Retreat retreat- when I can!

Process pictures- now that the big plants bit it from the freeze. Am replacing the canvas top with the cutest fabric, breezy and gorgeous- can't wait to get them up- unfortunately I'll be waiting until July for that. Also replacing the fabric insert in the little cabinet- but other really fun unexpected changes are going to be made- as always....always get inspired during the process. But for now am up to my neck in Krylon projects, photo shoot of my office space (it's so beyond the beyond right now!) and working on a really fun adventure that I just can't wait to share with you all!

Old Prune dryer panels in the openings. The fabric on the gazebo is getting trashed and because we don't have a garage and my studio is only so big -we just didn't have the room to store the canvas. I've got other plans for that though and been collecting for replacement.
(check back.)

It's time to replace the huge plant that didn't make it through the freeze. It used to grow at the end of the tub softening the tubs hard line.

The Chandelier was hanging on a shephards hook, moved to here and now the shepherds hook is moved back here but not shown in this picture. I liked the chandy closer & lower to tub. The shepherds hook actually has 2 hooks- one for chandelier and one for my robe. The cabinet with the fall leaves is awaiting retro fabric insert. At one point this area was very naturey; leaves, branches, mossy etc. etc. etc. A girls' got to keep her interest up.

How much is that doggy in the mirror? No, what she's really wanting is that angel back in her possession. She worked her over pretty good a few years ago. This and the other angel were gifts from Ted's mom (my angel) and I coudn't ever part with them. Meanwhile, Pearl loves them as much as I do but for other reasons.

Above: Bedroom/south side entry into tub area. Normally the poles are getting covered with vines but so far I haven't gotten anything planted here yet. I love morning glory and moon flower so maybe I'll do that again. Both grows super fast and creates so much mood. There is a hops vine around the back of the house that has been in my sites for here too. . .

Candles and such in here for the winter and summer- keeps things nice and dry and unmelted.

Per-el-za-bub

Close up of Pearl's handiwork- the wing tip

"Pearl's angel make-over"

- now you know why we call her Per-el-za-bub. This is one reason anyway. Our little Poopsickle.

Peace Rose Canvas

Canvas Peace Rose with a little photoshop. Liking the additional scrolly embellishments so I'm thinking we'll be doing it in class!

Chippylicious

My little potting area inside the gazebo. Isn't this a great old pot? Painted it a few years ago and love how the paint is chip chip chipping away. I'm posting my Turquoise outdoor tub area - check back tomorrow. You'll be apprised of changes as we go through the summer. I've knocked the grime off of things and even managed to get a nice bubble bath in! My favorite!! Anxious to get plants replaced that didn't make it through the winter- especially my big spiky Astillbe at the end of the tub!!

Rough Riders? ut not these folks

Now that's ridin in style! But the 3 speed cruiser bikes below - that's more our speed

Ted's pretty proud of his little cruiser with flames and dice for air stem covers. But the main thing we enjoy are the little bells on the handle bars. You can't imagine how much other people enjoy hearing that old school sounding bell just before you 'bout run them over. "screw loose behind the wheel" comes to mind

Loaded for Bear. With our cruisers we don't ever feel like we have to get anywhere in a hurry. We got them for cruisin around little spots we visit when we head out of town for a night or two. And, they're low maintenance which is becoming my biggest goal.

Ted also lets Pearl pull him to town and back with her leash looped over the bars. They've had some wild rides together and guarenteed- when they get back we hear nary a peep out of Pearl the rest of the night.

The darkest dark, the brightest light

I will be posting more pictures of the finished stone walls when they get emailed to me very soon, I hope. When I got to the shop to take pictures my camera was dead - O my favorite thing. A lady there offered so kindly to take pictures as she happened to have a camera in her car! Bless her heart! And, wasn't that sweet of her! I needed help and there she was. And, you know I've had more troubles with the whole camera thing. . .

Thank you to all the folks that tell me they read my blog and those that visit regularly. It's really ok to leave comments here but I know people can be shy when thinking that the world my see. Anyway I thank you, it means a lot.

and now, time for Bruce (and, isn't it always?) lol

Lord I love good lyrics.

Have you ever seen a one trick pony in the field so happy and free?
If you've ever seen a one trick pony then you've seen me
Have you ever seen a one-legged dog making its way down the street?
If you've ever seen a one-legged dog then you've seen me

Then you've seen me, I come and stand at every door
Then you've seen me, I always leave with less than I had before
Then you've seen me, bet I can make you smile when the blood, it hits the floor

Tell me, friend, can you ask for anything more?
Tell me can you ask for anything more?

Have you ever seen a scarecrow filled with nothing but dust and wheat?
If you've ever seen that scarecrow then you've seen me
Have you ever seen a one-armed man punching at nothing but the breeze?
If you've ever seen a one-armed man then you've seen me

Then you've seen me, I come and stand at every door
Then you've seen me, I always leave with less than I had before
Then you've seen me, bet I can make you smile when the blood, it hits the floor

Tell me, friend, can you ask for anything more?
Tell me can you ask for anything more?

These things that have comforted me, I drive away
This place that is my home I cannot stay
My only faith's in the broken bones and bruises I display
Have you ever seen a one-legged man trying to dance his way free?
If you've ever seen a one-legged man then you've seen me

-Bruce Springsteen for "The Wrestler"

a glimpse

. . . and, now what you don't know about me is that I can be very irreverant, and pretty sarcastic. Really all I need is an invitation. Like when I call my husband a "star-tard" (And you would have too.) Or when we call Pearl "Pesticle". I really don't know why there is this strange holy and irreverant dichotomy within me (well, I could venture a guess) I just know that sometimes it's a damn hard balance to strike.

Publication dates

http://www.indiepublic.com/ - Indie public Interview coming early June
http://www.totally-creative.com/ Totally Creative Current Issue (online publication) That's the little lit house on the cover and a 6 square wall grid decor design project inside.
BHG 100 ideas under $100 Winter issue
http://www.todayshomearts.com/ Home Arts July/Aug (online magazine)

Crafts & Things July/Aug
Create & Decorate August
Apron*ology (Somerset Studios) next issue- still trying to find out when this is. . . perhaps Feb 2010?

Stone walls in progress

Above: A sample spot of the nearly completed wall

What's left is to add a suggestion of block stones and trimming out the narrow framed wall insert. (to the right of this wall and shown better in the 4th picture from the top) Thinking hemp covered at first but believe we'll go with a contemporary, perhaps french-inspired, fabric to tie colors together.
Above: Another paint adjustment. Adding more of the beige this time creating a slightly darker mixture. Building depth. Roller again, and also now using a brush randomly.

Above: This is using a roller dipped in "whitened down" paint. I poured white into a plastic bag covered tray, rollered the paint partially off, then hit the walls randomly.

Above, 2nd Shot: Base Color. Johannah gets to work doing some trim.

I'm kindof everywhere including taking pictures and painting the mocha-ish alcove area. The color of the alcove is now Alexandria Beige/ Pottery Barn. Johannah (pronounced Yo-hawna") owns this shop and does such inspired, creative things with hair. Really and truly, I kid you not. This gal makes my hair look so good. I always get compliments and believe me it's nothing I do that makes it look great- she's fabulous. She'll probably kill me for posting a picture of her here so get a good look. I may have to crop the picture once I tell her it's on here. But, for now she stays.

Note in above picture the little wood area on the right previously housed thin shelving. A fabric covered bulletin board will be installed instead.

First shot: Before

Victorian wallpapered walls in a little beauty shop.Tired and from the 80's. The major transformation calls for the simple use of interior housepaint, a roller and bristle brush. I'll get more pictures when I finish up and post them right away.

Another great fun thing: Johannah and I barter- she cuts and does "whatever" in the way of hair, and I decorate for her. Isn't that groovy?

Class Note

I'll be back on and posting some new things later on today if I get back home in time from Medford. Otherwise, I'll be posting tomorrow the promised picture of Pam's project (you don't want to miss it) and the last class pictures.

Have a great day everyone and see you soon. I've been swamped with work from Krylon and baby stuff. The baby isn't here yet, but any day/minute!!

Class Note: I will resume classes in the month of July but will be taking June off to help with baby and get a couple of really big projects done- you'll hear more about both of those "projects" soon! - gulp!

For fun my Hollywood Glam CHA

This is another job I did for Krylon for a CHA show. Been meaning to get this converted and posted for too long. A few weeks ago I was asked by another designer how in the world this all was prepared for shipping to the photographer to be then taken apart and then shipped to the show. In particular, the mirrored cabinet. Believe me, I spent plenty of time thinking about it. In the end, the mirrored panels on the cabinet were shipped flat and separate from the cabinet. This cabinet is old and heavy to begin with. I sent diagramed instructions for attaching the mirrored panels in a particular order so that strapping tape attachments wouldn't show. The need to reship after shooting made temporary attachment a necessity. I'm proud of this set but the mirrored cabinet is probably the most favorite thing I've ever done. Maybe. I will say this. It was my favorite one to have done. :0

Gimmee a piece of that Chocolate Bar

It took a couple days for the multiple coats of sealant to dry before popping in the drawers. Nothing worse than having your paint ripped off in spots by a hard contact.

And, actually this "Chocolate" also has quite a bit of Umber in it. (Which is one of my most favorite colors.) The Umber became much more distinct when placed near this rug for the shot. A fabulous metallic shag rug with this...Oh MAN!! There are so many style directions you could go here.

Now, isn't it just the cutest little cabinet, and so understated? It's going to be tough to let this one go. Like usual. This, in all reality was first built and designed as a dresser complete with a mirror. But, I'll convert a dresser of this sort to a buffet every time.

Mother's Communications

This figure comes from the installation entitled, strangely enough,

"Cathedral Of Dreams"

Photoshop skills are pretty elusive but I'm working and playing around with it, learning more little by little. Sometimes very little by very little.

And, I can't wait to change my blog background but I want to make sure I don't lose this whole blog in the effort. I've been able to do so without incident in my little test blog. . .

Some of the backgrounds I've been creating are textural, vintage and really interesting. In the future I may offer some for use in anyone's blogs.

An Old Violin, Dark Chocolate & Leather- a pretty nice combo.

The paint for this cabinet is a mixture of Ralph Lauren's Old Violin with a little Black. (The RL Old Violin is not quite as dark as it appears on my computer and perhaps yours but for the other project the original color was purchased it worked really well.) The leather headboard that exists in the room where this will go is a really Dark Chocolate Brown so that set the direction for this piece.

The bedroom itself will be a retro inspired, contemporary style.

9 Brown Drawers, no more no less

Freshly sealed

Nearly perfectly behaved little soldiers waiting to perform their duties (oh look, there's always one out of formation . . . ;)

For the completed buffet picture I'm waiting for the multiple coats of sealant to dry before drawers go back in and shooting. There were so many ways this could have been painted. I almost did 2 drawers in a chartreusey green while leaving the gray consistent on all drawers and probably leaving the top of every drawer the chocolate brown color (above the pulls.) I finally decided to go with the straight chocolate so that the owners will have more latitude when choosing new bedding etc.

I don't care what anyone says, now that's a sexy leg

Close-up detail Buffet leg

This will be the last time you'll see these drawers empty

Painted with the gray trim in the pull area of the drawer. Next Chocolate Brown on the faces. 9 drawers all total.

things like this just happen

Kindof reminds me that sometimes everything will be going along all right and then the next thing you know- everything is upside down- ahh well, such is life.
It's all about learning to see life from yet another perspective. btw, isn't that paint yummy looking? Like a nice dessert in the makings. And, for me, I suppose it is. Buffet cabinet is about done and will post the progress next. Lovin' it big time!

I'm seeing a blogger scheduled outage note- hopefully that won't get in my way today.

Oh & Yippee! My bracelet bases for etching just arrived a few minutes ago. I can't wait to get movin on that. Have never done it before but I'm super excited about all the possibilites. Unfortunately sterling is so expensive right now. Limiting anything I want to do is just a hard pill to swallow and I usually avoid it at all costs. But new perspectives again. And, in all seriousness, having a parameter, as an artist, can be a very good thing and help me on my way.

Happy to Help

I wish I coud type stories faster- the typos will make your eyes bleed. But I'll tell one- and I may as well do it here. The very talented and new friend Bet Corsaut encouraged me to share this story.

_

When we got our lab (1 year old see picture above) I wanted to walk her to burn her energy (and shoot-let's got real, I need it) I tried every leash, collar, snack trick (which totally got out of hand- can you picture a streaming snack line for 2 miles) I tied everything I could think of for a doable walking experience. My indulgent husband would hear me talk of it day in and day out. (did you know that Labs have steel pipes for necks) she literally pulled me down the street- which, as you might imagine, is just not that elegant.

_

After commiserating with several people I was given the advice to buy her a backpack and place 2 or 4 water bottles in the side pouches to slow her down- theoretically to keep her from pulling so hard on the leash, tucker hor out etc. etc. fast forward- my husband and I traveled out of town and, at one point were were approaching the mall to do some shopping. As we got out of the car I told my husband- "oh, don't let me forget- I need to get a backpack for the dog"

_

He turned to me and said- Cooter (his nickname fpor me) Cooter, if you think for one second I'm going to cart that 70 pound dog around on my back you must be out of your mind

Retro Workover

This cabinet I love just exactly like this- sanded and abrased (but with it's drawers that are outside at the moment this was taken) but I've promised it elsewhere so it's final look is chocolate brownish black to match a leather headboard. The choc/ black will be a nice retro color as well as contemporary but I'm growing more and more fond of things in their near original states. Say la vie- it will be gorgeous duded up with a pristine gray trim at the drawer tops under the pull edges. There has been talk of adding just a few other painted atomic embellishements (left justified) once the bedding is chosen. Thinking a dark salmon, cream, retro blue there- if it works out. This is in priming stages right now. Had to slow production on it since some new designs for Krylon was just requested yesterday.

Distressed- why yes please

These are finished (& finish :) pictures of the side of the buffet shown below

Better detail of some of the distressing. Adorable huh?

Buffet workover

The buffet is my absolute favorite piece of furniture. And, I do LOVE furniture! Super functional, can be used in just about every room in the house- if there's room. And, they're really great for display. You can just imagine how much this little jewel set me back-Ha! I'm looking for a companion piece to it but they're getting kindof scarce. This one is in great shape, all the drawers pull easily and smoothly. I'm using the original hardware and painted them Equestrian Brown (a great brown from Krylon) but am lacking one handle. (not shown with handles- but I probably will post a "want ad" here at some point because I'm still looking for that one handle!) (oh and PS- this isn't the one I referred to a few days ago.- That one's chocolate colored and more atomic in style. LOVE it too!)

Chippy Buffet

I'm going to get a better picture of this but this is all I can find right now. (I've got to get better about organizing my photos.) Note the additional distressing - now that's what I love. Just click on the picture to get a better close up of the deats.

This is why I love reworking furniture

Oh duh! I've done something else to this and didn't show the picture- now I'm looking for the picture.

Momma's Little Dynamo

Finally stopped raining so I could uncover this and snap it. Can't bring it in until something else goes out. Fortunately the piece that's going out is almost done. But I love it too! I got it bad, real bad. (Wish the picture were more focused for ya. New sony and I'm having trouble with the FOCUS - of all things!)

Today I'll be spending the day at Treasures of the Heart working on display. Lots of really fun bird stuff came in so that will be fun. I'll get pictures.

My dear friend Tonia Davenport invited me to work on a collaborative jewelry project for sale on Etsy. Proceeds will go to A place to Bark- a non-profit organization working to help abused and homeless dogs. Bernie Berlin owns this endeavor and you will never meet a bigger saint. This gal does the down and dirty work of it all. Her spirit, well she is incredible.

And, do you facebook? We do. Check us out...

I'll be working on a few step outs for a project that's been done for a few months now. "Coffee Rings Apron" Sharon from Krylon told me it's going to be in this is magazine: Today’s Creative HomeArts, the largest circulation craft magazine. However, you won’t find it on the newsstands. It’s sold as a part of a club membership, and only club members receive the magazine. But do check out the website though, it's very active.

I'll be posting pictures from the latest techniques class soon. Pam took the class again and brought us the finished project from the last class. She is inspiring, I'm so glad she's in the neighborhood. (check out her Bead Mecca site on the left sidebar) I gotta run now- Hugs to all my shy friends.

hummm. . . something to check out

This looks interesting . . . gorgeous cover. http://www.faeriemagazine.com/

Came across this magazine today (and May 1st.- had no idea it was such a big time for this organization and fairy culture.

Today am also putting the finishing touches on the indiepublic interview and printing pictures for my techniques class tomorrow. One of the things students will be learning is how to make transfers with paper towels. This techniques is so fun, instant gratification and soooo easy- it's unreal. It just occured to me this minute that I should have taken a picture of a previous transfer so you all could see. Will try to do that at class and show that along with other things from the class. Check back soon for this and other updates. There are some fun things coming with the use of totally inexpensive green materials translated into many pieces of art for the home. Stay tuned!

Choosing new Cabinet Members has never been easier

picture of the Atomic Ranch style side table. Black & White. I'm going to get a picture of this when the weather breaks a little . . . (see this on more current post)

Pam's Project from my latest Techniques Class-Taking it to the Next Level!

This gal is so talented and her collection of things would be the envy of most crafters. You'd have to see it to believe. But, that's another story! (Check out her store "Bead Mecca" on the sidebar)

Here is what Pam began in class and here is what she finished with- Isn't it the coolest!!?

She has a great sensibility, I just love her style.

and a Swoon Worthy Award goes to. . .

I thought this little sewing machine was so great and the little drawered cabinet ok- but what could the drawers hold with all the mechanics of the sewing machine underneath? I decided to investigate and look! How cute is that!?!?! Comes complete with it's own little chair for the comfort and satisfaction of the seamstress...what a sweet (sewing) notion.

Of course the "Jetco" (makes you think Jetsons doesn't it.) radio doesn't work. I lifted the table top/lid (unattached for some reason- seriously, it was) and the dust inside suggested that the radio didn't work- and probably hadn't for some time although a plug and cord were intact and in very good condition. And, ya never know ?? I should've plugged it in anyway cuz I like to live on the edge.

Class: Sharing, Learning & Creating

I can't wait to show you what else Pam did with little project above- sooo cute and sooo sweet! I got to see it the other day but it's not quite finished. I'll post it as soon as I get a picture from her very soon- it's super cool!


Sweet little Inge- always so creative and such a kind soul. . .

Though this a Techniques class and not a "make and take" class persay - Penny decided to create something anyway- and why not!!! Pam and Inge decided to follow suit. And so the little samples here shows just a few of the techniques just learned. Special artist mention props! The little blue dotted line is a technique I learned at a class with Lynn Whipple, an artist extraordinaire. She's fabulous and here is her link!

http://www.whippleart.com/index.htm

I shared many of my most fun techniques like Paper Towel Ageing / transfers with photos, creating aged mirrors, & surface dimensional techniques with texture mediums, "Inkspotting", etc. Students also learned other techniques like Packaging Tape Tranfers, Rusting, Easy Spattering, Color washing/ Glazing that have been around the barnyard a while. And, because I work with Krylon so much I thought it would be fun to share some of the many craft sprays like Webbing, Hammered effects, texturizing spray, and some that I've reinvented for other uses like "Make it Pearl" for aged venetian glass effects.

Pam got so excited by the things she was doing that as soon as she got home she kept working on her little project and has taken it to the next level. It looks AWESOME! I stopped in yesterday and saw it and I can't wait to post it. She has promised a picture soon so I can show you all here.

And, what you don't know about Pam is that she owns very sucessful brick & mortar bead stores- One in Ashland, one in Canyonville, Or. and an online bead store called Bead Mecca- this girl has got it going on! Check out her site on the sidebar link. "Bead Mecca"

This class is being repeated on Sat. May 2 10:00 am. Call Belinda at (541) 863-446 to register or email me at: cgeorgedesigns@gmail.com

Indie public interview coming soon!

I did just recieve notice that it will be published and available on June 5 or 6. Don't miss it- it's all about how I go about designing and repurposing seemingly mundane things into fun pieces for the contemporary home and crafter. Check it:
www.indiepublic.com

Last Night's Class

I'll be posting pictures from class last night soon. I'll be installing software and going through the learning curve there but it should go pretty fast. Things are getting easier with this technology.

Reminder-
To see how to create the little wedding house cake topper shown on March 23rd post. Check out http://www.totallycreative.com/ This project is featured in my new column called tis the Season. I'll be bringing you seasonal decor projects each issue.

Also check out August's issue of Crafts n Things and the new Somerset Apron*ology as well as Somerset Home Volumne 3 for other new designs.
And, this was fun to hear- there is a big new ad national coming with Krylon that features the Leaves of Grass Design and Repurposed Candle Runner. (not sure if it's a TV spot ad for HGTV or what?)

I'll be posting some of the step shots for the Leaves of Grass soon so you can it in process. This is a fun and easy project even though it looks like it isn't. As always all projects can be accessed on the left hand sidebar entitled "Bread Crumb Trail" (aka "finding posts by subject")

"Mixed Media Techniques" Class Newsletter

Hi everybody, I hope this finds you all feeling renewed, like a reset button has been pushed with Easter. (And. Word! to my Peeps and Hooligans!)

Here is the next class offered at Treasures of the Heart: "Mixed Media Techniques" This class will focus on learning several ageing, edging and surface effects currently seen in home decor and mixed media artwork magazines. These paint and mixed media techniques will be applicable for Home Decor projects, tole paint projects and useful for many applications and backgrounds. Current multi-dimensional effects will be shown and discussed. To see a few of the examples stop by Treasures of the Heart. I hope to have these together and there for you to see by Apr.16 am.

Bring yourself and a passion for learning! This is going to be an exciting class. Everything is provided. Class will be Wed. evening Apr. 22 at 6:00. Fee is 25. (A second class for this is tentatively scheduled for Sat. May 2 at 10:30 am) Sign up with Belinda or call Treasures of the Heart for more information at 863-4466. I'll look forward to seeing you there. You also may email me at cgeorgedesigns@gmail.com (As always, Starbucks & treats will be served. And, I think we'll have some nice tea this time since it's an evening class.)

Please note that classes are updated here on my blog at http://www.cathedralofdreams.blogspot.com/
Here's a helpful tip. The left hand sidebar entitled "Bread Crumb trail" is useful when searching for "projects" or "classes" etc. And you just never know - you may see yourself here!
Also, some of my latest designs can be seen in these publications:
New publication Somerset Apron*ology Also on stands now is Somerset Home issue volume 3. Crafts 'n Things coming August issue. There is another design in the pipeline with Crafts 'n things coming soon also. Other big things are in the works- will let you know when I can.

And, be sure to visit http://www.totally-creative.com/ where I am now an online columnist. This subscripted online magazine is filled with lots of fun projects from many designers you've become acquainted with in some of your favorite magazines. People like Barbara Matthiessen,
Laurie D'Ambrosio, Ann Krier, Madeline Faiella, to name a few.

(Just a few of the future things in the works: my online interviews with http://www.indiepublic.com/. And another online interview with Denise Clason- I'll let you know more when these processes are completed)

Just a reminder- look for the Exquisite Decoupage Kit available in the fall 2009 from Barnes & Noble for more of my designs. This is a companion to the book released last year under the same name.

New Techniques Class Date

April 22. Wed. eve at 6:00 pm.
And, it's looking like this class will be repeated on Sat. May 2. @10:30 am. Both to be held at Treaures of the Heart.

And, Kimberly, I love the idea! let's do it!! *g*

Freedom of Voice – Singing Your Own Song

Read what Jenny Doh had to say about freedom of speech. It's worth repeating and sharing here. Thank you Jenny! http://jennydoh.typepad.com/crescendo/2009/03/free.html#comments

Camera talk

Getting close to making my final camera decision: Sony or Olympus. The Olympus I was using until Pearl knocked it off my desk is no longer cooperating. Velcro and holding my tongue just right will only take me so far. Still it's hard to let it go.

I won't buy Canon. Nice products but their return upgrade program is a candy coated scam used to mask their "built in obsolescence" approach. I decided not to buy Canon again when I got my new computer and my 4 year old Canon Multipass 350 printer wouldn't sync. I thought at first it was a Vista glitch but after exhaustive research it turns out it was Canon's deliberate decision not to interface. I'm back to using my 9 year old HP printer that we got with our first PC & Windows 98 (!) It works beautifully for pictures and will do until I get another multi-function printer for the other capabilities I need.

Here is an excellent link to a site that has made comprehensive comparisons between cameras with comparative shots of the same scenes taken with each camera by the reviewer. Seeing the distinct differences this way was so helpful. This site is extremely useful in sifting through all the camera options:
http://www.cameras.co.uk/html/digital-camera-reviews.cfm

Love's the Only House

This house will be in the new online magazine I just signed on with as columnist. (I'll provide a link soon)

I've been lamenting the death of my camera (I'm past the shock stage thinking I'm moving into the anger stage) Amanda has been good enough to lend me her camera but it's taking a lot of getting used to. As soon as I got the camera from her I downloaded a manual for settings etc. It's just such a different animal. In the meantime I'm narrowing my search for cameras.

I've been shooting my Wedding Cake Topper House- and am going to work more today on some shots. The next and subsequent issues will signify a major change to the magazine and the caliber of designs available there. It's now under new editorship and several great designers have just signed on as columnists. Keeping my fingers crossed that the cheese factory is closed and now upscale designs will rule the domain!

This rigid paper house is similar to ones featured in my "Coming Home" spread in Somerset Studios but with some really interesting differences; A picture of the couple, invitations and napkins from the wedding are used.

Bless you my son

picture by Gabe's mom- Amanda!

This is little Gabriel- doesn't it look like he's being given a blessing in the second picture? This picture makes me chuckle every time and it's my new screensaver. He's somewhere between being awake and being asleep. Amanda keeps him so spotless but I love his dirty little face!

A fun site to see

This is a fun site and one by my new friend Michelle Cummings. She makes the cutest little wire nest rings. I had to have one, they are soooo CUTE! So, in return I made her a little canvas- you can see it here by scrolling down the page to "Nesting". Be sure to look for those cute rings- they're just adorable!
Click here:

http://faeriedustdreams-michelle.blogspot.com/

Online interview

Recently I was asked to do an online interview for www.indiepublic.com. It's a great site with tons of readers so that's exciting. Some of the questions posed are very interesting. I'll post a link here when it hits "print" but just a few of the questions are:

"what draws you to a particular found object? and "do you know right off how you will use your object, or does it come later?"

This is what indie says about indie: Indiepublic is an independent art and design community. If you're an artist, designer, retailer, blogger, or just someone who gets giddy when they buy indie, we've saved a seat for you!

It's official!

I agreed to taking on a column position for an online subscripted magazine! I'll be posting more details and links when they become available. Lots of cool projects complete with instructions for your creation will be available at this magazine site. Be sure to stay tuned!

Also, some other very very coolthings are in the works- stay tuned for that.

thanks everyone!

I just want to say thank you to the gals at my bucket class! I had a blast and everyone else seemed to enjoy the class as much as I did. My only regret is that I haven't gotten my new replacement camera yet. The buckets turned out gorgeous! But, then again, they always do. My students are so smart. I had a feeling this class was going to be fun and it was. When I got to the class I realized that I'd left the correct size of napkins in my studio. Rather than running back home I called my husband and convinced him he needed to disregard personal hygiene and bring my napkins.
Poor guy (yah right) entered the room to a round of applause. That was a personal highlight moment. I LOVE teasing him. (When I can't sleep he accuses me of trying to win oscars at 4:00 am)
Next class is Wed. canvas class with plaster paint, stain etc. Hopefully will have pictures for you from that! Remember - Hooligans always welcome!

what to do with a bucket. . .

Just an idea...lol

Hear a great CD- Chris Isaak

A treat for ya:
click here to hear the entire newest album by Chris Isaak. http://www.imeem.com/chrisisaak
Thank you Linda Woods!
And, if you get a chance- ask to befriend Linda Woods on facebook. She and I met a few years ago in Las Vegas both being writers/designers for North Light Books. She is so funny and you'll love her comments. Tonia told me she was so funny and she is right- like always!

Last Rose Bucket class Coming up Sat

For other bigger pictures of buckets made by students click on the Classes & Plastered Peeps link on the sidebar.

We had a spot open up for class this Sat, call Belinda at 863-4466 to register. Class is 30.00 and all materials are provided. You will ahve a lovely bucket to take with you! This will be the last opportunity to take this class. Thank you to all the students who have taken this class- and those who have taken it more than once.

Daddy can I have a cow please?

This picture cracked me up! Is this the picture of ultimate indulgence and decadence, or what?!
I saw this picture a while ago and I'm sorry to say have lost the source. If anyone knows the original source of this jpg- please let me know. It comes from a book but this picture came from a site. Would love to know what book it's in.

it's a cold and it's a broken hallelujah

Amanda Jensen's version here is so compelling, so reiterating the act of contrition and decisiveness in our hallelujah sometimes.