{Simply Blessed Bliss}

{New Blog!!}

2011-04-03T16:57:00.000-04:00

Please follow me on my new blog {adventure} HopeChest Bride!!

Hope to see you there!

{BIG NEWS}

2010-11-27T21:43:00.000-05:00

I have news.....BIG NEWS....big big news...no really....I mean this is BIG! I've been busy {very busy} working on a new blog....well not just a new blog...a new blog/business/foundation/lifestyle. Let me tell you changes are in store...lol. Okay okay....all I can tell you is in a few weeks I will post a link to my new blog and you can read all about it then!! Thanks to everyone who has followed me since day one of Simply Blessed Bliss. Although I haven't posted on a consistent basis, I have never stopped reading your blogs and enjoying all the wonderful ideas and inspiration. Oh...by the way HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

{My Sanctuary}

2009-10-18T15:14:00.006-04:00

I'm finally getting around to decorating my master bedroom. I knew I wanted it to be a place where I could go at the days end and "rest".

My hearts desire list:

A padded headboard

A vintage bedside chest

Lucite lamp

French Trumeau Mirror

Simple linens

Embroidered linens

Marble top bedside table

Artwork

Silk window panels

I have been scouring Craigslist and antique stores looking for the items on my list. Many items will need a little revamping but that's okay....we all love a design challange right?....rightttt.

You see those beautiful sweet roses...I stole um from my moms rose bush last week...yep sure did.
I think what I love most are the items that I've been lovingly blessed with from family and friends are finding a place in this space.

Although I live alone, I've kept the rest of my home pretty gender neutral. My master bedroom and bath is the one shabby fu fu space in my entire home. Oh well...I'm off to shop for bedlinens...I may even make a stop by mama's;p

Blessings

Lisa

{Proverbs 31:27}

2009-09-20T16:30:00.003-04:00

"She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness"

Thanks Mary at Little Red House for hosting "Mosaic Monday".

Lisa

{Speechless}

2009-09-17T18:08:00.005-04:00

My baby boy was sworn in last friday {9/11} as a City Policeman and I'm so very proud.

This is the same child I refused to buy a toy gun and they go and give him a REAL one! It's been his desire to be a police officer ever since he was a little boy. YES I'm afraid for his safety, but I try to remember that The Father does not give us the spirit of fear {Romans 8:15}. Please pray for him, the other recruits and all the lawmen, service men and women everywhere.

Thank you Lord for giving my child the desires of his heart.

Lisa

{Disgrace}

2009-09-10T17:14:00.006-04:00

Noun
the loss of respect, honor, or esteem; ignominy; shame: the disgrace of criminals.
a person, act, or thing that causes shame, reproach, or dishonor or is dishonorable or shameful.
the state of being out of favor; exclusion from favor, confidence, or trust: courtiers and ministers in disgrace.

Verb
to bring or reflect shame or reproach upon: to be disgraced by cowardice.
to dismiss with discredit; put out of grace or favor; rebuke or humiliate: to be disgraced at court.

Although the South has never been favored by most of my people {African Americans}, I have always been proud of the fact that I am from South Carolina. When asked "Where are you from?", I always respond, "South Carolina, born and raised". I have fondly referred to myself as a Southern Black Belle. Last evening I have never been more ashamed of being a South Carolinian in my life.

How disgraceful, rude, & obnoxious could you possibly be to heckle the President of the United States of America, especially when good people have voted and placed you in a position where they feel you are capable of representing their state before Congress. You are a disgrace not only to the state of South Carolina, but you are a disgrace to America. Would you have done the same to ANY of our previous Presidents? I doubt it. The fact is you can not stand to see a BLACK MAN representing America.

However; true to form our President, Barack Obama, carried himself with dignity and grace both of which you know nothing about. While watching him I could not help but think of the verse, "let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven" {Matthew 5:16}. What a true testament of character. My minister constantly reminds us that "The truth shall set you free or find you out", well Mr. Wilson you have just been found out!

Recently South Carolina has been on every comedians lips, in every newspaper, magazine and the talk of every talk show host. There's our illustrious Governor, Mark Sanford, who disgraced his wife, family and the entire state of South Carolina with his blatant affair and elusive behavior. Then there's Senator Jim Demint, with his biased and callous remarks regarding our President and now this. What I find truly amazing in all this is that none of these men are African American; however THEY have the audacity to judge a man who is out there fighting tooth and nail every day to provide a better way of life for ALL Americans. A man who is ten times the man they will ever be.

To ALL these men and the many others like them: "An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."

To ALL Americans who continue to vote for these men: "A nation or civilization that continues to produce soft-minded men purchases its own spiritual death on the installment plan."

To OUR President, Barack Obama: "Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world better."

Quote's courtesy of Martin Luther King Jr.

Lisa

{Viva La France}

2009-09-05T21:19:00.008-04:00

I have a passion for french furniture. I love the curve of the legs, the detail in the hardware and not to mention how well vintage french furniture holds up, this piece was made in the 1960's. The marble inset on top of the table is simply beautiful. Can you believe I actually thought about painting it. I wasn't sure if leaving it as it is would fit in with the style of my home.

Well...there was no need to worry. I love it! The soft gray veining in the marble top blends perfectly with the color of the table. This room is really coming together.

I'm still trying to decide what accessories work best. I'll post more soon.

Lisa

My New BB......

2009-08-23T18:36:00.012-04:00

What do you get when you mix a frame, remnant fabric, and some MAC-BEAU-TI-MUS trim together? Why a beautiful work of art of course. I had been carting around a frame for several years waiting for the perfect opportunity to create something usable and here it is in all it's glory, "My Bulletin Board". I know, I know you've probably seen this done on other blogs a thousand times already....well here's 1001...he he!!

What a great way to display all your must see on a daily basis, projects waiting to happen, doctors appointment reminders, and let's not forget kid's weekly schedule calendars (you know....soccer practice, piano lessons, cheer leading...and on and on). I love mine. So beautiful, so magical....just waiting to have a ga-zillion pieces of papers, swatches, cards, and notes attached to it.

Oh!!...and please don't let the smooth taste fool you....that sweet puppy right there won't last a week without turning into a war zone of activity, but that's okay, I think that's how most of us work best and I also believe that's when my creativity juices really flow.

Here's a quick and simple how-to to get you started:

*Simply clean your frame so that it's free of any dust or loose paint or stain. Now would be a good time to fix any small imperfections, such as chips or cracks....mine was all busted up!

*Use paint or stain to give it the special touch that is uniquely you. I choose to leave the existing finish on mine

*Measure the inside of the frame for a lovely piece of MDF. I prefer MDF over real wood because of it's weight (wood can sometimes be a little too heavy)

*Now comes the fun part...at least for me it was....finding just the right fabric to use to cover your MDF. I simply looked around my little office and concluded that with all my tone on tone colors going on what I needed was a big POP of color to really make that baby stand out! Remember this is the most important part of the entire board, this is what will shine and show your personality...so don't go choosing the fabric out the remnant bin, just because it's dirt cheap....I KNOW...as tempting as it may be. That is unless you find some Robert Allen beauty in that bin...then I say GO FOR IT!! I choose this beautiful Ikat Medallion fabric courtesy of my local fabric store {also available online at Ballards Design}.

*Don't forget to cut yourself a piece of batting a tad bit smaller than your piece of fabric to soften the edges of the MDF.

*Lay your fabric, "pretty side" down on a flat surface, center the batting on top of it, then your MDF...now pull the fabric taunt to the back of the MDF and staple it with a staple gun....watch those finger tips!!

*Take your trim and staple it diagonally from tip to tip. Do this four times, criss-crossing the frame and straight up the middle and from side to side....ohhh sounds like you're doing the hokey poky....don't it!! he he.

*When you're finished stapling take the board and fit it within the frame....if it's a little snug, just keep wiggling it until it slides down in the frame....DON'T SNAG THAT FABRIC!! I used a picture hanging kit to hang mine, it all depends on how you want to hang yours. Anyhoo.....flip that baby over and "VIOLA!!" you have a Bulletin Board of your very own...custom made by you! Now wasn't that easy??

So don't be afraid, go on out there and scour those flea-markets, garage sales and thrift stores looking for the perfect frame for a creation of your very own. It's not hard to assemble and what I like best about each and every one I've seen so far is they are so unique to the person who created it and oh so easy to assemble.

A TALE OF TWO FRAMES
I'm sure you're wondering by now why there's no frame around that beauty of a board.....Okay...here's the skinny I wasn't going to share with you guys but in true...blabber mouth blogger fashion, I'm going to blab it anyway.....I purchased two pictures from Kirkland's many moons ago to use for that project. They were identical pieces of art, one with a beautiful frame and the other one with a beautiful {yet slightly damaged} frame.

I purchased them in the hopes of re purposing at least one of them into a bulletin board....well, after they sat in the closet for about three...uhhh make that five years, I finally took my little tushie to the store and purchased that beauty of a fabric you see above. I had a template from the "damaged" frame so I used that as a guide for the mdf needed to create my BB, however what I did not realize was that the template I had for the "damaged" frame was not the same size as the "good" frame...AUGGGHH! Did I mention, I didn't notice this until AFTER I had stapled my beau-ti-ful fabric to the mdf??? Well....what was a girl to do???Hmmmm

I charged into my office/craft room and held it up to the wall to try to gain some inspiration and suddenly realized....I really didn't need a frame at all....Ha! It's funny how sometimes even our mistakes seem to work themselves out.

**Go check out DIY day at A Soft Place To Land....

Lisa

{Ignorance}

2009-08-13T17:14:00.006-04:00

.
{ig·no·rance}
n. The condition of being uneducated, unaware, or uninformed.

It's 2009 and there are still those among us who would rather listen to hearsay than gain information directly from the source in order to have a better understanding and awareness of what is factual.

I received an email today from The White House regarding Health Insurance Reform. In it we were provided with a clear and concise Q&A on ALL the issues surrounding this subject, in it they were also forced to challenge all the false information showing up on the internet and yes....even in the newspapers. I signed up last year to receive emails directly from The White House because I want to be aware of the decisions that are being made about me and my family, that way I am truly informed. When I sit down to write a post or discuss anything regarding our Country and the direction we are going in, I can base my understanding on ACTUAL FACTS that are given in PRINT and can be referred back to if necessary.

It is no secret that I support The President and all that he is trying to do for our country; however just as we are told in The Bible, we need to refer to The Word and study to show ourselves approved. {II Timothy 2:14Keep reminding them of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. 15Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 16Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. 17Their teaching will spread like gangrene.} In understanding that, I feel I would be remiss if I did not refer to and study what is TRULY being said and done, before judging and commenting on any of the issues at hand. It's that simple.

I believe many allow their feelings for someone {President Obama} to guide their thoughts and words. Those that truly concern me are the ones who claim to be Christians yet they slander him at every turn. {Proverbs 13:13 He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command is rewarded. 14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death. 15 Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard. 16 Every prudent man acts out of knowledge, but a fool exposes his folly.} Regardless of how we feel about our leader, we have to base our decisions and understanding on FACT. Again, it's that simple.

The reason why I love blogging so much, is that it gives ANYONE a platform and a voice where we are allowed to say exactly how we feel about any given subject; however it's really sad when there are those of us who use it to spread malicious and sometimes very damaging lies. Be careful of your words. Think about how what you are about to say could possibly affect EVERYONE involved, whether it be about someone you know {family members, friends} or even those you only read about in magazines and see on television. Your mere words could really hurt someone's career, bring shame and cause pain to those that are in their family and cause damage to their self esteem. Words are very powerful. {Proverbs 13:3 He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.}

Many of us have heard our entire lives the eighteenth-century proverb, derived from an English Poet "Ignorance is bliss".....Ignorance is just that Ignorance. {Ephesians 4:18They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.}

Please take time to read the FACTS about the propossed Health Insurance Reform for yourself at the following link www.WhiteHouse.gov/realitycheck
That way you too can be informed.

Blessings

Lisa

{I'm Gonna Show a Little Leg}

2009-08-07T15:16:00.009-04:00

Not THAT leg......here's another one of my wonderful Craigslist finds. I was blessed to get this beautiful 60's french dining room set for only $75. A young mom and her army hubby were being deployed and she needed to sell pretty much all her furniture to keep from paying for storage.....what a sweet deal. I love it. After painting it black and recovering the chair cushions with this fabric

I think it fits in really well with the rest of the room.

I've got to tweak this area a few more times before revealing it......soon.....soon!!!

Go check out Rhoda's Thrifty Monday!

Lisa

Isn't She Lovely

2009-08-06T21:06:00.010-04:00

Head on over to Kimba's for DIY Thursday.....I'm a little late ;)

I found a pair of these beautiful 60's French Country end tables at a local antique shop and knew they would be a perfect fit next to my Craigslist Ikea two cushion sofa. The sofa is on a small scale and sits kinda low, which I love, so all the end tables I kept seeing in the furniture stores were just a tad bit too tall and cumbersome to place next it.

When I happened upon these beauties I knew they would make a perfect fit.

Can you believe I actually thought about painting over the marble pieces that fit in the center of each table, but once I got them home and cleaned them up I realized just how beautiful that marble really was.

After giving them a few coats of black satin paint, and a clear coat of poly to protect them from scratches. I think they turned out beautiful. What do you think?

Lisa

Happy Birthday Laci

2009-08-02T20:38:00.009-04:00

Today is a very special day....it's Laci's birthday! Three years ago today was a bitter sweet day, we were blessed to meet a very special little lady, yet we had to say goodbye to one of the best friends I've ever had...her mama...Keri. Keri Rose Matthews passed away giving birth to her sweet angel Laci. She left behind her loving hubby and her beautiful eleven year old daughter Kiera.
Keri and I were instant friends from day one after meeting at a youth meeting when we were just kids. She was a beautiful person inside and out, who loved her life, her family & friends and more importantly the Lord. I miss her every day and feel blessed to have known her.

And now....three years later....look at the Birthday girl!! Happy Birthday Laci we love you!

{Inspiration}

2009-07-20T20:48:00.008-04:00

Photo Courtesy of BH&G

Photo Courtesy of Southern Living

I've been a busy little bee lately......between Craigslist and my local thrift stores, I've scored some great pieces {more on that later}. Now I'm searching for inspiration.

Photo Courtesy of Southern Living

I'm really having fun decorating my little cottage. So much inspiration out there. One thing I continue to focus on is to re-use & re-purpose....budget friendly decor. I'm on Craigslist EVERYDAY looking for bargains and boy have I really hit the mother load.

My problem is not finding inspiration and great bargains..............my problem is finishing ONE project! Does anyone else have that problem?, before you can finish one project, your mind is wandering onto another one...AUGGH! I've got to stop....nothings getting done. I've promised myself that I will get one project finished by the end of the week. I can do this...right??

Lisa

{From The Heart of My Minister}

2009-07-12T22:47:00.004-04:00

One Day At A Time Sweet Jesus

Living one day at a time is a discipline we all have to focus on when we are in Christ. It is easy to slip back into worrying about tomorrow, dwelling on the "what ifs" and the "if only." Each day brings a host of things we cannot change; there will always be circumstances beyond our control. We must also face the reality of who we are-human beings confined within the slice of life we call today. It is tempting to deny the present, but escaping reality is part of the insanity of our old sinful way of life. Jesus said, "can all your worries add a single moment to your life?...don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring it's own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today" (Math. 6:27 & 34). The prophet Jeremiah said, "The unfailing love of the Lord never ends! By His mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is His faithfulness, His mercies begin afresh each day" (Lamentations 3:22 & 23). Since God's grace is renewed towards us daily, then living each day at a time, is the best way to face life. We need to ask ourselves at every turn in life, Am I accepting this present moment, or am I pretending-trying to escape into the past or the future? Each day there is something to find joy in, and there is sufficient strength promised for the troubles of that day. The Psalmist wrote, "This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24). We, too can choose to find joy, strength and hope when we accept each day's realities with a heart of one day at a time sweet Jesus.

{Richard Ramkinson Windsor Lake Church of Christ}

Bookcase Makeover

2009-07-09T19:01:00.012-04:00

Yall see this big ole clunky, plain, undressed Monster....

{ok...so I had to jack this pic from some innocent persons blog...sorry...forgot to take a before shot}

Well my baby girl knew her mama was in desperate need of a bookcase for her office so what did that sweetie pie go and do but buy me one for my birthday last August. Now don't go thinkin my baby has no taste just because she purchased mama a big brown monster. That baby knew her mama wouldn't keep it lookin that way for long. She actually told me she looked for a black one first but couldn't find one....the sweet girl.

Well......here she is in all her loveliness

I know what you're thinking, "that can't be the same little lady we see above.....but...but...she's so beautiful". Oh...but it is. Here's a glimpse of her simple makeover.

First I painted her a beautiful shade of black....***Note to self...next time PRIME FIRST*** using Krylon spray paint.

*Next take a dry brush and apply {lightly} an accent color. I used bronze...it goes really well with all my accessories. And that's it!!! No really that's all there is to it. All the accessories you see were in my current stash. Some had to be altered to fit the decor. All thrift store, clearance bin, and consignment shop finds.

If you think you're not so good at building a display, take a hint from the experts. Look in design books or magazines for inspiration. Mary Carol Garrity of Nell Hill can give you a treasure trove of ideas.

When choosing items for the top of your bookcase let me caution you here, I used items that if for some reason someone bumped into the bookcase {okay so maybe I forgot to mention I'm a klutz too} and they tipped over...no one would get hurt. Also, if your case is anything like mine, it's a bit narrow at the top so don't go choosing wide chunky items to place up there...no matter how cute they would look.

Be sure to use many of the items you use on a daily basis to fill it out...this is after all a functioning bookcase and who says function can't be beautiful?!!

***Here's a sneak peek at my new office space in "The Cottage"...more on that later.

Blessings
Lisa

{The Simple Life}

2009-06-27T22:22:00.003-04:00

With Summer now upon us and loads and loads of inspiration slipping into our hearts every day via "Blogland", I feel a yearning for change. You've all seen my home, or what I considered my home for 10 years of my 11 year marriage. First off let me say, I loved my house. I poured all my little decorating heart and soul into making that house a home that my little family could live in and enjoy. I used a variety of warm and inviting colors, textures and fabrics. My first choice of design for my own home will probably always be French Country. I have such an affinity for their way of living and the colors, textures and patterns the French Countryside evokes; however, after making a major "life change" I really felt the need for change in all the areas of my life {including my little bloggy...more on that later}.

History: I have been avoiding this moment for a very long time, but now that everything is truly final, I feel a need to share with my blog friends what's been going on in my life...why I'm sometimes MIA. Two short years ago this August, my marriage ended after eleven years. I can't possibly convey to you how devastating that was for me. After reading many of your blogs and getting to know many of you through cyberspace, I know there are several who have gone through something similar, if not exactly what I'm going through. I remember at the time when I was making this major decision in my life, I happend upon A Cottage Industry's blog. I remember reading of her heart break and sharing in her pain. She had no idea how much it helped me to watch as she journeyed back towards PEACE and fullfillment. It has helped me so much over the past couple of years to just be able to read your blogs, share in your happiness and sometimes pain, pray for you and share some of my own special moments in life. I truly feel blessed by all of "Blogland", sometimes it's overwhelming, however I'm very thankful for an outlet such as this.

My life is so wonderful and blessed right now. I have found the PEACE I was yearning for and made a connection with so many wonderful, amazing people. I am truly blessed. Now you can better understand why the change was needed. I can't wait to share with you as I create a new haven for myself and my precious family {my son, daughter and grandson and all who visit often}. I'm hearting...."a simpler way of life".

I recently moved into what I like to refer to as "my little cottage in the woods"...well it's not quite as cottagy as I want it to be YET, and it's not really in the woods, however there are woods that back up to the property..and a girl can dream can't she??

Here's a tiny glimpse at my little "Cottage"

I've been hard at work making it into the warm inviting home I know it can be. Stay tuned....

Happy Valentine's Day & Late B'Day Post

2009-02-13T21:53:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's day! I'm sure this weekend will be busy for everyone so I wanted to get this post in quickly.

Also...I can't believe I didn't post on my Handsome Boys birthday {Feb. 5th..23 years old}....This child is just GOOD, inside and out. I love his spirit. He's like a gentle giant.

This picture is so appropriate for this holiday...LOVE. This is a picture of him and his nephew Jay. To me it expresses love at it's fullest. ***By the way, this picture was taken June 2006.

Blessings
Lisa

Whew...What a Break

2009-02-12T10:18:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone! Sorry I've been MIA, just had a few things going on that I needed to take care of...you know how it is. I did however make time to visit many of your blogs and comment on a few. I loved hearing about all the fun you gals had at Blissdom! I may have to go next year.

I have to share this with you guys. Last night I went to bed early (well..early for me 10:45) and slept pretty good, however I awakend at 4am. I mean WIDE awake. I could not go back to sleep. So when my alarm went off at 6:15am you can imagine my mood. Got up showered and dressed and skipped my little happy butt out the door determined to have a good day. I even turned off "The Steve Harvey Morning Show" and popped in my Mary Mary cd to get my praise on. As I turned onto I-77..ALL not one, but ALL three lanes were backed up past the overpass...ARGHHHH!!! There goes my happy happy joy joy mood right out the window....Mary Mary praising the Lord fadeing into the background. Ok Lisa get it together, it's not always about you. Some poor person is probably in an accident up ahead....yep..in the rearview mirror hear come the flashing lights and sirens.

At this point I'm pretty ashamed of myself for all my selfish thoughts. You know, how I was going to be late to work...How if I had known this I could have stopped for a Cappucino on the way in...me me me. Suddenly, the traffic began to flow and there were not one, but three cars banged up on the side of the interstate with two EMS on the scene. I immediately began praying for the poor individuals involved.

I pumped up my Mary Mary just as they were singing "Still My Child". Such a beautiful song. And then I really listend to the words...

"Still My Child"

He had many of bad habits
He was trying hard to break
And every time he thought it got better
He would make another mistake
Though he knows he's far from perfect
He is trying to live right
He asked me to ask You Father
Would You hear his prayer tonight?

[Chorus:]
He said tell him that I really need him
And I really want to change
The next time you talk to God
Would you please mention my name
Oh, tell Him that I really love Him
And although it's been a while
Ask Him for me am I still His child

I asked her how she was doing
She said not so good lately
Then I told her girl you know
You can always talk to me
She said these days haven't been so happy
Haven't had much peace of mind
Now I know that I should be praying
But I haven't had much time

[Chorus]

I know the answer to your question
Yes the Father still loves you
But sometimes when you have children
You don't always like what they do
So when go to your heavenly Father
Say Lord I love You
And when you ask Him for forgiveness
This is what He'll say to you

I sent a message in the wind
When the birds sang their song
And when you went to sleep last night
I told the moon shine all night long
Just wanted you to talked to me
And I know it's been a while
And to answer the question
You are still my child

This verse in paticular:

I sent a message in the wind
When the birds sang their song
And when you went to sleep last night
I told the moon shine all night long
Just wanted you to talked to me
And I know it's been a while
And to answer the question
You are still my child

It brought tears to my eyes...that's all He wanted last night...all He wanted this morning...All He ever wants. Thank you Lord for reminding me.
Blessings
Lisa

Happy Birthday Jewel

2009-01-30T18:55:00.004-05:00

Today is one of my precious God-daughter's birthday. Happy 5th Birthday "Sweet Jewel"!!

(That's her on the left. Picture courtesy of inseasonmom.org)
Cynthia (that's mom) and I have been best friends for many years. She has a great site, In Season Mom, that provides wonderful information for mothers that are 35 and over.

What a beautiful girl. Behind that sweet face and baby brown eyes beats the heart of an Ole Soul. Aunt Lisa loves you Sweet Jewel.
Blessings
Lisa

A Blog Award and A Giveaway

2009-01-23T22:49:00.008-05:00

I received this beautiful award from my sweet new bloggie friend @Chocolate Covered Dreams.

The rules are:

1. Put the award up on your blog.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded it to you.
3. Nominate at least seven other blogs.
4. Add links to these blogs on your blog.
5. Leave a message for your nominee on their blog

Here are my Nominees:
1. Donna @The Decorated House
2. Yolanda @Mocha Moments
3. Charmaine @Beautiful Things To Share
4. Pat @Back Porch Musings
5. DeNiece @Organized Homemaking For Christ
6. Tabitha @I Choose Bliss
7. Catherine @Catherine De The Cups
Enjoy the award ladies

Monogram Chick is having a giveaway Love This!! Go sign up to win and tell her Simply Blessed Bliss sent you.

Blessings
Lisa

Priceless Picture

2009-01-22T15:29:00.002-05:00

I just had to share this photo with you that I found on the web today. Isn't she the cutest little baby, and just look at that coy little smile. She is the new infant baby girl of actor, Michael Jai White and his beautiful wife Courtenay. Pictures like that are truly Priceless.

Blessings
Lisa

A Long Awaited Day

2009-01-20T10:50:00.002-05:00

Today is a day of rejoicing and praise to the Lord for He heard the many crys and prayers of His people and He answered. I just want to say Thank You Lord for you are worthy to be praised. I can't explain or put into words how much He means to me. I am truly humbled by how steadfast He is and how merciful He is to such a one as I. Witnessing such an event as the Inauguration of the First Black President of the United States, a day that many feared we could never achieve, but our Lord said "YES WE CAN".
Blessings
Lisa

Metamorphosis Monday

2009-01-19T20:40:00.009-05:00

Wow...2 posts in one day...watch out yall!hehe. Anyhoo,Susan at Between Naps on The Porch is having a "Metamorphosis Monday" and I just had to show off my Ribbon Chest, just ONE more time...yall I promise.
Here's the before:

And here's the after:

Wooohoo...I LOVE IT! Now I'm off to take a look at everyone elses Metamorphosis.
Blessings
Lisa

He is Everything You Need

2009-01-19T16:45:00.003-05:00

He will lift you up, He will fight your battles for you, He will always be there for you, He will always love you, You are good enough for Him, What He gives you is sufficient....He is EVERYTHING to you.

This is beautiful.

Blessings
Lisa

My attempt at Organization

2009-01-14T20:01:00.007-05:00

I've been reading many bloggers blogs this past week and the resounding voice is of "ORGANIZATION". I for one love having everything in it's rightful place where I can go look and find...easy piezy...right??? Welllll I decided to start in the room I spend the bulk of my time, my office/studio.

My "Sweet Girl" gave me a bookcase, which was much needed I might add, for my birthday in August. I gave it a couple of coats of black paint and removed one of the lower shelves for better display. I love it. I may add some trim around the edges one day, but right now it serves a purpose.

The apothocary jars hold my overflow of ribbow and trims and the beautiful blue box on top holds my many paint chips I refer to on a regular basis.
I found those green leather boxes at Stein Mart many years ago and they house my tassels. I also have repurposed that huge corbel many times over the years. I decided this time to paint it and give it a bronze glaze. I think it turned out pretty good. I'll try to post pictures of the the before and after later. I used an easy paint tecnique. Well that's it for now. I'm currently working on another area of my humble abode. I'll post about that later.

**Also, Diane @A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words is have a "Trash to Treasure" post. I found that acorn in the bookcase above at a local consignment shop for a couple of dollars. A few coats of paint and that baby is all mine;0)
Blessings
Lisa

Happy New Year....and "The Shack"

2009-01-05T16:47:00.004-05:00

I pray that everyone had a wonderful Holiday Season. I have to say that one of my highlights of last year was realizing what a blessing this blogging has been in my life. Not only have I had the wonderful opportunity to be introduced to some of the most caring and creative people I have ever met, but I have found blogging to be very therapeutic. Now onto the second part of my post....

"The Shack"!! Wow!

I truly love this book. I read this book through in pretty much one day. I had heard nothing but good things about it for many months and now I too can say that it has to be one of the best books ever written. If you've read it, let me know what you think. I would love to hear your perspective on it??? If you have yet to read it, please do!!

Blessings
Lisa

Happy Holidays

2008-12-24T22:19:00.003-05:00

Happy Holidays to everyone. May you have a safe and joyful Holiday, spent with family and friends. May you remember the true reason for the "Season".

Blessings
Lisa

It Got Me....the creeping CRUD

2008-12-22T16:04:00.003-05:00

I woke up around 2am this morning ILL...not, "Oh I have a headache ill", not..."My tummy aches ill"...but I'M GOING TO PASS OUT AND BE SICK @ THE SAME TIME ILL!! Let me tell you prayer is POWERFUL, I know because I feel a hundred percent better today than I did last night (and I'm still queasy...blah!) A stomach bug has been going around, so I'm not surprised it finally caught up with me.

I hope the creeping crud hasn't caught you guys...if so...PRAY.
Blessings
Lisa

Holiday Bling and a Ribbon Chest

2008-12-15T15:02:00.011-05:00

Here's a little "Holiday Bling"!!
Small vignette of some silver baubles and bead garland with a few tea lights added for ambiance.

Below are a couple of close-ups of my tree.

Here's that same vignette in color...
This little fella came home with me from Goodwill for $1. I prettied him up with clear lights and a few pics. I love the silver cross ornament(a gift from my good friend Judy)

I'm off now to look at more of you guys beautiful Holiday Homes.

**OOps...I almost forgot, here's a couple of pics of my new/antique ribbon chest for my Office/Studio:
Ta Da! Painted black, accented with a little rub-n-buff, re-finished the pulls and decopauged scrapbook paper onto the inside drawers. I love it...adding more to it everyday! I got this idea from Tracey @ A Cottage Industry.

Blessings
Lisa

Oh Christmas Tree...Oh Christmas Tree

2008-12-08T22:10:00.010-05:00

I can't seem to get ONE good shot of my tree this year. I don't know if it's the lighting or if my camera is about to go "ca putt", Lord knows it's served me well over the past nine years, it may be time for a new one. Anyhoo, I'll try to take some better shots this weekend when I have a little more time.

OK, this is a better picture of my tree a couple of years ago...decorated the same.

Don't forget to go over to Julia's at Hook on House's for her Holiday Open House! Enjoy! And Sarah at Thrifty Decor Chick
While you're at it stop by BooMama's and Rhoda's to enjoy their Holiday Open House!

Blessings
Lisa

These are a Few of My Favorite Things

2008-12-04T19:31:00.009-05:00

Thrifty Decor Chick is having a "Favorite Things" post, here are a few of mine this Holiday.

This is my all time favorite Christmas CD. I listen to this while trimming the tree every year...always puts me in the mood for the Holidays.

Ummm, don't you think of cold winter nights in front of the fireplace when you look at this yummy cocoa mix from The Desperate Diva

Cranberry Soap!! I love the smell of this stuff. I spotted a bar at TJ Maxx today, priced @ $5.99 for one bar...ouch! however, I have to have it!!

Blessings
Lisa

Thanksgiving Dinner & A Big Game!!

2008-11-29T09:25:00.000-05:00

I hope everyones Thanksgiving was as wonderful as mine. Spent with family, eating entirely too much, and a little Black Friday shopping...he he.

My sweet grandson daring my brother's doggie (Gracie) to bite his little finger. I swear that kids all boy!! They also have a yorkie (Rudy) and that kid ran those poor dogs ragged.

Or was it the other way around?? After much too much fun, Jay was all tuckered out.

This made Gracie very happy...he he

Today is the big game around these parts. Go GAMECOCKS!!!

Don't forget to go over to 5 Minutes for Mom and join their bloggy Thanksgiving Meal.
Blessings Lisa

Happy Thanks Giving

2008-11-26T21:37:00.001-05:00

I pray everyone has a safe and blessed Thanks Giving!!
Lisa

Christmas Post Delayed

2008-11-22T13:39:00.000-05:00

I usually have all my Christmas decorations out by now, but my attention has been diverted (I know I know that's an easy feat these days). I have been inspired by a couple of wonderful bloggers, ie...Nester @ Nesting Place and Donna @ The Decorated House. Both of these lovely ladies have "Ribbon Chests"!! What are these you might ask???, well they are lovely creative storage solutions to house your ribbon and fabric dilemmas. In my very first blog entry I posted of my love for ribbon, well I have ribbon in my office/craft room, in the closet in my office/craft room, in my baskets in my living room, bedroom and yes...my laundry room. Oh...and every available apothecary jar I own..he he.

Well after Donna gave us a sneak peek into her studio. and posted a picture of this That gave me the inspiration I needed to seek to find a chest of my very own to house my many many ribbons and fabric samples.

Then a few short weeks ago Nester posted pics of her oh so cute studio, creative mess and all...I loved it!!

I was now on the hunt full throttle for my chest. Well where do you go, you might ask, to hunt for a chest to house your finest ribbons, well...to your best local antique dealer of course. But not to his shop, which has some of the most precious and affordable I might add antiques I have ever laid eyes on, but to his warehouse a couple of miles up the road. There you will find many treasures just waiting to be cleaned up and sent to some sweet home. I walked in, told Mr. Antiquie Man what I was looking for and he took me right to not one, but three pieces he thought fit my description...Whohoo!! I measured with my trusty measuring tape and told him to hold two of them and I would be back on Saturday to make a my purchase. Well, that was Tuesday and of course I couldn't let my pretty girl sit in that mean old cold warehouse all alone for four more days now could I?? So I call Mr. Antiquie Man on Thursday morning and told him I would meet him over at the shop to pick my baby up. Both pieces were perfectly suited for my purpose, however the one I choose was just the right size. Ok Ok I'll shut up now..here's a teaser pic.

Check back for before and after pictures this week...Oh and pictures of my Christmas decorations.
Blessings
Lisa

Kellys Blog Shower

2008-11-17T10:59:00.001-05:00

First I would like to say congratulations to Kelly and her hubby Scott on the new blessing in their life. You cannot imagine what you are about to experience, a love like you've never known. I can't wait for you to hold your precious angel and look into her eyes, then you will know what I'm talking about.

I was a very young mother. I had my son, Scott when I was just a babe myself {only seventeen} however the moment I held him I knew my life would never be the same. I was his mama and I would have to say that the birth of him and his sister, my sweet girl {Kristen} has been the most precious gifts I feel the Lord has blessed me with.
Scott's now 22 and Kristen just turned 20, so you can imagine all the advice I have to share, however I'm sure you're going to get lots of wonderful advice from all these fabulous "Blog Mamas". My only advice is that you remember Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.

Blessings
Lisa

Williams Project Part 2

2008-11-16T21:38:00.000-05:00

I'm nearing completion of his master bathroom so I thought I would post a couple of pictures. The job included, a new cabinet, countertops, faucet, mirror, paint and accessories. I still need to choose a lighting fixture to go over the vanity {something with a finish similar to the faucets}.

The granite he choose is called Briolette.

I still need to find a few more pieces to accessorize here.

I'll be posting more pictures of this home later this week.
Blessings
Lisa

A Very Sweet Thank You!!

2008-11-12T15:25:00.000-05:00

Remember my cutie patotie client I'm doing some design work for? Well...I helped him stage the house this past weekend for his moms 65th birthday party and just happend to mention in conversation how much I like jelly beans..I know, I know always thinking about food right, anyhoo I went by today to check on something at his house and lookie what I found on the counter waiting for little ole me.

What a sweetie huh.
Blessings

Williams Project Part 1

2008-11-07T22:33:00.000-05:00

I'm currently in the process of decorating a beautiful home for a bachelor (who I might add is rather cute...Ooops...I digress). Anyhoo, I'm currently working on the kitchen area. When I began this project I recommended that he warm up the area with color first. Next we tackled the kneewall. He had the standard metal corbels and builder beige walls. I gave him two options: #1 we would add wainscotting to the kneewall and trim it out, option #2 was to paint the kneewall a shade darker than the walls add corbels and metal art...yep metal..I know I know you're probably thinkin I've lost it, but you be the judge.

So...what do you think? I'll post more pics of the entire kitchen when I'm done.

God Is Good

2008-11-04T23:10:00.000-05:00

President Barack Obama

1 Corithians 13

1Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

4Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

5Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

6Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

7Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

8Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

9For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

10But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

11When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

12For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

13And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

Prayer

2008-11-02T23:23:00.000-05:00

My heart is so full. On Halloween night, a time of enjoyment for many children, one family in my town lost their child. You can read about it here (The State Newspaper). I can't even put into words how I feel at this moment, but I do know that prayer is needed for this family and the entire community.

"Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein." Hosea 14:9

Blessings
Lisa

Collections

2008-10-31T19:30:00.000-04:00

Sometimes we find ourselves with a collection of things we had no idea we were collecting...hence my collection of Fleur di lys. I love them and over the years I've found myself with quite a collection of "Fleur" items. So many that I decided to start a wall grouping using just a few. I had a blank wall in my home office/studio that was perfect for a wall collage.

I love how it turned out. The grouping comes only a little over halfway down the wall so I plan to find a chest piece to go under it along that same wall. I'm looking for something old, but not worn. Something that could be refinished and antiqued.

As I said before, I have several items that have the Fleur di lys symbol....can you guess how many?? The person with the closest guess will win a prize. Don't forget to leave your email addy.

Lisa

Rooster Madness Monday

2008-10-26T23:49:00.000-04:00

Mishelle over at The Crowned Casa is will be hosting Rooster Madness Monday. Here are some of my rooster cutties from my old kitchen. I currently only have ONE rooster in my kitchen..Iknow..I know..I can't believe that myself, however that could change at any minute.

Blessings

Lisa

My Love Affair With The Color Blue

2008-10-26T22:52:00.000-04:00

I'm sure I'm not alone on this. I am really loving whats being done with the color blue lately. Some of my favorite bloggers out there (and you know who you are) are doing some incredible decorating around this color.

Turquoise: Is being used on many beautiful furniture pieces, as accents in rooms or as the main color scheme by choosing to paint the entire room that color. Take for instance these chairs from Paris Hotel Boutique, these are beautiful. I love how the black accentuates the line of these chairs, beautiful and elegant.

Take a look at all the bluish...turquoise pieces Horchow has to offer.

All of these pieces are beautiful...a little pricey, but gorgeous. Really gets my decorating juices flowing.

Blessings

Lisa

2008-10-18T21:34:00.000-04:00

I have just been blessed with this beautiful award from Charmaine over at Beautiful Things To Share. I am humbled. She has a beautiful blog that's very inspirational.
The rules are as follows: List 6 things I value, 6 things I do not, and send it on to 6 other people.

I value:
1 My walk with The Lord
2 My Children and Grandchild
3 My family & Friends
4 Love
5 My Church Family
6 My Bliss

I do not value:
1 Lies
2 Negative people
3 Self behavior
4 Material things
5 Arrogance
6 Greed

I pass this on to:
Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality
Kelly @ Kellys Korner
Donna @ The Decorated House
Pat @ Back Porch Musings
Sue @ Bienvenue
Holly @ Shabby Mama

Autumn is Here!

2008-10-14T17:16:00.001-04:00

Autumn has finally arrived at my house! I'm really enjoying all the beautifully adorned homes out there in "Blog Land". So many creative women. This is one of my favorite seasons, all the beautiful colors, leaves changing, a slight nip in the air. And lets not forget, yet another chance to make changes to my interior. I'll be posting those pics very soon.

Beautiful Antique Salon Chairs

2008-09-29T13:01:00.000-04:00

These chairs make me want to drool. Don't you just love them.

My Obsession with Ribbon!!

2007-04-15T20:44:00.000-04:00

I'm a Ribbon-aholic....I'm obsessed with ribbon. I just love the different colors and textures, not to mention the many various ways you can use ribbon.

I found the most elegant ribbon, in one of my new favorite colors (chartreuse green and chocolate brown), and check this out...it has a beautiful french phrase across it. Love that!! I don't know what it says, but I'm sure it wont matter once it's wrapped around a beautiful package.

I also snagged a cute blue/chocolate brown combo ribbon and tissue paper to match (Yummy!).

I also found these cute altered books at Hobby Lobby this weekend...only $2.99 each. You can't beat that, and they'll make great gifts for mother's day! And yes, that's another spool of ribbon I had to have.

Found a few more cute items I'm putting in a care package for one of my dear friends Judy. I'll post that later this week.

I have to say this weekend was very productive..shopping wise that is... laundry still needs to be done, oh...and there's still that dreaded dusting that needs to be done...oh well...tomorrows another day.

Blessings

Lisa

Simply Blessed Bliss

2007-04-12T22:51:00.000-04:00