Freeform Friday: Mother's Day Free Printable Wall Art

Happy Mother's Day

Hello all you mothers out there and all you people out there with moms.......oh yeah, that makes all of us!

Here's a Happy Mother's Day wish to all and I'm doing it with some very wise words from my own mother, which I've used to design some free printable wall art for you. Print it off, frame it and give it your mom or any moms you know.

You can download this free printable mom inspired wall art here.

She's smart that mother of mine, yes?

I'm lucky to still have my mom (right Mom?) and as we celebrate Mother's Day this Sunday in the states I think of people who have lost theirs, like my friend who lost his mom on Mother's Day. I think of Mrs. Dumont each Mother's Day and hear her saying 'oh just have another halfie'. God love her. She was a character. So if you're lucky like me, and still have your mom around, tell her she is WOW and so much more.

Things about my mom.....................

 (us almost 10 years ago at her godson's wedding)

 ..............that are hard to beat:

* she's the most thoughtful person I know, always sending little notes in the mail, cards for every holiday and occasion, leftovers on a on a regular basis (keep 'em coming- the chicken and rice bake was awesome this week!), has a thank you note in the mail sooner than you can blink an eye (we joke she has them made out ahead of time). The list goes on.

* she's a ridiculously hard worker who still doesn't want to take a rest. Sit down already Mom!

* she knows the names of a gazillion nails and screws and fasteners and anything else you'd find in a hardware store thanks to my parents having their own when I was a kid. She knows more about what's in hardware store than most men these days.

* she traveled cross country in a station wagon with two babies in diapers; then two toddlers and one baby in diapers; then two kids, one toddler and one baby in diapers. Luckily when they had me, they only had to travel one state over with their brood of 5. Personally, that alone puts her in the running for mother of the year. Not convinced? Let me remind you that when my mother was doing this, there were no disposable diapers. By the way, while my mother was in a station wagon changing diapers, the dog flew. I kid you not.

* she's an awesome cheerleader. In fact she's still cheering us all on.

* she's an excellent secret keeper. Sorry Dad, but you not knowing I went into Boston to see Billy Idol and others in high school didn't hurt you. Now did it?

* she is nothing if not fair. Has a running tab on the Christmas list so she spends the exact same amount on everybody.

* is an awesome Grammy and Great Grammy.

* is the best Mother In Law my husband could ask for.

* let my sister and her friends draw all over her wall and painted an awesome sun on the ceiling of her bedroom. Which then became my bedroom to which she added very colorful animals that she painted - like a zebra and hippo to my wall, that's in addition to the bright orange shag rug on the wall that is still there to this day.

* is as genuine as genuine gets.

Of course, I could go on for days. I mean, I'm talking about my mom, right?

What's something about your mom that can't be beat?


Freeform Friday 

One more thing about my mom (and Dad), they have great taste in music and had the best collection of 45s. As kids, along with our friends,we'd dance on the patio for hours with their records playing. Here's one to get the weekend started.  I'm not convinced the 45 was The Andrew Sisters, but I've to check their record box to be sure. Click here if you're reading via email. (Where's my polka partner Celine when I need her?)






And one of my all time favorites. Mr. Bennett if you please and my favorite version of this song. It made him a star.  Click here if your reading via email.





What's happening in your world this weekend? Mine will be filled with some desk work, some raking, hoping to get some watercolor time in, laundry, cleaning.........you know, the usual. Oh, and some time with Mom of course.

Make it a good one and I'll see you on the flip side of the weekend.


Ciao for now,

FREE Friday

 Ever Had One Of Those Days?

Months? Year? Years?

Yeah, I know. We all have.

Sometimes, in the midst of the challenges that life throws at all of us, it is easy to get sucked up into that black hole.  Often life's challenges come with a lot of soul searching. New perspectives. We come out the other side knowing ourselves, even just a little bit better for it.

My friend came across a quote that speaks to that and thought it would be a keeper for a print.  I'm glad she sent it to me.

The quote by Eckhart Tolle combined with an absolutely stunning photo by Todd Quackenbush, (whose work I found over on unsplash) makes up today's FREE printable wall art.  [I know I've mentioned it before, but it is worth repeating.  unsplash is a site that shares work from photographers around the world, who have decided to offer their images royalty free, to do with as you please, for personal or commercial use. How great is that? If you haven't checked out unsplash yet, I highly suggest you do.  The level of work is amazing.]

Can I get a hell yeah?

Hey, did you notice the colors go perfectly with my kitchen back-splash? How serendipitous.

If you'd like to print it off yourself and hang it on your wall, you can download the pdf here.

And, if you feel like sharing on pinterest, that's cool too.

One more thing, Todd is such fantastic photographer, you should definitely pop over to his site and check out his other work. I love all of his work, but his pictures of NYC really capture the city in a way I can appreciate.  His perspective in some of his shots feels sort of  like 'a day in the life'.  His landscapes are incredible, and if you want to see a drool worthy food photo, check this out. I want a piece. Right. Now. I didn't even come close to capturing the deliciousness of G's pear bread, in comparison. Holy moly.


Freeform Friday

I was wandering around youtube last night and discovered a group I'd never heard of before. The Overtones. These 5 guys can really sing. You want harmony, they've got it up to their eyeballs and then some. On a side note, it sure is nice to see five young guys dressed like they want to be taken seriously. The Overtones are sharp dressed men. Kind of refreshing.  So is their sound.  Click here if you're reading via email.



How about a little something old school. A capella. Yup. The men can sing.
Click here if you're reading via email.



Any plans for the weekend? I'm going to be creating away working on some designs (including my own). In between housework, that is. No real plans I'm afraid.  G will be spending time working on his truck with the neighborhoodlums. I won't be joining them in that little adventure.  I know, I know. We're really pushing the fun-limit this weekend.  The good news? I think we've gotten above 30 on the thermometer today, and tomorrow we're supposed to hit the mid 40s.  This is incredibly exciting and welcome since we've been a frozen arctic tundra with no real signs of hope for spring. Except for my day in Boston, which was wicked lucky weather-wise. Then it went right back to polar vortex. So tomorrow, I will get outside at some point.

What's shakin' in your world?

Hope you have a great weekend. Thanks, as always, for being here.

Ciao for now,

FREE Friday: spreading some love with free wall art

Need A Last Minute Gift?

Hey there gang! Happy Valentine's Day.  Today, do me a favor.....tell somebody you care. It's that simple. One small act of kindness can make a world of difference.

That's it! And in return............some free printable wall art that can be hung on your wall all year round. OR print it off, frame it and give it as a Valentine's Day gift. Just be sure to spread some love.

You can download it here. Personal use only, of course.

Hey, if you do download and print and hang it on your wall..........I'd love to see it!

Don't forget these other Valentine's free printables:

 Card here.  Wrapping paper here.


Have I told you guys lately how much it means to me that you're here? That you comment? That you have awesome feedback? That we've connected on this vast world we call the internet? Well, in case I haven't - I am SO glad you are all here.

I am throwin' some big blog love your way and wishing you all as much love as your hearts can hold.


Freeform Friday

I was sad to hear about the passing of Shirley Temple. Oh how I love Shirley Temple. Used to watch her movies every Sunday. Boy could she dance. And cute as a button. Here she is, keeping up with Bojangles himself. Click here if you're reading via email.



And of course, where would we be without some love today?  Here's one of our favorite 'love' songs. The original by Phil Phillips is awesome, but today, it's the honeydrippers and Mr. Plant. Click here if you are reading via email.





We ended up with about 12 inches from the latest storm. Then it turned to freezing rain which coated the lines and trees. The wind picked up overnight, but luckily we never lost power.  That said, not so sure about tonight as the wind is picking up again. Fingers crossed, but buckets of water filled and candles and flashlights gathered just in case.

Don't forget.........tell somebody you care today! You may not need an excuse, but if you do, Valentine's Day is perfect.


Ciao for now,

FREE Friday

Free Holiday Wall Art

The world is a lesser place today with the passing of Mr. Mandela. A lesser place for having lost a man who despite all of the hate and discrimination exacted on him, was able to retain his dignity. Not only that, but who possessed a deep belief that peace must first come from within before outward change can happen.


I am utterly inspired by the stories and remembrances of Mr. Mandela, who incredibly held his hand out to those who held him captive for so very long, in order to initiate the change he and the world wanted to see for his country.  An amazing accomplishment in itself, but pale in comparison to the fact that he not only was successful in leading the change, but as President of his country no less.  Quite frankly, it's awe inspiring.

I remember where I was at the moment he was released, at my best friend Tina's apartment. I watched in joy as this peaceful man was finally been released back to his country and welcomed home by the entire world.

The world may indeed be a lesser place momentarily for having lost him, but it is a far better place for having had him here.

God speed Mr. Mandela. God speed.



A fitting free printable for all of you today.

Download let there peace on earth free printable here.


Freeform Friday

His imprisonment an affront to the those everywhere, many songs where written about Mr. Mandela. Here is just one. Click here if you're reading via email.






There's something about that song, that although it is about Mr. Mandela's lack of freedom, feels rejoiceful to me.

That leads me to this time of year when we rejoice in all that is important to us and is often take for granted.  This weekend we will be spending time with the bookclub/champagne ladies and their other halves.  The men will have to suffer through the karaoke-fest, a small price to pay for the feast of delicious food that will be spread before them. We are likely to spend some time with the neighbors this evening, close to home and perhaps with the fire roaring (inside).  I'd like to get our tree cut this weekend, but it may not get decorated until this coming week.  Most of the tree farms around here are only open on the weekends, so if we can pick ours, haul it home, get it in the stand and ready for some sparkle, I'll be glad for that.

Those are our big plans. What about you? Any holiday merriment this weekend for you? Or are you spending a cozy weekend at home?

Ciao for now,

PS- Great sponsors on board for the publishing of the first edition of the muse online magazine. For the rest of you, today is the last day to book an ad in the muse. If you're interested, let me know asap at pbate (at) speakeasyinfo (dot) net.

Thank Your Lucky Stars: Free Printable

Be Thankful

No matter how bad things get (and everybody has those moments.............those days..........those weeks..........those years-- trust me on that one) there is always someone worse off than you. There is always someone who has less. Always someone who has endured more. Much more.  Remembering this, and being grateful for all that you do have is one of the keys to happiness.

As we prepare for our Thanksgiving holiday in the States tomorrow, now is the perfect time to reflect on our blessings, here are some of mine:

-I am always very thankful for my husband. I'd be lost without him
-I am truly blessed with family and friends
-I am grateful we picked Lucan from all the pups at the pound that day. He's a great dog, a super pal, always-eager walking partner, a good listener- ha! (who else am I supposed to talk to in my little office/studio)
-My health and the health of my loved ones, because without it, you've got nothing
-To live in a country where I have many freedoms that a lot of people around the world don't
-That there are those willing to fight, and some who have given their lives, to protect these freedoms
-I am always, always, always thankful for the roof over my head and a bed to sleep in
-I am so lucky to have never have known hunger
-To have the most amazing sunset view and be surrounded by so much beautiful nature
-I am very grateful for my clients who entrust me to plan marketing initiatives, design collateral and branding for the businesses that they hold dear and for the customers who enjoy my illustrations enough to purchase a print which in turn keeps the roof over my head and food on our table
-That skype allows us to spend time with our family and friends across the sea
-Etsy and this blog, which have helped me to connect with really wonderful people across this biggo' world of ours
-How wonderful it is that you and others have chosen to read what I post on Mercantile Muse and hang out with me
-For my own ability to appreciate the little things
-The true miracles (really) we have been blessed with this year. (that should really be at the top of the list)

There you have it. Just a few of my thankfuls, and now......for the giving. A new free printable wall art design.

download free lucky stars printable wall art here

Today is busy, busy, busy. It seems to be the m.o. of late, something else that I'm thankful for is work  currently on my desk.  I'm about to design an email campaign for one of my long-time clients. After that, I have to adjust and save master files for design clients, and have several new logo designs to work on.  At the end of the day, you will find me (and G- he's my peeler) prepping apple pies and potatoes.  I wait until morning to bake the pies so that I can smell that heavenly scent while I watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and enjoy a noggy-groggy (which means it's got a little 'something' in it if you no what I mean).  Later in the day, we'll be off to my sister-in-law and brother's home for a hell of a Thanksgiving Day feast mixed with a healthy dose of love and laughter, and if they've got it in them...........a Pie-Off between my nephews Pat and Joe. Who will win the 'how much pie can you eat contest' this year? It's hard to say, since they're both well over 6', they're the only ones who have room left who are up to the challenge.

Many blessings to you and yours. Enjoy your Thanksgiving.

Ciao for now,

 

FREE Friday

Free Printable Wall Art

My walking pal and I have been taking to the field as much as possible since the farmer hayed again. So, so happy about that.

Last night when we took a walk at the end of the day, Sunset Meadows was just beautiful.

It started out very soft.

Minute by minute, it got more vibrant.

Changing in the blink of an eye.

Until I just had to stand there in amazement.

I only had my phone with me last night, but it did a pretty good job of capturing this beautiful sight.  If you're on instagram, you might have seen my post. And if you are on instagram and didn't see it, that's probably because you're not following me yet. In all honesty, I haven't done much with my instagram account in a long time, but now that I updated my phone app, I'm good to go and having fun connecting with you guys there.

I also took a video so you could come along with us.  It stretched around the entire sky. We're so lucky to live where we do.




This morning, we hit the field again only it was the bright light of the sun getting higher in the sky, that was shining for all to see.

So my friends, this is for you. Free printable wall art.

You can download, print it out, hang it on the wall.

Click here to download the pdf.

I hope you enjoy it and put it somewhere to remind yourself that you are brilliant. Shine on!


Freeform Friday

Just to bolster that thought, here's a tune for you. It's a happy little song and though it's from Take That, one of those 'boy bands' that all the teens love, I quite like it. Click here if reading via email.




Any plans for the weekend? It's a bit warmer here today and I'm hoping it stays that way all weekend. We have no plans other than working around the house winterizing, after the brutally cold weather that was with us for a couple of days this week.  Woke to high teens on Tuesday and Wednesday and today is gorgeous. Could hit 60.  We won't be fooled though. No time like the present to winterize, before it's too late. Maybe we'll be lucky and get a campfire in and a game of dominoes or yahtzee. That's about it here.

Enjoy the weekend.

Ciao for now,

Need A Self Esteem Boost?

You Are Magnificent

Everybody needs a boost now and then. I know I do and I imagine you're the same way. We are human after all.

So here's an easy way to remind yourself just how awesome you are.

It's free. It's printable.

Download it.

Print it.

Frame it and hang it on your wall, or just tack it on your bulletin board. 

Click here or on the image above so you can download.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed designing it.

On another subject altogether, did you know we're in the midst of our first blog hop? Usually the shop link up and the blog hop are combined, but I felt that things were getting muddled and that both shops and blogs deserved some special attention. So, if you have a blog, I hope you'll stop by and leave a link, meet other bloggers and find new ones to follow.

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

It's kind of gray here today. We had an early morning thunder and lightning storm that had me scrambling out of bed in the dark so I could shut my computer down. Of course, I had a gazillion files open and my eyes weren't awake which greatly complicated things. The storm is gone, but the skies are having a hard time giving way to sunshine. The good news is, temperatures are actually supposed to feel like Spring by the end of day. I say, 'bring it on!'.

Have a great day in your corner of the world and I'll do the same in mine.

Ciao for now,