Seasonal Sunday

It is definitely pumpkin patch season. In Portland we have had two amazingly dry and warm weekends in a row and pumpkin seekers have been out in force. We went today and got our share. A few pics... 

Oh my gosh! I totally forgot to mention that in all my years of pumpkin patching, I have never ever seen what I saw today. I am thankful that overall Oregonians are wise about the ways of a farm (even a working one). But today there it was, a woman standing in the field full of pumpkins and stems, wearing full on fancy pointy toed high heels! It takes all kinds. 

Disclaimer... I'm not against high heels in general, just in a dusty dirty old pumpkin patch!

Ready to Ship (FREE) Saturday!

Hey y'all!

I am in a generous mood today - could it be the weather?

Either way, I realize I have several items in my shop that are "ready to ship" and I'm ready to ship them to YOU for FREE!

Just use the coupon code BLOGCOUPON at check out when you purchase any of the following items and you won't have to pay ANY SHIPPING! For my local friends, just use the FRIENDSFAMILY2013 coupon code AND the BLOGCOUPON code too... to get free shipping (you are in Portland right) and 10% off your purchase. This is a limited time offer and only I know how long... so don't wait! Just make sure whatever item in the shop you want says READY TO SHIP!

These are a few of my favorite things

It is Sunday night and I'm tired. I'm not too tired to share a few of my favorite things though, so here goes: 

I found this vintage set of cups and saucers and they just make me want to pull on a new sweater and sip some coffee on an Autumn morning.

If you feel the same way, you can get them here at merrilyverilyvintage. Other great finds there too! 

I realize it is a bit early to be thinking about Thanksgiving, but it is never to early to think about giving thanks. Found this free download that I love so much that I really want to do it this year and make my kids participate too. And you can too. Get it here: http://www.carinagardner.com/2011/11/15/giving-thanks/. 

And for a little on-going inspiration: 

I hope you have something you love to do! Have a great week. You can get this wonderfully inspiring decal (or many others) at TikitiWallDecals. 

Mama Zuzi (aka Sue) 

It's Self Improvement Saturday: 10 ways to lift your mood

I've been thinking since yesterday just the heck what to post on Self Improvement Saturday (today)! At first I thought I'll do something such as write a few pages in my novel and let people know I did it. I still might do that but honestly it's pretty boring to anyone but me. And so I decided to make a list! 

In this case, I'm going to give out some ideas on Self-Improvement Saturdays probably most of the time. You can take 'em or leave 'em. You can save them or share them...whatever floats your boat.

As someone who has struggled for years with bouts of depression, I am often trying to figure out how to improve my mood. All of us have our ups and downs. And to be honest, while I'm feeling down for those folks affected by the awful Oklahoma (and other states) tornadoes in the last little while, it is hard to be in anything but a good mood in Portland, Oregon today as it is our 2nd sunny warm-ish day in a row! It is just beautiful out. 

But back to the task at hand, which is: 

10 ways to lift your mood* 

1. Get outside:  If it is sunny and warm, all the better but even a good walk in the rain could improve your mood -- just don't stay in bed all day. 
2. Treat yourself: to a treat. Head for your nearest Baskin & Robbins or DQ, or make some cookies. If sweets aren't your thing, have something that is. 
3. Play some music: Preferably loud. Find some tunes that remind you of middle or high school or any good time of your life. Or just turn up your favorite radio station. 
4. Reread your favorite book: or go find a new one. For me it would be "A Room with A View."
5. Watch some TV: Get out of bed and on to the couch. Find a great TV series (on Netflix, Hulu or at the video store) to immerse yourself in for awhile to get out of your own thoughts and worries. I have had great days enjoying episode after episode of "Doc Martin," "Psych," "The West Wing," "Without a Trace" and "Golden Girls." 
6. Hang with animals:  Snuggle up with your favorite cat or take your pooch to the dog park. If you don't have your own pets, try to visit a friend who does.
   
7. Take yourself to the movie: I have often done this one for my own birthday when everyone is working and I've taken the day off. Go see what you want, when you want and enjoy!
8. Play: It isn't just for kids. Get on your bike, skateboard or lace up some skates. Better yet head for the local park and swing on the swings -- with abandon!
9. Smile: Whether you feel like it or not and no matter what you are doing, even if it is just hanging out in bed playing on the computer. It tricks your brain into thinking you are happier than you are. Fake it 'til you make it ;-)  
10. Sing: Probably not "Swing Low Sweet Chariot."  Go for something upbeat and even a little quirky. Some of my favorites are Christmas carols any time of the year (especially in Summer) and things like "Come On, Get Happy" by the Partridge Family and "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina & the Waves!

*If nothing is working and you are still feeling persistently down and seriously depressed, you may need to talk to a therapist or medical doctor and/or get medication. If for any reason you are considering harming yourself or someone else, call 911, visit any emergency room or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for help right away. 

You matter. Please take care of yourself! 

Now go and enjoy the day! 

Mama Zuzi

10 Ways to Celebrate a Big Birthday without Breaking the Bank

If you are having a big birthday and want to celebrate without breaking the bank, there are still some great things you can do to mark the occasion. 

1.  Get a tattoo 

While a large or elaborate tattoo can set you back hundreds of dollars, you can often get a smaller one for under $100. 

2. Pierce something

Never gotten your ears pierced? Do it now. Looking for something more adventurous, consider your upper ear or nose. I got my nose pierced just last year and it cost about $50 including jewelry. 

3. Manicure/Pedicure

        Want to go wild and spend a bit more? You can do
        both manicure and pedicure together. Save money 
        and just pick the one that makes you feel extra 
        special. 

4. Cut & Color

If you are anything like me, you don't cut your hair as often as you might like. A good hair cut can make you feel great so go for it. If you can spend a little extra go for some color. I always color my own hair but this year am splurging for both a new cut and a little fun color -- something I don't normally do. 

5. Shopping

The nice thing about taking yourself shopping (in stores or online) is that you are in charge and you can buy anything from a whole new outfit to a new piece of jewelry at the local resale shop or even some sparkly new nail polish to do your own nails. 

I know I'd like to spend my next birthday on an island in the Pacific or in Europe but this year it isn't going to happen. And that's o.k. My birthday celebration (and yours as well) can be special even on a budget. 

Happy Birthday to You! Make sure you find a way to honor just how wonderful you are even if it can't be elaborate. And while you are at it... consider figuring out ways to celebrate all year long throughout the year. You deserve it!

Things I'm Liking Sunday - Mother's Day Edition

Happy Mother's Day!

I am enjoying my day after a lovely brunch out with my family. I have taken a nap and been working on the shop. A lovely way to spend the day, especially since the weather has turned and it feels as though it could rain at any time. 

In honor of the day, I'm happy to say a couple of my "likes" come from my very own children! Apparently the apple doesn't fall that far from the tree when it comes to creativity. 

The other day, my daughter decided she just had to have a new bag to carry along on her field trip and within no time at all she had created this fabulous duck tape bag complete with strap, two pockets and a close-able latch! LOVE IT! Trying to convince her to sell some in my shop! 

My style is just a bit less hot pink than my girl's purse. I myself am a big fan of small bags and am always on the lookout for ones I like. If I was buying one this week, I'd go for this lovely little jewel from janinekingdesigns on Etsy!

My daughter isn't the only creative one around here. For Teacher Appreciation Week (albeit a little late), my son is making a card featuring one of his signature dragons: 

The red dragon theme would look terrific in his bedroom (maybe I'll frame a copy) but not really anywhere else in our house. I've been thinking a lot lately about our empty walls and therefore exploring home decor. I think this painting set by NathalieVan would look gorgeous in our bedroom: 

On the other hand, I may just go for a framed enlargement of this photo instead: 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/65199230/beach-grass-8-x-10-digital-art-photo?ref=shop_home_active

Hope your Mother's Day is terrific. More soon! 

Mama Zuzi (Sue) 

Thinking ahead

Even though Mother's Day is this coming weekend, I'm already thinking beyond. 

If you are a procrastinator with regards to gifts, then this post may be a tad early for you. 

If however, you are someone who plans ahead (about a month in this case), then it may be just what you need. 

If your Dad is a fan of photography, the old west or even cars, you just might be able to find a gift for your Dad at Mama Picture This! 

Photo Prints: 

There is Wagon Wheel for the rustic-ly inclined. 

There are several other print options from the Shaniko, Oregon Ghost Town collection. You can find them here: 

https://www.etsy.com/shop/MamaPictureThis?section_id=13522786

Can't make up your mind? No problem, you can special order the Shaniko Collection Collage Print (seen here -- to the right). 

"Any man can be a father. It takes someone special to be a Dad."

                              ~ Unknown 

Ah the old days... when I was so young

Can't find what you are looking for at Mama Picture This? 

Check out other Etsy shops for handmade gifts for the father in your life: 

https://www.etsy.com/search?q=father%20day%20gift&view_type=gallery&ship_to=US

Oh and speaking of Dads... Happy Birthday to Tom Petersson of Cheap Trick (I just realized your big day is today!) 

Ciao for now, 

Mama Zuzi 

Things I'm Liking Sunday - Cinco de Mayo Edition

It's that time again. I know you've been counting the days. It's time for "Things I'm Liking" Sunday! 

To tell you the truth, the #1 thing I'm liking today is the gloriously windy and warm Portland weather. I know it is at least 85 degrees outside at 5 pm. This weather is going to make it VERY hard to go back to the office tomorrow. I'm also liking the fact that it appears our dopey puppy Olivia has yet again beat the odds and seems to be back to her old self -- as bouncy as ever. Go figure. I'm starting to call her "Super Dog." No better canine play mate for Bat Penny than Super Dog! 


It also just happens to be Cinco de Mayo and in honor of the day, I bring you my most favorite of items that marks the occasion with a great message (wish I had one right now): 

I didn't find it in time for this year, but maybe I can order and have it ready for next year! You can see more fun signs by the maker of this great one at: Kickstandsupsignco.

And speaking of celebrations, I'm trying to think of just how to celebrate my birthday which is coming up next month. Maybe I should call up Prince and ask him what he's gonna do, since we share the day ;-) Of course I'm kidding. I don't have his phone number. I do need to figure out what I want to do to mark my big day. If I was gonna have a party (which I don't really want to do), I'd  buy myself this gorgeous dish and serve something in it! Gosh help me, I have fallen in love with a bowl.

If you are into vintage, such as this beautiful bowl, and don't have the time to go out and scour the yard and estate sales for yourself, give a look at this fun Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/RinnovatoVintage?ref=seller_info.

Last but not least, I'm madly in love with the process of re-taking photos for my note card listings in my shop. I went to Paper Source on 23rd in NW Portland and the reviews were all true. The staff was totally nice and helpful and I finally found gorgeous card stock and envelopes and other goodies that I needed. I'll likely post a photo essay on my process tomorrow but for today, let me just leave you with this teaser... 

To see more, just hop over to the shop. You can also see more images and get more information by following Mama Picture This on Facebook! And if you are more a twitter kinda person, there's always https://twitter.com/mamazuzi. 

What? It is the holiday season again?!

I can hardly believe we are already discussing who is bringing what to Thanksgiving dinner. Can you?

Seems like just a few weeks ago, we were hanging out in the back yard in the sunshine in shorts.

Well time flies and as usual I'm into the spirit of the holidays but not always ahead of the game!

I have added a new festive holiday option to the shop that I'm excited about. I've created a few different holiday themed cards and for the first time personalized holiday offerings that you can order to print through a service on your own (in 4x6 or 5x7" sizes) or for those who aren't into the postal versions... in email format -- PDF, jpeg or Publisher! You send me your favorite pic or select one from my shop or both... and your message details and I send you a proof to approve in 24-48 hours tops most likely! So many options. So much fun!

Here are the current offerings... possibly more to come and as always I am completely open to suggestions and special orders - just send me a note via email or on Facebook and I'll see what I can do!