Gretta LaRue Designs

Let's Go Everywhere!

2012-01-21T16:15:00.000-05:00

I am so happy to announce that "Let's Go Everywhere" is almost here!!!!!

We are so excited about the 2012 Spring Line that is launching March 1. When I think of the spring and summer months, I think of vacation travels, easy sunny days, outside play with friends and popsicles by the pool. "Let's Go Everywhere" will take you to all of those places and more! Everyone here at Gretta LaRue is working extra hard to get ready for this special line that is oh so fun and carefree. Each piece will be of very limited quantity due to their up-cycled nature...so stay tuned... you will not want to miss this!!

FACEBOOK

2012-01-21T16:07:00.000-05:00

So I keep up with blogging so well that I decided that it was time to add another social media site...ahahahahaha. You know me better than that don't you!! The truth is that I get really behind on blogging...life happens and blogging takes the back seat. Just like last week...we landed the stomach bug, and I didn't leave the house from Saturday to Thursday. One would think that I would have had plenty of time to blog! Nope, I was so busy taking care of sick little ones that I couldn't think of anything else. I did so much laundry that my washing machine is probably about to leave this place! But I am back and we will get all caught up now. The largest piece of business that we need to discuss is that I really wasn't kidding about the social media add on..... Gretta LaRue Designs is now live on Facebook. I am very excited for GLD to be on the FB superhighway, and I am going to try really hard to keep you guys updated on all sites!!! In the first few hours we gained 40 likers. That is exciting!!! I do not say this enough, but I really appreciate all of my readers, fans, likers and faithful customers. Gretta LaRue Designs loves you guys!!! Don't forget to follow on Facebook!!!

Welcome to Moe's!!!!

2012-01-05T22:37:00.000-05:00

What I am trying to say is that I didn't make it. We had a very busy evening with tumbling, dance and baseball, everyone was starving, we weren't close to being home and I had not planned a meal. So there, I have failed already, and it's only day 5. At least we did eat somewhat healthy and fresh, right? "Feed the Moement" is Moe's slogan and that is exactly what I was doing...and it WAS a unanimous decision. See, I am seeing this is a sign that it is ok! Nevertheless, I will start over in the morning. It feels so good to come clean!!! Love you guys, thanks for listening!!

Janruary Surprises

2012-01-03T17:31:00.001-05:00

Yard of the Month??? I still can't believe it! Like I said...never thought it could happen!!! Nevertheless, I am pretty stoked about it! This award has certainly inspired me to keep my curb appeal in check for the rest of the year! Gotta live up!!!

On a completely different note, I want to tell you about our family pact to eat in for the month of January. That's right.....NO eating out for a month! It is day three and so far so good. It's just that we have gotten obsessed with eating out.....mostly because it's convenient and then it just became habit! Along with unnecessary spending , eating out all of the time is so very unhealthy (at least the choices that we have been making). So, aside from having to take time to plan meals and all of the cooking... I am really excited! LOL!

I received the first batch of Spring frocks today. I will dust the camera off soon for the first glimpse of Gretta LaRue!

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T21:06:00.004-05:00

I never can believe it when a new year starts. I always say...."I can't believe that it is 2012". 2012 sounds so much better that 2011. Don't you think? It just rolls off the tongue a little nicer. I am really excited about the new year and new ventures. I have sent off the first round of designs this week for the new 2012 Spring line! Yes, I finally realized that I Can Not Do It All!! I am extremely excited to have a new line for you this spring, and that I have found a really great group/company to bring my designs to life!!! I will be sure to give a sneak peak next week as I get the first pieces in!!!!

I am keeping to my Father-in-Laws tradition that what you do on New Years Day is what you will do all year. I didn't run a race today, but so far, I have cleaned my house, de-cluttered and organized, worked on my designs, spent time with family and friends, exercised, watched my children have a great time playing outside with friends, loved on my children, BLOGGED, and now I am about to snuggle and watch a movie with my hubby!! I can only hope that this day will be representative of this new year! Oh...I almost forgot...with a knock at the door, I was awarded Yard Of The Month for January! Yep, never thought this would happen at my house, but it really did!!!! I am pretty proud to say the least!!! Yard pic to follow!

HAPPY 2012 TO YOU AND YOURS!!!!

SO THANKFUL!

2011-12-07T21:42:00.000-05:00

Here are my three loves. I have so many things to be thankful for and they top the list. With my good friend and photographer expecting her baby girl right around Christmas Card Photo Shoot Time, she, being the organized lady that she is, took it upon herself to get me in line. She scheduled me for the end of September and it couldn't have turned out any better. My Christmas Cards were here in October! It took all of my will power not to show this photo love, but I held out because my Christmas Cards are very important to me, and I wanted the element of surprise when opened by loved ones.

Notice the Harvest Gaucho and

Paisley Peasant Top

both available upon request!

I am also very thankful for my dear friend Amber , who captures these moments that I will treasure for a lifetime!!!! Visit www.amberdavenportphotography.com. It will be a treat!

And because I couldn't send a card to everyone...

I will send along my holiday wish.....

Hope your holiday is all sorts of awesome!!!

Elf Goodness

2011-12-07T15:11:00.008-05:00

Our Elf Reilly is causing much commotion this season. He has made quite a few messes for me to clean up, and has been quite the entertainment around our house these last few weeks. I wish I had been taking photos all along but..... no. He comes to our home the day after Thanksgiving and leaves with Santa on Christmas Eve night. We really enjoy having him around this time of year! He has been having himself a grand ol' time with all of his pranks, until some of the other guys in the house ( that we are not always aware of) started getting a little jealous of all the attention that he has been given! Yes, our superheros ( and villains) captured Reilly and held him prisoner! Ha! I wonder what will happen tonight during our long winter's nap? I will keep you posted.....

I am so excited!! In a few days I will meet with a company that could bring Gretta LaRue to a whole new level. As I have said before, I want to keep my designs American made and never mass produced. I hope and pray that this will turn into a great relationship, and I will be able to bring you a Spring line that is out of this world!

Looking A Lot Like Christmas

2011-11-29T22:20:00.010-05:00

Once again I am putting on the glitz of Christmas in my home AND store. I have had bends out for over a week now in my family room and it is time to wrap it up. I am guilty of decorating my tree until Christmas Day. It is really a sickness! I can't keep my hands out of it. I am sure that I am not the only one...right? Can I, and those like me, have a weekly meeting to figure ourselves out? Is is perfectionism or OCD...BOTH???? Oh well, to be quite honest, I like myself and my obsessive compulsive ways, and I enjoy nothing more than redoing everything that I do. I know, I NEED HELP!! HA!

My store, Gretta LaRue Designs, at The Queen Of Hearts Buford has been transformed into a cozy Christmas delight. Please go and check it out...I am making Elf Legs (see them in the tree?) that are extra cute. My photography is less than desirable but hopefully you get the idea! I will have them at GLD but if I am sold out...comment on here and place your order.

Hello Again

2011-09-18T23:58:00.005-04:00

I am going to take this opportunity to welcome myself back! I have not been doing much blogging..ohhhhh let's say... in the past 7 MONTHS! I am back though and more excited than ever about my new venture. I have moved into a front space at The Queen of Hearts-Buford. It is a larger space and one that I can work comfortably in. I am so excited about it! I will have so much more space for furniture!!!! I am truly getting in the holiday spirit, so my store will be looking festive real soon! Once again, my photos could use some help. I can't remember to take my real camera..EVER!

My life gets crazier...daily. My oldest is playing football and is also already practicing baseball for his spring travel ball team. My daughter is cheering, and guess who is coaching her squad? Yes, you've got it...! I am having a great time though and it is all coming back to me. Cheering was part of my life for so long and I am glad to be affiliated with it again! My girls are so much fun and are rocking it on the field! Go Jr. Falcons!! Little man is greater than great! He said to me today, "Mommy, you're welcome for hanging out with you today!" Now that is a confident 2 yr. old! But, it IS my pleasure and he is extremely entertaining!I love my three little bittys so much, so my MAD life is oh so worth it!!

In the midst of all of this madness, I am dreaming of having my space turn into a store. Then my dream turned into reality and now Gretta LaRue Designs is a storefront! Go and check it out!! You will not be disappointed!! Great shopping...guaranteed!! Thanks for not giving up on me! I am looking forward to catching up!!

Happy Day Of Love

2011-02-14T09:34:00.005-05:00

A cool quote from Franklin P. Jones. Hope everyone has a Lovey Dovey Day!!

Sweet Dreams

2010-12-20T23:44:00.007-05:00

Something to ponder upon as you head to bed this evening. This is going to render you the sweetest of dreams. Go ahead and let it go....You Can Not Do It All! What a relief that we all know that now,huh? Let's all just relax and have a good time this holiday season.

ALREADY THINKING

2010-12-15T09:29:00.005-05:00

Although we are smack in the middle of holiday planning, there are only a few weeks left until the new year. I am already thinking about what I want to accomplish in the year 2011. Some friends and I are getting together for a Vision Board Party right after Christmas. Idea courtesy of our good friend Misty. She is super organized and tidy and everything nice!! Oh, note to self for the board...#1. ORGANIZE EVERYTHING!!!! We will bring ideas for the new year and create a message board to hang for easy viewing throughout the year. The daily reminder of good intentions just might be the ticket to keeping your resolution. Remember last year, I adopted a theory from my father-in-law." What you do on New Years day is what you will do all year" he says. So, last year, I ran a 5K on New Years Day. I ran several other races including a 10K and Half Marathon after that. I was doing great and very motivated but was injured by the end of March. I think it may have rang true though, because I would still be running if my heel, shins and knees were able! (On a side note and something else to add to the board," Be careful not to do too much too soon"!) So, do something that you really want to accomplish on the first day of our new year and see how it works out for you!

I will leave you with a few quotes that I love, and maybe you will want to use them on your Vision Board as well....

Those who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night. ~Edgar Allen Poe~

Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare. ~Japanese Proverb~

COME ONE COME ALL!!!

2010-12-08T15:21:00.008-05:00

I have loaded up the booth (Queen Of Hearts Buford)with the most exciting fabric!! Heavy jute to be exact. WOW..what it adds to holiday decor! I have it everywhere. It adds THE BEST texture to everything. I have it in 1, 2 & 3 yard bundles. If anyone out there needs more than that I still have it on a bolt to cut any measurement that fits your fancy. Another good thing about it is that it is 60'' wide! At our recent Artist Holiday Market, we had burlap covering the tables with this heavy jute as our toppers. PERFECTO!!! Oh yea..it is $12/yd. I know you will love it!!!

Happy December

2010-12-06T07:56:00.016-05:00

I just did the annual Holiday Artists Market with a handful of artist friends of mine this weekend. There were so many cool handmade items there. I wish I had some pictures to show. Unique pieces of jewelry, handmade frames and jewelry organizers, ornaments, gift tags, custom art books and Gretta LaRue clothing to name a few. Also, there was beautiful photography displayed by my good friend Amber of Amber Davenport Photography. Her work is awesome! She did the photography and design of my Christmas card this year and I couldn't be happier with it! I will post a copy of it once they go out(TODAY). I can't believe it! I usually stress about them all month. It was so easy to just hand it over to her and, it is beautiful!! I have had them for over a week. They have already been delivered to my neighbors but, I couldn't remember to get stamps. What a nice feeling for that to be done so that I can move on to Christmas shopping, decorating, planning for company, making memories with my family and of course The Booth!

I just revamped the booth this weekend. It has loads of treasures to dig through. I currently have many gift and holiday decor items along with a brand new batch of designs for Gretta LaRue. They are going fast, so go on over and check them out. It is so cool to have a one of a kind item for your little one to wear for the holidays(and beyond). These frocks can be mixed and matched so nicely. You can get an idea through some of these shots. Again, no good photos....only an iphone in my possession when my booth was being transformed. Go on down to Queen Of Hearts and check it out. That store itself is a holiday gift!!

Fall Is In The Air/Booth

2010-10-25T08:36:00.011-04:00

An October post would be nice...huh? I have really missed blogging! I know you don't believe me anymore...but I will say it again anyway....I am going to be a more frequent blogger!!!

I have Fallerized the booth. This fall you will find everything wood, galvanized and, of coarse, textiles. I love all of the different textures together. It is a very neutral palette and ready for a splash of holiday glitz. A few stockings have already adorned the mantel. Please go and check out Queen of Hearts in Buford, Ga. Each booth is a treat!! Gretta LaRue is located on E. Bay Street in the store. These are only the beginning stages of holiday and handmade gift items showing up on the shelves daily. Once again, photos are from the iPhone, but you will be able to feel the ambiance(minus the broom in the bottom right hand corner)HA!

Is It Really September?

2010-09-09T23:14:00.014-04:00

Tarnished Silver Flatware Magnets.

My Handmade Burlap Magnets.

Gretta Gaucho with Removable Burlap Flower.

Well Hello...It is September, and I have had my booth for a full two months now. It is WAY more fun than I ever imagined and is going really well so far. I recommend it to anyone who has ever wanted to own a store but just doesn't have the time. I just go in and move items in or out, and design it exactly the way I want. Switching gears with the season change has been fun too (although I am not even close to being done). I have these pictures to share but my i Phone really doesn't do it justice. You'll just have to go on in and check it out in person! Gretta LaRue Designs is located on E. Bay Street(the isles are labeled by street signs). This way if you see something that you are interested in but you are not completely done shopping, you can just look to see which street to come back to. Trust me, it comes in handy. So, come on over to E. Bay and check it out!

DRUM ROLL PLEASE....

2010-07-06T23:26:00.007-04:00

Ok, here is the BIG reveal...the thing that I have been working on for the past few months... the thing that I have been taking about doing for several years...DRUM ROLL PLEASE.... I have opened a Gretta LaRue Designs storefront at The Queen of Hearts Antiques & Interiors in Buford, Ga.This is my favorite place to shop on the planet!! It is such a happy place for me. I just love the treasure hunt and there are so many FAB designers there! It is going to be a blast! Although it was a lot of work, I am having so much fun with it. I am a avid picker, junker, collector... and my husband has a few other names for my hobby that I won't repeat. HAHA! No, I know that it is not for everyone. He is just a little bothered that I have taken the garage over(and the basement and the downstairs bedroom). OOPS!!

There is a little bit of everything in the store. I will definitely have plenty of Gretta LaRue clothing and accessories in the shop. Also, there will be antiques, collectibles and many re-purposed items. I am so excited, I want to go everyday. I opened up shop on July 1, and I am already moving merchandise. There will be fresh stuff there every week, so you have to go OFTEN. These photos are taken with my iphone, so bare with me. I have tons more to take to the shop tomorrow. There is a wine and cheese open house every Thursday evening from 6-8pm. It would be really fun to get your girls together and go sip some vino and dig through the vintage, right? That is my plan! I hope to see you there!

A Wrinkle In Time

2010-05-05T15:38:00.013-04:00

Wow! I know I have been busy, but how did I get from there to here? Reminds me of a certain book that I was SUPPOSED to read in school!! I have really missed blogging though. My hands have been busy creating(mostly custom orders) but can't seem to get it together with the camera to show you guys. I have several things in the works. Some really exciting stuff! I hate to make announcements this big, because if I do not follow through (but I absolutely am) it will be a let down for us all. So, please bare with me, and I will let you know soon. Don't you hate it when people do that...I know I do. I think I would just rather be disappointed in the end than have to ponder over the big surprise. Sorry for that!!! I have been doing a lot of re-purposing, home decor and something else that I can't hint about without giving away. I am going to do better with the daily ramblings though!! Here is a recent shoot of my little bitty's that I wanted to share.

Welcome Spring

2010-03-24T23:34:00.008-04:00

I just sat at an evening game at the ballpark without a jacket. We played outside today and got a little Vit. D. We walked to the bus stop to get Jackson. He was so surprised to see us on foot. I am loving this weather. It is so exciting to see my little trees bud and my hydrangeas grow. My children have asked me a million times lately, "can I wear shorts and short sleeves?" I can finally say YES! Man I love spring!

My Little Four Leaf Clover

2010-03-03T23:15:00.005-05:00

Oh how I love St. Paddy's Day, or should I say, USED to love it. Now, we do not do much, but it used to be quite fun!! I am going to try to line up an outing to celebrate this long forgotten holiday. I better start now! I can pull out my clover covered 4 inch heels and become the rock star that I used to be...if only for one night.

Funny Things Kids Say

2010-02-27T22:48:00.009-05:00

Today I was in my bathroom getting ready to go to the ball field. Gretta was watching every move I made, asking 50 million questions about make up, hair products, etc... I sprayed a little hair spray in my hair in the attempt to save it from the 30 mile wind gusts that we had today. She immediately asked what it was. As I explained hairspray to her, she had the most confused look on her face. Her response was.."You mean you WANT it to stay like that?" You gotta love her! She is so brutally honest and adorable all the while! We also took a trip to Walmart this evening. As was were loading up the car she noticed an elderly man coming out of the store. She said "Mommy that man is soooo old!!" He really was, which is why it is so hard to explain why it is not polite to say. Her funny comment list is so long that I will have to brighten your day with a few on each post. She is so curious, witty and fun. She gives us no choice but to keep it real around here!!

This is my 32 year old dress she is wearing. Vintage? I hate to call it that because it makes me feel "soooo old"!!

SCHLOPP

2010-02-22T21:54:00.004-05:00

Schlopp. Schlopp. Beautiful schlopp. Beautiful schlopp with a cherry on top.~~Dr. Seuss

I will confess, I am a blog stalker. I can get lost in blogland really quickly, and before I know it, hours have past and I haven't even made it down 1/4 of my favorites. One thing that is pretty consistent with bloggers, no matter what their blog pertains to, they like to show off their dinner/desserts every once in a while. I sometimes wonder what triggers the thought to break out the camera at dinner time. At my house, it is the wildest time of the day. The baby is slinging food all over the floor and on the other children. The kitchen is a complete mess and J & G are usually aggravating each other at the dinner table. I am constantly having to remind them to eat and not talk. I stand up to eat most of the time, because as soon as I sit down, someone will need something. Pure craziness!! But, last night my camera was actually sitting 2 feet away from my dinner and a light bulb went off. I too can blog about my wonderful meal. Although it was de-lish, I have to say I have surely seen better presentation. A quote from my FAVORITE Dr. Seuss book "Oh The Thinks You Can Think" came to mind. That is why I am talking about schlopp, because that is exactly what my roast and veggies on rice looked like. It was quite yummy though!!

Bad Blogger!!

2010-02-09T17:05:00.009-05:00

I really didn't know it had been this long since I actually blogged. Time is passing so fast. Birthdays, school stuff, getting ready for Valentines and the big whammy...sick child & sick me! Now, my husband is feeling crummy. I said the unthinkable the other day... that my older son had not been to the Dr for a sick visit for over two years. Why have I not learned my lesson about that? I jinxed us!

I know that it has been a long time since I actually showed you any Gretta LaRue. You have only been subjected to my crazy life and my beautiful children lately. But, I do have spring clippys and a few spring pieces to view (as soon as I snap some photos). And, I will also show you the Couture gown that I was going to wear to our cousin's wedding. I was in the process of making it and then got sick. Off the rack it is!! I still plan to finish it though, and when it is finished, I will share. I haven't made myself much of anything so I was super excited to see what I could come up with in my size. I think I was on the right track and it would have been gorgeous. Surely I can come up with another event that it will be appropriate for.

Have a good weekend and try to stay warm!!

My Baby Boy

2010-01-22T23:03:00.006-05:00

WOW! Tomorrow my baby will be ONE. A whole year has past in one blink of my eye. I know I have said it before but he is my LAST little baby love. I love him soooo much. There are many special things about him that make him so unique and lovable. He is the best little cuddle bug. He just clings with the hugs. He even says...ummm, ummm ummm when he gives them. My friends who have babies his age have to hold my Little Law to get there cuddles in because he cuddles like no other!! He was also born with a Mohawk. I have never seen this before. This has been his little trademark. His hair recently started growing all crazy(as you can see coming out of the hat) and so we had his first real haircut a few days ago. He now has his signature haircut again. His laugh is so scrumptious... if I could bottle it up and sell it I would be a gozziillionair!!!! I know I am rambling on and on but I am feeling really anxious about him growing up so fast. Tomorrow is going to be both happy and sad for me. The way I look at it, this year went by so fast.... I will only have 17 more of these before I have an empty nest. I just want to stay in this moment for a long, long time. I know our babies have to grow up though. I told my older son to stop growing so fast and he said "Mommy, I just can't stop myself." Boo Hoo Hoo!!! If I really thought that he could, I would order him to do so! Anyway, we will be celebrating our last first birthday tomorrow with a small family party. This will be very different for us. Jackson and Gretta had big bashes for their firsts. I have learned a lot since then. If you have that many people to entertain and lots of bigger children there, it is not really about the baby anymore. So we will focus on him and him only on his big day. I see lots of hugs and kisses, great photos, a few new toys(which he doesn't need), and memories of him that will last a lifetime for us! He is so precious!! Thank you God for sending him to me!!!

SNNNNOOOWWWW DAAAYYYYY!!!!!!!!

2010-01-08T22:50:00.023-05:00

I can remember how crazy exciting it was to get out of school for a snow day. I still get that giddy feeling when my children get to have one. Although we didn't get outside until the dusting of snow was almost gone, we had an awesome day. It was a PJ day and we put our snow clothes on over our PJ's to go out for a while. With the wind chill at 6 degrees, we didn't last long. It was enough time to get a few snowballs in though. My Little Lawson got to see snow for the first time which is always fun to watch. Gretta found some icicles, did snow angels and threw snowballs. Her fun ended abruptly when Jackson bombed her in the face with a snowball though. "OK..everybody inside for some hot chocolate!!!" We received a hot chocolate machine for a Christmas gift last year and that is one kitchen gadget that gets put to good use. It makes the perfect cup of hot cocoa. YUUMMM!!! I hope everyone had a good time in the snow today( if you were lucky enough to have it). Have a great weekend and try to stay warm...brrrrrrrrrr!

Christmas Past

2010-01-06T22:19:00.011-05:00

I didn't offer a holiday line as I thought I would. Christmas was here before I knew it and although I had some pieces to share...I didn't get them out soon enough for you to order and enjoy throughout the holidays. I did however get to do a few custom orders. This is Miss Summer.... you may recognize her from the Purplicious post. She is a beauty and one of Lawson's best buds. Love to see her in Gretta LaRue. Her mom is a good friend of mine and a photography fanatic. Miss Summer has had a professional photo shoot every month of her life( 8 to be exact). Very cool! It will be so much fun for her to look back at all of the milestones and have many gorgeous pictures to prove them! And, I love to see all of the photos in her Gretta LaRue pieces. Here are a few of her Christmas selections. Thanks for sharing Jen!!

Let It Snow!

2010-01-06T09:41:00.010-05:00

My children are so excited about the possibility of snow tomorrow. They can hardly wait. I hope it is not another false alarm, for they would be extremely disappointed. Their snowsuits and boots are ready for all of the outside fun. We even have a sled this year. Oh, please let it snow! I know that I said I was already in the mood for spring. But, I do like to see snow at least once a year. I would love the see those big smiles of excitement on their faces and snow does render the most adorable pictures!

These are some of the greatest memories in the snow with my first baby(who is now 6). I just love looking back in time at this. Please disregard the date that is smacked across my face. I would love to also go back in time and have a nicer camera..oh well, at least Jackson will always know the exact date that he first saw snow! Ha! He saw snow for the first time and I remember how confused and excited he was. He didn't have the right attire for the snow that year, but I learned my lesson. I now have snow suits and boots every year for all of my children in the case that we do get a little snow here in Atlanta. If you do not have the right clothing for it, it is miserable. So, the gear is ready and we are looking for it with eyes wide open! Oh and if you didn't notice...it is snowing on my blog......let's keep our fingers crossed!!!

Resolutions

2010-01-03T21:42:00.005-05:00

In past years, I have made the usual resolutions..you know the ones..lose weight, get organized, etc. I usually start out ok then get busy and forget about the promises that I have made to myself. This year I am doing things a little different. My father-in -law says that what you do on New Years Day is what you will do all year. So, I took that to heart and ran a 5K on the first day of our new year 2010. I have never done one before, and it was the best feeling. I have been training for a half marathon for about a month now. I am hooked, and I feel great! If you are looking for a way to get motivated to exercise, set a goal to train for an organized run. It really keeps you on track! Oh yeah, and you will need to grab a partner too! My friend Jen has been a great one! I actually think that I will keep my resolution for once!

Countdown To Spring

2009-12-29T23:24:00.006-05:00

I have dreamed of a white Christmas my whole life. It has never happened. But after Christmas is over.. I am ready for Spring!!!! I have already started on the Spring Collection and that is just making me want it here even more. Oh, little girls...watch out, because it is going to be irresistible! I will have a sneak peek of a few things as soon as I can get it together with the camera. It always seems that the SD card is in my computer, the camera is in the bag in the coat closet and the garments to be photographed are in the design studio. That means that I have to cover three floors in the house to gather the supplies for a photo shoot. I am tired just thinking about it. Although, it is 11:30pm and I haven't had any sleep in almost one full year. Yes, my baby of almost a year still doesn't sleep. He has me trained. Any time he whimpers...mama comes a runnin'. It is better to answer his call than to have three little ones awake in the middle of the night. So, if I would just go to bed at a decent time maybe I would be in better shape. It is so hard though, this is my time! Sitting down to veg out in front of the tube with my computer after the kids are in bed is ME time and I can't give it up. So I will stop complaining because I know the solution, but I would just rather be tired I guess. Sidetracked again! Pictures will surely be here for your viewing pleasure soon. I will give you a hint...butterflies, mushrooms and owls. Oh, and I am feeling a little patriotic. That is all I am saying!!!

Gretta LaRue From Head to Toe

2009-12-28T17:07:00.010-05:00

I woke up to find these fabulous photos of Miss Ella Rae. I was delighted to know that she wore her Gretta LaRue from head to toe on Christmas Eve. You may have seen her before in earlier posts due to her love for Gretta LaRue and Gretta LaRue's love for her. She is a beauty and I love seeing her in my designs. She is elegantly dressed in Ruby Gauchos with the O Christmas Tree Top. The coat is a custom design that I did for her in the Fall. This sweet girl you will see again! And..... her mom is a pretty good photographer (she is very modest about it but I think it is great)!

Christmas All The Year

2009-12-28T10:44:00.014-05:00

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” ~ Charles Dickens

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-25T07:52:00.005-05:00

It is a Very Merry Christmas morning. I am waiting on my little ones to rise and start off all the excitement. I have so much to be thankful for! I am having a little quiet time to reflect and say prayers of thanks for all that I have been blessed with. My hope is that all of you are having a wonderful Christmas too! Let the festivities begin!

The Cutest Stockings on Earth

2009-12-11T21:49:00.012-05:00

I know that I have been away for a while. I have missed blogging. I have been waiting on a new power plug and battery for my computer. Can't do much without power. Holiday shipping must be mad right now. I felt like it was being shipped by horse and buggy. I have felt like I have been in Never Never Land...disconnected from the entire world. I am talking about no shopping on Cyber Monday... that was hard!

Oh well, I did take the time to focus on other things. I couldn't bare the fact that my new baby boy did not have a matching stocking. Our stockings are one of my most prized material possessions. I am not kidding either! I LOVE them. They are made by Sally Russell Studios . I started trying to locate one with no luck at the boutiques. Then, I visited the designers website(via my iPhone). When I found out that they had been sold out since last season, I began to panic. See, I get really obsessed about certain things.... a little OCD-ish. I sweat the small stuff and I don't know why, because it usually works out just fine in the end. So I talked to Sally Russell herself trying to find this stocking. She was so helpful and accommodating. She suggested that I may be able to make one out of the set of polka dot napkins that were still in stock. I was very excited!! She sent them right away, and when I received the box in the mail she had also thrown in some scrap striped fabric. Now I had to find the trim and I would be set.

We gathered with our fellow Bama fans at our friend's home to watch the SEC Championship game last weekend. The minute I walked in the door my eye was drawn to this stocking that I had been frantically searching for. I told her the story, and asked where she had found it. She replied that she had gotten it at the same boutique several years back. I was bummed because I had already called and they didn't have them anymore. My friend Connie walks over to the mantle and handed it right over to me. "Here you go" she said. As much as I wanted it, I told her that I couldn't take it. She insisted over and over until I did. She kept saying, " I am just so glad that I can bless you like that." Now that is a good friend... to give you the stocking right off of her mantle. Not to mention that it is the cutest stocking on earth! My collection is complete! I just have to have little man's name put on it. I will be able to use the napkins on the table. I have to tell you that dealing with Sally Russell was a pleasure and you should check out her designs because they are divine! And as for my friend Connie...she should be expecting something very special on her doorstep in the next few days!

See.... I should not sweat the small stuff...but I do! Now I am on to the Christmas Cards. I have been very anxious because the pictures that I wanted to use on my card were stuck on my powerless computer. I was able to access them today, and what ,14 days before Christmas! I sent them in to the company that is doing my cards....let's see if they will be as helpful as Sally!

Missed you and will not disappear again...let's keep our fingers crossed anyway! Next time I will talk about clothing instead of stockings!

Computerless....be back soon!!! So sorry, I should be up and running shortly!

2009-12-02T21:53:00.004-05:00

A New Take

2009-11-22T21:45:00.007-05:00

Here is a fresh new take on the Bye Bye Birdie Top ($38 ). My little one wore this to school and said that 100 people said that they liked her top. Normally I would think that this was an exaggeration. But, this top is so stinking cute, I really believe that it truly could have been 100! She started naming names and it was pretty close!

I will be at the Goddard School's Holiday Bazaar(Spout Springs) on Friday, December 4th from 2:30pm-6:30pm. I will have cash & carry, and I will be taking orders from the fall line. I will have Gretta Clippys and other accessories available as well. I hope you will stop by and see us.

I am getting into the Christmas spirit early this year. Going to Deck The Halls tomorrow. It just comes and goes so fast, I want to savor it for as long as I possibly can. I can give Thanks just the same on Thursday with a tree in the family room, right? Hope you all had a great weekend!

Holiday Collection

2009-11-16T23:30:00.022-05:00

I am getting photos together from the Holiday designs. It is taking me a few days longer than I stated. I have had some computer issues. My computer has been temperamental this week and will only turn on if I threaten to throw it out of the window. Maybe this is a sign that I should ask Santa for that new MacBook I have been dreaming about?

Here are two pieces that I love. The 12 Days Of Christmas Dress ($48) with Cranberry Ruffle Pants($34). This little pairing can be worn to each and every event on your calendar. The dress is a peasant style that is super comfy and can also be worn with a red sash for a more tailored and festive look. The pants are made of the softest fabric that one can buy. She will think they are PJ's. I wish that I had a pair this soft. I will have more fun stuff soon. It is late and I must say night night.

I Gotta Get Through This

2009-11-12T15:55:00.028-05:00

I feel like I am moving in double time, all of the time. I have just gotten home from my sons Thanksgiving Feast at school. They had it a bit early due to some testing for the bigger kids next week. Although I always enjoy being there with him and getting to see him in his school setting, I got in the car and did a mental "CHECK", checking that task off of my imaginary to do list. I felt bad, but I live in fast motion. My new theme song is Daniel Bedingfield's: I Gotta Get Through This.

I gotta get through this, I gotta get through this
I gotta make, gotta make it, gotta make it through
Said, "I'm gonna get through this, I'm gonna get through this
I gotta take, gotta take my mind off of you"

Ok so it is a love sick song, but the chorus reminds me of my life. I am constantly checking things off with a sigh of relief. How do I stop the madness? And everyone that I talk to is doing the same thing. I am going to make myself learn how to slow down and really take it all in. Slow down and enjoy every minute with my children...because that is what really matters!! My big baby boy has thanked me so many times for coming today and my heart just melts every time. I am really going to do this slowing down thing, I am going to stop over extending myself and focus on my three scrumptious little munchkins. Are you with me???? Don't worry..I will still have time for Gretta LaRue too!

I have several pieces of the holiday collection finished and will give you a sneak peak tomorrow. I have to take some photos. CHECK.......

Little Lady

2009-11-09T22:09:00.007-05:00

I received this perfect little picture of my neighbor and friend's little lady, Isabella. I say little lady because that is exactly what she is. She is a perfect example of manners and grace. She is one of Gretta LaRue's biggest fans and GLD is one of hers as well. She wore the Harvest Peasant Dress ($48) to an outdoor wedding this weekend and stole the show! I can see why!!! Thanks Rhonda for sharing your sweet girl with us!

I am working hard to have holiday designs out this week. Keep checking for goodies!

New Old Sofa

2009-11-03T22:52:00.018-05:00

I scored the most awesome vintage sofa during one of my outings this week. I stumbled upon it and immediately had a vision for it! The perfect prop for photos of some new Gretta LaRue (coming soon). It has kicked my motivation up a notch to get these pieces finished. And here it is....

iiiiiiiiiii love it! I do hope that you think it is as wonderful as I do!! I should be showing you the sofa with sweet girlys dressed in Gretta LaRue sitting pretty on it. But, I always get ahead of myself and have little self control. Just like the gift closet, I collect gifts for my children for different occasions and almost always give it to them early. I just can't handle the anticipation of gift giving. It is stressful knowing that you have something great and you have to wait. Oh, my 6 year old would love that sentence. He gets so tickled when we start rhyming. I can really get on a roll with it...maybe I should do a rhyming post for you sometime.. ok ..I have REALLY gotten sidetracked.

Packing orders and shipping them off ...so, you can start getting excited about the package coming straight at ya!!!. I love it when I get a package. It's like Christmas morn and it doesn't even matter what's inside... It's just FUN!!! Also, be looking for some new pieces that will be listed soon...Good Day!

Hecticity

2009-10-30T23:04:00.002-04:00

Ok, this is tooo funny..I just Googled hecticity and, in fact, it is a word. This is the sentence that they used the word in. The only person who can understand a mother's hecticity is another mother.
Funny but soooo true!!! To all you moms out there, I do understand your hecticity! Have a good night!!!

Hallows Eve

2009-10-30T22:19:00.009-04:00

I am sure you are all ready to be scared out of your skin tomorrow. I know all the little kiddos are in bed and can't sleep with the anticipation of what tomorrow brings. I can remember as a child how exciting Halloween was. Now, I get excited seeing my children getting excited. This has proved to be the beginning week of hecticity. I think I made that one up.... I like it though! That is a great new name for the last quarter of the year...Hecticity! Parties, pumpkins, pictures, hayrides, trick or treating at school. Lawson, my 9 month old, met up with his buddies at the pumpkin patch this week and had a photo shoot. Yes, he is already a little socialite. They are all so cute together. They have a weekly playdate on Thursday and go to Mommy & Me in our neighborhood on Monday morn. They aren't even a year old and already need an iPhone to calendar their events. Crazy, I know... but FUN!!

We have a Halloween birthday party to go to tomorrow, annual kids HW party down the street and then trick or treating. One year ago, my friend Chrissy had a Halloween baby. She is the sweetest little baby girl. She is going to have some KILLER birthday parties to tell about one day! Happy 1st Birthday Baby Lilly, and to all of you, have a FUN & SAFE but SCARY HAALLOOWEEENN!!

Royal Peasant

2009-10-26T21:31:00.013-04:00

Hello! I am back! Sorry to have left for so long. I have been busy filling orders from the Fall Fest. This week starts off the hectic holiday hustle & bustle. From the school parties, Pumpkin Patches, Trick or Treat.... going straight into Thanksgiving and all of the kids functions leading up to the big feast and then...well, you know what the whole month of December involves. Since we have three children now, our Christmas celebration is going to be held at our home from now on. We have always traveled to both grandparents homes in the past, and I look forward to being at home with my babies. I love holiday traditions, and I plan on adding a couple this year.If anyone has any good ones that I could borrow, I would love to hear about them. Please leave a comment telling me all about your good times, and I promise to carry them out with good cheer!

This is Gretta wearing the Royal Peasant Top ($34). She has had professional pics in it, but I shot these. It looks great in photos! Perfect top for all fall functions. She is at our local pumpkin patch here. Did I mention that I love a good photo!!! If I didn't ...I love a good photo! She is a child that doesn't mind picture taking..I am a lucky mom!

The Homerun

2009-10-23T22:05:00.009-04:00

Well, my big boy (6 yr old) hit a game winning homerun! It was so exciting! I got it on video and of course his crazy mom yelling was all that you could hear. I need to practice some self control but it is really hard when you are so proud of your child. He is watching it over and over. I am sure this gives him a different perspective... seeing himself crushing the ball, running the bases, seeing the other teams reaction on the field and getting praise from the team and coaches when he passes home plate. He has a little grin on his face every time that he watches it, and I am so glad that he is getting this view of what an awesome boy, player, teammate, friend and son that he is. He is a very strong player, but he doesn't really know it yet. Maybe now, after seeing himself do what he does on the field, he will have a better idea of his ability. I am a VERY PROUD MOM...can you tell?

I just found some really cute green fabric that I had forgotten about. It is going to be a really great start for the holiday collection. My children have already started singing Rudolph.

Happy weekend!

The Queen

2009-10-21T12:17:00.008-04:00

After reading my blog, my husband called me the Queen of Clichés. I guess he has a point. When the cats away, when a plan comes together and so on...... I have to say that I do use them like crazy but often use them incorrectly and rarely know what they even mean! I guess this stuff just evolves into your speech and you do not even realize it! I just Googled Clichés and I had no idea how many there were. That quite possibly may be all that "comes out of my mouth". I couldn't believe what was considered a Cliché. Even slang words and I speak slang! Oh well, I will try to "keep it at a minimum."

No pictures today. I do apologize for this, I know a post with no pics can be disappointing. It's been a crazy day, and I am off to the ball park for my sons last ballgame of the season.... until the tournament starts on Saturday, that is. The ballpark seems to be " my second home " these days but "that is just the way the cookie crumbles"! (I am just trying to get them all out...sorry!)

Drum Roll Please....

2009-10-18T23:53:00.022-04:00

Here it is, the chandelier that I have been ranting and raving about. I know it looked ok to begin with, but white and pastels, it just wasn't me. A little splash of paint and wallah...I LOVE LOVE LOVE it!! I can't decide if I want to hang it in Gretta's room or the baby's room or keep it handy for the art fair tent. hummmm...Don't know. The wind was blowing the day of the show and that is why I couldn't get the shades to sit pretty.

I have great plans for holiday tees and pants. The plan is to have a small holiday collection. I will get right on it because it is time to start thinking about the holiday wardrobe. I like to send Gretta to school in different holiday attire every day in the month of December. That sounds crazy when I say it out loud! Oh well, she is in school 3 weeks in Dec. only Mon-Thurs. So, that would be 12 new goodies. I better get started now! Can you believe that we are already talking about the holidays?

Rain Rain Go Away!!!

2009-10-18T21:18:00.022-04:00

Ok, so I have been on Gretta LaRue overload for the last couple of days. I had myself so worked up over the Festival that I had to rest today to get my brain into functioning mode again. It was a yucky day yesterday to put it mildly. Not a drop of rain detected on the radar and yet it was pouring the whole show. There were brave souls that did come out and show the love though. I spent the day in a booth beside my friend Carrie who makes awesome soaps. I left with pumpkin spice, gingerbread, scary spider, and Georgia Bulldogs for Jackson. When she has her website up and running I will give you the link, because you will want to get your hands on some, trust me!!(no pun intended...hands on the soap?)Well... OOOOOK.... then... We had a great time despite the rainy,cold day.

Now that I have had a day of rest, I will start filling orders. As always, a big THANK YOU for supporting Gretta LaRue, and I will have your girly's newest additions to her closet ready in a flash!

I will be doing at least one holiday bazaar this year. I will let you know which one very soon. Hope you all had a great weekend. I promised chandelier pics and they will be on my next post....promise!

When The Cats Away...

2009-10-16T10:24:00.010-04:00

I had to go out last night to an event and you know what they say...when the cat is away, the mice will play! My husband and little ones got busy with a project. He loves to cook and is a GREAT DAD. And you know kids want to make anything that they can mix, stir and play with food coloring. Their pumpkin turned out so cute and they are very proud. It was a most delicious project too! And, you know what they wanted to eat for breakfast...CAKE..and so they did.

I could be ready for tomorrow, but I like to keep doing more, more, more. No, in all actuality I would love to have more, but this year I have been distracted with my last little baby love. Trying to take it all in... all of those firsts. He is such a cuddlier that it is hard to put him down. Now he is mobile and wants to be independent and explore. But I miss the excitement of creating, so I am carving out time to get back on track with Gretta LaRue. I feel the excitement of a new venture again. I guess it will be this way every time that I introduce a new collection. That is what I love about GLD, it is always changing so the newness never wears off. And, I always want you to expect the unexpected!!!

Hope to see you tomorrow!!!

A Great Find

2009-10-15T17:06:00.004-04:00

I love it when a plan comes together. I have been looking for a good way to display all of the Gretta Clippys that I will have this weekend. I found this at our local antique store. It works perfect!

This is one of my favorite pastimes. Scouring thrift, antique, consignment stores looking for a great find. It is time consuming, but I have to say...it is usually worth it.

That is all for now. I have to keep some things under wraps or I will have no surprises this weekend at The Big Show!!! See ya day after tomorrow!

The Countdown

2009-10-13T20:32:00.017-04:00

I have some really cute bibs to share. I will add more styles soon, and will have a couple for the boys too.

GRETTA BIB $12

I have so much to do to get ready for the Fall Festival. Only 3 more days. I am grabbing minutes and hours in between our busy life and caring for 3 small children. Did I mention my 8 month old still will not sleep through the night? Yes, I have been in a fog for all of 2009 due to sleep deprivation, but he is wonderful so I am not complaining. I will have to work in the wee morning hours tonight..off to Disney On Ice this evening.

Oh, and wait until you see the chandelier that I got at my friend Abbye's store Emma'a Attic. I have to go in at least once a week to see the newest treasures. It is a home decor and furniture consignment in the loveliest old home at the Duncan's Creek four way. It is a weakness of mine and it is WAY to close to my house. I have to pass by every time I go out. And she is so nice, she likes to put things out on the porch and the lawn just for my viewing pleasure. HEHE! Anyway, I was looking for one to hang from the art fair tent. It is going to be perfect!! I will post pics soon.

Promises... Promises

2009-10-13T15:14:00.011-04:00

I know that I promised that it would be a week of good posts, but I forgot that it was fall break. I have been busy entertaining my 6 and 4 year olds. With all of the rain yesterday, I thought that we were going to go stir crazy. But, we survived. The sun came out today, making it a beautiful day to play outside. So, I am talking to you from my front porch swing listening to the happy sounds of lots of neighborhood children getting to play before another round of rain. I attempted to put up the outside Halloween decorations, but the spider webs..I just can't get them to look real like my husband does. He is a mean spiderweb puter upper, so I think I will wait on him. I'm sure this is a really meaningful compliment that he will appreciate!! Don't you think??

Here is a little goodie that I made my baby boy for fall pics. I can't wait ...the leaves have started to fall...picture time!!!

Purplicious

2009-10-10T23:37:00.003-04:00

Just look at this little cutie. Only 5 months old and already has a signature color. Her fav color is Purple. Miss Summer is one of my baby boy's best buds. Isn't she a doll!! My mother-in-law crochets these awesome hats for Gretta LaRue. I will have some with me at the Festival on Saturday.

I am diligently working to get all of the samples ready for this weekend. I am sure I will pull a few all nighters this week. If I just weren't such a procrastinator! But, I do work better under pressure. With that said, I better get off of the computer and get to work. I promise this will be a week of good posts with lots of new things to look at!

The Inspiration

2009-10-08T17:29:00.016-04:00

Meet Gretta...my inspiration behind the label. Wow, there are so many ways to describe her. She is freshly 4 years old but is so mature in many ways...a kind of old soul that keeps you intrigued. She is always coming up with the cutest ways to express herself. Of course, I love her girly side too. Her fav color is PINK, she loves her dolls, dress-up and handbags. She is fun, funny, dramatic, adventurous, loves to pick up bugs and is a gymnast in the making. And, yes, she has a blankie. If you are reading my blog in search of the most different, exciting, unimaginable, comfy cozy, ever changing, not anything else out there comparable attire, you too are likely to have a someone special just as I have described. Here's to our girls, may they always feel as special as we know they are!!!!

Photo Bliss

2009-10-05T16:28:00.006-04:00

The Parasol Dress $45

Today I received some photos that made my heart melt. One thing that you may not know about me, is that I have a weakness for photography. To see a cutie like this, wearing Gretta LaRue in a great photo..doesn't get much better than that!! Thanks Anne for sharing your sweet girl with us.

Fall is in the Air

2009-10-01T23:17:00.000-04:00

Fall is my favorite season.. I love the crisp Autumn air. It is also my favorite time to design. I love all of the fall hues and textures. The Seasonal Shorts $34 are a great transition piece, and your little one can wear them year-round!

Sneak Peek

2009-09-29T22:38:00.010-04:00

Bye Bye Birdie Swing Top $38

Ruby Gaucho $34

To purchase items visit www.grettalaruedesigns.etsy.com or leave a comment on this blog with your contact information and I will get back to you. Thanks for looking!!

How It All Began

2009-09-29T00:02:00.000-04:00

One October day, almost two years ago, while walking around our neighborhood Fall Festival, I was stopped by several moms asking about the skirt that my daughter was wearing. I handmade it for my little girl...Gretta. I was asked to duplicate it for their little ones, and in an instant Gretta LaRue Designs was born!!!

I am so excited to offer a Fall Collection this year, as custom clothing has kept me busy in recent months. Most all of our garments are handmade from vintage fabrics and trims. So, quantities will be limited. This means that if you see something that you can't live without..grab it quickly!!!

I will have a website up very soon. You can also come and view the goods at the Reunion Fall Festival on October 17th from 11am-3pm. Yes, this is my second year as an art fair vendor at the very place that IT ALL BEGAN!!!

Thanks for visiting my blog! STAY TUNED..You will not want to miss this!!!!!