Having local artists represented in the store is a top priority for me. I love the connection I, and in turn you, are able to make with them and with their work. I love that I know that the art hanging in my home was created out of passion, desire and talent. There's something special about seeing a painting- all of the layers and textures- that has just recently been created by the artist's hands.

That is why I'm excited to introduce all of you to Deann. Deann Hebert is an artist from Nashville and our newest local addition to Itty Bitty Bella. From 5 inches square to 4 feet square, Deann has canvas art that will fill your needs and your walls.

Her work features whimsical subjects such as sail boats and angels as well as more rustic scenes that showcase country barns and bird nests.

Her style is one that is very layered, textured and full of depth. Deann is known for her bright colors and rich textures. Her signature impasto-style of applying layer upon layer of acrylic paint, and finishing with a high gloss UV-protectant varnish is a technique that she developed by trial and error. Unexpected touches can always be expected.

The girls and I will be sure to update you as new pieces arrive. If there's something special you're looking for, just let me know. Deann is more than willing to take on custom projects. What better way to personalize a nursery!

- Stephanie

View more of Deann's work at Bella Vita

The weather is starting to cool (thank goodness!) but that means less sunshiny days and more gray rainy days. When the kids are cooped up indoors here's a few of our favorite hands-on activity books to keep them entertained.

Chalk Art

Send the kiddo's to the garage or an indoor chalkboard and get them drawing. Inside, this book shows them how to create chalk masterpieces and not just the simple stick figure family we're used to seeing on the sidewalk (not that there's anything wrong with that!).

Foam Gliders

Round up the boys together and start a friendly competition. All the instructions and supplies you need are included in this all-in-one book.

Paper Flowers

Gather the girls for some quality all-girl time. For display in her room or as adornments on her artwork, there isn't a girl out there who won't love creating her own paper flowers.

Hand Art

Get creative and take drawing to a whole new level. Simple, easy to follow directions are on each page to help your child create scenes, animals and objects using their hands.

Thumb Doodles

A new twist on finger painting, Thumb Doodles will have your children captivated with all they can do using their thumbs. Each page will show them different techniques and offer suggestions to create their own cartoon-like pictures using their thumbs.

- The Girls at Itty Bitty Bella

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Halloween is quickly approaching and whether you do the trick-or-treating around the neighborhood or just stick to fall family events, a costume is always a must for the little ones.

If you're still struggling to come up with ideas, here's some of our favorite DIY Halloween costumes. They're not hard so don't panic! There's still time to complete them perfectly.

 
Images courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens and Parents Magazine

Our Top 5 DIY Halloween Costumes:

- The Girls at Itty Bitty Bella

"They grow up too fast...!" Isn't that what we all say?

Making and preserving memories is an important part of your children's lives for both you and them. One day the memories will fade, details will become blurry and you'll be wishing you could turn back time and relive those simple childhood days again.

In Josie Bissett's latest book "Making Memories", she offers 200+ ways to make childhood memories as a family that will last a lifetime.

The moments and memories you have with your children don't all have to be grand, pre-planned activities. Learning to make the most of every moment and cherish the simple things is the key. The tips, suggestions and personal stories in this heart warming book will last you and your family a lifetime.

You can thank us later- as they're heading off to college.

- The Girls at Itty Bitty Bella