So, I finally finished . . .

berrylane — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 01:43:05 +0000

You can take a look at my flicker page (right side of my blog) for clearer pictures, but I finally finished the re-do on my stairs. I do really love it. As I began placing things, it took on a different life than what I had originally intended, but I’m really happy with how it turned out. I figured if it makes me smile when I walk in the door – it’s great!

Top of the stairs

BookshelfCloseup

Close up

Close up of Shelf

My favorite find

and on to the next project . . . . .

Just a blank canvas

Shabby Lane Shops

berrylane — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 23:41:28 +0000

Have you ever heard of an on-line shabby chic one stop shop? Oh my goodness, you need to check out http://www.ShabbyLaneShops.com . This site has absolutely everything you could ever want or need for romantic gifts, home décor, great inspirational decorating ideas and so much more. There are over 100 sweet shops to look at and find anything your romantic heart desires.

On the other hand, if you’re a designer, crafter or passionate about beginning your on-line presence, this is definitely the site to begin with. Catherine, our owner, is so gracious in helping you thru the process of joining, setting up your website and guiding you with advertising and more.

Before you ask, yes, I am represented there and it has truly been a blessing. The ladies who own these wonderful shops have such astonishing talent, their customer service is impeccable and their products are so beautifully presented, you’ll never need to shop anywhere else.

So, in closing, if you’ve never heard of us, please click on this link to find our wonderful shops. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed.

Wendy @ http://www.BerryLane.com

http://ShabbyLaneShops.com

Michael’s Makeover

berrylane — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 01:01:46 +0000

So I went to my local Michaels store and found these beautiful little nests encompassed in a cloche for $7.99 with 40% off and my brain just said – Ooooh, I can make this so much prettier and it will fit will my makeover project for my hallway display.

So here is the original ~

Original

And here is the new version ~

My version

I just painted the base with gesso, took off all the old flowers, added glass glitter around the top of the nest, paper pink roses and creamy white nosegays and voila! A new piece for my makeover and a beautiful dream of spring!

What do you think?

Update on the Stairs & Closet

berrylane — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:29:10 +0000

So, the process has begun. I’m almost embarrased to show the beginning because it looks so terrrible, but I know when the project is finished it will be well worth it.

Here’s a couple pics of the beginning. I fell in love with this border when we moved into the house 12 years ago, but alas, time for change.

Here’s just a teaser of what’s happening. The lovely model in the photo is my daughter who carefully taped off the steps and painted them. The closet is my domain. I’ll post more once it’s finished! Hugs to all, Wendy

Wallpaper Boxes

berrylane — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 02:14:53 +0000

So, I’ve been trying to find some items to re-decorate my closet. I fell in love with vintage wallpaper boxes ~ I already have a few I’ve collected over the years and thought I’d try to purchase some more. Wow – way over my limited budget with 3 kids going to college and my enormous food budget. So. . . I thought I try my hand at creating my own. They’re not perfect, but alas – they’re all mine. What do you think?

On another note, I’ve (well, my daughter & I) have started re-painting our steps and our closet and I can’t wait to show you the process. Talk to everyone soon – Wendy

So, getting ready to redecorate. . .

berrylane — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 03:23:55 +0000

I thought it would be fun to take everyone thru my redecorating projects over the next few months. I decided that it’s time to spend some time on my home and I’m inviting everyone else to join in. The first project I’m going to tackle is my hallway closet that I’ve re-done to be a display case for my treasures that I’ve neglected for years. I’ll begin posting before & after pictures shortly. I welcome all your comments as I go thru this decorating process. Wendy

Back from Vacation

berrylane — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 02:11:48 +0000

What a wonderful time we had. The weather was just perfect for skiing, although in the late afternoons, it was really cold! I think I skiied more and better this time than I ever have and funny enough, it made my kids happy watching me struggle (You think they have a mean streak, lol?!). Here’s just a couple of the highlights of our trip. I’ll post more of the beautiful pictures my daughter took later. Lots of fun and I’ll cherish the time forever – Wendy

Mini Vacation with Family

berrylane — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 02:47:45 +0000

Well, we’re off to ski for 5 days. I just can’t believe with this Michigan weather, we’re actually going off to colder temperatures and MORE snow. The high points are I get to spend 5 days with my children, who actually talk without computers (LOL!) ~ the low points are I’m afraid I’ll fall, run into a tree. . . . etc! I’m not the most talented skiier!

Hope all of you have a wonderful week! Hugs, Wendy

P.S. I’ll post some pictures when I get back.

Whirlwind January

berrylane — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 02:28:31 +0000

So, since I’ve last posted, I’ve rented the tents, chairs, tables, tablecloths, chafing dishes (quite honestly I didn’t even know what they were) and a cotton candy machine for my kids graduation. Whew! I never knew having the kids graduate would be equivilent to planning a wedding. Now, since I’m doing a Dr. Suess “Oh, The Places You’ll Go” theme, I’m on the hunt for affordable decorations and planning a menu for 100 people. I’m sure I’ll get there ~ just step by step (that’s what I have to keep reminding myself).

I’m adding items every day to my website and etsy and I’m really excited about the items I’ve been listing. I think they truly are creations from my heart. Here’s a little sneak peek. . . .

Good wishes to all ~ Wendy

Been a long time ~ Sorry!

berrylane — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 01:57:14 +0000

Wow, I have a feeling this year is just going to get busier, so although I’ll try to update as much as I can, it could be a long time between posts.

I don’t even know where to start. . . Our holidays were wonderful ~ far to short, of course. This was the first year I had to work thru the holidays while everyone, including my husband, got to stay home. It was difficult to say the least.

Business is good. Since the beginning of January, I’ve been adding items to all my shops and have had a good response. It’s a struggle trying to keep up with three different locations, but I just love it. My passion has always been creating items for customers and with every sale I’m just so grateful that people think enough of me to purchase something.

We’ve applied for everything we can apply for as far as college is concerned for the three kids. Let’s just all cross our fingers that colleges are willing to help us out. In reality, I can’t think of too many people that need to send all three of their kids to college in the same year.

I appreciate you all ~ love your comments and so cherish your support. If you want to, please visit my sites to see what’s new. You never know, maybe you’ll find something you can’t live without! Big hugs, Wendy

http://BerryLane.com

http://BerryLane.Etsy.com &

http://CottageBubbles.Etsy.com