Christmas by phone

OK, we made it through. Just the two of us...not so bad. We really, really missed having the "kids" home, the mounds of wrapping paper to climb over on the living room floor, the early morning wake up, and the Raffi's Christmas Music we listen to every year, but we made the best of it. It was a great opportunity to really focus on "the reason for the season."We attended the Children's Mass in the evening, which was the sweetest thing, then we came home watched "It's a Wonderful Life" on TV. Later we went to the amazingly beautiful Cathedral in Memphis for Midnight Mass. The music was spectacular, and the Church was packed to the rafters with people from all faiths. It really was a Holy night. I'm not used to going to bed at 3AM, however, and was sure I'd sleep in 'til noon (part of the strategy for handling my kids not being home), but no, I woke up at 7AM! We spent much of the day talking to our kids on the phone as they opened their gifts, which was fun. We got them each a Garmin Nuvi navigational system (which should help them find home next year :) They might be adults and all gorwn up but still get stockings every year, which are packed to the brim with silly, and serious gifts. I love that they still treasure the traditions they grew up with. So here's to Christmas...may we always treasure old traditions and keep making new ones!

Yum-O

Eclectica Scrapbooks and Stamps (LSS) had it's annual Staff and Instructor Holiday Celebration/Dinner/Cookie Swap. Our "Dirty Santa" gift exchange was fun, but a bit too polite with only a few steals. Everyone ended up with a lovely gift in the end. As I promised, here is the recipe for the Cookies I brought. Enjoy!

Maple Walnut Shortbread dipped in Chocolate



1 cup butter (softened)
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
1 egg yolk
2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. maple flavor
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup finely chopped toasted walnuts

1. Beat sugar and butter until smooth. Add 1/2 cup walnuts and egg yolk; beat until blended. Add flour, baking powder, salt and maple flavor. Beat on low speed until stiff cookie dough forms. Shape dough into a ball, wrap and place in fridge for about 45 minutes.
2. Heat oven to 350degrees F. Divide dough into 8 equal parts. On lightly floured surface, shape each part into a rope 12" long and
3/4" thick. Cut into 2" lengths; place about 2" apart on ungreased cookie sheet. I flattened centers slightly with one finger.
3. Bake for 16-18 minutes until edges begin to brown. Cool completely.
4. In a double boiler melt chocolate chips; stirring until smooth. In another small bowl place toasted chopped walnuts.
5. Dip one side of each cookie into melted chocolate then into walnuts. Place on sheets of parchment or waxed paper; let stand until set. (I put mine in the fridge.)

Don't ask for the calorie and fat count...'cause you just don't want to know!



All packaged and ready for the swap...

Giving Thanks

Wishing you a beautiful Thanksgiving! We're on our way to Virginia, along with all the other (crazy) people who will be on the road tomorrow. We're hoping and praying to stay ahead of the storms! Remember, between stuffing the bird and stuffing your face, to take a minute to remember everything you have to be thankful for and count your blessings! Love to you all!

Artistic Outpost

I mounted several plates of stamps over the last few days, most of which are from Artistic Outpost's new stamp line. One of the plates is Thai Buddha, which I used for the collage below. I couldn't help but think about our sweet little exchange student from Thailand while I was stamping these images. Did you know the skinny Buddha is Thailand's Buddha? That's just one of the many things I learned from Bow's short stay with us. Having three exchange students from around the world (Martin from the Czech Republic, Camilla from Brazil, and Bow from Thailand, reminded us that everyone on this earth is connected, that we are all the same yet different, just like a big family. They opened our eyes and broadened our views in ways we never could have anticipated! I hear from each of them now and then...they all call me their "American Mom." They will always have a special place in my heart...my other kids. And tomorrow is Camilla's 19th birthday...Happy Birthday, sweetie!

I love surprises!

A normally uneventful trip to the mailbox made my day! I was greeted by a package from Oxford Impressions, one of my favorite stamp companies (a girl can have lots of favorites...right?) There was a note attached that said, "Don't feel obligated to use these....but if they fit into your art..." Of course they fit into my art, and I have a perfect opportunity to use them today! Nineteen artist trading cards, which are due tomorrow morning, will be graced by these beautiful images. Thanks so much Suzanne!

Beeswax Fun!

Here's a picture of the fun ornaments we'll be creating in my upcoming December workshop at Eclectica Scrapbooks and Stamps. If you've been anxious to work with beeswax and you love collage this will be a great class for you.




Beeswax Collage Ornaments Workshop

Saturday, December 1 at 10:30 AM -- $26 Instructor: Roxi
The sweet scent of beeswax will fill the air when we create FIVE collaged ornaments that are sure to become treasured family heirlooms. We will create collages on all sides and edges of these dimensional ornaments with holiday papers and images. The ornaments will receive a coat of natural beeswax and will be topped off with a wire work hanger and metal charms. In addition to your basic class kit, please bring a craft knife with extra blades and a metal-edged ruler. Please note: This is a workshop length class

What's keeping me out of mischief these days...

I often hear..."so what are you up to lately?" So I thought that even though I can't post pics of things I'm submitting, I can tell you a little bit about them. I was recently asked to create an ensemble for the hit show "Project Runway" on behalf of Krylon. I don't get Bravo network so I'd never seen the show before, but now I see the advertisements everywhere and Heidi Klum on every talk show. So if you see an episode with spray painted fashion as the challenge...maybe, just maybe my submissions did the trick! Now, I gotta get Bravo network asap!
I have several things in publications right now, including the ad you might see in several Christmas edition magazines including Better Homes and Gardens, Crafts-n-Things and other places Krylon advertises. The candlelit votives are mine. In Crafts-n-Things I also have a wine box and a calendar set. In Michael's in store magazine, "Imagine," I have a sugar cookie tray, a Joy mantel piece and a set of gift tags. In Creative Home Arts I have a Fall frame and candle set...that's my little brother and his wife in the pumpkin patch.
Right now I'm working on some design team projects for Artistic Outpost and some design work for Colorbox for use in their ads and in their CHA booth.
Along with three of my favorite artist friends and fellow CHA designers, Candice, Melony, and Ronnie I'm working on a Fashion crafting display for the big Winter CHA (industry trade show) that will be in Anaheim in February. Our theme is "Mommy and Me," and we have a really fun design planned for our display...more to follow, think Anthropology, think retro...and those are your only hints for now!
I'm also honored to be helping a very good friend with "Save the Date" magnets and cards for their son's upcoming wedding...they're only sending 300!

Family First this year

It seems that I'm so busy with assignments this time of year that regretfully my handmade family gifts get put on the back burner...you know the story about the shoemaker's children... this year I am determined that I'll make a few things for gifts and still meet all my other deadlines! I set up shop downstairs and made several handmade holiday planners for some special people in my life. Here is a sneak peek....I have several projects I MUST get to now, but I enjoyed creating so much that it was a great reminder to do art just for pure pleasure, every chance I get!



Oh and yes...those are cleared off counters under the books...I found them the other day...while devoting a day to cleaning and organizing my studio... they were right where I'd left them!

Design Teams, etc.

I've never been real big on design teams...honored to be asked, but have always had so much work that I didn't really have time to work for product...I need cold hard cash. That is until my good friend, Robyn started up her own line of stamps and related products. When she asked for me to be on her team I had to say yes! Artistic Outpost is creating their own original rubber stamp plates and carrying a good variety of art supplies. Be sure to check out their online store, visit their gallery and watch for their products to be featured in upcoming magazines.

Wiley

OK...here is the picture I've been promising to post...one of the "Grand"puppies. This little feller is the love of Laura's life right now! Everytime I talk to her I have to listen to how adorable he is, how he cuddles with her and his antics, one of which cost her about $600 in emergency vet bills. This advice...chocolate is worse for dogs than you think, especially dark and bakers chocolate. A big brownie left where he could reach it meant a pretty scary night with IVs and charcoal. He's back to 100% and as precious as ever. He'd be even cuter if his potty training was going better!

Happy Halloween!

No goblins at my house tonight! We lived in military housing for so many years and would literally have hundreds of costume cuties come a knockin'...sure is different here! I got so excited when I heard our one and only knock at the door...grabbed the big bowl of treats and opened the door expecting to see little guys yelling "Trick-or-Treat," but instead it was the sweet college-aged daughter of our great friends bringing us a dish filled with homemade goodies! The cutest little sugar cookies that look like candy corns...adorable and tasty!

I guess we're in those in between years...our kids our young adults, making us empty nesters...with no Grandbabies yet. These days are challenging me...the little girl who only wanted to be a Mommy when she grew up now has to figure out who she is all over again and what her purpose is right now. But, that's OK...I'll figure it all out...for now I'm liking this freelance artist/author gig! And with no kids around we can run around the house in our undies all we want! Now there's a scary thought...Happy Halloween!

Evidence....

Let this stack of boxes waiting to be shipped be proof that I’m still kicking and busier than ever! This cardboard contains lots of projects to be published in an upcoming book so I can’t post individual pics on the internet. I’ll let you know more when I can.

‘Til 2am this morning I was working on batch of projects for another book and hopefully will be shipping those later today. That will allow me a minute or two to finish up some teasers and class samples for upcoming Eclectica classes, and finish getting things together for the “Simply Southern Scrapbook Convention" which Candice and I leave for on Wednesday morning. I know I'll see many of you there.

I want to give a public shout out to Eclectica for sponsoring us (RockCandy Designs™) for the convention, also, Clearsnap, Krylon and Tsukineko for contributing supplies. And, a great big thanks to Lisa Paine for machine embroidering our logo on aprons and bags.

Here are my upcoming workshops at “E”…check 'em out. I’m especially excited to share some of the new products, including the Crackle Medium, in the Mosaic Sampler Class. I’m also anxious to teach the Halloween Pennant Garland Class, with all the especially fun seasonal goodies that Making Memories came out with this year. I'm sure you've noticed that Pennants are all the rage right now in holiday decor. Of course, I'm teaching a book arts class...with this one we'll get back to some stitched bindings.

Mosaic Sampler Canvas Workshop
Saturday, October 13 at 2:00 PM -- $26 Instructor: Roxi
New products have been streaming in the door since our trip to CHA! This is your chance to test the newest products and hottest tools while creating a stunning decor canvas to embellish your home! You’ll bring one favorite close-up photo 5” x 7” (black and white if possible) and we’ll surround it, mosaic style, with all the products you’ve been anxious to try. These pieces will be mounted on a 12” x 12” artist’s canvas and ready to be hung when you get home. Please bring your basic class kit, heat tool (if you have one) and your favorite strong liquid adhesive (i.e. Scrappy Glue). Please note: This is a workshop length class.

Spooktacular Garland – Workshop Class
Tuesday, October 23 at 10:30 AM -- $26 Instructor: Roxi
Create five Halloween pennants using hot new seasonal papers, embellishments and ribbons. You’ll string these together to make an adorable Halloween Greetings Garland to decorate your home and delight all those ghosts and goblins. Please note: This is a workshop length class.

Book Arts Workshop – Workshop Class
Saturday, October 27 at 2:00 PM -- $26 Instructor: Roxi
This journal, complete with a coordinating pencil and hand-stitched binding, has a partially open spine that adds interest and will allow the book to lie flat on a surface for easy note taking. A beautiful project for the seasoned book-artist or the perfect project to introduce beginners to this art form, this workshop is for every level! In addition to your basic class kit, please bring a craft knife and binder’s needle (if you have one). Please note: This is a workshop length class.

Crazy, Sexy Cancer

Did you watch this edgy documentory on TLC last night? What courage and tenacity this women shows! I encourage you to check out her website and blog...even if you don't know anyone with cancer. She is an inspiration in so many ways! She's a true warrior, fighting the battle and living fully!

Here's to Life!

Calling all Muses...

I'm in a creative rut! I teach people strategies for getting out of these, i.e. take a day off, look for inspiration in the environment and/or books and magazines, just start playing with backgrounds, organize your studio, but what I think I really need is a REAL vacation! Sure I've done some traveling, had lots of really cool things happen for me this summer...but, there has been no REAL, walk on the beach, sightseeing, soak it all in vacation! I have lots of exciting deadlines coming up, but I'm wondering if I should take a day and pretend I'm on vacation...maybe a pedicure, a matinee, a good read...that sounds nice and refreshing! When I told my DH that I needed a change of pace, he said...get this..."would you come sit in a TREE STAND with me?" I DON'T think so! He said I'd have to sit quietly so as to not scare the deer away. I love this man...but we have to work on the area in our marriage that includes Vacation plans...my idea of fun has nothing to do with wearing camo!

Mind, Body and Soul

What a beautiful day we had yesterday! Kindred spirits, a glorious morning nature walk in the garden to gather foliage and inspiration, an abundance of art supplies, and a full day to play...doesn't get much better than that.

Some of the treasures we gathered and used in our projects...



For our Souls... Watercolored banners glistened with shimmery mica sprays as they dried on all available surfaces in the room. Once dried they were hung from freshly gathered twigs, and were decorated with beautiful ribbons, and nature/art related inspirational quotes.



For our Bodies... With fragrant essential oils, beautiful colorants and other special ingredients we created the most lovely bath salts packaged in tubes with tinted text, leaves, blossoms, and shells all bundled and wrapped together beautifully with twine and tags.



For our Minds... We hand-stitched journals using natural papers, yummy fibers and special embellishments. These little treasures are perfect for holding notes from the day, gardening notes, or personal thoughts.



We had such an enjoyable time together and the projects turned out so lovely that Memphis Botanic Garden has asked us to repeat the workshop, only this time as a three part evening series so that it will fit more people's work schedules. I'll keep you posted with dates and details, in case you're interested.

Digi-world, here I come...

I love learning new stuff! Never really considered myself much of a "geek" (although I've always used and depended on my 'puter) but I'm willing to give it a shot! This page was done with a digi page kit from CK Media. So, I have this whole studio of art supplies that could never be replaced by digital elements, and the touchy feely side of me could never be satisfied with the strokes on a keyboard...but I thoroughly enjoyed working on this simple page. Everyone should own Adobe Photoshop Elements...without an exception; easy to use and so many tutorials to help you along the way. What I need to figure out is a way to organize my digital elements so that I don't forget what I have...I'd love suggestions from my techy friends out there. I think the bottom line for me is that I could get into the hybrid thing...a little bit country, a little bit rock-n-roll...errr I mean a little bit digi, a little bit actual. As far as I know there is still no way to hand-stitch an art journal or get paint and ink on your fingers digitally...so for now I'll just work with both.

Just NOT fair!

So they say my second book is out. The publisher says it's in their warehouse, Amazon has it listed as "in stock", our local scrapbook store has ordered it...now one of my contributors says that UPS delivered her copy yesterday. Shouldn't I get first peeks of a book I wrote? You see why I said...Life's just not fair! Now you know I'm not really complaining...after all I was blessed with the opportunity in the first place. I'll quit whining now... and go hunt down the UPS man instead!

Art in the Garden

Check out the "Rock Candy" workshop at "Memphis Botanic Garden" here's
the link... http://www.memphisbotanicgarden.com go into adult programs then Art in the Garden workshops.
The two mixed media artists they are referring to
are Candice and Me. The day should be a beautiful and relaxing time
creating art that will feed your artistic soul. There will be three
projects with the theme of "Nature Arts for your Mind, Body and Soul.
We'll be creating a watercolored flowing banner, an artist journal and
something special to soothe your body. Consider calling in for a
wellness day and join us in this beautiful setting for an uplifting
day with kindred spirits!

You know you want to join us...splurge on yourself for one day!

Opportunities...they just keepa knockin'!

I must be living a charmed life! It's like one exciting thing after another keeps coming my way! Today I got home from running errands and another company emailed and said they liked my Designer's Showcase and would like me to do "something" for them. She said to expect a call in the next few days to give me the details...hmmm...I wonder which project caught their eyes?
I've had several manufacturers ask if they could send me boxes of their products to use in my work..."why of course", I always respond!
And did I tell you that "Creative TECHniques" (an artsy/techy magazine) has asked me to write a regular column! Oh my gosh! It'll be based on my "How'd She Do That?" series, but with a digital twist. First column will be released on my birthday...next summer.

All this has happened since I got BACK from CHA...I guess I can say the show was a success! And the Designer's Showcase is kinda like that pink bunny...it just keeps on giving and giving...err, something like that!

Right now, I'm working on some design ideas for a line of stamps for a new stamp company!!! Watch for more announcements 'bout this!!! It's gonna be good!

Oh yeah, I saw the photo of the project I was doing for the Better Homes and Garden ad, and despite of all the struggles with humidity...not bad! The photographer made the votives look quite elegant. It'll be in a Christmas BH&G...I'll let you know when it's released.

So much excitement, so many deadlines…good thing I’m a list maker! Now, where’s my marker board?

I’ve been working on my studio…thinning out stuff…and you know that’s a tough thing to do for us collagy type! Oh, I might need that, or I could distress it and ink it and emboss it then it would be perfect, or I think I’ll use that for a project in the next decade! But, I’m trying to be good…gave a bunch of “stuff” to a friend of my daughter’s to use in her absolutely adorable baby’s scrapbook. I made a stack of stuff to add to my other stack of stuff to take to the Ronald McDonald House. Have a batch of stuff for ebay…and a large black trash bag. I’m getting some sort of perverse pleasure from filling that bag…it’s like a weigh is being lifted. Better get back to purging before the mood shifts….

Cha-show in Chi-town

Where to begin?

How could it be possible to feel this exhausted and this invigorated all at the same time? The show was amazing! I know you all wish you could have been there bumping into Tim, Elsie, Suze, Ali, all the editors, art directors, design team leaders, publishers. They were everywhere you looked. The hot new products, freebie samples, classes and incredible make-n-takes filled the huge show-floor. I wish you could have been there, also!

All I can say is … haunt your LSS until the Grungeboard, Cracklepaint, new paper lines, Tim’s ruler and retractable tools, hit the shelves. Watch for Hambly’s new Christmas Rub-ons and other new releases! Hambly's Allison was so much fun to meet and seemed quite pleased with how we used the "Hambly Yum" that she'd sent for us to use on our Designer Tablescape. Wait ‘til you see the new Mini-Scor-it, and the new and improved Tonic personal trimmer. You best be savin’ your money! And I didn't even mention the "Tattered Angels Shimmer Sprays"...oh my gosh!

The Designer's Showcase was a huge success and has opened many doors for more publications, and more design work. It was such a treat to meet, face to face, people I've been designing for and working with through the internet and over the phone lines. For those of you who contributed to the Make It in Minutes books, you'll be glad to know that they're being reviewed in magazines and maybe on a television broadcast...I'll keep you posted on the details.

Here's a little somethin' somethin' Tim, Candice and I whipped up with some of the new products he developed...lucky us!



Three cheesy gins! Tim begged to have his picture taken with us girls! :)



There were many exciting moments, but one of the best was when I showed the Designer for Cosmo Cricket one of my projects and she flipped out and said, "would you mind if we go show this to Tim?" ...Like I'd say, NO... It was a cool moment for me to have him admiring MY work!

Only 6 1/2 months 'til Winter CHA... I better get started now!

Has it been a month?!

Wow, I can't believe it's been a month since I posted. In that month I traveled lots of unexpected miles, witnessed miracles, faced challenges, won contests, landed a great design job, and now am rushing to get ready for CHA. Candice and I will be leaving less than two weeks! My business cards and giant postcards (which will have to serve as my press kits this for this go 'round) are ordered, I've designed and purchased materials for my showcase display, and I'm working through some challenges with a design project...
So I read the instructions and they say something like this. Use this product at temperatures between 50*-85* in very low humidity...well HELLO...I live in Memphis TN and it's JULY! Some how I WILL make this work, and I WILL have them in the mail by tomorrow! And I WILL be ready to teach my class on Saturday...I just know I can make this happen because, there are bigger challenges in life and I recently witnessed them being conquered.

It's good to be back!

Curve Balls

Life is a rollercoaster ride sometimes...and this has been one of those weeks, for sure. You know life is fragile, you are aware of the natural cycles in life, but when health issues slap your family in the face it hurts like hell. The curve ball I referred to came in the form of a stroke in the control center of my Dad's brain...the part that controls breathing and heart beat and other vital functions. It looks like Dad will be OK, with months of therapy...provided he gets through these next days. He's being transported to another hospital to have a pacemaker inserted as I type this message...we are optimistic at this moment. The beat goes on.

My Mom seems fragile to me right now...and she's not a weak person, by anyone's standards. She's so tired, and to hear her say she's scared cuts me to my very core. My sister and brothers are there with them now...and I will be going in a few days. I need to be there. My heart already is.

Happy Feet

Now, THIS is the LIFE!

"What Happens on the River....

STAYS ON THE RIVER"....ER SHOULD I SAY...IN THE RIVER?


All loaded and ready to go!


OK, I'll probably get in "trouble" for posting this picture of Jennifer...but do you remember the grocery store incident in a previous post...well, payback's a b----! Love you...Jenn :)

Imagine...floating along, hearing the birds singing, the turtles jumping into the river, absolutely perfect weather...pure peace! Then the rumble of the rapids up ahead...and the adrenalin rush...then negotiating the current perfectly...and staying upright in your kayak through it all, with your camera safely nestled in its drywell.
Hmmm...that's the way I imagined the scene...but, what happened was a whole different story, and like I said, "what happened on the river stays on the river."

We're back home and almost dried out.

Buffalo River Here we come...

The Kayaks are strapped on, the ice chest is loaded, we've got sunscreen and bug spray, tents and bedding. I've packed a few projects and plan to make 30 art charms, do some writing for the upcoming zine, some journaling,and maybe bind a book or two. I'm hoping to come back refreshed enough to tackle the busy months ahead. We're off for our great Kayaking adventure at day-break. I'll be back on line with some pics to share in about a week. See you "downstream."

Life Lesson #502

They grow up too darn fast. But, they still know how to embarrass me in the grocery store. I guess I didn't teach them "Life Lesson #502" very well. That is...one should NOT speak about hemorrhoid cream and other such personal care products loudly in a grocery store in order to humiliate one's mother and father. I'll just add this...If they were younger they'd be grounded for life.


They used to be so cute when they were little.

I've been BUSY...Really I have.

Some days creative energy flows on it's own...some days it feels forced. Most of the last two days it's been really hard work to do this job I do. Then something just gave way, and the juices began to flow again...maybe it was the words of encouragement from my art buddy, Candice, or maybe it was the treat she brought me from Starbucks, YUMM-O. At any rate...I finished up two projects and am feeling eager to finish two more in the morning. I'd post pictures, but the projects I'm working on are for a Designer's Challenge sponsored by Krylon. I can't say too much, but believe it or not there is NO Chestnut Roan involved! Maybe the lack of creative juice was just withdrawl.

Then there's this incredible project I'm collaborating with three other designers to create for CHA (Industry Trade Show), an "Over The Top" Tablescape with Old World Romance as our theme. We have the most amazing colors, and materials to work with....this is gonna be good. There will be pictures the end of July. The thought of this table makes my heart swoon.

Double-Dog Dare #1

I've been teaching a Paper Crafts Challenges Series at Eclectica, my LSS, and the students take dares that stretch their skills, styles, and minds to new extremes. I've been amazed at the projects they've brought back to class that often far exceed all expectations. I will begin posting weekly "Double-Dog Dares" on this blog so you can all play along. Should you be "MAN/WOMEN ENOUGH" to take my project dares, I'd love to have you email me a jpeg of your project to post in this blog for everyone to see. No matter what your medium of choice is, whether it is ATCs, layouts, cardmaking, stamping, altered arts...whatever, let me see how you apply the challenge to your craft/art.

Here's the first dare...

What do you wish? For yourself, for someone you love, for the future, for the world. Express your wish in your art. Maybe that means make a layout with the heading "I wish" or a handmade journal for writing down your wishes, maybe an ATC with that as a theme...you decide...it's your art.

For each jpeg I receive from the Double-Dog Dares your name will go into a hat and there will be a drawing for something...something good...I promise. Maybe something I make, maybe something special I discover at the upcoming trade show...you'll just have to "enter" to find out what it will be. We'll have a drawing at the end of July. That gives you plenty of time to throw some pics my way. Now go get busy.... I WISH you luck and creative energy!

So I mentioned in a previous post...that I'd best not be given a weedeater for Mother's Day...well I got 46 bags of bark mulch instead. What came with it was a lot of blood, sweat, and tears from my sweet hubby. I've not been much for gardening the last couple of years, so the weeds were thriving...actually they were blooming quite nicely, but something had to be done. I happen to be married to the hardest working man I know, so he hooked me up with cleaned and tilled flower beds that have much nicer curb appeal than they did the day before Mother's Day.

Life Lesson # 501

When cleaning your bathroom, always put your scrubbing bubbles away when finished...NEVER leave it next to your hairspray! Or, I could say...Make sure you are holding the correct can of spray before closing your eyes and applying to head!




I'll leave the rest of the story to your imagination!

May Book Arts

Check out this unusual book we'll be creating in the next Book Arts Class on May 26th...




Eclectica
Book Arts Workshop with Roxi- The Scrolling Book $26
Saturday, May 26th at 10:30am-about 3:00pm with break

Incorporate the ancient form of documentation on scrolls into this very unusual book. This form will be a delight to create and the unexpected twist will surprise your readers. In addition to your basic class tool kit, please bring a craft knife with extra blades and a cutting mat.

Are they kidding...

Buy me a weed eater for mother's day and see what happens!

Actually...I have an affection for that new orange mower in our garage! And I do enjoy some yard work...when it's not 90 degrees by 9am. Remind me again why we live in Tennessee...

Beauty in the Garden

Take your breath away beautiful!



Makes me want to plant something!



After a planning session we tip toed through the irises with Laurie...hmmm where are those tulips anyway?



We call this research! Candice and I will be teaching Nature Art classes at the Botanic Garden in Memphis. Our first event will be an all day workshop where we will create something artisic to stimulate your mind, something to soothe your body and something to feed your soul. You won't want to miss this one. Details will be available soon.

Short attention span!

I’m a project girl… I’ve decided.

What is it about sitting in my studio and actually completing a project that thrills me so? People often say, “I bet you have lots of beautiful albums” but truth be known…I have boxes of photos, memorabilia, and journaling notes haunting me. The thought of actually getting those pictures all in albums is overwhelming! That’s why, I love to do PROJECTS. I can alter something, hand-stitch an artist’s journal, or create a collage and feel such satisfaction…such a sense of accomplishment!

Those photos in the boxes…they’ll be there waiting for me when I find that groove…but for now…bring on the paint, the solder, the waxed-linen…I’m ready for my next project!

Busy Days Ahead!

What is it about blank dates in my day planner? They act as magnets to 'stuff to do' and somehow fill up before my very eyes!
I thought I'd use the week to get a start on projects to sell at Covington's Heritage Days Festival...but, yesterday I got assignments for 4 projects for 2 different magazines, and found out that the organizers of Simply Southern Scrapbook Convention accepted ALL FOUR of the class proposals that Candice and I designed.

With all those projects due soon...and an ATC swap due tomorrow, I don't know what I'm doing basking in the glow of the computer's back light. HI HO HI HO...It's off to work I go.....

Where's the eraser?

So, I begin the tedious task of sending my new email address out to people…THEN "big river"(faster than the speed of light internet server) tells me I can’t use symbols…so…erase that last post and insert this one!

My new email addy is kindredspirits@bigriver.net. That’s with no dash and all lower case….NOW you can email me AND I'll actually GET it!

New e-Addy

Now I'll begin making sure EVERYONE has my new e-mail...what fun!

It's not all that different than the old one...

kindred-spirits@bigriver.net

E-mail me sometime!

Movin' on up with DSL!....

WooHoo, I have DSL, highspeed, faster than the speed of sound internet service and I'm so excited! I promise I'll post messages and photos on this blog now that I'm in the current century...electronically!



Have you heard...I have a book out...!? :)

An "Apple" for the teacher?

Michelle C. brought this instead! :) She's an A+ student for sure!

Life is Good!

What a fun art day! I just finished hand-binding a book for an upcoming class, and the mailman brought a delivery from Amazon...with two amazing artsy books. One has lots of great soldered projects and the other is about working with metals...fun stuff! Just not enough hours in the day!

To top it off, I get an email and found out that eight of the projects I did for CHA got picked up to be published in upcoming magazines! Plus one I did for Memory Trends was picked up by Somerset Home...I'm especially excited about that one! I love all the Somerset Studio magazines.
Life is Good!

Bloemengarden's Website and Info.

I know, I know, people keep asking me...Where are the classes on the website? ...well let me explain...
Bloemengarden was a florist shop and is being refitted as a design studio, hence the logo and the references to gardening. The web-designer has promised to redo the site asap, so keep checking back. I'll post a message when it's ready. I can't wait to get started! There should be a flier being emailed anytime now...so be watching. If you're not sure if your name is on the list, let me know and I'll check.

Vintage Cowgirl Train Case

Here's my most recent project. Suzanne's (Oxford Impressions) new stamp plate "Cowgirl Blues" pairs perfectly with Cosmic Cricket's Wanted Collection papers for a fun collagy project.

I think this will be my new favorite "brief case." :)

Vintage Cowgirl Train Case-top

Topside

Front

Life's a Beach!

What is it about inky gel-medium coated fingers that makes me feel so happy? I love it when I have a artfilled day...how fortunate I am to love what I do and do what I love!

This is my project of the day...just wanted to share with you.

Do you think she wants something?

My sweet daughter left these doodles in my studio. I love you too, Laura Beth!