Garden Tools: The Dirty Dozen

garden tools in need of some TLC

The Dirty Dozen

I made some progress towards the garden clean-up today, though not as much as I would have liked. I gathered the “dirty dozen” of garden tools and made a mental assessment of the work ahead. My husband, handyman extraordinaire, gave me some quick tips on removing rust using steel wool.  If you’re wondering the difference between #000 and #0000, just ask!

I pounded the cushions together to loosen the dust, and brought them indoors for a quick wipe-down.  I had to run outside to tether the inflatable spider before it broke loose from the yard and put the fear of arachnids in someone down the street.  Then I was out the door for appointments for the rest of the day.

Costume Update

I’ve enjoyed dusting off the old sewing machine this week and putting it to use. This year I’m dressing up for a few Halloween parties as a Bella Pilar greeting card. Her designs are fun and whimsical.

I pieced together a crinoline using two “maternity panels” from a fabric store and adding tulle from an old costume.  Today I finished sewing the skirt and made headway on the top.  I’m making a pattern as I go along, so fitting it has been a challenge. I’ve been dreaming of my own dressmaker’s form, but it’s hard to justify that expense given the minimal use it would get.

Just a few finishing touches and the costume will be ready to wear.

cat ears

leopard skirt

crinoline

Halloween Countdown

Princess Pumpkin

Princess Pumpkin

Who Was That Masked Gardener?

Thank you all for the fab birthday greetings!  I’m still basking in birthday glow! October is such a great month to get older. 😉

Check out the birthday card I received from my family. I’m wearing it!  It’s really a Halloween card, but knowing how much I love the season they usually buy me a Halloween card instead.

Papyrus Card and Mask

Papyrus Card and Mask

The inspiration for my costume this year is a birthday/Halloween card. Designer Bella Pilar has a line of whimsical cards, featuring fabulous and funky dresses  The spotted cat was a natural for me. It’s one of my all time favorite line of cards. Who says you can’t dress up like a greeting card?

Bella Pilar Cards

Bella Pilar Illustrations
Inspiration for this year’s Halloween Costume

Fairy Garden Additions

fairy garden with pumpkins

Additions to the Fairy Garden

fairy garden with lights

Fairy Garden After Dark

The fairies have been busy cheering up the “haunted” fairy garden.  They added a banner and a few pumpkins.  Things are looking a lot more festive.  They’re off collecting apples for an apple-bob.  They might be going for a hay ride through a cemetery later, too. I plan to add a few lights to welcome them back. Things are far less spooky with the lights on.

Halloween Countdown

Mardi Gras Pumpkin

Mardi Gras Pumpkin

Resources

  • Papyrus makes unique and artistic greeting cards with beautiful envelopes to match.
  • Mardi Gras in New Orleans, LA.
  • Bella Pillar™ design and illustration.