Art and Inspirations

Love is in the air

2012-01-30T10:52:00.006-05:00

My muse has been visiting me lately so I have been using that onslaught of creativity to stock my shop. You know how much I love vintage and vintage looking things, so in hopes that others like them too I have gone out on a limb and added them to my etsy shop. Do you ever fall in love with something you make and consider keeping it for yourself, only to be reminded that you are making it to sell? I had that moment with the sweet turquoise box above and the crackled heart below. So instead of selling the heart, I decided to use it as a prop with the vintage inspired postcards in my shop. The little box will begrudgingly go into my shop tomorrow. I hope someone will love it like I do. :)

What have you been up to lately? Has your muse visited you, as well? Any new ideas to create that you are excited to try? Fill me in. I have missed you all.

SALES in 2 Etsy Shops!!

2012-01-20T11:19:00.005-05:00

My friend Steph of Dragonfly Studios is having a 40% off sale in her Etsy shop. Click here to be transported to her world of gorgeous paintings in her Etsy shop.

I have another friend, Maggie of Heart of the Magpie, who is also a painter. She has a whimsical style and would be an excellent children's book illustrator. Maggie's is also having a sale in her shop. 20% off of everything. Click here to be transported to her magical world in her Etsy shop.

I can personally say that both of these ladies are amazingly talented artists and just lovely individuals. After reading their blogs and seeing their art work, I think you'll agree. Go have fun!

New Years Resolution A year of Thanks

2012-01-04T10:37:00.002-05:00

I don't usually make New Years resolutions anymore because a lot of the time I don't stick to them (lose wight, work out, you know) and then I get all bent out of shape with guilt so this year I decided that I was going to make one but my New Years resolution was going to be something to make others feel good. I've decided to give thanks personally to those who have touched my life in a special way. All year long I plan to hand write notes to each of these people. It may be someone who always smiles and says hello genuinely. It may be someone who always makes me feel special in some way, like my coworkers, my friends, my family.

It might be someone who does a nice job on something I have hired them for ie; the guys who installed my entry door, my fence, that do my landscaping, etc. The nail tech, the hairdresser. I want to say what I often feel but don't always verbalize. The cashier or clerk that bags and loads my groceries into my car, who always have a good attitude even though I know they have had a long day standing on their feet and have more than likely encountered less than pleasant people along the way.

It's the simplest of things that touch my heart and make me happy. People who are genuine, who have an easy smile or laugh, people who have a good heart, people who love to help others, people who are quick to point out the good in others, people who enjoy life, people who make art that makes you smile, people who have a good attitude about life, people who take pride in what they do. You know those people. They surround us every day and yet I don't always let them know how much I appreciate them for whatever reason.

So that is my New Years resolution. I have bought some blank cards by Anna Griffin (I love her stationary) in the wedding section of one of the craft stores, so that I can stamp an image on it and the word thanks or thank you and hand write my note. I saw some pretty thank you cards but I wanted them to be something I took the time to create.

Did you make a New Years resolution that you want to share?

What was your New Years resolution.

Been a busy bee creating

2011-12-09T08:11:00.000-05:00

Hi there! Wow, it's been a couple of weeks since we've visited. Sheesh where does the time go? I never wanted to be one of those people that acknowledges the older you get the quicker time seems to go by, but I'm there now and it's true. I'm sorry to say.

I have been busy making things for my poor neglected shop. Above is a wedding guest book alternative. It's a box I made that can hold 100's of my postcards.

I also will be making these table numbers in various frames. I've made these 6 to show some of the options. They're aren't over the top frou frou. They are simple and low key.

I made several of these wedding guest book alternatives, as well. I think having something pretty to display long after that special day is over is a fun idea. And I don't know about you but something in crisp white satin with lace and roses would not go with my decor or stay white in my home for that matter, so I started thinking outside the box. Well of a box, actually. Pardon the pun. I know, I know. Not funny. I couldn't help it though.

You all know that in the past I have made many wedding guest books and I do truly love making them but I thought I might try something new and a little different. I wanted to make something fun and put a twist on the traditional guest book. These are different than anything I have seen out there. The wedding day should be fun and carefree. I have more items in the works. Let me know what you think so far and if you have any fun ideas, please do share them. http://www.etsy.com/shop/Design4u

Hugs!

Tammy

Happy Thanksgiving Friends!

2011-11-24T10:45:00.005-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving friends! I hope those of you that celebrate Thanksgiving have a blessed day full of good cheer surrounded by those you love! For those of you who do not celebrate, I wish the same for you.

Good ole' Norman Rockwell, American Illustrator, 1894-1978. He painted such picturesque scenes for the Saturday Evening Post about everyday life.. Love his work! Here is a link that showcases a lot of his works. Check it out. A lot of it will make you smile, if not laugh. Hugs!

Happy Monday!

2011-11-14T15:50:00.002-05:00

Tarnished and Tattered. Love all things that encompass these two words. Here I made a "Skinny" which is a 3"x5" card as the basis and then you run with it. My swap partner loves green, Paris, script writing and vintage. She loved it.

What is it that draws us in when we see chippy paint, raveled edges, yellowed pages, vintage linens and anything special from a bygone era. I know for me, I love to imagine that the recipient treasured the item and that it was well loved. Age gives character. Well that's what I tell myself when I am doing my makeup. lol Fine wines get better with age and I think you do too.

Happy Monday!

A very special Veterans day

2011-11-11T10:32:00.007-05:00

I'll never forget the day I was working in the floral department of Harris Teeter, and a little girl and her mother came up to the counter to pick out a special balloon for her father. The little girl picked out the perfect Fathers Day balloon and she was so proud. As they were walking away, I said I hope your daddy has a happy Fathers Day and she turned back to me and said her and her momma were going to his grave to send a letter up to to him in heaven. She said every Fathers Day she writes a letter and attaches it to the balloon and she lets it go all the way up to heaven so her daddy knows she still loves him. I smiled at her and told her how lucky her daddy was to have a daughter that loved him so much. Oh my gosh, I was a puddle when she walked away. It broke my heart. How touching. This one little thing meant the world to this little girl. Imagine if she still had her father. He died serving our country.

Remember this Veterans Day to be thankful to all whom have served our country and all who are serving our country. Freedom is not free. It is not just the men and women in the armed forces that this service affects but their friends and families, too.

A month of thanks

2011-11-06T18:55:00.002-05:00

In the land of bloggers you sometimes come across those whom share your interests, who inspire and encourage you. I have been blessed to find so many of you that do just that. Thank you for being you. You never know when someone might need to hear what you have to say or write or when you may trigger another persons memory or maybe when you will inspire someone to make some art or take a step forward or to be brave.

I love that we can pop into eachothers blogs and become a part of something much larger than anyone ever dreamed would be possible. It's amazing how we can make friendships with people across the globe and in the same town. We may never have had the opportunity otherwise. I am thankful for Blogger. :)

Tea anyone?

2011-10-31T10:46:00.009-04:00

Won't you join us for some tea Dearie? We have some lovely spider, I mean spiced cake. Your favorite. It'll give you something to crow about.

Easy and Yummy Spiced Cake Recipe

1 (18 1/4 ounce) package yellow cake mix
3 eggs (or as called for by your cake mix)
1/3 cup oil (or as called for by your cake mix)
1 1/3 cups water (or as called for by your cake mix)
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions:

Combine cake mix with spices.
Prepare cake mix according to directions on box.
Bake according to cake mix directions on the box.
Frost with your favorite icing or frosting.

A secret garden & a freebie image

2011-10-30T11:44:00.013-04:00

We found a wonderful place called Architectural Antiques & Garden Elements a couple of weeks ago. I fell in love. Who wouldn't? There is a shop with store rooms full of all sorts of wonderful things from rehabs done here in Charleston.

You can find lights, tiles, pillars, furniture, windows, doors and so much more.

But for me the most intriguing area of all was the wonderful hodgepodge backyard with oodles of wonderful rusty bits and fabulous garden fountains, planters, urns, statues, furniture, columns, etc.

Such a lovely place for a treasure hunt with wild flowers poking up here and there and a lazy black and white cat curled up in a place with dappled sunlight, not in the least bit bothered by visitors.

We bought this cast piece above for one of my living room walls among a few other items. We will definitely be back for more goodies next spring when it is time to start the garden out back. We have big plans for the small space we have to work with.

This statue below is a close up of the tall statue you see in the photo above with the pillars resting up against the building. See her? She's nearly dead center. She is your freebie if you'd like. I added a map overlay to her just for fun.

I have had a lazy morning and now I must get a shower. Yes, it is 12:20 but I've only had this one day off in the last 7 days and not another until Friday so I feel entitled. :) Never mind that I have been dealing with a cold all week long. Now a flipping cough is trying to pry it's way in. I need to run to the drug store to buy some zinc lozenges and eat 1 of my Flintstones. lol I am not going to let it win! Swords are drawn. Well enjoy your Sunday. Mom's coming to make fried chicken and baked macaroni and cheese. Haven't had those things for years. This was Jack's request when she offered to make dinner for us. He wants her recipe, hence her making it here. He's becoming quite the chef.

A pathway well traveled

2011-10-26T09:28:00.006-04:00

Recently we decided to visit the Magnolia Plantation, a favorite place to stroll. You can see a lot more color in the spring when the Azaleas are in full bloom, but the Camelias are a favorite of mine and they are all in bloom right now. They give such a romantic feel to the pathways and arbors. They look very similar to a rose with layers of soft petals in a variety of colors. This is a pathway that I fell in love with because beyond the arbor there are 2 paths and you must choose, much as in life but here you can come back and choose the other, as well.
You can never go wrong in this gorgeous place because at every turn their is a secret garden, a beautiful pathway with bridges, cypress swamps, statues and wildlife. Yes, we saw an alligator and a gorgeous crane, a few peacocks and one that was all white. So regal looking.

For the IAE team blog party, I hosted one of the giveaways and this is what I made. It measures 9-1/2 x9-1/2". I started out with a plain wooden frame with the heart and wings. I wanted to give it a copper patina, so I used my favorite turquoise paint (Jamaican Sea by FolkArt) to paint the entire thing. I then went over it with a Burnt Umber on a dry brush keeping it light so as not to have the brown too saturated. I did use a bit more around the heart and wings to highlight them. Next, I used a Cranberry red on the heart and wiped it off immediately and rubbed a bit of antiquing glaze on it and wiped that off right away,also. Next a white pearlescent paint was applied to the wings and I came back in with the burnt umber rubbing it on the raised areas only and wiping some of it off until I achieved the look I wanted. I then sealed it with a satin polyurethane.
Lastly, I made the collage in the middle using some scrap booking papers that complimented the color of the frame. I must have had 30 sheets pulled out to find the right ones. I wanted them to be whimsical and yet had a patina of their own. We all know how much I love vintage, distressed edges, torn papers, etc.

Tell me what you've been up to lately.

Inspiration

2011-10-23T10:17:00.006-04:00

This week at Inspiration Avenue Etsy Team Blog there was a Blog party and a challenge theme of "Inspiration". What, Who or Where inspires you was the prompt. Well since this is my teams blog I decided to let them all know that they are an inspiration to me. Each of them are lovely ladies and wonderful artists. Each has their own style. Some are painters, some are mixed media artists, some are photographers, others graphic designers. We are quite the mix and I love it. The last 4 images are of what else inspires me and that is nature, color, vintage ephemera, trims and papers. I love you IAE ladies!! XOXO

Each week we host an art challenge and each week the works of our followers and members alike are displayed so that everyone can view each artists interpretation of the challenge theme. It is such fun. I hope that you will pop over some time and participate. We always link back to your blog post so that our followers can discover more about you. Hope to see you there. Oh and there is a giveaway drawing for those whom participate in the challenges.

Art and a Blog Party

2011-10-15T10:20:00.007-04:00

I have been MIA and I am sorry. My computer is not connecting to the internet because the internal Wi-Fi switch broke off. I guess I am going to have to get a new one within this next year. Mine is in sorry shape. The space bar is broken and I have to hit it 1-2 times between words and my on/off switch broke a long time ago so my husband had to drill a hole so that I can use a toothpick and hit just the right spot to turn it on. I have not had to use any duct tape thus far so we are good there. lol They duct tape is the cure all. Men that is. At least my men. :) This is an ATC I made for a lady who challenged me to use tattered laces and trims, old book pages, script writing, Tim Holtz elements and a vintage image in a beach theme. The sand is comprised of many elements including tattered seam binding, book pages, script writing pages and grains of sand from Aruba and bits of seashells. The water is tattered rick rack, tissue paper and silver glitter to represent the sun dancing on the water. The background is a map of the Indian ocean and the Tim Holtz elements are the tag and the buckle under the ladies image and his distressed inks. I hope she likes it.

This is a September Tag. I included a quote "No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace as I have seen in one autumnal face" by John Donne Such a pretty quote, don't you think?
This is a bird tag using vintage elements. Old book pages, and tattered vintage lace, along with some pretty feathers on a turquoise paper with eggs.

Inspiration Avenue Etsy Team is hosting a blog party this Sunday, October 16th. Go by and check out the fun giveaways, tutorials, art challenge and freebies HERE. It should be a fun week long party.

Gypsy Dreams Party

2011-09-10T21:46:00.010-04:00

Ah, you've come to join the gypsy caravan. Please do come in and enjoy a cup of your favorite beverage. French Designer Jeanne Bayol designed these lovely outdoor settings and the lavish bedroom below. It feels like a hug. The bold use of color and patterns along with textures just seem to meld together perfectly, don't they?.

I collect lanterns. We have them all over our backyard and on the tables. There is nothing quite as romantic as candlelight. It just makes the setting feel magical. Apparently Jeanne feels the same as I do. Imagine the sweet dreams you could have while floating above the ground in this cozy bed. You can watch the fireflies dance by, count the stars and listen to the leaves rustle in the trees. aaah... Learn how to make one yourself Here.
This pretty blue and green gypsy wagon, above was made by 2 traveling artists. Their blog is called The Adventures of the Wandering Book Artists. They have done a fantastic job making it quaint. Their blog is a travelogue of sorts. They are out on the West coast and share lots of images along the way. Fun stuff. Well have fun visiting the other gypsy caravan parties HERE.

Fun ATC's

2011-09-07T21:13:00.003-04:00

I've been making lots of ATC's lately. The first was to make my swap partner laugh. She likes nature and it was senders choice. The second and third were for a Things with Wings swap. Both ATC's were for the same partner. She likes vintage, hearts, flowers and her name started with the letter E.

If you have not tried making an ATC (Artist Trading Card) before, it is fun and freeing. It measures 2.5"x3.5". It is a small space to create on. They have no limits and they aren't expensive to make. You get to use all of your scraps, stamps, paints, embellishments, ephemera, etc. They can be flat or dimensional. The base (your canvas) can be made using card stock, metal, stiffened fabric, cardboard, leather, etc. There are no rules except for the size. That has to be 2.5"x3.5". If you feel like it try it. It's fun! Everybody's doing it. lol

How to make an envelope and Bird ATC and Tag

2011-08-22T20:38:00.004-04:00

Things I've been making.

What to do with an antique book of French fables

2011-08-18T21:56:00.006-04:00

I was making some art today and while going through some of my antique books to find some words to cut out, I came across this French book of fables. I love the illustrations on these pages and the elegant written language found within them. I have used these book pages in many art pieces over the years. I especially love using them as backgrounds. While perusing through my collection a light bulb came on. Why not use the pages to write letters on?

Remember the days when penmanship and spelling counted. Now we have email and spell check. I use these methods myself, don't get me wrong but I do still enjoy sitting down and taking out my smooth writing pen and letting the flourishes of cursive dance across the page.

So from the pages of a French book of Fables comes an English hand written letter to a friend.

I love a fresh piece of lined paper. It beckons one to write. The smell of a freshly sharpened pencil is invigorating. The sharp tip is ready to do some composing. Did you know that most pencils are made from cedar. No wonder the shavings smell so good. Here's a YouTube video of how a pencil is made. Here I know I'm a nerd.What can I say? I love learning how things are made. I know some of you are mortified that I would tear out antique book pages but it is in the name of art and repurposing. Otherwise they would simply sit on my shelf and collect dust. Okay a compromise would be to make a colored copy of your book pages and then use those.
What other fun things can you think to do with antique book pages?

Blue porch ceilings and giveaways around blog land

2011-08-10T18:16:00.010-04:00

Hi there! Don't you just love these porches! I shot them while visiting a nearby neighborhood. I just love the quaintness of them. There's such a neighborly feel to them. But you better like your neighbor since they all adjoin one another. I can picture ladies talking with one another over the porch railings, passing a cup of sugar or a recipe.

I love the painted light blue ceilings. There are many thoughts as to why you would want to paint your porch ceilings blue. One idea behind these pretty blue ceilings is that it serves as an insect repellant. This was true back when Lye was a key ingredient in milk paint. Lye is a natural insect repellant. However today Lye is not an added ingredient to paints. Another idea behind these soft blue ceilings is that it extends daylight hours with its reflective qualities. It is true that blue is a calming color and who doesn't like the idea of sitting on a porch rocking chair and watching the world go by; reflecting or chatting with someone special.

One of my favorites ideas behind Southerners painting their porch ceilings "Haint blue" (a soft blue-green) is because it was thought to keep the restless spirits of those whom had not moved on, at bay. Their grandmothers painted their ceilings this color so generation after generation has adopted this tradition.

Okay that was my little tidbit for today. Now on to the giveaways I mentioned.

I noticed on my blog dashboard that some of the blogs I follow are hosting giveaways, so I thought I'd share them with you. Who doesn't love to win something, right?

The first is a lovely friend named Angie and she is offering a $20.gift certificate to her etsy shop to celebrate her birthday. On her blog Artangel, you'll see some of her pretty work. She paints, makes gorgeous collages and is infatuated with hearts.

The second giveaway is being hosted by Handmade Bits and Pieces. She has upcycled some pretty vintage buttons into bobby pins. She's so clever.

Dreamy Whites is also having a generous giveaway. She is offering a $200. gift certificate to her online shop. if ou haven't visited her shop, you should do so. She makes very pretty items.

PB's Art Studio is also offering a gift certificate to her shop. She is a wonderful illustrator. See for yourself.

Flea Market Style is also hosting a slew of giveaways this week. I love this magazine! They are such a fun group of people, offering fun ways to revamp your flea market finds and adding them to your home decor.

Southern Hospitality is also hosting a giveaway for a $50 Target gift card. She has a fun blog with lots of decorating
.

So go have some fun and try your luck!

Bird Tag Swap

2011-08-08T11:07:00.004-04:00

I am hosting a Vintage Bird Tag Swap on Swap-bot. I'd love to have you join in on the fun. I participated in a Swap along time ago, and posted about it here. I plan to put all things that inspire me above my art table. It is a small area but I want it to be special. I'll show you pictures soon. I still am not finished unpacking. I have worked the 12p-9p shift for the last 21 days and it seems like I have no time to get anything done. Laundry, dusting, cleaning, period. I need to take a vacation day or two to get some things done around here. I have chair railing to paint and put up. I have a guest bedroom and bath to paint. I have a curtain that I need to turn into two panels. I have my art area to finish unpacking and organize. My vanity looks like I dumped a few boxes of stuff on it. My car has boxes of things to be donated in it. So much to do, so little time.

I hope you have a lovely Monday. Oh and IAE is having an Art Challenge "Sun Kissed" this week. Check it out here.

XO,
Tammy

Tea time challenge at IAE

2011-07-31T09:40:00.003-04:00

Tea cup image courtesy of the Graphics Fairy
Yay, My blog tools are back up in the tool bar. It seems somehow my blog was switched to the New Editor version. Maybe when one of my teammates changed another blog in which I co author that affected this one too, since it says this will affect all of your blogs, do you wish to switch.
Above is my entry for this weeks IAE challenge which was Tea Time. I tweaked a free image from The Graphics Fairy, making it look like needlework and added a textured background and type to the saucer. I imagined a group of ladies sitting around in comfy chairs near a fireplace, their needlework in hand and a cup of tea at their sides, sharing personal stories of a bygone era.
Go check out the other entries, when you get a chance.

Colors of the Bahamas

2011-07-27T09:17:00.000-04:00

A recent trip to the Bahamas, Nassau, proved to be a colorful experience. I love color as you may know. Apparently they do too. When I lived in Florida I noticed that they have a love affair with color too. Many of the coastal cities have colorful homes and buildings. Fun stuff!

My favorite is the Police officer in the middle of the street directing traffic. Did you see him? Brave or crazy I do not know. The Bahamians drive worse than New Yorkers. I promise. My life flashed before my eyes several times while there. ;) Enjoy your day.

Hello Hello

2011-07-26T11:02:00.000-04:00

I was just playing around with some different Photoshop techniques. I wanted to move the text down but for some darn reason every time I tried tomove it something kept freezing it so I said forget about it and just accept it for what it is. I am a newbie to Photoshop and it shows I know but I am going to keep trying. I have seen some amazing digital art on the web and I really want to beable to layer photos on top of one another. I love the ghostly look some of them have. What have you tried that is new to you recently?

I bought an 7-1/2 to 8 ft tall bookcase at the Habitiat Rebuild store for $20. What a deal, huh?! It came from the Charleston Day School library. It needs some TLC but that's the stuff I love to do. I am also working on my Before and After shots of my Art area. So far I only have the Before. lol I'm working on it though. Finding a nice place for everything without it looking cluttered is a challenge but one I am willing to face and overcome. I hope to have it done this coming weekend. It feels so good to unpack all of my supplies. It's like Christmas because 1/2 of them were packed for the last year. There was not enough room in the apt. to unpack everything.

Coming from 2000 sq ft house to a 1128 sq ft one is a challenge in itself. We have been selling excess furnishings and donating other household items. We are making sure that what we do keep is the best of the best and functional. There's no room for clutter, period. I am still in my jams, and it is 11am. Lazy bum, I know. I am off to visit some of your blogs. At least until I feel too guilty to lounge around anymore. Hope you all have a great day!

Take a chance

2011-07-24T11:02:00.002-04:00

Photoshop Express is a free version of Adobe Photoshop and it's fun!

2011-07-18T09:32:00.000-04:00

Here you see I took a picture of a tree frog in the back yard and I used the Pop art tool in Photoshop Express, (the free version) and changed him from green to orange with one click. How fun! You have to try it.

For those of you that love taking photos and would like to learn how to use Adobe Photoshop but don't want to pay the hefty price until you are sure you like it, there is a free version. I just found out about it in a class. It is a simpler version, but it is a fun way to learn and it is free, and don't we all love that! I have tried my hand at the expensive version, but I am intimidated by the whole layers bit and all of the tools. I do not know how to use it so it is frustrating. I bought a book a long time ago and like so many things I want to play with, it is sitting on a shelf collecting dust. I wish there were more hours in the day sometimes.You can literally get sucked in and spend hours playing around. That's the part I shy away from because I feel guilty sitting at the computer for that long, knowing there are dust bunnies or dishes or goodness know what other 100 things staring at my back.lol

I took a photo of a red door while in the Bahamas and this is the Pop art tool that you can play with. You can see the choices I had to play with. It picks up the reds, blues or makes the main image black and white and the surrounding color. It's a fun tool to play with

Anyway, after reading all of this you are asking where the heck is the link she's talking about. Well here it is Adobe Photoshop Express. On the right hand side of the toolbar you will see Online tools,click on it. Then scroll down to Photoshop Express Editor, upload your photo and let the fun begin! They also offer the good stuff like CS5 for a 30 day trial so if you get good at the free version and you want a lot more fun things to play with then that just might be the ticket.

Pablo Picasso challenge

2011-07-17T11:03:00.001-04:00

Pablo Picasso's above, mine below

For the Inspiration Avenue Weekly art challenge "Pablo Picasso". My sad interpretation of one of his gorgeous sketches. Oh well, I did it in 5 minutes. Always late for these entries. Had to hustle since I was the hostess this week. Wouldn't look too good not participating, now would it? Gotta hop into the shower. Pop over and see all the entries. They are way better than this. I promise. Love and hugs to you all.

Vacation is coming!

2011-06-18T12:22:00.001-04:00

I'll be doing this

and a little bit of this

I'll be staying here

Snorkeling is on the agenda


This is me in 7 days! The Bahamas.After moving and working 11 hour days for the past couple of weeks, being short handed at work (hence the 11 hour work days) I need a vacation. Where will you be heading this summer?

Hello! I'm still here.

2011-05-20T22:42:00.000-04:00

We're in the process of moving. It has been 12-14 hour days cleaning the new place after work and packing up the old place, buying new light fixtures, doors, appliances, fences, etc. Iyi yi yi...can you say, cha ching? Anyway, I wanted you all to know I miss you and I am here just no time for anything fun right now. We have a very hectic schedule coming up so it is good that we have 5 weeks before our lease is up. But, and that's a big but, we are vacationing in June and that means we only have like 3 weeks. My dogs are barkin' every night. Heard the oddest thing the other day from a little old lady at work. She said a nurse once told her after a hard day on your feet before bed put a bar of soap in between your sheet and mattress pad at the foot of your bed so your feet can touch them and they will feel better. So my feet were throbbing the other night after a 14 hour day between work and the new place, so I tried it and darn if it didn't work. It was the craziest thing I ever heard. Very odd. Can't imagine why it works but my feet stopped throbbing within a minute or two. Try it. Supposed to be good for leg cramps. She said her dog tries to lay on it too because it has arthritis but she has to push it off. So I suggested she add another bar of soap under the sheets. lol So silly.

Okay, we are just in after 14 hours and I am tired but I wanted to say Hi and let you know what was up. I have to get up at 5:30 a so off to bed I go. Sweet dreams.

Happy Mother's Day and Last Chance!!

2011-05-07T11:43:00.000-04:00

This is your last chance to own a piece of original art work by some wonderful artists from all over. Click HERE to take a look. The bidding ends at midnight Pacific time USA. So pop over and see if anything tickles your fancy. Remember those gifts you will be buying and consider a piece of art for someone special. There are some really fun items to be had.

Wishing all of you wonderful mothers out there a Happy Mother's Day!!One of my absolute favorite quotes on motherhood is this one "Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body". ~Elizabeth Stone
I hope your day is full of love and laughter and a warm heart.

CHARITY ART AUCTION AT INSPIRATION AVENUE STARTS TODAY Yay!!

2011-05-01T09:00:00.004-04:00

The above mosaic shows the 20 pieces up for bid HERE. The auction runs May 1-7.
Below are the pieces I am donating to this wonderful cause.

Starting bid $8. USD (FREE SHIPPING) To bid click HERE

This summery bracelet measures approximately 7 1/2". It drapes around the wrist."Earth laughs in flowers" ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Starting bid $9. USD (FREE SHIPPING) To bid click HERE.

This door makes me so happy. I love everything about it. The chippy paint, the colors, the rusted iron, the wavy glass.
“Color possesses me. I don't have to pursue it. It will possess me always, I know it. That is the meaning of this happy hour: Color and I are one. I am a painter.”

Starting bid $15. USD (FREE SHIPPING) To bid click HERE.

Necklace measures approximately 19". It is made with brass and copper chain, along with some mother of pearl and freshwater pearls in white and bluish purple.

"I believe that it's better to be looked over than it is to be overlooked" ~Mae West "If we all did the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves" ~Thomas Alva Edison

Starting Bid $15. USD (FREE SHIPPING) To bid click HERE.

"Daffodils"(1804)
By William Wordsworth (1770-1850).

I wander'd lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.
Continuous as the stars that shine
And twinkle on the Milky Way,
They stretch'd in never-ending line
Along the margin of a bay:
Ten thousand saw I at a glance,
Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.
The waves beside them danced; but they
Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:
A poet could not but be gay,
In such a jocund company:
I gazed -- and gazed -- but little thought
What wealth the show to me had brought:
nor oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.


Starting Bid $15 USD (FREE SHIPPING) To bid click HERE. Original piece signed on back. Measures approximately 8"x12". There are layers and layers of papers and ribbons, an antique skeleton key and the words FLY and INSPIRE. Two words that have great meaning. "Our chief want is someone who will INSPIRE us to be what we know we could be" ~Ralph Waldo Emerson The Art Auction begins today HERE. There are lots of fun pieces of art to bid on. To bid on one of these, please go to HERE. The Art Auction is to benefit Angel Faces. You can read all about this wonderful organization HERE. Happy bidding!

Hello

2011-04-27T22:48:00.000-04:00

Here are two items I made for the Art Auction coming up May 1st. I have a couple more items I am making so be on the lookout for those and there is supposed to be a sneak peek at some of the other auction items coming soon. I'll post a photo here so you can see. This first image is an asymmetrical necklace that was calling me to make it. As soon as I saw the focal piece I knew what I wanted to do with it. I almost want to keep this for myself. : ) There is mother of pearl, white and bluish purple fresh water pearls, copper beads, copper and brass chain links and a sweet little cross.

This bracelet feels like summer to me. I used some green and glass leaf and flower beads mixed with silver flowers and leaves. I really like how it turned out. It also is asymmetrical.
I was off today and I am off tomorrow too. It felt so good to sleep in. The last couple of weeks have been so busy. Do you ever wish you could just say, today I am going on vacation and I'll be back in a week or so. But no we have to plan ahead and request the time off and la ti da. Oh well...such is life.

Happy Easter Friends!

2011-04-24T18:45:00.000-04:00

This beautiful Panoramic Sugar Easter Egg reminded me of the ones my grandmother made every year for us kids. We did not eat them but we admired the scenes inside and the fancy icing decorations on the outside. She was a very creative lady. I remember one Easter April 6th, it snowed in Missouri and we had to go our and hunt for eggs in the snow. Now mind you I was only 6. So there we are all bundled up like the child on A Christmas Story and searching for eggs. Some sense of humor our parents had, huh?. One year my grandparents neighbors rang the doorbell and when us kids went to open it there were Easter baskets left for us from the "Easter Bunny" with a trail of grass along the walkway.
I worked today until 5:30p but wanted to pop in to say hello and wish you all a Happy Easter. Do you have
any fond childhood memories of Easter? Please share.
XO,
Tammy

Art Challenge "Angels"

2011-04-18T12:26:00.000-04:00

This weeks Art Challenge prompt is "Angels" at Inspiration Avenue's blog. Click the link to see what it's all about. It's fun and you get a chance to win the monthly prize when you participate. I have to figure out what to do. hmmm...ideas keep popping into my mind. Do I paint? Make something mixed-media? Decisions, decisions.

Live Oak trees are all over where I live and it delights me to see these lovely hundreds of year old trees draping acorss pathways, and roads. They are always draped in Spanish Moss. It seems so enchanting to walk amongst them. Here is one legend of the Spanish Moss and where it comes from.
Legend of the Spanish Moss (1)

Part of Louisiana’s spice is the folklore of our culture. One legend describes how Spanish Moss became so common in our region. According to the legend, an Indian brave and princess lived on the banks of the bayou. When the princess died, she was buried at the base of a live oak tree. The grieving brave hung her long black braids on the tree limb to mark her grave. With time, the braids turned grey and the wind carried the strands from tree to tree. All the trees weep to this day – all the way to the Gulf.

Isn't that a fun folk tale. So romantic.
Hugs to all of you! Happy Creating.
Tammy

Art Auction!!

2011-04-15T11:15:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone! I have something wonderful to share with you today. There is going to be an Art Auction May 1st-7th at Inspiration Avenue!! A group of artists from all over the world will be donating a piece of art to benefit a wonderful organization called Angel Faces. The artists will pay for shipping too so 100% of the auction proceeds will go to this organization. Last year we raised $500. and this year we would love to be able to double that. So if you are interested please stop by and bid or as a bonus maybe you would consider donating a piece of art for this great organization. Please email me at tlsprinkle@yahoo.com, if you'd like more info. I can tell you how easy it is. Or you can click on the button in my sidebar to find out more.

Please help us spread the word by adding the button to your blog sidebar.

Here is the code to make it easier to add to your sidebar:

A little bit about Angel Faces:
There is this awesome group of individuals that volunteer at a 5 day retreat for young ladies whom have had severe facial disfigurements from fires. The founder of Angel Faces , Leisa Cartelli is a burn victim herself, having endured a gas explosion at age 9. She decided she wanted to help young ladies who have suffered the same experiences. She wanted this retreat to be a place that would give these girls the the life skills they will need.

These girls are treated to therapy sessions, (Art Therapy being one of them) to teach them how to deal with being ostracized, stigmatized and just trying to "fit in". These girls are given life tools to help them deal with the grief and trauma that they face. They are given haircuts and makeup lessons to help them to buld up their self confidence. They get to experience calming exercises, fun activities, and are surrounded by others just like themselves. Can you tell I am excited about this??? Remember how we felt as adolescents and think about having severe facial and body disfigurement on top of that and you begin to scratch the surface of what these girls experience on a day to day basis. Their self esteem is shot. Most of these girls feel broken when they arrive at the retreat having endured staring, rude remarks and questions, and a lack of self esteem. This retreat gives them a chance to feel normal, to not be judged, to learn tools and coping techniques. The volunteer staff does an amazing job. The girls photos, stories and letters are on the Angel Faces website. Click on Angel Faces to go there and see for yourself what a wonderful retreat this is for these young ladies. Thank you all for reading this and please consider helping in some way.

Jack of Hearts and Colors of the Caribbean

2011-04-08T22:02:00.001-04:00

This first ATC was for a swap that you had to transform a playing card and leave a bit of the original card exposed.I chose to do Jack of Hearts because Mr. Sprinkle is Jack and he has my heart. : )

This second ATC was created for a swap called Colors of the Caribbean. The photo does not show all of the textures or layering very well. Oh well, I was in a hurry to post it so I grabbed my camera and shot these tossed them into the envelopes and ran to the mailbox trying to make it before the postman left. So silly. I forget to take pictures of the things I create and send out all the time. Usually it is already packaged up or sent before I have that hindsight thingy happen. I'll blame it on my age. Since I hit 40, my near sightedness has wavered and my mind has these small memory lapses. Some call this meditating when they can clear their mind, but what do you call it when you are not even trying?

Self Portrait entry

2011-03-28T11:15:00.001-04:00

This weeks Art Challenge at Inspiration Avenue is "Self Portrait". It is open to interpretation and can be done in any medium. If you'd like to join in the fun, please stop by and leave a link to our blog post in their comments here. I decided to make a collage for mine because I am so many things. Of course, I should have added book lover, blogger, sister, daughter, thrifter and so much more but then my collage would have been much larger. Anyway, this was a fun way to share with you all a little bit more about me. If you are a reader of my blog, than these things will come as no surprise to you, but hey, I had to enter something and I could not paint a picture of myself. I am way too critical of my paintings, plus I'd probably come out looking like a frog or something. lol Anyway, I hope you will join in the fun. I hope you all have a wonderful Monday!

Hello Spring! Painting

2011-03-25T17:03:00.000-04:00

I fell in love with the Lilac Breasted Roller while looking for a colorful bird to paint for this weeks challenge at Inspiration Avenue. The challenge was Hello Spring! Spring always brings bird song and cheer. I am making a set of these little 5x5 paintings but the other will be a different colorful bird. I am thinking of the Painted Bunting. Such a pretty pair they will make. God sure created some magnificent creatures in this world.

Who put their hand in the cookie jar? Who me, yes you!

2011-03-18T09:25:00.006-04:00

I have been working some late shifts and long hours this week. So Mr. Sprinkle decided to bake some cookies to be sweet. They are delicious! He made a buttery cookie with white chocolate chips and coconut. Never had them but boy are they good! I'll have to ask where he got the recipe and share it with you all. He's sleeping right now.

Well, when I was reaching in for the second one, I noticed something blue in the bottom of the jar. Hmmm... I thought what the heck? And then I saw it up close and had to laugh! Only a man!

He didn't take out the bubble gum that was in the jar since Valentines day. You see he loves Double Bubble and so I gave him 10 pieces on Valentine's day. He threw them in the cookie jar because it was empty at the time. Ah, gotta' love it! Just when I start to wonder if he is a better wife than I am, he does the silliest things.
Oh he just woke up, okay the recipe came from the back of a Nestle Toll House bag of Premier White Morsels. The recipe is called White Chip Island Cookies. We did not have any Macadamia nuts on hand so that is the only ingredient he excluded. Yum!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T11:26:00.002-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day, friends! I laughed when I found this image on Google. He is too cute! My husband, well I won't say what he said but he does not approve of dog outfits, period.

May your blessings outnumber,
The shamrocks that grow,
And may trouble avoid you
Wherever you go.
~Irish Blessing

May your pockets be heavy and your heart be light,
May good luck pursue you each morning and night.
~Irish Blessing

ATC's, Japan help

2011-03-12T10:58:00.006-05:00

I decided to join Swap-Bot so I could swap art, ATC's, photos and letters with others around the globe. It is so much fun making and receiving happy mail. Each day it seems I have a fun piece of mail and who doesn't love happy mail, right?. So the above is a snapshot of 2 of the 3 Butterfly ATC's I made for a swap partner.
I like to make my ATC's pretty on both sides, so I added a butterfly quote to the backs and decorated them too.
The above ATC was for a Christian ATC Swap and again I decorated both sides. I am really liking the small surface. I have so many fun papers, inks, stamps, vintage ephemera, and bits and pieces of this and that. It is fun to create little pieces of art.
So far, I have penpals from across the globe, teas, ATC's, postcards, and photographs. If you are interested in a swap with me, let me know. I love swapping. Or if you want to join in on the fun with others from all over the globe, join Swap-Bot. I am loving it.

On a sad side note, please pray for the people of Japan. It is such a catastrophic event and so many lives have been lost. I read this morning that one of their islands was actually moved 2.5 meters which is the equivelant to approx. 7.75 feet. Can you imagine? A whole island! It is devastating. I pray that our Japanese here in America hear from their families in Japan very soon. The unknown is sometimes worse than knowing. I found this link that lists 6 ways we can help the people of Japan.

Goddess Mirror from Lisa Swifka

2011-03-10T12:55:00.002-05:00

I received this wonderful package from Lisa Swifka of A Whimsical Bohemian for the OWOH giveaway. How luck am I ? A beautifully hand made mirror with all sorts of fun details around the Goddess. That's what Lisa deemed it; the Goddess Mirror. I love all of the colorful yarns she used at the bottom too. So pretty! Thank you Lisa! I love it!

Free March Calendar

2011-03-07T21:57:00.003-05:00

A March Calendar for you. I took this photo last year of the geraniums gracing my porch. I just love them. They are such a happy perky flower. The quote says"Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's Party!" ~Robin Williams That quote made me laugh. Just right click and save.

Photography Prints Sale 20% off and Buy 2 Get 1 Free

2011-02-28T10:49:00.005-05:00

"I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say any other way--things I had no words for" ~Georgia O'Keeffe.

I am having a 20% off sale in my photography shop and a Buy 2 Get 1 Free at the same time, so if you'd like pop over here. Just use this coupon code at checkout: TLS20OFF

Art quote

2011-02-26T21:07:00.002-05:00

Newest Painting...wonderful colors

2011-02-25T15:47:00.005-05:00

Well here she is. Remember I told you I took a photo of a daffodil in front of a bright blue tarp. I took that image and played around with it on picnik and made my banner up above. I really loved the colors so today I painted it. I am listing it in my etsy shop and hopefully someone else will love the colors, too. I have 3 more canvases staring at me. I think I'll paint something else.

"Daffodils" (1804)

I WANDER'D lonely as a cloud

That floats on high o'er vales and hills,

When all at once I saw a crowd,

A host, of golden daffodils;

Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine

And twinkle on the Milky Way,

They stretch'd in never-ending line

Along the margin of a bay:

Ten thousand saw I at a glance,
Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

The waves beside them danced; but they

Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:

A poet could not but be gay,

In such a jocund company:

I gazed -- and gazed -- but little thought
What wealth the show to me had brought:

For oft, when on my couch I lie

In vacant or in pensive mood,

They flash upon that inward eye

Which is the bliss of solitude;

And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.

By William Wordsworth (1770-1850).

It's funny how intimidating a blank canvas can be. You don't want to ruin a perfectly good canvas, after all you did pay a good penny for it, and you don't want to start painting one thing and then change your mind only to let it sit there for goodness knows how long. I still have this one below sitting around waiting for me to complete it. The cloud in the upper right hand corner was slopped on and leaves a lot to be desired. It's funny what you can learn on Youtube. You can type in "how to make---" and you'd be amazed at how many tutorials pop up.
The weather has been so fickle today. It was warm then rainy and cold and now the sun is shining and it sunny again. It's almost like Mother Nature is female or something. Fickle fickle. lol Enjoy your day my friends. I'm off to blog hop.
Happy Creating,
Tammy

OWOH winner!

2011-02-17T10:32:00.008-05:00

I wish I could send all of you something, but unfortunately my pocket book would run away screaming. lol So each month I will be adding a Free calendar for you to right click and save to your computer. From time to time I also add images (textures, vintage and so on), to share with you. That way everyone will get something from me.

So without further adieu the OWOH winner... drum roll please...is Shelinwa! Yay Shel! Out of 149 comments, the #5 came up in the Random Number Generator. I tried to do a screen shot but could not flippin' figure it out. Got frustrated after doing the step by step instructions I found on a website over and over again to no avail. Anyway, Congratulations Shel!

Lisa Swifka is planning a different but similar event in 2012. go here to read more about it. Thank you Lisa for coming up with this ingenious way to meet other artists from around the world! Goodbye OWOH. Hello OWOA (Our World Our Art)!

Wednesday Word Challenge

2011-02-16T00:01:00.000-05:00

Quote:
"A photograph never grows old. You and I change, people change all through the months and years but a photograph always remains the same. How nice to look at a photograph of mother or father taken many years ago. You see them as you remember them. But as people live on, they change completely. That is why I think a photograph can be kind". - Albert Einstein

Challenge 1: The following are synonyms of this word. Your challenge is to tell me the word.
blissful, chuffed [British], delighted, gratified, joyful, joyous, pleased, satisfied, thankful, tickled, fluky, fortuitous, heaven-sent, lucky, providential

Challenge 2: The following are 2 meanings of this word. What is the word?

1. to fill with courage or strength of purpose
2.to draw out (something hidden, latent, or reserved)

Have a lovely day my friends. Hope this was fun.

Texture and Dreaming of Daffodils/Furry

2011-02-13T11:13:00.005-05:00

The above image is a rusted boat trailer. I love how the paint has cracked and looks all chippy. This is a FREE background for you to use. I love the colors. Have fun with it.

I am dreaming of Daffodils. The first signs of spring. These are from my garden last year. I took them in front of a blue tarp that was on our boat. I love the way it made them pop. I made this collage in Picnik and then used the HDR ish effect. I think I will paint the one in the upper left hand corner. It reminds me of a ballerina twirling. I love the colors! They make me happy.

I have been itching to go out with my camera to get some more fun things downtown Charleston. It is so beautiful. What types of things do you enjoy photographing?

This sculpture was massive. It was at a putt putt in Florida. I could not help but be drawn to it. The hair is furry with plants, so this is my entry in this weeks Inspiration Avenue's challenge theme "furry".

What does this look like to you?

2011-02-08T15:14:00.009-05:00

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you see the above photos? One of my associates brought this into work for me to see and photograph for him. He goes for walks in the woods and looks for interesting pieces of wood to carve. This one is a know from a Cypress tree. He cut it off, took it home and left it outside to dry out for a few months. He picked it up recently to carve and immediately realized that he could not carve it, because it was perfect just as it was. How funny that he never saw it when he cut it off. Everyone he has shown it to tells him what they see and every time it is the same thing. Cool, huh?.

I was the lucky winner of JunkinJulie's Giveaway! Yay! Just look at the beautiful items she sent me! Such loveliness was all bundled up in gold tissue paper. So fancy schmancy. She made a very pretty bracelet with vintage buttons, there was a gorgeous brown transferware Staffordshire soap dish, a vintage wrapped box, a wonderful image of two sisters, and some gorgeous buckles. Wow, how generous, huh? I was tickled when I saw it all in person. Julie has a couple of shops she sells through, as well as an etsy shop. Her blog and shop are always full of vintage and antique goodness. She lives on a dairy farm in Wisconsin and dreams of one day visiting Paris. She is a romantic. Have a look around her blog and you'll see what I mean.
Thank you, Julie! I love it all.

Pay It Forward

2011-02-03T19:25:00.006-05:00

I have been blog hopping off an on today and came across this Pay It Forward posting and decided I wanted to partake in it. So the idea is to promise something handmade to the FIRST 5 people who leave a comment here. However, to be eligible, you must repost this status, offering something handmade to 5 other people. The rules are that it must be handmade (or homemade) by you and it must be sent to your 5 people some time in 2011.

I promise to send the first five people leaving a comment here, a hand made by me gift - No promises when, but soon, remember you have to do it too. I will check your blog before I make yours and if you have not paid it forward I shall move to the next person in the list that has commented. Don't you just love getting snail mail and pretty little packages?! This is going to be so much fun!

OWOH has arrived!

2011-01-30T19:16:00.016-05:00

Hello and welcome! I would like to thank the sweet Lisa Swifka, our lovely hostess for OWOH, whom has been such a doll putting all of this together. It is a huge undertaking, I am sure keeping up with well over 1,000 blog postings. Yikes! I have participated in the last 4 years and I have loved meeting bloggers from all over the globe.

So let me begin by telling you a little about myself. First of all I am very creative. You will often find me with my camera up to my face shooting whatever tickles my fancy. Below are some of those things.

I am an artist & photographer living in a beautiful and charming town in South Carolina, USA. I am a mother to two grown children. I am a wife, a sister, a daughter and a friend to many and hopefully many more after OWOH. I love my family deeply. I love to go thrifting. The thrill of the hunt and finding a treasure is exciting. I am drawn to antique linens, laces, papers, and skeleton keys. I love coffee, caramel and ice cream. Yum! They make a nice treat combined, too. I love to make others laugh. It does my heart good to see someone smile.

Below is a calendar for the month of February. Just click to enlarge, then right click and save.
Below is a tea towel that I stained with vanilla coffee and added a fleur de lis design to, along with a mini notepad perfect for your pocket or purse. One of you will win these and some additional goodies. Just leave a comment and on February 17th a winner will be drawn and announced.Good luck! It was nice meeting you.
Don't forget to click on the OWOH link above to go back to the link list.

A smile is contagious and Wendnesday Word Challenge Answers

2011-01-27T10:17:00.006-05:00

I photographed this pretty dune at Myrtle Beach. I love how cheerful it looks with color. The sepia tone is pretty too but it lends a bit of loneliness, which leads into today's post.
Forewarning, this is a long but meaningful post.

Because I am in retail, I say hello with a smile to everyone whom I come in contact with. Sometimes they walk on by without so much as a nod or even making eye contact. This used to bother me but after 6+yrs, I figured out that there may be many reasons for this reception. One being that they may be having a rough time in life, another being they have become callus and don't care how they make others feel, and another is that they may be having a bad day. So I keep these things in mind when I am shopping and someone greets me. A smile is such a simple thing to offer someone. It can make you feel so good to get one and for me to give one.
Sometimes that is all someone needs. I believe a smile is contagious. It is hard to not smile back when someone smiles at you. I've tested this theory.

A smile and an offer to help often is followed by a relieved expression and into a conversation.While helping customers I often build a relationship with them. It may be a short lived one but they confide in me so that I can help them figure out how to do something or sometimes it has nothing to do with the project and it is just because they need an ear.

I had a lady come in and told me she needed a new back door and a storm door. After talking with her to find out her needs it was revealed to me that her late husbands mother passed away earlier this month, so she went out of town to make all of the funeral arrangements and get her affairs in order and when she returned home, her own home had been broken into and her late husbands wedding band was stolen. She explained how callous the police had been and asked the value of the ring and then she had tears rolling down her cheeks and told me that the ring had great sentimental value and that his grandmother had made their wedding rings, as she was a jeweler. She didn't feel safe. She was hurt and angry, as you can imagine. I made arrangements for her doors to be installed right away and she left with a smile and thanked me for listening and all of my help. That made my heart smile knowing I could help her in my own small way. She will be in my thoughts for a very long time.
So, remember sometimes people need a warm smile even if they don't return it. You never know why they are the way they are. Right now so many of us are experiencing tough times, barely able to make ends meet, if at all and you can offer a a small bit of sunshine with something as simple as a smile. So go show your pearly whites and see how many you get in return and know that some of those people needed that more than you know.

Yesterday I posted these 3 famous quotes with missing words. The challenge was for you to figure out which words are missing. Well here are the answers.

"When one door closes, another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us." ~ Alexander Graham Bell

"Two peas in a pod"

"Oysters on the half shell"

Thanks for playing Mina and Lisa!

Wednesday Word Challenge

2011-01-26T09:32:00.002-05:00

Hi there! Okay so I racked my brain to come up with something fun for today's challenge and this is what I came up with. Here are 3 famous quotes with missing words. The challenge then is for you to figure out which words are missing. Leave them in your comments. Have fun!

"When one _closes, _ _ _" Do you know who spoke this famous quote, originally?

"_ _ in a _"

"_ on the half_"

Inspiration Avenue's challenge

2011-01-23T22:50:00.004-05:00

Inspiration Avenue had a challenge this past week asking what our favorite month was and to put it into art or photos or a poem, jewelry whatever have you. Mine is October so I chose 2 of my photos that I think best represents that. I chose October because harvest season starts, the air starts to get a little chilly, the leaves on the trees change into the most awesome show of colors, Halloween, pumpkins, we can throw open the windows and let the fresh air in, apple picking, the colors. These are some of my favorite things about October, well fall for that matter. After a long hot summer I welcome the cooler temperatures and snuggling in a throw and the soft scent of a burning candle and the flicker and crackle of a fire pit . What's your favorite month and why?

Answers to Word Challenge Wednesday

2011-01-20T09:58:00.003-05:00

Yesterdays Word Wednesday Challenge was 3 words and 3 definitions to choose from. If you have ever played the game Balderdash than you know how fun it can be. Some of the most ridiculous definitions tossed in by friends and family to fool you. The answers;
Fabrefaction
a. act of fashioning or making a work of art
(You've be fabrefactioning and you didn't even know it)
Stiricide
b. the falling of icicles from a house (who knew?)
Phalerate
c. ornamented

I found all of these cool odd words at a website called The Phrontistery.It is a compilation of lost words. I found it intriguing to browse through. Hope to see you here next Wednesday for another fun Word Challenge.

Some fun photo art and Word Wednesday Challenge

2011-01-19T00:01:00.001-05:00

Big Huge Labs is a really cool site where you can create your own motivational posters, puzzles, make your images look like magazine covers, postmarked images, Pop art and all sorts of really cool stuff. It's so fun!! The above stamp was made using the image from my balcony when we vacationed in Aruba several years ago. A tulip from my garden last spring turned into a puzzle.

I could play around with it for hours. I just may do that too on a day off. I found an inspirational quote online and made my own title and put that and an image together to make the poster above. After looking and looking for a quote that I liked I fell in love with this one. How perfect. It epitomizes motherhood to me. Below is pop art featuring moi, just for fun.

So go have some fun with it but don't blame me if you get sucked in and lose track of time like I did.
Okay, okay onto the word challenge. This weeks challenge is fun and simple. Some of you may know the game Balderdash. Well our family loves playing this game when we all get together. The idea behind it is to make others believe your answer is the correct one. So I have a couple of words for you to figure out. One of the 3 meanings is correct. You choose which one and put your answer in your comments. I will let you all know the answers in Thursdays post. Have fun! No cheating and Googling it. =)
1. fabrefaction
a. act of fashioning or making a work of art
b. fashioning a garment with multiple fabrics
c. multiple fabrications
2. stiricide
a. the combining of chemicals to form a pest control formula
b. the falling of icicles from a house
c. the death of the stirrup pants trend
3. phalerate
a. scientific name for an orchids cross propagation
b. a reaction to eating hot curry
c. ornamented
If you would like to invite others to play Word Challenge Wednesday, please add the button in my sidebar and a link back here.
Have a wonderful Wednesday! We are half way through the week.

Queensland Flood Auction

2011-01-16T19:37:00.004-05:00

Who says blogging is just for fun? Well, I do but it is also a wonderful way to bring people from all over the world together for a great cause. The one I am referring to is the Queensland Australia Flood Appeal . There is a blog set up for the auction and 100% of the proceeds go to the Queensland Government Flood Relief Appeal to help those families who have lost everything. You can read how these ladies came up with the idea here. 3/4 of this state has been declared a disaster zone. It is so sad to think of losing everything we own and having no place to live, sleep or just be. So click on the links I have highlighted or the button up above to be directed to the awesome auction. It is amazing how generous people can be for a good cause. Check it out.

What inspires me? COLOR

2011-01-16T11:45:00.003-05:00

Inspiration Avenue has a weekly Art Challenge and this weeks prompt was What Inspires You. Well, these images of mine are what inspires me. Rich colors, texture, papers, nature, art, chippy paint and the combination of turquoise and red.

Hop on over and see what inspires these other artists. Your sure to be in for a treat.

A day at the shore poem

2011-01-15T19:45:00.005-05:00

Okay I have been hosting Word Wednesday here for the past 2 weeks. This weeks challenge was to write a poem using as many or as little of the words from the list in this post. So after puling out my hair trying to complete my own darn challenge, here is what I came up with:A day at the sea shore where the sun warms the soul
and a bit of relaxation is always the goal
there by the harbor sits a child on a swing
watching the pelicans deep sea fishing
I see a little yellow boat about to set sail
the passengers hoping for a glimpse of the endangered blue whale.
I can hear leaves rustling in the wind
as I sit with the sunshine warming my skin
I watch as the seagulls frolic at the waters edge
it must be so nice to fly out to sea
and leave this land with not a single worry.

So I am not a poet and yes I know it. Sorry to be so lame but it is my game. Okay okay I am sorry to be dragging this on I'll just let it be. See see see.

Word Challenge Wednesday

2011-01-12T08:17:00.003-05:00

Today's challenge is to write a poem rhyming or not, does not matter using as many or as little of the following words:

hand, bird, bless, sea, wind, sunshine, sky, has, blue, back, tree, fly, sail, little, sing, were, the, at, are, childhood, nature, see, be, believe, sail, lift, boat, have, harbor, shore, big, gray, sit, yellow, window, red, you, we, nest, water, is, leaf, been, swim

You may make any word plural, past tense or add "ing".

Have fun and leave your link or your poem in the comment section for all of us to enjoy. Thanks for playing and grab my button and link in the sidebar if you want to invite others to play along with us on Word Challenge Wednesday. I can't wait to see what you all come up with.

Domestically speaking

2011-01-10T20:55:00.009-05:00

The weather outside is frightful...what with all of the freezing rain. The palm fronds were encased in ice. What's wrong with that picture?! So I spent my day off tinkering.

I was feeling very domestic today and decided to make something pretty. Well I ended up making four tea towels. I prewashed them then hand dyed them in vanilla bean coffee and then added the images and voila we have four pretty and yummy smelling tea towels.

They are now in my shop.
I also tried my hand at making linen roses and decided to put 3 together to make a pin. I was thinking it would be a fun way to dress up a sweater or a wool jacket. To age them I put them over a flame and burnt the edges and then used one of my fabric inks to dye the raised areas. I like how it came out. What do you think?

And last but not least I wanted something else romantic and pretty so I tried this cool technique where you cut silky fabric into circles in varying sizes, then cut slits in them around the perimeter and then using tongs you hold them above the flame until they start to curl. Best be very careful during that part. You know what a marshmallow looks like when it is held too close. Well let's just say my fabric circles went up in flames more than once. Chalk it up to playing with fire. I personally like the look of the slightly burnt edges so I did that here and there. Then to finish them you simply add a brad to the center and a piece of fabric to the back to hold them together and then a pin. Voila you have a pretty accessory.

I Dream in Color

2011-01-09T09:00:00.006-05:00

I dream in color...my submissions for this weeks Challenge at Inspiration Avenue.

The prompt was do you dream in color. I do, so I chose some of my photographs to represent some of the vivid colors I dream in. I am always drawn to vivid colors for my photos, but I also love to create art in muted romantic speia tones, as well. Like some of these items, I've sold.

Every week there is a fun art challenge at Inspiration Avenue. Come join in the fun. There is a monthly giveaway that given to one lucky participant from that months art challenge. Pop on over to check it out HERE. Hope you are having a lovely weekend. OWOH starts at the end of the month. Click on the button in my sidebar to learn more.

Free image to play with and the Unscramble

2011-01-06T08:57:00.007-05:00

Just look at this cool blue/turquoise door. It is an antique and has the coolest chippy paint job.
This door graces a fun restaurant on Folly Beach called Taco Boy. I am in love with it. lol The colors, the texture, the hardware...aaah...Anyway, it is free for you to use in your art. Here are some more pictures of the interior:I love the authentic Mexican decor. They have the coolest light fixtures all over the ceiling. They have handmade and hand carved masks on the walls not to mentions some awesome tacos and salsa. We're not talking your everyday tacos either. Sure they have those too but they also offer some unusual menu items like; spic Mexican pork sausage and potatoes, Tempura or sauteed shrimp, Baja and Ahi tuna, Flank steak, grilled fish, etc. And all sorts of Margarita's. Yum! Anyway, if you ever come to the Charleston area, you can be sure you will enjoy a drink or meal here.
Okay, yesterday, I gave 4 scrambled words to figure out. Here are the words unscrambled;
sunshine
happiness
January
inspiration
Mina got 3 of the words and Lisa got all 4 so great job ladies! I love word puzzles! Next Wednesday we will have a different type of Word post. Come join in the fun if you want. Add your own link in the comments so we can come see your Word Wednesday post also. It can be anything having to do with words. A poem, a quote, a definition, a tongue twister, a riddle, a scramble, whatever. I have added a button to my sidebar if you care to add it. Maybe others will want to come play with us. It is in my sidebar.
Have a lovely Thursday friends.

Word Wednesday Challenge

2011-01-05T09:59:00.008-05:00

I have deemed (makes me sounds like a queen or something) Wednesdays to be Word Wednesdays. I will have a riddle, a word scramble, a tongue twister or something fun every Wednesday. Add a link in your comments to your own, if you'd like to have some fun with us.

So today's word challenge will be to unscramble the following words:

suennish
ssipepnah
aarjyun
tiininopars

Hints in order: blue skies, cheer, cold month, what we hope to gain from one another. You can leave the answers in your comments or not. Have fun! Tomorrow I will list the answers. Oh and I made the button above if you want to add it to our sidebar so others can play with us.

OWOH is coming at the end of the month and the riddle answer

2011-01-02T23:12:00.004-05:00

Lisa Swifka is once again hosting the ever so much fun One World One Heart which is a Worldwide event for bloggers only. You get to blog hop and meet kindred spirits, discover new artists, crafters, new friends, etc. It is a whole lot of fun! I participated in the last 3 out of 4 and I will be participating again this year. Oh and did I mention that there are loads of giveaways, too? Last year there were over 1000 participants from all over the globe.

This is the final year for OWOH, as Lisa says it feels right to end it here. It is quite the undertaking as you might imagine. Anyway, you can click on the flyer above or the button on my sidebar to learn more. I can't wait!
And a little fella to make you smile. Remember a couple of summers ago his owner was walking around with him on her shoulder at the Arts Festival. Isn't he adorable?!

The answer to the riddle yesterday is: the "Happy Birthday" song!

Happy New Year and a Riddle

2010-12-31T22:25:00.005-05:00

We have a new year upon us. A clean slate on which to write our hopes and dreams. A chance to glimpse at where we have been and where we're headed.
An opportunity to look at life through fresh eyes. Isn't it fun to be able to wipe that slate clean each year? Today begins the next chapter of your life. You being the main character and all, get to have all of the fun! What will your story be? What discoveries will you make along the way? I'm intrigued.

This week's challenge at Inspiration Avenue was to reflect on 2010 and looking forward to 2011 in relation to our art, we were to give a glimpse of where our art will take us by next New Yeaers Eve.
I plan on continuing my photography. And that means going out and exploring my new city. I hope to learn how to use Photoshop to make some fun things with my photos. I am working on ideas to make my blog a more fun place to visit. I have a few ideas up my sleeve (rubbing hands together and smiling). =o)
Here's a riddle to start the new year off right. The answer will be posted tomorrow, Sunday evening EST time.

A man was at a bar feeling poor he sees a rich man take 50's out his pocket to pay the cashier.The poor man says to the rich man "I know all the songs known to man." The rich man laughed and said,"I bet you all the money in my pocket that you can't sing a song with my daughter's name in it, Sarah Lee Greyson." The poor man went home rich and the rich man went home poor. What song did the man sing?

Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Happy New Year friends! I wish for you a new year filled with blessings of good health, happiness, good times and prosperity.

Template Designer Help and my newest journal

2010-12-31T09:39:00.009-05:00

This journal was ordered and created for a Photographer. This one was so much fun to create, as I had access to some wonderful cardstock with all sorts of photography terminology and images. As you all know I love photography and so that made this even more fun to make.

So as I mentioned 2 posts back I was frustrated with suddenly not being able to use the template design tool here on blogger any more. So I went to blogger's help area and found that others having the same problem needed to upgrade to Firefox 3.6, so then I googled how to do that and I am sharing it here. It is super easy.
1. Log into Firefox 2. Click on Help in your toolbar 3. Click on Check for Updates 4. Install Updates 5. Log out and back into Firefox and your template designer will be there in all its' glory. Yay!

Custom Anniversary Journal

2010-12-30T11:19:00.004-05:00

Here is one of the journals I made for a couples' 38th year anniversary. I was asked to use the colors I chose. It is to be used for a journal and a photo album so I included pockets with several different pieces of folded cardstock and tags for the journaling or slipping in a photo. I added their initials to the cover and hand wrote in y finest script a poem from their friends inside the front cover. I will show you the others I made in the next couple of posts.

Help...Template Designer

2010-12-29T10:15:00.003-05:00

Update: I upgrade to Firefox 3.6 and I have my template designer back. Whoot. It is easy to do. You simply log onto Firefix and then click on the Help button at the top of the page and then Check for Updates, then Install now. When you log back into Firefox after the install it will be good as new. Yay!
Helppp...I cannot get the Template Designer to load half of the time. It just sits there and the dots keep rolling under the B. I want to change the colors of all of my text throughout my blog. This happens to me about 85% of the time. Does anyone else have trouble with the Template Designer tool loading, or is it just lucky old me?

Merry Christmas friends!

2010-12-24T09:54:00.006-05:00

Merry Christmas my friends!

I'm behind!

2010-12-13T21:45:00.006-05:00

The halls are not decked in our home. I usually have it all festive by now but this year we are empty nesters and with shift work, I have not had the energy to go down to the garage and bring up all of the Christmas storage bins. Shame on me! We do not even have a tree yet. As soon as we get it up this year it will be time to take it down.
I have been visiting your blogs though and they are all decked out with Christmas decor posts and leave me longing to share my own. I did manage to make a few Christmas banners for my shop.
I bought these cute snowmen for my kids. I buy them an ornament every year so when they have a tree of their own they will have all of their ornaments from childhood. It's also fun to reminisce over when they rec'd this one or that one and why that one was chosen, etc. Yes, I am a sentimental fool.

Well good news, as soon as I reopened my shop I received 3 custom orders for my journals. So that was nice. I will share pics of them later. I just finished writing out my Christmas cards and need to drop them off at the post office so at hopefully they will get there by Christmas. Ugh, I am so behind this year!I hope you all are way ahead of me.

Bah-Humbug you say...

2010-12-08T10:01:00.004-05:00

These two lovely bloggers have a very generous giveaway going on. I am only sharing this with you because I love you all. Cuz' if I'm being honest, I really want to win one of these babies! They are giving away 5 different fun stockings full of all sorts of goodies! So go check 'em out.
If you are like me while shopping for others during this holiday season I always see something I would love for myself, on sale, and I am not able to buy it because I am buying for others. I have a friend who buys 1 or 2 things for someone and if she really likes it throws in one for herself. She cracks me up. She says two for them, one for me, one for so and so, one for me and so on. So anyway, if you want a chance to win one of these awesome stockings, go here.

Blog Giveaway over at Indulge Your Shelf!

2010-11-29T23:07:00.004-05:00

Laurie over at Indulge Your Shelf is having a spectacular giveaway to celebrate her 2 years of blogging and nearly 500 Posts! Wow, 500 posts! That's quite an accomplishment in itself. I'm impressed. Anyways look at this gorgeous book she created. She has photos of the inside goodies on her blog and details of how to enter to win this and a $25. gift card. So go check it out here. Oh and good luck!

a GIVEAWAY from Diane of My Art Journal

2010-11-27T09:10:00.004-05:00

A lovely blog friend of mine (Diane of My Art Journal) is having a 1 Year Blog Anniversary Giveaway, so I said I'd give her a shout out. Happy Anniversary, Diane! Realizing this dwindles my chances of winning one of her 2 fun art pieces, know that I love you all that much. =o) So pop over to see this creative lady's artwork. There, Diane, I did it. See I play nice. You have until Dec. 6th to enter.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T00:01:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving my American friends. I hope your day is a wonderful day filled with love, laughter and good memories. And to those not celebrating Thanksgiving, I wish you the very same.

Here's is how we will be spending our day:

Cooking the lovely family feast. Image from Womans Day

image from Better Homes and Gardens

Setting the pretty table.Watching football and putting together a puzzle. Photo by Matt Sullivan

Image from Jigsawpuzzlefun.com

A stroll after dinner to help work that turkey off.

A game or two of cards. Image from Shockwave.com

Dessert after a couple of hours. Image from eatingwell.com
And to wind down...a movie for everyone. Image from Disney.go.com

Ah...I'm exhausted already. =) Happy Thanksgiving my friends!
I am thankful for having such wonderful blogging buddies!

Pretty ideas for setting your Thanksgiving table and PDF links for place cards

2010-11-24T09:05:00.013-05:00

Mum place card courtesy of The Graphics Fairy always offers the most wonderful printables.

Find the PDF file for this place card here

Click here for the PDF file to print your own

About.com

Marthastewart.com

Countryliving.com

Celebrations.com

Some thrift store treasures

2010-11-18T17:54:00.012-05:00

Okay, so get this. I found a real treasure at the thrift store. Do you know what type of basket this is? It's a Longaberger picnic basket with the protective sleeves and shelf and the pamphlet that comes with it. It is hand signed and numbered on the bottom along with the official Longaberger imprint. It retails for $190.00. I cannot even tell you how much I paid for this because I feel too guilty. Let's just say when I saw it I was simply looking for a basket to hold my yarn and knitting needles. As I was looking it over I saw it was a Longaberger. I had to double check the price label and then the imprint on the bottom and then the label again making sure my eyes were seeing correctly. So my shopping trip ended abruptly, as I was afraid someone would change their mind and take it away from me. lol So now it is in my possession.

Okay, so the story behind these little snowmen is that each year I give my children a Christmas ornament so that when they have their own trees they will have their own personal collection of ornaments with a history and good memories attached. I saw these little wooden fellas and they reminded me of long ago Christmases and they are very cute! They are about 2-1/2-3" tall.
I got excited when I saw this tray (2.99). It is stamped Yugoslavia into the wood on the bottom and I love the dovetail craftsmanship at the corners. I plan on adding some vintage papers on the bottom of each section. It is so pretty. It is about 18" x 12".Okay so here are 4 place mats. Velvet and satin. I plan on using these under my table centerpieces. I have candles on one table and a plant on another and a floral arrangement on another and a table lamp on another. This will be an inexpensive (99 cents) and easy way to add holiday cheer and color to my decor.
I found these lovely vintage linens that I am going to use in some pretty projects. I will post those later.
I found this Marriage Blessing. It is stamped Florence Italy on the back and the frame is adorable! I may take the blessing out and frame something else and add the blessing to the wedding guest books I make, if the bride so wishes, of course.
Okay, this is a cool box! It is long and slim and very sturdy. It reminds me of the wooden cigar boxes. I will be giving this a complete makeover. Will show that later when completed.

Okay, look at this! I got so excited when I saw this little box. It is so cute! Only 4x4". It is from 1936 or 1938. The Weave It! I looked it up and found all of the little booklets you could buy for it back in the day. They actually have instructions on making everything from coats to baby clothes. It's a riot! Oh and swimming suits. You know the old fashioned! This is in the original box with the original needle and a woven felted square still on it, unfinished.It reminds me of the plastic toy one I had that we made potholders with. You remember those, right?! Okay, I also bought a vintage light with the 4 color wheel attached to it. It goes round and round and was meant to shine on a tinsel tree. I have been looking for the tree for my mom. I'd like to surprise her by having this set up at her home one afternoon while she's at work. She told me about having a tree with a light just like this one shining on it and changing colors. I found this for less than ($5). Ebay has these trees but yikes some of them are outrageous and considering my mother is not really into retro, I am not wiling to pay a fortune for it. I just thought it would be fun to bring a childhood memory to her.
I also came home with a book and a Christmas album for my daughters boyfriend. He got an LP player for his last bday and he has been slowly adding to his vinyl collection. Hey this is funny...my daughter was in the drama class in kindergarten and the teacher put on this giant CD she said. I had to laugh. She had never seen a record before. Wow! TGIF! I hope you have a lovely weekend.

Stunning sunset to end the day

2010-11-15T20:00:00.004-05:00

Jack and I were out and about today. Exploring as I put it. We found a few thrift stores. Well I found a few and Jack was just being a nice guy and pulled over. =) He did find a few good books though while I was looking for things. Yes, things. I really was not looking for anything in particular but I love the hunt. You all know what I mean. I came home with a few goodies.
Look at this sunset! On our way home I asked him to pull over so I could take a few pictures of this magnificent sunset. Ah the Lowcountry has my heart. We walked out onto this pier and had the view below. There were swings along the waters edge. Lovely. What a romantic setting.
The reflection in the water was magical. My heart was singing.

A lovely afternoon stroll

2010-11-14T20:01:00.004-05:00

Being new to Charleston, we are still exploring. Each time I get a day off is like an adventure.This is part of an old church at Fort Dorchester. I loved the old brick and the archways and especially the view through the archway.
We meandered along this pathway until we came upon this wooden walkway that goes out over the river and makes a semicircle back. I just love tree lined paths and streets. They are so inviting, don't you think? They beckon me to enter and see what sort of surprise is at the end.
I looked up and this is what I saw. Spanish moss draped trees with a blue sky in the background. The trees seem so romantic.
This is an image from the waters edge. There were people picnicking, fishing sitting beneath the trees at picnic tables; some reading and some chatting. I would love to come back before sun down and take some more shots with less harsh lighting.

Ugh!

2010-11-10T21:10:00.004-05:00

Well,I have really done it now. I was trying to delete all of my spam "anonymous" comments in one fell swoop and it turns out that I also deleted my regular comments too. mmm...mmm...mmm...(shaking my head). Good thing I got tired of doing it after about 6 pages or they would all be gone from way back.

Happiness...My entry for this weeks challenge

2010-11-07T07:06:00.003-05:00

Inspiration Avenue's team posted this last weeks challenge and the word prompt was "happiness". Well I felt like this image I took at the fair last week was perfectly fitting. You see I am a kid at heart. I love to swing and this big swing is magical. It makes me feel free as a bird. I get to dangle my feet and swing my legs and feel the gentle breeze in my hair. It's exhilarating. The ride itself makes me happy, but there's a bonus. It's gorgeous! Just look at it. The ornate detailing is done making it a wonderful piece of art. The colors, the paintings, the mouldings, the lights. (sigh) It makes me feel like a child again with no cares in the world. Who doesn't want to feel like that sometimes?
Below in my last post I shared more images from the fair. You can see more art pieces on "Happiness" on Inspiration Avenue's Team blog. It's fun to participate each week and it gives you an opportunity to show off your work and a chance to win that months giveaway.

A fair to remember

2010-11-06T21:06:00.008-04:00

The Coastal Carolina Fair came to town and of course we had to go see what it was like. Well let me tell ya it was a lot of fun. I had fun snapping photos. The carousel was so ornate and just gorgeous! It was really red, white and gold with lots of pretty embellishments. I played with the colors in this next one.

We had so much fun. We watched a hypnotist. That was hysterical. Those poor volunteers if they only knew. They danced and acted bratty and sang and fell asleep and all sorts of things. It was so interesting to watch. And talk about colorful! Wow! It was like sensory overload. I can imagine how spectacular it must have been to little ones looking up at all of these big colorful prizes that they could take home. Oh I love the ! It used to be roller coasters when I was a teenager but now that I know that I am not invincible, I enjoy the more mellow rides.lol This one was so beautiful. I tweaked the colors in the second one. I love how it came out. It looks as magical as it feels slowly spinning around up there.
These paper lanterns were all around the perimeter of the tent we ate in.There was every type of food you could imagine. Well nearly. I had teriyaki chicken on a skewer over rice. Yum! This was the most healthy fare I could find to eat. Of course before we left I had to choose between a caramel apple or a funnel cake. hmmm...tough choice. Well I had to go with the funnel cake because I had not had one in a couple of years and they are so yummy. I know, I know they're so fattening too, but you know what, you only get to go to the fair once a year and it's something to look forward to, right?. Click on the words funnel cake highlighted above and find an easy recipe to make your own.

Photo courtesy of Friends Eat

My Art Challenge Entry

2010-10-31T11:19:00.011-04:00

Here is my art piece I entered in this weeks Art Challenge at Inspiration Avenue. The challenge was to use a word out of the list given and make a "worn" looking piece of art/photo/etc. I ripped papers, antiqued the edges, used tea stained watercolor paper, a skeleton key, vintage laces, old world script, and the word "inspire". I had fun creating it. I had not been able to play for awhile with the move and work, so this was a real treat.

Ta-Da...the finished piece. Hop on over to see what everyone else created. There are some very talented ladies here in blogland. See for yourself. Also, join in on the next one. The new challenge should be up tomorrow.

Classy Pumpkin DIY's and Recipes

2010-10-31T01:09:00.013-04:00

Happy Halloween all! I am not posting your typical Halloween posting. I found these scrumptious recipes and pumpkin designs to be more fun. Enjoy!
Look a recipe for Pumpkin Pancakes plus loads of other pumpkin recipes on Pumpkin Recipes. I bet these are delicious!
You have to try this soup. My SIL made this a couple of years ago for Thanksgiving and it was delicious! It has many roasted vegetable flavors mingling in a creamy base. Yum! I was so excited when I stumbled on the recipe. I am definitely making this. Harvest Pumpkin Soup recipe courtesy of Martha Stewart
Pumpkin Topiary DIY courtesy of Southern Living
Lace Patterned Pumpkins DIY courtesy of Martha Stewart
Magical Carriage DIY by Hallmark Ideas
Nailhead Pumpkins DIY courtesy of My Home Ideas
Etched Pumpkins DIY courtesy of Factory Direct Craft Blog
Painted Pumpkins DIY courtesy of Country Living Image by Dana Gallagher

Come play with us!

2010-10-28T09:26:00.002-04:00

This week at Inspiration Avenue I am hosting this weeks art challenge. The challenge is to use one of the words above in a piece of art; jewelry, painting, mixed-media, photograph, etc., etc. The twist is for it to have a "worn" look, ie; tattered, rusty, crackled, antiqued, frayed, etc. So if you want to join in on the fun, you have until Sunday at noon to add your post to your blog and then comment on the post here with your link, and on Sunday your lovely piece will be shared on the Inspiration Avenue Blog for all to see with a link back to your blog. Pretty fun, huh!?

I am still thinking about what to make but I am down to 2 things, so I have to get a move on. I hope to see your art there!

Happy Halloween Party!

2010-10-12T10:35:00.034-04:00

Hi there! I am so glad you came! Look what I have prepared for you. I know it's your favorites. Of course the Lizard tale has the cream you like on it. Don't be silly. Why would I skimp on my special guests.

Look there are party hats and magical wands and candlelight. I hope you feel special.

I even started the fire pit so we can sit around and brew up some spells. How fun is this going to be!? I just learned that if you eat a salted herring on this night just before you sleep, you will be visited by your future husband or wife. He/ she will come to offer you water and quench your thirst, in your dream. So I have some salted herring just for you sweetie.
Oh where did I put the cauldron? Wait, I remember. Let me fly over, I mean run over and get it.
It looks as you have already started without me. Look at that fire jumping! You go girl! I want to take you to my favorite place. Let's scoot on over there and see who we can visit. Want to?
The flowers are so lovely this time of year. Did you see that? Look whose hiding behind the tombstone back there. It's the lovely Broom Hilda. Yay! She is so much fun!

Don't be scared silly, that's just the special drink making you see blue. Isn't it fun? Look my favorite tree!
This tree speaks to me. Listen. On the nights when there is a full moon, you can come and hear the whispers from all of those whom have wept here. This big beautiful eerie tree is magic. You simply need to speak your troubles and it whispers a spell to soothe your soul. Want to try it? Alright, alright let's fly back home so I can show you some fun things I have concocted and see if our other guests have shown up yet. Yes, I invited Elvira. She's the life of the party!
Oh look someone is here. They left the door open for us.
I know! I put her out as a joke for Broom Hilda. I can't believe she took a nose dive last year. How embarrassing. You think she'll be mad that I put this out here? Nah, she has a pretty good sense of humor. Come on I want you to see the how I decorated for our little trick or treaters.

Oh look Elvira has made us drinks! Looks yummy, Elvira, thanks! I hope you are enjoying yourself. Vanessa has loads more parties she's lined up for us. I cannot wait to mingle. Let's fly on over. I just love Vanessa of A Fanicful Twist. She throws the best parties! But wait before we go, I have a fun recipe and a tutorial for the hats and menu above.
Black Widow

Cream de Cassis
Vodka
triple sec
fresh lemon juice
Pomegranate juice
licorice strings

For two cocktails (or one cocktail shaker): 2 parts cassis, 3 parts vodka, 1 part triple sec, 1 part lemon juice, 1 part pomegranate.

Now I'll tell you how I made the table setting pieces at the beginning of the party.
Place card hats
Make a cone out of paper that you have aged and stamped. Glue it so it stays.
Cut a circle out of a piece of cardboard a little bigger than the bottom of your cone.
Cover the cardboard with contrasting paper.
Glue the cone to the cardboard circle.
Cover the area just glued with fun yarns, ribbon, bats, etc.
Make a curlicue out of a piece of wire strong enough to hold a name card. Poke it in the top of your hat and cover the glue with glitter.
Now is the fun part. You can add glitter to the hat and to the edges of a small card you have cut out for your guests.

Menu card
Grab a piece of watercolor paper that you have tea stained and torn the edges on. Or you can use any piece of paper you have antiqued. Use your antiquing pads.
Add a raised crescent moon with hot glue and then sprinkling glitter on top of it.
Add a torn piece of orange paper to the bottom and write your greeting on that. Then add glitter to glued dots for a little bling.
To make the black accordian menu sign, you will need a piece of paper about 8" long. Fold it like and accordian in small folds. Then fold in half and glue the last fold to it's other half. Now glue it to the card and add an aged torn piece of paper with menu written on it and add a bat to the corner.
Add torn black tissue paper to the bottom and top of the menu card and some gathered tulle to one of the corners.

Magic Wand
Bend a wire into a scraggly look.
Cut out a star, or pumpkin, or bat or moon.
Make an accordian flower for the back of your wand.
Add gathered tulle to the back of your star and glue that onto the accordian with the wire sandwiched between the star and the accordian.
Embellis the star as you see fit.
Add ribbons to the wire just under the star and voila you have a magic wand!

I've enjoyed having you. Please come again!
My banner can be found at Plumrose Lane. Her link is in my sidebar. She has great free backgrounds too.

Some things in life really are FREE

2010-10-06T12:37:00.004-04:00

There is a fabulous artist who is offering a FREE online art course. Yes, FREE. It is chock full of goodness. You will be surprised at how awesome she is and how much fun it will be. Click on the button above to be taken to her site to find out for yourself. Tell your friends about it too. There is no cutoff on the amount of people who can partake. I've already signed up. It begins October 18th.

Charleston Charm

2010-09-29T20:35:00.012-04:00

The French Huguenot Church
A Charleston driveway. Look at the details. Who wouldn't want to drive up to that!
A glimpse of someones secret garden.

My new town, Charleston, SC, has such wonderful charm. The history, the colors, the architecture, the ironwork, the churches, etc., etc. I love it here! I have taken so many photos and I am eager to take more. This place is a photographers dream. The sweet little courtyards, and magnificent gardens carved out of the tiniest of spaces. The window boxes overflowing with flowers and foliage. The cobblestone streets, the horse driven carriages, the palm trees...you get the picture. Pardon the pun.
There are some wonderful restaurants, live music at night and some great shopping. Are you psyched yet? You've gotta' come see for yourself. The beach is just a hop skip and a jump away for you sun worshipers. The aquarium is nice. I still have to check out the museums. I love that there is so much to do here.
Do you have a city that has captured your heart. Please share. I love to learn about new places. Traveling is such an adventure. Very exciting!

There's a Hallowen Party Happening near you!

2010-09-27T18:20:00.004-04:00

It's that time of year again when the lovely Vanessa of A Fanciful Twist gets us all hyped about the annual Halloween Party in blogland. She tells a good tale and sets the mood in her latest post on the upcoming party. If you'd like to join in on the fun, then hop on over to A Fanciful Twist to sign up and don't forget to come back by on October 16th for a fun fright and some ghoulish treats! I can't wait! This is my second favorite holiday of the year!
Tammy

New camera lens

2010-08-15T10:34:00.010-04:00

Here is a banner I made. I took a picture of my butterfly bush and then lightened it and voila. Feel free to use it if you'd like.

Ihad to test out my new lens. Mom and DH bought me one for my birthday. It has been fun playing with it but also has let me know that I am a bit shaky even when holding my breath. lol I may need to use my tripod if I want to take some serious photos.
Well I have to tell you this packing is for the birds but it made me declutter and donate more than usual. Charleston or bust, baby! Below is one of the images I took last year while in Charleston, SC. I'm excited! This will be the first time my husband and I have been without children under the same roof. Should be interesting and fun.

Things that make me smile and I'm moving!

2010-08-07T16:57:00.011-04:00

Nature. I love sunrises and sunsets. They are a magical time of day. They always make me grateful to be alive. I always am thankful for the show.
Spending quality time with my family. It doesn't happen enough. Both kids are off doing their own thing. I love it when we can be together.

My husband, Jack loves a little nap now and then. While he is napping, he always covers his face with his ball cap. There's always a beer at hand should he need a refreshing sip. A guy gets thirsty during those power naps. ;D
Our daughter, Alex lounging on the hammock but she's still texting on her blasted phone. It's never far from reach. She only texts on it pretty much. Who needs to talk when you can type and read at the speed of light. Handwritten letters only go out when there is a thank you note, other than that it's texting with her. No facebook, no emails, no phone calls. Keeps life simple that way.
My Dog Chance. He is a precious little fella. He is 10-1/2 years now and still plays like a puppy. He gets excited sometimes when I come home and does 2 laps around the house and then jumps up on the couch out of breath. ;D He is a lover. Loves to be held, loves to lay on or near you and is so easy going. I think it is from growing up with my daughter who used to put him in her veterinarian case, opened and doctor him up. lol I have photos. Too cute. Plus she always held him belly up like a baby. He is my shadow.

So I got a job in Charleston, SC and I move on the 20th. Yikes! I was just offered the job this past Thursday and I start on the 23rd. I have been packing up a storm and cleaning and trying to stage the house. Are any of you in Charleston, SC or near so we can finally meet? I would love to meet some bloggers on an occasional basis. Maybe do some art, lunch, drinks, dinner, I don't know but it would be fun!

=

Rhema Marvanne WOW!! Listen to her vocals. Amazing!

2010-07-29T23:59:00.001-04:00

A little girls singing "Amazing Grace" her name: Rhema Marvanne

Photo courtesy of Google Images. Thanks Google!

OBX pictures

2010-07-28T20:10:00.000-04:00

The horses of the Outer Banks in Currituck


A view from the jeep as we zoomed by. It looked more like a dessert than the beach


Look how refreshing the water looks! Makes me want to go back and do it all over again.


My dream house. I fell in love with it at first sight. My studio would be in the tippy top, overlooking the beach and wild horses.

Land Shark! and Sunsets

2010-07-23T20:15:00.000-04:00

Land Shark! Ah! My SIL saving her brother, my husband. lol

See the North star on the left. The evening sky was always picture perfect.

The evening sky was magical in Corolla.

Come walk with me. We can chat along the way.

Friends and siblings taking a stroll


A helicopter joins us as we meander along.

Village Cork and Bean

2010-07-17T10:52:00.000-04:00

I have tried to post this for a week now. Not sure what the heck is going on with Blogger but hopefully it is back to normal now. We will see when I hit the post button, I guess. And if you are reading this than we must be good to go. Thank goodness!
So we are back from a week in Corolla on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. What a relaxing week we had. I have so much to share with you. I will have to do it in separate posts so I don't overload you. This lovely little spot is the porch of the Village Cork and Bean in Duck. My daughter and I enjoyed smoothies here while out shopping. It is such a charming spot. If ever in Duck, do stop by. It is a magical little place with huge trees serving as canopies with hanging paper lanterns. In the evening they offer wine tastings here and on the lower patio. I went shell seeking daily and came home with some perfectly gorgeous black ones. I am so excited because I have a project I have been collecting these black shells for for a couple of years. Hopefully I have enough now. We'll see. I miss the beach and the sounds of the ocean and the wet sand underfoot. The treasure hunt for seashells. We even went to see the wild horses via 4wd Jeeps. What fun that was. I will share those images with you soon if blogger lets me. Love and hugs to you all. Oh how I have missed all of you.

Happy July 4th!

2010-07-03T05:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Independence Day!

STAR-SPANGLED FRUIT TART

1 tube (18 ounces) refrigerated sugar cookie dough, softened
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup fresh raspberries
1 cup halved fresh strawberries
Press cookie dough onto an ungreased 12-inch pizza pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar and extract until smooth. Spread over crust. In center of tart, arrange berries in the shape of a star; add a berry border. Refrigerate until serving. Makes 16 servings.

Needham 4th of July parade, photo by Pappatom
There will be picnics, parades, fireworks, baseball games, etc. All to celebrate our 234th year of independence.

Come sit for a bit and share

2010-06-28T10:25:00.001-04:00

“There are hundreds of languages in the world, but a smile speaks them all”-Anonymous

I sincerely wish that I could have all of you over for some refreshments, maybe a game of croquet, badminton, volleyball, bocce, or to play cards or a board game or to just sit around and chat. It would be so much fun to meet you and to learn more about you and to find out what journeys you have been on and what adventures lie in your future. Where your dream vacation would take place. What you always wanted to be when you grew up and how you might still get there.

We could talk about our favorite authors, movies, what makes our hearts fill with joy. Places we want to go, things we want to do, etc. We could plant a friendship garden, where everyone brings something from their own garden for each person. Wouldn't that be so much fun! Each year everyone would have a wonderful reminder of the day we spent together and the friendships we made. Maybe exchange home and blog addresses to keep in touch and send a trinket now and then to brighten up someone's day. Come sit for a bit and share. Here's something about me that you may not know: My husband and I are getting ready for our next adventure. Kinda' like the next chapter in our lives. Both kids will be gone and he just got laid off from work after 23 years so we are free to pick up and move to wherever we want to. We have no family here so we have no ties. So your turn...

The Beach House

2010-06-26T12:18:00.000-04:00

I am reading a wonderful novel called "The Beach House" by Jane Green. It is the perfect summer read as it takes place in Nantucket during the summer months. It is a boarding house opened up to summer guests, because the eccentric owner is in financial trouble. The guests each have something turbulent going on in their lives that has sent them here to gather their thoughts and figure things out. Nan is the eccentric homeowner that loves mothering her guests and making them feel special. It is a fun and quick read. Perfect for those lazy afternoons, or any spare moment you can muster up. I just love to share a good book.

3-D canvas, what makes your heart swoon and adding a page to your blog

2010-06-03T08:31:00.000-04:00

This is a painting that I created a long while ago. I painted a canvas then added thin branches on top of the painted vines along with a little nest of eggs and I added ribbons and fun fur for the tails of the birds along with a few flowers. Oh and a little lady bug climbing up the vine on the lower right side. See her ? This was a really fun canvas. I hope to try some more 3 dimensional canvases in the near future. I love layers and textures. I am very tactile. When I visit an antique shop and spot a large basketful of linens my heart skips a beat. I immediately B-line for it and have to find the most soft and pretty items to add to my linen closet. What makes your heart swoon whether it be in an antiques shop, thrift store, flea market, yard sale, etc?
I added a new page to my sidebar titled Vintage Images. It has all of the free images I have posted thus far. My father-in-law as a little boy is the image I chose for the link. How sweet he is, huh? Anyway, my friend and teammate Sharon, of Plumrose Lane has a tutorial on how to add pages to your blog here. She has free backgrounds and many other tutorials to help you with your blog.

Memorial Day

2010-05-28T18:42:00.001-04:00

To our Armed Service friends, both present and past.Thank you for all you have given to make me and my loved ones safe! Bless you and yours. May you return home safely if and when you are away.

Missing all of you

2010-05-26T20:34:00.000-04:00

This my happy place. Whenever I get stressed or overwhelmed this is where you will find me. Lying in a hammock at the beach listening to the waves roll in, enjoying a good book and then a nice nap. With a tall glass of sweet tea by my side.
I have not had time to create any art lately. We are trying to get the house ready to go on the market. So many things we need to complete. No time for the fun things like playing in my art room. I will have to pack it up soon. Making sure to organize the boxes and do some good labeling. Hopefully our next place will have a little place for me to create in, again. I liked not having to clean up when it was dinner time or before company came. I could just leave a project right where it was.

Anyway, I have not been visiting much lately. I have missed you all so much. I will have to get my fix right after I post this. I feel like we are old friends and I miss our chats. I need to see what you have created, decorated or picked lately from your garden. Flowers are blooming like crazy and my window boxes are looking fuller and fuller every day. My daisies are coming back with a fury this year. Wowza! Good thing they are in a large container or they may have gotten out of control. They self seed like crazy.
Anyway just wanted to stop by and say hello. I had a lady who spammed all of my posts so I had to go to comment moderation , so please do not be offended by me needing to read your comments first. It was such a nuisance to go through all of them and delete them.