Featured in a Treasury
Many thanks to maclh for including the pink flower patterned blocks in this lovely treasury!
Sincerely,
Abi
On the Menu: Golden Punch
Dear Reader,
Hosting a shower or brunch this spring? This recipe may work wonderfully well. I think punch is always a nice addition to an event. This recipe comes from my mom. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Hosting a shower or brunch this spring? This recipe may work wonderfully well. I think punch is always a nice addition to an event. This recipe comes from my mom. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Shop Updates and Picking out a Pattern
Dear Reader,
As you may have noticed by now, I added two new sets of blocks to the shop this past weekend. The number and bike patterned blocks and the red flower patterned blocks both make me anxious for warmer temps to enjoy life outside soon!
I am finishing up a custom set of blocks, which has been a fun project, and I'm working on a set of blocks for my dear three and a half year old. He received my very first version of blocks prepared, and let's just say that my skills at block-making have improved in the past few years! My issue with getting a set ready for him is that my son keeps changing his mind on a pattern. Bikes. Rockets. Bikes with rockets on them. Owls. Dinosaurs. Race cars. I'm not sure when I'll have the final answer from him.
He loves the blocks that I make and always wants to "fix" them when I'm taking photos to try to match all of the patterns. He's also my second shooter for taking pictures of the sets, which makes it fun for both of us. Between my husband's work on cutting the blocks and my son's photography and matching skills, this is clearly becoming a family affair!
Sincerely,
Abi
As you may have noticed by now, I added two new sets of blocks to the shop this past weekend. The number and bike patterned blocks and the red flower patterned blocks both make me anxious for warmer temps to enjoy life outside soon!
I am finishing up a custom set of blocks, which has been a fun project, and I'm working on a set of blocks for my dear three and a half year old. He received my very first version of blocks prepared, and let's just say that my skills at block-making have improved in the past few years! My issue with getting a set ready for him is that my son keeps changing his mind on a pattern. Bikes. Rockets. Bikes with rockets on them. Owls. Dinosaurs. Race cars. I'm not sure when I'll have the final answer from him.
He loves the blocks that I make and always wants to "fix" them when I'm taking photos to try to match all of the patterns. He's also my second shooter for taking pictures of the sets, which makes it fun for both of us. Between my husband's work on cutting the blocks and my son's photography and matching skills, this is clearly becoming a family affair!
Sincerely,
Abi
Tuesday's Treasury
Dear Reader,
I decided to put together a treasury to enjoy the color yellow and to hope that the sunshine will stick around. And then, Lilly Pie Accessories (a favorite Etsy shop of mine!) included the pink flower patterned blocks in a treasury as well. Two for one this Tuesday.
Sincerely,
Abi
I decided to put together a treasury to enjoy the color yellow and to hope that the sunshine will stick around. And then, Lilly Pie Accessories (a favorite Etsy shop of mine!) included the pink flower patterned blocks in a treasury as well. Two for one this Tuesday.
Sincerely,
Abi
Five For Friday: Spring Decorating Accessories
Dear Reader,
Since my last five for Friday post, spring has arrived (in name at least - we're still waiting for the weather to reflect it!) As I had posted in my rather long-winded post about my table turning, I had planned to change the decor on my dining room buffet. I added some spring touches there and also to my dining room table. Here are my top five spring accessories:
One. Bird candle. This was a gift from my aunt and makes us look forward to the birds that nest in our backyard.
Two. Plate rack with crisp white dishes. This element seems so classic and fresh to me.
Three. Porcelain white egg crate. Jill gave this to me as a birthday present last year, and I love it!
Four. Bowl of pastel colored eggs. These are just foam inside, which means they are perfect for regular egg hunts around our house throughout the season (which is a hit with my three and a half year old.)
Five. Yarn bunny. This reminds us of my husband's grandma who kindly put this together for my son. She made so many sweet gifts for him.
And that's five. What are some of your favorite decorations to welcome spring? Happy Friday!
Sincerely,
Abi
Since my last five for Friday post, spring has arrived (in name at least - we're still waiting for the weather to reflect it!) As I had posted in my rather long-winded post about my table turning, I had planned to change the decor on my dining room buffet. I added some spring touches there and also to my dining room table. Here are my top five spring accessories:
One. Bird candle. This was a gift from my aunt and makes us look forward to the birds that nest in our backyard.
 |
| {Source: Pottery Barn} |
Two. Plate rack with crisp white dishes. This element seems so classic and fresh to me.
 |
| {Source: plate rack from Target, white plates from Pottery Barn} |
Three. Porcelain white egg crate. Jill gave this to me as a birthday present last year, and I love it!
 |
| {Source: Anthropology} |
Four. Bowl of pastel colored eggs. These are just foam inside, which means they are perfect for regular egg hunts around our house throughout the season (which is a hit with my three and a half year old.)
 |
| {Source: Jo-Ann Fabrics} |
Five. Yarn bunny. This reminds us of my husband's grandma who kindly put this together for my son. She made so many sweet gifts for him.
And that's five. What are some of your favorite decorations to welcome spring? Happy Friday!
Sincerely,
Abi
On the Menu: Crumb Cake
Dear Reader,
This recipe is a favorite for a few reasons. First (and most importantly), this crumb cake recipe is from my grandma, and I treasure the relationship that I shared with her. My very thoughtful mom baked this crumb cake when I was in college and mailed it to me as a special surprise. And also, it's a really yummy treat. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
This recipe is a favorite for a few reasons. First (and most importantly), this crumb cake recipe is from my grandma, and I treasure the relationship that I shared with her. My very thoughtful mom baked this crumb cake when I was in college and mailed it to me as a special surprise. And also, it's a really yummy treat. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Tuesday's Treasury
I prepared one of these treasuries over the weekend, but wanted to share it along with the other. I am so excited that spring has officially arrived!
Sincerely,
Abi
Sincerely Abi, Welcome to Facebook!
Dear Reader,
I took the Facebook plunge this weekend. Sincerely Abi now has a page. I really struggled to get this going. I've been thinking about establishing my shop on Facebook for a month or so, but in some ways lacked the confidence of letting all of my friends and family know about this shop of mine. (Perhaps I've taken a soft opening to a shop to a new level.)
Late last week I finally reached two conclusions:
1. I have incredibly supportive people in my life, and I'd like them to know about this part of my life.
2. I'm very satisfied with the items that I produce for Etsy, so why be shy about sharing them?
I'm glad to have taken this step, and have thoroughly appreciated the kind feedback that has come with this embrace of a bit of social media.
Twitter next? We'll see.
Sincerely,
Abi
I took the Facebook plunge this weekend. Sincerely Abi now has a page. I really struggled to get this going. I've been thinking about establishing my shop on Facebook for a month or so, but in some ways lacked the confidence of letting all of my friends and family know about this shop of mine. (Perhaps I've taken a soft opening to a shop to a new level.)
Late last week I finally reached two conclusions:
1. I have incredibly supportive people in my life, and I'd like them to know about this part of my life.
2. I'm very satisfied with the items that I produce for Etsy, so why be shy about sharing them?
I'm glad to have taken this step, and have thoroughly appreciated the kind feedback that has come with this embrace of a bit of social media.
Twitter next? We'll see.
Sincerely,
Abi
Minty Keen Feature
Dear Reader,
Our local news just featured Minty Keen and the wonderful finds available there. Please take a peek at the video if you have a chance. And if you look closely, you may also notice a takeout box with a set of my blocks! Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Our local news just featured Minty Keen and the wonderful finds available there. Please take a peek at the video if you have a chance. And if you look closely, you may also notice a takeout box with a set of my blocks! Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Five for Friday: Handmade Gifts
Dear Reader,
I received an e-mail from one of my good friends this week asking if I had any ideas for a good handmade item for each member of her Bible study as the group wraps up the year. I have included five ideas and their sources below. I think these handmade gifts would be great for a Bible study group, book club, teacher thank you, party favors, or Mother's Day.
One. Coasters. Tile or fabric, I think they are a fun way to update a living room coffee table/end table. Very practical. {Sources: Style Me Pretty and How About Orange}
Two. Bath salts. Not too personal and yet a way to provide something relaxing and pampering. {Source: Oh my handmade goodness}
Three. A flower pin. A great accessory for an outfit. {Source: Martha Stewart}
Four. Homemade granola in a glass jar. Add a pretty ribbon, and it's a yummy treat ready to share.
Five. Embroidery hoop art. I have no personal experience with making this, but I love the tutorials I have found about them. {Sources: So many. under the sycamore and the Joy cottage are two of them.}
And that's five.
Other gift ideas? Should-have cited sources? Please do share! Happy Friday!
Sincerely,
Abi
I received an e-mail from one of my good friends this week asking if I had any ideas for a good handmade item for each member of her Bible study as the group wraps up the year. I have included five ideas and their sources below. I think these handmade gifts would be great for a Bible study group, book club, teacher thank you, party favors, or Mother's Day.
One. Coasters. Tile or fabric, I think they are a fun way to update a living room coffee table/end table. Very practical. {Sources: Style Me Pretty and How About Orange}
Two. Bath salts. Not too personal and yet a way to provide something relaxing and pampering. {Source: Oh my handmade goodness}
Three. A flower pin. A great accessory for an outfit. {Source: Martha Stewart}
Four. Homemade granola in a glass jar. Add a pretty ribbon, and it's a yummy treat ready to share.
Five. Embroidery hoop art. I have no personal experience with making this, but I love the tutorials I have found about them. {Sources: So many. under the sycamore and the Joy cottage are two of them.}
And that's five.
Other gift ideas? Should-have cited sources? Please do share! Happy Friday!
Sincerely,
Abi
On the Menu: Pistachio Dream Cake
Dear Reader,
Happy St. Patrick's Day! In honor of the green holiday, I thought this cake recipe would be quite festive! My mother-in-law has made this recipe for years, and it's one of my favorites. The cake is moist and light (and a bit more health-conscious too!) Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Happy St. Patrick's Day! In honor of the green holiday, I thought this cake recipe would be quite festive! My mother-in-law has made this recipe for years, and it's one of my favorites. The cake is moist and light (and a bit more health-conscious too!) Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Tuesday's Treasury
Whenever my son selects colors ( a crayon, play dough, even a new shirt) he chooses green (his favorite color) and pink for me (since he knows it is my favorite color.) I love that he doesn't hesitate to always pick what he likes best! Perhaps today I am doing the same. This Tuesday's treasury embraces the Etsy finds with pink ruffles! Pretty!
Sincerely,
Abi
Featured in a Treasury
Having now put together a few treasuries myself, I am always grateful for being included in someone's collection and for effort that went into assembling a group of items that mesh well. Many thanks to On the Record for including the new pinwheel and kite string patterned blocks in this treasury.
Sincerely,
Abi
Five for Friday: Hosting a Shower
Dear Reader,
I've decided to start a list post each week on different topics, practical (not necessarily profound) ideas. I think it's safe to say that we are in the season of bridal showers, and having hosted a number of showers in the past few years (bridal and baby versions), here are my top five plans for each event:
One. Printed invites. Somehow the occasion feels more planned and special with invites crafted specifically for the bride, perhaps recognizing her favorite color or tying in the theme/color scheme for the shower. A host of Etsy shops would provide a lovely product, but this is also a great diy project.
Two. Add a banner. A fabric or paper banner with a "Congratulations <Insert Bride's Name>" is a very cheery decoration. I have attended a baby shower where the mom-to-be liked the fabric banner so much that it became part of the nursery decor.
Three. Fresh fruit. Regardless of the menu, fresh fruit always seems to be a hit with guests.
Four. Favors = Fun. Favors are a great way to thank guests for coming and to tie together the theme/color of the event one last time.
Five. Thank you note prep. I love presenting the shower honoree with a box of thank you notes and printed labels for each guest that attended the shower. Hopefully this will make that responsibility a little bit easier for her.
And that's five. Happy Friday!
Sincerely,
Abi
I've decided to start a list post each week on different topics, practical (not necessarily profound) ideas. I think it's safe to say that we are in the season of bridal showers, and having hosted a number of showers in the past few years (bridal and baby versions), here are my top five plans for each event:
One. Printed invites. Somehow the occasion feels more planned and special with invites crafted specifically for the bride, perhaps recognizing her favorite color or tying in the theme/color scheme for the shower. A host of Etsy shops would provide a lovely product, but this is also a great diy project.
Two. Add a banner. A fabric or paper banner with a "Congratulations <Insert Bride's Name>" is a very cheery decoration. I have attended a baby shower where the mom-to-be liked the fabric banner so much that it became part of the nursery decor.
Three. Fresh fruit. Regardless of the menu, fresh fruit always seems to be a hit with guests.
Four. Favors = Fun. Favors are a great way to thank guests for coming and to tie together the theme/color of the event one last time.
Five. Thank you note prep. I love presenting the shower honoree with a box of thank you notes and printed labels for each guest that attended the shower. Hopefully this will make that responsibility a little bit easier for her.
And that's five. Happy Friday!
Sincerely,
Abi
On the Menu: Fresh Tomatoes and Pasta
Dear Reader,
There are days when I am very prepared with meal planning for dinner. There are also days where the afternoon seems to slip away from me, and I need to quickly get something together for dinner. This recipe from my aunt is a fabulous option for a quick, fresh dinner. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
There are days when I am very prepared with meal planning for dinner. There are also days where the afternoon seems to slip away from me, and I need to quickly get something together for dinner. This recipe from my aunt is a fabulous option for a quick, fresh dinner. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Tuesday's Treasury
When I think of birch trees, I am reminded of my family's favorite vacation spot from my childhood, a place rich with these lovely trees. I hope you enjoy this treasury centered around the theme of birches.
Sincerely,
Abi
Spring To Dos
Dear Reader,
Since we are now in the month of March, I am starting to think toward some spring projects around the house. Here are a few items on my list:
I love clearing out and freshening, which may be one of the reasons I am always excited about springtime. What are some of your spring to dos?
Happy Monday all!
Sincerely,
Abi
Since we are now in the month of March, I am starting to think toward some spring projects around the house. Here are a few items on my list:
- deep clean the house (perhaps once the snow melts!)
- clear out the basement storage/determine if I should participate in the spring neighborhood garage sales
- collect spring/summer clothes for consignment or donation
- prepare two container gardens for our front porch
- research the process of sealing aggregate concrete
I love clearing out and freshening, which may be one of the reasons I am always excited about springtime. What are some of your spring to dos?
Happy Monday all!
Sincerely,
Abi
Bird Patterned Blocks
Dear Reader,
Under our deck there is a nest. This nest has housed baby Robins each spring for the past two years, and I am already hopeful of the return of these beautiful blue eggs to the nest (and the sweet baby birds that follow.) In the meantime, I have prepared a new set of blocks for the shop with brightly patterned birds on one of the sides. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Under our deck there is a nest. This nest has housed baby Robins each spring for the past two years, and I am already hopeful of the return of these beautiful blue eggs to the nest (and the sweet baby birds that follow.) In the meantime, I have prepared a new set of blocks for the shop with brightly patterned birds on one of the sides. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
On the Menu: Macadamia French Toast
Dear Reader,
For some reason, the hopeful dawn of springtime makes me want to break out the brunch recipes. I'm not certain why I equate spring with brunch, but there it is. This recipe for macadamia french toast is really exceptional. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
For some reason, the hopeful dawn of springtime makes me want to break out the brunch recipes. I'm not certain why I equate spring with brunch, but there it is. This recipe for macadamia french toast is really exceptional. Enjoy!
Sincerely,
Abi
Featured in a Treasury
I am so ready for a road trip (seriously, one planned for this weekend - how appropriate, right?!) Many thanks to Into the Light Creations for including the road trip blocks in this treasury!
Sincerely,
Abi
Minty Keen
Dear Readers,
I'm pleased to announce that Grand Rapids locals can now find my sets of blocks at Minty Keen. If you've never checked out this downtown spot, I think it's very worth a visit. You will find so many beautifully handmade items and amazing vintage finds.
My son helped with the delivery of the blocks last week, and his first words when we got in the car were "that shop is so cool." Maybe he loves it because of the fabulous vintage springy horse that he got to ride. Who wouldn't love that?!
Some of my favorite sets have headed over to Minty Keen, and below is a sneak peek of a new set available only there:
So exciting!
Sincerely,
Abi
I'm pleased to announce that Grand Rapids locals can now find my sets of blocks at Minty Keen. If you've never checked out this downtown spot, I think it's very worth a visit. You will find so many beautifully handmade items and amazing vintage finds.
My son helped with the delivery of the blocks last week, and his first words when we got in the car were "that shop is so cool." Maybe he loves it because of the fabulous vintage springy horse that he got to ride. Who wouldn't love that?!
Some of my favorite sets have headed over to Minty Keen, and below is a sneak peek of a new set available only there:
So exciting!
Sincerely,
Abi
Tuesday's Treasury
Many thanks to wavyshell for including me in this treasury! I am so very ready to welcome spring!
Sincerely,
Abi
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