Traditions

During the holidays the traditions we hold dear are evident. Whether the tradition is baking cookies, creating handmade ornaments, or spending Christmas Day at Grandma’s, we remember the importance of the tradition. The cookies don’t have to be perfect, the ornaments might have a little too much glue (or lack stitch or two), and that grumpy uncle might show up at Grandma’s but that’s OK. It’s the jokes, laughs, and love we share that make these traditions special.

After a long period of not holding family get-togethers, this year I held one and it was wonderful. The dinner was perfect, the cranberry sauce jelled (home made), and the company was fun. I’m already planning next year’s Chanukkah party.

Post by Eileen aka GoofingOff

MissEileen vintage

Goofingoff Etsy Judaic fabrics, sewing patterns

GoofingOff Artfire Sewing patterns, plus size patterns

Metal Woods N Water unusual stuff and  metal work

Don’t forget the children’s sewing pattern sale in the GoofingOff Shops. Get 40% off children’s sewing patterns. Sale starts at midnight 1/1 through the 15th.

Miss Eileen’s Etsy Picks 7.15.11 Summer Entertaining

Summer’s here in the northern hemisphere and according to the weather people, it’s been a hot one. Down here in FLA we are finally into our rainy season, which we have sorely needed. The daily (yes, just about every day we have thunderstorms) showers are keeping our volunteer garden alive. We have tomatoes, melons, watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydews, on the vine. Talk about a bonus. Very exciting, especially when you realize it is a freebie benefit.

So, how do you stay cool in the heat? Do you stay inside and take a luscious afternoon nap in the AC or go for a dip in the pool? Movies in the AC? Is it too hot to garden when the temp reaches over 100? Do you have parties and cookouts in the evening when it cools off? Maybe a picnic or poolside luncheon? Decorate in style!

           Waverly Sun N Shade Jewel of the Sea Indoor Outdoor 18"x18"  Pillow Cover by SewSusie1 Pretty enough for inside the house and ready to use poolside or in the hammock.

 

                            Mossy Green Pottery Rhubarb Leaf Plate by NancyBloklandPottery  What a lovely serving plate! Imagine this on the table. Even hot dogs will look elegant!

       Personalized Custom Wine Stave Tray by Rock Creek Furniture Co Fabulous way to carry the goodies out to the barbecue! It would make a wonderful wedding or hostess gift, too.

       Glass Pitcher and Glasses with Painted Poppy by Crafts n Nat Elegant (and gorgeous) way to serve lemonade or even ice water. Beautiful.

     Large Red Oak Platter with Carved Sections by Amie Jean Original Love the use of reclaimed wood. Imagine this on your summer table, indoors or outdoors.

     Fabric bowls - set of 2, teal, yellow, orange, purple by Textile Gifts. Fill these babies with snacks or bread. Pretty and summery!

           Turquoise Triangle Cocktail Veil by Cocktail Veils Fantastic idea to keep those pesky insects from dive bombing into your drink. Looks much better than a napkin and the turquoise holds it in place.

          Palm Trees Screen print cotton flour sack towel by Ms Veronicas Love the color (and the look).  These are gorgeous! I use  fabric napkins all the time. Wash, dry, fold, and put away and use again. Better than work, shop, buy, use, throw away.

OK, that’s the eight for the week. What do you think? Good ways to make the summer barbecue the “place to be?” Vote for your favorite. Poll will be in the upper left corner. Winner gets a feature blog interview.

Post by Miss Eileen aka Goofing Off.

Check out our shops: MissEileen Vintage fun, fashion, decor

GoofingOff Etsy GoofingOff Artfire Sewing supplies, patterns, fabrics, Judaic fabric

MetalWoodsnWater Etsy MetalWoodsnWater Artfire Unique, weird, supplies, bones, metal work.

Miss Eileen’s Etsy Picks 5.20.2011 Graduation Edition

It’s that time of year when all that hard work culminates in a cap, gown, and a walk to receive a diploma while family and friends look on. No matter where a person is on the receiving line, he or she is a winner. Here’s to celebrating the hard-won success the Etsy way.

 

To Thine Own Self Be True Spiral Pendant by LP Jewelry made of sterling silver Special words to have for those special times ahead

Congratulations Banner by At Company B to shout “I did it” or “We are so proud"

Joining NAVY Farewell Party Invitation by Patriot Papers because each graduation is the start of a new adventure, a new page in the book of life.

Giraffe Big Dream 8 x 8 Art Print by Feathers and Hope for that dorm room that needs decorating.

The Pen of Optimism - Olive Wood by Suspicious Pie

Hats Off to the Grad Greeting Card by Enchanting Dreams to go with that special gift or check

Class of 2011 Graduation Glasses by Dilly Dallie hand painted with school colors

Custom University Logo Cufflinks by Cool Cuff Links for those dress up days to come, like job and residency interviews.

I am in love with each pick. So what do you think? Which one is the best? Poll is in the upper left corner. Winner gets interviewed.

Post by Eileen. Go to GoofingOff Etsy and GoofingOff Artfire for Authentic sewing and knitting patterns, MissEileen Etsy for Vintage and vintage inspired shabby chic decor and wear, and MetalWoodsnwater Etsy for cool gifts for the guys in your life.

Plus Sizes for Women of Ample Proportions

Today's average woman in the U.S. is of ample proportions and not pencil thin. It is important to me to provide sewing patterns that will help them not just make beautiful clothes, but make beautiful clothes that fit. Whether a woman is going to work, shopping, a night out with the girls, church, or a party, looking good boosts confidence and self-esteem. Here are some beautiful patterns for the woman of ample proportions, the real woman, who enjoys life and wants to be a part of life while looking her best. With beautiful fabrics and the right trim, these patterns can make a women look, and feel great!

Miracles of Hanukkah

Hanukkah is coming and a Hanukkah party with a scavenger hunt is going on now to get everyone in the mood. There are wonderful prizes and great creations waiting to be discovered. There are 37 shops taking part in the party. Check it out! Look for the menorahs in the shops and win prizes! Go to http://etsychai.blogspot.com/2009/11/miracles-of-hanukkah-promotion-sales.html and click on the links. Get your Christmas, ahem, Hanukkah shopping list done with wonderful gifts....and have a jelly doughnut while you're there. L'Chiaim!