Color Of Dawn Creations

A Glowing Good Time!

2012-02-05T23:36:00.001-06:00

We have had a GLOWING good time this weekend! If you had seen our previous post you would know we have discovered fun with glow sticks. And the glow stick fun continued today when we had glow bath time! We found these glow sticks at the local Dollar Tree Store. Super inexpensive, SUPER cool fun!

The Rileyman thought it was awesome lighting up the bath bubbles.

And for our next glowy project, we made this:

Thanks to a volcano kit from Grampa-Dude and Gramma Roses.

THANK YOU!

This took pretty much all day to construct which was fine because it was so drizzly and wet outside. So it was a "pajama day" for us. And apparently a non-hair combing day........

And a mis-matched sock day but I digress.......

After the plaster was on we had to wait for it to dry.

And then paint it and then wait for THAT to dry.

And FINALLY it was time to erupt our volcano!

HOT LAVA! HOT LAVA!

We erupted it so many times it was just spitting out clear-ish bubbles but it was SO fun and super cool.

This is what was going on during all that volcano construction waiting time. The Rileyman discovered my giant sketch pads and went to town drawing pictures on a large scale.

He also tested to see if he could lure in birds with a bowl of peanut butter and bird seed.

And he did.

Hope yall had a great weekend!

~Amber D. McNabb

Soda Bottle Night Lights-kid craft

2012-02-04T14:50:00.000-06:00

To make soda bottle night lights, all you need are some clear bottles filled water, food coloring and some party glow sticks. We used the glow necklaces for this project. They have tons of these glow things at our Dollar Tree store.

You can use just clear water but for us it was fun to add some drops of color and REALLY cool watching the color slowly drop to the bottom!

Then just activate your glow sticks and drop them in!

This was a very cool, very easy, very inexpensive project and the Rileyman was very much excited to have some cool night lights in his room.

~Amber D. McNabb

Platypus Nutcracker!

2012-01-29T02:20:00.002-06:00

It's official. Christmas in the McNabb house has finally been taken down and somewhat put away. Meaning it's still in the house, just in boxes ready to go out to the shed. I am never in an all fired hurry to put away the Christmas.

The photo above shows the ornaments that I made last year. A Christmas Story is my all time favorite holiday movie. Not only does it remind me of the few childhood Christmases I spent in the great white north, it has helped me to curse in a non cursing way. It's always comical to holler "hosticklfifer!" or call that one person deserving of an ugly word, "YOU platypus nutcracker!" And of course there is he very famous "OH FUDGE".

The Color Of Dawn Creations store is still closed. There hasn't been a lot of crafting or creating going on. Unless you count photography. I have been taking quite a few photos out on the McNabb farm this winter. It is so pretty and peaceful out there.

Perfect for relaxing and enjoying a good campfire with giant marshmallows.

I mean REALLY enjoying those marshmallows!

The doc promises our playing out on the farm in winter temperatures did not cause this scene with the Rileyman fighting cooties once again with Spiderman ice packs and routine temp. checks.

I can only hope that when he rests, he is dreaming of wandering around that farm exploring with his side kick Lola Roo and battling anything that comes their way in the "spooky forests" while wielding swords in battle.

This is my most FAVORITE winter scene so far!

Chaaaaaaaaarge!!!!

I have some ideas floating around in my head to get back on track with my Art For Haiti. And I can't wait to play with my new Wood Burning and Hobby Kit that I got for Christmas!

~Amber D. McNabb

Good Bye Elf On A Shelf

2011-12-26T12:08:00.003-06:00

We had so much fun with our Elf, Chippy, this year. If you have little ones, I highly recommend requesting an Elf on a Shelf for next year. They are really good Santa helpers and add to the excitement of Christmas. Our Elf is gone now and we will sure be looking forward to seeing him next year!

Party!

Just a little note.

Gone Fishin'!

Hangin' Around.

"Look Mommy, Chippy is baby Cheesus!"

I'm a genie in a bottle baybeh.....

Mmmm-k this might be a little wrong.

Chippy, this is breaking and entering...and your sleigh is pulled by reindogs?

Cookies and milk with a Christmas bobble frog.

Ready for Santa.

Good bye Chippy.

See you next year.

Happy Holidays~Amber D. McNabb

Is it Business or is it Personal?

2011-12-08T06:21:00.010-06:00

"Whatever else anything is, it ought to begin by being
personal." ~Kathleen Kelly in the movie You've Got
Mail.

On that note I will begin by sharing with you that this
holiday season isn't quite so bright for the McNabb
family. We suffered a tremendous loss in the beginning
of October. My father in law has left us and gone to
Heaven. Our hearts are heavy and it still doesn't seem
real. The newness of it leaves us continuing to suffer
from the shock of realizing he is gone. I suppose that
will continue until we get used to the "new normal" of
him not being in our daily lives. Until we've
experienced all the firsts of life's events without him.
The first Halloween, the first Thanksgiving, and in a
few short weeks, the first Christmas without Wade
McNabb.

I know time is supposed to heal, but a loss such as this, of someone so wonderful, so giving and so very much loved is sure to leave a scar on the hearts who cherished him so. For now, it hurts so much. Like the ability to breathe fully is gone, like you can't take a deep enough breath to make it feel better. I am so thankful to have been blessed with Wade in my life. A wonderful Father in Law, a perfect Grandfather to my children and a best friend and cherished Father to my husband. We have been truly blessed. If only we had one more day...................

The business side of Color Of Dawn creations is slowing down as the end of the year is upon us. All remaining items have been put on clearance in the Etsy store. Time to regroup and focus on the true meaning of the Christmas season and focus on family.

~Blessings, Amber D. McNabb

Christmas Harvest Craft Show!

2011-11-15T14:36:00.000-06:00

Tis the Season! No more holiday confusion right now, the holidays are upon us! Coming up this Saturday is the Christmas Harvest Craft Show in Gallatin Tennessee. I sure hope to see you there!

The Color Of Dawn Creations table will be full of wood ornaments, wood and gemstone jewelry, art and home decor.

All of the items above are currently available for purchase in the Color Of Dawn Creations Etsy shop.
click here to shop
You can also stay up to date on the daily creations here at Color Of Dawn on facebook.
I am so Thankful to have you here with me and hope to see you Saturday!

~Amber D. McNabb

Gift Shops and Fall Festivals

2011-09-23T09:44:00.001-05:00

A few exciting things are happening around here. It's all about holiday confusion right now. No actually, it's all about handcrafting. It's always about hand crafting. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. Let me show you what I am talking about.

As of yesterday, you can find and purchase my handmade Christmas ornaments in the Scentaments Flowers & Gifts shop in Goodlettsville TN. And while you are there, you can pick up a beautiful floral arrangement, some wonderfully scented handmade soaps and oils, beautiful jewelry made by Jennifer Martin and some home made organic treats for your pup baked with love by Robin. Scentaments is at 601 Main Street, Goodlettsville, Tn. 615-859-6659.

In other holiday news, you can find me and about 40 to 50 more handmade vendors at the Handmade Harvest Fall Festival in Bethpage, Tennessee tomorow. It will be a great day full of arts & crafts, antiques, BBQ, tractors, bluegrass and much more!

Come and visit my booth tomorrow for some handmade jewelry, soaps and Fall decor. Tell me you saw this blog and I will give you a 15% discount! Also, be sure to visit Jennifer Martin at the jDesigns
booth-but before you do, check out her facebook page for info on how to score a free pair of earrings!
For directions and more info about the Handmade Harvest Fall Festival, click HERE to visit the events page on facebook. Hope to see you there!

~Amber D. McNabb

Autumn Memories

2011-09-19T22:41:00.000-05:00

The first official day of Autumn is right around the corner. Matter of fact (checking my handy dandy Mary Engelbreit calendar) it is this Friday! I am SO in the mood for Fall. Trees ablaze with color, festivals, pumpkins, sweaters, soup, good books and blankets. I look forward to it every year. To get you in the mood, I highly recommend that you purchase some of this magic in a bottle and pour some in your simmer pot. OH SWEET AUTUMN HEAVEN. I double dog dare you to try to resist its aromatic power.

And while you are all cozy and enjoying it's sweet, spicy nutmeggy-ness, I invite you to take a stroll through memory lane with these Autumn posts from the past.

How To Rake Leaves 2008

Crafty Punkins 2008

Riley Pumpkin Seed 2010

~Amber D. McNabb

Watch Out! I'm Burnin' Stuff Up!

2011-09-18T21:59:00.000-05:00

In a recent facebook post, I stated that I often have my cart packed and ready before my horse even knows what's going on. For example, I have recently planned out a whole wood burning project with all my wood disks, but I do not own a wood burner. Today I discovered that my horse was actually way ahead the cart! Last Christmas, I really wanted a soldering kit and my sweet hubby bought one for me.

I have yet to use it until today when I found that it can be used for wood burning or "pyrography" if you like to use terms with more awesomeness. And I do. I tried my hand at pyrography today and monogrammed and customized this wood slice with our family names.

Not bad for my first go 'round if I do say so myself. And it looks like, for the first time, my cart and horse are in the proper order...........nevermind the distance between them.

~Amber D. McNabb

Fall Festival and Crazy Haired Kids

2011-09-17T22:46:00.000-05:00

The Rileyman started a new school a few weeks ago and we just L-O-V-E it! They had their Fall Festival this weekend and I set up a craft table in their "Marketplace".

It was the perfect opportunity to clearance out a few items to make room for the new and to share some pumpkin dude smiles with the masses.

I began to notice as the children and families were coming into the marketplace that all the children had crazy colored hair! I'm talking hot pink, green stripes, blue highlights and I began to wonder WHAT in the world kind of school I got our Rileyman into until my new friend Carmella let me know there was a hair painting booth outside. WHEW!

All in all it was a great day and I made some new friends, saw some familiar faces and just got to spend the day in general watching those cute little kiddos walk around with their crazy hair and funny antics. So thankful for this day and our new school family.

~Amber D. McNabb

I Always Feel Like Somebody's Watching Meeeeee

2011-09-16T23:38:00.001-05:00

Do you ever get that weird feeling like you are being watched?

And then that feeling grows and grows like maybe you have more than one pair of eyes watching you?

And that it is, like, very possible that maybe some everyday random objects in your home have come to life ..........

.....like maybe dozens of light bulbs have transformed into little decorative pumpkin dudes and they are all looking at YOU??????

Yeah me too.

~Amber D. McNabb

Divine Intervention and Things That Make Ya Go Hmmmmm

2011-09-15T22:23:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel like certain things are specifically and purposefully placed in your "path". You know, those things that make you stop and say "WHOA, I SO needed that you have NO idea!" and makes you wonder if it's coincidence, divine intervention, and just things that make ya go hmmmmmm in general? That very thing happened to me today in the form of a little card that was staring me right in the face and it read:

The transforming Power of God now frees me from every limitation. The wisdom, power, and love of God now guide me to the fulfillment of my dreams.

Whoa. I SO needed that!

~Amber D. McNabb

My Body Guard Can't Keep Up

2011-09-14T21:52:00.000-05:00

I have a personal body guard in charge of security while I'm here working at home. She will all but come through the front glass door should you knock on it and I can't believe she hasn't busted through it yet. She loves me and wants to keep me safe. I got in trouble today because she could not keep up with me as I was going in and out the back door working on my crafts.

"Uh HELLO......let me out please?"

"Eh-hem HOW am I supposed to protect you if I am out here and you are in there?"

~Amber D. McNabb

New ART! And Tips on How to Sell Art at Craft Shows,Gift Shops and Galleries

2011-09-13T09:41:00.001-05:00

I have recently been adding wood slices to my art canvases. These slices of cedar have the most beautiful deep burgundy markings and patterns inside them and they are a work of art all on their own.

I coated each piece of wood with a glass like finish to make their natural beauty shine.

I read in The Crafts Report magazine recently that when you are making art pieces to take to shows, gift shops and galleries, you should consider creating several small pieces that can be sold separately or all together as one stunning show piece.

This makes it easier for you as an artist pack for shows, display, and ship through the mail. It also gives the customer a chance to buy one piece or several depending on their budget which is very important to consider, especially in today's economy.

I created these pieces that look great on their own or all together.

One of the things I love about my new art is that each piece is edged with the Fruit of the Spirit.

I am having a great time combing through magazines and such to gather ideas for color combinations. Better Homes & Gardens Magazine always has the most wonderful tips and ideas for seasonal colors!

~Amber D. McNabb

Make Your Own Hang Tags Tutorial

2011-09-12T13:26:00.002-05:00

I am sending a few things off to be sold at Fabulous Me Boutique and Gifts in the Cumberland Gap, TN and I have a few craft shows coming. up. My items were in need of hang tags. Keeping with my vow to use what I have on hand to keep costs down, I found a whole package of Avery printable return address labels that I had bought at least a year ago and never used. I went online to Avery.com and created some labels with my store logo and information and printed them off. It was really easy.

I wanted my labels to have some pretty backing so I stuck them on a sheet of decorative scrapbook paper.

Then I cut each label out with scissors. Now I am sure there is probably a much easier and faster process for this but I do not own any fancy machines like Cricut and such and this is about as "new school" as I get. It actually went fairly quickly because the labels guided my scissors along for easy trimming. And Voilà! I have some pretty hang tags with all my information in them.

I even made some winter themed ones for my Christmas Ornaments.

I found some invisible thread in my sewing box so I strung the labels on the thread like so with a sewing needle.

And here you have it! A hand made hang tag!

It really was extremely easy, quick, and cost effective.

Now I am off to make some business cards!

~Amber D. McNabb

Let's have a GIVEAWAY!

2011-09-01T14:33:00.004-05:00

There are a few changes happening here at Color Of Dawn Creations as I begin to focus on making creations that use my most favorite of supplies~ things found in nature. Wood and gemstones are the focus going forward. Wood cut right here in Tennessee and made into ornaments, jewelry and home decor. Natural gemstones and pearls are another passion of mine and you will find them paired up with wood jewelry and by themselves.

Halloween and Christmas ornaments are currently filling up my workspace.

In order to celebrate new beginnings I will be giving away this lovely new necklace on pine from the new Color Of Dawn Creations "Birds Collection". It hangs from a unique silver owl bail.

I believe in keeping things simple. If you would like to enter this giveaway all you will need to do is comment below or make a comment on the Giveaway Post(s) on the Color Of Dawn Creations FACEBOOK page. You have until 8am Central Monday morning (Sept 5) to enter when a cute little boy with blond curls (aka The Rileyman) will pull a lucky winner from a hat. See? Simple. Or as the Rileyman would say,

"Easy breezy lemon squeezy".

Good luck!

*****************************************

And the Winner is ERIN REA! Congratulations ERIN!

******************************************

A Moment for YourSELF~Find Your Edge

2011-08-21T11:27:00.001-05:00

"No one who has achieved greatness got there by following an easy path laid out by others. She did it by creating her own vision and striving to achieve, then surpass it. Now that the lazy days of summer are behind you, it's time to renew your focus. Think about what you want to accomplish, set a goal, and taker a step toward it every day. You are standing on the brink of something spectacular." ~SELF Magazine (Sept. 2011 issue)

If you do not have the Sept 2011 issue of SELF magazine and you are looking for some positive inspiration, I HIGHLY recommend getting to the nearest market and purchasing it. It is full of thought provoking questions about where you are in your life, what you have achieved, and where to go from here with specific goals in mind. As I read, I began to think about where I am ~ I am currently at one of those big "change of life" crossroads with a child "all growed up" and off to college to begin a new chapter of his own.

I realize for the first time, with a great feeling of accomplishment, that I have achieved one of my greatest goals; to do everything in my power to give this child all that he needs to be able to thrive in this world when he sets off on his own. Of course I share this accomplishment with my husband and our wonderfully supportive families. My job is by far not over but the goals have taken slight turns and there are new ones as I take a step back and allow him fulfill his own. I will always be here for this beautiful and amazing fella when he calls home from college, gets that first job, finds a wife, brings home my grand-babies..........

Devyn McNabb, Carson Newman College

Science Major/ Member of the Carson Newman Eagles Football Team

Let's not get too far ahead. We have plenty of time for marriage and grand-babies!

Getting back to positive inspiration and goal setting, as the above quote says, it is time to renew my focus. Maybe set a few personal goals. I have my pen and paper ready.

Dear Color Of Dawn Creations,

I believe we are "standing on the brink of something spectacular".

Have a very blessed Sunday.

~Amber D. McNabb

My Babies Have Graduated!

2011-06-21T15:01:00.000-05:00

A lot sure has gone on since my last post in April. As a matter of fact, life got downright hectic there for a while. Pictured above are my two beautifully handsome and gorgeous sons who both celebrated a graduation. Devyn graduated high school and Riley aka the Rileyman graduated Kindergarten. The hubby and I couldn't be more proud. (But I've said that before~gosh we are blessed!)

I have gotten terribly behind in my monthly Art For Haiti . I will be posting April, May and June shortly but in the meantime, March's Art for Haiti original is still for sale. 100% of the purchase price of this piece goes to Lifeline Christian Mission to benefit the children and their families in Haiti. Click the Art for Haiti link above for more information and to make a purchase.

Art still happened in the month of May from creating graduation invitations to capturing the moment type photography and also in the form of a mural. It has been a while since I have been commissioned to paint a mural in someone's home but this one turned out beautifully.

If you live in the Nashville TN area and are interested in commissioning a Wall Mural please contact me at colorofdawncreations@gmail.com

And now please excuse me while I go catch up on my Art For Haiti.

~Amber D. McNabb

50% off Sale Easter Weekend!

2011-04-23T16:52:00.000-05:00

Now until Midnight CST Easter Sunday, get 50% off everything in the store at Color Of Dawn Creations on Etsy. Just use coupon code EASTERSALE at check out. So stop by and order a portrait for Mother's Day, purchase some Art For Haiti, Shining Hope Soap and some inspirational Jewelry.

Custom Portrait by Hand from Photo 8x10 Single

Art For Haiti "Keep Me" by Amber D. McNabb

2 Pack Soap Samplers~Cucumber Melon

Mini Domino Pendants

Amber D. McNabb

Craft shows, Portraits, Nature Soup and Bass Fishin.

2011-04-19T10:46:00.000-05:00

A lot going on behind the scenes over here. All of which deserve their own post but here is a "sneak peak". Shown above is my craft show booth at the flea market held in an old Train Depot Building in Gallatin TN.

Below is a snippet of a color portrait by hand that I finished of a sweet little red haired boy named Gavin. He is the little brother of a sweet little boy name Adler that I created a portrait of a couple years ago.

And keeping with my stay at home Mommy duties I have also been making helicopter seed, grass noodle soup flavored with yard onions with the Rileyman. It's a dirty job but such is the life of raising boys who like bugs and nature. And I LOVE it.

The latest "behind the scenes" goings on has to do with a Bass fishing tournament club that my hubby talked me into joining with him. He has been part of the club for several years but they are trying to get women to join. Ms. Regina, Lela and I are the first of the brave ones. And when I say brave, I mean brave. This last tournament was held in weather conditions that has traumatized me for life ~which will be described in full detail in a separate blog post. I might need counseling. But new friends have been made and I see good times (and good weather) ahead. Shown blow in all his awesomeness is my father in law, Wade McNabb, winner of the last tournament. Treacherous weather and all.

Amber D. McNabb

Treasure Ye Chest!

2011-03-30T08:56:00.000-05:00

The awesomeness of Kelly Delaney recently graced my store with a few purchases. She so happened to mention that she is organizing a Pink Pirate Party Fundraising Event for the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for a Cure. Her team is cleverly named Hooters-R-Us. I LOVE IT! She will be walking 60 miles over 3 days in honor of her Great Grandmother, who is a 3 time breast cancer survivor.

This "rare and valuable swag" (see flyer below) was added to Kelly's package of store purchases. Breast cancer is a beast that has found its way into the lives of some of my closest family and friends. So Grammy, "Auntie" Jan, Linda, Jenniffer, and Melinda....I do this in honor of you.

(This ornament can be purchased at Color Of Dawn Creations on Etsy)

Good luck with your Pirate Party and raffle Kelly! I hope it ROCKS! ~Amber

Amber D. McNabb

Cottage Rose Decor on Gallatin Square

2011-03-26T12:20:00.000-05:00

Beautiful Spring weather makes me want to get out and walk around in the fresh air and explore. The Gallatin Square has turned into a great place to do just that. It has come to life with little cafes and eateries, coffee shops, bakeries and gift shops. It is absolutely bursting into a friendly little community of small business owners.

I was extremely excited to find this little shop that recently opened called Cottage Rose Decor owned by Denise Luttrell. It is off the square, just a tad, next door to Corlew's Appliances. You can't miss is it. It is the cutest little dream of a shop with gorgeous window displays that beckon you to come in and look around.

Inside you will find Shabby Chic meets French Country meets Cottage chic .....with a Vintage/Victorian flair .....all designed by Denise. She began her business dream with a love for collecting vintage jewelry and gloves, beautiful lace, and giving old furniture new life. She loves repurposing old treasures into something new and beautiful. Her designs are one of a kind and she even takes custom requests. Just look for yourself, her shop is full of everything you could want or need to beautifully decorate your home or find that perfect little gift.

Not sure what to buy for that special someone? Cottage Rose Decor offers gift cards!

So please stop by Cottage Rose Decor and pay Ms. Denise a visit. You will be so glad you did!

And tell her Amber sent ya.

You can also find her on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cottage-Rose-Decor/163363503691464

And browse her online Etsy Store:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/cottagerosedecor

Cottage Rose Decor

123 South Water Street

Gallatin, TN 37066

615-451-3887

Store hours:

Monday:closed

Tuesday: 10:30 to 5:00

Wednesday: 10:30 to 5:00

Thursday: 10:30 to 5:00

Friday: 10:30 to 6:00

Saturday: 10:30 to 5:00

Sunday: 12:00 to 4:00

Amber D. McNabb

My Hubby Does "Crafty Stuff" Too!

2011-03-25T13:03:00.000-05:00

Huh? What's going on here? Honey? Are you.....CRAFTING?!!!

"No I am NOT crafting, I am making fishing lures"

That looks like CRAFTING to me. You are creating something and even painting....you are SO crafting.

"I am NOT crafting"

Yes you are.

Above is the finished product of what is now dubbed "Mike's Lures". You see, we are an outdoorsy type family and we love our fishing.

And we love our fish.

And speaking of fish, I spent the weekend at Dad's last week and packed all my paints and paint brushes and left all my canvases at home. I was really crushed......until Dad put a piece of driftwood in front of me and requested a northern pike. He loves it.

And I love painting on driftwood and things found in nature. I now have a pile of "natural canvases" ready for some color.

Amber D. McNabb

Where Did That Vegetable Stand Guy Go?

2011-03-24T10:29:00.000-05:00

Dear Gallatin neighbors, and friends passin' through, have you been wondering what happened to that fella with the roadside stand of fresh veggies? You know, the one with all the farm fresh fruits and veggies just bursting with color on the side of the road "where the old Walmart.......and Goody's used to be"? Well, let me tell you, he's still there and he didn't go far. Just turn on into that same parking lot and he is right next door to Burke's outlet. (that replaced Goody's) You know, Tractor Supply is on one side, he's on the other.

(typical country directions, yes?)

Don' Farm Fresh Produce at 694 Nashville Pike in Gallatin TN is still bursting with all those wonderful and flavorful fruits and veggies....and then some. This fella is a busy man these days supplying fresh produce to local places such as The Whippoorwill and Grecians on the Square, Lenny's Sub Shop, American Legion, Top Hog BBQ on Blythe and the Elk's Club.

Just look at these yummy squash, tomatoes, peaches and strawberries and tell me your mouth is not watering.

Don has plenty of room in his store to provide you with all your hearts desire of farm fresh goodness such as tomatoes, cabbage, turnips, potatoes of all kinds, peppers, cucumbers, squash, beans, onions, apples, grapefruits, oranges, lemons, limes, strawberries and more. You can even find some painted gourds and such from local crafters.

One of Don's biggest sellers right now is the local honey. Jarred straight from the hive, it's about as fresh as you can get. If you purchase honey today, it may very well have been collected and jarred only a few hours before purchase. Fresh, raw, PURE & LOCAL honey works absolute wonders for those with allergies. Take a teaspoon in the morning and a teaspoon at night and within 7 days you just might be cured of your allergy woes. I bought some. Let me tell you, not only does it work, it is absolutely delicious.

Also available are home made jams and jellies, apple butter, apple cider vinegar, marinated asparagus, and pepper sauces.

In the fridge you will find eggs, (I checked these out and they are looooovely) hand rolled butter, country ham and the freshest of milk straight from a farm in Kentucky. And look! They even have chocolate cows! Ok no not really but where else will you find farm fresh CHOCOLATE milk made with real chocolate?

You can also get some hot boiled peanuts.

I have never tried these but I hear they are "all the rave".

Fresh baked bread. Hurry though, this stuff goes quick.

You can also browse an assortment of organic teas and holistic skin care products from

Anya's European Choice Holistic Health & Beauty.

On your way out be sure to pick up some kitchen cutlery and supplies.

So be sure to give Don Davis a visit and pick up some fresh produce.

current store hours:

Mon-Sat 8-5:30

615-451-9328 or 615-888-6486

Tell him Amber sent ya!

This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Amber D. McNabb

Short and Sweet

2011-03-23T22:07:00.000-05:00

I had wanted to complete March's art for Haiti today, but it is still very much a work in progress. This one is taking a bit more time because it happens to be a painting of one of the sweetest little Haitian faces under a red sunbonnet that I have ever seen .......so it requires a bit more of a gentle touch.

And that concludes tonights' short and sweet post about a painting of a short and sweet little girl.

Blessings.

Amber D. McNabb

Spring one, Spring two and Spring three

2011-03-22T08:48:00.000-05:00

We have had some absolutely beautiful weather here in Tennessee for the first days of Spring. I drove to our local park yesterday and saw this beautiful tree all bloomed out and just had to snap some photos. I didn't have my camera with me but my cell phone was happy to do the job. Amazing the photos these tiny gadgets will take. This one turned out so well I had to take two more. I call them Spring one and Spring two and Spring three. (In honor of Dr. Seuss)

All this Springy-ness makes me feel like I am blooming to life too-with a little Spring in my step. Pun intended.

Join me tomorrow to see March's Art for Haiti.

Have a lovely Tuesday!

Amber D. McNabb

Enter to Win!

2011-03-15T01:58:00.000-05:00

Ms. Jan of the Jewelry4Change Blog posted a lovely review about me and Color Of Dawn Creations! You should pop in over there and check it out. While you are there, you can -> enter to win <- this lovely necklace. The contest ends on March 23 so get yourself on over there now ya hear?

Thank you Ms. Jan!

~Amber D. McNabb

Magic Umbrellas

2011-03-11T08:14:00.001-06:00

No, it is not raining. What you see here is a great day to catch some wind. The Rileyman patiently waits for that next gust of wind and ....

WHOOOOOAAAA!

WOOOOOHOOOOO!!!!!

YIIIPEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!

You really should try this. It's Awesome fun.

Speaking of wind :

VANILLA BREEZE SOY TART MELTS

from Color Of Dawn Creations

And did someone say "rain"?

CITRUS SAGE & RAIN SOY TART MELTS

from Color Of Dawn Creations

Happy Friday!

~Amber D. McNabb

The Story Of P. Draggy-Puffy's Cousin

2011-03-08T14:05:00.000-06:00

Once upon a time there was a blue dragon.

(Rileyman: "WAIT...Mommy we should make our dragon look more scary-er"

Mommy: "No I like how our dragon is kinda friendly and cute"

Rileyman: "Oh so he is Puff the Magic Dragon?"

Mommy: "Nah. More like Puffy's cousin.....P. Draggy"

Rileyman "Oh...cool")

continuing on........

P. Draggy likes to fly around snacking on red flowers.

And for dessert he enjoys the sweet fruit of a sparkle tree.

All this eating makes him quite thirsty so he goes home to sip on his dish of water from the pink river.

P. Draggy is feeling tired now so he begins to fluff up his nest for a nice nap.

Nighty night P. Draggy.

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

By,

Amber D. McNabb

The Rileyman

To Love What You Do And Feel That It Matters

2011-03-06T15:04:00.000-06:00

"To love what you do and feel that it matters-how could anything be more fun?"
~Katherine Graham.

Today's post features my fellow Etsy artists and crafters that do what they love and use it to make a change in this world by giving all or portions of their proceeds to benefit those in need. Please take a moment to browse these charitable creations.

ANGELS - Star Struck - Glass Button and Brass Goddess Reversible Necklace Set

by, MorningGloryDesigns

100% of proceeds from the “Angels in the Parlour” section of this shop is used to buy supplies for jewelry making classes for cancer patients. No patient is ever asked to pay any dues or fees.

Swarovski Crystal Earrings, Dangling Fire Opal

by, Jewelry4Change

Jewelry4Change donates 40% of proceeds from jewelry sales to Africa Water and Life (http://www.africawaterandlife.com/)

Hope Makes One Live (Print)

by, OnBehalfOf

100% of proceeds from this beautiful art print will go to support World Vision's Relief efforts in Haiti via

A Beautiful Idea http://www.beautifulidea.us/ .

Terry Towel Half Apron

on RadicalCrafts

RadicalCrafts offers donated item by fellow crafters that are sold to benefit those in need. Through April 2011, 100% of the sales from this shop will go to E3 Kids International, an organization helping orphans receive an education in Africa. http://www.e3kids.com/ .

The Etsy community is packed full of artists and crafters using their talents to help those need. It is so wonderful to be part of this giving community!

....for my heart rejoiced in all my labour...

Ecclesiastes 2:10

~Amber D. McNabb

For The Love of All God's Children

2011-03-05T10:24:00.000-06:00

I would like to introduce you to two wonderful people, my cousins, Josh and Melissa Essman. They write, "We have been given the opportunity to be a part of the amazing work that our Lord is doing in Romania. God has called us to Bucharest,Romania to serve as full-time missionaries to the orphans and abandoned children. We will be serving in the abandoned baby ward of a large children's hospital in Bucharest. It is crucial for infants and toddlers to receive physical touch from a loving adult. Providing this touch and encouraging the development of fine and gross motor skills will be one of our goals when working with these children. We will also focus on older children and teens growing up in the state orphanage system. By being a positive adult role model in their lives, we hope to impart valuable life lessons and point them towards their loving Savior." They have committed to serving with H2H International for a two year term and are currently raising the funds it takes to get them to Romania in addition to monthly parnerships.

Color Of Dawn Creations is now offering scented soy wax tart melts to help fund Josh and Melissa's journey. 25% of all sales wil be sent monthly to Heart to Heart International Ministries on their behalf. To see all available soy tart melts and make a purchase go to Color Of Dawn Creations on Etsy by clicking HERE.

You can also send a tax deductible gift on behalf of Josh and Melissa Essman by calling toll free:

1-877-590-4051

Or send checks payable to H2H International to:

Heart to Heart International Ministries

P.O Box 1832

Ramona, CA 92065

http://www.heart2heartint.org/

Blessings

~Amber D. McNabb

Candle Campfires and Earthy Soaps

2011-02-18T12:48:00.001-06:00

As Spring draws nearer and nearer, we are getting that urge for campfires. Weenie roasts followed by marshamallow roasts with s'mores to be exact. In the blustery cold of winter, we have discovered how to bring this sort of activity indoors. Well, at least the marshmallow roasting. Ladies and gentlemen, the Rileyman and I bring you the candle campfire with mini marshmallows on a skewer.

As a note of safety, it is best to soak your skewers in water beforehand and and have bowls of water and a large wet towel nearby.

Candle campfire marshmallows catch fire just like the big ones and somehow more easily.

But they are still delicious just the same!!!!

On another note: there is a new listing for Shining Hope Soap for Haiti in the Etsy Shop today.

This is a generous helping of luxurious hand-milled soap with nourishng olive and sweet almond oils that attract moisture to the skin. Blueberry seeds have been added for gentle exfoliation. This soap will leave your skin feeling so soft and supple! With a fresh citrus scent and earthy hints of sage, it is a hit with the ladies, men and kiddos. An all around family choice of soaps. Each bar is approx 4.5oz.

Click HERE to purchase at the Color Of Dawn Creations Etsy Shop.

Happy Friday!!!!!

~Amber D. McNabb

Spring Sneak Peek

2011-02-17T10:59:00.000-06:00

Last week we had a winter snow storm that closed schools for two and a half days with below freezing temperatures. This week it is beautiful with sunshine and has hit 70+ degrees. As they say, "If you don't like the weather in TN-stick around a few days and it'll change". This week certainly has my Spring fever in full swing! I've got some flower seeds planted in the windowsill and my daydreams of vegetable and butterfly gardens are taking over. You can see hints of Spring in my new collection of resin coated wood pendants in cedar and pine. Here they are, dipped in resin and hanging out to dry. I just love how the resin brings out the deep burgundy in the cedar pendants. My father and I hunted down these pieces of wood on his farm and cut them together in his wood shop so they are pretty special to me.

I know this week is just a teaser of the Spring to come and we are more likely to have a few more spells of winter weather. But I sure am thankful for this sneak peek. It does my heart and soul good.

~Amber D. McNabb

"Lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone." Song of Solomon 2:11

Productivity For A Brighter Future

2011-02-16T10:49:00.000-06:00

The snow is finally gone, the kids are back to school and productivity at Color Of Dawn Creations has gone up a notch. New in the shop is a listing for custom hand carved monogrammed soap. Shown below is a custom request for the letter "M" monogrammed onto goats milk soap in lavender and accented in gold. I have a newfound love for hand carving soaps. And since they are offered in goats milk, shea butter or olive oil, my hands stay nice and soft and pleasingly fragrant. You can place a custom order in your choice of color, fragrance and wonderfully moisturizing type by clicking HERE.

Don't forget that 10% of all soap orders is donated to Lifeline Christian Mission for Haiti.

Aso new is the Matilde photo tote. You can display up to five photos of your fondest memories of Haiti on one side and enjoy an Art For Haiti print of Matilde© by Amber. D. McNabb on the other. Available in your choice of teal or black. Just send an email request to:

colorofdawncreations@gmail.com

$20.00 ( plus shipping) 13"L x 3"W x 13.75"H

10% of this purchase also goes to Lifeline Christian Mission for Haiti.

I have been asked quite a bit lately, "why do you do this?" For the most part my answer is that giving and helping others is just in my nature and my passion. I am a firm believer that no matter your circumstance in life, you are always in a position to help others. And it just makes God happy. Right? I read this recently in my daily guidepost and wanted to share. These are words, a prayer, I try live by daily:

"Lord, don't let bitterness about the past keep me from bringing a brighter future to someone else"

~J. Sundquist

Blessings.

~Amber D. McNabb

Snow Day Fun!-(kid craft idea)

2011-02-09T10:10:00.001-06:00

Every winter, kids and adults everywhere get all crazy excited about the first snow, rushing out for those snowball fights, making snow angels, snowmen and sledding. But there comes a time when being outside in the freezing cold isn't exactly all that fun any more, you've been whopped in the face a few too many times with a snowball, the novelty of laughing at the kids bundled up so warm that they can't put their arms down .......wait...no that part never gets old but I digress.....there comes a time when you just want to be inside where it's warm. So why not bring the snow inside?

We scooped up a bucket of snow and used the top of a large Rubbermaid container for a work table because it keeps all the melting snow from going everywhere. Playing with snow like this is much like playing with sand making sandcastles so any kind of cups and containers work well for making snow packed creations.

You can use lots of things like pipe cleaners and colorful buttons and such for decorations.

Don't forget to take lots of sweet pictures for your scrap books and photo albums!

Huh? wait no....this is wrong......this is terribly wrong.

BOYS!

(The best part is that you can keep your creations in the freezer like so....)

Make the most of your snow days! We sure seem to be having a LOT of them this year.

~Amber D. McNabb

2011 Off To A Fabulous Start!

2011-02-05T14:33:00.000-06:00

Between snow days with the kids, sick days with the Rileyman, visiting colleges and applying for scholarships with Devyn, getting Shining Hope Soap made and up for sale and all that comes with trying to have an at home business (such as dodging the Nerf bullets that are flying through the air while mixing up batches of soap) this year has been a whirlwind so far. But good stuff and blessings all around. First of all, Shining Hope Soap is beginning to take off. In just three weeks, soap sales totalled $87.50 for the month-of which 10% goes to Lifeline Christian Mission for Haiti. Click HERE to visit the Etsy shop and make a purchase. You can also email a purchase request to colorofdawncreations@gmail.com

January's Art for Haiti was completed. The painting was inspired by a photo that my Aunt Linda had taken while on a Mission trip to Haiti of a young man reading his little Bible. When I saw it, several scriptures came to mind but the most fitting I decided for this painting would be

Psalms 119:105

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path."

100% of the purchase price of this painting goes to Lifeline Christian Mission for Haiti.

Click HERE to purchase this painting or send an email request to colorofdawncreations@gmail.com

A check was mailed out to Lifeline Christian Mission to support the children and their families devastated by the earthquake in January 2010.

And just this week, our pride and joy, Devyn McNabb, signed with Carson Newman College. This is a very exciting time and we are feeling the blessings let me tell you! Devyn made a special request for us to pull the Rileyman out of kindergarten so he could be present during the signing. The Rileyman just so happens to be his biggest little fan. Notice my giant smile. And that handsome fella on the other side......we are some very VERY proud parents.

~Amber D. McNabb

Positively Crafting

2011-01-24T10:57:00.000-06:00

On the Michaels facebook page this morning, they ask, "Michaels Fans, we're keeping you accountable. It's almost the end of the month, have you stuck with your New Years crafting resolutions?". Well I am happy to announce that YES! I have kept my crafting resolutions to make and create all things that bring goodness, love and joy. All things with positivity is my resolution this year. Over the weekend I added several things to my Etsy shop including:

Expressions of Love pendants

Daily Reminder Rings

And more additions to my Christian/Inspirational Items.

Also new in the shop is a section for Shining Hope Soap. A variety of soaps that I am making to benefit Haiti through the Lifeline Christian Mission. <---click here and you can see that the items from Color Of Dawn Creations have been added to the Lifeline website in the "Lifeline Products" section. Something for which I feel so excited, proud, and blessed. The soaps are now ready to ship so be sure to oder today.

Valentine Gift Sets are being added just in time for the season of looooooove.

~Amber D. McNabb

A Rarely Seen Creature And Spiderman

2011-01-11T22:32:00.000-06:00

Tonight a rarely seen creature resembling a pre-college teenage boy came out from the back of the house, regularly filled with non stop sounds of online Wii gaming, and exclaimed to me that he would like to cook whatever I had planned for supper because he probably needs to learn how to cook........................
.................................Oh excuse me. I just fell out of my chair. Again.

I managed to somewhat capture a photo of what this creature looks like.

As I gave my basic instructions and let the creature go about working his cullinary talents I glanced into the livingroom and noticed that the Rileyman was extremely busy building a spiderweb with string on the sofa.

Another glance and my Lola Roo who is normally my shadow was curled up resting in the fetal position. Probably to keep from being tied up with string but lets move on.......

I decided this would be the perfect time to work on my Shining Hope Soap for Haiti. You can read more about my soaps if you click HERE or click on one of the nifty new page links at the top of my blog. The soaps shown below are made with scents of Apple Pie, Linen and Sweet Pea, Honeydew Melon and, the looks and smells good enough to eat, Vanilla Latte.

But quite honestly I was too fascinated by the creature that appeared from the back of the house to get much of anything done in the way of craftiness and such.

And he did a great job. Here he is bubbling with joy over his accomplishment. This hand in front of the face gesture is sign language for "I am so SO happy that you want to take my picture".

Plus there were other distractions like the tangled mess that Spiderman found himself in with his spiderweb and I was summoned from the cullinary show to be of some assistance.

Aaaaah yes. This is much better.

Teehee.

~Amber D. McNabb

How My Dog Pulled My First Tooth

2010-12-30T15:42:00.001-06:00

By Riley McNabb

On December 29th, I woke up with a loose tooth. My very first loose tooth! I wiggled it and wiggled it and by the next day I was ready for it to come out. It was so wiggly that I couldn't sleep! So I tied a string to my little loose tooth.

Then I got a Scooby Snack (that's what we call doggy treats) and called my dog, Lola Roo, to give me some help with my wiggly tooth.

She saw the Scooby Snack and was happy to be of assistance. So I tied the other end of the string to her doggy collar.

And then I stood really still with my chin up and closed my eyes while my Mommy threw the Scooby Snack. Lola went charging after it and pulled my little tooth right out!!! I couldn't believe it worked!!!

But it really did work! LOOK! My tooth is gone!!

And if you look closely you will see it is still tied to the string. (in my hand)

Lola Roo is the GREATEST dog EVER!

And that is the story of how my dog pulled my very first tooth on December 30, 2010.

~Riley McNabb (guest blogger of the day)

Lets Build A Fireplace For Santa!

2010-12-24T00:43:00.001-06:00

Are you one of the millions of households without a fireplace? Do you have to answer every year how Santa will get in the house if you don't have a fireplace? Well then just do what we did and make one! Here we have an ordinary cheapo book case turned backward exposing that oh so lovely and attractive cardboard backing. Let's fix that shall we? Go grab up some black acrylic paints and get to work.

Or put that kid to work, after all, the kid is the one that keeps asking how Santa will get in the house right?

Now if you have lots of random stuff laying around like me, you will have some left over stone patterned wallpaper. If you don't, just get some construction paper and cut it into brick shapes and glue them on like so.

Next you have to build your fire. We used an old metal basket and filled it with partially burned wood from our outside fire pit and cut up some yellow and orange foam paper. How awesome is THIS?!

Now you must decorate your mantle and of course hang your stockings by the fire. Just not too close. No one likes their stockings on fire.

And voilà!!! Now you have a fireplace and Santa will have somewhere to enter the house each year with lots of toys for the little ones Christmas joys!

Stay tuned for our next project. We will have to make some pretend marshmallows and sticks because roasting cheesy poofs by the fire is just plain..........HILARIOUS.

Christmas Breaks are AWESOME.

~Amber D. McNabb

This post was featured on the My Repurposed Life Blog!

Custom Personalized Photo Ornaments and Cyber Monday Sales!

2010-11-29T12:17:00.000-06:00

These are my new Etsy Store Listings. Custom Personalized Wooden Photo Ornaments. I am so proud of how they turned out. They are just so pretty. Perfect for baby's 1st Christmas, gifts for the grandparents, newlyweds and couples gifts and keepsakes. You can find them in my shop if you just click HERE. Plus, everything in the store is 15% off until midnight tonight with coupon code: COLORFULSALES2010.

It's Cyber Monday yall! WOOOHOO! Go-Shop-Save!

Also, to add to my excitement, These ormaments have been featured in an Etsy Treasury titled

Cyber Monday Gifts created by JamisyJo on Etsy. If you go to her shop full of lovely handmades you might pick up a treasure such as this Felt Owl Wall Hanging

And boy do we love owls!

Happy Shopping!

~Amber D. McNabb

Lift We Up Our Hearts Oh Lord

2010-11-28T09:52:00.000-06:00

This photo was taken in one of my favorite area's of my father's land. So much a favorite in fact that I named it "Amber's Way" and that name has stuck ever since. SO beautiful. This is a first in something I have wanted to do with my photos. I love quotes and hymns of inspiration. I wanted to share with you on this beautiful Sunday morning.
Blessings to you,
~Amber D McNabb

Constantly Elfing Around

2010-11-27T15:07:00.000-06:00

Holiday crafting is SO on at the house of Color Of Dawn Creations. As I stated in this morning's facebook fan page post, "Working like a busy elf to prepare for "Cyber Monday" ---and from all glistening glitter that is absolutely everywhere, I look as though I have been "having relations" with a magic Christmas fairy."

If you aren't a fan yet, well then click my link on the left of this page and head on over to "like" me. You DO like me DON'T you? Eh-heh..... But as I was saying, I've been elfing around so much today that I am still in my pajamas and have not yet had lunch and it is almost 3 o'clock in the afternoon! It probably doesn't help that my computer is uber-slow which makes it really difficult to upload images to the computer, edit the images and then create listings in my ETSY SHOP. But I must go on! Cyber Monday is almost here and I want to be prepared. Here are a few more things recently uploaded.

Happy Cybershopping!

~Amber D. McNabb

Hoo Hoo Who's There?

2010-11-23T16:39:00.001-06:00

Go to grab a bottle of water at our house and you just may find some hootie owls nesting in there. A few weeks ago my bes'buddy Amy and the Rileyman's bes'buddy Cade came over to do a little crafting.

I had prepared for the perfect Owl Family project that I found on The Frugal Family Fun Blog because Mr. Cade is an Owl enthusiast extraordinaire. In case you were wondering, these cute little guys are made from paper towel and toilet paper rolls cut to size.

Super easy and super cute and super versatile since you can use just about anything to decorate them with. Paint, papers, markers, googlies, feathers...you name it.

All four of us had fun making these cute little guys.

And then Cade and Amy came up with the most wonderful idea for an owl Photo Shoot.

And they perched PERFECTLY on the branches of my forsythia bush!

So perfect in fact that we brought the forsythia bush branches inside for the perfect place to park our owls when they need their rest.

Another fun fun fun day of crafting! And many more to come.

Thank you for visiting!

~Amber D. McNabb

God Sheltered Me From The Storm

2010-11-22T23:26:00.001-06:00

It seems as though my life has been in a wild storm for the last few months and I have been in a losing battle trying to weather it. I sure lost sight of the one thing, the only one that can give me peace. God. The storm came to a gradual halt when, in the middle of a tragedy, I was placed out in the country, by myself for a few days.This was the first time in my life that I have ever been completely by myself, without humans I mean. And in those few days of silence with nature and God, I began to feel peace once again. Even though this critter tried with all her cuteness to steal my delicious and nutritious ravioli lunch. Don't even think about it kitty meow.

This was one critter of many that I was caring for. My best companions during those days of solace were dogs. (God spelled backward....coincidence? I think not) Three of them. Spencer, Teeter and Bailey. And they seemed to know I needed them as much as they needed me. We took care of each other.

Here we are on one of our treks out into the back woods.

Bailey on the left, Spencer on the right.

Spencer on the left, Teeter on the right.

Spencer again. Sshh. He will always be my favorite sweet buddy.

This is where Bailey's little legs gave out. It's driving the four wheeler for him with me for the rest of the way. Specially since we were headed to the top of the hill.

And what a gorgeous view it was. They knew it. Bailey and Spencer sat there taking in the view and seemingly waiting on the sunset. Teeter was off running as usual.

Oh here she is.

Ok ok my turn.

There is little more that quiets the soul than the beauty of nature and woMan's best friend. while out on our nature treks I gathered some of that nature and tried my hand at "flower" arranging.

And before I left, I made some art to leave behind.

The technique was inspired by Laura Kelley of Pitter Patter Art. A beautiful and talented artist. This world would be truly blessed if we all had even half the energy, drive and FAITH of this amazing young lady.

~Amber D. McNabb

Corn Nuggets In My Washing Machine

2010-10-27T19:00:00.000-05:00

I just finished up my little guy's laundry and there are corn nuggets "all up in" my washing machine. Do you think that perhaps THIS had something to do with it?

I have been busy this week making Green & Gold themed lanyards, key chains and stretch rings for Gallatin High School. Here are some of my favorites:

I also managed to make a very cute profile pic from a photo I took of some Fall items for sale. I'm feelin the need to rethink/ remake my Etsy banner. Maybe I will get one of my fellow Etsy sellers to help me out. LOTS of talented and professional custom banners for sale on Etsy. I love it!

Our Very First Kindergarten Field Trip

2010-10-21T22:00:00.000-05:00

Let me begin by reminding everyone that if you have not yet entered for a chance to win one of these Halloween potion bottles......................... go here and enter. You have until tomorrow night (Friday Oct. 22nd) at 11:00pm. There will be THREE WINNERS!

Today was our very first Kindergarten field trip! Woohoooo! We went to Bottomview Farm in Portland, TN. If you live in this area and have not gone there, I highly recommend it! There was LOTS of stuff to do! Fun fun fun. What you see here are several excited kindergartners taking their very first bus ride on their very first field trip and some.....to their very first pumpkin patch.

I know my Rileyman was VERY excited and proud because he told me so.
More excited faces saying "take our picture! take our picture!"

And, well, I just couldn't resist taking this picture (Oh my gosh what an amazingly sweet face!! I wanna squish it!) He told me this was his first pumpkin patch trip. Too cute. After lots of "Are we there yet? Are we there yet?" we started hearing "I see it! I see it! We're here! PUMPKINS!!!!" Glooooooooooorious pumpkins

We wasted no time and got right to it. A short hay ride to the patch and there was a mad scramble to find the perfect pumpkin.

And for Riley, here it was.....

The perfect little pumpkin
Turns out there were LOTS of perfect pumpkins! Even Mrs. Goodwin found her perfect pumpkin.

After everyone had their perfect pumpkin, we loaded back up on the hayride back to the Bottomview Farm Village for more fun. We began to smell the smells of........farm. From behind me a little voice calls out "oh those horse things smell SO bad!". And they did. Aaaaah the refreshing smell of farm. And "horse things".

There were lots of animals there like little goats.

Pheasant

Chickens?..........Ducks?......Chickenducks?

The town sheriff came to give us the tour.

He put all the kids in jail! They didn't even do anything wrong!

Unlike this little one caught trying to make off with TWO pumpkins. Put HER in jail put HER in jail! (fine print stuff: This sweet little one was actually -probably-more than likely bringing a perfect pumpkin to her friend and is innocent....... unless proven guilty)

Moving along, the town had a Post Office

A Barber shop.........(whooaaa barber dudes, you miiiiiight have clipped his hair a little short)

There was a saloon.......Probably serving up ROOTbeer.

And we found a train station! This place is AWESOME.

ALL ABOARD!

This sweet face looked right at me and said "Oh this is very exciting!" I think I melted right then and there.

And it gets better. I know I know HOW can it get better you ask?

ICE CREAM!

Apparently this ice cream makes your face go silly.

It also makes you say things like, "I wisht I had a ice cream pillow! and "I wisht I had Ice cream jammies!"-I have GOT to get me some of this ice cream.

Then there was a corn crib. This is the country kid equivalent of a ball pit at Chuck E Cheese's. But, if I might say, MORE fun. And quite therapeutic.

Some of us stayed back and played a loooong time in the corn crib opting not to go through the maze because it had a haunted house at the end and haunted houses are spooky and "spooky means scary".

I learned-ed that today. The kinnygarteners have a welpff of knowledge.

Back on the bus, we went REALLY fast from this:

To this:

And this:

(giggle)

We sure did have a SUPER fun day! Thank you Mrs. Goodwin's Kindergarten class!

~Ms. Amber and Riley

Monday Triple Play Giveaway!

2010-10-18T20:12:00.000-05:00

Here is a Monday giveaway TIMES THREE! Yes you heard right! There will be three winners this week. I am giving away these lovely, super sparkly bejeweled Halloween potion bottles. The inside is filled with floaty glitter and Halloween trinkets. All you have to do to enter is visit my facebook page, press the like button to become a fan and comment on the "Monday Triple Play Giveaway" post.

Three winners will be drawn this Friday night at 11:00.

First Drawing-Cat Potion

Second Drawing-Skull Potion

Third Drawing-Spider Potion

Good Luck!

~Amber

And The Winner Is.......

2010-10-16T00:07:00.000-05:00

Sherry Borski!!! Congratulations! I will send an email so we can make arrangements to get your prize to you! Thank you to everyone else who entered and thank you to my new and current facebook follower friends. (my fff's) Be sure to watch this Monday to see what I will be giving away next.
~Amber

Animal Flash Cards

2010-10-14T22:01:00.000-05:00

"WHAT is going on here?" -you may ask. Well here in the McNabb household, we believe everyone, person or pet, has the right to an education. The Rileyman has been studying flashcards for his kindergarten sight words. My sweet boy, and lover of all animals, decided that our pets also needed flashcards. Even the fish.

And he was immediately up for the challenge of teaching them.

A BIG flash card.........

For the BIGGEST pet in the house, Lola Roo. On a side note, I am at home with this dog all day long. She is my closest companion when everyone is off to school and work. If she looks at me one day and asks for her treats in a Scooby Doo type manner, I am going to have to start stocking up on Depends underpants.

Ah yes and here we have froggie flash cards explaining our original picture.

He is such a good teacher. And if you have been a blog reader for a while, you will remember he is also "The Frog Whisperer"-much like Cesar Milan......only with frogs of course. "Hello, my name is Riley McNabb. I rehabilitate frogs. I train people."

If you are wondering why the ferrets did not get flash cards, they are already smart enough. If we educate them any more, we will never find them, or their hidden treasure stashes again.

Monday Giveaway

2010-10-11T08:54:00.000-05:00

Need a little lift to your Monday? Have you got the Monday blues? Is it another manic Monday and you wish it was Sunday cause that's your fun day? (hey I can't help the cheese, don't judge) How about a Giveaway from Color Of Dawn Creations to brighten up the most notoriously blah day of the week. Here we have a cute little Pink Owl Glass Tile Pendant with ball and chain necklace.To enter to win, all you have to do is click to view my facebook page and when you are there, click the "LIKE" button to become a fan. Then come back here and let me know in the comments section. If you are already a fan, just leave a comment to let me know. Easy Breezy! A winner will be chosen this Friday, October 15th. Good Luck!
-Amber

Kids and Peanut Butter Cookies-A Helpful Tutorial

2010-10-08T13:32:00.000-05:00

Making peanut butter cookies is so easy and fun. I would do that whole "make it from scratch" thing but Betty Crocker has box tops. And that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Now if you have more than one child (like saaaay the cousins are over for a visit), divide the dough evenly into separate bowls. This creates happiness in equality for all. (This isn't my first go-round with multiple children) (seriously, divide the dough)

Now gently roll the dough into little balls and then place onto greased cookie sheet. Then smoooosh the dough making a crisscross pattern with a fork like so..........

GASP! I said GENTLY! GENTLY roll the dough and smooosh with a FORK! Ok time out. Clean messy child and resume dough shaping.

You can experiment by making tiny cookies like this:

Medium sized cookies like this:

Or great BIG cookies like this!:

Great big cookies require extra smoooshing so smooosh away.

Put in the oven at the temperature and time directed on the package or just peak in the oven about a hundred and fifty times with the kids exclaiming "whooooaaa! loook how they are growing!" till they are slightly brown on top and VIOLA! Delicious peanut butter cookies for all!

Note of caution: Beware of big brother/cousin cookie monsters. They come out from hiding when the smell of baking cookies waft through the house.

UH-OH..........Get hiiiiiim! Stop! Thief!

And The Winner Is.........!!!!!!

2010-10-07T02:03:00.001-05:00

Beka Barham! Wooohooo! Bells and whistles and confetti are virtually flying. Seriously they are I promise. Thank you to my ones of twos of entrants. And to everyone else who did not enter.....Bekah sends out an extra THANK YOU!

Today has been a busy day. I made four pairs of earrings and three more rings.
Tomorrow I will be photographing and uploading to the store and then it's off to make more sparkly things and brainstorm for my Art for Russia. Somehow what comes to mind is a painting with the words "All the Children Of the World".......red and yellow black and white they are precious....

My Fish Love The Camera

2010-10-05T21:29:00.001-05:00

As I sit here typing, my fish tank right beside me, I notice that they are either really hungry or really interested in having some attention. Especially the Black Moore Goldfish.

"Oh look she has the camera!"

"Here I come! Take my picture! Take MY picture!"

"Make sure it's my good side"

"What?"
I made two more rings today and uploaded them to the Etsy shop. They turned out so pretty!
Don't forget to go enter the giveaway. I will draw a winner tomorrow night at midnight.

Wedding Crashers-Duck Style

2010-10-04T10:22:00.001-05:00

The lil guy and I were at the park feeding some geese when we spotted these jive turkey.....er ducks sneaking around to crash the party and score some bread.

They cracked me up looking so innocent trying to fit in and I could all but hear them say, "Dude, just stand up real tall and no one will know."

Today I have tried my hand at making wire wrapped rings with beads. Hmmm....no pun intended. Turns out I need a bit more practice but this one turned out beautifully.

I was so excited until I started taking photos to upload to my store and now that I reeeeaaallly need my camera, it refuses to flash or focus when prompted. I guess it just prefers to take paparazzi like photos of duck crashing goose parties.

If you haven't already done so, be sure to click here to enter for your chance to win a vintage image treasure box. Only two more days!

Art for Haiti, Online Store Open, Blog Giveaway!

2010-10-03T19:20:00.000-05:00

It has been a busy weekend. My Art For Haiti Painting titled "Matilde" is finally finished!

100% of the purchase price of this painting will be donated to Lifeline Christian Mission to support the families and children devastated by the earthquake in Jan. 2010. This painting was inspired by a photo of Matilde taken by my Aunt Linda on a recent Haiti Mission. When I told her I wanted to paint Matilde she said "Matilde has been with Lifeline from the beginning-about 30 years or so and is highly respected within her community...Good choice" It is Created with watercolor pencil and will be sold unframed on Acid Free 9x12 110lb paper for acrylic and watercolor. It is available for Sale in my Etsy store which has finally re-opened today. I will be adding new items daily. Woohoo!
In celebration of my "Grand Re-Opening" I will be giving away this lovely treasure box this Wed, October 6th. If you would like to enter the giveaway, follow the rules at the bottom of this post. You can enter up to four times. GOOD LUCK!

To enter you can:
1. Go to my Etsy Store , look around, come back here and in the comments section of this blog post, tell me which item you like best or tell me what you would like to see in the store in the future.
2. In the column to the left, click to follow this blog. If you already follow, let me know in the comments.
3. Visit my facebook fan page, click to "Like" it and come back and tell me in the comments.
4. Mention this Giveaway in your Blog and leave the link to your post in the comments.
**Be sure to leave your email address so I can contact the winner on Wed. October 6th! GOOD LUCK!

Riley Pumpkin Seed

2010-09-26T15:24:00.001-05:00

It's pumpkin painting time! This weekend The little guy and I went out to Bradley Kountry Acres to pick up our first load of pumpkins to be painted and sold this year. Click here and here to see some of last year's pumpkins. Mike and Cathy Bradley are the sweetest people and they have been supplying me with pumpkins for the last several years. They also have fresh vegetables, beautiful gourds, and Fall flowers so if you need some farm fresh goodness click on their business name above and then head out into the beautiful country. win-win. While we were there, Riley decided that he needed a few of his own pumpkins. He picked one to cut open and one to perhaps make pie with. Last Friday was Johnny Appleseed Day at school and now he is more passionate than ever about planting seeds. So here is a pumpkin seed planting tutorial via Riley McNabb. First you must have a pumpkin. Any pumpkin will do. We do not know the correct name for this variety of white pumpkin so it has been dubbed "the cotton candy". Now cut open your pumpkin like so and remove the top exposing all the seeds surrounded by lots of wonderfully yucky goooo.

Next you must scoop out all the seeds and goooo. Set pumpkin aside for later.

Then begin your task of separating all the seeds from the goooo.

And here we have a pile of goooo. You don't need this stuff. Yuck.

THIS is what you need! Glorious glorious pumpkin seeds! Yay!

Now find some old planters laying around the house. It's even OK to use old Easter Egg planters or little plastic cups. You can decorate them for Fall later. Fill them with dirt and water and plant your seeds. We planted two at a time.

Now apply Fall decorations to your planters and pumpkin such as the stickers and embellishments shown here sent by Gramma Roses.

Be sure to come back and see the finished painting of Matilde. Shown below, it only has its first layers of color. Many more layers will be added so it will be beautiful, bright, and joyful just like the people of Haiti. The painting will be put up for sale and all moneys will be sent to benefit the people and children of Haiti who continue to be in desperate need following a massive earthquake on January 12, 2010.

Happy 20th Anniversary of your 30th Birthday!

2010-09-11T11:23:00.000-05:00

Here are the beautiful nieces of Ms. Pam P. in Tennessee. (my rhyme for the day) She asked that I make a portrait of them for her sister-in-law who celebrated her 50th birthday yesterday. I barely made the deadline by the hair of my chinny chin chin which unfortunately I do have a hair on my chin.( click to: read my whisker post ) but I digress...... the portrait was finished and delivered just in time and I sure do hope that Pam's sister in law had the most wonderful 20th Anniversary of her 30th Birthday.

Thank you Pam P in Tenneessee!

Hannah & Jonathan

2010-07-31T08:13:00.000-05:00

I have made a new discovery about myself as a portrait artist. I cannot draw freckles. This is Hannah............ ........and she has the sweetest, softest freckles gracing her little nose, and a few splished and splashed here and there on her cheeks and forehead. If I were her Mamma, I would be telling her stories that they are from the Angels giving her sweet kisses before she left Heaven as a baby. I tried drawing those freckles. I drew and erased. Drew and erased. And drew and erased. Either I need some lessons on freckle drawing, or it is impossible to recreate on paper the image of Angelic kisses. Thankfully, her Mamma said it was ok to leave them out of her portrait. They know she has the sweet freckle-kisses.
And here is Jonathan................. ........a very handsome young man. I'm guessing he is about the age of my handsome young man. As I drew him, I wondered if his Mamma is going through the same emotions as I am this year. My young man is going to be a high school Senior. I look back at his baby pictures and wonder where in the world the time went . I want to reach into my photos and hold my little guy all over again. When I look at my handsome guy now, almost "all growed up" , I look with amazement and pride and awe that I had anything at all to do with the creation of that beautiful being. I bet Jonathan's Mamma and I have that in common.

Teddy Bears, Sweet Kiddo Portraits & My Anniversary

2010-07-25T16:43:00.000-05:00

This weekend is a busy one. I have so many projects going at once but Art is what makes me happy so I am one happy girl! There has been a slight kink in the plans however. I finally finished this watercolor for sweet little Houston's room. Ms Sonya LOVES it.......only his middle name is misspelled. AAaaaK! Reece is supposed to be Reese....with an "s". So I have been trying to correct the misspelling without ruining the paper. It is a timely and delicate process but it can be definitely be done. I'll fix it baby Houston I promise!
And here is what the rest of my studio is looking like. 5 portraits in the works at the same time. Two of them almost done. And these three little girls are still in the beginning stages and looking quite like little cartoon cuties.

I have been working away today but now the hubby has pulled my away from my work/play. You see, today is our 18th wedding anniversary. wooohooo for us! And it's looking like it might be a special romantical dinner night ........and possibly a movie. I'm feeling pretty proud and blessed this weekend.

Sing With The Passion Of A Child

2010-07-18T19:22:00.000-05:00

Another lazy Sunday almost gone. When I'm creating art, I like to turn off the TV, play some music and block out all the distractions. I spose that's why I do my best work at night when everyone's asleep or on a quiet weekend when everyone is off doing their own thing. I can get in the Zone and let my thoughts drift. Today a song came on that reminded me of my sweet niece, Kennady. She LOVES to sing. As a matter of fact she loves to sing so much that EVERY song that comes on the radio is her favorite song and she will proceed to sing aloud, not a care in the world who's listening, occasionally hitting a wrong note but just continues to blissfully sing.

~God, please let me be more like my precious niece and learn to sing with abandon. -Amber

These are my thoughts as I finished this portrait today.

The Fluffy One

2010-07-16T12:50:00.001-05:00

There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.
~Ben Williams

1000 Watt Smile

2010-07-16T01:17:00.001-05:00

How this little fella manages to pack that 1000 watt smile into his tiny sweet face I don't know but he sure does. And if only you could see these two in color, they have the most mesmerizing pale blue eyes I have ever seen.

What Sucks My Mojo into Nojo?

2010-07-14T23:15:00.000-05:00

At the real job, we have a book club. We recently completed a book on Mojo. I am in the discovery phase of finding what in life sucks my Mojo in to Nojo. So far I have discovered that TV and endless internet surfing suck my Mojo. If I watched less TV and stopped surfing the net so much for useless information, I would have more of my vegetative brain cells working together to create things like this:

As it is, I can no longer focus on any one task. I am a chronic multitasker. Perhaps multitasking also sucks my Mojo too? To build my Mojo, I need to get these things in check so that I can focus....and channel that focus on the things in life that are most important to me. Like God, family, friends, art, gardening and dreaming.

Two Months & My House Is Still Broke

2010-07-12T21:39:00.000-05:00

It's been a little more than two months since the flood. We finally have a new roof and the repairs for the water damage to the inside are almost complete. It has been a long, exhausting, maddening nightmare dealing with our crap choice of construction companies but thank goodness it's almost over. I've had a bit of time to work on a few portraits. And now that our repairs are about complete and my hair is no longer falling out by the curly handfuls from the stress of it, I have many more portraits in the works. I have a lot of blogging to catch up on. Posting/reading/and when did we get new templates? I've been disconnected for way too long!!!

And The Floods Came

2010-05-11T11:14:00.000-05:00

Here in middle Tennessee we have gotten used to being hit by tornados each year (as used to that as you can get) but never in our wildest dreams did we expect to be under water. Here are some photos of what we have been dealing with since the rains began May 1st. Here are some of my neighbors in Sumner County being rescued by boat to "dry" land.

My family was fortunate enough to not have the flood waters rise into our home. We had a close call, water barely an inch from entering the house until a fence gave way down the street and the water backed away from the door. We have roof damage and the rains came through into the baby room and front bathroom. Relentless downpours like I have never seen. Out at the the family farm a dam of uprooted trees, limbs and debris built up against the bridge leading into the property thirty feet long and ten feet deep. Even so, we are blessed. These people lost everything. Some lost their lives.

The streets of Nashville as rescue boats patrol the streets for people who need help.

Here is my company's downtown office. Lucky for me my home office is just on the outskirts of Nashville. My office was not flooded but we were surrounded and it took me an hour and a half to get to work (when it normally takes just 15) trying to find a route that was not under water.

The inside of the Opryland Hotel. All is lost. They do not expect to be able to re-open until at least Christmas. And below, next to the Opryland Hotel, is the Oprymills Mall and Jeneral Jackson.

Cars and small buildings floated away.

More of downtown Nashville.

Music City Star Train Station

As of today, the water has receded and everyone is now trying to clean up, salvage what they can and help their neighbors. Here in middle TN we are all family. A community of people, volunteers, always willing to work together and help one another.

High Tech Girl

2010-02-18T23:12:00.000-06:00

Today I got a new notebook from Verizon. I totally love it. I am excited about the idea that I can now email, blog, surf all my creative sites anytime and anywhere I want. Like from my favorite peaceful spot at the local park, or right here on my cozy sofa wrapped in a warm snuggie watching LA Ink. Maybe this will cure my bloggerprocrasatination problem? Maybe I will keep in touch with my loved ones a little better? Maybe I will become newly inspired each day with my freedom to surf the net for....inspiring things? Maybe. But for the most part, this is just the coolest toy I have treated myself to in a long while.

FERRETS! Precious, sweet, adorable.... stinky ferrets!

2010-01-17T15:58:00.000-06:00

Santa Came through for us and brought two ferrets for the boys to add to our critter collection.

Meet Zoro (left) and Allie (right)

Here, get a little closer......this is Zoro

And this is a very sleepy Allie

And here is our Dog Lola giving her new friend Zoro some love. All together now-"aaaaaaaaaaw!"

This is Zoro and Allie's very first look at snow

Zoro liked it

He liked it a LOT

The lil guy visits Santa

2009-12-20T20:36:00.001-06:00

Holy frankincense there he is!!!! It's him! It's really him!

Mommy, can you make my big brother go with me?

Wassup Santa?

Um yes thank you for asking, I would like ferrets, lizards, guinea pigs, fish, hamsters, some birds, and dinosaurs.

I'm going to hold you to your word Santa and remember, I never forget!

Wheew! That was exhausting!

Holidays and Crafty Obsessions

2009-11-09T08:50:00.000-06:00

It was a BUSY October filling custom pumpkin orders. Like this one that now belongs to the actual Gnash, mascot of the Nashville Predators:

Had several Dora the Explorer fans:

And Hannah Montana:

Several school mascot requests and many more. This was my first year for custom orders and boy did it have me whipped. It takes much longer to make custom orders than to mass produce and sell things like Pirates and Witches and such. I did manage to have time to make and sell some Halloween necklaces.

And Some Autumn ones.

Now I am working on some Christmas jewelry. It is my newest obsession. Until the next one comes along. Obsession that is.

It's Pumpkin painting time!!

2009-10-10T09:42:00.001-05:00

It's pumpkin painting time here at Color Of Dawn. I'll be dropping a few of these Titans pumpkins off today at the little farmer's roadside stand.

This Chicago Bears one is currently on display at a local Chicago style eatery, Campione's:

And I'm working on some custom orders such as Dora the Explorer, Marilyn Monroe and finished this Thomas the Train for a choo-choo lovin' little boy:

And I might make a few random ones:

Gosh I LOVE the Fall!!

From the desk of Color Of Dawn.....

2009-09-27T22:26:00.001-05:00

.......are a lot of partially finished projects. All of which I had intention to finish up this weekend, photograph, and upload to the Etsy shop. But there's nothin' like a misbehavin' teenager and an extremely busy preschooler to keep me side tracked. Oh well, children are only young once and crafts are forever right? siiiiigh......

MARY! At last we are together again!

2009-09-26T12:58:00.000-05:00

For those of you that remember how utterly bummed I was when the Mary Engelbreit Magazine was being canceled, have I got some news for you!!! I'm obviously way behind because, only just yesterday, I discovered she has a BLOG. And a WEBSITE ! Where you can sign up for her newsletter. Which is WONDERFUL! Especially for those of us jonezing for our ME Mag! Here is a little snippet of ME art that completely describes yours truly. Cept I have curly red hair and "slightly" rounder um........features:

And here is a "just because" pic of my little guy enjoying some arts and crafts time today. This makes my heart shine with joy:

Before and After

2009-09-13T22:14:00.001-05:00

BEFORE:

AFTER:
You have no idea how awesome this feels. Now I can peacefully get to working on my art and craft projects. That is after I take care of the little boy who had this surgery to repair his arm that was destroyed in a football game Friday night. MY BABY!

SHOP'S OPEN!......if I remember correctly......

2009-09-02T14:57:00.000-05:00

Well I've done it. I've finally opened shop after slackin' all summer. I am once again open for portrait orders but everything else in my shop is the same as it was when I closed up in June. I haven't made anything new yet but I have had all these WONDERFUL ideas! Problem is, I can't remember what they are. Just like Ms Kathy from A Cozy Life, I am just going to have to break down and get a notebook to jot down my ideas so I wont forget them. Well, I will definitely forget them but at least I will have written them down.....if I don't forget to write them down. yeeeesh. Now if you don't mind, please click the picture below of my Halloween glass bottles and make a purchase-kids love them!