Createology

Just Right Goldilocks...

2012-02-11T13:49:00.000-08:00

Do you like getting new furniture? I really like it but don't do it very often. However this week I was shopping and found this little chair. It is made of metal and not very big. I think it is for a plant to sit on it, however that is not what I had in mind. Let me see the price tag...Really? In that case I shall carry it around with me and decide if I really want to purchase this little chair. It is not very portable and I was traveling with the car. It would be quite the nuisance and Mr. C would never understand nor have the patience to pack this with all the other stuff I acquired...including two new brooms for the house as mine mysteriously disappeared both upstairs and downstairs brooms. Why I felt the need to buy them while away is beyond even my understanding. So as I am carrying around this little chair deciding if I should buy it, too many other shoppers are eyeing my find...hungrily eyeing my little find. Yup! I must buy this little chair and pack it home. Note: even the housekeeping staff asked about my little chair I sat on the coffee table in our little room while we were in our cozy little cottage...again. Mr. C is not thrilled. Ahh...now we are home and this little chair is perfect for exactly why I bought it.

I introduce to you, Anne Sherry. She is so happy to have a new chair to sit in. Mr. C bought her a nice wooden chair years ago, however Gwendolyn stole it from her soon after it came home. I shall save that story for another time. So Anne Sherry tried all the chairs in the house and just like Goldilocks she found every chair to be too big or too small. Not this chair as she says it is just right! Here she is happily sitting in her new chair with her favorite book she is reading. To celebrate her new chair she is wearing her pink butterfly wings and her recently acquired crown. It is good to be the queen! She isn't even letting Gwendolyn get near her new chair as she is sitting on the opposite side of the room right where she can keep her eyes on the other dolls just in case they get any ideas.
I am so glad I spotted this little chair and carried it around and brought it all the way home.
Thank you Mr. C for putting up with the ackward packing of stuff in the car...chair and brooms. As for the Cuties that spilled and rolled all over the parking lot...well that is another story.
The sky is drizzling and the sun is playing hide and seek...more hiding than anything else. It is cold but not frigid and this is a wonderful weekend to relax and just enjoy being home. Chores are calling me and I don't even mind.
What is something you have purchased while away and then had to wrangle to get it home?
Happy weekend...

Fractured February...

2012-02-04T18:37:00.000-08:00

When I decided upon using a word to help me in my daily pursuit of life I thought of doing one word for the entire year. That was in 2010. I chose my word of focus and it has served me well even still to this day. I find I pay more attention to my surroundings and happenings.
Then in 2011 I selected the word now as my guide. That allowed me to get things done and not put them off as much as I had done in the past. Good word and I am still benefiting from that choice.
This year of 2012 my word is play and I have not really done it justice in the short amount of time we have had in this year. I am finding the hours and days and weeks are just flying faster and faster for me. I am not getting a lot of play time and I think I know what has happened. LIFE!
I recently saw a quote that fits this perfectly...
“Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.”
― John Lennon

Now for my blog title today I must explain...
I experienced "Disconnected December" from being gone several weeks with hubby to do a consulting job helping a good friend and then getting very sick on our one week vacation in Maui. No Christmas and not even a visit from Santa was just NOT how I wanted to enjoy December.
Then 2012 brought along "Jumbled January" and my new year was off on the wrong step. Please understand I am not a pessimist nor do I relish in drama. I was merely hoping for a simple routine of my comfortable life of homemaking and of volunteering in my community and going to my joyous Zumba classes. Well that did NOT happen.
As we enter February I must label it "Fractured February" as it is following in the same pattern as the two previous months. So I shall take a very deep breath and stay on target to a peaceful and serene daily life of flexibility and happiness. I shall give February a reprieve until Valentine's Day and then based on what happens then I might be able to re-title this post "Fabulous February".
In the meantime my pursuit of play continues...
What are you playing with and creating?
I have been seeing lots of beautiful hearts being created.
Our winter has remained very mild however there are changes coming this week...could it be snow???

Crocheting Completed...

2012-01-28T20:46:00.000-08:00

When I am in a different city for any length of time I like to explore and see what stores they have that might fit my interests. No disappointment here. I went to a funky bead and yarn store. It has no street appearance as it is in an industrial strip off the main roads. You know what that means? Better prices of course. All yarn everyday is 40% off and that fits my budget. Get what you might need because at these prices they do not get re-orders of these deals. I bought some gorgeous Italian yarns that are delicious.

I normally travel with a crochet hook but nowadays not so much due to losing too many at airport check-ins. Please don't even count my scissors I have had to leave behind and that was when nothing was being returned to the owners. So this trip we were in the car however I did not have my trusty hook with me. So I bought one. Ouch! It cost more than the Italian yarn. Of course it is German engineered and made of the finest bamboo. Well, I did splurge and I am so thankful I did. This is the finest crochet hook I have ever used. It actually glided through the yarn. Can a crochet hook be dreamy? Mine is to me.

Two days after buying my hook and yarns I had crocheted this neck muffler scarf. I am thrilled with how it turned out. I didn't even have a pattern. Will I make more? I am hoping so.

Here is the yarn I used. The varigated is the Italian wool that is delicious. The skein in the back row is the full beginning skein and the one in the front row is what I have left for another scarf. The black yarn is alpaca wool and I adore working with this. Back row is the untouched full skein and front row is the remainder of what I have for another scarf.

This is the finished scarf. My photos are shadowy but I am not a photographer...I am a crocheter. The scarf is held together with a button I sewed on the underside of the flower. I buttoned it through a space I left in the scarf when I began my chain and single crochet rows. I saw a similar scarf at the yarn shop that LuLu (who luckily works there) had made and it was my inspiration. Hers was the same varigated but with a soft grey instead of the black. Her scallop edging and flower are quite different and she used a large safety pin to hold the scarf together.

Here is another view of my neck muffler scarf. I like it close around my neck as I am not a fan of getting or being cold and this really keeps the chill and/or wind away. Oh yes I plan on making a few more of these. I did buy some of the same Italian varigated yarn in some other color combos and then some coordinating wool to compliment the varigated skeins.
In real time this was quite quick to crochet...well if you added up my hours it wasn't quick, however remember I was staying in a hotel all day every day and 8 or 10 hours can pass very quickly if your hands are busy and you are creating something new and exciting.
Have you crocheted or knit any of these neck muffler scarves? If so, I would love to see photos or hear of how you made them.
I believe I was channeling my Grandma when I was working on this. She could look at something and then go home and make it without ever seeing it again and without photos. Of course I took my camera back to the shop but forgot to actually take a picture of the one LuLu made. I was too busy buying more yarns and some bamboo knitting needles so I can try to knit. After all...Grandma crocheted and knit lots of fabulous things and most of the time she had numerous projects going all at once. If only I can channel her to help me knit something usable...
Blissful Creating as this January 2012 comes to a rapid close. This world must be spinning faster...

Playing With Scissors...

2012-01-27T12:52:00.000-08:00

Here is another fun craft I played with while in my cozy cottage. I have seen so many clever people making these paper feathers I just had to try them. Having limited supplies with me I looked around and found a discarded book that I used some pages from. I had gone to the local craft store and these "fringe" scissors were just what I needed to make this project. Bonus...they were on sale. I also spent a dollar on the white wire I needed.
I sat at my little cozy coffee table and glued with my trusty glue stick I had brought with me. Then I cut out the shapes and fringed them. Hmmm...I liked them however they were rather plain and needed something more.
I had no more supplies with me but knew I had just the perfect item at home so I put them in the bag for safe keeping.
Once I was home and unpacked I got out the walnut spray stain and spritzed the feathers. Much better.
Mr. C was aghast at "MORE SCISSORS"! Ever since he met me and helped me move (we are do-overs so lots of baggage with me) he has never gotten over how many scissors I have. He tells people I have hundreds. Hmmm...I wonder how many screw drivers he has? Alas it does not matter. A person needs tools to do a good job and that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
I could imagine that any of you have more than ONE pair of scissors in your possession. Could I be correct?
I will be making more of these and using lots of different papers...music, tissue, wrapping, thin shopping bags, text pages, and whatever else comes to my crafty hands.
Have you made some and what were your finished projects?
Yesterday we had rain all day...one of my friends called it an Irish Mist and that really did describe it better. It required windshield wipers when driving but overall very pleasant. Today we have beautiful sunshine and perfect temperature of about 60 degrees F. I hope you are having your favorite day...

Playing With Paint Chips...photo

2012-01-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

Part 2 continued from previous post...
I was having issues on my last post I just completed a short time ago. Something about Blogger not being supported by my browser and hmmm...would I like to download Google Chrome. In this house I NEVER download anything without Mr. C's strict approval. His computers have always been his lifeline and company earnings so he is very protective of what content is on them and how they are used.
I did interrupt him as he was working and that never goes really well either. Thank goodness he took a break and looked at what I was not conveying very well. Mr. C does not know Blogger nor does he want to. He is not interested in blogging or sharing of photos or any such ballyhoo. He is happy for me that I am enjoying blogging so much but that is as far as his interest goes.
We took a little drive and got a delicious Gyro at our favorite little place for lunch.
When we returned he sat down at my computer and read a few things. Then...he actually downloaded Google Chrome for me. Now I am doing a test post to see if Blogger will behave better. So far so good. I have been able to upload a photo from my pictures file. On the last post I did something I have no idea and Picasa did a photo for me which posted. I have never even used Picasa so go figure.
So we shall see if Google Chrome really will be helpful and if Blogger really will behave for me.
If not...

Playing With Paint Chips...

2012-01-25T12:17:00.000-08:00

This is how I created some Valentine ATCs while I was in my little cottage away. I acquired some lovely paint chips from the local orange big box store in burgundy, red, pink and whisper pink. I used my heart punches, which I had with me, and made a little pile of hearts. With my ATC blanks I had pre-stamped, my trusty glue stick, some scissors, red Happy Valentine's Day ribbon and a few pre-made hearts from K and Company I was able to create Valentine ATCs. These got mailed out to a very few people all while I was out of town and away from my studio. It is possible to be creative with very little supplies and space.
I was very happy to play with my paint chips and make something fun and colorful. I have used paint chips for lots of projects in the past. I do try to only acquire them when I am actually buying paint and painting supplies however sometimes I just need a very few without the need for the actual gallon of paint. I was making a substantial purchase of other items they sell.
What have you done with paint chips? Please share your projects you have created.
I had another photo to share, however it seems that Blogger has become extremely difficult and misbehaved for me. Something about my reader no longer recognizes my format??? I have no idea what that means. I only hope this will post properly.
Wonderful Wednesday and Blissful Creating...

Home Suite Home...

2012-01-23T14:13:00.000-08:00

My "Disconnected December" has turned into "Jumbled January". However FLEXIBILITY is my saviour. I can adapt to most any situation...
I have not been able to keep up with blogging as well as I would like. It seems that my desktop computer at home has special programs that the shared traveling laptop does not contain. Therefore I am at a loss when it comes to sharing personal photos and updates on projects. So...
Home Suite Home. Living in Bakersfield while Mr. C helps a dear friend.
I cannot complain as I have everything I need (minus my computer and programs!) for daily living. I like to refer to my space as my little "cottage". This Homewood actually is very nice and they fix breakfast daily and dinner Mon - Thurs. Hot tea and freshly baked cookies are my favorites every day. Yes, I will need to get back to WW and Zumba and work it all off!

This is the general comfort area and it is never crowded or noisy. The staff are super nice and accomodating. Behind this fireplace is the common eating area. With multi flat screen TVs and a view of the pool area. We even have daily newspaper delivery right to our room door. This life is not bad at all and almost has more ammenities than I have at home. I did make the mistake of remarking to Mr. C that I really like this cozy living. His comment was, "Then why do we live in such a large home?" Oops...what was I thinking? So of course I had to realize that none of my stuff could possibly fit in this size of living space. No sewing room with all its fabrics, laces and buttons. No studio with its amazing array of everything artsy and crafty. What was I thinking?!! I guess the simpler life of being taken care of daily got me scattered. Only having a totally coordinated closet of clothes and shoes is refreshing...but can I accomplish that at home for real? My current closet might qualify for "hoarder" status but I will never admit to that. I just can't stand to get rid of perfectly good clothes...even if I feel awful in them. I think that comes from only having hand-me-downs to wear while growing up.

I didn't really need this kitchen since the wonderful staff ladies cook for me every day and Mr. C takes me out to eat. It was nice to have the refrigerator for bottled water and fresh dark chocolate bars.

How can a bedroom this small be functional and comfortable? Amazing when I come home and see my bedroom that I love and realize it is probably the size of this entire "cottage". I am convincing myself that my next home will be a cozy cottage. We will be downsizing for certain. I also realize I don't have staff to clean and take care of everything for me and I am getting too old and worn out to do a really good job. Besides my time needs to be spent being creative and playing!

One bathroom for two people? With only one sink for two people? How does this work? Quite well when the two people are not both getting ready at the same time every day.

Plenty of room in the living room with comfortable seating and fair lighting. Complete with a desk for that laptop and working. We did have two flat screen TVs and each one could be watching a different program and that was nice.
So in reality when did it become a requirement to live in a space that is so huge and have so much to take care of and maintain? Cozy cottage...cozy cottage...cozy cottage...
Next I will share with you how I never get bored and how I was able to play even while away.
Thank you to those who wondered where I was. Your care and concern are very much appreciated.
Now I am going to catch up on lots of blogs I missed reading...while doing laundry, grocery shopping, bill paying and all else that needs attention.
Hooray for rain and a bit of snow for our winter is now behaving properly. It is good to be home!
I am loving all the Valentine Heart projects I am seeing...what are you working on?

Eating Healthier...

2012-01-15T13:49:00.000-08:00

About three years ago I made a concious decision to eat healthier than I currently was doing. I am known to eat far too many carbs and pounds of sugar in every form possible. Since Diabetes runs strongly in my family I always believed I was destined to get it and therefore I would joke that when that day came I would have at least earned it by eating so much sugar. When I made my decision to change how I was eating I no longer thought it even remotely funny that I would some day become diabetec. I decided I am in control and I do have the power to be healthier than I might have once thought.
I am happy to say that I have a clean slate of health, and I have much more energy and stamina these days. I follow Weight Watchers program and like to attend the weekly meetings when possible. I did reduce my weight and am continuing to focus on what I eat and how to get exercise without exercising. I just bought this new cookbook and will be trying at least one new recipe every week. I am not one to spend a lot of time in the kitchen...unless I am gluing and glittering projects on the table I shouldn't be working on. Bahahaha :o)

Because I still prefer sweet over savory flavors I will be trying this fruit salsa with cinnamon pita chips that I found on Pinterest. Fresh or frozen fruit is a wonderful food to eat any time.

I also found this on Pinterest...I am afraid I am getting addicted...and definitely will be trying this idea. I do not like to pack a lunch and never have liked it since grade school when I had to make lunches for me and my two younger sisters everyday. This salad in a jar is brilliant and even if I am at home it will be so easy to get the jar and place a beautiful salad bowl on top and turn it over. Perfectly dressed salad that easily. You can even do this a couple days in advance as long as the dressing/liquid is on the bottom layer of the jar and the lettuce is at the top of the jar. No more excuses about how time involved it is to make salad if you do this and make three at a time instead of just one.

May you each have a wonderful week ahead and eat healthy...for yourselves!

I have been busy but will share later as I don't have my camera program on this borrowed computer in order to show any photos. Another reason I am so happy to view Pinterest and find great photos to share.

Happy Healthy Hugs...

Lucious Wools & Lapel Flowers...

2012-01-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

I am really loving working with my wool fabrics. I have purchased quite a few smaller pieces in coordinated color combinations. It is amazing how quickly they add up into the major dollar pricing. As you can see I am really into the blues and greys. I love these colors.

Here is one I made with a vintage button as the center. The blues really stand out on this grey wool blazer. This flower is not as dimensional as some and I like the way it sits on the lapel.

This wool flower uses some hand woven wool pieces and some tweed wool. The dimension on this flower is much more 3D and I believe the hand woven pieces give it the fullness. For the center I used a piece of vintage rhinestone costume jewelry and it gives a nice sparkle to the flower.
I am not getting tired of making these so you may see more in the near future. Are you making anything with wool fabric? Are you tired of seeing these flowers?
This new year is beginning well and I hope you are enjoying good health and creativity.

Wrapping Paper Cards...

2012-01-07T15:36:00.000-08:00

Last year for my birthday my sister, Marie, gave me several gifts and each of them were wrapped in doll themed paper. She knows how I love dolls. One of the wrapping papers had wonderful vintage dolls on it and she told me the story of the paper.
You see, Marie is the most giving and kind hearted soul. She cleans houses for elderly folks and also spends lots of time just listening to them and being a comfort. One of her ladies knew that Marie was meeting me for my birthday (this was last August) and that I love dolls. That sweet lady who doesn't even know me told Marie that she had some wrapping paper and went to get it. It was a roll of vintage wrapping paper with these amazing dolls all over it. How very thoughtful.
So when I met Marie for our get together and she told me the story I decided that I would make some cards with the paper. I made two sets...one for Marie and one for the lady who gave her the paper. I made each card different and sometimes added lace or paper doilies. I lined each envelope with pretty paper. Then I tied the sets with ribbon and gave them to Marie for herself and to pass along to her client.
This is such an easy way to use paper that would otherwise be thrown out. I like to crumple the paper and give it a real worn look with all the wrinkles and character. Wrapping paper works really well because it is lightweight and easy to work with. You can tear around the image for one look or cut around it for another version. If tearing...remember the paper torn off away from you will leave a clean edge and the paper torn off towards you will leave a white edge. That can also be part of the look for the finished cards. Try using tissue paper on cardstock. You can either buy blank cards and envelopes or you can cut card stock and use that for the cards. Envelopes are fun and easy to make from templates or just buy blank envelopes at the supply store.
Hmmm...gifts for birthdays, holidays or next Christmas. Make a few sets here and there and put them into that gift cupboard for just the right occassion.
P.S. It is always extra nice to stamp handmade on the backs of the cards. I don't date them from experience of misplacing them and finding them years later...not good to give an old dated card set that has no vintage value.
Do you make and give handmade cards? Do you premake cards and keep a supply on hand for all those occassions that pop up at the last minute?
Now I should do as I say and play in the studio making some card sets.
Joyful January 2012 to everyone...

Interpreting Play...

2012-01-06T13:17:00.000-08:00

In selecting my word PLAY for 2012 I knew it would be open for lots of interpretations. I really had no clear definition of what play would mean to me. So in that vein, these are my tools that allowed me to play the last few days. Yes, the humble rake in both small metal and large plastic versions. Mr. C and I live on 10 acres of mountainous terrain with tons of trees and all they drop. Fortunately we only landscaped and detail maintain 2 acres. As we age this becomes a huge amount of work for us. Therefore I decided to make a chore into play. I tackle only one small area and see how long it takes me to complete. Am I only fooling myself?

Here is a pile of lovely Fall leaves. These are mostly Oak, Maple, Redbuds and Crepe Myrtles. No, I do not want to jump into this pile and play. I am not much for getting dirty.

Here are two of our large trash containers that I filled with raked debris. I had to leave room for the compactor bags of real trash.

This is down the side of our steep driveway...16% grade! Mr. C raked 18 piles of pine needles and twigs and debris. Somehow he doesn't think of this as play.

And here is a container of more leaves and rose clippings that I managed to accumulate. You can see I have not done any of the detail pick up which requires me to crawl around on my hands and knees. Our winter weather is very warm so far but the ground is wet and cold and I am still getting over my being sick so I do not want to risk getting damp.

The huge trees really make a mess when the wind blows. There are cedar droppings and limbs everywhere and they really make it a challenge to rake. Here is another pile I can't fit into my overly full wheelbarrow. I also can't lift the wheelbarrow so Mr. C will be helping me.

After all my play I got to do, this is the reward...a clean lawn ready for winter snow. It really does feel good to get this done. Of course this is only a drop in the bucket for all the area we need to do.
From reading your blogs it would seem that 2012 is off to a really creative start.
I am so grateful for all of your comments and I really must admit that I look forward to them. Do you enjoy comments left on your blogs?
Blissful and Creative 2012 to each of you...

Winter Roses...

2012-01-04T19:00:00.000-08:00

Thankfully yet sadly we have had no snow this winter. And even stranger we have had virtually no rain. So I realized with all this great weather I better prune my roses back before the snow comes and flattens them to the ground. Behold this is my reward! A beautiful Heritage rose that smells amazing. Thank you mother nature for this gorgeous flower I so admire and enjoy.

And here is my winter rose rendition made of delicious wools and lace. I used four wools all in grey tones including a plaid. The lace was added to soften and add feminity to this piece. One of my favorite vintage buttons for the center finishes it off perfectly. A pin back makes it easy to wear on a coat or blazer or tote bag.

This is how I presented it to my friend. She really liked it and had the perfect grey plaid jacket to adorn with this rose.
I continue to love making my gifts I give as it really keeps me in total thoughts of that special person I am creating something for.
As I post this I can hear my wool fabrics pieces calling me to create with them. I love the feel of wool and how easy it is to work with. It adds a wonderful richness to the finished piece.
Do you create with wool fabric? What do you like to make with it?
Blissful creating in this fresh new year 2012...

I Made Something...

2012-01-03T10:39:00.000-08:00

I spent time in my studio and I actually made something. I had an idea in my head and needed a gift for my girlfriend who had her birthday on January 2nd. Since I had not been creative for so long I was concerned that it would come out terrible and then I would need to rush out and buy something that isn't personal or from the heart...which I detest doing. You might know that old feeling of not doing something "perfect". Well, I have been working for a really long time to get over that feeling. After all...nothing is "perfect" and therefore that excuse just doesn't have any merit. Relax...and create! Handmade is the best after all.

This is the little lavender sachet I made her. She loves snowmen and I thought this would make her smile. It did and she loved it. It felt so good to create what I had in my mind and have it come out as cute as I had imagined. Now, of course, I have lots of ideas from this and will be planning on making additional gifts throughout the year.
My gift cupboard is pretty bare after the holidays. I am one of those types who shop and make all year long and keep a cupboard of gifts for recipients. Actually my cupboard is fairly small so I also have a dresser with the drawers to fill with gifts to give. It works especially well for me...that is if I label the specific gifts with the name of the person I am giving it to. :o) Do you keep a special place where you store gifts throughout the year? Do you forget you have a gift for someone and then find it much later on?
Our weather is unseasonably warm and we have no rain or snow so far. You have probably seen how dry Tahoe ski resorts are and the lack of snow for skiers and boarders. It is almost 200% less snow pack than this time last year. Oh dear...we may need snow and rain for our water table and economic base. Mr. C has had to fill our pond with our well water because it got so low. He ran the hose for two days and just got it to the lowest level we keep it filled. I would welcome rain.
Wonderful week to each of you as you pursue your New Year goals and resolutions.
I am off to play...

Farewell 2011...Hello 2012...

2011-12-31T12:12:00.000-08:00

As I bid farewell to 2011 I am reminded of all that transpired this past year. All in all it was a pretty good year for me. I am grateful for my husband who supports me in all my endeavors even when I don't follow through like I thought I would do. I am grateful for my daughter and granddaughters who always keep me on my toes as a mother and grandmother...a lifelong challenge I wouldn't trade. I am thankful for discovering this blogging medium that I embrace and the wonderful friends I have made and for all they share so generously of their talents and handmade treasures. Life is good and I am blessed. Even the trials of this past year have been weathered. Getting sick on vacation and for the holidays is not fun but I will get well. Saying goodbye to my beloved Sasha BooBoo kitty after 18 years was the hardest and worst experience and I still miss her every moment, however I know she is in a better place and not suffering.
So in my reflecting over this past year and preparing for the new year to come in a few short hours I was thinking of how I will grow and experience all that is possible. In 2010 I chose to have a word that helped me be a better person..."FOCUS". I still use that as a learning tool and it has definitely made me aware of so much more each day. In 2011 I chose the word..."NOW". As in don't put off til later...do it now. I can honestly say that this has really been extremely helpful to me this year. Such a little word but so powerful!
Now as I enter into 2012 I wanted to select a word that would once again mean more to me and help me be that much better everyday. Hmmm...

Calm is one of the words I pondered. I could really benefit from learning to remain calm in situations I cannot change. Somehow this little word just wasn't what I was really looking for to guide me through an entire year.

Magic is a favorite word of mine. I believe in all things (including Santa and such) and feel that if one has a touch of magic in their lives then they live with a sparkle of happiness over and above the normal. After all I am a Disneyland child.

And then my word appeared...PLAY. I am always so responsible and cautious and afraid of everything and mothering everyone to take care of them. I need to give myself permission to PLAY. When I looked in my dictionary...yes I still have a print dictionary that I refer to many times...my new word has quite the coverage in the pages of words. Well! I like this word and feel it will serve me well through 2012.

Do you still have a printed actual dictionary in your home? I was thrilled for my 13th birthday when I received my gift and opened it to find a real Webster's dictionary. I would read it for hours on end at night when I should have been sleeping. You see my mother would play Scrabble with me and my sisters and of course she would always win...we were only 8-13 years old after all. So you can see why I was so happy to get my own dictionary and study it to learn words I could PLAY on that Scrabble board.
Hmmm...FOCUS - NOW - PLAY. Sounds like a reward after two years of learning to improve myself. Hello 2012 and all that you offer for me to experience and learn and achieve.
On a global note...I wish for world peace...why can't people just get along and be happy! Oops...sounds like my Disneyland fairy tale world I love.
Healthy and Happy and Blissful and Creative New Year to each and everyone...

Year Ending Memories...

2011-12-27T10:52:00.000-08:00

This is the week between Christmas and New Years and it has always been the week that brings these childhood memories back to my mind. I have no vintage photos for this post however I am showing current time photos. My laundry room as it looks right now, including me in the mirror taking this photo. Lots of clothes to wash and then iron and fold and put away or hang in the closet. Please note my new little rug that my girlfriend gave me for Christmas because it is so perfect for this room and it mimics my little hanging clothesline Mr. C put up.

For the memories, my Grandma would never begin a new year with any laundry or ironing piled up. So, every year before New Year's I make very certain that I have all of our clothes clean and ironed. This little bottle stopper is actually from my mother who used it on a Coca Cola bottle to sprinkle the wrinkled clothes that she then would roll and place in the freezer to iron later. When she did her ironing I remember her sitting on a chair in the closet door opening and ironing all the clothes on a mangle iron that sat in the closet. I have never used one but I think it would be great for linens and flat things. Fortunately I have always liked to iron. Thank you Mom and Grandma for that.

Looks like my supplies are all here and ready for my marathon week of laundry and ironing before New Years. Midnight comes very quickly some years and I am still frantically ironing. This year I hope to be finished and relaxing when midnight strikes bringing in 2012.
Thank you Donna for hosting Memory Lane Mondays (which can last all week since I am late).
I am very thankful for this childhood memory. I can only imagine how much would pile up and never get done if I didn't follow tradition and complete my laundry before the new year.
Gentle week to all...

Dear Santa...

2011-12-23T11:11:00.000-08:00

Please define "good". All year long good is what I thought I was being...doing...achieving...hmmm...
I have checked my lists, mailed my cards and worked ahead so Mr. C and I could take one week before Christmas as a well earned vacation. Go someplace we had never gone. Some place warm...

Here we are. Warm, tropical and a place to relax and let the year's pressures and exhaustion fade away. A place to renew our spirits and strength...

Lush tropical destination. Oh yes! Here we are in Maui. We arrived in a rain storm with wind that never let up the entire week. The rain did give way to sunshine. Everyone said just take shorts and flip-flops. Glad I packed for the North Pole as I was cold at all times. Please turn off the wind machine.

Day two of our eight day tropical paradise vacation. We had been told we would find our very own "special" place together. Little did I dream it would be the Maui Urgent Care center. Mr. C getting a breathing treatment. He doesn't have Asthma but he does get Asthmatic Bronchitis and it is miserable. We have been through this many times over our years together.

Now we visit the local pharmacy to retrieve three prescriptions for Mr. C. Did I mention it is the week before Christmas? Even the pharmacy is in the spirit. We certainly helped the local economy with our visits.

One day later here I am on vacation in Maui. I would end up at Urgent Care two more times for me. Also visited the local pharmacy twice more for a total of 9 prescriptions. Upper respiratory with ear and sinus infections. Bronchitis that racks the body and leaves you gasping for a breath...any breath so you can continue to cough. This is how my week in Maui continued. Flying home was long and painful. The doctor said, "No swimming"...good as I don't do water. He also said, "No wind"...bad as it was some freak weather storm all week long with miserable wind everywhere. Going outside was not good for me. But to go to Maui and stay in bed was not the vacation I had envisioned!

We arrived in Maui with rain and then from our balcony we saw this rainbow which was beautiful. I did enjoy watching the world pass along. I did see at least a partial rainbow every afternoon.

So Santa...please define, "good". I need to do a better job beginning NOW!
Who would have thought chocolate brown would look so elegant on a Christmas tree. In person this was stunning. Just green, gold and chocolate brown. Delicious! Merry Maui Christmas!!!
Mr. C and I are home. We are both recuperating. We are opening our mail and enjoying cards and letters from so many friends and family. May you each have a wonderful holiday weekend...
Presents to wrap...friends to get together with...daily chores...oh yeah! I am thankful to be on the road to recovery.
Please take time to sip some tea, enjoy what you are doing and most of all stay healthy...

Dashing December...

2011-12-11T16:16:00.000-08:00

December is certainly dashing along...thankfully not in the snow. This month has been very disconnected for me as Mr. C has been out of town helping a friend. The last two weeks I was with him and staying in strange hotels, on the road and eating all the wrong foods in restaurants. The very first week his computer battery charger died and that was bad as he needed it for the daytime and I was going to use it for the evenings to stay in touch with my blogging friends. I am here to contest to the fact that Murphy's law has not been repealed!

Fortunately while sitting in my hotel room day after day after day I was able to prepare my Christmas cards and get them mailed. Luckily I had begun in August and made my little gifties I was mailing. The top photo is of some fabric I purchased and knew exactly what I would make with it. Postcards. I did add some red glitter bling before mailing them.

This is one way that I like to send a gift. Attached to a card and then wrapped in tissue for mailing. I can show these now because I know the recipient received them and really likes the pink hearts.

I made a couple more Origami bags out of this fun girly fabric that jumped into my cart one day at the store.

I lined one with this fun zebra fabric.

The other one with the cheetah fabric. Both turned out pretty with the red ribbon and button accents. Filled with some little items and some moolah my granddaughters each liked them. They are young adults but still girly after all.
I was feeling very disconnected while gone because I never seemed to accomplish anything...especially creative. Even shopping can fill a void for only so long. And believe me the shopping where I was...well let me just be polite and say it lacked a lot!
No settling in by the fire for me. Mr. C has come down with a bug and he is trying to share it with me. There were tons of people sick everywhere we went and I really tried to stay on top of the sleep and pre-meds.
I am doing my best to stay current with each of you and the beautiful things you are making and decorating your homes with. I have lots of mail to get through and I feel so fortunate because I can see some really interesting envelopes addressed to me.
Thank you to each and every one for your patience with me this December. I can positively say that January 2012 will be a very good beginning to a wonderful new year.
Jingle Bell Hugs to each and every fabulous friend in blogland...

lost...

2011-12-06T06:47:00.000-08:00

No internet...missing everyone! DRAT!!!

Friends Are Blessings...

2011-11-30T20:24:00.000-08:00

Some people are true angels here on earth. After my beloved Sasha BooBoo kitty had to go to heaven the loviest lady got busy and made me some wonderful gifts that I shall treasure forever. These gifts came all the way from AUSTRALIA from Judy of Fabrications blog.
This adorable wall hanging is a kitty angel. This is bringing me Joy Joy Joy.

Judy even backed it with kitty fabric. And do you see the wire hanger shaped like a kitty head. So very clever.

Included is a wonderful fabric tray. I can honestly say I am so making these for some upcoming gifts.
Do you see the cat card, cat charms, angel and heart buttons, bookmark, cat note pad, tiny cupcake tote and beautiful beaded flower? Miss Judy was so very generous. I am truly touched.

And included are some articles, patterns and a scone recipe. Plus a birthday card.

Judy is such a dear and she really helped me deal with my huge loss and sadness. Thank you my dear friend. You are a blessing indeed.
Thank you to all my commenting followers. You did a great job sharing your stories of shopping...or NOT! I do enjoy each of your comments and always look forward to reading them.
Nothing creative from me as I am spending my time handwriting my Christmas cards and hand addressing each and every one of them. In this day of technology I just really enjoy the time and effort I spend on each holiday card I mail. Do you still hand address your cards or letters?
Jingle Bell Joys...

Finding Nemo Silhouette...

2011-11-27T19:43:00.000-08:00

I am linking with Memory Lane Monday hosted by Donna of Brynwood Needleworks. A few days ago Donna did a post regarding her husband's silhouette and how she was able to display it.
I was remembering I had my silhouette done when I was a young girl and I should get it out to view.
As you can see, I found it. Mine however is in terrible condition. My mother's home burned down years ago and therefore it has lots of smoke and water damage. I feel extremely fortunate to even have it after all those years.
I remember when it was done. Our family was at a state fair and one of the vendors was hand cutting silhouettes. I don't have any idea how much it cost but I know my mother got one of each of three of us sisters.

I was probably about nine or ten here as that is how my hair was at that age. This photo is blurry but you can still see the incredible detail that exists in this silhouette. I was so entranced with the man and his little scissors that I could hardly sit still for him. I wanted to watch him cut that black paper. When he was all done with the three of us girls I still wanted to watch him cut with his small scissors and his nimble hands. So...

Just for me he took a very small piece of his special black paper and cut this tiny little bug. To this day I am amazed at the details he achieved by just free-hand cutting with those ordinary looking small scissors. I was over the moon when he generously gave me the little bug. Ordinarily I would not want to be close to any bugs even if they are made of paper.
Come to think of it...I have a passion for small scissors and cannot get enough pairs. No...sadly I cannot cut paper into any silhouettes or bugs or anything else.
It makes me happy to have my Silhouette by Nemo even in the sad condition it is in...frame and all. You know that it is quite old as I am decades from nine or ten now.
Thank you Donna for hosting Memory Lane Mondays. I love reading stories that are shared from the heart.
Happy Week of Productivity to all in this busy season. Jingle Bell Joys...

Blogging Friends Mean So Much...

2011-11-25T09:18:00.000-08:00

Do you recognize this handsome fellow? He is Taggart of Glencoe. Corgi of Cuteness! You can follow his antics Tuesdays with Tag. I was very happy to retrieve my mail one day last week and find Tag had sent me his photo. Now I can smile each and every time I see that adorable face. Actually Tag didn't send me the package...his loving mum sent it to me. Now I know you all follow this gifted lady...Donna of Brynwood Needleworks. I am so happy to call her my friend here in Blogland.

This lovely ATC is what Donna created and sent to me. Thank you dear friend. Donna makes the most elegant and graceful stitched things. Her signature logo is acorns so every detail in this ATC has acorns. The fabric she quilted so beautifully, the focal bubble with the acorn lad, ruched seam binding ending with a lovely silver acorn charm and the sentiment to Count Your Blessings. This is such a beautiful work of art and I cherish it. So much kindness and love all in the size of a playing card is truly amazing. I am so very grateful and I am counting my blessings to share Donna as my friend.
Here in America we are full of or Thanksgiving feast yet I shall continue to be thankful for all that I am able to enjoy...family, friends and so much more.
Are you a "Black Friday" shopper? Do you wait in long lines for a special deal? Are you a marathon shopper with a list of places and items? Not me. I prefer to shop when it is less crowded. I also do my shopping and creating all year long for the gifts I give. I like to put lots of thought and time into what I give and therefore enjoy it anytime of the year as I see and put together ideas for the people on my lists. Yes, I do have those last minute things I must get but I still don't like crowds so I prefer to shop anytime (other than) to avoid "Black Friday". "Shop til you drop" is not for me...
Lots of boutiques this weekend...I may try to attend some of my favorites.
Stay warm and safe as you rush quickly into this busy hectic time of year...

Counting My Blessings...

2011-11-22T20:44:00.000-08:00

This is the time of year that so many of us here in the US have much to be thankful for.
We celebrate Thanksgiving with copious amounts of turkey, gravy, rolls, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberry relishes, pumpkin pie, apple pie, pecan pie and lots of whipped topping...just to name a few dishes.
We spend time with family and friends around large tables and in front of televisions watching the Macy's Day Parade and yards of football. Sometimes a nap is in order...too much food I'm sure.
This is a great time to reflect on all that we are thankful for. My list is long and I am truly grateful for so much. I will keep my thoughts to myself at this time and know that I am sincerely fortunate for so many things and people in my life.
A very Happy Thanksgiving to all my US blogging friends...

Off to the Studio...

2011-11-20T21:00:00.000-08:00

Is this my studio? Did I leave it in this condition? I know I have been busy but who made this mess and where is my worktable surface? Let me walk around to the other side...

Well this is quite the crowded space. Where ever shall I work?

Oh here is a small spot I can work in. I need to wrap some gifts for mailing. Wow...this table is over 4 feet by 8 feet large and here I am trying to work in about a 1 foot space. Elves? No, I see nothing accomplished by elves. Well, let me work on another project that I might have enough space for...

Printing some business cards for an upcoming boutique sale. I punched each card with a heart and tied some red ribbon so each card is uniquely mine and maybe the person taking it will remember me and need some gifts in the future.
Maybe I should tackle the studio worktable and put things away and clear a larger space in which to work. Hmmm...maybe later as I have much more pressing things on my list to work on and complete. There is something about horizontal surfaces and me. They never stay empty. I always manage to fill them up and pile too much stuff on them. Hmmm...maybe I will work on this in 2012.
Right now I am so thankful for having my spaces and being able to create gifts. I am thankful for my family and I am thankful for each of you...my blogging friends.
Please take time to enjoy the moments and the joys of all we have during this busy season.

ATC Beauties Received...

2011-11-19T09:37:00.000-08:00

Do you enjoy ATCs? I enjoy making them, giving them and receiving them. Even better I love a little surprise Random Act of Kindness in my mail. This lovely French themed card I recieved from the equally lovely and very talented Dorthe of Den Lille Lade. The bits of lace and the wooden button really add such detail. Thank you dear Dorthe.

These little gems came to me from Australia. Judy of Judy's Fabrications is another lovely lady with lots of talents. She created this adorable little fabric stocking ornament with beads sewn on. I adore it and the card with the 3D candle and holly. Thank you dear Judy.

Look at this lovely pear. This ATC is made with napkin applique and enhanced with some beautiful gold leafing which does not show up well in this photo. Meet Daniella of Layers of Creativity. I am certain we will be swapping ATCs on a regular basis as Daniella loves making these little works of art.

This very Thanksgiving Autumn ATC is made by my friend Joy. She does not have a blog...yet. Joy is uber creative and has the most beautiful gardens surrounding her home. I had sent her an ATC just because and that introduced her to this little bit of art and creativity. Joy is now making beautiful ATCs and teaching her mother, Eva, to make them as well. They are now looking to swap with others. I am linking Joy to all the best people I know. Under the little brown scalloped flap she has stamped swirls and written "Family and Friends" in the most fluid perfect cursive writing. Thank you Joy...your little ATC brings me much "joy".

And here is Eva's (Joy's mother) gorgeous ATC that she also sent me last week. I believe Eva fussy-cut the roses. Remember years ago when we sat with tiny manicure scissors and fussy-cut tiny little scenes and then made framed 3 dimensional pictures? I loved those. That is when I learned to turn the paper not the scissors. I am thrilled that our little creative world shares and allows us to spread all the happinesses that come from such wonderful talented artisans. Thank you Eva for this little piece of art. No link here as Eva has no blog, however she does want to swap ATCs with others.
I would be happy to pass along any swap info to Joy and Eva if you just let me know here in comments or via email.
Blessings and peace as you enter this busy week of holiday preparations...Thanksgiving here in the US.
I am truly blessed and so grateful for the gift of blogging friends and gracious giving.

Gratitude and Peace...

2011-11-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

Thank you for your wonderful heartfelt comments on the loss of my Sasha BooBoo kitty. I am filled with gratitude for such caring and compassionate friends and family. Mr. C is also comforted with the love of people who understand such a huge loss.

So today we are surrounding ourselves with peace and the little things. Nature is amazing in all its wonder. I have set out some of my favorite things from nature...moss, bark, rocks, twigs, sea glass. Each gathered on a simple walk or from our property. Moments of silence enjoyed with a smile.

Here I set out some candles just to feel the cozy warmth of the flickering flame.
I am getting back to my daily routines...slowly. My heart is still shattered and the void will not be filled. Mr. C and I are closer than ever as we share in our traumotional state of being.
I am continuing to make my lists and check them twice. I'll be in the studio today and hopefully make something with beads just because I can. I will try to remember to take some photos to share with you as it may be a creative gift idea for this busy season.
Once again, thank you each for your loving comments and huge hugs of caring. I am so very grateful.

Goodnight Sweet Sasha...

2011-11-16T09:24:00.000-08:00

It is with the heaviest of shattered hearts that Mr. C and I say Goodnight to our beloved fur-child Sasha BooBoo kitty. After 18 years of being together there is a void larger than we ever expected to experience.
These beautiful flowers were sent from a very dear friend who understands loss. Thank you Sandy. We love you.

I had time to say good-bye. It is never easy or pleasant.

Mr. C spent lots of time bonding and absorbing her as well. He coined a word to describe the state of being we are feeling..."Traumotional". Yes, this is traumatic and very emotional.
Thank you dear Mr. C for all you have done for this little girl over the past 18 years. She was very lucky to have you give her the very best home possible.

Her favorite little shelf in the island where she enjoyed her daily fresh shrimp...cut into tiny little pieces please.

Here she is sleeping peacefully on her winter heated blanket.
I have no words and my tears are flowing.
I love this little girl with all my heart and soul.
Goodnight Sweet Sasha.

Birthday Gifts...

2011-11-14T08:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Sisty. Mr. C's sister is celebrating a milestone birthday in just a few days and we won't be together to celebrate it. We live quite a distance apart and this is such a busy time of year. Independent of Mr. C honoring her day I made Sisty this Origami Pouch in some beautiful fall fabrics with golden highlights shimmering throughout.

I also put together this necklace and earrings set which utilizes the new acrylic beads that are super lightweight and very popular right now. I am showing these because Sisty has received them and no surprises will be spoiled.
My little studio has been quite busy lately as I am certain each of you have been. This time of year can get so overloaded so easily and so quickly that it is important to stop and take a break from the hectic and just be grateful for even the smallest of things. I am grateful for having my wonderful sister-in-law in my life. I am also grateful for my family and my youngest granddaughter who is having a birthday this month. Happy Birthday Amy. I have so much to be grateful for and I feel very blessed.
Now we interrupt this calm to get back to being busy and productive.
Wonderful week ahead...

Bottlecaps and Baking...

2011-11-12T08:59:00.000-08:00

This is a simple and easy gift item I have been making. Bottlecap necklaces. Unfortunately I did not contain my making to the studio and therefore I have glittered my entire kitchen table and subsequent wood flooring. A tablecloth on the table hides the telltale glitter but what about the floor? I have tried everything to clean it up. Well at least it is pretty.

I made a bunch of these for the upcoming elementary school sale. My time and supplies are merely my donation as the sale price of the item gets donated to the school for expenses to help the kids.

Meanwhile this is my front yard. A huge irrigation project the county is doing. There is a 1920s water canal system from the gold rush days and current technology is replacing the old metal water pipe with larger concrete carriers that are dug down deep and tunneled under our road. This is a very controversial project and my neighbors are mostly against it and make it difficult for the workers. My husband and I realize progress must happen and we have been very helpful even though it impacts us the most as it is on our property. Of course the NID (Nevada Irrigation District) does have easements to the canals. We the property owners really have no say so in the matter. Some have sued and gotten monetary settlement but that merely delays the project and increases the costs to all of us.

So I spent a day this week baking four dozen cookies to give to the work crew. You should have seen their eyes light up when they saw the cookies. One of the concrete truck drivers took a big bite and immediately said, "These are Snickerdoodles!" and took another bite. Why yes they are! My very favorite cookie which I learned to bake when I was very young and visiting a relative in a lovely old two story farm house. I had given the box to the foreman and he was eating one and all the other work crew were way on the opposite side of a huge dug out hole. When they saw the cookies they literally came running around the huge hole and all the equipment to get to the cookies all while saying, "Thank you!" to me with big smiles on their faces. Oh it felt so good to have spent a day baking and making the boys happy.
I continue to make my lists and check them twice. It seems that for each item I check off I am adding several more that need attention. Why is this the way it goes?
Blissfulling sewing, beading, glittering, gluing and getting ready for the holidays...

Surprise Mail...

2011-11-09T08:17:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love to go to your mail box and find a wonderful surprise? No, I don't mean the spider that scares you who is just trying to get warm inside a safe place. Certainly not the bills that come way too often! I am speaking of a package from a friend who sends you something out of the blue. I love it!

This is wrapped so cleverly in a sewing pattern tissue. With a fabric strip tied in twine and a cute little stamped card. I am totally intrigued...

There was also a handmade card with a stamped bird design. Beautiful. Thoughtful. Serene.

I open to find a bundle of joyful fabric pieces. All random sizes and prints. Hmmm...

Here you can see the array of fabrics. What a fun bundle this is. Thank you Cory Dogwood. You are the best blog pal a girl ever had. Please visit Cory at her blog and see what she is up to. Maybe I will need to find out how she makes her "ticker tape" quilts and use these fabrics to make one for myself.
Even though Cory has a residence just a few miles from me and we must be shopping at the exact same local crafting store (Ben Franklin) I have never met her and yet we have been blog pals for two years. I rather like the mystique of being a blog pal...kind of like years ago when I had a pen pal I never met.
I adore your card and sweet bundle of fabric joy Cory Dogwood and I thank you sincerely.
My ideas are beginning to churn on what I will do with all of these pieces. What would each of you create?
Happy week to all...our weather is quite chilly and yet the sun is shining. Rain is forecasted for the long holiday weekend. Skiers will be headed up to the resorts and I will be staying home, warm and cozy sipping tea or cocoa. Maybe stitching something...beading something...gluing papers...

Tutorial tried and loved...

2011-11-06T12:58:00.000-08:00

So many times I see some wonderful inspiration and tutorials while blog hopping and I always want to try so many of them that I save them in a "tutorial folder". Do I ever get back to them and actually try the technique? Well...honestly...very seldom. All good intentions and time or laziness or busy or whatever and I just never seem to get back to that folder to really try such wonderful ideas and techniques. Well...this one was so simple and doable that I actually dropped everything and did it. Let me link you to Lori of elvie studio whom most of you already follow.

This is my completed piece and I am so thrilled with it. This really is a "hand drawn look". Thank you Lori. You are quite an inspiration to me!
I will definitely be doing this technique again. Maybe now I will go take a look into my elusive "tutorial folder" and see what else I can accomplish. It is such a great feeling to actually make and finish something.
I am busy making my lists. The holiday season is upon us and I want to at least keep up this year. I was hoping to be ahead of the game this year but somehow November is here all too fast and I wasn't prepared like I thought I would be. November is also a busy birthday month in our family. Not to worry...I will get it all done and what I don't get done I suppose was not really necessary. This is my coping story and I am sticking with it. ;o)
Now lets go make something and maybe try a new technique from the amazing array of tutorials available to us here in Blogland. There are such generous sharing souls here. Thank you each and every one of you.
May you have a week of serenity and checking off your lists...

Ghastlie Blog Hop Winner...

2011-11-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

Oh how Ghastlie...I won!

Have you been following Madame Samm and her Ghastlie Blog Hop the past ten days? I have and I wouldn't miss a moment of all the action in this Super Ghastlie Party.

There were 54 participants and each one of them made the most amazing creations with some Alexander Henry fabric collection titled Ghastlie. No two items were alike and it was amazing. I got so inspired that I will have to order some Ghastlie fabrics and get sewing.

Thank you Madame Samm and all participants for sharing your fabulous creations. I certainly enjoyed this Ghastlie Blog Hop Super Party.

Okay...I know you are in a hurry to go check out all the Ghastlie items. See you later...

ATC Swap...

2011-11-01T10:21:00.000-07:00

This is my second swap ever. The first was for charms and now this one for ATCs. What an amazing joy to be part of such great gifts. Thank you Roni and "mom" for hosting this swap. I am so thrilled with all I received. This swap since it was before Halloween was two fold...Halloween theme and General theme.

Here are the Halloween themed ATCs I received. Each one so amazing and fabulous.

These are the General themed ATCs and what an array of ideas and creativity here. I know the photos do not do justice and therefore you really must join a swap and be the lucky recipient of tiny little works of art in person. I wish to say thank you to everyone who submitted and shared so generously. I will be visiting each of you that I have info for. Some ATCs did not include any email or blog address so I thank you here.
I know for certain that when Roni does any kind of swap again I will definitely be participating...after the busy holidays that is.
Thank you again Roni and "mom" for hosting this swap and doing all of the logisitics and work involved.
If any of you have not been smitten with the ATC bug then you may want to be. Quick and easy and ever so much fun.
Our weather is chilly but beautiful. I pray for all the Northeast to be back to power and warmth.
Blissfully creating...

Happy Haunting Halloween...

2011-10-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

Last of the ATCs...well maybe. I made these two folders for Roni and her Mom. They hosted an ATC swap and the results of that will be posted next week. If you have never participated in a swap I highly recommend it. Lots of fun!

Inside the ATC folder. I kept this pretty simple and flat as I think my post office service is not fond of me or my artwork I pay extra to hand cancel and send safely.
Here are the ATCs I included inside the folder.

Here is a piece of artwork I won from Lindsay. Her work is unique and she has been published so many times I have lost count. Please go see what Lindsay is up to in the creative realm.

This is made on a Mahjong tile and I adore it. Mr. C always says I ride a broom.

Thank you Lindsay.

Here I am wearing my Halloween casual clothes. Glittered pumpkin socks, a soft orange jacket my dear sister gave me that I get so many compliments each year when I wear it and my new Mahjong Witch pendant.

Yes, another ATC that is in the mail. By-the-way this is some of Lindsay's artwork that she got printed by Pinecone Press into 12" x 12" scrapbook papers. Super cute drawings all over the entire sheet. I only wish I had purchased many more pages.

And you asked me to post my costume I wore at the local Chamber of Commerce Saturday as I hosted the Visitor Center. Here I am in all my Witch glory...complete with Trick or Treat bag I made years ago. While I was at the CofC I had lots of people take a second look. Several asked if they could take my photo and I said with a smile, "If you must". :o) It was a great day and I was definitely channeling my Grandma and Mother. Grandma's birthday was October 30th and she finally gave in and always dressed up as a witch each year...of course creating her very own costumes and always out-doing herself every year. So...
In the tradition of Halloween and my lineage I am continuing this Witch costume theme and enjoying it very much.
Happy Haunting and Safe Trick or Treating to you all...

More ATCs and Lollypops...

2011-10-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

This Halloween Lollypop is made using a sports bar round coaster as the backing which I colored using a lovely purple Distress Stain. A layer of gold tulle with gold glitter to the edges. A cardstock pleated center with a fun ribbon bat. This one is utilizing a drinking straw for the handle. Off in the mail it went...

This is a Fall ATC that I made for a friend's mother. It is off to Texas.

My friend Joy made me this ATC after I sent her one of mine. The detail and colors are spectacular in person. Thank you Joy. It is truly beautiful. Can you believe this is her very first ever attempt at an ATC?

Lunch with some friends and these Lollypops are what I gave along with chocolates inside the cute purchased pumpkin bags. Ladies can never have too much chocolate!

For the base of these I used a CD and covered it with some Halloween Tissue paper I received as part of a gift. Again with the cardstock pleated centerpiece. Finished with a button tied with the same purple yarn I used to tie the bag closed. The handle this time is one of those plastic stir sticks. Quick and easy and fun to make. I think they would be a cute bouquet displaying several in a vase, pumpkin or gourd.
Hmmm...I am thinking of lots of possibilities with these Lollypops for holidays and birthdays and anniversarys and celebrations of any kind. They are also lightweight and easy to mail in a bubble pack envelope.
Getting my costume ready for Saturday. I will be hosting the local Chamber Visitor Center so it will be simple and easy to still function. In the past I have been a mime while working as it is work friendly...and if you know me and my love of talking (and I have been told zillions of times that I am too loud!) then you can appreciate my ability to act like a mime and not speak...for an entire day!
Happy Haunting...

Autumn ATCs...

2011-10-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

Autumn is that time of year that brings out the warm colors on the color wheel...yellows, browns, oranges, rusts. The colors that I don't usually prefer. However when it is Autumn and the leaves on the trees begin to change I find I am really liking these warm colors. So I made some ATCs. Silk leaves glittered is focal here.

These are incorporating some local scenes from Gold Country magazine. I added just a touch of dimension with the rhinestones and silk leaves.

Some Halloween themed ATCs that were fun to put together.

Nothing more than scrapbook papers, fancy smokey tape, ribbon pumpkins and bats and some bling.

Then I packaged each one in an organic waxed baggie and wrapped it with really fun fibers in the Autumn colors. Now that was a few days spent in my ever so happy studio. Then the best part was mailing them to some of my faithful followers...just as a thank you for being part of my blogging journey. Some of you I have no mailing address for so I am carefully collecting those. You never know when I might want to send you a smile in the mail.
Happy Haunting and creating...

Autumn Inspirations...

2011-10-24T09:06:00.000-07:00

Our Autumn weather has been glorious. Several weeks ago we had the cold snap that is required for trees to miraculously change their colors from greens to vibrant yellows, golds, oranges, burgundy and crimson. Now it is sunny and warm with just the cooler temps at night. This is a table I decorated with my favorite Fall pieces. Pumpkins and gourds and silk leaves. Nothing real or organic inside the house as my furchild will eat it and then give it back to me so generously.

See the little felt heart with pumpkins blanket stitched on? This is very simple to make as it is felt. Great project to make and give as little gifts. Do you see the seed pit encrusted pumpkin? Hmmm...

Here you can see my decor incorporates my love of mice which I collect. The large pumpkin gourd was created by a local artisan and gifted to my by my bestest friend. See the little mouse peeking out the side faux hole? So precious...the mouse pumpkin and my friend.

The fabric pumpkin in the background I purchased at a local bazaar. I always try to support fellow crafters.

Here are some pieces I bought at the local elementary school boutique to help the kids earn money for their school activities. The little happy gourd, clay leaf tray and the framed dried leaves. Nothing was more than $5 a piece and it really helps the kids.
So with lots of Autumn inspiration indoors and outdoors I shall fix a cup of tea and relax reflecting on how fortunate we are to be able to enjoy such amazing beauty.
If this is Monday I will be doing laundry...washing, drying and ironing...all of which I enjoy doing.
Do each of you have your Halloween costumes ready? This is the final week before all the parties and Trick or Treating. I shall be getting my costume ready for certain. Each year I end up hosting the Chamber Visitor Center on Saturday just before Halloween so I always wear a costume and greet visitors and locals with a basket of Treats. It is fun to see their reactions. You do know by now that I am merely a grown up child! I love to have fun and be in the spirit.
Wonderful week to all...

LOG 31 Las Vegas or Bust...

2011-10-21T09:38:00.000-07:00

Mr. C and I have just returned from a road trip. I was without computer access the entire trip and I missed my blogging friends very much. Here are some photos of the trip highlights. We actually never went into Las Vegas as the conference was in Summerlin at the Red Rock Resort which was very nice. LOG 31 stands for Lotus Owners Group and this is the 31st annual gathering. This is the closest West Coast venue and that is why we attended. Mr. C can now check this off his list. :o) The top photo is of his beloved Lotus. I think it is the prettiest Lotus ever built. Mr. C loves it for the technical supercar that it is. He is an engineer and extremely hands on! He has made improvements to this car that no one can believe he did so amazingly well and efficiently.

Here we are all packed and ready for the +/-600 mile drive to LV. As you can see I have tons of room. My family and friends tease me that I have to wear lots of layers in order to have any change of clothes for the trip. There really was plenty of room this time in the trunk for some clothes. As for shoes I pack them carefully in the tiny side windows next to the engine which is right behind our heads.

I got a tickle out of this little sign one of the cars had displayed. Cars and owners came from all over the United States and some people came from Europe but without their cars. Lotus is British afterall.

An overview photo. There were approximately 200 cars in attendance and that is a lot! All colors and models and years. It really was awesome to see so many in one place.

Mr. C looking very dapper and ready for the awards banquet.

This was the dessert and it was not only clever but very delicious. My photo is blurry but the cheesecake on shortbread cookie with the glazed fruit complete with real gold on the tip of the strawberry was quite yummy. I wanted to save the clever little white chocolate welcome sign but knew it wouldn't make the trip home so I ate it!

This is us and another Lotus on our way home. We stopped near Mammoth in the high country and the view was gorgeous. The weather was crisp as we were over 8000 ft elevation here. The Fall colors along Highway 395 were gorgeous. We met this couple and ran in tandem to and from the conference. Very charming husband and wife that I feel certain we will see again and again as we truly enjoyed their company. For me that was the best part of this trip...meeting some wonderful people and exchanging contact info so we can stay in touch. We really did have fun and lots of great stories and laughter were shared.

An overnight stay in Bridgeport before completing the trip home. We always stay and eat at the Bridgeport Inn as it is charming and historic. As you can see the car is covered in ice and this was later in the morning about 9 AM. Brrrrrr... I had flip flops on and told Mr. C that if he found any toes please gather them so they could be reattached. LOL It was COLD!!! Thank goodness the car has a great heater and warmed us up. On to Reno and them home. It is always so good to get home after being gone.
Now for completing my household and pet chores, errands, grocery shopping, bill paying and what nots. I am looking forward to catching up on emails and blogging. I hated missing so many days being offline. Addicted? Yes and proud of it. Where else can you be part of such a wonderful community of caring and cleverly talented people?
I do hear my studio calling me however it will have to wait...if I go in there I may never come out and take care of my responsibilities...hmmm...
Our Fall weather is just right and the colors are spectacular. It is time for Mr. C and I to take our annual tour around town and just enjoy it all. Maybe in the next few days.

Discovery & Autumn Decor...

2011-10-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Continuing in my Discovery Journal with Roni of Ink Stains I am pleased with these two pages. This time I did not concentrate on some new undiscovered technique. I merely selected two pieces of cardstock. This top photo is really poor as it does not show the cloud themed blues in the paper.

This blue cardstock is just a great shade of true blue. I added some direct inking from the stamp pad. Both of these pages really take me more into the "discovery" angle of this journal. I discovered it is very difficult for me to focus. I am always doing too many things at once and these pages really brought that forth. I "discovered" some old stamps I forgot I owned so I used them and that was fun...mouse and butterfly and dragonfly. I used a playing card to represent my favorite number...5. Mostly this exercise got me to thinking and I do believe that is a huge part of my "Discovery Journal" that I am making. As the days fly past so quickly what is it that truly makes me happy and what is it that I still wish to do? Ahhh...discovery...

I am not one for decorating my home even though I love how others go all out. Mr. C is a year round Bah Humbug and does not enjoy any holidays so I keep it to a minimum. Many years I don't put out anything. This year I wanted to visit with my little treasures I keep in a box. So many of my things have a very sentimental value to me and I treasure them. The black with orange cat is something my Grandma crocheted and made decades ago and I just keep it because she made it. There is a skull ring that Mr. C found in the desert many years ago when he took me for a dirt bike ride to an old abandoned talc mine. We both laugh every time we see this ring. It brings back memories of a great weekend together...and he almost bounced me off that darned motorcyle (I was much younger and lighter back in the day). :o)

Here are my Halloween treasures...some old some not. Many of these are just small momentos of years past but I like them and they each have a wonderful memory for me. When I keep my treasures small and in one area it isn't so bad for Mr. C and that way I can still enjoy them too.
I think this is why I truly love to see and enjoy all the fabulous decorating so many of you do and then share through blogging. I never really cared much for Halloween as it was SCARY to me. Now I see that it is so many more things...glamorous, funny, glittery, themed i.e. fairies or wonderful witches. I am entranced just looking at all the amazing things you each make and decorate with. Thank you for sharing such wonder.
Our weather is gorgeous...some sunshine, some cooler temperatures, some refreshing rain, some glorious colors emerging on shrubs, vines and trees...all giving infinite inspiration and I am truly grateful.
May you each enjoy much creativity in this the Autumn of the year...

Foreign Books...

2011-10-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

I love to go to our local Friends of the Library monthly book sales. Even Mr. C attends with me and usually finds a few hard cover books he enjoys reading. Then each time he returns the books so they can be sold again to help the library fund. I find lots of books and buy them but I am not so generous as to give them back. Usually I buy mine for crafting and taking apart. This month I thought I should expand my horizons and look into some foreign books. I inquired and the nicest lady showed me right where she had staged them. In a tiny little nook...smaller than a guest coat closet space...with at least 3 students and one woman camped out blocking the space. I waited my turn but they never budged. I finally excused myself and the students did move for me. The woman however was planted on a small step stool and she wouldn't move or look up or anything. I squeezed over and selected one of the books off a high shelf...all the while praying I wouldn't drop the lot on top of her. Do you recognize this language in the photo above?

Here is another book I was able to reach and it has some great graphic pictures. Language?

This little book happens to be a recipe book. In yet another language. I don't read or speak or understand any of these languages but I just had to buy the books. Mr. C could not understand why I wanted to buy these if I couldn't even read them. I at least knew which language each one was.

Russian, German and French. So far so good and Mr. C and I are in line to pay. All is going well until one of the volunteer men says, "You know this book is in Russian? Do you read Russian?" I politely say no I do not however I have traveled in Russia. Now some others are all interested and going on and on about a book in Russian. I merely want to get out of there and enjoy my books.
I just couldn't confess that I am buying books to take apart for mixed media art projects. The library squad would have hung me from my toes or worse.
Now I am thinking I better not destroy these books as they truly are nice. Maybe I shall go back another time and look for books in worse condition.
I hope each of you understands the need for foreign text at times...You do understand don't you?
I am enjoying the beautiful weather and the Autumn colors that are emerging and giving infinite inspiration...
Joyful Creative Week Ahead...

Back to Beads...

2011-10-06T10:29:00.000-07:00

In a recent post I lamented about inspiration and beading. I also inquired how others sort and store their beads. I got some wonderful responses. I am so appreciative when bloggers leave comments that are relative and meaningful. Thank you sincerely. These photos will show you my current bead storage. These bins are sorted by bead types...gemstones, seed beads, pearls, etcetera. Within each bin are little baggies of beads...by type or color relating to the category. This works pretty well for me.

Here are more examples of my storage organization. The little clear paint cans on the top left are costume jewelry bits sorted by category...pins, earrings, bracelets, etcetera. Eye candy for certain. When I can see what I have it is that much easier for me to be inspired and to use what I have. The mason and jelly jars contain buttons of which I never have too many. These are sorted by colors and some by type...flowers. All of the clear boxes are actually tackle boxes for fishing. They contain dividers that are movable so as to size the compartments to fit the contents...wooden beads, charms, pony beads, sequins...you get the idea.

This shelf is a bit more industrial. The tool box is what it stores...tools. I love my tools and once I sorted them into this little tool box now I know exactly where to find that screwdriver or pliers or whatever. The plastic bins contain more jewelry supplies. I'll post the contents in the blue lidded box soon.

Here is another tackle box/briefcase style container. The dividers in this are not changable. I put beads in here that I was working with. Key word...was! I really need to empty this case and reorganize it completely. I really have no need for it to be portable as I am not traveling with it any further than from the shelf to the table. :o)

Here is a photo of one of the tackle boxes with the movable dividers. This one is containing gemstone chips.

Then I have this large clear glass container holding lots of my lovely costume bead necklaces sitting on a shelf in plain view just waiting for the perfect project. I find when I can see my stash then I am much more inclined to use what I have.
Can you tell I love beads? It is true. I love beads! I always have since I was little. My Grandma did lots of beading. She would sew a dress and then sew little tiny beads all over the neckline or down the front just to make it extra special. Oh how I do love beads.
Thank you for inspiring my bead storage and helping me to really see what I have.
Now I am getting inspired to do some beading. Yay!
Our weather has turned very cold! We are having rain! Over two inches just during the night. It is so cold that there is considerable snow falling just above us closer to Lake Tahoe. The snowboarders and skiers are getting a very early start to their winter of activities and fun. I really like the snow...if it is at least 50 miles from me! Did I say how cold it is? I can hardly type with my frozen fingers. We have turned on the heater and it is working overtime. Summer was far too short for my likes. Autumn was beginning to happen and hopefully will come back once we are past this extreme cold spell and rain. Yes, the cold is necessary as it is what allows the leaves to turn the intense colors of Fall.
Wonderful days of Autumn...

Black Magic Journal Pages...

2011-10-03T13:23:00.000-07:00

Working on my Discovery Journal with Roni of Ink Stains here are some photos of the "Black Magic" technique. This post is photo heavy as I needed to show different stages. These are my acrylic blocks for use with clear stamps. I only own a 1" square and two 1" x 3" pieces. However my stamp for this technique is larger than these. Maybe 4" x 6" and I went shopping only to discover I cannot afford an acrylic block to fit. Our little town does not offer 40% off coupons and I will not be "down the hill" any time soon.

This is a clear stamp set I won from Roni several months ago. I just knew I wanted to use these in my page. Hmmm...what could I use to hold the stamp? Part of the allure of Roni's class is the idea of using what we have and not rushing out to buy the latest and greatest whatever.

Aha! I have an old 5" x 7" acrylic table frame and thought it might work as it even has a handle to hold while postitioning the stamp. Lets see...

Here is my clear stamp stuck to the frame. I have also inked it with white acrylic paint for this technique.

Positioned on the black paper. Pressed it down and...

Perfect stamped image. I love the white acrylic stamped on the black paper. This looks like damask fabric.

Now to use my colored pencils. I love colored pencils and have lots of them. These are just my basic ones.

Here is the fun of the stamped image. By using white acrylic paint you can now color over it with pencils or lots of other mediums which you will read about over at Roni's blog.

Here is the one I colored.

Here is the stamped image without the coloring.
My pages are not done. I didn't have full size black paper as mine were all cut into half sheets. Hmmm??? Use what I have. I still have to mount these and include my two lists...(l) What I am good at, (2) What I'd like to learn. This was an interesting challenge to write out the lists.
I love the Black Magic technique and definitely will be doing this again. I can see cards made with this technique.
Once again thank you Roni for helping me to explore and learn new art techniques. My colored pencils are so very happy to get used and not just sit there looking pretty.
Are you working on your very own Discovery Journal?
Our weather has changed and we are expecting rain. The clouds are moving in and I for one am looking forward to rain. We haven't had any in many months and it would be so nice for some refreshing moisture. Our Fall colors are really beginning to show their early stages.
Wonderful Week to all...

Inspiration...Hellooo...

2011-10-01T21:39:00.000-07:00

My goodness. I layed out some beads and lace on one of my bead design trays and then set it aside. I have seen this tray several times over many months and still it sits neglected on a shelf. No inspiration comes from this. Never has and probably never will. I think it is time to put each of these components away and use the board for another layout. I have much better inspiration in my head with different beads and components. I think today is the day to clean up this mess and start something new.
I never like to force an idea. Actually I have not been making any jewelry for quite some time now. I really miss playing and producing with my beautiful beads. This may just be the right time to organize my stash and see what designs come to mind.
How do you store your beads? By color? By type? By sizes? In trays or baggies or drawers? I have been re-thinking my bead organization. I would love any suggestions you have to offer.
This just may be the inspiration I have been searching for. Thank you.
Awesome October and Happy Haunting...

Faux Beeswax Pages...

2011-09-28T19:17:00.000-07:00

In continuing with my Discovery Journal I am making at the expert guidance of Roni...Ink Stains fame this is my faux beeswax attempt. I used a manila folder and tore it down the middle giving me two pages to work on. In the future...yes I will be doing this technique again...I will select a sturdier base to work on. I think I would like this effect on a paper mache store purchased container like a hatbox. My pages warped and turned out a bit stiff and therefore do not turn easily in my 3-ring binder. This first photo is sort of my layout. I am using tissue, paper lacy doily and lots of chipboard pieces.

On this page I am using the same materials and adding a torn magazine photo. This photo shows the glue process. I used a white Elmers glue and it takes quite a while to dry as I really gave everything a good coating to be certain they were adhered. As my pages warped I would press down the items and apply more glue.

Now I have added and glued a layer of dressmaking pattern paper to the page. This also helps hold down the chipboard objects. I did also use a foil top off a wine bottle you can barely see in the bottom right corner. Everything appears cloudy now because the white glue has not dried but will eventually be clear.

Here is a page all dry and stuck down. I think the dressmaker pattern tissue gives the pages just the right tone that resembles warm beeswax. The page is slightly warped but that is not a problem for this piece. Please remember I am practicing a new technique Roni is teaching us. I do not expect perfection from myself in this journal as that is what normally keeps me from attempting to make things.

On this dried page I have added the crowning touch of Perfect Pearls and hand rubbed it in. I did not have the same color as Roni so I used what I had. That is part of the fun of this Discovery Journal techniques class. We are using what we have so we don't have to rush out and pay big bucks on new supplies we might never use again. I truly appreciate that about Roni and her style. My art budget is very tight these years and I am thrilled to be able to make art with what I have in my cupboards.
Thank you once again Roni. I really like this faux beeswax and can see it used again in my gift giving.
Now I can begin on the next Discovery technique. Please stay tuned...
Are you following Roni and making your own Discovery Journal? I am super glad I am doing this. It is expanding my skills.
Terrific rest of the week...
September surrenders to Autumn.

Memories of Grandma...

2011-09-26T13:01:00.000-07:00

This is my maternal Grandmother. Her name was Dorothy but she liked to be called Dot by her friends. I have shared many times in my posts about how I learned so much from my wonderful talented Grandma.
My Grandma was more talented than Martha Stewart or anyone else who has so successfully merchandised themselves. Dot was clever because she had to be. She was an excellent cook because that is what women did long ago. She sewed. She ironed. She washed walls and windows and scrubbed the floors. I remember a time when I was at her home and I did the dishes. I was always helping in the kitchen and thought I had done such a good job. When Grandma went into the kitchen a little later on she called me in and told me I wasn't done. What? When I had washed the dishes (and dried them) I hadn't rinsed out the sink when I drained the dishwater. There was food debris and soap scum and sure enough the sink wasn't clean and shiny until after I cleaned it out. Thank you Grandmother for teaching me even the tiniest things that really make a difference.

Yes, you remember these. The 1980's (could it have been the 1970's?) fabric and lace photo albums with the "magnetic adhesive" pages. The ones we now know destroy all photos and papers placed on them. I made this album for Grandma in her favorite colors. A few years ago I decided to take the old nasty pages out and replace them with new acid free page protectors that hold a sheet of paper that I can attach photos and papers to. Now I see that I never finished my job. I got a good beginning but somewhere along the way I got distracted and never finished.

I think this shall become a winter project that I shall finish. There are bulging envelopes and notes and ephemera just crammed into the album. I see why the ribbon ties are holding this album closed. It is truly amazing that this album is still holding together and looks pretty good.

This is the very first page in the album. I was able to save a note in my Grandma's handwriting...she was left handed...and this is a photo of me with her. The bags we are holding she made using plastic canvas and yarn. Mine has my initials and is in my favorite blue colors. Hers in her favorite fall colors. I still have my bag and treasure it! My oh my how young and thin I was so long ago.
During my daily activities I am reminded of my wonderful Grandma when I see my hands and fingers. They are just like hers were. Mine are not as talented but they are very good at so many things thanks to the patience and love my Grandma showed me as she taught me so much. I always miss her so much.
Thank you for letting me share a little of my Grandma with you. There will be lots more sharing as the posts pass along.
Thank you to Donna of Brynwood Needleworks for hosting Memory Lane Monday.
With my tears of joy I have now I shall go and sip a cup of tea and reflect on how fortunate I am.

Studio Activity...

2011-09-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

Ahh...the studio...one of my favorite rooms in my home. Mr. C designed and built this room just for me. It was once a part of the unfinished back part of the home. It technically is not a basement as it is on the ground floor of our home. It was all concrete and unfinished studs and not very pleasant. He transformed it into a beautiful place to spend time. This photo is of the biannual refinishing of the french door. Our weather is harsh here in the mountains and due to the snow, rain, sun and just general aging these doors need refinishing every other year. We have six exterior french doors and they are a ton of work with mega sanding to be done, priming and hand painting around each and every glass pane. Mr. C is really good at this however this is definitely NOT his favorite thing to do. He uses very expensive marine primer and paint to help it last better. It is all oil based and requires massive clean up. Thank you so very much Mr. C for keeping our home and this lovely studio so nicely.

Hmmm...what is this photo you ask? In my waste bin I spotted some wadded up clumps and did not recognize them. I normally have lots of paper and fabric scraps and even more packaging scraps in the container. Hmmm??? Cloth? Painted cloth! Stained cloth! Mr. C had thrown his used fabric pieces from the painting of the door and I found them. Hooray! Now to figure out the perfect use for them. The cloth is really quite interesting as it must have been one of the damask sheets I cut up for him long ago for rags in his workshop. No odor...very good. Not rough...very good. Oh to set these aside so as not to let him know I have retrieved them for crafting. *_* There are just some things I do that he will never understand.

I did manage to get this little cover made from wool felt. I do the three month tracker for my Weight Watchers lifestyle plan and this cover fits the tracker nicely. Actually our meeting has a Traveling Journal that goes home with someone different each week and this cover is for that tracker. I made one before and it lasted at least three or more months until it got a little sadly worn looking. This cover is dark purple and has the heart pocket with a beautiful purple butterfly sticker. I was thinking of inspiration for those choosing a WW lifestyle plan and a fresh beginning as butterflies represent.
What are you doing this lovely first weekend of Autumn? Our weather is much cooler and the leaves are falling fast. There is definitely change in the air. Autumn is the essence of change.
Blissful inspiration to each and every one...

Giving and Receiving...

2011-09-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

This blogging community continues to inspire me and overwhelm me with its incredible generosity. The amount of inspiration that is shared on a daily basis is just so amazing.
Do you love to read comments left on your blog posts? I certianly love to read them. I think they are the one thing that really speak to me about how I am doing as a blogger and as a crafter and as a person.
I do not always respond to every post however once in a while there are those comments that just call out to me.

I have said before I have not had any formal giveaways because I like to send surprises to my loyal blog commenters. A few posts ago I showed a Wizard of Oz ATC. One of my followers really liked the little ruby slippers and asked where I got them. Long ago and no longer to be found and not even any manufacturers name is what I had to reply to her. So instead I offered to send her one of mine. In return completely surprising me she made and sent this beautiful thank u card and beaded charm. Her name is Ana of Scrappy Pink Corner . She creates adorable mini albums and I am smitten with them.

Along with the beautiful card and charm she included this giant envelope chock full of the most fun elements that I can now use to create wonderful cards and albums and lots of great projects. To say I was overwhelmed would be a gross understatement. I gave her so little and yet she gives me so much. Life is like that...you get what you give. No, not literally but in the sense that if you are generous and giving then you shall also receive much good in your life and that is exactly what has happened here.
Mr. C has always told me I am generous to a fault! Now that I didn't understand...how could being generous with others be a fault? He explained that I do not have money or wealth to share with others as I need what little I have to support me (this was when I was single and struggling). I also over volunteer my time. For me it is about the giving to others to help them or share my supplies or talents and that my friends FEEDS MY SOUL AND MAKES ME SO VERY HAPPY! Money cannot buy that. Having things cannot buy that.

So THANK YOU Ana. Your generosity is so very appreciated and this is what life is about...happiness!
Now for using these fabulous goodies you sent me and creating beautiful pieces of pleasure.
P.S. I always ask before I post something I have received so as not to put the giver in a possible uncomfortable position.
Don't you agree that this blogging community is amazing and generous and kind and creative?
Do each of you enjoy reading your comments?
Do you check older posts to see if anyone has gone back and left a comment you may have missed?
I do! I really do find it to be wonderful feedback for me.
Now I am off to get crafting...

Excellent Read...

2011-09-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

One day I got an email telling me I had won this book. Very exciting and I was very pleased. Then I forgot about this until months later when I received a package in the mail from the publisher. Wow! Claudia of Mockingbird Hill Cottage is the lovely lady who gifted this to me. Now more time passes by while this lovely book sits waiting for me. I had previous books to finish before I allowed myself to begin this one. Last week the time came.
"The Kitchen Daughter" by Jael McHenry is riveting. I could not put this book down without reading the entire thing from front to back cover.
I never read much as a child or young adult. My sister Marie is the reader. She goes to the library regularly and checks out approximately two dozen books and finishes every one of them before they are due back. She has always read voraciously. It is a well known fact that if you want to spend time with her, do not go into a book store as she just goes into another world of reading. Now that I don't work and am not consumed with other peoples companies I find I am enjoying reading a lot more than ever before. Now I love to read. I don't really have a favorite author or style of writing. I am not especially fast at reading but I am getting more adept at it.
If you like reading then I think you just might like "The Kitchen Daughter". As a bonus for those of us who like food or to cook it does involve some recipes too. I hope you enjoy this book if you decide to read it.
Thank you very much Claudia. Yes, I will be sharing this with Marie as I am certain she will like it too.
Cooler days of Autumn are here. The light is fading sooner each evening and it is a great time to sit and read in a nice cozy chair after spending a wonderful day creating art.
September surrenders to Fall...

Fabrics, Laces, Inspirations...

2011-09-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

I was browsing through my photo archives and found this folder of three photos. These were taken one year ago. My how time flies. I had almost forgotten these fabulous purchases because they sit in a "Project" drawer. Most of these pieces of fabric are small 1/8th yard of silks that I thought I would make some flower brooches with. The gray rolled bit is elastic that is very sturdy and I did use some of it when I made some cuff bracelets. This Autumn which is here already would be a really good time for me to dig out that "Project" drawer and get busy. It is a shame that the money represented here isn't gaining any "interest" as it sits hidden away untouched.

Now this little pile is of delicious ribbons. Very special ribbons that I just could not resist. I was in Portland Oregon and absolutely had to visit a shoppe I had always heard about named "The Ribbonry". Immediately upon entering the door I was on complete ribbon, lace and button overload. The magic in that room was beyond what I could comprehend. I just wanted to buy everything I saw in every direction I turned. However this tiny bit of fluff I could not leave behind did come home with me. After all it is my investment in my future happiness. I have used a bit of this however it is definitely time to open the ribbon box and put some of this to good use. I see some Autumn colors in here that I should definitely be enjoying.

Then around the corner was a wonderful fabric shop. Neat clean and ever so expensive. I purchased these two pieces without having anything in mind. Due to the outrageous prices of the fabrics I didn't buy very much and so I am struggling with what to make that will be timeless and fit me and not need much material. The floral fabric has the softest touch and is in my favorite colors which remind me of a peacock.
Well, this has been a trip down memory lane for me as I found these photos of a road trip we took and enjoyed very much just last Autumn. Now I am inspired to actually so something with the beautiful fabrics and laces I have.
Why is it so difficult for me to "Use the Good Stuff"? I am always saving everything and then someone else gets to enjoy it instead of me. This is something I shall work on changing.
I am thinking of my 2011 word...NOW. Now is a great time to use my beautiful fabrics and laces.
Blissful inspirations to each of you...

Art Journal Class...

2011-09-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

I have never been very artsy with the traditional painting themed supplies. I don't draw. I don't paint. I don't consider myself an artist in the truest sense of the word. I do however love to try all mediums and I always hope something miraculous will come from my hands.
Along comes Miss Roni of Ink Stains. I have blogged about her before but this time she is my teacher. Roni is actually giving tons of lessons for making an art journal. We have no idea what we will be doing or what supplies we will be using. This is part of the fun for me. I have lots of supplies, especially since I won Roni's grand giveaway. This will be the perfect opportunity for me to use these art mediums I own. I have always thought that if I purchase and own something I will automatically become adept/skilled...like the time I bought a brand new piano and paid for it for years. Did I ever really learn to play that piano? No. Same for lots of other things through the years. Osmosis just does not work with me. :o)

Usually I save everything. Never opening or using just in case I need it later. Well...I opened and inked and brushed and spread and used my supplies. I followed Roni's technique and had a great time. This photo above is my initial template but I had so much fun that I ended up inking it and trying different looks.

I haven't journaled on my pages yet but this one is my how to sampler. The embossing, the white rubbing and the inking that results in "faux rubbing". This is really super fun and even I didn't mind making a bit of a mess...not too much mind you as I am known as Miss Prissy my entire life. Get my hands dirty? Ewww!

This page will be my art journal cover. I absolutely love how it turned out. I may add something more however not so far. It has an ethereal look and feel and yet it was so easy to make.
Thank you Roni for offering your expertise and sharing with us. I am looking forward to our next lesson.
I will be using individual sheets of papers so that I may put them into a 3-ring binder. That will allow me to utilize lots of sizes and thicknesses and not be limited by any one type of pre-purchased journal. I have been collecting (all my life I have been collecting!) some pertinent ephemera for this journal too as I want it to reflect me and my likes and dislikes.
After all this is MY ART JOURNAL...

Snail Mail...

2011-09-14T08:43:00.000-07:00

A short while ago one of the blogging community favorites posted about snail mail. I adore Lori Anderson and her blog so I got busy. I had been brewing an idea in my head but this was finally time to act. I got out the canvas and cut out a snail. Then I got some lace and began my design. I sewed the lace into a gather and then handstitched it to the canvas snail base. Got out my Derwent Inktense colored pencils and put some facial features and color to the body.

I signed the back and off my little snail went in the mail. All the way to Lori. She was very pleased.

I actually made three of my little snails. I just find them super cute. Two of them are still home with me. They haven't decided where to travel. You know it takes them a while to get anywhere. Slow and steady. That is also how my brain works...slow and steady. Yes, I have been told I am too literal but hey, snail mail in this case really did fit.
I hope you are filled with lots of inspiration and time to create your art.
September is surrendering to Fall and the days are less light and the temps are cooling down and the leaves are truly falling...

Sunflowers Make Me Happy...

2011-09-12T07:44:00.000-07:00

I think Sunflowers are a very happy flower and they totally make me smile.
This little photo is actually cut off the postcard flyer sent out by our local Farmers Market. I just couldn't resist saving this for future crafting.
I would love to have them growing in my yard however I don't have enough sunshine for them. All those lovely tall pine, cedar and oak trees block all sunlight that these gorgeous flowers require.
Do you prefer the yellow versions or the orange versions or the deep red/maroon sunflowers?
September surrenders to the coming of Autumn and the leaves are falling. I have been picking up the very large oak leaves already. We also have huge Crimson King Maple trees and those leaves are falling too.
The weather is turning cooler at nights. Thunderheads form over the mountains but we have had zero rain all summer. I would welcome a refreshing rainstorm...hold the lightening please as it is so dangerous for creating fires and we are much to dry and wooded for any of those.
The deer are getting bolder as they need to forage for food. We have a mother and her twin fawns who have been coming everyday to feed and the littles actually swim in our pond. I would not have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes. Yesterday I had to shoo off the father and son who were dining on my poor mock oranges that they strip bare every year. I do enjoy seeing the deer however they are so voracious and their saliva actually kills many of our plants we have worked so hard to grow. It is a constant struggle for me...the deer were here first yet our home has been here for at least the 14 years we have lived here. We have now had many generations of deer who just love our landscaping. Hmmm...
Maybe I should try growing sunflowers after all and get more birds attracted than deer. Do you think that would work?
Happy Sunflower week to all...lots of smiles and happiness...

Peace on this day and forward...

2011-09-11T08:03:00.000-07:00

May our world find peace today and everyday.
My heart aches for all those who endure the tragic events of 9/11.
Nothing else needs to be said. Safety to all.

Creative Blogger Gift...

2011-09-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

This may sound silly however I am drawn to people with the same name as mine especially when it is spelled exactly the same. So when I "met" Sherry on a blog one day I was intrigued. It turns out she is extremely creative and talented and a wonderfully generous soul. We have been blog friends for a very long while now. She surprised me with a lovely package in the mail for my August birthday. See the packaging and details? I said she is creative.

This is the back of my gift which I did crop so as not to show her email address. She also hand wrote a special Happy Birthday note to me which was super sweet. Please visit Sherry's blog and I know you will be smitten if you don't already follow her.

Here it is. So precious and I adore this little birdy. She used some very clever techniques with this piece and you can read about it on a previous post she wrote. The little metal tags that spell fly. The 3D bird cage. The beading. This precious bird with texture.
There is a Zumba routine where we "fly" and it has to be my very favorite of all. So I can relate to this wonderful message.
Thank you so very much Sherry. I feel very special. This came to me all the way from Romford, Greater London, United Kingdom so that was a very long flight. Whew!
May each and every one of you wonderful bloggers find your creative passion and fly with infinite inspiration...

Bottle Cap Necklaces...

2011-09-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

I have been having fun with some bottle caps. These are not the purchased ones but they are real ones that my friends have popped off the top of their favorite bottle drinks. Therefore the shapes are not perfect and the backs are original to the advertising or logo of the drink. I love the colors of them too.

I purchased a sheet of bottle cap circle art...I apologize that I cannot give credit of manufacture name but with me "volume out" is the packaging and it goes first to make more room for art supplies. I was hand cutting each little circle until I had a 40% off coupon and bought one of my favorite Fiskars easy ergonomic punches that cuts out the 1" circle perfect every time. Some Ranger Glossy Accents and a little glitter and voila. This one is particularly appropriate as September is following each of the months of this year as they really do fly past so fast. I have used organza ribbon in place of the ball chain as I like this look and feel much better.
This is such a fast and easy make. Keychains would be this easy as well with just a short ball chain or a keyring loop. Great gifts for all ages and genders.
Our weather has turned warm however still so perfect. I am praying for all who are experiencing such horrific wildfires, no rain or too much rain, flooding, tornados and hurricanes. This year has certainly been extreme for so many.
May creativity Fall into your minds and hands...

Fabic Pouch Obsession...

2011-09-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

These are the same Origami Pouches I have been making and sharing but with new fabrics. This time in some gorgeous Christmas fabric. This fabric has some gold sparkles in the threads and the colors are vibrant and elegant.
I have used buttons in place of the charms on these and really like the look. I also turned the flap up a bit to show the lining fabric and make it just a wee bit more fun.

Here are two of my favorite blue fabrics. Each bag uses the exact two fabrics...Fairy Frost and a floral fabric my friend Margaret gave me after she finished her project. It was merely a matter while making these which side I chose to be the feature leaving the other fabric to become the lining. The floral pouch has beaded dangles while the blue one has buttons for trim.

This is probably the most fun pouch I have made so far. It all started with seeing the chocolate covered strawberry fabric at my local Ben Franklin. I didn't buy it but my girlfriend did. Then a few days later I was looking for a special bead and came across these glass strawberry "earrings" that my girlfriend had purchased but not done anything with. Yes, I do have her bead box here in my studio as we almost always bead together and we share and divide most of our beads. Well...I was obsessed with getting some of the strawberry fabric I had seen and making her this little pouch. Hmmm...how could I do that without asking her permission to use her "earring" beads? So I shared my idea with her and she agreed the two had to go together. Back to Ben's I went and lucky day they had just enough fabric left on the bolt. I lined this one with a very sweet black with red polka dots fabric. The gathering ties are just right with the red and white polka dot ribbon. An entire theme and I super love how it turned out. So did Saucy Chick Lorraine when I gave it to her.
I am having so much fun making these. With my obesssion in fabrics I think I can make them until the world runs out of thread. :o)
Enjoying my end of summer holiday weekend. Staying home, visiting with friends, doing some much needed Fall cleaning (I probably missed my Spring cleaning since we never had Spring for all the seven months of winter), weeding which never seems to end and overall enjoying every moment of every day. I even spent time organizing and putting away tons of stuff in the studio. Amazing how my 4' x 8' work table can get so cluttered and I find myself working in a space of only inches.
May you each have a safe and wonderful end of summer weekend and celebrate our Labor Holiday if in the USA.
I am seeing lots of Halloween goodies...what are you working on these days?

Making Reversible Tote Bags...

2011-08-31T16:06:00.000-07:00

Making reversible tote bags is something I have done for decades. I love the utilitarian aspect of a good tote bag. It can hold so many things...art supplies, groceries, books, electronic gadgets, return items back to the store and the list goes on and on.
Pink toile is just dreamy. The scenes of daily life and the stories that can be told just looking at this wonderful fabric. A couple of removable fabric and lace pins.

Fun Parisian themed fabric on one side of the tote. Good sturdy webbing handles covered in gathered coordinated fabric to add style and strength for carrying those heavy loads.

This one has a generous pocket either inside or outside depending on which fabric you turn over. This pocket on the Parisian side is embellished with a lace doily and a lace and fabric removable flower pin. Spending time sewing. Making gifts. Making items to sell in my etsy shoppe. This is my favorite way to spend my waning summer days.
Christmas in August has been a very good way for me to get a head start on the busy holidays that always get too stressed and hectic to enjoy. I feel this year will be much calmer and much more enjoyable.
I have my list and I am checking it twice.

Now for dinner...I let the crockpot do the work today. Country Ribs slow cooking all day and Bushes Baked Beans with embellishments (oh yeah...embellishments aren't just for crafting!) and homemade cole slaw will complete this last of August Summer dinners.
I am thankful Irene was calmer than expected and I pray for anyone still suffering the effects.

August Christmas Continues...

2011-08-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

Every year I stockpile gifts for Christmas as the year progresses. I keep a cupboard and a dresser just for these gifts so I know where they are come time to wrap and give. However each year I find myself wanting to do more handmade gifts and every year I run out of time. So this year I decided August would be my month to make some things ahead and have them ready. I picked August because I missed July. ;o)

Here I am making very simple fabric postcards. I love to mail things that surprise people when they get them and these postcards just might be the surprise.

I bought this fabric and knew it would make great postcards. The sizes are just slightly under the required 4" x 6" postal requirements but I knew how to work that. I already had a stash of these very sturdy Strathmore watercolor postcard blanks so they became my base. Then I cut Warm and Natural batting to fit the blanks. I sewed the three pieces together and it looked too plain. So I took a green stamp pad and rubbed the edges with the ink. Now I like the look and consider these done. Of course I am making more than the three I show in the photo.
I hope this gives some of you inspiration and some easy ideas for your holiday gift giving.
Thank you everyone for the birthday wishes. I have had a wonderful month of celebrating.
Happy week to all and I do pray the weather is kind to each of you...

Another Generous Blogger Friend...

2011-08-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

I have said that August is my birthday month. Well this must be proof. When I opened the brown shipping box Mr. C told me these are my gifts he got me. Hmmm...I don't think so!

I happened to know this box came from the uber generous Celestina Marie. Please visit her site http://larearose.blogspot.com/ if you aren't familiar with her blog or her beautiful designs.

Needless to say Mr. C was simply hoping I would give him credit as he is not good about celebrating birthdays or holidays. I am totally fine with this as he is very thoughtful and generous throughout the year when least expected.

As for the goodies inside this box! Look at the dreamy pink French inspired paper, the pink silk petals, the soft pink tulle ribbon and the details on the boxes. I was giddy like a little princess on her birthday getting ready to open these beautiful presents.

This feminine gorgeous bottle complete with pink glittered roses and stopper. Swoon...

This adorable little birdhouse ornament handpainted by Celestina Marie herself both back and front.

More swooning...

Now my photos are out of order however this was an unexpected item she included. A small very heavy handpainted paperweight book. The tole painted roses are exquisite.

And completely over the moon swooning on this piece. My very own pink with rhinestone bling Eiffel Tower. It is also a bank and I can put my money in it to take a trip to Paris...Do they make $1000 bills as this bank is tiny and I will need a lot of money? :o)

Oh dear...my photos are so out of order however I am very comfortable using blogger as my excuse since I am not familiar with the new version. I think I am lucky any of my photos actually got onto this post.

This is the trio of lovelies that Celestina Marie actually offered as a give to celebrate her 38th wedding anniversary. Go figure...our good fortune due to her good fortune. I am still convinced that bloggers are the truly most generous giving souls on this planet.

This spoon is probably my very favorite of her pieces. I had been coveting these on her etsy shoppe waiting for just the right moment to acquire one. I am truly blessed as now I do have my very own spoon and it is even more exquisite in person. I do have some gifts in mind that I shall need to purchase for and these are perfect. I hope you take a very close look at her shoppe to see what you might fall in love with.

Thank you so very much Celestina Marie. I feel so fortunate to be able to share you as my blogger friend. When I went back to your profile and read your credentials I completely understand how you would be chosen to visit the White House and create ornaments for one of the annual Christmas trees. Your work is truly special and I am so proud to be the lucky recipient of your generosity.

I will be thanking you properly very soon my dear.

Happy weekend to all and may you enjoy this end of summer to its fullest...Labor Day is just ahead...

Squeezing Summer Sunshine Cards...

2011-08-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

I recently went into the studio with nothing in mind and this is what was created. I took some fabric given to me by Sherry of http://sherrysimpleblog.blogspot.com/ and some card and envelope stock and began cutting, gluing, stamping and adding buttons and lace.
Our weather this summer has been so perfect that I just wanted to "squeeze every drop of summer sunshine" possible.

I made seven sets and then mailed them out to some of my followers as a surprise. I put the card and envelope into a larger envelope so they were receiving an unused card that they can either send along to someone else or put in their handmade stash of goodies.
I had fun and love spending time in my studio. It is always extra nice when I have no preset notion and then the end result makes me very happy. I smile each time I see these photos. Of course I didn't keep one for myself. You know how it is...make for everyone else and send them along. At least I thought to take a photo.
Very simple, very quick and very Summer!
Hope everyone is enjoying the remaining days of sunshine...For those of you with extreme heat I wish you cooler weather to enjoy.
In true Summer style I made potato salad for dinner tonight along with cold roasted chicken in pure picnic mode. And of course watermelon for dessert! What's for dinner at your house?

Charms Received...Amazing...

2011-08-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

I was thinking of doing a swap as I follow quite a few blogs that participate in swaps and it always looks so fun to see what everyone makes and receives. Well...I did participate in my very first swap that was for charms. It was hosted and organized and completed by the very talented Roni of http://inkstainswithroni.blogspot.com/ I cannot express enough how thrilled I am with this swap.Thank you to Roni and everyone who participated. Here is a group photo of the box I received. I was like a child filled with wonder and excitement on Christmas morning when I opened this box of charms. Each and every charm is lovingly handmade and so clever and precious. Thank you to each artist I was lucky enough to get one of your charms.

This is one of the three sets of charms I made and submitted. I used black O-rings, copper wire and beads. I attached a lobster clasp to each one for easy use.

This charm is larger and I wanted it to represent the beautiful pine trees I live amongst. I added beads, fancy yarns, some copper wire and a lobster clasp.

Each set of charms (I made three sets) were five per set. This set is double sided with truffle pictures and small beads for some bling. So far I think this charm was very popular because who doesn't like chocolate...even if it is a photo of chocolate!
I will definitely be participating again early next year when Roni hosts this swap once more. It truly was a delightful experience.
Now I must get busy and thank each of my charm makers. We did include our info and I have already received some emails thanking me for my charms.
I spent my morning at my local Chamber helping visitors. Our weather is just perfect. Then Mr. C came along and took me to lunch at my favorite Beach Hut Deli for my California sandwich. Life is good.
May your week progress with all the wonderful things that make you happy...

Wizard of Oz ATC...

2011-08-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

It really is all about the shoes!

I am linking to Two Crazy Crafters for this post.

Thank you Twyla and Lindsey for this fun Friday hop.

I have used Graphic 45 chipboard tag, yellow cardstock I penciled with the yellow brick road and my favorite adorable mary jane shoes charm which I red glittered.

Halloween Origami Pouches...

2011-08-17T10:52:00.001-07:00

With less weeds to be pulled I am finding more time to be in my sewing room where I love to sew. There is something quite calming and relaxing about sewing...provided I am not attempting a new pattern or technique unfamiliar to me.
So here are a couple of Origami Pouches in Halloween fabrics.

This is very vintage fabric that I have owned forever. I added a cute charm to each side flap. The lining is the same bright yellow as the cording. These are so simple to make that I actually made two at the same time.

This is some new fabric I bought this year and I adore it. This photo does not do justice to the fabric but that is for another day...photography and I do not see eye to eye. It has such a graphic flair to the standard spider web look. "Hallowgraphix" by Jason Yenter for "In the Beginning" fabrics. I only wish I had bought more than one yard. Each little pouch takes an 18.5" square of fabric and lining.

On this one I sewed buttons to the flaps and like the look.

I am already planning a few more of these little fun pieces for gifts this year. With fabric choices and flap embellishments the options are endless.

Do you sew? Do you prefer fabric or paper or ???

Happy mid week to all...

New Earrings...

2011-08-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

I have been busy in my studio playing with some of my beads and making earrings.
Now my task this week is to get them listed in my etsy shoppe. This always seems to be such a chore for me. First the photography which I really do not enjoy keeps holding me back. Then the actual writing of the description is always tricky...say enough but not too much.
So by posting here I am forcing myself to be accountable to follow through and get them listed.
This first pair is charming with the little bee "tasting" the honey hued Swarovski crystal beneath the Czech flower bead.

I had purchased some new antique copper findings and wanted to put them together with some interesting beads. French pierced earwires with black Obsidian hearts and Czech Vitrail Glass Flower cone beads, Swarovski crystals and antique copper spacers are stunning in person.

These are very simply done using silver-plate earwires, blue-green glass beads, Swarovski crystals and Turquoise nuggets. I kept the drop length on each of these pairs to just about one inch.

This is probably the most interesting pair using the antique copper findings. I paired Fancy Jasper hearts with true Sedona Red Rock barrel beads purchased while in Sedona earlier this year. Of course now I am wondering why I didn't buy lots more of these unique Red Rock beads. It is said that Sedona Red Rock beauty awakens spirit and the energy that is created gives rise to a heightened awareness and enhanced appreciation for life. Wow! If you have ever visited Sedonna and been in the presence of the Red Rocks you would definitely agree that the entire area is aweinspiring.

Wonderful week to all...many of you are busy packing for those fall trips...many preparing the little ones for back to school...and some of you very busy in your studios making fabulous art.

Me? I will be enjoying each day of our perfect summer we have been having here in Northern California. I spent Saturday at the local Farmers Market and then volunteering at our Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center. It was a day filled with meeting lots of interesting folks from all over. I always enjoy my day.

Now I must get on task and work my list of to do items...Hugs to all...

August Snowmen...

2011-08-13T08:35:00.001-07:00

More Christmas in August. These are snowmen ornaments for the elementary school holiday sale in December. I find being prepared can never be too soon as time slips by so quickly.

Made of foam and fabric. They will look so cute hanging on our faux Christmas tree displaying all the ornaments for sale to the first, second and third graders. Parents and public are also welcome to shop after the kids have lots of shopping time to get presents for friends and family.

This is a short quick post as I am headed to our local very small Farmer's Market before I spend my day volunteering at the local Chamber of Commerce hostessing the Visitor Center. I love meeting people from far and near. I also learn something new every time I am there.

May your weekend be full of bliss...

Charmed I'm Sure...

2011-08-10T20:33:00.000-07:00

My little studio has been a very busy place of late and for that I am grateful. It is where I like to spend time and it makes me happy to create things.
I decided several weeks ago to participate in a charm swap that Roni is hosting. I am certain you all follow her escapades with ink and such. If not please visit her. http://inkstainswithroni.blogspot.com/
I actually made three sets of charms and sent them in for swapping. I am not showing them here as the swap is in the process stage and soon to be sent out to all participants and I certainly don't want to spoil any surprises.
This photo is of a single charm I did for Roni herself. Super simple using a chipboard letter (lower case r with glitter), jump rings with beads attached and a lobster clasp for attaching to anything desired.
I must say I am getting excited to see which charms I receive. Roni has been giving hints of the charms she is receiving and they all sound amazing.
What swaps have you participated in? Any favorites you have enjoyed?
I am thinking of some I might join in the future. I know time must be set aside just for each swap so that the items are the best possible. I think this would be a great way to expand my art and sharing is something I love to do. Hmmm...
Summer is marching along. Our local county fair is happening this week. I think I shall avoid all the traffic and crowds this year. If only I could attend just to see all the handmade items that people show. No, I will spend my precious time in my studio and sewing room making my very own handmade items.
Enjoy your days doing something that makes you happy...

Butterfly Bag Sewn...

2011-08-08T09:29:00.002-07:00

Do you sew? Are you passionate about fabrics? Do you adore bags to put things in?
Oh Yeah! I do love to sew and I am passionate about fabrics and yes, I love bags to put things in. This is a fabric called Fairy Frost and has a silvery shimmer to it.

This is one of my favorite butterfly fabrics. I have owned this fabric for a long time.

Being part of this amazing blogging community is one of my greatest joys. So many talented and generous people all sharing like-minded hobbies.

While reading one of my daily blogs I check http://lacelovinlibrarian.blogspot.com I found this little bag Diane had sewn. Instantly I knew I just had to make one. Luckily Diane gave the link to a tutorial. http://quiltsalott.blogspot.com/2009/01/origami-pouch-tutorial.html

Thank you so much to these kind and generous people who love to create wonderful things.

Here is my sewn pouch with a beaded charm detail. I love butterflies and use them whenever I am able to. Butterflies represent 10,000 happinesses.

This little bag is also referred to as origami pouch as it has a wonderful way of sewing and folding to create it. This photo shows the inside lining fabric and the outside pocket. Both sides of the bag are this way.

Here is the completed bag with the flaps down over the outside pockets. Drawstring cords pull the top tight and close in the contents.

I am so thrilled to have sewn this little bag. Now I am planning on sewing many more as I can think of lots of gifts I can give.

Fabric choices are endless. Embellishing is endless. Diane used buttons on her flaps and that is very cute. I already have a lot of fabrics which will be excellent choices for these wonderful little bags.

Thank you once again to the generous sharing of knowledge and information and talents that blogging affords all of us.

May you have a wonderful week of creativity and enjoy these waning days of summer...

Christmas in August...

2011-08-05T10:07:00.001-07:00

Christmas in August. Not so far fetched an idea since the days, weeks and months are flying past so fast. I felt I would work on Christmas in August and this past week that is exactly what I did. My girlfriend came over and we spent an entire day preparing Christmas ornaments to donate and sell at the local elementary school annual holiday sale. It is so fun to watch the kids do their Christmas shopping and we donate 50% of our sales money to the school funds.

We aren't looking to get rich, merely pay for our supplies. These are some purchased snowflakes that we embellished with torn strips of fabric tied in a bow. I know it is hard to see them here but you can imagine how simple these are. We are trying to keep the price at 50 cents each for any of the ornaments we are decorating on a 5 foot tree.

Here are simple ornament balls, plastic so no breakage, embellished with more fabrics and then tied with a loop.

All of this takes a lot of time but we always think of the little first, second and third grade students looking to shop for just the right gifts they can afford. We usually make lots of various items which we plan on family members just loving what they get when they open their gifts. Bookmarks, towels, charms, note cards and tags, ornaments, and whatever else strikes our fancy. We try to cover all genders and ages which can be really challenging.

I also completed another gift item this week so I will share that soon.

The great outdoors is still requiring lots of my time and efforts as the weeding and plantings and yard re-do is taking lots more than I thought. I am grateful our weather has been very pleasant. We have not had any extreme heat unlike so much of the country. I think our elevation and all the pine and cedar trees are helping to keep it cool. We also are benefitting from what is called the "delta breeze".

Now I am off to get productive. I was found at the local Ben Franklin yesterday purchasing more fabrics and jewelry findings.

Wonderful Weekend to each of you...May you be enjoying your days relaxing and being creative...

P.S. Are you working on any Christmas projects? Can you share what they are?

Ahhh...August...

2011-08-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

This is typical of me.

August is my very favorite month of the year and always has been since I was a little girl. I understand it isn't polite to chose favorites however I cannot help myself. You see I am an August born child/woman. When I was growing up my birthday was never special because there was no school in August so no classroom party for me with cupcakes like the other kids. I did get to celebrate my birthday in the mountains at our family cabin. That was my very favorite place to be. We sisters got to go for walks and play all day in the meadow and the stream. We climbed a "giant" boulder and slid down until our shorts had no fabric covering our bottoms. We walked to the little store and bought nickel candy and ate it whenever we wanted. We spent hours in the local library reading and loving books. I used to practice the fancy "symbols" in the Japanese alphabet...of which I know nothing about. I merely loved copying those beautiful strokes. We played Scrabble in the evenings with our mom. She always won so at night I would sneak the dictionary from the bookshelves and read it in my feather bed with a flashlight so I could play better. We went for nature hikes and walked everywhere. Back in those days there was very little fear of letting kids be kids and free to play outdoors with no supervision. Life was simpler back then.
Another reason August is my favorite month is that my one and only daughter was born just 20 days before my birthday. So we celebrate our month together. She is a Leo and I am a Virgo but that doesn't keep us apart. :o)
August is also my favorite because it is Summer and I love Summer! The heat doesn't bother me and it helps that I live in the foothills where it is at least 10 degrees cooler than other places. Of course don't ask me about winter and snow which I detest. When I was younger August also meant going to the fair which I used to love doing. Our family was big on fairs and traveled to many up and down the state. My mother would make all of us matching gingham dresses and a shirt for dad. She said that way if one of us girls got lost people would at least know to match us up with the rest of the family wearing gingham. Too funny!
August was also the last freedom before going back to school for another year. Not my favorite thing growing up. I did always like getting new crayons and to this day I treat myself to a new box of Crayola crayons each year. Something about the smell and feel of a brand new crayon. I also just bought new yellow pencils and some new glue sticks. Some habits are hard to break and why should I when I use these supplies every day.
If you have a favorite month which one is it and why?
I think it is time for me to go and eat some ice cream for you see it is still my favorite food even at this point in my life.
Awesome August Summer Smiles to all...

Farewell July...

2011-07-31T18:33:00.000-07:00

Farewell July as we end another wonderful Summer month of perfect weather and lots of outdoor activities. Time spent with family and friends enjoying good conversation, fun and food.

This is probably the last thing I made in July. My friend Cindy lost her cell phone and had to get a new one. She was sad because along with her phone she lost her charm I had made for her. So without hesitation I have made her a new one for her new phone. I know it isn't exactly like the previous one but I do think she will like this one even better.

This time I incorporated her favorite...a dragonfly bead. I still had to add a heart charm as that speaks to how dear she is. I shall give it to her this week when we see one another.

As for July...I didn't experience Christmas in July like others celebrated with handmade gifts. I have been thinking ahead to gift making and am always preparing. Maybe I shall celebrate Christmas in August...we shall see.

Mr. C and I have been working in the yard...still cleaning up and repairing from last winter's devastation and of course preparing for this upcoming winter. I shall take some photos and share with you our progress.

May each of you have a fantastic amazing August. I know I will...

Reversible Tote Bag...

2011-07-29T08:12:00.001-07:00

I have not been taking time to be creative what with summer weeds to pull, housecleaning before, during and after company and whatever laziness I am enjoying with the warm summer days I love so very much. So several weeks ago I pulled out some fabrics. This red toile is one of my favorites.

With the weight of the toile I chose this sort of bandana fabric to coordinate. Next I cut out the pieces to make a reversible tote bag. I personally can never have too many tote bags.

Here is the bandana side complete with a pocket that I stuck some white envelopes inside of just to show it is there. This side of the tote is not my favorite however I think it works quite well for those times you might be feeling "down home".

Here is the finished tote with the toile side out. I love this scene of the boys playing and just living life. That is what toile fabric is...scenes of life. I made one of my lace flower pins and added it to the red handle. Of course it is removable if you want to wear it on your lapel or your hair or whatever.

I always enjoy making tote bags and am thinking I shall get out some more fabrics to match up and sew some more bags. My sewing machine is lonely and I am feeling creative.

What goodies are you making or planning for future projects?

Sunshine Summer Smiles to all...

Sister Reunion...

2011-07-26T09:54:00.001-07:00

Here we are...four sisters.
Two sisters were not able to join us.
We got together for the day after sister Renee drove over 500 miles one way to spend a week with me in my home.
Sister Joyce took the train and sister Marie picked her up and drove them 75 miles to visit.
We spent a wonderful day together at my home. Lots of chatting, laughing, and eating...to keep up our strength.
Thank you sisters for a day of bonding and keeping the love flowing. It is always bitter sweet to say goodbye and not know when we will get together again.

Family Time...

2011-07-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

I just love this photo of an unknown (to me) little girl. I have posted this before and unfortunately know not where I came across it so no credit is given...however, thank you. Somehow I relate so much to this little girl sitting patiently. I always wonder what she is thinking...

For me today is about the last minute cleaning and grocery shopping for you see company is coming. The fresh flowers are set out in the guest quarters. All appears ready for a nice relaxed visit. I will be welcoming my sisters as we have a reunion of sorts this weekend.

We may take a walk along the NID canal and do some laughing and chatting...

We may stroll through the back yard and do some remembering. Maybe we will sit by the pond and blow some bubbles and tell more stories.

We will definitly do some eating and reminiscing.

So if I am quiet on the blogging scene I shall be the noisy one in sister family time. I have always been the noisy one who gets shushed a lot.

I look forward to seeing my sisters and getting to visit. Let us hope "family dynamics" have taken a far away cruise and won't be here this week. As I age I find time with family is so very precious. Let nothing spoil this time together. Lets laugh and cry and share our love together.

May you each have a wonderful weekend...

Please be safe in the extreme heat some of you are experiencing. Keep hydrating...

Now I am off to finish up the last details...

Lace Envelopes...

2011-07-19T11:43:00.001-07:00

Here are more of my little kraft envelopes. They are merely 2 1/4" x 3 1/4" so much too small for ATCs. I managed to sew some of my favorite lace around them. Then I took my heart punch and made some tags. They are colored on one side and plain on the other so I could write a thank you note.

Then I created some charms and attached them to the heart tags. This tassel is made of beads strung on beading thread. I sent this to a special follower as a surprise.

This charm is made from an old costume earring. I love the pearls effect and how it dangles.

This charm is a special mix of beads I bought in Rome Italy on holiday.

Each of these charms is attached to a lobster clasp and can be used for zippers, charm pins, decoration on curtains or pillows or anything else you can think of.

I just love the look of lace on the tiny little envelopes. The photos do not show that the lace continues on the flap to complete the look. Therefore instead of sealing the flap I chose to tie ribbon around the envelope to close it.

A little beaded surprise wrapped in tissue enclosed in a tiny lace covered envelope. Yum!

I still have a lot of these tiny envelopes so I shall be putting on my creative thinking cap.

Please share any ideas you might have for using them. I think I have a balance of at least 400.

I am still weeding, trimming and cleaning house in preparation of company arriving. The hours and days are passing so quickly. I must adopt the attitude that whatever I do get done will be far more than nothing. Got to get back to my duties as "daylight's a burning" so Mr. C says.

Happy Summer Creating...

Painting Envelopes...

2011-07-18T08:24:00.001-07:00

While ordering office supplies late one evening I was compelled to add a box of small coin envelopes to my order. I knew I could craft with them and they would be fun to decorate. Mr. C was not amused. "What are you going to do with so many little envelopes!" he said. I replied, "I don't know however I will use them!"

Here I am painting each little envelope with gesso to tone down the kraft coloring. I included my hand as proof that I can get messy. I am very fussy and never like my hands to get dirty or messy at all. So in true artist style I am forcing myself to allow messiness as others say it is part of the creative process and even others say it is part of the fun. Hmmm...my hands did clean up after the painting and it really wasn't so bad. There might be hope for me after all. :o)

No picture of my hands here but trust me they got lots of paint on them with all of this process. I painted each envelope with different colors on both sides. I wanted a variety.

Here is my favorite little blue envelope. I even added liquid silver leaf circles and it really gave a lustrous shine.

This treatment of dry brushing several colors included a metallic copper which I really liked. The photo does not show it well.

This little one was dotted with some black ink. I used the end of a square chop stick.

Hard to see the gold leafing dry brush technique here. I thought the colors were representative of a bright spring day with all the trees leafing out.

What am I doing with my little painted and gilded envelopes? Now that is for another day.

Here we are in a new week and I shall be busy cleaning and weeding and ironing and weeding and generally enjoying being a homeowner.

How is your week shaping up?

Wonderful week and I hope you make time to make art...

Another Weekend???

2011-07-15T09:45:00.001-07:00

This is a canal from the mining days. It is on part of our property and is owned by NID (Nevada Irrigation District) and they have easements to the canals and flumes as they maintain them.
Many people walk along the canals with or without their dogs. The walks are very easy as the canals follow a 1% slope. As you can see they are also extremely picturesque. We are fortunate to have this so close to us.

As a matter of fact that is our home in the background. What on earth is happening? A very large project to replace the old wooden flumes with new pipes which are much safer and easier to maintain...so we are told. This project should be completed by now but with our wet winter there were delays. Now this part of the project is on hold as the contractors are working backwards to address some sort of settling issue on the previous flume completed last year. We don't mind the delay however having a port o'potty and lots of debris and equipment as our entrance to bliss is getting a little stagnant.

The pipes don't look so large but as you can see both my husband and I had to venture in and walk through them. Kids will be kids as they say...

This is a view of the project in process before the delays. The old wooden flume built in 1928 will be torn down and the new pipe will remain. Oh the controversies that have ensued over this. Not to mention the lawsuits hampering all of this. Our entire county is rich with old mining history. I cannot even imagine the work and struggles the men and pack animals had to endure back in the olden days.

Here is my engineer, Mr. C, overseeing the entire project. He is completely able to understand every bolt and structure that is being used. Me...I just like to enjoy the progress.

Here is another view of the scope of this project. I like to call the excavator "Robisorus". It is an amazing machine that can do so many different jobs including tree stump removal. Yes, we have had loggers that came in to take out a giant pine tree. That is an entire story all unto itself.

And like all boys who love toys and adventure...Mr. C says, "Can we take it for a spin?"

I must admit I have been consumed with watching the happenings. Not much creating going on here. We are having the most glorious weather. Not too hot, blue skies and perfect temperatures. Just the right atmosphere for pulling weeds and triming and pulling weeds and planting some new shade plants and pulling weeds...you get the idea.

What is going on in your neighborhood?

Wonderful weekend to all...

Lace Wrappings...

2011-07-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

I was giving a card recently and decided the envelope was far too plain. So I wrapped it in some delicious lace and stitched the sides to hold all in place.

The back flap was now really too plain so I stitched some more lace onto it. Then as a closure I stitched a circle of lace to hold the flap closed by sliding it onto the envelope. No photo of this part but I added a name label to the front with some more lace. No more plain card envelope for this gift.

Now for the gift box. Wrapped it in gold foil paper. Then a sleeve of more delicious lace. And to mate with the card a band of lace to hold it all together.

Oh how can I stop yet? No. More lace. This time I made a lace flower complete with pin back that can be attached to the package and then removed for additional uses by the recipient.

Now you see the package completed with it paper, laces and flower. This is a gift I am proud to give.

What is your favorite style of wrapping a gift?

Happy middle of the week to all...

Celebrations Complete...

2011-07-10T20:09:00.000-07:00

Ahh the Grand Lady, Elsbeth, herself. A gathering to celebrate her 90th birthday. It was a wonderful celebration enjoyed by many. The setting was beautiful. The food divine. Red Velvet cake for the finishing touch.

Our table decorations were a welcome addition. Bookmarks and candy for all to take home.

Happy Birthday Elsbeth and may we celebrate many more.

This was also my annual girlfriend road trip and the week passed by so quickly. We leave the husbands and our fur-child kitty cats home and off we go. We spend the week with Elsbeth and have a great time telling stories, playing Scrabble, going out to eat when we aren't eating all of her delicious home cooking and relaxing at the dock on the lake. This year our trip was over July 4th so we enjoyed a huge fireworks show down at the lake and it was spectacular. I saw amazing fireworks I had never seen before and some of them had sound effects like sparklers. I lived many years right near Disneyland so believe me I have seen a lot of fireworks in my day.

It is always so good to be home and in my very own bed. My BooBoo kitty is not letting me out of her sight. I shall be spending my week catching up on laundry, grocery shopping and other assorted household and yard chores.

Most of all I am looking forward to catching up on my favorite blogs and see what each of you have been busy doing. I have sincerely missed you. I had no computer, no internet, no access of any kind for over a week and I truly missed my daily blog perusing. I know I owe some serious thank you notes and will get to them as quickly as I can. I had a stack of mail awaiting my return and fortunately little packages of bliss out-weighed bills. I will need to really use my time management skills wisely this coming week in order to get it all done.

Thank you for all of your comments and emails. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends. May you have a wonderful week and make all the creative art that makes you happy...

Patriotic ATC...

2011-06-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

As we come upon a very important day in our United States of America I realize we all celebrate differently. Some of us make a long weekend out of the Fourth of July. Some of us make it into an entire week or more. We celebrate with picnics, BBQs and pool parties. We go camping. Whatever we do or however we celebrate it is a very meaningful day in our history.

I am thankful for all those that came before and for all those that are now fighting for our American freedom. It is so easy to take it all for granted. This time of year allows us to reflect on just how fortunate we are and how grateful we are for our freedom.

I have made this ATC to honor my freedom and to remember Freedom is not Free.

Twyla and Lindsey of Two Crazy Crafters are having a blog hop of Patriotic ATC's. I am not able to link to them but wanted to participate.
May you each enjoy your Fourth of July celebrations and stay safe.

Life Happens...

2011-06-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

This is some super cute fabric that makes me smile. It is chickens with a kitchen food theme. This photo does not do justice to how truly adorable and cheerful it is. And with the lining fabric of fried eggs it just had to become a tote bag to carry car trip snacks for a road trip.

Now Miss Lorraine and her hubby Mr. Rickey can easily carry a few much needed energy foods for a very long road march. Hmmm...pbj sandwiches, apple, peanut bar, water, M&Ms...check and good to go.
Now for the Life Happens...let me just say that is an understatement. We all experience it. It never happens at the right time or situation but it certainly happens. Yesterday I came home from errands and found Mr. C sitting at my desk computer. UhOh...not a good thing. I just kept on walking. What? Oh you need me to listen to you? Okay. Oh you decided to do what? Upgrade my computer with new versions of everything! You? Why? You never want new versions of software! Oh okay...

Needless to say after the entire day was over and it was late evening when he finished I sat down to post my Memory Lane Monday post and read my blog friends posts. Nope! Not going to happen! No way! No how! I couldn't even find my own blog let alone anyone else's. I spent hours trying to figure out where things were. Mr. C said things would be different and that too was an understatement. I, of course, am not the technical one in this family as Mr. C spent a great part of his life in the leading edge of technology and therefore I merely follow as I am told. Well, that can be a really big problem for me as I don't even speak his language and certainly cannot tell him what I lost or where I lost it from. We are really Mars and Venus and normally being opposites works pretty well for us. However not in technical computer land. I was lost and worse yet, my blogs were lost. Think Sherry! What is the perfect name to type in from scratch to recover your blogs you love? Not that! Oops! There has to be a better way...

Hours and hours later I did manage to find my lost blogs. So I begin to retrieve them and it takes forever as each one must be re-formatted to this new system of foreign software updates.

I have just discovered that I am not able to add any links or to preview in this post. DRAT! Needless to say I have gotten too far behind to catch up so I shall begin from this point forward.
Thank you for letting me vent. And thank you even more for staying with me on this journey of life and how and when IT happens.

At least I made a really cute little tote bag and feel good about being creative. Yay for crafts!!!

Please tell me what you are working on and how great it makes you feel to be creative.

Frozen Charlotte...

2011-06-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

A wonderful surprise in my mailbox. I think we all agree that it is so much fun to receive something in the mail. Unexpected, semi-expected or completely expected it all is very exciting. This is the package I received recently. The little box did not give me any clues. I had been notified that I had won a giveaway but was not certain what my gift would be. There were three items and mine was the last name so not to select which one I would receive. Oh goody I love good surprises. Hmmm...
I can't see how a set of wooden stamps could fit in this little box as that is the one item I thought wouldn't be selected 1 or 2. So Mr. C and I sat by the pond and I opened my little box. You would have thought I got stung by another bee from my scream I let out. Mr. C could only sit perplexed.

In this little box was this sweet photo and a handwritten note. A beige cloth bag tied with seam binding and I am so happy. What? How could it be? The exact item I would have chosen was in this little soft pouch. Oh thank you Lynn of Trash to Treasure Art. Thank you so very much!

I think you all follow this super talented lady. She has been published yet again so please go visit her today.

This is a frozen charlotte. She is tiny and precious and so very sweet. Lynn has embellished her with a crown and heart gilded in silver. She is standing on a musical stage within her little glass house surrounded by rhinestones all soldered together to keep her safe.

This photo is not the best and is filled with shadows however Tiny Dancer is shy and she doesn't mind being in the shadows.

I am enchanted with my tiny frozen charlotte doll. Thank you Lynn for sending her to me.

I smile each and everyday when I look at her in her little house.

I have seen many of these little frozen charlotte dolls in lots of crafts and art pieces and have wanted one for so long. My wish has come true.

Happy Summer Weekend to all...and winter for those across the pond...

Happily creating...

2011-06-23T14:59:00.001-07:00

I just can't help myself. I keep making these little lace chickies and they keep flying off to new homes. This little lady is still here as she hasn't decided where she is off to.

This little gal just left on a very long trip. She has chosen to fly clear across the ocean to a far away country. Far away from here in California. In fact she is surprising someone who is celebrating a birthday. Little Chickie knew before I even knew. Funny how a real personality comes forth as you are creating something. Bits of paper, lace, trims, a button and some twine and before you know it her little heart is beating and she is full of wonder and smiles. She has a long trip and then must endure customs so when she arrives I know she will need a tender loving hug. Fortunately her new home will give her lots of hugs and love. A dear sweet lady will take very good care of Little Chickie.

This little beaded heart leash is for a lovely lady who gave me these pretty floral needle nose pliers. I use them everyday it seems. They are so handy and also add a flair of floral femininity to my workroom studio. This photo really does not show how pretty they really are in green and pinks. Her beaded heart leash is in pretty yellows as that is the color she was wearing the day she gave me the pliers and she looked so pretty in yellow. Yellow is a difficult color for some to wear...like me. I love how sunny and happy yellow is but it looks awful on me with my skin tones. So I like to craft with yellow and that satisfies my love of the color yellow.

The studio and sewing rooms have been busy of late. Lots of creating and making of gifts for thank yous and birthdays.

Is it just me or are these longer sunshine days just evaporating all too quickly? I have so much more energy with the sun shining however I seem to be so far behind in every area of my day. Before I know it the sun has gone to bed and the daylight has changed to darkness and I am still not done with my list of daily items to accomplish. I do know I am spending lots more time outside enjoying the great weather. After seven months of super cold, wet and snowy winter I am loving the outdoors with all the green grass growing, flowers blooming, birds flying from tree to tree, and lizards lounging on warm rocks or pathways. I can literally spend hours hand watering plants and just enjoying the calmness of it all. Mr. C always reminds me that he installed complete drip systems and I do not need to hand water however I always tell him I don't mind doing it...I actually love it! Hmmm...maybe this is where I am losing time each day. Well if so, I am not going to complain as it is a wonderful way to wile away the hours enjoying nature and all it has to offer.

How are you spending your time in this glorious season of ours called Summer?

Or Winter where you are in the world?

May you enjoy every moment of every day and feel good about what you are doing...

Rescued Chair...

2011-06-21T13:45:00.001-07:00

This little chair was just waiting for me to rescue it. I was at the local Hospice Gift and Thrift and in the parking lot was a bunch of used...very used pieces of furniture. I saw this little chair and heard it calling to me. Sherrrrryyyyyy...
Of course I had to go take a look. And I always give furniture the wiggle test to see if it is too wonky. This little chair was only slightly unsteady. I knew Mr. C could strengthen it for me. The price? No way...$4. So I go inside and tell the clerk I want to buy this chair. She says are you taking it home today? Well of course I am...we have bonded and I can't leave it behind.

This is the label from the underside seat of the chair. It is solid wood and made here in the USA. I am now really bonding with this chair.

Here it is on Mr. C's workbench. All that needs doing is a little wood gluing to the spindle that connects to the chair back. How easy is this? Done and all better. Thank you Mr. C.

Now maybe a coat of white paint. After lots of sanding and priming and painting...

More sanding and painting. Thank you again Mr. C. Of course we had to wait until June for winter to end. I bought little chair in January.

And now little chair is beautiful in her new white coat and she is so happy to reside at the kitchen desk where she can be part of the family every day.

She is a very comfortable little chair and I am so glad she called me over to rescue her.

By-the-way...when I told the clerk that of course I would be taking little chair home with me right then she announced that the price was half the tag price. What?!! Little chair only cost me $2 and I am completely over-the-moon happy with her.

So sometimes being creative and crafty is not about fabric or beads or paper...sometimes it is the act of rescuing a worn out chair that someone disposed of and giving it new life with a fresh coat of paint and lots of love.

What have you been working on lately?

Pause To Enjoy...

2011-06-20T09:42:00.001-07:00

In this very busy time of year when the days are lighter longer and the temperatures are perfect for outdoor chores and fun events I make certain that I pause to enjoy the wonders of nature.
This photo includes a beautiful Japanese Maple (red colors) and some struggling Mock Oranges with double flowering blossoms.

The deer eat both of these to the point of devastation. This year I have blossoms only because these branches grew very tall and the deer don't seem to be able to reach them or the blossoms and greenery would be completely eaten to the bare branches and so not attractive.

So everyday I take a stroll around my property and enjoy each and every wondrous leaf, blossom and furl of a new fern.

May you have a week of enjoyment, creativity and time to pause to enjoy it all...

Happy Father's Day...

2011-06-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

This Sunday is Father' s Day here in the USA. I wish all Fathers, Grandfathers, Sons, Uncles, Brothers and anyone else a wonderful day.
Mr. C is all of the above and my husband I love dearly. We are do-overs in life and I feel so very fortunate that we found one another.
He really does put up with a lot when it comes to me and my quirkiness!
A few years ago I brought a used bowling ball home. No, neither of us bowl. So he simply had fun and bowled it down our steep driveway. I retrieved it as I needed it for a project. Oh No! Not another project. So he bowled it down the driveway again and I never found it. It probably went into the water canal and navigated who knows how many miles.
So I have always been looking for another used ball. All of them were far too expensive for me. Finally I found one at the local thrift store for $6. When I brought it home I hid it from Mr. C so he wouldn't bowl it down the driveway again.

This is my finished project. Mr. C actually bought me a steel post to place the finished ball on and he pounded it into the rock hard red clay ground. This is my new "gazing" ball.
This project is pretty time consuming as it goes slowly to glue the pennies on and then let them dry really well before rolling it to a blank space. I forgot to count the pennies but I think it is about $8 worth. So for about $25 total I have a really unique coppery yard art piece. It will be interesting to see the real pennies verdigris and the new non-copper pennies just remain the way they are.
My heartfelt thank you Mr. C and a very Happy Father's Day.
May you all enjoy a day of time spent together and making happy memories...

Follow Up To Guess This Project...

2011-06-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

Way back in May I posted a photo of these cardboard pieces and asked if you could guess what I was going to do with this "trash". It has taken a lot longer to complete this project however here is the reveal.
Each little hard cardboard tent got handpainted with gold paint. Then each one got a strip of gold paper attached to it. Then there was a lot of punching out names and hearts and attaching them to the little tents.

Here you see the finished project. Table place cards. A dear friend is having her 90th birthday and her stepdaughter and I are doing the table decorations for the party. In an earlier post I showed the ribbon bookmarks we made for each guest. We have also done candy bags with a cute header and edge punched and hearted with Happy 90th Elsbeth on them.

This is the special place card for the birthday girl. I think she will be pleased with the extra attention. This will be a grand celebration for a grand lady.

So never look at anything with only one purpose in mind. Anything is possible if you just imagine. My Grandma would be so proud that I learned such a valuable lesson from her. Thank you dear sweet Grandma. I absolutely know she is watching me from heaven and smiling.

My dear friend Lindsay reads my blog and guessed correctly. I think I may be putting the creative vibe in her mind as well. Good job Miss Lindsay Lollipop. :o)

Another week comes to a close and may you each have a terrific weekend. Celebrate the men in your lives as we have Father's Day this Sunday. I will be spoiling Mr. C as I am so fortunate he is in my life.

Happy Creating...