Misty Morning

I took this shot yesterday morning. I love occasional early morning fog. You can just start imagining the stories that go with a picture like this. I'll bet if anyone saw me in my gown taking the picture, they wondered what my story was !!



Another thing I love to do is arrange silk flowers. While doing some spring cleaning last week, I realized I needed to replenish my arrangements. When we were furniture shopping, I saw a lovely art flower arrangement on a table in one of the stores. The price on it was $199.00. It was a silk arrangement in a clear glass container with the clear resin used to look like water. Well, I am such a frugal thing, I said I can duplicate this arrangement for much less than that. Hubby and I went to Michael's and I got what seem to be the identical flowers. Red and yellow silk poppies, along with some additional greenery that looks like eucalyptus leaves. I was actually looking for a greenery similar to dusty miller, but they didn't have any. This one is my second attempt at making a similar arrangement. I really didn't like my clear vase version, it just didn't go with my decor, came out being too formal. Since Hubby and I collect colored glassware, I decided to use one of our blue vases and I think I like the result.

twenty dollars worth of silk flowers

My take on the artist's arrangement

Click in on this shot and take note of the monkey art on my mantle. This is a monkey that I drew and then wood burned for my hubby, one year for his birthday. Monkey is one of my pet names for him, so I am always looking for monkeys for him. He has monkey magnets, a monkey bobble head, monkey postcards and a sweet Momma and Baby Monkey on his desk. You just gotta love monkeys.

Speaking of monkeys, has anyone seen Escape to Chimp Eden? It is another of the shows that I watch on Animal Planet. It is such a great reality show. I got almost as attached to these primates as I did to the Meerkats. Don't get me started on these little critters. Their stories really touch me. I'm such a sap anyway. (That means I will probably cry before the end of the show).

Well that's all for now, I think I'll go make a cup of tea and see what I can get into. Have a good rest of the day and keep me posted on how your days are going. Ta, Ta, friends.

Freak Out

......picture this (especially those of you who know me)...

I'm in my workout gear, which includes my always present Flashdance t-shirt, doing dishes... Listening to my jams... Hear comes Chic doing LeFreak!!! Suds are a-flyin, white rubber gloves a-waving!! I'm boogieing to my favorite dance music-Disco. There you have it. Take a listen and see if you can stay in your seat.

Later Babies!!

Remembering the victims

I really thought that after one year, I would be able to post about this without crying, but when I went in on this Virginia Tech Site, the tears started to flow.

One of my mother's brothers was a VPI (Tech) alumni. He received an excellent education at Tech and went on to be a successful tax accountant. When we were children, he took my brother to all the Tech games. He was proud to be a Hokie and we felt like Hokies, too. Unfortunately, this beloved uncle died (much too young) before he could encourage us kids to go to Tech . Someone might say that I didn't actually lose anyone in the Virginia Tech Massacre, but they would be wrong. We all lost when this happened. Even the parents of the one that caused this. I feel so sorry for all the families involved. I show my remembrance by wearing the school colors whenever I can. It's the least I can do for Uncle Bud.

Well, that being said, I will continue in a somewhat lighter mode. I don't know if I have mentioned that my hubby plays bluegrass on Saturdays. For his birthday, my sister sent him an electric "upright" bass. He usually plays an electric rock bass, sitting down with a strap around his shoulder. He finally decided to break out the Pace Bass last weekend, but it wasn't easy standing up for 4 hours. This is the reason that we went shopping yesterday for a swivel bar stool for him to use when he plays. He got a really nice one and I will try to take a picture of him the next time he plays. While we were in the furniture store, he suggested an impulse item.....a new sofa!!! I love it. They even delivered it the same day. We picked out one that is slightly smaller than the one we had and it makes our living room look so much larger. The only problem is now, we need a new coffee table. You know how that goes.

Well, not much more to say, except keep doing art. Never be discouraged by comparing your abilities, or your style or anything else to other artists. I believe we are all artists. We are all individuals and this individuality can show through in our art. Don't make only what you think will "sell", make what you like. Try new techniques, and if you don't always have the proper tools, improvise. Who knows what you might come up with. You might invent the next "new thing". Whatever you do, the whole point I'm trying to make is, go ahead and do it!

Me, I'm going to go take the head off of an old Barbie doll and see if I can cut it in half. Wish me luck. Ta, Ta for now.

Just a quick post

Wanted to give a shout out to all my peeps! OK, so I'm being silly. I just wanted to make a quick post to say hello and to show you the finished necklace that I had been working on. I had it on at the library today and Marnie and the other gals liked it. So here it is!



Also, have we talked about Zappos, my favorite online shoe store? I love Skechers , and here is my latest pair. Talk about addictive, I love to look at shoes here. My darling hubby is the one that got me hooked on it, so it's all his fault.



And, another thing, since this is my birthday month, I have to go to the DMV soon to get my permit renewed. I have to take the eye test and yes, I have to wear glasses all the time now. GRRR... so I have that to look forward to.

Hopefully, I will soon get some art done. Our altered art group will be meeting next week. I need something to get me moving in a different direction again. I don't know what I will be doing next, but I think I need to do something sort of weird and dark. Just in time for spring! I can do bright colors and heart shaped faces another day. Let's go Goth for a while. I think I need to remove some doll heads from my stash of thrift store babies. I'm getting ideas. Talk about altered, wait until you see what I'm thinking! Hmmm..... this could get interesting.

Well, hubby just invited me to go the The Coffee Pot to hear some early evening Bluegrass. This should be a hoot. Well, got to go make sure my shows get taped. Talk soon. Ta, Ta.

Sunday and Unmotivated

DH and I are both still in our PJ's and it's evening. We went to the store on Friday instead of today and it's raining and my eyes feel funny and...is that enough reasons to be in pajamas all day?

Ok, now I am taking an opportunity to vent. I try and try and try and never, never get the results I expect with Shrink Plastic. It seems like it would be the perfect product to make light weight charms and other ephemera for altered art. It is just so contrary. I know you "have" to sand it to use colored pencils, so I sand it. You "have" to use pigment ink, so I use it. The ink doesn't dry. How do you cut out shapes when the ink is not dry? Are you supposed to wait over night? That doesn't fit with my plan, usually. Seriously, I have tried about 6 times now and maybe once have I gotten something I was happy with. Do any of you use it? I would post a picture of this last batch I did, but they look like burnt corn flakes. Ok, I'll do it any way. Here goes.




Oh, I did make a picture frame by gluing down recycled items to a board and then putting glue and beads on it in a mosaic fashion. Can you tell what the recycled items are? Here's a clue... this picture frame will hold a picture of Baby Milo in the center area.



Onward. Last week I worked on a dimensional piece of art. I used vintage wooden fish from an old mobile. Glued down beads, glitter, all sorts of things. It's coming along.



Today, in addition to the hateful shrink plastic I made a pendant, or something, using the instructions from this book by Sandra McCall. You use a glob of hot blue and stamp into it. I didn't have the stamp she suggested, so I hand-carved a stamp after I got the book. I think it is going to be really cool.


Well, I don't know if you can tell, but none of these items are quite finished yet. I used to fret and only do one thing until it was exactly the way I wanted it to be. Nope, now I just go from one thing to another and have several things going at once. It's a great way to stay fresh and not get so bogged down with my art, which I tend to do sometimes. This method was suggested several month ago by one of my blog artist buddies. It's really working for me. I really do appreciate the fact that most of the artist that blog are willing to give you tips and hints and to show you their work. It's great and I thank you for it.

Well, Big Brother is on tonight. I am and probably will always be a TV junkie. Sofa Spud, Couch Tater, you call it what you will, I'm it. I started watching television when The People's Choice was a sitcom instead of an award show. I think it was the last season when I saw it, but I do remember the little dog that did this trick of walking with her front legs and dragging her back legs behind her. Do any of you remember that one? The first cartoon I really remember was Woody Woodpecker and my first crush was on Circus Boy, who grew up and went on to become my favorite one of the Monkees.

Ok, enough of that, I am out of here to try to find something yummy to eat on this cloudy evening, so stay warm, and have fun and keep those cards and letters comin'!!

Surprise Present

Hello all, I got a very pleasant surprise yesterday. I had sent my hubby an e-mail about a painting by the awesome artist Michelle Steele being available on eBay. I then forgot about it. You know how that is. Anyway, yesterday when the mail came he handed me a nice sized box and said "your mail is here". We had recently ordered something for the bathroom, so I am expecting (please forgive me, Michelle) a toilet seat. Imagine my surprise when I opened up this beautiful piece of artwork.


I am so happy with it. In fact, I think it looks a lot like me. I have green eyes, and at one time, had jammin' long dark hair. I immediately had him hang it for me, but took it down to take this shot.

I definitely like the folk art look of this piece, but I also love the other, somewhat off-beat art that Michelle does. Check out her website to get a feel for some of her art.

Just wanted to show it off to you and to say thanks again to my hubby. I can't believe he was able to keep this purchase a secret for an entire week. We can't keep secrets, we are just like kids.

Thanks Monkey Man. I wuv you this much.

Mosette Boutif Kit by Craft Master.

Ever since My Hubby found this art kit from my childhood, he has been trying to find other ones for me. Here are some shots of the latest one I did. Hope you like it.

Here it is right out of the box

Here I have glued down the black braid

Here is the finished product- braid, glass, stone and glitter all glued in place. When it comes to art, it's fun to have someone else tell you exactly what to do sometimes. Plus it is a great way to get unexpected presents from my hubby. Thanks, Darling, you're the best.

...

Earth Hour

Yes, we decided to participate in Earth Hour. We turned off all lights and all non-essential appliances for one hour. We watched television by candle light. Was kind of fun. Certainly can't hurt.

Well, that's all for now. Will talk soon. Ta, Ta.

A New Routine

Well, life goes on, we are settling into a new routine. I am purposely doing things differently. This is the first time in over 20 years that I haven't had to watch the door when I opened it. Now I am holding the door open longer, just to get used to the fact that no one will escape. None of our kitties ever tried to get out, it was just a precautionary measure anyway. We had been walking quietly for the last few weeks, because Milo was unwell. We are now striding through the house, running up and down the stairs, even speaking in a louder voice. Things are just naturally changing. Part of me feels guilty that I am getting used to things so quickly. I miss him, but in a sweet, reminiscent way. I do want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all my friends for their kind words. I know most of you have been through this and your sweet e-mails and comments have helped me so much. Hugs to you all.

I have been working on jewelry recently and here are two pieces that you might find interesting.

I am a grape ape. I love purple and have since I was a teenager. This is an amethyst bead and purple lampwork creation, accented with black seed beads and pink anodized beads.



This is a beaded kumihimo necklace. It is made from 8 strands of seed beads that are woven in a tubular fashion and finished with a non-tarnish silver cone and wire wrapped. I chose shades of purple and red in case there were any Society ladies out there that wanted something different.

I have been spring cleaning and I have collected sooooo much jewelry over the years, that I am thinking about putting lots of earrings, necklaces, etc. on eBay. I really haven't decided yet, but it would really be a good way to make way for more treasures. In the meantime, I will leave you with these two necklaces and make my way downstairs to maybe work on my altered book. The next meeting will be here soon and I won't have anything done on it. Good thing tomorrow is Saturday.

Till then, Ta, Ta.

He's Gone

For those of you who have been keeping up with our kitty cat, Milo, we had to have him put down today. Ten days ago, the vet was astounded at how well he was doing. He had seen him on one of his "good" days. His bad days have been really, really bad and we knew this morning we needed to take him for this last visit.

We will miss him, we already do...and we don't know what we will do about future pets. For now we will celebrate his sweet little life (he was 16, that's about 84 in human years) and know that he was loved and very, very well cared for. My darling husband would hold Milo for hours, even if he was uncomfortable himself.

We laid him to rest with his other little kitty cat friends, here on our little acre. He was a sweet boy and we have lots of pictures and video of him. I blogged about his health here and I showed him when he was really fit and feisty is this blog.

He was a very important part of our lives, but we know we will all be together sometime. Join me in remembering this very special cat and remember the special little pets of yours that he has joined. I imagine they are all having fun, chasing butterflies and each other and sometimes looking down at us, remembering how much we loved them.

Thanks for listening.

History in the making...

In honor of Women's History Month, here is history in the making. Rock On!




Oh, how I wish there had been a camp like this when we were kids. Enjoy!

I'm a winner!

Just a quick Thank You to Jenn and the Boys over at Noodle and Lou's. I won in her 100th post giveaway. Thanks for picking me. I am looking forward to receiving my gift. Thanks again.

XOXOXOXOX

Oh, what a beautiful day!

I had my breakfast out on the deck!! OK, well I did have to put on a hooded sweatshirt to cope with the wind, but that was ok. While DH is out playing Bluegrass/Newgrass this morning, I have been working on some new jewelry. I made a polymer clay pendant and this wild little bracelet.

Paper Clay Bracelet

I couldn't help but think of Leslie, that Funky Art Queen, because I put a crown on it and it is most certainly funky. The paper clay I used was ultra light and felt like marshmallows in my hand. I painted the back solid purple and used my favorite leafing pen to add some gold highlights. I put a magnet closure on it. (I find bracelets so difficult to manage when Hubby is not here) .

Well I will be posting later perhaps, now I'm off to make Rubens for lunch. Yummy. I know, I know... but we both worked out this morning, so it's all good.

We'll talk soon. Ta, Ta.

Daffy Dills and Bad Finger

The First Day of Spring...

The real first day of spring started for me 21 years ago at the local watering hole. I had seen the poster for Bad Finger and since I wasn't busy that night, I decided to check it out. I was standing there waiting for the first band to come on and I saw the cutest guy. He had on white hi-tops, longish hair, a long coat and Oooweee! He was a doll. I figured he was one of those college boys from up the road a piece and probably wouldn't be interested . Well, he spots me and makes his way over. I quickly convinced him I am not with the dude that is next to me and, as they say, the rest is history.

Yes, that's how I met my hubby. He is still just as cute now as he was then. Over the years, we have changed some things. We are considerably different then we were in those days. Now when we go to a club, we drink soda, complain about the smoke and we really do just want to see the band. That's what works for us, and I'm happy with it. In my mind, though, he still is my wild man, rocker, bad boy.

Yep, he's a keeper. Happy anniversary baby!

Here's hoping the first day of spring always brings good memories to you, also.

Hot Running Water

I am a very grateful person. The fact that almost everyone has modern plumbing and hot running water is something that I am in awe of. I grew up in a somewhat rural town, but I always have had hot water and indoor plumbing. I do remember our pipes freezing sometimes and not having water for several days and having to go to someone's house to take a bath. That, in itself, will make you realize what you have. I had friends that lived in the "country" that still used an out door facility, but we never did.

I have never been hungry and I have never been seriously ill. Why, I've never even had a broken bone. I had my appendix taken out and my tonsils removed, but other than that I'm healthy.

I am so thankful and so grateful for all the blessings that I have. If I am cold, I turn up the heat. If I am hungry, I go to a fully stocked kitchen. I love to cook and do so everyday...indoors with an electric range.

I just wanted to make a quick post, to remind us of everything we might take for granted. I thank God for the air that I breathe and the fact that I can breathe easily, on my own.

I have a wonderful husband who loves me very much, as I do him. Life is brief. I have many loved ones that are now gone, but I think of them so often. Take every opportunity to tell people that you love them, and if that is difficult for you...do something for them. Go to the store for someone, go pump their gas, do whatever you think might make even a small difference.

Let your light shine. It's the least we can do.

Thanks for listening.

Nine Lives - The Sequel

All wrapped up in his matching towel, and ready to visit the vet. Doesn't he look just like something out of Star Wars? The vet said Milo reminds him of why they say cats have nine lives. His color is good, his lung has regained partial function, he has been eating some and all things considered, is actually doing fairly well. Everyone at the vet's office loves Milo. He is the sweetest cat, even when he is sick. He sits on DH's lap in the waiting room and waits his turn. He endures what is being done and then returns home. No big deal.

Any way the current crisis seems to be over, he will be with us until he decides to pass on, and I guess, that's just the size of it. Thanks for all the sweet wishes and prayers for Baby Milo, you are the best friends a kitty cat could have.

Well, that's all for now, I might be back later today, we'll see. Ta, Ta.

Bean Soup

Yes, I said Bean Soup! Whilst we have all been cranky babies and crying for spring, I still have had a hankering for something hearty. It rained here yesterday and it's not really that warm outside, so my comfort food of choice for the next few days is 15 Bean Soup, Beef Flavored.




I cut a nice lean steak into bite sized chunks, roughly chopped some onion (I skip the garlic, not my thing) and saute'd that together, added one can of tomatoes and the flavor packet that is included, while the beans did a quick cook on the stove top for about 1 hour, then combined the mixtures for a yummy bean soup.



You bring the warm crusty bread, I'll make some sweet tea and let's chow down.

Who knows?? A nap might be in our future!!



p.s.

If you have time, reach over and click on the links for Women's History Month. There is so much going on this month, I know, but I didn't want to forget to acknowledge all of us girls and all of those wonderful ladies of the past.

Necklace

Oops, I didn't mean for this shot to look like a catalog page. I am still learning my photo program.




This is a twisted necklace I fashioned from teal colored crystal beads and amazonite nuggets, it is made on aqua colored "Artistic" wire and finished with a silver tone chain and a traditional lobster claw clasp. It is now on my Etsy site. Click in on my sidebar.

I got a new product today called Delight, by Paperclay. I love to try something new and although I really love the way it feels in my hands, I am not sure about the application. I have made several beads and a focal piece. I think I will bring it to our meeting tomorrow to let folks see how soft it is to the touch. It feels like a marshmallow in your hand. Interesting.

I also have done an interesting, but confusing, pen and ink drawing of a basket of flowers, except the flowers are gears and things with rivets and holes in them. The basket has turned into a Madd Max maze of stairs and portholes. Oh what the hey, I'll go take a picture of it and show you...



This like, almost all artwork, has to be seen to really be appreciated. I have always loved drawing. I sometimes wish that I could paint as easily. My ink drawings always seem to have a childlike quality about them. I never try to keep that from happening when I draw. For some reason, whenever I do other types of art, I have difficulty tapping into that inner child's view point. Enough said, hope you can figure it out.

See you soon. Ta, Ta.

Progress report

Hey there, just a quick post to let you know Milo is still hanging in there. He is resting quietly. He has not eaten as much as 1/2 teaspoon of food a day for about a week. He is drinking water. DH spoke with the vet's office today, and they said to let them know Monday what his status is. He really doesn't seem to be in any discomfort. All we can do is wait and watch.

Be sure to check out my sidebar. We have a new video on YouTube. Even before we found out Milo was sick, DH had been talking about doing a video in a Pet Memorial Garden. I hope you understand that this video is meant to celebrate the lives of all our little pet companions. The song, "Goodbye", is one that Paul McCartney wrote for Mary Hopkins, DH's vocals really shine, and it remains one of my favorites. Hope you like it.

My Baby Milo

Greetings all, we got sad news today. Baby Milo hasn't been feeling well lately. Changes in his usual routine, not eating enough, that sort of thing led us to take him to be checked out, as he is only months shy of seventeen (17) years old. So, DH took him to the vet today and they say that he has cancer. One of his lungs is almost completely shut down. They have started him on prednisone in hopes that it will kill some of the cancer cells. One of the side effects is increased appetite, so that may help some. The bottom line is they say he may only last 24 more hours, but he could hang in there 24 days. This leaves us with, of course, some serious thinking to do. You all know what I am speaking of. It's tough, when visibly he seems to be ok. He doesn't show any "pain" to speak of. Cats are so good at hiding things. That's one of the things that keep them alive out in the wild. Not appearing weak. Well, at this point, it is up to our gracious God. We leave it in His hands, to give us the strength and knowledge to know what to do next. In the meantime, I will keep you posted and give him lots of loving and any thing that he wants. I am leaving you with these pictures of our precious Baby Milo.

We got him as a kitten. He walked up to our back porch and told us he had decided for us to take care of him. He has always been DH's favorite. He came right into a home with two other spoiled cats, and told them to chill out, that he wasn't going to upset anything. They learned to love him, and were great friends. They both lived to be 16 years also. Join me in loving this very sweet cat. He is a special, special animal and we love him.

Talk soon.

Doll Pin

Cocoon Girl

Just a quick post to show this little pin doll. I'm not sure if I want to sell her or not, she's sorta cute in person. She has a standard jewelry pin backing and is about 3" long. She is the result of me following the advise of my friend and mentor (Jenn) who suggested doing some sketches when I had a bit of artist block. This is what I doodled. I might add some wings, I am just not sure. She is a little too larvae like at this point.


Well, that's all for now. Got to do chores today, as my sweetie is taking me to the early show in the morning. To see a free showing of The Bank Dick, a W. C. Fields film from 1940. I really love those old movies, and you can't beat the price. See you soon.

....

Leather

Do you remember Leather Tuscadero? Last week, for some reason, DH called me "Leather". I thought that would be a perfect name for this wild and crazy gal (since she has a leather face). Just posting a couple of quick shots of her now that's she is done. Hope you like this wild child.

Uggh, for some reason, I just don't feel motivated - artistically, that is. I don't know what will be next on my list of creative endeavors, but going to the tax guy will have to suffice, since that's what we get to do tomorrow.

Big Brother and American Idol will feed my desire for the bizarre tonight. That's it for now. See you later.

p.s. let me know what you do when you are just absolutely stuck on what to do next.

Soup Can Revisited

I loved the neat way our friend Suze dressed up her empty coffee containers, in her Sunday post. (She has a great new profile picture, also.) I thought I would show you what I did, a while back, with soup cans. For some reason, these shots make the cans look short, like a yogurt container, but they are regular sized condensed soup cans. I needed pencil holders, so I washed out the cans and then made sure there were no sharp edges on them. Then I cut scrapbook paper to the size of the can and wrapped it around and glued the edges down to the can. They would not stay down and I didn't have anything handy, but lace to tie them up whilst they dried, and like, wow Dude! I loved the look of the lace tied around the animal print paper, so I left the lace on them. I used the same paper to line the inside of the can, but didn't need to glue it in, just made the paper slightly larger than the can, and it stays in place. I am always using something for something else. I have baggies full of pull tops off of cat food that I am keeping a close watch on. Hmmm... never know what they might end up being.

Anyway, thought you might like to see a quick and easy way to recycle soup cans. I also have a pencil holder made from a cardboard tea cannister. You know, the ones that hold those gourmet round tea bags? I decoupaged it with some roses after painting it a warm cream color. If I can find it, I might post it someday.

Had a chance to work on another doll today. This time I cut a shape from light colored leather, and hand drew her face with my alcohol markers. I sewed it on the body fabric and am now embellishing her with all kinds of beads and buttons. She is much bigger than my pillow babies, more on the same wavelength as the Pirate. I am really pleased with her so far.

Well, better go see if DH is ready to come up from the editing room and watch some TV. All work and no play. . .causes artist's block and we can't have that.

See you soon. Ta, Ta.

Amy Lou Dressed Herself

This is my newest doll. I am calling her Amy Lou and it is obvious that she dressed herself. She has on a summer calico print dress ( I inked in the red design), she raided her mom's disco closet and got a lacy turtleneck number. Her mom drew the line, though and made her wear leggings. She is carrying her favorite pink pig. I'm not sure if it is a toy or a pet. She does not have facial features. Mainly because there is so much going on with the rest of her. I'm not sure what she will look like by the time of our next art show, but you just never know. By the way, here is the link for our show last month. The pictures are fabulous. They did such a nice job with our art.

Well, that's all for now. See you soon. Ta, Ta.

The challange...HANDS

Hello, all. I don't have any beautiful gems of wisdom to impart today. Thanks to all who left such sweet comments to my recent post, they were much appreciated. I agree and think it would be interesting to hear the story of your hands or the hands of someone you loved or respected.

Here's the challenge... tell us about your hands. Take a picture if you want to, post a link to famous hands, whatever moves you. I love hands. (You might have noticed my new banner, it has my hands drawn in as wings). Anything you want to do with hands.

Art, jokes, stories, pictures, whatever you want. It will be fun and interesting, and we just might learn something. Well, it's off to be creative now. I'll be checking back often to see your take on HANDS.

(I have to go finish watching The Lone Ranger)

These hands...

These are my hands

I had DH take this shot to show off my freshly manicured nails. I look at these hands, and suddenly, I see many things. These are the hands that learned when they were very young, that three squeezes from your uncle's hand means "I Love You". These are the hands that left chocolate milk in my china tea pot and neglected to tell anyone. These are the hands that never really mastered an etch-a-sketch and could not get the hang of a paddle ball. These hands held a paintbrush after school and on Saturday for a fifth-grade teacher taking her own time to help me with art, because she saw something she called "potential".

These are the same hands that mastered Klackers when everyone else was afraid of them. These hands played matchstick poker with my younger brother and his friends and then lined them up and gave them squared up neckline haircuts; because they all had decided to let their hair grow and I didn't want them to be shaggy. These same hands, I'm sorry to say, smoked cigarettes for longer than I will admit to. These hands sewed patches onto all the caps of the local volunteer fire department... simply because. These same hands, also sewed seventy garments in one year for my mom and me to wear to work, and we thought we were "all that" in our homemade outfits. Polyester was so easy to work with, I loved it.

These hands typed and took notes and worked cleaning motel rooms and rang cash registers and even filled car batteries with acid at the auto parts store. These hands have kept rhythm, as my feet moved... to pop, disco, country, alternative, bluegrass and soul.

Fast forward to 1988. These hands trembled in excitement as we stood before the minister at the little wedding chapel and said our "I Do's". Both so in love, but a little scared. For the past 20 years these hands have done so many wonderful things, all with my husband by my side. These hands are often folded in a prayer of gratitude for such a wonderful, wonderful life.

The reason for this little post is that when I looked at the picture of my hands, they looked so mature. Not the smooth, unlined hands that I expect to see when I look down at them. I am not ashamed of these hands. I remember seeing my mom's hands, and my grandma's hands and loving them so much. I would pat their sweet, little hands and be so happy and now when I think about it, that's what I see. The legacy of these hands.


.....OPI's Strawberry Margarita

Monday Greetings...

I’ve been tagged by Leslie at Funky Art Queen. This is fun. I'm a newbie to blogging and I am quite happy to be tagged.

Here are the rules: 1. Link to the person that tagged you. 2. Post the rules on your blog. 3. Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself. 4. Tag five or six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs. 5. Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.

Here are some quirky things about me.

1. Some of my past nicknames: Baby Sue, Peachy and Pebbles
2. Sometimes I sneak and change my clothes, so I will match what my husband is wearing.
3. I used to tell my sister that I kept my car window rolled up because monkeys might jump in and make us wreck. (we had no monkeys in our area)
   
4. I took ballroom dancing as a child .
   
5. Whenever I made a cheese sandwich for my brother, I always left the plastic wrapper on the cheese slice.
6. I learned to sew before I learned to tie my shoes.

I am tagging the following folks:

Suze at http://pinkcrayonstudio.blogspot.com/

Christine at http://christinelefever.blogspot.com/

Fran at http://www.mydollland.blogspot.com/

Teesha at http://www.teeshascircus.blogspot.com/

Jo at http://thecartbeforethehorse.blogspot.com/

Consider yourself tagged. I've tagged some new, some familiar, all great. If you don’t have time to participate, that’s ok, we understand. If you feel like playing, go for it and thanks!

Two Things I want to Do More Of...

Well I've made dolls and worked on my journal pages and have lots of stuff to do today. Like...


And definitely...


Seriously, I feel I need to do more of these things, so after I get my Sunday things done, I'm off to the studio to get deeper into my art. I downloaded the free image from Gail' blog on the 15th. I found this through Linda's post of the same image. I like Linda's take on it. I will be working on mine some more before I torture you with it.

One last note, I have just started getting spam comments, I am trying to catch them all, before they harm any of my friends. I have updated my securities and may have to enable more comment security. So far, it has stopped. If you can, let me know of any weird spam going around that you have heard about.

Well, that's all for now. We'll talk soon. Toodles!

Well, it's up and running...

I got my Etsy shop up and running. Please let me know what you think and if you think it needs to be changed. Here is a picture of the dolls in a basket. I think they look much cuter this way, but I needed to show them individually. I had fun with the descriptions, but if they are too wordy, let me know . I am not going to be ultra sensitive about this... don't worry about that.

Well, that's all for now. We'll talk soon. Ta, Ta from Susan and all the dollies.

Thought for today...

Here is my journal page for today. I will not fear rejection. My curiosity about whether my dolls will sell completely overshadows any fears I might have. My doll listings should be complete and ready to blog about on Sunday. Wish me well, I will be working on tying up all loose ends for my shop tomorrow. In the mean time, check out my psychedelic page, man.



By the way, for those of you who hadn't noticed, a "sneak peak" of a few of my dolls is shown in my art showcase at the top right of my page. Notice the guitar pick placed in the basket for size reference.

Well, it's late and I'm going to turn in. Talk to you soon. TA.

Seek and Search

Thanks to all who wished me well from my mini cold. I'm all better now.




Here is the journal page I worked on this week. I have worked so much on little dolls to sell, that one even found her way onto the journal page. The journaling for this page reads:

Wisdom is there for you
But you must seek her
Remember to do your part
Search and Seek and
You will find
Do not stop seeking
You never get it all

The dolls are made, and I have my descriptions ready. All I need to do is take their little pictures and list them. I am so hesitant to do this. Everyone at the library encouraged me to sell them. Everyone seemed to like them. But still, I am so new to this aspect of art. It is just different for me. I've never really sold any of my work. I sometimes give it away. I guess I'll just go for it and see what happens.

Well that's all for now. Let's stay in tomorrow if it is icy, and if you have to go out, please, please be careful. (I know, I'm a mother hen). Ta, Ta.

My Swap Box Arrived!!!

(Quick edit: Check out the red nose and cheeks, I have a bit of a cold. Yikes!!)

Today, call me the queen of the quick post. Here is a shot of me with my swap box that I got from Mo at Mo's Musings. Thanks Mo!! She sent me so many fun things. Things I certainly don't see in my searches for neat stuff. This all came about because of Funky Art Queen and her idea to swap art supplies.

Thanks again for all the fun things that my blogger babies make happen.

Got to go watch Idol, and Big Brother, and Wife Swap, and.... Ta, Ta.

Congrats, Congrats!!!

Just a quick post to say congrats to our blogger friend, Jennifer from Stiletto Heights, she is the featured artist on Etsy. Be sure to check it out and give her the props she deserves.

Milo is the Star

We have added two videos to our YouTube site. One is DH doing another music video (which we taped on our deck) and the other is lots of images of Baby Milo, to the music of the Stray Cats doing a live version of the Stray Cat Strut. DH really did a professional job on both of these.
Check it out!!

Such a nice time...

We had such a nice time and a great turnout at the library today. Here is a long shot of the displays that we had.




This is Fabric Art. Can you find Pinky and the Pirate??




Here is Tricia from A Little Birdie Told Me, discussing Altered Books. She is wearing an apron to protect her clothing. Why do I never think of that? Her sweet daughter Olivia was there, as were some of Olivia's friends. I talked to them for a long time, especially Olivia and Tessa. I got lots of input from them on the dolls, like which ones they liked and why. Such smart children. They are the hope of our future, and believe me, our future looks very, very bright.



We displayed Collages and Assemblages.


We really had a nice time, and as a little thank you gift to Marnie, I presented her with what she calls a Grr doll. Yes, Marnie, as tired as you were, I am still posting your picture. You worked really hard, as did all the Library folks. Thanks again.

Well, as they say " a good time was had by all". My pillow dolls were such a hit. I talked to lots of people and everyone seemed to like them. I had them arranged in a fashion, that showed a progression of the doll itself. The paper pattern, then the little patch faces, then the doll sewed and stuffed, and finally, I was embellishing them with buttons, beads and such while we all enjoyed coffee, teas, yummy cakes, nuts and so on.

It was such a hit that they want us to do it again at the Library Headquarters in May. Yikes. I need to make more dolls. I think I will do Goth dolls next time. What do you think??

Well, once again, I must depart to have a warm beverage and let some ideas bounce around in my pea brain, until they come out as art. See you soon. Ta, Ta.

There's an elephant in the room...

Well, I have just enough time to dash off a quick post before I go to our library event. I finally found some time to go help out at the library yesterday. Except, I wasn't much help. I went to step up on a short table that we had been using as a ladder, and as I got halfway up, I knew...I was going to fall. Well, you know how it is, stuff happened so quickly, that I couldn't yell for anyone. So I fell back, hoping I would at least land gracefully. No such luck. I am sure I looked it looked like elephant pinball, me bouncing from a stack of chairs on my right, to whacking the table on my left , finally landing with a thud on my somewhat plump backside. Fortunately nothing was really hurt, but my pride. Everyone saw it and will be asking me if I'm ok. Shoot. I'm ok, but I am . . . .

...disappointed in myself. I usually don't talk about my age, not because I'm ashamed of it, but I just don't do it. Here's the deal I will be "double-nickel" this April, I have been out of the workforce for a year now and I haven't exercised for weeks, maybe months. I never have been an athlete, but now I don't have the strength in my legs that I think I should have. I need to get into shape. Anyone that wants to send me motivational comments, feel free. I have an exercise program called Slim in Six, it's really sort of hard, but it works for me if I do it. So, now I feel like I really need to step it up. I will probably start Monday. I have the time, I have the space, I have the program. I just need to do it.

Well, I'm off to the library and hopefully, I will be sitting down working on dolls, so everyone should be safe. See you later. Ta, Ta.

I am honored

I am so tickled to have been picked by Maralena for the "You Make My Day Award". Her blog is one of the first ones that I latched onto and I am always inspired by it. I am very blessed to have such great friends and I certainly consider her to be one of the best.

The rules for the "You Make My Day" award are to re-present it to 10 people whose blogs bring you happiness and inspiration and make you feel happy about blog land. Let them know through email or by posting a comment on their blog so they can pass it on. Beware you may get the award several times, and if you do, consider yourself really, really loved.

I am truly honored to have received this award from my funky, funky friend. MCDC3S, you are the best. Thanks so much!

I am now going to be busy passing this award on to some of my favorite places to stop and visit. Hope to see you soon, put the kettle on and we'll chat.

Hello, Dolly....

That is what my little 75 year old friend will be saying when she gets her Valentine. Here is a shot of the dolls that I have been working on.




I sent her one of the darker pink ones. I am hoping to make a lot more of them to embellish while we are at the library Saturday.

In case I hadn't mentioned for a while, our group of "Altered Artists" will have a little gallery set up at the library this Saturday, in place of our usual monthly get together. We will be showing and working on various things, such as Collage art, Assemblage, Fabric Arts, Paintings, Jewelry and Bookmaking. There will be Stamping, Assemblage, Art Cards and even paper arts like origami and paper dolls.

There will be food and beverages also. This will be like a "real" gallery showing. I have not been able to volunteer my time, as I had hoped, and I really want to say thanks to all those involved and to let them know how much I appreciate this event. It is sponsored by our County Library and lots of people have worked very hard to make it happen.

Well, I'd better get crackin' and get some more dolls made, oh, wait... I think I hear Starbucks calling me for a latte. I'll make dolls when I get back. See you soon.

New Do

Prepare yourself for another long entry.

Well, it only took three hours to get the new look, and so far, I am really happy with it. DH went to the salon with me last night and watched movies on the laptop while I was there. That way I didn't have to drive home in the dark by myself. He is such a sweetie. Good thing he had headphones, that salon got pretty loud. So here is the result...


I am a natural brunette and I started to go gray when I was in my twenty's. I have colored my hair every color under the sun to combat this. Being an artist, I have used my hair as one might use a canvas. I have always been fearless when it comes to my hair. Most of the time I colored it myself. I recently decided to stop coloring my silver streaks and am quite happy with the results. My stylist and I have been working for about a year to get my hair to this point. I would have high lights put in because I wasn't quite "ready" to go natural. Then I would have low lights put in because the previous color had left my hair too red... Some of you out there know this routine. Any way, this is the current look. The dark parts are low lights that are as close to my natural color as we could come. Almost all of the light color is natural, she didn't touch it at all. There is some blond left on the ends of the silver, but the color is so close, you really can't tell the difference. So I guess I can actually say I "went blond" instead of gray (gray sounds so gloomy, and gloomy I am not).

I'll check back in soon, going to the studio to make dolls, just wanted you to see the new do.

Later.

Happy New Year !

The Year of the Rat!!!

I am posting my entry for My Pink Turtles' contest for The Year of the Rat, even though she had to postpone the event.

For my submission, I wanted to use a well known and beloved phrase. I felt the only thing fitting was the universally known Vulcan greeting "Live Long and Prosper". I attempted to create a piece of art that gives you the feeling of the Chinese New Year without being offensive to the Vulcan people. This piece is done on a 8" x 10" canvas panel, layered with acrylic paints, gold leafing pen and lots of beads glued down. The banners, as well as Mr. Spock and his hat, were drawn by hand, then colored, cut out and attached to the canvas using small pieces of form core for a raised look. I made his top hat from glossy black card stock with a shiny gold hat band (which is showing up blue for some reason). Mr. Spock has his hand raised in the traditional Vulcan greeting and is dressed for this occasion in his regulation Star Trek uniform, complete with the Star Fleet insignia (of which the Enterprise is a member) . Note the shiny black hair and the pointed ears, both physical features that indicate his proud Vulcan heritage.

Please join Mr. Spock and me in wishing everyone a Prosperous 2008, the Year of the Rat.

I Wuv You THIS Much...

(Advance apology for the long post)

I guess a lot of you remember the little statues that proclaimed their love with arms flung wide. This little girl reminds me of one of those. She is cutting her eyes at this cute pirate she just met on the Treasure Ship Cruise for Single Stuffies . The Gentleman Pirate seemed a little lonely, so I created Pinky for company, since one of the things I had planned on doing while on break was moving my sewing stuff downstairs to my studio, I thought I this would be a good way to get them together.

Her hair is an unusual "plastic-y" yarn that I got in a California yarn shop several years back, that I added lots of plastic pony beads to, and her face was natural muslin, that I "dyed" with my alcohol markers to coordinate with her body fabric. Her face is hand drawn, by your's truly. Being a lover of all things sparklie, I gave her some hair adornments, and beaded eye shadow, as well as a necklace and matching earrings. I haven't quite decided what to do with her arms yet. This is the same pattern that we used at the Altered Art group, so I may exhibit her at our art show this month.

One of the things I found out when I was sewing her, was that my machine needed service. So I took it in today, and they will keep it for a week . I have a really nice sewing/embroidery machine, that I plan on using a lot more. I see all this neat art that folks do with fabrics sewn onto their art. I have never done anything other than make apparel, or the occasional doll or toy, so I am making that one of of new mini goals. I may take some classes to get to know my machine better.

I was initially going to take a longer break from posting, as I felt I had lots to do here at the house. Unfortunately, we had an ice storm the next day, and the power kept going out. It's hard to do housework by candlelight. Cuddling with DH and Baby Milo while we watched movies on the laptop made the power outage worth it, though. Three days have passed and I really haven't gotten anything special done, except make a doll, and put together, and mail, my swap box. So I certainly cannot blame "blogging" for my lack of productivity. I loved reading your blogs, but felt like I was missing something. What was I missing, you might ask? Posting. There I've said it. I love all my new friends, reading their blogs and comments, but it wasn't enough. I missed posting. I may take a day or two off, here and there, but I just couldn't go cold turkey. I will be introducing my Rat on Wednesday, but will have a busy day (haircut and meeting) on Thursday, and Friday I hope to make time to clean up the studio, and get ready for lots of new art.

One of the local florist shop owners approached me about putting some of my art dolls and jewelry in her gift shop. I am thinking about doing that, but I am also thinking about an Etsy shop. I'm not sure what will be best for my art. I can't imagine anyone buying my art, but we will see.



Here is a piece that I did (wow, I can't believe it) 10 years ago and it is still one of my favorite family portraits. I love anything colorful and might incorporate this style into my work again. I did it with artist's acrylics on a 12 x 12 piece of thin Luan plywood. It's easy to handle, sand, etc. It comes in a rather large sheet, DH cut mine to size, but you may be able get it cut at the lumber store, if you don't have those type tools.

Well, I guess that's all for now, I am glad to be back and hope to have new art and fun stories to post soon. Ta, Ta, for now.

p.s. Thanks for the love.