3rd Eye Muse

A Lot Happens In a Year

2011-09-17T13:04:00.027-04:00

Blame it on me or facebook ... same difference, I suppose ... but it has been over a year since my last post. I do hope y'all didn't miss me too much. Here are some of the creative highlights of the last year (starting with oldest to newest).

This time last year, I was sending out my completed Peace Felt item:

I was really happy with the outcome, but it was such a struggle getting to this point. I don't think that I am wired for felting.

I went on a big crocheting kick (that I haven't really gotten out of). I can finally (with a lot of help from my friends) read patterns, so I made a small bunch of amigurumi critters ... here are a few of those highlights:

and made a dozen or so belts of the same pattern in a slew of colors & textures ... here's one example:

I actually used the pattern above to create a curtain for our living room window ... I wish I could actually use it, but it has zero privacy, so I only completed one panel. I haven't completely given up the thought (I'm considering weaving fabric through the spaces ... I'm just not certain how much more time and/or effort I really want to invest in the whole project). Time will tell.

I made a bag (this one is actually for personal use, even):

It's crocheted in the round and the strap is way too long, but since I stitched it right into the bag, I'm limited on my options to shorten it ... any thoughts?

Most recently, I did return to my roots ... just a little. One of Sadie's best girlfriends had a 14th birthday not too long ago. I wanted to do something with the last few lines of that famous Robert Frost poem ... this is what I ended up with:

the birthday girl seemed to like it just fine (and if I am wrong, I know her mama will be more than happy to adopt it). Speaking of her mama, she happens to be high on my "favorite people in the whole wide world" list ... she had a birthday just about a week before her daughter. For her, I broke out some new skills ... I used a torch for the first time! I made her a wire woven pendent with some stones inside ... wish I could show you, but unfortunately, I never actually took a photo of it ... one of these days, I might just have to invite myself over for a photo shoot.

and there you have it ... a year of crafty play in one teeny tiny nutshell.

WIP's

2010-08-26T14:25:00.010-04:00

OK, I give ... I really do like it when I have more than one thing on my plate at a time ... here's some "Works in Progress" First, I'm working on a new yarnish project & have been testing some squares like:

and:

I think I like the stitch better in the first square, but I LOVE the yarn of the second one ... it's super soft & the earthy colors feel good.

My mom-in-law threw down a challenge ... she wants me to try my hand at making a doll for an ADO (Art Dolls Only) challenge ... the theme is "Grimm's Fairytales" ... do you have any idea how many there are to choose from?!? Tons! I still haven't figured out which character I wan't to do, but figured I better get cracking on making an attempt, so I started by playing around with some aluminum wire I had on hand. I formeded some legs, arms & trunk:

and then started wraping (think hemp necklace knots) the legs in black and red embroidery floss:

here's a detail:

I haven't got a clue where this is going or what I'm doing next, but hey, at least there's something sitting on the table. :)

This one:

is the beginning of a sort of thank you project for a girlfriend. I know where this one (the gessoed cigar box) is going, but shhhh! it's a secret!

Finally, I have been trying to figure out what to make for my Peace Felt project. I think I might be onto something ... started with an aluminum "frame":

I thought I would wet felt an already too small black cashmere sweater, cut it to shape & sort of loosely whip stitch it to the frame ... then I was thinking I could cut a peace symbol out of the felted piece and "stitch" little Swarovki crystals into the open space ... I haven't got a clue if it'll actually work, but hey, I figure it's worth a try.

wish me luck ... lots and lots of luck!

2011 Sketchbook Project

2010-08-17T10:31:00.012-04:00

I received my package in yesterday's mail:

... and I'm thinking I might just ask my daughter to go through it and mark uo/scribble on some of the blank pages, so I can get over my hesitation to mar the perfectly untouched journal ...

... did I mention that I let the "order system" select my theme:

if you can't read the text, it says, "Things found on restaurant napkin" ... I'm amused.

Wish me luck!

...

AND

...

There's still time for you to participate, too! If I remember correctly, sketchbooks will be available until the end of October.

Click on ANY of the above images to get more information.

Looking for a project?

2010-08-07T13:18:00.006-04:00

I seem to be a person that likes to have projects ... preferably more than one at a time. I am still in the planning stages of the Peace Felt 2010 project and will be posting progress pictures as I (we - I've signed up Don & Sadie for it, too) get working.

Another project that I'm participating in is:

take a minute to click on the image above and check it out for yourself ... sign up is open till the end of October and is open internationally.

Finally, I still haven't decided if I'm going to do this one or not, but definitely think it's one worth sharing ... I can think of a dozen of you lovelies that are simply PERFECTLY suited for it ... Fabrik Magazine is having a juried competition open to artists in all media:

Click the image above for the details.

Entry deadline is fast approaching: August 31, 2010

I'm looking forward to seeing who takes the leap on this one.

Peace Felt 2010

2010-07-30T10:00:00.008-04:00

The following was copied directly from the website:

Mission:

To promote peace and connectivity among nations, loving kindness among individuals, gratitude in our hearts and in our consciousness - knowing that WE create our world through our thoughts, words and actions.

To, as Gandhi reminded us, "Be the change we wish to see in the world."
To promote awareness of the ancient art of felt making and the modern craft of needle felting for its qualities of being earth friendly, extremely versatile, and easy to learn!

I simply love this. (thanks again, Danielle!) To find out more, click on either image above to be directed to the website.

Be sure to registered by August 1st.

Happy Peace Crafting!!

one more for the diary project

2010-07-26T18:53:00.006-04:00

I am happy to say that Lucy accepted my first submission for the 2011 Diary Project, so I went ahead and sent her another one:

plus, if you get the chance, go grab a copy of:

it's so full of great inspiration and has terrific artists featured this month ... like:

EB of Be ... Dream ... Play

&

Sandy of Sandy's Show n Tell

If you've never entertained the idea of an art journal, this issue could definitely plant the seed.

wishing everyone a day full of craftiness!!

A Winner Announced ... and other news ...

2010-07-18T16:28:00.013-04:00

The Royal Palm Marina announced the Seawall Art Contest winner on this past rain filled 4th of July. Congratulations goes to Diane Davidson! Her piece really is pretty special:

Here's a detail of the cool crab (holding a beer from Zeke's - the Tiki Bar located right above this portion of the wall):

and another detail:

Also, the:

Contributions are (mostly) in. I, unfortunately, did not rise to the occasion and submit mine in time ... I did notice that Lucy still had pages that looked like they needed to be done, so updated my design with one of those dates and sent it over to her ... I don't know if the list is current or if she'll use the design, but thought I'd share this one:

I believe if you click on the above image it will take you to a larger version.

and

finally

...

must give a shout out to one super-fantastic

grrl+dog

on a fluke, I picked up the latest issue of Stuffed (been wanting a copy since the first issue, but this was the first time I actually has the chance to buy one from the newstand) ... to my happy delight, Denise and her delightful Fuzels were brilliantly featured ... methinks you ought to go check them out:

you can also find grrl @ her etsy shop HERE

June's been a busy, busy month!

2010-07-01T15:13:00.012-04:00

I guess I just have to admit that I've been busy ... been meaning to come post & visit all my wonderful blog friends, but life has different ideas for me ... here's the scoop: 1) I entered a lap blanket that I crocheted for my mom-in-law in the "Made by Hand" show at the Visual Arts Center here in Punta Gorda.

The exhibition has been going on since the last weekend in May and everything comes down next Friday.

Following are photo's of the blanket in progress:

I used a bamboo/acrylic yarn that is yummy soft

here's a snap of it in the gallery:

and a close-up:

a friend showed me a really cool edging:

here's a closer look at it:

I didn't place in the show ... BUT ... I did get:

the People's Choice award:

talk about a delightful surprise

***************************************************************

I also tossed my name into a hat for a seawall space for a contest the Royal Palm Marina is having ... a lot of people showed interest & there are only 18 spots available ... would you believe my name got drawn?!?

it's true

EEEK!

here's the wall as I first saw it:

12' x 5' ... base coat ... two shades of blue-green:

and the three sea turtles in progress:

here's a close-up ... flippers still need to be filled in:

here's a shot of the one in the far left corner:

and the middle one all filled in:

and the one at the far right:

I'm planning on adding some random circles throughout, but we've been getting rain ... and lots of it ... late afternoon and early evening (when I'm able to go out to the marina) ... I keep hoping that it'll let up (please cross your fingers). :)

The judging is happening on the 4th ... wouldn't that be cool?!?

**********************************************************************

and can't forget about:

our contributions are due today ... wouldn't you know it, I'm not quite done ... and still at work ... but I will definitely be sending mine before I go to bed.

There's my lil-more-than a nutshell of an update.

Hope all is well with you!

Once in a while, late is actually better than on time ...

2010-05-04T20:06:00.009-04:00

Case in point ... back in August I did a little side exchange (a charm for a charm) with the most gracious T of Running w/Scissors ... well, I got her wee package in no time flat (with a bonus charm to boot)

... AND ...

... well, uh, um ...

... she still doesn't have hers ...

BUT

she WILL have it before this week is over

AND

Because it took me 100 years to get my act together, it's not just one, not two, but three of the lil crane charms

AND

it doesn't stop there

Check out what's headed to her mailbox:

top/lid of an altered Altoides tin

bottom - if you've ever visited her page, you'll recognize her "logo" from her banner.

side
(ok, yes, this IS from before completion, but I forgot to take one of the side)

inside

and there's just a little bit more:

and here's a close-up of the goodies for inside the treat box:

(and yes, I did check w/her first to see if she wanted to be surprised or if it was cool to post pictures)

See what I mean?

Auction is Live ... now thru the 24th!

2010-04-17T11:10:00.005-04:00

Nothing like waiting until the 12th hour, but it's official ... the Cigar Box Shrine is finished and posted!

Here's how it all came together:

Take a little time to go check out the other amazing contributions to this years auction!

Thank You!

Last Update Before Posting to the Auction Site

2010-04-16T01:01:00.005-04:00

Thank goodness for extensions ... and Friday's off ...

here's where I am at:

the interior of the box (all four sides) have been slathered w/gel medium and "tiled" with these really cool beads rescued from a not so cool necklace with a few random alternate beads. Prior to the gel medium drying, copious amounts of glitter was dumped to enhance the "grout" (top half of sides & top in a dark blue extra fine glitter, a teal glitter break line and bottom in a darker teal glitter)

trying to share various angles

...

and a couple of close ups as well

...

sometimes it's not so great having a terrific camera ... these were taking during the "setting" stage (right now as I type) and have not yet been brushed of loose glitter, etc. ... next step ... once again, your guess is likely as good as mine (some might argue even better) ... but the muse is ordering me to bed ... said she'd be back in the morning and promises to help me have this finished and posted on the auction site well before midnight tomorrow!

Remember to go check out the auction preview.

Auction goes live April 17th and items will be up for bid thru the 24th.

please note: I won't be near a computer from Sat-Mon, so if you send questions during that time, please know that I won't be able to respond until Monday night.

A Second Update (or: The Girl Likes to Weave Paper)

2010-04-09T00:41:00.007-04:00

As of 04/09/10 - the auction dates have been postponed to April 17 - 24th.

There's still time to create a cigar box shrine if the urge is inside you.

All contributions now due April 16th (phew ... looks like I've got a little time to breathe after all.

******************************************

Paint dry, pieces separated & the weaving began ... love the effect of using the same basic colors but contrasting with light against dark. Here's the blue/green one:

And the blue/purple (narrower strips):

Once weaved, I added glue to the back and let it dry completely ... then cut pieces from the weave and covered all the sides plus the front ... the wider strip weave went on the top and bottom (long sides) with the other on the sides ... I added pieces of both to the front "panels/doors".

Here's a view of the top ... or maybe that's the bottom:

and of one side:

Here's a shot of the front (with a little top-a-showin):

and another one (with a little side-a-showin):

I really, REALLY like the effect of the painted paper weaved, though I am thinking I'd like to seal it with some varnish ... matte? gloss? ... not sure. I am sure that this makes me want to do a much larger scale weaved piece ... will have to add that to the list that keeps on growing.

The cigar boxes need to be completed and posted to the auction site tomorrow. I'm hoping the interior completion comes together as naturally as everything else to this point. I'll be sure to post to let everyone know when up & available to bid on.

jump right in ...

2010-04-06T23:03:00.007-04:00

here's the box:

A paintbrush, Liquitex acrylic Phthalocyanine Blue, Phthalocyanine Green, Brilliant Blue, Cobalt Blue, Titanium White & Mars Black ... inside "doors" and back painted.

****************************

had an urge to weave, so cut some strips & taped them to wax paper:

first set drying:

second set ... blopped:

and drying:

where's all this going? your guess is as good as mine.

ultimately

it will wind up:

please see previous post for even more information.

thank you!

2010-04-04T22:37:00.007-04:00

Remember this:

... funny how the full circle often comes just in the nick of time ...

*****************************************************

The following is copied directly from Rebecca's March 19th post

sometimes

opening

your

heart

is as simple

filling

empty

box

Shrine auction for Oaxaca Streetchildren Grassroots 2010

artist entry deadline to submit to shrine website April 9th.

*****************************************************

The link on my sidebar goes directly to the auction site ... there's still time left to create a shrine to be included in the auction, though time is running out.

As I type this, there are FIVE days left.

A Call for Entries

2010-04-02T16:03:00.007-04:00

Have you heard?!?

who knows ... the winner could be ...

YOU!

for more information, click the image above or go here: http://photographybooknow.blurb.com

also ... it's time to reserve your page for the 2011 Diary Project:

I've got mine ... now go get your page today!

a wee bit-o-braggin

2010-03-26T10:42:00.002-04:00

Looks like Sadie is definitely smarter than a sewing machine ... she spent last Saturday gettin her creative on over at a friends house ... and had a BLAST doing it, too.

With a little guidance from the house mama (a wonderful creative genius in her own right), the girls spent some time making monsters. This mama was blown away that one of the lil monsters came home to me. This is Pez:

Super sweet, don't you think? Yep, me, too. It warms my heart that Sadie actually gave all of her monsters away (translation - she was really proud of what she created & has a generous heart hiding under her tween skin).

Here's hoping everyone is getting a little love tossed their way, too!

too bad the sewing machine is smarter than me ...

2010-03-11T21:23:00.002-05:00

I've got plans...

for:

and this:

and:

what do you think they are?!?

blame it on a well tuned 2nd guessing brain ...

2010-03-10T22:13:00.002-05:00

I

WILL

NOT

LET

ANOTHER

MONTH

PASS

WITHOUT

A

SINGLE

POST

!

!

!

Sheesh ... who woulda thunk?

One World, eh?

2010-01-17T19:37:00.006-05:00

I know ... it really has been about 100 years since I have posted. I am amazed that this much time has actually passed ... life's been ... happening, but I find myself missing all the creative souls I have encountered here on blogger more and more and simply have to jump back in ... without any further ado ...

did you know?

I've been published!

such a fluke of a thing, but I must say that I am absolutely humbled by this & thrilled to be featured. Do you remember this:

(if not, click the image for the whole scoop)

it WORKED!

This is the Jan/Feb 2010 Issue
(click the above image to be directed to their website)

someone I adore wrote the beautiful article ... and on the second spread (three pages!!) my offering is featured in the top right corner ... wait ... let me make this a little easier:

Above: Pages 74 & 75

Above: Pages 76 & 77

Above: Pages 78 & 79

Above: Detail of my submission for the effort

I have tons of blogs to catch up on, so without

... much ...

further ado, I'm off!

ps - thank you to everyone that kept checking in and making sure that I was still breathing ... you made a big difference.

pps - did you realize it's time for:

me, TOO!!

much love to all, ~M~

I haven't vanished ... well, not really ...

2009-08-26T12:05:00.002-04:00

... I know, I know ... it's been nearly an entire month since my last post ... you close your eyes for just a moment and time refuses to stop for you ... ah well ... so, where have I been?

one lovely concerned blog pal asked that same question not too long ago ... my response? ... "good question; seems like I have been hiding under a rock"

... and it does, too ... let's just chalk this up to an uneventful and non-epiphany filled self imposed hibernation ... have I been creating? uh, no (seriously, T, I haven't forgotten and I do still love you ... great ideas, but no success with them ... I simply suck right now) ... have I discovered any wonderful medical breakthroughs? again, no. how about renovating the entire house ... that would be one great reason & quite exciting, but no ... perhaps I've just been keeping up with the blogs I enjoy so much ... don't I wish! I am over a week behind on even those ... so, what have I been doing? ... honestly, I couldn't tell you ... what i can tell you is that I have been seriously missing this most wonderful of blog communities & doubt I could stay away much longer even if I tried. I really need to do some bragging on some fellow artists as the rock I've been under must be located directly under one of those lucky stars ... you'll see ... hopefully before this weekend is through.

Let's Get This Party Started!

2009-07-31T10:19:00.009-04:00

The 2010 Pink Artists Block Party has officially started!

If you saw my previous post, then you know that I started blogging right after joining my very first call to artists ... it was the call to create 2"x2" art squares to be used in the skirt of an art doll being created to raise funds for breast cancer research. Many artists contributed more than a single square, so brilliant Monica decided to send out the extras to a number of brilliant artists. She asked each of them to create a 10"x10" block and then return them to her to be joined into one amazing are quilt ... well, they did their part and she's done hers ... now it's your turn at a chance to make a difference ... and possibly win the AMAZING art quilt ... or a number of other art prizes donated to the cause ... like this:

"Tribute"

an altered tin I created especially for this event

with Love Squared right inside to keep an eye on your dreams,
wishes or other precious little treasures you store inside

the outside is covered in pictures of some art squares that ended up on Love's skirt.

For more information, details on purchasing raffle tickets and a view of the entire prize wheel of awesome offerings, please visit HERE.

You can also help by posting this button:

on your blog sidebar with a link to the post ... every little effort helps!

eenie, meenie, miney, MORE! (a.k.a. Digging Deeper)

2009-07-23T17:50:00.016-04:00

(click the above image for the Treasure Map - that's the post with all the participants)

This week I decided to share some of the events that I have happily participated in since starting my blog. It's these events that challenge me on so many levels. Sometimes they allow me to contribute to worthy causes; they also act as a catalyst to a whole new world of artists.

This first flashback is the reason that I am here at all:

Pink Artists Community Doll Project - 4 Squares

I don't even know where I came across the call to artists, but I sure am glad that I did. Did you happen to notice that the post was basically a laundry list and had no mention (other than in the title) of what I made the squares for ... or how I had all of six comments (two from me & one from uber-spouse ... mhmm ... still a keeper) ... funny how a little time can change so much. Many of you reading this know all about the Pink Artist Doll Project, but for those of you hearing about it for the first time, be sure to go HERE ... this is especially timely as there is a really cool Block Party in progress - details can be found on my sidebar.

Next up ...

Two Shrines

Slightly humorous sidenote ... there was a little bit of a bidding war on both shrines (which of course was a HUGE boost to the ego) ... come to find out they were between my mom & my mom-in-law.

(giggles are quite appropriate here)

In case you are wondering, each of them ended up with one.

And because this one actually goes sort of hand in hand with the one above ... AND is going to be the launching pad for this year's Cigar Box Auction, I have to include:

Dia de Bloglandia

I love, love, LOVED everything about this whole event & am really looking forward to this years celebration ... I hope that those of you that were not involved last year consider joining in this time around.

Thanks again for stopping in! ... and don't forget to visit Seth's post HERE ... be prepared to stay a while ... I only had time for a sneak peak, but can tell you there's some real goodness going on over there.

2010 Diary Project

2009-07-20T01:27:00.008-04:00

7/31 - My final versions submitted to the 2010 Diary Project:

(click on images for larger versions)

It's nearly 1:30 am, but I did it ...

... I finished my journal page for the 2010 Diary Project hosted by Fantazya ...

... drum roll, please:

In her latest update she mentioned that we could send additional pages (I think she didn't get the 365+ participents that she was hoping for). I sent her two more designs to check out ... this first one is super simple, but I like what it says (it was something that I woke up thinking):

... dream ... believe ... achieve ...

And this one:

I like this last one ... didn't notice it at the time, but there seems to be a heart (if not a sacred heart) hiding in the yin-yang design. Cool.

Thank you to everyone that took the time to comment on my last post. I can't begin to tell you how great it felt to read what everyone said and to see how many people have similar feeling.

When I Grow Up ...

2009-07-17T21:59:00.005-04:00

... I want to be a mermaid ... at least that's what I said when I was five ...

ATC - 0709

Recently a comment I read had me thinking about art. Specifically my art ... and if I consider it mine ... or even art. See, I have had a lot of years to form ideas of what I consider to be "real" art. To be honest, what I do doesn't make the grade (try to bear with me ... this really isn't a pity party and I'm pretty sure I'm going somewhere with all this) ... I am uber-perspectively challenged, my color play often looks like some sort of psychedelic trip gone very, very wrong, I can look at a color wheel and STILL not get it, and although I have tried a number of mediums, there isn't a ONE thing-style-type that rocks my world and makes me want to east, sleep, breathe it ...

ATC - 0709

... but I like to make stuff ... more than that ... I

ATC - 0709

LOVE

ATC - 0709

the whole process of creating ... even the random (sometimes often) frustration of things being all wrong ... the motion of it ... the sratch-scrape-slide of pen on paper, the sharp creasing when folding, sticky fingers, paint in my hair and on my clothes ... time vanishing and then reappearing somewhere totally different ... strange stiffness from sitting in one position for far too long (ok, maybe I don't love the way it feels, but there IS satisfaction in it) ... the desire to try something new and the fears that goes along with it ... and then ... pushing those self imposed boundries ... trying it ... and finding out that the new thing opens doors to different worlds - and options - possibilities! ... returning to comfort and safety ... satisfaction of a job well done (even the occassional sadness that happens when a piece is complete) ... the happy surprise when something turns out ten times better than imagined ... all of it ...

ATC - 0709

I no longer want to be a mermaid (I don't really want to grow up, either) ... but last night ... or was that the night before ... anyway, I mentioned to Don, "when I grow up, I want to be an artist".

Guess what

... today I realized ...

I AM an ARTIST

*sighs*

pretty cool, eh?

One (WO)Man's Treasures ...

2009-07-16T13:27:00.014-04:00

(click image for original event details)

How does one decide which is trash and which is treasure?

I'm fairly certain it's all a matter of perspective ... so, these are the treasures that I chose:

Stump Pass State Park (FL) Part 1

(Click above for original blog post dated 2.10.08)

Soul Journal - Days 7, 8 & 9 ... Plus a Charmed Sneak Peak

(Click above for original blog post dated 9.04.08)

... and no, this one is not a reference to cranes ...

An Earlier Retrospective ... of sorts

(Click above for original blog post dated 11.11.08)

Thank you for stopping by to see what I unearthed! I hope you enjoyed your visit.

I'm off to do some treasure hunting myself ... if you happen to see the girl with the cheesy ear-to-ear grin looking a bit giddy it's probably me. :)

(Click above to be directed to Seth's post ing of crazy good treasure hunting

A special note of thanks to Seth for his terrific idea!!

Buried Treasure

2009-07-09T11:16:00.005-04:00

Y'all know Seth, right? If not, you're seriously missing out on some goodness, but don't fret - I have some great news ... he's hosting a day of Buried Treasure. Here's what he said about it:

"Buried Treasure is about digging deep to uncover some hidden gems. The premise is simple. On Thursday July 16 all participating bloggers will re-post one (or more) of their favorite posts from their blog. As you might already know, I don't like too many rules when it comes to art and art collaboratives. So anything goes. Please leave a comment on this post or email me if you would like to participate. Just try and let me know by Tuesday July 14. On July 16, I will post a list of all participating artists so that you can be sure to find all the Buried Treasure. Feel free to let your own readers know about this project by spotlighting it on a post prior to reveal day. Happy hunting! "

So come back on Thursday July 16th for a Flashback ... and think about joining us, too!

A LONG While Back ...

2009-07-06T11:07:00.011-04:00

"Nikki" a.k.a Lee Anne from Sun Soul Art had a giveaway for this:

A beautiful glass heart ... and it wasn't even a Valentine's giveaway (though it DID happen this past February) ... and lucky me, I was drawn (does it make a difference that I had a 50/50 chance?) ... you'd think that the heart was enough (I did), but when the package arrived, I was blown away by the goodies Lee Anne had included ...

Everything is set out on a piece of amazing sacred heart paper she'd included ... but take a look at some detail pictures of the treasures I found in the package:

The Dia de los Muertos image is actually a mirror

as is the Frida image below:

There was soooo much heart in the box (literally & figuratively) did you notice the Milagros sitting on the painted ATC ... how about the sea glass or the patina'd metal scared heart?

or

the amazing carved wooden heart stamp resting on the new Juego de Loteria (Mexican Bingo):

There's so much goodness to look at, drool over & to figure out just how to work into new pieces (click on any image for a larger view to see exactly what I am talking about). I have a very strong feeling that some items will turn up in this years offering for:

Dia de Bloglandia

and others may find themselves in this years creation for the

Cigar Box Shrine Auction ...

there are soooo many possibilities!

Sending one HUGE thank you to Lee Anne for trusting me with all these treasures ... after all this time, I still look at everything with such AWE

... exactly how much inspiration can be packed into one box? ...

More than I had ever imagined.

Lee Anne and I have been weaving ourselves in and out of many of the same Blogland events. She is one of those artists that seems to pull magic right from thin air and turns that magic into amazing creations ... for a small sampling of what I am refering to, go:

HERE

HERE

HERE

and how about

HERE

Enjoy your time getting to know Lee Anne! I can honestly say that it has been my pleasure crossing paths with her ... and think you'll feel the same.

aDressing the Situation

2009-06-30T16:28:00.006-04:00

(click the image above to be directed to the unique request)

How many people have a special trip to the post office planned for tomorrow?

I do.

... when Monica calls ... I answer ... even when it calls for stretching myself ...

to aDress a Situation

... my dress turned into dresses ...

(front)

(front detail)

(back)

(back detail)

It's not my party, but I can show you the way ...

2009-06-27T10:38:00.030-04:00

Come alone ...

(Photo, "Hampster Tea Party" courtesy of SusieShop @ Flikr)

... or with your friends ...

(Photo "Farewell Tea Party" Courtesy of Mindtrigger @ Flikr)

... dress casually ...

(Photo, "...Emma's Tea Party" courtesy of BusyLizzieBee @ Photostream)

... or put on your finest ...

(Photo, "Sayoko Comes to the Tea Party" courtesy of Hvyilnr @ Flikr)

... Just be sure to show up!!

... there will be tea

(and other fine beverages)

of 10,000 varieties ...

(Photo, "Tea Party" courtesy of WinemakersSister @ Flikr)

... and treats to boggle the mind ...

(Photo, "Summer Birthday Virtual Tea Party" courtesy of 3LittleMiracles @ Flikr)

... don't worry, help yourself ...

(Photo, "Summer Birthday Virtual Tea Party" courtesy of 3LittleMiracles @ Flikr)

I promise there will be plenty ...

... and then there will be even MORE!

To find your way to all the gatherings, simply click on the invite below:

Wishing you all the magic your heart can handle!

(Please note: All photo's are linked directly to the photographers Flikr photostream ... also, I am not an official reveler as I decided to do this at the very last second, so you won't find me on the party list and I won't bother Vanessa while she's already got her hands sooooo full, so if you made it here, I thank you for your visit)

KittyFish Ready to Swim ...

2009-06-15T16:23:00.002-04:00

That's right ...

she's got beads added to the crown of her head

sequins & seed beads decorate each side

and last but not least, KittyFish got her face

all that's left is sending this little critter to her new home

wishing safe travels & happiness to her new caretaker

Interview Game for Bloggers

2009-06-12T14:01:00.004-04:00

On a recent visit with Lee Anne ("Nikki" from Sun Soul Art Thoughts - found HERE), I came across her post "Interview Game for Bloggers". I really liked learning a little more about her, so emailed her to play along.

She came up with some really terrific interview questions that made me pause and really think about the answers ... (questions are in green and answers are in purple)

1. Michelle, you are so kind and giving with your words to other bloggers and an inspiration to new bloggers.....what words have inspired you?
first off, thank you ... I don't know that I've ever seen myself in that light. so many things, let alone words, have inspired me ... my current favorite string of words:

"Live the life you have imagined". (Thoreau)

2. I see you do origami, knitting, doll making and are a genius with a sharpie......what, if any, new medium would you love to try?
lol ... perhaps the question ought to be what new medium DON'T you want to try ... I'd really love to work with glass (I think more a form of blowing, but would be thrilled to do stained glass, too).

(please note: I haven't learned how to knit, yet - but I can crochet long chains and simple granny squares)

3. How does your Mandala picture and the name of your blog relate to who you are as an artist?
Once upon a time I wanted to be an artist. In that dream I created art from a sacred place (inside myself & at the same time connected to the universe) that was meant for sacred spaces ... once in a while I live that dream. The name is a reminder; the mandala a map.

4. Nature is a reoccurring theme in your blog......what season (even in Florida) inspires you the most and why?
I have great appreciation for all the seasons, but am a May baby, so have a special fondness for spring ... spring tends to have lovely weather (no matter where you live), flowers bloom, days get longer ... it's a time of growth, renewal, new beginnings ... it's hope and possibility.

5. As a frequent visitor to your blog, you seem to balance work, family, your artist side and of course... all the time sharing online.. so well......What is your secret?
Ancient Chinese secret, don't you know ... honestly, I think that I appear to be much more balanced than I actually am. Work is easy - I have a schedule that dictates when I have to be there and that's all they get of me (fully when present and not at all when I am not) ... the rest? that's continues to be a work in progress.

If you are interested in playing along, here are the "THE INTERVIEW RULES"

Leave me a comment with your email address saying: “interview me”
I will e-mail you five questions of my choice
You can then answer the questions on your blog {with a link back to my blog}
You should also post these rules, along with an offer to interview anyone else who emails you, wanting to be interviewed
Anyone who asks to be interviewed should be sent 5 questions to answer on their blog individualized for each blogger. Read their blog and their profile to come up with the questions.

More Cranes (go figure) & a WIP

2009-06-09T18:51:00.004-04:00

I have finished turning all the dipped cranes into charms ... these six:

are headed to CA to be part of the HeArt Collective Charm Swap
(five for the swap and one just for the hostess)
After these leave, I'll still have a little over a dozen in my possession.

*****************************************************************

In other news, I have thrown caution to the wind and am focusing on the Under the Sea Swap.

... I don't believe that I am spoiling anyone's surprise as it is
my understanding that my partner does not have a blog ...

I love the cat head from the free Pointy Kitty pattern (found HERE) so much that I decided to use it on a ... drumroll, please ... CatFish for my swap partner:

here's the head attached to the body:

and a view from above:

(would you believe I came up with the fish body shape? me, either, but I did.)

with a "spine" of sorts added:

and a few scales, too:

I have to admit that I am not really planning anything out, but simply just going with the flow ... also known as stalling cuz I can't quite decide how to do the face. Hopefully it'll come to me at some point before the deadline.

Meditation Box #1 - Fini!

2009-06-04T22:34:00.006-04:00

OK, it's official - what was once an empty Altoids tin has become my first Meditation Box.

I almost can't believe it is complete.

Since this was a first and is about to be packaged up and shipped out, I took a bunch of photo's (and of course these were taken in my kitchen at 10:30 pm, so not necessarily in the best light):

I believe the only addition to the inside since that last update is the row of pink and green sequins added around the inside edge.

Since yesterdays quickie update post, I added two braids of embroidery floss (gray, slate & bright blue) around the lip of the lid & side (right below where the lid hits when closed):

I also added a bunch of little white dots around the edge of the box and above/below the text of Desiderata on the bottom (back?) of the box and two coats of high gloss varnish:

That little black rock is not part of the box ... it's just propping up the edge for the photo shoot.

For anyone not familiar with Desiderata, you can find it HERE.

... and on that note, I've gotta get back on the ball to meet some looming deadlines.

Wish me luck!

Quick Update

2009-06-03T20:29:00.004-04:00

It's going much slower than I anticipated, but I think I am almost done.

Check out the latest:

Just a few finishing details and voila!

(original post is HERE)

Tribute ... an Amazing Gift

2009-05-31T08:45:00.005-04:00

Every year my mother-in-law asks me for a birthday wish list ... this year she didn't, but I sent her one anyway (as she has me trained soooo well) ... the list included:

Roughcast #4 by Seth Apter of the Altered Page (found HERE)

an older EB created by Michelle Schafer from the Studio at Crow Haven Farm (I checked Etsy and that particular EB is no longer listed, but you can find Michelle's blog HERE)

one of Denise's Spirit Dolls (found HERE ... or you can visit her blog HERE)

THIS piece

and a few other random bits and pieces ...

What I didn't know is that she had been paying attention when the Shrine Auction was happening ... yesterday when she came to pick us up for my birthday dinner at Amimoto (seriously exceptional sushi), she delivered my prezzie:

Tribute

by Marilyn Radzat

My photo (above) does not do this piece justice. It is exquisite ... you can visit her "reveal" post HERE

The detail photo is from THIS post. The sheer amount of detail in this piece is mind boggling & I'm still a bit stunned that this amazing creation is right here ... in my home. This begs the question ... how, exactly, do I thank my mom-in-law for this one?!?

Progress Report

2009-05-25T11:21:00.006-04:00

5/26 update ... I keep playing with the medi box. The inside is officially fini'!

and now I am working on the outside ... wouldn't I have been a bit brighter to have painted the top BEFORE attaching the stone bits?!? (don't know the center stone, snowflake obsideon, turquoise, fresh water pearl -I think - garnet, more pearl, more turquoise) I will try to remember to plan a little bit better next time. *grins*

ps - anyone want to trade small tin box(es) for cigar box(es)?

I've been working on a little "pocket" shrine, but am a bit stuck. The inside doesn't feel finished to me (specifically the right as I was hoping to add a little dimension) and yet I am having issues adding more ... suggestions? I just might have to throw in the towel and call it a meditation box instead.

***************************************************************

I think my offering to grrl+dog's National Museum installation is done ... or nearly so ...

one side:

and the other:

the more I look at it, the more it seems to be wanting a little more. Indecisive, anyone?

***************************************************************

Right now I only have one person taking me up on making something for them in a Pay It Forward ... if anyone else is interested, please visit my previous post HERE

***************************************************************

Happy Memorial Day to All!

Project, Prizes & PIF's

2009-05-22T16:06:00.011-04:00

Nothing like biting off a little more than I can chew ... I recently saw THIS post at Crafting with Cat Hair ... and somehow I am determined to make at least one doll to contribute. In a nutshell, Craft Hope is currently taking donations of handmade dolls for the children of Casa Bernabe, an orphanage in Nicaragua & the deadline is June 13th. Click the image above for the whole scoop.

*****************************************************************

It often pays to follow the rules ... case in point, Saucy from Saucy's Sprinkles (found HERE) offered up a few pairs of cupcake earrings for getting the word out about her Jonas Brothers concert giveaway ... I was game & a lucky recipient of these ADORABLE made-by-Saucy cupcake earrings:

too sweet, eh?!? If you happen to be a Jonas Brothers fan (or know one) there is still time to enter the giveaway ... just go HERE for all the details.

*****************************************************************

And remember Amber Dawn's International Charm Day? If not, go HERE. She had some wonderful giveaways including a signed copy of this:

The first round winner never claimed the prize, so there was a second drawing ... and I was drawn!! The book just arrived yesterday and I have to tell you it is chock full of goodness. I stayed up way too late last night ooohing and ahhing over it. I can't wait to try my hand at some of the projects.

*****************************************************************

Plus, Lorraine from Love of Collage posted a mini charm swap (HERE) in honor of International Charm Day & I jumped at the chance. Lorraine sent these little beauties:

In exchange for a couple of my dipped crane charms ... my package just left the states this past Monday, so I am hoping that she'll receive them before the end of the month.

*****************************************************************

As if that isn't enough, I have signed on for two Pay it Forwards ... the first with Bairbre Aine of Don't Interrupt Me When I'm Talking to Myself and more recently with K of Urban Craft

Now it's my turn to pay it forward.

Here is how it works . . . I will make a handmade gift for the first 6 interested people who comment on this post (because I signed up for two PIF's). I'm not exactly sure what the handmade gift will be, but if there's something that you'd really like me to make for you, just let me know and I will at least consider giving it a whirl. Also, please note that I am giving myself three months to complete the task. The only catch is that you must be willing to continue the challenge by sending a handmade gift to 3 people. That's it. If you would like to participate, please be sure I have some way to contact you to get your mailing address.

Haiku Festival ... & ... 10 Commandments

2009-05-11T11:50:00.015-04:00

In my blog travels this morning, I happily stumbled upon:

(click the image to be directed to the details)

I have visited a number of Festival contributors and have to say that my day has been made better through these travels. If you have some time, I highly recommend the festival tour.

Here's my offering:

Flowing through my thoughts
Creative juices travel
Yearning to emerge
MDWalker 05.11.09

For a list of participants, please visit HERE and HERE.

Not long ago I was lead to the Joy Rebel (with a name like that, how could I not check it out?) ... anyway, I've been visiting fairly often and have decided that I, too, am a Joy Rebel. Big surprise, right? If you'd like to learn more about the "army", please visit THIS post - it's worth your time.

All this leads to today's mission Monday ... 10 Commandments ... the whole scoop is HERE. I have to admit that after reading Brandi's, it's hard to not want to adopt all 10 of hers, but I have a feeling that if I let it, my own 10 Commandments will simply fall into place.

Michelle's 10 Commandments
(or ... Practice, Practice, Practice)

1. be mindful

2. act in kindness

3. accept grace

4. wonder

5. hope

6. breathe well

7. be open

8. love wholeheartedly

9. play often

10. laugh from the inside out

Live in the moment
A loving heart wide open
You've become the gift.
MDWalker 05.11.09

Thread Goddess' Gather Round

2009-05-09T00:50:00.007-04:00

Something truly amazing is happening with grrl+dog

... and WE can be a part of it ...

"If you knit, crochet or shake your poms poms, you can contribute to an installation at the National Gallery of Australia ... Be audacious and have your art alongside such names as Magda Sayeg of Knitta Please. Think of that on your resume! There are six poles to cover and each is 10 meters high, that's over thirty feet."

Click on the image below for the whole scoop!

I currently have a crocheted piece that is a little over 4"x44".
Looks like I may actually have something done and on
its way WELL before the deadline ... how's that for a first?

... and for something more on the ordinary side of life ...

I had a play date with the spouse tonight ... it was good being with just he and me (critter got a date with worlds-coolest-grandma) ... while we were out, I took a couple of quick pictures.

First:

Second:

Do you know what it is? It's pretty obvious to me, but then again, I was there.

And to think ... we went to the beach ... did I take any photo's there?

Nope.

I did find some pretty cool rocks and a small handful of sharks teeth.

... and the winners are ...

2009-05-03T11:14:00.010-04:00

Sorry to keep you all waiting ... the winners from my:

(click image for my giveaway post)

giveaway are:

Janet from Fond of Snape
(click above to be directed to her blog)

&

Sue from Barton Originals
(click above to be directed to her blog)

*

*

*

As for this one:

(click above for giveaway post)

... I have to plead for forgiveness ... I just realized that I had never done the drawing ... bad me ... hopefully

Michelle from the Studio @ Crow Haven Farm
(click above to be directed to her blog)

will find it in her huge heart to forgive me as it was HER name the was drawn.

International Charm Day - a Tutorial ... I hope

2009-04-28T00:29:00.011-04:00

Many of you already know that I have a thing for paper cranes, so in honor of

International Charm Day
(click above to be directed to the event blog)

I give you my step-by-step on taking a paper crane from ... paper to charm.

(fingers crossed)

Materials: Assorted Origami Papers
Petal Porcelain (or other preferred setting agent)
Paint Brush
Wax Paper
Needle (or straight pin)
Head Pins
Various small beads

Step 1: Select your paper.

I highly recommend using thin paper (thinner than copy paper, but that can still hold an edge - tissue paper is out). The sheets below are 6"X6" origami papers.

Step 2: Cut your papers into 1" or 1-1/4" squares:

Side note: The smaller your squares, the more difficult they will be to fold, but practice - I promise it's worth the effort.

(I used the 1-1/4" squares for the photo's below)

I like to cut up a bunch of squares in one sitting, so I'll have a nice stack to work with:

Step 3: Put on some favorite crafting music or pop in a movie
(preferably one that doesn't require your full attention and is good for a giggle)

Step 4: Fold yourself some little paper cranes - I usually fold at least a dozen at a sitting.
(more is better as I almost always have a few casualties in the dipping process)

Another Note: If you don't know how to fold a paper crane, I recommend CLICKING HERE. (There's even a printable PDF link on the page - don't be daunted by the instructions; they look more difficult than they actually are. Also, practice a few on larger 6"x6" squares first.)

The picture below shows a nutshell progress of the folds:

Step 5: Once you have your flock, take a photograph of them!

Sorry about the bad photo - happens when you wait till after dark to take pictures.

Step 6: Dip each crane in The Setting Agent.
(I generally dip them twice - one time I hold the crane by the tail and the other time by the head)

**** Sorry - I don't have pictures for Step 6 Through Step 14 ****

Step 7: Brush off the excess Setting Agent and allow it to dry completely.
(at this step, it is common for the beak and wings to want to turn up - try to push them down gently with the paintbrush as you are removing the excess Setting Agent - also, if you are really careful, you can sometimes "reshape" them once they are completely dry from the first dipping.)

Step 8: Repeat Step 6

Step 9: Repeat Step 7

Step 10: Carefully poke a hole through the bottom of the crane
(if you brushed the excess Setting Agent off, there will still be a hole in the bottom - you'll see)
up through the center of the back
(as close as possible - it's fairly easy to find the center as you will be able to see where you folded the paper)

Step 11: Feed a head pin through the hole, add a bead (or beads).

Step 12: Trim any excess length off the head pin.
(keeping in mind that you will finish the head pin off by making the end into a loop for hanging)

Step 13: Can you guess?!? Yep, finish the end of the head pin by turning it into a loop for hanging.

Step 14: Add a coat of clear varnish for shine
(optional ... you might choose to paint your cranes prior to adding the varnish if you used a solid color paper)

Viola!

Yes, I know, this isn't a crane from this batch - the first flock is still drying. Thank goodness I save ALL my photo's.

As an added bonus, I'm offering sets of six dipped cranes to two people. If you'd like to be included in the drawing, please leave a comment on this post by midnight EST time on Thursday, April 30th. I'll let Sadie draw two names from the hat (or bowl, or bag ... ) on Friday, May 1st

BONUS that'll be May Day ... the first day of my birthday month!

Have fun visiting all the participants from the first ever

International Charm Day!
(click above to be transported to the event link)

Thank you, Amber Dawn, for hosting such a FUN event!!

April 22, 2009

2009-04-22T21:48:00.006-04:00

Stephanie from Rodrigvitz Style posted two stunning photo's HERE and included a link to a pretty cool project - Earth Mosaic.

I wanted to participate, but didn't know if I'd get a chance to take a photo ... well, work lasted longer than expected and first trip out (when the light was near about as perfect as I would get) I realized the memory card was not in the camera ... UG! Raced home to grab it and headed back out to the original spot ... sun setting ... boo ... snapped quick shots in hopes of capturing something ... *sighs* ... settled on uploading these two:

I was really hoping that I would capture some vast and beautiful water shot. Unfortunately, I missed that "good sky" window. Since I missed it, I did a complete 180 and focused on what was at my feet.

Would you believe me if I told you the shot above reminds me of the Earth? I know ... it's not round. The continental look of the algae that got me.

The one below is a shot of some exposed root system. If I had been less rushed I am sure that I would have taken a number of macro shots of this one as the wood grain is pretty amazing and there's tons of debris (in the form of sand, shells & other random bits) filling all the crevices.

Neither shot is what I had anticipated uploading, but honestly, I am pleased that I was able to contribute.

I know that many of you had your camera's out today in celebration of Earth Day ... The site is open to upload pictures until April 30th (only those taken within the 24 hour period that is April 22, 2009). If you are interested in participating, just go HERE to upload your Earth Day photo(s).

on that note, I leave you with these:

"Generally speaking, a howling wilderness does not howl: it is the imagination of the traveler that does the howling."
~ Henry David Thoreau

"Nature is full of genius, full of the divinity; so that not a snowflake escapes its fashioning hand."
~ Henry David Thoreau

"Nothing makes the earth seem so spacious as to have friends at a distance; they make the latitudes and longitudes."
~ Henry David Thoreau

A Charming Day, A Swap & A-Dressing the Situation

2009-04-12T21:06:00.012-04:00

Amber Dawn has come up with a great idea, but before you click the image below for the details, go visit Terisa at Running With Scissors to read her charming post - it's a lovely tribute to Amber and the perfect lead in to:

Love the idea ... if you do too, make sure to leave a comment on Amber's post.

Perhaps you've already seen this one:

... maybe you're even signed up for it ... well, I've thrown caution to the wind and me, TOO! At this point I have no idea if I'll be trying to create an actual doll or a softie sort of creature ... thanks goodness there's some time ... if you haven't already signed up, click the image above for the whole scoop

Finally, please visit this post:

It was Monica and her Pink Artist Project that inspired me to not only participate in my very first call-to-artist charity event, but to actually start my blog ... I will forever be grateful to her. So, even though I know zero about making a dress, you can bet I am going to learn. Either click on the image above or HERE for her unique request.

Prize and Surprise

2009-04-09T18:35:00.006-04:00

Do you remember this?

If not, I ended up winning 3rd Place and today my prize arrived.

Check it out:

Who doesn't need their very own enchanted bandages ... I'm tempted to cut myself (ok, I'll be honest, not really ... but I am considering breaking a nail) just to have an excuse to put one on! The art postcards were just a super duper surprise bonus.

You can visit Nancy at her website or her blog, but be prepared ... you'll want to stay a while.

How about this one:

Did you ever notice this little cutie on my sidebar?!? If not, click it ... I don't know if the free poppets are still being offered, but it's worth a look (though don't be surprised if you find yourself wanting to purchase one of your very own) ... I received mine today:

Now that I have this little charmer, I just know I'm going to have to get him a leetle friend ... or ten! He's about two inches tall, but packs a LOT of charm into his tiny frame.

*sighs*

Go HERE to see more poppets (and additional links, too)

how bout three more?

2009-04-07T18:53:00.003-04:00

Sometimes I get into these manic making fests ... I learn something new and do - do - do until I am so burnt out I don't wanna do those things again for a long time ... for some reason, I'd doing the do thing, but haven't gotten burnt out ... yet.

*grins*

Here are three more goddess doll attempts ... I really wanted the hands up over the head in a celebratory manner .... dig the first one in the middle ... can anyone say block head?!? lol ... I'm amused. The two on the outside came after I made an attempt at getting the heads smaller and, well, more round!

hmmm ... do they look a bit hippier, too? And do they look like they are celebrating or getting held up for all their money and jewels?!?

Now ... all I need to do is convince myself to EMBELLISH ... yep. That'll happen. Eventually.

Smile a lot ... makes everyone wonder what you're up to!

Happy Tuesday!

3 Goddesses

2009-04-01T22:43:00.007-04:00

Many of you know that I am soooo not a seamstress and actually struggle in my attempts at making plushies /doll forms... anyone out there recall a tale of lopsided drunken critters? hehe ... anyway, I am determined to get better, so must practice, practice, practice.

I have been wanting to make some Goddess dolls for a while - the shape appeals to me. I found some great free patterns from Ronda Kivett a long, long while back (I've since looked and the free patterns are nowhere to be found). Her patterns were a great starting point, but I wanted bigger hips and rounder heads, so have been playing with the original pattern a little. Here are my first three attempts:

They make me smile.

All are about six inches tall and were hand sewn. The cotton fabric (two on the outside) is much easier to work with than the silky stuff (center - though that fabric really appeals to me as it is shiny and has sparklies). The corners (under and over the arms) seem a little wrong as the form sort of pulls in the bust area (not bad, just doesn't seem right to me) and I still don't get how to close the opening (once stuffed) to maintain the correct shape ... take a look - each one looks like it's sunken in or swaying just a little ... hmm ... let's just say they're dancing!

Anyway, I'm definitely open to comments, tricks, recommended reading and/or suggestions.

thank you & g'nite!

Tuesday is Almost Here

2009-03-28T19:27:00.006-04:00

4/1 Update: Looks like the auction was a great success. Thank you to everyone for all of your support and for sharing this wonderful project.

It's been a long day, so I will be pulling a winner from my giveaway hat this weekend ... stay tuned!

3/31 Update: With just under two hours left to bid, the auction has raised nearly $3000.00 (not including any donations made without bidding)!! Woohooooo!

Time is running out

to see an incredible slideshow of all the contributions, please stop by THIS POST.

Also, there's still time to enter my giveaway (bet you had forgotten ... good thing I remember!) ... go HERE for all the details (entries will be accepted till 10:00pm EST).

YOU can make a huge difference ... Visit the Auction right HERE

Thank you.

Still Smiling ...

2009-03-23T10:52:00.009-04:00

Maggie from Magpie's Collectables sent me this wonderful postcard:

This was such an unexpected surprise - click on the image to take in all the detail she added to the piece ... simply a postcard? I think not! This is definitely a remarkable piece of workmanship - I love the added thread work and the little beaded touches.

Maggie drew her inspiration from a photograph that I took:

To see the rest of the photo's from that day, feel free to visit THIS post.

Thank you, Maggie!

In other happy news, not one, but two lovely ladies were kind enough to bestow the Sisterhood Award on me. I have to admit that I am still uncomfortable with these kinds of awards, but this award is presented to blogs which show great attitude and/or gratitude ...something I strive to do ... and is from two ladies that I admire quite a lot ...

Sue from Barton Originals has me drooling over her latest "Kindred" doll series - you really need to shoot on over HERE and check them out. Be prepared, you just might fall in love.

Michelle from the Studio at Crow Haven Farm, well, she simply delights and amazes me with all of her creations and her super generous personality - you can visit Michelle right HERE ... and don't be surprised if you find yourself wanting to shop.

The requirements of accepting this blog are:

1. put the award logo on your blog and/or post

2. nominate five other blogs that you feel show the spirit of the award.

3. to let the nominees know about the award, comment on their blog.

4. Link to the nominees in your blog post.

5. To show gratitude and friendship to the person that gave you the award, link to them in a blog post.

I just can't narrow this down to five people - everyone I visit teaches me and inspires me to keep on keepin on - try new things - be brave & simply try ... in light of this, I'm offering the Sisterhood Award to you all (you too, Seth, you can be an honorary sister!).

Flowers, a Pelican and a Frog

2009-03-16T18:05:00.007-04:00

Thank you to everyone that took the time to comment on my last post - the response that I received was better than I would ever have anticipated. I started feelin a bit twitchy about having it still at the top, so thought I would share some new photos.

This tree is in my neighbors yard ... it's just now beginning to bloom, but before you know it it'll be completely covered in these wild blooms:

This one below is from the desert rose in our yard (at least that's what folks around here call them - they have a crazy gnarly trunk similar to a fig tree, but some amazing tropical looking blooms). It bloomed last year when Don first planted it, but not as much as it's going to this year - there are still about a dozen or more blossoms just waiting for their moment to bloom:

Two years ago Sadie and Don planted a bunch of marigolds up against the backside of the house. That first year they did really well, last year not a single one came up and suddenly this year they have decided to come back ... here's a loner from the bunch that sprouted (pictured much larger than actual size - gotta love macro):

And here is one strange visitor - we're a few miles in from the peace river and about the same from the gulf, so NEVER see pelicans in the neighborhood ... until yesterday:

This guy (am assuming here) has decided to visit our yard - even let me get fairly darn close to take pictures, too ... so odd. Today he was hanging out across the street at the neighbors and when Sadie and I got home from errands, Don said he had a heck of a time shooing the pelican out of our garage! Maybe this guy is tired of the beach ... OR maybe I'm wrong and it's a girl looking for a safe place to build a nest! (guessing here - don't know the habits of pelican's). Personally, I find it kind of cool that the pelican decided to come around.

Finally, as some of you may know, sewing is so NOT my forte. I would love to say this is an attempt at modesty, but honestly, I am not a good seamstress ... in an effort to change this (and because I really like funny little plushies) I have been trying to sew more and more ... I went to a baby shower yesterday and made a pink and brown frog for the new baby ... I'm not sure how well it was received ... seems to me the mom-to-be wasn't very impressed. Ah well. Can't always bat a thousand. Because of this (and because I have lots of pink and brown fleece left over) I decided to make another one ... this one is about half the size of the first (measures 7"x4.5") and instead of stuffing it full of fiberfill (since I am nearly out), I decided to stuff it full of lentils (uncooked, of course!) ... it has no features and not a single embellishment (like its predecessor), but I think I love it! Here's the pink side:

and the brown:

hehe ... didn't take forever and a year to do and the little critter makes me giggle. This is from a simple pattern I found somewhere on line (sorry, I can't seem to find the link anymore, but if anyone recognizes it, please let me know and I'll be happy to add the link) ... I think I need to make more pink and brown froggies.

Wishing you all things that make you grin! ~M~

What's in a Collage?

2009-03-12T20:10:00.005-04:00

I recently joined a study group and one of the first assignments was to pick a journal and personalize it. The journal I picked was one that I have had for a few years - the cover is really pretty all on it's own, so I decided to combine that task with another collage assignment and collaged the end pages both at the front:

and the back:

I have already completed my first journal prompt, but thought I would hit you all up ... so, what do these two collages tell you about me? Inquiring minds want to know, so if you are up for it ... humor me & share your thoughts

the Fates Keep Smiling on me ... and I am Grateful

2009-03-06T17:21:00.009-05:00

I don't know if it's the Universe telling me to keep on doing what I am doing or if I just happen to be sitting directly under the lucky star, but whatever it is, I have been getting showered with some serious mail love ... first as a direct result from this years One World One Heart event.

First up, Waxela (a.k.a. SpiritMama) offered to send an ATC to everyone that opted to follow her on blogger ... that was an easy choice and not long after I received this lovely little ATC (the colors are actually quite a bit richer than they appear in this photograph).

are you feeling the peace?

Plus, I was lucky enough to actually win two different One World One Heart giveaways.

The first from Lorraine over at Love of Collage. Lorraine seems to be one creative crafter! Check out the fabulous little bag & Alice domino charm:

The bag does close, but I wanted to show it open - check out the details. The colors are so vibrant and I just love the way it's stitched together. It should also be noted that "Alice in Wonderland" is one of my all time favorite books, so it's even more special to me. I am so thankful to have been the winner of Lorraine's prize!

but WAIT ... there's MORE!

I was also the lucky winner over at Dot's (Dot's Life & Art) ... she sent me one of her original Amelia dolls - I cannot begin to explain the sweetness of this precious little creature. Her fabrics a scrumptious and she's so lovingly embelished with lots of little beads & stitches.

Dot even filled the parcel with all kinds of extra little goodies that I am still drooling over.

*sighs*

OK, there's one more lucky win ... not too long ago I stumbled across a new blog called Water Blossoms that features the amazing art of Margaret Storer-Roch e. She does beautiful illustrations in both watercolor and pen. Recently she celebrated her one year blogaversary and had giveaways to boot ... what are the chances that I would win one? Couldn't tell you, but I did! I won one of her incredible feathers ... but notice that she tucked my prize in a cards with one of her original designs:

The detail she puts into her pieces boggles my mind. I love that the feather is a bookmark (that's my story and I'm sticking to it), because I get to use it and look at it every day.

Also, Chris @ Prism Trail must have really, really liked her cranes, because she sent me a little package with some of her "freshly minted" tiles. I love these little pieces ... go check out more of them HERE ... isn't that a GREAT batch?!?

I am really looking forward to seeing the tiles she received and what she ends up creating with them.

Yep. I'm seriously feeling loved.

In my own art news, I have WIPS without pics, so all I have to share are three ATC's that I doodled at the new job:

and:

and

I hope you enjoyed my little bit of show and tell.

Cheers! ~M~

the Auction is now LIVE!

2009-03-01T18:36:00.016-05:00

That's Right!

(Click the above image or HERE to be directed to the Auction Site; please note that to
bid on items, you will need to register for a free account ... I did and it was a breeze!)

To read the official announcement, please click HERE ... not only has our host supplied all the important details, she has also included a list (with links) of all the participating artists ... just don't forget to come back and enter my

*** CONTEST ***

Take a look at the following shrine details numbered 1 through 9

Leave a comment on this post (or email me with your answers - my email is listed publicly on my profile) listing 3 of the artists featured and your name will be tossed in the hat once. List 6 of the artists and your name will be entered twice ... List ALL 9 featured artists and you'll get not one, not two, not even three, but FOUR entries in my giveaway! ... and don't go getting all clever on me by commenting your 9 answers 90 times - everyone has a limit of 4 entries.

And considering I came up with this contest by the seat of my pants, the PRIZE is going to have to be a SURPRIZE ... at least for a little while.

Please feel free to pass on the information - the more people that know, the better!

For more information about the shrines I contributed, please click HERE.

Two Shrines

2009-03-01T10:16:00.019-05:00

(Click above image to be directed to the auction site)

*** MY NEXT POST WILL FEATURE THE AUCTION ***

But first I thought I would give everyone a little history as to how I got involved in this project (you might want to grab something to drink, kick back and relax for a bit ... I have a feeling this isn't going to be a quick post).

In November I visited Yoli's blog and came across THIS post; the timing couldn't have been better. I had just recently participated in my first "Dia de Bloglandia" event hosted by Susanna & Stephanie. Since it was a first, I had to do some research about Dia de los Muertos. The traditions & expression of the holiday spoke directly to my heart and soul. I truly enjoyed the process of making items, gathering others and simply erecting the shrine for friends and family that had passed. There was a real sense of healing in honoring these people that had touched my life (you can see the shrine HERE), so when I saw Yoli's post, I jumped in feet first ... the brain caught up a little later.

I committed to contributing a Cigar Box Shrine/Memory Box to benefit the Street Children of Oaxaca. I cannot explain why, but I felt a really strong urge to do a shrine in black & white ... once I began the process, my muse insisted that red be included, too. As for the cranes, it has been long believed that cranes not only bring luck and represent longevity, but they are also symbols of peace. How appropriate?

The birdhouse was cut down to a one inch depth to fit inside the closed box; there is a crystal heart attached just inside the opening of the birdhouse. I folded the cranes from squares of (just over 1") washi paper. Once all were folded and open, each one was dipped in a setting agent to strengthen and allowed to dry. Once dry, I painted half of them black and the other half white with acrylic paints and then sealed with a gloss varnish. The birds were strung along with black and white glass beads and clear Swarovski bicone crystals. Each string is suspended from the "ceiling" of the box. The three cranes at the base are attached.

Once all the elements were attached, I added the design in white acrylic paint to the inside cover, box front (has the name of the piece "Osmosis") and the sides.

Here's a detail of the interior:

This second shrine was an experiment for me ... I have a tendency to play it safe when it comes to use of color, but I really wanted to push my personal boundries and go for something bold and coloful - on the lines of more is better. I had tons of fun working on this shrine.

On the right (interior space of the box), I glued down a fragment of the cloth I had used on the first shrine (for Dia de Bloglandia) ... it felt right to honor that experience in this piece. I also used part of the same Our Lady of Guadelupe image. Our Lady is surrounded by pink and green sequins with Swarovski crystals set in here and there. The sides are bordered with red and gray textured glass tiles. The little cards are from a miniature tarot deck with bold images and are floated on small squares of stacked wood chips. (More were used on the outside box lide and outsied edges) The base has six swirly irridecsent shells attached. The flower stem is made of green sequins, the center of the flower is a yard pebble and the petals are small pieces of turquoise. The bit of lace at the top is actually a veil suspended from the inside and can be pulled back over to "hide" the interior.

On the left is a cross made up of bits and pieces and set in a thick layer of gel medium that's been liberally dusted with a coarse white glitter. The first outline is made up of light green glass chips and tiny red Swarovski crystals. The next is a slver textured ribbon and is followed by a border of pink sequins - the rest of the background is super fine citrus glitter with many coats of high gloss varnish over it.

Here's a detail of the box interior:

Both Cigar Box Shrines are available through the Auction to benefit the Street Children of Oaxaca located HERE ... take some time to look through the catalog of offerings and feel free to share the link with all your friends and family. The more interest we can generate, the better!

"Just one person MAKES a difference"

Cheeky (Chicken) Monkey plays Guerilla!

2009-02-22T12:50:00.028-05:00

(Click above image for a complete list of Global Guerilla Knit Up Participants)

Thanks to the gentle prodding of both my Getaway Driver (UberSpouse) and Lookout (Critter Child), my contribution to the Global Guerilla Knit Up went up! Yes, I waited till it was dark and was fairly certain that the number of human encounters would be limited ... but, it is officially on display.

After much deliberation (and the realization that it would only fit around a standard handrail sized item ... measuring makes A LOT of sense), I chose this most wonderful centrally located young tree in Gilchrist Park. It only took about 20 minutes to stitch it in place.

Here's the quick snap from last night:

Gilchrist Park is located right on the Peace River (appropriate, don't you think?) and is just walking minutes from downtown Punta Gorda (think more small town and not metropolis). The park gets tons of traffic throughout any given day as there's a terrific playground, tennis courts, covered pavillions, picnic tables with small grills, a dock, flower beds, live oaks, a monument of Ponce De Leon and meandering sidewalks.

Oh! and now it boasts this:

I have to admit that I think this is the best dressed tree in the park.

Check out the pole behind and to the right of the tree - the one with the duck at the top.

Here's a close up:

This pole is actually a utility outlet (note the small bulge near the top left of the pole). How cool is that? There are a number of places throughout the park that have outlets available (though this one really is the coolest by far) for the public to use. They come in handy during town sponsored events and on most Thursday nights when musicians gather to play. It's pretty neat as there are usually a few main gatherings where anyone is welcome to come sit in, plus scatterings of small drum circles and the like.

Here's a detail of the knit up:

Look to the left of the tree (between it and the palm tree) and you'll see the Ponce De Leon monument. (Items in the picture are much closer than they appear.) Check this out ... if people visiting the park pay attention, they'll see that Ponce is pointing right at the little tree:

OK, that's not really true - he actually points a bit east of the little tree, but for sake of this post, I chose to express a little artistic license (I just liked this shot of Ponce with the Gull on his head).

And one last shot of the tree:

This shot was taken near ground level pointing up towards the top ... doesn't it look HUGE?!?

The image really expresses how monumental this whole experience has been for me. It was wonderful taking part in an international festival of guerilla fiber art. I recycled left over bits, crocheted, knotted and pushed myself outside of my comfort zone to participate with many inspirational and creative artists from all walks of life. I like this feeling of being part of something bigger than myself and at the same time recognize how small the world really is. It has been such an honor taking part in the Global Guerilla Knit up (not to mention TONS of fun). I humbly and most sincerely express my gratitude to Grrl for throwing down the gauntlet and challenging us to do it ... and for holding our hands along the way.

It is my hope that people all around the world may look upon these offerings and be inspired ... or ... simply smile.

(2/28 - update ... it's gone ... hmmm)

4 Days ... SERIOUSLY?!?

2009-02-19T19:41:00.008-05:00

Yup ... Seriously.

The day of unveiling is a mere 4 days from now. Wow. Time flies!

I actually finished my knit up last night.

... and here's one half close up

... and the other half

OK, so it's not knit up, but is made up of homeless crocheted squares.

The blue squares were extra's from THIS huge project; the larger yellow squares are crocheted from the softest Bamboo yarn - ever; the two smaller yellow squares (side by side in the center) are leftovers from a baby blanket & the "connector" threads are various bits of random yarns from my big basket of yarn options (not quite as varied as I was hoping) that include: white and tan varieated cotton, super poofy hot pink softy (but in an acrylic way) yarn, tri-colored purple yarn (of the Walmart variety) and wicked cool autumn colored ribbon (the odd little tuft at the center of the yellow square at one end [or top up the knit up] and the connector of the yellow square to the blue square as the other end [or the bottom]) ... too much information?

You'd think the hard part was done, right? WRONG. There's the figuring out of what pole/object it should adorn ... though today at work I spotted the place I want it to go, so I think that one's a done deal ... as long as I can work up the COURAGE (a.k.a. the hard part) to actually DO IT! EEK! Yep, guess I have to admit that as much as it fills me with excitement to think about doing the deed and seeing my knit up banner wave, I am also filled with serious fears about getting caught in the act. This town is not known for it's mellow cops and their good senses of humor ...

*insert nervous twittering giggles here*

It's all good ... somehow I WILL overcome my twitchies and the knit up WILL go up. Do me a favor and think really positive can-do thoughts for me ...

... and if you find yourself wanting to be part of the fun (and I have a feeling many of you do), go HERE for the scoop, HERE for making sure you've got everything you need in your guerilla knit up kit, HERE for some ideas/reassurances on getting away with it (will be reading and rereading this post a few hundred times) and HERE just to get to know grrl a little better.

... In other cool news, I just found out that I am

one of seven finalists in the Art/Illustration Sub-Category of:

To see the list of other finalists (listed with their links) go HERE

.

The winners will be announced tomorrow.

HERE's where you can find the first round of winners. You can also vote for the People's Choice award from this first round. I've already voted.

Deranged and/or Misguided Bunny ... a Thank You

2009-02-17T19:34:00.010-05:00

Sometimes all the stars are aligned in such a way that causes people with hearts to do such generous deeds. Case in point ...

(above images courtesy of Michelle Schafer of the Studio at Crow Haven Farm)

The ever-so-talented & uber creative maker of delightful EB's

(Eclectic Beings, if you don't already know)

Michelle Schafer

Took it upon herself to send me some (much needed & greatly appreciated) love in the form of this Deranged and/or Misguided Bunny ... originally, I thought Bunny was simply hopping over for a visit (and to warm up a bit), but after he arrived, I was formally advised of my duty to adopt him as a member of my family (and a bringer of good luck & happiness).

Wow! What a most excellent surprise.

Since his arrival, Bunny has definitely made himself at home ... he quickly located the Quaker Oats (and emergency stash of canned veggies - EW!) ...

... made friends with all the local wildlife ...

(Cypress Fish has taken it upon himself to give Bunny the complete and guided tour of the area)

Bunny has been caught trying to talk Art Doll (a Monica Magness original) into a camping trip ...

... unfortunately for Bunny, Art Doll is most content sitting on the shelf meditating ... perhaps if he tries a little harder, he might convince her of the perks of outdoor meditation ... guess we'll have to see.

Bunny also likes to hang with Natasia, the nesting doll.

Seems like Natasia just can't tire of the stories Bunny has to share.

At the end of any given day, Bunny can be found snuggled sweetly in bed ... but even then you can see his wee brain working out the adventures of the next day.

* sighs*

Thank you, Michelle, for being a constant reminder to me of just how good life really is. You are one of the people that inspires me to be a better human.

Click on any of the photo's (and her name) to be directed to Michelle's blog

- The Studio at Crow Haven Farm -

... oh! and be prepared to fall in love over and over and over again!

Happy, Happy Heart Day!

2009-02-14T11:58:00.008-05:00

It's time for an announcement!

Click the above image (or HERE) to be directed to the announcement of the

website for the Cigar Box Shrine Auction to benefit the Street Children of Oaxaca!

Over 80 artists worldwide have generously donated their time & artistic visions to the cause. Be sure to check out the amazing contributions

get your bidding hand ready!

... And just in case y'all thought I was darkness and dread during this proclaimed happy heart day, here are a few scribbles that just might change your mind ... or not ...

"Since you, the pieces of my heart are coming together"

"My heart without yours" ... is blue

"It was a good day when your heart colided with mine"

"May you enjoy a Happy, Happy Heart Day

filled with lots of love, love, love"

Always, ~M~

Anti V-Day Contest Entry

2009-02-12T23:32:00.007-05:00

Who's surprised to hear that I waited till the very last day to get started on my entry? Yep, me neither. I had it in my head that I wanted to do a mock Valentine ... the front would be a happy image with the words, "thanks to you" in some large scripty font and then you'd open it and there'd be the words, "I've got a serious case of" and a picture of a burning heart ... get it? a serious case of heartburn ... bahaha ... at least I crack myself up. After many wooden matches and heartshaped pieces of crumpled paper, all I could get were these:

Not exactly what I was going for ... phooey.

with an hour to go (seriously close ... it's 11:49 as I type) I broke out some Bristol Board and a favorite black pen and some red ink ... the camera and some brightness manipulation (it's late and the light bites) ... here's my entry, "Restricted":

... phew! just by the skin of my teeth.

I'm up against some seriously amazing artists and their awesome contributions.

Wish me luck!

With thanks & an update

2009-02-08T21:26:00.013-05:00

I'll start with the update. As you might remember, I added washi papers to one side of the heart and all I have done since was coat that side in gloss varnish and paint the flip side white:

and here are a couple closer shots:

Feel free to click on any of the above images to see an even larger view. Next step? Not sure, but I think it includes seed beads ... when will I actually have a few hours to spend on these?!?

also,

I truly appreciate all of the wonderful & generous support

& kind words you have showered on me. It has made a world of difference.

thank you

I'm going to be extremely busy during this job transition ... I'm not the only one moving and have offered (been hired) to help the others with the transistion, too. If I seem to have vanished, it's only an illusion ... I'll be back ... have to be back on the 12th if I want to enter something in this:

... and there's still time if you are interested in submitting something to the contest, too.

Just click on the button above to get the whole scoop.

Plus, in my non-copious spare time, I still need to finish up my mock-knit-up for:

... at least this one is already in the works ...

and again, there's still time to join!

Finally ... thought it was time for another

Cigar Box tease ....

ready?

are you sure?!?

cool ...

on the left is a small notebook with the ring on top (handy for lefties like me)

the moleskin notebook on the right is really small, but soooo ready to be marked up.

Be well & dream BIG!

Always, ~M~

In my Attempt to Avoid my Heavy Heart ...

2009-02-03T19:30:00.006-05:00

I'm feeling a bit heavy hearted. I decided to take another job and had to give my boss my two weeks notice today ... this would have been a lot easier if I didn't care so much for her. I feel a bit fragile & pretty raw ... so ... even though I have a feeling this is going to be an exercise in twisted delight, instead of working on this:

I thought I would take inspiration from Robyn (click HERE) and post this:

Don made this bronze heart for me (Valentine's '99 - it should be noted that we aren't big into V-Day celebrations, so this was a huge surprise). We were living in Baltimore, MD. He was working at the New Arts Foundry, so was able to make the casting & soldered the "broken lock" part after it was cast. I'm not sure what the material was he used to sculpt the heart, but I am fairly certain this was a one time casting - I don't believe there is a mold of it. Before it was cast, he inscribed the back:

It's really hard to read in this photo ... it says, "Baby, you didn't need a key, you broke the lock to my heart".

*sighs*

If I don't say it enough, I know that I am a lucky, lucky girl.

When the new job opportunity came up, I had a lot of soul searching to do to make my decision. One night I broke out the Sculpy and the next thing I knew I had these:

a bunch of freeform hearts. I wasn't thinking about them as I was forming them - the hearts just seemed to happen. I also had no clue what I was going to do with them. On Saturday I cut out hearts from some of my favorite washi chiyogami papers and attatched them to one side:

I will varnish this side to protect the paper ... but then what? I don't know. I have a feeling I am just going to go with whatever happens ... maybe they'll turn out to be happy little hearts of hope. Guess we'll see.

"Nothing is so strong as

gentleness and nothing is so

gentle as real strength"

Ralph W. Sockman

OWOH Sneak Peaks 1 & 2 ... plus a reminder

2009-01-29T21:24:00.017-05:00

I'll start with the reminder:

If you aren't familiar with the gLOBAL gUERILLA (K)NIT UP,

click the image above to be wowed ... who knows, you might want to play, too!

be sure to check out some of her more recent posts as grrl has made some

super terrific suggestions in regards to alternate materials & being prepared.

Next up ... here are the first two sneak peaks at what you will find in the cigar box that I am offering up for One World One Heart 2009
:

Pictured Above: 6 champagne corks & one tile (imported from Italy)

AND:

Pictured above: 12 shiny little shells & 6 cranes

more about the cranes: all were folded from 1 1/4" inch squares then dipped in a setting agent that has made them more substantial - but not beyond crushable - painted with acrylic paint & coated with gloss varnish.

(click HERE to see where some of them ended up)

At last check, the number of participants had jumped to an unbelievable 737!

WHOA!

Shrine #2 - FINALLY fini!

2009-01-23T00:55:00.006-05:00

I don't know if anyone is aware of the struggles that I had with this particular shrine (for the Cigar Box Shrine project to benefit the Street Kids of Oaxaca - for a reminder, click HERE). It sort of pieced itself together, but I can finally call it done (I just added a coat of high gloss varnish - a name and a signature is all it needs ... and I am pretty sure it's going to be called "Between Here & There" ... I'll sign it when the varnish dries)

.

front of box - closed:

Inside lid:

Inside box side (veil up):

Inside view (vail down):

Inside view (vail up):

any questions?

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing

~Helen Keller~

One World, One Heart 2009

2009-01-19T10:06:00.012-05:00

02.12.09 Update ... let spouse pick a number between 1 and 366 ... he chose #33. I counted down (then double checked two more times) and the winner of the cigar box full of bits and pieces is:

the Bella Modiste

Thanks to everyone that took the time to stop by ... I know that I have added a list of people to the blogs I follow as a direct result of OWOH. I hope all of you have been exposed to a whole new world of ideas and inspiration.

01.29.09 Update - Sneak Peaks 1 & 2 can now be found HERE

It's official - One World One Heart is here!

If you are a first time visitor, I welcome you with open arms. Please feel free to stay a minute or a few hours and know that you are welcome back anytime.

To those of you that regularly visit, thank you. Your friendship & encouragement has meant more to me than I could possibly explain - YOU are the inspiration that fills me up. YOU help me find the courage to spread my wings & explore new things.

When I first started my blog, last years One World One Heart event was nearing its close ... through the links from it, I found a whole new universe full of possibilities ... it is precisely because of that that I wanted to participate this year. Yes, I am hosting a giveaway, too. I love how Lisa explained it,

"The giveaway portion is like hosting an open house......as if we were all living in this gigantic neighborhood where once a year we visit homes to meet, reacquaint and get to know one another. At each home there are samplings of goodies that you have a chance to take home like a door prize. You leave your name and at some point each home choses a winner or winners......and now you not only have met a new "neighbor" and you've seen where they live.....you have something that someone lovingly chose to give..... AND visa versa."

So, without further ado, here's my teaser:

This cigar box will be shipped to the winner of the random drawing.

Just a cigar box?!?

Uh, no - that's the teaser! I have started filling the box with "bits & pieces" & plan to have it chock full of goodies by February 12 ... I do plan on adding little teaser updates to this post between now and then, so feel free to check in.

Who is elligible: Everyone (but please be sure there's someway I can contact you)

How do I enter: Please leave a comment on this post between now & midnight Wednesday, February 11th. Everyone that leaves a comment will be entered into a random drawing one time (not one time per comment).

Winners will be announced on Thursday, February 12th

Thank you for taking the time to stop in for a visit. I hope to visit all the One World One Heart participants throughout the next few weeks.

Cheers! ~M~

Shrine On!

2009-01-13T21:08:00.006-05:00

thanks Lynn, I STILL have the song in my head. :)

So, I am WAY late on getting them shipped out, but they ARE headed to the post office in the morning (even if there are a few last minute touches left) and WILL be there before the actual end-of-the-month deadline. Phew! I was getting really nervous for a while.

All this one:

needs is a title & then it will officially be fini'!

And this one:

just needs a bit of this, a little that & a decision - skulls or no skulls (I did add some black details to them since this photo was taken); definitely doable before the pillows call.

Thank you for all the encouragement - it has been a huge help.

Here's hoping that all of the efforts of the contributing artists raise lots

of much needed funds & awareness for the street children in Oaxaca.

You'd Think I'd Learn, Eh?

2009-01-12T00:34:00.009-05:00

Please note: there was a half giggle trying to escape as I typed that ...

... just in case you haven't heard yet, hop on over to grrl & dog, check out &:

Did I commit myself to this? What do you think? lol ... guess you'll just have to wait and see. Who knows, you just might get inspired (click on the above image for more information).

In other news ... it's nearly 1:00am and I thought I would be a bit further along with these (though a smart cookie would have just focused on one ... never claimed to be that cookie & besides, both nagged me into creation). Look at the previous post to see where I left off ... might not look like I've made much headway ... here's an update, just the same.

as neither are currently titled, here's the light box:

And here's the dark one:

... what the heck are all those little black and white thingies on the wax paper?!?

I told uber-spouse that I'd finish at least one before I hit the pillows ... and bets on which one it will be?!?

Question ... do you dream in technicolor?

Has it Really Been a Week ...

2009-01-07T21:23:00.010-05:00

... since my last post? Time keeps slipping though my fingers.

Once upon a time, I was girl that THRIVED on deadlines (sometimes meeting them by the skin of my teeth, but ALWAYS meeting them ON TIME) ... and then I moved to Florida. It took me a while, but I finally accept that I have grown acustomed to Florida time. Did you know that here in Florida (at least in the southwest) "soon" can be anytime between the next ten minutes and ten months (some might even argue ten years)? At least I think that's what's going on ...

Case in point #1: I still haven't sent out my Christmas cards or had my holiday "Make-n-Bake" fest. Has anyone noticed the first week of January has nearly passed?

Case in point #2:

What's that, you ask? It's the beginings of The Cigar Box Shrine for the Auction for Oaxaca Street Children ... remember THIS? I waited way to long to get started ... till late last week ... pan out a little and you'll have this:

Right now I am at about this point:

*sighs*

They're due to Rebecca on January 10th (to be considered for inclusion in Pasticcio Quartz - no guarantee, of course, but it would have been exciting to be considered). It's January 7th. I'm missing that deadline. I'm bummed, but I did this to myself. Thank goodness the shrined can be received until the end of the month to be included in the auction.

Case in point #3: I signed up for a post card exchange way-back-when with a "must be mailed" date of 12/15 ... I made it to the post office on 12/22 ... the saving grace is that I wasn't the only one & the hostess, JennLui at A Trinket Treasury is a generously kind spirit. So not to be a spoiler to the recipients, the two shots below are just snipets of two of the cards:

and:

In a nutshell, if it isn't Florida time that's gotten its hold on me, then I am seriously clueless as to why I have been such an utter and total flake ... anyone have any ideas how I can cure this terrible malady?!?

Wishes for 2009

2008-12-31T18:50:00.013-05:00

This past week I have visited a number of my favorite blogs and read some beautifully thoughtful reflections of 2008. I'm touched by what people choose to share; inspired, too.

Since I haven't quite gotten over my whole non-holiday-spirit, I feel like my reflections might be a bit tainted right now; rather than wallow, I'd prefer to offer ...

Wishes for 2009

May we live honestly & wholeheartedly

May we be wise enough to recognize what's truly important

May we dare to try new things (even if some may scare us a little ... or a lot)

May we be well & healthy in body, mind and spirit

May we suffer bouts of spontaneous dancing (and/or singing)

May we be open to (and accepting of) our highest potentials

May we share ourselves without fear

May we practice kindness, until practice becomes habit

and habit becomes as natural as breathing

May kindness continue to be contagious

May we be treated to lots of gut splitting laughter & silly little fits of giggles

May we accept others for exactly who they are and not what we expect them to be

May we be inspired

and touched by magic

May we experience 10,000+ moments of happiness

May we all find peace in our hearts, our homes & our universal community

With love,

Michelle

How Did it Happen?

2008-12-23T23:58:00.008-05:00

I've been having issues with this holiday season ... usually I begin preparing sometime in early October and have a bunch of stuff in the works & by December 1 I'm in a baking and making frenzy (believe me when I say that I truly enjoy every part of it, too) ... this year, I never really got started. Strange, really. I have baked a bit, made even less and now it's officially Christmas Eve ... this is so odd. I mentioned in an earlier email that I am hoping that my holiday clock is just set on delay ... who knows, maybe I'll have my holiday burst sometime in March. One never really knows ... I hope that I haven't bummed y'all out & your still with me - this next part is chock full of happy surprises, some pretty pictures (from that trip North) and a super happy face at the end.

A while back Elizabeth Beck (a.k.a. e.beck.artist) was having a giveaway & somehow the lucky gods were smiling on me ... I won an e.beck original! Due to life, art & other such stuff, it took a while for her to make her way to the post office. Even luckier for me as she decided to send me not one, but TWO of her little paintings (and a candy bracelet that my daughter quickly confiscated from me by calling dibs)! Whoa! and hold your horses! Check out what she sent:

I love, love, love them both & am thrilled to have them here in my home ... I may even leave the ornament up all year long (who knows, if I stare at it enough, that Christmas Spirit just might take its bite!). Go HERE to visit her blog & be sure to check out more of her wonderful art.

That's really good and awesome, right? But WAIT! there's more ... the most wonderful and loverly Cathie (a.k.a. Clevelandgirlie) decided that now was the time to send a little cheer my way (did she sense I was suffering from holiday zombieitis?!? I wonder) ... and what a precious little cheerleader I received ... introducing Mz. Meecies (yes, I do call her that & don't blame me if my goober hat shows once in a while - I was born this way & have practiced for years and years!):

Isn't she just the most adorable pin cushion EVER?!? She has a pin for a nose & Swarovski crystal eyes. You can actually put a spool of thread on her tail, too ... talk about a clever, clever design. I adore this little mouse. Right now she is sitting on the shelf right above my PC and just looking at her makes me happy. Go see Cathie HERE - scroll through some of her older posts as her talents are not only with a needle and thread ... plus, she has one loveable Gizmo.

Another wonderful and witty woman decided to send a little something my way ... imagine my surprise when this sweet package arrived:

Chris (at Prism Trail) sent the box full of hand made tags (when in the box, the lid doesn't close, but you get this amazing hand decorated box brimming with colors and ribbon galore - it's so sweet, but I wanted to show off all the pretty little tags & beads). Visit Chris HERE ... don't be surprised if you find yourself giggling for much of your visit.

You'd think after receiving such lovely gifts I wouldn't still be suffering from Christmas Avoidance Syndrome ... I wonder if there are meds I should be taking ... perhaps some Mint M-n-M's ...

You all said such nice things about the photo's from West Virgina, I thought I would share a few more:

And just for the sheer pleasure:

That's Secret. She's the miniature pincher that lives with the peeps we were visiting in West Virginia; she enjoys the ride from the house to the cabin quite a bit. :)

May you all be treated to a holiday filled with

love, laughter & good cheer!

From Snow to Sunshine

2008-12-10T00:40:00.011-05:00

Not quite two weeks ago we were up in West Virginia with snow and temps that didn't get above 40 degrees and are now back in our SW Florida sunshine (70's - 80's during the day).

On Monday we went to a homeschool Teddy Bear party (dressed bears for the Salvation Army's holiday bear-fest) at a friends home. Here's a shot of 64 bears in all their new finery:

Some are definitely dressed better than others, but all were clothed with a lot of heart and the best of intentions.

I was able to wear one of my favorite hats - event photographer - and have posted most of the party pics on snapfish for all the attendee's to view. Since it was a party, most shots are candids of the kids having a blast, but I did sneak in a few random shots of prettiness ... one of the guests brought rosemary hearts to share:

Don often brings bags of basil from our garden for the other families, so this was a lovely reciprocation and presented in such a simple and clever way - they look sweet and smell terrific. Looks like I have a great Christmas ornament back-up plan for this year (our rosemary bush is huge, so there's plenty, too).

The rest of these shots are taken in the back yard (one of those to-die-for spaces). There are a number of orchids in bloom right now & they are pretty amazing:

Here's a shot of the tree watching us:

Perhaps not part of all the prettiness, but it cracks me up. I've seen a lot of those spirit of the tree faces & always found them to be quite intriguing, but a tree spirit that's watching us? and with his own binoculars?!? too funny.

This little moth found one perfect place to sun and feast:

... and on that note, it's late and I have to work in the morning, so it's off to my pillows.

May you be treated to a day full of wonder.