Magical...

Three may keep a secret, if two of them are dead.
~Benjamin Franklin

Truer words were never spoken, my friends. Which is why we all could use a Secret Keeper by Shannon of HELIOstudios, the ingenious creator of these enchanting vessels...Shannon's imagination and skill is so romantic and magical that her Secret Keepers appeal just as much, perhaps even more, to adults as they do to children.

Worth Repeating...

How to find your creative niche. Jena of Modish and Modish Biz Tips presented it perfectly. I think it's worth repeating.

Whether your niche is very narrowly defined, or able to spread out into a more broad base, remember the key is still simply to listen to and trust your own, unique point of view.

Don’t create based on trends, what you “think” will sell or what you’ve seen others do before. Keep your integrity and personality in everything you make, and you’ll easily create a “look”, “style”, or niche that customers will come to rely upon you for.

You have the ability to make something that no one else has made before. Do it!

Thank you, Jena. This should be The Golden Rule for crafters everywhere.

Mad Skills...

I know he's my son, but the boy's got talent! Isn't this photo he took at the County Fair awesomely coolio? I absolutely love it. He took many others. This photo will soon be available at SuspiciousPie.

Francis Liked Me...

Francis the mule, that is, gave me a very friendly look. At the County Fair. Isn't she cute? I think she was posing for this picture.

I have so many photos from our visit last week to the San Diego Fair. I can't wait to share them with you!

Ode to Summertime...

My favorite time of year. Hands down. Here are a few photos that say "summer" to me....

There's nothing like a bucket of colorful water balloons. Almost a daily occurance here. Our only rule, don't aim at the head.

The boy's testing the water in his schnazzy swim trunks...

Taking the plunge....

Me. Photo taken by sneaky SuspiciousPie.

Gorgeous peaches from our tree. I plan to share with you my semi-famous Mama D's Peach Cobbler recipe in a future post.

I hope you are all having a beautiful summer, sweet friends! xo