My Creative Journey

Roller Derby= Sock Obsession

2011-03-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

I know. It has been a while since I wrote. I've just been so busy with Breakthrough Dallas earlier this month. (That was awesome, by the way!) Then, immediately after Breakthrough was done, our church started rehearsals for the Easter play we've been doing. This is the 6th year of the play, and both my husband and I are in it. Plus, I'm still involved with Roller Derby once or twice a week. Those things plus normal work and church and my etsy shop just means no time!!!!

First off, I haven't shared with you in a while what is new in my Etsy Shop. Right now, my biggest sellers are my Baker's twine. I have it four colors!

Also, my ribbon has been very popular internationally. Check out some of what I have. To see my entire selection, come to Katiebird Studio on Etsy!

Now on to what I really wanted to write about:

ROLLER DERBY=SOCK OBSESSION

Yes, it is true. The more I participate in Roller Derby, the more obsessed I become with socks. Yes, that's right, I said socks! There are so many out there from regular, run of the mill socks you wear every day to fancy awesome socks. Right now, I'm obsessed with thigh-high socks. Unfortunately, the socks I've purchased lately that have said they were thigh-high are only knee socks on me. Yes, that's right. I have LARGE calves and large thighs. Therefore, any sock that says "thigh-high" or "Over the Knee" were obviously measured on someone who is stick thin. Um. . .I am NOT!! LOL! However, I've found tons of socks online that I've coveting! Oh yes! I don't have the money now to purchase them, but in time, I will get these socks! Take a peak! These come from Sock Dreams!

(The very last pair are from American Apparel. They have them in all kinds of colors!!) I've talked to other FMs about it, and they agree. Roller Derby definitely equals a sock obsession!!!! (FMs, by the way, means Fresh Meat. That is what Roller Derby 'rookies' are called.) All the FMs agree. . .socks, stockings, leggings, etc have become somewhat of an obsession if not a necessity of Roller Derby life!!!! Let me know if you have found any socks that you think I might like.

I hope everyone has a wonderful and creative day!

My, How time flies!!!!!!!

2011-03-01T10:17:00.000-08:00

Wow, can you believe it is March 1st already? I can't! This year is going by like a whirlwind!

I wanted to bring this up to the few of you who follow my blog: Breakthrough Dallas 2011

This is my Pastor's dream- to bring the Fire of the Holy Spirit to Dallas through an incredible meeting of like-minded Christians. If you at all interested, you need to come to the Gospel Lighthouse Church for this incredible event! There will be some awesome speakers from the Argentine Revival. Click on the picture above to see what will be going on! Come and see how God can change your life!

Roller Derby update: yes, I'm actually participating in Roller Derby! I go to practice for the "Fresh Meat" on Tuesday nights. I'm learning to skate and do various Derby moves, etc. It is great fun and tremendious exercise! I love it. I'm skating with the Assassination City Roller Derby league. Even though I'm not on a team, I'm still part of the league. I LOVE IT!!! The league has a bout (game) on March 26. This will be our first game at our new location: Fair Park in Dallas. Yes, our bouts have gotten so big that we have to move! It will be truly awesome! Come see what Flat Track Roller Derby is all about. Don't forget to buy a ticket- our bouts sell our very quickly!!

My Etsy shop is doing well. Come visit by clicking on the sidebar!

Spring is coming. . .I hope to write again soon!

Goodbye 2010- Hello 2011

2011-01-03T05:15:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! Regrettably, I haven't much in the way of photos to post for you. With the holidays, I've been so busy working at Sublime and trying to get all the Christmas and my Husband's birthday shopping done that I don't have anything to show for it. OH well.

I had a wonderful Christmas and New Year. I hope you do, too, and I hope you got everything for Christmas you wanted! I was incredibly blessed!! My New Year wasn't too eventful. It was my Husband's birthday, so we had dinner and opened presents with my parents since his family doesn't do much with birthdays. Then, we came home and just watched a movie and some TV. Fun, huh? Yeah, I think we are getting old! ;)

Anyway, I finally have a day to myself. My husband was off for the weekend, and we did a lot together- playing Wii, hanging out, cooking, cleaning. . .you know. Today, I have a million things to do including taking down the Christmas decorations. This part always makes me sad. Christmas snuck up on me this year, and now, it is all over. Very sad as it is my favorite time of year. . .the music, the decorations, the happiness that is very contagious! Oh well. Time goes on. Along with taking down decorations, I have to find my art room again (it got buried under Christmas wrapping!), go to the bank, and send off some Etsy orders!

Speaking of Etsy, I have bittersweet reactions to my shop at the moment. Yes, I'm making sales, however, what is selling is NOT my cards or my paintings. It is. . .. (wait for it). . . . .Baker's twine. Yes! Can you believe it??? My baker's twine is selling the most. I originally bought the baker's twine for my Christmas presents. The cheapest I found the twine had so much on the roll, I decided to sell it to! CRAZINESS! It is selling like crazy! I love that, but it saddens me that people are in my shop- yet they aren't buying my cards! *sniff* I guess that just means I need to step up my card making! I'm way behind too! I need to get some Valentine's made, so I can move on to other upcoming holidays. (On a happier note, my cards are selling great at Sublime where they have allowed me to set up a small area for my cards! They made great add-ons to the boxes of Chocolate we sell!!! Woo-hoo!)

Ok, so the end of 2010 hasn't been so bad, but the rest of the year TOTALLY had its ups and downs. More downs, though, I'm afraid. It wasn't the best year of my life. Instead of dragging out the whole story (which will make me cry), let's just say I lost my job and too many friends this year because of a simple misunderstanding. I guess what is done is done. God has a better plan for my life. Maybe he was just weeding out the people in my life that weren't good for me, and I was just too blind to see it. It is a blow, though. Painful experiences that I would rather not EVER go through again. However, in the mist of those troubling times and experiences, I've learned a lot. I guess, in the end, that is all that matters! Hopefully, I will take these lessons and move on with life!

Yes, 2010 brought me some bad times that turned into learning experiences, but I also had good times. I now work at Sublime Chocolate in Allen! Which, by the way, I LOVE. I might even get to learn how to make the chocolates in addition to selling them! Woo-hoo! Total dream! I love sweets and baked goods as most of you know. To learn how to make these gourmet and absolutely delicious chocolates would be a dream come true!!

Also, this year, I got to go to Disney World with a great friend. Not only did that planning and trip expand our friendship, we had a fabulous time. One neither of us will forget! It was fantastic! Also, I met some other great people online through the DISboards where I was posting my planning report and my Trip Report. I can't complain on that front! What a fun experience!!!!

Ok, so I say "thanks, 2010," as I push it out the door. Hello 2011- where things will be different! May God bless you and your family this year! Remember that He is coming soon! Take inventory of your life. . .are you living for Him or the world??

God Bless you!

New items in my Etsy Shop

2010-12-07T15:13:00.000-08:00

Hello! It is that crazy time of year! I'm trying to hold down two part-time jobs, Christmas shop, make dinner each night and run my Etsy shop! Busy, busy here!!!

I wanted to show you all the newest items that are or will be added to my store.How adorable is she?? She is a stamp from the Greeting Farm! I'm so addicted to their stamps! They are so much fun, and so stinkin' cute!!!!!

I made some gift tags for the holiday season! You get a set of 12 for $5.50! Not bad!!

Finally, this card was just fun from start to finish! The girl is a digi stamp from KennyK. His stamps are so much fun! He just put out some supper sexy racer girls! His Christmas stuff is cute and sexy at the same time, and they are even a little retro! I LOVE them!!! Stay tuned for some more!

Etsy Shop is Open!!!

2010-12-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

I just opened my Etsy Shop! I also made my first sale today! I'm so excited! I'm off to make more cards to sell! Woot Woot!

2010-11-06T06:25:00.000-07:00

Aren't these cute???? You can win them on Gossamer Creations' blog! Just leave a comment! She makes a ton of beautiful things! Check out here Etsy shop, too!

My first day at Sublime Chocolate was a lot of fun! I learned so much! I'm back this morning for espresso training! Should be interesting! I think this will be a great place to work- especially around Christmas time! :)

Part time job starts tomorrow!

2010-11-04T16:59:00.001-07:00

Yes, you heard correctly. I start my new part time job tomorrow. I will be working at Sublime Chocolate here in Allen! I'm very excited! This will be a new experience for me- way out of my comfort zone. I've never worked in the food industry, but I can't think of a better place to start than in a chocolate shop. These chocolates are DIVINE! They melt in your mouth and have the most interesting hints of flavor! It will be hard not to eat them all the time. . .

Not much else here. Just getting ready to open my Etsy store and working on my 2 part time jobs. I have an interview at Starbucks on Monday. We'll see how that goes! This weekend, I'm going to a craft fair with my mom, and then, she is going to take me a skate shop and get my fitted for roller derby skates and gear!!! She said she will get it for me for my birthday! I can't wait. As soon as I get the gear, I get to start attending practices! It looks hard, but it will be so much fun! I can't wait! Here are the skates I want:
AWESOME! Can't wait!

Art, cards, and Rangers!

2010-10-30T07:43:00.000-07:00

Good morning! I'm really trying to make my blog more active. I know I always say that, but I really am going to try!!

First, I've made some Christmas cards that will eventually make their way into Etsy shop once I get it open!! Here they are!
Obviously, I've been going for the non-traditional Christmas look. I love the retro color combination of pink, teal, and lime green. I just wanted to catch the eye of different crowds! (They aren't too bad, however, I think I may need to shot pictures of them instead of scanning them. They look a little flat and lifeless this way. If I shoot a picture of them, they might look more appealing. Hmm. . .)

Next, I've been taking a class by Tam, aka Willowing. It is called Art, Heart, and Healing. She is offering it free!! She is an amazing artist and person! Check out her website here!! I found her videos on YouTube a couple years ago, and I've been hooked every since!! You can join her Free class here on her ning site! She is incredible! You must try out her class. She will be offering a new class in January as well!

In Tam's class, we are healing through art. I'm nearly two weeks behind on my projects, but that doesn't matter. Week 1's assignment was to create an art journal entry. We wrote our 'inner critic' feelings on the journal page, gessoed over it, and then painted a portrait that was represent us even if it didn't look just like us! Then, we had to reverse all the negative things we say to ourselves daily, and put that sentence on the page facing the portrait! Great stuff, Tam! Here is mine:

One final note! The Rangers play game 3 of the World Series tonight. They had some trouble in San Fransisco, so I just want to say:

GO RANGERS!

NaNoWriMo, etc

2010-10-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, a little over two days until NaNoWriMo, and I still have NO plot! Well, that's not entirely true. I have a whiff of an idea, but I haven't fleshed it out yet. I picked it up in the Adoption Society on the NaNoWriMo forums. I don't want to tell you all yet. I want to see what little interesting tid bits I can add to my idea before the fateful day of Monday. . .dun-dun-DUN. . .November 1 rolls around! I really would like to give this a good shot this year. I just don't feel completey ready. Oh well-perhaps it is like having a baby. . .you never are completely ready!

Speaking of Baby. . .yeah. . .no! Nothing on that front yet!

I'm still looking for a job. I applied at Sublime Chocolate here in Allen yesterday! Still keeping my fingers crossed they will call. What fun would that be? I think working there would be so incredibly enjoyable! And so up my alley! We'll see. (Of course, this afternoon, I had to watch Chocolat! If you haven't seen that movie, you must!!)

Not much else going on for me. I'm working to get things ready to open a shop on Etsy soon. I hope it does well. I have some cards made, but I need to make more. I've ordered some shipping supplies, and as soon as they arrive, I will be in business! *squeal!!!*

Chicken Marsala for dinner tonight. Yummy. Kevin and I will just chill and go to bed early because we both didn't get enough sleep last night- went to bed too late and up too early. Fun Fun!

Oh, and tomorrow, I will make some pumpkin bread and some pumpkin dip! It is perfect weather for both! Yum yum!

Take care all you beautiful people! Hopefully, I'll have some art and cards to post soon!

Let's go Rangers

2010-10-28T17:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, first of all, LET'S GO RANGERS! Game 2 of their first World Series!!! Woop!!!!

Second, I'm going to try to do NaNoWriMo this year. You can see it here. I hope to write a 50,000 word novel in the month of November. I tried it last year, but I did broke the 11,000 mark. I was writing a historical novel, so the facts were slowing me down. Even when I totally changed my direction, I still never finished.

This year, I'm trying to decide on what I will write. However, I'm looking for something with less restrictions. I hope I can do it! I'll try to keep you all posted on my progress. I will need to come up with my plot first! EEEEK! Anyone have any ideas- no matter how crazy!!

Sketchbook Project

2010-10-18T12:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, I did it! I signed up for the Sketchbook Project. The theme I selected is "it must be. . ." My plan is to have every page(s) finish that phrase. I haven't done too many pages, but here is what I have so far!!

Goals and other things

2010-07-15T07:11:00.000-07:00

Hello! My mind has been racing today. . so many thoughts.

First of all, I keep thinking about a dream I had. I was in a 2nd grade class, but it was like a college class. It was only an hour, but I was with 2nd graders. (I think the idea of the class was to help me be a better reading teacher. What??) Even weirder, one of my closest friends (who is a 2nd grade teacher) was teaching my class. So strange.

Last night at church, our Pastor asked a question: "What are your goals? What are your goals for one year from now, 5 years from now, and 10 years from now? And what are you doing to get to those goals?" The question really stumped me. His point was in Proverbs 29:18 "Where there is no vision, the people perish. . ." He said the Hebrew word translated to mean 'vision' also meant dreams and goals. It really got me thinking. What are my goals?? Do I have any? He went on to say that people who don't have goals or dreams or something to strive for aside from getting up, going to work, earning money, and spending said money, were often sad and struggled much more. That really got me, too. Lately, this summer, I've found myself very sad. I fluctuate between being happy and content to being completely down and feeling lost and alone. This is fairly normal for me, but the rate at which I'm changing emotions is rather alarming!!

Anyway, so moving on. . .What are my goals? Hmm. . Let's see:

Within a year:
start and finish the Sketchbook Project
Create 3-4 more portraits for friends
Create several more paintings
Get Pregnant
Sell my artwork and cards on Etsy
Start building websites to bring in extra money
Start saving more money and managing my money better

Within 5 years:
Have a baby
Work at home (websites or art)

Within 10 years:
Have two children
Have extra money and a cushion in the bank account

Wow. . I guess I actually do have some goals. More goals than I thought. Hmm . .I'm feeling much better now!!!

Ok, well, today, the plan is to make French Macarons. However, the humidity is currently at 71%, so wish me luck!!! I also hope to paint and possibly finish the first part of a portrait I'm working on!

Have a great day!

Sketchbook Project 2011- Should I? Shouldn't I?

2010-07-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

I came across this from a link on facebook.

It looks pretty awesome. You sign up for $25. They send you a moleskine sketchbook. You make sketches according to one of 20+ themes, and then you send it back. They get sketchbooks from all over the world. Then, all the completed sketchbooks go on tour. People all over the country get to look at your sketchbook. After the tour, the sketchbooks will stay in the Brooklyn Art Library where it will receive a barcode and be there for anyone to check out and explore! As the artist, you can even track your sketchbook to find out how many people are checking it out! How awesome!

Yes, it all sounds very cool, I admit, however, I do have some reservations. . .(this is me. . .I can't do anything without reservations! geez!) Just looking at the website and the few samples I could find, my artwork pales in comparison! My artwork looks more like a child's drawing than a thirty-something adult. On the other hand, finishing this would be great practice at improving my art. Hmm... My other reservation is will I get it done. I suppose if I don't, I'm not out much- just the money to sign up. Hmm. . Let's see. . reservations: check. . . convinced myself NOT to try: NOPE. I think I'll try it. I don't have much to lose!!!

Has anyone participated in this before? If so, let me know. I'd love to know about your experience!

Take care all!

Remember me?

2010-06-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Gosh, it has been ages since I blogged. I'm so sorry! I'll do better this summer!

Ok, first up, what have I created since February? Hmm. . .I'll post pictures and explain!

My dad's birthday is in February. This is the cake I made for him. He is a Civil War re-enactor, and this cake is the Irish Brigade flag. He loves the Irish Bridgae, and when he can, he likes to 'fight' under that flag! This was perfect for his birthday!

Of course, macarons! I made this in March. Strawberry coconut and Lemon Vanilla! They were quite good, and, as you can see, quite photographic! I have the urge to make macs now, but it is far too humid in north Texas right now to pull them off! Soon, I hope. Maybe I'll make some marshmallows!! Yummy!

On to artwork. Sadly, this is really the only painting I've created! This is a portrait I made for a friend of mine who is a teacher- she teachers the advanced math class hence the numbers around her. She is very special to me, and I wanted to create something for her! I gave it during the last week of school, and she hung it in her classroom. She told me she got lots of compliments on it! I'm very proud. My art has improved greatly since I started drawing/painting!

I've been making cards, too, but nothing exceptional, so I won't post pictures!

I hope everyone is well and enjoying the summer! I'll be back soon!

Confessions of a Closet Foodie

2010-02-06T06:16:00.000-08:00

I think it is time to admit it. . .I'm a Closet Foodie. I say "Closet" foodie because I haven't acknowledged the fact I'm a foodie until recently. I've been a foodie for years, but I never really knew it or truly understood what it meant! I will explain.

I'm addicted to many food shows-Ace of Cakes, Chopped, Good Eats, Unwrapped, etc.
I'm fascinated with the history and evolution of foods!
Ingredients excite me- especially when I have to look something new up before I can even purchase it.
Seeing the ingredients come together is a such a thrill.
Experiencing the tastes of various combinations of ingredients is a phenomenal pleasure.
The science of baking and cooking is intriguing!
Seeing flour, baking powder/soda, sugar, and butter come together to form a dough is exhilarating!

Ok, with that said, I also want to point this out- baking used to be the only kitchen activity I really enjoyed. I still do- of course, I do! I live to bake. However, I've discovered that preparing/cooking dinner can also be a thrill!

This year, inspired by the movie Julie and Julia, I decided to try at least one new recipe a week. My husband and I were getting tired (VERY tired) of the same old dinners. Adding a new recipe a week to our standard meals makes a huge difference. True, so far, not all of them have been fantastic, but they have been different. Those different recipes (whether easy or hard) have made making dinner fun and exciting. What will this new recipe bring? How will it taste? Will it be added to our standards? It has made a huge difference. I don't dread making dinner anymore- even the old 'standbys' because I'm a Closet Foodie!

Confession 1-DONE!

Anyone else want to join this Closet Foodie. . . you aren't alone if you secretly love to bake, cook, or any other form of 'controlled burning'! Let's stick together!

January

2010-01-23T09:24:00.001-08:00

Oh, yes! January is here, and I haven't posted anything in about a month. OH well.

I found I'm behind in posting my art journal entries. Here we go!

This was an attempt at a portrait. The other page was practice sketches of whimsical faces. I'm still improving them!

In keeping with the tradition I started last year (here), I made another year in review page. You might noticed quite a bit of other people's artwork in there. They are the people whose art has inspired me this year. I wanted to include them for my own memory's sake!
Then I did another page for my 2010 dreams like this one here.

I also threw this little ATC (Artistic Trading Card) together! Isn't the image adorable??I've made some other ATCs for a swap, but I had to scan them at work, and, of course, I left my jump drive there. Next time!

I'm off to run a few errands and then to bake some cookies!

December Update!

2009-12-22T08:20:00.000-08:00

Phew, ok. . .it is 2 days until Christmas. I have a little time between my baking endeavors today to do a quick December update. It has been a crazy month. Hubby and I are still getting settled in our new house. This is our first Christmas in our new home. We got the tree up in the first weekend. (Now, it has presents underneath!) Now, I just need to take some pictures of it when it is dark in the room. Those 'glowy' pictures just look so holidayish!! (My camera battery was low, so the picture is kinda blurry! Oops!)

In trying to decorate the house, I found that I don't have much in the way of household decorations. Oh well. Time will remedy that soon!

I spent a the second weekend baking cookies to give as gifts. As a new home owner, we don't have much money for gifts, so I gave away many, many cookies and pastries! Here they are all laid out in their containers waiting to be capped and sent off to their recipients! (Peppermint macarons, Sugar Cookies, Marshmallows, Chocolate cake balls!)

I even made macarons (no flavor) to be filled with peppermint ganache! They all came out beautifully- little feet and smooth tops. Most had an air bubble, but oh well. I was very excited to see the little rows of perfect little macarons! (This was quite an accomplishment after Thanksgiving where I had to try three times to get some presentable macaron cookies!!!)

Now, I'm off work, and I'm working on making more cookies to give to my family and hubby's family. Also, I'm wrapping presents and attempting a pecan pie on Wednesday!

I so love this time of year! I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas! Hopefully, I'll be back more often in the next two weeks since I'm not at work! See you soon!

Merry Christmas!!!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T09:54:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is just a quick blog entry to let you know I'm alive. Yes, I went back to work, bought a house, and now, it is Thanksigivng. I don't get on the computer as much as I'd like. I haven't been on my blog in ages. I just wanted to say hi! I hope to most more over the CHristmas break. Sorry I'm only a break blogger. I'll work on it!

Happy THanksgiving!

Winter Painting

2009-08-07T07:28:00.000-07:00

First of all, I was so upset yesterday, I forgot it was my blogaversary! Oh well! I wanted to do something special, but that just didn't happen!

Ok, now on the Winter Painting. Do you remember my Autumn and Spring paintings? Well, they have now been joined by Winter!! Watercolor background, acrylic snowman, water color and acrylic girl! I think she looks very nice. I have to say Autumn is still my favorite, but I'm glad to see this series is almost finished! I'm working on summer, but she isn't finished! I just wanted to share with you!Have a great day. I'm off to court this afternoon to take care of a traffic ticket. . .oops! I've been on deferred adjutification, and this court day will end it! Phew!

This weekend, we have a great guest speaker at church, Paul Bradford of Warrior School Ministries. He is an awesome preacher, and our church is looking forward to his services tonight at 7pm, tomorrow at 6pm, and Sunday at 10:30am!

Enjoy your weekend!

A case of the "What ifs"

2009-08-06T07:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is not an art entry. It is a place for me to put down my thoughts. I tend to go through these phases every once in a while, but this one seems to be long and really depressing me.

Ok, everyone has a case of the "what ifs". . . What if I did this. . .what if I followed this path and not the one I took. . .what if. . . Lately, that is all I can think about it. What if I had followed my dreams and not be practical about my life. When I was young, I loved to bake. Every break from school was time for me to make a cake or bake ginerbread cookies, etc. That was what I liked (in addition to drawing) more than anything else. Well, I never thought their was a future in it- just something fun to do when I didn't have to go to school. (Ask my mom. I'm certain she got tired of supervising me!)

Anyway, in an old book I used to fill out every summer about the previous school year, I grew up wanting to be a teacher. Good stable job. . .the practical side. The subject changed, but teaching was what I wanted to do. Ok, so, I went back to school two years ago to be a teacher. I tried it- taught 5th grade. I HATED it! Teaching is so not my bag. Even if I learned more on how to be a better teacher, I don't think I would want to go back. There just isn't creativeness in that job- so much by the book paperwork and details. No thanks! Not ever again.

Ok, so that dream was a bomb. What about the baker/pastry chef in me? What about the graphic designer in me? What about the artist in me? I just discovered through Facebook that a friend of mine from middle school is now a chef! Wow! How cool! (In fact, I think she might work at Disney World.) Also, another friend of mine from college is working at Disney World- how awesome. I was given the same opportunity as she was, but I was mad at her at the time, and I turned down the opportunity. How stupid could I be??? (I, of course, blamed it on the fact that they wanted me to start in Quick Food and Beverage- which isn't where I wanted to be. My friend started there and now, she sometimes gives the famous Keys to the Kingdom tour- a type of backstage tour for those of you who don't know.)

Now, my life is boring. Yes, I'm buying a house, and that is very exciting. However, other than that, my life didn't turn out as I hoped. I have a deadend job that doesn't pay well at all. I'm married-which is great. I also have a great church and a great relationship with God. That realtionship with God is the only thing that is really keeping me going. I'm certain God has plans for me that surpass my own. (There are big things going on at our small church, and I know God needs me there to do something no one else can do.) However, I don't know what God will need me to do, so for now, I'm trying to figure out my life with my carnal mind. My carnal mind is saying my life is really lousy!

My case of the what ifs starts here: what if I had gone to work at Disney- how different and awesome my life would be! What if I had studied something else in school? (Even in school I figured teaching wasn't for me, but I never figured out what was.) What if I did figure it out, got a degree in whatever I"m really supposed to do and lived that life??

I just don't feel happy with my life. I thought that when you found your niche in life, you would be happy and content and not wanting a different life. I'm not happy and content, and I do want a different life. What does that mean? What am I supposed to be doing? I guess the only one who can truly answer that is God. I have some ideas, but maybe I should be praying for direction. Who knows? All I know is that I wish my life was different- more exciting, more fresh, more creative, more fun, more me.

Sorry for the downer post, but these are things in my head. I just want it to be out there in case there are others who are feeling as I am. Just know you aren't alone.

Toys Gothic Arches

2009-08-01T12:15:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (Sunday) is a very busy day for me, so I wanted to have my arches up on my blog today! The theme for the Gothic Arch Challenge is "Toys-vintage or favorite from childhood!" I am posting an older arch because it fits along with two arches I created from my childhood toys- My Little Pony (Glory was my favorite according to my mother!) and Rainbow Brite. I can't believe Rainbow Brite celebrated her 25 anniversary this year. This holiday season will bring the newest version of Rainbow Brite (the one on the right in my arch) as dolls, etc!! They redesigned her- I have mixed feelings about the redesign, but I think they did a good job staying pretty close to the original!Thank you for looking!

Bathing Beauty Gothic Arch

2009-07-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

The theme this week at the Gothic Arch challenge is Bathing Beauties. This is my first arch! I have plans for at least two others!It is very simple, but I really just wanted to highlight the picture. Enjoy! I hope to post two more this week!

However, I need to pack for our move. Yes, it seems that our house is going through, and we should be closing (I'm guessing here) in about 2-3 weeks!! I can hardly stand my excitement! I'll keep you all posted! I'll post house pictures as soon as it is mine!

Circle of Friends Award

2009-07-22T12:58:00.000-07:00

I've been honored by Anne at Gaal Creative with the Circle of Friends Blog Award as a part of her First Blogoversary. '

First, I want to thank Anne. She has been a very valuable member of my blog followers. Rarely does a new post go by without her comments. They mean a great deal to me! Happy Blogoversary, Anne!

On to the award:
To pick up the Circle of Friends Blog Award:

Cut and paste the award logo and use it on your own blog.

Nominate at least 5 other bloggers you feel have become part of your circle of friends.

Link to your nominees within your blog post.

Include these instructions on how to pick up the award in your blog post.

Link back to the person who gave you the award in your blog post, to show your appreciation.

Comment on their blogs to let them know they've received the award.

Here are my nominees for the Circle of Friends Blog Award. These are people that I have met through their blogs and they have become part of my circle of friends! Isn't it amazing what the internet can do to bring people together.

Nancy at The Vintage Papers

Shonna at Twisted Figures

Kimmie at art in redwagons

Bianca at scrapfreakgirl

Tam at Willowing

These women have become very special people in my life! I appreciate each of them!

Also check out these blogs I just recently discovered!
Maggi at Just Add Glitter and Stir

Le Vintage (I'm sorry- I don't know the person who owns this blog- I just found it today!)

Amanda at Maygreen Fairies

Enjoy these fine blogs! =)

Marie Antoinette Arches

2009-07-19T05:29:00.000-07:00

Here are my arches for the Marie Antoinette theme I'm hosting at the Gothic Arch Challenge.
She really is an amazing woman- she just grew up as a rock star queen. Who wouldn't have done what she did?

Marshmallows and Gothic Arch-Roses

2009-07-15T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm finally off for the summer which means more time for baking and art! Whoo-hoo! Yesterday, I made homemade marshmallows! They are so yummy! I also made some last week (when I took the pictures) where I had a little sugar fire on the stove, but other than that, I had a blast! You have to cook sugar and corn syrup. Then you mix that hot syrup with unflavored gelatin. You beat it in a stand mixer for 12 minutes and then spread it in a pan. After they set up for 3 hours, you cut them and roll them in powdered surgar! Very yummy, and everyone who tried them is spoiled forever!!!

Also, I'm trying to get caught up on the Goth ic Arch Challege. This week's challenge was roses. I'm infatuated by Marie Antoinette- her life. . everything! Naturally, I used her in my arch!

This portrait was critized as it made her look so much less like a queen, but I really love it. I think it shows her human side. She was tired of the court life at Versailles and she wanted to get away. At the Petit Trianon, she could do that. She was highly critized for her spending on the Petit Trianon, but it was her hideaway!

NEWS and new art!

2009-06-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, for my news. . . hold on to your seats. . .my husband and I. . . .are BUYING A HOUSE!!!!!!!! Yes, we found an awesome home about 30 minutes north of where we are currently living. It is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom house with a gorgeous pool! We are very excited! We found out yesterday that they accepted our bid! Now, we have lots of other things to do to get the house purchased and our stuff packed to move!!!

I'm very excited. Kevin and I haven't owned a home. We've done an apartment and we lived with his Grandmother at her house for two years. Now, we can live our own lives! I can hardly believe we will be getting this house! Woo-hoo!

As for my new art, I made it as a 'thank you' to our realtor, Toni. She has worked so hard to get us the perfect house. She is a Christian, so she knows exactly where Kevin and I are coming from!! She is truly incredible. I wanted to thank her, and the only way I knew how was to paint! What do you think??

More art

2009-06-17T15:41:00.000-07:00

Do you remember my autumn painting? Well, here is Spring. She is part of the series that goes with Autumn. It will be a series of girls in seasons. SPring isn't as good as Autumn, but oh well. She is different!
What do you think? She's be in the works a very long time. I'm glad to see her finally finished!!!

Summer is approaching

2009-06-10T05:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, for those of you who don't work in the school system, this means nothing to you! However, I have just finished my school year job yesterday. I will go back in August. Friday, I start my summer school job- which is half days! Days of art and painting, and photography, etc are coming!!! I'm off today and tomorrow- =). I'm off to look at houses this morning and tomorrow to the doctor- he has to check my toe. I had a toenail removed about a month or so ago. He is constantly checking to be sure it is ok. So far so good!

I'm just so glad summer is coming. Even though I have to work summer school (my hubby and I NEED the money however little it may be!), I know I'm only working half days, so I can come home and play: paint, stamp, etc and get things ready to open my Etsy shop! I really hope to get it up and going this summer, but I haven't finished enough pieces yet. Hopefully, I'll get a jump on it this summer. It will be called Purple Starfish Designs! I'm very, very excited!! I just have tons of work to do!!! =)

(What is Etsy, you ask?? It is a website where lots of talented people sell their handmade items or supplies to make handmade items. There are also lots of vintage items for sale as well. Check it out!!! Support the handmade cause!!)

I just bought some new stamps and embellishments at a scrapbook convention, so I am chomping at the bit to get going on cards and other stamped items! Watch out. . .here I come!

I hope everyone is having a good summer even if you have to work! I hope to post more on my blog this summer. I'm also on facebook and trying to understand twitter. We will see! I LOVE SUMMER!

Art Journal Pages

2009-05-30T11:52:00.000-07:00

Today is an easy day for me. Painting and laundry and movies! I've been so tired this week that this is about all I can do! It is a great Saturday!

I realized I haven't shared a great many art journal pages with you. I've included them here. Enjoy!

This is a study of the artwork of Jasmine Becket-Griffith.

Just couldn't resist at Valentine's time!

My try at Mandalas!

House Hunting and Art!

2009-05-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

Hello! Sorry I haven't been around in a while. My husband and I are still house hunting. We've been looking most evenings we have off (no church, etc). It has been crazy. We thought we'd found a home we liked, but upon a second investigation, we found evidence of foundation problems. We decided that wasn't the house for us! Or well!

We were out of town last week to a wedding of a friend of family we known since she was born. Her parents actually got my parents together! It was fun. Since we've been back, it has been crazy with houses and the end of the year at school- all kinds of stuff!!

Oh, I wanted to post my latest artwork. I couldn't post it until I gave it to my mom because she reads my blog from time to time. It was her mother's day present! She liked it very much!!

I'm glad she was pleased with it. It took me lots of time to complete! I'm still working on other art, but is slow going. I just don't have the time I'd like to have. I'm nearly finished with a house-warming triptic for some friends of mine. It is three large 12x24 canvases that all go together. It is meant to go over their couch. I should have it finished soon!

Today, I'm off to make a few ribbon bookmarks for the librarian at the school where I work. She asked me to make them as gifts for her parent volunteers! I HAVE to get them done today because Kevin and I might be off to the lake tomorrow or Monday!

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Memorial Day, and I'll try to be back more often. (This summer, I'll be doing a lot more posting since I will have more time!) See you soon!

Back with new art! (And an Award!)

2009-04-20T15:34:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I've been gone for a while. My husband and I have had so much happen! My husband's grandmother (who we have been living with) took a fall at the end of February. She broke her hip. She had replacement surgery. She was in rehab and then a nursing home (to continue the rehab). Well, last Thursday, she fell and hit her head. She died that morning. My husband was devastated since she raised him. He took all of Easter weekend off for her and for the Easter play we were in at church! That weekend was nuts. I'm glad to say my husband is doing much better now- he misses her, but he isn't sorry about the choices he made. We are now trying to get her stuff taken care of, the house cleaned up and fixed up and then we plan to sell it. We are starting to look for a house of our own. We basically put our lives on hold to help her out; we moved in to help her not even a year after we were married. Now, it is our time to have a home and live as newly weds! (Please don't think I'm selfish!)

Second, I have many paintings in the works, etc. This one got finished this weekend!

What do you think? I really like her. I've been a member of the World of Whimsy class with Tam here. She has taught me so much! This is one of the first works I've done since the class. I actually based my girl's clothing off of Emily at the Black Apple. Here is her post where she is wearing those clothes (more or less!) She has an incredible blog if you haven't run across it yet!!!!

I guess that is all for now. I hope to have more art and more posts! Don't forget me even if I'm gone for a while.

ETA: I just found out that Anne nominated me for the Renee Award!

The Renee Award was created by Bella and Ces in honor of their friend Renee.

In Bella's own words: "this is a brand new award and I have the pleasure and honor of spreading the seed, watching it grow. I hope it finds it's way to those who are like Renee: the acorn, a small package becoming a tall and sturdy oak, giving more acorns, becoming tall and sturdy oaks, giving acorns..."

There are no "rules" for claiming this award, but I would suggest the following:

Thank the person who nominated you for the Renee Award.

Click on the picture above to see it larger, then download it and post it on your blog.

Mention the person who nominated you and link back to their blog.

Nominate others to receive the award.

Comment on their blogs to let them know you nominated them.

Visit Bella, Ces, and Renee and let them know you received the award and passed it on. Consider linking your blog post to them, too.

Now, I need to nominate others for the award. I know so few of the actual bloggers of the blogs I read. I'll post the ones who have really inspired me (in no order)

Emily at the Black Apple

Shonna at Twisted Figures

Tam (Willowing) at Willowing.org or her ning network here.

Nicole at A Roof of Ones Own

Nancy at Vintage Papers

Those are just to name a few. There are so many! Maybe I can add some more later.

Kristin

Good News and Bad News

2009-04-04T07:33:00.001-07:00

Good News: There is another giveaway of some very beautiful cutout (collage) sheets! Check out Kristin at Retro Cafe Art Gallery! She is giving away some awesome collage sheets and cutout packs! Go check her out- but do it soon. Her giveaway happens tomorrow!!!

Bad news: my husband and I lost another cat today. Our cats live outside- they are basically strays we feed and take care of. They live in our backyard which isn't fenced. Well, this morning, there were two pit bulls and another mutt running around. They attacked one of our cats. She had been picked up by the dogs. I believed she died instantly. We chased the dogs off and buried her. She was still warm when we put her in the ground. This is the third cat we've had to buried due to violence. Two were attacked by dogs- pit bulls at that. One was shot with a beebee gun!

It aggravates me greatly that I live in a neighborhood where people are so careless to let their dogs run free with out consideration of the consequences. Please, I beg you, take care of your animals, and whatever you do- DON'T take them for granted.

As far as my art goes, I hope to post some more soon! Sorry for the delay in posting new art! Hope to be back soon!

PS: I'm attempting Macarons again today. Cross your fingers!

Life and Another Blog's Giveaway!

2009-03-26T15:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, well, going back to work put a damper on my blogging and baking and doing art! :( Hopefully, I can get some things done, soon!

Oh, my husband and I have finished off the beautiful macarons! I'm so ready to make some more. Hubby is off on Saturday, so we are going to an art museum to see the King Tut display. However, next weekend, I plan on making the beautiful yummy things- this time in Strawberry/Coconut (hubby's request), mint/chocolate, and one other flavor, maybe! I'll keep you posted!

Ok, finally, I was on Twisted Figures to see her newest work. She had a post to this giveaway going on Cameron's Blog. If you haven't seen Cameron's blog, she seems to be a very talented Mixed Media artist. I just found her blog, so I will be spending some time on it! Hope you will find it as awesome as I do!

See you soon!

Happy Macaron Day!!!

2009-03-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Macaron Day! In Paris, if you go to Pierre Herme's bakery, you can get 4 macarons for free if you make a small donation. It is a way to raise money to help cure diseases, I think. (My French isn't that great anymore!) Anyway, I decided since I can't go to Paris and get free macarons, I would celebrate by making my own!

Inspired by many blogs, I decided to give it a try- especially after I got my new mixer. I've been pouring over recipes and tips all week. I found Emily's (The Black Apple) tips very helpful. You can find them here. (Thanks, Emily.) She also posts links to several recipes! I'm attempting cherry vanilla macs today. This morning, I made the batter and they are currently sitting out to form a skin. They will go in the oven shortly, and we will see what happens!

I had some trouble with the macs so far. First of all, my almonds weren't dry enough when I tried to grind them up. No big deal- I put the almonds in then oven at a low temp for a little while. That helped- they were still wet, though. I sifted the ground almonds with the icing sugar and then I proceeded to making the meringue.
I was so proud! My meringue turned out nice with very stiff peaks. Then I folded in the dry ingredients and tried to pipe my macs with a ziploc bag since I don't have a piping bag. Oh, that was messy!!! My macs look much like amebias instead of nice round macs. I can handle amebias.
They have sat out to form their skin. Now, I'm going to put them in the oven. I'll add to this post later after they have baked. I've decided, if they form little feet like they are supposed to, I will continue to make the ganache filling. If not, we will just eat them as cookies, and I'll have to try again- soon!

These are fun, but they are finicky! I'll keep you posted!

ETA: Update #2
Ok, Macs are cooked and out of the oven. They are all amebias, but most of them sprouted feet and most of them didn't crack (a sign that I did beat it right!) They aren't perfect, but not bad for a first try.

See the feet? I was jumping around the kitchen when I saw those. They are very small, but they are there!
Batch one. Not too bad. Many with feet. Only a few small cracks. I baked these with a wooden spoon propping the oven door open.
Batch number 2. Do you see the one perfect mac???? I do! This batch I baked with the oven door closed- less feet and more cracks. Ok, lesson learned!

These are the macs once cooled and waiting for the ganache filling. I'm currently waiting for the ganache to get a little harder, so I can put it in the cookies. I think I might run an errand and come back to see how the ganache is doing! I'll be back soon with finished macs!

E(on Saturday)TA: I did get them done. I made the ganache with cream and white chocolate and a bit of vanilla. It was very soupy. I even put it in the fridge for a while to set. I was impatient, so I put it in a small bag and tried to pipe it onto my macs. It was messy, but they got done!
I decided to freeze them, so the ganache would harden. That helped some. Here are some pictures of the final results!

Than you all for going with me in the quest for macarons. They taste marvelous even if they look weird. My husband is so excited, he is ready for me to make more. He didn't even like the ones at the bakery- go figure, huh? He says mine taste much better! They were fun, and I plan on trying again very soon!

KitchenAid Mixer!!!

2009-03-18T09:03:00.001-07:00

Ok, I can no longer contain myself! I got a KitchenAid Mixer this weekend. My husband found it on Craig'slist! It is a 5 quart professional mixer, and it is RED!!!! I'm so excited! It is bigger than I wanted, but who cares, the price was right! I've used it once, and I plan to do some more baking tomorrow and Friday (Macaron day! There will be a post!!).

Unfortunately, I have misplaced the card adaptor for my camera's memory card, and I can't get my pictures downloaded! *sniff* *sniff*. I have a card reader at school that will read that card, but I'm on Spring Break right now. As soon as I can, I'll post the pictures my husband took when we first got it home and the pictures I took of its first use!!!

It is a beautiful mixer, and it works like a dream! Baking will be so much more enjoyable with the perfect tool! (Not that I didn't enjoy baking before, but having the right tool makes all the difference in the world!!)

If you don't understand my utter excitement, let me explain. Ever since I registered for my wedding 3 years ago (maybe even before that!), I've wanted a KitchenAid mixer. When I registered, I registered for a black Artisan mixer. Well, needless to say, I didn't receive it, and I decided that our wedding money was better spent on other everyday items. I had a small hand mixer which was fine. It go me through some baking expeditions. However, this past December, it died while I was making my husband's birthday cake. Then, for about a month, I've wanted a mixer and have been looking. I've had this urge to bake and was unable to do so without a mixer. Then, I discovered some recipes for homemade marshmellows and macarons! They both required a whisk attachment. Yes, other mixers had that, but why settle for something else when I've always wanted a KitchenAid.

At that point, my husband and I kept our eyes out for a good deal. There was no way I could pay full price for a KitchenAid mixer- it just wasn't going to happen. Well, about a week and a half ago, my husband sold one of his trucks which gave us a little money. (My husband gave me $500 to start my Etsy shop which I plan to do this summer!! Whoo-hoo!!) Anyway, just Saturday, he saw a red, professional mixer on Craig'slist. Well, I was out all day Saturday, and by the time he told me about it, I thought it was gone for sure. I emailed the seller, and then waited. There was no news. Sunday, there was no news. We went to church and then to lunch. I happened to check my phone after lunch to see a strange number had called and left a message. Sure enough, it was the owner of the mixer! She still had it! We went straight over there and bought it for $100!!! I was so excited!!!!

I am so excited! As soon as I get my pictures off my camera, I will show you the beauty!!

Ok, a brief bit about Friday. Friday, March 20 is Macaron Day in Paris. Granted, I'm not in Paris, but I'm going to celebrate Macaron day by trying to make my own macarons. I've become obsessed with them- I'll explain more on Friday. Just keep your fingers crossed mine come out ok! I can't wait!

Two New Cards

2009-03-03T16:09:00.000-08:00

I've been doing all kind of artsy things lately. Here are my two latest cards. One was for my Pator's birthday (he is an awesome man, and going to a small church, we know him pretty well). The other is for my husband- our anniversary is tomorrow! 3 Years, baby! (and I haven't killed him yet!!!)

I just wanted to share.

Also, I'm working on all I need to do to open an Etsy shop! I hope it succeeds!!! I'll keep you posted on that!

My Neighbor Totoro

2009-02-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

Ok, this isn't an artsy post. I've been working on some birthday cards, but I haven't finished them. I wanted to post about a movie I just saw. I ordered it from Netflix- it is one I've wanted to see for ages. I thought DH would watch it with me, but he informed me he was NOT interested in Japanese anime no matter what. Oh, well, excuse me!!! I decided that since I was taking it easy today due to not feeling well, I'd watch it. My Neighbor Totoro was so cute! I loved Spirited Away, and since this was by the same Japanese animation studio, I thought it would be good, too! Wow, was it ever!! I loved it! You must see it!
I don't want to give anything away- just say two sisters go to live in a new house with their dad while their mother is recuperating in the hospital. They meet this special spirit of the woods called Totoro. I know it sounds hokey, but you must see it! Such a sweet movie!!!

That's it for now. I'm still working on some cards I need finished by tomorrow. I'll be back soon!

Creative Juices. . .

2009-02-19T18:52:00.000-08:00

Don't you hate when your creative juices are flowing, and you don't have enough time to get it all out on paper or even to satisfy the desire to make art??? I'm having that trouble now. I just want to draw and paint and stamp and play with techniques all at the same time. That is very difficult with a full time job and an equally full time husband (who is very needy!) Oh well. Guess I'll have to squish as much into Saturday as I can. Those are MY days! I can do what I want to do- after I go grocery shopping and while I'm working on laundry!! This Saturday, I need to make birthday cards. Next Saturday is the start of Tam's class. Check it out on her ning community here. I can hardly wait! Creative Saturdays, here I come!! Woo-hoo! Until then, I'll just have to do sketches and stuff at work! SHHHH!!

Ok, one more thing. Who has heard of a Zentangle?? What is a Zentangle you say?? Try this site. Ok, I've never heard of them until today. While searching for specifics, I found this video by Milliande. I think I'm going to try one- either sqaure or circle. I would love the pen that Milliande uses, but I will just use what I have now! They are awesome. When I was in college, I used to do doodles like this when I was bored in class, but I didn't limit them. I just let them go on! I'll let you know how my experimentation goes! If you have made some, I'd love to see them!

Kristin

Blog question

2009-02-16T15:18:00.001-08:00

Ok, can someone tell me how to make a background for my blog> I've seen it on Nancy's blog and Shonna's blog. I want to know how to do it! Can anyone help? Thanks!

Fabulous

2009-02-15T15:19:00.000-08:00

I received a Blog award from Nicole (GothamGal!) I met her on 2Peas, and we started talking a lot. We are Christian Bale buddies- she more than I, but hey, he's a good actor! She makes tremendous cards, and she is very inspirational!

To pick up the Your Blog is Fabulous Award:
List 5 addictions
Cut and paste the award logo and use it in your own blog
Nominate 5 other blogs you think are fabulous
Comment on their blogs to let them know they've received the award
Link back to the person who gave you the award to show your appreciation

Here are my 5 addictions:
1. Creating Art: art of any kinds gives me a high I rarely find anywhere else! I love stamping, painting, mixed media, whatever- just give me some time to do it, and I'm a happy camper! My only wish- to have a studio just for creating art!

2. Reading: though, this should be probably be lower on the addiction list as I don't always have time to do it, I still love. What else, besides movies, can transport you away from the norm and show you a new life and a new story- different from yours?? I love reading- mostly historical fiction, but I'm not picky!!

3. Movies- (bet you knew this one was coming!) Oh yeah! I LOVE movies! I buy them all the time. I'll watch a movie over and over when I get obsessed with one. I'll watch it back to back, I'll watch the special features! Give me a behind the scenes view, and I'm hooked. "Am I picky about my movies," you ask? Pretty much no, but I will not watch horror movies!!! However, animated, musicals, suspense, action, love story, comedy, satire, documentary- anything will work! Just no horror, please

4. Computers- especially the internet. I can spend hours on a computer and not even realize the time has gone by. I love searching the internet for a variety of things. I also love playing with images and graphics! I do some website design for my job, and I love it. (I really have no need for a personal website aside from my blog!) I just love computers!

5. Travel- oh, if I had more money, I'd go everywhere! Work? Who needs it! I need a job like Rick Steves; his only job is to tour the world and give advice to others through his books and TV shows. That would be the life! How fantastic to see all the corners of the world and get paid for it. I haven't been too many places, but I love going on trips and I love planning them. If a travel agent was a decent job, I think I would like to do that! Trips I would like to take: Paris, London, Ireland, Italy, Caribbean, US tour, etc! Just give me a glimspe of a hope of a trip, and I'm all over it!!!

Now, on to the nominations:
1. Shonna- She has the most amazing art- so whimsical and fun! She is so nice, too! She has always been kind when I've contacted her! I would love to get to know her better. Go check out her blog and you will be hooked as I am!!

2. Nancy- She is the nicest woman you'll ever meet. Plus, she makes the most incredible victorian art, you have ever seen!!!! She cleverly puts new images with old ones to make awesome creations!

3. Kimmie- She has the most interesting way of doing and seeing things! She does incredible work or all kinds! Everytime I visit her website, I'm in awe of the work she does! Awesome and inspiring!!!

4. Dawn- She does the most amazing and inspiring Journal entries. Very graphic and consiting of doodles! I love the way she journals! I've tried to immitate it, but I'm no Dawn! I still check her blog every day just to see what new and exciting thing she has done!!!!

5. Wyanne- I found Wyanne through YouTube! She does some very whimsical but beautiful artwork!! I love how different her collages are, and I love to watch her videos to see how she collages everything. It is fascinating to see what she uses to collage her images or to create her painted backgrounds! Thanks Wyanne!

Thanks, Nicole, again for the award! It means a lot!

I'm really hoping to get back into weekly blog updates if not more. I'm sorry it has been so crazy! Take care and keep making art!!!!!

Purple Fairy

2009-02-11T15:47:00.001-08:00

I finally got my newest painting done! She is going into an auction at the elementary school I work at. I think she came out quite good!

I'm so proud! I hate to see her go tomorrow when the lady in charge of the auction comes to get her. Oh well. That is what I made her for. Now I have a very high res copy to make prints from! I'm so excited!!! Her skin is watercolor and the rest is acrylics! The dress and some of the wing parts actually are shimmer paint! I got the inspiration from Jasmine Becket-Griffith.

I hope this painting will bring in some commissions. I'm putting my business cards out with the painting at this silent auction. I'll keep you posted!

Absent

2009-02-10T17:15:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know, I've been a little absent lately. I have been a little busy. I did finish a piece of art, but I left the scan on my computer at work! As soon as I get it here, I have to post it! I love it!

I've been trying to keep up with everyone's blog. I know I don't always comment, but I'm watching all of you! Don't think I'm gone- just busy away from the computer!

I hope to get back into my weekly updates soon-probably starting next weekend. This weekend, DH is taking me to a bed and breakfast for Valentine's day! He is so sweet. He found it himself! I was so impressed! Can't wait to go and have some time to relax!!

May God bless you! I'll be back soon!

Another journal entry

2009-01-22T18:35:00.000-08:00

I finished a journal entry today! Woo-hoo! I found this blog, D'Blogala, and I was intrigued by her journaling style, so I tried to copy it with my own things. Today, all I had was a black pen, so that's all I used. (The pink down the middle is the leakage from another page!)

Yeah, I know it is very different for me, but I kinda like it. I know I need a little refining, but it was fun! I don't particularly like my lettering, but I hope to improve that! This was just a first time.

Ok, I just have to share: we just got cable tv! We got it for my husband's grandmother- who sits home a lot and really only watches TV and does puzzle books. She hates the weekends because there is nothing on. Now, she has a billion channels to chose from! I've never had cable in my whole life- just when I visited my grandmothers. Now, we can watch anything we like. I love the History channel (and wish we could get the other ones!), the weather channel, along with many, many others! I can hardly wait. Not to mention, we get the music channels where they play the same genre of music all day long! Oh, yes! I can't wait!! I know this novelty will wear off, but now, I'm totally thrilled!!!!!

Thanks for sharing my joy! Can't wait to hear from you!

Growing Pains, too

2009-01-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

Ok, just a few days ago, Lia posted her "Growing Pains" blog entry. I completely agree with her. I think everyone goes through those creative growing pains! I'm in that place now. Lately, I've been copying artwork or style from those out there like Tam (aka Willowing) and Jasmine Becket-Griffith. I've been trying to copy some of their work because I like something- the eyes, the color- whatever. However, no matter how much I copy, mine always look the same. I was reading in a blog (I don't remember who's) that said no matter how much you copy someone's work, it will never be exactly the same. All those little things that are slightly different in your work is your voice. Now, my latest drawings (which I'll post later) may not look exactly like Tam's and Jasmine's, but I have learned a great deal by copying their work. I'm still struggling to find my style- one that is distinctive to me. I guess that comes with time and just making art. Tam says there isn't failure- just ways not to do art. Ok, so the more I copy and play, the more I'm learning of things I like and don't like- of ways to make art and ways not to make art. Eventually, I suppose, I'll find my own style, but until that time, learning, I suppose, is everything! It is the journey and the battle! What I carry away from it is the important part.

I guess what I'm trying to say is this: I'm struggling to find my own style, and that is OK! I guess I'm also trying to reach out to other artists and let you know that if you haven't found you niche in the art world, don't give up! It is out there somewhere. Just keep playing and making art for fun and for the purpose of learning and you will eventually find your way!

New Year's Artwork

2009-01-17T12:35:00.000-08:00

I've been working on all these projects, and I finally finished a few to show you. First, I've been working in my art journal a little. There are some unfinished pages, but I've continued to do some other pages for now. First of all, I did some 2009 dreams because I don't make resolutions. These are just things that would be nice if they happened.

I've also been working on a painting for my God-Daughter. I was inspired by Jasmine Becket-Griffith's work. I decided to create a fairy for my God-Daughter. Following's Tam's video about shading a face, I painted the first face I have done that looks realistic! I also added some sparkles and stars (a la Tam!) What do you think?
I guess that's it for now! I'm working on some other things. As soon as they are done, I'll post them here, too!

Have a blessed day!

Wandering Moleskine 2

2009-01-14T17:45:00.000-08:00

Ok, to the four people who responded to the Wandering Moleskine project, I thought I'd post some ideas/questions for you. Kathy N. suggested we each provide a Moleksine to pass to each person. Would everyone be willing to do that? If so, should we all get the same kind or just get what we want? I'd love to get this going! Let me know what you think!!

Kristin

Wandering Moleskine?

2009-01-08T14:57:00.001-08:00

I heard about a Wandering Moleskine project, but it was back in 2005! Hmm. . the list for it was closed- can't imagine why! It was basically like a circle journal- the moleskine went out to others who all included their artwork in it and then, I assume, it was sent to the orginator. Would anyone be interested doing this? (I will probably post on stamp haven, too!) I would be very excited to see what people do!

If you are interested, please leave a comment on this post! I hope we get a lot of people involved- add this information to your blog and let's see how many people we can get involved!

Can't wait to hear from you!

Kristin

I was Tagged

2009-01-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by artlover. She has several blogs, so I just posted to her profile.

Here are the rules:

1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Mention the rules.
3. Tell 6 things about yourself.
4. Tag 6 other bloggers by linking to them.
5. Go to each person's blog and leave a comment letting them know they've been tagged.

Here are the 6 things about me
1. I'm married to Kevin- nearly 3 years
2. I'm a computer geek- at home and as a job!
3. I've only recently discovered my love for creating art of any kind and the exhilaration it brings when I make something I love or I try new artistic things!
4. I take care of 6 stray cats- they are my babies!
5. I'm so inspired by Tam's work!
6. I love chocolate!

I'm tagging the following people:
Nancy (Vintage Papers)
Dawn (The Chatty Stamper)
Anne (Gaal Creative)
Sandy (It's a Colorful World)
Shonna (Twisted Figures)
Art Junk Girl

Thank you all for following my blog! I'm glad to have so many supportive people and friends!

Last work of the year

2008-12-31T15:42:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to do a quick post. I did a great art journal page with pictures from this year. I had to block out faces of those I wasn't sure if they wanted to be online or not- sorry. Here it is! I'm very proud!
It has pictures of things that happened this year and of things that inspired me! I realized I forgot a few things, but it is still cool. I forgot how busy I was this year and all the cool things I did! Pictures are great, aren't they??

I hope everyone has a wonderful new year! Take care!

Not a good start. . .

2008-12-30T07:34:00.000-08:00

Ok, I started today to find out our fridge, which we thought was fixed, is still on the brink of death!! Ok, well, that means a new fridge. My husband's grandmother (who we live with and help take care of) said she'd pay for it! Great, I thought, since we just spent more on a new TV than I thought we would. Now, my husband wants to split it with her since we live here, too! WHAT?? Aww man!! I guess he is right, but it really worries me.

After DH was off to work, I just sat in the living room (the grandmother is off babysitting, so it was just me) feeling low and depressed about the fridge and the money we owe (more than just the TV- DH had 6 root canals in 2007, and we are still paying for them!!!). The more I sat there, the more depressed I got. Suddenly, I realized that over the holidays, I've forgotten to take my "happy pill." Opps. I took it this morning, but it isn't kicking in. I just don't have any motivation, and I don't feel I care about much. Not a good start!

I'm going to try to do some art with the hopes that it will lift my spirits! Of course, that happens after I get the clothes out of the washer and dryer and start a new load! Ahh, the joys of being off work- you have to catch up on housework! Ugh!

Ok, art in a little bit with the hopes of lifting the very low spirits! I'll try to post later with whatever creation I work on (and possibly finish if I can do it!!)

Love you all! Thanks for listening! Hopefully, my meds will kick in soon, and I will be back to my old self- that will be nice!

Sorry for the downer morning! Hope to talk to later in a better mood! =)

A Very Artsy Christmas

2008-12-26T14:59:00.000-08:00

Hello all! I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I decided not to deal with my camera this year, so I don't have any photos to show. My mom took some, but she took off today to go visit her mom. Maybe I can add them later!

My husband and I had a great Christmas. We plan to buy a new flatscreen TV, so that is all we got each other except for filling each other's stockings! (I LOVE stockings!) After our Christmas, we went over to my parents where we opened presents and then ate a wonderful meal! Yum! My mom is a great cook! Then we headed to my husband's family celebration. It was fun!

Today, (as I was cleaning the house some- have lots more to do! Ugh!!) I was thinking about how many art supplies I got this year. I decided to round them up and photograph them! Here they are:Pretty fun, huh? My husband's grandmother was very excited to give me the set of gel pens. I don't use gel pens a lot, but she was excited that she got to help me with my art. I got paint, mod podge, sharpies, glitter glue, watercolor pencils, a small sketchbook, and three new rubber stamps! Woo-Hoo!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! I wish you all the happiest new year!

I'm still looking to see what inspires everyone. I found a new website I love! Check it out here!! She does an amazing array of artwork!! I'm so very impressed by her photorealism artwork! WoW!!!!

Let me know what inspires you!

What inspires you?

2008-12-23T09:59:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know I've been absent lately! I was busy planning my trip to Disney World! My husband and I had lots of fun! I know, too, that I've been back for three weeks, but still haven't done anything- OOPs! I've been getting ready for Christmas! I'm off work now, so I have some time to catch up. (I still have wrapping to do, but it can wait a few minutes! =) )

The reason for this post is this: I want to know what inspires you? Is it another artist(s), a certain piece, a whole mess of things?

I stumbled on the idea of an Inspiration Board. Here is a link to the Flickr Inspiration Board Pool. They are so impressive. Now, I want to create one. I've been thinking of the many people and things that inspire me and how I want to put them together to make an inspiration board. Here are some links to the people and their work that inspire me

Willowing (aka Tam)- Her work is incredible, and she is a very sweet soul, too!
Wade Griffith- he does the photography that is in the Studio Movie Grills that are here in Dallas
Art Junk Girl- her work and her blog fascinate me
Vintage Papers Blog (from Nancy!)- she has incredible Vintage work!!!
Gaal Creative- (Anne)- she has great photography and doesn't shy away from any creative endevor!!
The Chatty Stamper (Dawn)- she does some very inspirational work!

The Art of Meredith Dillman- fantastic fantasy art!
Golden Wood Studio (Ruth Sanderson)- she is a very impressive illustrator!

That's it for now. I want to know what inspires you!

I hope to start my inspiration board soon. I would love to see your board if you have one!

I'm anxious to see your comments and your replies!

so. . .what inspires you?

Kristin

Turquoise Arch!

2008-10-07T17:54:00.001-07:00

Here is my Turquoise arch for the challenge on the gothic arch site! I think it came out cute!

Arch stuff

2008-09-23T18:43:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm posting some things that I haven't had time to post. I tried making cards out of Gothic Arches! They are fun- They are shaped like Gothic Arches, but they open like cards! I made these two:I like the birthday one!

I also found the image on this Gothic Arch online, and I immediately thought of the saying! What do you think???
I think she is adorable!

Kristin

Movie arch

2008-09-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

My movie arch is on the Gothic Arch challenge page, but I forgot to post it here! Here it is:

I love the movie Marie Antoinette. I love how it is modern yet realistic. I think Kirsten Dunst does a fantastic job bringing the young queen to life. I loved the colors, the food, the clothes- all of it!

Kristin

Time arch

2008-09-18T18:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, I finished my Time arch for the challenge! I am very disappointed with it, but since the image on the left isn't my stamp, I had to finish. (I only had one of it!) I think I tried too hard to be like Dawn, and I'm not Dawn! OH well! Here it is:
Dark but done! However, I did discover Tattered Angels' Glimmer Mist! OHHHH! I'm in love! There goes all my money!!!

3 "Pretty in Pink" Arches

2008-09-09T19:07:00.001-07:00

Yes, that's right- 3 arches for the "Pretty in Pink" challenge at the Gothic Arch Challenge! I'm so excited! I think they came out great! Here they are:What do you think?

Card post!

2008-09-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

Ok, I did get two cards done, but I'm waiting on card #2 to dry, so you just get this one:
My friend just lost her father, so I wanted a nice calming card for her. This scanned dark, but it is very pretty. Sympathy cards are hard for me! I never know what is considered "right!"

Thanks for looking!

Saturday's post- art journal

2008-09-06T11:35:00.000-07:00

Hello! Yes, it is Saturday. I finished an art journal entry. I hadn't worked on it in some time, so I'm very happy to say it is up and going again. Hopefully, I will do more in it!

At first, this entry looked very good. As I painted and finished it, I became more and more disappointed. It just doesn't look exactly how I imagined it. Oh well. I actually thought the book pages would enhance it, but they seem to distract. Oh well.

Yes, I am going to Disney World in November for my birthday. That is my husband's present for my 3oth birthday! I'm very anxious! I can hardly wait, but I know the time will pass by quickly- and then we will be there and then gone. Oh well, the anticipation is half the fun, right???

I'm going to work on some cards-hopefully I can get them posted later!

Yes, again!!

2008-09-02T18:29:00.001-07:00

Yes, I'm posting again- on the same day! I finished another gothic arch for the same challege! How awesome and productive I feel!
It isn't anything fancy, but I HAD to use the picture. You can't see her face well, but she has such an attitude on her face! I love it! Very simple. Oh well.

Kristin

New projects

2008-09-02T17:23:00.000-07:00

Guess what: It is Tuesday, and I have a chance to post! DH is helping his BIL with his car, so I get some crafting/computer time! I finished two projects. One is a card for a friend.

The dragonfly is outlined in stickles! They are sparklely and fun!!!! The wings are painted in with Twinkling H2Os! I just wanted to encourage her!

My second project, believe it or not, is my gothic arch for the challenge! I finished it tonight! It wasn't what I had originally thought, but I might get that one finished, too! I love the old pinups, and this one was perfect!!!
What do you think? I love it! It is just fun, and so much easier than my other arches. I pulled it together in less than 1 hour. Hey, that's great for me!!!!

I hope to be back sooner rather than later!

Kristin

Saturday again

2008-08-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is Saturday, and for me, that means posting on my blog. How sad that I only do it once a week! I created a gothic arch for the challenge. The theme was black and white with a touch of red. I'm working on another one, but I haven't finished it. I'll post it later!

Hopefully my second one will dry soon, so I can post it! I love these challenges, and I am excited about the next one!

Oh, on a non-artistic front: My husband (yes, the gentleman in the photo!) is taking me to Disney World for my Birthday! I think he is in shock at the sticker price, but I know we will both have a great time! We are going the week of Thanksgiving! I'm so excited! Sadly, now, all I can think about is crafting and Disney World!

Kristin

PIF swap images

2008-08-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

This is for the PIF swap on Two Peas. I know the image isn't great, but I hope you can see them all!

Kristin

New Gothic Arch

2008-08-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

Here is my newest Gothic Arch for the Gothic Arch challenge! It came out a little differently than I expected, but I still like it! Thanks for looking!

Work has been so busy that I don't even have time to post on my blog. It will slow down soon, but, for now, it is crazy! Thank you for being patient with me!

Kristin

ETA: I got a card made today as well. I love the new Unity Stamp's birds! They are so cute. This is the birthday card for my mother.

I'm also working on some gothic arches for the challenge I'll be hosting on the board starting September 28! I'm very excited. Those arches aren't finished, but I'll be sure to post them once the challenge starts!

I'm back!

2008-08-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

I've been working this week. It was very busy! I finally had some time to create today! (I'm hoping to find a way to get a little creating fix at work! Maybe by cutting some images, so I can put them together on the weekend. We will see!) I finally finished my Crowns/Royalty Gothic Arch for the challenge. What do you think?
I am a little disappointed with it. I spent all the time looking for images (for the background), and you can't even see them. I have pictures of her shoes, cakes, gambling stuff, and macaroons! OH well. I might try it again later, but this one is done! Thanks for looking!

New projects made today!

2008-08-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

I got around to making a few things today. I've been creating very slowly- I'm not sure why. I finished this card with some new stamps I got from Unity Stamps.

Then I altered a small composition notebook to use as an idea book. I often get ideas when I'm out running errands, so I wanted something where I could write them down! Here it is:

That's it for me today! I'll see you soon!

Kristin

Shades of White Gothic Arch

2008-08-07T12:25:00.000-07:00

Got it done, finally! I finished my Shades of White Gothic Arch for the Gothic Arch Challenge! I found the images earlier this week, but I haven't had time to get it put together! I love the way it came out! It came out so much better than I ever thought it was going to! This was fun! I can't wait to see the next one!

2008-08-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

The last post was supposed to be a slide show. Oops! Oh well. I'm still learning!

Six Flags was great, but I'm beat today! I'm hoping to get some crafty things done today. I'll try to post more later!

My photos

2008-08-07T07:59:00.000-07:00

Add to my blog

Let the Blogging begin!

2008-08-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

Ok! Here I am! I've started my blog! This is where I want to show off my creations and let everyone know what is going on in my life! I'm very excited!

Kevin and I are off to Six Flags this afternoon for a little pre-school fun before I go back to work! We are going with 2 friends, so it should be lots of fun!

I hope to do some posts tomorrow of some of my creations! Keep an eye out!

Kristin