Snowy Friends

It's been unseasonably warm lately. Or at least I think it has?! This is only my second winter in Boston so I'm not sure what it's supposed to be like right now. One thing's for sure though, being from Manitoba I'm not used to rain in January. With this weather it's a perfect opportunity to make a snowman! But if you can't lay claim to any snow like me, living the apartment life, maybe this is the next best thing? A snowman or snow lady made by your own two hands to last a lifetime! Perfect for yourself or a gift, why not whip one up today? These were super easy to make and so much fun. By embroidering their features on you can add personalities to them and in a sense, bring them to life. These snow people may be unsuitable for small children as they contain small parts.

~Monica









This pattern was acquired online... somewhere, only I can't remember where. If you have an idea, please let us know so we can give the appropriate credit!

Christmas Show and Tell

I spent the holidays in Vancouver and was there for a few weeks. It was a great holiday! My husband and I, as well as our two cats, flew over there a few days before Christmas and just got back a few days ago. We stayed with Andrew's parents in their newly renovated home which had room enough for eight, add a couple of brothers and couple of friends, oh and don't forget two cats and one dog. We mostly stayed in and enjoyed family company, woke up late and stretched coffee time into the afternoon. One productive thing I did do was help to design and sew a dress for vocalist Katherine Penfold, (one of the friend's visiting) to wear while she performed at the concert Andrew headlined on Dec. 30th/09. But more on that will come later... All in all, we had a fabulous time in Vancouver this year.

But before I left, I received a box full of presents from my good friend (and co-creator of this blog and EmenGee Designs) Grace. It was sent early so I would get it in time unlike the present I sent to her which miraculously arrived on Christmas Eve, even though I knew I was cutting it quite close. The box was full of very thoughtful gifts, some of which by now she must know I enjoy but others that got me thinking perhaps she's a mind reader...?


~sussing out the "sitch" (abbr. for: situation), feeling, shaking, and practicing the technique of x-ray vision...
~The prettiest handkerchief, with a vintage floral pattern which I have a soft spot for.





~pretty vintage pictures in *pink*! frames, love them.
~Tea cup and saucer, did she know I've been collecting these?




~blank cards featuring impressionist paintings which I love, plus who couldn't use a whole slew of pretty black cards!
~Copies of the pictures I didn't get of the two of us at Grace's wedding last September.





~earrings handmade by Grace with Micheal Jackson's initials, and coincidentally, mine too!
~Two books to add to the shelf: Emma and The Cocktail Party, because I love to read...
I also received a vintage brooch and a cook book with only desserts, which is my favorite part of a meal!

Maybe Grace will show & tell what I gave her!

~Monica

Happy Birthday To Me

Having just celebrated by 25th birthday on January 9th I noticed something peculiar. People always ask "what do you want for your birthday". I personally find that questions hard to answer. There are things that I would purchase for myself, but would never expect anyone else to buy for me. I always feel bad asking for something unless I actually need it. Just for fun I decided to take a look around on Etsy and pick out what I would buy for myself if I could buy all of my own Birthday presents. I must say, I had a very good time and hope to someday rationalize purchases from at least a few of these talented artists!




Grey Jacket:
This beautiful jacket was created by a very talented Etsian COTYLEE. This jacket looks both stunning and warm, which is something I look for contending with some very unpredictable Canadian weather! This seller's store is filled with beautiful treasures that I'm sure would suite any gals style!

Ring:
The sleek and simple design of this ring by ROBANDLEAN is sure to make it an instant classic. This piece is classy and clean and would make a beautiful addition to any outfit.


Top:
One of my favorite items that I've ever had the pleasure of finding on Etsy, this top by Lirola is completely adorable. To me it perfectly combines high fashion & comfort. A perfect top to wear to the office or out for a night on the town. It is beautiful in every color and pattern it is available in.

Purse:
An accessory that I can easily picture me (or Audrey Hepburn) strolling down the street with is this gorgeous bag by CrazyBoy. It puts a wonderful spin on a classic style. The size is functional without being too large.

Passport/Travel Case:
I've been eyeing up a couple of different travel document holders on Etsy but this one designed by DownStairsDesigns stands out among the rest. It had plenty of room for all of your required documents. I especially love how the patterned fabric is broken up with a beautiful textured solid. A traveling must have!

Art Print:
This art print by MATTEARTS is right up my alley! The style reminds me of one of my favorite Directors Wes Andreson's style of which I am a huge fan. This piece is so much fun, as is the title "Alfred was obviously under-dressed for his induction into the Adventurers Hall of Fame". I would be proud to hang this above my mantel.

Painted High Heels:
These hand painted high heels by NoraKaren are a fabulous piece of wearable art. These would look amazing with a simple black ensemble. All of this artists work is amazing. Well worth taking a look at.

With Monica's Birthday in just a few weeks, I can't wait to see what is on her wish list!

~Gracie

Holiday Glamour and Glitz!

I would love show up to a holiday party wearing this outfit. Like something right out of an old movie, this vintage 1950's golden spakling tea-length gown features amazing one-shoulder detailing. It would look great with sparkling vintage gold shoes, a sequined clutch and gold and brown jewelry. When coming inside from the bitter cool night, slink out of this fabulous faux fur coat in a rich charcoal brown hue. A bubbling cocktail of glamour and glitz, with a definite vintage flair, this tall drink is ready for a party!

~Monica



earrings:Kimia, coat:ModCloth, dress: TimelessVixenVintage , shoes: adVintagous, clutch: Urban Outfitters , bracelet: ModCloth,

Warm Winter Treats

This past weekend as winter finally arrived, I was desperate for something warm to do that didn't involve going outside! Nothing to me fits that description better than baking! I decided to bake one of my all time favs, Chocolate Chip Banana Bread. I've included the recipe for your pleasure along with some helpful tips. Please remember to be responsible when making this recipe, you may end up eating the entire thing!


I hope you enjoy this recipe.
It's a real treasure!

~Gracie

A few of My Favorites...

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to share with you some of my handmade favorites this week! Wouldn't that yarn make a beautiful sweater, paired with those handmade buttons!? ahhh.... Of course, these would make wonderful gifts as well with the holiday season coming upon us.

~Monica



credits clockwise from top left: TessaAnn, Ozknits, Starpompon, HeliS, lovejanice.

Tasty Treats

Over the weekend I tried out a new cookie recipe to see if these little "cooks" (abbreviation for cookies) could make the cut for a permanent spot in my slowly growing recipe book. They did! And they were pretty delicious at that. I found this recipe in the April 2009 issue of Everyday Food magazine, issue 61. This is a delicious homemade version of the store classic cookie, which is probably pretty obvious. Since the holidays are nearing and here in Boston there is no snow, nor any signs of it coming soon, I made them into snowflake shapes. But you of course can use any shape you like, although I wouldn't suggest anything too elaborate as the dough is a little flaky. Hope you like these!

~Monica