All you need is LOVE!

All you need is love, love....love is all you need!

Happy Saint Valentine's Day to you!

Ever wonder about the real history of Valentine's Day?

Valentinus was a Roman priest during the reign of Claudius the Goth [Claudius II]. Since he was caught marrying Christian couples and aiding any Christians who were being persecuted under Emperor Claudius in Rome [when helping them was considered a crime], Valentinus was arrested and imprisoned. One legend says, while awaiting his execution, Valentinus restored the sight of his jailer's blind daughter. Another legend says, on the eve of his death, he penned a farewell note to the jailer's daughter, signing it, "From your Valentine."   For even more information, you can click here.

Here are my own creations in honor of St. Valentine's Day.

Antique book covers are the sweet beginning for these banners.  I chose deep reds, pinks and creamy layers of lace for this project. The book covers and the laces are beautifully aged and tattered.  I added silver glittery letters, vintage rhinestone jewelry, silk chiffon roses (that I make on long car trips), and pieces of vintage beaded gowns.  I found lots of rhinestone hearts -- and even a rhinestone bow and arrow - straight from Cupid himself!!

Look at these pretty pearl strands and little heart charms mixed into the laces!  Sweet surprises!

 You can find a tutorial on how to make these HERE.

 Life is short - so celebrate everything - especially LOVE!

Cheers! Catherine

Sharing with these fun linky parties:

Amaze Me Mondays at Dwellings

Inspire Me Monday at My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia

Table it at Rustic and Refined 

Feathered Nest Friday at http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/

Show and Tell Friday http://romantichome.blogspot.com/

The inspiration Gallery at The Craftberry Bush 

Fridays Unfolded at Nancharrow.com

Inspire me Tuesday at A stroll through life

Vintage Inspiration Party at My Salvaged Treasures

The Scoop at Cedar Hill Farm House

Tweak it Tuesday at Cozy Little House

You're Gonna  Love It (Tuesday) at Kathe with an E

Vintage Inspiration Party (Tuesday) at My Salvaged Treasures

Wow Us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style

Centerpiece Wednesday at The Style Sisters

Whimsy Wednesday at Simply Designing

 Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

 Share Your Cup Thursday at Jann Olson BlogSpot

Saturday Sparks Linky Party at Pieced Pastimes

 What's It Wednesday at Ivy and Elephants

 Link Party Palooza at Tater Tots and Jello

Shabbilicious Friday at Shabby Art Boutique

Home Sweet Home at The Charm of Home

What to do weekends at Crafts a la mode

Share it One More Time Sunday at One More Time Events