New In The Sewing Neighborhood

People are starting to talk about this new chick in town named Rebekah Merkle. She is a designer who is all the buzz in the sewing world. A woman from Idaho with five children who moved to Oxford England for her husbands job. She started out sewing dresses for her three daughters and it has led her to creating her own fabric line and patterns! Her designs are very bold and yet somehow has a traditional twist. How exciting to see that the new line is out! It's called "England Swings!" Check out the video!



I have been following her Blog for a little while now and love all the sweet little things posted. She is a true talent! I vicariously live through her site. Can you imagine, Oxford England? If only,..::Siggh:: Cheers Rebekah for the inspiration you give this stay at home Ohioan mom. I think I may have to swing on by and order some of the those delish red prints. You can never have too much fabric right?!

One minute your in, the next you're out!

I am so excited!! Tonight is the Premere of Project Runway Season 9! I don't know about you, but I am a BIG FAN! It is inspirational and fun to get to know the newest contestants and see what they come up with. Each year the challenges get harder. Keeps you on your toes! I find myself living vicariously through them. In my wildest dreams...::Siggh:: Make sure you tune in tonight at 9pm on Lifetime.

Feeling Inspired,...

Reference to photo: Here

I usually don't blog about books, or write reviews for them. I really don't have the time these days to read much,...but a few weeks ago I watched an interview with Diane Sawyer on ABC of a young girl who was kidnapped at age 11 and found 18 years later as an adult in a tent in her kidnappers back yard. I went out to the store the day of the book release and bought it. Her name is Jaycee Dugard. Her story brings chills. With all that she has dealt with in her life, she has stayed positive and hasn't allowed her situation to make her bitter and filled with hate. She decided to write a book to share her story and to expose the man and woman who captured her and kept her locked up for 18 years, who also made her pregnant not once but twice and deliver her babies in their backyard. She says that it is her kidnappers "shame" and not hers. They stole her childhood, but they will not steal her joy for life. She wants her book to remind people to be aware of what is going on around them and to go to the authorities if you feel that something weird is going on with a neighbor, or whomever you come across. Even if you aren't 100% sure something is wrong. Go with your gut. If it wasn't for two woman who suspected something, she wouldn't have had a chance to live in freedom today. I have to warn you that her book is graphic. She does go into some detail about the treatment she has received,...but she also shares ways she learned to cope, her hopes that she has for both her daughters, and how to be thankful no matter what circumstance you are in. She has touched my heart and I am sure many others with her heroic story. It is amazing to read a book by a girl who wrote it independently and with only a 5th grade education. Amazing! It will bring tears to your eyes, your heart will break a little for her, and you will cheer in the end when you see how happy she is today to be reunited with her mother and sister and to be living a life of freedom with her daughters. Truly overall an unbelievable inspirational story!

Jaycee has set up her own foundation to help others who have love ones who have been kidnapped. It is called The JAYC Foundation. For more info here is the link: JAYC

If you would like to see a clip of the interview, click here: VIDEO

Just a thought,....

Have you ever had a day, month, heck a year, where you are scratching your head and wondering why things are working themselves out the way that they are? I can honestly say that it has been one of those weeks here at my house. Sometimes the craziness of life distracts us from what is really important. We get so wrapped up in what isn't going right, or what isn't going "as planned" that we forget the things that make us happy! And while we worry, lose patience, fret, we forget to be thankful for those things which God has blessed us with. Because things can always be worse. I heard a very profound quote the other day (not sure who it is from).
It said:

"What if you woke up tomorrow with only the things you thanked God for today?"

So that is what I am challenging (myself) you with this week,....What makes you happy? What are you thankful for?

Source: bloomtime.tumblr.com

What inspires me today,...

Today the weather is just perfect for a summer picnic. I am dreaming of a day when we can relax and spend some time outdoors together. Life just seems to get too busy these days,..and we need to just spend quality time together. Hoping for a chance this holiday weekend. ::crossing fingers:: I <3 Summer!

Dreaming of this,....

no source



Pictures: 1. 2. 3. 4.

If Only,...(Paris giveaway entry)

Paris has been on my mind as I work on a few new "french fabric" aprons for TrendyMeg! I am excited to show you sometime later this week the results. Something about Paris just screams fashion, tradition, elegance, romance and honestly makes me want to kiss someone. Such an inspirational city.

I have been thinking a lot lately about traveling. Maybe because right now in our lives it has to be put on hold. Doesn't mean that it will never happen, just put on the back burner. Tom and I have been talking about taking a trip to France in a year or so. I have been once, but it was only for a day (in between my other Europe adventures). I would really like to hear Tom speak (ie. sharpen his skills)French! Paris in the summer would be lovely. To my surprise I stumbled upon this amazing giveaway! Over at "Oh Happy Day" blog they are giving away a dream trip to Paris! Beyond Amazing! If only I can win ::crossing fingers:: You can enter too,..just head on over to this link: PARIS

photo links: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

What I am listening to...

As I am joyfully sewing this week, I find that I am more productive if I listen/sing to music while I work. I find that this is also true when I cook. Anyone out there sing and dance in the kitchen while working? I love it! It makes things more fun. I thought I would share this hidden jewel I discovered a little while ago. They are a group of talented musicians who call themselves "The Lower Lights." Out of the great state of Utah. They have collaborated together to sing and play hymns that are not well known and have given their own spin on those that are. It shows that hymns are relevant and timeless. I have purchased a CD for myself and have given one to my mom as a Christmas gift this year. If you like, you can always buy the downloads on their site. Trust me, their music is amazing. Brings back many memories of my grandparents church as a little girl. Singing these songs along side them. Those were happy times. If you get a chance check out their blog/website: The Lower Lights





Here is a little taste of what they sound like:



Hope this brings many happy memories to you as well. Happy sewing my friends!

A Weekend Full of Sewing "Stuff"

A few weekends ago, I had the privilege of visiting the traveling Quilting & Sewing Expo in Cleveland. My husband was over joyed to go with me,to say the least . ha ha But all in all, he said that he was glad to go and see me in my "eliminate" as he calls it. It was a great experience! The show was mostly targeting quilters. Seeing that I have not really branched off to do quilts, I still was able to appreciate all the hard work that goes into them. They had some amazing quilts on display. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to take photos of them, but trust me, they were beautiful. I spent some time chatting with a few ladies in the shops. Found a few new fabric businesses in the area, which was nice. Of course I picked up a few yards and fat quarters of fabric. How could I resist? It was a sewing expo!! It would have been a sin to leave, without purchasing at least a little fabric. (Well that's the story I told my husband) ::wink::




I went to get some inspiration. I find that when I am around other people who love to sew, knit, create,..I feed off of them. Sometimes I feel like a lone ranger in my craft. This little trip gave me more than I expected! That day, Valerie Mayen was a guest speaker!!!



If you are a Project Runway fan, you will recognize this name. She was the cute, dark haired, funny girl on season 8. Unfortunately she ended up getting 7th place, but I still think she was good enough to make it further. She shared with all of us her experience on the show, behind the scene secrets, her view on designing, and her love for making beautiful well made items. She is originally from Texas, but moved to Cleveland to go to design school, and fell in love with the city. She spoke about where she started in her career and how she ended up becoming a fashion designer. What surprised me the most, is that she has only been sewing for 5 years!!!!!! Still can't believe that! WOW! The girl is brilliant. I am amazed at how far she has come with her business. What an inspiration. Not only working on her own designs, but her passion to support other designers/seamstresses in the Cleveland area. She shared that when she was finished with design school, there were no resources outside of the school. She needed to find a larger space, with good quality machines to work with, and there was literally nothing. So she decided to open up her own place to do just that. In a campaign called "Buzz & Growl" which she describes as being a place to encourage people to launch their own businesses by having that little "buzz" to start off with, to the large "growl" out in the world. Starting local, and then ultimately sharing your work global (like she has done). The "buzz" represents the sound of the small sewing machine at work, to the "growl" of the industrial machines you use later on. What a wonderful way to give back to the community! Here is a video describing Buzz & Growl by none other than Val herself:





Not only was her story encouraging to me, she was also very sweet in person. I had the privilege of meeting her!! I have heard that she is super nice, but after meeting her myself, I believe it to be true. Such a humble, sweet individual, that is just oozing with talent. She was kind enough to allow me to get a picture with her. Yes I admit, I was a bit nervous to ask.(I think I need a tan after seeing this picture! yikes!) ha ha



I bought a few little fabric flowers at her booth (which I love) and drooled over some of her beautifully tailored coats she had on display. The name of her company is called: Yellowcake!. She also has an etsy shop: Etsy

What an inspiration to me as I start off my own little company. Who knows where it will take me. ::smile:: I am so excited!

Inspired by,...

Today I am feeling a bit ready for some warm spring weather.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Winter Wonderland (Inspiration)

The winter storm has officially passed and the sun is now out. What a beautiful winter scene outside of my window. Snow makes the world so clean and beautiful.





Makes me want to bundle up (wearing these) and play in the snow.....



Build a snowman!



Make a few snow angels.



Then come indoors and warm my toes in front of the fireplace....




 and drink a large cup of Hot Cocoa with loads of marshmallows.

That's what I want to do today. What about you?

All photo's from: Link

Inspirational Wall

When Tom and I were in search of a house to buy. He asked me to describe my idea of a "perfect house." Of course I gushed and said I wanted at least four bedrooms, a beautiful staircase, a comfortable family room, basement for laundry, a kitchen big enough to bake pies in, a dining room of course (so we can have family meals) and I would love the house to have a 'red' door." He just rolled his eyes and said "of course, a red door." Since I have met Tom I dreamed of living in our own house, raising kids, having family traditions for the holidays, for the house to just feel "like home"...and that is just the feeling I get when I walk into my house. The Lord blessed us so much with such an amazing home (to us). And YES I got my red door! (It was fate I tell you!)

Since our big move to the house, I have been able to decorate (make my own) 2 1/2 rooms. It still has a bit of a ways to go. Seeing that we lived in a small apartment when we first got married, we don't quite have enough furniture to fit within the house. a lot of hand me downs and a bright orange couch that once lived in my grandparents house. But we will slowly get there. Next room to make our own is the living room. Leather couch or fabric? Bright walls or neutral? Themed, or eclectic? It will take awhile for us both to agree.

I want to show you one area that I am proud of, and that is my dining room. Tom and I spent a weekend painting it cherry red. I made some modern curtains and changed out the light fixture to an amazing chandelier that has lights and candles. (What ever you fancy) When traveling to the UK a few summers ago I was able to get some amazing photos. Some of them now grace my walls. Every day I pass it and it makes me think of the wonderful places we have been. The family history and traditions that the places hold. It inspires me and makes me happy. Do you have a wall or area in your house that just makes you happy?

Gray Clouds Overhead

I have been under the weather lately. Which matches the mood outside my window. It has been raining here since Saturday. I don't mind the rain,...actually, I quite love it! Give me a good rainy day over a sticky hot one, for sure! That is one of the reasons why I know I would easily be able to adapt to English/Scottish weather. Any excuse to get out my rain boots (Wellingtons) and umbrella! I have a bit of obsession with umbrellas. I can't help but smile when I see them! Which is why my "Trendy Meg" etsy shop sports a cute red one on the logo. Here are a few of my favorites of the day.



Photo by Heather

photo by rk oliver

photo by unknown

photo by Bunnyspice

photo by Jennifer

And yes,..Wellington Boots go with ANY outfit! :)

photo by Heather

Feeling inspired by,...

Photos © Shana Rae {Florabella Collection}


© hilde



© sakura_chihaya+

© giancarlo rado

Working on some sewing projects and dreaming of all I could make if I put my mind to it!

Inspiration,.....

Gearing up for a wedding this weekend of two of our dearest friends. These images have inspired me today. Working on a project. Pictures of the final project to come,.......



Burberry

Ralph Lauren


link

Music Inspiration

Amy Grant has been one of my favorite artist since I was a young girl. Tom can attest to this. (I tend to listen to music I love, over and over, and it drives my loved ones a bit crazy!) I remember listening to her El Shaddai album and learning all of the words. Rocking out to "I Have Decided" and wishing I knew how to play guitar when listening to "Father's Eyes". Amy has always been a musical inspiration to me in my life. To ask me what my favorite song is, would be so difficult. I love it all! Her "Behind the Eyes" album has been special to me. It encouraged me to be the best woman I could be, when dealing with things during my high school years. I loved the album so much, that I burned through a CD and had to buy another! There is something about her voice that makes my heart smile. So you can see why I am so excited that Amy is coming out with a new album. "Somewhere Down the Road" releases tomorrow! I have had a chance to listen to it, and it's amazing. But coming from a die hard fan, that is no surprise. It has a few well known re released songs and a few new ones. Her 17 year old daughter Sarah sings a duet in the song "Overnight" which is personally my favorite new song on the record. So get ready for another amazing journey of Amy's music. I also encourage you to check out the book she wrote a few years ago called, "Mosaic, Pieces of My Life So Far." A wonderful in site to the stories behind the music and the amazing woman that Amy is.


This picture was one of the highlights of my life! In 2003 I had a chance to meet Amy. I was a bit star struck, but she was so sweet and let us have our picture taken with her.