Magnolia Pearl

Those of you who know me well (or even just in passing - because I AM that obsessed), might suspect that I bee-lined straight to the Magnolia Pearl booth, pushing and shoving in a wild panic as soon as the plane landed. Well, I'll have you know that no one was harmed in my frenzied, swift-paced walk from the gate to Tent A!

(Rachel Ashwell & Robin Brown)
Many of you have heard how, in the past, I've been struck stupid while in the presence of creative genius. But this year I did not make an idiot of myself... at least not openly. Of course, on the inside I was speaking all kinds of fibber-di-gibberish (I googled it, and that is officially not a real word but you know the manner of crazy talk I'm referring to).
In fact, upon looking at my photos when I got home, I wonder if some of my struck-stupidness did indeed leak out when I thought I was just thinking it.

But how could I not be dumbfounded by Robin & John's work?! Not just their Beautiful Wear but every show they have a new magnificent display. This season they made the most amazing dressforms that I've ever laid eyes on!! John told me that he and Robin just started making them about 2 weeks before the show. Dumbfounded, I tell ya!!


Robin said that this was her "Alice In Wonderland" mannequin. I want to live in their world - Where dressforms with metal flared sleeves and rusty bows come to life just two weeks before a show as big as Marburger!

I don't even have words for the gorgeousness of it all - even the giant paper magnolias were beyond words. Though I risk appearing a wee bit short of full-on crazy, I really do just stand in awe of everything Magnolia Pearl!

And, yes, I bought the dress.

Texas Shows & Chicken Pox

It's almost time for Marburger!

And yes the kids woke up today with chicken pox!

But they should be fine by the time we leave in a month.
According to the doctor it's a "modified" case because they both had the chicken pox vaccination.

A Month! I'm so excited for this years trip to Round Top/Warrenton and Marburger Farms!

Of course I can't wait for all the junk gorgeousness! It's like junk heaven.

But this year Mr. Blessing and I will be sharing a house with some friends!
We are especially excited to have some time to spend with them.

And you KNOW how I feel about getting to the Magnolia Pearl tent!
We are in the most fun business! And this is the best business trip ever!

Now we just have to pray for a fast and furious case of chicken pox.

Altered Party

A couple years ago I bought some little rag "church dolls" to photograph for a blog banner that I was creating for someone. I don't remember the website that I bought them from (if they're yours, please email me and I'll add your link in the post) but I came across them again in my overflowing storage area recently and thought they might make a fun project for the Altered Party.

I took some inspiration from my most favorite designer. Have you seen the Magnolia Pearl dolls?? Truly, truly unique pieces of art!

I used some old lace & crochet bits to make little vests and skirts for the tiny 6" dolls.

Talk about alterations!

A vintage cameo earring made for a perfect brooch.
And some crinkle ribbon to make their hair as crazy as my own wild curls.

Overall, it was a fun project!

What are you repurposing or upcycling these days?

Come on over and show us! Or just take a moment to see what everyone else is altering.