Crafty Chick's Retro Fantasy

My Latest Crafty Chick Creation ~ Such Sweet Bliss

2010-07-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

I've been at it again!

Here is my latest digital collage.

I call this one ~

Such Sweet Bliss is a Fond Rememberance.

I hope you enjoy it.

~Danae

My Latest Crafty Chick Creation ~ Butterfly Wings For Baby Dana

2010-07-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Here is my lastest peice of digital collage art.

I call it ~

"Butterfly Wings For Baby Dana"

It is created from a baby picture of my Mom,

and various peices of vintage & new baby ephemera.

I'm still pretty new at creating these digitally;

but I am really enjoying it,

and starting to like my finished peices.

It's really just about my love affair

with vintage images, colors & motifs!

But shhhh *

we have to keep that a secret

from the artist in me!
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~Danae

Sweet Vintage Baby Card Images For You

2010-07-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

I have been busy crafting lately, and I thought I would share some of these sweet vintage baby card images that I have collected for use in my art. I hope that you enjoy them as much as I do.

I think this last one is especially adorable. Who can resist a baby on a stork?
Okay Friends... back to crafting for me! I will be sure to post some of the finished creations. Have yourself a lovely day. ~Danae

Family Matters ~ 2 Awesome Kids & One Very Proud Mama!

2010-07-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

I honestly cannot believe that I have let nearly a month slip by without blogging this! The activities of our Summer have taken us by such a storm- that I was not even thinking about the events of the last week of school.

So here it is... Proud Mama Nae's Brag Time!

Both of my Babies earned Honor Roll this year!!! Yay Kids!

And -as if that wasn't awesome enough- they both earned 2 awards apeice; an Academic Acheivement Award (Math for Makayla; and Language for J.D.) as well as the Principal's Honor Roll!

I knew that they were doing well, but I had no idea how well. Makayla raised her grades from 7 -4's (A's) -on her last Report Card- to 14 -4's (A's). Jeremiah earned himeself 10 -4's (A's). WOW! I am such a proud Mama!

Thanks for taking the time to stop in and share in our great news.

~Danae :) aka 'Crafty'

Ruby Reminiscing... Ruby Red Inspiration from ETSY

2010-07-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Cherry Aid ~ Embellished Sequin Heels by CharoletteIona

These are a few of my latest favorite finds on ETSY. I can never get enough red in my life!

Enjoy!

Vintage Royal Ruby Ball Pitcher by Look Back Vintage

Ruffled Romance Cuffs by EfiaFair

Cherry Tree Necklace by Pole Star
Ruby Slippers Cupcake Toppers from The Blissful Baker
Ruby Red Couture Shoe Clips by Sofisticata

Oldies But Goodies...

2010-06-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Hot Damn!

Summer's here!

School's almost out!

My Black, White & Pink Bedroom Makeover ~ Crafty Chick Style

2010-05-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends~

Welcome to my newly cleaned & redecorated bedroom! I am very excited to share my progress with you all. You see- I am a bit of a clutter bug; and I have had definite housekeeping issues in the past. My problem is not one of leaving 'trash' & 'junk' laying around... it is one of having too much stuff.

I know that this has become a very common problem for many of us in our 'have it now', disposable society. I even heard a really cool term for it- 'Affluenza'. And unfortunately 'affluenza' doesn't only strike the rich, or the folks who are 'trying to keep up with the Jones'.

No- 'affluenza' can affect any of us- even those of us who may not have alot of money. Over the years I have made, bought, been gifted and collected waaaay, way too much stuff; and the problem is, that while I love almost all of it- I just don't have the room for it all. Between the normal household 'things', my children's 'things', and my many interests and hobbies- I have accumulated enough 'stuff' to fill my small house to the gills.

Also, a big part of my 'clutter problem', is that as a very visual person, I constantly feel the need to keep my stuff 'out' so that I can see it- otherwise, I forget it is there- and I do not use it. (Think books, art supplies, make up, jewelry, cooking stuff, kids toys, clothing & accesories, etc.)

This isn't merely a problem of too much stuff for such a small house- No!- I have a feeling that I could fill ANY size house, if given enough time.

And it is not only a matter of buying more organizational equipment. Trust me- as I cleaned my house; I cleared plenty of drawers, cabinets, closets, boxes and cubbys- if I owned it- I filled it!

To make it worse- I have an obbsesion with collecting cool jars, boxes, tins and such; in which to store all of my 'stuff'! And while my things were fairly well grouped together, and most had 'homes'... I began to feel that I, myself was not very 'together', and that I was running out of 'home'. I began to realize that my outer clutter only was a manifestation of my 'inner' clutter. This is definitely not healthy for me; and is not the legacy I want to leave to my kids.

Somewhere between getting married, having a baby, moving houses, (having another baby), a failing marriage and subsequent separation, the depression that often goes along with such life events, raising school age children- and everything else that goes on...I had lost my will to fight against the beast of disorganization.

I told myself that playing with the children was more important than sorting out our ever growing accumulation of 'stuff'. I used all the excuses- house too small, no money for nicer things, a single Mom with young children, a long family history of clutter bugs and hoarders, etc., etc...

I chalked it up to being an eclectic, artistic type person. Pretty soon it was easier to ignore the mess; than it was to attempt to fix up a house full of junky hand me down furniture, and outdated belongings.

So- earlier this Spring- I set about a giant house purging & a mission to create the home that I had envisioned for myself and my children. (Not that I haven't done this before- I have, plenty of times.) But I never really had gathered enough steam to overhaul my entire home- as well as my attitude about my home.

In these last few months, I have made some amazing progress- both inside my home, and out- as well as within my own head. I still have plenty more work to do; and a ton of 'fixing up' and home decor projects that I still want to tackle.

But so far, I have:

~Cleared, organized and reclaimed my Bedroom from the storage room with a bed that it had become- and created a room that I enjoy being in, as well as one that reflects my personality & interests.

~Cleaned & made presentable my Living Room; which is a work in progress, as I still would like to paint, and aquire new couches. But...it is now decent, and inviting; and best of all, unexpected visitors can show up without striking dread & terror in my psyche.

~Cleaned, organized & started the redecorating process in my daughter's room. It is now a place that she can play, study & rest in- and a room that she is proud to bring her friends into.

~Gave up my bedroom, so that my son could FINALLY have his own room. ...and created an awesome space for my Little Guy!

~Cleared, cleaned, organized & reclaimed my Art Studio. This is a major feat in itself! And last, but certainly not least...

~I whipped my front & back yards, gardens, & my back patio back into shape. In fact- I daresay that they are in better shape than they have ever been in the past! (Ditto for the inside of my home!)

I still have a long way to go. I have made a great start- but in truth, I have merely scratched the surface. I know that I need to keep up the work; and that the 'stuff' never stops rolling in. I need to be vigilant about keeping on top of things. And to remember that my desire for a comfortorable, inviting home is stronger than my need for 'things'.

I'd still like to paint, and of course finish hanging my pictures, art, and shelves.... but now that I am on a roll- these goals seem more attainable than before. I hope to share with you my continued progress.

(And while I know my little house is very humble, and I don't have a lot of 'nice things'... I have always had a way of making it nice with what I do have. I hope that you can see beyond the fact that I don't have beautiful furnishings & whatnot- and still see the steps that I have made.)

So... without further ado...

Welcome to my newly cleaned & redecorated Bedroom!Here is the veiw when you come into the room. My bed and new sheet set I bought for my birthday back in December. One bonus about being single is that I can finally surround myself with all of my 'girly' type things without having to worry about if my husband likes it or not!)

On my headboard sits some of my little altered tin boxes & drawer sets that I have created; along with photos of me and my children.

Eventually, I plan to paint a wall mural. Either the black silloette of a cherry blossom tree with a bird in it; or a black swirly type faux wrought iron bed frame. Or, I may do both- the bed frame on this wall, and the tree on the opposite wall. We'll see. For now I have my initials on the wall above my bed.To the right of my bed is my cool shelf/mirror thing. (And yes- it actually belongs hanging on the wall above a big bed; but I scored it for free, and have hopes of painting it black & white, and possibly decopauging some neat paper onto the back panel.)In the meantime, its shelves have been home to many neat displays of my collections, as well as a great bedroom altar. I usually change it each month- or season, depending on my mood. Currently it is housing my candles, family photos and my art. The 3 peices in the middle of the top shelf are one of my Witchy Art Dolls, my 'Queen of the Craft' Collage, and a black & white Birdhouse I made. The second row holds my Altered Journal, an Altered Heart Box & to the right is a Flower Canvas- all made by me.

I forgot to set them out when I took this photo- but I have added several of my nicest peices of clear & rose quartz crystals to the display. It looks especially nice at night, when the room is lit by tons of candles.

On the top of my dresser sits my little black velvet dressmaker dummy, flowers, photos and a couple of tins to put my odds & ends. And also a wire square that I repurposed into a jewelry holder. I use these all over the house. They are great little 'bulletin boards' to hang doodads from, I use them in the kids room for all those little things they bring home & love- but that I don't wan't cluttering up their shelves. In my Art Studio, to hang my supplies, and as inspiration boards to clip my idea photos & swatches to. In the bathroom for jewelry and hair accesories. As well as in the kitchen, as a wall rack to hang utensils from. (They can even be suspended from the ceiling and used to hang pots from.) These little things are great- and the price was right too- f.r.e.e.!

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And lastly is my other wall,

where I have a floor mirror, a T.V., and my daughter's little pink guitar, that I 'confiscated' as a room decoration- but of course I told her that any time she wants to use it she can! LOL I just thought it looked so cute in my black, white & pink bedroom, that I had to use it.

Well Guys, I hope that you enoyed this little peek into my home. I really wish I had taken some before pictures, just so you could see how dramatic the change is... but I never, ever would have thought of taking pictures of my bedroom before- so you will just have to take my word for it....
THIS IS A BIG IMPROVEMENT!
I will be taking some more photos of the rest of my rooms to share with you all in future posts. And if you would like to see my progress in the gardens- I have a post on Crafty's Cuppa Coffee that shares my Spring 2010 Garden.

In the meantime...

I have another drawer to clean out! Lol.

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Have a great day! and Thanks for stopping by!
~Danae, aka 'Crafty'

Smokin' Hot Summer Tops

2010-05-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Now which one? Which one? I'll take THIS ONE...

Oh! and THIS ONE!...

...and THIS ONE too!...

Might as well get 'em all. These awesome Retro Reproduction Summer tops come from Pin Up Girl Clothing. Where else?!

Check 'em out...

Holly Tie Halter Top -This amazing new halter from Pinup Couture features a long attached contrast sash that can be tied either in front or in the back. The fabric is a super comfortable and stretchy cotton blend, lined in the bust, with an adjustable halter tie and elastic band at the back for great fit. Long enough to wear out or tucked in.

The Laura Top from Pinup Couture is made of a super comfy stretch jersey with gathers at the shoulders and cute little heart buttons. Long enough to tuck into your favorite skirt or jeans, or wear out.

The "Little Darlings" Stretch Poplin Polka Dot Top in Red - Adorable slim fitting stretch poplin blouse with short ruffled sleeves in polka dot print.
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Now that I am thoroughly pining away for these beauties.... I guess I'd better get workin' in order to afford them! Lol.
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Have yourself a great day!
~Danae aka 'Crafty'

The Icing On The Cake - Retro Hair Accessories

2010-05-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

As women, we know that our hair is our crown... and never is that more true than when dressing in Retro or Rockabilly Fashions.
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During WWII, when rations on fabric, and budget restrictions often prevented women from indulging in new clothing; they turned to their best (and free-est) asset- their hair! Hair styles became the focus of the 'Everyday Womans' Fashion; inspired by the glamour girls of Old Hollywood. Woman curled, primped, and stacked their tresses into elaborate styles.
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In order to compensate for the exagerated Hair Do's up top- the lines of clothing began to change as well. This is when we saw the emergence of the super large shouder and 'Bullet Bra's'; set off by a tiny waist, and full hips. The 'Sweater Girl' look, made famous by Lana Turner became popular; as did the 'Woman's Suit', a la Joan Crawford- which echoed the mass entrance of women in the workplace.
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Nothing sets off this best feature better than a mane of healthy locks and beautfully curled tresses. But, as with anything... a little icing on the cake never hurts! This is where fabulous hair accesories come into play.
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Today's Retro Fabulous Women have many choices of 'hair jewelery' to glam up their Retro & Rockabilly Hairstyles. The most famous, of course, are hair flowers. Roses, Camellias and Orchids, of all colors, sizes and materials are found on today's retro savvy women. But these are just the tip of the iceberg. Hair Fascinators, Hats, Feathers, Bows, Jewels and Headbands can all be used to glam up your retro look. And I just love how today's designers have put their own spin on these hair fashions, by creating them with modern materials and in alternative styles.
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You can find them in a varitety of colors, with lace, glitter, fur, fun combinations of prints, and adorable embellishments.
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Check out a few of these Retro, Rockabilly and Psychobilly Hair Accesories that come to us from the LA based company- PinUp Girl Clothing. You can find them on their website, or for us 'crafty gals'- use them as inspiration to create our own. (Although, I have to admit that the ones at PinUp Girl Clothing are very reasonably priced! And they are handmade here in East LA by PinUp Couture.) And don't stop there! There are also a ton of wonderful, unique Retro Hair Accessories to be found on ETSY- all handmade by the many talented ETSY crafters & artisians.
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Happy browsing...
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- Small Juliet Hat with Feathers and Veil in Red (top photo) and White - This gorgeous vintage-style hat features feather accents and the perfect amount of netting to create a gorgeous veil. How perfect would this white version be for a Bridal Luncheon? Of course, you would HAVE to be the Bride... because in this little number- all eyes will definitely be on YOU!

- Red Rose Hair Flower - Pinup "Senorita" Rose Hair Flower with Rhinestone and Chiffon Petals by Pinup Couture Hair

-Yellow Sparkle Tiger Lily Hair Flower by Lila-Jo -Stunning glitter-encrusted large lily hair flower makes a beautiful statement with any retro look.-Burgundy and White Orchid Hair Clip from Pinup Couture hair -This fantastic silk hair orchid is sure to become a fast favorite, try two or more in complimentary colors for an absolutely gorgeous, unique look.

And to finish off with a bit of Psychobilly Fashion...
-Shocking Pink Satin Ribbon Bow with Skully Center By Kustom Voodoo -This little number features a big satin ribbon bow, with a skully detail at center.
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Enjoy your day!

~Danae aka 'Crafty'

All Dressed Up With Nowhere To Go

2010-05-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

I just love me a sexy summer dress. There is nothing that makes me feel prettier than swishing out the door in a classy, little number, a pair of heels, my sunglasses on, and a great handbag to top it all off.
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I just had to share with you all, some of the latest dresses that I am drooling over. This particular batch of fashions are from Pin Up Girl Clothing. You can find them here.
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Enjoy!

-Retro Rockabilly Diner Dress in Olive Green from Heartbreaker -This classic diner dress looks sharp in a military olive green. From Heartbreaker Fashions.
-Jolene Dress in Red and Black Floral Pattern from Heartbreaker Fashion

-Gingham Swing Dress - The Daisy Dress in Black Gingham Poplin with Red Trim by Pinup Couture -The "Cutiepie" Dress in Black Sateen with Black and White Polka Dot Trim from Dixiefried -The Netti Dress in Red Asian Floral Poplin by Pinup Couture -Vintage Reproduction Dresses - The Dorothy Dress in Navy and Red by Pinup Couture -New Style Black Cherry Heidi Dress by Pinup Couture

Now, if onlyI had somewhere to go....
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Someplace better than the market, the kid's school, or the park, I mean. The hazards of being a work at home Artist/Mom, I guess! Oh well.
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I also wanted to say a big Thank You! to all of you who have been so patient & kind untill I got back to blogging again! Thank You for your kind words and prayrs for my family.
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I had no idea that my little blogs would be missed. (I even won 2 blog awards on my other blog- Crafty's Cuppa Coffee- during my 2nd month of hiatus! Go figure.) As for me, I missed keeping up with all of my favorite blogs, as much as I missed writing my own. I hope to work back up to full speed (inhe Cyber World) again soon... and still find a way to keep my balance (in the Real World) lol :) .
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I hope that you all have a great day!
~Danae aka 'Crafty'

We All Need A Little Lucy In Our Day!

2010-03-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

WE ALL LOVE LUCY!

I have had these sitting around for a post one day...and I had forotten about it! So, I figured today was as good a day as any. And NO- It's not her birthday...or her deathdate...nor is it her anniversary or any other 'special' day

-I just think that ANY DAY IS A GOOD DAY FOR A LITTLE LUCY! :)

Here are the standard Lucy stats:

Lucille Ball

Birthdate: August 6, 1911

Birth Place: Jamestown, N.Y.

Death: April 26, 1989; Los Angeles, California;

burst aorta

Key TV Programs:

I Love Lucy, Lucy Ricardo, 180 episodes, 1951-1957, co-starring Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance, and William Frawley

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The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Show, Lucy Ricardo, 13 episodes, 1957-1960, co-starring Desi Arnaz, Vivian Vance, and William Frawley

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The Lucy Show, Lucy Carmichael, 156 episodes, 1962-1968, co-starring Vivian Vance, and Gale Gordon

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Here’s Lucy, Lucy Carter, 144 episodes, 1968-1974, co-starring Gale Gordon, Lucie Arnaz, and Desi Arnaz, Jr.

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Life with Lucy, Lucy Barker, 13 episodes, five unaired, 1986, co-starring Gale Gordon

Have a great day! :)

~Danae~ aka 'Crafty'

Jelly Roll Hairsyle

2010-03-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hey Folks! This is a post that I published last year (2009)- but judging from how many of you keep flocking to this page/post- I figured that I would republish it here- that way it is easier to find, and next to other relavent material. Enjoy!

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INSTRUCTIONS FOR A

RETRO JELLY ROLL HAIRSTYLE

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This is a great versatile hairstyle as it can be worn for both casual and dressy occaisions. It can be parted in the middle or the side; and can be worn long and loose in the back, in a bun, twist, braids or a loose ponytail.

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Jelly Rolls are best created with what used to be called a “Middy” cut. Basically that is a haircut with the front sections that are 3-4 inches in length. A true “Middy” has a back section of about 4-5 inches; but this hairstyle can easily be worn with longer hair, as long as the hair is short enough in the front.

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It is best to start with 'day old dity' hair- as this provides the right amount of natural hair oils that help the hairs grip to each other. If you must star with clean hair- make sure that you add some mouse or setting lotion before you pin curl it, or blow dry, and curl it with hot rollers or a curling iron.

It is possible to create Jelly Rolls with straight hair, but I find that pre-curling it gives it a nice amount of body and makes the finished look easier to acheive. Be sure to try it both ways- and get LOTS OF PRACTICE before attempting this look for a big event. *(Word to the wise!)
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***A NOTE ABOUT HAIR RATS***
A Hair Rat is a tubular roll that is used in place of back combing or “ratting” the hair. They can be made, or purchased. They can also be any desired size. I use this method because I do not like to rat my own hair, and for the firmness that it provides to the hair styles.

I make mine in the same manner my Grandmother used in the 1940’s and 50’s. When I cut my hair, I collect the clean hair into a Ziploc baggie. When I am in need of fresh hair rats, (every week or two), I take the desired amount of hair and roll it in my hands until it forms a roll shape.

Then one can either use it as is, or wrap a hair net, or a piece of clean nylon pantyhose (the same color as your hair) around it.

Using these keep the hair in place better, and I don’t need as much hairspray. (In fact, I have even gotten away without using any spray, times when I was all out!)

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SUPPLIES:
Paddle Hairbrush & Rat Tail Comb
Hairspray & Shine Serum
Several Bobby Pins & Rubber Bands
Hair net (Snood), Hair Flowers or Clips
Hair Rats (if desired)

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1) Start by parting the hair in the middle or on the side.
2) Then part the hair horizontally, from the back of the part, down to the ears.
3) Clip each section to keep it out of the way.
4) Take the first section, comb it out, and spray it lightly with hairspray and shine serum.
5) Holding the section of hair straight up and a little back, begin rolling the
Hair around your first two fingers, or a hair rat. Rolling all of the way down to the top of your head, creating the rolls the desired size.
6) Use the bobby pins to pin the rolls to the hair at the scalp. Make sure to catch the scalp hair in the pins, otherwise the rolls will not be secure. I like to criss cross my pins for added strength.
7) Lightly spray each finished roll.
8) Repeat procedure for each side.
9) Finish the back in the desired manner.
10) Add a hair flower, clip, or snood.

If any of you readers attempt this style- I would love to see pictures! You can send them to me here.

Thanks! Danae, aka 'Crafty'

A Little Retro Fashion Eye Candy

2010-03-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Bangin' hot fashions from the Babes at Baby Doll Boutique.
When it comes to fabulous retro reproductions, the hottest models & awesome pin up girl photography- Baby Doll Boutique leads the pack.
Here are some more pics from one of my very favorite retro reproduction clothing manufacturers.
Whether I am looking for retro fashions & accesories, makeup & hairstyles or inspiration for photography ideas- they never dissapoint.

Enjoy!

Vintage St. Paddy's Day Share

2010-03-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

Top Of The Mornin' To Ya!

~ Happy Saint Patricks Day ~

Heres a little somethin' for yee fair Lads and Lassies,

and a coupla days early too...

just so ya can get in a wee bit o' craftin' before the day arrives.

Enjoy!

~Danae aka 'Crafty'

2010-02-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

May your day be filled with love from all you hold dear.

~Danae, aka 'Crafty'

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

Heres a double; since I missed yesterday.

Two cuties for you to enjoy!

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Adorable Vintage late 1920's Valentine Tags

These little dolls could be used in so many ways.

Print & Cut out their images for use as is;

or for use in Altered Art projects.

You can fold them as Tags,

or even make Cupcake Toppers out of them.

A bit of glitter or some Liquid Pearl Paint* would be an awesome touch.

However you decide to use them... Enjoy!

~Danae aka 'Crafty'

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

Marylin Monroe as a Valentine Cowgirl Pin-up!

Watch out Boyz...

she's got you in her sights!

~Danae aka 'Crafty'

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

Aaaw! How cute is this?!?

Snow use-

I Love You

Valentine!

This is a very early 1930's Valentine.

Enjoy!

~Danae aka 'Crafty'

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

Not strictly Valentine's per se...

but who can resist a little Hershey's Kiss?

Especially a Vintage 1930's Hershey Ad.

Such sweetness-

And calories not included!

~Danae aka 'Crafty'

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

Another beautifully gilded Victorian Era Valentine. *
The Poem says~
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Cupid broke my heart
and stole my love away
But gives it to you sweetheart
On St. Valentine's Day
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From me to you, to use freely in all your crafting pursuits.
Enjoy!
~Danae aka 'Crafty'

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

This one is a bit older; it appears to be Victorian. For your Valentine's Day crafting enjoyment. Have Fun!
~Danae, aka 'Crafty'

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

Is she not a doll, or what?!?

I think this is one of my favorites - so far!
~Enjoy, Danae aka 'Crafty'
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PS~ Be sure to check out my other blog
Crafty's Cuppa Coffee
this month, for other
Valentine's Day
fun ideas, crafts, recipies & love spells.

Vintage Freebie~ Another Adorable Paper Doll Girl

2010-02-04T05:00:00.000-08:00

Well Friends, this is the last in the series of 3 paper dolls I had to share with you- for now anyways! (Isn't she a cutie?!?) I will definitely keep my eyes peeled for some more to share in the future. As with the others, just left click on the image to veiw and copy it in its full size. Print it out for traditional uses, or ue in your altered art projects.
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Enjoy!

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

This Vintage Valentine appears to be circa 1930's.

Isn't he just adorable?!?

I sure think so.
Enjoy!

Vintage Valentine Share

2010-02-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

This adorable Valentine appears to be circa late 1940's. Enjoy!

The Big 'Ol History Of Vintage Valentines Cards

2010-02-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

I have a whole month's worth of fun vintage Valentine' Card images to share with you here on Crafty's Retro Fantasy. These are great fun just to look at, but you may also copy them for your own personal use.

I found this extensive history of Vintage Valentine's Day Cards- and I thought that some of you may be interested. (NOTE: This is NOT the history of the holiday itself- merely a documentation of the Valentine's Day Greeting Card History.) However, I do plan on doing a post about the historical roots of the modern holiday and it's earlier Pagan predecesors. If anyone is interested, I will be posting that on my other blog- Crafty's Cuppa Coffee. There will also be plenty of other fun Valentine's Day & Love related material there as well; such as crafts, love spells and recipies. So feel free to follow the link and visit me there.~Danae, aka 'Crafty'

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European Valentine's Day History
A young Frenchman, Charles, Duke of Orleans, was one of the earliest creators of Valentines, called "poetical or amorous addresses." From his confinement in the Tower of London after the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, he sent several poems or rhymed love letters or "valentines" to his wife in France. During the fifteenth century, one valentine showed a drawing of a knight and a lady, with Cupid in the act of sending an arrow to pierce the knight's heart. During the seventeenth century people made their own valentines using original verse or poems copied from booklets with appropriate verse.

The English attitude toward St. Valentine's Day in the middle of the eighteenth century is summed up in this verse printed in Poor Robin's Almanac in 1757: This month bright Phoebus enters Pisces, The maids will have good store of kisses, For always when the fun comes there, Valentine's Day is drawing near, And both the men and maids incline To chuse them each a Valentine; And if a man gets one he loves, He gives her first a pair of gloves; And, by the way, remember this, To seal the favour with a kiss. This kiss begets more love, and then That love begets a kiss again, Until this trade the man doth catch, And then he doth propose the match, The woman's willing, tho' she's shy, She gives the man this soft reply,"I'll not resolve one thing or other, Until I first consult my mother. "When she says so, 'tis half a grant, And may be taken for consent. Turtle Doves and Love Birds "Oft have I heard both youth and virgin sayBirds choose their mates, and couples too, this day; But by their flight I never can divine, When I shall couple with my Valentine. "Herrick It was thought that birds chose their mate for the year on February 14. Doves and pigeons mate for life and therefore were used as a symbol of "fidelity."

The first commercial valentine appeared circa 1800 and were rather simplistic. But by the 1830's and 1840's Valentines contained delicate and artistic messages. Valentines made of fine papers and decorated with satin, ribbon, or lace commanded high prices. They had pictures of turtledoves, lovers' knots in gold or silver, bow and arrows, cupids, and bleeding hearts. All of these symbols have become associated with love and lovers.

In the 1840's the first mechanical valentines were introduced. By pulling a tab, a figure or object on the card could be made to move. Some had elaborate honeycomb pop-outs or various other three-dimensional features. In the 1840's messages on early valentines included: "Love" "I fondly, truly love thee." "Love protects" "My orb of day departs with thee." I love thee! Oh! I love thee! Dearer art thou than life. I love thee! I love thee! Say, wilt thou be my wife?" 'This Valentine's Day, to the church let's away; No longer I'll wait, let us marry. You promised, dear maid, that you would be mine, If I, till today, would tarry.

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American Valentines
American valentines began to grow with the import from England of valentine "writers." A writer was a booklet containing a vast array of verses and messages which could be copied onto gilt-edged letter paper or other decorative sheets. One popular writer contained not only "be my valentine" typeverses for men to send, but also acceptance or "answers" which women could return. Here is an example: Valentine A short time since I danc'd with you, And from that hour lov'd you true; Your pleasing form, your charming air, Might with a fabl'd grace compare; Your accents, so melodious sweet, Still on my ear does seem to beat; And 'tis the first wish of my life, To win my Delia for a wife; Deign, my sweet maid, a line to send, And may love's saint my plea defend. Answer Your Valentine is very kind, Nor did a cool reception find; Your company gave me delight, When I danced with you t'other night; Then mutually we did incline, Our hearts to love, my Valentine.

From then on, Valentines became less artistic and overornamented. During the Gay Nineties they were adorned with garish spun glass, mother-of-pearl, imitation jewels, or silk fringe. Proof of the less attractive, cheap-lookingvalentine is seen in the "vinegar valentine." John McLaughlin, a New York printer, created these comic valentines that were printed on cheap paper in crude colors. His messages made fun of old maids, teachers, and others. Comic designs done in 1870 by the American cartoonist Charles Howard were called "penny dreadfuls"--a perfect name for them because they sold for a penny and the designs were dreadful.

The first U.S. made valentines were crafted by a Mount Holyoke College student, Miss Esther Howland. Her father, a stationer in Worcester, MA, imported valentines every year from England. Esther, however, decided to create her own valentine messages. Around 1830 she began importing lace, fine papers, and other supplies for her valentines. She employed several assistants and her brothers helped market her "Worcester" valentines. As one of our first successful U.S. career women her sales amounted to about a hundred thousand dollars annually--not bad for the 1830's.

In our century we've seen a change from the heavy sentimentality of earlier days to what can best be described as a light touch. Nowadays a valentine usually accompanies a more elaborate gift of candy, flowers, perfume, etc. American school children usually celebrate St. Valentine's Day with a party at school. Prior to the party the children make a decorated box with a slot in the top. During the party the children distribute valentines to their classmates' Valentine's Box. Valentine cards are manufactured on an enormous scale today that range from the sentimental to sophisticated to humous valentines. There is a valentine for everyone--sweetheart, spouse, children, parents, teacher and even your pet! In terms of the number of greeting cards sent, Valentine's Day ranks second only to Christmas.

Vintage Freebie~ Paper Doll Boy

2010-01-27T00:55:00.000-08:00

Here is the little boy paper doll that I promised you all. He makes a sweet companion to last week's little girl paper doll. Just left click on the images to copy them in their full size. Print them out for traditional or altered art use. Enjoy!

Vintage Freebie~ An Adorable Paper Doll For You!

2010-01-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

How cute is she?!? I know, I know...Freakin' ADORABLE!
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I don't know about you, but I have always LOVED paper dolls. I spent hours as a kid, cutting them out, creating new fashions, playing with them and crafting little paper doll worlds for them to play in.
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Well, while I may not spend much time actually 'playing' with them these days- I haven't lost my fascination for them. Now, I tend to use them mostly when creating my art. And thanks to a wonderful Lady in Blogland , I now have some to share with you! (Incidentally, I am VERY embarrassed that I didn't write down the source to give her credit! So if you recognize these, and know their source- please leave me a comment so that I can amend this post and link her blog).
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Left click on the image to view and copy it in its full size; and print out for your own use.
Enjoy!

Fly Over to Mrs. B's For Giveaway Fun!

2009-10-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

Quick Giveaway Post to let you all in on the fun going on over at Mrs. B's. Head over there to throw your name in the hat to win:

~An Altered Wooden Spoon from Cauldron Craft Miniatures
~A Skele-Spider Hair Flower from Jammerz Designs

~A Knitty Kitty from Thalia Took

So join in on the fun! Good Luck!

~Danae <(:o) aka 'Crafty'

**Update*

~Guess what guys? I won Mrs. B's Giveaway today!

I will be recieving a Skele-Spider Hair Flower from Jamie @Jammerz Designs!!! I just love Halloween!

Today's Give Away Fun

2009-10-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

The fun doesn't stop over at Mrs. B's Confessions of a Pagan Socer Mom. Here is a list of what you will find there today.

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~A Pendant featuring The Eternal Embrace from Agony's Decay Creepy Crafts
~a set of felt Runes from The Caricoa Witch
~a pair of Spider & Hematite Earrings from The Gypsy Eye Studio

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And don't forget to check out the Guest Blog post, Mrs. B Get's Crafty, The Haunted Blog Tour Host (with more GiveAways to be found!) and also Mrs' B's newest article over at the Examiner.com! Plenty of good stuff to keep you busy.

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Have a Spooktacular Day!
~Danae <(:o) aka 'Crafty'

Some 'Don't Miss' Halloween Blog Fun!

2009-10-17T16:00:00.000-07:00

Today is a DO NOT MISS DAY on Blogger! There are some AMAZING Blog Parties/Hops & Giveaways going on today all over the Blogosphere!
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First...you must stop in to Mrs. B's for your daily dose of October fun. Here is a rundown of the goodies:
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~a set of porcelain clay Runes from Marie Segal
~a batch of handmade Saffron Insence from Lavanah
~Wintra the Witch of Warren Hall Wall Hanging from Michele with A Single L Designs
~a Halloween Neckalace from Shadow of The Goddess Designs
~an amazing Bag Of Goodies from Salem, given by Jaz of October Farm
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Then, be sure to read the Guest Blog Post, and Mrs. B's Halloween Craft Post. Then hurry on over to today's Haunted Blog Hop Stop!
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But...the fun is not over! No! It has just begun! Don your purtiest pair of stiped stockings, and your pointiest pair of Witchy shoes...Hop on your broomstick and fly on over to Miss Vannessa's Blog- A Fanciful Twist- for her 2009 Halloween Blog Party! It is an event you surely will not want to miss!
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There you will find the fete of your wildest imagination (trust me...I was there!)- and afterwards you will find the links to an ever growing assortment of fantastic places to hop on to! With Tricks, and Treats & Giveaways galore! It will take you all weekend and maybe next week to cover the all! (This is why I suggest going to Mrs. B's 1st! Otherwise you may not make it back before the 'whenever-we-get-home' prize drawing deadline! LOL)

Then...if you are not 'all-blogged-out'...you can stop by Domestic Witch's October Blog Party for more fun links.
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And don't forget the fun on Smeared & Smudged this month as well.
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There are many, many more wonderful bloggy fun places to visit...but as I am already late for my own fun...I must be off! Have a Spooktacular Day today! Bwa ha ha ha haaa!

~Danae <(:o) aka 'Crafty'

Sharing Mrs. B's Giveaway & Some More Vintage Halloween Images

2009-10-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys, Good Morning! I am sitting here enjoying our first Autumn rain- which is quickly becoming a downpour. I am all cozy, drinking a cup of Pumpkin Chai, curled up with my kitties.
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I have some happy news to share with you all! In the past week I have won two awesome Hallloween Giveaway Prizes! YAY! (I have never won anything in the Blogworld untill now.)
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My first lucky prize was to win Artful Alice- an adorable little polymer Witch from Mrs. B's 31 Days Of Halloween Giveaway. She is absolutely perfect for me, because she has red hair- and I have my own little red-headed daughter who is a Witch-In-Training!

And then yesterday I discovered that I won The Tome Of Ill Wonder from GrimVisions Ghastly 2009 Halloween Giveaway. Woohoo! This is cool for me on two levels...The first is because of me being stuck at home healing from my broken knee, I have not been able pick up any new Halloween Goodies for my house this year. (Also, due to the injury, moneys been a little tight.) So winning these prizes is a happy surprise!

The second reason this is a neat prize for me- is that I have been trying to add some creepier type decorations to my collecton. Up untill now, my Halloween Decor has been mostly on the happy & cute side. Now that my kids are getting a bit older- I am finally able to add some decorations on the ghoulish side. This handmade peice of Creep Art comes from GrimVisions- a master of Haunting Halloween Horror!

The Tome Of Ill Wonder is a spooky old book with a ghastly grin. When you open up the book, you find a skull. So cool! I just cannot wait to see it in person.

I also wanted to share with you all the awesome prizes being given away today at Mrs. B's- so hop on over & check them out! There are 5 prizes today, and several chances to win each one. There will be new pirizes and guest bloggers every day until Halloween!
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~Another chance to win a set of Emily Balivet prints

~A vial of Black Witches Salt from The Whimsical Witch

~A necklace & pendant from My Pretty Zombie

~A choice of one of three cards from Spirit Helpers

~Your choice of 8x10 art print from Custom Zombie

Be sure to check out Mrs. B's Haunted Blog our as well as her new article at the Examiner.com!

The last little thing to share with you today is some Vintage Halloween Images for your personal use. The top image is an early 194o's cover from Film Magazine. And this second image is a circa 1940's Post Card image that comes from Scandinavia.

~Enjoy your day!

~Danae <(:o)

Vintage Halloween Images For You

2009-10-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! I have some lovely Vintage Hallween Post Card Images to share with you all today. I LOVE Halloween- and I LOVE Vintage Art- so I spend a good deal of ime throughout the year hunting down coyright free images to use on my Blogs, and in my arts & crafts. I hope you all enjoy them as much as I have.
These images are early twentieth century, prior to 1920. (The top and bottom images were circa 1910 I think.)
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At that time Halloween was primarily an adult holiday, and decorations and party favors were made for their use, and subsequent disposal. (Whereas Christmas decorations of the day were intende to be saved and reused throughout the years.)
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It wasn't untill after WWII, and the Baby Boom after the war, that Halloween became a children's holiday. Over time, Halloween decor became increasingly cuter, and less spooky. Many times you can discern the age of a peice by the clothing style and expressions on the characters faces. Because of the disposable nature of the older products, to find them these days, and in good condition, is a valuable find.
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Unfortunately for me, I haven't been able to start my 'real life' Vintage Halloween collection; so I satisfy my Vintage Halloween jones wth newer vintage inspired peices, my own art, and my online Vintage Photo addiction!
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Hey... at least it keeps the costs down! LOL.
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If any of you all are interested in seeing how I decorated my tiny little Living Room- I did a post this weekend over at my other blog, Crafty's Cup. You can find it here.

And be sure to go back and check the other late September & early October posts for all kinds of Hallween inspiration. There are Arts & Crafts, Home Decor projects and idea, recipes and plenty of other Halloween goodies! You will find them all at Crafty's Cuppa Coffee. (Please excuse all of the 'Giveaway' posts lately- there have been a ton of awesome contests & of course you get extra entries if you blog & tweet about them.)
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Have a fabulous day!
~Danae

It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

2009-09-25T21:00:00.000-07:00

Like many of you, Halloween is my very favorite time of year, followed closely by Christmas of course. I adore the explosion of the senses that occurs in the Autumn. The colors, textures, smells and tastes excite the inner child in me. I get a thrilling rush of inspiration that carries me right through the Winter Holidays.

Some of my regular readers may have noticed my extended absence of blogging posts throughout the last few months. That is partly to do with the natural cycle of being more busy during the Summer months, and partly to do with me breaking my knee a month ago. So, the Crafty Chick Update is as such:

My children & I had a lovely Summer filled with backyard swimming, BBQ's, Beach & Lagoon Trips, a weekend boating vacation on Catalina Island. In July we had a nice 6th Birthday Party at the Lagoon for my son Jeremiah; and we even squeezed in a Wanna Be Camp Out in early August. (Details on the party at http://craftychickscuppacoffee.blogspot.com/2009/07/catchin-up-with-crafty-chick-gaia-art.htmll/ and the Wanna Be Camp Out at http://craftychickscuppacoffee.blogspot.com/2009/08/advenures-in-back-yard.html/ )

Then, on August 30th, after a great day at the Lagoon; calamity struck. It came silently,like it usually does; and crept firmly into my life. Basically,the short story is that I fell and fractured my knee. (Details here: http://craftychickscuppacoffee.blogspot.com/2009/09/hey-guysguess-what-i-did-this-weekend.html/) I finally had my surgery last week; and am now on the road to recovery.

This whole injury ordeal has presented me with many new obstacles; and is teaching me many unexpected lessons. I'm taking lot's of notes. Lol.

Thankfully, my family, friends, and neighbors have been incredibly kind to me and my kids. It is true what they say about how you find out who your true friends are in times like this.

Unfortunately, it seems that I am going to have to forgo our Annual Halloween Pumpkin Pot Luck Party for a much smaller affair.

You see, each year for the past 5 years we have invited our friends, family, and the local school & neighborhood families to my home during one Saturday in October. We decorate pumpkins, make chocolate haunted houses, play games and eat creepy fun foods. I think that I look forward to it as much (or more) than the kids. Halloween Parties give me the perfect opportunity to 'play' at decorating, with my arts 'n crafts, as well as making creative foods to serve.

So, while it looks as if I will not be able to pull of the usual Halloween Activities- that we will definitely still be celebrating in a scaled down version. I figure that all of this will make me even more creative, and appreciative of whatever Holiday Celebrations that we do have this year.

I have also been saving all sorts of fun vintage Halloween images and some great blog post ideas. I will get to them as I have time and energy. The good thing about Holidays is that they come again next year, and the year after. Lol.

That's about it for now. I hope that everyone is enjoying their own Summer's End, Back 2 School & Autumn Celebrations. Take care. :)

~Danae, The Crafty Chick

Dinner & Drinks? Ok Just Drinks...

2009-07-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

...And a Beer Batter Bloomin' Onion Recipe for you!

That's why its good to have a few cold ones in the fridge! You never know when you may need to placate the Hubby or the Guests while you make a frantic call for Take-Out! And of course light a few scented candles and air out the burn smell from the kitchen.

Now for me personally, I like to drink beer- but NEVER EVER Schlitz Beer! No way! I am more of a Micro-Brew or Import kind of Gal. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is my favorite 'everyday' sort of beer. But it seems like Schlitz put out quite a few cool ads 'back in the day'.

In honor of this 'All American' drink- and in 'Sisterly Solidarity' with the poor Lady above who burt her dinner (Lol!); I have a cool beer related recipe to share. And it is perfect for Summertime too.

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE BLOOMIN' ONION

4 Vidalia or Sweet Texas Onions

Batter:

1/3 C Cornstarch

1 1/2C Flour

2 tsp Garlic (minced)

2 tsp Paprika

1 tsp Salt

1 tsp Pepper

24oz Beer

Seasoned Flour:

4 C Flour

4 tsp Paprika

2 tsp Garlic Powder

1/2 tsp Pepper

1/4 tsp Cayenne

Mix Cornstarch, Seasonings and Flour until well blended.

Add Beer, mix well.

Cut 3/4" off the top of the Onion. And peel outer skin of Onion.

Then make 12-16 vertical slits, being careful not to cut down to the root bottom.

Remove the center from the Onion (about 1")

Dip Onion into the Flour, and shake off excess.

Separate the petals, then dip into the Batter.

Gently place into he fryer basket, and deep fry at 375-400* for 1 1/2 minutes

Turn over and fry for another 1 1/2 minutes until golden brown and crispy

Drain on paper towels

Serve with a BBQ Dipping Sauce

CREAMY CHILI SAUCE

1 pint Mayonaisse

1 pint Sour Cream

1/2 C Chili Sauce

1/2tsp Cayenne Pepper

~Bon Apetite!

Oh, The Drama!

2009-07-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

******** These just crack me up! ********

Those Were The Days...

2009-06-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

W.C. Feilds and Mae West

- The very first

of the blonde bombshell Pin-Up Girls.

The Queen of,

"Why don't ya come up and see me sometime?"

Retro Fabulous Humor

2009-06-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

Now this is a real ad...it hasn't been altered. Pretty Funny Huh?!

LARD??? I Dunno Honey. Do I Have To?

2009-06-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

I know the quality aint so hot- but come on! Lard Information Council? Whats next?!

*Another- "I can't believe this is a real ad" post.

Can You IMAGINE???

2009-06-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

And we thought today's kids were fast! No wonder we've had generation after generation of smokers!
*Just another "I can't believe this is a real ad!"

Russian Vodka...Russian Bride...

2009-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Now does she get to drink the Vodka while scrubbing the floor? 'Cause I might go for that...(TOTALLY KIDDING!)

*Another, "I can't believe this was a real ad" post.

The Guaranteed 3 Day Diet...

2009-06-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

I think this is gonna be a good kick off for my, "I Can't Believe This Is A Real Ad Week!"

I have quite a few of these beauties stashed away, and I was trying to think of a good purpose for them...well, this seems to be it. So for the next few posts, these are all the Ads that I cannot believe are for real. (And maybe some that I wish were!) As far as I know, these Ads are in their real, and unaltered state. ~Enjoy!

WooHoo! Summer Is Here!

2009-06-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

I cannot tell y0u just how happy I am
that Summer is FINALLY here!

The Good Things In Life...

2009-06-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

Most of the good things in life are enjoyed in the little moments.
Sometimes we just have to relax a bit, and take the time to truly enjoy them.

Just One Of Those Days...

2009-06-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those days were you feel like the Wicked Witch of the East?

Where you try to be good. You really, really WANT to be good.

But no matter how hard you try...You end up feeling like this?!

At times, I do.

So glad Summer is almost here- I sure am ready for it!

Have a good day guys. ~Danae

Oy! I Feel Like I've Been Stuck In The 1950's!

2009-06-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

Boy am I ever glad that's over with!

For those of you who already know...so sorry for the recap- I'll be brief. For those of you who didn't know why I've been neglecting my blog for a month now...it's because I've been stuck in the Dark Ages for the past few weeks. I've had me a real good run of 'bad techno juju'.

First my wireless Internet card busted.

I thought- "No big deal, at least I still have my cell phone's Internet. I can pick up my e-mail, read my blogs, go to a friend's house to post & send in my homework,etc.."

Then- the very next day my cell phone's Internet went out too!

So, I did what I was supposed to, called the tech support folks...and whad'ya think happened next?

Yup... In the process of trying to 'fix' my computer problem, the tech support people locked up
(ie: broke!) my cell phone. The whole damn thing- not just the computer!

After a few more 'major communication breakdowns' and other electronical setbacks, thankfully things started looking up for me. About 5 calls and 2 e-mails later, and they said that they are going to be sending me a new phone- "after their supervisor approves it!"

So cross your fingers for me, PLEASE! :)

And thankfully, last week I was able to get a new Internet card. So I am back in blogging action!

There were a few perks about not having such easy access to the Internet. One, it made me slow down and take the time to work on some offline projects that I have going on; which was very nice. I also was able to focus better on my school work, and I ended up getting not one, but 2 100%'s on my Research Papers (!) and a 98% on a test! Super Woo Hoo!

(Now, before anyone goes and thinks I am a genius or a rocket scientist (hee hee), let me tell you- I am not. These are just some extra-curricular classes that I am taking, and I am sure they are graded as such. (Not that I don't work my butt off to earn those grades- because I do; they just aren't in Biology, or Calculus. So now you know!

Also, I was able to get a bit of art work done, and work on some projects with the Kidlets. We are busy finishing up the school year and getting ready for Summer!

I LOVE Summer! I love spending the days at the pool or Lagoon, BBQ'ing each night, Sunday concerts on the cliffs overlooking the ocean...and whatever other fun stuff this Summer has in store for us! Hopefully a great 6th Birthday Party for Jeremiah, some camping, and maybe a trip to the Lake or to Catalina Island. (Or both if we are super lucky!)

So...I will close up this post with I am super glad to be back online- and Thanks to the Folks who still took the time to email me or comment on the blog while I was gone. You Guys are awesome! You are what makes blogging so much fun! Take care Ya'll- and have a nice weekend! ~Danae

SOME OF YOU WILL UNDERSTAND...

2009-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Aaaah, The Lovely Bernie...

2009-05-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

Have You Ever Had One Of Those days?!#*@#?!

2009-05-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

* WELL I'M HAVING ONE RIGHT NOW !!! *

Retro Fabulous Humor

2009-05-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

A Little Retro Recreation Funny 4 U...

2009-05-11T12:34:00.000-07:00

*Aaaah-ha-ha-ha! Now that is some good advice!*

A Little Retro Recreation Funny 4 U...

2009-05-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

*Just a little something to put a smile on your face!* :)

*Enjoy your weekend* ~from Danae

An Awesome Anti-Hate Video To Share With You...

2009-05-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Again! I wanted to share this with you all. It isn't Vintage or Retro related at all...but it is a fabulously important message that I think we all could benifit from. If you like it, I urge you to share t with the folks that you know. This origionally came from a post on rs. B's blog, "Cofessions of a Pagan Soccer Mom". (Excellent blog, by the way!) It is shared here with her permission. It is also up on my "Crafty's Cuppa Coffee" blog.

***DISCLAIMER***This video contains the F-Bomb, so if any of you cannot handle colorful language, have kids in the room, or are a kid yourself; then this message is not fo you! Otherwise...ENJOY!

A Little Retro Recreation Funny 4 U...

2009-05-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

Hey There Blog Buddies~you will have to forgive my lapse in posting. I have been busy...and will continue to be! LOL!
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I have been studying hard & doing my homework & projects for my new classes that I started last month. I'm doing well too! I got a 90% on my first test, another 90%, an 82% and a whopping 100% on this last one!!! Woo Hoo!
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Time to celebrate! Of course not too much...because still have a long way to go; and many more tests to pass before I can get too excited. But hey, if they all go half as good as these ones, I will be happy.
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Take it easy guys, and I hope all is well with each of you, your families & your lives.
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~Danae, aka 'Crafty' :)

Monday Madness ~ Welcome To My World...

2009-04-27T18:00:00.000-07:00

*Just a little Hello! from Crafty, to start your week off right!*

And just to let you all know that you are not the only ones with lives that sometimes suck...

Right now, I am busy getting ready to go fight a Red Light ticket in Traffic Court - FOR A LIGHT THAT I STOPPED AT!!! Woohoo! (Thank goodness that there is a photo to show that I stopped! One good thing.) And, as if that doesn't suck bad enough on its own...

They want me to pay a whopping $436 BEFORE I can go to fight the ticket! WHAWHAT?!(Probably so UncleSam can make a little interest off of my money, while I wait 6 months for the refund...AFTER I win the case. Government!)

So, would you all please say a quick prayer, (if you do that sort of thing); or just send some good energy my way, to help me along with this today. I appreciate the extra thougts and well wishes. Cause BOY DOES THIS SUCK!!! I haven't had a ticket or accident in over 10 years now. I sure don't want to start with this one. $436...I know people who have paid less than that for a DUI! What the ---- is THAT all about ?!#*?! Tell me on what planet that makes sense!

All right. Ciao Ya'll. Sorry if I pissed in your corn flakes! I truly do hope that all of you have a better Monday morning than I am about to have! By the way...Does anyone have like $436 that I can borrow? (Just Kidding!LOL!) Take care all.

Written by: One very stressed out & pissed of Retro Mama named Danae* :)

~UPDATE~10/09: Well, this week I FINALLY had my 'day in court'. After all of these months of going in for the 'next step' of the process; on Tuesday I was able to go into court, reveiw the video & plead Not Guilty.

Apparently- I did stop, but the cop did not feel it was for long enough. Oh well.

I did ask for community service in leiu of the fine- but would you beleive it is 58 hours of comm. service? WOWSERS! (Maybe I should have just come up with the money? LOL.) So, that is that- and now I can put this nonsense behind me. Thanks to those of you that left me kind emails & comments, and wished me well. I appreciate your friendship and thoughts. ~Danae :)

A Little Retro Photo Humor For Your Veiwing Enjoyment ! & A Note To My Readers...

2009-04-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

Hey There Blog Buddies & Retro Fantasy Fans~

I wanted to take a moment to send out a BIG THANK YOU! to all of you lovely people who took the time yesterday to send me such sweet comments about my new avatar photo. I think between the response from here and over at Crafty's Cup; I had a record day of comments. And all were fabulous and encouraging. THANKS GUYS!

On another note...I have a bit of news to share with you all.

Recently I have decided to pursue my Degree Program for my chosen spiritual path.

This is a momentous occasion for me, for many reasons. I have been wanting to take this step for many years now, and have not had the time or the money to invest in such a huge undertaking. After a long search for the right school and course program; I was thrilled to find the perfect venue for me to do just that.

The other wonderfully synchronistic aspect of this step is that my classes begin 15 years TO THE DAY! from the day that I had made my very first Formal Dedication to this path. May 1st 1994. Beltaine/May Day. How awesome is that!

Now, I did hesitate on mentioning anything about this on my blogs because I happen to be a bit of a procrastinator, and was worried about talking about something that I may not finish. Not to mention that the full program, (all 3 Degrees) that I would like to complete; takes a few years. So...that is a big chunk of uncertain territory that I will be taking one step at a time!

The main reason that I am mentioning this at all; is because all of the extra course work, projects and assingments, are going to mean that I have a lot less time to devote to my blogging. (And how I LOVES my blogging!) :)

But, please do not fear...I will still be posting, just on a less frequent basis. I hope that all of you will continue to check back in and follow me on this nw leg of my journey. It should provide some interesting fodder for blogging; as I have not been a student in oh...about 16 or so years! (Except for my time at Massage School, and that was 12 years ago! )

Also, remember that you can always subscribe to C.C. Retro Fantasy, (and all of your other favorite blogs) on an RSS Feed or through your Google Reader. This will automatically update you on any new posts as they come out. I LOVE my Google Reader!!! It makes it so easy to catch up on all of the blogs that I like to follow. It is like a cyber-magazine subscription delivered to my computer. I don't know how I would follow all of you guys' great blogs without it!

Okay Folks, have a great weekend, and wish me luck on this new leg of my journey!

***Posted by one very nervous & super excited Crafty Chick!***

A Crafty Chick Update~ A New Avatar Photo

2009-04-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

I wanted to put out quick post letting you all know that I am changing my Avatar Photo.

When started my blogs back in March, I didn't have any decent photos of myself to use. So, I used one of a favorite Retro Model of mine. But, I really didn't feel comfortable using that one...as it is not me. {I only WISH i was that pretty!}

I have been messing around a bit, trying to get a photo that I would like to use to represent me...and for now, I think i have one. {Who knows, it could change again!}

So...here it is.{And it looks much better smaller!} If any of you notice it around the Blogosphere, it is still me. Danae The Crafty Chick. Just a new photo, that's all!

The Domestic Goddess Files: More Creative Tips For You And Your Family

2009-04-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies~

Top Of The Morning To You!

I have some more Tips & Tricks to share with you this Morning. Unfortunately I had a whole slew of real cute Vintage Housewifey type photos to go with them but after I posted this one I couldn't get any more to post. Oh well. At least there is one. I guess that means I will have more for another post at another time. :)

So, I will just jump right in to the good stuff..

ORGANIZING YOUR PURSE

~First, empty all of the contents of your purse, to separate the groups of items, and put away or throw away anything that shouldn't be there. I like to do this over a plastic grocery bag, so that I just dump all of the contents, and then remove what isn't trash. It makes it easier, and all of the usual bits that I would have to pick up later are already then taken care of.

~Then separate all of the items that go back into your purse into groups. Some ideas for groupings to get you started are:

~Wallet: money, id & credit cards, checkbook, coupons, etc.

~Personal Planner: notebook, to do list, address book, calender, etc.

~Food Items: medicines, mints, gums, candies, etc.

~Writing Utensils: pens, pencils, note pad, stamps, envelopes, etc.

~Cosmetics: make-up, lipstick, gloss, etc.

~Manicure Stuff: nail file, clippers, polish, etc.

~Hair Stuff: hair brush, comb, sprays, clips, rubber bands, pins, etc.

~First Aid: band-aids, ointment, sun block, etc.

~Now, we don't usually want to keep ALL of these things in our purse ALL the time. But, once we put in in there, our purse becomes a black hole and we forget to take it out. Then, once we have so much stuff in there we can't find what we need.

~The trick is to use little make-up bags or zippered pouches to divide and contain everything. Then, it becomes a matter of grab and go. If I need to do my nails, I know that everything I need is in one little bag. Same with make-up, or food items. Then I am not digging through my lipsticks to find my coins at the bottom of my purse.

~Another great item to have in your purse, is one of those organizers that wraps around the inside of your purse. They have all kinds of little pockets, and it keeps the center of the purse free for larger items.

ORGANIZING BOOKLETS, MAGAZINE ARTICLES, RECIPES, ETC.

~I happen to keep my magazines for later reference; but I know that most people don't. Many magazines, like fashion, current events, sports, and the like; are only meant to be read once. In that case, sometimes it is easier to go through your magazine and tear out any articles you would like to read, or recipes to try. Then, you can either keep these in a folder to read when you have time, or you can file punch holes and file them into separate binders for later reference. This cuts down on the amount of magazines that you have to store, and helps you to find and read the articles that you are interested.

~Keep a binder , a file, or a plastic pouch section in your Home Binder, for appliance warranties and instructions. You can also punch holes in large Ziplock bags, to keep these items in. Each time you get a new appliance, put away the instructions in this same spot. Then, when something breaks, or your husband asks you where those warranties or whatnot are, you will easily be able to locate them.

~When you get a new reference book, (such as a cookbook, or a gardening manual), attach an envelope or pocket to the inside of the back cover. This is for any loose notes or other related information. That way you can keep it all together with the book.

~If your wall calender does no already have one, attach a large envelope or pocket to the bottom of the last page, (usually the cardboard backing). Now, whenever you get an invitation, jot down the date on your calender and file the invite into the pocket. This makes it easy to look for the phone number or directions. This is also good for upcoming events, such as for school or sports, or even for doctors appointment cards and the like.

~Create a "Tickler File". This can be done in many ways. You can use one folder for everything, and just keep it in the order that the things need to be done in. Another way is to use 12 folders, one for each month. As things come in, put them in their prospective places. As one month ends, empty the contents, and either file what you don't need anymore; or put the leftovers into the coming month's folder. Then, put the older month's folder into the back of the stack. You can organize up to a years items in this way.

~Having more than one phone is a convenience, but can also be a frustration. Make sure that by each phone you keep a list of important numbers, a pad and a pen, and anything else you commonly need at each phone.

~If you conduct a lot of business by mail, and order or ship things, keep a separate wall calender strictly for this purpose. Each time you place or send an order, mark it onto the calender, (send date and receive date). That way, if something is late, or doesn't arrive, you will have all of the info in one spot.

~Keep a running list taped to the inside of a cabinet to record loaned and borrowed items, AND remember who you lent it to, and when.

Okay Ladies, that's it for today. I hope everyone has a wonderful Friday, and a great

weekend. I know I am looking forward to it after a long, busy week! Take Care.

The First Edition Of The Domestic Goddess Files~ Tips Tricks & IdeasTo Make Life Easier

2009-04-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Eternal Struggle Of The Domestic Goddess!

...Our Work Is Never Done.

Once in awhile I come across ideas for an article or post, that I am not sure where to put. I have 4 blogs; a family blog, a spirituality blog, an arts & crafts blog, and this, my retro fantasy blog. You would think with all of these areas to choose from, that I would never run into a problem finding a place for all of my ideas to fit…but from time to time, I do. This is an a post about home care and life organization, not so much retro, but I figure out of all of the blogs, this sort of information could go over here. Kind of a Domestic Goddessy Post.
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When I became a Mother, I knew that life would get busy and everything would change. (It is funny because I refer to everything in my life before children as My Life B.C. It is quite fitting actually.) I have always been an artsy kind of girl, and I always loved kids, animals, and plants, and worked very well with them, but I was never really what you would refer to as domestic, and certainly not organizational! I never struggled with the childcare part of being a Mother, and I love the homemaking part of my life; but even today, I still have a hard time with the “domestic duty” portion of homemaking, and child raising.
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I am the kind of Mom who would rather spend the afternoon in the park, or doing craft projects with the kids and their friends than sweeping, mopping and dusting. I am rather laizze faire about my house cleaning duties. As long as things are presentable, the kids are fed a well rounded diet and we all have clean clothing to wear, I am a happy Mom. My biggest priority is raising healthy, happy loving little humans, and creating a warm, safe environment for us all. Most of the time I hit that mark pretty well, but as with all things in life, there is always room for improvement. (Kind of a theme with me!)
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[Also, just so everyone knows…these are ideas and tips that I have read, learned, heard, tried and want to share with others. But by no means do I do all of these things, all at once, all the time. No matter how much I wish that I did. I am a work in progress just like anyone else. I am by no means perfect, or even anywhere close. I wouldn’t want to give that impression. God forbid I might invite you over to my house someday and it be in a disaray, because that is just as likely to happen as it looking nice!
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I just am an idea girl. And I like to share. If I can pass something along to others, and someone enjoys it and it’s useful, I am happy. I don’t think that housekeeping is anywhere close to the most important thing in the world; it is just one way of making life a little easier. If done efficiently, we may possibly have more time to do the truly important things. Like enjoying that warm, welcoming happy home! ]
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We all have unwanted chores, jobs and tasks that must be completed before we can get on to the business of living life. Here are some tips and quick ideas that can help you with just that. They can keep you from backtracking and wasting valuable time that could be spent truly actualizing your goals. If you do a little each day and you will be amazed at what happens in your home. I have gathered some of my favorite, and most useful organizational homemaking sayings, tips and ideas, that have made sense, or helped me. Also, many new ones I hope to use and implement in my life.
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I hope to make this a regular addition to Crafty Chick’s Retro Fantasy, called The Domestic Goddess Files. I hope you find as much use and value in these ideas as I have. As always, take and use what makes sense to you and fits with your life…and leave the rest. No two people organize their homes or their lives in the same way. What may not work for me or you, may be
exactly what makes the difference in someone else’s life.
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SOME WAYS TO PUT IT ALL IN MOTION
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~Work with the rhythms of your body. Try to plan high priority tasks around the way your body naturally works, whether you are a morning or a night person. Do routine work during your “low” times.
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~The key is to start NOW. No matter how small the job. Do you have a letter to write? A call to make? As Nike so eloquently coined the phrase…Just do it!
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~Keep a daily to do list and assign each task with a priority number, 1-4. Do all of the high priority stuff, (the 1’s) first; and get to the rest as you can.
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~Provide yourself with a notebook, either loose leaf or spiral bound, and small enough to carry around with you. This notebook will become your “Master List”- a single continuous list that replaces all of the small slips of paper you may be used to. Use this notebook to keep track of all errands, things to buy, to do and any other general notes you may have, and things that require action.
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~Another even better system, is to have a 4 or 5 tab divided notebook, (again, small enough to carry). In this book, you keep your 4 sets of lists. In the first section you have your to-do, to-buy, to-go, to-call, to-mail, and to-send on the computer. A calendar in the second section, an address book in the third, budget and expenditures in the fourth, and maybe a blank miscellaneous notes section in there is room. These can be bought or made. They can also be obtained on-line from various sources. That is the super supremo organized way!
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~Keep your list with you at all times. A list is worse than useless if you can’t refer to it because you left it behind!
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*And, because I have always strived to fit somewhere between these to ways to get the lists organized, and come close to what I wanted, but never just right…I recently switched to a whole new method, and have found that I like it much better!
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~Now I use an online calendar and list system by Better Homes and Gardens. It is fairly new, and called COZI. I can enter all of my appointments, errands, etc. for my family and myself, all phone numbers, shopping and to do lists, even driving directions, and it will call me and/or leave me emails or texts to my phone if I choose. I can read it and change it from my phone. I can color code my whole family’s year, and it will automatically update items that happen more than once, when I program it that way. For years to come. This system has pretty much replaced my wall calendar, to do notebook, and much else. It even has a journal/blog where I can put photos and journal entries for special occaisions. If you are already using Microsoft Office, it will interface with that, and combine the two. It automatically updates the whole family’s calendars, so your husband or kids can enter something, and even if they forget to tell you, you will still know. You can even send messages through it to family members. Another big bonus for parents who have school age kids, is that COZI automatically uploads the school information and calander from most of the school districts, with more being added each month. You don’t have to worry about your kids forgetting to bring home the note from school about their minimum day…the calendar gets an automatic update and loads it in! Yeah! It is a truly invaluable tool. I love telling people about it.
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~Beware of the tail wagging the dog syndrome where your appointment book, budget records, filing system and master list take more time to maintain than working out the problems they are supposed to solve.
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~ Use separate notebooks or folders for bigger, long term individualized projects, like party or holiday planning, home repairs and decorating, or enrolling a child in college, retirement, etc.
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~I keep an extra large 3 ring binder with 2 smaller paper folders inside, (on for each kid), to hold important papers and info for the kids. This is not their ‘schoolwork to keep folder‘- this is for yearly things like the school schedule, school & class info, baseball, dance and karate schedules, I keep their current report card for easy reference, recent or pending medical info. Basically it’s all that stuff for the kids, that I am not using daily and weekly. I don’t need to be carrying all that stuff in my notebook, but I still need it close at hand, and not in storage.
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~Don’t be in a hurry to throw out notebook pages that have been completed. That stove part you ordered 2 months ago could be all wrong when it arrives, and you may have to call the same people all over again. (For instance, I keep all of my notes on parties that I have planned and hosted. That way I can look back to see who came, what we ate, who liked what, the number of the table and chair people, etc.)
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~Set up an area for yourself to keep all of your home management items, notebooks and tools together. Even if it just a notebook, and a basket on a shelf. Use it to keep pens, paper, stamps, envelopes and everything you will need to organize yourself.
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I have about a gazillion more of these quick helpful tips and ideas to share, but I think I will stop now, and leave some for future posts. I hope that you find some of this helpful for your life whether you have kids or not. I also have plenty of tips for makeup and purses, parties and holidays, travel, cooking, and a whole lot more. So be sure to check back once in awhile to see if there is something new; in addition to the usual retro awesomeness!
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I also would love to hear from any of you, who may have other ideas. I am always on the lookout for new and innovative ways for making my life easier and run more smoothly. You can leave them here, or you are welcome to e-mail me at (craftychick1221@YAHOO.com)

THE DOMESTIC GODDESS FILES...Even More Ways To Put It All Into Practice

2009-04-14T13:30:00.000-07:00

~Have a ‘home’ for everything. Don’t let stuff ooze. Herd your belongings like stray sheep; back to their ‘homes’. It is actually kind of fun to see how many logical 'homes' you can find for your stuff, and if one doesn't work, and you still find yourself leaving something out, or putting it elsewhere...then find a better spot for it. This needs to be a flexible, workin system. One that makes sense and works for the people using it.

~(No matter how well we practice all of these organizational skills, I think most everyone still has a “junk” area. I think that is normal, whether it is a junk drawer, a junk closet or a spare room that gathers all of our excess stuff. Just remember, that is what doors are for! As long as the junk isn’t in the common living areas, it is not so big a deal. If you have to have miscellaneous junk…and I do…have a drawer, or closet, area, a toy box, basket or crate to hide it. That way it isn’t on the couch, or eating table, etc.!)

~Group like items together. (ie:things for a projects, activity, or things you normally use together [baking tools on one shelf, sewing items, letter writing and bill paying, ironing, etc.] This makes it much easier to find what you need, and takes less time doing it.)

~Try to store things where you normally toss them. If you toss your shoes and coat by the door, put a hook there. Keys and change on the table, or nightstand,; put a basket there. Don’t force yourself to change habits, so much as use your habits and way of living, as an inspiration for organization. Put the organizational products, where you naturally tend to use them.
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~It is also true that you should always keep things in one place, so that you can find them. Have a key spot, a place for your purse, sunglasses, etc.

~My grandmother always told me (…and I wish I always did this); making a bed first thing is a good way to start the day, psychologically, and instantly makes the room look better

~List on paper 10 things that you wish to do before the end of the year.

~Make a list of 3 things that you want or need to do. Write the reasons why you are not doing it. Now change the negatives to positives. The ability to change a negative situation into a positive one is one of the keys to self-organization.

~I have found that the “Do the worst first” motto helps me get started. Once the worst is done, everything else is so much easier.

~Use the “Salami Method” to help you reach a goal. If the size of your project overwhelms you, tackle it bit by bit. You wouldn’t eat a salami whole would you? You would slice it into pieces. Do the same with your goals and projects. Slice them into pieces that are more manageable.

~No one has several hours to leisurely devote to the tasks at hand. The key is to use the 15 minute segments that you do have, to make a dent in the project. For example, file your nails, make an appointment to see the dentist, or just clean one shelf of that closet. You will double your efforts if you do small tasks, (like writing thank you cards), while engaged in some other activity, like running a bath or waiting for a casserole to heat.

~Do 5 minute pick-ups, or what we call a “Blitz” in my house. Pick up and dust or put away each item in a room for 5 minutes. Always work around the room. I go clockwise. Just go from one end of the room to the other, instead of crisscrossing all over. That way everything behind you is clean. You can see your progress much better that way. Use a timer. When the timer goes off you can choose to stop until the next work period; or you may choose to keep going.

~I have a shelf area right next to my front door. This is my “out the door shelf” Shoes and backpacks go on the bottom. There are a couple of baskets on the top for the kid’s papers, lunch tickets, videos or library books to return, etc. Jackets, hats, and gloves also go there. When it is time to go, I can easily see items that I must remember to bring with me.

~I also keep a similar basket in the car for this purpose. In it I keep my laundry cards, and detergent, etc. I keep magazines, books, and paper, pens, and stamps, and a few other things that I may need to handle stuff while I am out. I also keep my bill info in my glove box. That way if I am out running errands, and want to stop and pay a bill, I don’t have to run home for the account numbers. (I learned that one the hard way!)

~I keep extra food, sweatshirts, clothes and toys in the car for the kids; in case we stop to visit friends or family and decide to stay awhile. I don’t have to worry about cold, bored or hungry kids, and Mom can stay and enjoy herself awhile!

~Try not to put stuff down. (This actually becomes a fun challenge to see in how few ‘steps’ that you can handle stuff. Only deal with it once. ie: Don’t put it down, put it away.

~Go through the mail over a wastebasket and DUMP THE JUNKMAIL! Don’t even bother to read it. And for God’s sake, don’t keep it around to “read” later. It is called “Junk Mail” for a reason!
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~If you are making coffee, don’t get it out, spoon, sugar, cup, etc. with out swooping it up and putting away. All at once. Take it out, pour, put away, stir, wash spoon; and by the time it is made, it is put away. THEN, you drink in peace. When you are done, and get up, grab the paper, the cup, etc. Don’t leave it all there.
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THE DOMESTIC GODDESS FILES...The 15 Minute Organizer

2009-04-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

“IT ONLY TAKES 15 MINUTES A DAY AND YOU WILL BE ON YOUR WAY TO BECOMING A CREATIVE HOME ORGANIZER“, Emilie Barnes, Time Management Expert
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So, along the way on my quest of becoming Mommy Extraordinaire and Wanna Be Domestic Goddess; I have picked up a few tips from the experts. One of these tips that have worked really well for me is to live life in smaller intervals. I picked this up when I had my first baby, and it has just kinda stuck. Especially when the children are young, a Mom finds that her time is consumed with all sorts of little childcare and housekeeping chores and duties; and there is not much time for the rest of life to be lived.

In order to keep some semblance of sanity, and find the will to get everything done…I began chopping everything up into 15 minute sections of time. I found that while I may not have hours to spend doing things that I liked, or just needed to do; that I could get a whole lot done in smaller chunks of time.

An author really inspired me around this time; and helped me to see that really ANYTHING can be done if we just break it down. This already fit with what I had been discovering on my own, and helped me to find even more ways to manage my precious time better. It really is not a new concept…I just liked how she presented it.

The author is Emilie Barnes. She and her husband have a whole empire of Time Management books and courses, that they call, More Hours In My Day. I have a couple of her books that I absolutely adore. One is called The Creative Home Organizer, and the other is The 15v Minute Organizer. I have found both to be 2 of the most indispensable books in my home management library. I often go back and reread them for inspiration, and have loaned them out many, many times over the years.

So, the premise is, that no matter how large or undesirable the job, or task to be done; that if it can be broken down into smaller chunks, it can be accomplished much easier and without all of the pain and anguish. This really hit home with a Queen Procrastinator such as myself!

Emilie calls it the Salami Method. She says that, “You wouldn’t eat a salami whole; but, if you take it slice by slice it goes down much easier.” And it works, very well.
Take a job such as cleaning out the fridge. While I may not have a whole afternoon to clean the fridge, (assuming it would even take as long as I originally anticipate). Now, if I try to wait until I have a whole afternoon to do the job, it would probably not get done for a while. However, if I use the little bits of time that I have, and break the job up shelf by shelf, I will have it done in no time.

So, if I clean one shelf in the morning, while the kids eat breakfast, then another while I am on the phone waiting for someone on hold, and another while the laundry is going…well, you get the idea! Another great way to utilize this concept it with rewards; and multi tasking. Let’s say that I have to clean out a cabinet that I am dreading. If I find myself watching a TV show in order to avoid my work, I can watch 15 minutes of TV, clean a portion during the commercial, and then watch more TV, until the next commercial/work break. That way, the job gets done, I get to watch my show, AND time that would have been wasted watching commercials has been put to good use.

How about the time we spend waiting in line? If I have all of my bills or coupons in a folder in my purse, that bit of time can be used for that purpose, instead of me having to take more time later to do the bills. Or the 10 minutes that I would be waiting for my friend to arrive for us to go somewhere. Instead of twiddling my thumbs, getting upset that she is late…I could be loading the dishwasher, (if I had one!), or putting a load of laundry in. While the kids are in the bathtub, I spend 10 minutes wiping down the bathroom. 10 minutes before my own shower, I can scrub the tub, etc. When I clean the kid’s room, I watch my show in their room, instead of on the living room couch. Before I know it, my show is over, the job is done, and the hour that I normally would have wasted killed two birds with one stone! See the beauty of the system?

It is really fabulous for those jobs that you really-just-don’t-want-to-do! Instead of dreading it, and putting it off, (which by the way, I still do quite often!), I can combine it with a desirable activity. I can check out my favorite blogs for 15 minutes and then work on something I don’t want to do for 15. I know that I only have to do that undesirable job for 15 minutes, and then I can go back to my fun activity. This really cuts down on the “Mommy Guilt” too! I don’t have to feel so bad for doing the stuff that I like, if I am also tackling the important jobs too.

Part of the fun is timing yourself to see how long activities really take, and then seeing how many 5, 10, 15 and 30 minute activities you can accomplish without effort. One example of this is mopping the floor. I used to dread mopping the floor. I hated it. But, I hated walking on a dirty floor even more. It caused me untold stress and anguish every time I thought of having to do the job, how much I hated it, how bad I felt about myself for procrastinating, and the guilt every time I looked or walked on the dirty floor! I had estimated that it took somewhere between 30 and 45 minutes to mop my floor. When I timed it, I discovered that it could be done in 12 minutes! Wow! All of that guilt and negative self talk over 12 minutes worth of work! Now that just seems silly. When I think of it now, I just think of the fact that after 12 minutes or so, I will be done, AND have a clean floor. Sweet!

So to get you started, I thought I would write down a few of the things that can be done in 5, 10, 15 and 30 minute intervals, and you can take it from there. See how many of your own chores and activities you could break up into smaller, more workable pieces. Also, time yourself to see just how many of the tasks that you thought would take a long time, actually only take a matter of minutes. Try it yourself and see if this might be something that could be of use to you. Even if you do not have children, I am sure everyone could use more time, better spent! Not to mention all of the time that it frees up to spend doing the things that really matter to us.

This theory also works at your job. I am sure there are tasks and chores that you are not keen on doing, but that could be done with less stress and more efficiency, leaving you more time for projects that really need to be done. See if this method could help make your life any easier and more productive. *And remember ~Work smarter, not harder!*
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5 Minute Tasks

~Going through the mail
~cutting up veges for a later meal
~loading the dishwasher
~sorting laundry
~putting in a load of laundry
~looking up directions for something on the internet
~Filling out a form
~Handling a phone call
~Ironing an article of clothing
~Wiping down the counters (Kitchen or Bathroom)
~Making a bed
~Signing a card and putting it in the mail
~Making a list for shopping or errands
~Writing a journal entry or blog post

10 Minute Tasks

~Writing checks to pay bills
~Folding a load of laundry
~Sweeping the floor
~Keeping up with a pile of things to file
~Picking up a room, putting away odds & ends
~Dusting
~Washing dishes by hand
~Writing a letter to a friend or family member
~Filing or painting your finger nails
~Making a list of goals
~Cleaning off a desk or table, (sometimes less)
~Mending a piece of clothing
~Cleaning out your purse
~Making a lunch for the next day (Yourself, Kids, Husband, etc.)

15 Minute Tasks

~Vacuuming
~Cleaning a shelf, or drawer
~Mopping the floor
~Cleaning out the car
~Making a party schedule plan and to do list
~Making a trip schedule or plan, and packing list
~Going thru the closet to get rid of outgrown or unwanted items
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30 Minute Tasks
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~Cleaning the entire Kitchen/ Bathroom/ Bedroom, etc.
~Pulling weeds in an area of the yard or garden (or even less time depending on the area)
~Planting or transplanting some flowers
~Washing the car
~Balancing a checkbook
~Organizing photos

A Few Of The Things That I Have Been Coveting Lately...

2009-04-07T20:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, My Friends,

I have been a very naughty girl. Well, not really. So far I have only been looking. But looking leads to buying, so they say!

These are some of the beauties that I have had my eye on.
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And, if you recognize a few of these pieces from a few pots back...that is only because I love them so much!

Since I can't afford to buy all of the gorgeous clothes that a girl craves...
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I am reduced to lusting after them online. Oh, well. It could be a whole lot worse!
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But...if I HAD the money (to spend on myself)...these are definitely some of the classy duds that I would be cruising around town in.
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It really is a good thing that I am a Crafty Chick. Of course, I cannot make ALL of the styles that I would like to; but I have been having a bit of fun, here and there.
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If any of you are interested; I have a T-Shirt Make Over Project posted on my Arts & Crafts Blog, Crafty Chick Creations. If you would like to check it out, you can find it at

(http://craftychickcreationsblog.blogspot.com/)
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I am still working on re-vamping my "Broke Girl's Spring & Summer Wardrobe".
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I have a few dresses that I am cutting down into shorter flair skirts, and blousey trapeze tops.

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And then of, course there are the usual t-shirt re-construction projects that I love so much for their 'Immediate No Sew Gratification' that they provide!

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I am also working on a few re-constructed outfits for my daughter, Makayla. I am planning a couple of jean skirts, out of her older jeans. I would also like to try out a project I found somewhere online. I think it might have been Alter-Nation, but don't quote me!
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Basically, you take a large men's button down work shirt, and turn it into a little girl's dress. It is VERY CUTE!

Other than that, I don't have too much else going on in the way of fashion, this week. Now next week I could have a neat-o new project started...or finished!

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Anyways, I hope that you all are having a very nice week. My children and I have been thoroughly enjoying 'our' Spring Vacation.
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I say 'ours' because i get to enjoy the break from school as much as they do!
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I guess I am one of those weirdo Moms, who actually like it when my kids are home. Ha!
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I am always hearing others complain that they can't wait until this break or that vacation is over, so that they don't have to deal with their kids all day long...but like I said...we are having a ball. So far! Ask me again in a couple of days, and I might be singing a different tune.

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And other than that...Have a great rest of your week, and a very Happy Easter!

See Ya'll Soon! ~Danae

Vintage Sex Appeal

2009-04-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Retro Blog Buddies~

There's not too much going on with me in the way of super interesting blog posts...so i thought that I would do the next best thing, entertain you with fabulously sexy vintage pin-up art! Always a favorite pastime of mine. When I have nothing on my mind, and I need a bit of inspiration, I always turn to the masters. They don't get much better than the original pin-up artists of the 1940's and 50's.

Not only are the ladies stunning to look at, the clothes and hairstyles to die for, and

the poses divine...but the actual painting techniques are pretty amazing too. (At least

for someone like me, who actually is interested in that kind of thing!)

I really enjoy the various artists styles and nuances. The way some of them did innocent peek a boo poses, while only hinting at the naughty nature of the model; and others went for a nearly nude look, only using the clothing to cover the most necessary parts. I think that is such a big difference in the way that the pin-up art of yesterday, contrasts the 'right up in your face nudity' of today. In the process the models of today seem to have lost much of their sex appeal, (for some.)

I have always thought that their was something to be said for leaving a little to the imagination. (But of course, I am not a man, so I might have it backwards.) I'm just saying! There is something so alluring, and coy about the pin-ups of this time. Whether it is the fully clothed ones, showing just a hint of leg; or the nearly necked ones barely covered with a towel, or an opportune piece of fabric. It is something that definitely seems to get lost in the fully nude images that are plastered on everything today. Somewhere along the line...they lost their class.

We sure have come a long way from the Old Hollywood

Morality Codes, that timed how long a kiss could be, and required one foot to be on the floor during bedroom scenes.
And speaking of Hollywood bedrooms; how about the long gone days of Ricky and Lucy's separate beds! (I think I know a few wives who probably wouldn't mind reinstating that archaic tradition...much to the horror of their husbands, and the detriment of their marital bliss!)

There is much more than just the hint of nudity that makes these gals so smokin' hot. For me, it also has something to do with the way the same model or actress could go from siren to school girl and back to Lolita, in a matter of a costume change. Yet the sultriness always lay right beneath the surface.

However, even in the midst of the sexiest poses, they always carried themselves with an air of dignity and class; something that is most surely lacking in most of today's erotic photos and art.

I also have always loved the way that these artists could make the simplest things appear to be naughty. From getting a skirt caught on something while walking the dog, to collecting the mail; even the most innocent acts, became a flirting occasion. They sure had a way of making the mundane tasks of the everyday woman, or housewife appealing. (If only we looked that good in real life as we go about our day!)

Yes, it truly was a bygone era of beauty, impeccable style, and class. The days of long legged ladies in silk stockings. Gloved hands, dangling a lit cigarette as she leans seductively forward to accept a light. Well coiffed hair do's and fitted dresses. An accidental glimpse of leg or thigh, as the woman went about her daily routine.
I think that is what the actresses, models, and the artists who captured the; saw in their essence, and were able to translate with their art. This is what fascinates me, and keeps me coming back for more. The seductive mystery of what isn't said. Now that is undeniably sexy!

I hope you enjoyed this Retro flashback brought to you by Danae, the Crafty Chick

Hey Sailor!

2009-04-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

I think that I like these retro pin-up reproductions as much as love the original ones. This was one of the winners from a pin-up contest this year. She was a runner up. But boy, she is tops in my book!

Lovely Rita...

2009-03-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

Maybe because it's Friday, and that is the day of the love Goddesses, Venus, Aphrodite and Freya...my thoughts were brought around to a different kingd of Goddess. One of the Godesses of the silver screen.
The Goddess herself, Rita Hayworth.

The very essence of Old Hollywood glamour. And look at those impeccable curls. Who can resst those eyes? Oh,to be this photogenic...

I have always loved how she could go from sexy siren to girl next door. That is a gift, to be able to chameleon into different roles. I envy that quality!

Anyways, I hope everyone has a great Friday, and a fabulous and relaxing weekend! I loved all of the blogs this week...and I am looking forward to reading more.

Ciao

~Crafty

Rockabilly Style

2009-03-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am just lovin' this Rockabilly Style! It has all of the fabulous elements of yesterday's hot fashions; with the edge of today. The clothes, the hair, the music...all so classy and yet still modern and new.

I picked a few of my favorite photos and fashions to share with you. As you can see, I couldn't limit myself to just one!

How cute are these shoes? These aint yo' Mamas saddle shoes!

And I hate to say this, but I would sell one of my children for this adorable coat! But then again; you know I am kidding. (I'd sell both of them.)

If only I could get my hands on these fabulous fashions! If only I looked this good in these fashions! I just love halter tops, and this one, with this great skirt, jacket, and shoes. Yowza!

Or even with this cute little blouse number.

But then again, I am a sucker for black, red and white!

Then you have this sweet, v-cut sparrow dress, my favorite cut. So fattering on virtually any figure. And beautiful embroidery. (Or is that silkscreen? It's late. I can't tell! LOL!)

Then we come on down to this cute cat, with her hair all done up in a red snood. Adorable curl, makeup and outfit. I can't add much to that.

So that is it for this little Rockabilly Revival. I don't know about you, but I want to go shopping! Oh well, that is what a bit of blog indulgence is all about!

Have a super day everyone!

~Crafty

Monday Morning Madness!

2009-03-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

In the Summertime...

2009-03-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, Yeah; I'm dreaming of Summer. I know it's still too early, but these lovely warm days have me thinking of long hot days a the lagoon, late night barbeques and swimming until long after dark. I am so happy Spring is finally here...but that's only because it's getting us closer to Blessed Summer!

I thought this might be a fun time to post these gorgeous bathing beauties. (If I looked this good in a bathing suit, I wouldn't mind shopping for one!)

I don't know about you Ladies; but I am on the lookout for quick and cute hairstyles , to wear to the beach this Summer. I have done all of the scarf and bandanna hairstyles...and every pony and pigtail known to man. Or woman. So, I am all eyes and ears right now. I want to find and hear all of the latest and greatest...and oldest and greatest hairstyles that this Summer has to offer.

I'm lovin' the Blondie's hair on the upper right. But the only way that would happen in my case, is if I went out the night before! I'm not doing all of that, just to go to the beach. For me personally, so far; my best beach day hairstyle is a mixture of two. It is one of the most versatile hairstyles that I wear. I have a ton of variations...and most take me about 5 minutes to get done.

I first part my hair on the side. Then I do partial pigtails on both sides. (You know, parted horizontaly from the crown/part to the ears.) Rubber band, and braid each half pigtail.

Then I do one of two options. I can take all of the hair at this point, and gatherit into a low back ponytail. Or I can part the hair down the middle in the back, and gather the braids into these pig tails.

Then I either braid those, wrap them into little side buns, or leave them loose. Any cute little adornment can be added at this time. Even a bandana or scarf looks great.

Yay! New Readers... I Salute You!

2009-03-15T22:00:00.000-07:00

This is a great big THANK YOU! to my two very first readers to join Crafty Chick's Retro Fantasy!!!

YAY! I salute you! I hope that you enjoy everything that you find here. I will try to keep it interesting.

And on that note...I had all of these grandiose plans for the weekend. NONE of which I accomplished But then, maybe I should have added that I have a big ol' case of Artist ADD to my profile. I know it...now you know it too!

I had plans of adding to my blogs; the only one that got any post this weekend was my Crafty's Cuppa Coffee blog. (That was on Friday night...does that count as the weekend?) Oh well.

What I did end up doing, was spend a fabulously lazy weekend, in my fluffy robe and slippers, (yeah, ALL weekend long...how tacky!) I enjoyed an entire weekend of no kids, no chores, and no productivity. How rare is that for a Mama of 2?

Well, to be fair; the kids were with their Dad all weekend. (Yeah, unfortunately we are separated/divorced w/out the paperwork kinda thing) :( And, besides, my vehicle has a flat tire. So there wasn't much need to go anywhere. Instead I was a big, flaky, lounge lizard all weekend long. Me and the kitties. Just chillin' like villians, in front of my Cathode Ray Tube. (My computer.) I ended up playing around on the net, collecting great new photos to share with you, catching up on my favorite blogs, and adding some new ones to my list. Oh, what fun!

I did write some posts...but the are languishing in the 'Not to be posted folder', until I fix them up to my liking. Yeah, I'm one of those. I also have that bad case of Artist Perfectionism Procrastination Syndrome. (Among many, many other things!). I get these stupid visions in my head of the way I want something to turn out...and if it doesn't; it either doesn't get finished, or never sees the light of day. I'm working on it, really.

So now, this post is breaking some of my 'Informal Posting Policies', (J/K, I'm not that anal!)

My goal is to make sure that I post as many, if not more, 'Informative' posts, as I do 'Not About A Damn Thing In Particular' posts. You see, I was hoping to keep this blog from becoming my 'Cyber Journal'! No such luck. And, to be fair, I did write up a couple of 'Info' type posts yesterday; but like I said...they are hiding. :) So what I am gonna do, is take my 'Mush For Brains From Too Much Computer Time', and get off the 'Idiot Soap Box'. Get me a long, hot shower before my kidlets get home, and start getting ready for the week....right after I put a post onto Craty's Cup, that is! P.S.~(By the time this finally got posted...the kids were home, bathed and in bed. THEN, Mommy got back to the fun of 'Blog World! I just didn't want anyone to take a look at the time and say,"My, my, what is that lady doing? Her poor neglegtad children!" He,he.)

Speaking of the week. We have kind of a big one coming up. Besides the usual, (school, homework, errands & chores), we have a couple of biggies on the agenda. First of all, my Swap Bot Swaps will be going out in the mail manana...which means that I will be expecting 2, (count that Ladies, 2!) packages of goodies coming in the mail for ME! this week! YAY! I love surprises! These will be my first from my new swap site that I joined last month, Swap Bot. Can you tell that I am excited?

Tomorow afternoon, my little man, J.D., age 5 will be playing in a T-Ball Game. (Go Pirates!) Then Mommy has a massage. No, no~ not for me...I have to GIVE one. ( I only wish I could get one!) Also, later on Monday evening, my 9 y/o Makayla, (otherwise known as 'Miss Red') will be finishing up her Hip Hop Dance Class, and getting ready to go to competition. (Way to go girls!) I guess that means that I should get that flat tire fixed on my 'Mommy Mobile', so we can get moving again. There is nothing like a giant vehicle shaped paperweigt in the driveway, to make you appreciate the glories of personal transportation, eh?

Then, later in the week, J.D. will also take his last Karate class, and be taking his test to move up to the Yellow Belt Class. (My fingers are crossed for him!) Another T-Ball game at the end of the week, on Friday...and we're done! (With a whole lot of other boring stuff in between.)

I am hoping that next weekend, all goes well; because I am planning to take the kidlets, and a couple of our friends, up to the snow for a play day! We went last month, and it was AWESOME! 5 feet of fresh powder to play in. (Not bad for Southern California.) So, I really had better get to fixing that tire...and putting 3 other fresh ones on for good measure!

So, Ladies...I thank you for taking the time to join my little bloggy~blog. I am very happy to now have some readers. (I say that like it's been forever...but I only started this one less than a week ago!) I will be looking forward to seeing what all of us have to post this week.

I hope everyone had a nice weekend, and gets their week off to a good start tomorrow.

Until next time...Caio!

The Beautiful Bombshell Bernie Dexter

2009-03-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is Bernie Dexter; and she is by far, one of my favorite retro reproduction models of our time. I wanted to introduce you to her for two reasons.

One; is that I have her photo as my avatar. I did not want anyone to mistake me for her. I am cute...but not that cute! No, I use that photo because it represents all of the qualities that I envision in a woman. She is cute, coy and classy; all things that I hope to emulate in my daily life, and my writings.

Two, I will be posting many of her other photos in this blog, along with several other talented and beautiful models. I enjoy her style and also the fashions that she models. So, I thought it fitting to formally introduce her, before any of you mistook her for me! Just as many people post their favorite photos as their avatar; this I have done also. I feel that it makes a nice transition between each of the blogs that I write; "Crafty Chick's Retro & Vintage Fantasy", "Crafty Chick Creations", and "Crafty's Cuppa Coffee". I hope that you all enjoy seeing her photos, and reading my blogs as much as I enjoy writing and producing them.

Springtime Has Arrived...finally!

2009-03-11T15:09:00.000-07:00

Spring is finally here!

Well, at least for those of us in Southern California. (But then again we don't get much of a real Winter
anyways!)

So sorry for you guys in the rest of the country, I know many of you are still covered in snow. I guess you will have to live vicariously through me for now.

Spring always makes me want to put on a pretty dress and walk barefoot through the grass. This Spring has me thinking of new wardrobe options.

Seeing as how there is not much extra money in the coffers right now; I am turning my thoughts to crafty ways to stretch and upcycle the wardrobe I already have.

Recently I was bitten by the Clothing Reconstruction Bug, and it has me looking at everything in a whole new way. Now, instead of getting rid of clothes that I haven't worn in awhile, or don't fit anymore; I am now thinking of other uses for these them besides the thrift shop.

I have a whole bunch of t-shirts that I wasn't wearing, for one reason or another, (too big, too small, not cut the way I like, etc.) A few weeks ago, I got out my fabric shears, and went to town. I recut the necklines and the sleeves into more appealing designs. I made scoop necks, v-necks, even made a one shoulder cut. For the sleves, I trimmed some a bit, others I sliced up the top seam, and made flapping shoulder sleeves, and some I used the extra strips to tie onto the shoulders. My favorites are the ones where I opened up the back with slits, and tied strips to them to searate the slits.

My next project entails me cutting down my old hippie skirts to make some flowy blouses with v-necks and some with spagehtti straps. I also have some skirts in mind. I want to try my hand at the recycled jean skirts, and also make some cotton flare skirts, for all those nice Summer days. If succeed, then I will be duplicating them in a smaller size for my daughter, Makayla. I used to make sundresses,; and I may have to start again...because a girl needs a few new dresses to enjoy the warm weather.

Untill then, I will just have to keep fantsizing about about these gorgeous creations that I find on the web. I love the cute and classy look of them. Even the prices are right, (just not for broke little old me!) Now maybe I could make friends with a talented seamtress an barter...Hmm***One of these days!

Welcome!!!

2009-03-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hello there... I am Danae,

the girl behind Crafty Chick Creations.

Welcome to my new blog,

Crafty Chick’s Retro Fantasy.

This is where you will find all of my favorite retro clothing,

hairstyles, art, photography,

home decor and design inspiration.

I have always had a passion for all things vintage.

Sometimes I think I was born at the wrong time.

Don’t get me wrong, I love all of our modern conveniences;

but my heart yearns for a time long ago,

when ladies had class, and men wore fedoras.

I long for the days of black and white, accented by Technicolor.

A time when father knew best and mama cooked dinner.

I love seeing women with gloves and a hat,

and wearing colorful brooches and baubles.

These are the things that fill my imagination,

(when it’s not occupied with any number of other things!)

I enjoy real letters, handwritten and sealed with a wax stamp.

Crisp white tea towels,

embroidered lovingly by hand at night by a mother or grandmother.

Each of these hold a special place in my heart.

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There are so many things that I see around me,

that I can not afford, or acquire; but here, that doesn’t matter.

Here, I can talk about them, enjoy them, and share them with others.

I can explore the uniqueness and splendor of all of these, and more.

This, excites me beyond measure!

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But more than this,

I enjoy seeing the evolution of these elegant styles

as they are translated by the people of our generation.

Those of us who are not satisfied with today’s popular culture.

Those of us for whom fashion falls just a bit flat.

We are the one’s who take the best of today,

while mixing it with the best of yesterday;

and create the styles & trends of tomorrow.

We are not copycats,

we are an eclectic and creative blend of innovators!

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I hope to bring all these things and more to this blog;

and I hope you join me for the ride!

I am Crafty Chick,

welcome to my Retro Fantasy!