For The Love Of Bundt Cake – Time Travel Thursdays

Are you a fan of a good Bundt? Cake that is, Bundt Cake, that fancy looking tea-time cake that takes the shape of it’s ringed baking pan. According to the good old Wikipedia, the tern “Bundt” [pronounced as -bunt] seems to derive from the German word Bundkuchen, a ring-shaped cake. The adapted spelling as ‘bundt’ appears in print as early as 1901. So why, you may ask, am I going on about a cake pan? Well, it is Thursday after all, and that means a step back in time to take a look at things too good to be forgotten. The Bundt Pan is a beautiful item in and of itself, with new versions resembling Gothic Architecture, but I am still a fan of the classic style, the one my mother, and grandmother used.

Silver Bundt Pan by The Little Green Vintage Shop.

The cake pan shape itself makes any regular pound cake look so very lovely, and a sprinkling of powdered sugar on top really highlights the pattern of any particular pan. One of my favorite tricks from my Culinary School days makes any cake pan stick-proof, so cakes come out perfectly. Simply take a pat of room temperature real butter [or margarine if you prefer a vegan option] and coat the inside of the pan lightly, use a scrap of tin foil, clean paper bag, wax, parchment, or any kitchen paper to spread it easily. My mother saves the wrappers the sticks of butter come in for this purpose, which is totally brilliant of her. She keeps them in the fridge until she needs to grease up a pan. The next step is taking a small amount of flour, maybe a tablespoon or two, and then dumping it into the greased pan, do this over the sink to cut down on mess. Turn the pan slowly in your hands and let the flour ‘stick’ to the butter on the pan base. Make sure all edges are covered, then dump any excess flour out. Instant non-stick pan, especially useful for the vintage Bundt Pan. With all the concerns about new fangled non-stick coatings and health issues, it really is a way to go back to basics, literally.

Vintage Bundt Pan by The Rhubarb Studio.

Of course, you could go out and buy a brand spanking new Bundt Pan at any local Department Store, but why not rescue one with some lovely retro charm and vintage credentials. Not only do they make lovely cakes, but the shape is so iconic, people often hang them on walls, use them as planters, or up-cycle them into light fixtures and other amazing do-dads. The ones I have featured on this page are vintage finds from Etsy. These and others are priced so reasonably, often less than a new one, and have that rustic charm built in.

Vintage Stoneware Pfaltzgraff Bundt Pan by The Vintage Heiress.

You didn’t think I would just show a pile of cake pans without sharing my favorite recipe did you? This one is a family favorite, and despite a year of formal Culinary education, I would pick this cake over some of the most fancy schmancy pastries out there. This ones pulls me back in time to the 1970s, when my mother would whip them up regularly if we were getting unexpected guests at the cottage or if she wanted to fill out a large party buffet. This is what I refer to as “back-of-the-box” cooking. You know, those recipes most of us ignore on the packages of food we buy? Well I suspect this one was actually on the Jell-O Pudding box at one time, and I can just picture my mother in 1978, with four children under the age of five, trying to find fast and easy crowd pleasing fare. This is one of those recipes.

Yes, it is exactly that easy. It may not be vegetarian or gourmet, but it is delicious and inexpensive. It also bakes with a beautiful golden brown colour outside, but when sliced you can see a slightly green tinted moist and light cake. You can bump up the green with a little food colouring, just a few drops of green [if you are so inclined], to make the perfect St. Patrick’s Day dessert.

This cake has a story behind it in my family. It was a loved recipe, that somehow time forgot by the 80s, when the required Pistachio Jell-O Pudding mix seemed to vanish from the grocery shelf. When we rediscovered it in the 90s, the recipe was long lost and no longer on the package. This was before the great big “World Wide Web” and search engines, and we were sure it was lost forever. Then on a family trip to the ‘States’, we happened upon an old bookstore, and my mother and I were browsing cookbooks. My roaming hands fell upon a Jell-O recipe collection book, and I remembered that cake… and wouldn’t you know it, the recipe was in there! We (now quite guiltily) remember scribbling the recipe down on a piece of scrap paper, and hooray we had it again. Now you have it too.

Your New Collection. Vintage Bundt Pans. by Funretro.

Beyond the obviously Fab vintage Bundt Pans that can be found, there are a lot of lovely items other than cake, that are inspired by that great pan shape. Here are just a few adorable finds. Lovely artwork and miniatures, even jewelry. with the availability of the “Mini” Bundt Pan, people are using it for all sorts of things too, like some fabulous hand-made soaps. Any of these would make lovely gifts, but the gift of a home-baked cake for your family may just be the best thing this Valentine’s Day.

Persimmon Bundt Cake And Espresso- Open Edition Print by Janet Hill, http://www.etsy.com/shop/janethillstudio?ref=pr_shop_more on Etsy.

Original Painting -Red Velvet Bundt Cake at Bookclub 9×12 inch by S. Kim Graber, LaurenFaythe on Etsy.

Dollhouse Miniature Food Raspberry Bundt Cake Slice by Fairchildart.

Strawberry Bundt Cake Pendant by Christina Cainan, Mini Mia Accessories on Etsy.

Bundt Cake Pan Pendant Lamp by Spoken Stitch on Etsy.

Set of 3 Handcrafted Goatmilk Soaps Applejack & Peel Bundt Cake Soaps by Marcia, Adirondacks Soaps on Etsy.

White Truffle Raspberry Bundt Cake Candle..Made with all natural soy wax by Danielle, Pookaberrys Candle Bakery on Etsy.

Roller Derby Dreams [Part 2] – Wacky & Wonderful Wednesdays

So all you Roller Derby wanna-be babes, like me, we have covered a lot of Fabulous finds in Part 1 of this post. We started with “The Jammin Jewelry” and moved on to “The Blockin Bags“, and amazing array of hand-made, unique, and one of a kind items from all over Etsy, and all with a nod to Roller Derby Divas. We now roll on to “The Whipin Wearable“, “The Pivoting Prints and Painted Things“, and last but certainly not least “The Derby Decor“

The Whipin Wearables

Va-Va-VOOM Ruffle Butt Hot Pants in Pink – Made to Order by Anna Wilkerson, xANNABOTx on Etsy.

Pretty Girls Turn Heads Roller Girls Break Necks Roller Derby shirt on Alstyle Apparel by Derby Love, blacksheepsk8 on Etsy.

Hand crocheted newborn baby roller derby rollerskates with flower by Charlie Farley, Lottie’s Creations on Etsy.

Skate Scarf and Arm Warmer Set in black and white by Erica, Caustic Threads on Etsy.

Roller derby shorts, The Maple leaf – Canadian flag by Nichola, knickerockeroller on Etsy.

i heart derby girls roller derby shirt by Lyn Hooley, Replica Chicago Inc. on Etsy.

Pair of lime green roller skate patches (more and custom colors available) by Clare, Dolly Cool on Etsy.

Big Girl Panties Magnet or Button – You Choose by Tamara Kraft, Pithitude on Etsy.

The Pivoting Prints and Painted Things

Jammer: 8.5 x 11 magenta on textured white by Heather Webster, Donutdisco Prints on Etsy.

Movie poster Whip It 12×18 inches print by Claudia, Claudia Varosio on Etsy.

11X14 Tattoo Inspired Roller Derby Tribute by Whim Factory on Etsy.

Pop Skates by Lauren Kurtz, ElPonyP on Etsy.

Derby Doll – 8×10 giclee pinup print by Jen Oaks, Jen Oaks Illustration on Etsy.

Retro Roller Skates Photography – TTV Fine Art, roller derby photography , green, red, white on rustic chair – 5×5 by Megan, Jade Eye Photographer on Etsy.

Roller Derby Girl Print by Matt Mulford, Mulford Arts on Etsy.

Bonnie N. Collide, Nine to Five Roller Derby Comic by Monica Gallagher, Lipstick Kiss Press on Etsy.

The Derby Decor

Roller Derby girl theme cushion by Gail, ANTEMACCASSA on Etsy.

Roller Derby Mug or Planter – Vintage Disco Skate Ceramic Cup by Tiffa, Hippopo Vintage on Etsy.

Derby Love gift card set. by Infrared Studio on Etsy.

roller derby legs window/car decal by Neil, beepart! on Etsy.

Don’t you just love living vicariously through a little shopping therapy? In this case window shopping as it were. Next time you need a little reminder of how truly tough and cool girls can be, just think about the women of Roller Derby.

NOTE: Official Whip It Theatrical Release Poster above. Directed by Drew Barrymore. Staring Ellen Page, Kristen Whig, Juliette Lewis. Released in 2009.

Roller Derby Dreams [Part 1] – Wacky & Wonderful Wednesdays

OK girls, it’s time to fess up, how many of you have harbored dreams of Roller Derby stardom? I know I have. There is something so bad-ass about the women who Whip It. There seem fearless, fierce, and wild. At one time or another we have all wished we had a place to go, a secret life, where we were strong and powerful, where we had the camaraderie of kindred spirits, where we could let off some steam. We may never actually have the guts to do it, but we can all dream of a night of Roller Derby action. If you haven’t seen it, you need to have a girl’s night where you order up Drew Barrymore’s Whip It (2009) on your Netflix, and live vicariously. I promise you will love it, Ellen Page is brilliant and it is a girl-power fest.

Redhead Rollergirl by Rhoda Perdition on Etsy.

Now that you have a little Roller Derby love-in going on, you will naturally want to have some wonderful trinkets and reminders of the romance. And that’s where Etsy comes in to this little story. There is a whole set of fabulous creators that celebrate Roller Derby babes, culture, and fans. Whether you are a Blocker, Jammer, or Pivot, you’ve got to appreciate some home spun fandom. Here is a Fab sampling of some of my favorite Derby delights.

The Jammin Jewelry

Derby Chicks Rule Brooch in Rainbow by Amanda Whitelaw, Hungry Designs on Etsy.

Silver Roller Derby Winged Skate Necklace by Lauren Grace, Lauren Grace Jewelry on Etsy.

Blue Locket Necklace Roller Derby Queen Vintage Locket by Birds of Oregon on Etsy.

ROLLER DERBY Ring Solid Sterling Silver. Best Derby Accessory, Apart From Your Skates and Protective Gear by Glam Rock Emporium on Etsy.

Rainbow Socks Roller Girl – Roller Skating Scrabble Tile Pendant – Silver Plated Ball Chain Included by Michelle, Creations by M on Etsy.

AWESOME KITSCH ROCKABILLY ROLLER DERBY SKATE NECKLACE by LuliCool on Etsy.

White Resin Roller Derby Love Pendant by Jaime Johnson, Hard Candy Tattoos on Etsy.

Roller Derby Jammer Star BOTTLE OPENER with Keychain 2-1/4 2.25 Green and Black by Amanda Maria Edmonds, amepix on Etsy.

Custom Personalized Pendant – Your Name surrounded by glitter by High Strung Bead on Etsy.

The Blockin Bags

Fuchsia Bird and the Hand Power Skate Tote by Flat Track Revolution on Etsy.

Roller Derby Skates Reusable Natural Cotton Canvas Grocery Tote Bag (Choose Your Ink Color) by Linthound on Etsy.

roller skate clutch – “roller derby disco queen” : hot pink skates on black & white stripes by Kirsten Rangel, Snap Dragon Style on Etsy.

Roller Derby Girl on Girl Action Heads Are Gonna Roll Skating Pinups Cigarette Case or Wallet by SweetHeartSinner Creations on Etsy.

I heart roller derby – Zach Trover for Tinymeat, Wallet by Michael Wood, tinymeat on Etsy.

Roller derby mini messenger bag, mini messenger with pockets, hurt in a skirt, The Falcon by Karen, Zoe’s Bag Boutique on Etsy.

Flask – 8oz. – Hell on Wheels – Stainless Steel by Trixie and Milo on Etsy.

Want More? Of course you do! Check out “The Whipin Wearable“, “The Pivoting Prints and Painted Things“, and last but certainly not least “The Derby Decor” in Part 2 of this post!

Motley Mode Mondays – Get Tied To These Apron Strings

One of the reasons I love holidays at my parents home, is that my mother always cooks up a storm. She is a great cook, a wonderful homemaker, and she always wears an apron. You know the one I mean, the one that closely resembles something bought in a hardware store except is is made out of some floral chintz. It’s either that, or one with a kitschy slogan emblazoned across her bosoms, neither one is particularly flattering in front of company. They do what they are intended and this past October 31st, one pulled double-duty as a six-year-old’s “cape” as he went out for Halloween as Harry Potter. My mother wears them, my grandmother always wore them, we played dress-up in them as little girls. I myself haven’t worn an apron since I was in Culinary School, and that was entirely functional and frankly a confining fashion don’t.

Red Hot Polka Dot Retro Apron by Alisann Abee’s Mom, Abee’s Art Studio on Etsy.

Am I the only one of my generation that has dropped the “Apron Strings”? I suspect I am not, but what if an apron was something more than functional. What if it was beautiful, retro chic, cute, colourful, heck… even sexy? Well for today’s Fashion Focused post, I present the most delightful of Aprons, the most fabulous of kitchen couture, and the ones you are going to want to snap up in time to be able to wear them to serve up that Valentine’s Dinner for your sweetie(s). Get a gander at these Fab looks that will definitely have them “kissing the cooks“.

Sexy Schnauzer Dog Retro Apron [Reversible] by Gramma May, Gramma May Handicrafts on Etsy.

Retro Apron Green Vintage Rose Half Apron SOPHIA by Boojiboo on Etsy.

Love Birds and Sky Blue Plaid Hostess Apron by Paula, Ruffled Frenzy on Etsy.

Ruffle Retro Half Apron Teal & Grey by Diana Buznego, Designed by Diana on Etsy.

Retro Apron with Cocktails on a Black Background – Timeless Treasures Fabric by Arianne, It’s Handmade! by Arianne on Etsy.

Retro Apron With Damask and A Splash of Hot Pink by Rebecca Cruz, London’s Laundry on Etsy.

Retro Apron QUEEN Of HEARTS Women’s Full Apron by Lover Dovers Clothing on Etsy.

Retro Apron, Yellow Polka Dot on a Blue Fabric, Half Apron 1950s Inspired by Rosie Ann, Rosie Ann Shop on Etsy.

Vintage Flared Apron – Country Chic Mustard Black Cream – Flair for Cooking Hostess Apron by Great Goods on Etsy

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Retro Half Apron, Vintage Stripe by Kellie E. Edwards, ImaginAprons on Etsy.

Cute Kitsch Apron – Modern Design in Mod Kitchen Stripes and Leaves of Blue and Taupe by Creative Chics on Etsy.

Thanks for indulging me with this picture laden post, but I think most people need to see the front and the back of an Apron to get an idea of how functional it is, and it’s nice to see so many creators didn’t forget to add special details on all sides of these garments. From pockets and frills, to reversible and lined apron’s, this showcase is a great runway to launch you off to the Etsy Shops in question to get a better look.

Mens Apron / Dark Navy Denim Plaid by Erin McIntosh, Dear Edna on Etsy.

I want to add a few more Aprons to this already heavy post, but I think they are important ones. Men cook too and have just as much use, if not more, for a handsome Apron, so I have a great menswear look on deck. In addition, I think our littlest chef’s are not only adorable in Apron’s, but they can certainly use something to guard their party clothes from splashes and stains. This really is a little bit of playing dress-up for everyone, adults included. As always, this is just a small sample of available options, styles, colours, and prints available, and aprons that I personally like for various reasons. You are practically guaranteed to find the apron of your dreams at one of these Etsy Shops. So go ahead and “Get Tied To These Apron Strings“.

Children’s Aprons – A Girl and Her Horse, Pink Horse Apron by Lee Ann, Annie’s Attic on Etsy.

Toddler/Children’s Apron- Dinosaur Orange Reversible by Amber Botticello, Sprock It on Etsy.

Sweetness Sundays – Cupcakes Forever

It’s official, the love affair with cupcakes is here to stay. They are the perfect indulgence, smaller and more affordable than a cake, so very pretty to look at, portable, sweet, and they remind us of those home-made birthday parties of the past. Do you remember those days? As a child of the 70s, I pine for a time when mothers had the time and inclination to create party magic in our very own homes. We actually played Pin-the-tail on the Donkey, we sat around a table covered in paper or fabric, we wore those silly paper hats, and we ate home-made cakes and cupcakes with a side of ice-cream. We didn’t know how good we had it.

When did we decide that those parties were not enough for our modern kids? Or is it the change in lifestyle and economy that leaves parents with little time to plan a home-made from scratch party. I am not a parent, and in no place to pass judgements, but I know from my own siblings and the parties they throw their kids, that somewhere along the line things moved out of the home and into a “planned activity” space, like an indoor play park with a ball pit. Kids are dropped off, run ragged with activity, and then plied with a cringingly sweet bakery cake the size of a mattress, that’s why they call them “sheet cakes”. No wonder adults are craving real cupcakes. The joy of cupcakes however lies in the visual appeal as much as the taste. In fact, I am willing to bet there are very few cupcakes that live up to the promise of their looks. This I can speak on with some authority, before settling into my Nursing career, I actually attended Culinary School.

So what is my point here, and I promise I am getting to it. Every sweet and heavenly cupcake in this post is in fact a fake. That’s right, these are not edible delights that are quickly forgotten once they are consumed. These cupcakes are all props, decor, and display items that you can use to sass up your kitchen, your work place, or vacation home. Created by 12 Legs Curiosities, perhaps the best of the cupcake fakes I have seen on Etsy. There are many creators making their own versions of fake food props, but the details and realism in the ones make by 12 Legs Curiosities in their CUPCAKE LAND are my favorites.

These are the cupcakes you can use as models in your own artwork, or as props in a photo studio. Have them around as decorations for a party or bridal shower, or set them up on your vanity to sweeten up your boudoir. Personally, I would use them as a reason to pull out some of my grandmother’s cake platters or pastry tiered pedestals. You know the ones I mean, the ones that have multiple levels of plates. like a tower, but seem hopelessly destined for the back of the cupboard because they aren’t practical. It’s time to put the spotlight back on those family antiques and put out some luscious looking cupcakes that make it not only a modern centerpiece, but a nod to tradition and family keepsakes

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If any of these realistically styled cupcake dreams catch your fancy, you simply have to see some of the more fantastical and whimsical items that 12 Legs Curiosities is famous for, a few of which appear below. You can really see why these are more than mere fakes, they are works of art. Each one is made by hand and some can be modified to be used at hanging ornaments. Sizes vary, as do the number of items per lot, so please read the listings carefully. Wander over to CUPCAKE LAND by 12 Legs Curiosities on Etsy and check out the beautiful, sweet, and kitschy cupcake fakes that look good enough to nom, but let the good retro memories linger on.

Image Details with Links:
1. Fake Cupcakes Mini Cupcakes Set – 6 Sunshine Day Collection
2. Fake Cupcake I HEART Sundae Cupcakes Collection
3. Fake Cupcake Polka Dot Retro-Inspired Collection Set 5 Hot Pink Mini Cupcakes
4. Fake Cupcake “Red Butler Red Velvet Cupcake” 12 Legs Original Concept Your Choice
5. Fake Cupcake Standard Size I Heart Polka Dots and Cupcakes Collection Turquoise Frosting Your Choice
6. Fake Cupcake “Under The Big Top” Carnival Collection Turquoise Frosting/Hot Pink Cake Funky Standard Size Cupcake
7. Fake Cupcake Black Swan Lake Tribute Cupcake 12 Legs Original Concept Cupcake – Movie Collector Series
8. Fake Cupcake Lovers String of Lights 12 Legs Orignal Concept Design 10 Mini Assorted Cupcakes
9. Fake Cupcake Breakfast At Tiffanys Insp. Cupcake Audrey Hepburn Tribute 12 Legs Classic Movie Cupcake Collection Limited Ed.
10. Fake Cupcake Candy Shoppe Classic Swirl Ed. Glass Jars Set 4 Original 12 Legs Concept – Often Imitated, Never Duplicated

LINK: CUPCAKE LAND by 12 Legs Curiosities on Etsy.
[NOTE: All photographs, concepts, and cupcake designs are products and copyrights of 12 Legs Curiosities. No infringement is intended.]

Strange Stuff Saturdays – The Lovable Uglies

There is a large segment of the general populace that finds cute in the ugly, and I am one of those people. It’s almost a “runt of the litter” complex, we want to rescue the irregular, the odd, the strange, and the left behind. These items make us want to take them and give them a home. There was a recent attempt at creating an upscale and widely-marketed “Ugly” stuffed toy, you know the ones I am talking about. For me, the product missed the mark because it broke the rules of the Ugly Cute. The items were not unique, they were meant to appeal to children and create a collector frenzy, and they were quite expensive for something so mass produced. Today’s Strange Stuff post is dedicated to the truly Ugly Cute handmade Art Dolls and Plushies that hit the mark, and maybe even go a bit beyond it. You may like them, you may not, but you may just fall in love with Ugly Cute.

Valentine Creepy OOAK Art Doll- Monica- Valentine Heart Balloon – Lilac Linen by Sandy Mastroni, Art by Sandy Mastroni on Etsy.

PAX – 9IN Strange Artist Mohair Bear by Emma Nicholson, Emma’s Bears on Etsy.

Aberdeen the monster Art Doll Plush By ThEm DoLLz by Jen Musatto, ThEm DoLLz on Etsy.

5-inch Nebulous Bunny – GREEN by Brittany U., Nebulous Frog on Etsy.

Art Doll Soft Sculpture Handmade Oddling Dax by Elizabeth Matlack, Oddball Art Co. by Lizzy Love on Etsy.

Sgt Snickers The Plush Pug Dog Tan and Brown Stuffed Animal by The Jae Bird on Etsy.

Have you fallen for one of these Ugly Cute creatures yet? I have a few on my “To Adopt” list. What’s great about this kind of item on Etsy is that the prices range vastly from under $20 to over $100 USD. That makes Art Dolls so accessible to just about everyone, and you can build a collection of special dolls for very little cost. Many of these dolls are not meant to be played with or handled excessively, but others are durable and make nice toys, it is very important to find out that information from the creator if you are buying for the little people in your life.

Rainboid – Plushie with Rainbow – Small by Sezen UYGUR, yumusakseyler Soft Sculptures and More on Etsy.

Martin, Soft Art Toy, Bear Probably by Eve Leitch, orangeni Soft Cuddles on Etsy.

Plush Toy Little Critter – Rocket by Little Critter Plushies on Etsy.

Alvin the Llittle Owl OOAK Pose-able Art Doll by Misty Currie, Amidst My Imagination on Etsy.

Buddy and Pal- A Custom Creepy Cute Plush WonkyDoll by Kelly and Joe, Jellykoe on Etsy.

Handmade Plush, Primitive, OOAK, Softie Doll with Button Eyes and Daisy Ways by Shawn Lee Jennings, Ribbons and Rust on Etsy.

By now I am sure “you are picking up what I’m putting down” [how hip is my lingo?]. What I mean is, you get my point. There is an undeniable charm to these handmade OOAK dolls, and you are likely to see at least one in this very tiny tip of the Etsy Art Doll iceberg that you respond to. It made you giggle, it made you smile, maybe it made you want to click that link below the image and see more. And that is the point for me, the purpose of this blog really. To present a sample of amazing and inspiring items that you may not have even known you would like. Maybe you didn’t even realize that these items were so easily accessible outside of a gallery or studio. The dolls I have selected to highlight appeal to my personal taste, and many other people’s I suspect, but there are many more to be found that might be more to your liking, so don’t be shy, head over to Etsy and take a look around.

Found On A Friday – Accidentally On Purpose

Illinois born Megan Carter is a rarity among the artist I have come across on Etsy. Her work is striking and powerful, and yet she seems so unaware of just how good she really is. Her shop name says an awful lot, why else would she have named it Accidentally Good. It may be an accident, but there is no doubt about it, she is beyond “Good”, Megan’s work is great.

The first image I saw of her’s, I came upon quite by accident. Simply titled Morte, I saw so much in this painting. I reminded me of something specific, the face was speaking to me, and how could it not. Megan has the ability to turn a few colours, well chosen, into something beyond a composition of elements, her work is deep and affecting, and it has a way of staying with you. And I must admit, it will now be staying with me, I couldn’t resist her.

The above work goes by the name Jinx, again it is minimalist abstract portraiture in style, but the play of positive and negative, dark and light, makes this painting another standout. Make no mistake, you are not looking at a print, all of the work currently on sale in Megan Carter’s Etsy shop is one-of-a-kind [OOAK] original work. These are not copies or silk-screened reproductions, not photographs, this is the real deal. Most original work of well known artists on Etsy sells up into the hundreds of dollars. But this is a rare opportunity for you to “get in” on the work of an artist before she hits that tipping point.

Prices range from just $30 to $80 USD, and Megan uses primarily Acryclic, and some Water Colour, on Canvas, Wood, or Canvas Pad. The image above is of Megan’s work titled Tatiana features an example of a Water Colour on Paper original.

I found Gloria, the image above to have a lovely retro feel to it, it looks very Old Hollywood Glamor to me. But then, that is what I like best about Megan’s work, it speaks differently to each viewer, where I see Old Hollywood, you might see something entirely different, and isn’t that the point of art?

The above 9×12 Original Acrylic on Canvas Pad work, entitled Robyn is a perfect example of why you can have original artwork in your home for less than the price of most art prints. This image is a steal at just $35 USD, and illustrates perfectly why Accidentally Good is the most ironic of names for Megan’s Etsy Store. Click on over to see the rest of Megan’s work currently up for sale, and see what you “Accidentally” fall in love with. I found it on a Friday, but I will treasure it always.

LINK: Accidentally Good on Etsy.

Time Travel Thursdays – Grab These Bags

I love all things vintage, retro, and kitsch… which is why I dedicated Thursday’s blog posts to a bit of a wander down memory lane. Today’s post is in the bag, so to speak. I found a bevvy of beautiful handbags, totes, clutches, and purses made with re-purposed, re-cycles, and up-cycled items from the past, that makes them not only fabulously chic and fun, but truly one of kind scene-stealers. I am a bag lady, I collect bags and purses, more than I could ever use. Here are some of my favorite bags, all found on Etsy, that tell a story all by themselves.

Alice in Wonderland Book Purse by Kelly Mitchell, The Write Stuff Design on Etsy.

1950s Chic Cocktail Handbag – Upcycled Vinyl Record Bag, Retro Fabric and Lucite Handles by Charlotte Dymock, Tuppence Ha’penny Vintage on Etsy.

VHS Case Handbag – Retro, upcycled. Many Titles by Robyn, Red Zebra Designs on Etsy.

DAMASK – 100% Recycled Upcycled Suit Tote Bag by Dandy Florence, Dandy on Etsy.

Chutes & Ladders Gameboard Handbag by Mugwump on Etsy.

Recycled vinyl banner – Shoulder Tote – Retro Doctors Bag – Diaper Bag – Eco Purse – Pop Art by seen1 on Etsy.

Record Album Purse featuring Madonna, Pink Patent Leather by Brinda Kay, Vindicated Vinyl on Etsy.

Pink & Blue XL Tape Measure Wallet – Upcycled Vinyl/Metal by David, Home Made Karma on Etsy.

Vanity Case – Vintage Upcycled Fifties Style Luggage – Alternative Handbag or Purse by Emily Holmes, Love. Mimo on Etsy.

Brown Herringbone Wristlet Upcycled from a Suit by Groundsel on Etsy.

Retro Record Tote by Sophie Blanc, My Little Gumnut on Etsy.

Necktie Bag: An Eco-friendly and Upcycled Purse in Brown and Royal Blue by Josée, Cul de Sac on Etsy.

Billy Joel Glass Houses Record Album Purse by Tracey, Reinvented Vinyl on Etsy.

Handmade Purse Made With Recycled Caribou Coffee Bags Upcycled Repurposed by Lisa Z., Green Designs by Lisa on Etsy.

I choose to highlight these bags in particular because they are lovely, colourful, imaginative, and really unique. Each of the highlighted shops offers so many versions and options on this theme, you really need to take a closer look. Bags really are an accessory that you just can’t go wrong with. Bags fit anyone, no matter their dress size, and they can add pizzazz to any look. No gal would ever say no to a great purse from their Valentine Sweetheart, so get shopping! Shop for yourself, shop for a friend, or just “window” shop and see what’s out there in the fabulous community of artist on Etsy.

Wacky & Wonderful Wednesdays – Let The Games Begin

If you’ve read them, you get it. If you haven’t read them, what the heck are you waiting for? No, I am not talking about the *shudder* ever popular sparkling vampire meets girl meets wolf sappy teen pulp series that shall remain nameless, yes that one. I am talking about a series of books that redefines Teen Fiction as a genre, and doesn’t wrap up in the end with a shiny pink bow. I am speaking of The Hunger Games, the must-read three book series by Suzanne Collins that is soon to be a must-see movie scheduled for release in late March of 2012. Wednesday’s are all about the things that fall under the heading “geekery”, and today… book geeks shall rejoice!

I read, a lot, and I have read a lot of Teen Fictions. The Hunger Games is unlike any series of books I have read before, it presents a cruel vision of the future where the vast difference between the classes is for some, quite literally, a matter of life and death. Before this becomes a book review, something this blog is not about, I need to say that praise for these books, and the passionate following they have garnered is absolutely well placed. As I said to my 14 year old niece in a recent “book club” phone call, these books are not about happy endings, they are about reminding us to appreciate the good things in life, the people we love, and about the horrors of war.

They are not for everyone, particularly every teenager, but if you love The Hunger Games series, or love someone who does, you will understand the flourishing market for items that remind readers and fans of their heroes and the messages these books highlight. I would go further to say that handmade, one-of-a-kind [OOAK], and unique items are more likely to delight true fans of the books. Forget the licensed and mass marketed items that will no doubt be flooding stores soon. I believe Katniss Everdeen, the hero of The Hunger Games trilogy of books, would be the first to tell you that it is the rare finds that are often are the ones worth having.

This selection of Hunger Games inspired items would be a dream come true for any fan, and make a perfect Valentine’s gift or birthday present. This is a something that means something more than yet another mass produced something. That is a lot of somethings. Call it geekery, call it being a book nerd, say that it is fanatic fandom, but you just have to love someone who loves to read.

All items featured here were found on Etsy, and all details and links can be found at the end of this post. Whether you are a fan of the books or not, you can certainly appreciate the appeal of these beautiful, handmade, and OOAK items. Enjoy, and pick up a great book that you can get lost in today. May the odds be ever in your favor.

1. Golden Hunger Games Katniss Everdeen Mokingjay Pin by  Ryanrunsriot, A Weary Wandering Etsy Shop.
2. Vintage Linen Czech Military Bag, Hand Painted Mockingjay – Hunger Games Inspired by Cindy, CLP Studio on Etsy.
3. The Hunger Games Inspired Rue’s Lullaby Hand Stamped Silver Necklace With Charms by Shelby Issac, shelbyissac on Etsy.
4. Hunger Games Books Fringe Charm Bracelet by sophiesbeads, Sophie’s Beads on Etsy
5. Mockingjay Headband in Double Braided Leather by Michele, quirk shop on Etsy.
6. The Hunger Games – Katniss Arrow, Mockingjay, Freshwater Pearl and Key Charms – Ladies Working Watch Necklace by Twilight Eyes Studio on Etsy
7. Hunger Games Altered Book Purse Featuring a Mockingjay, Suzanne Collins by Erin Strauss, Make Believe Books LLC on Etsy
8. Hunger Games 74th, Filigree Mockingjay Katniss Necklace by Jackie, geraldsbargains Movies & Books That INSPIRE on Etsy

Teeny Tiny Tuesdays – Wee Patisserie

I am the kind of girl that never says no to a great cheesecake. I never kicked a cookie out of bed, and I have never tossed a cupcake wrapper without making sure I got every last crumb of yum. Yes I love my sweets. Sweets rank right up there with my other loves, such as fun fashions, cheeky geeky goodies, and itty bitty joys. When I this eye-catching creation by DIVINEsweetness on Etsy came up in a recent search, I knew I had to share it with my fellow Fab Foragers.

This amazing Crimson Red French Macaron Ring is just one of the amazing hand sculpted polymer clay accessories created by Ciara of DIVINEsweetness. It measures just 3/4″ in size, but is big on style and would make the perfect gift for your Valentine, priced well under $20 USD. Macaroons are all the rage with the fashionable set, they are stunningly attractive to look at, and divine to eat, and what better way to show your appreciation for this member of french pastry royalty than by wearing it on your finger for all to see.

Perhaps cupcakes are more your pastry of choice, well Ciara makes a toppling plate of those as well, aptly named the Marie Antoinette Cupcake Ring. Named for the Queen associated with lavish excess, you can have your “cake” and wear it too. Handmade from Polymer Clay with decorative touches of pink sugar dragees, sculted roses and flowers, displayed on a ceramic look plate on an antique serving tray. the total height of the tray is just 1″, and the ring is adjustable to fit practically any finger.

Beyond her delightful selection of rings, Ciara also crafts some downright sinful looking earrings, like these Cherry Cheesecake Frenzy Earrings. Beautiful in their bright Cherry loveliness,these handmade sweets are made to look like the real thing, and they do! Sugary sweet cherry sauce dripping over lovely white New York Style Cheesecakes with Graham Cracker Crusts, and all packed into the size of just 1/2″. Gold hooks let them hang just over an inch from your delicate earlobes.

For the man in your life, or for yourself if you wear French Cuffs, DIVINEsweetness offers not only your morning pastry fix, but also your morning caffiene fix with her lovely cufflink sets. Snap up a pair of Croissant in the Office Cufflinks, or the equally charming Coffee To Go Cufflinks. If I were buying them for myself, I would be just as likely to snag both pair and make a mixed set for an instant chic breakfast. One to keep, one to gift – WIN WIN!

While Ciara’s DIVINEsweetness Etsy Shop offers primarily food related jewelry and accessories, she also has some lovely miniatures of tiny animals, nature scenes, and other whisical items. Every piece is handmade, making them all one-of-a-kind [OOAK], and having slight differences in color and design that add to their charm. I personally am partial to the wearable sweets, like this great Just a Spoon Full of Ice Cream Sundae Necklace, but all of Ciara’s minature work is exceptional. Tuesday really is the perfect day to appreciate the little things.

Link: DIVINEsweetness by Ciara on Etsy.