fringe

The 40% Sample Sale at Fringe starts today!

2018-02-23T10:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday, dear hearts!

The First Annual Sample Sale at Fringe is here, yippee!

Save 40% OFF your entire purchase with coupon code:

SAMPLESALE40

This exciting sale ends on Sunday, February 25,

at 11:59pm PST

There are lots of one-of-a-kind goodies to choose from.

Here are just a few:

The Double Down Cowl

The Wallflower Scarf

The Palomino Lux Cowl with Antler Brooch

The Matinee Wrap

If you would like to get first dibs on future sales and new releases,

join my email list here and get VIP treatment!

I hope you're having a beautiful day!

Much love...xoxo

Spring is in the Air

2018-02-09T11:44:00.001-08:00

For weeks, I have been thinking about the transition from winter to spring. The birds have been chattering and singing up a storm in the backyard, and the sun is shining. The combination of this blush pink, warm and fluffy wool is a nice compromise between the seasons, methinks. A little shoulder-warmer such as this comes in handy as the weather slowly warms but hangs on to a bit of chill. It is the perfect accompaniment to a spring wedding, as well. I'll keep you posted on the progression of this capelet. I have some ideas that I'm excited about implementing...

Much love and thank you for being you!

xoxo

A Colorful Winter

2018-01-23T18:17:00.000-08:00

{Follow my blog with Bloglovin}

Hello, dear hearts! Here's a sampling of some of the new, cheery, and colorful designs at Fringe. For those of us who have the joy of spring in our hearts during these chilly winter months. Delicious colors to brighten even the darkest day!

Front Porch Scarf in Multi-Color Splendor

The Fringe Scarf in Plum Purple

Honeycomb Cowl in Butterscotch

Rosy Posy Cowl in Navy Blue

Stay warm, and thank you for being you!

xoxo

Ode to Michael.

2016-10-03T12:05:00.000-07:00

Hello, dear hearts...

Ron and I completed our year-long class in metalsmithing. Phew-wee! We learned so much. I now have all the tools and knowledge necessary to pursue my silversmithing desires. Ron is already a master at this skill. I believe it's because he is an experienced woodworker. The two skills are similar in many ways. On the other hand, I am slower and more cautious, adapting to hot metal. It's so very different from fiber arts, which I still dearly love.

I made this belt buckle for my beloved brother. It was one of the last projects assigned in our class. We had the freedom of design, but there were certain techniques that had to be included. Stone setting was not one of the techniques listed for this particular assignment (we covered that earlier in the class), but I talked our instructor, Denny, into allowing a stone for my design. He saw the sketch of this buckle and agreed that it was important to the design.

I wanted to share these pics showing the progression of this particular piece. It was quite challenging and very rewarding. There is a lot of silver in this piece, and let me tell you, there were a few frustrations when I was soldering. It was a true learning experience. The buckle will soon be shipped out to its namesake, my brother, as a gift.

So, that's it for now. Just wanted to show you what I've been up to. I'd love to hear about what you've been up to!

Thank you for stopping by. I hope your week is off to a wonderful start!

Thank you for being you.

Much love...xo

2016-04-12T14:16:00.002-07:00

Hello, dear hearts!

Oh my, it's been awhile, hasn't it? I hope you are well and happy.

I have read over and over that blogging is dead, thanks to Twitter and Instagram and all the other quicky social media sites. I'm as guilty as the next guy in this respect. It's so easy to tweet or post a quick update. Blogging takes more effort and time and thought...My little blog may seem to be on its last gasp, but I'm here today to bring it back to life!

So many months have passed, and life is happening all around us. I wouldn't know where to begin if I were to write all the news in my life. Besides, I don't think you want to know everything. *wink*

From a creative viewpoint, I can give you an update on what I've been up to and why I haven't posted many new Fringe pieces. I took time off from knitting, crocheting, and fiber arts to pursue a new skill. Ron and I have been taking silversmith classes for the past year (since April 2015). It's been challenging, a bit nerve-wracking (for me, not Ron), wonderful, exciting (I'm working with torches!), and it's driving me slightly crazy because I have so many ideas and silversmithing is a slower and different process.

Don't get me wrong, I still love knitting and crocheting and all things related to Fringe. I have so many delicious yarns and bits of yesteryear to incorporate into new pieces...Le sigh! Today, I began listing new pieces in the shop, starting with Antler Necklace No. 6, in honor of spring.

So, I'm on this new journey of discovering metal and stone, a whole new world of designs swirling around in my brain, and my beloved Ron to share ideas with. At the same time, my first true love, Fringe, is shaking out her mane and languorously stretching her muscles, beckoning me. What does it mean? I guess it means I will be very busy (ha!) and happy (definitely). I cannot wait for what lies ahead and to share it with you.

If you're still checking in here and interested in what I'm doing, thank you.

Thank you for being you.

Much love,
Dennice

Romance is Alive and Well

2014-09-21T10:55:00.003-07:00

The Frosting Cowl

A romantic husband purchased this cowl last week.

He wrote me a lovely little note.

His thirteenth anniversary is coming up,

and he wanted a traditional gift for his beloved.

Lace is the traditional gift for the thirteenth.

He chose this lace pattern cowl.

Stories like this are what make my work so very rewarding.

I tied a special piece of white vintage lace onto this cowl before sending it off.

Just a little extra bit of romance for his wife.

One can never have too much romance,

don't you agree?

I know of one woman in Canada who will feel very loved

on her thirteenth wedding anniversary.

Thank you for stopping by, dear hearts...

xoxo

This and That

2014-09-17T09:10:00.001-07:00

Hello, dear hearts!

Antler Brooch F11

I'm creating a new line of neckdresses.

The line is named after my favorite road,

Route 395.

Coming soon to Fringe!

I've been working on some new items for Fringe Home,

including wall hangings.

Beyond the Pines Scarf coming soon to Fringe.

Antler Brooch sold separately.

A work in progress that I'm so very excited about.

Inspired partly by my love of books and partly by my Pulitzer Prize Reading List.

This is an example of what a typical morning looks like around here. A gathering of items to be made, photographed, listed. Speaking of lists, that clipboard has a very long list of ideas!

I have been busy creating new Fringe designs and trying to stay cool in this miserable SoCal heatwave we're having. Not much luck with the staying cool part as we don't have air conditioning but lots of luck with my designs! I will be listing new pieces in the shop as soon as possible, I even have a new line of necklaces, which I am calling "neckdresses". My brilliant brother came up with that term because they remind him of headdresses. It's perfect. He's such a super talented smarty!

Some items are finding new homes before I even have a chance to list, like Antler Brooch F11 (shown in first photo).

I wanted to let you know that things are hopping here at Fringe headquarters so stay tuned...*wink*

Thank you for stopping by!

And thank you for being you...

Summer Under the Stars - Week 4

2014-08-20T14:26:00.004-07:00

Hello, hello, dear hearts! Thank you so much for returning for Week 4 of my picks for TCM's Summer Under the Stars Month. I cannot believe August is coming to an end already! This last post will have nine days of film picks to close out the month. I was not exactly the model of discipline for a couple of the days this time around. Nobody's perfect, right? *wink*

Here are my picks for August 23 - 31

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | ERNEST BORGNINE

5pm PST - MARTY (1955)

I think one of the reasons I love this film so much is because we get to see Borgnine in a different role. Not the bad guy, not a jerk, like he plays in FROM HERE TO ETERNITY and BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK (both excellent films, by the way). He's just a guy, living his life. The interaction between Marty and his mother is probably one of my favorite aspects of this film. Borgnine won a well-deserved Oscar for this role. Director Mann does a brilliant job and was rewarded with an Oscar as well.

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 24 | GLADYS GEORGE

5pm PST - THE MALTESE FALCON (1944)

This is not Gladys George's biggest part in a film, but boy oh boy does she pack a punch. She's mysterious. She leaves you wondering just what she's guilty of, if anything. She's perfect and intriguing. It can't be easy as an actor to take a small role and add so many layers to it, but Gladys does just that in this film. Is there anybody out there who hasn't seen THE MALTESE FALCON? If so, please be sure to watch it. I've seen it too many times to count. Stellar all the way around.

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MONDAY, AUGUST 25 | DICK POWELL

6:15pm PST - MURDER, MY SWEET (1944)

Ok. I may have a bit of a crush on Dick Powell. Noir Dick Powell, that is, and Dramatic Dick Powell. So you see, I could not contain myself to add a teensy bit more than one film for this day. If you only watch one, make it MURDER, MY SWEET. It was Powell's break-out film, away from his musical, light-hearted roles. He's sublime as Philip Marlowe. Sublime, I say! Adapted from Raymond Chandler's (one of my favorite authors!) book FAREWELL MY LOVELY and gorgeously directed by Edward Dmytryk. This film is jam-packed with fantastic actors, including sizzling Claire Trevor and sexy, sweet Anne Shirley (once married to John Payne who I always felt would have made an exceptional Philip Marlowe).

9:30am PST - STATION WEST (1948)

4:15pm PST - THE PITFALL (1948)

5pm PST - CHRISTMAS IN JULY (1940)

12:45pm PST - THE BAD AND THE BEAUTIFUL (1952)

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 26 | SOPHIA LOREN

11pm PST - YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW (1963)

I've only seen this film once, and it was years ago. I recall that I truly enjoyed it, but to be honest, I don't remember much about it other than Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni were absolutely superb. This film is three different stories with Sophia and Marcello as the main characters in each of the tales. I hope you will watch this one! I'm looking forward to becoming reacquainted with this one.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27 | EDMUND O'BRIEN

10:30pm PST - THE BIGAMIST (1953)

I love Ida Lupino. Love! So this film is a double delight because not only is Ida starring in it, she is also the director. What a woman! Le sigh. The acting is remarkable. Edmund O'Brien manages to make us feel sympathy and compassion for his character, a bigamist. Now that's saying something! Joan Fontaine has a smaller role, but she is true to form, delivering an exquisite performance as well. This is the only film in which Ida directed herself although she did direct many films as well as TV shows.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 28 | ARLENE DAHL

6:15am PST - NO QUESTIONS ASKED

Here's a film that I've not seen so I just don't have an opinion about it. It's a crime drama about a lawyer who makes some bad choices (gasp!). Also starring Barry Sullivan and George Murphy. Directed by Harold F. Kress who won an Academy Award for editing for HOW THE WEST WAS WON (1962) and THE TOWERING INFERNO (1974).

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 | JOSEPH COTTEN

9:15pm PST - THE THIRD MAN

Oh, this film...it's on my Top Five Favorite Films List. If you've not seen it, please do watch it. It's just such a gem. I could go on and on, but I won't. Joseph Cotten plays such an endearing character. I have a soft spot for him as Holly, the lovesick, self-depreciating, compassionate pulp writer. The scenes he shares with beautiful Alida Valli are positively vibrating with his feelings for her. Written by another of my personal favorites, Graham Greene and directed by yet another personal favorite, Carol Reed. A must-see if ever there was one! And don't get me started on the music...or the dutch angles...

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 30 | BETTY GRABLE

8:45pm PST - I WAKE UP SCREAMING

This is another new-to-me film. I chose it for a couple of reasons besides the fact that I've never seen it: I love classic crime drama films and Victor Mature is part of the cast. This is a remake of VICKI which I have seen and enjoyed. I'm looking forward to comparing the two films. Directed by Bruce Humberstone who also directed SUN VALLEY SERENADE and several of the CHARLIE CHAN movies.

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 31 | ALAN LADD

9:45am PST - THE GLASS KEY (1942)

This film is a must-see, dear hearts! Adapted from the novel by Dashiell Hammett (said to be Hammett's favorite of all his work) and the inspiration for Akira Kurosawa's YOJIMBO (another must-see!). The chemistry between Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake is the stuff of legends in this, their second film together. Also starring the underrated (in my opinion) Brian Donlevy and directed by Stuart Heisler. Super snappy dialogue and fast-paced, I hope you enjoy it as much as I will.

I've sort of fallen off the One Film A Day Wagon already for this post so I'd like to recommend SHANE and if you love Ladd and Lake together, THE BLUE DAHLIA.

5pm PST - SHANE (1953)

12am PST - THE BLUE DAHLIA (1946)

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I can't believe it's already the last of my Summer Under the Stars Month post! Where did the time go? I had such a grand time with this little series. I hope you were able to catch some of the films I recommended. If not on TCM, then perhaps elsewhere. Thank you so much for checking in, and I hope you found some valuable information and some new favorite films through these posts.

Thank you for being you.

Until next time...

Summer Under the Stars - Week 3

2014-08-13T09:14:00.003-07:00

Hello, dear hearts!

I'm so happy you've come back for Week 3 of my picks for TCM's Summer Under the Stars! This week is an unusual mix because three of the films I chose are films I've never seen. I love when I find films on TCM that are new to me! I really did stick to my one film a day plan (unlike last week) this time. It was tough, I tell ya!
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Here are my picks for the week of August 16 - 22:

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16 | HERBERT FALCON MARSHALL

7:15pm PST - MURDER! (1930)

I had a difficult time choosing between MURDER! and THE LETTER for today's pick. I chose MURDER! because it's a very early Hitchcock film, and I've never seen it. I want to see Herbert Falcon Marshall in this role. In truth, I prefer him in his earlier films. I can't wait to see Falcon directed by Alfie!

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 17 | JOHN HODIAK

7pm PST - A BELL FOR ADANO (1945)

John Hodiak is an actor that I'm not very familiar with. I've seen LIFEBOAT, which he was very good in and a few others. I've not seen A BELL FOR ADANO, and I chose this as my pick for that reason. It's a WW1 film centered on a small Italian village. Directed by Henry King and also starring the mesmerizing Gene Tierney and underrated (imo) William Bendix. I am so looking forward to this one.

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MONDAY, AUGUST 18 | CLAUDETTE COLBERT

7pm PST - SKYLARK (1941)

This is the third day of my picks this week and the third new-to-me film. I'm so excited to see this one too! The only down side to choosing new-to-me films is I don't have much to offer as far as an opinion. SKYLARK is described as a sophisticated romance. How can it lose with Claudette Colbert in the line-up? She is impeccable. The leading men are Ray Milland and Brian Aherne. And the incomparable Edith Head in charge of costume design. Heaven!

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 19 | PAUL NEWMAN

7pm PST - BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID

There are many things I love about this film. The direction by George Roy Hill is fantastic, unique and beautiful. I get giddy when I see his use of sepia tones. Of course, it doesn't hurt that we are gazing at Paul Newman, Robert Redford and Katherine Ross for 110 minutes. AND it's a western, which I have a definite soft spot for. Good westerns, especially those that add a modern touch, are my favorite type. This is an excellent example. I believe that most of us know the fate of Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid which is why I think the ending was done masterfully.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20 | THELMA RITTER

5pm PST - THE MATING SEASON (1951)

Oh Thelma! How I adore you. I sort of wish Thelma Ritter could have been in every movie. She brings me such joy. This film, THE MATING SEASON, is a true gem that does not get enough praise. It's a complete delight to watch. Please don't miss this romantic comedy. The cast is very impressive with Gene Tierney, John Lund and Miriam Hopkins, and the director, Mitchell Liesen (whose has directed many special films such as REMEMBER THE NIGHT and HOLD BACK THE DAWN), gives us a gift with this film.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 21 | LEE TRACY

5pm PST - BOMBSHELL (1933)

This film...love love love. Jean Harlow at her best. I dare you to take your eyes off her for one second. She will hypnotize you. Lee Tracy is very sexy, snappy and just plain wonderful. The chemistry is definitely evident between Harlow and Tracy. A gorgeous film, photographed by Harold Rosson with stellar writing by Norman Krasna (who also wrote BACHELOR MOTHER and MR. & MRS. SMITH, to name just two). Directed by manly Victor Fleming. Jean's delicious gowns by Adrian. This is another must-see!

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 22 | AUDREY HEPBURN

5pm PST - ROMAN HOLIDAY (1953)

This tender film is Hepburn's first starring role. I can hardly express how much I love her performance. She is so sincere, it will maybe break your heart just a wee bit. It did mine. Gregory Peck is so handsome and really, sublime. As if that's not enough, this film is set in Rome. There is so much to look at between the actors and the setting. I feel this is a very special film for many reasons. Written by blacklisted Dalton Trumbo who did not get credit for nearly 40 years. I urge you, dear friends, to read more about Dalton Trumbo here. Directed by William Wyler.

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There you have it, darling dears, Week 3! If you get a chance to see any (or hopefully, all) of these films, I hope you'll let me know your thoughts about them. I'm having such a grand time picking them out. Three of these films I will be seeing for the first time which is an added bonus. Anticipation...

I will post my picks for August 23 - 31 next week.

Thank you so much for stopping by!

Thank you for being you.
Until next time...

xo

Summer Under the Stars - Week 2

2014-08-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

Hello, dear hearts.

Welcome back! I have for you my picks for week 2 of TCM's Summer Under the Stars. Again, it was painful to choose just one film per day, but I managed to do just that (with just one teensy weensy slip-up). And what a week of films!

Here are my picks for August 9 – 15:

SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 | WILLIAM POWELL

5pm PST - THE THIN MAN (1934)

This film is in my Top Five Favorite Films List. It's a must-see. Sophisticated wit, snappy dialogue, oh, and a murder mystery! So many excellent characters flit across the screen and Loy and Powell are sublime.

"I don't like crooks. And if I did like 'em, I wouldn't like crooks that are stool pigeons. And if I did like crooks that are stool pigeons, I still wouldn't like you!"

Psst. I realize I'm breaking my own One Film A Day Rule, but these are wonderful films on the schedule today:

7am PST - DOUBLE HARNESS (1933)
1:30pm PST - I LOVE YOU AGAIN (1940)

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 10 | CAROLE LOMBARD

3pm PST - MR. AND MRS. SMITH (1941)

This sexy comedy is directed by Alfred Hitchcock. I believe it's not a film that is well-known. I adore this one! Gorgeous to look at and (of course) beautifully directed. Fun from start to finish. Lombard and Montgomery were made for each other. I wish they would have done more films together. And by the way, Gene Raymond is nothing to sneeze at either (You'll get the reference once you watch the film. I hope.*wink*).

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MONDAY, AUGUST 11 | MARLON BRANDO

8:45pm PST - ON THE WATERFRONT (1954)

Where do I begin? The acting (by every actor in this film) is absolutely impeccable. What was Kazan's secret? He could bring out the gritty, intense, grindingly realistic performances in his actors like no other. Keep an eye out for the heart-wrenching scene between Steiger and Brando in the back of the taxi. And the steamy, passionate apartment scene between Eva Marie Saint and Brando.,

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 | ALEXIS SMITH

12:30 am (August 13) PST - THE YOUNG PHILADELPHIANS (1959)

I've only seen this film once before. That was quite some time ago so I don't feel I can give you much insight. I definitely want to watch it again. What I remember most about this film was Alexis Smith's heartfelt role as a frustrated wife.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13 | CARY GRANT

9:45am PST - THE PHILADELPHIA STORY (1940)

Good grief. Too much to write about! Watch this film again and again. You'll catch something new every time. It's sparkling and brilliant. And remember these sage (but true) words from a drunken Macaulay Connor:

"Champagne is a great leveleler... leveleler. It makes you my equal."

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 14 | CHARLES CHAPLIN

9:30pm PST - CITY LIGHTS (1931)

I have a confession to make. I've never watched this film (runs and hides). I haven't seen it, but I have it on good authority that it's a masterpiece. I've avoided it because I've heard it's a tearjerker and let's face it, I'm a wimp. I am going to square my shoulders and watch it this time around. Who's with me?

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 | FAYE DUNAWAY

9pm PST - CHINATOWN (1974)

I love love (yes, I double love it) this film! A film noir in color. A modern film (neo-noir) set in the early 1900's Los Angeles. Directed by Roman Polanski, written by Robert Towne. It's a mesmerizing film. The acting is immaculate. Dunaway is a master. The costumes are heavenly. If you're as big a fan of noir as I am, I believe you will fall head over heels in love with this one.

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Week 2 complete! If you have a chance to watch these films, I hope you enjoy them as much as I will. Let me know your thoughts on any or all of them, if you wish. I always love hearing from you, and I could talk movies till the cows come home!
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I will be back next week with my picks for August 16 - 22 next week.

Thank you for being you.

Until next time...

The Perfect Summer Cocktail

2014-08-05T12:45:00.003-07:00

Ever since I tasted my first Aperol Spritz, sitting at an outdoor cafe on the banks of the Tiber (our trip to Rome, summer of 2012), it has been my favorite summer cocktail. So light and refreshing, festive and pretty.

I thought I'd share the recipe I use when making them here at home. Give it a try and discover the taste of summer, dear hearts.

Aperol Spritz

3 parts prosecco

2 parts Aperol (I get mine at BevMo)

1 part club soda

Orange slice, optional

Pour over ice and if you want to get fancy, top with an orange slice.

To be Rome-authentic, serve in large bowl-style wine glass.

Cin-cin!

Summer Under the Stars - Week 1

2014-07-30T08:47:00.002-07:00

Hello, dear hearts!

If you happen to be a TCM (Turner Classic Movies) fan, then I probably don’t have to tell you that it’s that time of year again. My favorite month on TCM is August, Summer Under the Stars Month. Each day they feature one actor’s work. This year they have a great line-up.

I thought I would offer my picks to you, one film each day to watch or record for later. It was extremely difficult at times to choose just one film a day, but I stiffened my backbone! I won’t always pick the best film, but I am choosing the film that I would watch if I could only watch one per day. For each film I choose, I’ll write a little snippet about it. I thought the best way to tackle this ambitious project was to break it down into one week increments. So, without further adieu…

Here are my picks for August 1 – 8:

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1 | JANE FONDA

6:45am PST - WALK ON THE WILD SIDE (1962)

I have been waiting for this one to be shown on TCM again! It's such a special little gem and not well known. The cast is stellar, as is the directing by Edward Dmytryk. I don't want to give anything away so I'll just impress upon you to be sure to catch this one, you won't be sorry.

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 | DAVID NIVEN

7am PST - THE WAY AHEAD (1944)

I will be tuning in to watch this David Niven film for the first time. This British war film was the first film for Trevor Howard. I really chose this one because it's directed by Carol Reed. I adore Carol Reed!

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 3 | WALTER PIDGEON

5pm PST – HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY (1941)

A perfect John Ford film. Be sure to have your kleenex handy, darlings. It's a tearjerker, for sure.

Maureen O'Hara can bring tears to my eyes like nobody's business. She's so tender-hearted in this film. Walter Pidgeon is understated and extraordinary in his role. I believe you will understand immediately why this film won the Academy Award.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 4 | JUDY GARLAND

7am PST - MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (1944)

Once again, I was torn when choosing just one film to recommend. Finally, I decided to go with the one I watch over and over. This is a personal favorite of mine. It's a delight to watch this film. And the music! The Boy Next Door is my favorite song in the film. Vincente Minnelli's camera follows Judy around like a lovesick puppy and with good reason, she was never more beautiful. The entire film is gorgeous.

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 5 | BARBARA STANWYCK

5pm PST – BALL OF FIRE (1942)

All you could ever want in a comedy! So fun to watch. Barbara Stanwyck and Gary Cooper are wonderful together, they certainly have chemistry! Also, the other professors are like a who's who of fantastic character actors. A complete joy from start to finish. Not to mention, Barbara's costumes are designed by the one and only Edith Head.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6 | PAUL MUNI

6am PST – BORDERTOWN (1935)

This is a new-to-me Paul Muni film. I don't have a wide knowledge of Paul Muni films. To be honest, I chose this one because Bette Davis is in it. Also, the description of the film mentions it was used later as a basis for THEY DRIVE BY NIGHT (1940), which I am a big fan of. I'm looking forward to seeing how the two films compare.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 7 | JAMES STEWART

10am PST – COME LIVE WITH ME (1941)

This is not the most popular or even the best film offered for James Stewart Day, but I love it. It's not a well-known film, but I feel it's well worth seeing. A sweet and charming film with the added bonus of Hedy Lamarr. Hot tamales!

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 8 | JEANNE MOREAU

11pm PST – THE LOVERS (1958)

I've not seen this film. I have to say I have a soft spot for French films. They can be unpredictable, sad (even though I do love a happy ending), realistic, quirky, beautiful to look at, among many other wonderful qualities. I'm looking forward to this one. I hope you'll let me know if you watch it and what you thought of it. Jeanne is in the top few of my favorite french actors. The camera loves her.

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Phew! Week 1 complete! I truly hope you will let me know your thoughts on these films. If you watch them, I would love to hear your feedback. More importantly, I hope you have a chance to enjoy these films and perhaps find that you have a new favorite among them.

I will post my picks for August 9 - 15th next week.

Thank you for being you.

Until next time...

Mama D's Super Simple Bread Pudding

2014-07-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

Hello, darling dears! I thought I'd bring my sleepy blog back to life with this easy recipe. It is the ultimate in comfort food. It's a versatile recipe too. My family loves it. I hope yours will too!

Mama D's Super Simple Bread Pudding

8 slices of day old bread*

2 tablespoons butter, melted

½ cup raisins**

4 eggs, beaten

2 cups milk

½ cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons vanilla extract***

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Cut or tear bread into (roughly) one inch cubes. Put bread into a greased 8 inch square baking dish. Drizzle melted butter over bread. Sprinkle with raisins**.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine eggs, milk, sugar cinnamon and vanilla. Hand mix until well blended. Pour over bread, and lightly push down with a fork until bread is somewhat covered and soaking up the egg mixture.

Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly tapped.

*You can use what ever bread you have on hand. For this batch, I used whole wheat bread.
**Dried currants, cranberries, blueberries, or diced apple work wonderfully as well.
***I have also used 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 teaspoon maple extract and it's lovely.

This dish is delicious by itself, but you could certainly serve this pudding many different ways.

Here are a few topping and accompaniment suggestions:

Ice cream and/or whipped cream.

Whiskey, caramel or vanilla sauce.

Warmed maple syrup.

Honey.

Let me know if you try it out, dear hearts.

Thank you for visiting and...
thank you for being you.

xo

Busy hands and a Family Affair.

2014-01-30T11:14:00.002-08:00

The beginnings (in part) of my collaboration with Brock Street.

Made for my dear sweet brother, Levi, as a special request.

More of the stones that are now en route to Levi.

I've been very busy lately (and so have my little hands). My incredibly talented brother, Levi, over at Brock Street SF suggested a collaboration between the two of us. Of course, I was thrilled and jumped at the opportunity! I put together quite a bundle of handmade pieces and shipped them to him on Tuesday. He should receive them today. So excited!

I will share more with you as soon as I'm allowed to...*wink*

Thank you for being you.
Much love...xo

Fringe Friday

2014-01-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

Corset Cowl

Wreckage Scarf

Double Down Cowl

Fiesta Capelet

Four new pieces in the shop this week. I really do love every one of them. I can't help it. I do admit that I've had sweethearts and valentines and love on my mind. These thoughts are definitely influencing my creativity...Love is in the air!

And Phew! What a week. So so busy. I'm plum tuckered out.

I will write more soon. As soon as I get a spare moment. It seems that every minute of this weekend is filled with commitments. I prefer slower moving weekends, and this weekend will be anything but slow moving. Wish me luck, dear hearts. I have a feeling I'll blink my eyes, and it will be Monday.

I hope you have a beautiful weekend. A weekend that is filled with just what you want it to be.

Thank you for stopping by.
Thank you for being you.
Much love...xoxo

Fringe Friday

2014-01-17T19:57:00.001-08:00

This week's Fringe shop update is live, dear hearts.

There are 8 new items.

You can check them out here.

The following pieces are among the new.

The Corset Cowl

cherry red

black velvet lacing

like a warm hug

bringing sexy back

Sidecar Cowl

dark chocolate brown

dove grey knit bow

one of a kind

roaring 20s

Snow Bunny Loop Scarf

black ink

velvety soft

sexy snugglebunny

faux fur

Out-of-Print Cowl

shades of brown

goldenrod as romance

crocheted lace trim

rustic chic

I hope your week was filled with small (or big!) triumphs.

My wish for you this weekend...

warmth

love

kisses

good food

wonderful reading

time outdoors

sleep

poetry

meaningful words

happy moments

passion

desire

laughter

sharing

lively conversation

birdsong

rousing music

inspiration

ideas

sunshine

Thank you for stopping by!

Thank you for being you.

Much love...xo

Wordless Wednesday

2014-01-15T09:04:00.000-08:00

Did your day tell its secret?

2014-01-13T20:08:00.000-08:00

Snow Bunny Scarf

dark chocolate brown

Snow Bunny Scarf

smoky grey

Snow Bunny Scarf

winter white

Sidecar Collar

succulent green

Hello, dear hearts. I hope your week is off to a wonderful start!

I'll start off with the latest Fringe shop news...I meant to post a Fringe Friday shop update, but three of the four new items I listed sold quite quickly. Thank you to the three lovely ladies who purchased the new Snow Bunny Loop Scarves! It means so very much to me knowing my work is appreciated. What a super fantastic way to get back in the swing of things!

The Sidecar Collar is still available. It’s a one of kind piece. I adore it. The color is divine. My inspiration for this piece came by way of the Roaring 20s. The yarn is gorgeous and fun, luxury yarn from England.

I will restock the Snow Bunny Scarf in winter white, smoky grey and dark chocolate in my shop this week, in case you are interested in them. I’m so happy they are getting such an enthusiastic response!

I plan to have another shop update this Friday. I will post the new items here on Friday in case you wish to see what’s new. As I mentioned in my previous post, I’m a bit out of practice with my shop. My hope is to make Fringe Friday a regular routine for posting new items. There are so many new designs waiting to be photographed. They may need a little bit of attention with detailed finishing first, and I refuse to rush on that. I take pride in my work and will make certain to get each piece finished to the degree of quality that I feel is as close to perfect as I can make it. So I’ll do my best to bring them to you as soon as I can.

I do believe that is all for my Fringe news…

We had a lovely weekend here. I hope you did too. I managed to get a lot done without feeling like it was hectic. Took a walk under blue skies every day. We went out to eat at one of our favorite little family-run restaurants on Friday night. I ordered the same thing I always order there: chicken curry udon soup. It’s positively scrumptious! Especially on a nippy night like we had on Friday.

We took a walk under blue skies every day.

Ron worked on his latest woodworking project – a dining room table. It’s going to be so beautiful! I will definitely share photos with you here when it’s complete.

I made granola as I do most weekends these days. We’re a little pack of granola wolves lately. I have a delicious recipe that I would love to share with you, if you wish.

I had a nice long conversation with my beloved brother on Saturday. Talking to him is always good for my soul. We laughed a lot. He’s a very creative and talented man. Very very! So he told me some of the projects he’s been working on at his cabin. Also, we are planning/working on an exciting collaboration. It’s double secret at the moment, but I will tell you more about it soon. I promise!

Before I sign off, I want to share a bit of beautifully written prose:

“Will the day tell its secret ... Before it disappears, ... Becomes timeless night.”

~ Dejan Stojanovic

Until next time, dear ones.

Thank you for stopping by and...

Thank you for being you.

Much love...xo

Happy New Year of the Horse!

2014-01-03T21:55:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, dear hearts!

And Happy Year of the Horse!

May your year be filled with laughter, love, good health, and prosperity. I have so many thoughts and ideas and hopes and dreams for the coming year. I am a true believer in looking forward. However, before looking forward, I want to share a little about the last year.

2013 hit my little family like a bullet in the back. It knocked us flat in May, but not permanently. We made it through, but not unscathed. When your life gets turned upside down, you find out what’s really important. I know I’ve discussed what I feel is most important before on this blog, see this post. Also, this post.

The thing is, I only recently reclaimed my desire to create. It was as if that part of me shut down. I went into survival mode, focusing solely on taking care of my family. I’ve felt like only half of myself all these months, but it’s all slowly coming back now. And it feels so wonderful, so sweet and strangely, it feels a little scary. I know time will take care of the scary part. It’s a matter of fully getting back into my creative self. Each new piece I make now feels like a gift I’m giving myself.

Neil Gaiman wrote a lovely blog post this week that hit home with me in many basic ways. Here's an excerpt that goes a long way for me:

"And then it seemed so many things happened, and I had not written about any of them, and catching up seemed less and less possible."

That. That is what happened to me this year. It's why my blog has had crickets chirping for months. Actually, I hope you will read the rest of Neil Gaiman's post here. Truly, just start reading his blog. You'll be so glad you did.

You may have noticed my shop, Fringe, was closed for some time last year. More than six months. We were busy dodging that aforementioned bullet in the back. I'm so happy that Fringe is now reopened. New things coming up next week, beginning with this little velvety soft number.

The Snow Bunny Loop Scarf

velvety soft

snow white

versatile

sexy

playful

coming to Fringe next week

Also, darling dears, there is a special One of a Kind Sale going on in my shop. For a select few of my one of a kind designs, 20% off. When they're gone, they're gone forever.

The final bit of Fringe news is a special coupon code just for my dear heart blog readers. Enter the code BLOGLOVE at checkout and receive free domestic priority mail shipping.

If you are an international customer, I will give you a discount on your shipping after your purchase or contact me before your make your purchase and I will adjust the listing for you.

Thoughts for the new year. Personally, I don't make resolutions. However, I do like to try and make improvements where they are needed. Things that will improve our quality of life. I found a beautiful post this week about just that.

5 steps to a more peaceful morning - Clementine Daily

Also, this lovely little list for:

2014

Simplify.

Be Inspired.

Be Original.

Work Hard.

Enjoy.

Okay, darling dears, I think I'll sign off. I went from a deserted blog to a very long post. I hope you aren't shell-shocked. *wink*

I'll leave you with this, just for the fun of it. Because I do love films. Especially the classics, as you well know...I hope you are able to curl up on a cozy couch or chair with proper snacks and catch one or more of these truly special films.

Weekend Stay-at-Home Movie Night recommendations:

On TCM (Turner Class Movies):

For Saturday: THE BAD AND THE BEAUTIFUL (1952) at 5PM PST. Dick Powell and Gloria Grahame make this a must-see, in my opinion. Of course, Lana Turner is easy on the eyes. The acting, directing and the screenplay are topnotch.

For Sunday: HOW TO MARRY A MILLIIONAIRE (1953) at 5PM PST. Lauren Becall, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Grable and William Powell too! This is fun film and the fashion is pure joy to behold.

Netflix:

THE APARTMENT (1960). Starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacClaine. Directed by Billy Wilder.

CINEMA PARADISO (1988). This Oscar-winning film is set in Italy. It has, in my opinion, one of the best endings ever filmed.

~ ~ ~

Thank you for stopping by. I'm glad to be back. I'm glad you're here. And...

Thank you for being you.

Much love...xo

2013-08-29T12:59:00.000-07:00

I hope you're having a beautiful Thursday, dear hearts. My days seem to fly by. Trying to slow things down is like trying to hold a tiger by his tail...

The boy started his junior year of high school yesterday. Junior. I cannot believe it.

I have been very busy with a new project that I'm so excited about it. Before I tell you about it, I want to make sure it truly happens. Don't want to jinx things, right? *wink*

I spent last weekend rearranging all the furniture downstairs. I love doing that. I haven't for a while so it was especially fun for me. I even painted some walls to freshen things up a bit more. It feels like a new house now. Moving things around costs nothing, but gives me so much pleasure. The boys like it too. We are all marveling at how different everything looks. Now I'm plotting the same thing for the upstairs area...I highly recommend moving your furniture and wall art and everything else around if you feel like your space is getting a little stale. It makes a world of difference. I usually take a couple days to do it...I move some things, then think about their new location, then move some more...it takes time. Cleaning and organizing as I go adds even more time, but it's all well worth it. I always get the cleaning and organizing bug in the fall. How about you?

Thank you for stopping by, and thank you for being you!
Much love...xo

2013-08-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

Hello, dear hearts. I've been busy. You know how much nature inspires my work. I have been working on several designs, inspired by the beauty of nature, for the past few months. Along these lines, I may have news for you soon as well. If all goes according to plan...

I hope you all have a beautiful weekend. Try to spend a bit of time doing something just for yourself. A walk, a book, a project, a letter, a sketch, an old classic movie, a new recipe, a long soak in the tub, whatever it is you love to do. You're worth it!

Much love...xo

Happy Wednesday!

2013-08-14T11:32:00.001-07:00

Summer project - Redoing the boy's room.

New paint chosen by the boy (Teton Blue by Behr), applied by yours truly.

I love to paint!

Crown moulding installed by Ron.

We found the most gorgeous old barn door.

The boy wanted to make a new bed for himself (with Ron's help),

and this barn door will be the headboard.

Rusted and worn to perfection.

From my Study in Succulents project.

Found this sweet little stool at my favorite treasure shop.

Another found treasure.

These gorgeous horns may need some work, but when Ron's done,

they will be magnificent again.

Twin gifts for two very special ladies.

Grape leaves!

A gift from Ron.

Did you know I collect old locks and keys?

Shocking, right? *wink*

More from my Study in Succulents project.

This little machine gets quite a workout around here.

Calm and peaceful, sometimes.

Happy Wednesday, dear hearts. I hope your week is wonderful thus far and will continue to be so. This summer is winding down. How is that possible? Our summer was different this year. It feels to me like The Summer That Never Was. Do I feel that way every year around this time? Maybe to some degree...I don't know. Today, the sun is out, there is a mild breeze, the birds are singing, no one in the neighborhood is running their leaf blower or weed wacker, and I have a bored teenager on my hands. I guess if that doesn't define a good summer day, nothing does.

So here's to making the last weeks of summer count. Every single day. My unsolicited advice? Wake up with a smile, even if you have to force it. I read that if you are feeling stressed, force yourself to smile for a few moments. The real deal smile that crinkles your eyes. The study showed that you will actually lower your heart rate and have a more positive outlook. It works for me! So give it a try...

Much love...xo

2013-08-08T12:29:00.004-07:00

Happy Thursday, dear hearts!

I've been thinking a lot about our last visit to Mammoth. If you follow this blog, you probably know how much I love that mountain town and all the surrounding area. Even the drive from here to there is close to my heart - my favorite road is Route 395. This is the second summer we have not been able to make it there, and I feel a bit forlorn because I miss that part of the world terribly.

Today I'm thinking of the Road Less Traveled. I think it's so important to take the road less traveled in the journey of life. It is certainly not the easiest route, sometimes it's extremely difficult. The thing is, I never want to feel like the road most traveled is the most appealing way to go. If you take the bumpy, rocky, dusty, challenging road you will become closer to your true self. You will learn so much more and appreciate the little things, get a new perspective on what is truly important. It may be slow going, but that can be a very good thing. You may meet the most wonderful people along the way. You will be inspired and touched and changed forever, even if in a small way. You may come to realize your true meaning in life, become motivated, choose new goals. You may find the love of your life or rediscover your true love who has been right beside you for a long time.

When confronted with that fork in the road please consider both, and if you choose the road less traveled there's a very strong possibility that you will bump into me...

{a peek at my 395 wall}

Much love...xo

2013-08-03T16:54:00.002-07:00

Excerpt from Aimless Love by Billy Collins.

Easiest Lemon Cookies.

2013-08-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

This recipe is as easy as it gets, and the results are delicious. These little cookies are a real crowd pleaser. I've been making them all summer and the boys love them.

I found the original recipe at allrecipes.com but I made a little alteration to the recipe. You can check out the original here.

Easy Lemon Cookies

1 (18.25 ounce) package lemon cake mix
2 eggs
1/3 cup canola oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup powdered sugar

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

2. Pour cake mix into a large bowl. Stir in eggs, oil and lemon juice until well blended (I blend the batter by hand instead of bothering with the electric mixer). Drop teaspoonfuls of dough into a bowl or onto a small plate of confectioners' sugar. Roll them around until they're lightly covered. I drop 6 - 8 spoonfuls at a time to make things move along quicker. Once sugared, put them on an ungreased cookie sheet. I flatten them just a tad with a fork before putting them in the oven.

3.Bake for 6 - 9 minutes in preheated oven. The bottoms will be light brown, and the insides chewy. I get 3 - 4 dozens cookies, depending on how big my teaspoonful scoops are.

I hope you'll give this one a try, dear hearts. They're so quick and easy. A great go-to when the kids have friends stopping by or you need a quick little dessert to whip up. Super easy! I especially love them with freshly made iced tea in the summer months. I always make sure I have a box of lemon cake mix on hand just in case.

Much love...xo