Style Design Studio

2010-10-14T08:43:00.000-07:00

“Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress.” 1Ti 4:15 NLT

What's good for the goose...

2010-06-05T08:24:00.001-07:00

In the world of geese, the aged, very young, and infirm are kept protected in the rear of the formation. But they aren’t isolated, discounted or considered useless; they fulfill a vital role. They become the honking section and cheer for the leaders. Inevitably bad weather threatens the mission. The going gets tough and the tough are struggling. From the rear of the formation a lone honk sounds, initiating a goose chorus honking encouragement to the point goose.

Another Pretty bedroom!

2010-06-01T18:11:00.001-07:00

Psalm 46

2010-05-31T09:06:00.001-07:00

God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change

Isn't this a pretty girl's room!

2010-05-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

New today on eBay....

2010-05-25T19:01:00.000-07:00

2010-05-24T07:59:00.001-07:00

Richard Mylander writes: “On my way to a conference in Colorado I was driving uphill along a major interstate, when I overtook a freight train going the same direction at a slower speed. The train was being pushed uphill by two locomotives that sounded as if they were straining at full power. I’m a flatlander from the mid west. ‘Is this how trains move in mountainous terrain?’ I wondered. I gradually came alongside the front of the nearly mile-long string of cars. There I found five more locomotives pulling the train. Seven engines in all! Where I come from, I rarely see more than two or three. That train was a lesson for me. I had been under serious strain for some time. I was feeling tired and was wondering whether I could persevere under the pressure. How like God, I thought. When I am pushing a load uphill with all the strength I have and feel like my energy level is depleted, He wants me to know that He is in the lead, pulling with power far greater than mine.”

Fresh Fabric just makes me happy!

2010-04-09T09:52:00.000-07:00

I'm cutting into these for a fresh mermaid summer set coming soon!

Two Kinds of Faith

2010-04-02T08:44:00.000-07:00

One says, "If everything goes well, if my life is prosperous, if I'm happy, if no one I love dies, if I'm successful, then I will believe in God and say my prayers and go to church and give what I can afford." The other says though: though the cause of evil prosper, though I sweat in Gethsemane, though I must drink my cup at Calvary -- nevertheless, precisely, then, I will trust the Lord who made me."

2010-03-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

God Will Take Care of You!
Gladys Aylward, missionary to China more than fifty years ago, was forced to flee when the Japanese invaded Yuncheng. With only one assistant, she led a hundred orphans over the mountains toward free China. During the journey she grappled with fear. After passing a sleepless night she faced the morning with no hope of reaching safety. A thirteen-year-old girl in the group reminded her of their much-loved story of Moses and the Red Sea. “But I am not Moses,” Gladys sighed in despair. “Of course you aren’t,” the girl said, “but God is still God!” When Gladys and the orphans made it through they proved once again that no matter how inadequate we feel, God is still God, and we can still trust Him.

Visit Allegro Fabrics for the best variety on the web!

2010-03-24T06:47:00.000-07:00

Sharing, not owning things, brings lasting satisfaction and joy!

2010-03-11T07:23:00.000-08:00

Choose ye this day...

2010-03-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

A television news announcer recently quipped, “Speaking of the economy, if it weren’t for bad news there’d be no news at all!” Each time we face a downturn we tend to forget we’ve “been there, done that” and got through it by God’s grace. Like ancient Israel we anticipate doom, spread discouragement, join those who gripe about the government, and long for “the good old days.” How does the God who brought water from the rock, manna from the sky and ravens to feed a hungry prophet expect His people to respond to tough financial times?

He expects us to choose who we will serve- the economy of the world or the economy of God. Choose God's economy! God rules and reigns, owns all resources and dispenses them generously to meet His people’s needs, independent of global economic conditions.. In God’s upside-down kingdom the rules are reversed. He says, “My ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa 55:9 NIV).

Feed on God's Word Each Day

2010-03-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

A woman bought a parrot, took him home, and then returned him to the pet store the next day. “This bird doesn’t talk,” she told the owner. “Does he have a mirror?” asked the owner. “Parrots love mirrors. They see themselves and start up a conversation.” So the woman bought the mirror. Next day she returned. The bird still wasn’t talking. “How about a ladder? Parrots love walking up and down a ladder. A happy parrot is more likely to talk.” The woman bought a ladder. Sure enough, she was back the next day; the bird still wasn’t talking. “Does your parrot have a swing? If not, that’s the problem. He’ll relax and talk up a storm.” The woman reluctantly bought a swing and left. When she walked into the store the next day her countenance had changed. “The parrot died,” she said. The pet store owner was shocked. “I’m so sorry. Tell me, did he ever say a word?” he asked. “Yes, right before he died,” the woman replied. “He said, ‘Don’t they sell any food at that pet store?’”

The moral of this story is: You can spend your life on mirrors, focusing on appearance; on ladders, focusing on career success; on swings, focusing on entertainment - and starve to death spiritually.

Our attitude toward unplanned and unpleasant experiences determines our growth.

2010-02-28T15:06:00.000-08:00

Steve Penny, head of S4 Leadership Network in Australia, observed, “Life is full of unforeseen detours. Consequences happen which seem to completely cut across our plans. Learn to turn your detours into delights. Treat them as special excursions and learning tours. Don’t fight them or you will never learn their purpose. Enjoy the moments, and pretty soon you will be back on track again, probably wiser and stronger because of your little detour.”

Thoughts on Experience....

2010-02-25T10:27:00.000-08:00

When the new bank president asked the old one the secret of success he said, “Making good decisions.” “How do I do that?” he asked. The old one replied, “Experience!” Puzzled, the new one asked, “How do I get experience?” The old one replied, “By making bad decisions.”
Experience is a tough teacher; it gives you the test first and the lesson later.
Experience isn’t what happens to you, as much as what you do with what happens to you.

2010-02-14T13:09:00.000-08:00

I liked this sentiment...

2010-02-14T12:59:00.000-08:00

De-clutter your mind by giving yourself permission to have a not-to-do list: Not to feel guilty for saying no to something that may be good, but not right for you. Not to worry about how well-adjusted your kids will be as adults. Not to hang something new in your closet without giving something away. Not to feel over-responsible for everybody else’s well-being. Not to answer the phone after a certain time each night. Not to say yes just because you’ve been invited. Not to schedule busy activities on Sundays and family days. Not to buy something just because it’s on sale. Not to think you have to make a meal requiring more than three ingredients, do laundry, clean the house, and spend quality time with your family all on the same day. Not to ruminate over your own, or other people’s mistakes. Not to compare yourself. The more you give yourself permission not to do, the more you free yourself to live a centered, abundant life.

2009-06-10T07:28:00.001-07:00

We don't always know the reason for our trials, but God revealed to Paul the reason for his "thorn in the flesh." It was to keep him from being "exalted" (See 2Co 12:7). Success can be intoxicating, and intoxicated people aren't known for being too bright or trustworthy!

New on ebay June 9th. Search Boutique SDS

2009-06-08T17:26:00.000-07:00

2009-06-02T08:10:00.001-07:00

It's when we feel most separated from God, that He's teaching us the most. Dave Dravecky said, "Looking back...I have learned that the wilderness is part of the landscape of faith, and every bit as essential as the mountaintop. On the mountaintop we are overwhelmed by God's presence. In the wilderness we are overwhelmed by His absence. Both places should bring us to our knees; the one, in utter awe; the other, in utter dependence."

So many times we slander others with our words...

2009-05-11T09:41:00.001-07:00

One lady writes: "I went through a period of trying to overcome gossip but I'd still tell it to my husband. Although I knew he wouldn't repeat it, I realized that by exposing him to it I was poisoning his spirit. That's when I decided to change what was coming out of my mouth."

2009-05-11T07:32:00.000-07:00

God can bring good out of every situation. He can take every experience you've been through, both positive and negative, and make it work for good, either your good or the good of others. When you seek to fulfil God's purposes in spite of your flaws, He makes "...all things work together for good..." (Rom 8:28).

I spent a good part of Mother's Day creating a gallery of designs...

2009-05-10T14:12:00.001-07:00

2009-04-28T07:57:00.001-07:00

Before World War II Josefina Guerrero was the toast of Manila, young, vivacious and married to a wealthy medical student. Then in 1941 she discovered she had leprosy. Immediately she began treatment, but when Japan invaded the Philippines all the leprosariums were abandoned. Despite her disease Joey joined the underground, smuggling food, clothes, medicine and messages to POW's. She mapped out fortifications along the waterfront and the location of anti-aircraft batteries. When guerrillas discovered a newly-sown minefield where the 37th Division was scheduled to land in Manila, they asked her to get the message through. With little thought for her own life she trudged through miles of enemy encampments with the map taped to her back and delivered it safely. Because of her courage many dangerous missions were completed and the U.S. War Department awarded her the Medal of Freedom with silver palm for saving untold American lives. Amazingly, Joey was never caught. In fact, Japanese soldiers were horrified by the ragged little woman who shuffled through the streets of Manila. And even when she was stopped they didn't detain her long, once they recognised the swathed bandages and lesions of advancing leprosy.

A successful character quality- diligence!!

2009-04-21T07:37:00.000-07:00

In God's economy you determine whether you become "ruler" or "slave" by how hard you're willing to work. Lazy employees complain about the unfair boss, the biased system, the 'company men' who look out for the boss and the boss who looks out for them. They want the privileges others get but they're not willing to work for them. "The sluggard craves and gets nothing" (Pr 13:4 NIV) because "his hands refuse to work" (Pr 21:25 NIV). "But the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied" (Pr 13:4 NIV).

This "Carousel Dolls" dress...

2009-04-18T17:28:00.000-07:00

will debut on eBay May 12th. If you just can't wait until then, email me at styledesigns1@hotmail.com. The dress is $149, plus $5 shipping.

Beautiful Matching Bows....

2009-04-18T17:20:00.000-07:00

These fabulous bows (with a maribou touch!) are available through Peyton's Place Boutique

New today on eBay...search Boutique SDS

2009-04-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

2009-04-12T15:26:00.001-07:00

God put you on this earth for a specific purpose. Have you found yours yet? Are you pouring your life into it and making every moment count? Paul did, and he ended up writing: "The time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing" (2 Tim 4:6-8 NKJV).

2009-03-29T13:35:00.001-07:00

Make time for friends and loved ones. "Let no one seek his own, but each...the other's well-being" (1 Cor 10:24 NKJV). George Eliot wrote: "Oh, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person; having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but to pour them all out, just as they are, chaff and grain together, knowing that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then, with the breath of kindness, blow the rest away."

New today on ebay.....

2009-03-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

2009-03-14T15:05:00.000-07:00

My model's mom has proven again why I love her work so much! Great job, Hol!
You can visit her at:

www.parkavephotography.com

I'm giving thanks!

2009-03-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

My dear husband made garden fresh, double cheese omlets for breakfast! Yummm....

New on eBay and etsy....

2009-03-10T19:08:00.001-07:00

2009-03-02T12:53:00.000-08:00

When Harry Truman was thrust into the presidency by the death of Franklin Roosevelt, Sam Rayburn, Speaker of the House, took him aside and said, "You're going to have lots of people around you. And they will tell you what a great man you are, Harry. But you and I both know you ain't." As it turned out, Truman became a truly great president.

Until you quit agreeing with those who've mistreated you, or bowing to the events that crippled you emotionally, you'll remain locked in a prison of your own making. When your critic's opinion becomes your opinion, you've built a prison inside your soul with only one prisoner - you. Are you prepared to accept that some of the people you've spent your life trying to impress, may never be impressed? And can you accept that from God's perspective - it doesn't matter? To succeed in life you must be able to work alongside people without allowing yourself to be controlled by their moods or governed by their opinions. This is what Paul was talking about when he said, "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God?...If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."

2009-02-27T09:50:00.001-08:00

As a follower of Christ you are commanded to build others up by highlighting what's good instead of magnifying what's bad, by seeing them as unique individuals instead of stereotypes, by respecting instead of ridiculing, by forgiving instead of shaming, by modeling unconditional love instead of love with strings attached, by applauding each step of growth instead of saying, "You'll never change," by seeing their God-given potential instead of seeing them as problems to be handled. Come on, get your theology off the drawing board and put it into practice! Today, be a "builder-upper."

Are you truthful...

2009-02-24T07:52:00.002-08:00

The most famous story about lying in American history is the one about George Washington chopping down a cherry tree. When his father asked him who did it, George supposedly said, "I cannot tell a lie; I did it with my little hatchet." That was in a biography written by Parson Weems in the nineteenth century - he made the whole story up. Incredibly, the most famous story about not lying in America, was a lie.

And truthfulness is still in short supply. Politicians spin promises, telemarketers scam the elderly, job seekers pad their résumés, repair shops inflate their bills, students steal essays from the internet to pass tests and spouses lie to each other about money and infidelity.

Good will come out of it...

2009-02-24T07:52:00.001-08:00

Before World War II Josefina Guerrero was the toast of Manila, young, vivacious and married to a wealthy medical student. Then in 1941 she discovered she had leprosy. Immediately she began treatment, but when Japan invaded the Philippines all the leprosariums were abandoned. Despite her disease Joey joined the underground, smuggling food, clothes, medicine and messages to POW's. She mapped out fortifications along the waterfront and the location of anti-aircraft batteries. When guerillas discovered a newly-sown minefield where the 37th Division was scheduled to land in Manila, they asked her to get the message through. With little thought for her own life she trudged through miles of enemy encampments with the map taped to her back and delivered it safely. Because of her courage many dangerous missions were completed and the U.S. War Department awarded her the Medal of Freedom with silver palm for saving untold American lives. Amazingly, Joey was never caught. In fact, Japanese soldiers had a horror of the ragged little woman who shuffled through the streets of Manila. And even when she was stopped they didn't detain her long, once they recognized the swathed bandages and lesions of advancing leprosy.

2009-02-24T07:52:00.000-08:00

King David declared, "He hears My voice and...has inclined His ear to me...I shall call upon Him as long as I live" (Ps 116:1-2 NAS). Instead of complaining, pray! Give God a prayer to answer and He'll answer it.

Gratitude

2009-02-23T10:26:00.001-08:00

In order to have a grateful heart you must learn to be grateful for flawed people and imperfect gifts. Be grateful when your child attempts to make the bed, even though they make it imperfectly. Be grateful when your spouse expresses affection, even if they do it awkwardly. Be grateful that your body still moves around, even if it's more wrinkled and lumpy.

Don't wait to feel thankful. The thinking and the doing - leads to the feeling. "Give thanks in all circumstances" calls for a decision and an act of your will, not an emotional response. It's why Americans call their annual holiday Thanksgiving - not thanks feeling.

Watch for our new "Fairy Sweet" launch, March 10th!

2009-02-19T14:33:00.000-08:00

Watch for my new line of pillowcase style dresses..

2009-02-14T06:30:00.001-08:00

2009-02-11T07:59:00.001-08:00

Stress is brought on by our need to know everything ahead of time - to be in control. Even after we pray and supposedly turn the situation over to God, we develop a "backup plan" in case He doesn't handle things the way we think He should. Do you do that? You don't put your money into a bank then stay awake all night worrying about it, do you? Have at least that much confidence in God.

New today on eBay!

2009-02-10T07:18:00.000-08:00

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=280312101801

2009-02-07T10:07:00.001-08:00

Michael Drosnin wrote a book about a man who wanted more wealth, so he built one of the biggest financial empires of his day. He wanted more pleasure, so he paid for the most glamorous women money could buy. He wanted more adventure, so he set air speed records, built and piloted the world's most unique aircraft. He wanted more power, so he acquired political clout that was the envy of senators. He wanted more glamour, so he owned film studios and courted stars. Drosnin tells how this man's life ended: "He was a figure of gothic power, ready for the grave. Emaciated, only 120 pounds stretched over his six-foot-four-inch frame...thin scraggly beard that reached its way onto his sunken chest, hideously long fingernails in grotesque yellow corkscrews...Many of his teeth were black, rotting stumps. A tumor was beginning to emerge from the side of his head...innumerable needle marks...Howard Hughes was an addict. A billionaire junkie."

2009-02-06T07:23:00.000-08:00

If you lack contentment, remind yourself things could be worse. Snoopy was lying in his dog house one Thanksgiving Day, mumbling about being stuck with dog food while all those humans got to be inside with the turkey and gravy and pumpkin pie. "Of course, it could have been worse," he finally reflected, "I could have been born a turkey." Reminding yourself "It could be worse" can be a powerful developer of contentment.

2009-02-05T06:45:00.000-08:00

Learning to be happy with less. A hard-charging executive decided to spend a few days in a monastery. "I hope your stay is a blessed one," said the monk who showed him to his cell. "If you need anything let us know. We'll teach you how to live without it." Happiness isn't getting what you want, it's enjoying what God's given you. Paul said he had learned to be content, "Whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

2009-02-02T08:32:00.001-08:00

Be more patient. A man who rode the ferry to work prided himself on his punctuality. But one day he overslept. Fearing he'd be in trouble with his boss, he raced to the dock only to see the boat six feet out from the terminal. Taking a leap, he landed on the deck. Smiling, the captain said, "Great jump! But if you'd waited another minute we'd have docked and you could've walked on." Don't be in such a hurry; give it a little time. "Patience...can...overcome any problem" (Pr 25:15 CEV).

New eBay listing:

2009-01-15T17:43:00.001-08:00

2009-01-05T06:59:00.001-08:00

Harvard professor George Vaillant identifies resiliency as a significant characteristic of people who navigate the different seasons of life from birth to old age. In his book Aging Well he writes, 'Resilient people are like a twig with a fresh, green, living core. When twisted out of shape the twig bends but it doesn't break; instead it springs back and continues growing.' That's an excellent description of perseverance. We must not become dry, brittle and inflexible. We must draw on God's grace and endeavour to bounce back no matter how we feel.

2009-01-03T16:07:00.000-08:00

2009-01-01T11:31:00.000-08:00

Perseverance means: 1) Succeeding because you're determined to, not because you're entitled to. Achievers don't sit back and wait for success because they think the world 'owes them.' No, if you're wise you'll ask God for direction, stand firm on the word He has given you, go forward and refuse to quit. You must adopt the attitude of the man who said, 'We are determined to win. We'll fight them until hell freezes over, and if we have to, we'll fight them on ice.' Recalling the trials he'd faced, Paul said: '"I started, and I'm going to finish. I've worked much harder, been jailed more often, beaten up more times than I can count, and at death's door...And that's not the half of it"' (2 Corinthians 11:23-28 TM). One word describes Paul; relentless.

2008-12-30T10:45:00.000-08:00

Well, the fabric is flying in the studio, and the Andalucia set is finished! This fabric should be a marvelous seller for designer Patty Young. It has an extremely soft hand, and vivid colors!

2008-12-26T08:35:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick look at some traditional Christmas food we enjoy every year. Pierogies are a Ukranian dish, I believe. They are basically dough filled with potatoes, saurkraut, cheese or whatever you please.

2008-12-25T08:18:00.000-08:00

Here is a short video (religious in nature) for those who celebrate Christmas to enjoy. The very last scene is my all-time favorite:
(I'll need you to copy and paste the URL into your browser. It wouldn't link up for me. Thanks:)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1oHJR2g7Tw

2008-12-22T13:57:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a very Merry CHRISTmas! Enjoy your friends, family, and all the blessings you have received!

2008-12-18T08:56:00.001-08:00

A little boy was on the heels of his mother all morning long, and eventuelly his mommy got upset and told him to either go outside and play on the swing set or to find something else to do other than follow her around all morning in her footsteps. Well the little boy said Mommy at Sunday School the teacher told me that we shuold walk in JESUS'S Footsteps. But, I can't see Him...so I"m walking in YOURS!

2008-11-22T20:05:00.000-08:00

Heres a new favorite!

2008-11-20T07:23:00.000-08:00

Have you been saying, "I'll be happy when..."? No, happiness doesn't come from getting what you want, it comes from appreciating what God's given you.

2008-11-19T08:13:00.001-08:00

Art Williams said, "You beat 50% of the people by working hard; you beat the other 40% by being a person of honesty...and the last 10% is a dog fight." If you want to win that fight, make up your mind to always do a little extra.

2008-11-13T10:41:00.000-08:00

Here's my most recent ebay listing. It just makes me want to laugh!

2008-11-08T08:26:00.001-08:00

One author writes: "I have spent long hours in the Intensive Care waiting room watching anguished people, listening to urgent questions: 'Will my husband make it? Will my child walk again? How do you live without your companion of 30 years?' The Intensive Care waiting room is different from any other place in the world. And the people who wait are different. They can't do enough for each other. No one is rude. The distinctions of race and class melt away. The garbage man loves his wife as much as the university professor loves his, and everyone understands this. Each person pulls for everyone else. In the Intensive Care waiting room the world changes. Vanity and pretence vanish. The universe is focused on the doctor's next report. If only it will show improvement. Everyone knows that loving someone else is what life is all about. Could we learn to love like that, if we realized that every day of life, is like a day in the Intensive Care waiting room?"

Stay tuned...

2008-11-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

Tuesday the 11th, my new valentine set will be "revealed!"
OK, here's a peek at some of it:

2008-11-05T06:44:00.001-08:00

The word "engrafted" means "to attach to, and become part of." Picture a gardener grafting a branch into a tree and that branch coming to life and bearing fruit. Now picture yourself reading God's Word and a Scripture attaching itself to you, growing in you and producing change in your life. That's how God's Word works. And that's why you need to read it daily!

2008-11-02T06:53:00.001-08:00

The academy award-winning movie Shindler's List, is the story of one man's efforts to make the most of a desperate opportunity. As the director of a munitions factory in Germany, Schindler decides to use his position to save lives. By employing them in his factory, Schindler is able to rescue condemned Jews from the gas chambers. But keeping them on is costly. Little by little, he liquidates his personal possessions in order to keep the business afloat. At the end of the story the Nazis are defeated. The full weight of Schindler's efforts is finally revealed as the dead are counted and the living stagger back to freedom. In one scene, kneeling by the railroad tracks that had carried thousands of Jews to their death, Oskar Schindler has a startling realization: he could have saved a few more. Overwhelmed with regret, he laments the few goods still remaining in his possession. If only he'd known when the war would end, he would have done more. But now it was too late.

2008-11-01T07:05:00.001-07:00

Oseola McCarty, eighty-seven, did one thing all her life: laundry. Now she's famous for it. For decades, she earned fifty cents per load doing laundry for well-to-do families in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, preferring a washboard over a washing machine. Every week she put a little bit in a savings account. When she finally retired she asked her banker how much money she had. "$250,000," he replied. She was in shock. "I had more than I could use," she explained. So this shy, never-married laundry woman gave $150,000 to the University of Southern Mississippi to help African American young people attend college. "It's more blessed to give than to receive," she told reporters. "I've tried it."

I'm so excited.....

2008-10-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

I have had the honor of doing a collaboration with gifted children's artist Kathy Fronzac, and the elite bow designer/photographer Holly Stocke. Combine that with ebay's most adorable model-Peyton, and I'm simply in awe. So much talent in one place! Her is a small preview of our work together.

2008-10-02T06:35:00.001-07:00

Notice two important things about faith: (1) Faith is a substance. In the U.S., people trade in dollars; in Europe they trade in Euros. But in God's Kingdom, faith is "the coin of the realm!" It's what's required to do business with God (See Heb 11:6). And it grows only by feeding on His Word (See Ro 10:17).

2008-09-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

I received this darling photo from a favorite customer- Michele Katsalas. Didn't she do a great job taking this picture of her one-year old?!
Thanks, Michele!

2008-09-28T12:51:00.001-07:00

John Wesley said, "We can do great things when we pray; but we can do nothing great until we pray!"
Do you feel like your prayers aren't getting the job done? Double up. Bring in reinforcements! Find somebody who'll agree with you, for Jesus said, "If two of you...agree about anything...it will be done for you."

2008-09-27T07:10:00.001-07:00

Ruth Calkin writes: "At first, Lord, I asked you to take sides with me. With the Psalmist I prayed, 'The Lord is for me...maintain my rights, O Lord.' But with all my pleading I lay drenched in darkness, until in total surrender I cried, 'Don't take sides, Lord, just take over,' and suddenly it was morning."

2008-09-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

Each time you make a responsible decision, you become a more responsible person. Successful people don't blame others, they take responsibility for their actions and attitudes. They show response-ability - the ability to choose a correct response no matter what situation they face.

2008-09-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

Taking personal responsibility

To display the kind of responsibility that makes you successful in life:

(1) Recognize that gaining success means practicing self-discipline. Every time you stop yourself from doing what you shouldn't and start doing what you should, you're increasing your capacity for responsibility and the rewards it brings.

(2) What you start, finish. There are two kinds of people: those who will and those who might. Responsible people follow through. And that's how others evaluate them.

(3) Don't expect others to do it for you. Paul writes: "Each one should carry his own load" (Gal 6:5 NIV).

My new machine is up and running-

2008-09-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

so here I am with my latest fall fashion. I think this is one of my all-time favorites! I hope you like it! Peyton is at her best in these pics!

2008-09-11T06:47:00.001-07:00

Dr. Viktor Frankl endured the Holocaust by this principle. The Nazis killed his family, placed him in a concentration camp, starved and beat him. When the war ended Frankl was neither broken, bowed nor bitter. When asked how he endured such treatment with a positive outlook he said, "Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of human freedoms, to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way."

2008-09-09T07:20:00.001-07:00

If there's something rotten in your refrigerator you know it every time you open the door. You may not know exactly where it's located, but the smell tells you it's in there. Our lives are like that. If there's something wrong within us, those we come into contact with are going to sense it, whether or not they know what it is or why it's there. It gives off an odor that's detectable. That's why we must continually open ourselves to God and allow the Holy Spirit to come in, cleanse our hearts, and remove whatever's hindering us in our walk with Him.

Something fun for the holidays!

2008-09-02T08:24:00.001-07:00

2008-08-30T10:55:00.001-07:00

Just as you don't let everybody who knocks on your door come in and make themselves at home, don't let every emotion that surfaces dictate the direction of your day or decide your responses. The Bible says, "Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life" (Pr 4:23), "Capture every thought and make it give up and obey Christ" (2Co 10:5)

2008-08-27T09:47:00.001-07:00

Ever seen one of those inflatable clowns with a round base? When you knock him down he bounces back up wearing a big, cheesy grin! Perseverance: it's a powerful tool! The Bible says, "Blessed is the man who perseveres."

Here is something....

2008-08-26T07:06:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist joining in on WysteriaLane's owl launch!

2008-08-26T07:05:00.000-07:00

Dick Innes said: "To be hurt without forgiving, crushed without becoming more caring, suffer without growing more sensitive, makes suffering senseless, futile, a tragic loss, the greatest waste of all." Make Jesus your example; "When he suffered, he didn't make...threats but left everything to the one who judges fairly" (1Pe 2:23)

2008-08-23T19:51:00.001-07:00

You can't seize your future while you're obsessing over your past. So learn from it and let it go. Heed the advice of author Susan Scott: "My dog and cat have taught me a great lesson in life - learn to shed a lot!"

And how about this bow??!

2008-08-22T18:35:00.000-07:00

Holly, from Peyton's Place Boutique has really out-done herself on this one! Search PPB Hairbows on eBay, or Peyton'sPlaceBoutique.com to see more of her work!

A face you have to love!

2008-08-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love this cute little face?!
Peyton's modeling a special set for fall!!!

Well, I have very exciting news...

2008-08-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

I am opening a shop on ETSY! It's just starting up now, but in the weeks to come it will be fully stocked. So, stop by for some "special deals!"
Also, I will be changing my name to "Style Design Studio" in order to facilitate a new website which is in the works!

2008-08-21T08:51:00.001-07:00

With God there are no hopeless situations, just people who've grown hopeless about them. Real faith comes into its own when push collides with shove. After all, you don't need God to part the Red Sea when there are bridges all around, right? It's when there's nothing you can do to avoid the inevitable, that you start trusting God to do the impossible! So the crisis you're experiencing today could be a blessing in disguise - an opportunity to experience a greater degree of His power at work in your life. Amen!

2008-08-16T15:23:00.000-07:00

Here is the lovely Peyton once again, in our "Happy Classroom" back to school set!
Isn't she adorable???

Today's latest listing

2008-08-11T10:56:00.000-07:00

"When you encounter difficulties and contradictions, do not try to break them, but bend them with gentleness and time."
– St. Francis De Sales

2008-08-03T18:07:00.000-07:00

God says: "You are, you can, and you certainly will be able to," because of His indwelling power! John writes, "This is the victory that conquers the world - our faith" (1Jn 5:4 NCV). Go to God's Word! Discover what He says about the things that intimidate and control you, then pull the plug on them. The Word for you today is: "Don't be afraid...I am your God. I will make you strong...I will support you" (Isa 41:10 NCV). Align your thoughts with God's thoughts. Get into the driver's seat and take charge of your life!

New Listing

2008-08-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

I am just in love with this little snail dress. And isn't Peyton just the cutest face ever?!!!

Thought for the day:
Max Lucado says, "Worry is to joy, what a vacuum cleaner is to dirt; you might as well attach your heart to a happiness-sucker and flip the switch."

2008-07-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

Theologian Victor Shepherd writes: "When we're face-to-face with someone who's been surprised because trespass overtook them, do we deflect their shame back into their face, or do we own it as ours? Do we rub their nose in it, or do we absorb it, put an arm around them and affirm our solidarity-in-sinnership? Do we regard ourselves as superior, or do we say, 'Take my hand...I know the way to the cross?'"

2008-07-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

H.G. Wells asked, "What on earth would a man do with himself if something didn't stand in his way?" Why would he make such a comment? Because adversity is our friend, even though it doesn't feel that way. Each obstacle we overcome teaches us about our strengths and weaknesses. It shapes us, makes us wiser and more confident. The greatest people in history were those who faced the most difficult challenges with courage, and rose to the occasion.

2008-07-22T18:00:00.001-07:00

Dr. James B. Mooneyham writes, "When we keep score of wrongs committed against us, we reveal a lack of maturity. Theodore Roosevelt once said, 'The most important single ingredient in the formula of success, is knowing how to get along with people.'

Courage

2008-07-21T07:23:00.001-07:00

The truth is: It takes courage to face the truth about yourself. Jesus said, "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (Jn 8:32 NKJV). But before the truth sets us free it usually puts us through the wringer, because the truth about ourselves is not something we like hearing.

2008-07-19T07:00:00.001-07:00

What's the 212-degree attitude? Motivational speaker Mack Anderson explains: "At 211 degrees water is hot. At 212 degrees it boils. With boiling water comes steam. And steam can power a locomotive. One extra degree makes all the difference in business and in life; it separates the good from the great."

Vision

2008-07-17T08:16:00.001-07:00

There's a scene in Man of La Mancha where Don Quixote and his servant are standing gazing at a dilapidated inn. When Quixote describes his vision of turrets and magnificent gates, comparing the building to the Alcazar, the royal palace in Seville, the servant tries hard to see his master's vision. However, all he can see are ruins. When he attempts to describes them, Quixote tells him to stop, saying, "I will not allow your facts to interfere with my vision!"

2008-07-14T07:44:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun-detailed euro set to transition into fall!

So true.....

2008-07-12T16:40:00.000-07:00

There's nothing wrong with looking good, but there's much more to you than your clothes and your hairstyle. Plus, you can go broke fixing up the outside, because "what Mother Nature giveth, Father Time taketh away!" Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "To find beauty we must carry it with us!"

Hi friends!

2008-06-27T10:48:00.001-07:00

I'm off to a family reunion for a week, and then it's full time, back into the swing of designing! This set will end when I return, and then I'll begin listing my new fall line. I have some wonderful surprises that I think you will enjoy!

Hope you are having a safe- fun filled summer! Enjoy your family and treasure them!!!
Kathy