Wednesday May 13, 2026
…and another
….another sweet vintage ‘door stop’ for our Storybook Garden. Where there is one there are two. See below our other selection.
Tuesday May 12, 2026
Steak
I’ve been hungry for rib-eye steak. It is not my typical meal choice, I actually prefer just a plain ol’ hamburger, but steak it was. My hubby was sure happy.
We enjoyed steak with smash-pot potatoes and a parmesan dipping sauce ~ loosely following a Rea Drummond recipe. It was delicious.
Monday May 11, 2026
Cake Testing
For Mother’s Day I baked one of my Mom’s favorite cakes ~ Orange, White Chocolate, Ricotta and Almond Cake. It is my ‘no-fail-go-to-cake‘ for any occasion. I used my handmade Cake Tester to test for doneness (sold thru our 2025 Open House) and it worked perfectly!
….and yes, I am already dreaming up our 2026 Cake Tester design! We sold out last year and it was one of our most requested items ~ so smitten.
Friday May 8, 2026
Vintage Souvenirs
There was a time in life when every campground, museum, concert and ‘the like’ had a souvenir shop ~ I suppose they still exist today but ‘not in the way’ they did back then ~ it was fun to have a souvenir memento as a way to remember each event or trip. Today I collect vintage items from thrift stores from my travels ~ and I can pretty much tell you the place it was purchased, whom I was with and why it caught my eye. My vintage purchases work as souvenir mementos ~ just the same.
In this image each plate was purchased or inherited ~ all with a fun story behind them, a memento.
Thursday May 7, 2026
Sweetly Vintage
The funny thing about ‘shopping’ today is that, as you know, your searches and even your conversations end up as ‘pop up ads’ thru your social media, emails and text. I’m not quite sure how I feel about it ~ but my initial search for ‘ducks’ led me to this Sweetie found thru Ebay thru a ‘pop up ad’, and I made the purchase ~ I do realize it is a door stop but thought it would be a perfect accent tucked into our storybook garden!
...a doorstop turned statue, sweetly vintage and perfect!
Wednesday May 6, 2026
Well Seasoned
This week I chose a few recipes from Joanna Gaines ‘Magnolia Table’ Cookbook to make for the week. One recipe was for seasoned french fries and cheese dipping sauce. Both recipes were excellent ~ I baked my fries instead of a deep fry and I added a splash or two of buffalo wing sauce to the cheese dipping sauce. Adding Extra Yum.
Tuesday May 5, 2026
Productive Scrolling
I like to think of my ‘scrolling’ time as being ‘productive’ ~ I’m not much of a social media scroller (anymore) and I have been better about limiting my screen time in general each day….but when I do ‘scroll’ I enjoy looking thru my favorite blogs and of course Pinterest! I enjoy pinning ‘dreams’ to my boards, pretty- productive huh? Some days I scroll my own boards and dream about all the collected ideas for our home, along with recipes, and more. (Here) is a look at my ‘Sweet Home’ board and all the ideas and dreams. ….and some ideas do actually make it into our home.
Monday May 4, 2026
A little hutch and an ol’ cloth calendar
I’ve been working on this ‘little hutch’ (I may have mentioned it a few posts back) ~ I am taking the time to simply play around with ideas, fabrics and colors.
I have a stockpile of ol’ cloth calendars and I have been thinking about adding them to this sweet little hutch as a pin up board on the door and maybe even a skirted bottom, how much fun would that be?!?!?!
…..And I will be sharing soon a few more ideas with these calendars!
Friday May 1, 2026
Work Ethic
There are 3 rules I follow when ‘working’ ~ #1 that wherever I am employed, I treat my work as if I was the owner. #2 I choose to love my job so that I never need to ‘work’ a day in my life. #3. I treat every customer as if I was waiting on Jesus.
….most of these rules came with growing older and wiser, when life gets simpler and easier.
Thursday April 30, 2026
Swedish Meatballs
We enjoyed Swedish Meatballs over Mashed Potatoes (…and canned peas, don’t judge me) this past week. The recipe was found thru a Paula Deen Magazine and once again it’s another keeper!
Wednesday April 29, 2026
Ribbons for Wrappings
I just love coordinating…. everything from decor to shop shelves, to gardens to tonight’s dinner! ….and coordinating ribbons for wrappings, also tops the list!
Little Details make all the difference in planning our Christmas Open House ~ this year the ribbons will include all types of texture and color ~ with satins, velvets, gingham and ric-rac, from pinks to reds to greens.
Tuesday April 28, 2026
Garden Bees
I’ve really been into designing our garden lately ~ with the excitement of our new porch, new plantings and of course our much loved zinnia patches. I’ve been dreaming of adding garden gates and bird baths, along with bunnies, ducks and squirrels too!
… Last night I enjoyed my Pottery Class ~ when I arrived Joann my Friend and Instructor asked if I was ready to do the egg plate we’ve been talking about ~ I said ‘not yet, I have a new idea!’ You see, I dreamed up a new idea… garden bees! ~ so I sculpted away making little garden bees, once they are fired I will paint them, and then once they are fired again they will be ready to assemble and place in the Garden! So fun!
Monday April 27, 2026
inspiration board
Over the weekend I had a few moments for creative play with my ‘little cabinets’ ~ I glued on the ironstone knobs and lined a few drawers ~ and then played with paper, fabric and trim for the skirting, pin cushion drawer, drawer lining, and pin up board….I snapped a picture for a better view of the selections (a painting trick) and fell in love with the mix of patterns and color, including the red and pink on the inspiration board! You will also see in our Christmas Open House selections this coming year alot of red with pink….and I am so smitten! I’m even pondering the combination for my home makeover this summer! Don’t ya just love inspiration!
Friday April 24, 2026
all business
This week I tried to squeeze in a business meeting here at Classic Amy Joanne ~ it was me, myself and I and my mountain of notes, planners, calendars and the like. My purpose was to organize my thoughts about my business, the next Open House and my home projects ~and the goal was to be less overwhelmed by it all. In the end (two hours later) I left feeling more overwhelmed ~ but I’m not giving up, we will resume the meeting next week.
Thursday April 23, 2026
Little Projects
This coming weekend I have limited time ~ so I am setting myself up to complete ‘little projects’ around the house. One of those ‘little projects’ will be to finally finish 3 of my little cabinets ~ each need a little something different from paper shelf liners to knobs, to little skirts, to pin cushions to a bulletin board. How Sweet.
Wednesday April 22, 2026
…like riding a bike
This past weekend I taught my first ‘in person’ class (….I like to call them creative gatherings) in about a year or so. ….and it felt so goooooooooood! I was filled with such anxiety ~ but it was wonderful and like riding a bike. I can’t wait to do it again. This ‘creative gathering’ was held at the Bakery I work at ~ it was filled with sweet treats and creativity ….and 12 new faces! I am so appreciative! My heart is full.
Tuesday April 21, 2026
Almost….
More progress has been made on our cottage porch! We now have banisters! So we need the roof, the ‘underneath’ and the sidewalk completed and then my fun begins ~ creating a cottage garden. We’re almost there.
Monday April 20, 2026
Street Tacos
I have no idea what Street Tacos are but I followed a recipe entitled ‘Chicken Street Tacos‘ and it was super delicious. The chicken was made in a crockpot with spices and salsas ~ then we wrapped the chicken in flour ‘street’ taco shells, and added tomato, lettuce and cheese. ….and extra napkins were definately needed.
Friday April 17, 2026
A shade in the Candle Shop
It has been on my list of things to do, to make a denim ‘shade’ for over our wood blinds in the Candle Shop….mostly to keep the sun from shining thru during the warmer seasons. … And aside from just throwing a piece of fabric over the window I decided to make it look pretty in the ‘in between moments’ with an actual working shade. The shade is sewn and we are now working out the mechanics of hanging it, then it will be trim work and a scaloped edge….and also a roll-up shade option.
Making our Home and Shop comfy cozy in all Seasons and ‘in between moments’.
Thursday April 16, 2026
The Pencilin’ Peddler
In the early, early days of my business I was known as ‘The Pencilin’ Peddler’ ~ I shared colored pencil designs and classes at our local Church ~ and then it carried over to our local Art Center….I was peddlin’ pencils for sure!
This is one of my early logos before ‘Classic Amy Joanne‘ came along. The logo was embroidered onto aprons and also made into a rubber stamp to stamp our glassine pencil bags. Sweet Memories.
Wednesday April 15, 2026
Rhea’s Meatballs
Tonight’s dinner was another recipe from the new Rhea Drummond Cookbook (found here) Homemade Meatballs and Sauce (I served it over rigatoni). The meatballs melted in your mouth and were so delish. Definately a make again recipe! I can’t say enough about this new cookbook ~ each recipe I have made was super delicious….I shared a bit about the ‘3 sauce spighetti’ here on the Daily Dose a week or so ago.
Tuesday April 14, 2026
Progress
More progress has been made on our front porch and yard~! Each step brings us closer to our vision (well I say ‘our’ but we all know it is really ‘my’ vision). There are still comprimises I do ‘have to’ make ~ but I’m ok with it, it always seems to work out in the end. We did a ‘house walk‘ (read here) last evening and discussed all the dreams we have for our Cottage Garden ~ removing plants, moving pathways, new plantings, and the like. I am excited to see how it all comes together.
Monday April 13, 2026
just do the ‘thing’
I said to myself….’just do the thing’ (as they say). And I did. I moved the cleaning and such to another day on my calendar, prepared my painting area, and sat for hours and simply enjoyed the sweet moments with a brush in my hand again ~ with a commitment to myself to put the ‘painting’ first on my to do list instead of the last thing.
Cleaning will always be there….waiting. My ‘painting’ shouldn’t be there….waiting.
Friday April 10, 2026
Painted Furniture
There was a time in the beginning of ‘my business’ when my friend Tracy and I painted furniture, photographed the pieces and then sold them thru a local antique shop. Painting this furniture even landed us a place on local TV with demonstrations and our local newspaper.
This ‘small business’ has lead to some amazing places ~ the journey has been so fulfilling and more than I ever expected since I picked up my first paintbrush in 1990.
Thursday April 9, 2026
Creating Christmas ‘Bag’ Stamps
I shared earlier this month that I have been creating a ‘Christmas Bag Stamp’ for our Open House ~ and along with the stamp for the ‘Gift Bag’ I have created a stamp for the tissue paper ~ Mr Elfie! ~ this design will also be used for a gift tag tied on to the handles with rick rack ribbon ~ a perfect complete set for your purchase and ready for gift giving!
All things to ‘Warm Your Home and Melt Your Heart’ ~ …as Hallmark says ‘when you care enough to send the very best’.
Wednesday April 8, 2026
Ruffles
Ruffles and Scallops, Bakers Twine and Rick Rack Ribbon are my thing ~ in the little subtle ways from designing, to my pottery to our gift wrapping!
Tuesday April 7, 2026
Duck Happenings
I’m still dreaming about creating our Cottage Garden this coming spring ~ I’m always in a rush for the ‘next thing’ when the ‘first thing’ isn’t even finished yet….just smile Jerry. Our front porch is still in the works (due to lots of cold weather and snow this past season) ~ but I am ready to add all the ducks, bunnies and squirrels! We have some new plantings, and even a new ‘duck family’ whirligig in the works too!
Monday April 6, 2026
ol’ me, new changes
Whether I wanted it to or not, or I was ready or not ~ my website changed and I had ‘to once again’ change with it. The ‘theme Bloggy’ which I was using for 12 years thru WordPress was retiring and I needed to make quick decisions on where I was headed with my Blog, Site and ‘My Look’ ~ because, you see, I was unable to create regular changes, make posts or any additions to ‘theme Bloggy’ and it forced my hand to make the change. (…I maybe a little dramatic here)…..but sometimes that is how we grow by being forced to make decisions that could possibly lead to something even greater than before. …all that to say, bear with me as I navigate this new place.
Friday April 3, 2026
Happy Easter
Happy Easter!
Thursday April 2, 2026
Summer Ready
I am now summer ready! ~ I received a beautifully hand painted heart magnet from a dear friend (who is just the sweetest person….ever) and then just today I was walking thru the ‘new and improved‘ Walmart and I found a pretty scalloped rimmed straw hat ~ so I purchased it and assembled it just as I imaged with a denim blue bandanna scarf….and then I added the magnet (turned pin) just inside the knot. Now it is Perfectly, Summer Ready!
Wednesday April 1, 2026
37 Years and Counting
37 Years since we said I do….and what a beautiful life it has been.
Tuesday March 31, 2026
Fun Shop Displays
I’ve always enjoyed creating unique-ly fun Shop displays ~ from my days at Bath & Body Works, to my first 5 x 5 retail space at 895 Studio and continuing on today in the ‘My Cottage Life Shop’. This display was ‘named‘ ‘Airing your Laundry‘ for the first day of Spring in my retail space thru 895 Studio ~ in this space we sold collected and curated vintage items, new goods and handmades.
You can read more about this retail space at 895 Studio thru-out the Blog Tab ~ from designing the space, to the seasonal display changes, to creating a store front banner!
Monday March 30, 2026
BIG Christmas Bag Stamp
I ordered fun bags for our Christmas Open House in December of this year (yes Christmas already!) ~ and I have been dreaming ever since of coordinating tissue paper and bag tags….along with a BIG Christmas Bag Stamp. How appropriate is our Candlelight Santa Design from our Creative Christmas Keepsake Journal (read more here) for the BIG stamp…..just a few more tweaks and I will be ready to order with a BIG Red Ink Stamp Pad too!
Friday March 27, 2026
4 oz wrapped stackables!
Our Wrapped 4oz Candle ‘Stackables’ were a popular item for Easter Baskets this year ~ as we head into the ‘Autumn’ and ‘Christmas’ Seasons you will find plaids, felts and festive paper wraps with rick rack and baker’s twine! …and speaking of wrappings our ‘Wrap Desk’ packaging for our Christmas Open House is lookin’ extra fun too! Can’t Wait!
Thursday March 26, 2026
Starting to Plan
It’s getting closer to the time when I start planning for our Christmas Open House ~ there are new displays to consider, the layout for all the ‘vendors’, new bags, tags and tissue paper ~ gift boxes, postcard stuffers and a theme. ~ Our Cake Testers were a huge hit last year and I have already began creating 60 of the ‘new design’ for 2026! We also will have a new featured scent, cake pedestals and glass covered plates ~ and of course our popular cookie melting stacks…with cut-out cookies too!
I’m also looking forward to our new Fall Scents ~ Baking Bread and Pumpkin Brownie! Our popular Sweet and Salty Scent will also have Heart Warmers this year!
Soooooo much to look forward too~! The new Classic Amy Joanne is growing :).
Wednesday March 25, 2026
The Collection on the Shelf
Yesterday on the Blog I talked about our Kitchen Shelving (shown) (read here) ~ but what I didn’t talk about was the Collection on the Shelf. Yes, it is a catch all for chip clips, twisty ties, mail and the like ~ so, with any ‘arrangement’ placed on the Shelving I make sure there is a bowl or two to catch the ‘extras‘. I also place the Cookbooks I will be using each week or the next. The rest is simply just decor for the season ~ with hidden purpose, like the vintage chicken dish is used for tea bags. The cabbage dishes (shown) are from Sister Stash Ebay Shop (here) ~ the sweet chicks are from my Mother-in-law and the bunny napkin holders are from Hobby Lobby. A collection of old, new, vintage and handmade. Making our House OUR Home.
Tuesday March 24, 2026
Chili on a Cold Day
Nothing like a warm bowl of Chili on a Cold Day in March. We love to toss corn chips and cheddar cheese ontop and warm it under the broiler. Yum.
Monday March 23, 2026
Back to the big clean out
This past weekend was about getting back to the ‘big clean out’ in our Home and in my Studio (since I changed courses with my biz) ~ I’m embarrassed to say I haven’t really cleaned my Studio since last summer, it was truly a-mess. Things are in their ‘home‘ now and I can focus on organizing each area and then I will finally get to dusting, sweeping, wet mopping and more. I go-between having everything in place and orderly to having all my tools and projects out and visible. Anyway….along with ‘cleaning’ my Studio I also ‘cleaned’ my on line space as well. I closed my newsletter (…another sad moment for me) ~but I realized everything I post thru a newsletter is now on my website.
This pop-up (shown in image) was always the lead-in on my website for newsletter sign-ups …..I will be adding a new pop-up soon to welcome you in and to join us for creative fun! I’m not sure what topic yet, but I’m positive it will be creative!
Friday March 20, 2026
3 Sauce Spaghetti
This past week I have enjoyed cooking from the new Rhea Drummond Cookbook ~ we especially enjoyed her favorite Spaghetti recipe ~ the noodles were first tossed in Pesto (I used store purchased Pesto), Alfredo Sauce was next (using Rhea’s recipe from the same cookbook) and finishing with Marinara Sauce (I used this Pizza Sauce recipe, here) and then Cheese. I also added Chicken to round out the meal. It was extra tasty and has many servings!
Thursday March 19, 2026
All Wrapped Up and Ready for Basket Filling
Our new Easter ‘Heart Warmers’ are all wrapped up in pretty ribbon and paper grass ~ nestled into a clear box…..I just had to add the ric-rak ribbon (It’s becoming a thing just like the Baker’s Twine from years ago)…..notice how the yellow ric-rak plays off the yellow peep! So fun!
Wednesday March 18, 2026
Door Knob Gifts
Door Knob Gifts were created in 2020 here at Classic Amy Joanne during the Covid Pandemic ~ a way to send someone a ‘thinking of you‘ gift without contact. ~ Door Knob Gifts are still created today as a way to send ‘joy and love‘ thru crafts, food, paintings, candles and more to friends, family, neighbors and others.
Learn more about our Door Knob Gifts thru-out our Blog and wherever you see this image. Learn about it’s beginnings (here).
Search our Door Knob Gift Ideas (here).
Tuesday March 17, 2026
In-Between Moments
The in-between-moments are when the little things get done. Slow progress always works better for me than quick decisions in ‘renos and redos’. in March ’24 we added a display rack to our kitchen counter ~ it wasn’t actually complete at that time but it served its purpose. Just recently we finished the display rack (March ’26) by adding the trim and backing. We use it for seasonal collections ~ and also to hold our spices, napkins and recent cookbooks.
I will be sharing more on the Blog about the build and the inspiration it came from.
Monday March 16, 2026
Do you see it?
Do you see it? I used one of our little hutches for the ‘2026 Easter Collection’ Photo Shoot! (read about little cabinets here) (and about our 2026 Easter Collection here). This little cabinet has not even been dusted off yet or found its home ~ but it made a perfect setting for our Easter Candles. So sweet.
Friday March 13, 2026
Coordinating Pretty Wrappings
Coordinating has been ‘my thing‘ since I can remember ~ no seriously, I can remember matching Geranimal Tags on Clothing at Jamesway Shopping Plaza to find a perfect Geranimal Set. I found it fun that 2 giraffe tags on shirts can match 1 pair of giraffe tagged pants ~ just simply match the tag! Anyway…. I have been coordinating scents to labels and labels to fabrics, paper and straw! All making up the ‘pretty wrappings’ of our 2026 East Collection!
Thursday March 12, 2026
2026 Easter Collection
We’ve planned the idea, gathered the goods, made and assembled the products and then packaged them pretty! Our 2026 Easter Collection is now ready!….and our ‘Heart Warmers‘ turned out especially sweet! Check our weekend post out this coming weekend thru Facebook to reserve your Easter Basket Fillers! ….so heart warming!
PS…incase you are new here ~ these are scented wax melting tarts ~ not candy. …just the sweetest! Warm your home with the fragrance of Chocolate, Coconut and Marshmallow!
Wednesday March 11, 2026
Getting Ready
We’re getting ready for our Easter Candle & ‘Heart Warmer’ release this coming weekend (follow us on facebook if you’re local!) ~ we’re making good use of a new ‘little cabinet’ (read here) and setting up for photos ~ the candles and tarts have been labeled and the ‘Heart Warmers’ (melts) are being wrapped in pretty ribbon! Our new Easter scents are ~ Chocolate Bunny, Marshmallow Peep, and Coconut Creme Easter Eggs.
Tuesday March 10, 2026
Inherited Keepsakes
I inherited a family keepsake ~ the ‘minutes‘ of the Hen Party.
From my understanding the ‘Hen Party’ (a gathering of ladies) started on my Grandmothers Birthday in 1964 ~ and in 1994 it was the 30th Anniversary as per the minutes.
It was always a fun exchange between my cousins and I of ‘who’ was going to be the next invited member of this fun group! …it was only a few years back when it ended.
Monday March 9, 2026
Blue Easter
in 2020 I created and shared several posts about a ‘Blue Easter’ ~ with Blue Easter pails, Blue dyed eggs, Blue ball jars and a Blue painted bunny. You can find Part 1 of 3 ‘Blue Easter’ Posts(Here) If you enjoy Part 1, hop on over to Part 2 (here) and Part 3 (here) ….and enjoy!
Friday March 6, 2026
Candles Makin’
The last couple of weeks have been all about Easter Candles ~ from ideas, to ordering, to organizing, to finally making all the Easter Candle ideas come to life ~ with new ‘Heart Warmers’, Candles, Tarts and Refreshing Room Sprays! Fingers crossed we will be finishing up this weekend with lots to share!
Thursday March 5, 2026
Egg Cup Chick
It’s about that time of year when chicks and bunnies start popping up! This was a favorite ‘Little Maker’ from 2023~ created in acrylics and colored pencil onto watercolor paper, onto wood. If you would like to create ‘Egg Cup Chick‘ ~ a downloadable pattern is available, $5.00. Simply send an email to classicamyjoanne@gmail.com ~ we will send an invoice and the pattern!
Wednesday March 4, 2026
chocolate bunny
Is it a ‘chocolate bunny’ or a ‘chocolate bunny’ melting tart? Hard to tell huh? I’ll keep you guessing….but Easter is on its way here at the ‘My Cottage Life Shop’ and once again, I couldn’t be more excited!
Tuesday March 3, 2026
Candle Jar Labels
One of the best parts of Creating Candles is designing the jar labels ~ I needed a label for our Coconut Easter Egg Scent ~ and found a perfect solution for not having Art Work referencing Coconut Eggs…..a picture of my Sister and I on Easter Morning ‘circa1970ish’ (my sister is the one chomping on her chocolate bunny and I of course have the well-made basket)…..it represents Easter Morning and is even more appropriate because my Sister does not like coconut….lol! I am always excited to add the labels to the candle jars ~ this label being no exception!
Monday March 2, 2026
All Stacked Up!
I love a good casserole, especially when it is cozy season ~ and this year I have been trying a few new recipes that are simply just all stacked up! (read about our stacked shepherd’s pie here) or our (bbq burger stack here).
This recent ‘stacked up’ recipe is like a layered taco using a springform pan ~ topping it with fresh salsa. and it sure was extra yummy!
Friday February 27, 2026
Chicken Parm
On this weeks menu was a quick and easy Chicken Parm meal from Delish Magazine ~ made with ground chicken. I served it with ziti but serving this onto garlic bread or even a simple hamburger bun would have been just as tasty.
Thursday February 26, 2026
a new beginning
join us at the Buttered Crumb Bakery and enjoy a sweet treat with a side of Artful Fun ~ a new beginning for Classic Amy Joanne.
Wednesday February 25, 2026
Deviled Crab
We treated ourselves to homemade Deviled Crab ~ and it was soooooooo good! ~ right from one of my very first cookbooks from Southern Living!
Tuesday February 24, 2026
a good read
I love a book or magazine about entrepreneurship, new business, women owned business, hobbies that become a business, small business, creative business and faith in business. Most recently I picked up ‘Pattern Magazine‘ by Bonnie Christine. Not necessarily because I am interested in pattern design but I can relate to the articles for my own Creative Business. It has been a good read and the magazine itself is beautifully laid out with inspiring images.
Pattern Magazine: A Love Letter to Creative Living (find it here).
A quarterly, printed publication by Bonnie Christine exploring how artists build intentional lives of purpose, rhythm, and beauty through seasons, art and creative entrepreneurship.
Monday February 23, 2026
Eye Spy
Predicting a Blizzard is not good for me. I scroll. I should be making better use of my time. But ~ within my scrolling I spotted another sweet little white hutch ~ and it was local to me! I couldn’t comment fast enough ~ and on Sunday morning I called the Vintage Shop and made it mine….I can’t wait to pick up this little sweet white hutch to add to my collection.
Purchased from Gingersnaps thru Zionsville Antiques (here).
Friday February 20, 2026
Personalizing Gifts
Personalizing Gifts for loved ones is something I really enjoy ~ it just makes gift giving a little more special and felt from the heart.
Be sure to keep your eye on our Blog for a sampling of a few personalized ornaments that I have been creating! ~ sharing all the details!
Thursday February 19, 2026
Getting Crafty
Whenever I scroll past this wreath photo I simply want to get crafty again. (read more here) The wreath is made up of ‘this and that’ including vintage plastic clothspins, greens from a disgarded wreath, and handmade crafty ‘penny’ flowers. One idea lead to another while making the wreath…..and that is what I enjoy about getting lost in Crafty-ness, one idea leading to another.
Wednesday February 18, 2026
Lightbulb Clicks
Don’t ya just love it when the lightbulb clicks ~ When things fall into place including your thinking? I’ve been in this place in my head that all started off with a Scripture Reading from Romans 12 ~ ‘change your way of thinking’ ~ and changing my way of thinking has lead me to a much more peaceful existence…..and just today I realized that I am also better ‘having a purpose’. My life is more fulfilling and happier. ….just some thoughts as I grow in my relationship with God and hoping to fulfill His purpose for me.
Tuesday February 17, 2026
spring in my step
There is definitely more ‘spring in my step‘ today due to a 50 degree day in February with blue skies and sun! Yep, that’ll do it! I am most certainly a winter girl ~ but I’ll take 50 degrees and alot of sunshine!
This piece is a favorite Chalk & Chew Design from the past ~ we will be sharing a class at the Buttered Crumb Bakery in New Tripoli PA on Sunday April 19th!…I think you should think about joining us! More details will follow.
Monday February 16, 2026
I made them a little differently
These burgers were just about the tasty-est, full of flavor and positively delicious. I made them once before and were good (recipe here) ~ but this time I ‘pan fried‘ instead of baking the burgers and then I removed the burgers from the pan and heated the flour tortillas, burgers and fixin’s assembled in the same pan. The drippings from the burgers made this meal extra tasty! Either way, it is a win!
Friday February 13, 2026
…saying yes
There are so many times during my Artful Journey that I said yes to a requested project ~ not because I had confidence, or thought I was capable, or actually even because I wanted too….mostly because I couldn’t say no.…. And as silly as that sounds, each time God gave me the courage, the confidence and capabilities to accomplish the project. God always had my back, pushed me forward, knew me better than I did and never let me down. And each time I learned that I CAN!
Thursday February 12, 2026
So Stinkin’ Cute
Another ol’ favorite from 2023 ~ So Stinkin’ Cute Classic Chalk Art, just in time for Valentine’s Day! Read more (here).
In need of a pattern? Email classicamyjoanne@gmail.com for a downloadable pdf pattern. (paypal invoice $8.00).
Wednesday February 11, 2026
Garage Band
I talk about my Maternal Grandfather and my Dad and also my Paternal Grandparents alot for being ‘Small Business Owners’ ~ from a Painter, to a Mechanic, to a Ceramic Artist….but did you know I also had an Uncle who was the lead singer in a Garage Band called ‘Bandit 79′. They played at Block Parties, School Dances, and Clubs ~ they even did a recording once, had articles written about them and met Dick Clark. I understand some of the Band Members still play today. I am so fortunate that I have a cd with their music. My Uncle Dennis is in the striped pants. It is the best picture I could find.
Tuesday February 10, 2026
New Molds, New Ideas
Nothing excites me more lately than a fresh batch of silicone molds for new ideas in sculpting and candle making! The excitement is back into my heart for ….all things creative.
Monday February 9, 2026
Favorite Coleslaw
Enjoy this simple recipe for my favorite Coleslaw.
My Favorite Coleslaw
you will need shredded cabbage (head or a bag), a small onion chopped, 1 c sugar, salt and pepper to taste, 3 tsp mustard, 1/3 c white vinegar, 3/4 c vegetable oil, 4 tb mayo, 1 tsp celery seed (additions if desired 2 c marble cheese shred, chopped bacon, or even tomato pieces.)
Blend all the dressing ingredients together then toss with cabbage mixture before serving. Yum.
Our BBQ Burger Stack (shown) with Coleslaw Recipe can be found on the Blog Pages….soon!
Friday February 6, 2026
back to organizing
I’ve been feeling cooped up with no motivation ~ the sun has not been shining, the snow is not melting and the temp has been hovering around 1 degree for almost 2 months (to cold for walking, and I’m even a Winter girl!) ~ BUT, this weekend I will be picking myself up by the britches and giving myself a good pep talk to get back to my organization project from 2025….feeling motivated once again.
Thursday February 5, 2026
My Brushes Moved!
Wow did that feel good! I sat in the Studio with all my supplies scattered around me with fresh smudges of paint on my smock. My brushes were moving again and it felt so good. Santa was still my Santa ~ and all was right in the world.
Wednesday February 4, 2026
Door Knob Gifts
‘Door Knob Gifts‘ were created back in 2020 as a way of staying connected with family, neighbors and friends during the Covid Pandemic ~ it was simply a created gift placed in canvas bag to hang on a door knob ~ with a note of ‘you’re not forgotten‘ and a little treat, whether it be food, a craft, a candle, a book to read or a puzzle. It is still a nice idea today to continue on with the tradition of Door Knob Gifts ~ and you can find fun ideas for Door Knob Gifts thru the Blog Tab here at Classic Amy Joanne, simply ‘search’ Door Knob Gifts!
Tuesday February 3, 2026
Spring Wrappings
All the pretty wrappings have been planned, ordered, received and ready to go for our Spring Easter Goods and Candles ~ we’ve chosen yellow ric-rac along with our signature blue gingham ribbon ~ for our Bags, Giftsets, Stackables and our Heart Warmers too! We have also stocked up on our signature glassine bags for our gift and business cards too! …and dare I say we planned our Fall and Christmas ‘Heart Warmers’ and ordered all the molds?! Yep. It’s all coming together.
Monday February 2, 2026
Change Your Way of Thinking
I’ve been ‘stinkin’ thinkin’ (as Joyce Meyers Calls it) lately. Being my own worst problem…but the good news is my ‘stinkin’ thinkin’ lead me to a Bible Lesson during my morning walk with God ~ He lead me to Romans 12:2. ‘change your way of thinking’ pretty much sums it up. And you know what happened? It changed my whole outlook….and my thinkin’ too. He leads me.
Friday January 30, 2026
Margo Roth
Do you want to know who I can’t get enough of lately? Margo Roth. I first saw her home on a Homeworthy Tour on Youtube and fell in love with her style. Then I started to follow her on Instagram, and now I see she has a website to shop her look (find Margo here). So charming!
Thursday January 29, 2026
I Dough Love You
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner ~ and here is a quick and easy recipe and project to create (from 2022) for the sweet people in your life ~ (read here).
Wednesday January 28, 2026
Staying True
I think it is about 12 years now since I started Blogging and my Biz. I’ve learned so much since then and have enjoyed every moment growing as a Blogger, a Photographer, an Artist and a Creative Business Owner. I stayed true to my tag line of ‘all things Art & Home’ (yeah me)~ bringing you home DIY’s, crafty projects, recipes, art classes, candle making and so much more. This Blog & Website is a big part of my life and story and I Thank you for tuning in. Let’s make it another 12…..smile!
Have you scrolled back and enjoyed any early blog posts?
Tuesday January 27, 2026
Using Time
Today (or tomorrow, because I have a faulty keyboard that won’t cooperate) we’ll be talking about ‘using time’ on the Blog tab ~ and how I kick started myself into action with little 10 minute projects! ….thanks for hanging out with me here at Classic Amy Joanne.
Monday January 26, 2026
Using What I Collect
I like collecting and stylin’ vintage things ~ but am aware of my limited space. So I put every so-called ‘decorative item’ to good use. This milk glass chicken holds my black tea bags. It’s a useful space saver on the kitchen counter and looks ‘vintage-pretty’ too. Just my style.
Living the Cottage Life.
Friday January 23, 2026
Cozy Up This Weekend
Cozy up this weekend with a good book, a favorite movie, or finish a painting, start a knitted scarf or clean out the closet ~ just a few ideas while we ‘weather’ the storm.
Thursday January 22, 2026
Lid Labels
Here at Classic Amy Joanne we take our ‘brand’ seriously ~ and we like our ‘packaging/presentation’ to let you know ‘you’re appreciated’ ~ for each wrapped package/product we add a sample fragrance tart, a ‘how-to’ business card, a signature bag, a gingham ribbon and we even add ‘lid tape’ to each candle with a fun message.
Our favorite ‘lid tape’ is our ‘moto’ ~ warm your home, melt your heart. Always.
On your next visit, look for our special signature wrappings. Because you’re appreciated.
Wednesday January 21, 2026
From this, to this, to this
The beautiful thing about Decorative Art is how it is broken down thru a pattern for the creator into doable parts. From a blank page, to basecoating, to finishing….and I cannot wait to dive back into designing and creativity!
Tuesday January 20, 2026
a new category on the blog
We’ve created a new Category within the Blog tabs ~ Retail & Shop Life…… And soon we will begin the story of our New Business, but ol’ passion. From logo, to marketing, to products, to store build. As always, stay tuned in.
Monday January 19, 2026
Look what I got
Two of my besties from grade-school who own ‘Sister’s Stash‘ Antiques ~ gifted me a few ‘original’ (not repo) cabbage plates ~ how lucky am I! They look so perfect with our painted pantry cupboard in our kitchen (read here). Sister Stash has an Ebay Shop and holds live sales thru WhatNot (find out more thru Sister Stash FB here).
Friday January 16, 2026
Ol’ Door Cabinet
Take another look. We created a ‘signature look’ for our ‘My Cottage Life Shop’ using ol’ doors to make cabinets including the hardware! Pretty neat huh?
Thursday January 15, 2026
Small Cabinet Obsession
My small cabinet obsession continues….and I use each and every one thru out my Studio and Shop. Each vintage picked, cleaned and some painted ~ …so smitten with my 2 recent finds, blue dresser drawers with chippy blue paint and a child’s size dresser with mirror ‘arms’.
Oh my goodness!… can you picture it with tiny knitted stockings from the ‘mirror arms’…..smitten for sure!
Wednesday January 14, 2026
Daily Dose 2026
Welcome to Daily Dose 2026! Simply continuing on with the tradition of sharing our Daily Dose of Doings ~ a new post everyday (well almost) newest on top! …an easy scroll thru meant to share and inspire too!
Need More? Scroll thru our previous years (here) ~ or click the tab at the top.
