Georgie Boy Blogs

Chocolate Almond Torte

2012-02-10T17:53:00.000-08:00

I decided to bake this Chocolate Almond Torte. I got the recipe from Country Living magazine. It is gluten free and dense like any flourless cake yet light at the same time. Delicious!! Try making it yourself using their recipe, here.

Things I made today...

2012-02-06T21:23:00.000-08:00

All you need...

2012-01-31T16:46:00.000-08:00

I've been working on Valentine cards non-stop! Here is a banner I made from a vintage love letter.

Thoughtful Curation

2012-01-20T11:30:00.000-08:00

Now that I'm home for a bit, I thought I would post a few pictures of some valued items. People attach emotions to memories of people or the things they touched. I have a few old clocks from my grandfather, some things from my dad, displayed along with old books and tins.

Things I saw this week...

2011-12-24T19:27:00.000-08:00

Ladies, Girls & Women

2011-12-22T07:52:00.000-08:00

While I was home this past week, I took the opportunity to be creative. I took old sewing pattern illustrations and gave them new life as gift tags. They are just lovely.

Home, Christmas & Family

2011-12-17T21:29:00.000-08:00

I've flown home to enjoy a week with snow and some much needed relaxation. I will feel recharged and ready to keep chugging away when I return to Portland next week. Yee Haw!

Things I saw last weekend.

2011-11-28T09:58:00.001-08:00

I perused a few antiques stores with christmas ideas for a few people on my list and saw these things.

It's almost here..

2011-11-19T19:27:00.001-08:00

Christmas is less than 6 weeks away. I decided to take an afternoon and peruse the Sellwood area this weekend. They have some great vintage and handmade items available at Stars Antique Mall(s) of which there are two.

Supper Time

2011-11-14T11:01:00.001-08:00

What do you do with potatoes and rosemary from the garden? Make a meal of course. Saute those potatoes in olive oil, onions, fresh garlic, sea salt, and pepper until they are slightly tender. Roll out that whole wheat prepared pizza dough from Trader Joe's, add the pizza sauce and cover the top with a mixture of mozzarella and provolone cheeses. Add your potato mixture to the top and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. While that is baking, steep fresh rosemary in a simple syrup made from 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water until the sugar is dissolved. Let it simmer with the rosemary in it for about 5 minutes, then strain the herb out and add it to a 32 oz. pitcher. Add 1 bottle of club soda (around 1 liter). Call it good.

Pics from Portland

2011-11-10T22:40:00.001-08:00

So, as I am now apparently acclimated somewhat to the area, I have some more findings to show. First, a tiny macaroon from Two Tarts. It was delicious and almond flavored I believe. Second, from Potato Champion, the pulled pork french fries with Jack Daniels in the sauce.. A-mazing. The third is a picture from near Mt. Hood. I love that area for many reasons, and you can't really blame me can you? The fourth is a table pic from Ping in Chinatown/Old Town. The last is a pic of a holiday card I really enjoyed at Powell's on Hawthorne. I love it here. I'm visually overstimulated every day.

Life Style Crafts

2011-10-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to watch a demo of this amazing home letterpress machine last night. A rep from Life Style Crafts came by my workplace and showed us the basic techniques for creating awesome diecut and letterpress cards with their desktop sized machine. I have to own one of these this Christmas, and maybe my mom does too (wink, wink). They have a great website with all of their tools and accessories available here: Life Style Crafts. Here are some pics of what I got to see.. Enjoy!

Austin Press

2011-10-10T19:14:00.000-07:00

Since my move I've been noticing this company in stationary stores and gift shops all over Portland. They offer these amazing letterpress note sets and cards. The victorian-inspired graphics and flourishes are pretty much spot on. Based in San Francisco, they opened shop in 2004 and I think they're running an awesome business. Check out their site: Austin Press.

Mountain Time

2011-10-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

Over the last few weekends, I've been fortunate enough to visit the best of the local scenery: Mount Hood and Lost Lake. I promise to post more relevant content after this, but I can't help myself.. it's so bleepin beautiful here!

Snapshots & Travels

2011-09-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

In response to my recent unresponsiveness, I have decided to post some pictures of things and places I've been visiting. There is a pretty good mix of locations here. I'm slowly getting motivated to post at regular intervals again. The first was taken in Laurelhurst Park, a great place to relax in the heart of the Southeast part of town. Number two is a shot of Gypsy and Siouxsie, some crazy chickens in St. Johns. Three, the view from a side of Mt. Tabor looking West or Southwest, I'm not entirely sure. Number four captures a bustling square in the heart of downtown that I walk by fairly frequently. Thanks Portland, for such great subject matter.

Saturday in St. Johns

2011-09-03T18:14:00.000-07:00

I visited this neighborhood this fine morning to experience the Saturday Farmers Market in a quaint town square. Although I not-so-secretly came to sample from the German food stand, I enjoyed the vegetables, baked goods and live folk music as well. The bridge in St. Johns is reason enough to visit and you should! The last picture was one I found framed in the Starbucks at Burlington and Lombard across from all the action. I think it's fairly interesting to compare.

2011-08-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

I am loving my new city! I think you'll find it's easy to appreciate why. I found myself out to breakfast this morning at St. Honore near Thurman & 23rd eating this lovely apricot tart, which was delicious.
I've been eating and exploring everyday, and I think it could continue on for years at this rate without visiting any one place twice. We shall see..

2011-08-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

In case you weren't yet aware, I have moved to Portland, Oregon. The shop will open back up in a few short weeks as I am trying to get situated. I am so excited to have so much available to me here. It will undoubtedly produce fantastic things!

Porch Light

2011-08-08T14:56:00.000-07:00

During my many walks around the downtown Portland area, I came upon this shop in the Pearl District and fell quickly in love with it. They offer vintage, antique and handmade items for the home. They currently offer two locations, here in the Pearl and one on Mississippi Ave. in the north. Check them out..

Repurposed Mice

2011-08-05T21:05:00.000-07:00

While out on an after dinner walk, these adorable little figurines created from real rodents. I would suggest using these as cake toppers, but who knows where they've been.. hmmmm.. I still love them!

New Listing!

2011-07-28T11:26:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting to list this cake stand until today. Nothing special about today, I guess I was waiting for some good light or something? I think that it's amazing! I love grouping old things together to fashion something new. It's available now on Etsy.

West Elm = Awesome

2011-07-25T05:31:00.000-07:00

Why is West Elm so cool?! It's been a long time since I've paid much attention to this Williams Sonoma Brand company. When I visited Portland in May, I was pleasantly surprised to see how much they've changed since our last encounter. Today on Design*Sponge, they are featuring this pillow and I love it! Check them out here.

Post-Wedding Favor Pics

2011-07-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

Here is the final product. I think they looked lovely with the rustic theme of the ceremony. I'm pretty happy to have been able to contribute some things to my brother's special day.

The Reason for the Season

2011-07-09T19:01:00.001-07:00

The National Cherry Festival wraps up this weekend and I think I'm breathing a sigh of relief. I will be the first person to stand up and clap for any boost to the local economy, but I have to admit that I like my Northern Michigan a little less populated than it currently is. Thanks to all the folks who came up and spent gobs of money on our lovely industry!

What's old is good..

2011-07-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here is my listing for the day. I created a series of blank stationary using antique deeds and letters. I'm one of those people who believes in reviving "snail mail". I truly believe that the art of writing a letter is such a special way to communicate in this age of "tech". It also gives you a reason to practice your penmanship which can be good thing for those of us who fail at cursive miserably. Have a great week!

Wedding Details

2011-07-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

Here are the flowers I made for the small jars of honey for the guests at my brother's wedding this coming weekend. I crafted them from different pinecones and a few handfuls of bird seed. They are the perfect detail for this rustic reception and I think everything will be perfect!

2011-06-19T06:32:00.000-07:00

It has been so warm and lovely here that I can't seem to want to work! (Shrugs) I have been a wee bit lazy I suppose but I am ready to continue working as I have my new laptop. These flowers grow at the ranch where my brother Andrew works. He manages an alpaca farm here in Michigan year round. I've seen a few baby llamas born this summer already and they are adorable. I should have some slightly more exciting content coming soon. Have a wonderful Father's Day!

New Computer!

2011-06-15T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hey folks! Reasons for not blogging like I should: 1. Broken Computer. In an effort to resume blogging I am purchasing a new Mac this week. Hooray!! I will then be blogging like like normal. Have a great week til then!

Cameo Appearance..

2011-05-10T22:38:00.001-07:00

On with the obsession of silhouettes we go! I decided to make these hand-stitched canvas bags for farmer's markets or library trips. They really are heavy duty bags.. I'm quite impressed with how much they hold. The embellishment is just what it needed! I am taking custom orders with personalized silhouettes. All I need is a side profile shot and you are as good as bagged! Haha.. Have a great Wednesday!!

Back to work..

2011-05-10T14:09:00.000-07:00

Fresh from my Portland-rested imagination.. comes this little guy. It hits Etsy today also. More to come!

Urban's New Bridal Concept!

2011-05-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

Department Store Retailing News: Urban Outfitters Debuts Bhldn Collection: "by Sharon Edelson From WWD Issue 02/08/2011 There’s not a single Cinderella-style wedding gown in the Bhldn collection. Bhldn, Urban Ou..."

Vintage Stationary Sets!

2011-04-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

Here is my developing creative feat for April. I am creating blank greeting card sets from vintage sheets and fabric. The one pictured here I purchased for a song from a second hand store. I love the 60's feel of this bright floral. They will be packaged in sets of 6 cards with coordinating envelopes and sold for $7.00 per set. Yippee!

Attention from The Big Apple

2011-04-13T08:04:00.000-07:00

I am so incredibly happy right now to announce that Traverse City has been featured in the city guide section of Design Sponge! I think that as far as exposure goes, being presented via Grace Bonney and her team is a mark of validation for any destination. They feature choice restaurants, bakeries, shopping, and sites for ANY place worth visiting in the country and beyond. These guides are usually compiled by a local and are pretty concise. There is also a section at the bottom for comments and suggestions from other locals or anyone who has something to add. Check it out: here.

Artist Profile: Erin Tyner

2011-04-10T07:43:00.000-07:00

I was wandering around Etsy as I usually do between the hours of 10:00 PM and Midnight, and stumbled upon this amazing artist. Her name is Erin Tyner, a photographer from Atlanta, who creates tiny diorama scenes from model train citizens and household items. I fell in love with her work this week and it happened to be featured on Etsy's home page as well. Do yourself a favor and look at her work here. Enjoy this lovely, rainy Sunday.

Lake Michigan in Oil

2011-04-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

These two paintings are the early work of my Grandmother, Sandra Callahan. I absolutely love them. They capture some of my favorite landscape here in Northern Michigan, the water. People are always saying that you pass by things without notice every day and then suddenly BAM! I peered directly into a box from the garage and there they were. I am in the process of getting them cleaned up and then I will display them somewhere in my room. I'm pretty lucky to have crawled out of such an artistic gene pool. Have a wonderful weekend!

Totes My Goats

2011-04-03T14:12:00.000-07:00

This morning my brother Andrew woke me up early to go and visit Spruce Hill Farm not too far from where we live in Maple City. They provide a home to around 8 goats or so. Two of the members were just recently delivered this past month. They are adorable! The snow white kid is named Mara, and the male is Josh. This trip really brought out the "BeekGeek" in me. For more information on the farm visit here. Check out this YouTube video from Dick & Mary, the farm owners, featuring the newborns!

Vacation in Portland!

2011-03-26T11:43:00.000-07:00

I have decided to take a break from things here in lovely, yet frigid Northern Michigan and visit Portland, Oregon. I have many friends out there now and I have been meaning to visit for a few years. I will of course be referencing Design Sponge for things to do and see. My good friend Jen has recently relocated there and has assured me that I will indeed be able to visit the ocean if I like. I have never seen an ocean up close so I am extremely excited. If you have any suggestions for me while I'm out there please don't hesitate to inform me. Have a wonderful weekend!!

Mine!

2011-03-18T06:54:00.000-07:00

I do love a new purchase! Check out this fantastic penmanship probably produced by some powdered-wig type in the late 1800's. I love it!! I can't wait to make something out of this. What would you do?

Why DIY? Because I love it!

2011-03-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't really been able to find a lampshade that I like for my new lamp. So I am going to make one. I found a template for lampshades at JoAnn's that makes the job a snap. All you have to do is pick the fabric or covering, trace the shade template, and apply the material to the adhesive on the blank shade. Perfect! I decided to embroider flowers with glass beads as the stamen. It should be amazing when I'm done. Cross your fingers!

Flowers in March..

2011-03-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

I've recently discovered how to make these flowers from satin ribbon. I'll soon be adding them to Etsy for purchase. They are quite nice for brooches and barrettes. I can't seem to stop making them. It's quite a bit of fun.

New & Old

2011-03-08T18:04:00.001-08:00

I made these vintage-inspired earrings from a familiar childhood medium. Shrink plastic is everywhere now! I used vintage lace and paint to make these. I love them! Would you wear these? I'd like to know. If so, head on over to Etsy and make them yours!

Happy Birthday Grandma!

2011-03-07T07:48:00.000-08:00

I wanted to take today's post to wish my Grandma a wonderful birthday! She has taught me a lot about creating and using my imagination through the years. I love her lots and hope that today is great for her.

More Tiny Dwellings

2011-02-28T08:38:00.000-08:00

I just borrowed this from the Traverse Area Public Library (TADL) yesterday. It details the process the author goes through moving an old twelve foot cabin from Illinois where she grew up over to Wisconsin. It's a creatively pieced scrapbook about the experience with old photos from the glory days of the cabin to it's current lakeside serenity. It was such an inspiring read. If you are at all visual like I am, it was such a pleasure to turn the pages. It's available on Amazon.com.. Check it out!!

Wednesday is for Hunters..

2011-02-23T10:51:00.001-08:00

I was really into digging for treasures today. I found an old footed vanity mirror, a rabbit planter, a mother-of-pearl button with a metal shank, a yearbook from 1930 in great condition and some old green glass buttons all for a song! I'll post some post-cleaning pictures tomorrow for you to drool over. The sun is appreciated today!

Animal Magnetism

2011-02-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

Nature is dangerous.. for the unorganized. I made these super-strong magnets today. They hold up to 6 pieces of paper without a flinch, like I said, super-strong. I prepped some new things this morning also. I want the accessories to hit Etsy and the blog early next month. I can't wait!

Easter is coming..

2011-02-21T12:36:00.001-08:00

and it's hopped on over to Etsy, more specifically Georgie Boy. There's no shortage of ideas or puns in my studio as you well know. I'm taking a few more Easter items from the booth this week and placing them on Etsy for sale. There will be more tomorrow..

Thursday is for Lovers..

2011-02-17T16:59:00.000-08:00

I love having all day to create. I started my day at 8:22 AM. I ate a bowl of cereal, started laundry, and got out my glue. I finished some lovely lady magnets and processed some orders on Etsy.I finished up some loose ends and drove into town with my brother for supplies. While out shopping, I found this lamp at a local secondhand store. I fell in love! I have been looking for a mid century lamp like this for about 5 years. It's a big deal to me obviously. Yay!

Time Off = Blogging Time

2011-02-16T13:02:00.000-08:00

The "rockin and rollin" has been in short supply the last few weeks I admit, but tune in starting tomorrow for new content and excitement! I have two full days off in a row and I intend to accomplish a whole lot. Yee haw!

Before & After: Wingback Chair

2011-02-13T10:28:00.000-08:00

BEFORE:AFTER:

Most Amazing Little House!!

2011-02-13T07:26:00.000-08:00

In Country Living this month there is an article about this surge of "small home seekers". People are creating and seeking a meager living space, a place to work, or just a place to collect your thoughts.

This article is a year old, I remembered reading it and here it is for you to peruse..

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2010/06/23/garden/20100624-chic-slideshow.html

Just look at this.. trust me.. this is amazing!

Vintage Photo Gift Tags

2011-02-06T20:43:00.000-08:00

This week brings photos as gift tags to the shop. I think they're pretty awesome actually. I can see one of these on a pretty plaid package with a sensible ribbon. What do you think?

Duck, Duck, Piggy.

2010-07-15T10:47:00.001-07:00

Here are a few of the things I've been working on this week for the shop. Lovely little pincushion "soldiers" as Joe refers to them. "They guard the pins.." he says. Just cute enough I say.

Oh Alexander!!

2010-06-05T09:09:00.000-07:00

This is a print called Caitie from Alexander Henry's Fashionista line. I love it. I am ordering more of the complimentary prints this week to make something wonderful with them. I just don't know what. Don't you love it? I am working on soooo many things right now and I promise to not only post pictures of these things but also document my progress with them. I WILL WRITE MORE.. I know I keep saying this. I am almost moved in entirely with Joe and I am loving it. Wish me luck..

New!!

2010-05-04T09:03:00.001-07:00

The top picture is a new half-finished pincushion project I'm starting.. I'm really excited!! The second is a baby blanket I made for an expecting friend of mine at work. It's Alexander Henry and it's pretty adorable if you ask me.. more to come.. I've been busy busy..

Caravati's of Richmond, VA

2010-04-14T15:13:00.000-07:00

While in Richmond for work last month, I was able to visit what is quite possibly the largest salvage business I've ever been to. This place was massive and had two floors chocked full of vintage goodies for creative types and homeowners alike. Check out the pictures below..

Computer Malfunctions.....

2010-04-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

Georgie Boy Shop

2010-03-16T18:46:00.001-07:00

Here are pictures of the front of Georgie Boy inside of Union Antiques. More items will be added this week. What do you think?

It continues...

2010-03-10T09:42:00.001-08:00

I have so many things that I've managed to collect over the last two years in Ohio that I am so happy to be getting rid of most of it. I think the booth will benefit from my obsession and so will customers... Ha ha. Monday and Tuesday I'll be moving into the space... so wish me luck every day.

Today's Progress

2010-03-09T12:14:00.000-08:00

I know you must be tired of seeing the same products over and over again.. baby steps if you don't mind. This is today's progress.

Packaging, Pricing, and Preparing.

2010-03-08T07:30:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the items I've been gathering and trying to make look appealing for my booth at the store. I find myself a bit overwhelmed as I look at the hundreds of pretty vintage things I have laying around in piles around me on the floor. At least for the most part I am organized in the sense that I know what piles are "GO" and what piles are "KEEP", for the most part... Note to self... Pricing is hard!! Selling things individually is almost easier albeit wasteful... so I am grouping like items that are smaller together like buttons to keep things "tidy". There are so many pieces of pottery, chalkware, vintage magazines, photos, baubles and glassware that I have the need for assistant at this point. Too bad for me that I am such a control freak. Anyways.. more pics to come!

2010-03-04T09:45:00.000-08:00

As of March 15th you can see Georgie Boy items at Union Street Antiques in downtown Traverse City. There will be a 4ft by 4ft booth near the back of the store in the center. I am very very excited.

More, more, more...

2010-02-27T12:04:00.000-08:00

Anna Marie Horner.. lovely.

Finished!!

2010-02-26T14:16:00.000-08:00

oooh la la!

Pillow No. 3

2010-02-25T09:27:00.000-08:00

I was photocopying something at work yesterday and I had this idea pop into my head. Here is phase one... I am excited for the end result.. It's just lace and this simple upholstery weight fabric. Feel free to love it.

Pillow Number 2!

2010-02-23T06:35:00.000-08:00

Woo Hoo!! I just finished this Anna Marie Horner print and I had a slightly more frustrating time with it than I thought I would. It's not perfect, but it's awesome to me. What do you think?

Current DIY Projects

2010-02-20T08:50:00.000-08:00

I am beginning two projects. One of which may be a series of posts. The second maybe just two. I am sewing a pillow out of an old feed sack I found today while out scavenging. The second is an mid century chair I am reupholstering. Here are the pictures, imagine how AMAZING they will be when I'm done.. I can't wait!!

My first time... making a pillow!

2010-02-19T18:56:00.000-08:00

Anita and the gals at Sew To Speak would be so proud of me!! I finally made a pillow from scratch!! This is fabric from Alexander Henry... and look... BIRDS! I'm pretty proud and not the least bit emasculated. I'm actually excited to make another. Woo Hoo!!

Architectual Salvage and Me

2010-02-10T04:52:00.001-08:00

Today I found myself roaming around our local Reusable Building Materials store ODUM here in Northern Michigan. I wandered around thinking about what I could use and how to use it. I found this old window screen below and added a few pieces of fabric and picture hanging wire to it to create this bauble display. You like? Please visit your local reusable or recycled materials store to see what you can come up with...

Presently working on..

2010-02-08T10:46:00.000-08:00

this week.. some watercolor and mix-media projects... you like?

Things I'm working on...

2010-02-01T09:31:00.000-08:00

Keeping busy up here...

My visit to Terrain...

2010-01-21T08:50:00.001-08:00

During my trip to Philly, I had an opportunity to visit Urban Outfitters Inc., and its newest retail venture, Terrain. The idea was to create an upscale home & garden destination with a cafe on the grounds. The company purchased the space formerly occupied by Styer's Greenhouse and kept the name which I'm told they will be continuing to do with any future Terrain locations. It is nothing short of amazing, as usually expected from the Urban group. Here are some pictures for you to drool over.

New Design..

2010-01-20T19:35:00.001-08:00

I had some time at the airport this week.. so I worked on this. Pretty huh?

My Camera is Broken...

2010-01-14T09:14:00.000-08:00

So... there is a reason why there isn't anything new on here... faulty equipment. Soon...

Philadelphia... here I come.

2009-12-29T06:50:00.001-08:00

I am traveling to Philly the third week in January to spend some quality time with my Jen.
It has been FAR too long and I plan on taking lots of pictures. I will scour for some great local art, and crafters, and maybe visit some URBAN spots like.. TERRAIN.
I plan on maybe helping to pack, eating, and taking walks. It should be just what she & I both need right now. Yee Haw!

Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-24T14:21:00.000-08:00

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year..

Here comes Christmas...

2009-12-14T06:42:00.000-08:00

Just a few weeks until it's here again. It shows up fast, and gone more quickly than it came. I'm almost finished with my shopping, the tree is up, and there's party planning to do. Still working on greeting cards for the new year. I've had a local shop owner exhibit interest in them. We shall see..

Day 2 in Columbia

2009-12-02T21:29:00.000-08:00

So, I can't believe that I have never been within physical proximity of a palm tree. The closest I've ever come before this trip was a five hour lay-over in Phoenix years ago. I couldn't really leave the terminal though. They looked pretty through the windows though. It's been pretty warm here today despite the rain. I had a t-shirt on earlier and it felt almost natural.

Day 1 in Columbia

2009-12-01T18:06:00.001-08:00

I got in to Columbia at around 3:00 pm this afternoon. It's always nice to have an evening to relax and get rested for the week. We walked around the campus of USC which hosts some pretty awesome historic buildings on the grounds. This cemetery was tucked into the side of a large church. It's got some pretty old headstones as you can see. I can't wait to explore more!

Headin' South.

2009-11-29T22:15:00.001-08:00

I'm bound for Columbia, South Carolina. I'm told that the drive will require 18 total hours. How very exciting it will be. I'm not sure exactly what to pack for clothes. I brought tee shirts, jeans, and one sweater just in case. Feel free to text/call/email and say "Hey, you're crazy for driving all that way." Don't worry, I'm expecting to hear things like that.

New Greeting Cards!

2009-11-28T06:58:00.000-08:00

So here are a few new designs for cards currently being printed right now. I have text on most of them as you will see soon. I decided to print generic greetings in order to make it easier for a broader range of use. My next step is to finalize the designs once they are in my hand, and try to market them locally. I have had a couple shop owners show interest in them before, so I will keep my fingers crossed.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2009-11-26T07:16:00.000-08:00

Greetings! Cards!

2009-11-25T04:48:00.001-08:00

I started designing some greeting cards through Zazzle. They will pretty much print anything you want on anything you want. I print my business cards through them. Now, these designs aren't going to remain blank, but for some reason I couldn't upload the finished product on this site. Anyways, let me know what you think, if you think at all. Thanks!!

Coffee and God

2009-11-13T05:15:00.000-08:00

Sitting at Starbucks in downtown Cincinnati makes me happy this morning. I don't think that I have ever seen a "person of faith", ordering a grande half-caff with room. Oh Starbucks, how you bring people together! Anyways. This "weirdo" apparently thought I was a P.I. or something out to get him for a debt collection agency, cuz he looked at me while I was taking the photo. Still funny. Have a great Friday the 13th!

Indianapolis

2009-11-10T12:01:00.000-08:00

I just got back from a work trip to Indianapolis. This is a picture of the Borders downtown. It used to be an old bank way back in the day. It was an awesome sight. I'm just recovering from a nasty cold. I will write more soon!

Re-DONE-It

2009-10-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

Here is this lovely chair I bought in August. I love it's Danish qualities. Here are the pics of the transformation.

2009-10-17T11:22:00.000-07:00

Dad,

It's been two years, but in some ways it feels like two days. I keep thinking about this letter you wrote to me in high school. In it you mention how proud you are of me for various things. I just remember crying so hard when it was time for me to have it read to me.
Maybe it's because I didn't always think of you as being proud of me. Today I think of how we let go of you two years ago on this date. I think about how I didn't get a chance to let you know how proud I am of you. I think a lot about what I would say to you if I had another chance.
I would tell you how selfless you are by working as hard as you do. I would say how lucky I feel to have a dad that loves me as much as you do without conditions. I would let you know that I think you're amazing for having come from a family so limited in their ability to accept differences in others. I am so overwhelmed by your ability to love, be understanding, and be so strong. We are so lucky to have had these traits passed on to us from you. We are closer than ever because of you. I would tell you dad, that despite this feeling of total loss and heartbreak, that we have one another. This is more than many people will ever have. I want to thank you for this family you helped to make, because I know what it's like to truly be loved.

We miss you Dad.

All my love,

Erik

It's Looking Like Fall

2009-10-08T06:16:00.000-07:00

I rode my bike along the river yesterday and took a few photos. Although the colors of the trees aren't telling us, It is time for cool weather and leaves on the ground here in Northern Michigan. I am welcoming this change with long sleeves and gloved hands. This is a special time of year for me. I'm glad I'm here to enjoy it.

M is for Monday

2009-10-05T05:34:00.001-07:00

Oh Monday. I love you. It's always so nice after a boring, archaic Sunday to get a new week started. I have been working on new things for Etsy. So check them out!! More to come! Have a great week!

R.I.P. Childhood Memory #232

2009-10-02T07:47:00.000-07:00

So as I was walking home in the rain under a big green umbrella, my eyes caught the sight of this sad, sad forgotten creature laying in the mud. When I was about six or seven, this was my FAVORITE book in the world. The book was titled, "Put Me in the Zoo" by Dr. Seuss/Robert Lopshire. It was about this creature who didn't feel like he belonged anywhere but in the Zoo with the other amazing animals. He tried being as amazing as he could be, but in the end, through all his tricks and talents, the two kids in the book just loved him for who he was already. (Teary-eyed now) So, here is the cover:

Perfect Little Babies

2009-09-26T07:22:00.000-07:00

I was just looking at old pictures of Henry and lil Tillo the other day. Aren't they the sweetest little things ever here?

The Art Walk

2009-09-24T15:10:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, September 18th, was host to the Art Walk in downtown Traverse City. Many businesses contributed by hosting an artist's work in their stores and allowing customers to walk freely through downtown with a glass of wine in hand. At Cherry Republic, we hosted artist Michael Sincic who has become somewhat of a local celebrity in Northern Michigan because of his amazing work. Not only does he create amazing watercolor scenes of our beautiful area, he captures the essence of each season with a small disability, he is almost completely blind. He sells his work at a variety of local stores, among them are Horizon Books and Evergreen Gallery to name a few. In addition to being extremely talented, he is one of the sweetest guys you will ever meet. I'm sure you'll see him around downtown if you're lucky.

Saturday Farmer's Market

2009-09-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

I met my friend Melinda along the river here for some fresh finds last weekend. This is the most wonderful collection of locally grown fruits, vegetables, breads and honey there is here in the North. I have to admit that I usually seek out Bay Bread Co. for their amazing pecan rolls. (yum!) The markets will happen just a few more weekends in October before they close up for the season. SO CHECK IT OUT!! (Saturdays from 8 to 2 I believe) Here are some more mouthwatering pictures!

2009-09-17T04:57:00.000-07:00

If you can picture this image on a notecard with an actual necklace hanging from the neck of the woman in the picture, then you understand what I'm trying to do. I'm making packaging for a line of jewelry I've started and the background will be these lovely ladies. I think that it's going to be great, when it's done that is.

Victoria Victorious!

2009-09-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

This is a blank greeting card I've been piecing together for the last week. I wanted to create something that had a vintage quality to it as well as a updated graphic look to it. This is phase one or two, not sure. Have a great week everyone as mine officially starts today.

Home, is where the lake is.

2009-09-13T07:20:00.001-07:00

It feels so strange and wonderful being home. I can only describe it as finding your favorite shirt that you thought you had lost. It fits perfectly and reminds you of things you experienced when you wore it last. There are feelings that I had forgotten I had and friends that I have been able to pick up with right where we left off to my extreme amazement. I am happy to be here.

Time For Change

2009-08-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

After two years in Columbus, I have decided to move home to Michigan. I will miss a lot about the city and all of the creative people I have met here. In my opinion, Georgie Boy will be better managed after the move is finished and I am settled. So please be patient during this busy time. Thanks so much!

The Final (Almost) Product

2009-07-14T07:01:00.001-07:00

So I agree that the lighting in this picture leaves much to be desired, but, here it is. If you couldn't already tell by looking, this was designed to hold earrings with long backs in the holes in the lace and necklaces below on the hooks. I think that with some varied designs, this will be popular, maybe? It's an idea. Like all ideas you get and implement on a whim, you just never know. I like it though. done. (Click on the picture for a closer look.)

Studio Work 7/6

2009-07-06T19:01:00.000-07:00

Here is something I've been working on this week. This is an idea I came up with for holding earrings and eventually necklaces too. It will have a ribbon on top to for hanging and tiny hooks underneath for necklaces. You hang earrings on/in the lace bordering the bottom. (nice huh?) I find silhouettes and cut them out and add jewelry to them. I love it so far. You?

Pillows!!

2009-07-02T13:14:00.001-07:00

There are two fabrics I bought today. The first is a classic-looking Alexander Henry which I plan on using in my studio on the sofa. It is covered in my favorite thing: BIRDS. The second is a design from Anna Marie Horner. The colors are fantastic and will compliment our new sofa quite perfectly. Both were purchased at Sew To Speak here in Columbus. Anita and the gang have the most beautiful prints and notions. I will post pictures of the final product later.

2009-06-17T19:45:00.000-07:00

Here's a little something I made a few days ago. I had pieces of this laying around and I finally got an idea from a magazine on what to do with the rest. Cute eh?