mammabellarte

Encouragement

2012-02-03T14:08:00.000-08:00

Work in Progress

I purchased a can of mirror like glass spray paint a couple of weeks ago and I was not sure what to do with it until yesterday.

I made my first mirror and at first I was very excited!

Then my Deano tells me "It's no go". So I started noticing all the imperfections and how I could make it better....Still I needed someone else opinion, I wanted to hear that......there was hope and that I didn't spend 2 hours for nothing.

Who better then my SIL Christie to tell me the truth! She liked it and she said also that with an old frame around it , it would look much better. Can't wait to find a frame for my gorgeous mirror!

and planning to make more and get better at it!

Thank you Deano and Christie for your criticism and encouragement.

Ciao for now

Rita

linking to French Country Cottage

"Action is the foundational key to all success" Pablo Picasso

2012-01-31T16:28:00.000-08:00

My day started a little bit later then the usual, and I realized that I was out of pink. I plan to paint certain pieces certain colors every day. Today I was going to paint few pieces pink . So.... no more pink Do I not paint today? I have so many projects to finish and so little time.....my aqua paint was right there staring at me.
"Pick me, Pick me"

The Armoire received 3 coats of white in the outside, aqua and white inside. I painted the three cute small tables aqua and white too.

Sweet!!!

I am hooked on these candles. I love the bling and so simple to make. I think I have 20 made!!!

Linking today to Faded Charm for another Fabulous

White Wednesday.

Ciao for now

Rita

p.s Armoire, tables and candles will be for sale at

"The Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks"

March 2nd and 3rd, 2012

Bloomers

2012-01-24T18:13:00.000-08:00

How was your day?

I had to work on my taxes! Horrible as always and I think every year to be so organized.....but it always takes so long. I finally finished and I looked outside and the sun was going down.
My day was gone!!!!

I purchased these bloomers shorts at the last Flea Market in Tustin, aren't day sweet??? Wash them this morning and hang them to dry outside. So as soon as I saw them hanging I had to take few pictures!!!

Love them.

Ciao for now

Rita

linking to Kathleen's blog for another amazing White Wednesday
Faded Charm
linking to Courtney's blog for another Feather's Nest Friday
French Country Cottage

Vintage Door

2012-01-20T17:36:00.000-08:00

Love how this door came out. I found the letters at Hobby Lobby and the door was the perfect size for VINTAGE.

My beautiful roses almost done blooming and ready to be clipped this weekend.

I got a surprise in the Mail today! Sweet Sweet Sandra made me two crochet hair clips. Thank you so much.

Sandra's blog

Have a beautiful weekend.

Ciao for now

Rita

linking to Common Ground

Day # 2 of Creativity

2012-01-19T19:15:00.000-08:00

Saturday was my painting class at Christie's

I learned so much!

Painting is a gift.

I enjoyed the company of Amber, Missy, Valerie and Naomi. Christie you are an amazing teacher!

My finished painting with a little help from Christie

Naomi's

Missy's

and Amber's

(sorry I didn't take a photo of Valerie's)

Lunch was incredible! Fresh Pasta, Homemade Bread,......

and dessert by Valerie!

Painting, Friends and Good food!

Ciao for now

Rita

chateaudefleurs, Christie

blackroostercottage, Amber

chateauchicboutique, Missy

Two Days of Creativity

2012-01-15T14:57:00.000-08:00

Day 1

Creating with Beth Livesay!

I love spending time with Beth, Editor of Altered Couture, Somerset Home, Jewelry Affair, Apron-ology, Handbags, Belle Armoire Jewelry .....all Stampington publications. Also Editor of "Site Seeing" in Romantic Homes Magazine. She is a busy, talented, adorable young Lady. This is the second year that I invite Beth to come to Rainbow to celebrate her Birthday while creating with solder. I asked Beth if she had any preference and she wanted to work on jewelry. I wanted to come up with something new and fun!

Beth's finished piece

Beautiful!

I love to work with broken china. My first birdhouses circa 15 years ago where covered with broken china and grout. A hobby that I really miss from time to time. I am glad I am able to incorporate this art into solder pieces.

(My piece done while teaching Beth)

This pendant below is my first one. I would like to teach a class some day. Maybe a Private Class of 7 students? Will see.....

I will share Day 2 of Creativity soon!

Ciao for now

Thank you Beth for spending the day with Dean and I

Rita

Beth's blog

My Creations
Soldering Classes

Romantic Lighting

2012-01-12T18:06:00.000-08:00

Luce Romantica

Such a simple project and I LOVE how these candles turned out.

Adding these small accessories to my Collection. They will be available for purchase at the next Vintage Marketplace in March.

Ciao for now

Rita

Lavanda e Bianco

2012-01-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

Lavender and White

I love the light pink, lavender and white!

The 2 bracelets reminded me of wedding rings.

I made two signs for the next show. New font and style.

I like the results.

Of course we can't miss Gimpy! He was trying to eat the silk flower.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Ciao for now

Rita

Studio Crescendoh

2012-01-08T14:54:00.000-08:00

So much to share!!!

First of all, I need to get out more often. Have you ever been in Santa Ana? I am talking about DOWN TOWN Santa Ana?

Please visit the Santa Ana Art Walk site for info on what's up!

Christine was my date, yeap! The plan was for Dean and I to spend the weekend in Santa Ana for our Anniversary but work took him away from me. Christine and I had a blast! From visiting the Galleries to eating at Memphis'. And..........the reason we went to Santa Ana was, to visit Studio Crescendoh Launch Party!

Jenny Doh: President of Studio Crescendoh

What is Studio Crescendoh? It's what everybody is been waiting for....painting classes, soldering classes, photography classes......visit the site for more infos.

It was not only the Launching of Studio Crescendoh but also Jenny's new book signing.

Creative Pilgrimage (available on Amazon). A very inspirational book, an exploration of Artful Gatherings all over the USA. And.....I could blabber about all of gatherings, they are fantastic! But since I know Kim Caldwel personally I will have to brag about her event. In this book few pages are dedicated to Kim's gathering Artistic Bliss an "Affaire" to remember. The next Affaire will be in May and spaces are still available. Please visit Artistic Bliss for more infos.

I met photographer extraordinaire Cynthia Shaffer. I can say that she is a "Sharing and Caring" artist.

I will be taking her 101 Photography class March 17th, 2012 at Studio Crescendoh.

Lovely Time, with Lovely Friends.

Ciao for now

Rita

2012-01-07T08:16:00.000-08:00

It was such a beautiful day! I was working outside the workshop, painting and painting and turned around and one tree had the most beautiful yellow leaves falling. Dragged everything that I was working on, hung the canopy and started taking pictures. It was the best feeling ever! I had to do it right at that moment.

"Dreamy White"

I am preparing for the next Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks, and I know I will be creating a bedroom section. I finished 3 shelves, few night stands and cute small stools.

Ciao for now

Rita

linking to White Wednesday with Faded Charm

Gimpy

2012-01-06T14:02:00.000-08:00

How can I get so attached to my chickens!!!! Look at Gimpy. She is all grown up now....Still follows me everywhere.

She is my best model

Yesterday while I was painting, she jumped on the table and tried to eat the paint brush ,then she went for the wood glue. She is funny and very curious. She is afraid of her own shadow and not accepted by the rest of the chickens. So she is always hanging out with me.

Another beautiful day in Rainbow

Ciao for now

Rita

Beautiful Day of Creativity!

2012-01-05T19:35:00.000-08:00

This is tonight after a day of work/creativity!

Callie spent the day outside. Usually she is under her blanket all day long, today I found her laying in the sun belly up!

A great day of woodwork I must say. Built few signs and shelves and with this warm weather I did some painting too.

I sure was in Dreamland today, and I loved it!

Ciao for now

Rita

my work HERE

Classes HERE

FRENCH COUNTRY COTTAGE GIVEAWAY!

2012-01-05T14:17:00.000-08:00

There is a giveaway going on!!!
You don't want to miss this one. Visit Courtney's Blog for a chance to win the latest book by Author Jacqueline deMontravel "HERS"!
French Country Cottage

Ciao for now Rita

2011-12-31T10:06:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking for days.....and I came to the conclusion that the 2012 is not going to be a New Beginning for me but a Continuation of what I do best. I will still be a Wife, Mother, Friend, Helper, Artist, Farm keeper.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-12-30T18:49:00.001-08:00

Christmas has passed, my Birthday too! I am already in Spring....As some of you know Christie and I host The Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks here in Southern California. We are entering our 3rd year!!! To celebrate Spring we are Welcoming Jaqueline deMontravel Editor of Romantic Homes and Author of Hers will be joining us for a book signing. It's going to be a spectacular show!!!

Today I have started lining up all the projects, drawing ideas and choosing my color pallet. As always I am attracted to soft pastels for my booth. I can't wait for March to come!!!!

Ciao for now

Rita

And the Winner is????

2011-12-30T09:28:00.000-08:00

" Brenda, BrushedByanAngel"

Congratulation Brenda!

Thank you for all the Birthday Wishes

Ciao for now

Rita

classes HERE

2011-12-29T07:17:00.000-08:00

The Gift of Giving

Item # 10 A bag full of beautiful altered ribbons and lace from Sicily.
This is the last item and the last day to participate to my "Gift of Giving". The only thing you have to do is leave me a comment.

Ciao for now
Rita

2011-12-28T07:04:00.000-08:00

The Gift of Giving

Item # 9
Lovely cards by Christie Repasy Designs. 8 "Spring Bliss" Note cards will be given away December 30th with all the rest of the items listed on the side bar. The only thing you have to do is leave a comment here or on my FB or e-mail me.

Christie's web site
HERE
Christie's blog
HERE

2011-12-26T17:18:00.000-08:00

I played all day yesterday! and my new business card was born. I took a soldering class with myself....crazy? I took the day and played with different solder techniques that also involve wood and torching. Today I was taking pictures of the finished project and this close up is so perfect for my new business card, don't you think?

So much planning for the 2012, classes are scheduled HERE, shows are planned and I was looking for the right inspiration to design a new business card. I love it!

Ciao for now
Rita

2011-12-23T08:48:00.000-08:00

The Gift of Giving

3 more items for my B-Day Giveaway! A Glitterati pendant, a Heart pendant and a Message in a Bottle charm. This Giveaway ends December 29th, 2011 and the lucky winner will take home all the items listed on the side bar. The only thing you have to do is leave a comment here or on my FB page HERE or e-mail me HERE

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-12-22T13:14:00.000-08:00

Pasta Fresca

I was always wondering why my Mamma and Nonnas used to spend hours in the kitchen just before the Holidays! All that work!
I so appreciate the hard labor that my Mamma and Nonnas put into each Holiday. We were not allowed in the kitchen or if allowed they did not let us help. And I was not really interested on learning how to cook.
My mamma always says "You cook with Love".
I am loving my time in the kitchen during the Holidays.
Tonight we have some special friends coming for dinner, generous and every year we exchange gifts by cooking for each other.
Tonight is all Italian!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-12-22T06:59:00.000-08:00

The Gift of Giving

More prices to GIVE on my Birthday!!!!

Today I would like to add item # 4 "Creative Pilgrimage" by Jenny Doh. I just ordered a copy for you on Amazon and will be able to have it signed by Jenny and the girls on her "Launch-Party" January 7th, 2012 in Santa Ana.

The only thing you have to do to win this book and more treasures is.....leave a comment on this post.

Crescendoh launch-party

Buona Fortuna

Ciao for now

Rita

Giveaway ends December 29th, 2011
I love to GIVE on my Birthday!
To see all other prices previously posted click HERE
one winner will receive all the gifts.

2011-12-21T06:12:00.000-08:00

The Gift of Giving

Item #3 a "Flirty Apron" by Sharon Hughes, "Pansy Cottage and Garden". Talented artist Sharon Hughes not only makes beautiful aprons, pillow, towels....but also is the organizer of "Launch your Creativity" a Seminar held in Old Town Orange, Ca. You don't want to miss this Seminar if you love what you do and would like to take it to the next level. Leave a comment on this post and you will be enter to win this item and more! Giveaway ends on

my birthday December 29,2011.

Pansy Cottage web site HERE

Info and dates for the next Launch your Creativity HERE

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-12-20T08:31:00.000-08:00

"The Gift of Giving"

(photo from pinterest)

Today I am adding to the giveaway "A one of a kind pendant". Beautiful artist Susan Brewer Hibdon will make a personalized spoon just for you. On the left side bar you can see one of her pieces that she gifted to me. The only thing you have to do to win all the items is to leave a comment on this post.

Susan's blog HERE

Susan's Web site HERE

Ciao for now and Buona Fortuna

Rita

2011-12-19T13:50:00.000-08:00

The Gift of Giving!

In 10 Days it will be my Birthday and I Love to give on my Birthday. So we will have a Giveaway ending December 29th, 2011 at Midnight, and will be adding items in the next few days on the side bar. I will chose the winner December 30th, 2011. The only thing you have to do is leave a comment and mention the giveaway.
Item # 1
Petite Vice by Riki Schumacher

Riki's blog HERE

Riki is an amazing Jewelry designer and teacher. She teaches on line too! HERE

Buona Fortuna

(photo from pinterest)

very important if you have a no reply when you leave a comment make sure to come back December 30th to see if you are the winner.

Ciao for now

Rita

my work HERE

my classes HERE

2011-12-18T09:38:00.000-08:00

The Simple things in Life that make me HAPPY!
Spending Saturday morning at the Farmer's Market with my Deano and coming home with these beautiful flowers!
Have a wonderful Sunday
Ciao for now Rita

2011-12-14T10:43:00.000-08:00

Buon Natale!

I can't even remember when was the last time I was just a mother and take care of the house without thinking of work. It's been months ....not enough time to spend with the boys and Deano. The boys and I went to the creek Sunday...a 6 miles walk, beautiful (images on the last post) so much peace. While Dean was driving for work up in Oregon. He is back now and yesterday we spent the day together! So much needed time. Today we are cleaning and organizing and cooking. Fun! I could not ask for a better week with my family! We do forget how precious these times are, don't we?

I LOVE ME SOME RED!!!!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-12-11T14:43:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Sunday Spent with the boys at the Creek!

Priceless

6 miles of bellezza!

Ciao for now

Rita

Beautiful Day of Creativity!

2011-12-09T17:15:00.001-08:00

Private class with Lisa Percell!

I had a fantastic day with Lisa! Just me and her.....loved the way her projects turned out. Beautiful lady. Thank you Lisa.

The weather was fantastic. We had lunch outside and played for hours. Creativity is all we need. Have a wonderful weekend everybody.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-12-08T08:08:00.000-08:00

La mia Amica Kim is having a Christmas Giveaway!

HERE

Bella Rustica announces weekly Christmas give-a-ways and a chance to own two burlap pillows for the price of one

- 80 dollars for two -

At this time, quantities are limited to those on hand as I am focusing on my next Better Homes and Gardens photo-shoot, new re-model & design business. Follow the re-model of The Pink House to BellaRusticaCottage

Remember, ALL proceeds from Bella Rustica Market support animals.

See prior post for latest rescue and other dogs being helped.

If the pillows are a gift, please remind the person receiving your gift of the assistance being provided. I will include an extra card in your package.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-12-04T10:29:00.000-08:00

Family and Friends

The Best Gift!

Two amazing days at The Vintage Marketplace. Deano and the boys as always amazing helping everywhere they could. Christie and I had the best time ever! and already working on March show.

My youngest customer!

I was really touched when Susie brought me this gift. Susie is an amazing lady, always happy and full of enthusiasm. I could not believe it when she handed me one of her pieces. The silverware handle says Santa Rita! So special to me. I can't thank you enough Susie. Love your work!

Please visit Susie's shop HERE

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-12-01T18:23:00.000-08:00

Love Love Love

this photo from Pinterest!

We are ready...Tomorrow is The Vintage Marketplace. Almost all the vendors are set up and the weather is beautiful. From what I could see today we got so much great/amazing items. I am shopping for sure! I hope you can join us.

4815 5th St, Fallbrook, Ca. 92028

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-11-29T08:56:00.000-08:00

I hope you can join me and The Vintage Marketplace for the last Event of the 2011!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-11-25T07:43:00.000-08:00

Gifts and A Wonderful Class in The Rabbit Hole!

While teaching a Soldering Class with Lisa Loria, Lisa aka Principessa shows the students this beautiful Vintage can. I was about to say.......my birthday is coming up and at the same time Lisa was handing me the doll can and saying "An early Christmas Gift to you". She knows me so well, I LOVE this piece! Grazie Principessa

and another Gift came from Kim and Terry just before the class started, thank you Ladies for the kindness and for taking our class.

THE GIFT OF TEACHING is been the most rewarding to me and I plan of having a 2012 full of fun classes!

The Rabbit Hole was amazing, this is Lisa's workshop and she did such a fabulous job on getting everything ready for class and her daughter Emily was so much help too. Serving Coffee and making sure everybody had a full cup!

The students: Missy, Maggie, Kim and Terry made this Bling Baby solder bottle with mini crown and a votive candle holder solder with crystals.

One of Lisa's Trays holds the pumpkin muffins served in the morning during class.

Queen Maggie with her vintage doll getting ready to start soldering.

Terry, the power solderer. She was fast and just went down to business.

Love her smile!

Missy.....what can I say about her! She did amazingly well for been her first time and taking a class that required so much foiling and soldering. Well done Missy!

I am missing a photo of Kim, she was so busy soldering and I must say that I will look forward to taking a class with her or teaching her more soldering techniques. Kim hosts a wonderful, dreamy retreat every year, please check her website for all info.

Lunch!

From the right: Terry, Kim, Emily, Lisa, Maggie, Missy.

Lisa Loria blog

Kim Caldwell workshop events

Rita Reade classes 2012

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-11-18T15:48:00.000-08:00

It is a JOY to be part of these wonderful blog family!

I had posted this morning my trouble with not be able to upload any more photos on blogger since I used all my storage. My blogger ANGEL Claudia helped me figure out what I was doing wrong and here I am again posting. Grazie Mille Claudia

It is also a JOY to be able to work with wood. I LOVE the cabinet that I just built. This is cabinet #2. I will be keeping the first that I made and selling this one at the next Vintage Marketplace. This window has been laying in the yard for years! Since I have been cleaning and organizing it was time to do something with it or throw it away. And I am glad I kept it.

I finished a pink and white birdhouse, few more punch cup trees, signs and so much more but I couldn't fit it in the picture. Everything is going to be packed and taken to the show December 2nd and 3rd.

LOVE A WHITE CHRISTMAS!

Ciao for now

Rita

joining frenchcountrycottage

joining Kathleen for White Wednesday!

please these two fabulous blogs and say hi

2011-11-12T09:48:00.000-08:00

This is Rachel! She was the youngest student in the class....she whipped (correct slang?) 4 bauble charms in one second!

We celebrated Vicky's Birthday Saturday and her sister Christine gave her a Soldering class as a gift.

Vicky made 3 projects and I must say that they were big projects and she did so well. Here she is soldering a huge blue crystal to go on top of a bottle.

My wonderful and funny SIL Christie took the class for the first time! . She made this pendant, BEAUTIFUL!

and a shadow box

Vicky's bottle and Shadow box

Christine made a Champ Elysee shadow box and the Faithful Friend box and started working on a crown, THE CROWN....

This was the set up before class and you can see the main color is aqua, Vicky's loves this color. I had so much fun decorating and making the kits.

Pumpkin muffins, mimosa's were served for breakfast..plus Deano's Cappuccinos. (it rhymes)

What fun!

Next Saturday I will be teaching with Lisa Loria in Alta Loma.....can't wait and there are few spaces available if you would like to register. Incredible class with lot's of bling and solder. Visit Lisa's blog for all info.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-11-07T13:10:00.000-08:00

I had an amazing time teaching with Cheryl Waters in Tustin!

Cheryl is the Queen of Mix Media. She has so much knowledge , she is such a caring person. We had 6 students that started with the same project and as always they all look beautiful and so different.

Cheryl is a Fisk-a-teer and if you are not familiar with the site and what they do please visit their blog. She is also in the process to start a new adventure and she is a wife, mother and with a full time job!

(Terry and Cheryl)

Terry is holding the kit that I put together for the second part of the class.

These 2 photos below are some of the Cheryl's wonderful creations.

Cheryl's kit for the students... was full of goodness!!!!

The Students from far left Diane, Jenelle, Sheryl, to the right Barbara, Terry and Raylene.

Sheryl is the cupcake magician. They where the moisteststst cup cakes I ever had!

as you can see

Terry is smooching her canvas. Smooching is a spray and there are few different way to use it. I am learning!

Finished canvases

The Class was at Whimzy's in Tustin and every corner of the store is full of Prettiness! I purchased some of these ballerina, no idea yet what to do with them .....

Thank you Cheryl for teaching with me

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-11-05T07:06:00.000-07:00

More changes.....

I wish I had photos from before but when you get that crazy idea you have to just do it, no time to reach for the camera.

This corner hutch received a little TLC. The top part came from a garage sale for a couple of dollars. It's been in my workshop for a while and finally found a home. It makes the hutch look so rich. One more coat of paint and minwax...And by re arranging plates, bowls .... I got a new look!

Have a wonderful Weekend!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-11-03T08:56:00.000-07:00

Re Thinking!

I am the luckiest girl right? I work from home, I do what I love...teach and build. Since I have been teaching soldering classes every week I can't keep up with the workshop that is always been where I teach classes. The workshop is a mess and is getting cleaned up little by little so I am re thinking, organizing and decided that the living room will be where I teach my classes. How do you keep it a living room but have all your supplies?.

"Organize with Prettiness"

Inspired by one of Lori Martins cabinets I built this cabinet to start organizing my supplies in the living room. LOVE IT! and P.S. Dean noticed it and likes it too.....

I will be rearranging constantly just because the supplies you see are for the upcoming classes, the rest is concealed in the cabinet underneath.

So rewarding when I can plan, build, organize, cook, clean and talk to the boys all in one day!

***********

I will be teaching this weekend in Tustin at Whimzy's and if you are interested there are 2 spaces left. Please visit their site to register. Then........I am teaching a B-Day Soldering class November 12th!!!! So excited and can't wait to start making the kits and what to serve for lunch!

Ciao for now

Rita

Linking to French Country Cottage HERE

my work blog HERE

my classes blog HERE

2011-10-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful Weekend!

So much was accomplished.....Ornaments, Signs and a Wreath.

The ornaments are made with strips of mirrors that I cut and solder. I Love how they look all grouped together.

I made this wreath from an old table cloth, I also added a mirror ornament with a vintage earring at the end , a heart solder charm and a vintage bottle.

Few signs were finished too.

Have a wonderful week!

Ciao for now

Rita

my work HERE

my classes HERE

2011-10-28T19:20:00.000-07:00

RED & WHITE

make ME HapPy!

Ciao for now

Happy Weekend

Rita

2011-10-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Soldering Class with Normi & Sylvia !

Normi's work of ART

and SYLVIA's BELLISSIMO LAVORO!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-10-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

Is cooking an ART?

I hope it is because not only I LOVE to teach soldering but I do enjoy cooking for the students. I can't do one without the other!

Today I have a beginner class with Normi and Sylvia.

We will be working on Charms

For breakfast I decided to bake Challah Chocolate Chip Bread (foodnetwork.com)

For lunch we are having my Bean soup with Ciabatta Bread....do you know what Ciabatta means? Slipper, Sandal, Flip Flop.

Bean soup:

1 package of mix beans plus a cup of garbanzo, wash and drain.

Saute' 1 white onion, 2 green onions in olive oil, add salt and pepper and white wine about 3 tablespoons. Add 1 small can of tomato paste, mix, add 2 cups of beef broth or chicken broth, mix.

Pour everything in the crock pot and cook for 8 hours (you may have to add more water and seasoning) add few fresh basil leaves at the end.

Buon Appetito!

Ciao for now

Got to teach

Rita

2011-10-25T06:16:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Debbie! I Love your magazine article in the last issue of Casa da Sogno, now if we could only get a copy in the USA that would be great!. Debbie you are such an inspiration to me, your work, your designs, your style, YOU as a person. You can find Debbie at Country Roads in Old Town Orange, The Urban Barn in Escondido and at The Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks.

A page of my newest Message in a bottle are in too.

Grazie Casa da Sogno

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-10-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

Such a Beautiful Day!

Che Giornata Stupenda!

I clipped my last hydrangeas.....and prepared for a Private Soldering class with Raylene

There she is!

The Class was all about making shadow boxes

I made one too! AMORE.....

Great day Raylene, thank you for coming and fill my day with Creativity, let's do it again!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-10-16T14:04:00.000-07:00

BELLISSIMO!!!!

I am back from Santa Ana.....tired but HAPPY!

A BIG Grazie to my boys Alan and Raffaele for helping so so much! and Pearl for been my left hand (she was to my left of the cash register, lol) HUGE Help!

This is a show where everything happens really fast! be prepared and plan everything. LOVE IT!

Dianne and Sheryl put on an incredible show and they do take care of their vendors, we are part of the Glitterfest Family! Always a pleasure.....

I wish I had more time to take photos of all the spaces. I missed Sandra's booth and all the photos indoor didn't turn out right.

Linda Fit and Sandi Woods

www.eurotrash.com

Blossoms Vintage Chic

The Black Rooster Cottage

To all the customers that shopped HANDMADE and support US!

Thank you so much

(a special thank you too to Edith for bringing me a special photo taken by her at the Spring Glitterfest)

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-10-15T04:12:00.000-07:00

See you at Glitterfest!

10:00 am to 4 pm

212 South Elk Lane

Santa Ana, Ca

www.glitterfest.com

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-10-14T06:51:00.000-07:00

"Remnants of The Past"

this is the end/beginning of our trip to San Luis Obispo

I tried to make this short but there are still a lot of pictures and it's because the show was so amazing! All the vendors had the most beautiful booths. Indoor and Outdoor show.

"Mary Salaber"

GLORIE

"Katy and Colette"

and their amazing MOTEL!

Indoor

Robin and Steve

Robin is the furniture queen, she is a hard worker! You can find her at the flea markets in the So. Cal area and The Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks. They were traveling up North to celebrate their 30th Anniversary.....Congratulations!

"The Junk girls"

Deano really loved this booth.

Tim and Lisa

Blue Canoe Reloaded

The sweetest Girls EVER

Lipstick GYPSY!

blog

(Italia here they come!)

Kathee

Love the combination of all the greens and browns

Sandyyyy!!!!!

blog

OK, the only photo I could get of Sandy's booth was the roof!!! lol

her booth was packed with customers.

I am so glad Deano and I took this wonderful trip! Remnants is the place to visit if you are in the area. I believe their show is twice a year. Please visit their web site for more info:

Remnants

Ok seriously Ciao for Now

Glitterfest tomorrow!!!

Do you want to see what I built???

Click HERE

2011-10-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

Our Trip....

Still in San Luis Opispo....I love this town! We had lunch at the Wild Donkey Cafe. Didn't know about the food but the name was interesting.

The food was so so BUONISSIMO! Sandwich and Salad.....Sandwich= Italian fresh baked bread (ciabatta) with fig preserve, grilled chicken breast, brie cheese, and pesto. Yummyssimo!

Back to Tia's Betty....this time her porch. Tia Betty organized a Halloween party for all the witches around. I wish I was there too.

Have a fun day today and tomorrow and always!!! I am in the panic mode....Glitterfest is in a couple of days and so much to do so....Ciao for now Rita

2011-10-11T05:21:00.001-07:00

Feels like HOME!

Part 2 of our trip.....visiting Family and Friends.

"Tia Betty's Kitchen"

Tia Betty, creative, artistic, wonderful Tia! Dean and I entered her kitchen Saturday afternoon and the delicious smell of cake brought back memories! I felt at HOME.

More to come

Ciao for now

Rita

Tia Betty's blog

my work blog

soldering classes blog

2011-10-10T13:57:00.000-07:00

Family - Friends

Dean and I spent the weekend away from home. It's been a while.....

The weekend was FULL of inspirations, seen friends that we haven't seen in a long time, meeting new ones from blogland, missing one (sorry Riki) and spending time with family too.

I have so many photos to edit and show you so it will take few posts. I will start from the end of our trip because this lady filled me with inspirations,

THANK YOU TINA!

Tina leaves in Atascadero with her husband and kids and grand kids. She is so crafted and I believe that if we leaved closer we would do some damaged together. Tina came to our cousins house to visit and she was holding a glass totem. I had seen one earlier in Tia Betty's garden and loved it...and took a photo. Didn't know where she bought it or who made it. So, as soon as Tina came in the leaving room she handed me the glass totem! It was for me!!!!

This morning, first thing was to find a home for it and can't wait for tonight....it has a solar light on the top dome.

We visited Tina's garden before getting back on the road and couldn't resist taking pictures of her totems. Such beautiful work.

This one below is from Tia Betty's garden.

We'll visit Tia Betty's Halloween Porch and Kitchen in my next post.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-10-06T17:58:00.000-07:00

I had such a lovely day!!!!!

Today was a private class with two beautiful ladies.

Carrie and Jo Lee

this private class was about learning how to solder crystals on the bottles and we did play with all sort of charms too.

Jo Lee's bottle and charms, BELLISSIMI!

Carrie's bottle and charms. Carrie also made a second bottle with seashell on top. Che AMORE!

Jo Lee, Duke of course and Moi

Carrie and Moi

Beautiful day spent with the girls, thank you so much!

If you would like to learn more about my classes please visit my classes blog HERE

2011-10-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

Buongiorno Mondo!!!!

Private Soldering Class today......and I decided to bake Kay's famous Pumpkin Muffins (recipe).

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-10-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

Buongiorno Mondo!

I attended a Seminar this last Saturday."Launch your Creativity II". My second Seminar and looking forward to attend the April Seminar. It's so clear to me now what was before all scattered inside my brain! Do you know what I mean? It's like putting puzzle pieces in the right place. # 1 What do I want to do when I grow up? #2 Write my Goals, #3 Commit to it,

# 4 Organize your day, and in my case my computer desk!!! lol, # 5 Help others and I will add one more from my friend Beth # 6 "Sharing in Caring".

All these women in the picture below spoke to us. Each and every one of these Ladies has a particular gift and they were the W.H.O.A. (Women Helping One Another) of the afternoon. Sorry you could not make it, take time to read more by visiting their site and read what they taught us at L.Y.C.

(Cheryl Turner, Connie Gayhart, Jenny Doh, Sharon Hughes, Jenelle Van de Mortel)

Next stop Private Soldering Class tomorrow and getting ready for Glitterfest!

Ciao for now

Rita

what I made

soldering classes

2011-10-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

A Day in Paris!

I never had a table this small......loved it!

It turned out really cute.

My beautiful crown went home with a lovely lady, Gina.

Christie's table, SWEET!

My neighbor Dodi. Loved her company and the sunny umbrellas are unbelievable. I am the proud owner of a black and white one...but....I see a pink and black that has to come home with me real soon.

www.bagsfrombritches.com

Paris in a Cup

what a tea salon!!!!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-09-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

On my way to Old Towne Orange, Ca.

" Paris in a Cup"

Have a wonderful weekend everybody

Ciao for now

Rita

What's new "My Work"

Soldering Classes

Mammabellarte FB Page

2011-09-26T11:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!

My weekend was awesome!

Drove to San Diego for the 16th Anniversary of one of my favorite stores "Vignettes". Black and White was the team.....ok what are my favorite colors???? Anyone????

It would have been perfect if I had the memory stick inside my camera! lol But please take time to stop by Vignettes site. Beautiful photos of the store.

Well done Lori! and what a ensemble of artists you have.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-09-22T11:43:00.000-07:00

"Basil Cubes"

What are Basil Cubes you may ask?

Every Fall I make a mix of Basil, Olive Oil and Salt and freeze it. It's not Pesto, few ingredients are missing to be called pesto. Pesto from the verb Pestare means to pound. Later on the word pesto became the word for "Pesto Genovese" a sauce made with basil leaves. Dean and I prefer to make pesto with a mix of parsley and basil leaves. So Yummy. Ok back to my Basil Cubes. It's great to have Basil Cubes in your frizzer to add to tomato sauce, spreads like butter and basil or cream cheese mixed with basil and served with fresh baked bread!!!!

Start by pulling the basil leaves off the stem, wash them and start filling the blender with the leaves and 2 teaspoons of salt and enough olive oil for easy mixing. Blend until creamy.

Poor into the ice tray and freeze it. When completely frozen transfer the cubes into zip lock bags.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-09-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

I can't miss White Wednesday can I?

I am preparing for a show in Old Towne Orange, Ca.

September 30th, 2011

"Paris in a cup"

It's a cancer fundraiser and I have a cute small table to fill with little goodness.

I have few things in production and today I am sharing these tiny wooden signs that I made.

I just love her! She is going too.....

Enjoy your White Wednesday and say hi to Kathleen, she is the hostess of WW.

Ciao for now

Rita

more of my work click HERE

soldering classes schedule click HERE

2011-09-18T20:16:00.000-07:00

" Casa da Sogno"

an Italian magazine

I was published in Casa da Sogno this September....so honored and my only thought is my Mamma. She leaves in Sicily and I haven't seen her in over 2 years and for her to open a magazine over there and see my work is the most rewarding feeling EVER!

I do write all the articles that get published and in this particular case I took the step by step photos of the nightstand. I had also the opportunity to have my sister-in-law Christie published and wrote the article about her and the wonderful Claire Brocato from San Diego took the photos. Claire is getting ready to fly to Italy with her husband in a couple of weeks.

Sono stata pubblicata per la seconda volta su Casa da Sogno in Italia. Onoratissima ma sopratutto il mio pensiero e' la Mamma che abita in Sicilia e non vedo da 2 anni. Il pensiero di immaginarla a leggere i mie articoli mi rende felicissima. Ho anche avuto l'opportunita' di avere mia cognata Christie su Casa da Sogno, ho cercato di descriverla il piu possibile e le foto sono state scattate dalla bravissima Claire Brocato che fra due settimane andra' in vacanza in Italia col Marito. Sono Gelosissima! Ho un po' di malinconia...

Wishing you a Happy Week

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-09-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

This is too funny!

I was on my way to the workshop to start the day and I am carrying signs and tea cups. I see all the chickens coming towards the fence. I believe Alan forgot to feed them this morning. So, camera in my apron, carrying teacups and signs all the way to the chicken coop. Not thinking that I could stop by the workshop and drop everything there and then go feed the chickens. lol

Well I am glad because I had the best time photographing my Gimpy having his corn tea. Love the hay and the tea cups together.

Fun!

Back to work

Enjoy your day

Ciao for now

Rita

my work HERE

soldering classes HERE

2011-09-14T08:14:00.000-07:00

My Alan

Last night it was Open House and Alan wanted to go. This is the first time in 4 years that Alan is really excited to go to Open House with me. We had a wonderful time together!. Grandma gave him the gift of purchasing his own car and here it is a RED jeep. Friday he will take is driving test and so everyday I have been picking him and his brother from school so he can practice his driving. Last night he drove to school, and he did it so well that I know he is ready to take the test.

All his classes this year are his favorite, he will be raising a pig and growing plants, he is taking ceramics, philosophy, pre-calculus, english, metal shop II and economics.

So proud of you Alan

my work click HERE

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-09-12T08:01:00.001-07:00

Make a Memory!

Ricordi!

The Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks did it again....40 vendors gathered together in Rainbow, Ca. and made the show a success! I have so much to show you that it will probably take few posts. I will start with the Memory Wall created by Christie and Moi. I builded the wall and gates and Christie added her Magic. I can photograph this wall all the long. So many customers stopped by and took photos.

Memories........

40 artisti si sono riuniti qui a Rainbow in California. 2 giorni fantastici! Io e mia cognata Christie abbiamo creato questo prop. Ha avuto tanto successo e ritornera' al Mercato Vintage a Dicembre.

(some photos were taken by Kathy Tanaka)

More to come

Please visit our FB page for more blog posts and photo albums, there is too many to mention.

Visitateci nella nostra pagina FB

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-09-06T10:06:00.000-07:00

Beautiful weekend spent with Family and Friends!

Dean says that Labor Day weekend is the celebration of the end of the Summer.....sorry but not for me. Been raised in Sicily I don't think ever remembering Autumn.

The plumerias are blooming and that will keep me in my Summer mood.

Duchessa aka Duke had a wonderful weekend too and she didn't mind posing for me.

Have a great week

Ciao for now

Rita

New post on Mercatino Blog

2011-09-04T16:05:00.000-07:00

My resolution for the next months, I hope..... is to get my bike back in order!

The boys and I took all the motorcycles out of the trailer to give room to all the stuff going to The Vintage Marketplace next Friday. So here she was my sweet Harleyenna. I stopped riding her a year ago do to not much time for fun!

My resolution will be to get her back in shape and out there.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-09-03T08:41:00.000-07:00

Buongiorno Mondo!!!!

I have been taking the boys to school around 6:30 every morning and the drive is so beautiful. Fallbrook folks are up early and while we drive the winding roads you have time to look. The other day I saw an older woman staring at her orange tree. "What is she looking at?"

She was staring at a spiderweb, interesting and crazy I thought. Well....who was the crazy lady today? Me!

I woke up so early, made my espresso and decided to go outside. How beautiful! We have hundreds of webs all over the oak trees.

And there I stared at their beauty.

Ciao for now

Rita

My Work and Event Page

Soldering Classes Info and Schedule Page

2011-09-01T16:02:00.000-07:00

Don't you Love when you finally buy something for your self? For me is a rare moment. I am always buying supplies and kids clothes. My friend Gina had just made new charms last week and posted on FB. I loved them so much that I ordered one "Pearls of Wisdom" with the boys initial on it. It's perfect Gina! It was nicely packaged and didn't take a photo....I was so excited to see it. A gift to ME.

Lizzy B vintage

Another gift to ME arrived today. I ordered two aprons from my friend Sharon Hughes. I love her work and I do wear aprons all day long. Love them Sharon, Thank you.

Pansy Cottage

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

A creative Weekend with Lisa Loria and the Girls!

Lisa and I taught the Love Nest Soldered Crown Saturday. Incredible class and students.

Lisa makes the cutest and most elaborated Bling Babies, "The Original Bling Babies".

Love Love Lisa's Classroom. So much to look at.....

Lisa made the yummiest cup cakes

This is Diane's crown in the making

Diane and Lisa creating the nest for the top of the crown

Marbi's Crown

Queen Maggie's Crown

I am missing Dawn's Crown, sorry! I will have her send me a photo and post it soon.

Well , another class tomorrow and then......The Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-23T17:29:00.000-07:00

Happy White Wednesday # 114!

I finished a new necklace for my dress form "Bella" . I am getting ready for the next Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks this September 9th and 10th in Cali and I wish you could join me.

Visit our Fan Page HERE to see all the incredible vendors that will be selling their vintage home and garden decor and repurpose jewelry and clothing.

This week I am concentrating on making appliques. And it is a long process but it's worth the work.

Linking to Kathleen for WW

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-22T11:34:00.000-07:00

My SIL and I

I learned from experience that partnerships should only be with your boyfriend, husband, wife, companion......We do learn and no matter how your partnerships ends it's still an experience that will help you grow. Christie and I host the Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks together and we are constantly telling to each other, we are not partners!, lol we are SIL. It's been and it will continue to be one of the best NON Partnerships ever. We are family. In less then 3 weeks The Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks will open for 2 full exciting days and it's not that simple to put this show together especially because Christie and I are also vendors. But we do it in an organized manner and that's what keeps us sane! I am so looking forward to the 7th Vintage Marketplace as a co-host and vendor.

Look how organize I am getting!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

I am really wondering if this is going to be the year of the dogs and the chickens! Should I move to the city? And have no animals at all? We lost Bennie at a young age in November, Milo ran away with Sunday in February, (check out the adventure of Sunday and Milo HERE),Callie( in the photo) gets poisoned by a flower a month ago, and now .... Callie gets dragged by my neighbors dogs and has 3 deep bite marks in her back . When you think everything is back to normal...is not! She will be ok...but seriously this has been the worst year for my puppies.

and it doesn't end here. If you remember about 3 month ago we found 10 chicks under the carport....(story HERE) well we found 7 more yesterday. Back on taking care of more chicks. We have a total of 27!

Back to work at the Reade's Farm!

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

3 Weeks until the Next Vintage Marketplace at the Oaks!

Hope you can join us.....

The Vintage Marketplace has a FB fan page. Anybody can check it out, you don't need to have a FB account.

Back to work

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-13T18:37:00.000-07:00

Fun day with the girls!

Summers Past Farms, California

There is a Morning Glory maze and I believe they also have a sweet pea maze.

The girls in front of the maze. Cynthia, Nicki, Sandra and Christie.

Sandra had everything planned. She had lunch boxes ready for us, drinks....such a special treat.

Such a relaxing day.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Winner of Mammabellarte's 500th Post

GIVEAWAY

Jamie Martin!

Have a wonderful weekend and thank you to all the bloggers and FB friends for participating. I wish I can send a gift to all of you.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

I felt like a Queen today!

I spent the day with Sandra, Cynthia, Christie and Nicki. First stop was Sandra's house. Coffee and pastries where served. Sandra's garden is so beautiful, I could spend hours there. Such a treat Sandra, thank you so much.

Sandra drove us to Summer Past Farms in Alpine and I will blog about it soon.

I will be announcing the winner of the 500th post Giveaway tomorrow.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-10T16:52:00.000-07:00

Private Soldering Class with Dawn!

Dawn made 3 charms and a bottle topper. Very patient lady and she really wanted to take the Love Nest Crown class in a couple of weeks. I had some time to teach her the basics and she is ready for the Crown Class!. Nice to meet you Dawn. Lisa and I are looking forward to teach you how to assemble this HUGE crown. See you August 27th.

Visit my classes blog for more info on this class.

Ciao for now

Rita

2011-08-09T18:52:00.000-07:00

Before and After

My new Check Out

I have been looking for a cash register/ check out stand for a while now. I have been using a cute suitcase on a stand but didn't have enough storage. I finally found the perfect piece to turn in a check out stand.

Wheels? I'll take it....this is going to make my job so much easier.

I wanted to create a shelf to add to the front for the customers to rest their check book. Every show I see them looking for an empty space on my tables....to write a check.

I used part of a chair and cut a piece of wood to screw on top and made a shelf. The next idea is so, how should I say it....cheesy? I love the look beaded moulding but didn't have any in storage so....

I used a string of beads and glue it between the shelf and the chair piece.

and voila'

the new stand is ready for the next show!

oh, yes and I drilled a hole to fit a test tube to hold a pen... a "soldered pen".

my lucky duck has a new home.

I really enjoyed working on this project.

Ciao for now

Rita

joining Kathleen at Faded Charm for another White Wednesday.

Don't forget the GIVEAWAY ends August 11th, click on the giveaway button on the sidebar.