The Polka Dot Rose

Simple Joys

2012-01-23T12:10:00.001-08:00

I received a package last week and unbeknown to me it was the greatest cat entertainment center of all! I put it down on the floor after unpacking it and wanted to put it out to the trash when 'it' happened. The furbabies discovered it pronto and now fight to maintain occupancy of this much coveted mailing box. Who knew? Each time I walk past it, there is another cute furry face in there looking way too cool or sleeping away in it. So, save your money at the pet store. Next time you get a package, just place it on the floor and watch your furry creatures discover it over and over and over again. Delightful!

12 Days of Christmas Holiday Shop Hop Has Begun! Fun! Fun! Fun!

2011-11-30T16:23:00.001-08:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and the fun has begun at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink: with the 12 Days of Christmas Shop Hop. It is easy to win marvelous gifts just for finding the hidden shopping bags at each site. No purchase necessary. Just Holiday Joy! http://www.makeminepink.com/shop-hop/
Get in the spirit of Christmas with us at Make Mine Pink. Happy Holidays.

Women Helping Women in October

2011-10-05T11:39:00.000-07:00

There is always strength in numbers and women helping women is a double effect. Starting October 7th through October 21st, we are having our Pink October at Make Mine Pink. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.10% of all sales throughout the Make Mine Pink October event will help women and children effected by domestic violence. http://www.makeminepink.com/holiday/

Cat-Tastrophie

2011-09-03T20:46:00.000-07:00

Just look at that sweet little face! We had a 'cat-tastrophie', or so I thought. I came home with fresh raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and lots of veggies from the farm stand. Before I put all my fresh loot away, I sat down at my counter to look at any emails I may have received while I was out. Lo and behold, Hopper, who I nicknamed Velcro, as he is always stuck to me, came up on the counter quicker than lightning. I looked down and saw his paw was red! "Oh my goodness, he is hurt" said my brain! I reached for a paper towel and with all my compassion and unyielding love, I went to see his boo boo. No boo boo. The little stinker put his paw right into my two million dollar pint of fresh raspberries and squished a few! When will I learn? Okay, when he stops teaching me.

Christimas in July ~ Cool down

2011-07-19T20:20:00.001-07:00

It's fun to think about Christmas in July as it seems to cool us down a bit. It is a great time to ponder up coming gifts and lack of crowds as we shop at our leisure. Today at The Polka Dot Rose there will be a special 50% offer effective 6 pm EST. Every day between July 8th and July 28th at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink, Christmas is a jolly time of specials.

Morning in the Courtyard

2011-07-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

I woke up to find these beauties awaiting my eyesight this morning in my back yard! How devine! Dsis Liz loves to surprise me with visual lovliness from outside my back door. Once my eyes were open I took the camera and went out into the courtyard to embrace the morning and enjoy the beauty.

I looked around my little yard to see if I could capture the "Red, White and Blue" of the decor for our Fourth of July and look what my wandering eye did appear:

I will take time this weekend to sit outdoors, perhaps with a book, and take in all the sounds of the neighborhood. Reflect on our Nation's birthday and our land of the free. It is supposed to be a beautiful weekend. Enjoy!

Litltle Guy and Friendship Roses

2011-06-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

Here is "Little Guy" my youngest furbaby. I brought in the cushions from outdoors in case it rained overnight and he immediately discovered it was the best place for a cat nap. Even though the sun came out the next morning and the cushions needed to go back outside, I let him sleep the morning away. My next life I want to come back as one of my cats!

My friend Diane came over Saturday and we shared an afternoon of light Summer fare, reminicing our good times from long ago and much laughter. It was balm for my soul. She arrived with these beautiful roses! I posted a picture on Facebook last week showing roses and I said I was 'dreaming about roses'....Thanks Diane! Enjoyed our day together. I was ironing this lace tablecloth when Diane arrived and she could not get over that I was ironing. Okay, so I was running a tad behind, I'm slow these days or should I say most days. :) I'm glad I did because the roses looked magnificent on the lace tablecloth!

Make time for friends. Time is precious!

Hazy, Hot Summer-ish Day! Aaahhh!

2011-06-09T13:26:00.001-07:00

Oh that is just to cool us off. The picture above is what keeps me motivated and happy on a hot day like today. I cannot wait for Summer and even though it has not officially arrived, we are having days of Summer now. It is time for new things: lemonade in frosty pitchers; fresh picked berries off the farm field; popsicles on sticks; flip flops; honeysuckle in bloom; sand in our toes. I don't know about you, but I am ready. Bring it on. Hello Summer!

Memorial Day in the Garden

2011-05-30T11:59:00.001-07:00

Happy Memorial Day! It is a day off for most to enjoy their families, bbqs, beach, parades and fun gatherings.

It is our day to remember all servicemen and women who have served our country in the past and presently. Thank you for allowing us to live in the land of the free.

Enjoy your day.

May Flowers

2011-05-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

Spring is bursting out all over! The violets have been peeking out like shy little girls on a first date. How cute are they? This week at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink, the theme for May is "May Flowers" and I was honored to be asked to be the guest writer. Come on over and see all the May flowers http://www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday/

Colors of Spring

2011-03-24T19:14:00.001-07:00

Vintage Brooches at The Polka Dot Rose

This Friday is more of "Colors of Spring" at the boutique of Make Mine Pink. http://www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday/Nothing does my heart better than knowing Spring is here, it really is. Of course, this morning I woke up to a beautiful Winter Wonderland. Snow all over! And it is Spring! My tulips are up; my daffodils are peeking out; my colorful wreath is on the door and snow is all over my car! Oh woe is me.

So off I go to the boutiques to see more of the Colors of Spring....won't you come along?

Free Shipping on All Gift Baskets

2011-03-07T16:28:00.001-08:00

A tisket a tasket,I am having FREE SHIPPING on all my gift baskets at The Polka Dot Rose http://www.thepolkadotrose.com/store/products/?category=39 . They come all gussied up with a lovely gift card and can be shipped directly to you or to the recipient of your choice. Easter is right around the corner and Mother's Day too. Employee Apreciation Day. Let me make your life a little easier. It is my pleasure.

Get Out the Glitz and Glamour~It's Oscar Night

2011-02-27T16:26:00.001-08:00

The stars come out tonight....to walk the red carpet at The Oscars in Hollywood, CA. I am so excited! Why? I did not see any of the movies (yet) but I love glitz and glamour. I love romance. So for me to see all the gowns, hairdo's, jewels, shoes, okay tuxedo garb too, I go ga ga!

I brought out a few of my bejeweled brooches for show and tell since it is a glamour night. Some are vintage, some are not, but all are beautiful.

Back in the 50's and 60's, I remember my parents getting all decked out for a night on the town. Cocktail dresses were a sign of the times. Chiffon; taffeta; laces. Netting and sexy undergarments. Those were the days. It was exactly those styles that prompted my Mom to have me host my own birthday dress up parties. We all wore her clothes, high heels and jewelry. We were the cat's meow. I can still feel the feeling of those parties.

So, sit back and enjoy the best seat at The Oscars. I'll be right there with you. Next to what's his name, the handsome one....

I Am Ready ~ The Power of Positive Thinking

2011-02-13T20:06:00.000-08:00

I Am Ready

I am ready to join the work force once more;
I am ready to work for a wonderful company;
I am ready to be appreciated for my work;
I am ready to be a part of the whole;
I am ready to see my name on a paycheck;
I am ready to pay my bills;
I am ready to laugh;
I am ready to dress up;
I am ready to put my face on;
I am ready to smile more;
I am ready to make new friends;
I am ready to use my brain power;
I am ready.
Edited to add: This was one of my jottings. Just in case someone did not know that I have been out of work for a long, long time and now "I Am Ready"...

Unconditional Love

2011-02-12T19:41:00.001-08:00

Since it is Valentines Weekend, I have been having thoughts about 'unconditional love'. To me it is the greatest love. It is love without strings attached. I just spoke about this to my brother and sister the other day. One of my dearest aunts taught me unconditional love. It is what she lived every day of her life and showered upon all of us. We were all so special to her that we thought it was directed to us individually. Not until later in life did I see that she had this love for all her nieces and nephews, friends and family. No one got by her without this love. Her "eyes lit up" every time she saw us. She has since passed on and I keep her picture of the two of us near me to look at each day. That picture shows the unconditional love she had for me and I for her. No money on earth could ever buy that feeling. I strive to show unconditional love to my family. I want them always to see my eyes light up when they walk into a room.

The Power of Pink

2011-02-10T10:40:00.000-08:00

I just received an email to call for an interview and it is tomorrow at 11:30! She asked if I was presently working and I said no. She replied "Oh good!!!!". She apologized and I said she is the very first person who has ever been excited that I am not working. So we are starting off on a humorous note. I am trying to breathe as I am extremely excited.
This was a follow up with this company. I tried almost two years ago with them to no avail. I sent out my resume and cover letter on my primo lightly pink paper and viola, I get an email! It must have been the touch of pink! This is the power of the written word sent through the mail. Someone had to hold my pink envelope and swear they saw a light pinkness to it. Someone had to open it up by letter opener and read the contents. Someone had to walk it over to the President of the Company as it was directed for him to see. He told someone to contact me for an interview. My letter and resume is now on someone's desk awaiting our interview. A light shade of pink...
I feel like I already have the job. I am starting Monday.
And if I do not get this job, it is great practice for my next interview...
Never give up hope. Never stop trying. Turn the I can't into I can try.

Cozy Cat and Winter Wonderland

2011-01-12T11:13:00.001-08:00

A beautiful snow fell overnight while darkness fell upon the earth. I woke up to a Winter Wonderland. I did not measure the snow but it looks like at least 15 inches or so. Fluffy and beautiful. No one is outdoors. Quiet neighborhood. Having a good snow fall makes us cocoon into our homes. I wonder what everyone is doing? Baking cookies. Movie watching. Blog surfing. Soon I will don my boots and clear off my steps just in case someone comes to shovel out my driveway. Hey, a girl can dream, can't she? (FYI: My friend's hubby is going to come shovel me out. What a blessing they are to me).

Don't worry about the cats. They are in "life is normal" mode around here. Peanut is cozying down in the picture above. Quite the peanut, isn't he?

Lavender ~ Calm and Relaxing Essential Herbal Oils

2011-01-09T15:28:00.001-08:00

Feeling stressed? Can't sleep? Take in a deep breath; Now exhale. Repeat three times. This is a good technique for stress reduction. Deep cleansing breaths. Essential herbal oils like lavender are also a magnificent way to relax naturally through using aromatherapy in our every day lives. Add a few drops of essential oil of lavender into a diffuser to permeate throughout the hoe or drop right into your bathwater. Lavender bath gels and creams can also give you that same calming effect. Use your own home as a spa to create the relaxation you are so desperately craving. Winter is a superb time to experiment with different essential oils. Clean and refreshing. No additives or chemicals. Just pure essential herbal oils. Aaahhh....now breathe in.....and out....

Shown above are lavender products from SwissJust. Looking for more information? Click on the link shown on the right.

The Joy of Christmas, when in Pink

2010-12-26T21:15:00.000-08:00

Nothing warms my heart more than decorating in the feminine colors for the season of Christmas. I usually use items around the home that bring me joy and dress them up with jewels, ribbons and ornaments to add sparkle and shine. Small groupings of treasures can brighten up a corner of a room with little money spent.

Oh Christmas Tree! Oh Christmas Tree!

2010-12-21T16:01:00.000-08:00

Here is a sampling of one of my treasured Christmas trees found around my home. This is my feather shoe tree made up of my delightful ladies, "If The Shoe Fits~Altered Art for Cinderella Dreams". I must confess, I keep this tree up year round to display my gals. It is such eye candy for me, and for anyone who knows me, I love candy!! These are all made up as one of a kind from years of collecting vintage laces, esquisite brooches, silk roses, bits and baubles. Romantic decor for feminine tastes.

Holiday Recipes

2010-12-11T13:03:00.000-08:00

Ready for your mouth to water and your sweet tooth to kick in? Check out the wonderful holiday recipes at Make Mine Pink http://www.makeminepink.com/holiday-cookbook/. Yummo!

Busy in My Studio

2010-12-05T11:26:00.000-08:00

The first picture is a special Christmas gift box I made for a friend. She loved the way I decorated her birthday gift box and I knew I wanted to make her one for the holidays too. She said she would put her own gift in it to open on Christmas morning. We are all like little kids on Christmas, aren't we?

Just like all the little elves in Santa's workshop, I have been busy creating in my creative space. I have been day dreaming about this new altered art Cinderella slipper for a long time now as I collected the right fabric, then the most esquisite brooch, which is a piece from Sarah Coventry. I wanted to give a sneak peek since she won't be ready for her debut until she is coiffed and prim and proper, after all! Stay tuned....

Stocking Stuffer Sale!

2010-11-27T12:29:00.000-08:00

This weekend starts the time to shop for stocking stuffers. Shop from your seat and not on your feet!

http://www.makeminepink.com/holiday/ Find unique little gifts to fill your stockings and relax as your packages arrive at your doorstep. Enjoy the season. Enjoy your family.

Yes We Need a Little Christmas!

2010-11-19T06:39:00.001-08:00

Ready for a fun weekend of going to boutiques and starting (or finishing) your holiday shopping? Sound exhausting? I don' t know about you, but I love to 'shop from my seat and not on my feet' and that is why I want to let you know about our Holiday Shop at Make Mine Pink this entire weekend. Woo Hoo! http://www.makeminepink.com/holiday/

Shades of Autumn

2010-10-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

"Autumn bursts into the season with a symphony of color. Swirling leaves of crimson, amber, and gold against a background of crisp blue sky, exciting our senses and inviting us to grab hold and enjoy every minute… before it slips away until next year. " (written by Joyce Lucas of Make Mine Pink)

Friday, October 22nd, the boutiques of Make Mine Pink will be displaying "Shades of Autumn".
http://www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday .

A Tisket, A Tasket

2010-10-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

I have a basket 'collection'...amongst my many other treasures. I love that I can use them to stash away different items and organize my small cottage. I kept ribbons in this basket for ages and then, one day, I made a decision to place it in my powder room to hold my vanity items. I love it! Such a simple change in the room and it makes a big difference! Plus the lid was the perfect place to display my many silk roses that I love to show off (from Meadow Street). Romantic Simplicity. Viola!

Treasures For The Bed and Bath

2010-10-07T20:49:00.000-07:00

"Treasures for the bed and bath" will be displayed at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink tomorrow, Friday, October 8th. Creative decorating using vintage items help us think 'outside the box'. Above I have used a vintage cherished teapot whose lid is no where to be seen and I keep my makeup brushes, etc. on display for easy access. It brings a smile to my face when I see my teapot.

As I get ready to end my day, I draw a bath and ponder what type of herbal concoctions I can muster up with my bath selections from Switzerland. Perhaps I will do a relaxing bath of seeweed and watermelon foaming bath and add Melissa (Lemon Balm) bath essence into it for sweet dreams. Come to think of it....this is exactly what I will do.....see you later.....sweet dreams.

An English Cottage Friday, Oct. 1st

2010-09-30T21:20:00.001-07:00

I can't wait until Friday, October 1st to stroll along the lane at the shops at Make Mine Pink to see "An English Cottage". Won't you join us? http://www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday/

Cupcakes and Polkadots

2010-09-16T17:20:00.001-07:00

" All things whimsical have a place in our lives and each brings about smiles and wisps of childhood memories. Whether it is a fanciful collection or a whimsical element added to your decor, the hint of fun is a welcoming greeting to all. A ceramic cupcake, sitting amongst our heirloom teacups, a cupcake pillow, tossed on the chair by the bed, a set of brightly painted polkadot mugs, for afternoon hot cocoa by the fire, all an aide-memoire, to dream, and to remember.It only takes a moment to think back to a special day, remembering the things that delight and refresh our senses. And if you need a little help building your whimsical collection, the boutiques at Make Mine Pink would be a great place to start. Joyce Lucas, FounderMake Mine Pink"

Cherished Heirlooms for Make Mine Pink Friday

2010-09-09T13:41:00.000-07:00

This week at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink, Friday, September 10th, we will be showing our "Cherished Heirlooms". Above is a collectible brooch from Sarah Coventry, from the "Americana" collection. My dear Mom always held Sarah Coventry home parties when I was growing up and when she passed on I lovingly continued her passion for this beautiful collectible jewelry. Now my collection is vast. What are some of your treasured memories of your family's "cherished heirlooms"? http://www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday/

Joys Along My Summer Drive

2010-08-29T12:19:00.001-07:00

I took a leisurely drive East on Friday to go to the magnicient farm stands to get fresh peaches and blueberries. Taking advantage of the farms this time of year is like gold to me. Fruits and vegetables are so fresh and tastey. Delectable. I get enough for a few days and repeat the process so I can go off on another farm jaunt! Did I mention the banana bread? Or the chocolate cookies freshly baked? Or the jars of rasberry jam?

Then there are the flowers! Bright sunflowers, colorful zinnias, mixed arrays of floral eye candy.I came home with purple and white statice that I can have dry out and last me until next year. That is, unless one of my cats decide that it makes a good nibble. Why do cats do that???

To top off my beautiful day on the North Shore of Long Island, I stopped in to "The Modern Snack Bar "http://modernsnackbar.com/, a flash from the past family run restaurant where the waitresses wear white uniforms and everything is home cooked. I had the most delicious broiled flounder, mashed potatoes and cole slaw. Yummo! My tummy was full, my eyes were pleased and I had a car full of fresh fruits and veggies.

Try and get out and about in your towns and support the local farmers.

Question: I try to put my pictures in between my writings but they all come out grouped together. Any suggestions, blog pals?

Birds of A Feather

2010-08-26T07:45:00.001-07:00

You didn't think I could talk about our theme this week at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink, Pink Friday's 'Birds of a Feather', without showing one of my glamour girl shoes now did you? This is Ann Margaret, a show girl who loves to dress up to the nines in glitz and feathers. You can see her at http://www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday/otrose.com/store/products/?category=37 and the other feathered delights at http://www.makeminepink.com/pink-friday/.

Beautiful Lavender

2010-08-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

Breathe in deeply! Feel relaxed? It is the smell of fresh lavender wafting through the air. Nothing is more comforting than the smell of fresh lavender. Recently I took a trip out on Eastern Long Island to one of my favorite spots: Lavender By The Bay http://lavenderbythebay.com/ . Fields and fields of fresh lavender; a picturesque shop filled to the brim with lavender products, sprigs of hanging lavender, bouquets of lavender, lavender soaps and honey, etc. You could just swoon taking it all in. If you are out on Long Island, stop by and enjoy the experience. Take home nature's herb for relaxation. Delightful. I am sure wherever you live, an herb farm is close by. Just breathe in deeply!

The Polka Dot Rose customers will each receive an organza bag stuffed to the seams with fresh lavender from Lavender By The Bay free with purchases over $20.00. (While supply lasts)

Lavender bath shower gel and body cream from SwissJust.

http://www.susiedurrschmidt.swissjust-usa.com

"Simply Pink" Coming up This Friday

2010-07-14T20:55:00.000-07:00

Seriously, "Simply Pink"? Why yes! I have been driven to pinks all my life. So feminine, so romantic, so girly girl. This week at Make Mine Pink Friday, the pinks will be in many shades and in many formats. I can't wait to see what everyone has. My Altered Art Cinderella Shoes shown above are but a few of my pink beauties. Laces, broaches, silk roses, pink pearls, rhinestones, paper roses, trims and all sorts of delights to bring out the joy of each creation.

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T15:55:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July! Hoping everyone is having a weekend full of family, friends, food and fireworks. When I got invited to my sister's home for a bbq dinner, I quickly said "I'll bring dessert". I stopped by the local bakery in town and they had so many wonderful 4th of July desserts to choose from I couldn't make up my mind. I just had to get the flag fruit shortcake with fresh cream and fruits. And would you look at that 'corn on the cob'????? How cute is that? It was three cupcakes put together, iced, and decorated with corn looking jellybeans, a slab of butter (marzipan), and even cob holders on the end. It was a huge hit. How was your holiday?

My Little Tree House "Sweet Repose"

2010-06-12T20:16:00.001-07:00

Home Sweet Home! Here is my little cottage tree house, which I gave the name of "Sweet Repose" when I moved in twenty years ago. Where did that time go? It is nestled in the trees and set into a hill. I go up stairs to get to my front door and walk out to a brick courtyard in the back. It has just the right amount of yard to garden with, which I have filled with perrenials over the years. I like to do container gardening with annuals and hanging baskets all around. Added in are birdhouses, which all have been occupied the past few Spirngs. I love listening to the sounds of the birds....so happy. I wanted to share my small piece of heaven on earth.

First Blossoms of Summer

2010-06-10T17:11:00.000-07:00

The "First Blossoms of Summer" are being presented this Friday, June 11th for Make Mine Pink Friday, shopping with a twist. (http://www.makeminepink.com/) and at The Polka Dot Rose boutique there will be a special 25% off sale for the listed first blossoms of Summer. Dogwood, roses, Summer magazines, pillowcases, etc. Won't you join us?

"Girly Finds" for Friday, June 4th!

2010-06-03T17:58:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for some "Girly Finds"; things that make your heart a flutter with joy! The boutiques at Make Mine Pink are pulling out all the stoppers for their Girly Finds. I don't know about you, but I can never have enough girly finds around me. I love to sit back and savour my home filled to the brim with beautiful gems. This and that; new or antique. Some bring me back to the days when I was a child; others, the new designs of today. I am all girl! Bring it on! (The picture shown is "Dressed Up in Roses Card Box" a one of a kind specialty box filled with eight unique girly note cards, includes stamps and a pen. Create excitment in someone's mailbox soon.

Blossoms and Blooms for MMP Friday

2010-04-29T20:29:00.001-07:00

Spring is finally here and we are celebrating it this week with our theme "Blossoms and Blooms" at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink for MMP Pink Friday. Nothing is more beautiful than to be surrounded by flowers.

Sending Happiness in the Mail

2010-04-10T20:23:00.001-07:00

Today I mailed out two hand made cards with coordinating hand made envelopes to send out to two friends; one for a birthday and one for get well after surgery. They looked so happy (the cards, that is)! ! I can just imagine the smiles on their faces when they have their mail delivered. Definitely out of the ordinary. Made with love from me. The cost: priceless. It made me want to sit down and make a few more for Monday's mailing. I want to spread this happiness across the land, over sea and mountains, to everyone I know who needs a pick me up. And what did I receive in the mail today? Why, my mortgage payment invoice! At least the bank could have put a smiley sticker on it...geez!

Cards can be purchased on The Polka Dot Rose under Gift Tags and Heartfelt Cards (www.thepolkadotrose.com).

Office Chic for Friday, March 12th

2010-03-11T15:31:00.001-08:00

When I look around at all the beautiful and creative work spaces of my peers, I can’t help but notice that a new trend in office decorating has emerged. Office and studio spaces are no longer drab, monotonous and strictly functional. Instead, the utilitarian look we usually expect in work spaces is being replaced by chic and feminine décor. More and more, I'm seeing office spaces that are fashionable, fun and full of creativity – just like the women who use them.Take your office furniture, for example. Your chair, desk and work table don't need to look boring to be comfortable and practical. In fact, it's easy to take ordinary furnishings and create a look that's chic and inspiring. A light and airy slip cover will freshen up an old desk chair. A coat of pale blue paint will give new life to an old desk. Add some whimsical drawer pulls or fabulous decals to complete the picture. Let your imagination help you create a peaceful place – one where you will enjoy spending so many hours of your day.Unexpected embellishments make everyday office items pretty and fun, while still being useful. Try adding a clipboard that's been trimmed with beautiful papers, tied with ribbon and hung on a decorative hook until it's needed. It's a useful and now beautiful accessory. Vintage and antique items can serve in unusual ways to make your work space even prettier. A stack of file folders, propped up in a vintage wire basket, adds just the right amount of chic to the corner of a desk, and will work great for keeping you organized. When you work in a space that is pretty as well as calming, your imagination and creativity will flourish. I know that I immediately feel more relaxed and creative when I'm surrounded by calming colors and chic accessories. Try breathing new life into your own office space by adding chic and feminine touches, and watch your creativity soar to new heights.

Joyce Lucas, FounderMake Mine Pink

Roses and Pearls for Friday, February 12th

2010-02-11T15:25:00.000-08:00

When you visit the boutiques at Make Mine Pink, you'll find yourself surrounded with beautiful collections that will fill you with nostalgia for your own memories of pearls and roses. Won't you join us Friday, February 12th for shopping with a twist, for "Roses and Pearls"...

Photo Contribution 1: The Casual Cameo Photo Contribution 2: Caroline Alexander

One Of A Kind Treasures

2010-02-04T10:16:00.001-08:00

Please join us at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink (http://www.makeminepink.com/) Friday, February 5th for Make Mine Pink Friday. Our theme this week is "One of A Kind Treasures" and I am sure you will find many original, delightful, oh so have to have it treasures for yourself and those you love. I am debuting three new lovely ladies, Ann Margaret, Sara and Deborah. They will be joining the others on my site under 'If The Shoe Fits~Altered Art for Cinderella Dreams". Oh to sleep, perchance to dream..............

Winter Whites" for January 22nd

2010-01-21T20:24:00.001-08:00

Won't you join us at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink this Friday, January 22nd for "Winter Whites". (http://www.makeminepink.com/) Don't let the pristine coolness of winter whites keep you from decorating in this elegant tone. A few interesting accent pieces will help you create a white décor that refreshes the eye and the spirit.

Joyce Lucas, FounderMake Mine Pink

Red in Winter is my favorite color

2010-01-17T19:39:00.000-08:00

The last blizzard we had I could barely see the little red birdhouse sitting on the bakers rack out in the courtyard. Even my picture came out all too white because that was all I could see. White, white, white all over. Everything was buried. Then the snow melted. I placed a square of suet-wrapped birdseed on the rack and there he was. My beauty. My handsome red cardinal. The Mrs. came too, but my eyes were all aglow on gazing at him. He has visted each and every day and I am finding that I can get through another day of Winter by his visits. Turns out I love red in Winter!

"In With The New" Friday January 15th

2010-01-14T11:01:00.000-08:00

Give yourself permission to try something different, and celebrate the new year with a new décor. You'll find everything that you need right here at the Boutiques of Make Mine Pink.

"Making Way For The New" for MMP Friday Jan. 8th

2010-01-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

We're so happy to be back to business as usual in this wonderful new year. I love feeling that all things are possible. We’re so happy to let you know that our exciting PINK FRIDAY events will continue for yet another year! 2010 promises to be full of fun and exciting themes for your shopping pleasure. Won't you join us each Friday as Make Mine Pink presents "Shopping with a Twist?"The first week of January greets me with mixed feelings. I enjoyed the time spent with family and friends, yet missed Make Mine Pink and all the hustle and bustle of activity.I was happy to get the Christmas trimmings stored away, making room to proudly display the gifts so thoughtfully chosen for me, but with the new year, comes time to clean house externally as well as internally. With the new year, we make resolutions, determined for a fresh new start. We clear out the old plans and start working on new...making way for all of the wonder a new year can bring.The Boutiques at Make Mine Pink are experiencing the same thing. We love our planned events, and our merchandise is gorgeous - but it is time for us to straighten up the shelves a bit, look at everything with new eyes, and a fresh outlook. So this week, we are celebrating this PINK Friday with a special “Making Way for the New” shopping event. Don’t be fooled by our fabulous sales and low prices. It’s still our usual beautiful and unique merchandise! We just need it to go to a new home so that we can stock our shelves with new and even more exciting merchandise for the new year.Don’t miss this once a year event! Friday, January 8th at Make Mine Pink!
Writen by Joyce Lucas, Make Mine Pink

Goody Goody Gift for Sure!

2010-01-01T21:44:00.001-08:00

Imagine my joy when I opened up a gift from my sister Nancy and her family and saw these absolutely amazing slippers! Move over Cinderella! These are called "Goody Goody Bon Bons". They are so beautiful I want to frame them! When checking out their website I wondered how anyone could decide on a pair, as each is so exquisitely wonderful and whimsical. Just as I love it! (www.goodygoodyshoes.com/ ).

Happy New Year Everyone!

Last Minute Gifts for MMP Friday

2009-12-10T15:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas is just around the corner, but there’s still time to find just the right gift for that someone special on your shopping list this year. Whatever her interests or tastes, here are some last minute gift ideas that will fill her holiday season with delight, and remind her that you think of her all through the year. Check out the boutiques at Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com) and The Polka Dot Rose (www.thepolkadotrose.com) and see if Santa and his elves have left a few goodies for you to finish up your shopping with. Happy Holidays!

Our Animals Need Toys Too!

2009-12-05T10:42:00.000-08:00

Who needs to buy toys?? Animal toys, that is. Yesterday I came home from the butcher with a brown paper bag. Emptied it out and threw it on the floor and it has entertained the cats since then. I am getting quite a kick out of it as each one is into playing hide and seek in this crinkely brown bag. I put it under a chair so it is out of the way and yes, if anyone stops over there is a paper bag under the chair here, and a big mailing box (for cats only) over there....it's all about the furry kids after all. So...when out shopping for your furry friends, remember just to buy something nice for yourself in a paper bag and bring the bag home for endless hours of joy!

"It's All About Christmas" for Pink Friday!

2009-12-03T13:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas is all about sharing the blessings of the season with family and friends and believing that everything about the Christmas season is magical. Please join The Polka Dot Rose and all the boutiques participating at Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com) and capture the joys of the season. Have fun!

The Ultimate Gift Basket is Here for YOU to win!!!

2009-11-16T13:40:00.000-08:00

Finding the Ultimate Christmas gift for someone special has never been easier. From lavish baskets filled with all of her favorites, to distinct, ultimate, one-of-a-kind gifts, the boutiques listed below can help you create the Ultimate gift.
Find the boutiques at: http://www.makeminepink.com/ultimate-gift/

Commissioned Work

2009-11-01T15:20:00.000-08:00

Here is a little project a friend of mine commissioned me to do. This is a beautiful brooch and earring set from Sarah Coventry called 'Fashion Spendor'* from the 1950's that belonged to her Mom and it was very special to her. She loved my 'Old meets New" framed brooch within the tated lace I did and asked me to make a treasure keep for her Mom's lovelies.

*For all the collectors out there, this set is shown in my reference book for Sarah Coventry, at a value of $195.00-$225.00. (An Unauthorized Guide for Collectors by Monica Lynn Clements and Patricia Rosser Clements, by Schiffer copywrite 1999)

Colors of Autumn for This Friday!!

2009-10-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

Won't you join us this Friday, October 30th for "Colors of Autmn" at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com). This is the time of year we start warming up our homes with decorations for warmth and whimsey.

Beautiful October Wedding in Maryland

2009-10-22T10:44:00.000-07:00

I just returned from attending my nephew Doug and his new bride Holly's wedding in Maryland this past weekend. It was a beautiful time. The weather did not cooperate the entire time, but that did not stop the celebration and joy of the day. My camera does not travel well. I won't blame it on me, of course, but most of my pictures came out blurry and/or the lighting was not correct. Since all my sibblings were taking pictures I just relaxed and decided to await their pictures once I returned home. The tablescapes were just gorgeous for the season. So colorful and rich looking. Our great niece, Leyna, two years old, was the flower girl and played the part perfectly. Her flowers were bigger than she was! Picture to follow. She was adorable and we were so fortunate to have stayed with my nephew Andy, his wife Jami, Leyna (2) and Cora (2 months) and be their guests. They spoiled us and we loved every minute of it.

Here Comes The Bride

2009-10-05T21:33:00.000-07:00

Here comes the bride! All dressed in white. Bejeweled to the hilt with glitz and glam. Plenty of tulle. Anyone that knows me knows that I am coo coo for romance. I have a little bit more tweaking to do on this gal but she wanted to come to Show and Tell. Love is in the air!

Simply Pink for Make Mine Pink Friday Shopping Event

2009-10-01T20:52:00.000-07:00

These are all the rose buds taken from my sweet little bouquet. Now I can enjoy them as potpourri too. I thought it would make a nice picture for "Simply Pink" our theme for shopping with a twist at the boutiquest at Make Mine Pink tomorrow, Friday, October 2nd. Come join us and see what the pink fuss is all about.

Beauty Abounds for Show and Tell

2009-09-27T21:21:00.001-07:00

Here is the little 'pick me up' bouquet I got yesterday. I have been carrying it with me wherever I go so I can enjoy it every minute. And, it was half price! Woo Hoo!

Here is our "Flora", the picture of beauty and poise. Sweet and demure, Flora graces all the society pages with her simple elegance. She is always at the right place at the right time. Her dance card is always filled. Hearts tend to get broken quickly as Flora simply cannot find enough time to dance the night away with all the young gentlemen. It sure keeps them coming back to the dances when Flora is on the guest list.

Meet "Charlotte". Lovely little lady from Savannah. She has lived in the South her entire life and met her dearest husband, an officer, at the debutante ball. Life has been a whirl wind of social activities since they were married. Black tie events are her most treasured evenings to dress up for. So far she has been the best dressed and most admired amongst the officer's wives (and the other officers!!) and she intends to keep it that way!

Introducing Miss "Olivia", daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Billingsworth, of St. Louis, MO. Olivia is their third child of six children, a real girly girl and growing up in the old Victorian home on Main Street was the envy of all the neighborhood. Mrs. Billingsworth hosted the Summer social teas out on the lawn under the canopy and it was there that Olivia realized pink and lace was becoming to her and she liked the attention she received. She could even play croquet in her dressy clothes, much to her Mother's dismay.

Remember last week I filled a box at an estate sale all for $5.00? Well, this sweet pink and white teapot was scooped up so quickly! It was waiting for me. I just know it. They did not have prices on anything so we shopped cautiously with our few dollars. This was a steal. It now sits proudly with my other pink and white pretties and brings so much joy to my day.

Join us for "Timeless Textiles" Friday, Sept.25th

2009-09-24T17:43:00.000-07:00

There are some fabrics that never go out of fashion. As the years pass, they grow more beautiful by adding the threads of history to their own. The original colors might fade, but these timeless textiles stay bright with the memory of the hands that created and cared for them. The stories they know are never truly forgotten when we make room for them in our lives and in our homes.

Found Treasures

2009-09-20T21:25:00.001-07:00

The above brooches are new additions to my treasure chest of jewels and baubles. They are Sarah Coventry, adding to part of a collection I have had since the 1960's. My sweet Mom always hosted Sarah Coventry parties and I kept all her jewelry and wonderful memories. Some of my brooches end up on my romantic Cinderella slipper shoes. Others I just cannot part with yet.

My oh my, what is in this box? Well, I was fortunate to attend a contents of sale of a home of a dearly departed friend of DSIS Liz's who passed away in the Spring. As much as I love going to these sales, when they are someone I know, it is bittersweet. My outing Saturday with my DSIS Nancy took us in that direction so we went to show support for the family. They were overjoyed to see us. I found great treasures and filled this box. I only took my heart's desires. When I asked for a talley, I was told $5.00!!!!! Five dollars????????? One Lincoln? Now that, my friends, is the deal of a lifetime. You'll be seeing my loot soon. Right now it is sitting on the table overloaded with goodies that will bring me total joy for days to come. Thank you "Mrs. B.". You are missed!

So there are my treasures I found for this week. Added to that, I found huge fresh raspberries, strawberries, lemon squares, and a few other yummo's at a local farm stand. Oh happy day!

Scented Delights Bath and Home for Make Mine Pink Friday

2009-09-10T21:23:00.000-07:00

All types of "Scented Delights for Bath and Home" are being featured September 11th at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com) for Shopping with a twist. Whether it is a candle, herbal shower gel from Switzerland, rose potpourri, fabulous soaps, or an entire spa treatment for you to enjoy, stop by and take a look. Oh if you could only smell all the lovely aromas and aromatherapy. Remember that your body has a double healing effect using the aromatherapy (herbs) with hydrotherapy (water). Relax and unwind. You deserve it.

Show and Tell

2009-09-07T18:18:00.000-07:00

Variety is the spice of life, 'they' say....and so is my show and tell this week.

Here is a wonderful little set of six rose melamine dessert dishes I came across awhile ago and just rediscovered them. Did you know I can go treasure shopping right in my own home too? It is amazing the goodies I have tucked away just waiting in ernest to be brought out. The picture to the right show the new additons to my gift tag line.

The next picture is a new project a did and I love it so I wonder if I'll be able to part with it. Since I have collections of old laces, and gorgeous pins and brooches, I am constantly thinking of how I can debut my lovelies. Of course, I have my "If The Shoe Fits~Altered Art for Cinderella Dreams Slipper Shoes" but I needed to spread out in my creative space. It is a blend of old and new; tated lace surrounding a brooch of purples, enclosed in a classy new silver frame. Kind of sounds like me...old and tatered, covered in purple all dressed up in my classy new silver frame! Hey, I think I'm on to something here! Now, where do I get that frame????.......

Working Round The House Friday Sept. 4th at MMPFriday

2009-09-03T17:38:00.000-07:00

With the arrival of September, our nesting instincts return. With the kids back in school, there is more time for yourself and to care for your living spaces. It's time to create a cozy fall home in preparation for cooler days and more time spent indoors.Living spaces that were moved outdoors over the summer will now come back into the house. Afternoon teas in the garden return to the kitchen or dining room. A favorite vintage tablecloth spattered with hints of autumn flowers pulled from the linen closet and ironed to get ready for the first guests. Your reading nook on the patio will be returned to the living room or den. Favorite pillows ad cushions stitched in deeper shades of autumn, are fluffed to make the corner cozy again.This is traditionally the time of year we start fall cleaning, tucking away summer accents and decorations until next year. Summer curtains are put away and replaced with warm fabrics in vibrant shades. The fragrances of fall fill your home now too, coming in through the windows and wafting from the fall bouquet you placed in a vintage metal bucket on the table in the hall. The scents of a fresh apple pie in the oven, and apple cinnamon scented potpourri that fills bowls throughout your home and simmers on the stove. The familiar scents inspire feelings of comfort and home.Fall is also a perfect time to begin a few of the projects you’ve been putting off. The small pieces of furniture you picked up at summer flea markets now hold the promise of becoming your next painted projects. The vintage fabrics you found at neighborhood estate sales will likely become your next stitched masterpiece. The possibilities are endless as we happily work around our homes. Somehow, we never seem to mind. Instead, we settle back into our routines and enjoy the first hints of excitement of upcoming family gatherings and holidays not far off.

Joyce Lucas, FounderMake Mine Pink

Getting Organized is Really Easy!

2009-08-27T20:09:00.000-07:00

Make Mine Pink's Friday Shopping Event
Please join us for shopping with a twist on Friday August 28, 2009 as we present "Getting Organized"

Getting Organized has taken on a new look! From being strictly functional to being functional and stylish has become the latest and greatest way of getting and staying organized. Pretty and stylish organization means that you no longer have to hide everything away in back room closets and filing cabinets. Instead, old locker baskets painted pink and stylishly chic organizers help you get organized in creative ways. By using decorative boxes, vintage baskets and embellished magazine organizers, you can carry your decorating theme throughout your home, office, and even your laundry room.Storage boxes filled with odds and ends, office supplies or ribbons and trims can fit into the décor in any room. A repurposed basket or box can beautifully organize your odds and ends while keeping them out of the way. A vintage metal file box hand painted with pink roses keeps your papers safe while adding romantic charm. Elegant wooden boxes painted with flowers store photos, CDs and letters in plain view.A vintage china plate might hold a stack of favorite napkins on a table or open shelf. A pretty pink basket can store clean dishtowels by the kitchen sink. A white wicker basket keeps guest towels or magazines, or perhaps organizes your craft space. Vintage nursery jars can hold cotton balls and other necessities while a refinished side table can keep your address book and notepaper handy.When you need to organize, forget about boring boxes and folders that will keep everything out of sight. Instead, look around you for creative ways to accent your décor and store everything you need within arm's reach.

Writen by Joyce Lucas
Make Mine Pink

See all the organizational ideas at the boutiques at http://www.makeminepink.com/

The Secrets of Mother's Jewelry Box for MMP Friday!

2009-08-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

Mother's jewelry box is a treasure trove for little girls and grownup daughters. No matter our age, our imaginations become colorful and childlike when we open her box of secrets.. As a child, we’re convinced that somewhere in the magnificent box lives a fairy who can tell all the secrets that lie amongst these treasures, and if we listen hard enough, we’ll hear the stories it can tell.

Come check out all the boutiques at Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com) August 21st for Make Mine Pink Friday! The wonderful theme is "The Secrets of Mother's Jewelery Box".

Katherine Takes the Cake

2009-08-17T11:58:00.001-07:00

"Katherine" was all girl. Dressing up was her forte and she was a show stopper. From the moment she was born, her Mother dressed her like a little princess from head to toe. Taking her in her pram for a walk on Sunday afternoons so they could show off their little girl brought them so much pleasure. She grew up always wanting to surround herself in the finest of fabrics, crenolines, laces, buttons. Her strawberry blonde hair was coiffed in curls that hung down and encased her face with just the right amount of dreaminess to draw those nearby in to her just so they could capture her femininity, her style! Sweet as could be. She never outgrew the desire for fashion. She was all girl and that is just what she wanted to show the world. Just look at that smile!

All decked out in heirloom laces, a rose silk brooch by artisan MeadowStreet and pink rhinestone brooch, the softest pink ribbon and drizzles of pink gems adorn her with simple sophistication and elegance. Comes with three beautiful jeweled straight pins. Katherine is part of a collection of one of a kind handmade designs called "If The Shoe Fits~Altered Art for Cinderella Dreams", pin keeps and romantic home decor and you can see more of these glamour girls on my website, The Polka Dot Rose www.thepolkadotrose.com

Children at Play Gift Tags for Show and Tell

2009-08-09T19:42:00.000-07:00

I took myself on a creative detour today and pulled out more of my wonderful boxes of this and that. I could stay in my home for the next twenty years and never run out of creative things to do. Don't you just love that? It goes back to my childhood days of Summer. "Go and do a project" Mom would say. She wouldn't have to twist my arm. Off to my stash I would go.

I enjoyed creating these three gift tags showing children playing with farm animals and one another. Sweetened up with tiny pearls and German glass glitter and decked out with soft satin ribbons. Oh what a great time I had! I will be listing these on my boutique this week.

Pretty Pillows and Purses for Pink Friday

2009-07-30T14:20:00.001-07:00

If there's anything a girl can't have enough of it's pretty purses by day and pillows at night.

A woman's purse can reveal a lot about her personality. If you're fun and flirty, you might carry a giraffe handbag or a pearl patent purse with pink polka dots. For the more reserved - a collector of all things pretty and vintage - perhaps a romantic summertime bag with roses and bachelor buttons. You can even show your "green" side with a straw handbag decorated with rescued jewelry, belts, buckles and various embellishments.You can celebrate the many sides of your "purse"-onality with a purse that allows you to change covers and quickly as you change your mood. Or announce your uniqueness with a one of a kind "little black bag" - a vintage beaded black handbag.Pillows can change their personalities too, as easily as changing a pillowcase. For sweet dreams, there are sweet heart hand-embroidered pillowcases. Feel nostalgic with vintage cutwork pillowcases. Or create a fun look by layering a bed with lots of pillows covered in different Southern Bell pillowcases. Pillows make a statement all their own. Rescued vintage needle point pillows grace the finest parlors and boudoir chairs. They can be reminiscent of a special event or a special someone, like a floral monogram pillow with the initial of someone you love. A wedding keepsake pillow made with an antique style certificate or your favorite wedding photograph. Beautiful pillows made from antique doilies and vintage dresser scarves.Some pillows are fun and used to make a space colorful and whimsical,like a chocolate dipped strawberry pillow, a blue cupcakes pillow, or a handmade slice of cake pillow with satin pink roses and pink lace trim. A whimsical teapot pillow with Battenburg lace to set on the guest bed or porch swing. You can even grow a garden of pillows with mauve ribbon flower hearts, heart pillows with roses and pink ribbed chenille, and a pink roses throw pillow.No matter what your style or what mood you're in, you can surround yourself with pretty purses and pillows designed to express exactly what you're feeling.

Photo Contribution 1: Mama's Pocketbook Photo Contribution 2: C'est Chouette
Photo Contribution 3: Gail Friend Designs Photo Contribution 4: Janets Creative Pillows

It's Officially Christmas in July!

2009-07-22T20:35:00.001-07:00

It is officially Christmas in July at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink (http://www.makeminepink.com) starting July 20th through July 26th. There are gifts to win, specials going on, free gift wrapping, gifts with purchase, and so much more. I know it is difficult to think of the holidays but they are right around the corner. Shop at your leisure, in your jammies or beach wear, any time of the day, and your packages will be delivered right to your doorstep. No one will suspect Santa coming this time of year! Have fun! Ho! Ho! Ho!

Show and Tell ~ Angels on my Doorstep

2009-07-19T13:49:00.001-07:00

BINGO! BINGO! BINGO! Just five little letters when stated out loud with glee brings the most wonderful gifts to my doorstep! This time I won a gorgeous angel, a piece of Heartwood Creek by the artist Jim Shore, called "Summer restores the Soul". How true. A Summer Angel. Who doesn't need more angels in their world? I will cherish this forever. This lovely was donated by the beautiful on line boutique of Coeur d'Alene (http://www.coeurdalenegifts.com) which is part of the shops on Make Mine Pink (http://www.makeminepink.com/). Thank you Nancy!

Okay, now I have a confession. I need to unload my heavy Bingo heart. You see, Make Mine Pink holds Bingo games every now and then for everyone to take part in. I won the last two Bingo games! Me. Little ole me! Now I have winner's remorse. I have had too much fun. Is there such a thing? I won a beautiful necklace and earring set from The Sassy Beach (http://www.thesassybeach.com/) and now my sweet angel. I am going to try real hard not to win the next game. I wanted to say I will not play but it is so much fun that I must play! Come on! Play! What do you have to lose?

An English Garden at Pink Friday

2009-07-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

The English cottage was introduced by British aristocrats who admired the simple beauty of the homes of farmers and craftsmen. These nobles hired architects to design similar buildings for them. The English cottage soon became popular with the general population, especially in North America, because its small scale made it more accessible. Today, the country charm of an English cottage can be created in any home, not just those with thatched roofs and ivy covered walls. The windows of an English cottage are often decorated with delicate lace curtains or a floral fabric, like cabbage rose print. A cozy window seat provides a perfect place to enjoy a cup of tea in the china cup passed down from a grandmother.On the walls of an English cottage hang framed nature prints or memories preserved in vintage frames. A bird tin wall plaque, a collection of framed vintage postcards, or a carefully stitched sentiment, are equally at home here. Favorite family photos in antique frames might hang in the hall, a vintage framed mirror in the entranceway.

The cottage cupboard is an essential element of the English cottage and is used for storage or to display a collection of treasures. On its shelves you might find a glass vase painted with pink roses, an antique English teapot with plum flowers, or a vintage cottage plate. This is the place to store the embroidered tea towels from your mother or the vintage pure white linens you bring out for special occasions. Outside in the cottage garden, you'll find colorful blooms and roses, or ivy that climbs trellises and arbors. Homemade bird houses wrought iron bird baths, welcoming garden statues, and sweet garden plaques create a cottage feel here too. With cottage touches in just the right places, the simple beauty of a country cottage can live anywhere, not just in the English countryside.

by Joyce Lucas, Founder of Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com)

Photo Contribution 1: C'est Chouette Photo Contribution 2: Petite Bookstore

Artist's Reception at East End Winery

2009-07-12T20:28:00.000-07:00

Take one talented artist, who happens to be my sister Liz, add a beautiful Summer evening in July, have a wonderful east end winery, Palmer Vineyards of Riverhead, Long Island, New York, invite her to feature her art for the entire Summer into Harvest, invite everyone, and what do you get? A perfect Friday night with the arts! Liz parked her 1951 red Chevy truck out front with a banner to let the world know her reception was at the winery that evening.

On the grounds between the two buildings a beautiful, healthy array of nibbles was set out for everyone to enjoy in between their wine testings and art appreciation. Liz and her friend Ronnie set the display inside vintage toy trucks!

I cannot pass up a hydrangea without taking a picture. The grounds were so beautiful!

This is a little display that was on the bar where the wine testings went on. It shows the reflection of the sun, but if anyone knows what type of Summer we have been having, who am I to compain about the sun? :) Notice the little red truck to the left holding Liz's business cards. Do you know she loves old trucks?

I captured my sister Nancy and nephews Rob, Dave and Matt finding a special seating area right near the rows and rows of grapes. The sun was starting to set and everyone was beginning to move to the deck and ground area to take in more of God's glory of the day.

A couple of Liz's newest additions.This show was called "Big and Bold".

This last picture Liz called an abstract of a truck. She loves trying new techniques. There was so much more. This is just a little inkling of the evening and the artist's work.

Summer Porch and Garden at Pink Friday

2009-07-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

Please join us for shopping with a twist on Friday June 10, 2009 as we present "SUMMER PORCH AND GARDEN"There's nothing more inviting than a summer porch and garden. It can be a source of shade when the temperature gets too warm, a place of shelter during a gentle summer rain, or just a place to sit with someone special on a lazy summer day. It can be a welcoming start your day with your favorite antique tea cup in hand or a front row seat to watch the sunset from the weathered oak rocker, that in it's day sat proudly in your grandmother's home.
A welcoming porch and garden can create a friendly entryway to your home. A welcome sign hand painted with pink roses perched against the railing or a lilac berry wreath with a scent as inviting as it looks, letting guests know that you're glad they're here before you've said a word. If entertaining guests, perhaps vintage chairs, refinished and made comfortable with dainty floral needlepoint cushions, or a white painted table set with a vintage lace-tablecloth like your mom and before her - grandmother used.
With the right accessories, a porch and garden can even become an extension of your home. For candlelit evenings, a candle inside a topiary lantern casting a romantic glow. For lazy afternoons, a daisy metal basket filled with fresh cut flowers, a knitting project, or even as cliche as this sounds, a glass of fresh squeezed lemonade and a favorite books. Tucked in the corner, a vintage pink metal watering can kept handy to water the flowers in the window boxes while the lace curtains on the windows gently sway in the afternoon breeze. As much comfort as your home, with the right accessories.

You can add a cottage touch to your garden with decorations like ceramic garden mushrooms and inspiring garden plaques sprinkled with just the right amount of glitter. Tea cup bird feeders, handmade birdhouses, and antique iron birdbaths are all welcome sites for feathered friends. Remember to add a touch of whimsy just to make you smile - like a basket of flowers placed on a pink bicycle.
No matter what your summer days hold, a porch and garden can provide the ideal setting for friends, family and even a private retreat. Won't you join me for a cup of tea as we help you design your summer porch and garden. Photo Contribution 1: Camelia Cottage Photo Contribution 2: Shabby Shan's Cottage

Shades of Red White and Blue Just for You!

2009-07-02T15:48:00.000-07:00

With shades of red, white and blue surrounding us, celebrations of life can happen any day. Shades of red, white or blue remind me of 4th of July parties and fireworks and special times with family and friends. Vintage aprons, adorned with red roses against what was once a vivid blue, now slightly worn with time. Blue and white checked linens - once grandmother's finest, still carrying traces of the 4th of July picnics I had as a child. Pale blue Depression glass against the finest white tablecloth, topped with a white milk glass vase and filled with the summer flowers. On the wall, a white French farmhouse shelf displays white china hand painted with red and blue buds Adding a little color to your table, shades of red, white and blue can turn any meal into a celebration. Blue and white Italian place settings against a red tablecloth. An angel food cake atop a favorite white cake stand, topped with fresh summer blueberries and strawberries. Red sugar-coated candies in a white candy dish hand painted with blue forget-me-nots. Hanging nearby, white and blue checked kitchen towels decorated with shiny red apples Placed somewhere unexpected, red, white and blue can create a burst of color in any corner. Red roses on canvas and hung on a freshly painted blue wall. A piece of broken china jewelry - tiny blue and red roses against pure white china. A white lace sun catcher, with a red and blue design, hanging in the window. In the guest bathroom, a blue tissue box holder painted with white and red flowers. Tucked into a corner of your purse, a blue hanky trimmed with red and embroidered with white daisies. And dangling from your wrist, a bracelet made of cinnabar, turquoise beads and bone. For a special touch of whimsy, plug in 4th of July light bulbs in red, white and blue. Use a white table runner with appliquéd blue rabbits and red rose buds. Display faux strawberries dipped in white chocolate placed in a blue cake box that looks pretty enough to eat. You can wear a soldered charm of red breasted robins against an azure sky, sprinkled with white German glass glitter or write on the white pages of a notebook decorated with red roses and blue ribbons. With shades of red, white and blue surrounding us, celebrations of life can happen any day.

Photo Contribution 1: The Sassy Beach Photo Contribution 2: Grandma G's Cottage Photo Contribution 3: Candy Lights

By: Joyce Lucas, Make Mine Pink (http://www.makeminepink.com/)

A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME for Pink Friday

2009-06-25T17:57:00.000-07:00

A Rose by any other name.....that is the shopping theme this Friday, June 26th at the boutiques of Make Mine Pink (http://www.makeminepink.com/). Two things come to my mind for the month of June, fresh strawberries and roses popping out all over. There is nothing so beautiful as a rose. So romantic. So feminine. So, got to have them all over!

Picture by Lori (http://katiesrosecottage.com/)

WHB Historical Society Honors My Sister's Artwork

2009-06-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

This is just one of the many pictures Liz painted that is on display at the Historic Society. This is called "Winter's Wharf'.

Here is our famous artist Liz with 3 of her nephews, Rob, David and Matt, outside the Westhampton Beach Historic Society where her years of painting the town's history is being displayed through Labor Day.

My sister Liz, who sends our proud meter way over the top!

Here we are, the three sisters, myself, Nancy (Mom to the three nephews) and Liz at the benefit and auction which was held at the wonderful restaurant of Starr Boggs in Westhampton Beach. Even the sun came out for this occassion!

This is one of the paintings, called "Raynor's Garage" which was being auctioned that evening. The gardens in the courtyard were magnificent. We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful evening. The event was well attended; the food was sublime; hugs and kisses were going on all over the place seeing friends, classmates of long ago, family and town folk near and dear to us.

Sassy Ladies of Summer Lane

2009-06-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

"Rhonda" still thinks of Las Vegas when she dresses for the nightclubs in the Hamptons. Oh that gal loves her bling! Too much is never enough for her. What a gem!

"Colleen" is the picture of a Summer's day; fresh as a daisy and just as perky too. Colleen loves to picnic in the village green amongst the hydrangea gardens.

Along the Garden Path for Pink Friday, June 12th

2009-06-11T18:26:00.001-07:00

Won't you stroll "Along The Garden Path" with us this week for shopping with a twist for Pink Friday at the boutiques at Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com). The Polka Dot Rose is offering a gift with each purchase. See you there along the garden path!

Make Mine Pink Mini Retreat on Cape Cod

2009-06-07T11:09:00.001-07:00

These pictures were taken in the enchanted garden outside HorseFeathers Antique Shop. Ask anyone who went there....it was stepping into a dream.

These two pictures are of a sweet little cottage right next door to our beach homestead.

Here is our wonderful "Main house" which overlooks the beautiful water and leads us down to the beach. Look at those views!

I will be posting more pictures once MB is back from traveling and posts some of hers. I don't want to interfere with guessing who the covered up "creature" is on the beach game! I wonder who it is......

Here are pictures of the adorable cottage bedroom suite! I slept like a log every night!

Fluffy towels, spa socks and cameo rose soaps awaited us upon arrival. Oooh lala!

Stay tuned for more pics from all of us. We had a grand time. When you are with Pinkies, life is blissful.

Heaven On Earth

2009-06-06T21:37:00.000-07:00

All the way home from retreat on Cape Cod I saw the signs I wait all winter for: Strawberries! Today I ventured out east on Long Island to the farm stands to get my piece of heaven on earth, fresh strawberries and blueberries. Oh my goodness! I had to give them the honor they deserve in pretty Fenton milkglass bowls and set them upon lace for a glamour shot. Aren't they just the prettiest little beauties? Happy berry season everyone!

Create on A Shoe String

2009-05-23T09:11:00.001-07:00

It is Memorial Day Weekend and time to strut the Red, White and Blue! I wanted a new wreath for my door and yet did not want to spend money on it. I looked around my own home, took bits of this and that and viola! My holiday wreath now proudly adorns my front door. I used wire to put my decor on so I can remove it and make the next wreath on my plain grapevine wreath. I wanted to share this with you because ingenuity meets creativity = thriftiness = more money stays in my wallet. What do you have around the house that you can dust off, add to, spiff it up and make your own holiday decor? Happy Memorial Day Weekend for those who have the time off to celebrate the beginning of Summer. God Bless all those in our Armed Forces for whom this day is possible.

Ooooh La La! The Ladies have arrived!

2009-05-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

My DSIS Liz went with a friend to Brimfield, MA yesterday to attend the gala antique show. She asked me if I "wanted" anything. I told her only if she were to see a nice brooch,(meaning singular) ... Well, she came home with a loot for me! Each one is so special! They will make their way to one of my Cinderella Dream slipper shoes soon.

I completed a few and here they are:

"Butterfly Dreams"

"Rosebud"

"The Lady of Seville"

I am very excited to present my latest lovies. The first two I put on for Romantic Roses on Pink Friday. For "The Lady of Seville" I used chantilly lace and an exquisite red rose brooch from MeadowStreet (http://www.meadowstreet.com/). I will posting these on my website under "If The Shoe Fits~Altered Art for Cinderella Dreams".

"Romantic Roses" Pink Friday May 15th

2009-05-14T22:05:00.000-07:00

I love roses.....romantic roses. What rose is not romantic, I ask? Whether it is painted on a lovely vase, found on a vintage hanky, worn as a brooch on a lapel, silk roses on pin cushion altered art shoes filled with lace, embroidered on a pillowcase, and more, roses always bring a smile to my face. Please join me and the other boutiques at Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink) to celebrate the romance of the rose.

Beautiful Blues for Pink Friday May 8th

2009-05-07T17:16:00.001-07:00

Beautiful blues... the classic colors of sea and sky. Once a year, beautiful blues against crisp, clean whites adorned the blue and white issue of Victoria Magazine. Do you remember how you anticipated your copy? Blue is calming and serene. It's a coastal color, often used in bedrooms and rooms of relaxation. From delicate pastel to a deep, emboldened navy, adding blues to your décor can evoke a tranquil yet often vibrant mood.

Photo Contribution 1: Noelle Garrett Designs Photo Contribution 2: C'est Chouette
Joyce Lucas,Founder

Join us Friday, May 8th at the boutiques at Make Mine Pink (http://www.makeminepink.com/) to see all the beautiful blues everyone has to offer.

Show and Tell Monday

2009-05-02T21:36:00.001-07:00

May I introduce two of my latest heart throbs, "Darling" in white and "Precious" in pink. The pictures really do not capture their beauty entirely. Practice, practice, practice. If you would like to see closer images and other views of these slippers, go to http://www.makeminepink.com and look up Little Pink Boutiques, scroll down to The Polka Dot Rose.

"Romantic Delights" May 1st for Pink Friday

2009-04-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

You'll find romantic treats to delight any mother at Make Mine Pink (http://www.makeminepink.com)
Photo Contribution 1: Vintage Charm Photo Contribution 2: Meadow Street

Comfort Doll

2009-04-27T17:26:00.000-07:00

She is such a cutie! Now I know why it is called a comfort doll. Six inches of pure love and comfort. For more information about this project to assist a Battered Women's Shelter, go to

http://www.comfortdolls.blogspot.com/ .

"Lavender and Lace" for Pink Friday

2009-04-23T19:47:00.001-07:00

Lavender and Lace

Please join us for shopping with a twist on Friday, April 24, 2009 for Lavender and Lace. A lavender field in full bloom creates a purple and green landscape and infuses a sweet fragrance into the air. A field of flowers brought to life with the buzzing of bees, decorated with birds and butterflies drawn to its fragrant aroma. The lavender fragrance wafts gently through the air, carrying the memories of flowers, happiness, and sunny days. Far away, a summer porch, framed by windows with white lace, is surrounded with the scent of lavender. Lavender blooming in window boxes and flower pots, or decorating a flower garden with their purple blossoms. Whether along a country road or on a city street, the lavender scent embraces all indiscriminately. Too beautiful to remain outdoors, the fragrance of lavender easily enters our homes and daily lives. From a carefully tended flowerbed we pick a tiny bunch and place it in a hand-cut crystal bud vase, where it can brighten a corner as it sits upon a vintage lace doily. Tuck a sprig of the tiny flowers into the lace band of a broad-brimmed summer hat, carrying the beautiful fragrance with us wherever we go. Or perhaps lay it inside a dresser drawer. Tie it with a tiny scrap of lace and hang it upon a wall, set it upon a shelf. In a drawer or as a lavender bouquet tied with apple-green organdy ribbon, edged with a dainty row of lace, the loveliness of lavender is impossible to contain. An elegant centerpiece set upon an antique table draped with a vintage lace table cloth, it's a feast for more than the eyes as the fragrant aroma declares its presence. Sunlight shining through the lacy curtains warms the room and casts delicate shadows upon the wall. Suddenly, the room seems draped in a lavender landscape and fields of lace.

Joyce Lucas,Founder
www.MakeMinePink.com

"Marie Antoinette" Comes to Pink Friday

2009-04-02T18:46:00.001-07:00

Please join us for shopping with a twist on Friday, April 3, 2009 as we present Marie Antoinette.
She was nicknamed "Madame Deficit" or "Queen of Debt” because the Queen spent lavishly on her dress and adornments, exceeding annually her clothing allowance (her overruns always covered by her devoted husband Louis). Her flip remark “Let them eat cake” (attributed to her, but never confirmed) was the spark that ignited the French Revolution. Today, we simply cannot get enough of “Marie”.So why do we love Marie Antoinette today? All her extravagance, her life of excess, her hairstyles that were larger than life, her reported love of pastries and champagne (some truth and some fiction as Marie was a teetotaler) all create for us a time and place where a young girl can be Queen. Marie Antoinette has become a real inspiration. See the boutiques at
MakeMinePink.com Click on PINK FRIDAY Packages to the right and have some fun!

"Easter Memories" at Pink Friday

2009-03-26T16:53:00.001-07:00

"Easter Memories" are going on at the boutiques at Make Mine Pink this Friday, March 27th. Easter brings such joy of hope, renewal, rebirth. Spring is springing up all over. Daffodils, hyacynthis, pussy willows, lilacs (right around the corner), longer sunnier days, fresh laundry hanging out on the line blowing in the breeze, baking of homemade bread that Grandma taught us as a sign of "rising"; all these Easter memories plus more. I just love this time of year. Please join us for celebrating the season. Don't forget JELLYBEANS!!!
www.makeminepink.com www.thepolkadotrose.com PINK FRIDAY!

Spring is Here!

2009-03-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

Just look at these gorgeous gals all dressed up in their pretty laces all set for Spring! I love dressing them up in vintage and heirloom laces, silk brooches (which can be removed for wearing), vintage jewelry, glitter and glam. Add stuffing so that they can also be used as a pin cushion or to hold your pins on your dresser/vanity. Sprinkled in German glass glitter and touches of jewels here and there. Bit by bit their personalities come to life.

Get the Easter parade plans in the making. These Cinderella slippers are the rage for Mom's, Sisters, Aunties. Add on to fresh flowers for a unique centerpiece on your Easter table or in the foyer to welcome your guests. Fresh lavender can be added at the time of ordering for that special touch. Looking for something fresh for your bridal party attendants? Hear them ooh and aah as they unwrap the black and white polka dot gift box and peek inside the black and white tissue paper to see which one of a kind lovely is theirs. Gift cards enclosed.

March Into Spring Shop Hop is Finally Here!

2009-03-11T20:45:00.000-07:00

The joyful march into spring begins, a cacophony of bird calls fills the blue skies, the trees show their fresh green buds, and the tulips start to poke their heads from the earth to face the sunshine. Colors are about to burst forth, and the earth will be new again. With fresh eyes, we are stocking our shelves with pretty greens, bright yellows, vibrant pinks, and beautiful blues. For the Boutiques at Make Mine Pink, spring cleaning is over, and we would love to show off our fresh new colors and exciting spring merchandise.
Please join us for our "March Into Spring" Shop Hop from March 16 through March 21, 2009. The shop hop is open to anyone that would like to participate (limit one registration per physical address). Please register if you would like to participate.

"An Altered Point of View" for Pink Friday

2009-03-05T20:22:00.001-08:00

Altered art is taking bits and pieces of this and that and making wonderful creations of art from them. My specialty is "If The Shoe Fits~Altered Art for Cinderella Dreams", dreamy frou frou slippers made from heirloom laces collected over the years, antique buttons, brooches, silk rose brooches, baubles, gems, pearls, sprinked with German glass glitter and awaiting their new homes. Would make great pin holder, or just to adore as a romantic decor for a dresser or vanity. Pair it up with flowers for a centerpiece for a shower, wedding, of sweet 16 party. Thank that special someone with a dream all her own. Join us at Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com) to visit the boutiques debuting their creations of atered art. You will be amazed!!

French Farmhouse for Pink Friday

2009-02-19T12:41:00.000-08:00

Take a trip to France this Friday, February 20th at the boutiques at Make Mine Pink (http://www.makeminepink.com/).
Close your eyes and imagine the sun-warmed tumbled stone tiles beneath your feet, take in the scent of lavender, listen to the sounds of the chickens in the yard.
Where are you?
At a lovely French Farmhouse.
What makes up the French Farmhouse?
A home decorated with cherished family heirlooms handed down through the generations asking to be touched and used. The nicks, scuffs and dents are the patina that only comes with time and offers a sense of history. The wear and tear is meant to be celebrated. French Farmhouse style lies in its eclectic nature of mix and match, use what you have, finding a new use for an old item. French Farmhouse juxtaposes a velvet sofa with a tattered linen chair and a Louis XIV armoire. All well loved and still meant to be used not to be put in a museum. The colors and patterns are a mixture of bright blue, red and yellow of Provence used next to the two-tone toiles of Jouy-en-Josas and silks of Paris. Rugs have a used and tattered patina of the past centuries layered with the newer brighter rugs of the past decade. To complete the French Farmhouse one must tell their own story by adding brocante- items that a bit to nice to throw away; not quite junk not quite art. Add flower frogs under bell jars, a row of children's wooden boats on the mantle, an old tiara on a cake stand or vintage perfume bottles on the dressing table. If you love books, line every shelf with them and add stacks to all the tables. Wire bird cages, cast-off egg baskets, rustic ladders and garden trellis all find safe haven in a French Farmhouse. Bring the garden in to the house by adding florals here, there and everywhere. Fresh flowers are a must in nearly every room. Using what you love becomes the only rule to decorating in the French Farmhouse.Enjoy your time in the French Countryside.

Shades of Roses

2009-02-12T21:06:00.000-08:00

The shade of a single rose so eloquently captures all the feelings of a special moment, reflects all the memories of everything that has happened before this time, and expresses the hopes of many moments yet to come.
The first single rose a young woman receives might be given while she is still a girl. Perhaps it is a delicate shade of peach, from someone who knows every ounce of effort that has gone into a special performance, or accomplishment. It's an appreciation of everything the girl is right now, and all she hopes to be. Later, a single rose in a deep shade of orange says, "I am so proud," and expresses admiration of everything she has become. She has graduated from girlhood and she is ready to take on the world.
Now that she is a woman, her grace and beauty catch someone else's eye. A pink rose, held in a hand made bold by sweet love, tells her of unspoken feelings. After a time, the same hand brings a newly bloomed red rose to announce, "I love you." A single white rose might follow, proclaiming a love that is stronger than death.
The shades of a rose, like a moment in her life, can contain a myriad of meanings. A single yellow rose might speak of contentment and happiness. Placed on a bedside table, it could celebrate the unbridled joy of a new birth or anniversary of another year together. It could also make the promise of a new beginning, or to make up for things that have gone wrong.
Soon it becomes the woman's turn to give a single rose. She carefully selects one in a delicate shade of peach. It's been chosen for another girl, not yet a woman, who is full of promise and life, and given with the hope that she too will experience life in all its beautiful shades.

Join us at http://www.makeminepink/ for SHADES OF ROSES for Pink Friday .

My Nephew Matt in the musical "Footloose"

2009-02-08T16:50:00.000-08:00

Matt plays the part of the Grouchy Principal!

Here he is after the first show. Now that's my smiley guy again!

Matt in action reprimanding those rowdy students!

Taking a bow. Great job Matt and everyone in the cast of Footloose. We went all three times! It will take me weeks to stop singing those songs! What fun!

Be My Valentine ~ Pink Friday Feb 6th

2009-02-05T17:31:00.000-08:00

Remember the days when we took shoeboxes and transformed them into treasure chests, sacred vessels ready to receive Valentines from our classmates? The anticipation we felt when we carved slots in the tops with blunt pairs of school scissors, making sure the openings were large enough to receive the dozens of cards we hoped would soon be delivered... but not so big that we would appear greedy. For that one day, we were willing to extend our friendship to even the boy who pulled our hair.Later, the tingling excitement as we spent hours pouring over each and every sentiment that had been dropped into our box of hope... eager to find that one special card from a best friend, a boy we liked, or the most popular girl in class. Pouring over each sentiment, examining the carefully formed letters of each name.The days of decorated shoeboxes and clumsily lettered names may have been long ago, but many things still fill us with the same little flutters we felt back then.Finding a stack of vintage postcards in a favorite antique shop - some garlanded with roses, others with whimsy and fun. Uncovering a tarnished locket filled with memories of lost loves, at the bottom of an abandoned jewelry box. Picking up a weathered journal and discovering the dreams of a young woman as she embarked on her own journey of love.A delicate hankie from a past generation, lovingly stitched with pink and red roses. Yellowed stacks of love letters, unfading feelings bound with a tattered ribbon.As Valentine's Day draws near, I find myself feeling nostalgic for the things and feelings of the past. I'm opening the drawers of my memory and sifting through moments that have been stored away for a time just like this.Happy Valentines Day!
Join us at Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com) for other boutiques celebrating Valentine's Day!
Susie of The Polka Dot Rose
www.thepolkadotrose.com

Romantic Roses for Pink Friday January 23rd

2009-01-22T11:58:00.001-08:00

Ah the beauty of the rose. If you love roses, you will want to check out the special boutiques at Make Mine Pink (www.makeminepink.com) this Friday. You can almost smell the delicate scent of the roses! Special sales, gifts with purchase and more! The Polka Dot Rose will be offering free shipping on all purchases made on Friday, January 23rd!

Making Way for The New on Pink Friday!

2009-01-08T15:52:00.000-08:00

Making way for the new!
Don't you just love the first week of January? All the holiday trimmings are stored away, the gifts are in use or proudly displayed, our houses are freshly cleaned and organized and all the proper pillows are back on the sofa.But wait- there is something, just a little something, nagging at us. Yes, time for a quick change here or there. Maybe new pillows will make that sofa more inviting; a new rug to give the room a quick pick-me-up; some different everyday dishes would perk up the kitchen: fresh sent of a new potpourri will welcome us home each day. Well that is it the wonder of the New Year, we see everything anew. The Boutiques at Make Mine Pink are experiencing the same thing. We love everything we offer in our boutiques, (our merchandise is gorgeous) - but it is time for us to straighten up the shelves a bit, look at everything with new eyes, and refresh our stock. So we are celebrating this PINK Friday with a special "Making Way for the New" shopping event. Don't be fooled by our fabulous sales, this is not old, dusty, unwanted stock. It is our usual beautiful and unique merchandise! We just need it to go to a new home so that we can stock our shelves with new and even more exciting merchandise for the new year. Don't miss this once a year event! Friday, January 9th at Make Mine Pink! Please join us for PINK FRIDAY at Make Mine Pink on Friday January 9th. The boutiques at Make Mine Pink are pleased to present "Making Way For The New!" The Polka Dot Rose will be offering 50% off all items under Pink Friday.

The New Year 2009

2009-01-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! 2009! A year of new beginnings. New Year's Eve we had a snow fall and I captured these pictures from my back door. Signs of my Summer days on the courtyard now covered in Winter White. Sparkling; clean. Covered with a snow blanket from above. Now, I cannot tell a lie. I do not care for the cold Winter months and prefer Summer (ssshhhh). But, give me a camera as the snow falls, in my pjs, in my warm, cozy home with no place to go, and I will see all the beauty Winter has to offer me. Wishing you all a wonderful blessed New Year filled with everyday joys.