HEART IN MY HAND

Cage Doll

2012-01-13T16:56:00.002-07:00

I had seen these on Pinterest and knew I needed to make one. They are a great way of using up old charms,buttons,earings and other odds and ends

Junk Yard Dog

2011-11-08T19:29:00.004-07:00

This little girl had nothing to do all day

Now she is busy being the Junk Yard Dog

Heart From the Heart Swap

2011-02-17T10:42:00.006-07:00

I joined Debbie's swap at the last minute and I'm so thrilled I did. I received this stunning heart from Jillayne. I absolutely love it. The detailed stitching the colors everything about it is fabulous.
Debbie also included a little heart and you would think the two of them had gotten together. Same colors and stitching.
They look wonderful on my heart wall.
This is the heart that I made.

February Artful Bag Challenge

2011-02-09T10:37:00.008-07:00

This month's challenge for the Artful Bag Challenge is Alter It. Using something that is not originally a purse. I used an old hardback book. Removing the guts of the book. I covered the back and front with the pages that were removed. Then waxed over the entire thing. Sides are out of decorative paper and lined inside with the same paper.

Embellished with waxed corn husk flowers, beads, and coffee stained scrim.

I left the back undecorated. I always love how the wax absorbs the paper differently and creates different tones.

Measure Twice Cut Once

2011-02-07T16:15:00.002-07:00

Face is made from paper clay.

The Butterfly Effect

2011-01-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

My contribution to the Butterfly Effect. This is a fantastic project and I encourage everyone to join.

A Quick Makeover

2011-01-10T15:46:00.000-07:00

I always carry a small notebook. When I worked for Proctor and Gamble we were always getting notebooks of all sizes. They always have advertising on them for new product. This one is the perfect size for my handbag. But I had to do something with the cover.
Went to the fabric stash and just pulled a few I liked. Sewed them together in no order and stitched to book that I cover with paper.
It took about 20 minutes and looks a lot better than the Pro glide:)

New Year

2011-01-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have been MIA for sometime now. But, I back and going to try to keep up with posting:)
Stay tune. Should be lots to come

Seeing Red

2010-05-30T14:48:00.000-06:00

Red work became popular in the 1870's. The term came from the embroidery floss used know as Turkey Red. It was popular among common folk as the cotton fabric and floss was far less expensive than silk. The basic outline stitch is used. Easy and fun. And who says you have to use red. Try whatever color you like..............

Where Have the Years Gone?

2010-05-27T08:39:00.000-06:00

Today is daughters graduation from high school. It only seems like yesterday she was starting kindergarten. We were driving her to Girl Scout camp, watching gymnastic class and volleyball practice. Working on school projects. Where does the time go.....
Now, she will be leaving for college the end of June.
We are so very proud of this girl. She is very headstrong and knows what she wants in life. She is funny,sensitive and caring. She is ready for the world. Am I ready? I have done all I can. It is her time to shine. Love you bug. You have grown into a beautiful young women

Passing Days

2010-05-13T10:06:00.000-06:00

Lately my days have been in stitches.

My Life in Stitches

2010-04-25T10:30:00.000-06:00

The problem with selling a house you live in day to day is you have to keep it clean and ready to show at all times. But I'm going crazy not being able to do any art. I decided I would do some embroidery. That way I could keep it contained and sweep it into a basket at a moments notice.
Because I feel my life is in limbo right now I wanted to do quick easy pieces.

Easter Wishes

2010-04-04T09:49:00.000-06:00

2010-03-15T19:11:00.000-06:00

I have been so busy trying to get this darn house on the market. We have done things that should have been done years ago. Today they installed the new shower doors. I don't even want to use the shower cause I don't want them to get all water spotted. New carpet has been put down in 3 of the bedrooms. I'm almost there. Spent the weekend in Colorado. Drove up with hubby on Friday and flew back yesterday. He started his new job today.
But, the main reason I have been away is I lost my very dear and close friend,Melissa. She had a brain aneurysm followed by a massive stroke. I miss her dearly and can not believe she is gone. She was only 45. So young. My heart is so empty.
Between everything that has been going on and now this. I'm ready for 2010 to be over and it is only March. UGH!!!!!!!

A Time To Play and A Time To Hide

2010-02-15T17:41:00.000-07:00

I spent the afternoon playing and hiding. Hubby was replacing the kitchen sink. He hates plumbing. The kids left. The dog and I hid away in my studio. He yells and cusses very loudly. We have all learned to just stay clear. However I have to stay close by just in case he needs a hand. I have lost track of how many trips he has made to Home Depot. Soon I have to pack that room up. It is the only room left with the yucky popcorn ceilings. Everything has to come out so new carpet can go down. The office will have to go in that room. Right now it is in the dining room. The dining room has to be staged as a dining room. I'm hoping I can leave a corner for me to create. I will go crazy if I can't. Especially if the house sits on the market for any length of time.

Class

2010-02-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterdays class at Paper,Metal, Scrappers in Payson, AZ. Love teaching there. Brenda and Barb have a fabulous store. Lots of eye candy to encourage your creativity.
Thanks to all the wonderful women in the class. Getting out of the valley and away from my hectic household is just what I needed.
Wings are paper clay. Face and leg is Shrinky Dink. Of course I forgot my camera, so no pics of everyone's finished doll. I can tell you there were no two alike. Great job ladies!!!!

It's Been A While

2010-02-08T22:34:00.000-07:00

Most of the time my life goes very smoothly. Aside from a few bumps in the road everything just moves quietly along. But not this past month.

First bump: we are moving!!!! After 22 years in the desert we are moving back to Colorado.
We are very excited and yes I will miss the desert in the winter, but not in the summer. However, I'm stressing. We will need to sell our house. With the recession, and Phoenix having the second highest foreclosure rate in the country. I'm starting to flip out. We have spent the past month painting and doing repairs and upgrades around the house. All this for someone else to enjoy. Funny thing is, some of the improvements we have wanted to do the past 17 years we have been in this house. All my creative efforts have been going to painting rooms and doors. Hubby will move next month and I will stay till the house sells. Hopefully that won't take 3 years.

Bump #2: My daughter was jumping a fence and landed on a bush. A branch went into her upper thigh about 6 inches and left a very large hole in her leg. It looked like a gunshot wound. Not that I have seen many gunshot wounds, but I do watch CSI. She has had 2 surgeries in a 3 week time span. The first was to determine the extent of the damage to her leg,and pack the wound. The second was to close the wound that was about 4 inches long and a good inch wide. My heart ached for her. She was so brave and was in an enormous amount of pain. But she is one tough nut. She still walks with a limp. So no high heels for awhile. The limp bothers me more that the fact that she will have a very large and ugly scare on her leg.

Bump #3: My daughter's" bff" has moved in with us. Why?? Her Mother is very screwed up.That is being kind. 2 years ago this girl tried to kill herself. Rehab and an ugly divorce of her very screwed up parents. She is now clean and sober and we are very proud of her. But her mother's new boyfriend has decided he doesn't want her around so the mother told her to go live with her father. The last time she stayed with him was when she tried to kill herself. I really want to slap this woman,but have been told by the bff, daughter and my husband to not say a word to her.

These bumps, plus the ongoing worry about my mother. The care center calls me about once a week. I have to talk her down from whatever she has gotten upset about. Usually she doesn't know where her car is. I have to remind her that we sold the car 3 years ago. Last week I just had to laugh. She told me she was leaving the next day for Europe. She was flying into London and once there she would figure out the rest of her trip. I just went along with it. It is a crazy illness.
Oh and one more, my day job is making me crazy..........................

Tina Wright

2010-01-04T22:05:00.000-07:00

My heart is heavy with sorrow. My blog friend Tina has lost her battle with cancer.
This is a pic of myself, Tina and Mike Puttman at Mystic Paper in 2008.
I met Tina through the blog world. She was hosting a Kitchen Swap and I was lucky enough to be her swap partner. Tina and I hit it off right away. She was visiting the Phoenix area and we made a point to get together. She was an amazing spirit. She loved her life and all that surrounded her. Whenever I was questioning myself, Tina always was there with positive and encouraging words. Her voice came out in her art and photography. I admired her strength and her will to fight. My life has been deeply touched by Tina
I will miss your dearly my friend. If there are Harley riders in Heaven, Tina will be leading the parade.
Go in Peace my dear xoxo

2009-12-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

“Another fresh new year is here . . .
Another year to live!To banish worry,
doubt, and fear,
To love and laugh and give!

******* Happy New Year my friends*******

White Christmas

2009-12-23T12:58:00.000-07:00

We will be enjoying a white Christmas in Colorado.
Hope everyone has a happy and healthy Christmas and a safe New Year
Hugs

2009-11-26T00:23:00.000-07:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Hope your day is surrounded with the ones you love.

2009-11-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

Took a quick weekend trip to see friends in Santa Cruz, CA. We drove down the coast to Monterrey,one of my favorite places. Lunch on the pierHubby and I I loved this boat. It was so rusty and did not look safe at all.

Continued down the coast to a lovely place called Rocky Point. Drinks by the sea. Awesome views. There is something about the ocean that is so relaxing and yet invigorating to me.
Dinner in Carmel at Mission Valley Ranch. Owned by Clint Eastwood.
These sheep graze in front of restaurant. Lamb was not on the menu. lol

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T09:47:00.001-06:00

Happy Halloween have a bootiful day
Country Living Magazine

2009-10-26T14:02:00.000-06:00

Come find me here!!!!!

Halloween Party

2009-10-15T15:17:00.000-06:00

Vanessa is at it again. You don't want to miss her annual Halloween online party
Come on in. I'm sure you will find someone you know in the closet. Take a look around.
The Witch is in and has her green glow on.
The Ravens have arrived

All the cute little ones are out.Hurry you don't want to be late to everyone's party. Thanks for stopping by,come back when you can stay longer.

2009-10-03T09:50:00.000-06:00

Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance, order, rhythm and harmony

A Spoonful of Love

2009-09-28T14:28:00.001-06:00

My latest piece. The face and wings I made out of paper clay. Working on another piece. Couple of them may be creepy dolls. Hope to have them done this week.
Have a creative week

2009-09-22T07:56:00.000-06:00

On Sept 12,Mystic P aper turned 5. Carlene and I joined Jennifer and Kim for their celebration. In these tough times it is encouraging to see a local shop still able to survive. This is due in part to these 2 wonderful women. Their support, encouragement and welcoming smiles.
It is always great to see Mike and (his better half) Lesley. JK, Mike.
Lesley made this awesome shrine. Oh how I love the doll with no head and wings.

Last Saturday I taught this class at Paper Metal Scrappers in Payson. I was thrilled when they contacted me after seeing my article in Sommerset. (Side note I can't get the link to work just google it)
What can one say about Paper Metal Scrappers? In a word, WOW! If you live or are visiting AZ it is worth your time to drive the 90 or so miles from Phoenix to their shop. Barb and Brenda have created a warm and welcoming, eye candy filled place to hang out at.
Some pics of the 20 creative, wonderful women in the class.
Thanks ladies for inviting me I had a great time. I also want to thank Julie for teaching me this technique and allowing me to pass it on.

2009-09-21T08:45:00.000-06:00

Quick update. I'm still alive. We have been having problems with our computer. Hubby spent most of Saturday working on it. I can download pictures,but when I go to load them onto the blog I can't find them. He showed me how to do it,but today I can't get it to work. This means I will have to ask him again. Hopefully this week I will be able to download pics. Until then............................

Sew Much Fun

2009-08-31T08:27:00.000-06:00

Spent the better part of the weekend making a dress for the Girl Child.
The dress is linen. I love the look of linen but after you sit down once it looks like you have slept in it. She doesn't mind that messy style. The flower is coffee dyed bits and pieces of fabric and lace. Some of the fabric has been stamped with text.

Played with UTEE. The face and wings are out of UTEE.

On drift wood with fibers and copper wire.

Play Time

2009-08-14T14:09:00.000-06:00

Hubby is out of town. Both kids are busy having a life. That means I got to play the other night. My desk was in dire need of being cleaned. Rather than throwing away or putting away I decided to see what I could come up with using the pile at hand.

Little dolly. I had found a small spool in a thrift store. The desire was there to alter her face, but I refrained. It was very hard. Looking at her now I think I should have done something. She is all glued and done. Don't you just hate to take things apart after you have them all done? I'll just go with her. She is little only about 6 inches.

I had been making charms for a swap and had all the soldering paraphernalia out. Kinda fun. The guy at the photography studio where daughter had her senior pics done really liked it. Her photos look like crap,so she has to have those retaken.

Some retail (esty)therapy this is from birdfromawire. She does amazing things with wire check her out.

The Pink Artist Drawing

2009-08-02T23:16:00.000-06:00

Monica at Girl gone thread wild is at it again. It is that time again for her Pink Artist Drawing. For every $10.00 you donate you are entered into the drawing to win a chance at a donated piece of art by some awesome artist. All proceeds go toward the The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research. The drawing is held October 15,2009. Click on the above for all the details and go here to donate and view all the art.

Doll I have donated to the drawing.

Stop Art Piracy

2009-07-22T17:53:00.000-06:00

My sweet and very talented friend Marsha has been a victim of a horrible crime. One of our fellow artist has used pieces of her work(without altering them) and claimed them as her own. The issue has been resolved and the art removed from flickr. Out of this crime, Marsha has come up with an idea to make art that represents this exact problem. I know this goes on all the time and it is not right. We all put our hearts and soul into what we make. Be it for profit or pleasure. So is it stealing one's work when you copy an idea? There are a lot of wings and pointy hats. I love wings and put them on just about everything. Is it stealing one's work when you use a technique? I don't think so. How many of you take a heat gun to paint to get it to bubble?
But when you take a piece of work or image without asking or outright copy someone's work,then that's a different story.
Join Marsha and other to Stop Art Piracy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

She is Back

2009-07-20T18:23:00.000-06:00

Many of you have asked about daughter. She is back. With the economy the way it is, the fashion industry has been hit hard. There was very little work for her. Having to pay everything out of her own pocket, free food and a bed at mom and dad's started looking very good. It put a dent in her bank account, but all was not lost. She has the experience under her belt and will try at a later time. The season will start picking up here so she should get some work locally.
Thanks everyone for asking.

It's A Hot One!!!!!!!!

2009-07-19T11:08:00.000-06:00

9am today. UGH!!! Our patio is on the north side of the house and covered. I'm not leaving the house today. Hubby is playing golf. He is out of his flipping mind.

Last Saturday took this class from Josie. At Mystic Paper It is an old jar lid that has been soldered. Was very difficult to photograph without getting a glare.

Doll for Jennifer and Kim at Mystic Paper. The charm is a women in the moon. That is their logo. The cowboy boot and rusty stars is Kim's part of the duo. Jennifer always wears the most fabulous clip on earrings and has a shabby chic side to her. Combined they make a great team. Had to borrow Kim's pic from their blog, cause someone forgot to take a picture of her before she went to live at the store.

Howdy

2009-07-10T11:11:00.001-06:00

This picture cracks me up. It is a post card that I found in Durango CO. A cowboy on a horse with his dog in the saddle holding the reins in his mouth. "Designated Drive" was the caption on the card. I copied the image onto fabric,and just started layering. The pieces of rusty metal I had my husband pull out of the bonfire at our friends lodge in Durango. Skull is from Hobby Lobby.
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Shrink Happens

2009-07-02T14:32:00.000-06:00

I have been playing with shrink plastic or Shrinky Dink. Using stamps for the images. The above plastic pieces I applied alcohol ink after they were shrunk. Don't use the blending solution or it will smear the ink. The branch,clock and small bird are on white plastic.The bird image was stamped on the collage as well as on plastic. It really does shrink down. So when you pick a stamp make sure it is of good size.
Art doll 1. Her face I left uncolored. Hands and frame I used alcohol ink. Pieces glued or wired to rusted tin.
Art doll 2. She is stamped on frosted plastic. Her face was stamped after the plastic was shrunk. The only color add is to her lips.
Art doll 3. All the pieces are stamped on white plastic. Colored with chalk or markers

Dog Days of Summer

2009-06-29T12:58:00.000-06:00

What's a dog to do when it is HOT???

First she has to sunbath.

Then a couple of lap(b)s around the pool.

I hate water in my ears!!!!!

I'm going back inside to sleep on the sofa for the rest of the day.

So is the photographer..............

Where the Heck Have I Been?

2009-06-24T14:49:00.000-06:00

I'm back...........Our trip to Calif was very hard on me. I did not feel good about leaving daughter there. She is doing okay. Not much work,but she has settled in. The trip to see my mom was very hard on me this time. She did know who my husband was the first couple of days. By the last day she had no idea who he was.
When we got back I was in a major funk. No mood to talk to anyone for about a week. I just went about my daily routine on auto pilot. That's why I have not answered any emails or responded to comments. I seemed to have had a lot of negative thoughts and did not want to burden everyone with that.
Last weekend we went to Durango, CO. I moved there in my mid 20's to ski for a winter. I ended up staying for 5 years and got married. There will always be a special spot in my heart for Durango and the La Plata Mountains. We have a long time friend who owns the Silverpick Lodge, where we stay. Our friends from the bay area came out. He and hubby have known each other since they were 13. When they get together they still act like they are 13.lol It was great fun, lots of laughs, lots of drinking, lots of food, and not a lot of sleep. We are just not as young as we used to be......lol. The Silverpick Lodge sits at about 8000 ft. My, oh my I'm a flat lander. Hiking one day I thought my lungs were going to burst. Not to mention my heart was about to beat out of my chest.

View from the front door of the lodge

View from our deck. Aah!!! Green. When you live in the desert you forget how many shades there are..

The Needles/ La Plata MountainsThe contrast between the dark pine trees and the light aspens was just breathtaking.
Silverton Co. Funky little town. We drove up there one morning for breakfast.

I'll Be Back

2009-05-30T08:45:00.000-06:00

We are leaving tomorrow for California. We are driving daughter and her 15 suitcases to the Hollywood area. No joke,she has packed everything. I told she was not going to a 3rd world country. She is signed with Willamina Modeling. My hopes are she has enough work to break even. Anything after that will be wonderful.
Hubby and I will then drive just north of Santa Barbara to see my mom.
I'm looking forward to getting out of the heat. Already in the low 100s. And getting away from my day job. Back in a week...........................

KC Willis Collage Camp

2009-05-13T18:17:00.000-06:00

If you are not familiar with KC Willis go here. You will see she usually uses western and native American images in her beautiful works. Her camp has been fun learning her tricks to layering fabrics and distressing. However, if you know me I like to color outside the lines. I really wanted to add hardware to bring in even more texture. And of course add a doll.

It Takes Time to See
In this first piece I added a doll. I stayed away from making her to creepy. Her body has been coffee dyed. Cinnamon was sprinkled on while she was still wet. She smells good. I used a canvas board to mount everything on. This makes the piece stronger to hold the weight of the doll and tin. The pocket watch had been my grandfather's and it still works.
The In-Laws
Also mounted on a canvas board. I used the rust technique on the board. The leafs on the tree represent a family member.

The image is a post card I picked up in Sedona. The picture cracks me up. I'm guessing they were having a watermelon eating contest. If only these old pictures could talk.

Paper,Scissors.................fish

2009-05-05T08:09:00.000-06:00

This little one has made a home in Marsha's house. Why paper,scissors,........fish.
Marsha's is a fabulous collage artist. Her work is absolutely amazing.And I can say I'm the proud owner of one of her pieces. I'm someone who generally works in neutrals,but I love color. The colors in her work are so saturated and pure. Every time I look at one of her "works of joy" it brings a smile to my face.
So, back to paper,scissors.................fish. Her studio is Tumblefish Studios. I was just playing around with the large pair of scissors in her head,I have had the fish for sometime now and they just never seemed to work into anything. She just came together. And I knew who's home she belonged in. Why wings? Marsha uses wings in most of her work. Someone out there in blog land made a comment to her that wings were overused and she should try something different. Oh please!!! are there every to many wings or fairies?
If you have not made a trip to Marsha's site do so now. She is a delight,her work and her stories will put a smile on your face.

Somerset Studio

2009-04-28T13:44:00.001-06:00

Thought I would post the 3 projects that were pictured in Somerset Studio. All 3 I have used foam board and a rust application
Tomorrow I'm leaving for Calif. to go check on my sweet little mama. She is having cataracts removed. Even though it is supposed to be a very simple operation, I feel I need to be there.

My Maiden Voyage

2009-04-25T14:16:00.000-06:00

Have you gotten your new issue of Somerset Studio? You better rush right out and get it cause...here's the part you hear screaming and jumping for joy..........I'm in it. Yippee . My first time.
The talented Carlene is also in the same issue. Sooooooooooo off we went over to Mystic Paper to have Jennifer take our pic together. I know, kinda lame.Mike came in while we were there. He is always fun. We drug him into our photo session.

Remember me showing you this fugly thing? It was the apron we were given to alter.This is my finished product. The bib,center panel and waist band are from the original apron. I ditched the ruffle. To see all the aprons go to here and place your bid.

New Day

2009-04-23T11:55:00.000-06:00

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Howard Thurman

Earth Day

2009-04-21T14:13:00.000-06:00

Wednesday April 22 is Earth Day.

Everyone needs a Tree Hugger in their life. Click pic to enlarge.

Happy Earth Day. Hope it's a Green one......

2009-04-19T12:20:00.000-06:00

My day started with taking this class with the talented Lisa, at Mystic Paper. I didn't finish the class and left in the middle of it. I had so much going on in my head that I just couldn't wrap my mind around doing all the tags. I always feel very "tag challenged" and things were just not clicking. I need to come home spread everything out and really focus. That is what I did and I'm okay with the way it turned out. This is one of those projects I can keep adding to or taking away from. It is hard to see the dress form,but it is wire. I still have not overcome my tag phobia. We all have our hang ups......

Part of my lack of focus was brought on by daughter.......................................
Last night was Prom. She was freaking out that I would not be back to roll her hair. And in the middle of the class I remembered I had told them I would do the flowers. Oops menopause brain on overload.
Daughter being the one who has to have her own style and hates to dress like everyone else. (I like that part about her and always have encouraged it) Decided she was going to wear vintage cowboy boots with her Jessica McClintock dress. Her dad was questioning the look until he saw her. As she said I totally rocked it.

After they left,and a couple glasses wine later, I finished up the new member of the bird family. Yes I sewed the paper onto the wire wings. Did that before the wine. After I took the class with Tim Holtz I had been wanted to make another bird. A wooden bird is needed for this (you have to drill into the bird to attached the hardware) and they are hard to find,unless you are into sandpipers and gulls. Walked into TJ Maxx the other day and there he was. Only 7 bucks. Paint and hardware later he fits right in with his new friend.
Have a great week............

2009-04-16T09:06:00.000-06:00

This is a piece I purchased from Marsha. Her work is amazing. Please stop by and say hi to her.

Wanted to share with you a couple of dolls I have been working on. The key for her leg is the result of a poor job of amputation. Happy mistakes.

Nice and quiet

2009-04-13T12:17:00.000-06:00

We had a very nice quiet weekend. Saturday we woke up to rain. Yes RAIN!!!!!!!!!!! Rain is always a good thing in the desert. Last weekend we spent painting daughter's room and rearranging my studio. Hubby built me two table tops. I was going to paint the walls and redo the floor. But.........that would have meant I would have had to completely unload the room. I was happy just to get the table tops and get everything organized. It now feels like a new room. More than 1 person can fit in there. Daughter even hung out with me in there yesterday. With all the crap on the walls you can't tell the paint needs to be touched up.

Before shot of my mess

After. It may not look like a big difference but there is.
The other side of the room after.
Daughter's room after. The really cool graphics and chandelier are from IKEA
The walls are a light gray. Her drapes are a dark purple. There is Monkey. He is missing an eye, but he is well loved. Monkey has traveled all over the world. He will be spending the summer in CA. She has signed with an agency there and will leave the end of next month.

Swap time

2009-04-10T08:22:00.000-06:00

Judy and I did a little swap. She painted me this beautiful picture of red tulips. I love it Judy! Judy and I met at Mystic Paper. We have taken classes together. She is a collector of angels. So of course I made her an angel. The hankie, lace and wings were dipped in coffee. A small waxed butterfly rest on her head.
Paper flower on the back of her head was dipped in coffee and then in wax. Lace was added to back of wings. I hope you enjoy her Judy. She was fun to make.

Hearts

2009-04-07T13:34:00.000-06:00

I have been one of those bad bloggers that has not posted in a while. I have been blurking,that's
blog talk for lurking, all your blogs. Not leaving many comments. I'll be back later in the week.
In the mean time here is a heart wall in my studio.It is no secret that I love hearts. Hands is another one. Duh Heart in my Hand. The big metal one with the flowers bottle my daughter just gave me for my bday.
Have a good week

Altered Cutlery

2009-03-28T22:50:00.000-06:00

This weeks challenge at ABBA is altered cutlery. I posted these awhile back but thought, what the heck I'll show them again for the challenge.

Someone to Watch Over You

2009-03-21T09:50:00.001-06:00

Remember when I said I wasn't much of a doll person. Well I take that back. They have become my new addiction. This one is for my dear friend Tracey. It is for her birthday. Her birthday isn't till May, but I couldn't wait to give it to her. She was thrilled. Tracey collects hankies, loves angels and is a devout Catholic . The dolls dress is a hankie. Her wings were from a candle holder I found at Goodwill for $1.00. Vintage buckle and rosary found at an antique mall in Scottsdale.

On This Day.......

2009-03-18T00:53:00.000-06:00

On this day in 1954 I was born...................You do the math. Yep, I'm really that old.I know I can't believe it either. UGH!!! Happy Birthday to me!!! It is really March 18 not the 17 as the post date says.
On this day.......Carlene tagged me.Okay maybe it was a couple of days ago. You were to take a picture of yourself when you read about it on her blog. So after many attempts to get a shot of me with only a double chin instead of 3 or 4, here it is. Another UGH !!! You will all be relieved to know that won't be tagging anyone.
On this day...........This boy leaves for a month.To tour with the band he is in. He will have a blast. But, did he have to leave on his mother's birthday? UGH!!!
One this day... This girl (sister), the beautiful black dog and the fat old gal in the middle will miss this boy
When they were much younger they always wanted to have their pictures taken back to back. And they always made silly faces. Some things never change. And in this case that's a good thing.

Left Overs

2009-03-15T10:36:00.000-06:00

When you only use the head of the doll,what's a girl to do with all the left over parts? I know she is a little on the creepy side. I like her.My family thinks I have tapped into some dark side. I attribute it to menopause. Sometimes I feel I have all this excess junk going on in my head There again menopause.Well that's my story and I sticking to it.She will have to remain in my "happy place". They (my family) don't want her coming out in public view. I told hubby she was going on his nightstand so when he woke up in the morning he would see her. lol
The above ugly apron is a project from Mystic Paper. The apron will be altered into something fabulous. The "new" aprons will be auctioned off and the proceeds will go to A Place to Bark. Check back next month to see what I have come up with. I promise no creepy baby doll heads. lol.

Meet Eliza

2009-03-03T12:41:00.000-07:00

Another doll using the technique from Joanna's online class. All the lace, keys,small button and her nail arms I picked up in London. While in London we went to the Covent Gardens area. I loved the narrow winding street. Made me think of My Fair Lady. So I had to name her Eliza Doolittle.
On one side of her face I used the Tim Holtz crackle paint. In person it looks better. In the photo it looks a creepy looking.lolThe side without the crackle paint.
This is also from one of Joanna's online classes. I'm not real thrilled with it. I had a shortage of metal works so I rusted a wood piece from Michael's.

Back Home

2009-02-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

Can you guess where I have been all week? Yep, that's right London. Went with my gal pal Melissa. NO Kids NO Husbands. We had a blast. Loads of shopping, sightseeing, eating and laughs.
5 days however is not near enough time to see and do everything in a city that is hundreds of years old. I really need to go back.
The weather wasn't even that bad. Slight drizzle one day. Didn't even have to use my umbrella.
No matter how much fun you have,it is always nice to come home and sleep in your own bed. Oh did it ever feel good last night after a 9 hour flight.
That would be me in a Covent Gardens phone booth
Horse guards at Buckingham Palace

Market on Portabello Street.
Love red doors. This one is in Notting Hill
The sign on this door at the Tower of London cracked me up.
Big Ben. Absolutely beautiful.

Art Doll

2009-02-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

I'm not much of a doll person. I like them,but I don't really have dolls sitting around. But there is something about Joanne's art dolls that really grab me. When I saw she was teaching an online class for her art dolls. I knew I had to give it a try.
The online class is still going on. I however, couldn't wait for the last few videos and went ahead and finished mine up. I have done enough assemblage to figure out how to attach everything. I think maybe I was a guy in a past life. I have a tendency to just do something and them go back and read the directions.....lol
I'm rather happy with the way she turned out. The little bird cage with the red bird was an earring of my mothers.
I hope Joanne gives her thumbs up. Click on each pic to enlarge.
The flowers on her face I painted on. I don't know how many I tried on paper and they just weren't looking right. Finally, I just said the heck with it and painted them on her face. I think I was putting to much thought into them.

Be Mine

2009-02-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

From my heart to yours.Happy Valentine's Day

One World-One Heart

2009-02-12T07:18:00.000-07:00

Today is the big day the drawing for One World One Heart.
A huge THANK YOU to all 346 of you who enter my drawing.
The first named drawn and the winner of the altered tin and shoe is .............................
Sherry!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
at Got Art

The second name and winner of the screen door is............................................
Jendy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
at It's Not Easy Being Green
Congrats Ladies, please send me your address

Coat of Arms

2009-01-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

If you are of English descent most likely you have a family crest. My maiden name is Evans. There was always a family crest hanging in our house. I never gave it much thought,it was just there. When I married 100 years ago.(not really it just feels that long, some days even loooooonger lol ) Any who, I learned there was no family crest for my new name. Okay I can live with that, and I did. Until I found Heather's blog. That got my creative juices flowing and decided I would come up with our own personal family crest.
On the wire tree, hangs a charm that represents each of us. Golf clubs for hubby. Music note for son. Shoe for daughter. Me, I get the scissors. At the bottom is a dog. The hearts are for our love for each other.
This was fun. Come up with your own family crest. If you don't sew use paper and glue. I usually work in a neutral pallet. For another idea check out Maija's

Thank You

2009-01-23T09:54:00.000-07:00

Wow I'm overwhelmed by the response to the OWOH giveaway. I have been trying to get back to all of you that have entered and to visit all the participants. What a creative world we live in. The fact that we can visit people from around the world with just a click of a button still blows my mind. Of course, I still don't comprehend how a fax works, but that's for a different day. I'm so amazed at all the talent that is out there.
I just want to say a Great Big THANK YOU to all of you for taking time to enter my giveaway. And to all of you who are participating for your generosity.
Remember the drawing isn't until February 12. But you can only leave a comment here.

One World-One Heart

2009-01-19T04:39:00.000-07:00

Year 3 of One World-One Heart starts today. Bloggers from all over the world are participating. Enter between now and February 12 ON THIS POST ONLY. Be sure to visit the One World -One Heart site to enter all the giveaways. Click on the button above. Lisa has listed all the participants on the sidebar.

This year, I will have 2 drawings. Click on the pictures to see enlarged view.

First, an altered tin. One Wing
Along with the tin, is this little shoe pin cushion.
Second drawing. The Screen Door
Leave a comment and I will put your name in the hat. You must be an active blogger to play. Remember the drawing isn't until February 12. That gives you plenty of time to visit all artist and enter the fabulous giveaways.
I'm looking forward to meeting all you Bloggers.

Look who just rolled in

2009-01-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took this fabulous class with The One and Only Tim Holtz at Frenzy Stamper in Scottsdale. We started out with not so nice looking wood birds, then we went to work putting our Tim MAGIC on them. Of course I forgot to take my camera. Go here and hopefully Debbie will post pictures from the class. Also wish her a happy anniversary. She has been open 6 years. With so many scrapbook and crafts stores closing it is nice she is still going strong. There were 24 of us in the class and no 2 birds ended up alike. Most were all painted different colors. One other gal and I did black birds. I'm sure there is something Freudian about that. He is making a new home with my other ravens.

She was a mystery

2009-01-06T22:22:00.001-07:00

Couple of things I have been playing around with. The cameo is a clip on earring that had been my moms. Click on pic to enlarge.

Under Armor

Front
Back
Looking at the photo I think the back still needs something else. What do you think?

For my gals in Texas

2008-12-30T11:51:00.001-07:00

They say everything in Texas is big. Well I have two blog pals with BIG Hearts. They are so talented and just sweethearts.
The first is for Cindy. We have never met, but as she says we were separated at birth. She has been so encouraging and supportive with my mom. Hopefully we will meet one day.

Next is Tina. We have met and she is so durn (as they say in TX) cute. Loads of fun. A cowgirl through and through. She too has been supportive this past year.
Thanks girls for all your blessings. Hope you enjoy. Click on pics to see details.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T08:12:00.000-07:00

May you be surrounded by those you love.
Happy Holidays from my family to yours

Pretty Little Christmas Party

2008-12-15T07:38:00.001-07:00

Heather is hosting a Christmas Blog Party. So come on in and take a look. Last summer when I liquidated my mother's house I took some of her Christmas decorations. That was a crazy time and I was in such a hurry that I was just throwing things in boxes. When I opened them up yesterday I was surprised to find what I had brought back with me. I chose this year to decorate with her treasures. She loved cross stitch and Santa's.

These are some of her tree ornaments. As a child I always loved these. A few of them are ones her and my dad had when they first got married in 1942.

These two little elf's she had made out of felt. I always played with then. I remember a train of some kind that she put them on,but who knows what happened to that.

This is the angle that was always on the tree and the little dwarfs. Poor little guys have seen better days.
This was so much fun decorating with these memories from my past.
The rest of the pictures are all from my stash of treasures I have collected over the years. I have boxes and boxes of Christmas decorations. My taste has changed so much in the last couple of years. I have really simplified and now only choose to put out what reflects my current enjoyment.

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful,safe and happy holidays.

Fun with Foam Core

2008-12-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

I'm loving working with foam core. This first one is for my very dear friend Tracey for Christmas. The frame is foam core covered with pages from an old book then painted over. The heart is grunge board with a rust treatment applied to it. Click on the pic for a closer view.
This one is also a foam core board. The rust technique has been applied to the whole thing. The key hole is grunge board that has been rusted. Mica is used over the image.
Foam core is fun stuff. Try it you just might like it.
.

I'm moving slow

2008-12-02T15:43:00.000-07:00

I think I still have a Thanksgiving hangover. I wish I had not eaten all that pie. I'm having a hard time getting geared up for Christmas. My beautiful dog daughter and I have just been hanging out.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

May you be surrounded by all that you are Thankful for.

Third Times a Charm

2008-11-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

Class with Julie at Frenzy Stamper. Pewter wrapped base with loads of embellishments added. I ended up stringing all three of my charms on one chain. I like the impact of all three together with just one chain.

I Carry Your Heart

2008-11-20T08:11:00.001-07:00

I carry your heart i carry it in my heart. I have always loved this poem by e.e.cummings. I was making this for my daughter. But during the process I kept thinking of my mom. How the roles have reversed and I'm now her parent. Taking care of her needs. Trying to understand what is going on in her mind, even thought she has no clue. During my last visit she kept telling me "you look just like my daughter" It was a heart breaker. It is very difficult at times to morn someone while they are still living. That is what I feel like I'm doing. Not only does she not remember people and places, but she has lost expression in her face. She just seemed so flat. Most of time there was just a blank stare. For the most part she is healthy. She is not in pain. But, is it painful for her not to remember? No one knows that answer. I will always carry her heart and deep down I know she is carrying mine.
I did give this to my daughter and she was very touched by it. My hope is I will always remember who she is. I will always carry her heart in mine.
Trying to use what I have on hand. The image is from a kit I purchased from Caro l. The background and butterfly are waxed. Mica is used over the top.

Heart

2008-11-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I took this class from the oh so talented Julie, at Frenzy Stamper. The base of the heart is out of foam core. A rust treatment has been added. 5 different flowers,each with it own technique. If you ever have a chance to take a class with Julie, don't pass it up she is a wonderful.
I was not going to bore you with anymore pics of my daughter from Scottsdale Fashion Week. But I couldn't resist this one. She has been photographed more than I care to think and I have seen darn near all of them. This one, I have to say is one of my favorite. It is shots like this that I say Wow, maybe there is a future for you in modeling.

Scottsdale Fashion Week

2008-11-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

If you are local or going to be in the area this weekend, take in Scottsdale Fashion week. There are several shows going on at the same time. So you are sure to find something that is your style.
These photos were taking by the AZ Republic and yes that is my daughter. Maybe I'll see your there.

Just for Fun

2008-11-02T15:00:00.001-07:00

My daughter (left) and her BFF waiting for their dates to homecoming. These two are tons of fun.
Cross your Heart Bracelet from Julie's class here. The charm is mica with a metal heart.

Necklace I made using Julie's techniques. The charm is mica with copper sandwiched between.
My version of Tammy's cone people.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T10:10:00.001-06:00

Hope your weekend is full of treats

Who is Uncle Sid?

2008-10-28T14:10:00.000-06:00

Who is Uncle Sid? When my children were at that ugly middle school age. 11-14 They hated each other. I mean truly hated each other. They fought non stop, not just verbally but physically . I cried myself to sleep many a night thinking I had done something wrong. I was the reason they hated each other. I have one brother 10 years older than me, so I was not used to this type of behavior. My husband who is the oldest of 4, all within 6 years of each other. Would just say oh they will grow out of it.
Any way, one summer we drove 17 hours to see grandma. We were not in the car long when the fighting started. Now hubby who is usually very calm about things pulled the car over and told them that he used to have another brother Sid. Sid was the trouble maker and during a car trip Sid would not behave. So his dad pulled the car over and told Sid to get out and they left him along side the road. And they have never seen him since. My kids were old enough to know that their dad was always making up stories. So they were not real quick to believe this story. But as the trip went on hubby told more stories about how bad Sid was. By the time we got to Grandma's there was some question that the story might be true. They ran to Grandma and told her the whole story. She of course was horrified that her son could have painted such a terrible picture of her and assured her darling grandchildren that the story was not true. However by the end of the week of these little darlings fighting she was totally on board with the Uncle Sid story. Hubby's other siblings have been told the story. He is now referred to as" Poor Uncle Sid."When someone does something everyone will say look what happened to Poor Uncle Sid.

On a side note. My kids are now 18 and 16 and very good friends. Hopefully they won't be in therapy to many years.

What's in Your Closet?

2008-10-18T07:14:00.000-06:00

It's a party. But beware anything goes and anyone is invited.
You will have to get past the guard crow. Not to worry he lets anyone in. And I mean anyone.
Come on, you won't be alone. I know there will be someone there from you past. (Click on pics for more detail)
There is room for one more.
See anyone you know?
Remember her? Oh you must have one of those Aunts in one of your closets. I have a couple.
How about Uncle Sid? Remind me later when we are alone I will tell you the Uncle Sid stories.
Come now and find your family. You must have one or two of them rattling around in your closet. Do you keep them in the closet or do you let them out for the world to judge? Don't be shy we all have them. Some just more than others.When you leave close the door. I don't want them running off with one of your family members
Go out the way you came. The backdoor is bolted.
Wave to little fat bat boy when you leave. And don't take his candy.

Scrap Challenge

2008-10-13T09:04:00.000-06:00

Remember this assortment of fabrics from the scrap challenge. 10 different fabrics,turn them into something fabulous. I kicked around a few different ideas. But in the end I knew I had to do something with bees wax. DUH!!!!! kind of a no brainer. If you don't know by know I love bees wax.

So here she is in all her glory. Even a little crown to top her off. Leaf shapes were cut and hand sewn then dipped in wax. Applied to a mannequin that also has a wax treatment on it. Click on the pics to see a larger view.
The brown leaf really took on a leather look when dipped in the wax

Perfect Pearls was added to the leaves to give them shine and glimmer. Here is the flickr group of everyone work

Bees Wax Tags and Scrap Challenge

2008-10-08T16:13:00.000-06:00

Bees wax tags. For the clock and the dream tag on the one below I use mica. The jury is still out on the mica. Maybe I need to play around with it some more. Right now I'm not seeing that it is any big deal.
Received my scraps for the scrap challenge. 10 different fabrics I have to make into something wonderful. I have a few ideas swimming around. The rules are very simple. As long as you use all 10 fabrics you can use what ever else you want. Should be fun. I better get my creative juices flowing.

They Kicked Up Their Heels

2008-09-29T13:40:00.000-06:00

Last week was the first Texas Retreat. Hosted by my gal pals, Tina and Cindy. I had so wanted to join them, but was just unable to swing it. I did feel I need to be there in some form so I sent them each a goody bag. I personalized cowboy boot tags using images off their banners. Yes I took them without asking!!!!!!! Shame on me. Comfort dolls and bags to hold everything. I had to take these pics form their sites. I was having a menopause moment and forgot to take pics before I mailed them off. Go to their sites to see all the fun these fabulous ladies had. Even without me..................................
Tina is also having a giveaway and don't forget to wish her Happy Birthday

Metal Tape Switch Plate

2008-09-17T12:53:00.000-06:00

Been a while since I have posted. No excuse. I have been doing a little bit of playing.
Working on a metal tape piece that is coming together. It is taking longer than I had planned. I keep changing my mind. I may be over thinking the whole thing. Since I'm in the metal tape phase I thought why not cover the light switch plate in my "Happy Space" (as one of my daughter's friends likes to call it). Metal tape, Tim Holtz grunge board,elements and alcohol ink. I rather like the way it came out. Just think of the possibilities. Could make for some unique gifts.
Off to get a hair cut. Called my girl this morning to see if she could squeeze me in. She knows I will take the scissors to it myself if I don"t get in. It's funny how one day you like the look of your hair and overnight it turns to crap. Then there is the gray highlight issue.......................................ugh

Metal Tape

2008-09-04T12:27:00.000-06:00

Last night I took a metal tape class at Mystic Paper with Mike. OMG this was great fun!!!!!!
I'm still rather new to the altered art world and have so much more to learn. I will definitely be playing around with this technique. Click the picture to see the details. Yes I know the number is sideways. The color is achieved with alcohol ink. It took a awhile playing around with the colors to get the look the final look. That is the beauty of this if you don't like it you can take the ink off or add more tape. The spinners on the bottom are nailed on. Note to self : When nailing something on a board make sure the nail is shorter than the depth of the board. Yes, I nailed it to the table......... Oops, sorry Kim you will find nail holes in the table where I was sitting. Hey, Mike got a big hoot out of it,as did the rest of the class. Some people pay big bucks for the distressed look.
Off to play.

More dolls

2008-08-29T17:29:00.000-06:00

Couple more dolls for the comfort dolls project. The one in the middle is for me. Started out I was going to give her away. When I added the vintage flowers and the earring I decided I needed to keep her. Hey I need comfort once in awhile.
Enjoy your weekend.

He enjoys true leisure who has time to improve his soul's estate
Thoreau

Wings of.................................................

2008-08-23T18:39:00.000-06:00

At art unraveled I purchased a couple pieces of hand dyed felt. I knew I wanted to do wings using vintage lace. I kept putting them aside then picking them back up. It finally dawned on me why I was doing wings. Well, besides the obvious that I just like them. Let me back up a few months.
In January my son informed us he was not going to apply to any colleges. He needed a break and he wanted to follow his passion of music. We struggled with this. Many late night heated conversations. How could he not want to go to college? This was not in the plan. What would everyone think? What do we tell the rest of the family? What kind of parents were we who did not make their child go on to college? How would he succeed in life without a college education? We don't want to see our children make the same mistakes we made. We hate to see them struggle and get discouraged. I remember making choices my parents didn't approve of. Some out of rebellion. Some because they were my dreams. Oh, I remember being 18 and thinking I knew everything. I keep telling myself I have come to accept his decision. He has always been a free spirit. Never one to follow, always lead. And like both of his parents has some rebel in him. This is his life, his passion,his dreams,his joy. We can only be here to share those dreams,joy and any disappointments.
So back to the wings. It hit me. I had all these emotions. I needed to get out. I need to bless and release my son into the world.
These are your Wings of.......hope,dreams,courage,trust,strength,safety,love,joy,
achieve,believe.
When I showed him the wings, I thought he would laugh and roll his eyes. Instead he hugged me and said I will be fine mom.
The world awaits you Travis!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On a side note, his sister wants him to move out so she can use his room as her closet.

Gifties and Comfort Dolls

2008-08-18T09:46:00.000-06:00

My super sweet and fabulous blog friend Cindy sent me all these goodies. She is such a doll. And so very talented. I'm always so amazed how genuinely giving and compassionate everyone in cyber world is. I feel so blessed to have such a strong support group. The world would be a much better place if everyone supported each other the way the artist blog community does.

This next pic shows off Cindy's talents with the painted X and the Tag. And of course my favorite the beaded heart with wings. So darn cute

While watching the Olympics I have been making Comfort Dolls. Please go to the site.

Where oh where have I been?

2008-08-13T12:15:00.001-06:00

No where.......................I have been staying close to home. I think I was mentally exhausted. I have been reading and sitting in front of the TV zoning out. I have been stopping by all your blogs. But I just could not bring myself to leave any comments. It seemed everything out of my mouth was negative. I needed time to dwell in my pity party. Last Saturday, I decided it was time to put my big girl panties on and do something. I needed to get out of the house.I needed inspiration and to do some retail damage. That is just what I did. I went to the vendor sale at Art Unraveled. And boy did I do some damage. To my wallet that is. I have never been before. Next year, I will be first in line. So much fun. Reading blogs you get to know these great artist. You learn about their lives, family,pets,likes, dislikes. You share their ups and downs and you start to form friendships. But it isn't until you hear the sound of their voice and see their beautiful faces that you can say you know them.

The first vendor I went to was Beth Quinn. I had been eying this in her Etsy shop and when I saw it, well lets just say she had me at pink vintage earrings.
This next purchase is by the fabulous Tracie Huskamp. Love her birds she hands paint. This one has lace for the wing and it spoke to me. "Buy me!" And I did.

This doll I loved when I first saw her. Of course her hand necklace is what caught my eye. She is from Figuratively Speaking.
Lot of goodies from various booths. These should kick start me back to creating
This wonderful print is by Raina Gentry. Another one of those pieces that spoke to me . It said "I will look good in you living room. Who cares what your Visa card says." I have a few more goodies to share with you at another time.

Another Crazy Week

2008-07-31T21:48:00.000-06:00

I have been in Calif for the past week. The estate sale was last weekend and did not go as well as we had all hoped. I still have items that are pending sale. There was so much left over, but not enough for me to stay and hold another sale. The carpet got installed. All the items that did not sell got donated and the the house got listed, with an offer already on the table. Sounds good, right? Only one major problem. My sweet little mom fell and broke her foot and her ankle. I was not with her at the time. I was on day 2 of packing up everything in the house, so the carpet installer could come in. When I got the phone call. I had not showered in 2 days, was wearing the same dirty clothes. I don't think I had even brushed my teeth. Off I went to the ER. And wouldn't you know it, the cutest damn DR in the world was attending to my mother. He looked like a soap opera doc. I'm sure he took one look at me and wondered what rock I had crawled out from under. My hands were so dirty I didn't even want to shake his hand. But there lay my poor little mama. She was in so much pain and so upset. Thank God for good meds. They still have not put a hard cast on. The swelling has not gone down. She won't keep her leg elevated, because she doesn't think that is lady like to have her leg up in the air. I just have to laugh. If I don't I will be curled up in the corner crying.

I will leave you with 2 more quilts. Both of these were made by my great grandmother. The first is a double wedding ring quilt. Click on the picture to see all the detail. I love the colors of the old fabric. It is so soft from being washed so many time. I used it on my bed when I was a teenager.
The next is a twin size. Each block is a state flower. Only 48 states. Alaska and Hawaii were not states at the time she made it. The quilts have held up very well over the years.

The Sin

2008-07-24T09:19:00.000-06:00

I have committed what some of you might consider a sin. Now not a sin of great proportions,but none the less................................one that takes me awhile to work up to doing. And is done with some regret. What is this horrible thing I have done???????????????????????????

That's right ladies and gentlemen I have cut up magazines and tossed the remains. The remains were tossed in the recycle so I'm saving face in that regards. With bringing my mothers treasures home I have run out of room in my little abode. So rather than throwing out my husband and children, (although the thought did cross my mind) I committed the selfless act of throwing out something dear to me. Yes, I'm ashamed to admit I am magazine junkie. An addiction I'm working really hard to control. I will sometime stand in the longest line at the store, just so I can flip through the pages of said culprit. I have also been know to go to Barnes and Noble and sit for hours in one of their comfy chairs and read stacks of magazines. Just so I can get my fix of the latest copy of what I used to buy. How do I feel now that I have torn and tossed these beauties. LIBERATED!!!!!!!!!! Now don't get me wrong I have not gone completely out of my mind. It will have to be a cold day in hell before I toss my Home Companion or Somerset's. So I challenge you all to join me in the cleansing process.
Best wishes.

A Big Thank You and Quilts

2008-07-21T16:24:00.000-06:00

Thank you all for your kind words and well wishes. I truly appreciate each and every one of you. The blog world is amazing. Total strangers can come together and support each other. Through that support friendships are born. I feel very blessed to have each of you in my life. And would love more than anything to meet each of you in person.

Below are just a few of my mom's quilts. I have well over 50. They range in size from bed size,lap quilts, wall hangings, pillows, clothing. Even doll quilts. I cherish each and everyone. All total I have no idea how many she has made. She has giving them as gifts to family and friends. I have taken a few to her room. She always asks me who made the ones in her room. When I tell her she did, she laughs and says well I did good work.
The below are miniature quilts. I probably love these more than the full size. I don't have the patience's to work on anything this small. The pink one on the bottom left corner only measures 5X6 inches. Each little square is only 1/4 inch. You can click the picture to enlarge and see the details.

Wall hanging. This one is my husbands favorite. Probably because it appeals to his engineer side.
I think this one is one of her first. It is a twin size and is all hand quilted.
I love the yellow and red. The pattern is called Turkey Tracks
The above 2 she had done for my kids one year for Christmas
The cross stitch blocks had been in my baby blanket. She had taken it apart and was going to remake it for my son. He is now 18 and she never finished it. Oh don't we all have a stack of unfinished projects.

I'm Back

2008-07-14T19:05:00.000-06:00

Sometimes we have to do things in life that really suck. The past 2 weeks was one of those for me. My time was spent going through all my mother's possession's. Making the decision what should be kept and what will go in the estate sale. I have been putting this off since January, when I placed her in assisted living. Her home, my childhood home has been sitting there waiting for me. I felt guilty going through all her belongs, glimpsing at letter and cards she had kept. Sorting through photos. Some of people I had no idea who they were. Making piles of items to give to family and friends. For as long as I can remember my mother kept a journal. I had no idea that after my dad died, 17 years ago, she was writing letters to him every night. I only read parts of a couple of them, but enough to figure out what she was doing. I wept. I felt like I was invading her personal space. I may regret this later but I threw them out. She was a very private person and would have never wanted me or anyone else to see them.
I have brought home quilts that she she had made, old books, glass ware,old linens,antiques. I wish I could have brought more. But at one point I just had to detach from everything,or I would have been renting a semi to haul it all back. Not to mention a warehouse to store it all. My little house is bursting at the seams as it is.
Not only did I sort through everything. I also had the task of getting her house ready to go on the market. Crummy time to sell a house, but I don't want to be a landlord 500 miles away. My husband and kids were with me. They were a huge help. Stripping layers of wallpaper, painting, yard work and general cleaning. The estate sale is the weekend of July 26. I will not be there. I do not want to see the people that will be pawing through her beloved treasures. It was very hard for me to leave the house knowing that it would be the last time I slept there. 46 years she has been in that house. The sad part is, her mind has slipped so far back that she thinks it is her childhood house. She didn't know who my kids were. My heart ached, but they were so sweet with her and started telling her stories and brought out pictures of when they were little. Then she finally remembered.
Sometimes life just sucks.

I'm Out of Here

2008-06-27T10:54:00.000-06:00

I'm leaving for California tomorrow. I will be gone 3 weeks. I have family matters that I need to attend to. At least it will be cooler.

Bees Wax Collage

2008-06-24T09:03:00.001-06:00

So what would you do if it were 115 degrees outside? I'm sure the first thought that comes to mind is move to a cooler climate. Believe me if I could I would. 20 years in the desert and summers are getting harder to handle. I have told my husband that when I grow up I want to be a Snowbird. For those not familiar with the term Snowbird, it is someone who comes to live in the desert during the winter to get away from the snow. Once the snow melts, where every they are from they get the heck out of Dodge and leave us desert rats to sweat it out all summer and usually fall.
Okay I got off track. Well, what else would you do but melt wax, in a crock pot.
This is what I spent Sunday doing. I love Sundays. Hubby always golfs. Yes even when it is 115 out. That doesn't stop them. I have to admit that when they don't golf I'm a little disappointed. It messes up my whole routine.

Found this plaque at Michale's for .50 cents. A little paint , paper,wax and embellishments and presto

Heart in Hand. The heart and wings are a transparency with alcohol ink. Grunge board has also been waxed. It is hard to see the hand in the photo. I may have gotten to carried away with embellishments. Do you think? Click on picture to enlarge.I find I have to photograph them at an angle or I get a glare.
As much as I like the shabby chic look I just don't seem to pull it off very well. I'm just not a girly girl. But I loved the image of the girl and wanted to do something with her. The flowers and butterfly are cut out dipped in wax and then glued on. It gives a 3D look.

This is for a dear friend. The party umbrella I found in a parking lot. Before starting this great adventure of using found objects. I would have passed it by.
Again grunge board has been waxed. Large paper clip has had alcohol ink applied . A chopstick had been glued in place
Enjoy your week.

Blue Monday

2008-06-23T08:30:00.001-06:00

This weeks color for Sadie Olive is blue. Quilt made by my mom for my son when he was a baby. He is now 18 and still uses it. This quilt was made with love and has had a lot of lovin. It has a few holes from being washed so many times. The dog chewed on it when she was a puppy. I have patched several times. Lots of warm memories stitched in this quilt.
Hope your week isn't all blue.

Shades of White

2008-06-18T16:34:00.000-06:00

Sadie Olive is continuing her I saw red. Only this time she is doing Shades of Inspiration. This weeks color is white. If you go to her site she has a flickr set up for everyones Shades of Inspiration. What's your inspiration?

Meet Electra

2008-06-15T23:27:00.000-06:00

Electra has made her appearance. Her hair are those things from a circuit board. lol My husband is rolling his eyes right about now. He has told me the names of these things but I never remember. Her arms are old spark plugs. The red thing is also from a circuit board.( More eye roll). Her flower basket is an old earring that had been my moms. Click on pic to enlarge, and see the glue that isn't dry. lol
Altered Tin.

It is so blasted hot. Is supposed to be in the 110's all week. Summer in the desert is upon us. UGH!!!!!!!! Hope it is cooler where every you are.

Bees Wax Mirror

2008-06-06T16:10:00.001-06:00

This cheap wooden frame from Michael's had been sitting in the drawer for a couple of years. I finally figured out what to do with it. I used Tim Holtz Fragments, an assortment of images, old hardware. And of course my favorite bees wax. After gluing the images to the back of the fragments I went around the edges with alcohol ink. This just took away any clear edges that looked unfinished. Click on the pic to enlarge. The layers of paint, paper and bees wax are applied to the frame. The fragments are glued on last. Paper beads embellish the side. Of course I had to add waxed butterfly wings. In the center is placed a mirror. It is hard to photograph a mirror without getting a glare, so it looks black.
Here is the silverware family I have been playing with. The spoon on the right has had alcohol ink applied to it. I've been on alcohol ink roll lately.

Junk from Home

2008-05-30T12:51:00.000-06:00

When I purchased all the hardware at the flea market (read previous post). I had some idea's what I was going to do with some of it. The always awesome Rebecca Sower, has starting a series of sessions titled Handmade from Home. Her idea is to make things using what you have around the house. Well wouldn't you know the first session she did a wind chime using keys and a faceplate. Well, duh! Why didn't I think of that? So I put off the laundry and unloading the dishwasher. Ran right into "my space" and started creating. I had bought a bag full of bells at the thrift shop and used one of them along with an old necklace. Mine will hang in the house ,so I added some vintage lace and ribbon flower Hopefully that little bell with scare off the dust bunnies. Okay, I have played long enough, back to work

2008-05-18T11:59:00.000-06:00

Armed with $25.00. I have to set a limit, cause I have been know to go crazy. My friend Tracey by my side and coffee. We set off to do some damage at our little flea market. It comparison to flea markets around the country, it is small. No, not small, tiny. If I do say so myself I didn't do to bad. See below.
But the highlight of my day was getting to meet Miaja. I recognized her from her blog picture.We have chatted online , but never met in person.So I boldly introduced myself. She is so delightful and I'm so happy to have have met in person.

When I got home from the flea market this had come in the mail. I was one of the winners from Lani's giveaway. If you have never visited her site. It is a must see. Her work is beautiful. I'm now the proud owner of one of those wonderful pieces. I couldn't seem to get a shot of this without a glare. Do go to her site. Her pictures are better.