Reverie Creations

Paying It Forward Is A Good Thing

2015-10-29T08:43:00.000-04:00

We're approaching that time of the year....a time for giving thanks for all the blessings in our lives. I know I'm grateful for so much; especially for my little family.

Though we always seem to desire more, don't we? More material objects...like a bigger house, a newer car or the latest trends, but will any of those 'things' fill up your soul and make you happier? I don't think so.

One could argue that I feel this way because I don't have any of those things.

I don't have a house, but I have a home in the shape of an apartment. It's large enough for each of my girls to have their own bedroom and it's always full of warmth and laughter. I also don't have to mow the lawn, plow the driveway or worry about maintenance. To me, that's a good thing.

I don't have a new car. I have a 15 year old Land Rover, but it's paid off. It's also a beast in the snow storms of Maine and it always gets my family from point A to point B safely. The girls and I have made a lot of memories in that old Land Rover. Again, a good thing.

We really want for nothing...we have clothes on our backs, shoes on our feet, food in our bellies and a solid roof over our head. I'd say we're pretty lucky compared to some, and I try every day to instill in them the gift of giving. You don't have to have a lot to give, and to me it's far more rewarding than anything else.

During this holiday season, take some time to give. Whether it's a gift card, cash or your time. I can promise that the smile and gratitude you'll receive will be far more rewarding than anything else.

I've created these simple "pay-it-forward" envelopes for Reverie Creations out of vintage book and atlas pages, and they make a great way to give thanks to those special people in your life. Tuck in a gift card for your hairdresser, a co-worker, or the babysitter. Add some cash and present it to a stranger.

They're durable and reusable so the recipient can continue with the giving and pay-it-forward. That's ALWAYS a good thing.

You can find these and more "pay-it-forward' envelopes at Reverie Creations. If you prefer another theme or color, just message me through Etsy and I will customize a set of envelopes just for you. Start giving today and every day!

Have a blessed day, my friends!

Hey there!!

2015-07-14T12:32:00.000-04:00

For those of you who haven't completely given up on me....

So much change has transpired over the last few months that I'm not even sure where I'd begin or that I could hold your interest long enough to get through it all, but suffice it to say that I'm a stronger person for having experienced every second.

Unfortunately, my little family is still wading through all that comes with a difficult (and expensive) divorce. I have faith that we'll rise above (eventually) and in the end be better for it. Faith is the only thing I have left that hasn't been sacrificed, walked on, taken advantage of, or manipulated.

And my girls. I have my beautiful girls. My constant. They remain the only inspiration I need to move forward in grace.

Fort Popham, July 2015

Fort Popham, June 2010

On a happier note...the girls and I have been taking little adventures and doing our usual summer activities. Visiting the coast and it's beautiful beaches and monuments.

I also took my oldest to her first rock concert! It was a blast!! We saw Papa Roach, Slash with Miles Kennedy, Seether and Godsmack. It makes my heart sing to know that we share a love of music.

We haven't been able to travel much (to camp) because of cheering/tumbling schedules, but in a few weeks we're heading south to Water Country in New Hampshire with my sister and her boys for some fun. I can't wait....we love water parks!!

I have to admit that I haven't been very creative as of late, so I don't have much to share in that respect. My hands are getting worse, and as soon as summer winds down and we're back onto a more structured (school) schedule, I'll take the required next step....surgery. I just can't put it off any longer.

But here are some of the projects I've managed to finish...in fun or for Reverie Creations customers.

I'm currently working on some Grandparent's Day (September 13) greeting cards and masculine birthday cards. I'll have them listed in my shop soon so be sure to check them out.

In lieu of paper crafting, I've done a lot more mixed media painting...so much easier on my hands, but because it's so personal, I don't show any of it. Maybe someday.

In the meantime, thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day!

Neglected But Not Forgotten

2014-11-19T08:28:00.001-05:00

I'm currently working on a memory album for one of my lovely Reverie Creations customers, and it's rekindled that neglected (but not forgotten!) love of scrapbooking. I'm ashamed to admit that it's been a year (or more) since I've scrapped. Funny thing, whether or not I'm keeping up with creatively chronicling my little family's memories, we keep on making them. ;)

When the girls were younger, I was able to design and create two to four pages every week, and with three girls there wasn't time to waste. These days, I realize that the only way I'm ever going to find the time is if I make the time. New Year's resolution?

Anywho, here are some sneak peeks at a few of the completed pages...

This album is being gifted to the President of the LOWC, and I'm honored to be doing it for her. It's become such a labor of love.

It's my hope to be finished by the end of November so that I can fully focus on holiday preparations. Can you believe Thanksgiving is next week?!

Find time to do something you love.

Hello October!!

2014-10-02T21:52:00.002-04:00

My sister's birthday. My daughter's birthday. My father's birthday. It's also the start of holiday preparations for Reverie Creations...not to mention Halloween. October is a busy month.

Every year, I put together little bags of goodies for my girls and my nephews on Halloween. Just a little something to put in their pillow cases at the start of their trick or treating adventures. The tradition started with my Mom who did it for my sister and I.

For this year's goody bags/tags, I based my design on the Tall&Skinny sketch over at Mojo Monday.

I started with splattering a small paper lunch bag with black paint...simple. The tag was created by painting Tim Holtz Kraft Resist paper (Moths & Butterflies) black and then adding orange splatter. Washi tape, a Petaloo daisy and a vintage button were added to round out the look.

Tied up with raffia and stained muslin.

Simple and perfectly Halloween-ish for the kids.

All that's left is to fill them with all their favorite treats!

These are also available for purchase at Reverie Creations.

Have a fantastic weekend!

Autumn Bliss

2014-09-21T15:23:00.000-04:00

We've established that I'm not a fan of snow or being cold...ergo winter, but I am looking forward to autumn. It's by far my favorite time of the year here in Maine. You're surrounded by deep and comforting colors of the changing leaves, county fairs, warm days, cool nights, and lingering smells of apple cider. Sweater weather as we like to call it.

Inspired by the challenge photo over at The Shabby Tea Room, I created this card for Reverie Creations.

The image is an old Italian illustration that I came across on the Internet. I liked the that the pumpkin was white and it fit nicely with my design.

The paper is 7 Gypsies Avignon, and I also used Pink Paislee's Fall clear stamp set...both oldies.

The buttons are vintage as is the paper that the image is printed on (graph paper from my Bampa's stash- I'm in love with the color it's aged to and the thickness of it)

I've also been working on another project based on autumn for Reverie Creations...here is a little sneak peek:

Distressed and shabby with vintage goodies and everything else that I love.

Take some time for yourself today,

Let It Snow!?! Trash or Stash?

2014-09-12T13:15:00.000-04:00

I.am.shivering. It is 68 degrees.

My teeth are chattering...AND I'm in a complete outfit (+/-). It's September. I was born in Maine so to be wearing only two items of clothing while working (in my second story studio/office/laundry room/sweat box - I felt I should explain) wouldn't be a stretch for this time of year. Yet, I just counted eight articles of clothing on my body at this very second.

I'm going to have myself another brownie, and this time it's going to be the biggest one. It's time to start on the winter chub. ;)

So it would stand to reason with all these clothes on that I'd be thinking of winter....and snow.

I don't want it to snow. I promise. ~~Snow is~~ ~~evil~~ ~~cold~~ ~~pretty - for all of 5 seconds and then sand and salt get involved~~.

I dislike snow, and based on precedents alone it should be, at the very least, grey in color. ;)

*I promise there is a point*

I love this image. I love everything about it...the colors, the story it tells me, and...how cute is that face?! I used it for a project I was doing last Christmas, so I printed off two sheets in varying sizes. The first run came out with the snow looking...dirty. Personally, I loved the distressed tones but it didn't work for the project I was working on at the time. I needed white... the "pretty" snow all the out-of-Staters refer to.

Now I have a printed sheet of 'ugly ducklings'...do I trash or stash?

*insert cricket noises here*

"Hi. My name is Mandee and I'm a paper hoarder...."

I stashed them, of course! From *ahem* 'ugly ducking' to ...

"Let It Snow"

Inspiration: shivering, a *dislike* of snow, an entire outfit in September!, some one's weakness for paper

Design: based on Mojo Monday's sketch challenge #362.

I also designed a gift tag set using the smaller version of the 'ugly duckling' along with other little gems from my 'stashes'.

The magic of winter (for longer than 5 seconds) because I ~~refused to trash it~~ couldn't help myself .

Stop by Reverie Creations at Etsy for these new designs. Get a start on ... snow?

....and while you're up can you get me a blanket?

Have a fantastic weekend,

Inspire Dreams by Reading

2014-09-05T00:38:00.000-04:00

Things around here are starting to pick up speed. Gone are the lazy days of summer filled with sun, surf, ice cream for dinner and flexible bed times. School has started and so have our daily rituals and routines. Honestly, I'm more of a "let's see where the day takes us" kind of girl, but as a mother I realize (after a lot of kicking and screaming) that it's just easier with a schedule; especially when one has three girls in school and each doing their own 'thing' before and after.

Mackenzie first day of 3rd grade

My favorite time in the school day routine is reading with my youngest every night. I have read to each of my girls since before they were born...and then one day out of the blue they decided they would rather read by themselves. Kenzie still loves to read with me (and having her 1st day of school pics taken), and I cherish every second because it won't be long before she joins her older sisters and retreats to her bedroom to read on her own.

My little family's mutual love of reading inspired this card.

The image is from this week's challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room (week #234 Reading). It couldn't be any cuter or more perfect!

And the design came from Mojo Monday's sketch challenge #361.

Inspire Dreams

To keep the focal point on the image, I used only a small scrap of neutral Colorbok paper and machine stitched the border. I painted over the image with a fine crackle finish and sprinkled it with a course embossing powder for added texture and interest.

The 'cluster' is made up of a distressed and glittered chipboard heart (PinkPaislee) backed by a bit of rusted screen, an actual vintage book spine, and a vintage button. The epoxy stickers are by K&Company.

This card can be purchase in my Etsy shop. Be sure and stop by often...I'm always adding new items.

Inspire dreams by reading.

Have a wonderful day!

insert Prince's "Baby I'm A Star" music here

2014-08-31T15:29:00.001-04:00

Here it is...the.very.first.item created for this year's holiday collection at Reverie Creations...and it's August!!

I'm a last minute kind of girl...always have been, and to think that I've actually started on my holiday inventory before November is remarkable. Especially given how little time I have during the summer with the girls home. But here it is...

A perfectly shabby holiday card in my favorite color combo - teal blues and reds.

The paper is BoBunny and Graphic 45...machine stitched together and distressed with Tim Holtz distressing inks in Antique Linen and Tumbled Glass. The holiday berry sprig is Petaloo, with tulle and a designer button.

The design is based on Mojo Monday's tall&skinny sketch challenge #360.

Available in my Etsy shop along with a variety of NEW items for every occasion.

..."baby I'm a star. You might not know it now, baby yes I are....I'm a star".

August Traditions

2014-08-29T12:42:00.000-04:00

August has been a blur of checking off lists and making last minute summer memories...following traditions we camped, school shopped, beached it and ate it (Family lobster cook-out). I've spent the entire month running, so I'm especially thankful we're wrapping it up on Sunday with my Dad's traditional breakfast birthday party. My sister and I bring the kids over at 9:30am for coffee, bakery fresh donuts and home.made.from.scratch German chocolate cake (my Dad's favorite!). My Mom loves to bake (she's an artist really) so she has each of us choose what type of cake we'd like on our birthdays. It's a tradition I've loved since I was a kid.

I make birthday cards every year for my little family. I enjoy designing them specific to each member, and the process reminds me of my great Bampa. He used to draw his own cards, and I loved watching and listening to him tell the story created with each pen stroke.

This is the card I created for my Dad's 65th birthday.

It's design is based on the tall & skinny sketch over at Mojo Monday's,

and the inspiration came from a photograph of a father's bare feet with his daughter's.

I printed it on a "precious" piece of vintage graph paper (from my late Bampa's hoarded stash). It makes the image personal and vintage-y. I also painted over it with a fine crackle finish for that old photograph feel. The chipboard frame is K&Company that I painted, crackled, distressed and stained just to make it look 'non-pretty' (my Madison's gentle way with words).

Vintage shabby perfection, in my opinion.

Then I loaded it up with everything that reminded me of all those incredible father-daughter moments we shared....a game tile, paperclip, vintage button, a bit of rusted screen, a metal sprig of leaves, a clock, a key, film strips, and a vintage slide. The paper is DCWV and Colorbok that I hand stamped (Prima-Brick Wall is my favorite!) and clear embossed (the stars) for added texture and to balance out the grid paper.

Honestly, it could be indiscriminate black crayon on printer paper and my Dad would love it. He cherishes tradition and has taught me the same. I adore him for the man he is and for the person he's helped me to become.

Happy birthday Daddy.

Have a wonderful day!

UPDATE

2014-08-07T11:48:00.002-04:00

I posted yesterday about a card inspired by my Mom's kindness and based on this week's sketch challenge over at Mojo Monday's. In looking at the photos, it occurred to me that something was missing...too much of the same color?...not enough texture?...too big of an empty space in the middle? I wasn't sure exactly what it was, but it just didn't seem finished to me. It happens...more often than not, and so I made some changes.

Before:

After:

I added some glitter to the 'white' in the spiral background as well as a sprig of metal leaves.

I'm happy with it now. What do you think? Was I on the mark or just being picky?

Have a wonderful day, my friends!

Kindness

2014-08-05T12:03:00.000-04:00

You'll never believe it, but I'm telling you the truth....the proof is in the card (and this early post)!

I had a couple hours to myself the other day because my lovely mother took the girls school shopping. Guess what I did?

I hopped on over to Mojo Monday's and played a little with their weekly sketch challenge #357.

My mother's kindness was inspiration for the design. It's not nearly enough thank you though. Purchasing school clothes for three GIRLS (two are teens!) isn't an easy feat nor is it cheap. My Mom helping lifts a lot of the financial strain on my little family this time of year.

The paper is mostly Prima as is the resin bird and pearls. Some crinkle seam binding, a vintage button and Webster's Pages and K&Company journaling cards finish it off. You can purchase this card in my Etsy shop: Reverie Creations.

Kindness goes a long way,

Heart & Soul

2014-08-03T13:32:00.000-04:00

It's been a busy week...

I created a couple of cards (listed for sale in my Etsy shop) based on the sketch over at Mojo Monday's. I'm really loving this size...tall & skinny. It's a lot smaller than the size I typically use for the cards designed for Reverie Creations, but I think it offers my customers a variety. Same quality but smaller in scale; therefore, less cost.

I used quite a bit of my vintage stash for both cards. This first one has vintage lace, and the flower is fashioned out of stained vintage atlas pages. The center of the flower is a painted mini bell...left over from a holiday project.

This is the first time I've used Prima's chalkboard cards. I really love the feel they add to a project. BTW the leaves of the flower were created using a paperclip.

I have to admit to loving this next card a lot.

The washi tape, crinkle seam binding and coloring are repeated, but I found this distressed metal piece in my stash and HAD to use it. It's proportions worked perfectly on this tall & skinny size (3.5" x 5.5").

The 'heart & soul' metal sentiment tag is by Making Memories.

I typically leave the inside blank for personal messages, but because I used DCWV's Silky Smooth card stock in black I had to add a space for writing. Both these cards fit into a standard envelope.

I was also asked to design and create a custom card by my very first customer on Fiverr.com (a site where you can enlist just about any thing - product or service - for $5.00). I joined in hopes that it might generate some additional income during the slow summer months.

Her son is turning 4 and LOVES Superman.

Addressed and signed by Superman with a 'badge' for the birthday boy.

I hope it's a hit with Caleb. I often wish I could see the reactions my creations give others since I put so much of myself into each one...my heart & soul.

Find some time for yourself today,

Surrounded By Inspiration

2014-07-28T08:33:00.000-04:00

I don't know about y'all, but I have a hard time keeping myself focused on the task at hand during the summer months. And by 'task at hand' I mean work. The season is so short lived here in the North East that we do all we can to take advantage of the warmer weather, and for me that means 'playing' all day with my girls and using the late evenings for business and chores. It works for the most part but with only 24 hours in a day something has to give...sleep or 'me time'.

It was sleep this week. ;)

I stopped by Mojo Monday's for their weekly sketch challenge and ended up on a 'me time' card making roll. I created three in one night.

The design of the first card came immediately and was inspired by the loooong awaited arrival of TWO beautiful babies to my cousin. These types of joyous cards are sometimes more difficult than the every day types.

I find that I second guess my creativity....are the colors right or the image proper... and no matter how many times I do and redo, they never feel quite 'right' enough.

I've said it a bazillion times and I'm going to pathetically say it again...I love the ocean! It provides me with so much inspiration, but truth be told, it's too cold to swim in and I get sea sick on boats.

The image was one that I found while cleaning out my stash. I'm not sure why I originally sealed it leaving brush marks, but I thought it worked nicely with the design of this card...almost like a painting.

The sentiment is simple yet says so much and can be used for almost any occasion. Bonus: It's a masculine design!

My last card was inspired by the same simple sentiment: happy. I wanted to create something that emanated that feeling and could also be used for any occasion.

I absolutely love this floral paper by Webster's...the colors are perfect and it wasn't hard to figure out that I wanted to use it for this card.

Nothing but feminine here...with the vintage lace trim and glitter everywhere. The border punch is Fiskars and honestly I forgot I had the darn thing until I was cleaning out some of my drawers.

All these cards will be listed in my Etsy shop soon, but for now I'm going to look for more inspiration while taking the girls on a hike this afternoon. It's easy to find here in the beautiful state of Maine...we're surrounded by it.

Take some time for yourself today!

Enjoy...

Throw Back Thursday - Days of Summer

2014-07-18T00:33:00.000-04:00

It's unfathomable that we're already half way through summer vacation, and then I'm reminded by the ever growing dark circles under my eyes that maybe I should be happier. Mediating impossible arguments between my girls over such things as teeth and dirty socks has made it painfully clear that my 'patience-to-number of summer days left' ratio is way off. Of course, I have to take some of the blame for the expanding baggage...I stay up later than I should tending to the mundane chores like paying bills, catching up on business correspondence, laundry, etc. etc. etc. I can't be the only Mom wishing for longer days.

June through August is when I get to spend a lot of time with the girls making ~~sweet~~ special memories. We've beached it up and down the coast, visited the zoo, participated in summer sports and made day trips here, there and everywhere, but no matter how perfect the day starts the infamous argument over who sits where on the ride home ends it with me speaking through gritted teeth. ;)

40 days 7 hours and 54 minutes until the first day of school.

Ogunquit Beach looking for shells

Gray Animal Farm

Field Hockey game at Deering HS

Boston Tea Party Tour

In celebration of summer and Throw Back Thursday (#TBT), I found these old photos of my sister and I from one of our summer vacations to Florida. I'm not sure how old we were, but I distinctly remember that we got along MOST of the time. My poor parents. Being a single mother certainly isn't easy, but I am extremely grateful for my beautiful girls and wouldn't change a single thing. Except maybe a third row seat.

When I've had enough of playing referee, I head to my studio where I can recharge and even out (this usually happens late at night after they've gone to bed). Being creative always helps. This week I again participated in Mojo Monday's sketch challenge.

I found a vintage Victorian seaside image and the rest, as they say, is history.

Lots of layering and texture using burlap, metal brads (K&Co.) and wooden embellishments. I also added one of the seashells the girls and I found on Ogunquit Beach!

The paper is a mishmash from my stash: Daisy Ds, My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found), and DCWV. The buttons are vintage and their tied up with waxed string and gold bakers twine. I was happy with the way it turned out, but most importantly, I got in some creative time to myself.

Summer is almost over (here in the North East any way), so get out there and enjoy it!

Sweet Memories

2014-07-08T17:00:00.000-04:00

I had THE most incredible weekend !!

....and THIS is where it started! On the beautiful Maine coast at 5:08am, folks!! Honestly, it could have been in the middle of the darkest night and I wouldn't have been any place else.

Friday, July 4th at sunrise on Ogunquit beach, my Uncle Toby married the love of his life, David.

They asked me to officiate and I couldn't have been more honored or filled with love....

They deserve a lifetime of bliss surrounded by a world of profound joy and happiness.

Welcome to the family, Uncle David!!

They presented me with a gorgeous pair of handcrafted earrings and a handwritten note that I'll always cherish. In fact, I'm now going to wear them at every wedding I'm blessed enough to officiate.

The girls and I hung out with the Uncles for the day and enjoyed the ocean, great comfort food (BBQ chili dogs!), and lots of laughs.

On Saturday, I found time enough to create a couple of cards inspired by Mojo Monday's Tall & Skinny Sketch challenge.

This first card is going to my nephew for his birthday. He's such a loving boy and certainly priceless!

I used a lot of 'stash' to include DCWV, Kaiser Craft, K&Co. and Making Memories. The buttons are vintage.

On the second card, I kept with my usual shabby style. I used some vintage trim and an old stamp, embellishments by Kaiser Craft and My Mind's Eye as well as a hand cut, glittered heart.

The paper is DCWV and Glitz Design - Pretty in Pink Roses. I'll list this one in my Etsy shop for sale. I think it would make a darling anniversary card.

I was happy with the way they turned out considering I didn't have much time to play. It's always relaxing for me to be creative in my studio, and it gave me the burst of energy I needed to take the girls to the fireworks in Auburn on Saturday evening. They had been postponed due to heavy rain and winds. No matter how old I get, I'll always enjoy fireworks!

Sunday afternoon the girls and I savored some good BBQ at my sister's home with her boys, my parents, Uncle Toby and David. I just know I've gained 10 pounds these last few days, but it's been completely worth it! The memories we've made will last forever.

I hope you found time for yourself and family this long holiday weekend.

Lucy!

2014-05-13T16:37:00.000-04:00

I've been so neglectful of my little blog. My last post was on January 3rd (albeit this year), and here we are in the middle of May. I have some 'splainin to do, wouldn't you say?

To say that I've been busy is probably the biggest understatement I could make to date. Being a single mom and trying to run a business isn't exactly conducive to much 'free time' other than for sleep.

Since my last post, my oldest daughter, Molly, turned 14.

Let me start by saying that I love her with every ounce of my being and finish with: she will be lucky if she sees the age of 15. Ovey! Parenting a teen is most assuredly the biggest test of all that is good in me.

Molly and Madison have also finished their competitive cheering season with Velocity Cheer. (Velocity Cheer is a non-profit program started through the town's Recreation Department by two local women - incredible coaches!)

The training and competition schedules were so grueling that any semblance of our normal lives was put on hold for months. The girls did nothing but school and cheering...no sleep overs, no dances, no Sunday morning breakfast with their Grandparents, and I found myself working at all hours (night and day) so I could stay on top of everything and still be the best cheer mom I could be.

Molly and Madison were also lucky enough to have the best Daddy, Grandparents, Aunt and younger sister who collectively made it to every one of their competitions as well.

The younger sister, Mackenzie

The entire team exhibited such determination and dedication and were rewarded with first place in their division at every competition. Quite impressive to say the least!

Velocity Cheer - Team Force and Team Tempo

Madison, Kayla, Kashmir (friend) and Molly

In honor of the girls, the parents formed their own team and performed during a special final performance put on for the town.

Velocity Cheer - Parent Team

I'll admit to three things after this experience.

#1. Cheering is a sport and should be respected as such (I was SORE). #2. I now do everything in an 8-count. #3. I will do any.thing for my girls...even wear a cheer bow (cheer bow = BIG and glittery).

On the flip side AKA the down and dirty. My divorce still isn't final. You'd expect it to be after two years, but because of the depths my husband was willing to drag this divorce in the name of spite it's been all uphill. The girls and I continue moving forward with our lives as best we can with the support of wonderful friends and loving family. We are going to be just fine. Of this, I am sure.

My business, Reverie Creations, has been blessed with an increase in custom orders. A ladies club in Oregon is hosting it's annual Spring Gala in recognition of it's members and their volunteer service. I was lucky enough to play a small part in honoring them.

Each member will receive one of these handcrafted memory albums with a custom bookmark as well as a gift bag full of goodies. I neglected to take photos of the bookmarks and gift bags before they were shipped out. :(

I was also asked by a customer to create a special 60th birthday card for her husband. She wanted the card to reflect his personality and his love of riding his Harley Davidson. It was crafted in the same style as the surprise party she was throwing him in celebration.

And of course there have been special days to craft for since January.....

I also created some pretty tussie cones, but I'll save those for another post.

So you can plainly see that I haven't been neglectful of my little blog because I don't care. I just haven't figured out how to add more hours to the day.

Take some time for yourself.

Happy New Year!

2014-01-03T08:55:00.002-05:00

Well, we've made it through another year, and I have to admit that it hasn't been one of the easiest for my little family. I also realize that it could have been much worse, so I'm grateful to have the opportunity to create for ourselves a better one in 2014.

Wishing you and yours a blessed new year!
M.

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2013-11-25T12:27:00.001-05:00

Reverie Creations

"Twiz' the Season"

2013-11-24T09:05:00.000-05:00

I know, I know...another Christmas post, and we haven't even made it through Thanksgiving, but I really wanted to share this great idea with you. It's simple, inexpensive and it fits my personal gift criteria...unique and thoughtful.

Before I had my girls, I would spend weekends at the cinema taking in a movie (or two). There is nothing better than watching a movie on the 'big' screen with a pile of over-priced goodies in your lap! You can even get nachos!, but I prefer the staples: popcorn, Jr.Mints and Twizzlers.

So....when one of my customers (who has become a dear friend) approached me with a gift idea centered around the movies for which she needed a custom tag, I was immediately intrigued and inspired.

This is how most of my custom orders start...with a photo and an idea.

She found the original idea on Pinterest but wanted to expand on it by purchasing movie gift cards to stick into the tags then tie them onto vintage canning jars full of Twizzlers...a gift for all her movie friends. She also wanted the tags to read: "Twiz' the Season".

How perfect, indeed!

This particular customer is not only a wonderful person, but she allows me free artistic liberty with all of her custom projects, and I love that!

Originally, I thought I'd use standard coin envelopes, but the gift cards fit too snugly inside leaving no room for the tie hole, so I ended up starting from scratch (as they say). I designed an envelope template to fit my needs and traced it onto double sided paper. A little more work, but the bonus is I get to choose the paper!

My Minds Eye - Lost & Found 3 Collection

For those of you who know me, you know that I l.o.v.e. texture, and with the paper having a design already on it, I decided that my texture would come from a (painted and glittered) cigar style band wrapped around the envelope. Another template was born and more tracing and cutting. So worth it though!

While the bands dried, I delved into incorporating the 'Twiz' the Season' tag line. My handwriting is fairly legible, but I envisioned the final tag as having a more finished look, so I turned to the computer...

...and they looked too 'commercial', so I added some red glitter glue. Nothing says homemade like glitter! A bit of ink here and there, an added snowflake embellishment and ribbon, more glitter and voila...her idea and my vision realized.

If you're a movie buff as I am, then you'd appreciate receiving this unique and thoughtful gift for the holidays. Right?!

Similar tags are available at Reverie Creations, and if you make your purchase on November 30th in celebration of Support Small Business Saturday, you'll receive free shipping on your order.

Find some time for yourself today,
M.

It's an Old Tyme holiday

2013-11-11T09:08:00.001-05:00

Christmas is by far my favorite holiday.

For so many reasons. My world becomes a little more beautiful (with the lights and festive holiday decor every where) and there's a magical sense of peace in the air. All the everyday worries and hardships seem temporarily suspended in a collective joy that touches the kid in all of us.

I also LOVE the hunt for that perfect gift for those on my 'nice' list....almost as much as I love creating for the holidays!

This year I decided to go simple in style and created the OLD TYME Collection for Reverie Creations. It celebrates a time when everyday items found around the home were used to create beautiful and timeless holiday decor. A style I personally love because of the history behind the vintage items I often use when creating.

Vintage Shabby "JOY" Paper Cones

These sturdy 12" vintage paper cones spell out the word 'Joy' when strung together, but they're also hand stamped with numbers so they can be displayed year round. Created using lots of vintage: paper, trims and jewelry. They'll look lovely displayed with pine and berries OR filled with trinkets and goodies as a gift.

Shabby Chic "Noel" Glass Ball Ornaments

Covered in vintage sheet music (or book paper) with glittered tops, these glass ball ornaments are perfect for tree trimming. Purchase a few and display in a bowl.

Shabby Vintage Paper Medallion Ornament

And what tree doesn't need a paper medallion ornament? Do you notice the distressed bottle cap and safety pin? You'll also find plenty of vintage!

Shabby Vintage Paper 19" Tussie

I love the look of old paper rolled up with goodies tucked inside. This old time tussie is perfect for gift giving or as a centerpiece to your holiday table.

Vintage Muslin/Burlap Stocking Ornaments

No Christmas would be complete without a stocking. These were created simply out of coffee stained muslin and an old coffee sack with vintage buttons and trim. Small enough to hang on your tree but large enough to stuff with little surprises!

Visit Reverie Creations on Etsy for the complete OLD TYME Collection and for so many unique, handmade holiday items as well as gift-giving ideas. It's never too early to think Christmas!

Have a wonderful day, my friends!

2013 Holiday

2013-10-23T17:33:00.000-04:00

Our 2013 Holiday items will be going live (www.ReverieCreations.etsy.com ) on Friday, November 1st!! Stop by and browse the new Old Tyme collection and enter to win a special gift. Mark your calendars - NOVEMBER 1st!!

Refresh - Restyle

2013-10-13T12:15:00.003-04:00

No matter who you are (especially if you live with three girls!), you have a few of these hanging out at the bottom of your bathroom trash can...the neglected and certainly underestimated toilet paper roll.

In the past, I've admitted to having an embarrassing pile of what would seem like paper trash in my studio, and maybe it appeals to the little environmentalist that lives inside my head, but I see a potential for art in everyday household objects such as the toilet paper roll. Besides, it's a cost effective and plentiful medium....

....that can easily refresh into the cutest little Halloween bat clips!!

Just cut a half circle out of one end of the roll for the ears and stitch across the bottom to create a pocket that can be filled with goodies. For the wings, I created a template then traced onto designer paper. They're attached in the back with a mini clothes pin. That easy and that cheap!

The glassine bags have been stamped or embellished with Washi Tape.

Perfectly simple and can be used as a treat bag clip/guest gift or as holiday decor. Switch up the wings and you've got yourself a butterfly....

I think I might add a little glitter to the wings!

What little girl wouldn't want a string of these at her birthday party or hanging around her room?

There are so many creative ways to refresh and restyle that little 'ole toilet paper roll, and I bet if you looked around your house (with your head tilted to one side), you'd find other household objects that could indeed be masterpieces.

Find some time for yourself today!

Scavenger of Grunge

2013-08-20T12:35:00.001-04:00

Image credit: Pinterest

I prefer using darker tones in my creations...grunge-like shades of really any color, but I gravitate towards the reds, browns and creams. I also love to use found items...anything with a history. The more wear - the better. Besides, instead of having something just sit on a shelf or in a jewelry box because of it's history, up-cycle it into something new and appreciate it in a different way.

You can also utilize every day items found in your home (in your kitchen, home office or junk drawer) during these up-cycle projects rather than spending money on embellishments at your local craft store.
I created this mixed media piece a while back with quite a few things found around the house.

How many every day items can you spot?

There are scraps of vintage sheet music, a wine cork, some old screen, a bottle cap, a tape measure, bits of burlap and lace, vintage buttons, an old key, a shipping tag, seam binding, a piece of leather from an old belt, some wire and a paper doily.

Purchased embellishments are as follows:
Tim Holtz Grunge Chipboard Heart and Plastic Watch Face
Melissa Francis Resin Angel Wings and Door
Melissa Francis 'Party' Journal Card
Prima Bead Sprig and Blossom
K&Company Paper Daisy
Joann's Glitter Leave
Jenni Bowlin 'Hope' Ticket

I'm still trying to figure out whether or not it's something I want to frame. Any suggestions?

This fun Americana banner was created using scrap denim, bits of vintage lace, string, vintage buttons and book pages....again, things you'd find around your home.

The background of each flag was created using TCW's mini Ledger Template and StazOn ink in Timber Brown. I added the hand cut card stock star and machine stitched it for texture and interest.
I love that this item could fit nicely in a home with either a Primitive or Shabby decor.
You can purchase this flag banner in our 'New Items' section at Reverie Creations.

So, truth be told...I'm a scavenger of sorts. You'll find me going through that large box of junk jewelry and buttons at the flea market and buying up all the old hard cover books. Sometimes the best treasures are the grungy small ones.

Thanks for stopping by, and have a fantastic day!!
M.

Silver Linings

2013-08-15T19:00:00.001-04:00

It's been a year!! Where did all those months go???? I'm ashamed with the amount of time I've let slip by between posts, and I hope you've been too busy to notice...or at least enough to relate. Besides, they say a mark of true friendship is when you can pick up where you left off without skipping a beat no matter how much time has passed. So, hey there Besties!! ;)

Where to start???

Without getting into too much of the disheartening details, the girls and I have been riding the ups and downs of the divorce roller-coaster. Although, it hasn't been easy, we're realizing just how strong a gaggle of girls can be when necessary. I can now add bleeding a furnace and garbage duty to my list of talents! Of course, we're not alone in this new adventure...we are surrounded by loving, supportive family and friends and are blessed beyond imagination.

In this year of growth and change, my baby girls haven't gone untouched ...to my chagrin. I've often wished for them to stay little, but you know how that one goes!

My Molly is officially of teen status and is making all teens everywhere proud. She's managed to find buttons to push that I wasn't even aware I had, but on the flip side, she makes me laugh every day!! :) Isn't she gorgeous? I'm afraid her father and I are going to have our hands full with the boyfriend thing. Sigh

Madison is all of 11 and yet remains my Peanut...thankfully! She's my helper, my peace-maker, and she holds the smile that lights up my world. I could look at her freckles all day every day, and the best part is...she likes them too! Could she get any cuter?

Then there's my baby, Mackenzie. A ball of energy with a penchant for drama and a personality larger than life. I'm reminded of just how much a child can steal your heart whenever shes around. She approaches life in a way that seems beyond her 7 years, and I'm amazed by her always.

I thank the Gods for my girls, and if it were up to me, I would tuck each of them into my pocket where they would stay safe and little forever. A mother's dream, right?!

Somewhere in this past year, I had a little medical scare. I found a rather large lump on my leg (just above my left knee), and as a result, had to have a myriad of tests to determine whether or not it was cancerous. Let's just say that waiting on the results was the longest 48 hours of my life. The lump turned out to be benign and will stay put unless it becomes a nuisance. So, the girls and I have joked about giving it a name. Any ideas?

Just as the girls and I have been moving onward and upward, so has my shop, Reverie Creations. It was recently lucky enough to have been featured (for a second time) on The Handmade Movement's blog as a Blast From The Past. In all honesty, a surprise silver lining during these slow summer months as I've had over 70 new hits and 15 new followers as a result!

The Handmade Movement is a collective of wonderful individuals (usually artists) who randomly choose an Etsy shop to support by visiting and making a purchase on a predetermined date and time. It's all covert (except to members) and extremely exciting because when they strike only good things happen! They've accomplished 496 'sneak attacks' on 1323 shops resulting in 8088 sales!!

My relationship with these wonderful people started back in January of 2009 when they featured Reverie Creations as their next 'sneak attack' (via Blockhead Radio Live). I had 12 sales in one day as a result of their surprise, but for me it was more about gaining confidence in my craft and moving forward with a renewed sense of determination. I could never truly articulate how much this random act of kindness did for me (and my shop), so I've joined the movement in hopes of giving another up-and-coming Etsy shop the same sense of accomplishment and success that I was given. There is no better feeling than paying it forward!

So, although this past year hasn't exactly been a bed of roses, I have plenty to be thankful for, and I'll continue to look for those surprise silver linings.

Have a wonderful day, my friends. Until next time...and it won't be another year, I promise!
M.

Onto A New Adventure

2012-08-30T08:53:00.000-04:00

I woke up to seeing my breath this morning. It was that chilly, but they expect we'll see 90 degrees tomorrow. Maine weather is extremely temperamental! These cool mornings remind me of the start of school and my favorite season...fall. Of course, it also means that summer is closing up shop and the girls won't be home during the days to keep me company on our many adventures. I love spending time with them and I'll miss their giggles and smiles, but just like anything else, it must come to an end so that another adventure can begin.

But before I ceded to summer completely, I took the girls on one last adventure. We rode our bikes down to the river and enjoyed climbing the rocks and exploring this past weekend.

The girls ended up taking a dip and had to ride back in wet clothes, but they had a blast!

It was a nice end to our summer activities, and it made the first day of school yesterday a little easier to handle.

My daughters, Madison (4th gr.), Mackenzie (1st gr.), and my nephew, Kolby (4th gr.)

My oldest, Molly, is going into 7th grade and refused to let me take her picture as did my nephew, Kade, who is entering 6th. Tweens!

Although I'll miss them and our lives will again become about routine and schedules, I'm looking forward to some time to myself creating in my studio. I do have a few items to share already, but I'll save that for next time.

Have a great day and thanks for stopping by,

Reverie Creations

Paying It Forward Is A Good Thing

Hey there!!

Neglected But Not Forgotten

Hello October!!

Autumn Bliss

Let It Snow!?! Trash or Stash?

Inspire Dreams by Reading

**insert Prince's "Baby I'm A Star" music here**

August Traditions

UPDATE

Kindness

Heart & Soul

Surrounded By Inspiration

Throw Back Thursday - Days of Summer

Sweet Memories

Lucy!

Happy New Year!

Shop Small

"Twiz' the Season"

It's an Old Tyme holiday

2013 Holiday

Refresh - Restyle

Scavenger of Grunge

Silver Linings

Onto A New Adventure

insert Prince's "Baby I'm A Star" music here