TREASUREFIELD

Today's the Day!

2011-11-26T12:46:00.000-05:00

Do your part!

And the winner is....

2010-12-20T01:32:00.002-05:00

I'm so very pleased to announce.... TA DAHHH...!

we have a winner for my little weekend drawing for these earrings. Debby, a.k.a.starbaby,

come on down! (Just one thing: I need your mailing address.)

Turns out Debby is a jewelry maker, too. She also has a shop on Etsy.

Amazing that I haven't bumped into her before now.

Especially considering she reads Mrs. Kwitty's blog as well!

(Nice to meet you, Debby!)

I'm sure everyone trusts me to be fair and square with the drawing. You can; I promise! :)

I used Random.org, by the way, to choose the winner from among all the entries

(including extra chances).

~_~

I've gotten quite behind on my sleep, so I'd better try to catch up a little,

before I make some big honkin' typo.

Thanks to all who played. I'm already starting to think about the next giveaway!

Something for Nothing... Or... have yourself a merry little Christmas give-way!

2010-12-17T23:18:00.002-05:00

Yes, I know we're only a week away from Christmas eve, but I've been bustling about and just got it together enough to offer this little give-away. I'd love to give something to everybody, but for now, this is it. You could win these earrings I made for yourself or to give somebody else. The sweet little flowers are a very dark red (notoriously hard to photo), on thin silver wires, and measure approx 3/8" (8 mm) across.

[click to zoom]

SO... here's the deal: Just post a comment here or on my Facebook page to be entered in a random drawing. Get a 2nd chance by telling me your most favorite color (or metal) for earrings, and another chance by sending someone else here (they have to mention in a comment that you sent them!) Send an email with your full name and mailing address to me at mrstreasurefield@gmail.com I'll draw a random winner and announce it here around midnight Sunday (the 20th).
I'll zip 'em off to the winner on Monday, and they could possibly get there by Christmas. Or soon after. Depending on where in the world you are. :)
Whether or not you celebrate Christmas, another holiday, or just being another day older... I hope you'll give me a chance to gift you with one of my creations. And stay tuned. Who knows when I might be able to do another?
Wishing you a very, merry week!

Content & photos © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

Box of Rocks

2010-12-08T18:10:00.000-05:00

This morning I "doodled" with beads, just trying different things with what I had laid out (which is a lot, I'm embarrassed to say!) I was still half asleep, so I don't know what inspired it, but I wanted to frame a few unpolished crab agate rounds with copper. My soldering skills have a lot of room for improvement (understatement of the year!) so forget that. I curled the ends instead.

Of course, I didn't have what I need to make a chain, cord, or any other kind of necklace. And my "box of rocks" is HEAVY, so I'm still trying to decide what, if anything, to do with it. Hmm.... Learn to solder, maybe? ;)

Photos & content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

Now museum, now you don't

2010-12-06T13:36:00.005-05:00

As part of my partial R & R (rest & recuperate) day, I let my clicking fingers do the walking around Etsy this morning. I just can't get enough of looking at all the creations out there. I curated this collection of beauties for you. Aren't they amazing?!

There's much more where this comes from. Check out the shops of these artists:
1. "pamelam" 2. "misseskwittys" 3. "robayre" 4. "AnnaLela",
5. "beastmetalworks" 6. "LaAlicia" 7. "gilhooly" 8. "CuriousPortraits",
9. "purposedesign" 10. "freshandclean" 11. "maclancy" 12. "mzglass",
13. "NestleAndSoar" 14. "buckscountycookie" 15. "cephalopodink", and 16. "SewDanish"!

[Note: These things go fast. Don't say I didn't warn you.] :)

Say Cheeeese(cake Brownies)!

2010-12-03T10:36:00.000-05:00

Lately, I feel like my life is nothing but cook, cook, cook. (And wash the dishes.) Between the holidays, birthdays, and just daily sustenance, my pots and pans and bowls and mixer are really getting a workout.
This week was my husband's birthday. He loves cheesecake (cream cheese) brownies, so... my treat! (see photo)
Lucky for me, he ate most of them, leaving almost none for me. That's a good thing! Because they were so-o-o-o good!

I admit, I used a packaged brownie mix because I had so much else to do. But the cream cheese part wasn't included. And I couldn't remember what that involves so.... quick web search. Which brings me to the whole reason for this post. The site I found was UseRealButter.com They had me at "real butter". But look at the recipe page, All the featured recipes have a thumbnail photo to make you drool. Great instructions, fun to read, and beautiful photos. Not that there's a shortage of that on the web... But it's like cook books: can you ever have too many?

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

I'm dreaming of an iced Christmas....

2010-11-30T00:20:00.002-05:00

Have you seen these crackers in the stores?
I was tickled to find them!
When my kids were small, we made mini "gingerbread" houses
with graham crackers, royal icing, and a collection of candies.
I don't know why... (no little kids around here now...) but
I want to make a few like the picture on the box with
icing only.
Maybe add some sparkle-y sugar or something...
I'm guessing the crackers are a seasonal item. I have to buy more
before they disappear. I had them on hand and they were perfect
for the crust of this wonderful (and easy!) cheesecake recipe I used
for Thanksgiving:

I have another family dinner coming up, so I think I'll be making more. And maybe the little gingerbread

houses for the kids there.... I just have to stop thinking about desserts and decide on the other dishes.

But isn't it great to have all those visions of sugar plums (and sugar cookies, and sugar houses, etc.)

dancing in our heads for one time in the year? I think it's pretty nice!

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

For the arm-chair shoppers...

2010-11-28T15:48:00.002-05:00

Doesn't a holiday just make you want to curl up in a comfy chair and relax? Or is it just me?

Here in the US, everybody seems to have been busy cooking, shopping and visiting for the

Thanksgiving Day weekend.

I participated in a local show for craftsmen yesterday, but I don't take part in the shopping frenzy.

Cyber Monday must have been thought-up just for people like me.

Shop from the comfort of your desk, your sofa or your favorite coffee shop... Perfect!

So for like-minded shoppers who just happen to be looking for handmade, decorative and wearable art,

~~I set up a coupon code for 10% off in My Etsy Shop for the weekend.~~

All you have to do is enter these letters: *-*-* in the box and click APPLY

~~in the box during checkout. [Good through Monday at midnight.]~~

~~As always, shipping is fast and everything is guaranteed.~~

~~Happy cyber shopping!~~

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

With apologies to Mary Cassatt ;)

I'm rich! I'm rich!

2010-11-24T09:44:00.000-05:00

No, I didn't win the lottery. Or inherit a relative's fortune.
And I'm not independently wealthy; at least not financially.
I was just washing the dishes after dinner one night when it hit me.
My mind was on making hot cocoa and coffee to enjoy with our favorite TV show coming up.
I was looking forward to relaxing on the couch with my family. So cozy....
I thought how fortunate we are to have that luxury at the end of a day.
Good food in our bellies, a sheltering home that's warm in the winter, and entertainment right at our fingertips besides.
I felt incredibly rich. So many blessings to count!

Every November this tree in our yard makes me catch my breath with its brilliant gold.
It's a good reminder of just how rich I am, and all that makes me that way.

I hope you have many blessings to count this Thanksgiving!

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

falling... falling... falling in love again

2010-11-20T12:10:00.000-05:00

Falling in love with FALL all over again...
I'm looking out my window, thinking about the way the sun reflects color as I watch leaves drift slowly from a flaming, golden maple tree. But also the way the sun is reflecting a vibrant LIGHT that energizes me and lifts my mood up to the top of that sky blue sky. It's amazing!
I think... when all the leaves have fallen and turned brown... :( ... I'll go out and hang a thousand yellow leaves on the branches of that tree to make my own sunshine... Yep!
Here's that enameled ginkgo leaf pendant I promised back in the spring after making a green one.

A good way to wear the vibrancy of Fall's colors any time of year...

Vine-covered Heart

2010-11-17T15:11:00.001-05:00

I'm quite fond of heart shapes, especially the long, pointed, dagger-like variety.

As you can see here with some of my favorite colors all tangled together.

I'm also rather smitten with little windows and beads that can spin, like leaves and other pretty things.

It's one of the "please touch me" necklaces I made last week, now available and ready to wear...

Hors d'oeuvres, anyone?

2010-11-15T10:22:00.000-05:00

Hors d'oeuvres, literally translated,
means apart from the main work.
I'm trying to get outside my comfort zone,
--making and selling my art online--
by getting out and showing my work
to people in "real life".
I want them to touch it and
hold it up to the light.

Here's a tray of necklaces
and a bowl of my
Oh So Faux gems and earrings
on my table at the weekend's craft show.

Includes some new designs you'll see in my Etsy shop soon.

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

Everywhere I go...

2010-11-10T22:52:00.001-05:00

Is it just me, or is it beginning to look a lot like Christmas? Hard to believe, but I guess it is about that time...

I've been getting ready for a street market for the holidays, and had to take a break to relax.

Curating a Treasury on Etsy is relaxing for me.

I made this one in honor of a very special person I know who decorates with pink for Christmas.

Enjoy!

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com
Photos copyright their respective owners

Bell Flower Tower

2010-10-30T19:10:00.000-04:00

A little "house-building" today...

It was nice to get back in the construction business,

thanks to a custom request.

This one's not available yet, but another one with stairs

is in my shop.

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

"hmm not sure"

2010-10-29T10:58:00.002-04:00

hmm not sure
Originally uploaded by Bella Cosa Art

Well...I'm not sure I even remember how to blog, it's been so long!
Deana, of Bella Cosa Art wasn't sure she was happy with this painting of hers. Is that true of all artists? Sometimes you make something you love, sometimes it's merely acceptable, and other times you're not happy with it at all.
But you never know when it will resonate with someone else. Art is a give-and-take kind of thing.

I often wonder about musicians... How do they know when a song is a hit? They don't. They just make a decision whether to put it "out there" or not. Maybe it will have wide appeal, maybe it will only be loved by a few. But I think, if the artist's heart was in it, it's worth sharing.
As for this painting, I love it! It has one of my favorite color combinations, and it makes me stop and think about enjoying the flowers in my life before the petals fall. Deana is a maestro with a paint brush, and I think this painting absolutely sings!

Cool, Calm and Celadon

2010-10-18T22:22:00.004-04:00

Celadon Tulip Tile
Originally uploaded by treasurefield

I've been oddly peaceful about the pace at which I'm finishing projects lately.
Of course I'd love to crank them out as quickly as I dream them up, but
other things command attention. I feel like I'm doing better at prioritizing
and scheduling, which is usually about the time something throws a
monkey wrench into my plans and I lose my cool. I'm trying to expect
the unexpected and just roll with it.
"Keep Calm and Carry On," as they say.......

Queen of Diamonds

2010-10-09T18:30:00.001-04:00

In that good old oldie by the Eagles (Desperado), it says,

"Don't you draw the queen of diamonds, boy, she'll beat you if she's able.
You know the queen of hearts is always your best bet.
Now it seems to me some fine things have been laid upon your table,
But you only want the one that you can't get."

Lots of truth in that, I guess, but I did draw the Queen of Diamonds a few weeks ago.

Of course, I'm not a boy. (insert tongue-in-cheek here)

This was one of my entries in the art show I told you about. It was inspired by some of

Joan Miro's work. I was really pleased with the response it got, even though I never

intended it to be such bright colors. I do love bright colors, but usually not this many

at once!

I have more to show & tell, but that'll have to wait.

Right now I must ponder why a web search for song lyrics always turns up those hugely

annoying ring-tone pop-ups.... Sheesh!

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

hello

2010-10-06T14:06:00.000-04:00

Sometimes when you're running around busy,
you have to stop and catch your breath.
Which brings me here.
I have some last minute loose ends to tie up
before the local art show tomorrow. This is
one of "the girls" that will be on exhibit.

I'm looking forward to seeing what the other
artists have to show, too. But I know I'll have
some down time, so while I buzz around here,
I'm trying to think what I can take to work on
in case of a lull or two.

Will show you more as soon as I can!

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

Thirty days had September

2010-09-30T22:54:00.001-04:00

And I was thankful for all 30, although I spent nearly half the month sick. Finally recuperating, I can't say enough
how great it feels to not feel terrible! I do feel really robbed of some much-needed art time, as I have a show
coming up. But it's not a life or death matter, so no worries. Taking care of your health has to come first, right?
And during the rough and rocky 2 weeks I found some silver linings (cooler temps and gentle rain outside my
open window, my family pitching in to help, the prayers and good advice of friends...) and learned some lessons, too.
The most important one: do NOT get dehydrated! Water is the true elixir of life. Not coffee. Not soda. (Not that I've ever
been a sodaholic.) Tea is probably a good thing, and a good way to add to your daily water intake. I've never tried oolong tea
but I read that it's very low in caffeine; and I do like a warm drink, especially on cold days, so it's on my shopping list.
On today's "To Do" list was this tile:

I wasn't happy with the way you see it here, so I started over. Now it's more pastel, but I'm still not happy with it,
so I didn't photograph it. Ah, well. Tomorrow is a new day, a new month, it's a whole new season.
I can hardly wait to see what's in store....

Content © http://treasurefield.blogspot.com

Friday Photo - apple goodness

2010-09-23T00:02:00.003-04:00

After my last post I was thinking about apples. When I was little, I can remember several times
in the fall when my dad and his friend would get up super early, drive to the mountains, and buy a truck load
of apples. They would get back home just as the sun was rising. And then my mom would cook apple jelly
and apple butter. I don't know if it looked prettier in the jars or on our toast and biscuits.
I did a little search for apples around Tumblr to see what comes up.
I found yummy cooking ideas like this apple & brie quesadilla and this apple chai cake, among others.
There was apple art and gorgeous photography and a real-life still-life I really liked (but can't show you.
Thanks a lot, Blogger!)
But this photo found in my Flickr contacts' photostream was my favorite. Such a beautiful, blushing color...
Don't you love this apple-y time of year?!

Flickr photo by bogotolets

Nailing It

2010-09-21T11:38:00.002-04:00

friend asked me recently if I still collect produce labels. LOL! I used to.

I stuck them on a message board on the side of my fridge. (It's that artist/hoarding thing.
I figured I'd find a use for them some day.) But that was when they were a little more interesting.
Then they went to the dull, boring, blah UPC codes. Now they seem to be going back to the
a more "artsy" look. You know I'm all for that. ;)
And I discovered a new use: nail art! I think this could be a trend that catches on, don't you? ;)
As you can see, I actually keep my nails natural 99% of the time. The most I do is shape, buff
and shine with one of those little nail buffing blocks.
But Charlene Therien makes and sells her polymer clay cane designs as nail art.
I have to admit they're even prettier than produce labels!

Friday Photo

2010-09-17T10:13:00.003-04:00

Old Home Place 1985
Originally uploaded by anoldent

Be sure to read the story on this one!

What's on your radar??

2010-09-16T16:36:00.000-04:00

My blog here hasn't been getting much attention, I'm afraid... But I have been busy with other things:
Facebook, art books from the library, cleaning, and working on some art... This is my latest
sculpted horse bead:

Horse art has really been on my "radar" lately.
Also foxes (but not fox hunting).
Autumn colors, especially orange.
Joan Miro's art.
Eating more veggies.
The Phantom Tollbooth (I need to read it again). Or I could
watch the movie, since I never even new there was one!
Bridges.
Gypsy wagons.
And the beauty of a breeze in the trees before their leaves fall...
These are the kinds of things that I've been thinking about these days.

What's been on your radar???

Friday Photo

2010-09-10T09:16:00.002-04:00

Alden Bridge Golden Dawn
Originally uploaded by Jeff Eickhoff
This morning's sunrise was beautiful through my window, and I've had a little obsession with bridges lately, so I thought this photo was a nice marriage of the two.
Speaking of marriage, I heard an interesting quote the other day, something like, "a successful marriage is falling in love many times, always with the same person." There's something wonderful about that!

Friday Photo

2010-09-03T12:27:00.002-04:00

69680012
Originally uploaded by varvara lozenko

Ever had your heart broken in two places at once? I'm trying to be a big girl and deal with things.
The kinds of things that happen and people tell you, "that's life." They say you can't control what happens,
only how you react to what happens. But then our reactions all bump up against each other. My own
emotions bump against each other.
The photo above somehow captures my feeling of taking a breath, having faith, and moving on....

...Bon voyage!

How to Capture a Bird

2010-08-24T13:12:00.000-04:00

When I was little, I was told the way to catch a bird is to sneak up on it and
put some salt on its tail, which would fall off so it couldn't fly away. I never stopped
to think about the bird being tail-less. The thought of catching something so elusive was
just too thrilling. Even though I did suspect I was being "punked"! And I realized
later that elusiveness is part of the beauty of birds.

So I have my own way of capturing them now: in art.
I said in an earlier post that I'd show you the bird project I was working on. Well, here it is:

This one's available in my Etsy shop.

This other one is a tile, also.

I hadn't intended for it to include a bird, it just kind of happened. I made it as a birthday gift
and gave it to my aunt last weekend. We had a wonderful tea party with all the girls in our family,
and lots of yummy cookies, fruit, sandwiches, hummus, crackers, breads and spreads.
My other aunt hosted the party and had us wear flamboyant hats she bought at an estate sale.
So fun!
My aunts are so close to my age and we grew up so close, we're more like sisters. Like a
flock of birds ourselves. I love them!

Friday Photo

2010-08-20T14:36:00.002-04:00

Young Lemons
Originally uploaded by diegodiazphotography

What I didn't do on my summer vacation

2010-08-15T16:31:00.002-04:00

Returning from a little beach getaway this aftenoon... It's amazing that five (or was it four?) days can fly by that quickly, even though we really geared down and didn't do much.

I didn't spend much time on computer. The wi-fi connection was terrible, so it was too frustrating. There went my plans to blog, blog, blog...
I didn't cook. Not once. The husband loves to try different restaurants, so we did. The only meal we didn't eat out was breakfast, which was every man/woman for him/herself. I still managed to eat healthy.
I didn't sit out in the sun, tanning (aging) my skin. (It's aging fast enough, without any help!) Besides, the heat and humidity were just beyond the beyonds!!
I didn't read the book I took with me (Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain). Oh well. I just called the library to renew it.

I did get a little art in. I took pencils, ink and watercolors.

Nothing got finished, but the limited supplies helped me focus and feel more playful. Once again, I remind myself to do that more often. Ah... if only I could get away more often!

As time slowly slips away...

2010-08-05T13:05:00.003-04:00

Originally uploaded by pteradaktell

This is what's happening to the hours/minutes/seconds of my day.
They're melting in the heat.
And you know what they say, "the behind-er I am, the behind-er I get".
That seems to be the case.
I love pteradaktell's Salvadore Dali-esque ring.
May not help me hold onto time, but wouldn't I look good while I lose my grip? ;)

"See The World"

2010-07-31T17:39:00.002-04:00

Why not a song for a Saturday? This one is happy. It makes me sing along.
And the video gives me wander lust!

by Gomez

Friday Photo

2010-07-30T02:12:00.002-04:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I love birds? ;) They are true works of art. Especially these, with their colors!

I'm working on a project that includes a bird. (Surprise, surprise!) Maybe I can show you tomorrow.
Have a bright and beautiful Friday!

Moonbow

2010-07-27T23:19:00.004-04:00

bet you won't believe me when I tell you this, but I saw a rainbow at night!!

It was about 11 p.m. We had been to a movie and I drove the country roads home. Ahead were clouds and lightning; behind, a full moon. I was keeping an eye on the clouds while my husband snoozed in the passenger seat. He didn't even hear me when I said "I see a rainbow!" And naturally, I didn't have my camera. Not that I could have got a good picture. So no one believed me.

But I did find a photo and this story so I know I'm not the only privileged person to witness this rarity. As the article says, "Moonlight rainbows are quite rare as the phenomena requires a combination of very dark skies, the moon at less than 42 degrees high in the sky, and rain falling opposite the moon." Yep. You know how colors always look kind of greyed out at night? That's how my lunar rainbow looked, but I could still see the colors.
It was so magical!
Now I'm wondering.... If there's a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, what's at the end of a moonbow?

Lindsey Carr's "Ibis"

2010-07-27T00:36:00.002-04:00

You know... I think my first ever artist crush --at a very early age, mind you-- was John James Audubon. I think I read about him in one of many, many books my mom filled our home with. I loved how his name rolled off the tongue, and for some reason, I was enthralled with his picture-perfect bird paintings. I still love birds.
I did a double-take when I saw this painting by Lindsey Carr:

Oiled Scarlet Ibis

by Lindsey Carr a.k.a. LittleRobot

So poignant and beautiful!

But visit the artist's site for even more. I feel the same sense of awe for her paintings as I had for Audubon's.

And when I read in her blog that even she, an artist of such calibre can be "crippled by self-doubt" to the point of hating "every second of sitting down to paint"...
well... wow!
I mean, with that much talent, I can't imagine even a moment of doubt. I can definitely relate to it, though. Lindsey Carr's Ibis, crippled by oil, is almost a metaphor for what holds me down. Except, for me, it comes from within. For the lives affected by the Gulf Coast oil, it's beyond their control.

I think it's great that Lindsey triumphed over her self-doubt and used her talent for a great cause.

{Artist's proceeds from this print will be donated to the Audubon Society's Gulf Oil Spill Recovery fund: http://www.audubon.org/ }

Pass the sugar

2010-07-25T15:35:00.002-04:00

urely we can do something to sweeten someone's day...

Friday Photo

2010-07-23T23:32:00.000-04:00

Cloudy sunset over Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy.

By: Paolo De Faveri

I don't know about you, but my week was hot! And hectic!

As it came to a close, I drove into an orange sunset that had me mesmerized nearly all the way home.

It didn't have much in common with the photo above, but this one sure draws me in.

It says "relax...cool off... listen to the sounds of dusk..."

I can feel the sea spray and a sun kissed breeze...

Paolo De Faveri really strikes a chord with his depictions of his homeland.

All I can say is, "Mille grazie!"

My Little Corner of Dublin

2010-07-21T01:05:00.005-04:00

Okay. It's not really my corner in Dublin; just feels like it. I've never been to Ireland.

But I've been visiting every day with a webcam app on my "iTouch".

I love getting a peek at different parts of the world in more-or-less real time

that I'd never see otherwise. Sun up. Mid day. Dusk. Rain or shine. People walking or biking along.

Yes, it does feel a little stalker-ish, but I can't see details of the people.
And yes, a little eerie, knowing a camera could be trained on you or me anytime, anywhere.

But I've been catching beautiful vistas and street scapes in Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Australia,

Antarctica... Still, the one above is my favorite for some reason.

Sometimes the camera shots are delayed a few minutes to a few hours, but I feel so ...connected.
(Cue music: ♫ "It's a small world after all.....") I mean, we all have the same amount of time in a day.

We do virtually the same things no matter where we live. We're all riding the same spinning globe.....

Know a sweet spot I should check out? Maybe I'll see YOU!

[You're viewing Talbot Street, Dublin - Ireland. Directly across the street is "Not to Worry!"
a wig, beauty products and eastern/far-eastern/ethnic foods shop.
Next door at 19 Talbot Street (shielded by trees during the summer)
is a newsagents named Desmonds . Next is a hairdressers called Just Cuts
and and finally, at the far left, a travel agency called Direct Holidays.
To the right......are a Singer Sewing Centre, and Tara Leathers." ]
Info from http://www.nci.ie/ispy/

A horse is not a horse, of course...

2010-07-20T00:42:00.001-04:00

...until it's finished.
Since I showed the "rough draft" of my latest, wearable art, horse sculpt, and since I finally finally finished, I thought I'd show you his transformation:

That took hours.

Lots of changes.

Different manes, different eyes, have to get the nose just right...

I kicked myself around a while for being such a perfectionist when he still wasn't turning out perfect.

Then I let myself off the hook because, as I told myself, he doesn't have to be perfect. Just perfect enough for me. I think lightening up helped me relax enough to finally get to that point.

After spending all those hours sculpting, I decided to hold off on selling him for a while.

I added some dabs of color to coordinate with these picasso-finish beads I got from Blue Echo 2

Maybe I'll put these together somehow. Or maybe you can think of a good way to display my horse pendant. If so, let me know!

glorious

2010-07-18T09:07:00.000-04:00

via Venetian Red

Catch a Breeze

2010-07-17T12:01:00.002-04:00

♥ ♥ ♥

Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it.

~Russel Baker
♥ ♥ ♥

♥ ♥ ♥

Try to catch a breeze today.

Eat a popsicle.

Make a summer memory.
♥ ♥ ♥

photo via Lesley Riley

Friday Photo

2010-07-16T10:36:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite things is.... geology! ...the earth, its formations, its behavior.... Fascinating!

I found this photo through a blog on Tumblr called "Geology Rocks". Originally posted by "putzinaround". I was told the location is thought to be Iceland. It seems to inspire some semblance of poetry in me...

Earth
Pours out her heart
Pours out her life-blood
For the children who find themselves
Here
Clinging to her skirts like a child
With its mother
Earth
~a.r.

Gift of the Storm

2010-07-15T13:28:00.002-04:00

We finally got a break in our drought conditions. Several afternoons and evenings with thunder, lightning, rain and wind. Now our yard is littered with twigs. I found a little motivation to get them up and collect a few with these projects.
Love this twig flower pot

from "Nina Makes" (via "The Crafty Crow") --both of which have a wealth of fun ideas.

Nina also has a great Christmas-in-July (or any time) project, this clay robin with twig legs:

Nice to find craft supplies just falling from the sky, isn't it?

Q: What's brown and sticky?

(You've probably heard this one...)

A: A stick. (haha!)

Life is a great big canvas....

2010-07-14T11:08:00.001-04:00

Yes, I've been playing with paint effects again on one of my old photos.

This one, a paper flower I made, propped on wood blocks with great graining.

I'm still thinking of using this to help me get a "paint by number" effect with actual paint and brushes.

If I can find the time. My theory is that this would take a lot less time to do, so it's a matter of making time to get started.

By the way, I wanted to mention a really great online image editor I learned of: Pixlr.com, thanks to a sweet online friend, MissesKwitty.

What a life-saver, since I've been having trouble with the program I usually use, and Paint.net is missing a few features I like.

“Life is a great big canvas,

and you should throw all the paint you can on it.”

~Danny Thomas

Let's go throw some paint!

Beads & Honey

2010-07-12T20:32:00.004-04:00

What a lovely day... Nice and grey for a change, then the clouds got darker and lower. Thunder started rumbling in the north and west....
Then the beautiful sound of rain.
My house was dim and quiet. So perfect for toast with honey butter and a hot cup of tea.
Photo by yataro1

Oh... and a lapful of beads. I got all these ready for a necklace. I hope.

May need another mood day like today to finish it, though!

P.S. I would have shown you a photo of my own toast and honey but I ate the evidence. The one above has camembert cheese. Excuse me while I go add to my grocery list. :)

I always wanted to paint with oils.

2010-07-10T15:54:00.003-04:00

I love the look of paintings when the brushstrokes are big and "loose". Just the opposite of my anal-retentive, bogged-down-in-detail style.

But I found a way to get that painterly look in a graphics program (Paint.Net in his case).

I was playing around with some of my work, like this photo of a flower sculpt. Which WAS originally painted on top of the clay, but the oil paint effect was even better.

Studying it closely, I start thinking I might be able to achieve this with my own painting. With acrylics. And something very simple.

I read this tip that might help:

"To stop myself fiddling with detail, I use a brush two or three sizes up from the one I first think of picking up. I then set a kitchen timer for 15 minutes and don't let myself work on an area beyond this. When it rings, I must move onto another area and mustn't work on it again for another half an hour. Usually by then it doesn't seem to need as much detailing as I'd thought when I was in it. The result is my painting style is looser, more painterly, and less fussy."
Tip from: J.B.

Now I'm anxious to try it. And maybe the saved pictures of my older work is a good place for reference...!

Photo for a Friday

2010-07-09T01:27:00.003-04:00

“When you have come to the edge of all light that you know,
and are about to drop off into the darkness of the unknown,

faith is knowing one of two things will happen:

there will be something solid to stand on,

or you will be taught to fly." ~Patrick Overton

This photo is so breath-taking to me, I can't stop looking at it. I keep going there in my imagination.

The quote, above, came to mind.

Not that I have it memorized, but the dreamy scene stirred it from some part of my memory...

(Beachy Head Cliff, south coast of England - via LexLu4's Tumblr blog )

It just so happens I've been working on a necklace with coordinating colors:

Still lots of links to go, but I thought I'd give you a sneaky peek.

After bending and curling and wrapping wire for hours, my poor hands need a nap.

Happy Friday!

Playing with Fire

2010-06-30T10:27:00.002-04:00

Since I first saw enameled jewelry, I daydreamed about making my own.
Daydreamed only, because I knew I couldn't have a kiln at the time. Then
I heard about "torch-fired enamel", thanks to Barbara Lewis of Painting with Fire Artwear.
And thanks to my husband for giving me a large piece of copper left over

from a construction project, I could start learning without a lot of expense.

Here's a recent learning experience.
I don't have a way to punch holes,
but I wanted large hoops. My method
worked; I just didn't take into account
how heavy these would be. I attached
some of my own ear-wires to try them.
Ouch! Next time, smaller!

I made these yesterday:

I wasn't happy about a couple of spots that appeared,

so I'll keep them for myself and hope my hair hides the mistakes.

But I have finished a few things I thought
worthy to offer in my shop. I plan to make
more ginkgo leaves in other colors. Other
leaves, too...

I can't say I'm painting with fire yet, but
I sure am having fun playing with it!

Ahoy!

2010-06-18T13:12:00.003-04:00

Just sailing by to say, "hello!"

I haven't been able to get it together enough to show and gab about what I'm up to.

I ran across this ship illustration the other day and just love it so much,

plus, it reminds me a lot of one of my first-ever drawings.

Mine was a Viking ship (Vikings really captured my imagination!)

It was on a piece of thin, brown cardboard, probably packing material from something or other.

I remember using a ruler to make very straight lines representing planks in the side of the ship,

and I remember exactly how I made the curly waves.

The sail was a lot like this one and I had those wavy flags, too.

I wonder where I got the idea...?

I probably colored it all with crayons while lying on the floor (can't do that anymore!)

Was I the only one who hated to flatten the crayons' nice, sharp ends? But sacrificed them anyway, for the love of coloring?

Wish I still had my "young me" artwork...

The ship above is by Errol LeCain from the book, King Arthur's Sword

Horsing Around Again

2010-06-12T11:27:00.000-04:00

My work table is a mess again. I'm afraid I'm not one of those people who cleans it every time I get up from it. Too many interruptions. Sometimes the mess inspires me - I pick up something there and see it in a new way. But right now... it's just a mess.
The horse I started on earlier in the week is on standby while I figure out what to do with his mane. Wild and curly? Short and stylized? Braided? Nothing I tried looks right.
So today I'm pulling out some things that have been on standby a long, long time. That will inspire me.
And then maybe I'll clean up my work table. Or not.
Happy Saturday!

Cool Me Down

2010-06-03T19:53:00.003-04:00

Hot enough for ya? It doesn't seem late enough in the summer to be this meltingly hot, but I guess it is.
And hot weather makes me tired. Or something does.
I intend to blog every night, but by the time I get settled, I'm too exhausted.
So for now, a cool moment and a way cool song.
Don't watch it... just close your eyes, listen, and imagine a tropical beach at dusk....

Mmmmm..... Does the trick for me!

Can't stay...

2010-05-29T10:52:00.001-04:00

Courtesy of Pearls Before Swine by Stephan Pastis

I picked you a lovely lotus

2010-05-22T15:26:00.000-04:00

Saturday afternoon...
The day has turned dreary. Clouds... Rain...
I'm perking up my haircolor and waiting for the
rinse cycle...
Rummaging around the computer always makes the wait
seem shorter.
I like looking at pictures I've saved.
Thought I'd share this pretty blue lotus with you.
I keep meaning to do something with a lotus design. Such an elegant flower!
But don't you think the one on the left that hasn't opened yet
is just as pretty?

{Click on the picture for full size.}

Mud Pie Metallurgy

2010-05-19T21:24:00.001-04:00

Ever since I heard about metal clay I wanted to try it. It sounds like total alchemy, doesn't it? Everybody seemed to be having such fun with it, too. But not me. I work pretty slowly, most of the time. I figured the stuff would dry out and be useless before I ever accomplished anything with it. And I can't afford to waste. Not to mention, I don't like to waste!

But finally, the lure was too much. Especially when I heard about copper clay. (Cheaper! And I really like the look of copper. There's something magical about the color.) And especially when I found Hadar's quick-fire copper that comes in powder form (so I can mix up a little at a time). And Hadar is so generous with sharing her knowledge and experience. How I could not try it?

Well, here's my first little experiment:

I rolled a thin sheet and cut this amoeba-like shape, meant to be a leaf. Dried it and fired it and dropped it in water to remove the oxidation. And the ends broke off. :( Waaaahh! Not sure what happened, but I didn't want to try repairing it. So I polished and burnished it anyway. Just for practice.

Then I took the scrap clay and tried some rudimentary sculpting. I did have to work fast --it was a lot like making clay marbles as a kid, only then there was no hurry or worry. With a little practice, maybe I'll get the hang of it. I don't know how to get a smooth finish without rolling it out. And I kind of hated that it had so much texture. But it fired up great, and I had read about using Prismacolor pencils on metal. I had some, so I tried it.

Can you appreciate the irony in that? I make a little switch from colorful, polymer clay to metal and then I give it color! Ha ha! Call me hopeless. But copper is a color, too, right? And if I get the hang of it, I might move on to silver. I hope so, because I love the possibilities!

Oh, SNAP!

2010-05-19T00:13:00.002-04:00

News has been scarce (well, interesting news, that is) and time has been short. Or so it seems.
My kids saw a turtle on the roadside near our house yesterday. Later, he was hanging out by our mailbox. We had forgotten about it, but this morning our dogs discovered it in the back edge of our yard. They were not pleased with the intruder! It wasn't just any intruder or any old turtle, but a big ol' snapping turtle. 'Though not the biggest I've ever seen. His shell was about the size of a platter. And with the beak and strong jaws that gives them the snap!-- I was afraid for the dogs' noses.
Luckily, my son was home for lunch. He picked the thing up (I was apoplectic!) and carried it to his truck, then relocated it to a nice woodsy place with a stream.

(this is not our yard, nor "our turtle", but looks just like it.)

Last week I was making some "wildlife" jewelry, based on an idea from my sketchbook:

I had been trying to think what the next animal would be. Hmm... now I think I know. Although I might go for a more "friendly" turtle... :)

Briar Rose, a.k.a Sleeping Beauty

2010-05-02T17:28:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite fairy tales is Sleeping Beauty. I think the twining vines are my favorite part. Oh, and the happy ending.

No wonder I thought of the story when I'd finished a new pair of earrings:

I had been saving the leaves for the longest time, trying to figure out what would go with them. I was happy with the amazonite carved flower beads, and even happier when I added the garnet drops.

A very happy ending indeed!

Wisteria Love

2010-04-30T11:08:00.003-04:00

Who doesn't love wisteria? To me, it says springtime and "the south" where I've grown up, lived and loved. Most of the flowers here are beginning to fade, so I'm glad they can be "saved" with a photo, or celebrated with handmade keepsakes.
The first time I saw this gorgeous, embroidered cuff I was immediately taken back to my grandmother's house when I was a kid:

{by Waterrose}

Two tall trees in her yard were completely intertwined with wisteria. A swing was suspended between them with Adirondack chairs nearby. While the adults sat under the shade of green and lavender, us kids playing nearby, I would marvel at the muscular vines, big as my daddy's arm, big enough to let me climb way up high!

I don't have wisteria in my yard, so I got a photo of some that grows nearby.

But THIS photo really captures the dripping beauty and the reminiscent feel of my grandmother's vines:

{by Modern Classics Paper}

You know the kiss-lock clutches like this one are enormously popular again, and with the hand stitched wisteria this would be an absolute heirloom someday:

{by Lella Rae 2}

And I'm in love with enamel anyway, but especially this pendant in such a simple and modern design:

{by Design Options}

Aren't these some great ways to keep the beauty of wisteria blooming?

LOST in the translation

2010-04-21T10:33:00.004-04:00

Did you see "LOST" last night? Are you a watcher/fan/groupie? Early in the series, it grabbed me and pulled me in like the black smoke grabbing castaways. I've always loved mysteries, (polar bears in a jungle? what?) and the beautiful island scenery is my getaway once a week.
Well, it's all ending next month. I asked my husband, "what will I do without it?" He only watched it sporadicly, wandering into the kitchen during an episode (I mean, come on!) and then expecting me to explain everything. It can't be done without seeing it ALL!
He probably wouldn't understand my delight in finding this LOST Underground Art Show, either. (On second thought, he's gotta love the Locke and Hurley dolls!) If you're a LOST fan, you'll love it. The weird, wild, wacky, fun and unforgettable feel of the island and its inhabitants, immortalized by great artwork; what's not to love? :)

("The Swan", above, by Carlos Ramos. Found via Curious Art, the blog of artist Leah Palmer Preiss, by way of Lines & Colors, another favorite art blog.)

little miracles

2010-04-20T12:45:00.011-04:00

Taking my lunch break and checking the web... Yep, it's still there!
I ran across this movie trailer to share with you. It follows four babies through their first year in four different parts of the world. (I fell in love with the little Namibian ~~boy~~ girl!)
Not everybody likes the youngest humans, but babies --and their baby ways-- always amaze me and make me smile and laugh (and make me go "awww....!")
I also like seeing the differences, as well as similarities, of people in different places/cultures.

I hope you enjoy it, too!

I recommend Full Screen View (bottom left corner after clicking Play).
Or watch here: FilmInFocus - video - Babies The Trailer

Mrs. Muffet Bought a Tuffet

2010-04-16T02:00:00.003-04:00

No curds and/or whey here, but I did have oatmeal for breakfast; does that count? And funnily enough, a little hairy spider rappelled down the wall beside me a few days ago.

Then, after a trip to the thrift shop, I told my kids I bought a tuffet. "What's a tuffet?" each of them asked. I showed them the little four-legged stool, above. They weren't impressed. Neither was the husband. But I couldn't pass it up.

Firstly, it was only $4. Secondly, it was old enough to have been well-built and with quality materials. Okay, the upholstery and bullion fringe have had better days, but still... $4.

I could re-do it. When I have grandkids someday, they'll love sitting on it. I might have to stand on it and scream if I have a mouse in the house. Or a BIG hairy spider.

I mean, no home is complete without a tuffet!

NOTE: the little vintage Miss Muffet here is from a fabulous blog I found while looking for just such a picture. Visit RookNo.17 and see what I mean!

"For everything there is a season..."

2010-04-14T11:15:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was beautiful --blue sky, green leaves, pink flowers and a sun-warmed breeze.

Today is cool and cloudy. It seems so quiet.

I have to go to a funeral for the previous lady of the house we now live in.

I remember when we bought it, she told me she didn't get the carpet cleaned on the stairs, and how her husband would bring up a cup of coffee for her every morning and

spill a little along the way.

They had a long and lasting marriage and two beautiful girls. She battled cancer for a long time and I'm sad that she didn't have more time. That her family didn't have more time with her.

Don't we all want that? Plenty of time? But we never know...

I can't imagine facing an end to life without the hope of

a new life beyond this time.

I'll be contemplating these things today.

And I know I'll be thinking of how I can make the most of my days for every season.

To everything there is a season, and

a time to every purpose under heaven:

A time to be born, and

a time to die;

a time to plant, and

a time to pluck up

that which is planted;

A time to kill, and

a time to heal;

a time to break down, and

a time to build up;

A time to weep, and

a time to laugh;

a time to mourn, and

a time to dance;

A time to cast away stones, and

a time to gather stones together;

a time to embrace, and

a time to refrain from embracing;

A time to get, and

a time to lose;

a time to keep, and

a time to cast away;

A time to rend, and

a time to sow;

a time to keep silence, and

a time to speak;

A time to love, and

a time to hate;

a time of war; and

a time of peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

From The Holy Bible (King James Version)

Attributed to King Solomon

Tools of the Trades - part 2

2010-04-08T00:55:00.003-04:00

It's time to meet another super artisan and find out what (or who??) she calls her favorite tool. ;)
I'm excited to introduce you to Cynthia. She has a real eye for clothing that looks relaxed, yet distinctive. She can stitch up an orginal outfit or turn found fashion into something entirely fresh and new.

She even makes unique and pretty purses and handbags!

As someone who grew up with a mom who sewed up a storm, I can appreciate all that goes into this handicraft. But just imagine the frenetic work of participating in a "green" wedding fashion show!

Let her tell you about her process and see if you don't catch the passion:

"I love fabrics and love to design floaty, unusual gowns for weddings and feminine clothing of all kinds. I am inspired by fabrics, music, just a feeling of romance or joy in spring or beautiful scenery and fashion from earlier eras. I like to make things by going into my studio and putting on music that I love. Abandoned love and passion in music usually connects creatively with making things.

Almost everything I make begins as a one of a kind design. Sometimes I begin with a size and work around that. Sometimes I work on a particular fabric or garment to reconstruct. Often I choose a vintage fabric to design around. Most often I look at my dress form, Esperanza and grab a piece of fabric and begin draping and cutting and see where it leads. I'll go for a particular style or just let the fabric kind of flow and shape it. I like to use fabrics that don't fray too readily, so I can use raw cut pieces of fabric for my designs, since the hemmed edges of fabric sometimes can be bulky and awkward and hinder the flow of a style. My favorite tool has to be my dress form, Esperanza for this reason. She inspires me. Unfortunately, she is a Small size, so I tend to make a lot of small designs. My next project is to look for a cute dressform in medium and large sizes :-) I have one in medium that isn't so pretty and I tend to avoid using it.

I also love my serger, since it enables me to easily make ruffles and stretch and jersey type fabric designs. I wear and love clothing with stretch and it helps so much with online clothing, because the buyer can't try on the garment. Stretch fabrics are so versatile and give clothing more roominess for individual sizes.

My favorite medium is creating from a recycled plain garment and adding, cutting, draping and revising until it is beautiful. I love giving a used, dull garment a fresh beautiful beginning or using vintage fabric to make something new and unique.

My recent designs have been the most fun. I create wedding dresses that flow and are simple, fresh and floaty. I use bits of vintage and recycled fabrics, laces, satins, chiffons and silks to make gowns with personality and often that remind me of gowns in old 40's movies. I try to make gowns that are comfortable and relaxed enough for the bride to enjoy wearing and not stress over her dress. Weddings are stressful, but you should look awesome and feel gorgeous and free to be yourself. I wanted to have fun at my wedding and I want to make dresses that are fun to wear and eco-friendly."

Oh, yes. Her wedding dress creations are all that!

You can find Cynthia (and Esperanza) with these and more dreamy designs on her website, Style Tantrum and in the following venues:
Style Tantrum Shop on Zibbet , Colorada Shop on Etsy, and Pirouette Shop on 1000 Markets.

The pollen is fallin'

2010-04-06T18:54:00.006-04:00

Looked out the window this morning and we had a yellow velvet car. Um... not a good look for a vehicle!

And the pollen is not a good thing for so many of us. My son has to stay stocked up on allergy meds. For me, I just feel extremely sleepy, my eyes feel scratchy and tired.

It's a necessary evil, I guess. Without pollen, no trees and flowers.

But yeesh! so much! Today's been windy and I could see clouds of pollen wafting about. I guess it's mostly from the pines. They're always dropping something.

I checked the Pollen Forecast for my area and it's high all week, unless we get some rain to wash it away.

So pleeeeeeeease.... Rain, rain, come my way!!

Easter Monday

2010-04-05T09:24:00.005-04:00

We had a wonderful Easter, and I hope you did, too! Since my husband had to work, we had an evening feast when he got home. I made a yummy tiramisu pie. Also, cupcakes; some with pink and some with spring green icing. I was going to display them on a glass cake stand I've had for years. As I wiped off the top, the base broke into a million pieces -not just shards but fine particles. I was so afraid glass would get into our food! But you know me, while it scared me half to death, I thought it was pretty and couldn't help but wonder if I could use it in art somehow... LOL!

Saturday, for my kids' baptism, we walked down to this river:

Yes, it was muddy and cold and we even saw a little water snake.
I meant to get a picture of the Spanish moss, but we meandered around different trails to see (and let the kids drink from) an artesian well. Plus, I was huffing and puffing after the hike up a very steep hill!

I had been thinking about Jesus this season and how much he was characterized by humility. From birth to death and all in between. So I made another graphic:

Credits:

Background (cc) by adamned.art on Flickr
Crown of thorns from Rudolf Koch Christian Symbols

Jesus Washing the Feet of His Disciples by Albert Edelfelt

Flowers by Redoute

Arch shape by Altered Heart Designs

School is out this week and the kids are going to Tennessee at the end of it. I'm daydreaming about a little house-to-myself-time for a couple of days I can devote to art.

Hope you have something to look forward to and lots to be happy about...!

a very Good Friday

2010-04-02T23:52:00.003-04:00

For me, it was a very good Good Friday, filled with all the beauty of a sunny spring day and thoughts of its meaning in my faith. My sons and future daughter-in-law are being baptized tomorrow in a river. It's a real weekend of rejoicing!

I know lilies are traditional for Easter, but I bought my first orchid. The grocery store had them on clearance. I hope that doesn't mean they're diseased. I don't have a green thumb at all, so I don't know if I can keep it going. If not, at least I have this picture. :)

I used it to make another layered graphic.

This time I collaborated with Dante Gabriel Rossetti. ;) And used one of my few script-ish fonts (because I lost all my other favorites with my old computer. boohoo!)

I haven't been able to find time for getting out paints and brushes and all these last few days, so this computer painting is perfect.

Hope your weekend is perfect. And beautifully blessed!

Waiting for a song

2010-04-01T00:48:00.000-04:00

It's hard not to think about birds and flowers and running through green grass this time of year. It's what I was waiting for ever since... around December. Amazing how a stretch of lovely weather makes people (as well as birds) more cheerful. It's like every living thing

celebrates!

The tree outside my bedroom is budding out. I took pictures through the window screen, looking down:

Soon I can wake up to a riot of pink!

There's quite a bit of purple in the yard right now--

periwinkles (vinca), grape hyacynth, and red bud (more fuschia-ish):

I used this one

to make the layered digital art (1st photo) with the help of Leonardo da Vinci ;)

Ah... spring...

Always worth the wait!

(re)discovering old art friends

2010-03-31T11:11:00.002-04:00

When I first started learning my way around mixed-media arts, I was involved in a few discussion groups where I enjoyed the friendship of like-hearted souls. Like Sherre Hulbert. She was -and still is- one of the most talented collage artists I've come across. And nicest! I'm so happy to have some of her original art from a few swaps we were part of.
Well, that was a few years ago. Fast-forward to now. I found Sherre's new blog, Altered Heart Designs, and discovered her gorgeous digital kits for sale. I had to have the "Medieval Muse" for a piano hinge book I've been working on (slowly. as usual). Maybe this will light a new fire under me. ;)

Now I have this collaborative book on my wish list. ...sigh...

Great to "see you" again, Sherre!

Tools of the Trades - part 1

2010-03-25T14:08:00.001-04:00

Since we are enjoying a resurgence in handmade craft, and since I never tire of learning about artisans, their work, their methods, their tools... --I thought I'd seek out a few and share here on my blog.

Today, I'm happy to show you a unique tool, via Erin of erinf115 on Etsy. It's called a Punch Needle.

She says: "the Punchneedle, or Needle Punch, is an ancient rug-hooking technique shrunken down onto a much smaller scale and uses a special twice-threaded hollow needle, embroidery floss and weaver's cloth.
Punchneedle is basically "punching" the threaded needle into the weaver's cloth over and over making hundreds, sometimes thousands of little loops. It is very time consuming, a small sachet can take seven to eight hours of punching. I take the designs and turn them into wall hangings, ornaments, or sachets."

I can't imagine the amount of patience that must take, but I can imagine it must be hugely satisfying, because look at the beautiful things she creates:

It makes you thankful for the spirit of creativity and resourcefulness in the world, doesn't it? And thankful to the artisans who continue these handmade traditions.

I hope you enjoy learning about them along with me. If you have a favorite tool you could tell us about, you're invited! Just contact me by email (upper left of page) or by leaving a comment. I look forward to having you back either way. :)

A little scalloped

2010-03-24T13:32:00.001-04:00

Hurray for finishing another project that's been in limbo for while. (I'm really trying to follow the tips I blogged about here.) I had to give this crescent-shaped focal piece time to "speak to me".

Then I decided to echo the curve with scalloped links. It's a bit on the shorter side and I love how it decorates the neck! I also love the steel wires I used, because of the color and because I can create with abandon due to the low cost.

Thinking of a name for it inspired my decision for dinner, too ☺ I can't afford scallops so I looked up recipes for Chicken Scallopini. Not sure why I've never tried it before; sounds like a winner. I just have to pick up a few groceries. I let the Venetian Red art blog inspire the choice of side dish: asparagus. Now I wouldn't be surprised if THAT doesn't inspire my next jewelry project! ☻

Leap!

2010-03-21T17:33:00.002-04:00

While my younger son was away for a long weekend school trip, I couldn't help but miss him, and said as much to the rest of the family. I was still a little surprised at how my heart leaped when I picked him up today.
Ditto for the older son who spent a night away recently. His GPS had a hiccup that put him several miles off-track and very late getting home. It was only about the 2nd time I've ever waited up for him, and hearing his car in the drive made my heart do that little flip-flop.
Of course, I don't tell them this. Maybe they'll read it here someday. I do tell them I love them, though. I just don't think they know how much.

As I finished this necklace today, it made me think about what really makes my heart take wing. I'm working on one of these designs as wall art. And thinking about adding words or names (I do love the look of letterforms, you know). What or who makes your heart soar?

Is seeing believing?

2010-03-19T09:53:00.002-04:00

Reading my Photojojo newsletter this morning made me sit up and take notice of the featured artist, Alexa Meade.

Timmy on the Metro
Originally uploaded by AlexaMeade

When she "paints a person" she literally paints a person. With acrylic paint. Likewise a bowl of fruit, or a fried egg.

I've always loved the look of brushstrokes in paintings and I love how she plays it up.

Zorana creates beautiful brushstrokes, too, and I loved watching her videos of painting on rosin paper.

After packing my son off on a weekend trip, I have a "free" day and I so want to paint something (or someBODY) today. Any volunteers???

"If you're lucky enough to be Irish, you're lucky enough"

2010-03-16T00:33:00.002-04:00

I read that the Irish began wearing shamrocks as as a symbol of pride in their heritage during an oppressive time in history. I think I'll do the same for St. Patrick's Day. I don't normally make a big deal of it, but I'm proud of all parts of my mixed heritage, and I think everyone should be. And hurray for the way Patrick overcame his "unlucky" circumstances!

Besides, my husband can find four-leaf-clovers just like *that*. So could his granny. My sister can spot them looking through a window to a patch in the yard! Apparently, the creator of this album in the early 1900s had the same kind of luck. These are just a few pages of one thousand three hundred and fifty five clovers:

Isn't it wonderful? You can see more here.

I'm also going to wear a four leaf clover (a real one, with a safety pin) to celebrate my husband's and my dating anniversary and how "lucky" I am to have him. Really, I don't believe in "luck". Happenstance, maybe. Things happen-- good and bad. And some things take work, compromise and love. In other words, make your own luck. I hope yours is all good!

(By the way, I'm feeling much better now. Especially after my son and his girlfriend cooked delicious taquitos for dinner and cleaned up the dishes. Talk about lucky!) ;)

Now.I.Feel.Terrible.

2010-03-15T09:33:00.001-04:00

What made me think I could be lucky enough to get over a cold in just a couple of days? Instead of getting better it's gotten worse, and I spent yesterday in the bed, coughing my guts out, holding my throbbing head, and catching up on a few blogs. Did I say "few"? Do you realize how many blogs are out there?!

When my boys were small, (before blogs) we had books and videos of Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel. We liked the one where Toad (after banging his head on the wall, etc.) says "Now...I.. feel...terrible!" We still quote him when we feel that way. And I feel exactly that way.

The stop-motion animation produced and directed by John Clark Matthews is available to view online. I watched, and took a little trip back in time-- to a time when things were slower and simpler. It was a good distraction from this nasty cold. And like I say about the bumps in the road that come with having kids: this too shall pass..!

do i HAVE to spring forward???

2010-03-14T09:35:00.005-04:00

We do this every year --fiddle with the clock to get on somebody's (I don't know whose) schedule. Spring forward, fall back. Fall back, spring forward. Well, okay. If we must, I wanna do it in these shoes:

How fun!! I want a pair of the black & white checkerboard design to wear dancing on a black & white checkerboard floor. ^_^
I think my feet are too big, though. These little gems were created from polymer clay by Naama Zamir. (See more on her Flickr photostream.) My own efforts at sculpting miniature high heels were nowhere near this cool.
Discovered via the fantastic, polymer art newsletter, Voila! To put a spring in my step today!

Keeping my bug on a short leash

2010-03-13T17:24:00.001-05:00

Add this to the list of things I'd never heard of...
This is not jewelry. I mean, it is, but it's a real bug. A real, live bug you wear as jewelry. And keep as a pet. That crawls on you!
From several web articles, I learned that this makech beetle comes from the Yucatan, along with a legend. People attach jewels to them and a little chain with a pin so they can be worn on clothing.
Read the blog article where I found the photo here.
And if you're really brave, watch one (in a very short video) and decide how you feel about this "style" here.
I'm not squeamish about insect images as jewelry, but YIPES about one that wriggles and jiggles and tickles as you wear it!
I think I'll make some "faux" ones. If I can find a few leg donors. ;)
Get your order in now, for when this bug I caught (the common cold) lets ME off the leash!

Diamonds & Gold (of a sort)

2010-03-09T14:39:00.000-05:00

Looking back through my picture files (for something else entirely) I ran across this altered book spread from a collaborative project I worked in a few years ago. It had been a long time since I'd seen it and I'd forgotten about the quote (poem?) I glued in and my own words written around the leaves.

It says (on the left page):

"Poets, like painters, thus unskill'd to trace

The naked nature and the living grace,

With gold and jewels cover ev'ry part,

And hide with ornaments their want of art."
~Alexander Pope

And I wrote (on the right page):

"I'd rather have the gold of the sun on the trees...

I'd rather have the diamonds that sparkle on the sea..."

That will always be true of me!

Making myself make room

2010-03-08T12:33:00.001-05:00

In my March 5 post, I mentioned Lesley Riley's newsletter and a discovery I made because of it.

Well, I wanted to tell you about another. She offers a f.r.e.e. download of "23 Ways to Fit Art into Your Day". Just fill in your name in the little box on her home page.

Maybe you don't need her time-making tips, but I do! Funny thing is, I found an article about Lesley several years ago in a magazine. She told about ~~finding~~ making time for art while raising children. I remember she said she made a workspace that was too tall for her little ones to reach so she could leave works-in-progress without possibility of hazards.

So I already knew some of what she says, but I needed to read it again. And internalize it. Unlike Lesley, I have to do the majority of housework around here. But I'm sure she knows what it's like to have your art time interrupted. She offers work-around ideas for that, and also advice on dealing with self-criticism. Something else I needed to hear again.
Be sure to sign up for her newsletter and check out her blog. She has great giveaways as well as products and information. I'm a huge fan. Can you tell?
Better scoot. I have to fit some art into my afternoon!

Tool Time

2010-03-06T23:09:00.005-05:00

My son had his Ag Ed competition for tool ID today and I'm here to brag on him a little. (He scored 100% and had around 100 tools to identify!) As he had studied leading up to it, I was thinking about the tools for things other than agriculture, like cooking, car repair, blacksmith, letter-press, carpentry, etc...

I've always loved the pages in How-To books that show the tools all neatly arranged and numbered, referring to each one's name and use.

I couldn't find a picture of what I mean, but I'm sure you've seen them. I did find this even more interesting set --"Hand Tools of Unknown Use" by Gordon Senior.

So... have you ever created your own tools? My sons have, usually involving duct tape, wood and pvc pipe somehow or other. I've improvised a lot for my polymer clay tools.

And what do you think is the coolest tool (among hand tools, I mean)? I love my vegetable peeler!

^_^

P.S. Catch this nifty font called "Duerer Everyday Tools" by l'Abécédarienne

Feed Me!

2010-03-05T23:45:00.004-05:00

Saturdays don't come often enough. That's my sleep-in day. This Saturday I don't get to sleep in. I have to get up early *grumble grumble*
I don't do well on 6 hours of sleep, but I'll be lucky to get that much tonight. I was up late and then just had to read my feeds. It's one of the ways I follow some favorite blogs.

Knowing I won't be able to drop right off to sleep, I thought I'd add a quick post here to let you know about one such favorite. I found it through Lesley Riley's newsletter. It's called Venetian Red (doesn't that sound intriguing?) and it's art-related (of course).

If you hunger for art like I do, check it out for a midnight snack tonight. Or anytime.

Happy Weekend!

Isn't it funny about money...?

2010-03-04T23:59:00.002-05:00

I'm sure my grasp of history is no better than my grammar (probably worse), but since my son has a world history class this year, we were talking about how money figured into the fall of the Roman Empire. And wondering why gold was so valued. He said he doesn't find gold all that appealing. Neither do I. I'm more a sterling girl ;)

Of course, early people first used bartering, then worked up to the precious metals. I read that the Aztecs and Mayas used gold dust kept in transparent quills*, and cowrie shells were currency in China and Africa, wampum in North America. And look at the Amber Road.

Can't you just imagine two ancient men meeting up... Maybe one wants to sell some livestock to the other. His eyes glaze over and he says, "You got a deal. I like that shiny stuff. Purty!"

No. I don't think so. More likely he'd pay 100 sheep for the other guy's cool leather coat. Or his new contraption on the round things. What are they called? Wheels?

Now women. I can see them going for the jewelry supplies. So I'm thinking it all came down to pretties for the ladies. I know I feel covetous just looking at this photo of rare and gorgeous blue amber:

My husband? Not so much.

I know money was first a guarantee, a promissory note of sorts. But using gold, silver, shells --beads!-- silk and such for trade? Surely the gentler of the sexes had the greater influence.
And that's probably why the word "money" comes from Moneta, a Roman goddess. ;)

Perfect Participial Phase

2010-03-03T11:56:00.003-05:00

Okay, my knowledge of grammar isn't perfect, but having been seen on the www has made this week just perfect.

"LittleTJane" featured my Oh So Faux jewelry on her very fun blog; thank you!! And thanks to robayre for the heads-up.
Earlier in the week I was shocked to click on the Etsy home page and find one of my shoe paintings:

Many thanks to DalMare for including my work in her Treasury.

Just a phase, I'm sure, but it's been a very nice week so far.
I was happy to see a lovely snow after dark last night, and not sad to see it melted by morning. ;) Actually, seeing rose-colored buds on our maple tree yesterday made my heart do a little cartwheel.

Here's wishing y'all a perfect rest-of-the-week....!

Kicking Coffee to the Curb

2010-03-02T10:46:00.000-05:00

Have I ever told you about my love/hate relationship with coffee? I love it. It hates me. Stains my teeth. Hurts my bladder. Gives me the jitters if I drink it on an empty stomach. Keeps me awake nights. Dehydrates me. But doesn't do a thing to perk me up or give me energy. And they say it depletes the vitamins and minerals in your body.
It's just a comfort "food" in my favorite mug. Warm and, in my case, creamy and sweet.
I've given it up several times. Now I'm doing it again. And trying to find a healthy replacement.
I bought some Cafix, (close, but no cigar. Tastes like the old Postum), and I'm looking at some other substitutes. Meanwhile, I found another hot beverage I do like, by aimeejoi, a seller on Etsy. She makes this organic, gluten-free, caffeine-free "Mocka" that reminds me of spiced chai.

Unfortunately, I haven't found a tea I like as much as coffee, and I need to avoid the caffeine. This "Mocka" is a great in-between. And another plus is that I need less sugar than with the actual java.
I was in the coffee aisle at the grocery store recently imagining healthy, non-coffees being available right along with the rest. Maybe someday...
As for the left-over coffee in my cabinet, I might have to try painting with it, like the JustCoffee artists who painted the Girl with the Pearl Earring, above. Yeah!
:)

Hello, Blackbirds!

2010-03-01T18:24:00.001-05:00

Driving away from my house today, I saw a huge flock of blackbirds on both sides of our street and in our neighbor's garden and yard. They were so interesting I just coasted to the stop sign and watched them fly before me.
I was so busy watching them as a whole that I didn't get a good look at any individual one. I think they were cowbirds. Smaller than your average crow.
While searching the web to identify them, I came across this video from the UK that reminds me of swarms I've seen about this time of year or in autumn. Maybe migration?
Anyway, this view is mesmerizing!

(In case the video link is broken, it's from here..)
Doesn't that remind you of schools of fish? And Escher's tessellation?
You can find a Flickr group of Escheresque photos.
And by the way, HAPPY BIR'DAY to a special someone if you're reading (you know who you are)!

Two-dog nights and sun dog days

2010-02-27T13:06:00.001-05:00

Temps have been a bit warmer here this week-- and with a little more sun, hurray!-- but apparently still cool enough to cuddle, even if you wear a fur coat 24/7, like these guys (our "foster" pups):

Not sure who adopted who!
I seem to be tripping over dogs everywhere I go. Another one appeared at my husband's business, too. Haven't actually seen a sun dog 'though it's much more likely on a clear day like today. I have seen halos before. And I do like this documentary painting of the phenomenon observed in Stockholm, 1535.

I'll have my eyes on the skies while I'm out this afternoon. Hope yours is bright and beautiful!

Looking skyward

2010-02-20T16:24:00.000-05:00

Finally! I broke free from the stranglehold of my "home management" job --at least for now-- and stole some time to get into my studio groove. As you know, living in a house with people and other animals (heh!) means there's no end to the chores. At a time when I want to get better at balancing my life, it seems I've gotten worse. I feel like the family demands are always haranguing me, like that little tumbleweed of dirt you always saw with Charlie Brown's friend, Pigpen.

So I'm thinking like a bird, wanting to fly from tree to tree, soar up to the warm sun.... mmmm....
This is one of the crackle-painted bird pendant/pin/beads I've finished. And I have a bigger (bird) project underway. I'm trying to convince myself to work quickly and finish it instead of going all perfectionist and procrastinating on it.

I love how the days are getting longer. More sun and more warm temps and I might just be energized enough to fit it all in, ya think? ^_^

To err is human; to forgive, canine

2010-02-14T15:15:00.000-05:00

Some people have cute puppy magnets on their fridge or file cabinet; I'm beginning to think we ARE puppy magnets!

My son's girlfriend found an(other) abandoned doggy this weekend,, just as it started snowing here, and I can't fault her for having a soft heart. As my son reminded me, I picked up 8 at once one hot summer. I did manage to find homes for them, thanks to PetFinder.com. Several have found their way to my husband's golf business and were quickly adopted (halleluia!) And we gave a home to another one last summer.

Unfortunately, we can't house any more, so we're trying to place this little guy.

My son made him a temporary pen, which he only likes when he's sleepy. You can imagine WE didn't get much sleep last night! But he is adorable and pretty smart. We're just hoping he finds a good home where he can thrive and be a {hu}man's best friend. Meanwhile, he's our little bundle of happy puppy fun.

^_^

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." ~ Anatole France

A Marshmallow Fluff Day

2010-02-13T12:32:00.009-05:00

Watching snow fall last evening --from just before dusk until almost midnight-- was icing on the cake. Not sure what the cake was. Heck! Who needs cake? I started a food-tracking journal on my iPod Touch that makes watching calories as easy as watching the snow fall, so this is the perfect "dessert" for me!

I asked my son why he was going to bed so early last night. He said, "Because! This is as good as Christmas!" I was a little sad for him that the sun was out this morning, but it was beautiful. Great shadows. Unfortunately, I misplaced my camera last night after uploading photos for a new necklace I made. By the time I found it this morning (under a couch cushion), the melting process was well underway.

Click on the mailbox photo above and you can see the tracks on the right side that tell me we had a deer visiting during the night. The bottom left photo is an iron candle holder. Last night would've been a great time to light the candle...

And speaking of iron, here's a peek at the necklace I mentioned. Made to look like wrought iron:

Reminds me of the daffodil sprouts I saw peeking out of the snow.
I'm glad Spring will soon be here, but I'm glad for the fluffy stuff, too!

Plentiful Abundance

2010-02-11T09:23:00.001-05:00

One day last week when I checked the weather report, the forecast for that day said, "abundant sunshine". Today it says, "plentiful sunshine". That makes me smile. It promises enough. And just seeing that clear, blue sky this morning is enough to see me through days of grey when the clouds and rain come back.
Maybe that's why I love art so much... I store up beauty in my heart to see me through any bad times to come.
Here are some of my favorite photos from Flickr members. They make me smile and remind me of hope and beauty, and abundance and plenty.
May we always have enough, and enough left over to share. :)

1. 41/365, 2. Frosty morning~, 3. Farfalla, 4. The girl in a ball, 5. Natural Colours, 6. Um desenho..., 7. February 1 - Heart of Stone, 8. Fear no more the heat o' the sun, 9. The bridge at Alden Bridge, 10. dogwood opera, 11. Untitled, 12. Remember to take care of love!, 13. Seedpods 5, 14. Cold Hearts, 15. Mia, 16. Snow, 17. The Night Before Christmas, 18. Untitled, 19. autumn mornings, 20. Queen of Candyland!

(Mosaic created with BigHugeLabs)

Front and Center!

2010-02-07T14:51:00.006-05:00

...Happened to get a chance at curating a Treasury on Etsy a couple of days ago, and while I slept in the wee hours this morning, it made Etsy's front page! Hurrah!!

Thanks to fellow blogger and artist Kate, of Organic Odysseys for the picture!

Take a stroll (or scroll) ;) through the shops of these sellers for some handmade beauty:

glasfaden, rhan, roseau,

waterrose, elanadesignbead, HandyMaiden,

mashnewyork, MyWireArt, debradane,

fricdementol, hollyday, and roundrabbit

I hope your day is as beautiful as these works of art!

I've Been Remiss

2010-01-31T12:42:00.002-05:00

Red Faceted Heart, "Oh So Faux"
Originally uploaded by treasurefield
Okay... I'm terribly ashamed of myself for not posting this sooner...
Last week (approximately?) I was in all kinds of a hurry -- doing chores, running errands, cooking... I had a peek at my Etsy shop that day and found this item had appeared on the Etsy home page. I missed seeing it, but did find it was from a Treasury curated by Devi, of "glasfaden".
I appreciated the feature and all the visitors so much!!
I'm afraid I didn't have time to say thanks at the moment and only had the annoying mini-keyboard on my iPod Touch then, too. Like so many other times, I've been a terrible procrastinator.
I hate this characteristic of myself. So often I beat myself up over it, then procrastinate some more. :(
I don't know why I feel so overwhelmed by so many things. Is it something I can change? Or is it some misfiring neurons in my brain? If I think about it too much I feel even more overwhelmed!
So before I ramble on too much, just let me say I'm sorry, that (I think) my heart is in the right place, and I thank you from the bottom of it.
Also, be sure to visit Devi's blog, her photos on Flickr, and Etsy shop to get a sense of how sweet and talented she is and why I love her so much!

Very January

2010-01-30T16:37:00.000-05:00

Just before the month is over, we get what I think of as a real Wintry Day -- hazy white with snow, sleet, freezing rain and icicles. I had already dedicated the day to something creative. Why not another graphics program?
This one is PhotoFiltre and I'm really, really liking it; even with the steep learning curve (for me anyway) and a bit of a language barrier in their forum. (However, they do have a special section for those of us who only know English. :p) And the Help Files have been very helpful so far. I didn't even have to ask my 15-year-old for help!
{Note: unlike the program I "reviewed" in my previous post, PhotoFiltre has an integrated smudge tool and lots of artistic effects. So far, so fun!}
This is a sampler of everything I learned today:

And a reminder of exactly what the day was like!

Play-painting

2010-01-29T09:36:00.002-05:00

When my old computer went down and I had to "upgrade", I figured my old (very old) PaintShopPro graphics/editing program would no longer be up to speed. I decided to search for alternatives online. Before the new computer was hospitalized (heh!) I was using GIMP. It's good, but there were a couple of things that bothered me. Then I found Paint.NET Still trying it out, but so far I'm very impressed!

It doesn't have all the artistic effects I was used to,
but it has some fun ones.

Here are a few examples:

I have more trials & errors to make and more show & tell to come.

As time allows....!

Permits, pageants and pup-cicles

2010-01-22T23:17:00.001-05:00

Who says January is all bleak and grey? When I looked out the window this morning it was. Brown leaves (what little are left) clinging to grey branches against a grey sky draped over fog and cold. But I was almost too busy to notice.

Finally heard that my {very own} computer is back from the repair shop and soon back into my hands. Yippee!

My older son was letting me look at his photos and I had to have him send me this one of our dog. "Drover" went to work with him one day when we were having those bbbrrrrr...! cold cold COLD! days... A pond was frozen over --pretty rare around here anymore. I think he looks a little puzzled by this new feat of being able to walk on water. LOL!

My husband's niece is all into the beauty pageant scene and won "Miss 7th Grade" at her school. I'm guessing her gregrariousness and infectious smile had something to do with it! ;)

To top off the day, after spending at least an hour in a DMV, my younger son --my baby-- got his driver's permit. Aced the test! And then drove me (with my heart in my throat) safely home. He's used to driving his dirt-bike much faster than I let him go down the highway, so he called it boring. But he's happy to have made that next step to "freedom" and adventure.

Aren't we all???

"If I had words...

2010-01-18T13:26:00.006-05:00

...I would make a day for you..."
And it might look just like this.
I mean, this scene has it all-- beautiful blue sky, bright sunshine, a wonderland world of snow, and a gate that begs the question of where the path leads.

"closed........"
Originally uploaded by atsjebosma

This gorgeous photo I found --via Flickriver.com --is titled "closed", but to me it says "find the magic key and enter".
'Though I didn't blog about it, it didn't escape my attention that we've begun a new year, a new decade. I think I'm ready now.
When I woke up this morning, I didn't much like myself. So I took off that self along with my pajamas and put on a new Me -a Me ready to open that gate and head off down the path.
If I can't make a day for all of you, at least I can make a new one for myself and do what I can to make a difference.

Remember that little song from the movie, Babe?

"If I had words to make a day for you,
I'd sing you a morning golden and new.
I would make this day last for all time,
Then give you a night deep with moonshine."

Make your day (and night) a great one!

Doodle-y fingers

2010-01-13T16:12:00.000-05:00

Maybe.. I'm slowly getting back a little creative groove here...
I tripped across another artsy app for my iPod Touch, like a mini version of PhotoShop, that really got me in the mood to draw.

I wanted to make a girl with a fur-collar coat to remember our frigid weather. Unfortunately, I lost the first one I drew (thanks to not reading the Help Files first). Fortunately, we did get our heater fixed, so no more being Cinderella tending the fire for me. Although in some weird way I kind of miss it. {A little.}

Anyways... I made another, and named her "Fur Alisa" (play on words with the Beethoven song and my name). I don't have red hair though; at least, not right now.

So here's a link to the details and a review of the "AutoDesk SketchBook Mobile" app I used. Just like finger-painting, but different. Of course, now I want this Pogo iPhone Stylus. Because even though I'm warm enough now to have electrons in my fingers, I still prefer to draw with an instrument. Since I can't play any. ^_^
Toodles!

Shiver me fingers!

2010-01-10T14:30:00.000-05:00

Who out there can't empathize with the cold snap that has us shivering even here in the Ol' South? Especially in houses like mine where the heater picked such a fine time to die. My nose, toes and fingers are freezing, and two sweaters aren't enough. We're not used to this!
Meanwhile, I'm still without my computer, waiting on Toshiba to send it back. I' m making do with the iPod Touch my family gave me for Christmas. Fun, but I miss the "big screen" not to mention the real-life keyboard.
On top of it all, I feel like every creative bone in my body is broken. I just downloaded an Art Gallery app to inspire me. Like this bright Matisse:

Time to put another log on the fire. Then I might have a cup of hot coffee with my homemade banana cream pie while I think about warmer days.
Next post, I hope to be typing on a human-sized keyboard with unfrozen fingers. Till then, keep your hat on. And your scarf!

The Aftermath

2009-12-27T12:34:00.000-05:00

(and I've never been very good at math!)

I think Christmas exploded in my house and I wasn't home yesterday to deal with it. The wrapping paper, ribbon and boxes that can be recycled/repurposed have been, but now we have new "things" that need new "homes". My plan is to make a big haul to the thrift shop this week.
I'm anxious to un-decorate, organize and get into a streamlined routine.
Meanwhile, I'm eating up the yummy Pocky my dear kids gave me so it won't be around to tempt me. ^_^

Homestretch

2009-12-21T11:14:00.001-05:00

Here in the last week leading up to that red letter day of Christmas, I'm taking a moment before (and among) all the going and doing to think about what the holiday means to me.
What I love is making something magical happen, something special-- the lights and decorations, finding gifts that surprise and delight, making foods we enjoy only at this time of year... Like the miracle of the menorah, and the birth of a baby Saviour... I want to capture that and in some way recreate that feeling.
Then... there is something about that "silent night" --a peace along with anticipation. For me, it's almost palpable, and very much cherished. It increases my hope for Peace among all.
But most of all, it's the gift. The generosity of loved ones to give something from a caring heart, whether tangible and tied up with ribbon, or a willing and helping hand, or a wish & prayer for the best; it's so deeply appreciated. And the gift I've received for a Life everlasting is the one that means the most to me. It's the only one that really matters. It's the one that moves me to hope the best for all of you.
Wishing you all the peace, love & joy I've known, and more!

A H'Artfelt Christmas/Poinsettia Day

2009-12-12T22:14:00.000-05:00

Last week I won a beautiful poinsettia and had a photo all cropped and ready to post here, in honor of Poinsettia Day and Kelly's H'Artfelt Christmas blog party.

But wouldn't you know... my computer let me down. :( My new, 2 month old computer! It's spending the weekend in the shop (along with all my photos). Finally, today my son got the old one going enough for me to catch up a little.
So thanks to all who stopped by and especially for the comments! I hope to get around to your blogs, too, very soon. It's something to look forward to. Something Christmas-y and "H'Artfelt".

Cheers!

JOY

2009-12-11T00:07:00.003-05:00

Are you feeling it? That “Christmas Spirit”? I have to admit, in the last few years, I’ve had a hard time getting into it. It sneaks up on ya, feels like summer was only last week, then all of a sudden you’re supposed to be all holly-jolly.
But this year seems different. I don’t know if it’s me or what. (Maybe the Zoloft?) ;) We have even less money to spend on gifts than last year, but it doesn’t matter. In fact, I think that makes me more relaxed about the whole thing. No pressure to shop around like a chicken with its head cut off. Just make cookies and drink cocoa and drape lights and tinsel on everything.
I’m enjoying this, and hope you are, too!

(Photo above is a collage I made a few years ago for a swap; how on Earth did I find the time???)

.

More decking of halls, fa la la la la!

2009-12-09T13:28:00.002-05:00

Another Christmas photo… This one from the top of our tree. I’m really terrible at low-light situations with the camera, so this one is blurred. And I don’t know why the background looks mauve, but I liked the overall effect. Kind of Old World-ish.
Our younger son had to straighten the angel tree-topper, and it made me gulp to see what an easy reach it was for Mr. All-Legs. When the boys were little Dad would hold them up to place the angel; taking turns, year to year. I’m just happy that they still get excited about it all –-the tree, decorations, special foods and all…
Hallelujah!

I’ll have a blue, gold and white Christmas

2009-12-08T22:35:00.002-05:00

…or Christmas tree.

My son and his girlfriend were such angels to set it up and she single-handedly decorated it. She thought blue, white & gold would be pretty and I completely agreed. Even more after she worked her magic.
More pictures to follow...