Welcome to my blog!

Thanks so much for stopping by! I believe that everyone can have a beautiful home without spending a fortune! One of my favorite things to do is find creative ways to re-purpose things I already have on hand, or have picked up at yard sales and thrift stores. Join me as I share with you some of my favorite ideas for crafting and decorating, as well as travel adventures, and fun things that I pick up on my treasure hunts! Much of my work is influenced by my love all things French, nature, and of course shabby chic! I have gotten so many creative ideas from you very talented bloggers out there, and I hope that I can be an inspiration to you as well!

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Beach Cottage Blue Mermaid Tray

Hello ladies, hope you have been enjoying your weekend!
I don't know if it's because I now live near the sea (yeah!) or what, but my latest project was a bit of a departure from my usual Frenchy theme!  

I found the most beautiful mermaid print over at The Graphics Fairy, and I knew that she would be the perfect addition to my wooden tray, which I painted beach cottage blue.  I also found the sheet music over at The Graphics Fairy, titled appropriately "By the Crystal Sea".

 We have alot of really neat driftwood in our yard, which I thought was a fitting prop for my photo shoot.
 And, you can get a glimpse of the rhododendrons, which are in their glory!
 Here is a close up. Aren't the colors just gorgeous?
I've added her to my Etsy shop, if you care to take a look!
 Ok, these next photos have nothing to do with my tray, but I thought I'd share them with you anyway:)  This is the view from our backyard!  I am continually amazed at how gorgeous it is!
 I am really loving all of the brilliantly colored rhododendrons.  They seem to be very popular here.
 And, nothing beats a sunset on the water, don't you think?
That's it for today!  Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
I'm linking up with the following great parties:
The Graphic's Fairy Brag Monday

21 comments:

Donna said...

Yes, your backyard is just stunningly gorgeous! It would be so much fun to sit and drink it all in!

The mermaid tray is as cute as can be. She must be looking at the water in your backyard!

Leo said...

You know I love the tray for sure...and that view - how can you get anything done when you are in your house? It is just amazing!! WOW. I hope you can get a photo of a bald eagle one of these days.

Musings from Kim K. said...

Gorgeous. Just gorgeous. The mermaid tray and the view from your backyard. Happy weekend!

BECKY said...

Your tray is so charming, and I love how you used the music as the background!

And what a gorgeous view you have! There is nothing like being by the water, and seeing the sun rise and set!!
Have a joyful Sunday!
Becky

Erin said...

You know I love those views, ahhh! That tray is amazing!!! I love that you have picked the mermaid and the colors are FANTASTIC!!! Love it loveit loveit!!!!!

Debbiedoos said...

Hi Donna!That tray is so very cute. Love your views and the flowers look so pretty too! Enjoy your Sunday.

NanaDiana said...

Beautiful Donna- I think you may have founda wholenew avenue for color and content! Love the sea inspired theme!!! I am so happy that your view is beautiful and that you are liking it there-it makes the move tolerable! You know what they say~ Those that move to WA never want to move back-they love the coast~ Hugs- Diana

Karen said...

Hi Donna, I love the musical mermaid tray! The scenery you are so lucky to have will probably inspire you to create more "water themed" art.

Your yard looks beautiful....enjoy!

Love, Karen

Cindy Adkins said...

Oh--I love your tray, Donna!!! It's absolutely magical!!! And that view--it's pure heaven! It's like being at your very own retreat--WOW!
XO
Cindy

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

Beautiful pics! and love the tray too...

Now if I could only have a little seaside cottage to decorate in this style!

Anonymous said...

Donna the tray is gorgeous and love the images from your yard you are very lucky
hugs June xxxxx

LuLu Kellogg said...

You are living in such a beautiful place! Gorgeous pics Donna!

Love,
LuLu~*xoxo

Debbie said...

Wow! Donna...love your mermaid tray. The color is perfect!
You must be loving the sunsets out there!
So glad you are finding joy where you are.
Hugs,
Debbie

Simple Daisy said...

Ooh! I love your tray!! So cute:)

Arabella said...

The tray turned out beautifully ~ the shade of blue is perfect.

Are those the Olympic Mountains I see? We live on the Long Beach Peninsula and our rhodies are just starting to bloom - been such crazy & cold weather this year.

Happy Masterpiece Monday to you :O)

Jessica said...

Your tray is so pretty! I love the graphics you chose.

Sherry@Back2Vintage said...

I like the tray, but I LOVE the view from your backyard!!! WOW!!! Gorgeous!!!

fairyrocks said...

Beautiful tray, gorgeous photos!!

Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

You really do have the most magnificent views, Donna! Such a beautiful area! I really love all the projects on your last post, too!

Susan EvelynAndRose said...

Your mermaid fits right into the beautiful surroundings. So glad to hear you're enjoying where you live so far!
- Susan

Barbara Jean said...

sweet sachets.

blessings
barbara jean