of Paris, The Speckled Egg is hosting another SWAP that I joined.

The theme is PARIS and I'll keep you updated on what I send and recieve.

One of my partners jetted off to Dubai, and the other to Austria, so I might be posting a little late.

Photo Shoot for my "Pickled Beets" Slip Dresses: SNEEK PEAK

2010-06-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

I had a blast going out with Kris Ryan and her gorgeous daughters Allison and Ashley to model and photograph my slip dresses.

We traveled a little south of Pocatello toward Inkom, where the farms and fields are plentiful.

I brought props from the shop, suitcases, a frame, birdcage, chairs and other vintage goodies, the girls accessorized the slip dresses with jackets, vests, and cowboy boots.

It was so fun to watch Kris work her magic, and the girls play with different poses.

LT and I couldn't help but laugh when we were shooting along the railroad tracks, several distracted drivers came close to swerving off the road. We found a junkyard with an old travel bus with the words "Too Much Fun" on the front.

I can hardly wait to get all of the photos from Kris.

Kris blogged about the shoot here.

New Finds

2010-06-12T15:11:00.000-07:00

These are a couple of the new things I've gotten in the shop this weekend.

Just a few, I've found TONS of great things lately.

And, as always, the best things sell quickly, so if you can't live without it, stop in quick!

Vintage Jewelry Destash

2010-06-07T19:59:00.000-07:00

As some of you many know, I have gobs and gobs of fantastic vintage jewelry.

I just wanted to give heads up that I'm starting to list it on Etsy.

Sometimes my listing is slow, (I have 4 children and lots of other stuff going on) but you can keep tabs on what I list by checking my little Etsy link to the left or "My Etsy" tab on Facebook.

All photos courtesy of Country Living, but I have lots of similar items!

Airstream Envy

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

My sister sent me a Craigslist link...

"This is a 1959 Airstream is 27 feet long and the tires are not cracked, but they are kind of old. Here are the pics of the inside of my Airstream. It is about 95% original and I have the majority of the original curtains too. I purchased it from the original owner. He took great care of it. About 10 years ago or so.... the fridge stopped working and a couple of other things so they replaced the fridge, heater, water heater and the did some work on the plumbing. $4500"

Then I ran across these pictures on Funky Junk Sisters Vintage Flea Market's Facebook page

This is Miranda Lambert's airstream that was decorated by The Junk Gypsy!

Click to see more pictures.

Someday....a girl can dream, can't she?

Cherry Red Antique Cottage Full Sized Bed $109

2010-06-05T06:37:00.000-07:00

Great color (my camera didn't do it justice)

Solid Wood, comes with metal rails

SOLD Black French Provencial Nightstand $38

2010-06-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

SOLD Black French Provencial Nightstand

Solid Wood, 3 Drawers, Painted

New Little Etsy Shop

2010-06-03T19:13:00.000-07:00

I've opened a new little Etsy shop to help me de-stash some of my vintage buttons, ephemera, fabrics, trims, and jewelry.

My first listing is a little Vintage Inspiration Art Kit!

Check out the shop for more kits coming soon!

These are so fun for scrapbooking, altered art, mixed media projects, cards, and other artsy projects.

And, of course, local buyers don't have to pay shipping.

Phone Call...

2010-05-26T23:37:00.000-07:00

I got a fun phone call tonight.

It seems that my slip dresses were noticed at the Oh Sweet Sadie Show.

Lauri Grimshaw-Cox of Epiphanies of an Art Girl had nothing but lovely things to say about my work, she said she's been trying to track me down since the show. (I guess my business cards weren't the most effective because they didn't match my merchandise tags, oopsie.)

She's pictured on her blog "Get Your Sexy Back" wearing one of my slip dresses.

She's going to be featured in e'Lan Woman Magazine July/August 2010 issue wearing the dress :)

I guess it's kind of exciting for a girl who sews at her kitchen table with messy hair and her babies running around like wild...well.........children.

Laurie is also the Creative Director for Be Inspired Shop in Sandy, Utah.

It seems they are interested in carrying my slip dresses. I'm excited to explore this possibility!

Oh, coming in the next week or so, this adorable lady will be taking pictures of this adorable lady modeling my slip dresses! I can't wait...and they said I can help direct the photo shoot :D

i can't even think of anyone more gorgeous to model my work

Do It Yourself

2010-05-19T18:35:00.000-07:00

Look what I found!

Here's a link to the tutorial on how to make one yourself.

Photo shoot at my sister's candy shop...

2010-05-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

I thought this was so cute, I had to share...

All photos taken by and property of Black Pearl Photography.

My sister's candy shop is Sweet Lizzie's in Tooele, Utah.

New Jewelry Order on its way!

2010-05-14T06:36:00.000-07:00

Mama Mia! I must have been in a colorful mood when I placed this order!

Tons of new jewelry is on route to Abigail's as I type this. It should be in the shop by next weekend (5/21).

I think all of these colors are perfect for SPRING and SUMMER!

Petite Inspiration Swap: Nest Edition...{finally}

2010-05-13T12:13:00.000-07:00

I have to apologize for not blogging much lately, I've hurt my back and haven't felt like doing much of anything. Today it feels like it is on the mend! It's amazing how pain can take all of your focus and distract you from the things you love to do (so discouraging sometimes).

I finally found a moment to blog about this amazing swap I participated in this month.

This weekend, I brought my amazing little boxes to the shop to show off. They caught attention, everyone wanted to know what they were.

Lots of my customers at Abigail's don't know about swaps and have never tried one, so I'll explain a little about what I know.

If anyone has anything to add, the comment box is open.

Usually a blog owner hosts a swap with a theme. This swap was hosted by Heather at Speckled Egg.
She placed us in groups of four and each person made 3 boxes to send to each other.
The boxes were sliding match boxes (the big kind).

So here's what I made for my partners:

I decorated the boxes with sheet music, copies of vintage bird postcards, and tiny nests I made.

I filled it with vintage buttons and other goodies I'd collected.

When I got my boxes from my partners, I just about died...(I was clearly out of my league in this swap).

Lisa at Tarnished and Tattered (one of my FAVORITE blogs)

It was wrapped in sweet seam binding and pattern paper.

This amazing box filled with wonderful goodies...

The second box was from Petite Michelle Louise. So fabulous!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T06:37:00.000-07:00

To all the mothers out there,

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

You're beautiful from the inside out.

Enjoy your day to the fullest & may it be filled with love & joy!

Especially to my mom, I love you so much! Happy Mother's Day!

Oh yeah, all pictures are from decor8

Tiny Nest Pendants for Mother's Day!

2010-05-04T19:45:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun at the Oh Sweet Sadie Art & Gift Show!

They had an "Academy" and I was able to learn how to do some fun crafts at the show in between selling my slip dresses.

These sweet bird nest wire pendants were one of the Academy items I took home.

I am selling them in the shop this weekend for Mother's Day. I will do custom orders using different colored wire and fresh water pearls or glass beads. Choose from one, two, three, or more little "eggs."

Stop by for your custom Mother's Day Pendant!

French Custom Upholstered Sofa & Wingback Chair Creamy Velvet & Damask

2010-04-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

The Wingback Chair is custom upholstered in champagne colored damask and velvet with a ruffle around the bottom $250

Sofa is damask with fringe and lots of coordinating pillows $350.

These are in pristine condition!

I would take them home myself, but I have too many kids with sticky lollipops and ice cream cones at my house.

Girls Crochet Caps, Pettiskirts, and Baby Legs Coming Soon!

2010-04-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

These *should* be here this weekend! They sell for $4.50 each.

Perfect with a coordinating flower clip or favorite bow.

We will also have a limited number of Pettiskirts and Baby Legs arriving!

The crochet beanie caps come in

Red, Hot Pink, Light Pink, Yellow, Light Blue, Lavender, Burgundy, Chocolate Brown,

Black, White, and Ivory

Favorite colors sold out quickly last time, just to let you know ;)

Charming Vintage Painted Cottage Twin Sized Bed $75

2010-04-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

Sturdy wooden twin bed with metal rails.

SOLD Antique Country Farmhouse Lockers

2010-04-21T21:11:00.000-07:00

These old wooden lockers were sold...

...but due to a series of unfortunate events (or fortunate, if you're one of the people who were sad when they saw the sold sign on these) they are again available!

Perfectly shabby and chipped, with green paint showing under the white, they are $179.

These old lockers are very big with tons of storage. They would be perfect for your farmhouse mudroom to stash kids' sports equipment or in a living room like this cute pic I found below:

UPDATE: THESE LOCKERS ARE AGAIN, SOLD. I hope it sticks this time.

Slipcover Project Before and After

2010-04-18T12:59:00.000-07:00

I found this little tiny sturdy rocking chair last summer while I was junkin.'

It has good bones and my kids love it, it is the perfect size for tiny kids. But the upholstery is old and stained (Ok, I admit, my kids added some of the stains because they LOVE this tiny chair.)

Debbie worked her magic and brought in the finished project yesterday.
I can't wait for her to start the next project!

SOLD Pretty Painted Cottage Full Size Bed $149

2010-04-12T09:29:00.000-07:00

Headboard, footboard, and metal rails.

$149

Love this at the moment...

2010-04-10T15:47:00.000-07:00

Egg & Nest Inspiration

2010-04-08T15:06:00.001-07:00

My last post explained what I've been up to, making slip dresses for Oh Sweet Sadie and finishing up my Bird/Nest themed swap. It would appear that I've gotten the two mixed up because I have been creating slip dresses in the same colors as the little boxes for my swap:

Creams, tan & brown, and robin's egg blue

Heavenly Blues and What I've been up to lately...

2010-04-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

Blue has a way of freshening up a room.

In this picture, they used a simple curtain and a few accessories for a pop of color.

Furniture painted blue adds a pretty, and easy to change accent.

Fresh paint brightens a Living Room

Bright and cheery kitchen

I know it's been a while since my last post so here's a little update from me:

I've been accepted to the Master of Counseling program at Idaho State!

My program will emphasize Mental Health (I'm so excited).

I was so nervous during my interview, I never thought they'd let me in :)

I'm participating in "The Speckled Egg" Petite Inspiration Box Swap with a bird theme. It has been so FUN and I can't wait to show you some pictures of what I did, but don't want to ruin the surprise, so in a few days I'll post pictures so I can share what I have created (and what I get from the other girls- feels like Christmas). Thanks again to Heather for hosting this fun swap.

If you've never tried a swap, GO FOR IT! It is really fun and a great way to meet fun people!

Hmm, I'm thinking, maybe Abigail's could host a swap :)

Some other great news is that I applied to be a vendor at a great show. I was accepted and I've been super-busy sewing slip-dresses for the Oh Sweet Sadie Art and Gift Show. I've been mixing colors and sometimes it feels like alchemy (does anyone else feel so inspired when they create? like you're just in some kind of good groove or something? haha that sounds silly now that I've typed it). I'll take some pictures of my latest slip dresses tomorrow to share with you all. I'm so honored to be a part of this amazing show.

I've missed blogging during my busy-ness. I forgot how nice it is to connect with all my blog friends.

Please leave a comment if you visit. I've missed you :)

I can't wait to catch up with my blog reading and what my blog friends have been up to.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

Did you ever wonder where the pinching tradition started?

It's thought that the pinching started in the early 1700s, about the time that awareness of St. Patrick's Day as a holiday came to the fore in Boston, in the Massachusets Colony. They thought if you wore green, you were invisible to the Leprechauns, which was good because they pinched anyone they could see. So the pinching is to warn and remind you about the Leprechauns.

Pinching those not wearing green on St. Patrick's Day is an American tradition, having nothing really to do with Ireland or Saint Patrick.

And because nobody does it better than Martha, here's a link to a sweet Saint Patty's Day project, for those of you (like me) with way too much free time on your hands:

*This information is from Wikipedia, where all good and reliable research information is found.(actually, I just said that to irritate my sister Aimee).

Visions of Slipcovers

2010-03-03T16:33:00.000-08:00

So, I was talking to a friend earlier today.

After a divorce and lost job, I've been trying to convince her

that there's more than one way to make a living in this world.

We were throwing around ideas and discussing the possibility of her making slipcovered furniture to sell at Abigail's.

She's got awesome sewing skills, she's got the time.

So now I've got visions of white slipcovered furniture dancing in my head like little sugarplums.

Here are some I found on flickr:

*sigh*

I can't wait!

I love that, but I'm not sure what would I do with it...

2010-03-02T12:49:00.000-08:00

Funky vintage elements sometimes get that response from customers.

Here are a few photos Courtesy of Amy Butler's Found Style

to inspire you and get your creativity going...

2010-03-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

I've been a terrible blog owner lately!

Every time I take pictures, everything sells before I get a chance to post.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway (see older post).

<3 Melissa

P.S. More to come on our Alice In Wonderland Tea Party

Tower of Junk 100th Follower Giveaway!

2010-02-25T18:10:00.000-08:00

My creativity has not been at its peak during the last week or so.

Did I tell you I completed my grad school application?
And I got chosen for an interview?

I have been so nervous about my graduate school interview, that its all I can think about! I've been online searching possible interview questions and trying to prepare my answers.

So, I've been at a loss for my giveaway.

Until earlier today when I was thrifting and found more papier-mache boxes!

I found a set of FIVE nesting boxes.

I am going to paint, mod podge, and embelish the heck out of them with girly vintage-ness and send them to one lucky blog reader!

I will also fill them with vintage sheet music, buttons, vintage sparkly jewelry, antique lace, ric-rac, and other fun items to create with.

The one pictured above is one I made for my Valentine Swap, but I can easily make it again!

So here's how you enter:

1 for your comment below

1 for sharing this giveaway on your blog with a link (comment again)

1 for tweeting or sharing it on Facebook (comment once again so I can assign numbers to entries).

Anyone is welcome to enter. I'll ship this anywhere (including internationally) or if the lucky winner is local, you can pick it up at my shop. So enter as many times as you can. I will end this giveaway on March 6th (about a week away)

at 11:59 MST.

Good Luck and thanks for reading my blog!

*please leave an email address if you don't have your own blog so I can contact you when you win!

100 Followers!

2010-02-22T16:26:00.000-08:00

Wow, I just noticed that we have 100 followers!

I have had giveaways before, but they have mostly been gift certificates and such for people who shop at my brick and mortar shop.

I'm going to plan a giveaway (will post tomorrow or Wednesday) that will include all of the followers who might not be able to shop at Abigail's.

Thanks everyone for your support, kind words, and friendship!

1926 Fancy Laundry Bag Lady

2010-02-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

The doll stamp I bought yesterday reminded me of one of my summer junkin' finds that has been stashed in my pile of things to do. The idea is pretty much the same. Embroidered face, sewn clothes. Only this cute little vintage kit (it was made in 1926) becomes a laundry bag. The kit even included hair! It was half finished when I found her.

Some of my ideas for this kit:

High resolution scan the image on the front to make cupcake toppers, use for cards, altered art, or other projects.

Wouldn't she be cute atop a pink frosted cupcake??

Sorry my pictures are so blurry! It was the best I could do today.

Frozen Charlotte Love

2010-02-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

I ordered this stamp yesterday. If you order the stamp, you get a free tutorial on how to make the doll.

Check out this shop to order!

Amour Valentine's Swap Reveal!

2010-02-14T10:53:00.000-08:00

I participated in a Valentine's Swap.

I had so much fun doing this, it was like Christmas in February!

Extra special thanks to my generous swap partner Sue at Suzeeez!

Please visit her blog to find out what I sent her!

The inside lid was decorated so cute!

Everything inside was wrapped so cute!

My gifts included: Gift box, valentine's confetti, heart sprinkles, fuzzy heart pens, heart measuring spoons, valentines ornaments, pink napkins, 2 bags of chocolates, cupcake papers, decorative paper flowers, red and white mirror compact, and cute little card!

Thanks so much, I'm glad I participated!

Here are the boxes I sent Sue:

Here's a list of other participants:

Sheila - Faded But Desired Treasures

Melissa - Piney Rose

Janet - Janets Creative Pillows

Debbi - The Wicker Patio

Deborah - Debs Vintage Soul

Trisha - The Brantingham Family

Vera - Olivia Paiges

Gail - The Sassy Beach

Rhea - Sweet n Shabby Roses

Sandy - Hobbnobbers

Sarah - My So Called Junky Life

Eleanor - A Bit of Pink Heaven

Jenny - Fated Follies

Linda - Country Pickins

Joyce - Scrap for Joy

Julie Ann - Kitchen Floor Creations

Stephanie - Rose Petals and Rust

Carol - Songberries

Terri - The Glittered Nest

Lisa - Lisas Craft Boutique

Chastity - One Womens Haven

Cindy - Angel Heart Designs

Tracey - Magical Kardz

Mary - Vintage Patina

Jacalyn - RME Bath Products

Mary Jo - Creative Vintage Cottage

Lisa - Pupylov

Lori - Ruffles Ribbons and Roses

Valarie - Glittery Daze and Nights

Karen - Secondhand Rose

Jayme - Flaming Biscuits On The Farm

Elyse - Tinkered Treasures

Lisa - Pale Pink and Roses

Shannon - Shabby Shans Cottage

Vivian - Vivs Whimsy

Kathy - Lil Bit Old Lil Bit New

Stephanie - Crowns and Pearls

Nancy - Coeur d'Alene Gifts

Karen - My Desert Cottage

Tammy - One Frustrated Momma

Ramona - Samuels Family Frenzy

Cathy - Treasured Heirlooms

Pam - Treasures-N-Textures

Sherry - Sherrys Rose Cottage

Laurie - Mermaid Treasures Art

Sue - Suzeeez

Andrea - Vintage Bella Studio

Hannah - Ashmore Family

Meg - Vintage Garden Home

Nancy - Its Raining Pearls

Josette - My Grammas Soul

Angela - Henny Penny and Chickies

Melissa - Abigails Pocatello

Cassandra - My Artful Adventures

Renee - Vintage Recreations

Lorena - Rose Chic Friends

Amy - Paper Trails Leaver

Stevie - My Art Canvas

Jennifer - Jennifers Petal Palace

Shirl - Shirls Rose Cottage

Lulu - Coastal Sisters News

Jill - Jill Sibbald

Crystal - The Hummingbird Cottage

Hayley - Nesting Notions

Nicole - Gibbys Girl

Bryanna -The Canarys Cupcake

Pick 3, Spend 50, Save Your Local Economy

2010-02-13T09:08:00.000-08:00

I've had the button on my sidebar just about since the beginning...

I really believe in this project.

So, I've decided to document my OWN efforts with this project in hopes of inspiring someone who might be reading this blog. (This project requires mostly shopping, so how could I not participate?)

If you don't know about the 3/50 project, let me explain:

What 3 independently owned businesses would you miss if they disappeared?

Stop in. Say hello.

Pick up something that brings you a smile.

Your purchases are what keeps those businesses around.

If just half of the employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned independent businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.

If you're not sure what an independent business is, click here for more info.

Basically, it is a business that's owned locally without a big "name brand".

So about once a month, I would like to record my 3/50 shopping on this blog.

It doesn't have to be retail stores. It can be restaurants, dry cleaners, coffee shops, movie theatres, etc.

As I'm writing this, I can't help but think of some of my favorite places that have disappeared. I just heard, this week, that one of my favorite tiny gift/floral shops The Wild Violet is closing. I stopped by and everything was on sale, and the store was near empty.

*The $50 is TOTAL, NOT $50 at each business.

*And just for the record, this project doesn't recommend that you NEVER shop at big name stores.

It simply suggests that you keep the little guys in mind!

So here's what I found for February! I had so much fun!

My first stop was to Her Alibi Antiques
I found this cool cupboard in their bargain for dirt cheap. It has possibilities, can you see them?

Then I went to lunch with my friend to our favorite spot, Bouillon Soup.
I LOVE their turkey sandwich on focaccia bread, my friend orders Hungarian Mushroom Soup.
Last, I went to Scrapin' Fanatics to get paper for my Valentine's Fortune Cookies.

So, I spent more than $50. But I had lots of fun and supported the little guy.

If you have a blog and would like to record your 3/50 efforts, please feel free to join me and I'll add your link to the sidebar.

Vintage Farmhouse Style and Old House Creepiness

2010-02-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

On my last buying trip, I had just posted about Pottery Barn's new catalog.

Everything farmhouse seemed to pop out at me!

These are some photos of the displays I have done in the shop with some of these items.

(They are selling quickly, displays always evolving.)

I'm just loving all of these muted tones, galvanized metal, burlap, rust, cream ironstone, and chippy paint.

I wanted to show you these displays before they are all gone!

When I first moved my shop into this old building, this room was a closet.

I don't have any before shots, but I wish I did. There were ugly shelves and a false ceiling. My friend (the amazing and talented Danny Hansen) helped me remove the false ceiling. He was coughing from all the dust, but when the dust cleared and we went back in the room, we noticed something kinda cool and a little creepy.

This room has very high ceilings (once the false ceiling was gone). The wallpaper goes all the way up and is likely original to the house which was built around the turn of the century. It also has an amazing art nouveau style border.

But on the wallpaper, there are children's drawings. It would appear that long ago, a child climbed up above the false ceiling (there was a small opening) and made it their hideaway and drew on the walls.

I kept the wallpaper and drawings on the wall.

Introducing: Six Degrees of Separation Sunday

2010-02-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

I love to blog surf.

You know you do it too...

I go check out an interesting looking post, then click a link, then click another until I'm a million miles away.

Often, I'll find yet another great blog I've never seen before and become a follower.

So I thought it would be fun to record my travels through the blogiverse.

Here are my rules: I'll start with a blog I already follow.

After reading a bit, I'll click on a link from that blog.

Then, I'll read some more, then find a link on that blog.

etc. etc. etc.

You get the picture, I'll do it so I can find new blogs to tell about, then post it.

Oh. And I'll leave a comment telling them I posted about them on my blog.

I would love to have you join me!

If you would like to participate, I'll place your link on my sidebar.

Just mention Six Degrees Sunday and link back to me if you can.

So here goes on my first try:

1. I started with the fabulous 52 Flea, because she had the most recent post of the blogs I follow.

2. I clicked and got lucky to find Cheryl Kuhn's Small Stories Studio and my heart skipped a beat.
Oh my goodness, this mixed media artist uses the perfect blend of grunge and old photos:

How did I not know about this blog before? Did you?
why didn't you tell me?

3. I clicked on Roses, Radishes and Rubbish because I liked the sound of it.
Another mixed media artist: Amy Dabbs!
Her little dolls are amazing.

From there I clicked on

4. Cori Dantini Makes because the picture caught my eye.

Wow, just.....wow. She is an illustrator! I'm glad I stopped here.

5. I clicked on Pink Pig Cottage Antiques because I loved the name!
What a fun blog! I especially love their banner.
Oh yeah, I'm definitely following this blog, I like to see what other shops are up to.

6. From there I clicked on "Cottage Charm and Family Inspiration" and found this great tutorial for making these fabric hearts:

See? Wasn't that fun? Hope you decide to try it too!

All photos are credited to their respective blogs.

Heavens to Betsy!

2010-02-10T16:57:00.000-08:00

Heavens to Betsy!

I just finished doing my taxes!
what a relief!

Honestly, after crunching numbers all day, I'm feeling a little overwhelmed with all the support our customers have shown us over the past year. I want to say a huge

THANK YOU

to everyone who has shopped with us, voiced their support, made us feel *warm and fuzzy* with your kind words and compliments, and have been considered friends this past year.

I have a couple of announcements:

First, I'd like to announce a special Valentine's "thankyou" this weekend!

If you come in the shop, we will have Valentine's SALE Fortunes!

Draw a fortune cookie and get special deals, including gift certificates and up to 20% off your next visit purchases. There's even a couple free tutus in the mix!

Announcement #2: We are planning a super spectacular party/event to celebrate the opening of

Alice in Wonderland

Tim Burton's new movie!

Jessica has been busy planning this fun event.

Stop in the shop to pick up your super-exclusive invitation.

It will be March 5th and 6th 12-6pm.

Please plan to join us for:

Tea and Sweets
Alice Merchandise
Drawings for Giveaways

Jessica, my ultra-talented and highly over-qualified helper, makes Alice Jewelry!

She will be there to showcase her merchandise.

Check out her website here and her Etsy shop here.

P.S. I got the fortune cookie idea here. Click for a step-by-step "How-To." I also used their photo.

Two Mod Cottage Nightstands $38 Each

2010-02-08T10:56:00.000-08:00

Two Cream Painted Nightstands.

$38 each

Purple glass knobs (if you want a different color, we can change them!)

Great bedside storage, solid wood!

My Newest Time Suck

2010-02-07T08:03:00.000-08:00

Has anyone seen "Sqare America"?

Square America is an amazing site with a huge collection of vintage and antique photos.

I am completely fascinated with old photos and this site takes the cake.

I could spend hours browsing here.

If I understand their "terms of use" correctly, you can use their photos as long as you don't do a hotlink back to them.

*Not all sections are appropriate for all viewers, just thought I'd let you know.

2010-02-05T20:05:00.000-08:00

I recently got the following email:
(I LOVE this nursery and wanted to share!)

"Im interested in your two pink dressers, what are the dimensions?? also Im looking for the perfect dresser to put in my future nursery (due in may with a baby girl). My crib is my husbands handmedown that im not totally in love with but looks similar to the one in the pic. I love your blog and am hoping you can help me find a dresser similar to this one for a decent price! I live in (south) idaho so i can easily pick up. please help! thanks S.R."

So, I hope I can find something that fits her dream nursery. I have a few things in mind...

We've also had a bunch of young brides seeking that vintage look.

What are you looking for? Send us a comment or email, maybe we can help!

After a little searching, I can credit the photo to designdazzle.blogspot.com

Follow the link to get instructions on recreating this beautiful room!

New Tutus Just Arrived!

2010-02-03T12:51:00.000-08:00

We just got new tutus in!

This time, I ordered MORE: more sizes, Colors, and varieties.

PriCes range from $4 to $12

We also Carry the adorable CroChet Caps in lots of Colors!

SOLD Two Small Pink Painted 3 Drawer Dressers $52 each

2010-02-03T07:12:00.000-08:00

2W There are two of these perfect pink dressers.

3 Drawers, clear glass knobs.

All drawers slide easily.

Measurements are 24 3/4" W x 28 1/4 H x 14" D

UPDATE: THESE ARE BOTH SOLD

One Happy Customer...

2010-02-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

I just found the blog of one of our great customers who visits from California. She had so many kind words about our shop and her finds that I just had to share.

Cindy's blog is called Cute Pink Stuff

It seems she was very happy with her mermaid purchase last weekend.

Proud, excited, and a teensy bit jealous...

2010-02-02T12:51:00.000-08:00

My sister just opened a candy store!

If you are ever in Tooele, Utah, you have to stop in and check it out.

I'm proud of her because she did it on a budget and didn't go into a huge amount of debt, but it looks absolutely amazing! I'm excited because I haven't seen the final open shop yet! And I'm a teensy bit jealous because.....do you have to ask? Geez, it's a candy store! What could be better? She also has a space where she will be hosting birthday parties and other special events.

She's offering Candy Buffets for weddings and other special occasions.

SOLD Romantic Vintage Buttercream 4-Poster Full Size Bed

2010-02-02T07:06:00.000-08:00

Romantic Vintage Buttercream 4-Poster Full Size Bed $149

Solid wood, includes rails. Excellent conditon!
UPDATE: This bed is SOLD.

Etsy Vintage Item Featured on Fabulous Blog

2010-02-01T08:58:00.000-08:00

It seems our Etsy vintage clothing shop is being noticed all over the place!

We were featured here on this lovely blog.

They did a "Fashion Color Report" for Spring 2010 and included our item!

I have SO MANY great new vintage clothing items and am going to try to get some listed today.

Just a reminder, for you locals, I would love to accomodate trying on and pick-up at the shop. Just convo me through the Etsy site .

SOLD

2010-02-01T07:02:00.000-08:00

Round cottage style Duncan Phyfe Coffee Table $48

Has one drawer with Lion Head pull!

Measurements: 30" Diameter 17" Height

UPDATE: This table is SOLD.

Abigail's Featured in Pocatello's Idaho State Journal

2010-01-31T07:58:00.000-08:00

Abigail's was featured in the Idaho State Journal At Home Magazine this week.

My cousin Vincent came and bought the featured item yesterday, so sorry, it's no longer available, but we always have unique stuff like this, in fact, I make it my personal mission to find great unusual and amazing things for your home!

SOLD Robin's Egg Blue Tall Dresser 5 Drawer Chest

2010-01-31T06:39:00.000-08:00

Cute Robin's Egg Blue Tall Shabby Distressed TallBoy Dresser

5 Drawers, solid, real wood.Drawers slide easily.
Sorry, kids, this one is sold.

Yellow Shabby 3 Drawer Dresser SOLD

2010-01-30T13:52:00.000-08:00

This perfectly shabby buttercream yellow 3-Drawer dresser is crackly and distressed in all the right places. Clear glass knobs on the top drawer and metal knobs on the bottom two!

Sturdy, all drawers slide easily. Would be super cute in a bedroom or for extra storage in a bathroom!

Measurements: 32 3/4" H x 38" W x 16" Deep
UPDATE: This dresser is SOLD.

This is how I roll...(or confessions of a messy seamstress)

2010-01-26T11:38:00.000-08:00

What do things look like when you decide to get creative?

This is my kitchen table where I've been sewing slip dresses.

To get my creative juices flowing, I need to be able to see all of the possible elements that could go into a slip. It never looks neat or organized.

I've been busy lately and haven't kept up on my blog. Thank heavens I have my sister to nicely remind nag me to keep my blog updated.

I've been working on my grad school application which is due February 15th.

wish me luck

My one and two-year-old have special talents for creating havoc all over my house. Their favorite game is to wait until I am occupied with a sewing project or dishes or something and unroll all of the toilet paper from the rolls and continue to flush until the toilet overflows with all the bits of toilet paper. Then they come upstairs crying because they are wet and the game is over until next week or whenever the urge strikes them again.

Today, they pulled a gallon of milk out of the fridge, causing it to split on the bottom. While I cleaned up the mess, they snuck into my bedroom (where they are not usually allowed unless invited, I have to have some place I can keep my sanity) and got into the boxes I had prepared for the Valentines swap. They unwrapped mostly everything and pulled all the petals off the lovely rose soap.

Despite this small setback, I will mail my package by Friday.

Oh, and I made this:
Every last one of my black slips have sold in the shop and at Dear Lizzie. This one will likely be going to Dear Lizzie, but I hope to have a good selection for the Pocatello Co-op Event on February 7th. I also would like to get more in the shop as they have been flying out the door quickly.

Sock Monkey Magic

2010-01-14T13:31:00.000-08:00

As I was floating around in the blogosphere today, I ran across Elsie Flannigan's blog.

She has a post called Sock Monkey DIY with instructions on making your own sock monkeys.

Have I told you about my history with sock monkeys? No? Well we go way back...

When I was a kid (9-12 yrs), my mom was a student at BYU in Provo. We didn't have a whole lot of money, but I didn't know the difference because she took me and my two sisters thrifting often.

When we went in the thrift store, I always made my way straight to the stuffed animal section where I could usually find one, maybe two or sometimes three little abandoned sock monkeys. They must have been completely out of style at the time, because I could always find them.

It seemed I was the only one who wanted them.

By the time my mom graduated and we moved back to Southern California, I must have had hundreds of them. I knew them all by name. They all had their own personalities and quirks.

I have no idea where my immense sock monkey collection went.

Mom? Any explanations?

You can't find them on the thrift store shelves anymore. Either there aren't many around to be donated or they are snapped up as soon as they are put out. I personally believe the thrift store workers in the back find them first and hoard them all to themselves, ok, you're right, probably my imagination.

I have found a few at estate sales. Someday I'll decorate Ella or Jonathan's room with them.

If I didn't have 15 other projects going on today, I might be tempted to create one.

Instead I'll be making more slips, cleaning out the fridge (still had yams nobody ate at Thanksgiving, don't judge), and trying to revive my Etsy shop.

Coming Soon! Fairy Wings and Tutus

2010-01-10T16:53:00.001-08:00

Coming Soon to Abigail's!

Fairy Wings and Tutu Gift Set $19.99

Includes: TWO coordinating ultra-fluffy tutus (one with a giant daisy)

one set of fairy wings with daisy

coordinating daisy headband

Free gift bag, tissue paper, and curly package bow!

If all goes well, these should be in stock this weekend.

Has Pottery Barn been spying on us again?

2010-01-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

Pottery Barn's website says the "New thing for Spring" is FARMHOUSE STYLE!

Well, sorry Pottery Barn, but at Abigail's we've known this all along.

We already have a great selection of birdhouses and birdcages, galvanized metal buckets, adorable chicken feeders, rusty elements, cream ceramic vases (ok, we had a better selection before a certain lovely lady came and bought us out, BUT we'll get more), eggs and nests, watering cans, vintage farmhouse wire baskets, antique blue tinted canning jars, chalkboards with cream vintage frames, galvanized milk pails and other fabulous farmhouse finds!

And since we are real people with real budgets, our prices make them realistic for your home too.

Shabby Antique Chic Painted White Dressing Table $139

2010-01-05T17:25:00.000-08:00

Oops, I priced this wrong, it's not $169, it is $139!

Going on a buying trip...

2010-01-03T22:05:00.000-08:00

I hate to brag, because I know you all would want to come along and I just don't have room...

But the trailer is hitched up, my bags are packed and I'm headed out of town on

a little buying trip!

I will have pictures of my adventures and new items soon

and should have lots of new stuff priced in the shop by the time we open on Friday!

Photo courtesy of my mom (standing behind her little sister 2nd from right)

Lastly, I decided to participate in this swap! I'm excited, it's my first one.

Symphony

2010-01-03T17:14:00.000-08:00

My Symphony

To live content with small means;

To seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion;

To be worthy , not respectable, and wealthy, not rich;

To study hard, think quietly, talk gently, Act frankly;

To listen to stars and birds, to babes and sages, with open heart;

To bear all cheerfully, Do all bravely, Await occasions, Hurry never.

In a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common.
THIS IS TO BE MY SYMPHONY

William Henry Channing

Photo courtesy of Country Living

SOLD

2010-01-03T16:12:00.000-08:00

Little Vintage Black Side Table

Distressed in all the right places to accent details!

Real wood

Only $24

Update: This piece is SOLD.

SOLD

2010-01-02T14:54:00.001-08:00

Black Distressed Full Size Bed $82

Includes headboard, footboard, and rails.

UPDATE: THIS BED IS SOLD

Giveaway Winners!

2009-12-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the late giveaway results! I guess I got too busy with holiday stuff. Thanks for entering! I counted up everyone's entries......including if you stopped into the store on Wednesday. I assigned each entry a number and entered them into a random number generator and the Grand Prize Winner is (drumroll)...:

# 1 Melinda!

You get a $25 Gift Certificate!

The second prize winner (heart/wings necklace) is:

#8 Bonnie Young!

Thanks so much for everyone who entered. I appreciate every last one of you and hope you had a Merry Christmas!

SOLD 3 Drawer Nightstand: Painted White, Real Wood

2009-12-23T10:16:00.000-08:00

This cute 3-Drawer Nightstand makes perfect bedside storage.

It has glass knobs and in excellent condition.

$45

UPDATE: THIS PIECE IS SOLD

SOLD Rusty Crusty Antique Farmhouse Chic Washstand $96

2009-12-22T13:08:00.000-08:00

This antique rusty farmhouse washstand works great on the front porch filled with flowers. It also is very farmhouse chic filled with ice and drinks for a summer party.

UPDATE: THIS ITEM IS SOLD

SOLD Shabby Sweet Antique Farmhouse Side Table

2009-12-21T13:35:00.001-08:00

Shabby Sweet Antique Farmhouse Side Table $36
UPDATE: THIS TABLE IS SOLD

Abigail's Blog Giveaway!

2009-12-20T18:51:00.001-08:00

I typed this up last night, but my computer gave out on me...

I promised that when we got our 50th follower, I would have a giveaway, so here it is!

First Prize is a $25 gift certificate to Abigail's!

2nd prize is a cute Heart/Wings necklace from our new jewelry section (here).

The rules are a little different this time, so make sure you check them out below.

To play along and have a chance to win you have to do the following:

There are 6 ways to enter:

1. You get one entry for leaving a comment.

2. If you are a follower, that's a second entry, if you're not, become one!

3. Mention our giveaway and give the link on your own blog.

4. Share about this giveaway on Facebook.

5. Become a fan of Abigail's on Facebook.

6. You can also get another entry by stopping in the store on Wednesday, our special Last Minute Christmas shopping day!

So each person can enter up to 6 times! Make sure you tell us in your comment(s) how you entered, so we can keep track! You can comment until 11:59pm December 23rd (Wednesday night). The winner will be randomly chosen the next day!

P.S. Make sure I can contact you in case you´re the lucky winner - if you´re not commenting as a blogger leave your e-mail address.

SOLD Shabby Farmhouse Chic Antique Four Drawer Dresser $129

2009-12-20T08:19:00.001-08:00

This 4-Drawer Antique Wood Dresser is $129

Shabby Farmhouse Chic

UPDATE: THIS DRESSER IS SOLD

Abigail's

right now at this very moment

today I took down my tree

Vintage Glider

Pinterest

My favorite find of the summer...

New Furniture at the Shop

Uptown Photography

Trailer Trash...

Memphis County Jail Blues...

New Stuff Thursday, May 11th 2011

Junkalicious finds, pricing and putting in the shop...

My Bedroom

Note to self...

a day late and a dollar short...

Tyler Candles have ARRIVED!

Queenly Antique Iron Beds

Vintage Valentines

Giveaway Winner!

Perfectly Thrifty Apron Giveaway

Loving these for 2011...

Thrifty Adventures...

Southeast Idaho Home Magazine Column November/December

Happy Halloween

Its a Cowgirl Glitter Life

What's New @ Abigail's

SouthEast Idaho Home Magazine Column October/November

New Furniture!

Show me your collections!

Cowgirl Glitter Camp: Altered Books 101 Details!

Cupcake Adventures

Cowgirl Glitter Camp!

Nothing Lasts Forever...

Funky Mod Retro Hanging Lamp

Hi there...

Life is Good: More Photo Shoot Pics & Giveaway Heads Up

Photo Shoot for my "Pickled Beets" Slip Dresses: SNEEK PEAK

New Finds

Vintage Jewelry Destash

Airstream Envy

Cherry Red Antique Cottage Full Sized Bed $109

SOLD Black French Provencial Nightstand $38

New Little Etsy Shop

Phone Call...

Do It Yourself

Photo shoot at my sister's candy shop...

New Jewelry Order on its way!

Petite Inspiration Swap: Nest Edition...{finally}

Happy Mother's Day

Tiny Nest Pendants for Mother's Day!

French Custom Upholstered Sofa & Wingback Chair Creamy Velvet & Damask

Girls Crochet Caps, Pettiskirts, and Baby Legs Coming Soon!

Charming Vintage Painted Cottage Twin Sized Bed $75

SOLD Antique Country Farmhouse Lockers

Slipcover Project Before and After

SOLD Pretty Painted Cottage Full Size Bed $149

Love this at the moment...

Egg & Nest Inspiration

Heavenly Blues and What I've been up to lately...

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Visions of Slipcovers

I love that, but I'm not sure what would I do with it...

Tower of Junk 100th Follower Giveaway!

100 Followers!

1926 Fancy Laundry Bag Lady

Frozen Charlotte Love

Amour Valentine's Swap Reveal!

Pick 3, Spend 50, Save Your Local Economy

Vintage Farmhouse Style and Old House Creepiness

Introducing: Six Degrees of Separation Sunday

Heavens to Betsy!

Two Mod Cottage Nightstands $38 Each

My Newest Time Suck

New Tutus Just Arrived!

SOLD Two Small Pink Painted 3 Drawer Dressers $52 each

One Happy Customer...

Proud, excited, and a teensy bit jealous...

SOLD Romantic Vintage Buttercream 4-Poster Full Size Bed

Etsy Vintage Item Featured on Fabulous Blog

SOLD