This week’s inspiration draws upon the Etsy community’s creativity and the upcoming promise of summer. This fun, brightly colored collection draws together various items to remind us that the new season’s just around the bend. Enjoy!
DIY: Frame Facelift
If it hasn’t become obvious in photos of my home and show booths – I have a love of mis-matched wooden frames. They are so versatile and can be used for so many things beyond showing off family pics.
My latest endeavor, with a set that I scooped up at Salvation Army, was to use them for an inspiration board for my studio. I wanted something above my desk that was pseudo shabby chic but still functional.
So I dismantled the frames, coated them with white gesso (that’s what happens when you share a studio with your painter/husband!) and then filled them with glass, cork, lace or both! Now I have plenty of space to pin fabric, photos and drawings while keeping tabs on orders and ‘to-dos.’
So next time you’re at a flea market or thrift store – look beyond the gaudy prints in those frames – and transform them into something chic and utilitarian instead!
Item of the Week: Dear Darling
It will be in the eighties in Chi-town this week – and what better way to celebrate than with a flirty summer dress! The Dear Darling is one of my favorite pieces for the warm season as it combines breathable t-shirt cotton with a fitted waist and lace embellishment.
I love the gathered waist as it’s flattering on a variety of body shapes. The design is available in my Etsy shop in a variety of colors and can also be custom made to your specifications. I layer mine with a bandeau bra, petticoat slip and a pair of vintage sandals for a look that’s fun and fresh!
Bed Rest: All Done!
Today is my first day of freedom! I am almost operating at full capacity after a seven day ‘house arrest’ in which I was to remain immobile to help with the healing of a leg and hip injury. Though I still have several weeks of physical therapy, I’m back at work, able to soak up some sun and enjoy some freedom. Continue reading
Designs: Sneak Peak
The bathing suits are coming! The bathing suits are coming! Check back soon for all the juicy details on the newest swimwear designs.
Inspiration: Honoring Mom
Happy Mother’s Day to all you mom’s out there! Where would any of us be without you?
I know my own relationship with my mom has flourished as an adult and I can’t imagine going through life without her wisdom, compassion and infectious giggling.
Raised in the southern mountains of Poland, she came from a farming family that was the namesake of her region, Zubrzyca. One summer in the early eighties she was on holiday from veterinary school and decided to fly to the States to see what all the fuss was about. Little did she know how much her life would change. She met my father, a handsome dark Eastern European who had a well known name and charm she couldn’t shake. She found herself drawn to him after a two week courtship and chose to stay in Chicago to start a family with him – which is where I entered the picture!
I was raised by a woman who had the courage to begin a new life in a foreign country where she didn’t know the language, let alone the cultural backdrop. My mom’s strength and determination were evident then and are a core part of her to this day.
Her and my father are currently in Poland on a missions trip – looking to revive the hearts and faith of their fellow nationals. And though she’s thousands of miles away this Mother’s Day, I know she knows we’re thinking of her and will be celebrating upon her return in late May.
Wszytkiego najlepszego mama – kocham cie!!!
How has your mom inspired you? What’s her story and how has it impacted you?
Bed Rest: Days Three & Four
Yesterday was the third day of my house arrest and I hit a wall. It was an absolutely gorgeous day and I couldn’t get my mind off of being out and about in the park with the dogs. But I held myself back – knowing that if I didn’t take the time to get better now the potential for recovery would really decline.
So I moved my rest area to the sun room and spent some time reading, finishing up the ‘custom’ page of the website and working on some embroidery. David surprised me when he got home with a vanilla/vanilla cupcake from my all-time favorite bakery, Magnolia. It was a bit banged up from his bike ride but that made me appreciate his thoughtfulness even more.
Today shaped up to be much much better.
I’m feeling less pain which means things are slowly healing. My small group leader, Bernice, paid me a visit with some delicious Indian food in hand. Yum! My mom also swung by before heading home to finish packing. Her and my dad are flying out to Poland tonight. She came through weighed down with flowers and a bag full of healthy snacks and fruit. She’s the best.
I’m about to start-up some board games with David while sipping a homemade vanilla latte. It seems like the perfect wind down for a restful Saturday afternoon.
Shiny Happy*People 