This is the nicest note !

Below is a note that a customer sent me about my Stella Swampbottom froggie doll. This really makes a doll artist's day !

Hugs,
Linda

Stella did arrive and I haven't stopped smiling since she got here. I can't even tell you how much I like her - it makes me happy every time I see her. It is everything about her but especially the mask - it's just too much : ).
This is truly one of the best things I've ever purchased for myself. And, I have to tell you too that was the most fun I've ever had opening a package - ever!
She's taken up her post and she's the first thing you see when you come in the front door. I've got an army of people coming in next weekend so they'll all get to see her too! They'll be very envious : ).
Thank you so much for bringing this entertainment into my life! She'll be treasured.
Thanks for the bonus pumpkins too! This has been so much fun!!

Meet Stella Swampbottom ~ Debuting September 1st on TDIPT Mercantile

Click on photos to enlarge.


Caught in the spotlight !




Stella is masquerading this year as a witch. Wearing this *spooktacular* costume and toting her spider leg (beaded) trim bag, I am sure she will win first prize for the best attire! :o) She is 17 inches tall with her witchy hat. She is a tad plump with a round heavy weighted rag ( fabric scraps )and plastic poly pellet bottom, but please don't tell her I said that ! It must be from eating all those lollipops !

There is quite a lot of detail on her little witchy costume, her bag and mask. In the lighting, her color looks a little washed out; she is a warm coffee stained and cinnamon sage green and ivory.

She will be listed the evening of August 31st on TDIPT Mercantile for the month of September. Unless a handsome prince comes along and sweeps her off her feet ( little round bottom ) !

Enjoy your day and have a pleasant weekend !

Hugs,
Linda

** New ** Table and Chairs ! from the Antique Store

The print above the hoozier was a gift from a friend. I made a vingette from the vintage finds that I already had to complement the print.



This is my vintage kitchen and my **new** table and three chairs that I found a couple weeks ago in an antique store. The table has a porcelain top with leaves and has a drawer in one side. Even though I love the primitive look, I have a soft spot for a vintage kitchen and breakfast room. I made the cushions for the chairs from a piece of Longaberger ( basket ) fabric.

I made the long tiers on the windows from a store bought vintage style tablecloth and made the tiebacks with rick rack trim. The store bought valances match the tablecloth curtains.



The hoozier was a find 11 years ago for $200.



The white china cupboard was another steal at only $40.



The only thing missing from the photo is a homemade pie sitting on the hoozier !

Hugs,
Linda

Another reason to love Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, MD is not afraid to praise the Lord ! These photos were taken on the beach at Ocean City at night. These sculptures are permanently on the sand and lit up at night.

Hugs,
Linda

The Cathedral of Learning and Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh

Click photos to enlarge..




In the background of a couple of the photos is the Cathedral of Learning at Pitt University in Pittsburgh. These were taken in front of the Phipps Conservatory this past weekend. My sister and her boyfriend and my sister and me. My hair was blowing every which way but loose from the strong winds and is covering my face as you can see. The glass sculpture is hanging in the foyer of the Phipps Conservatory.

The photos were sent to me from my sister's camera as I totally forgot to take mine.

If you get a chance, please take a peek at www.tdiptmercantile.com to see the new creations for the 15th of the month !

Hugs,
Linda

Ocean City, MD. and Assateague Island

My son and grandson at the Assateague Island National Park.



We saw the Assateague ponies on our way out of Assateague.



The ocean on Assateague Island. It's very relaxing here at Assateague. No stores, no huge crowds, and no noise except for the sound of the waves and the seagulls.



Sunset on the bay of Ocean City from Talbot Street. In the foreground is the Angler Restaurant. Behind the Talbot Inn Motel, where I am standing on the second floor porch, is the M.R.Duck's Restaurant. The drawbridge is behind the post of flag but it is difficult to see. The Angler Restaurant has been in Ocean City for 70 years, I believe.



This is one great sign that is displayed in Ocean City !



My grandson, with the boardwalk in the background. The boardwalk has been in Ocean City since 1902. It has grown to three miles long.



This is Dumser's Dairyland Factory. It's been a part of Ocean City history since 1939. Of course, I had to try the original orange swirl cone.



My grandson is standing under the boardwalk sign.



A fishing pier on the inlet of the bay at Ocean City. You can fish here all day for a small fee.



My grandson, who was tired of having his picture taken...also, a little 11 year old atttitude showing.



Can you find my grandson in this photo ? This is taken on the boardwalk.


The throw away camera worked, but I sure missed my digital camera !

Hugs,
Linda