Time On My Hands

Usually on weekends I play catch up on the laundry and cleaning all while trying to fit in physical activity, shopping, creativity and of course blogging.

With work no longer in the picture, it is amazing what I can do - there is time for sports, blogging and creativity and shopping - although I am trying to use what I have.

 The date is deceptive - I FINISHED all of these today, but they have been in the works for several days.

I love polka dots and was was looking for an old tin to paint yellow with dots when I remembered that I already had something similar.

To complete this project, all I had to do was go to the attic, get the container, cut out some hearts from newspaper, stick them on jute and grab one of the 5 orchids I received as retirement gifts.

I like it in the arch of the porch - usually things blow off, but I think the can is heavy enough to stay put.

 I love to use words in my decorating and tried to find different size flat pieces of wood at Michael's  with no luck.

This morning, I looked for interesting shaped rocks on the beach and transformed them with a little paint and letters.

I found a crate at Michael's and was going to paint it, but I decided to live with it while I decide just what I am going to do with my creative space.

Right now it is sitting on a shelf in the garage holding favorite old containers - each filled with craft supplies.

I am participating in the Where Bloggers Create 2013 at My Desert Cottage on July 12 so EVERYTHING might get a coat or paint.

I started crocheting the bags a couple of days ago and mostly crocheted while I sat on the window seat watching Steve make dinner each night - believe me, he doesn't want my help.

My bags are not as fancy because I have not found a pattern I like so I am creating my own pattern using the limited skills I have.

They are quick and easy to make and I like the embellishments I added.

I want to start an Etsy shop and the bags are a possibility.

I know I am totally out of season, but I love the heart on the left and really wanted to try my hand at felt hearts.

They are fast . . .  easy . . . fun . . .

Won't they look cute as a Valentine banner?

The best part - no cost - using up supplies in the garage.

One of the hearts will be going to Paula at Home in Douglas because she commented that she would like to make some and I offered to send her one of her choice.

I am feeling pretty good - 8 days and 11 of the 30 projects are complete.

My old complaint was lack of time.

Now, I have time on my hands, but the 19 projects that are left are a little trickier.

I am starting a new cushion for my window seat on Monday and it will definitely not be a 1 day project.

I am getting together with my sister next week and hope to snag a few of the items from my parents' old garage.

Some of the items are proving to be elusive-

 Plates I have wanted for a long time have been discontinued.

A yellow and white striped pitcher is far more money than I should spend on something I really don't need.

But, I am determined and like my S U M M E R rocks, I may have to get creative with my projects.

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I am partying at

My Romantic Home 

Funky Junk Interiors

Too Much Time

The Pin Junkie